USC survives Minnesota, 19-17.

Matt Barkley will do all he can to will USC to win but what about the defense?!

What we learned:

· Matt Barkley is an accomplished Pac-12 passer, right behind Stanford’s Andrew Luck; if not in the top 5 of pocket passers in the nation.

· Barkley and sophomore wide receiver Robert Woods make a good tandem. Woods hauled in 17 catches (becoming the only wide receiver for USC to have 17 catches in a single game, breaking former player Johnnie Morton’s record of 15 catches) for 177 yards with three TD’s, and Barkley threw for 304 yards on the day, carving up Minnesota’s defense.

· The Men of Troy’s defense looks more stout and aggressive than the previous year; they still have to work on miss tackles.

· USC Sophomore Cornerback Torrin Harris needs to play the ball better in the air; he is usually caught not knowing where the ball is. He redeemed himself with a late interception to seal the game.

· Redshirt Freshman DJ Morgan made the best of his opportunity with senior running back Marc Tyler being suspended for the first game, showing speed, power, balance and vision. Morgan will have a bright future if he keeps up his production and true grit.

· Penalties made this game closer than what the score indicated, The Trojans could have put up more points if it wasn’t for costly penalties that put them in many third and long positions.

Going Forward: 

· USC’s offense is still a work in progress and is far from being refined. At times it looked methodical with the bubble screens to Woods. Barkley will have to spread the ball around to junior Brice Butler, true freshman Marquise Lee, true freshman George Farmer and Kyle Prater (if he can stay healthy). And there has to be a more balanced approach as far as run vs. the pass.

· The defense will be tested when they host Utah (Sept. 10), @Arizona State (Sept. 24), at home against Stanford (Oct. 29) and @Oregon (Nov. 19).

· The schedule does not led up for USC as they play back-to-back away games @Cal (Oct. 13) and @Notre Dame (Oct. 22) and then have a home game against the Cardinal. This will probably be the toughest stretch the Men of Troy will face all year and it will give the pundits and fans a barometer of progress from last season, especially on defense. It’s realistic to say that USC probably could match their win total of eight games from last season. It’s all about how the defense holds up.

· I’m eager to see how Defensive Coordinator Monte Kiffin deals with various the offensives run in college and how he deals with the spread-option attack which will a be equivalent to playing Russian roulette when they go to Autzen Stadium. If Kiffin is smart, his team will watch the LSU-Oregon game and break it down from every facet to see how LSU halted the express train AKA The Oregon Ducks. But stopping the Ducks, is it an issue of athleticism and discipline??

My Two Cents-Cam Newton wins the Heisman

Newton is all smiles, let's hope the Heisman Trophy stays in his possession forever

I do not know what to believe, but we know that Cecil Newton, Cam’s father, was in the wrong with trying to solicit money from an agent linked to Mississippi State. The dark cloud that hovers over Newton has somewhat dispersed but it leaves a bad taste in the mouth of people across the nation, especially the 105 voters that left him off the Heisman ballot, entirely.

 Newton is a football player, and he should be judged by his performance on the field just like Reggie Bush. Why do we as a society look towards athletes and entertainers as role models; they are not. They have dealt with or been through the very same problems we are going through in our own lives. Young kids need to look up to their parents or relatives as role models. I’m tired of people condemning athletes for their boneheaded decisions, acting as if they can do no wrong. People--we only know the side of them that the media shows--that’s it, nothing more.

It’s unfortunate, what Cecil did, but it has become tiresome with Cam trying to smile his way through it. Its gives the public a sense of Newton trying to be coy and that does not sit well with people or me outside of the Southeastern region. The kid does seem sincere in that he had no knowledge of what his Father did, but he had to know something, right?! Maybe he did or maybe he didn’t. Either way he is your Heisman winner and we just hope that down the road, it will not be taken away from him because of all this.

During his acceptance speech, Newton made me cringe when he said, “My parents do a lot of things behind the scenes that go unnoticed.” Bad choice of words, Cam! You could almost hear those 105 voters snickering at those words. I will give him a pass because you are a ball of nerves up there in front of the Heisman Trust, the audience and the millions on television watching. However, recipients of the Heisman Trophy feel like they need to say something grand or earth-shattering. Why can’t it be short and sweet: thank your Deity, your parents, coaches, teammates, staff, the Heisman Trust, and that’s it?

Everyone deserves a second chance and to the voters that left him off the ballot, shame on you. Each of us has lapses of judgment or screw up. You cannot tell me that those 105 voters that left him off the ballot have not lied, fabricated events for a story or erroneously reported something to create a buzz; it happens and this is the society we live in. But how would this world be, if we did not give people second chances?  We are only human.

