NFL 2021 Week 16 results

 Playoff spots were defined, especially in the NFC.  Three divisional titles were crowned, and four more NFC playoff spots were defined.  There were very few surprise results, and most of those were influenced by teams missing key players due to COVID isolation.

Power Rankings [Last week's position]

1.  Buffalo Bills (9-6) [1] : They now control the AFC East, and control their own destiny

2.  Dallas Cowboys (11-4) [3] : What a huge blowout!  42 points in the first half was like a college football game

3.  Tampa Bay Bucs (11-4) [4] : They utterly demolished the Panthers

4.  Kansas City Chiefs (11-4) [6] : They definitely looked like the power team in the AFC

5.  New England Patriots (9-6) [2] : Two consecutive losses are putting the Patriots playoff chances at risk

6.  Los Angeles Rams (11-4) [7] : They clinched a playoff berth and took the lead in the NFC West

7.  Indianapolis Colts (9-6) [8] : Another strong win makes them the second most impressive team in the AFC right now

8.  Arizona Cardinals (10-5) [5] : They are falling.  They have clinched a playoff spot, but their chances of advancing are looking slim

9.  Green Bay Packers (12-3) [9] : They are not always impressive, but they find ways to win

10. Cincinnati Bengals (9-6) [10] : The Bengals have taken the lead in the tightest division race there is

11. Philadelphia Eagles (8-7) [11]

12. Tennessee Titans (10-5) [12]

13. San Francisco 49ers (8-7) [13] : Their playoff chances are dwindling

14. Denver Broncos (7-8) [14]

Divisional Rankings [Last week's position]

1.  NFC West [1]

2.  AFC East [2]

3.  AFC West [3]

4.  NFC East [4] : The Eagles are helping to boost this division

5 (tie).  AFC North [4]

5 (tie).  NFC South [6] : A win by Atlanta helped this division

7 (tie).  AFC South [7]

7 (tie).  NFC North [8] : A win by Chicago and a close lose by Detroit boosted this division

Division and Playoff Races

AFC East : Miami is at 8-7, but they have two tough games upcoming, so their chances of reaching the playoffs look small.  Both the Bills and Patriots are favored this week, and are likely to win their last game.  So long as the Bills win as many games as the Patriots, they will win the division.  For either to gain the top seed, they need the Chiefs and Titans to stumble.

AFC North : This division is still so tightly packed that any team has a chance, although the Browns likelihood is slim.  Both the Bengals and Ravens face tough challenges this week.  If the Bengals can win, they will clinch the division.  If both teams lose, the Bengals also win the division.  The Steelers need to win both of their remaining games and get some help in order to reach the playoffs. 

AFC South : The Titans lead by a game, but the Colts are hot on their heels.  Both face tricky teams this week, then face a weak divisional opponent to close the season.  The Titans clinch the division with one more win, regardless of which week.  It looks like they will win the division.  The Colts are chasing a playoff spot, something they will get with two wins.  If they split their next games, they will need some help.

AFC West : The Chiefs have clinched the division and lead in the race for the top seed.  They could wrap that up this week, but they face a tough Bengals team.  Both the Chargers and Raiders need some help to reach the playoffs.

NFC East : The Cowboys clinched the division.  The Eagles clinch a playoff spot with one more conference win.

NFC North : It looks like division winner Green Bay may be the only playoff team from the division.  The Vikings have a shot, but they need to win out and get lots of help.  The Packers clinch the top seed with two wins or one win and a Cowboys loss.

NFC South : Tampa Bay has clinched the division, and the Saints playoff chances are looking bad.  Ironically, due to a better schedule, the Falcons actually have a better chance, although I don't see either team reaching the playoffs.

NFC West : The Rams currently lead the division.  They need to win at least as many games as Arizona in order to clinch.  Arizona has clinched a playoff spot.  The 49ers could capture one with one more win and a Vikings loss.

NCAA Football 2021 Bowl picks (part 3)

 Well, we've had five teams drop out of bowl games due to COVID issues.  Three of those five teams came from the ACC, showing that their looser vaccination and COVID regulations were a dumb idea.  The Sun Belt and Conference USA have finished their bowl season.  The American Athletic is the only conference unbeaten right now, but the Mountain West looks best with a 4-1 record.  The MAC has won a couple of games to prevent an embarrassing bowl record.

Thurs Dec 30

Mayo Bowl : North Carolina Tar Heels (6-6) v South Carolina Gamecocks (6-6) -- It is always a bitter battle when North and South face each other!  Both had weaker seasons than they expected, but the Tar Heels had some better performances.  With some key players on each team sitting out, we're not sure how this one will come out, but I think the Tar Heels have a better bench and therefore a better slate of replacements.  NORTH CAROLINA by four

Music City Bowl : Tennessee Volunteers (7-5) v Purdue Boilermakers (8-4) -- Purdue showed themselves to be a giant killer this season.  Tennessee is no giant, but we know that Purdue will enter this bowl wanting to perform well.  Purdue doesn't play too many bowl games, but they have a great bowl record, so when they do play, they do well.  PURDUE by nine

Peach Bowl : #10 Michigan State Spartans (10-2) v #13 Pitt Panthers (11-2) -- The Spartans had a great year despite a sketchy offense, thanks to a powerful defense.  How will Pitt handle that defense?  They haven't had to face such a tough defense much this season, and it's harder to prepare for a defense than it is to prepare against an offense.  I have to favor the Spartans, but if the Panthers offense gets a lead in the third quarter, the Spartans are not set up to come from behind.  MICHIGAN STATE by six

Las Vegas Bowl : #24 Wisconsin Badgers (8-4) v Arizona State Sun Devils (8-4) -- The Badgers are a feisty team, not unlike their mascot, and the Sun Devils are working without some key players who have entered the transfer portal.  WISCONSIN by 14

Fri Dec 31

This day's bowl games have faced some massive COVID problems, with one game lining up a replacement team and two other games in danger of cancellation.

Gator Bowl : #18 Wake Forest Demon Deacons (10-8) v Rutgers Scarlet Knights (5-7) -- Rutgers was allowed to play when Texas A&M dropped out, but that isn't really an honor.  The Rutgers offense can be powerful at times, but the Demon Deacons defense will shut them down.  WAKE FOREST by 20

Sun Bowl : Washington State Cougars (7-5) v TBD -- I can't pick this, as I don't know who is playing.  If the NCAA and Sun Bowl are smart, they will offer the game NOT to 5-7 also-rans but to teams whose bowl games were cancelled due to their opponent's reckless behavior (let's face it, we all know how to avoid catching COVID.  These immature and irresponsible college students are simply ignoring those rules).  My choice?  SMU.  A contest between the Mustangs and Cougars might be very interesting.  The Central Michigan Chippewas, already in the state for the Arizona Bowl scheduled for later that same day, which is now in a precarious state with Boise State's withdraw, have offered to play Washington State.  That would be a smart move, but then you'd need to either cancel the Arizona Bowl or get TWO teams for that bowl.  I'd keep Central Michigan in the Arizona Bowl and invite Memphis to take Boise State's place.  As teams get selected, I will provide picks for these two bowl games.

Cotton Bowl : #1 Cincinnati Bearcats (13-0) v #3 Alabama Crimson Tide (12-1) -- ESPN has claimed that a Cincinnati victory would "shock the world".  WRONG!  As all of you know, I have been ranking Cincinnati high all season, as they continued to shine.  They didn't always win big, but neither did Alabama.  Alabama lost to Texas A&M, and lucked out in two other games with questionable penalties, one in their favor and one not called against them.  Alabama beat Georgia because of their history, but in this game, I have to favor the Bearcats.  CINCINNATI by four

Orange Bowl : #4 Georgia Bulldogs (12-1) v #2 Michigan Wolverines (12-1) -- Michigan shocked Ohio State to get here, but the Buckeyes were relying more on their offense than their defense.  Michigan has trouble with tough defenses, and none are tougher than Georgia.  If their defensive coordinator had moved to his new job at Oregon, thus putting someone else in charge of calling the plays, the Wolverines might have had a chance.  I don't think so now.  GEORGIA by eight

Sat Jan 1

Outback Bowl : Penn State Nittany Lions (7-5) v Arkansas Razorbacks (8-4) -- Arkansas lost too many key players to transfer and COVID.  Penn State is actually a good team, they just faced too much quality competition in the Big Ten.  PENN STATE by ten

Citrus Bowl : #19 Iowa Hawkeyes (10-3) v Kentucky Wildcats (9-3) -- Iowa has a stifling defense that will frustrate Kentucky.  IOWA by 13

Fiesta Bowl : #5 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (11-1) v #8 Oklahoma State Cowboys (11-2) -- The Cowboys had a tremendous season, beating Oklahoma to reach the Big XII Championship, but Baylor surprised them there.  Now they face the challenge of Notre Dame.  The Irish have a decent defense, certainly better than that shown by Baylor for most of the season, so they might be able to repeat the same oppressive presence that shut down the Cowboys offense in the Big XII Championship.  NOTRE DAME by six

Rose Bowl : #6 Ohio State Buckeyes (10-2) v #14 Utah Utes (10-3) -- This game will prove how weak the Pac-12 was this year, and how much improved the Buckeyes are from their game against Oregon.  Utah beat Oregon handily, but they won't last here.  The Buckeyes offense is oppressive, and while their defense is not as tough as it has been in previous years, it still has more talent than Utah. Utah's only advantage is that Ohio State's most reliable receiver, Chris Olave, is sitting out this bowl game.  Guess he has no team spirit.  Fortunately the Buckeyes have a good slate of receivers, and they'll spread the wealth.  That might even be an advantage, as I'm sure Utah practiced ways to slow Olave and didn't focus as much on other players. OHIO STATE by 16

Sugar Bowl : #20 Ole Miss Rebels (10-2) v #7 Baylor Bears (11-2) -- Nobody gave Baylor much thought this season, and here they stand as Big XII Champions.  Ole Miss has COVID concerns, while most of the Baylor squad will be active, so this will not be pretty.  BAYLOR by 17

Tues Jan 4

Texas Bowl : LSU Tigers (6-6) v Kansas State Wildcats (7-5) -- I think by this point we will know if SEC can finish with a positive bowl record, which might inspire LSU.  Since I don't think they will, I don't see much life from the Tigers.  KANSAS STATE by 11

NFL 2021 Week 16 picks

 We'll see if any of these games get postponed.

