Week 5 CFB Picks

This week there are only two games between ranked teams, which I am obliged to pick. The rest are interesting matchups, but this probably won't be the best Saturday of football you've ever seen.

SOUTH FLORIDA (+7) over West Virginia: The big Friday night showdown will be decided by whether USF can slow down White, Slaton, Devine, and Reynaud. I'm going out on a limb and calling for the upset. Definitely not the conservative pick, but I think the emotion and the crowd will help USF get it done.

California (+4.5) over OREGON: Cal is more experienced in big games like this, and wins a close shootout. Big game for status as main challenger to USC.


The best of the rest:

Alabama (+3) over FLORIDA STATE: Memories of five years ago are the only thing keeping FSU a favorite here. I think Alabama is much better and might even win by double digits.

Mississippi (+15) over GEORGIA: UGA is a little flat after the big win over Alabama, and doesn't have the offense to justify a spread like this anyway. Ole Miss looked very respectable against Florida last week, and could take Georgia to the wire.

Penn State (-3) over ILLINOIS: Morelli will bounce back this week, and the Penn St. D will dominate the Illini.

Clemson (-3) over GA TECH: People still think the ND and Samford wins were impressive. Clemson has actually beaten some decent teams this year.

Maryland (+14.5) over RUTGERS: We always play better against traditional offenses, and I think we can bottle up Ray Rice for a good chunk of the game. I'm still not expecting a W.


Last week: (5-5-0)
Season: (12-9-0)