If we learn from our past transgressions and mature, who has the right to question or judge that person? If that person is showing resolve and willing to do right, give him or her break and respect them for cleaning up their life. So if it comes to past that Newton is deemed ineligible and the Heisman and National Championship is taken away then you can start heaping your pile of negativity for being duped, but until then enjoy the upcoming bowl season and the BCS title game. However, it would help if Cecil Newton came out and acknowledged his wrongdoings; and his son coming forward and admonishing the horrendous act on his father’s part (would do wonders for his sake); it would show people that Newton is grateful for playing college football and that he respects the University of Auburn for granting him this opportunity. 

Will Muschamp is the head coach of the Florida Gators

Will Muschamp will bring that fiery attitude to Gainesville

What we know:

• No head coach experience. Has served as a successful defensive coordinator for Auburn, LSU and Texas. At Texas, he was the coach-in-waiting behind Head Coach Mack Brown, but who knows when Brown will step down.
• Is known for being a good recruiter and that will help him in his new position. He has met with the recruits coming in this year and has introduced himself. He already has a commitment from the No.1 quarterback for 2011 class (Rivals.com), Jeff Driskel. So it’s very evident that he is not wasting anytime hitting the recruiting trail.
• Is a fiery, energetic person that will motivate his players; it’s easy to fall in love with his infectious personality.
• Muschamp can be successful at Florida with the right staff assembled. It is public knowledge that Major Applewhite, the former assistant coach and running backs coach of Texas, has been targeted as the next offensive coordinator. Nothing has been finalized yet, but sources say he will be the guy. Also Kirby Smart has been targeted as the defensive coordinator. Muschamp and Smart are good friends and this could lead to Smart leaving Alabama and signing for more money in Gainesville.

What we don’t know:

• Who were the other candidates for this job? Dan Mullen (of Mississippi State)?   Charlie Strong (of Louisville)? Chip Kelly (of Oregon)? Bobby Petrino (of Arkansas)?  Jim Harbaugh (of Stanford)?
• How will Muschamp handle being the head coach? With all the meetings, banquets, and other necessary things head coaches have to do, will he handle it well? What about the pressure from the media to perform?
• What will his recruiting classes look like?
• How will he fair coaching against Bobby Petrino, Les Miles, Houston Nutt, Steve Spurrier, and Nick Saban?
• Will the offense change to more of a pro-style offense? Less option-spread attack? Where does QB John Brantley fit into all of this?
• How will he game plan against Cam Newton considering how they tried to steal his spotlight on the day of the Heisman inauguration? There is definitely bad blood between these two programs, especially when reports came out of Florida about academic cheating by Newton. You can be sure he will be fired up to make a mockery of the Gator defense.
• Did Mack Brown’s push Muschamp out of the door?  After a dismal season (5-7), Brown was asked if Muschamp was going to have a say in personnel decisions and Brown soundly said “no.”

My thoughts-Auburn survives Alabama, 28-27

A pumped up Gene Chizik is riding high into the SEC Championship game, Glendale is a calling!

• Cam Newton is phenomenal. There aren’t enough adjectives to describe what he has done this season.
• Is there any question that Auburn is the No. 1 team in the nation?
• He had a tough time sledding against the ‘Bama defense. Defensive coordinator Kirby Smart and Nick Saban must have looked at what LSU did wrong on defense to slow down Newton; he only had 22 carries for 39 yards, a career low that will last for a long time.
• Alabama is still a good team, even though they only mustered a pathetic three points from their last scoring drive in the second quarter; they finished the second half with only 55 yards of production.
• Greg McElroy could do no wrong in the first half of the game, especially the first quarter. He ended the day 27-37, 377, 2TDs, a 199 yards of that total was thrown to wideout Julio Jones.
• Jones is really spectacular, but I still give the edge to South Carolina wide receiver Alshon Jeffrey.
• Alabama needs to be more balanced on offense. If one thing is working, they stick with it. And in this game it was the passing game, where was Ingram and Richardson? They both combined for only 20 touches, not enough since the running game is your bread and butter. No one wants to admit it, but the offensive line has been widely inconsistent this season.
• Shame on Ingram for erasing either a touchdown or three points by allowing the ball to be punched out of his arms for a touchback. Also the butterfingers award should be given to Richardson who dropped an easy touchdown catch. More mental errors from this Nick Saban-coached team.
• Do you think McElroy being knocked out in the fourth quarter cost them the game? I don’t think so. Even if he was in and took the lead; it would have been another thrilling comeback victory by Newton and Co.
• For all the flak that Auburn’s defense gets, they continue to make plays when needed in the second half of games. In no shape or form are they as dominant in the second half like Oregon’s defense but they get it done. And against stiffer competition than the Ducks.
• Is there an award for the most comebacks in a season?
• Gene Chizik should be the Coach of the Year and Gus Malzahn has to be the best offensive coordinator in the nation.
• Cam Newton can be a pro quarterback, but he will need to work on his footwork, first and foremost.
• Would you believe that Alabama would have lost three games this season? Not me, I thought after their uplifting win at Arkansas that they would go unscathed in the brutal Southeastern conference. Boy was I wrong on that one.
• The Heisman is Newton’s to lose.
• Steve Spurrier is lurking around the corner in the SEC title game, a familiar foe that the Tigers met in Week 4: A different South Carolina team that is playing with a hunger and also a stronger Auburn team too.