Thursday evening

San Francisco 49ers at Tennessee Titans : Both teams have some key injuries, but the Titans are missing their best receiver.  That hurts, especially with the quality of the 49ers defense.  That could make the difference in this game.  49ERS, 27-24

Saturday games

Cleveland Browns at Green Bay Packers : The Packers have already won their division, but they are chasing the top seed and a first round bye, so they won't be backing off.  PACKERS, 31-16

Indianapolis Colts at Arizona Cardinals : Momentum is crucial at this point in the season, and the Colts certainly have the momentum.  The Cards also have some key players on the IR list, including runner James Conner, their best offensive performer of the season, and QB Kyler Murray remains limited. The Colts would seem to be likely to field the stronger team.  COLTS, 27-20

Sunday early games

Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals : The Ravens will likely still be missing Lamar Jackson, which makes their offense more predictable.  That will help the Bengals defense, giving them an advantage.  The Ravens defense is good, but they may be missing some pieces.  BENGALS, 23-20

Buffalo Bills at New England Patriots : The two most dynamic teams face off in a game with major divisional and playoff consequences.  The Pats have faltered recently, but they certainly still have the power to respond.  The Bills have been inconsistent for much of the season, but currently have found some strength.  Will that strength continue, or will the Pats prevail?  Truthfully I feel this game could go either way.  It may come down to who manages the ball better, and who can control it in the final minutes of the fourth quarter.  That usually comes down to who has the better runner.  For much of the season, that has been New England.  But with their two best runners out or limited for Sunday's game, that gives the Bills the edge, despite concerns about the health of Emmanuel Sanders.  BILLS, 27-24

Detroit Lions at Atlanta Falcons : Despite winning their second game last week, I don't think the Lions will pose much of a threat to Atlanta.  FALCONS, 20-17

Jacksonville Jaguars at New York Jets : With a total of five wins between them, does anyone outside of NYC really care about this one?  JETS, 16-13

Los Angeles Chargers at Houston Texans : The Texans defense is floundering, and their offense isn't doing very well either.  Easy win for the Chargers.  CHARGERS, 27-13

Los Angeles Rams at Minnesota Vikings : Both teams get back some players from the COVID list, although we don't know who will be added to it before the game.  Despite that, the Rams certainly seem to have the stronger team, especially since their defense is likely to make life tough for Vikings QB Kurt Cousins.  RAMS, 30-20

New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles : The Giants best player, Saquan Barkley, remains out.  The Eagles aren't much better, with two running backs and QB Jalen Hurts injured and questionable for the game.  Both teams will be playing with shattered rosters, so it gets down to which team has the better backups.  EAGLES, 24-16

Tampa Bay Bucs at Carolina Panthers : Cam Newton returns to the field, although in a limited capacity.  That means the team will be switching between Newton and Sam Darnold.  Those two have different styles, so it could be tough for the other offensive players to make a smooth transition.  BUCS, 17-13

Sunday late games

Chicago Bears at Seattle Seahawks : Bears QB Justin Fields is still hurt, but the Seahawks are ravaged by COVID.  They unsuccessfully appealed to the league to move the game to Tuesday.  Not sure who will play, and not sure how well they will work together.  Great opening for the Bears to win a game.  BEARS, 17-16

Denver Broncos at Las Vegas Raiders : Teddy Bridgewater is out for the Broncos, and Drew Lock folds under pressure.  The Raiders defense can apply that type of pressure.  RAIDERS, 17-13

Pittsburgh Steelers at Kansas City Chiefs : The Chiefs are happy with the change to the league's COVID rules, which states that vaccinated players only have to sit out one day if they test negative after that.  That should allow them to get many key players on the field for Sunday.  The Steelers are facing tougher problems, and probably won't have the defense to slow the powerful Chiefs.  CHIEFS, 31-20

Sunday night

Washington at Dallas Cowboys : Dallas is strong, and the incentive to win their division while simultaneously beating their hated rival is just too great.  COWBOYS, 24-17

Monday Night Football

Miami Dolphins at New Orleans Saints : The Dolphins are facing COVID issues, and Taysom Hill is finally starting to find his rhythm.  That helps the Saints, even if Hill's finger is still bothering him.  SAINTS, 23-17

NFL 2021 Week 15 results

 We had plenty of upsets this week, and the playoff chase has gotten crazier.  With three weeks to go, I'll be adding that analysis to this column.  Also, I'm increasing my Power Rankings to fourteen teams, to match the number of playoff teams.

Power Rankings [Last week's position]

1.  Buffalo Bills (8-6) [4] : Huge improvement this week, helped by some shocking upsets

2.  New England Patriots (9-5) [1] : The Colts pummeled the Patriots

3.  Dallas Cowboys (10-4) [5] : The division leader is on the rise

4.  Tampa Bay Bucs (10-4) [2] : Call the police!  The Saints defense stole the Bucs offense!

5.  Arizona Cardinals (10-4) [3] : Our former top team is dropping

6.  Kansas City Chiefs (10-4) [6]

7.  Los Angeles Rams (10-4) [7]

8.  Indianapolis Colts (8-6) [8]

9.  Green Bay Packers (11-3) [9]

10.  Cincinnati Bengals (8-6) [11] : They regained the division lead

11. Philadelphia Eagles (7-7) [13]

12. Tennessee Titans (9-5) [10]

13. San Francisco 49ers (8-6) [15]

14. Denver Broncos (7-7) [12]

Division Rankings [Last week's position]

1.  NFC West [1]

2.  AFC East [2]

3.  AFC West [3]

4 (tie).  AFC North [4] : Not a stellar week for the division

4 (tie).  NFC East [6]

6.  NFC South [5] : The Saints were the only winners, and the Bucs were shut out

7.  AFC South [7]

8.  NFC North [8] : Only 1/4 of a point separate them from #7

Division and Playoff Races

AFC East : The Patriots lead the division, with the Bills close at their heels.  The Bills seem to be strengthening, and the Patriots have lost their momentum.  This week will make a huge difference, as the two division leaders face each other.  The Pats won the first meeting, so winning again will give them such a strong lead, especially since they face the Jags the next week.  A Bills win ties the teams, and a forthcoming win against the Jets would give them a better divisional record.  The Dolphins have a slim chance at the division title, and a chance at the playoffs.  However, they face three tough opponents remaining on their schedule, so they may not win another game.  Two losses take them out of the playoff hunt.

AFC North : This is the tightest division.  The Bengals lead now, but it is still anyone's race.

AFC South : The Texans and Jags are out of the race.  The Titans lead by one game, but they are losing strength.  The Colts could surpass them, although they have a slightly tougher road.  If the Colts beat the Cardinals this week, they are likely to win all of their remaining games.  They would still need the Titans to lose their remaining division game, or lose their other two games.  Neither option seems likely.  The Titans will likely win the division, with the Colts sealing a playoff spot.

AFC West : The Chiefs hold a two-game lead and a six-game winning streak.  All the Chiefs have to do is win their last division game, or win this week and the Chargers lose.  The Chargers are likely to be the division runner-up, and could capture the final playoff spot, after the Colts and AFC East runner-up.

NFC East : Dallas wins the title with one more win.  The Eagles are chasing a playoff spot, but they will need some help.

NFC North : Green Bay has won the title.  The Vikings are hoping for a playoff spot, and currently hold the last spot.  They need to stay ahead of the Saints and Eagles.

NFC South : Tampa Bay wins the title with one more win.  The Saints are chasing a playoff spot, but they need some help.

NFC West : The Cardinals and Rams are tied for the lead.  The Rams are improving while the Cards are sliding, so the Rams actually seem to have a better chance.  They certainly have an easier schedule, as the Cardinals have the hot Colts and strong Cowboys remaining before facing Seattle, while the Rams face the inconsistent Vikings and faltering Ravens before closing against the 49ers.  The Rams have the tougher division game remaining, and are already a game behind, so the Rams need to win one more game than the Cardinals in order to capture the division.  Both teams will seal a playoff spot with one more win.  The 49ers could capture another playoff spot with two wins.

NCAA Football 2021 Bowl picks (part 2)

 Well, I'm slightly better than 50%, and an early great start by Conference USA is fading.  Let's see who shines in these games:

Friday, Dec 24

Hawaii Bowl -- Memphis Tigers (6-6) at Hawaii Rainbow Warriors (6-7) : The Warriors have a losing record, but when you host your own bowl game, you always get to go.  Strangely, the Rainbow Warriors don't have a great record in this bowl, but the Tigers haven't traveled well this season.  Also, there is something damned distracting for the visiting team to travel to Hawaii to play football.  HAWAII by six

Sat Dec 25

Camelia Bowl -- Georgia State Panthers (7-5) v Ball State Cardinals (6-6) : Despite some close games, the MAC haven't been able to win a bowl game so far.  I don't think this one will change that.  While Georgia State isn't consistent, and could play really horribly, they showed some real strength at other times this season.  I think this bowl game will be incentive for them to show up strong.  GEORGIA STATE by eight

Monday, Dec 27

Quick Lane Bowl -- Western Michigan Broncos (7-5) v Nevada Wolf Pack (8-4) : Western Michigan has recently been one of the strongest MAC teams, although they struggled some this season.  Are they the best hope for a bowl win?  Not against Nevada.  The Wolf Pack were a threat often this season, and certainly have the strength to knock down any MAC team.  NEVADA by 13

Military Bowl -- Boston College Eagles (6-6) v East Carolina Pirates (7-5) : Here's a tough call.  The Pirates started the season horribly, but started to find their defensive strength again.  However, BC can be a tough team, and they have played well in the military-related bowls.  The difference might be turnovers, a problem faced by BC throughout the season.  EAST CAROLINA by four

Tues Dec 28

Birmingham Bowl -- #11 Houston Cougars (11-2) v Auburn Tigers (6-6) : Here's where the ego of the SEC will be a downfall.  I don't think Auburn will really consider Houston a serious threat, but this is a serious team.  HOUSTON by 16

First Responder Bowl -- #23 Air Force Falcons (9-3) v Louisville Cardinals (6-6) : Air Force just grinds out their games, and I don't think the Cardinals, housed in the offensive-happy ACC, is used to such games.  Control of the pace and control of the clock will reside with Air Force, and I they should be able to use that control to win the game.  AIR FORCE by ten

Liberty Bowl -- Mississippi State Bulldogs (7-5) v Texas Tech Red Raiders (6-6) : Both teams proved that they can really play when they want, so the question is who wants this more?  The SEC is always grinding to dominate the bowls, while I think the Raiders expected to do better this season, and might view this bowl as a letdown (although, given the prominence of the Liberty Bowl, they shouldn't).  I'm not sure how serious Texas Tech will be.  MISSISSIPPI STATE by eleven

Holiday Bowl -- UCLA Bruins (8-4) v #17 NC State Wolfpack (9-3) : The Holiday Bowl is often an explosive offensive performance.  While both of these teams have the capacity for that, the defenses are good enough to prevent a teeter-totter of big scoring plays.  NC STATE by nine

Guaranteed Rate Bowl -- West Virginia Mountaineers (6-6) v #22 Minnesota Golden Gophers (8-4) : The Big Ten becomes the last conference to debut in the bowls, and it starts with a bang.  The Golden Gophers were conference title contenders up to the last week of the season, and they showed that they were no slough.  West Virginia has some strength, but their offense isn't consistent enough to stand against the tough Gophers defense.  MINNESOTA by 16

Wed Dec 29

Fenway Bowl -- SMU Mustangs (8-4) v Virginia Cavaliers (6-6) : Boston joins New York as a city hosting a football bowl game in a baseball stadium. It features two teams who had two different trajectories this season.  Virginia started hot, but fizzled.  SMU had inconsistencies early, but smoothed out and closed well.  I think that momentum will continue into this game.  SMU by 12

Pinstripe Bowl -- Maryland Terrapins (6-6) v Virginia Tech Hokies (6-6) : Maryland had a tough conference year, but they are dangerous non-conference opponents (just ask Texas).  Their offense can be scary effective, and the Hokies defense hasn't shown the consistent strength to hold up against that.  MARYLAND by eleven

