PRE XMAS BOWL SEASON VIEWERS GUIDE

HEY Y'ALL. COLLEGE FOOTBALL'S BACK SATURDAY. MAKE SURE TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE GAMES. YOU'LL WANT TO DURING THE ENDLESS PIT OF DOOM, ALSO KNOWN AS THE OFFSEASON.

FOOTBALL SATURDAY

Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl
Alcorn State vs NC A&T (pick) - High Noon on ABC
The first season of this bowl should be a very LIT scene in Atlanta featuring two of the top fan bases and bands the MEAC and SWAC have to offer. This is set to become an annual game.

Gildan New Mexico Bowl 
Arizona (pick) vs New Mexico - 2pm on the Mothership
Main thing to watch in this game is the focus level of Arizona and their coaching staff. This was largely a disappointing year for the Wildcats even though many considered it already a rebuilding year. How does a team maintain focus when they're faced with guarding the triple option attack of FootbawBawb

Las Vegas Bowl
BYU vs Utah (The Holy War) - 330pm on ABC
Not very often you get rivals matched up in bowl games. With this being Bronco Mendenhall's final game at the helm of BYU therehas to be some sort of intrigue to which team shows up. He's going after win 100 at BYU.
Utah have a stellar run defense that's stopped virtually everyone. Expect them to keep the ball in front of them, actually on both sides as this should be a grind it out kind of battle that comes down to the last possession.

Camellia Bowl
App State vs Ohio - 530pm on the Mothership
App State's first bowl comes against a team that's having about about as stellar of a year as the Mountaineers. Ohio overcame numerous injuries on the defensive side of a ball, sputtering to a 8-4 finish. The Bobcats expect much of the group, that when it was healthy, a very good defense back against a high scoring App State offensive attack. I expect my home state's Happy Appy State team to roll.

Cure Bowl 
Georgia State vs San Jose State - 7pm - CBSSN
As Bill Connelly noted this bowl is pointless but it should be fun! Both teams are sub 500. Moar footbaw!

New Orleans Bowl
Arkansas State vs Louisiana Tech - 9pm - The Mothership
Both teams are within driving distance of this one so expect a solid showing in the Super Dome. Also expect many points featuring two teams that like to pile it on offensively. Arkansas State is one of the more aggressive teams in the Group of 5 with home run threats on offense and a defense that likes to get after it. Going with Carolina's former OC in this one.

Monday Night Afternoon Football

Miami Beach Bowl 
Western Kentucky vs South Florida - 230pm - The Mothership
Try not to get caught watching this one while at work. That'll be the challenge many of us face next Monday.  Gimme the Hilltoppers

Tuesday Football (MACtion Alert)

Idaho Potato Bowl
Akron vs Utah State - 330pm - The Mothership
Like the Miami Beach Bowl this game will be a test to see how much you actually care about getting work done. What you will see are two talented defenses doing battle on the blue turf. Akron finds themselves in their first bowl in a decade, look for the zips to care of biz in this one.

Boca Raton Bowl
Toledo vs Temple - 7pm on the Mothership
MACtion extraordinares vs the new kids on the black in the American. This should be one of the more enjoyable bowl games of the season. I'm taking the defense in this one: Temple.

Wednesday Football (SunBEAST and MACtion Alerts)

Poinsettia Bowl
The Smurfs vs Northern Illinois - 430pm on the Mothership
Two former BCS Crashers do battle in a matchup feeting some very hot and cold teams in 2015. Both teams showed off their skills at various points of the year and also produced their own stinkers. Going with the smurfs in this one simply because Dave Doeren's replacement still hasnt won a bowl game.

GoDaddy Bowl
Bowling Green vs Georgia Southern - 8pm on ESPN
Oh the commercials.... gimme GaSo over the MACtion Kings.

Christmas Eve

Bahamas Bowl
Middle Tennessee State vs Western Michigan - High Noon on the Mothership
There's a bowl in the Bahamas y'all. I'm leaning MTSU.

Do wish the #Vols ended up in the Bahamas Bowl: Can you imagine the headlines out of Nassau involving this fan base: pic.twitter.com/Zoa5hwKOtZ

— Santa Frat (@FootbawFrat) December 18, 2015

Hawaii Bowl 
Cinci vs San Diego State -  8pm on the Mothership
Like A Christmas Story on for 24 hours straight there's no greater tradition over the holidays than the a poorly attended Hawaii Bowl. For the players coaches, and families involved, spending the holidays in paradise does not suck.

Happy Holidays y'all.

Slept On It: Loss to Clemson and Going Forward

From last night....

The clock's officially struck 12:45am  and I've run out of the Bourbon that's fueled me over the last few hours. Staring at the empty bottle I guess it's time to try to piece together all of the emotions I and many fans felt over the course of the 45-37 loss at the hands of a number one ranked Clemson squad.

First, let me give credit where it's due: Clemson is a very good football team. Tonight we watched one of the best teams in the country operate both effectively and poorly in the same game, sometimes within the same drive. Deshaun Watson is Carolina's Daddy having racked up a stat line in two games that's about as talented as you can find:

It his two games against Carolina (2014 and 2015) Watson is:
A combined 53-78 (68%) throwing for 724 yards 9 touchdowns and two INTs
He's rushed for 162 yards and a pair of scores as well.
He's 2-0.
If Watson put together another game of this nature against Carolina he'll be nearing Russell Wilson status. If I had a vote for the Heisman, Watson would get it. He's simply the best player I've watched this year in college football with Dalvin Cook coming in second and the freight train known as Derrick Henry in third.

I also want to give credit to Clemson's ability to control the offensive line. Clemson had the tedious task of replacing virtually everyone from last year's dominant defensive line and very good offensive line and both units improved steadily over the year. The offensive line, as David Hale of ESPN pointed out, did not give up a sack in their last 4 games. On both sides of the ball Clemson dictated how the game would be played. Their front seven attacked and abused Carolina's offensive line. From one side of the line with Spain all the way to the other side with Jon Heck, Carolina's offensive line got beat from the point of attack. Clemson's Defensive Coordinator (one of the best in the country) Brent Venables slanted and stunted his way through the Carolina offensive line. Outside of a handful or so runs, Carolina's couldn't establish anything on the ground. The attack when Carolina decided to pass, flustered the OL and gave Quise fits. The quarterback who can usually pick a defense apart, struggled to find a rhythm as he dipped and dodged Clemson pass rushers all evening. Carolina's offense didn't ever completely comfortable until they were down by three scores. Clemson had the better athletes, better gameplan and played the better game tonight.

From this mornin'

On the botched call:
Did the refs miss the offsides call on the recovered kick? Yes. Was it at a very inconvenient time? Hell yes. Did it determine the outcome of the game? Maybe. Is it the reason Carolina lost? Hell no. Go watch the ballgame again. Clemson dominated this game from the point of attack. I hate it most for the players who made the play to not get rewarded.

On the offense:
For those who watched it shouldn't come as a surprise when I say that Carolina did not play it's best game. Quise looked rattled for much of the game and the offense failed to establish any kind of consistency until the game was out of reach. As I wrote earlier, much of the credit needs to be given to Clemson. The talent across their roster was evident in all phases of the game yesterday. What;s encouraging even for as poor as Carolina played for a majority of the game, they still managed to have a shot at the end of the game to make things interesting. That's a testament to this team and coaching staff's resilience. They keep fighting and fighting until the bitter end.

On the defense:
The defense gave the offense virtually every opportunity they could yesterday. Yes the 2 minute drill was a let down and the defense couldn't do much after spending a majority of the first 45 minutes of game play on the field; but the defense gave the offense a shot to make the game interesting. We've seen all year the bend but don't break nature of this defense. This defense, while it still has a ways to go, showed some positives against a very good Clemson offensive attack.

Going Forward:
Last night's result should ABSOLUTELY NOT take away what this team's accomplished over the course of this season. This fan base was extremely fortunate to have had this bunch of Seniors leading this squad. The quad of Jeff Schoettmer, Marquise Williams, Shakeel Rashad and Landon Turner helped lead a group which overcame three coaches, a whirlwind of scandal. national disrespect and complete program turmoil. This quad completely flipped the direction of the program with the #IGotYourBack campaign, with their resilience, with their desire and with their constant fight. Kudos are also in store for this coaching staff.

Not enough can be said about the defensive overhaul we've watched over the last 11 months. We went from a group that had given up on the men coaching the defensive side of the ball to a whole team and recruiting class that's bought into the messages of #IGotYourBack and Smart.Fast.Physical. I love where this program's come in the last few months. We went from the lows of losing to Sakerlina in disappointing fashion, to the highs of winning in Atlanta for the first time in 18 years, beating the shit out of Duke and clinching the Coastal in Blacksburg. November, and the first week of December were ballgames to cherish and remember as a fan. I'm so proud of this ball team and these players. They earned every moment on the field this year. I look forward to this bowl game as Carolina attempts to win their 12th game for the first time ever. This program's in the best spot they've been since Marvin's Tweet seen around the world. Morale's high, a large chunk of the two deep returns and recruiting's hummin for what feels like the first time since 09. Cheering for a program emerging in big time college football is such a wonderful drug.