My Top Ten Teams

Who will hoist the crystal trophy?

1. Auburn-Heading into a big game (Iron Bowl) against Alabama, the allegations and news surrounding QB Cam Newton has quieted and this is much needed for the Tigers. Newton is the most valuable player this season and a win here would surely lock up the Heisman.

2. Oregon Ducks-A very high-powered offense that goes full throttle all the time. They are No.2 in total offense (542.20) in the nation. This offense can be slowed down, and Tennessee did it for one half and Cal did it all game long. If the Ducks and the Tigers win out, look for a very enjoyable BCS title game, where defense will be optional.

3. Boise State-What can be said about this feisty team that is constantly fighting to be recognized. They continue to get it done on the field on both sides of the ball; even though, I feel that they are lacking in quality opponents on their schedule, they deserve a shot at the national title. Give them a chance; let’s see what they prove to the nation. And then hopefully in the next two years we will get a plus-one format that will seed the top four teams, and hopefully this will quiet the critics of the BCS, but is anyone ever satisfied??

4. TCU-Who would have guessed this season that TCU would be the best team out of the state of Texas. Yeah you read that right, no Longhorn sighting this season as Mack Brown’s team continues to sink to the bottom of the ocean. The Horned Frogs are the No. 1 team on defense and No. 9 on offense: they are balanced team that has put up a lot of points and shutdown opponents as well. It’s a heated, neck-and-neck race between them and Boise for who gets in the national title game if Auburn or Oregon falls. Both teams won’t sniff a BCS game but one will end up in the Rose Bowl as a consolation prize, which isn’t so bad.

5. LSU-Probably the best one-loss team in the nation. I know people will argue the fact, but you cannot find fault with a team that has only one loss in the SEC. Yes, people will mention the fluky wins over Tennessee and Florida but the win against Alabama is a darn good one. Couple that with the maturity of QB Jordan Jefferson, who looks like a new quarterback, and is showing confidence in his throws and designed runs. If Jefferson keeps this up, they will beat Arkansas this upcoming week. However, they cannot get to the national title this year with Boise and TCU undefeated, and the other one-loss teams in the rear view mirror and the fact they did not win their conference, so the voters will not let them into the national title game.

6. Stanford-You cannot deny this Pac-10 team some recognition, whose only loss came to the No. 1 ranked Oregon Ducks, a game where they had a good lead but could not hold on for the win. They have good coaching and probably the best pure passer (Andrew Luck) in the league that will make a big splash when he decides to head for the NFL. Coach Harbaugh has instilled a never-die attitude in these scholars of Palo Alto. I thought there would be a major setback with running back Toby Gerhart gone for greener pastures, and the league having more tape on Luck to figure out his weaknesses but this was not the case. No longer can you think of the Cardinal bunch as a group of geeks; they are winning now and looking very good at it.

7. Wisconsin-Good quarterback play that is set up by a solid running game. This team has lived up to its expectations finally. I have been waiting for this team to step up since ’07 and now it seems they have everything figured out. Much kudos to Coach Brett Bielema for a good season.

8. Oklahoma State-The Bedlam showdown with the Oklahoma Sooners, Saturday, will determine who represents the South in Big 12 Championship game. First year starter Brandon Weeden has thrown for an amazing 3,780 with 30 touchdowns to 10 interceptions. His main target is wide receiver Justin Blackmon (Biletnikoff finalist and likely winner) who has 1,560 and 17 touchdowns; this kid is amazing: his speed and physicality and good hands have made him a wet dream for NFL scouts. The Cowboys has the most explosive offense besides Oregon and Auburn. The Sooners better have that defense ready.