Cheez-It Bowl -- Clemson Tigers (9-3) v Iowa State Cyclones (7-5) : Quick, what do you eat while watching the Cheez-It Bowl?  Certainly not Fritos.  Anyway, think about your snack food, because the game isn't likely to be very fulfilling.  Too many Cyclones are passing on the game, and Clemson isn't the team they have been in recent years.  They will likely LOOK like that team, as they won't get much resistance from Iowa State, but that doesn't necessary mean this will be a really satisfying game.  CLEMSON by 18

Alamo Bowl -- Oregon Ducks (10-2) v #9 Oklahoma Sooners (10-2) : Lots of people are excited about this game, but it won't end well for the Ducks.  Not only does the Pac-12 tend to struggle in all bowl games except the Rose Bowl, the Ducks are not as good as they think they are.  While Oklahoma failed to reach the Big XII Championship, they are a championship-caliber team, and they have the chance to prove that by shredding the Ducks.  OKLAHOMA by 20

 

NFL 2021 Week 15 picks

 Thursday night

Kansas City Chiefs at Los Angeles Chargers : The Chiefs are on the rise!  The Chargers are too inconsistent to truly believe in, while the Chiefs definitely seem to have ironed out the problems they had in the first seven weeks of the season. CHIEFS, 24-17

Saturday games

Las Vegas Raiders at Cleveland Browns : The Raiders are self-destructing at an accelerating rate.  Meanwhile, the Browns are coming off a tremendous upset of the Ravens, and are feeling good about themselves.  I don't expect to see much offense in this game, but the Browns have the style of defense to win these types of games.  BROWNS, 16-13

New England Patriots at Indianapolis Colts : Both teams had byes last week, and both were on hot streaks going into that bye.  When it comes to sheer offensive firepower, nobody has been doing better lately than the Patriots.  Can the Colts defense slow them down enough?  I don't think so.  PATRIOTS, 34-23

Sunday early games

Arizona Cardinals at Detroit Lions : The Cardinals have a great chance to get back to their winning ways.  CARDINALS, 31-13

Carolina Panthers at Buffalo Bills : The return of Cam Newton has rejuvenated the Panthers, but the Falcons showed they still have lots of flaws to fix.  The Bills have their own problem, but the strength of their offense will keep them going this game.  BILLS, 28-16

Dallas Cowboys at New York Giants : Easy pick.  COWBOYS, 27-13

Houston Texans at Jacksonville Jaguars : I don't think any team has a worse offense right now than the Texans, who just can't sustain a drive.  Their once-vaulted defense has collapsed as well, so the Jaguars, once a winless team, just leap upwards with their third victory.  JAGS, 13-10

New York Jets at Miami Dolphins : Historically, these games are often close offensive battles.  Given the Jets' offensive woes, I don't think we'll see that.  The Jets defense might keep it a bit close, but we won't be lighting up the scoreboard.  DOLPHINS, 24-16

Tennessee Titans at Pittsburgh Steelers : The Steelers are another team in trouble.  They have the talent to beat opponents, but their spirit seems to fizzle at some point in games.  The Titans play complete games, and that should seal their victory.  TITANS, 26-16

Washington at Philadelphia Eagles : Washington to hot right now, and Taylor Heineke is finding ways to move the ball.  The Eagles offense is no slouch, either, so this game could be heated.  Really either team could win, so I'll favor the better rested team.  EAGLES, 20-17

Sunday late games

Atlanta Falcons at San Francisco 49ers : The Falcons pulled out an amazing game last week, but I do not think it is the start of a trend.  While the 49ers have been up and down this season, they seem to have ironed out some of their problems, and that, along with their defense, gives them the edge here.  49ERS, 23-17

Cincinnati Bengals at Denver Broncos : The Bengals are in free fall, and I don't think they know what is causing it.  That seems to indicate that they still have more of a decline in front of them, as this game will likely expose.  BRONCOS, 24-17

Green Bay Packers at Baltimore Ravens : Green Bay has an intense offense right now, despite some injuries.  The Ravens have a dynamic offense, but it hasn't been firing well recently.  Can their defense keep them in this game?  Maybe.  I'll pick the Pack, but the Ravens might pull this one out.  PACKERS, 24-20

Seattle Seahawks at Los Angeles Rams : The Rams won last week with a bunch of replacements.  They have to do it again, as they have lost Odell Beckham Jr and three other offensive players to COVID.  If they don't get the discipline in place to prevent these players from engaging risky behavior, they may not have a team to field by the end of the season.  For this week, though, they can probably survive on their defense, as the Seahawks offense has completely dissolved this season.  RAMS, 16-13

Sunday night

New Orleans Saints at Tampa Bay Bucs : The Saints offense isn't as strong as it was under Brees, and the Bucs are just lighting things up.  BUCS, 31-16

Monday Night Football

Minnesota Vikings at Chicago Bears : My Bears hate Monday Night.  VIKINGS, 24-16

NFL 2021 Week 14 results

 Well, for a change, there were few upsets for a week that seemed so easy to pick.  Definitely surprises this week: Atlanta pulled off a win and the Ravens fell (and lost Lamar Jackson in the process).  Cincy almost pulled off a fabulous comeback, and if they could figure out how to tackle, they WOULD have completed that comeback.

Power Rankings [Last week's position]

1.  New England Patriots (9-4) [2] : How's this for interesting?  Take a bye week and STILL advance to the top spot!

2.  Tampa Bay Bucs (10-3) [4] : The Super Bowl Champs are repeating their same path from last season

3.  Arizona Cardinals (10-3) [1] : Man, they didn't look good AT ALL on Monday

4.  Buffalo Bills (7-6) [3] : They took the Bucs to overtime, so that was good

5.  Dallas Cowboys (9-4) [5]

6.  Kansas City Chiefs (9-4) [10] : They thoroughly drubbed the Raiders, and they are looking better each week

7.  Los Angeles Rams (9-4) [7] : They beat Arizona with six new players promoted from the practice squad to replace COVID-plagued players

8.  Indianapolis Colts (7-6) [6]

9.  Green Bay Packers (10-3) [9]

10. Tennessee Titans (9-4) [12] : They shut out Jacksonville.  Is that really so special at this point?

11. Cincinnati Bengals (7-6) [8] : Two bad losses in a row.  They are on a downward spiral

12. Denver Broncos (7-6) [15] 

Division Rankings [Last week's position]

1.  NFC West [1] : Impressive performances all around

2.  AFC East [2] 

3.  AFC West [4] : KC rolled again, and both the Broncos and Chargers shined

4.  AFC North [3] : Only Cleveland looked good

5.  NFC South [6] : New Orleans and Atlanta had great weeks

6.  NFC East [5] : Washington played Dallas close, but ultimately not a stellar week 

7.  AFC South [7] : Tennessee had a good week

8.  NFC North [8] : Wins by Green Bay and Minnesota almost bridged the gap with the AFC South

NCAA Football 2021 Bowl picks (part 1)

 The bowl season has expanded again, increasing the number of bowls to 42.  Every single FBS team that is eligible for a bowl is going, so I cannot comment on undeserving teams or ignored teams.  Let's dive right into the bowls.  For this column, I start at the beginning and over the first six days.

Friday, Dec 17

Bahamas Bowl -- Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (6-6) v Toledo Rockets (7-5) : The MAC hasn't had much to cheer about in their non-conference contests, and I don't figure the conference will do well this bowl season.  However, they should start out with a win.  Toledo often does well in bowls, and they have a tough team with a stingy defense.  The Blue Raiders don't respond well to stiff defenses, so this should be a hard game for them.  TOLEDO by ten

Cure Bowl -- Northern Illinois Huskies (9-4) v #15 Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (10-2) : Oh, man, someone doesn't like the MAC!  One of the best chances for a conference bowl win would be Northern Illinois, who started slowly this season but has one of the best late season streaks in the country.  Yet they are paired with the Chanticleers, who were ranked for most of the season and ran unbeaten until very late.  Tough break for the Huskies.  COASTAL CAROLINA by 13

Saturday, Dec 18

Boca Raton Bowl -- Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (8-5) v #25 Appalachian State Mountaineers (10-3) : The Sun Belt has three ranked teams, and two of them are featured in the first two days of the bowls.  That doesn't seem fair, but it shows how little respect the country has for the conference, despite having one of the best overall bowl records over the past few seasons.  Maybe this year they can start to gain their well-deserved respect.  A blowout here should go a long way.  APPALACHIAN STATE by 18

New Mexico Bowl -- UTEP Miners (7-5) v Fresno State Bulldogs (9-3) : The Miners can be a tough team, but the Bulldogs have been impressive at times this season, especially against tough opponents.  The Bulldogs also have a history of doing well in bowl games.  FRESNO STATE by 11

Independence Bowl -- UAB Blazers (8-4) v BYU Cougars (10-2) : The Blazers are a good team, but they're just overmatched here.  BYU by 24

Lending Tree Bowl -- Eastern Michigan Eagles (7-5) v Liberty Flames (7-5) : My first potential upset!  Eastern Michigan struggled against non-conference opponents, and Liberty started the year strong.  The Flames somewhat sputtered in the later part of the season, though, while Eastern Michigan surprised some strong MAC opponents and cause some problems for conference contenders.  I think Liberty will get it together, but the Eagles might pull off an upset.  LIBERTY by six

LA Bowl -- Utah State Aggies (10-3) v Oregon State Beavers (7-5) : Our newest bowl, engineered by Jimmy Kimmel himself, could be the most interesting one of the day.  It features the Mountain West Champions against a late season Pac-12 power.  While I don't think the Beavers have the strength to beat the Aggies, they are a scrappy bunch, and will certainly fight hard.  UTAH STATE by 13

New Orleans Bowl -- #12 Louisiana Ragin Cajuns (12-1) v Marshall Thundering Herd (7-5) : Marshall can be a tough team, but they seem to falter in bowl games.  Louisiana won the Sun Belt for the first time, and ended up the highest-ranked Sun Belt team.  They should excel in this game.  LOUISIANA by 16

Monday, Dec 20

Myrtle Beach Bowl -- Old Dominion Monarchs (6-6) v Tulsa Golden Hurricane (6-6) : The records are the same, but Tulsa faced much tougher competition in the American Athletic Conference.  They are the sturdier and better team.  TULSA by 12

Tuesday, Dec 21

Idaho Potato Bowl -- Kent State Golden Flashes (7-6) v Wyoming Cowboys (6-6) : Another MAC flop.  The Cowboys are better than their 6-6 record, and they want to prove that.  Kent State may have surprised MAC opponents to reach the MAC Championship game, but their non-conference record stinks.  WYOMING by 14

Frisco Bowl -- #16 UTSA Roadrunners (12-1) v San Diego State Aztecs (11-2) : We have the Mountain West runner-up against the Conference USA winner.  This is our first match-up of double-digit winning teams, and both are strong offensive squads.  The Aztecs have a slightly better defense, but I don't think that defense is good enough to stop the Roadrunners, even with help from Acme (sorry, old cartoon joke).  This should be an excitingly close game, though.  UTSA by ten

Wednesday, Dec 22

Armed Forces Bowl -- Missouri Tigers (6-6) v Army Black Knights (8-4) : Army may have lost to Navy, but this is their bowl and they have something to prove.  ARMY by 16

Thursday, Dec 23

Frisco Classic -- North Texas Mean Green (6-6) v Miami Ohio Redbirds (6-6) : Doesn't a game have to have a history to be a classic? Okay, it is a classic baseball game, but not college football.  Created basically as a means to allow a Texas school to get an additional bowl game, there is a reason why North Texas would have missed the bowls.  Despite some struggles this season, I think this game will allow the MAC to gain another bowl victory.  MIAMI OHIO by six

Gasparilla Bowl -- UCF Golden Knights (8-4) v Florida Gators (6-6) : Florida can be tough in bowl games, so an upset might be brewing, but UCF has a great bowl history, and a tough defense to boot.  The Gators have not done well against tough defenses this season.  UCF by nine

NFL 2021 Week 14 picks

 I'm picking a large number of home teams this week.  The fans will be happy about that, but most weeks don't end with so many home victories.  I smell potential upsets in the water.