It's always a Great Day to Be A Tar Heel.

WFP

Setting Goals, It ain't over yet: Clemson Preview

This was peak post bar late night rambling. Prediction was written this morning.

Before I dive into previewing Carolina's biggest game to date, I wanna look back at how far this fan base and this team have come over the past 3 months. I remember vividly ripping into a team and coaching staff early on into the season following a horrible and disappointing loss at the hands of Sakerlina. I, like many Tar Heels, couldn't sleep that Thursday night after watching Marquise Williams play his worst game in a Tar Heel uniform. I couldn't sleep because of the incompetence by the offensive coaching shown that game. I couldn't sleep because even Spurrier knew how lucky his squad had gotten in that game. Following that loss, where many teams would crumble, Carolina got back to the keys I had coming into this season:

1. Carolina re-established dominance on the offensive line
This offense has hummed in about every game this season for one point or another. We've watched veteran leadership lead a group that's development a nasty streak and cohesiveness. Even at their toughest struggles against a very well coached Virginia Tech defense, Carolina's O Line paved the way for go up two scores and protect Quise in the game's biggest moment (Game Winner to Quinshad). The game's against Miami and NC State (especially first and third quarters) have been some of the most impressive displays of run blocking I've watched outside of what many consider "elite" programs (Bama, Southern Cal during their run, LSU at times, Notre Dame).

2. Carolina's coaching improved
Unless you've been under a rock, youve probably heard about how much better the coaching been on the sidelines and in the coaches box this year. We're watching coaches make adjustments and players responding to those adjustments. We're watching coaches and players buy-in. We're watching teammates because brothers under the guidance of their mentors.

3. Carolina's Defense grew up and came into their own
While there's still room for improvement, you cannot look over the work Coach Gene Chizik and his supporting staff on the defense did for a bunch that had been in free fall for a couple of years. Even as the offenses this team faced grew more complex, the coaching staff kept things simple and the players responded by fighting their nuts off and making play after play. If this unit remains intact, Carolina's defense couple be SCARY in the coming years.

4. Carolina rallied and used a massive chip on their shoulders and exceeded everyone's (outside of their own) expectations
To keep it simple: This Carolina team's lived out their motto of #IGotYourBack. They've rallied in the face of adversity during games and over the course of the season. They've competed. They've experienced success and failure. Most importantly; they've been a damned fun team to watch and cover.

Heading into Clemson, I find myself not trying to get too lost into the Xs and Os of the game. I find myself in a situation only familiar to my Virginia Tech fandom I had growing up. From the mid nineties until just a few years ago, 10 win seasons were the norm for the orange and maroon and year in and year out I'd watch the Hokies climb to the upper tier of the college football polls only to lose in heartbreaking fashion or get disrespected by the polling and wind up in a bowl matchup below one they deserved. Carolina find themselves in a similar situation this weekend. Win: The Program hits a height we haven't seen in a modern era and we're left to wait to see how a panel of "experts" sees where we fit in the postseason.

How Carolina Wins

1. Win the Turnover Battle
The Tar Heels have gone through a rough stretch in the second halves of the last two games by coughing up the ball and letting Virginia Tech and NC State keep the game closer than it should have been. Clemson's let go of controlling the ball over the last month too. Win the turnover battle and a win in Charlotte just became easier.

2. Control the Line of Scrimmage
On defense, Clemson's offense is gonna look very familiar to Tar Heel fans as Clemson loves to stretch the field and create mismatches in the same way as the Heels. Clemson feeds off the quick striking attack whether it be a wide receiver screen on the perimeter or a zone read that carves the front seven. Carolina's front seven(most six cause I expect to see a bunch of nickel) will have to play sound gap control in the run game and hen Clemson drops back to pass. As good as Deshaun Watson's arm is, he's equally as deadly with his wheels. Maintain contain, wrap up and keep the play in front of you.
On offense, Carolina's O has the task of going up against the best defense they've faced all year. The man on Clemson's defense to watch is Shaq Lawson at Defensive End. While he's not a s fast a Vic Beasley, Lawson's been a force all season. Containing him is key to this Offensive Line. Clemson's defensive front faces the best offensive line they've faced since the monsoon game against Notre Dame. Win the leverage battle and create some alleys for Quise, Eli and TJ to do work.

3. Finish Drives
Field goals ain't gonna get it done against the best offense Carolina's faced all year. Unlike the last game at the BofA, Carolina punches it in when they get in the red zone. Expect a higher scoring affair than what we saw back in the first of September.

While on paper, the Clemson defense should give this team the edge, I cannot go against my heart today. I expect Carolina to jump out to a two score lead. Clemson to rally and the Carolina squad to earn redemption with a late score, a late stop, and a couple late first downs to ice a ballgame between two of the country's best teams.

Carolina 41 Clemson 34 

Carolina Fans can start talking playoff around midnight tonight.

Go Heels.

CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP WEEK VIEWERS GUIDE

Biggest Game in Carolina's Football History is on Saturday. Needless to say it's been difficult to focus at work this week....

On another note: FEAR NOT! If you're one of the fan bases left out of this weekend's championship game fun, there's plenty of ball games for you to watch as your team makes preparations for 2016

Friday Night Lights

The biggest game in your neck of the woods are likely on the high school gridiron, but if you dont have a dog left in the high school fight, there's a ballgame that may strike your interest

MACtion Championship

Bowling Green vs Northern Illinois at Ford Field (+12.5)
Matt Johnson (QB for BG) vs Drew Hare (QB for Northern Illinois is the matchup to watch here. Both are crazy efficient while Johnson's attack is a bit more vertical. Northern Illinois is my sneaky pick here... simply because they're undefeated as underdogs this season.

Football Saturday

High Nooners

AAC Championship - Temple at Houston (-6) - ABC at Noon
I think Herman's commitment to Houston is the difference in this game. His team shows up inspired for him this week. I think Houston wins by at least a couple of scores.

Conference USA Championship - Southern Miss at Western Kentucky (-8) - The Deuce at Noon
Brandon Doughty against a so-so pass defense? Take my money.

Texas at Baylor (-20) - Noon on The Mothership
This line should honestly be bigger.

Mid Afternooners

SEC Championship - Bama (-16.5) vs Florida - 4 on CBS with tha GAWD
This one's gonna look like Sakerlina vs Auburn did 5 years ago

West Virginia at Kansas State (+6) - 430 on FS1
Gotta go with the squad playing for bowl eligibility.

Night Games

PAC 12 Championship Game - Southern Cal (+5) vs Stanford - 745 on The Mothership
For as good as Stanford's looked over the last few weeks, I can't discount Southern Cal rallying behind now new head Coach Helton. Picking the Trojans in the upset.

B1G Championship - Michigan State  vs Iowa (+4) - 8pm on FOX
Why pick against a corn fed zombie Iowa team? Have we not learned anything yet this year? I don't trust Michigan State's defense enough.... just don't.

ACC Championship - Carolina vs Clemson - 8pm on ABC - Current Line is 4.5 in favor of Clemson
More on this one later.

Check my twitter page... I've been chatting about this ballgame all week

BIG WEEKEND. LET'S GO.

Slept On It: State

Little scrambled but here it goes...

I don't think it comes to anyone's surprise that the first quarter between Carolina and State was the dominant 15 minutes of football we've seen in the Larry Fedora Era in Chapel Hill. The offense was hummin' and the defense was getting after it. Outside of wheel route that got behind a True Freshman Mike Linebacker, the performance in all three phases of the game was one word: Dominant. While I wanted Carolina to keep a cinder block on the gas pedal and hang three digits on the school located in Raleigh, we saw the coaching staff use the 4 score lead as an opportunity to get some youngsters some PT on defense.

While the offense was far from perfect(spotting the Wolfpack short field on two turnovers) the put up some very impressive numbers including 374 yards on the ground on 41 attempts. At 9.1 yards a clip, I'd take that kind of run game up against anyone in the country. State's front seven, especially the defensive line are not push overs, but Carolina made them look like it. What cannot be overlooked is the blocking the wide receivers put together. Logan and Hood do not break those big runs without the perimeter blocking. The offensive line was in sync for the vast majority of Saturday's ballgame showing only a couple of blunders. Marquise could have cooked dinner behind the protection he had for most of the day. If Mack Hollins doesn't drop the easiest touchdown of the year, Carolina wins this ball game by at least 4 scores. Easy.

The defense gave up too many scores and yards for comfort as NC State squeaked back into the game late into the third quarter. I'm still not completely enthralled with Defensive Line play for the complete 60 minutes but I say that recognizing that the defensive line has improved the most out of any unit over the course of the year. The Linebackers may have played their best game of the season. Carolina Fans must recognize that we have a star in the making in Middle Linebacker Andre Smith. Even with the missed wheel route, he played one of the best games a Carolina Linebacker's played this season.