9. Alabama-the defending National Champs will not get a chance to repeat with two losses on the season. However, if they knock off their heated rival No. 2 ranked Auburn in the Iron Bowl that could go a long way for this squad for next season. The Crimson Tide’s running game has all but disappeared due to inconsistent play on the offensive line, and Greg McEleroy has played OK this season but not great. I think the offense needs to reinvent itself; you have to find ways to move the ball and put up six points on the board, field goals won’t do.

10. Ohio State-Terrelle Pryor’s comeback win against Iowa last week was a big win. Coach Tressel let Pryor loose a bit and it showed with him running with conviction and making the necessary throws for his team to win. If only we could get a full, consistent game from Pryor then we can give him the kudos he deserves and he can finally live up to the hype surrounding him coming to Columbus. I don’t see Wisconsin losing this weekend, so the Buckeyes will get their share of the Big Ten Title but the Badgers will go on to play in the Rose Bowl.

They did it: South Carolina goes to their first ever SEC Championship game behind the legs of freshman running back Marcus Lattimore, 36-14

Steve Spurrier is on his way to the SEC Championship game

It wasn’t exciting but no one expected it; no one thought the inconsistent and often manic Gamecocks could knock off the Florida Gators in the swamp but they did. Steve Spurrier got his signature win as head coach --going to their first ever SEC title game and downing the Gators at home (for the first time)--which they never done.

South Carolina was intent on running the ball down Florida’s throat, and they did so with freshman running back Marcus Lattimore, a home-grown talent, to the tune of 40 carries, 212 yards with 3 TDs. Mistake-free football was on the agenda last Saturday night in the Swamp.

QB Stephen Garcia was a modest, albeit unimpressive 15-26, 156 yards, O TDS, O INTs.  All the staff has asked of Garcia is that he does not turn the ball over and that is what he did; his partner in crime, wideout Alshon Jeffrey had no TDs on the night and only had 53 yards receiving, something you would not expect from the best wide receiver in the SEC or the nation, for that matter.

Spurrier could not ask for a better performance from the offense and defense, and especially from Lattimore that has exceeded expectations since his first snap. Who would have thought that Spurrier would have a freshman standout at running back?!  He is known for having and grooming superb quarterbacks, but Lattimore has fallen into his lap and he is willing to ride this kid to a victory in the SEC Championship game.

But I’m here to caution that they cannot beat Auburn in the title game with just running the ball and not passing for more than Garcia did. It will not happen. The Tigers will put up a bunch of points on the scoreboard and will continue until the final whistle. We all know that special player, Cam Newton; he is on a tear this season and he has one victory over South Carolina and he is looking for another one that will bring his team closer to Glendale.

Will Marcus Lattimore be healthy when they face Auburn?

It’s scary to think that Lattimore had 40 carries in the last game. This kid has been nicked up and I can already tell that he will continue to play his career at not a hundred percent. He runs hard and he is a north-south runner and that is fine. However, his style of running and the number of carries will cause him to wear down when they need him. Watching him in high school, ball security was a problem whenever he was over-utilized in a game and so far it has not been an issue, but it might if they continue to run him into the ground.

The Gamecocks have two more games left, Troy at home and @Clemson (their rival). It will be interesting to see how Lattimore is used in those games. You do not want him limping into the SEC title game because that will be a big problem. For South Carolina to flourish they need to open up all facets of their offense, this will make this team unstoppable like they were against then No. 1 Alabama.

Going forward to next season, it will be trying times (for South Carolina) where the departure of Garcia, at quarterback, and the insertion of Connor Shaw, will challenge the staff to not overuse Lattimore with a young quarterback. They will need to find ways to keep him fresh since they will have to rely heavily on the run game with a green quarterback behind center. I’m curious to see if Lattimore will be healthy come his junior year and if the wheels will fall off this wagon.

For now the future is bright for Spurrier and he has a huge game with Clemson and the title game to prepare for. He wanted to play close to the vest against Florida (and it worked) but how will this offense look against Clemson and Auburn? Will being conservative get this program a much needed win over Clemson and a much bigger win against Auburn?

Auburn downs Georgia behind the performance of Cam Newton, 49-31

I do not know what to say, or even how to express how enamored, awestruck, and baffled at Cam Newton. This kid is special, no one knew he would be this special, but I bet Gene Chizik and his staff would tell you they did. I crown Auburn as the best team in the nation, with Oregon escaping a scare against Cal (15-13); there is no doubt in my mind that the Tigers are the crème de la crème.