Thursday night

Pittsburgh Steelers at Minnesota Vikings : Here's an upset I'm picking.  The Steelers came on strong last week and shocked the Ravens.  They have also played the other NFC North teams tough.  However, I think they may have outdone themselves last week against the Ravens.  That victory took a physical toll, and I'm not sure they're up to competing against a Vikings squad that, when they get clicking, have an offense as tough as anyone's.  VIKINGS, 21-16

Sunday early games

Atlanta Falcons at Carolina Panthers : Carolina has had some bad breaks, and lost some close games, but their team is not bad.  Atlanta just can't seem to get it together.  They have the talent to win this game, but they haven't utilized that talent throughout the season, and I see no reason to expect it to appear now.  PANTHERS, 23-20

Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns : Another "old Browns versus new Browns" game, and it comes following a tough loss by the Ravens.  They don't want to lose two in a row, so they'll fight extra hard this game.  RAVENS, 27-16

Dallas Cowboys at Washington : Washington is improving, but they still can't compete with the Dallas offense.  COWBOYS, 31-16

Jacksonville Jaguars at Tennessee Titans : This should be a blowout.  TITANS, 27-13

Las Vegas Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs : Man, it's really hard to pick the Raiders.  They have the talent and the sneaky playbook to win, but they also have a tendency to hurt themselves in the game.  I think the up-tempo offense of the Chiefs will cause the Raiders to make some mistakes, handing the game to the Chiefs.  CHIEFS, 24-20

New Orleans Saints at New York Jets : The Jets are really struggling.  The Saints are still trying to find a consistent offense, but their defense will down the Jets.  SAINTS, 20-13

Seattle Seahawks at Houston Texans : Neither team has a functioning offense.  In years past, I would pick Houston in a defensive battle, but they can't get out of their way this season.  SEAHAWKS, 16-13

Sunday late games

Buffalo Bills at Tampa Bay Bucs : Unlike the previous game, this one will be an offensive showdown.  That normally benefits the Bills, but they've been making some mistakes recently, too.  BUCS, 34-30

Detroit Lions at Denver Broncos : Good news!  The Lions won last week.  Bad news -- they won't make it two in a row.  Not with the Broncos' defense against them.  BRONCOS, 23-13

New York Giants at Los Angeles Chargers : This will be a defensive battle, although the Chargers have the edge there.  CHARGERS, 17-10

San Francisco 49ers at Cincinnati Bengals : A week after a huge win over Pittsburgh the Bengals got stopped by the Chargers.  They will work hard this week shoring up some holes in preparation for another tough defense.  BENGALS, 27-20

Sunday night

Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers : Well, at least I get to see my Bears play.  I'll get to see them lose, but I'll get to see them play.  PACKERS, 27-17

Monday Night Football

Los Angeles Rams at Arizona Cardinals : Despite the difference in records, this is definitely a potential upset.  When they get clicking, the Rams can be extremely hard to stop.  The Cardinals certainly have the offense to keep pace, the defense to try to slow them, but if the Rams really get smoking, this game will go their way.  CARDINALS, 33-31

 

NFL 2021 Week 13 results

 A little movement at the top, but the Power Rankings are starting to solidify.

Power Rankings [Last week's position]

1.  Arizona Cardinals (10-2) [1] : Still proving why they are on top

2.  New England Patriots (9-4) [2] : Strong defensive play in such adverse conditions

3.  Buffalo Bills (7-5) [3] : Offense still sputters at times

4.  Tampa Bay Bucs (9-3) [4]

5.  Dallas Cowboys (8-4) [6] : Nice bounce back from the Thanksgiving Day loss

6.  Indianapolis Colts (7-6) [8] : After New England, perhaps the hottest team right now

7.  Los Angeles Rams (8-4) [11] : HUGE victory for them!

8.  Cincinnati Bengals (7-5) [5] : Big stumble

9.  Green Bay Packers (9-3) [7]

10. Kansas City Chiefs (8-4) [12] : Impressive win.  They are coming back!

11. Philadelphia Eagles (6-6) [14] : This team is getting stronger

12. Tennessee Titans (8-4) [10]

 Divisional Rankings [Last week's position]

1.  NFC West [1] : Lots of power in this division

2.  AFC East [3] : A Dolphins win and a close game between the Pats and Bills boosted this division

3.  AFC North [2] : The division leaders faltered

4.  AFC West [4] : Chiefs and Chargers rolled!

5.  NFC East [6] : The Giants are a bit of a drag, but Washington's win helped out

6.  NFC South [5] : Tampa rolled, but the others folded

7.  AFC South [8] : Colts win big, but the bottom two lost even bigger

8.  NFC North [7] : Detroit won their first game, and that is the sole good news in the division this week

NCAA Football 2021 Championship Week results

 Wow, there were plenty of upsets among these games!  Congratulations to the state of Utah.  Both of their teams came into their games as underdogs.  Not only did both teams win, they won handily, completing dominating their opponents.  Utah is headed to the Rose Bowl, likely facing an Iowa team who was upended by Michigan.  Not only will this be the first Rose Bowl trip for Utah, it looks like a winning effort.

Top 25 [Last week's position]

1.  Cincinnati Bearcats (12-0) [2] : For the first time, I have a Group of Five team atop my Top 25 at the conclusion of the regular season.  They deserve it, especially the way they completely turned things around in the third quarter to take control of the American Athletic Conference Championship.

2.  Michigan Wolverines (12-1) [3] : They won the Big Ten for the first time since 2004 and are heading for a chance to win a National Title for the first time since 1997.

3.  Alabama Crimson Tide (12-1) [5] : Despite looking weak over the past four weeks, they reached inside themselves to beat Georgia.  I'm not sure they are set up to win the National Championship, however, until they work out their inconsistencies.

4.  Georgia Bulldogs (12-1) [1] : They suffered their first loss of the season and lost their Number One spot.

5.  Notre Dame Fighting Irish (11-1) [4] : They are on the outside of the National Championship playoffs.

6.  Ohio State Buckeyes (10-2) [7]

7.  Baylor Bears (11-2) [8] : They shocked Oklahoma State, and held them feet from the end zone, to knock the Cowboys out of a possible playoff spot.

8.  Oklahoma State Cowboys (11-2) [6]

9.  Oklahoma Sooners (10-2) [9]

10. Michigan State Spartans (10-2) [11]

11. Houston Cougars (11-2) [10]

12. Louisiana Ragin Cajuns (12-1) [15] : Impressive win for the Ragin Cajuns, finally beating Appalachian State for a Sun Belt title after four tries.

13. Pitt Panthers (11-2) [18] : Utter defensive dominance in the second half to overwhelm Wake Forest and win their first ever ACC title.

14. Utah Utes (10-3) [19] : Smothered the Ducks to capture their first Pac-12 title

15. Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (10-2) [14]

16. UTSA Roadrunners (12-1) [17] : The Roadrunners won their first conference title in school history

17. NC State Wolfpack (9-3) [16]

18. Wake Forest Demon Deacons (10-3) [13] : They just self-destructed in the second half

19. Iowa Hawkeyes (10-3) [12] : Their lack of a consistent offense was clearly on display against Michigan's defense

20. Ole Miss Rebels (10-2) [21]

21. Texas A&M Aggies (8-4) [23]

22. Minnesota Golden Gophers (8-4) [24]

23. Air Force Falcons (9-3) [26]

24. Wisconsin Badgers (8-4) [27]

25. Appalachian State Mountaineers (10-3) [25]

On the Edge: Clemson Tigers (9-3), Utah State Aggies (10-3), Iowa State Cyclones (7-5), BYU Cougars (10-2), Fresno State Bulldogs (9-3), Nevada Wolf Pack (8-4)

Dropped off: Oregon Ducks [#20], San Diego State Aztecs [#22]

NFL 2021 Week 13 picks

 It was entirely too easy to make my picks this week.  I fear some upsets are on the horizon.

Thursday night

Dallas Cowboys at New Orleans Saints : The Cowboys are hoping to avoid on two consecutive Thursdays.  I think that chance is good.  The Saints offense has struggled most of the season, and injuries leave them without key players at key positions.  Their defense is good, but not good enough to stop the Cowboys, as the Saints won't score much.  COWBOYS, 24-10

Sunday early games

Arizona Cardinals at Chicago Bears : My Bears won't win two in a row.  CARDINALS, 34-17

Indianapolis Colts at Houston Texans : Houston is sinking fast.  The Colts can be inconsistent, but they have enough power to burn through the Texans weakened lines.  COLTS, 27-13

Los Angeles Chargers at Cincinnati Bengals : The Bengals floundered their power last wee against the Steelers.  The Chargers should have the defense to slow them down, but the Chargers seem to have some spark lately.  They have certainly lost that offensive spark, so if their defense doesn't step back up, they won't last long.  BENGALS, 31-17

Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions : It seems like it will just be a matter of time before Lions win a game, but I don't think it'll happen here.  The Vikings have picked things up lately, and really have their offense flowing.  The defense still needs some work, but the ragtag Lions offense won't offer them much of a challenge.  VIKINGS, 27-13

New York Giants at Miami Dolphins : This is really a toss-up.  Both teams have struggled at times this season, and both have some injury issues to deal with.  I think Miami has a bit more to offer, so I'll favor them.  DOLPHINS, 17-16

Philadelphia Eagles at New York Jets : The Eagles stick around New Jersey to play a New York team for the second consecutive week.  This time I think the end result will be different.  The Jets have less on both offense and defense than the Giants, and they still can't seem to get themselves to work together.  The Eagles are dangerous when they come together, and I think the chaos of the Jets will be the right "wake up" call for the Eagles.  EAGLES, 21-13

Tampa Bay Bucs at Atlanta Falcons : The Bucs offense will roll over the Falcons, who will not be able to keep up.  BUCS, 31-20

Sunday late games

Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers : The Steelers were thoroughly embarrassed last week by Cincy, and they certainly want to prevent a repeat performance this week.  Their defense will stiffen, but their offense still lacks cohesion and power.  The Ravens will find just enough holes in the defense to move the ball better.  RAVENS, 17-10

Jacksonville Jaguars at Los Angeles Rams : The Rams have some troubles against tough teams, but that doesn't apply to Jacksonville.  RAMS, 20-10

San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks : Seattle's offense is starting to reach "epic fail" proportions.  They have talent, they just can't seem to get it together.  Penalties have been a major problem, too.  49ERS, 16-6

Washington at Las Vegas Raiders : This game could go either way.  The Raiders have talent, and has some sneaky plays in their playbook, they also self-destruct at the worst times.  Washington, after a slow start, has been heating up recently.  They might get past the Raiders, but the Raiders have a nasty tendency to win when I pick against them in close games, so I'll give in.  RAIDERS, 26-24

Sunday night

Denver Broncos at Kansas City Chiefs : The Chiefs were starting to find themselves before the bye, and the extra week gave me a chance to heal up and sharpen up.  The Broncos defense might make things hard for them, but I think the Chiefs will prevail.  CHIEFS, 23-17

Monday Night Football

New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills : Prepare for an offensive explosion!  These two teams will light up the scoreboard.  At the start of the season I had Buffalo picked for this game, but there isn't a hotter team right now than the Patriots, and the Bills have been underachievers this season.  PATRIOTS, 34-31

NFL 2021 Week 12 results

 There were some surprise results this week, but the conference leaders won and the weaker teams lost, so the edges had symmetry.