Shifting the focus to the defensive backfield, I cannot say enough about this unit. Time and time again these players are in position to break up passes and wrap up soundly when the ball gets to their level. This unit held the Wolfpack passing attack to 5.6 yards per attempt and only 206 yards through the air (25% of which came on one play). The DBs contributed to a 3 of the 5 total sacks by way of coverage sacks. Donnie Miles is a STUD.

Bottom line is Carolina's 11-1 after blowing State out of the stadium in the first half then they coasted to a 45-34 victory with a couple of garbage time points from NC State. I like what Carolina brought to the table in a hostile environment against a rival team whose series has been a war over the last decade. If Carolina plays like they played in the first quarter for an entire 60 minutes, Carolina will be hoisting the ACC Championship Trophy this upcoming Saturday.

As for CFP Predictions, nothing matters unless Carolina wins this upcoming Saturday.

TURKEY WEEK/RIVALRY WEEK VIEWERS GUIDE

Last week I crushed my picks in the same way my rowdy crew on Chicken Hill CRUSHED Blacksburg. Let's keep the momentum rollin heading into a week when our bodies normally slow down...

Last Week: 17-8. BOOM.
Overall: 96-83-3. LEH GO

As per November tradition... it all starts with Mid-Week #MACtion

Tuesday Nite

Bowling Green (-22.5) at Ball State - 7pm on ESPN3
Ball State is one of the worst teams in the MAC and Bowling Green isn't #analysis

Ohio at Northern Illinois (-13.5) - 730pm on the U
Northern Illinois looked impressive the past week so I've gotta go with them again. The Huskies offense will just be too much the State of Ohio to handle

Thanksgiving 'Ball

While the NFL dominates the day (GO THERS) there's a couple college games to catch during that 3rd round of leftovers

South Florida (no line) at UCF - 730pm on the Mothership
Expect BLOWOUT CITY in Orlando

Texas Tech(+1.5) at Texas - 730pm on FS1
Going with the most beautiful man in College Football Coaching here as Texas' defense will struggle to stop the Red (Air)Raiders

(More than Just) Friday Night Lights

Friday High Nooners

Navy at Houston (-1) - High Noon on ABC
I'm very intrigued to see how Houston responds after dropping their first ballgame. Defensive discipline for the Cougs will be the words of the day as they attempt to stop Navy's vaunted triple option attack.

The U at Pittsburgh (-6) - High Noon on the Deuce
Pitt looked downright dominant before taking the foot off the pedal against Louisville. The Panthers seem to have Miami's number and I expect nothing different on a day even with Miami weather in the Burgh. Worth noting this rivalry goes back to when both teams were independent.

Marshall (+10.5) at Western Kentucky - High Noon on FS1
Doc Holliday gets his boys ready to play and they pull off the upset over the High Powered Hilltopper Offense

Friday Mid Afternooners

Mizzou (+14) at Arkansas - 230pm on CBS with tha GAWD
While I'm still on the NovemBERT page, I do think the Tigers rally one last time for ole Pinkel aand cover.

The Apple Cup - 330pm on FOX
While the word knows that Mike Leach would rather have this game played at 1:30am(local time) in the middle of a prairie, it'll be played in the Hipster Paradise of Seattle instead. I expect Wazu to cover.

Iowa at Nebraska (+1.5) - 330pm on ABC
I'M CALLING THE UPSET.

Actual Friday Night Lights

Baylor (-1.5) at TCU - 730pm on the Mothership
A month ago many envisioned this being a battle of the undefeateds, now it for each team to keep their NY6 Bowl hopes alive.

Tulsa (-6.5) at Tulane - 8pm on the U
Only degenerates would be on this line.... welp.

Football Saturday

High Nooners

The Commonwealth Cup - High Noon on the U
Beamer's won 11 straight against the Hoos. I don't see if any differently this year. Hokies cover the 3.5 as well.

Clemson(-17.5) at Sakerlina - High Noon on the Mothership
Could be an ass kicking of epic proportions in Cola this weekend.

The Game at the Big House - High Noon on ABC
Two top 12 ranked squads do battle in the Big House for a shot at the B1G Championship Game? Gimme Harbaugh and the 2 points.

Cinci at ECU (+1) - High Noon on CBSSN
Love the Pirates in this game to clinch bowl eligibility.

Clean Old Fashioned Hate - High Noon on The Deuce
Hard to believe that Richt has to win out to have a shot at keeping his job. I see him doing that and covering the 5 points against a Jacket squad that's ready for 2016 to get here fast.

Louisville at Kentucky (+4) - High Noon on SEC Net
Louisville continues to not impress this guy... I think playing in Lexington is the edge in this ballgame.

Duke (-4) at Wake - 1230 on ACC Net
Duke's been in free fall since losing to Miami on the fluke final play. I think they finally hit the basement floor rather than blow through squeaking out a win over an over matched Wake squad.

Mid Afternooners

The Iron Bowl - 330 on CBS with This Beautiful Man
This one may resemble the 2012 Iron Bowl. I expect this one to get ugly in a hurry. Bama should cover 13.5 no sweat.

Penn State at Michigan State (currently no line) - 330pm on the Mothership
I'm taking Sparty, but in typical Sparty fashion, very ugly.

Carolina (-6.5) at State - 330pm at ABC/The Deuce Combo
More on this, but I hope Carolina does unspeakable things to Doeren's squad this year.

UCLA at Southern Cal (-3) - 330pm at ABC/The Deuce Combo
Two disappointing teams located in LA... while I'm not interested I'm sure there's a few bros in that town that are.

Night Games

The Egg Bowl - 715pm on the Deuce
Ballgame's in Starkville and there's no way I'm going against my Grandfather's Alma Mater. HAIL STATE.

Notre Dame at Stanford (-3.5) - 730pm on FOX
Just me or is Stanford gonna Man Ball Notre Dame outta the stadium

Texas A&M ar LSU (-5.5) - 730pm on SEC Net
Could be Les Miles' last ballgame in Death Valley? While I think that's beyond absurd, the money at LSU may indicate that. Also, can we please get back to A&M vs Texas Thanksgiving weekend? Kthanx.

Florida State at Florida (+2) - 7:30pm on the Mothership
This week on COPS Special: Gainesville, expect not a whole lotta points and many turnovers and arrests. Then again, that's just a normal day in Florida.

Bedlam - 8pm on ABC
Many believe it's beyond absurd that Okalhoma's a Touchdown Favorite on the road in a rivalry game, until you look at the history of the series: Oklahoma's only lost one in Stillwater since 2002. Big Game Bawb covers the 7.

Late Night
I'll likely be exhausted from the 3 day football bender preceding these game but if you still have some life left...

Zona State at Cal (-4) - 10pm on FS1
All the points.

Air Force (-9.5) at New Mexico - 1015pm on the U
Take the Smurfs Killers.

Nevada(+18) at San Diego State - 1045pm on the Deuce
My hands are getting tired.

Louisiana Monroe at Hawaii - 11pm - An Illegal Stream on the Internet
BOOM. YOU'RE PREGNANT.

WEEK 12 VIEWERS GUIDE - FOOTBALL SATURDAY

High Nooners

Carolina (-6) at Virginia Tech - High Noon - The Mothership
I wrote about my biggest college football game of the year here

Memphis at Temple (+1.5) - High Noon - The U
Two up and coming coaches in yet another AAC battle. Seems like we have one or two of these a week now.

Michigan at Penn State (+3.5) - High Noon - ABC
Better hope the Michigan Man isn't looking ahead to what's in store for them next week....

Georgia Tech at The U (+2.5); Cuse (+17.5) at NC State - 1230 - ESPN3/ACC Net
* fart noise *

Mid Afternooners

This segment is absolutely loaded

Sparty (+14) at Ohio State - 330pm - ABC
Winner remains in the playoff discussion.

Northwestern (+10) at Wiscy - 330pm - B1G Net
Two B1G games before mentioning the SEC CBS Game.... What's wrong with me?

LSU (+6.5) at Ole Miss - 330pm - CBS with DA GAWD
For some reason this week I'm BELIEVING in the underdog. Yous truly wants complete playoff chaos.

Duke (+2) at UVA - 330pm - ESPN3/ACC Net
Leave to Duke to stop its free fall only because they're traveling to the second to last stop of the #MikeLondonFarewellTour

Southern Cal at Oregon (-4.5) - 330pm - The Mothership 
I'm of the party that thinks Oregon's about to start cookin' now that Vernon Adams is healthy...

Louisville at Pitt (-2) - 345pm - ESPN News
Pitt appears to be avoiding Pitt-ing this year. I don't see Louisville ranked real high (unlike Pitt's 3 losses) so I'm going with my current town's squad.

Night Games

Mississippi State at Arkansas (-4) - 7pm - The Mothership
While I'll be rooting for my Granddad's squad, my money doesn't see anyone beating NovemBERT.

 BC (+16) vs Notre Dame in Fenway - NBCSports - 730pm
While ESPN wants to see Notre Dame in the playoff most of the collective college football world would prefer to see this

Baylor (+1) at OK State - 730pm - FOX

Yet another college football playoff elimination game.... and yours truly doesn't Briles dropping two in a row.

