Week 1 CFB Picks

Alright, a little bit late, but it took a little time to research this week as the data is less clear this early in the season, but definitely like the early season games as I think even Vegas makes a few more mistakes, so let's capitalize on them. We'll just jump right into it...

Bama -11.5 vs Penn St. This game pits the Joker against Walter; how fitting. It is also my favorite game of the week, 5 units. I think everyone will agree, even without Ingram, The Tide is loaded this year. PSU may be alright as well as the season progresses, but they are usually slow starters, not to mention their freshman QB. Are you kidding me, sending a freshman into Bama.....that will not end well, at all. Further, and remember this all season, it is always nice to bet on coaches who are dicks. I don't mean that in a bad way, but Saban is going to try to kill PSU, as he will with all opponents. So, long story short, giving 11.5 (yeah, I did lock this in early, but 12 is fine too), is a decent number of points, but not nearly enough, the Tide will Roll and I actually feel a little sorry for Mr. Bolden. He may have his days in Happy Valley, but it won't be tomorrow. As expected, Bama rolled at home.

Michigan +4 @ ND. Great rivalry game, and fun to watch without any action, but spreads like this make it more fun. Always tough to win this one on the road, but think Michigan gets it done, and I have 4 points to spare. I expect this to be a shoot-out of sorts (so like the over as well!) as both teams offensive strengths play to the weakness of the opposing defense. I don't yet trust Crist to win a big game for them, and I expect they'll have to rely on him to get it done against a weak UM secondary. ND may get it done at home, but can't see an easy win and like the 4 points (just in case). 3.5 units. Well, Michigan tried to make it interesting, but ended up not needing the 4 points.

Army -3 vs Hawaii. Anyone watched Hawaii play on the mainland lately? How has that ended? Not well for them. They have to travel all the way to Army, and it is Army's home opener so they will be fired up to start 2-0. Hawaii also doesn't see a lot of triple option out west, so I expect them to cover. Army is certainly not a great squad, but should be able to get it done at home, even -3. 2 units. Down 21-0 I would have really been stealing a push, but really, fumbling on essentially a kneel down play to set up the FG...really?

Nebraska -28 vs Idaho. Yeah, laying 28 is kind of silly; except when it makes you money. Huskers are legit, and Bo can coach. They will just over-match the Vandals from the start. I know the Idaho QB is coming home to Nebraska, but if anything I think that will hurt him/them as he may try to do too much in an effort to impress (although he is a solid player). Another reason I don't mind laying big numbers here, even if Nebraska goes to their back-up QB, Lee is a good player who thinks he should be starting so he will play with a chip on his shoulder in an effort to get more snaps. 2 units (just can't do more laying 4 TDs). Nice fumble on the 1; followed by giving up a 94 yard drive.

Miami +9 @ Ohio St. Did I really just bet against the Buckeye's in Columbus? I think so, wow. This should be a fun game to watch because of the number of athletes on the field. I am expecting (hoping) Harris can keep his cool as a Soph and limit his mistakes; if so, I think they have the weapons to challenge this great OSU D and put some points on the board. Miami's speed on the outside is impressive, I think the big question is if they can keep them honest, or a little bit, with the run. OSU is the better team, and at home, but Miami likes the underdog role and has been successful in it recently in early season games - no pressure on them. So while I believe the U will make it competitive throughout, 9 is enough points that a back-door cover is not out of the question. 3 units. Jacory, your team was wearing the white jerseys, not the red ones.

There you have it, the Chicago Kid's first 2010 CFB picks. Expecting to get off to a good start this year. Enjoy the first full, real weekend of college football!