Power Rankings [Last week's position]

1.  Arizona Cardinals (9-2) [1]

2.  New England Patriots (8-4) [2]

3.  Buffalo Bills (7-4) [3]

4.  Tampa Bay Bucs (8-3) [4]

5.  Cincinnati Bengals (7-4) [8] : They just destroyed the Steelers

6.  Dallas Cowboys (7-4) [5] : The Kings of Thanksgiving Day games laid an egg

7.  Green Bay Packers (9-3) [10] : They returned to their winning ways

8.  Indianapolis Colts (6-6) [7] : Those close losses really sting!

9.  Baltimore Ravens (8-3) [13] : The Ravens are masterful on defense, and they won a defensive battle

10. Tennessee Titans (8-4) [6] : The Patriots just ran all over them

11. Los Angeles Rams (7-4) [9]

12. Kansas City Chiefs (7-4) [12]

Division Rankings [Last week's position]

1.  NFC West [1] 

2.  AFC North [2] : Bolstered by two big wins by the Bengals and Ravens

3.  AFC East [2] : The Jets won -- barely

4.  AFC West [5] : Great wins by Denver and Las Vegas

5.  NFC South [4] : The second consecutive week where this division has slipped. Danger, Will Robinson!

6.  NFC East [5] : The division flipped, as the two worst teams won and the two best teams lost

7.  NFC North [8] : The Pack won and they lifted out of the cellar

8.  AFC South [7] : Back in the cellar, where they have spent much of the season.  Nobody won this week

 

NCAA Football 2021 Championship Weekend picks

 Although USC and Cal also play this weekend, clearly the focus is on the conference championships.  Let's examine each one, in order of broadcast.

Conference USA Championship: Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (8-4) at #17 UTSA Roadrunners (11-1) -- the Hilltoppers are very used to the championship game, and that certainly gives them an advantage.  If UTSA came in unbeaten, I'd be concerned that they might get overconfident and slip up.  However, since they were beaten last week, the Roadrunners have additional incentive to play very well.  I think UTSA will grab their first Conference USA title.  UTSA by 13

Pac-12 Championship: #20 Oregon Ducks (10-2) v #19 Utah Utes (9-3) -- Utah can be tricky, so this certainly will not be an easy ride for Oregon.  The Ducks certainly have the better talent, but the Utes have a tough defense and an arsenal of trick plays that make them a dangerous opponent.  I'll favor the Ducks, but this will not be an impressive victory.  OREGON by six

Big XII Championship: #6 Oklahoma State Cowboys (11-1) v Baylor Bears (10-2) -- This might be the closest championship game of the weekend!  Despite a good Cowboys defense, I think this will be a high-scoring affair with multiple lead changes.  In the end, I think that Cowboys defense will prevent Baylor from making a final, go-ahead score.  OKLAHOMA STATE by four

MAC Championship: Kent State Golden Flashes (7-5) v Northern Illinois Huskies (8-4) -- Geez, given how poorly I've been picking the MAC, I almost hesitate to pick this game.  However, I will.  Northern Illinois seems to have the stronger team, and they certainly have more experience in the Championship Game.  NORTHERN ILLINOIS by nine

Sun Belt Conference: #25 Appalachian State Mountaineers (10-2) at #15 Louisiana Ragin Cajuns (11-1) -- These two teams have faced off three previous times in the Sun Belt Championship.  Appalachian State has won all of the previous encounters, and I think that streak will continue.  There is just something about winning a championship that makes the Mountaineers play even tougher.  This is my first upset pick.  APPALACHIAN STATE by ten

SEC Championship:  #1 Georgia Bulldogs (12-0) v Alabama Crimson Tide (11-1) -- Many national analysts seem to think Alabama will win this game (after all, that's the ONLY way that the Crimson Tide can be in the playoffs), which means they don't believe Georgia is really the best team in the country.  They're wrong.  Let's face it, Alabama has not been impressive in the past four weeks.  They needed a stupid play by an Auburn player who ran out of bounds in order to win the Iron Bowl, otherwise their playoff chances would already have been evaporated.  This will likely be the most one-sided championship game of the day, and completely wipe out Alabama's playoff hopes from even the most rabid Tide fan.  GEORGIA by 20

American Athletic Championship: #10 Houston Cougars (11-1) at #2 Cincinnati Bearcats (12-0) -- Okay, I'll admit that an upset is possible here.  But Cincinnati has been taking crap from the national analysts for so many weeks that I think they'll win this game just out of spite.  CINCINNATI by 11

ACC Championship: #18 Pitt Panthers (10-2) v #13 Wake Forest Demon Deacons (10-2) -- Oh, I'd love to see Pitt win this game, but I think Wake just has too much talent.  The Pitt defense won't make it easy for them, though.  WAKE FOREST by eight

Big Ten Championship: #12 Iowa Hawkeyes (10-2) v Michigan Wolverines (11-1) -- And now we get to the biggest game of the day!  Neither team was favored to be here, and Iowa needed help from Minnesota.  While the Hawkeyes will want to make the most of the opportunity they were given, their offense falters under a stiff defense, and that's what the Wolverines have.  Michigan certainly has the better offense.  While the Hawkeyes will likely get one score from a turnover, it won't be enough to win.  MICHIGAN by 12

NCAA Football 2021 Week 13 results

 Surprisingly, rivalry week didn't produce as many upsets as normal.  What upsets we had were decisive, though, as the Upset Report will detail.

Top 25 [Last week's position]

1.  Georgia Bulldogs (12-0) [1]

2.  Cincinnati Bearcats (12-0) [2]

3.  Michigan Wolverines (11-1) [6] : They beat Ohio State in decisive fashion, advance to the Big Ten Championship, and have become a favorite to advance to the playoffs.

4.  Notre Dame Fighting Irish (11-1) [5] : The Cardinal were no problem

5.  Alabama Crimson Tide (11-1) [4] : They almost lost the Iron Bowl

6.  Oklahoma State Cowboys (11-1) [7] : It got a little messy, but that's Bedlam

7.  Ohio State Buckeyes (10-2) [3]

8.  Baylor Bears (10-2) [10] : They won a trip to the Big XII Championship

9.  Oklahoma Sooners (10-2) [8] : They didn't

10. Houston Cougars (11-1) [11] 

11. Michigan State Spartans (10-2) [12]

12. Iowa Hawkeyes (10-2) [13] : They advance to the Big Ten Championship

13. Wake Forest Demon Deacons (10-2) [19] : A huge win vaults them into the ACC Championship

14. Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (10-2) [14]

15. Louisiana Ragin Cajuns (11-1) [17]

16. NC State Wolfpack (9-3) [18] 

17. UTSA Roadrunners (11-1) [9] : Their perfect season is wiped out in the last week of the regular season

18. Pitt Panthers (10-2) [20]

19. Utah Utes (9-3) [21]

20. Oregon Ducks (10-2) [23]

21. Ole Miss Rebels (10-2) [22]

22. San Diego State Aztecs (11-1) [25]

23. Texas A&M Aggies (8-4) [15]

24. Minnesota Golden Gophers (8-4) [NR] : They beat Wisconsin to boost Iowa to the Big Ten Championship Game

25. Appalachian State Mountaineers (10-2) [26]

On the Edge: Air Force Falcons (9-3), Wisconsin Badgers (8-4), Clemson Tigers (9-3), Iowa State Cyclones (7-5), BYU Cougars (10-2), Fresno State Bulldogs (9-3), Nevada Wolf Pack (8-4)

Dropped off: Wisconsin Badgers [#16], Penn State Nittany Lions [#24]

Big Ten Report

Two of the upsets occurred in this conference, as Michigan head Coach Jim Harbaugh finally beat Ohio State and Wisconsin's marvelous late season run was finally ended by Minnesota.  Neither division favorite won their game, so the Big Ten Championship, which was primed to have ANOTHER rematch of Ohio State and Wisconsin, now features Iowa (for only the second time) and first-timer Michigan.

The most one-sided games all featured the unranked teams, as Illinois and Purdue both had their largest winning margin of the season (33 points for Illinois and 37 points for Purdue) and Maryland had their largest conference margin of victory.

Upset Report

The Big Ten upsets were discussed above.  The UTSA Roadrunners fell from the ranks of the unbeaten as they were smothered by the North Texas Mean Green.  Hawaii blew away Wyoming, sending the Cowboys crashing down after a strong start to the season.  This was also the only upset affecting a non-ranked team, as the final upset of the day had LSU put forth a crowing achievement to close the season, beating the Aggies to ensure that they were bowl eligible.

NFL 2021 Week 12 picks

 There are many games this week where either team has a reasonable chance to win.  Let's see how that affects my results.