TCU at Oklahoma (Pick) - 8pm - ABC

Another College Football Playoff elimination game... can Mayfield dazzle for a second week in a row?

Tennessee at Mizzou (+7) - 715pm - The Deuce
Does the squad keep getting up for Gary Pinkle, my money says they do.

Late Night

Cal at Stanford (-11) - 1030pm - The Mothership
Stanford may run halfback dives in 4 TE in sets all night, just because they're pissed.

Colorado at Wazu (-15) - 1045pm - The Deuce
I'm pretty sure Mike Leach volunteered to play every PAC 12 Game that started after 10pm this year....

San Jose State at Hawaii - 11pm - Some illegal stream on the internet
Your computer is worth getting a virus if you get to watch this beautiful man

Hokie Born, Hokie and Tar Heel Bred

When the news broke of Coach Frank Beamer retiring at the end of the 2015 season it knocked me on my ass. The college football world will be losing a great ambassador of the game. An ambassador who took his Alma mater with little tradition, little money and little support, and made them a national brand. Frank Beamer wasn't just a Football Coach. He help put Virginia Tech the Football Program , The School, and The Culture on the map. Everything I’ve known and loved about college football can be credited to what Coach Beamer did In Blacksburg. Many of you may wonder “where the hell is this coming from?” Here's my journey:

I grew up a Hokie.

As the son of two Hokie grads, brother to a student, cousin of grads, and nephew of several aunts and uncles who are also VT grads (and many many friends), I didn't stand a chance rooting for a different football team. My childhood is filled with memories of packing up on Football Saturday mornings and shipping off to Blacksburg. Even when my (very nostalgic) High School career was at it's peak, I still remember vividly the following schedule:

• Saturday Morning Game Film started at 7am
• Position Meetings at 7:45am, 
• Family showed up at 8:15am with the car packed and then it was Gameday Driving (read:speeding) to Blacksburg. 
• We'd pull into town on two wheels arriving to already decked out spread joining our Tailgate Crew; who we'd done this with many times before. 

Gamedays became mini family reunions. Like many, all I could think about during the school week was about the upcoming Tech Game. But little did I know, a college tour and an acceptance to my long shot school, would change my wardrobe from Chicago Maroon and Orange to Carolina Blue. 

This photo was taken exactly one week before I received my acceptance letter from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. My Dad, Little Bother and I watched Virginia Tech blow a 3 score second half lead to a Freshman Matthew Stafford led UGA squad in the 2006 Peach Bowl. We were not thrilled. Sorry, Lil Bro for the for the awkward photo. Needless to say we've aged very well. (I also like to think I've improved as a writer)

I had zero clue what to expect over the next 9 months. Following the release of the ACC Football schedule I discovered very quickly my allegiance would be put to the test early. The schedule revealeved Virginia Tech hosted Carolina in the ACC opener. I knew I one thing was sure, even though I was headed to a basketball school, I wasn't about to lose my love for college football. Not in 2007. Not in 2015. Not ever.

When I arrived in Chapel Hill, I made sure I never lost that enthusiasm. I've said before, I was lucky enough to find an outlet to exude that passion, that craziness, and that obsession. During that first test of solidarity, I watch Ryan Houston fumble in the red zone and Carolina sputtered to a 17-10 defeat. While that game didn't end like many Tar Heels would have hoped, it was clear, the team would battle. The same was true with my fandom. While it my first experience at Lane Stadium/Worsham Field not rocking Hokie Apparel, I enjoyed being back in Lane. I finally was able to experience what many have claimed; Lane Stadium and the Hokie Nation are most hospitable crowds in College Football. While the game environment can be deafening, the fan base will shake your hand and drink a cold beer with you afterwards; regardless of the outcome. 

During those four years of college, I watched from a distance at the most successful runs a football program's had since the ACC expanded to 12 teams. During those 4 football seasons in Chapel HillI watched Frank Beamer and his Hokie Squad go 3-1 against my Heels with the one win coming in the only game I didn't attend. I also watched Beamer and Co. hoist 3 ACC Championships and head to BCS games 4 out of 5 seasons. Even at a basketball school that had it's own unprecedented run from 2005-2012, I watched with envy. I desperately want Carolina to win an ACC title. After watching the likes of Georgia Tech, Maryland and Wake Forest doing so, it's long overdue that Carolina goes out and nabs the title in 2015.

Since moving to Pittsburgh over 3 years ago, I've had to follow my beloved Tar Heels and secondary support for Virginia Tech at a distance. While Pitt joining the ACC has added the coverage my Heels get on the screen, it hurts that I can't make it to Chapel Hill 6 or 7 Fall Saturdays every year.  I created this blog fresh out of school as a conduit to keep my love for college football alive and the share with my friends and followers. In the 5 seasons I've written my musings on college football I'd like to think this outlet has grown and has become respected for what it is: An insightful and informative,yet sarcastic and comedic look at college football with a Carolina Bias. While I know that I'm not cranking out Pulitzer worthy articles every time these fingers hit the keyboard,  I hope the followers have enjoyed this deal as much as I've enjoyed sharing.

This Saturday will be a very emotional game, not only for the players involved, the fans in the stadium, but also for our family. The week my family calls the hardest week of the year couldn't have a better setting that Beamer's last home game.. There will be no shortage of nostalgia, no shortage of tailgating and no shortage of memories. When Beamer took the job at his Alma mater back in 1987, I don't think anyone had clue what he would create, not even himself. Him referencing, in his retirement announcement, about how fortunate he has been to be surrounded by the family, the staff and the players is who Beamer is: He's incredibly humble and cares more about others than himself. He created the Hokie Football Family; a family that extends beyond the packed locker room before and after ball games. He helped foster a fan base and a group of alumni that will travel from one edge of the country to other to watch his program play. His fan base fills Lane Stadium whether the team's 5-5 or 10-0. His emphasis on the Southwestern VA principles of hard work, surrounding yourself with the right people, playing with a edge and setting out to prove doubters wrong are themes I try to live with. I consider myself very fortunate to have attended his summer camp and to have experienced many Football Saturdays in Blacksburg. Those principles are why my Hokie Family always welcomes me back with opened arms even if I show up covered in a divisional rival's colors. 

Games like Saturday's always bring back a whirlwind of nostalgia...

Watching the 1995 Sugar Bowl.

Raising my hand back in November of 1999

"How many of ya, will I see in New Orleans?"

Re-Living The Walk and The Terror Dome in 2003

Watching Jimmy Williams catch Alvin Pearman. 

Remembering Tyrod pull off a miracle.

"He did it, Mikey! Tyrod Did It!"

Curb stomping a rival: 38-0, bro.

 Thank you, Coach Beamer, for the many memories both mentioned and unmentioned. I'll never forget how the program you built sponsors the college football fire that flows through my veins. I truly look forward to experiencing another Football Saturday in Blacksburg this upcoming weekend (and beyond) with my extended Hokie Family; even if I'm rooting for your opponent. Mom and Dad, Lil Bro and Lil Sis, Mama Syl and Daddy Bill, The extended Patterson Bros, Hughbie + A, Laura and Ames, Uncle Cool + J Bird and T, Cousin Chris and His Goons, Mister B and Fam, Strong and the Richmond Crowd  and anyone else I missed; Can't wait to see y'all on Chicken Hill bright and early Saturday. GO HEELS!

VIEWERS GUIDE WEEK 12 - NON WEEKEND PORTION

Week 12 is not only a massive week for yours truly.... it's a biggin for the College Football Landscape. On Saturday we have not just one battle between ranked opponents but we have 6. You read that right: SIX. It all starts on Tuesday this week but first, how did the Picks come out this past weekend?

A stellar 14-9 this past week puts me above .500 on the year
The Year: 79-75-3

Mid Week #MACtion

Sometimes you need a little mid week appetizer to get you ready for the big games on the weekend

Tuesday

Double Dose that starts at 6pm Eastern

Toledo at Bowling Green (-7) - Suppertime on the Deuce
The surest bet in college football plays host to the Rockets of the PEAK RUST BELT City. Expect ALL OF THE POINTS.

Ball State at Ohio (-9) - 7pm on the U
The Bobcats play host the Redhawks in the second MACtion option the night. It'll be the night cap you need as you dread having to work tomorrow.

Wednesday

Central Michigan (Pick) at Kent State - The U at 8pm
Directional Michigan A travels to one of the most unexciting small towns in America in Kent Ohio as it seeks to improve its MAC record to 5-2 and to become eligible. The main course is actually the next game.

Western Michigan at Northern Illinois (-3) - 8pm on the Deuce
Directional Michigan plays in the much more intriguing game of the evening against a Huskies team where the winner remains alive for the MAC title game. This one will keep ya entertained.

Thursday Night Ball

East Carolina (-15) at Central Florida - 730 on the Mothership
There's still free beer being served in Orlando and that trend will continue unless ECU decides to disappoint me once again. I'll continue to bet on Ruffin McNeil, no matter how much it costs me.

LATE NIGHT #FUNBELT ALERT -930 on the U
Two very bad teams doing battle in a lil Fun Belt action? Yes please and take Texas State -3 over ULM.