With all the swirling allegations about the recruitment of Newton to Mississippi State, Newton got it done on Saturday which he has been doing for eleven weeks now. Yeah, people are going to start piping up about Auburn’s luxury of home games this season, not playing defense, and they have to go to Tuscaloosa to play a pretty good Alabama team but for Newton it’s no sweat.

Cam Newton deserves Ric Flair's robe and heavyweight title

Players respond differently to adversity, some fold under the pressure and others rise to the occasion and that is what Newton did and his teammates. Newton made some NFL-type throws on a rope that were beautiful. He was playing with an angry streak, showing the doubters that he is unaffected by all this mess and hubris surrounding him. If there is one thing I know is that you do not want to play against a pissed off Newton, that’s for sure. The Crimson Tide better hope there is no damning reports coming out in the next ten days leading up to their Nov. 26^th showdown.

I’m usually level headed, but I say to hell with defense just score. And that is why I say Auburn will beat Alabama. Make it a track meet and watch the Tigers sink ‘Bama. There is a growing fear that if Newton touches the ball, they are going to score. So all those analysts can talk about Nick Saban telling his boys to run the ball (what running game, I say) and control the clock, but every time you turn it over, Auburn will score. You cannot kick field goals to beat this team and if the Crimson Tide is going to wait for the second half to wake up and game plan against the Tigers it will be too late.

This is Newton’s year (eighth player in FBS history to have 1,000 yards rushing and 2,000 yards passing), and he will seize the opportunity. I know earlier in the season, I compared Newton to Terrelle Pryor and forgive me for that. I had water on my brain. For the record, Pryor wishes he had Newton’s ability. Pryor should be utilizing his size (6’6, 233) in a better manner: bowl over defenders, stiff arm them, and show some true grit! Until Pryor shows urgency at the quarterback position, Ohio State will not play for the national title.

 Newton plays with fervor and moxie that Pryor does not show on Saturdays.  To be a star athlete you got to have a nasty streak and you got leave it all on the field, every time you step out there or why bother lacing up the boots. Newton has that mercurial touch and hopefully instead of turning things to gold, he can make a crystal trophy appear in his hands.

So Kirby Smart and Saban better be ready, bring all your powerful weapons because Auburn will be ready this time and it will be in their favor.  And Alabama’s offensive line better be ready for DT Nick Fairley and friends because they will be coming for blood. 

My Two Cents (11/12)-What is wrong with Alabama?

The Alabama Crimson Tide will not repeat as national champions; this season will not shape out like 2007 where a two-loss team gets into the national title game. With Boise and TCU still undefeated, one of them will certainly (I can hear Lee Corso saying, “Not so fast”) get the nod to play for the national title if Oregon or Auburn lose, over a one-loss or two-loss team.  However, if Oregon and Auburn remain undefeated then all bets are off for the two Non-AQ teams.

This year the running game has yet to get on track, who
are you looking at/for? We are looking for  you, Mr. Ingram.

With two losses on the season, Nick Saban can rally the troops for one last hurray with a win over Auburn in the Iron Bowl. I think the nation and me included have been spoiled by the running game with Mark Ingram (former Heisman winner), Trent Richardson along with impact wide receiver Julio Jones and QB Greg McElroy. I really thought that Richardson was going to trump Ingram in production and have the nation talking Heisman but it has not panned out that way.

After Alabama’s come from behind win at Arkansas, I stated that they would not lose another game all season long. I just did not see it and strongly believed it. They showed much resolve being behind and not panicking and that is a testament to the players and Saban and his staff. However, South Carolina made it look too easy jumping out to a large lead and holding the Crimson Tide at bay for the win. I really think the game in Fayetteville, AR took a lot out of ‘Bama, physically and mentally they were drained. Think about it, a team trying to repeat as national champion; the amount of pressure and scrutiny from the press is insurmountable. But who does not believe in Saban and how he has his guys dialed in like are a platoon ready to storm the coast.

Staying on top in any sport involves luck to some degree; you have to have a nugget of it while going through the weekly grind of games, meetings and practices. A two-loss Alabama team is not the end of the world for the people in Tuscaloosa, but they want more and deserve that much. The problem lies in the offensive line, which is not getting the push and is not dominant like last season, And a very green secondary is also the problem. Gamecock wideout Alshon Jeffrey (who I believe is the best in the SEC) made them look silly in their Oct. 9^th showdown, pulling in 127 yards on seven catches, yikes!!!