Thanksgiving Day

Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions : The Bears finally have an opponent they can beat!  BEARS, 20-13

Las Vegas Raiders at Dallas Cowboys : The Cowboys are a potent Thanksgiving Day team.  In fact, the only team with a better record on a particular day is the Raiders record on Monday Night Football.  This isn't Monday, so the Cowboys have the advantage.  COWBOYS, 27-20

Buffalo Bills at New Orleans Saints : Both teams lost last week, so both of them need a win here.  They will fight hard, and either team could really emerge victorious, but I think the Bills are likely to succeed in this battle of offenses.  BILLS, 31-27

Sunday early games

Atlanta Falcons at Jacksonville Jaguars : The Falcons have struggled this season, but the Jags have had a tough time attaining success.  FALCONS, 24-13

Carolina Panthers at Miami Dolphins : The Panthers have been up and down, and I like consistency.  However, the Dolphins consistency has mostly been lackluster, so I think the Panthers have a chance here.  PANTHERS, 23-16

New York Jets at Houston Texans : Two of the worst teams in the league face each other.  Does anyone really care?  TEXANS, 16-13

Philadelphia Eagles at New York Giants : The Eagles have been playing strong ball, much better than the Giants.  EAGLES, 30-20

Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals : The Steelers have had it easy lately, playing NFC North teams.  They tend to get motivated against divisional rivals, but I think the strength of the Bengals will have them fall short.  BENGALS, 21-17

Tampa Bay Bucs at Indianapolis Colts : The magic is fading in Tampa Bay, and the Colts might be the team to exploit that.  The Colts might win, but I think the Bucs will pull this out.  BUCS, 24-23

Tennessee Titans at New England Patriots : The Patriots have been rolling over opponents.  Despite the strong defense demonstrated by the Titans, I think the Pats will march over them.  PATRIOTS, 31-27

Sunday late games

Los Angeles Chargers at Denver Broncos : The Chargers struggle against tough defenses, despite their own defensive strengths, and so the Broncos should prove the stronger defensive team.  BRONCOS, 20-17

Los Angeles Rams at Green Bay Packers : The Packers lost last week, and they want to regain their momentum.  The Rams had a bye week last week, so they had more time to plan and prepare for this game.  Either team could prevail here, but I like the Packers at home.  PACKERS, 24-20

Minnesota Vikings at San Francisco 49ers : Here are two teams who have had ups and downs this year.  Just when they seem to have steam, they have a great game.  Both won last week, but the 49ers played the weak Jaguars.  Minnesota conquered their chief divisional rival, the Packers, and are high from that victory.  That excitement could propel them to victory here, too.  VIKINGS, 24-23

Sunday night

Cleveland Browns at Baltimore Ravens : The Ravens have an excellent record in these "old Browns versus new Browns" matchups.  Although the Browns are a better team this year, I think the Ravens will still emerge victorious.  RAVENS, 20-17

Monday Night Football

Seattle Seahawks at Washington : Washington engineered a great upset last week while Seattle floundered against Arizona.  Russell Wilson has seemed cold since his return to the lineup.  There were some flashes of his former self in the second half, so I think it might be coming back.  We might see some of the old Seattle magic this time.  SEAHAWKS, 20-16

NFL 2021 Week 11 results

 Whoa, I almost forgot to post this!

Power Rankings [Last week's position]

1.  Arizona Cardinals (9-2) [1] : Back to their winning ways

2.  New England Patriots (7-4) [3] : They've had a great string of strong victories

3.  Buffalo Bills (6-4) [2]

4.  Tampa Bay Bucs (7-3) [6]

5.  Dallas Cowboys (7-3) [4]

6.  Tennessee Titans (8-3) [5]

7.  Indianapolis Colts (6-5) [11] : The Colts have had some powerful wins recently, too

8.  Cincinnati Bengals (6-4) [10]

9.  Los Angeles Rams (7-3) [8]

10. Green Bay Packers (8-3) [7]

11. Philadelphia Eagles (5-5) [12]

12. Kansas City Chiefs (7-4) [13]

Divisional rankings [Last week's position]

1.  NFC West [1]

2 (tie).  AFC North [3]

2 (tie).  AFC East [4] : The Patriots continue to shine

4.  NFC South [2] : The Bucs were the only winners

5 (tie).  NFC East [5] : Dallas lost, but the Eagles and Washington won

5 (tie).  AFC West [6]

7.  AFC South [7]

8.  NFC North [8]

NCAA Football 2021 Week 13 picks

 It's Thanksgiving weekend, which means Major Rivalry Week!

Thanksgiving Day

#22 Ole Miss Rebels at Mississippi State Bulldogs : We kick off rivalry weekend with the Egg Bowl.  Despite better stats and a better record, Ole Miss is the underdog in this year's bout.  That's a sure way to get their juices flowing!  While I agree an upset is possible, that media slight might enrage the Rebels and push them even more.  OLE MISS by six

Fri Nov 26

Boise State Broncos at #25 San Diego State Aztecs : The two division leaders in the Mountain West square off.  The winner moves on to the Mountain West Championship, the loser will need some help.  Both teams are strong, but the Aztecs' stronger defense I think will propel them over the Broncos quicker offense.  SAN DIEGO STATE by three

#13 Iowa Hawkeyes at Nebraska Cornhuskers : No contest.  Given Iowa's defense, this might be a shutout.  IOWA by 16

UTEP Miners at UAB Blazers : Again we have two fairly evenly matched teams.  UAB has handled the pressure of close games better this season, so I favor them.  UAB by four

#2 Cincinnati Bearcats at East Carolina Pirates : It's a down year for the Pirates, although that defense might slow Cincy enough to prevent them from having the blowout win they need to impress the playoff committee.  CINCY by 17

Missouri Tigers at Arkansas Razorbacks : Welcome to Hog Country, and nothing fights harder than a wild boar.  Those Razorbacks are fiesty fellows, and a close loss to Alabama last week will only fire them up more.  ARKANSAS by 13

#14 Coastal Carolina Chanticleers at South Alabama Jaguars : Maybe the biggest blowout of the weekend.  COASTAL CAROLINA by 27

UNLV Running Rebels at Air Force Falcons : The Falcons will be the running force on this field.  AIR FORCE by 18

Colorado Buffaloes at #21 Utah Utes : There is no question that the Utes will win this game.  The question is whether they will rest key starters in preparation for the Pac-12 Championship.  UTAH by 23

TCU Horned Frogs at Iowa State Cyclones : TCU needs this win to be bowl eligible.  Sorry, they won't get it.  IOWA STATE by 14

North Carolina Tar Heels at #18 NC State Wolfpack : With Wake Forest playing weakling Boston College (that game is coming up), I think the Wolfpack know this game won't get them to the ACC Championship.  They have incentive enough to beat up on their in-state rival.  NC STATE by 18

Sat Nov 27

Top 25

#1 Georgia Bulldogs at Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets : The Battle of Georgia isn't really in question this year.  GEORGIA by 26

#3 Ohio State Buckeyes at #6 Michigan Wolverines : The Battle of Toledo, though, will be a bit closer.  Both teams have dynamic offenses, although Ohio State's is certainly faster and stronger.  The Wolverines have tuned up their running attack, an area the Buckeyes have had some trouble defending this season.  Since this is in the Big House, Michigan will fight hard for the home fans.  Somehow, though, Coach Harbaugh always seems to make a bad decision in the second half of this rivalry that costs Michigan, and I think he will do so again.  OHIO STATE by six

#4 Alabama Crimson Tide at Auburn Tigers : The Iron Bowl looks pretty one-sided this year based on record and performance, but the Tide have shown some vulnerabilities.  Do I think Auburn has a chance to win?  Not a good one, but I think this game will be closer than comfort for Tide fans.  ALABAMA by nine

#5 Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Stanford Cardinal : On paper, this game looks like a shoe-in for the Irish.  On the field, however, the Cardinal love to push the Irish around, so this game won't be easy.  NOTRE DAME by ten

#8 Oklahoma Sooners at #7 Oklahoma State Cowboys : Never has Bedlam faced such an interesting situation.  The teams are right next to each in the rankings, the winner leads the conference (and likely faces Baylor in the Championship Game), and the winner has a reasonable shot at the college playoffs.  HUGE stakes here!  The Cowboys have continued to improve, so they have the momentum.  They also have the crowd on their side.  While they don't have the "name" talent associated with the Sooners, their players seem to mesh together much better.  I like the Cowboys chances here, although this year it really is any team's ball game.  OKLAHOMA STATE by three

#9 UTSA Roadrunners at North Texas Mean Green : Not in doubt.  UTSA by 24

Texas Tech Red Raiders at #10 Baylor Bears : Baylor knows they go to the Big XII Championship if they win.  Pack your bags, boys, you have a trip to Arlington in your future!  BAYLOR by 21

#11 Houston Cougars at UConn Huskies : No contest.  HOUSTON by 30

#24 Penn State Nittany Lions at #12 Michigan State Spartans : The Spartans defense will give Penn State fits.  MICHIGAN STATE by 18

#15 Texas A&M Aggies at LSU Tigers : It's a down year for the Tigers, while the Aggies hope to score a bid to a New Year's Day bowl.  TEXAS A&M by 20

#16 Wisconsin Badgers at Minnesota Golden Gophers : Wisconsin will know the stakes when this game starts.  If Iowa won the previous day, they need to win in order to win the division.  If Iowa lost, they already HAVE clinched, and may rest up before the Big Ten Championship.  I think Iowa will win, so the Badgers will battle.  WISCONSIN by 16

Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks at #17 Louisiana Ragin Cajuns : The Battle of Louisiana will be pretty one-sided this year.  LOUISIANA by 17

#19 Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Boston College Eagles : For Wake it's easy -- win and they are in the ACC Championship.  Given the collapse of BC this season, that seems very likely.  WAKE FOREST by 23

#20 Pitt Panthers at Syracuse Orange : Syracuse needs a win here to be bowl eligible.  While I would love to see the Orange play in a bowl, I don't think it's happening.  PITT by 16

Oregon State Beavers at #23 Oregon Ducks : I thought this might be the game that knocked the Ducks out of playoff contention, but that already happened.  I don't think the Ducks have identified what caused their collapse last week, so you can bet that the Beavers will use the high spirit of the Civil War to unseat favored Oregon.  In an upset pick, OREGON STATE by four

Big Ten

Maryland Terrapins at Rutgers Scarlet Knights : If Maryland can limit their mistakes, they should win this game.  MARYLAND by 13

Northwestern Wildcats at Illinois Fighting Illini : Northwestern just can't seem to get it together.  They defense should slow the Illini, but they can't put together two consistently good drives, so their offense will keep them out of this.  ILLINOIS by 12

Indiana Hoosiers at Purdue Boilermakers : Strong finish for the Boilermakers.  PURDUE by 17

Other Games of Interest

Florida State Seminoles at Florida Gators : Florida is in a tailspin, and it has cost them their coach.  The Seminoles started the year in trouble, but they've picked themselves up a bit.  Added stakes here: the winner goes to a bowl game, and the loser doesn't.  FLORIDA STATE by nine

Army Black Knights at Liberty Flames : The Flames were strong for most of the season, but they've lost their spark, and lost two games in a row.  Army needs a strong lead-in for the Army-Navy Game.  ARMY by 14

Georgia Southern Eagles at Appalachian State Mountaineers : Another division title is on the line, and Appalachian State tends to win those when it matters.  APPALACHIAN STATE by 13

Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Marshall Thundering Herd : The East division title is on the line here.  Marshall has been the stronger team throughout this season, but don't discount the Hilltoppers.  They don't tend to win big, but they win consistently.  I think they will find a way to edge out the Herd.  WESTERN KENTUCKY by six

BYU Cougars at USC Trojans : For the Trojans to have a shot at a bowl game, they have to win here.  I don't think they will, especially since BYU got to rest last week.  BYU by 16

NCAA Football 2021 Week 12 results

Games are still being played as I type this, but all contenders for the Top 25 have finished their games, and most games that determine division races have completed.  Since I will be very busy on Sunday, I am completing this column now.