Friday Night Lights

Cincinnati at South Florida (-2.5) - 8pm on CBSSN
I'm very impressed with what South Florida showed against Temple this past week. I'm fairly convinced they repeat.

Air Force at Boise State (-12) - 930 on the Deuce
After watching the Smurfs lose as 30 point favorites to Footbaw Bawb I fully expect the Smurfs to unleash hell. I'm sorry Air Force.

Saturday to follow......

Slept On It: Miami

Another Saturday and another Carolina win in the books. This win was about as easy as the previos weekend's win over Duke. After steamrolling two consecutive, bowl bound ACC Coastal Squads, Carolina put themselves in the unique position of rattling some cages as they work themselves up the National Rankings. What I saw yesterday afternoon was a football team that continues to play on a mission and with a chip on their shoulder. Rather than buckling after the tough Sakerlina loss, this unit's gone out each and every game, competed, and tried to play a better game than the previous. What's amazing is in their toughest three games of the 2015 season (the last three played ) Carolina's come out and handled each opponent the way they needed to. I can certainly knit pick about how we still haven't closed the door completely on an opponent they way we need to (in the eyes of the coaches, and certain perfectionist fans; me), but what's most important is we're 9-1 and a win (or a Pitt Loss) from clinching a trip to Charlotte.

What I saw on Offense:
As much as I've read, heard and listened to about how some folks don't want to give the credit to this coaching staff I must raise you the first half we watched on offense against Miami. For those who follow the game, you may have heard that most offenses will script anywhere from the first 15 to 20 plays of each ballgame. Carolina's offense is no different. Only will teams get off script if something extreme were to happen such as: an injury to a star player, getting routed in the first quarter, etc.. Coaches often make adjustments following this script and we saw a prime example on Saturday. Carolina's offense didn't come out firing the in the first couple of series like we saw against Duke. Instead, Carolina punted on their first two series (including sputtering to a three and out on the second series). Adjustments were made and the offense ripped off scores in 9 of their next 10 possessions. The adjustments made by the offensive coaches led to this route. Miami minimized Carolina's effectiveness of the outside zone plays and zone read the first two drives. Carolina recognized the unbalanced looks the front seven of Miami showed and drew up a series of counters and powers utilizing the pulling blockers to put a hat on the extra unblocked man. The best example of this came on Marquise's 46 yard rumble on the field goal drive. Landon Turner swallowed Miami's defensive end who was playing contain.

Another adjustment the coaches made on offense was recognizing how the Miami secondary's press coverage could be used against them. This allowed the receivers to fit into their run blocks quicker, plus helped create mismatches on the edge often resulting in splash plays or Miami penalties (yep, most of the 12). The coaching staff did an excellent job of recognizing that the way to gash this Miami team would be on the ground rather than through the air.

What I saw on Defense 
I saw a defense that was gettin' after it for the most part of the game. The defensive line looked solid in their run fits and I like how the Carolina defense attacked this week after giving up over 300 yards on the ground to Duke. North Carolina was absolutely adamant about stopping the run against Miami and they lived up to that calling. Miami was also unable to exploit Carolina with the deep ball. Miami did have some success hitting the intermediate routes in the game but otherwise this team took out Miami's threats on offense. I do believe this defense is not elite enough to completely shut down an
opposing, as we have yet to see it this year. With another year of  a thing.on the defensive line, this could very well become a thing. As for the rest of the year, this defense defense must continue to make opposing offenses one dimensional in favor of the Heels. If Virginia Tech can run the ball at will, the Heels will have to find answer against what I thinks an improving offense in Blacksburg.

What must improve:
Two things: I touched on it earlier, but I'm still waiting for Carolina to completely close out a game. While the offense has done a great job at running up the scoreboard, the defense has yet to be dominant for an entire 60 minutes. The opportunity lies ahead to exert this kind of dominance this weekend in Blacksburg. Will the defense rise to this challenge?

I'm also looking for consistent play from the front 4 on defense. To give credit where it's due; Carolina showed this in spurts this past week. However, Carolina often needed  a 5th or 6th rusher to truly rattle Brad Kaaya. With the defensive backs currently in the rotation, I know that Chiz and Co want the DL to get on the same level as what we're seeing in the rear. Defensive Tackle play must continue to improve.

What to finish with:

My hat goes off to this coaching staff and group of seniors who've done an excellent job of rallying this team around one another. Two goals still outstanding:

1. Win the ACC Coastal
2. With the State Championship.

Carolina can wrap one up this weekend and handle the next one the Saturday following Turkey Day.
One game at a time. Let's go win in BBurg.

VIEWERS GUIDE WEEK 11

After being sick for the better part of last week it's time to get back to the weekly tradition known as the Viewers Guide. Going back a couple week's let's review how we did in picks


Week 9: Perfect Thursday 4-0; Friday a dreadful 1-4; Saturday 7-6 for 12-11 on the week
Overall: 65-66-3 so we're almost even on the year

WEDNESDAY NIGHT #MACtion
We get a double dose!

Northern Illinois (-7) at Buffalo - 8pm on the U
Bowling Green (-3) at Western Michigan - 8pm on the Deuce
These two above are UNDEFEATED and the winner will have the inside shot at Detroit.

Thursday Night Ball

Virginia Tech (+3.5) at Georgia Tech - 730pm on the Mothership
Virginia Tech has the opportunity to end Georgia Techs bowl hopes. I believe they do.

Ragin Cajuns at South Alabama (-3) - 730pm on the U
I can't figure out why you'd want to watch this game but it's there...

Friday Night Lights

Southern Cal (-16.5) at Colorado - 9pm on the Deuce
A solid #PAC12AfterDark option that'll keep you occupied till well past midnight. Southern Cal's been hot since Coach Sark left, gotta think it keeps up.

Football Saturday

High Nooners

Pitt(+3.5) at Duke - Noon - ESPNNews
The battle for second place in the Coastal heads to Durham this weekend as Pitt and Duke, fresh on 2 game losing streaks seek to extend their streak of high scoring thrillers. A loss by either eliminates them from Coastal contention.

UGA at Auburn (-2) - Noon - CBS
Had no clue CBS did Noon games. Talk about a downgrade from what we thought would be two division contenders going at it in November.

Florida at Sakerlina (+8) - Noon - The Mothership
Florida with nothing to play for against a team that always gives them fits.... GROSS

Ohio State at Illinois (+16.5) - Noon - ABC
Should be a high scoring affair in Champaign. Would easily be a top 3 funny upset of the day

NC State (+10) at FSU - 1230 - ESPN3/ACC Net
OH lordy this one could be good one between teams trending in different directions. Clemson didn't entirely bad in a losing effort to Clemson.

Mid-Afternooners

Bama (-8) at Mississippi State - 330 on CBS with the GAWD
While I'm be pulling for CLANGA I fully expect a Zombie Alabama to show up in Starkville. Bama seems to play much better on the road in 2015.

Wake Forest (+27) at Notre Dame - 330 on NBC
Don't sleep on Wake's defense. Notre Dame wins easy but Wake covers.

Carolina vs The U - 330pm on the U
More on this one later... line is currently UNC -12.5

Clemson at Cuse - 330pm - ABC/Deuce Combo
You'd have to pay me lots of money to sit through this ball game in its entirety. A lot of money.  Oh yea, Cuse covers.

The Michigan Man at Indiana (+13) - 330 ABC/The Deuce
Indiana seems to give every a tough time.... why would I think it'd be different for a Michigan team that struggled with the Gophers last week.

Oklahoma State at Iowa State (+14) - 330 on the Mothership
Oklahoma State looked like the best team in the Big12 this past week... gotta think thy'll struggle in Ames, a very difficult place to play.

Night Games

Memphis at Houston (-7) - 7pm on the Deuce
The winner of this ballgame sets himself up to one day closer to a big payday. Gotta think the winner of this one's on the inside track to take the Southern Cal gig.

The Battle for the Golden Boot - 7pm on the Mothership
Taking the Hawgs +7.5 in what could be a 2nd consecutive week of man ball xmas. While I see the Hawgs giving the Tigers trouble the pure talent of a Saturday Night In Death Valley could  just be too much for BRET.

Oregon at Stanford (-10) - 730pm on FOX
This ballgame is usually one that determines the PAC12 North Race, this year expect a Stanford blowout.

Oklahoma at Baylor (-2.5) - 8pm on ABC
Ranked teams are 0-9 in Waco the last 5 seasons, why would I think it'll be any different this year?

Late Night

Utah (-6) at Arizona - 10pm on FS1
Utah just demoralizes an Arizona team that's currently a dumpster fire.

New Mexico (+30) at the Smurfs  - 1015pm on the U
Should be a free money snoozer.

Wazzu (+10.5) at UCLA - 1045pm on the Mothership
Y'all are really gonna make me say up till 3am to watch this #PAC12AfterDark special....

Should be a great weekend.

WFP

Slept On It: Duke

No words really necessary.....

