Boise State at Fresno State (Friday): This could be the final stop between the Broncos and a BCS bowl game. Titas Young and Austin Pettis have been catching everything thrown their way this season. This year’s contest will be tougher than 2008 (61-10 Boise State win), but expect Chris Petersen’s club to come out on top. Boise State 38, Fresno State 24.
Cal at Minnesota: The Golden Gophers have been on a surprising streak to start 2009 toughing out an OT win over Syracuse and a 20-13 win over Air Force. Meanwhile the Cal bears have been exactly as advertised, mauling their opponents en route to a 2-0 record. Cal should win handily if they can keep from focusing on next week’s game in Oregon. Expect Tedford to make sure that happens. Cal 41, Minnesota 17.
Utah at Oregon: Nothing has gone right for Oregon this season. Expect it to change on Saturday. Oregon 24, Utah 20.
Nebraska at Virginia Tech: Bo Pelini and his staff are really making a difference in Lincoln and can further cement their return with a win against the Hokies, which would avenge last season’s home loss. I want to pick Virginia Tech, but I’m just not sold on the Hokies this season. Hail to the Huskers. Nebraska 20, Virginia Tech 17.
Cincinnati at Oregon State. The darkhorse candidate for the Pac-10 hosts the trendy early-season favorite from the Big East. After watching Cincinnati dispatch Rutgers earlier this season, I’m sold until proven otherwise. Oregon State’s near loss at UNLV just solidifies my selection. Cincinnati 34, Oregon State 20.
Texas at Texas Tech. BCS National Championship game. Big XII Title Game berth. Undefeated Season. Think the Longhorns have some reasons to get up for this game on Saturday? So do I. Texas 41, Texas Tech 20.
Michigan State at Notre Dame: Both teams are a little down after last week. The Spartans fell to Central Michigan while the Irish gave up a late score to rival Michigan. The Irish always seem to lose this one when they gave momentum. I expect they’ll send a message and overwhelm MSU. Notre Dame 38, Michigan State 14.
West Virginia at Auburn. Two questions this week. Can Auburn stop West Virginia RB Noel Devine and will the 3-3-5 slow down the Tigers’ high-powered rushing attack. I’ll go with OC Gua Malzahn. Auburn 30, West Va 20.
Georgia at Arkansas: The Dogs have too much talent on both lines and will keep Hogs QB Ryan Mallett on the move all day. Georgia 23, Arkansas 20.
Tennessee at Florida. Mr. Kiffin, class is in session and all your talk this offseason just earned you a trip to Principal Meyer’s office. Florida 56, Tennessee 20.
Florida State at BYU: Cougars QB is one more big game away from jumping into the Heisman hunt. The Seminole fans are one game away from jumping off a bridge. Send out the Coast Guard. BYU 27, Florida State 24.