Top 25 [Last week's position]

1.  Georgia Bulldogs (11-0) [1]

2.  Cincinnati Bearcats (11-0) [2] : Impressive win against SMU.  That should help them in their case for the playoffs.

3.  Ohio State Buckeyes (10-1) [3] : They smothered Michigan State

4.  Alabama Crimson Tide (10-1) [4] : A close win over Arkansas won't help them

5.  Notre Dame Fighting Irish (10-1) [5]

6.  Michigan Wolverines (10-1) [7] : Talk about adding importance to the Ohio State-Michigan game!

7.  Oklahoma State Cowboys (10-1) [9] : Their dominance over Texas Tech makes Bedlam even more interesting

8.  Oklahoma Sooners (10-1) [11]

9.  UTSA Roadrunners (11-0) [10]

10. Baylor Bears (9-2) [13]

11. Houston Cougars (10-1) [14]

12. Michigan State Spartans (9-2) [6]

13. Iowa Hawkeyes (9-2) [17]

14. Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (9-2) [18]

15. Texas A&M Aggies (8-3) [15]

16. Wisconsin Badgers (8-3) [21]

17. Louisiana Ragin Cajuns (10-1) [20]

18. NC State Wolfpack (8-3) [19]

19. Wake Forest Demon Deacons (9-2) [12]

20. Pitt Panthers (9-2) [23]

21. Utah Utes (8-3) [26] : They beat Oregon and killed their playoff hopes

22. Ole Miss Rebels (9-2) [22]

23. Oregon Ducks (9-2) [8]

24. Penn State Nittany Lions (7-4) [24]

25. San Diego State Aztecs (10-1) [25]

On the Edge: Appalachian State Mountaineers (9-2), Air Force Falcons (8-3), Clemson Tigers (8-3), Iowa State Cyclones (6-5), BYU Cougars (9-2), Marshall Thundering Herd (7-4), Minnesota Golden Gophers (7-4)

Dropped off: SMU Mustangs [#16]

Big Ten Report

Once again, the games concluded much as expected, although Ohio State was far more dominant than expected, and Michigan's offense just ran wild.

Unbeaten Teams and Playoff Contenders

Oregon is gone, which confirms Cincinnati even before the SEC Championship Game.  Michigan State drops out, moving up Notre Dame and Oklahoma State.  Now the Cowboys have a strong argument for playoff consideration, but I don't think they will surpass Notre Dame unless they dominate Oklahoma in the Bedlam game.  With the loser of Michigan and Ohio State dropping out, that puts Notre Dame in the "on-deck" Number Five position, ready to move up when Alabama loses the SEC Championship Game.

Conference and Division Races

American Athletic : HOUSTON and CINCINNATI will play each other in the championship game.

ACC Atlantic : This one gets interesting.  If Wake Forest wins, they win the division.  If Wake loses AND both Clemson and NC State win, then there is a 3-way tie, which will depend upon their final ranking.  That might boost NC State into the title game.

ACC Coastal : PITT has won the division

Big XII : The winner of Bedlam wins the regular season title.  Their opponent in the Championship Game depends upon the winner of Bedlam.  If Oklahoma loses and Baylor wins, then the Cowboys play Baylor.  If Baylor loses or if Oklahoma wins, then Oklahoma and Oklahoma State play a rematch.

Big Ten East : The winner of Michigan - Ohio State wins the division

Big Ten West : If Wisconsin wins, they win the division.  If the Badgers lose and Iowa wins, the Hawkeyes win the division.  If both Wisconsin and Iowa lose, Minnesota wins.

Conference USA East : The winner of Western Kentucky - Marshall wins the division

Conference USA West : UTSA has clinched

MAC East : The winner of Miami Ohio - Kent State wins the division

MAC West : NORTHERN ILLINOIS has clinched

Mountain West Mountain : We have a 3-way tie coming into the last week.  If only one of the three teams win (and none of them play each other), then that team wins the division.  Since head-to-head is even, Boise needs both Utah State and Air Force to lose for them to have a chance.  If both Utah State and Air Force win, then the Aggies go since they beat Air Force.

Mountain West West : If the Aztecs win OR if Fresno State loses, the Aztecs win the division.  If they lose and the Bulldogs win, then the title belongs to Fresno State.

Pac-12 North : If Washington State loses, the winner of the Oregon Civil War wins the division.  If Oregon wins, they win the division.  If both Oregon State and Washington State win, then we have a three-way tie, and, believe it or not, the Cougars would go due to a better record against divisional teams.  Thus, the only chance the Beavers have is to get help from Washington.

Pac-12 South : UTAH has clinched

SEC Championship Game : GEORGIA v ALABAMA

Sun Belt East : The winner of Appalachian State - Georgia State wins the division

Sun Belt West : LOUISIANA already won

Upset Report

At this point, there have been very few.  Three were very impactful, and all were blowouts:  Wake Forest lost big and fell big in the rankings, Oregon lost their shot at the playoffs, and Utah State's chances to win their division took a hit.  The fourth upset, also a game that wasn't even close, was Tulane's defeat of South Florida.

NFL 2021 Week 11 picks

 A busy week prevented me from completing this blog post before Thursday night, so we'll skip that game.

Sunday early games

Baltimore Ravens at Chicago Bears : The Ravens need to bounce back from a tough loss last week, and the Bears are the perfect foil.  RAVENS, 27-20

Detroit Lions at Cleveland Browns : The Lions tied last week, after nearly engineering a win the week earlier, so they seem to be improving.  But can they sustain that run against the tough Browns defense?  I don't think so.  BROWNS, 24-13

Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings : While not up to regular form, one constant in recent history about the Packers is that they manhandle their divisional opponents.  PACK, 34-23

Houston Texans at Tennessee Titans : The Titans are perhaps the best overall team in the AFC.  With the Texans' troubles, this should be an easy win.  TITANS, 27-13

Indianapolis Colts at Buffalo Bills : The Bills found their offense last week and I expect them to keep expanding it.  The Colts have some strengths, but they'll find themselves overmatched in this game.  BILLS, 31-13

Miami Dolphins at New York Jets : When these two teams play, the score often goes haywire.  Huge scores in years when offenses are down, lots of turnovers when they had been playing clean ball.  Because of that, I'm tempted to pick the Jets, as that would be an example of the topsy-turvy games played by these two.  I won't, though, but wouldn't be surprised to see it.  DOLPHINS, 28-23

New Orleans Saints at Philadelphia Eagles : The Eagles tend to win big and lose close games, and I think this one will be close.  SAINTS, 27-24

San Francisco 49ers at Jacksonville Jaguars : Even the 49ers aren't still basking in the glory of beating the Rams last week, they should push aside the Jags.  I'm not sure their mind will be totally on the game, though, so this one will be closer than it should be due to some 49er mistakes.  49ERS, 17-13

Washington at Carolina Panthers : Cam Newton has breathed new life back into this team.  PANTHERS, 24-16

Sunday late games

Arizona Cardinals at Seattle Seahawks : The Cards should get this together after recent down weeks, especially since those woes weren't all due to injuries.  The Seahawks are acting confused, even with Russell Wilson back under center, and the Cards will take advantage of that.  CARDINALS, 34-23

Cincinnati Bengals at Las Vegas Raiders : The Raiders are starting to come unglued.  BENGALS, 21-17

Dallas Cowboys at Kansas City Chiefs : Just when the Chiefs seem to be turning things around this season, something comes undone.  I think that will happen again here, knocking the Chiefs out of the top spot in the division.  COWBOYS, 28-24

Sunday night

Pittsburgh Steelers at Los Angeles Chargers : The Steelers got too used to playing patsy teams from the NFC North.  They face real competition this week, and will fall short.  CHARGERS, 20-16

Monday Night Football

New York Giants at Tampa Bay Bucs : This one is probably the easiest to call of all of the games this week.  BUCS, 27-13

 

NFL 2021 Week 10 results

 Again, several upsets of ranked teams by teams with poor records.  It's turning into an interesting year.  We know have no teams with fewer than two losses, and our winless team is not a complete loser, as the Lions played the Steelers to a tie.

Power Rankings [Last week's position]

1.  Arizona Cardinals (8-2) [1] : Despite a loss, they still have amassed the best numbers this season

2.  Buffalo Bills (6-3) [5] : The offense returned with a vengeance!

3.  New England Patriots (6-4) [7] : Third straight week with a huge blowout win!  They will soon have fans asking "Tom Who?"

4.  Dallas Cowboys (7-2) [6]

5.  Tennessee Titans (8-2) [4] : Despite a win, they fell a knotch.  That shows how strong the top four have been

6.  Tampa Bay Bucs (6-3) [2]

7.  Green Bay Packers (8-2) [10]

8.  Los Angeles Rams (7-3) [3] :Bad loss to the 49ers

9.  New Orleans Saints (5-4) [8]

10. Cincinnati Bengals (5-4) [12]

11. Indianapolis Colts (5-5) [14]

12. Philadelphia Eagles (4-5) [16] : They may have a losing record, but they win big and lose by small margins, so this is a potent team

Divisional rankings [Last week's position]

1.  NFC West [1] 

2.  NFC South [3] : No team is worse than 4-5, but they don't have a standout team, either, since the Bucs are starting to falter

3.  AFC North [2] : It seems to be a curse to lead this division, as the division leader lost for the third consecutive week

4.  AFC East [5] : The Patriots are surging, and the Bills are dangerous when they have it together.  As shown this week, even Miami can be dangerous.

5.  NFC East [6] :  Strong performances from everyone except the Giants

6.  AFC West [4] : After struggling to reach and maintain a non-losing record, the Chiefs now lead this division.  

7.  AFC South [7] : The Colts have some good games, but Tennessee is the only reliable team

8.  NFC North [8] : Nobody lost, but they still have ground to make up on the other divisions

NCAA Football 2021 Week 12 picks

 I did a little better with the MAC picks last week, but I'll still keep them out of the column.  That moves us to...

Thursday Nov 18

Louisville Cardinals at Duke Blue Devils : It's basketball season, and this would certainly be a more interesting basketball matchup.  On the football field, Duke has not been doing well.  This hasn't been a great season for the Cardinals, but they should get past Duke.  LOUISVILLE by 13

Friday Nov 19

There are several games going on this day.  I will focus on three of them:

Memphis Tigers at #14 Houston Cougars : The national analysts are basically ignoring Houston, and that might be to their advantage.  Schools may not prepare as heavily for them that way.  That would be a mistake, as Houston is a strong team.  Memphis will probably prepare well, but they don't have the talent to come out with a win.  HOUSTON by 16

Air Force Falcons at Nevada Wolf Pack : Nevada is actually a decent team, so Air Force should not get over-confident.  Nevada might even lead at the half.  However, that punishing and exhausting ground assault of the Falcons will gradually wear down the Wolf Pack.  AIR FORCE by eight

#25 San Diego State Aztecs at UNLV Running Rebels : UNLV is not strong enough to spoil the Aztecs' first week in the rankings.  SAN DIEGO STATE by 14

Saturday Nov 20

Top 25:

Charleston Southern (FCS) Buccaneers at #1 Georgia Bulldogs : No contest.  GEORGIA by lots

#16 SMU Mustangs at #2 Cincinnati Bearcats : There are only two games between ranked opponents this week, and both affect Top Five teams.  For Cincy, this is their toughest challenge since Notre Dame.  I think the Bearcats will emerge victorious, but there was any team who could beat them before postseason, this is the team.  CINCINNATI by nine

#6 Michigan State Spartans at #3 Ohio State Buckeyes : And here is the other Top 25 matchup!  The ranks are closer here, but I don't think the score will be.  The Spartans defense is good, but not quite as sturdy as its been in previous years, and their offense is still missing something.  On the other hand, the Buckeyes have the hottest offense in the country.  OHIO STATE by 20