Just gonna leave this here

http://espn.go.com/college-football/recap?gameId=400756975

On to the U


Go Heels.

A NOVEMBER TO REMEMBER

Went PFTCommenter style again, sorry for any spelling errors and fragments

Unless you've been under a rock or viewing the college football landscape through biased eyes, there's a team located in Chapel Hill that's starting make some serious noise in the ACC race. Heading into this season many, including this guy, had their doubts about UNC being a serious contender in the ACC Coastal. After showing the doubters what this team's made of after a disappointing opening game to Sakerlina, Carolina's ripped off a series 7 in a row including a 4-0 record in the ACC. While bowl eligibility in October is definitely something to pat yourself on the back for, there's still a great sense among the program and fan base of that being enough. It's a feeling that I'm glad the aforementioned groups aren't satisfied with. Carolina is and must be better than Bowl Eligibility. Carolina must win the ACC Coastal.

The road to the Coastal, while not a gimme, is attainable. Carolina's last 4 games come against familiar foes, each with it's own reason to knock Carolina off their run.

Tomorrow: A Furious Duke Team because of last week

November 14th: A Jump Start Miami Team with a new coach

November 21st: in Blacksburg for Beamer's Finale

November 28th : in West Raleigh against a team that whopped our ass in 2014

Let me make it clear, tomorrow is essentially an ACC Coastal Elimination Game. Without a win over the rival 8 miles to our north, Carolina faces an uphill battle to get to Charlotte, while Duke just has to worry about getting past Pitt the following week before closing out against UVA and Wake.

As for tomorrow let's look at the biggest match ups

• The Officials vs The World 
• There's a key component working against Carolina. For starters, all eyes will be on the ACC Officiating Crew that completely botched the Miami and Duke game (not just the final call). If there's any indication for how things work in the ACC, expect to see this crew on 
• a. Their Best Behavior, and 
• b. a make up call in favor of the Blue Devils.
• Carolina will have to play sound. There's no need for any gimme penalties in the form of late hits, retaliation or dirty play
• Duke's Offensive Line vs Carolina's Front Seven
• Duke's starting offensive line has not missed any starts this year. Carolina's defensive line has been a mixed bag week to week. Carolina's yet to see Nazair Jones take snaps since getting chopped over a month ago against Georgia Tech. The Defensive Line has been hampered for the better part of the season with most of the two deep missing at least a game. Carolina will need reinforcements against what I consider a solid offensive line. The front seven must force Duke into second and third and longs. Duke doesn't have an explosive offense like Carolina's and is ranked 101st in yards per play against the FBS (source: Inside Carolina). Carolina should like their odds of defending against the big play, as they rank 6th in plays given up longer 20 yards in the FBS.
• Marquise Williams vs Jeremy Cash
• If you've paid any attention to Duke in the last couple of years, the name, Jeremy Cash, should ring a bell. The former four star recruit and Ohio State transfer (no, contrary to what many think, this wasn't a diamond in the rough by dook) has been all over the field in his senior campaign. Duke likes to use him in a similar role the Steelers used Troy Polomalu during his prime: a moving rover. Expect Cash to be lined up all over the field and to come on the blitz from every angle. Between the Carolina offensive line and Quise Williams, Carolina must know where Cash is lined up and exploit the voided zone. Carolina did an excellent job last year with their dose of read zone and quick hitting passes last year in Durham. Expect Larry F and Seth L to have something up their sleeves to force Cash into a traditional safety role. 
• Carolina Crowd vs The Roadie Dook
• Homecoming. Bragging Rights. The Victory Bell. First Place in the Coastal. What else do you need to get you fired up for a rivalry game? Duke's won 12 of their last 13 games on the road with the lone downer coming at the hand win the lone loss coming at the hands of the Miami Hurricanes in early 2014; Other than than Dook's been perfect on the road for almost 3 seasons. The Kenan Stadium crowd must be the 12th Man tomorrow. Show up. Be Loud. Lift Up This Carolina Squad. 

My Prediction: Coming into the season I saw Carolina coming into this game 6-2 after forecasting a loss on the road to Pittsburgh; so yea, I was wrong. Instead Carolina's 7-1 heading into the biggest game at Kenan Stadium in what, 18 years? While none of us want to go back and focus on Carolina's flop on judgement day in 1997, I do want to focus on the "mentality changing games" this program's faced since Larry Fedora took the help. 

• Virginia Tech (2012) Win - One of Two Wins Carolina has over VT since the Hokies joined the ACC
• NC State(2012) Win - A first over NC State in 6 years
• at UVA (2012) Win - Rebounding on a short week after getting WAXED by Georgia Tech
• at Sakerlina (2013) Loss - Initial Loss of a dreadful 1-5 start
• at Georgia Tech (2013) Loss - Carolina continues the winless streak in Atlanta after blowing second half lead
• Miami (2013) Loss - Carolina blows another big second half lead on Zero Dark Thursday
• at ECU (2014) Loss - After getting blown out the year before, Carolina gets skull drug again by the Pirates.
• at Duke (2014) Win - Break two game losing streak to Duke during best performance of the year
• NC State (2014) Loss - Final nail in defensive staff's coffin. Embarrassing Loss after dominant performance against Duke
• Sakerlina (2015) Loss - Carolina loses a game they had no business losing to not a great Sakerlina team
• Georgia Tech (2015) Win - First Win in Atlanta since 1997
• Pitt (2015) Win - Control Destiny in Coastal

Larry's overall record in these games stands at 6-6. Dead even. 

What I think tomorrows game comes down to is "will."

Will Carolina withstand the fury of anger Duke's has stemming from last week?

Will Carolina take care of the ball and win the turnover battle?

Will Carolina finish off an opponent like they've only done twice to FBS competition this year?

I think the answers to each of those questions is a definitive "Yes."

Tomorrow is Carolina's coming out party. Behind a steady dose of #34 and precision from #12 Carolina controls the pace of play and the defense forces Sirk to make the first real mistakes we;ve seen in a few weeks. Carolina's offensive fire power is too much for Duke's O to handle.

Carolina 38 Duke 28

Fire up your tailgate with this mix. You'll be ready to run through a brick wall.

This time tomorrow, the November to Remember stands at 1-0. 

First #WFPTop20 In Some Time

Had a couple extra minutes and with Carolina sneaking into the polls for the first time in 6 years, it's time for a much overdue WFP Top 20

Who'd get my votes for the College Football Playoff

1. Clemson (8-0)
Clemson took care in business against an NC State that was clamoring for an upset. Left on the schedule as far as games to be concerned about are the Florida State game and the ACC Titlle Game (if they make it). If Clemson's undefeated December 6th, I'll be shocked if they don't make the playoff.

2. LSU (7-0)
LSU enjoyed a off week prior to their upcoming war against Alabama. That game will be a virtual play in game for the playoff.

3. TCU (8-0)
TCU continues to win ugly and take care of biz even when you think they wont. Their upcoming game against Baylor, like LSU vs Bama, will be a play in game for the playoff.

4. Stanford (7-1)
Stanford, continues to look like the 2015 of Ohio State, with their fluke loss to Northwestern. After escaping this past weekend at Wazzu, my prior thoughts of them blowing Notre Dame into smithereens should be a tad adjusted.

Just a bit outside.....

5. Bama (7-1)
Beat LSU, you get back in the playoff. Simple formula, Crimson Tide.

6. Oklahoma State (8-0)
Oklahoma State conquered a very sneaky Texas Tech squad that gives everyone fits in Lubbock. Do not be surprised if the two headed qb monster of Mason Rudolph and JW Walsh has this team sniffing the CFP in the final weeks

7. Baylor (7-0)
Took advantage of the BYE Week and hopefully found an answer at QB with Seth Russell out for the year.

8. Ohio State (8-0)
This team keeps the uneasiness alive with JT Barrett getting a DUI this past week. Who knows what'll happen in the last week for the Buckeyes.

9. Notre Dame (7-1) 
Notre Dame won another late victory over a very good Temple football team. I get to watch Notre Dame in person this upcoming weekend when they travel to pesky Pitt.

10 Iowa (8-0)
Still undefeated. I'm beginning to worry what a world with an undefeated Iowa team in the B1G championship looks like.

11. FLOrida (7-1)
Go GATA avoided the inevitable let down game against rival Georgia this past weekend and put Mark Richt on the scorching seat with their win.

12. Michigan State (8-0)
The edged out the bye week 23-16 this past weekend after looking dreadful for the first three quarters.

13. Memphis (8-0)
Fuente just keeps on winning and his earning potential for 2016-2020 keeps on rising as well.

14. Houston (8-0)
See Justin Fuente for Tom Herman.

15. Utah (7-1)
Still reeling from the loss to USC.

16 Oklahoma (7-1)
Zombie Oklahoma could make some noise with TCU, Baylor AND OK State still on the horizon. Could be all sorts of fun.

