Vanderbilt @ Massachusetts

The 1-2 record from Vanderbilt is misleading at first glance. Yes, they have lost two games, both conference games, but both were decided in the fourth quarter of tightly contested match ups. That being said, the Commodores should have few issues with Massachusetts. Jordan Matthews, who will be catching passes from Austyn Carta-Samuels, is primed to have the game of his career and have a spectacular performance. The explosive passing duo will be supported by Wesley Tate as he smashes his way through Massachusetts’ defensive front.

North Texas @ (9) Georgia

After two brutal games against top-10 opponents, Georgia was rewarded with a bye week followed by what should be an easy win. Todd Gurley, the nation’s most talented running back, is already averaging nearly seven yards per carry. Gurley has upheld that average through two games against top-10 teams and has the ability to rush for 300+ yards against North Texas, assuming he stays in the game for a decent amount of time. His dominance opens up the passing game for Aaron Murray, who showed slight improvement in the South Carolina game.

Arkansas @ Rutgers

Arkansas has gotten off to a hot 3-0 start, but none of their opponents have been worthy of much notice. Rutgers is their first major opponent and Arkansas will be leaning on their run game, as they always do, to win them the game. If the Razorbacks can not get their rushing attack going early on, they will be in deep trouble. The problem’s continue to pile on as Arkansas faces 6’6” wide receiver Brandon Coleman. Coleman is a physical mismatch for anyone and should be a huge factor for Rutgers offense.

Tennessee @ (19) Florida

Being the day’s first of two conference games, the pressure is on for both programs to perform and keep any dreams of a conference title shot alive. Florida’s strong suit is it’s fearsome defense. Dominique Easley and company will be collapsing Tennessee quarterback Justin Worley’s pocket all game long while the Gators defensive backs keep tight coverage on his possible targets. Ironically enough, Tennessee’s strength will have to come from their offense. Rajion Neal and Marlin Lane, both of whom are averaging 5.5+ yards per carry, will need to step up and gash through the Gators front if the Vols plan on pulling off an upset.


SMU @ (10) Texas A&M

Texas A&M kept Alabama on their heels and gave them a run for their money. Nonetheless, the Aggies could not finish off the Crimson Tide due to defensive inefficiencies. All throughout the season, A&M has struggled defensively and are likely to do so against SMU as well. Although, their offense is arguably the most explosive in the nation sans Oregon. Johnny Manziel, the erratic play making quarterback, is loaded with talented receivers, versatile running backs, and a brick wall offensive line to conduct his slaughtering of opposing defenses.

Colorado State @ (1) Alabama

The dynasty that Nick Saban built continues to stand strong at the top of the college football world. TJ Yeldon is a top three running back in the nation and carries on Alabama’s tradition of having a dominant rushing attack. His ability makes him a feared rusher and will soften coverages for AJ McCarron and his stellar receiving corps. The lethal combination of a relentless rushing attack and efficient passing spells nothing but disaster for Colorado State, especially they allowed 41 points to Colorado in Week 1. If Colorado can hang 41 on them, there’s no telling what Alabama can do to them.

Troy @ Mississippi State

Few teams have been more disappointing than Mississippi State this year, but a game against Troy may shift the momentum. Quarterback Dak Prescott needs to elevate himself and become a consistent, play making leader for the Bulldogs. With what should be a victory over Troy, Prescott may be able to have a phenomenal performance and prove to his team that he can be their true leader. Mississippi’s State’s most glaring issue may be pass defense. With the absence of Johnthan Banks and Darius Slay, Troy quarterback Cameron Robinson may be able to surprise his SEC opponent.

Auburn @ (6) LSU

The two Tigers face off in the latter of the day’s two conference games. LSU’s Zach Mettenberger has become an efficient, game changing quarterback and should give Auburn major issues through the air. He may be able to succeed even more if running back Jeremy Hill has a normal game, by his standards. Hill is a monstrous force that immediately instills fear in opposing front sevens. Auburn will be relying on running back Tre Mason to support Nick Marshall by forcing LSU to crowd and allow Marshall to throw against softer coverages.

Missouri @ Indiana

James Franklin leads an explosive Missouri offense that has a combined 96 points through two games. Being a threat both with his arm and as a runner, Franklin is an unpredictable specimen to defend against, especially when he has a talented receiver such as Dorial Green-Beckham to throw to. The passing attack has been supported by the efforts of Henry Josey, who has rushed for over six yards per carry and has three touchdowns thus far. As they had in their first two games, Missouri is primed to put up plenty of points and blowout Indiana.