Arkansas Razorbacks at #4 Alabama Crimson Tide : I don't know why the national analysts have Arkansas ranked, other than they feel obligated to have at least as many SEC teams in the rankings as Big Ten teams.  Trust me, Arkansas isn't that good.  ALABAMA by 26

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at #5 Notre Dame Fighting Irish : No matter their respective records, the Yellow Jackets often play the Irish tough, so this might be a closer game than most people expect.  The Tech bench is thin, though, so fourth quarter will be owned by the Irish.  NOTRE DAME by 13

#7 Michigan Wolverines at Maryland Terrapins : So long as Michigan doesn't experience a letdown after their win over Penn State, they should topple Maryland easily.  MICHIGAN by 18

#8 Oregon Ducks at Utah Utes : Whoa, here is a major threat to Oregon!  The Utes are a good team, and often even better at home.  Oregon has had it fairly easy so far, so I'm not sure they are ready for facing this stiff competition.  I'll pick the Ducks, but this is a real Upset Alert.  OREGON by six

#9 Oklahoma State Cowboys at Texas Tech Red Raiders : Thanks to the Oklahoma loss, the Cowboys can see a Big XII Championship in their future, and they won't let anything get in the way.  OKLAHOMA STATE by 16

UAB Blazers at #10 UTSA Roadrunners : Like Cincinnati, this might be the greatest threat to the unbeaten regular season for the Roadrunners.  UAB is no slacker, and they can force turnovers.  UTSA might have gotten a bit too complacent, and potentially careless.  If they can hold onto the ball, they should win.  UTSA by 11

Iowa State Cyclones at #11 Oklahoma Sooners : Oklahoma lost last week, and Iowa State is itching to make it two in a row.  However, the Sooners rarely suffer two losses in a row, so I don't think that is going to happen.  OKLAHOMA by 13

#12 Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Clemson Tigers : Clemson is down this year, so the Demon Deacons get a shot at some redemption.  WAKE FOREST by 16

#13 Baylor Bears at Kansas State Wildcats : I give the same warning to Baylor that I gave to Michigan -- avoid the letdown, and you should win.  BAYLOR by 16

Prairie View A&M (FCS) Panthers at #15 Texas A&M Aggies : Easy win.  TEXAS A&M by 34

Illinois Fighting Illini at #17 Iowa Hawkeyes : Ah well, not even an extra week to prepare can save my Illini from a tough loss. At least the margin of victory won't be large, because Iowa's offense isn't great.  IOWA by nine

Texas State Bobcats at #18 Coastal Carolina Chanticleers : Excellent "bounce back" week for the Chanticleers.  COASTAL CAROLINA by 23

Syracuse Orange at #19 NC State Wolfpack : NC State needs a strong win to get back into the swing of the ACC race.  Syracuse may challenge early, but they can't finish games.  NC STATE by eleven

#20 Louisiana Ragin Cajuns at Liberty Flames : This game could pose a challenge to the Ragin Cajuns.  Liberty's flame has sputtered a bit lately, but they have been a strong team for most of the season, and nothing should re-ignite them more than a chance to upset a ranked team.  Louisiana should win, but watch for another possible upset.  LOUISIANA by nine

Nebraska Cornhuskers at #21 Wisconsin Badgers : The Badgers move one step closer to another division title with a strong win over a struggling team.  Nebraska likes to play games close, but they can't seem to emerge victorious.  WISCONSIN by eight

Vanderbilt Commodores at #24 Ole Miss Rebels : Vandy is the doormat of the SEC.  Come wipe your feet, Rebels!  OLE MISS by 26

Virginia Cavaliers at #23 Pitt Panthers : Ooh, another upset potential!  Virginia is a good team that just seems to slip up at the wrong time.  If they play a clean game, they might beat the Panthers.  Somehow, though, I think we'll see a mistake or two from the Cavs.  PANTHERS by 12

Rutgers Scarlet Knights at #24 Penn State Nittany Lions : The Lions get to remain in the Top 25 for another week by dusting the Knights.  PENN STATE by 18

Big Ten

Purdue Boilermakers at Northwestern Wildcats : Despite a decent defense, the Wildcats are at the bottom of the Big Ten West division.  Easy win for the Boilermakers. PURDUE by 17

Minnesota Golden Gophers at Indiana Hoosiers : Speaking of bottom, the worst team in the conference hosts Minnesota.  They'll take home some nice parting gifts, including a win.  MINNESOTA by 16

Other Games of Interest

Marshall Thundering Herd at Charlotte 49ers : Charlotte is fighting to be bowl eligible, but I don't think it'll happen here.  MARSHALL by 18

Appalachian State Mountaineers at Troy Trojans : Troy can be a challenge, but not this year.  The Mountaineers smell another Sun Belt Championship, and they want it.  APPALACHIAN STATE by 20

BYU Cougars at Georgia Southern Eagles : Pretty easy win for the Cougars.  BYU by 23

NCAA Football 2021 Week 11 results

 We lost another unbeaten this week.  However, this was a much calmer week for most of the rest of the Top 25, as fewer ranked teams suffered upsets.

Top 25 [Last week's position]

1.  Georgia Bulldogs (10-0) [1]

2.  Cincinnati Bearcats (10-0) [2]

3.  Ohio State Buckeyes (9-1) [3]

4.  Alabama Crimson Tide (9-1) [4]

5.  Notre Dame Fighting Irish (9-1) [6]

6.  Michigan State Spartans (9-1) [7]

7.  Michigan Wolverines (9-1) [8]

8.  Oregon Ducks (9-1) [9]

9.  Oklahoma State Cowboys (9-1) [10]

10. UTSA Roadrunners (10-0) [11] : All of the unbeatens are now in the Top Ten

11. Oklahoma Sooners (9-1) [5]

12. Wake Forest Demon Deacons (9-1) [14]

13. Baylor Bears (8-2) [18]

14. Houston Cougars (9-1) [15]

15. Texas A&M Aggies (7-3) [12]

16. SMU Mustangs (8-2) [23]

17. Iowa Hawkeyes (8-2) [19]

18. Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (8-2) [13]

19. NC State Wolfpack (7-3) [17]

20. Louisiana Ragin Cajuns (9-1) [21]

21. Wisconsin Badgers (7-3) [NR]

22. Ole Miss Rebels (8-2) [24]

23. Pitt Panthers (8-2) [25]

24. Penn State Nittany Lions (6-4) : Four losses in a row, but they keep playing ranked opponents close

25. San Diego State Aztecs (9-1) [26]

On the Edge: Utah Utes (7-3), Air Force Falcons (7-3), Appalachian State Mountaineers (8-2), Iowa State Cyclones (6-4), BYU Cougars (8-2), Marshall Thundering Herd (6-4), Minnesota Golden Gophers (6-4)

Dropped off: Iowa State Cyclones [#20], Marshall Thundering Herd [#22]

Big Ten Report

Not much to report this week.  All games went pretty much as expected, although I thought Purdue might keep it a bit closer against Ohio State, and Wisconsin's total dominance was a bit of a surprise.

Unbeaten and Playoff Contenders

We now have three unbeatens.  Georgia is everyone's favorite for the top.  The Playoff Committee has Alabama at Number Two, but they still have the Iron Bowl and the SEC Championship against Georgia, so their hopes are dim.  Oregon still has tough games ahead, and the Pac-12 Championship.  Ohio State faces two 9-1 teams in their final two games (the Big Ten Championship should be a breeze after that), but I favor them in both.  The Spartans offense sputters, and Michigan hasn't beaten the Buckeyes under Coach Harbaugh.

With Alabama going out soon and Oklahoma already out, I think Cincinnati will see themselves reach the cherished Final Four.  If Oregon falls, I think Notre Dame stands the best chance of gaining a spot.  I think the only possibility for a different team is if either Michigan State or Michigan beats Ohio State, but then that team would simply replace Ohio State in the playoff hunt, so Notre Dame would still need Oregon to lose to advance into the playoffs.

Conference and Division races

American Athletic : HOUSTON has clinched a spot in the championship game.  Cincinnati clinches with a win over SMU this week.

ACC Atlantic : Wake Forest clinches with a win over Clemson.  Even if Clemson wins, they would need Wake Forest to lose their final game as well, which seems unlikely.

ACC Coastal : Pitt clinches with a win over Virginia this week

Big XII : Well, this one has gotten more interesting!  Baylor has beaten Oklahoma but lost to Oklahoma State.  If the Cowboys win Bedlam, they clinch, regardless whether they win this week's game or not.  The Sooners now need to win out, which makes Bedlam even more important.  Baylor has an outside chance if Oklahoma loses this week but wins Bedlam.

Big 10 East : Ohio State leads the division, and wins if they win out.  If they lose to either Michigan State and Michigan, and that winner wins their other game, then that team wins the division.

Big 10 West : Wisconsin is in the driver's seat.  They have already beaten contenders Iowa and Purdue.  If they beat Minnesota in the final week, and win this week's game prior to that, then they win.  The others need Wisconsin to lose, and both Minnesota and Purdue need both Wisconsin and Iowa to lose.

Conference USA East : Western Kentucky wins if they win out.  Marshall still has a chance.  They'd need to win out, which would include a win over Western Kentucky.  Florida Atlantic has a slim chance, but they would need to win out and have Marshall lose once and Western Kentucky lose twice.  Not likely.

Conference USA West : A win against UAB this week will clinch it for UTSA

MAC East : This division is interesting.  Miami Ohio wins if they win out.  If Kent State wins this week and then beats Miami Ohio the final week, then Kent State goes.  However, if both Kent State and Miami Ohio lose once, and Ohio wins out, then the Bobcats win the division.

MAC West : Northern Illinois clinches with one more win

Mountain West Mountain : Utah State wins if they win out.  If Utah State loses a game and Air Force wins out, then the Falcons win.  If they both lose one game, and Boise State wins out, then the Broncos take it.  

Mountain West West : The Aztecs need to win out, since they lost to Fresno State.  If they lose a game and the Bulldogs win out, then Fresno State wins the division.

Pac-12 North : OREGON has clinched

Pac-12 South : The Utes need to win one more game.  That might be their season ender against Colorado, but they might upset Oregon this week.

SEC East : GEORGIA has won

SEC West : Alabama clinches with one more win

Sun Belt East : Appalachian State wins if they beat Georgia State in the final week, regardless of how they play this week.  If Georgia State loses this week and the Mountaineers win, then App State clinches.

Sun Belt West : LOUISIANA has clinched

Upset Report

Obviously, the biggest (and earliest) was Baylor's upset of Oklahoma.  Their defense just dominated the Sooners.  Speaking of dominance, the two games of note were not upsets, but the margin was victory was shocking in Louisville's defeat of Syracuse.  On the other end, Florida squeaked out a victory against FCS Samford, but Samford scored over 50 points on the Gators, a massively shocking development!

Top 25 teams did suffer some upsets.  Georgia State knocked off Coastal Carolina, UAB beat Marshall, and Texas Tech outscored Iowa State.  The evening upsets didn't affect Top 25 teams, but they were shocking results anyway.  North Texas beat UTEP, UNLV dominated Hawaii, and Big XII doormat Kansas outplayed Texas, totally pulling the rug out from under their season.