The young defense is not as formidable like the veteran-led squad from last year. The secondary needs some time under their belt to gain confidence and experience. Teams now know that they need to bomb away on the secondary and you will find success. And what is so important in football is making tackles, playing the ball (as a defender) and playing smart (no costly penalties); not doing any of these things can lead to six points or change field position. It really is vital that players stick to their assignment.

Nick Saban is a very good coach and approaches his craft like Bill Belichick (of the Patriots) with determination and focus. But anyone can be out coached and schemed; no one is exempt from that. So yes, Les Miles got one up on Saban and his crew and Steve Spurrier with his athletes put it to them. But it still remains that Saban is a good coach and his track record speaks for itself and his players buy into him. Without a good running game, the pass cannot be set up and vice versa. A decent quarterback will be good if he has a good running game, for this will set up play-action passes and open up passes to the flats and underneath.  No one can say that McElroy is a game-manger at the quarterback position (maybe that was true last year); this year you can see his level of maturity and knowledge of the offense.

The Crimson Tide need to find ways to resurrect their running game, get better offensive-line play, spruce up the play-calling on offense (use some trick or gadget plays), take some risks and hopefully than can flourish. Consistency is the key with this squad and playing hungry. 

My Two Cents-Who will come out of the SEC East?

The SEC East is the weakest division of the Southeastern conference; it actually looks like the ACC where you have all these teams neck and neck because there is no consistency from week to week.

Lowly Tennessee continues to sink to the bottom as they are the only team in the conference without a conference win; Florida continues to implode week after week, and there looks like there is no solution to this downward spiral; Kentucky’s signature win over South Carolina was a huge one for the university but that was their only conference win; Vanderbilt also has one win in conference play and their problems continue; Georgia has turned around a dismal start to reach the .500 mark and they have a big game against Florida this Saturday; however, South Carolina looks like the team that will win this division and get a chance to play in the SEC Championship game on Dec. 4^th.

The Gamecocks must seize this moment and continue to win from here on out and not stub their toe like they did two weeks ago against Kentucky, after beating No. 1 Alabama the previous week. Steve Spurrier must be rooting for Georgia to down the Gators, this Saturday, and hope his team will beat Florida come Nov. 13^th in the Swamp, to undoubtedly make them winners of the East division, going into the championship game.

Florida could make a splash with a win at Georgia and a win at South Carolina to take the East Division but with how hot Georgia is playing now (the offense is clicking) and South Carolina possessing the experienced Stephen Garcia and Alshon Jeffrey, I just do not see it. Anything is possible. When you put too much faith in South Carolina, they will let you down as we have seen in Spurrier’s tenure in Columbia, SC.

I do strongly believe that Urban Meyer will have a signature win this season and maybe it will be against Georgia but this team will not get further than that, though. However, if they lose to the Bulldogs, it will be an unprecedented four losses in the row for Meyer at the university. It’s funny how the Gators and Texas Longhorns seem to be channeling each other. So don’t be surprised if they beat Georgia and then lose the following week to Vanderbilt. You remember when the Longhorns shocked Nebraska (@home) and then lost last week to Iowa State, don’t be surprised if Florida follows in their footsteps.

The Gamecocks’ defense needs to play better in the second half of games and not let teams get back into games; and Garcia needs to protect the ball and not turn it over. South Carolina blows your doors off in the first half of games and then puts it into cruise control. Also will Marcus Lattimore be healthy for the remaining games on their schedule. He got dinged up in the Kentucky loss and is questionable at this moment; it’s important to have this element of the running game to be well-rounded as a team. You don’t want Garcia to feel like he needs to put the whole team on his shoulders.

Everything sets up well for the Gamecocks: win your remaining games and play for the SEC title. It’s best to help yourself first than having to rely on other teams to help you out. If Spurrier does not get to the title game, I do not know when they will be closer than they are now, especially with the athleticism and playmakers on offense and defense.           

My Two Cents-Will Auburn play in the SEC Championship game?

Auburn hopes to have the scoreboard read in their favor come Nov. 26th.

Yes, I feel they have the best shot coming out of the SEC West. Auburn QB Cam Newton is just phenomenal. He broke the record for the most rushing yards(in history) of SEC quarterbacks in a single season at 1, 077 yards on the ground, and he has four regular season games left. Before the season started I actually thought that that Arkansas QB Ryan Mallett would make people forget about Tim Tebow but boy I was wrong. I do not think anyone knew how dynamic Newton would be and how much he means to his team. He is clearly the Heisman front runner and if it was up to me, I would give him the trophy now.

Everyone knows that the defense is the biggest problem on this team. They actually gave up only 17 points in this game compared to 43 points (against Arkansas) and 34 (against Kentucky). There are improvements on defense, even though it might be minimal. The cornerbacks need to track and play the ball, how many times have we seen them with their backs turned to the ball allowing wide receivers to make big catches?