17. North Carolina (7-1)
HELLO HATERS

18. THE MICHIGAN MAN
Win ugly but still winning.

19 Toledo (7-0)
Rockets keep flying high.

20. Pitt 6-2
Pitt's still a very good team and could very well win this weekend.

Close
Ole Miss (you gross)
Temple
Wisky
Miss St
A&M

Slept On It: Beating Pitt

Trekking into Heinz Field this past Thursday Night I didn't know exactly what to expect from the Tar Heels in the first games I've watched them in person in 2015. What I saw was a team that did exactly what they needed to win on the road.

In the first half, Marquise Williams played his sharpest 30 minute span of the year. Between him ad the play calling Carolina's offense was aggressive and forced Pitt to defend Carolina's balanced of a physical run game and air raid over the top. The offensive line was very sharp in the first half with the one noticeable mistake of Jo Heck whiffing on Quise's Bomb to Switzer. Quise absolutely BAILED out the right tackle. Heck, on that pass play; But like they say, Players Make Plays. The offense in the second half was much more vanilla than in the first, with Carolina relying on the clock control game and less on on the vertical attack. I wasn't enamored with the playcalling in the second half either. Carolina's offense seemed very predictable in the second half, especially for the opposing defense. Credit to Pitt on their second half adjustments; it seemed like they were in Carolina's huddle at times.

On defense, the gold stars must be given to the secondary. Throughout the night we watched one of the best wide receivers in the country get blanketed and frustrated to the highest degree. The only plays that Boyd managed to make were ones that only uber talents, like he is, were able to make. The defensive line took advantage of the coverage the secondary showed and racked up 5 sacks on the evening, most of which being coverage sacks. Give the DL the credit to have the motors to get those sacks, as they were absolutely earned. Another positive is Carolina didn't allow explosive plays and stiffened in the red zone. They forced Pitt to chew up time being down 3 scores and kept the game in front of them at all times.

The one item of Thursday's game that rubbed me the wrong way was how ineffective Carolina was at closing out the game. When up 20-3, Carolina should have gone for the jugular and put Pitt away, but they didn't. Instead Carolina allowed Pitt to hang around, but not ending any second half drives with a touchdown and allowed Pitt to chew their way back to within striking distance. Carolina special teams gave up a second half punt block, shanked a pair of punts and gave up a fake punt early in the 4th quarter. With the 4 game stretch to finish up 2015, it'll be imperative that Carolina closes games out better than they did this past week at Heinz Field.

Instead of nitpicking I'll shift back to the big picture. Carolina went in, on the road and beat a very fundamentally sound, ranked team that is very well coached. Pittsburgh is a good football team and they should finish second in the coastal this year if Carolina closes out the season they way they should. The difference in Thursday Night's game has to be attributed to Carolina's explosive players and plays made on offense. Without that bunch of skill players, I'm afraid we would have witnessed an outcome more accustomed to Carolina's football fanbase.

Time to shift to an angry Duke; a team that I don't think that good, but will certainly play inspired after how their game ended Saturday Night. 

#Pitt Game Primer and Prediction

Like I ='ll be doig heading to the North Shore tonight, this post is COMIN IN HOT ( I did not spell/grammar check)

I've been waiting for this game all year. For the first time in the 2015 Calendar year and the first time in over a year I get to see my Tar Heel Football team play in person. The Tar Heels currently sit at the 6-1 prediction I placed them at heading into tonight's game while Pittsburgh's had a better season than I originally predicted. Both teams come in as two of the hottest in the ACC Coastal and sit currently as the favorites. These teams, however, have very different make ups.

Pittsburgh's been road warriors with a majority of their wins currently coming from away from Heinz Field, while Carolina's only played one game out of the state of North Carolina so far. Pittsburgh, just like the town, bring a clue collar, physical style of play meant to wear opposing teams down as the game plays while Carolina tries to run you out of the stadium with the high octane offense and very opportunistic defense. Similarly, tho, Carolina and Pittsburgh have shown very dramatic improvements on the defensive side of the ball so I do not expect to see a repeat of the shootout we saw in Chapel Hill this past November. On offensive, both teams have quality depth at running back (Pitt currently lacking the Elite Comparable, James Conner, to Carolina's Elijah Hood), have tremendous offensive lines, and multiple options at Quarterback (Carolina's duo of Marquise Williams and Mitch Trubisky vs Pitt's Nate Peterman and Chad Voytik). I've broken this game to come down to 3 separate matchups:

Carolina's Front Seven vs Pitt's Power Rushing Attack

- Pitt's Offensive Line mauls opposing front sevens. Coming in at 6-4 ad 315 lbs across the board this will be the biggest offensive line Carolina plays all season (even bigger than Sakerlina's). Pitt like to run off tackle, pull guards, run counters and dives. They run north and south and try to punish you with big back, Qadree Ollison (6-2 235 lbs). Carolina's front seven MUST play sound gap control and wrap up at the first level or this could be a long day for Carolina's defense.

Carolina's Secondary vs Pitt's Play Action

- Tyler Boyd is easily the best receiver Carolina's faced since Pharoah Cooper of Sakerlina. You could argue that Boyd will be the best receiver Carolina's faced all year, ad will be the sole focus of Pitt's aerial assault. Building off their power run game Pitt likes to go play action to Boyd over the top and underneath to Tight End JP Holtz. Carolina will have to get after passer and not let Peterman sit pretty in the pocket and heave to Boyd over the top. 

Getting Ahead of the Chains

- Carolina can not afford to face 2nd and longs and 3rd and longs tonight. We must chew up yardage this evening and keep the ball away from Pitt. 3 and outs will not get the job done. Carolina cannot also afford to throw a pair of interceptions early like we've seen in a few games this year. Pitt, while a quick striking offense, is very efficient when they get the ball, punting not as often as you'd expect with a game control team. Take care of the ball and finish drives.

Prior to this season I didn't think Carolina had much of shot heading into this game. I knew Pitt would be decent, but didn't realize how much their defense would improve in year one under Pat Narduzzi. But there's another group that's been much better than anticipated in 2015: Carolina's defense. I think Carolina's DEFENSE is the difference in the game tonight with Jeff Schoettmer and Co forcing a couple of second half turnovers, the Offense converts into points. Carolina continues their streak of dominance at away Thursday Night Thrillers.

UNC 34 Pitt 28

WEEK 9 #VIEWERSGUIDE

WEEK 9 AND IT'S THE BIGGEST WEEK OF THE 2015 SEASON FOR YOURS TRULY. I GET TO SEE MY TAR HEELS PLAY THIS WEEK, IN PERSON. NEEDLESS TO SAY I'M FRIGGIN PUMPED.

As for last week's picks.... things could have gone better finishing 8-9-1 for the weekend bring us to 53-55-3 on the year. Gotta think our luck will change and we'll get back in the black this upcoming week

Thursday Night Ball

Night Games

North Carolina at Pitt - 7pm - The Mothership
Pick coming later... I will be repaorting live from Heinz Field tomorrow night. Line is currently 3 points in favor of the Heels

West Virginia at TCU (-14) - 730 pm - FS1
TCU's rollin and WVU ain't. Do the math....

Directional Michigan (-20) at Direction Michigan - 730pm - CBSSN
PJ Fleck tha GAWD is the only Directional MIchigan Coach I'd ever put my money on.

Texas State at Georgia Southern (-21) - 730pm - The U
THURSDAY NIGHT FUN BELT ALERT. /sounds air horn

Late Night

Oregon at Arizona State (-2.5)- 1030pm - The Mothership
Two of the more disappointing squads in the PAC 12 do battle for to get a leg up in the bowl pecking order.

Friday Night Lights

Louisville at Wake Forest (+12) - 7pm - The Deuce
This game just scream #goacction on a Friday Night. Make sure to kick back and watch Louisville derp this one away in Winston.

East Carolina (-7.5) at UCONN - 7pm - The U
East Carolina did me wrong this past weekend after derping their way through a Friday evening by getting plastered by Temple in front of their home crowd. UCONN's one of the worst FBS programs in the country, so I expect Ruffin to take care of biz.

Louisiana Tech at Rice (+12.5) - 8pm - FS1
Jeff Driskel continues to prove that the only thing holding him back was the man currently leading Auburn's defense. I expect many points between both squads with Rice covering only because they can score.

Wyoming at Utah State (-21) - The Deuce - 1015pm
Utah State did me wrong this past weekend after getting TORCHED by San Diego State. Therefore they have a chance to earn my trust back again.

Football Saturday

High Nooners

Illinois (+5.5) at Penn State - Noon - The Deuce
To me, this is the best game of the High Nooners between two schools still trying to stay alive for a decent bowl. Illinois can score and Penn State's inconsistent. What could go wrong for James Franklin?

Virginia Tech (-2.5) at Boston College - 1230pm - ACC Net/ESPN3
Virginia Tech showed us their offense does indeed have some life against a solid Duke defense. BC hasn't been able to score this year against conference play. VT always struggles against BC but for some reason I could see them pulling this one out.

Ole Miss at Auburn (+7.5) - The Mothership - Noon
The Barners gave us an multiple overtime thriller against the Arkansas Hawgs but fell short. Barring the All World Ole Miss team showing the Barners should keep this one close.