The annual Iron Bowl will take place on Nov. 26^th and this will be another game, if Auburn wins, that will define their impressive season thus far. Alabama leads the rivalry with a 40-33-1 record, but I feel this year the Tigers will cause the tide to shift in their favor for the next couple of years. Last season they lost a close game to the Crimson Tide that came back to pull out the win, 26-21; however, Newton was not the quarterback and this brings a very interesting element to this game.

Nick Saban and Kirby Smart will have to dial up inventive defensive schemes to confuse and shutdown the running lanes, so Newton will be forced to pass. We thought, last week, that LSU was going to be that team that took away the holes in the defense for Newton but that did not happen. And that is why I strongly believe that he will continue to have success against Alabama.

The problem with ‘Bama is that this team is better suited when playing with a lead as opposed to being down. For evidence, check out the South Carolina game,  knowing that Auburn will put up points, what will happen if Alabama finds themselves down by 14 points or more? We know Auburn will not let up on the gas pedal once they have a lead so it could get ugly and embarrassing for the Crimson Tide, if they do not keep this game close. I can certainly see the Tigers coming out like gangbusters and then Saban corralling his troops, at halftime, and have them ready for the second half.

I strongly believe that this year belongs to Newton and he will give his all in the Iron Bowl, so there will be no shortage of effort on both teams. But Auburn will make a big splash with a win over Saban’s team and ride into the SEC Championship game on a high, where they could possibly face the Gamecocks again. Momentum is on the side of the Tigers this year with the SEC having a down year, so if Newton does not capture the SEC Championship this year then it will have to be the following year. One must realize that Newton will capture the conference championship before all is said and done for him at Auburn.

My Two Cents-Can USC beat Oregon?

Father and Son will look to execute a perfect gameplan to topple the Oregon Ducks

It can certainly happen because all the pressure will be on Oregon to stay highly ranked and get the opportunity to play for the national title in Glendale, Arizona. With the two-year bowl ban and thirty scholarships taken from the Trojans, this will be their defining game of the season. What better way to show the nation that they are capable of knocking off the No.1 team in the Coaches and AP Poll and No.2 in the BCS rankings.

The Men of Troy hope Monte Kiffin can dial up some inventive and easy to follow schemes that will help them thwart the explosive offense (No. 1 in the nation) of the Ducks. USC needs to look at last year’s Rose Bowl and study how Ohio State was able to shutdown that offense. With two weeks to prepare for this game, it will be downright embarrassing if the Trojans surrendered 50 points; there is still a bad taste in their mouths from last year’s drubbing, where Oregon hung 47 points on them.

If I was Lane Kiffin, I would establish the run with Marc Tyler and Allen Bradford. The less QB Darron Thomas is on the field, the less this team can score. Don’t engage in a shootout with this team, as they will win the battle. Special teams will be a factor too in this game: good kickoff /punt coverage and making field goals are a necessity. Touchdowns are needed to win against Oregon; kicking field goals won’t do it against this offensive juggernaut.

Everyone is eager to see how Monte’s Tampa 2 will fare against a spread offense team like the Ducks so this will be his opportunity; there is no letter grade for the defense come Saturday, it will be either Pass or Fail. Whatever the outcome, The Men of Troy will play inspired football as this is their glorified bowl game.  So expect to see the same USC team that was firing on all cylinders two weeks ago when they spanked Cal.                       

My Two Cents-The impact of Oklahoma losing and Missouri's win

Can Blaine Gabbert continue the impressive performance against Nebraska?

With Oklahoma’s loss to Missouri, they can kiss goodbye their chances to play in the national title game, even if they go on to win the Big 12 Championship game. Their resume does not stack up with Alabama, LSU, Wisconsin, Stanford, Nebraska (who are all one loss teams), or if Michigan State were to lose a game. For them to get a strong consideration for the national title game; there will have to be two loss teams from the Big 12, Big Ten, Pac-10 and the SEC, and still then people will be up in arms over Boise State and TCU not getting the nod.

The Sooners were set up perfectly to fly by Missouri and look forward to the season-ending game against Oklahoma State, which I considered their only threat. But boy was I wrong. Now, it’s a strong possibility that if this defense does not tackle better, The Cowboys will beat them and by a lot. But credit must be given to the athleticism and precision of Missouri’s offense and defense.