Cuse (+20.5) at FSU - Noon - ABC
Cuse has impressed me over the past couple of weeks especially on offense. If their defense can contain Dalvin Cook, they should keep this one close. I mean, Florida State did lose to Georgia Tech.

Sakerlina at Texas A and M (-16.5) - Noon - SEC Net
Sakerlina's walking into a buzz saw after the Aggies put up a dud of game in Oxford this past weekend. I don't give them much of a chance.

Mid Afternooners

Southern Cal at California (+5.5) - 300pm - Fox
Southern Cal looked like one of the most complete teams in the country this past weekend when they beat the livin' snot out of Utah..... They seemed primed for a let down game against Sonny Dykes' High Octane Offense. A West Coast High Nooner. Hoboy.

World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party -330pm- CBS with the GAWD (taking Dawgs + 3)
Florida comes into this game rested, with the hot hand and with the best squad. Because this game brings out the greatest in parody, Expect UGA to win...

Oklahoma State at Texas Tech (+3) - 330pm - The Mothership
Texas Tech's been down right lethal in Lubbock this season. I expect nothing else.

Clemson (-10.5) at NC State - 330pm - ABC/The Deuce Combo
Clemson showed this past week that there's no shot of Clemsoning this year. NC State thinks otherwise, but not many folks are concerned about what's happening in West Raleigh this year.

Night Games

Michigan at Minnesota (+14) - 7pm - The Mothership
The Michigan Man still ails from the last game they played. The Michigan Man shall struggle in the Twin Cities this weekend.

The U (my pick) at d00k - 7pm - The U
Last week confirmed to me that Duke would go 2-2 best case for their stretch against VT, Miami, UNC and Pitt. Miami got blown into smithereens this past weekend at the hands of Clemson but put up a fight this weekend.

Notre Dame (-10) at Temple - 8pm - ABC
Gameday's in Philly for their first ever visit to Temple for when Notre Dame comes to town. Notre Dame is a heavy favorite and I expect them to roll against a Temple squad that ain't played nobody Pawl (Penn St was dismal)!

Late Night

Stanford at Washington State (+12) - 1030pm - The Mothership
This game would have been my pick for Gameday this weekend because of the Washington State fans always flying a flag at College Gameday. In my opinion, ESPN whiffed on this opportunity to head to Pullman.

Arizona at Washington (my pick) - 11pm - FS1
Another #PAC12AfterDark match up between middling teams. Definitely not the premier night cap but it'll do.

Enjoy

WFP

Slept On It (Twice): #UNC's Sloppy Win over #UVA

For the second week in a row I was unfortunate enough to not be able to watch the Carolina football game live due to Pennsylvania's apparent hate towards Chapel Hill. Instead of Pittsburgh Comcast holding up their end of the deal, the Marshall Thundering Herd Snooze fest was on the Fox Sports Affiliate. So I followed along via the Twittershphere and listened to the ball game on the radio (thank you, premium radio) and had to take the analysis a it was fed to me: a mixed bag. This morning I carved out 75 mins and sped watched the ball game and to be honest, was kinda happy I didn't see it live.

What I saw

• One of the more uninspired first halves we've seen from this team in quite some time. Carolina allowed an overmatched, and frankly not great, UVA squad to move the ball at will  and was completely predictable on offense, in the first half. UVA did an excellent job of keeping the Tar Heel defense off balance by showing a bunch of looks that we haven't seen from the Hoos yet this year. What concerned me the most about this game is if we had played any other team in the coastal, we would have lost the ballgame. 
• Sloppy Play on Both Sides Landon Turner was adamant about how sloppy he thought the offense was on Saturday and I couldn't agree more. Quise missed some easy shots, receivers dropped balls and the offensive line missed assignments. On defense, this sloppy play was really limited to the first half as Carolina forced 4 second half Wahoo turnovers. UVA moved the ball pretty well on Saturday by giving the ball to Smoke Mizzel in space. The front seven came alive in the second half as the linebacker's racked up tackles and the defensive line got after the quarterback. While the defensive line has a long way to go from where it needs to be, it was nice to watch the pass rush force a couple of those second half turnovers.
• Elijah Hood continues to impress. Behind a much improved offensive line, Elijah Hood continued to show us why he's the best running back Carolina's had since Natrone Means. I think there was one play when Hood went down on first contact. Otherwise, UVA needed 3 or 4 defenders to bring down the Bull. Carolina's gonna need a steady dose of Elite Elijah the rest of the season as Carolina closes against 4 physical teams. 
• Carolina's 2nd Half Defense has been lights out While this defense is far from reaching it's potential under Gene Chizik, we did witness another great performance in team defense in the second half Saturday night. Carolina's given up a total of 45 points total in second halves this past season; a far cry from 2013 and 2014. Shutting out UVA this past weekend was another step in the right direction.
• Carolina's Defensive Line is Banged Up - Carolina's defensive line has taken a beating over the past few weeks with the likes of Mikey Bart, Nazair Jones, Dajuan Drennon, Jeremiah Clarke and Tyler Powell all missing either games or significant snaps due to nagging injuries. Nazair Jones hasn't seen action since he was viciously chop blocked by Georgia Tech almost a month ago but the coaching staff is hopeful he can suit up this upcoming week. Carolina will need all able bodies against this physical Pitt Offensive Line which I think is one of the best in the conference. 

Carolina did what it needed to win... against UVA. By no means will Saturday's play equate to wins down the stretch. Up next is Carolina's toughest ballgame of the year, a trip to Pittsburgh. I look forward to studying up on the college team of my current town and taking care of biz on Thursday.

Go Heels.

WFP

WEEK 8 #VIEWERSGUIDE PART 2

AFTER A LESS THAN DESIRABLE 1-2 FINISH IN THE THURSDAY GAMES IT'S TIME TO GET BACK AFTER IT AND WIN THE WEEKEND. IT ALL START TONIGHT

Friday Night Lights

• Memphis (-10) at Tulsa - 8pm - The Mothership
• Memphis, fresh off their ass kickin of Ole Miss looks to extend their undefeated streak to seven with a roadie against an overmatched AAC opponent. Memphis is just too good tonight to worry.
• Utah State (-5) at San Diego State - 10:30pm - The Deuce
• This isn't last year's physical SDSU squad. Expect Utah State to roll tonight

Football Saturday

High Nooners

• Pittsburgh at Syracuse (+7) - Noon - The U
• Pitt's struggled their last couple of trips to the Carrier dome. I expect much of the same with them pulling off the win late. 
• Clemson (-7) at Miami  - Noon - ABC
• I've predicted many times this week that we should expect All World Miami to show up in one of the next couple of weeks. While I don't expect them to show up this weekend, Clemson's struggled against their only other ACC roadie this year and expect much of the same even though they'll cover.
• Auburn (+6) at Arkansas - Noon - SEC Net
• While I couldn't have been more wrong about my prediction, last week's win over Kentucky may have saved Auburn's season. While they're a quarterback injury away from being the dumpster fire we've seen, they should have enough fire power to take care of biz in Fayetteville.

Mid Afternooners 

• The South's Oldest Rivalry - UNC vs UVA (+17.5) - 330pm - ACC Net/ESPN3
• More to come....
• Tennessee  (+16) at Bama - 330pm - CBS With Tha GAWD
• Bama's been not great at home and Tennessee puts it all on the line but comes up short. 
• Duke at Virginia Tech (-2) - 330pm - The U
• Absolute Frank Beamer Homer Alert on this pick. As my brother said, "it's tiring watching this run end the way it is, but I'm gonna enjoy every last bit of it. Geaux Hokies. 
• Wiscy at Illinois (+7) - 330pm - B1G NET
• Illinois shows another team that they should be in consideration for the Big 10 West Crown. 

Night Games

• Florida State at Georgia Tech (+6.5) - The Deuce - 7pm
• Paul Johnson's last stand.... Why bet against him
• Texas A&M (+6.5) at Ole Miss - The Mothership - 7pm
• Lotta folks wanna go with Ole Miss after the Rebels got boated raced in the Liberty Bowl last weekend. With all of the injuries piling up on an Ole Miss defense that hasn;t dominated in the way that many expected, Texas A&M shouldn't have any problem putting up points in Oxford.
• UK (+12) at Mississippi State - 730pm - SEC Net
• This line is absolutely huge. Gotta think UK's offense keeps this one close...
• Utah (+3.5) at Southern Cal - 730pm - FOX
• The Trojans are a popular pick in this one despite being a dumpster fire. Ma y wonder with the Ute magic will end.... it won't be this week
• Ohio State at RUTSgers (+21) - ABC - 8pm
• No more QB controversy in Columbus? Still won't help a squad that can;t find an identity. RUTSgers can score y'all and they should against the Buckeyes. 

Late Night

• Washington at Stanford (-7.5) - The Mothership - 1030pm
• Stanford's loss to Northwestern early in the season is looking more and more like Ohio State's to Virginia Tech in 2014. The Cardinal should win huge. 

Not as excting slate of games as we'll have the next couple of weeks, but there should be enough to watch to get you through to Week 9.

Enjoy,

WFP