QB Blaine Gabbert stood tall in the pocket and picked apart this the Sooners’ secondary. And I must mention the excellent play by the Tigers offensive line that was really dominant this year than they have been in the past. We can agree that the Sooners’ defense is young and not dominant like years past when they owned Missouri during the season and in the championship game.

There is much to say about home field advantage. People can down play it but there is this energy that the players feed off playing in front of their fans, family, and friends; and once momentum swings to the home team, it is nearly impossible for the away team to recover. Missouri’s kick return (for a touchdown) to open the game made the players believe they could beat the Sooners, and they fed off this for the rest of the game.

I’m not buying Missouri is good as their 7-0 record shows but their first true test against a top 10 team was proof that they are a decent team, but not good or great. I will give them all the credit in the world if they shutdown QB Taylor Martinez, of Nebraska, who they will face this upcoming Saturday. And the Cornhusker’s defense is the fastest I have seen this year and they will create a lot of pressure on Gabbert with their speed and athleticism, which Oklahoma was unable to do.

If the Tigers get past them then that will be another highlight to this team’s season. Martinez showed that he could pass, last Saturday, as he carved up the Oklahoma State defense for over 300 yards and added over a 100 yards rushing. This matchup will determine who will represent the North in the Big 12 Championship game. This will be must-see TV.

You never know-- if Oklahoma wins out-- there will be a rematch between Missouri and the Sooners. However, it means nothing because the loser will not go to the title game; they will need some help to reach Glendale.  Bob Stoops does at least have a chance for redemption and maybe at that point Defensive Coordinator Brent Venables will have that defense more adept at the fundamentals of tackling and figuring out ways to pressure the quarterback.

Cam Newton tosses his hat in the ring of Heisman contenders

Cam Newton is racing to the finish line in the Heisman race

Cam Newton is special.  I have to admit I was skeptical about him and even compared him to Terrelle Pryor of Ohio State. But after digesting three Auburn games, I can say that he is the real deal. Newton plays with passion and wants it all. When he takes off and run, there is a purpose behind it and he will run over you and juke you out of your shoes. If you want evidence on how dynamic of a player he is--look at the Arkansas game--watch how he eludes, spins, shuffles his feet and flat out breaks ankles. 

 Here I was thinking that QB Denard Robinson of Michigan was going to run away with the Heisman this year. But in the last two games, teams must have some Kryptonite stashed on them because he has looked anything but Superman like. To be successful in college football you must have a good supporting cast; Batman cannot exist without Robin at his side, and Superman cannot take on the likes of Lex Luthor without the Justice League.

I’m calling for Newton to win the Heisman; everything sets up so well for him: Auburn is 7-0, Newton is No. 2 in pass efficiency (65% completion rate), he has rushed for 860 yards, in seven games, passed for 1,278 yards with 13 touchdowns and five interceptions, and most importantly he plays in the SEC, which is the most watched conference in college football.

Sure, they have LSU at home and end the season in Tuscaloosa (Nov. 26), but the Tigers have played the most exciting football this season. And they find themselves week-in and week-out coming back from being down and winning in thrilling fashion. Newton is the reason why, and no longer is he in the shadows of another quarterback (was a backup to Tebow in ’07-‘08). Auburn has a legitimate shot to play for the SEC Championship and go on to the national title game to represent the Southeastern Conference.

However, the defensive side of the ball is a problem. They are ranked 63^rd in the nation, giving up an average of 367.86 yards per game. Yes, this is a major problem but as long as Newton is healthy it’s hard to see this team losing. But it will be interesting to see Auburn’s offense against LSU and Alabama and how they will fare.  Newton can pass the ball; he is not Andrew Luck or Matt Barkley, but he can be effective in the passing game when called upon to. Obviously, he is most dynamic when the tucking the ball and taking off for the end zone.

Gus Malzahn is the mastermind behind Auburn's explosive offense

I have to say if the Tigers get past LSU and Newton is still doing his thing, it’s safe to say they have a good shot of beating Alabama. The way they are scoring it will be hard for the Crimson Tide to match them.

Cam Newton has arrived, and he is playing at a high level and sky’s limit for him and the Auburn Tigers. I know the school was criticized for the hiring of Gene Chizik but it has turned out that he is the right man for the job. And the great staff he has assembled is another key to his success. If I had a Heisman vote, it would be for Newton without a doubt. He means the most to his team than any other player in the nation, and he is the most phenomenal talent on Saturdays. 

The Men of Troy looking less than formidable

Monte is looking for answers on defense

I do not know what needs to happen in the City of Angels for USC to turn things around. I am neither a prophet nor a good prognosticator when it comes to college football because--like life-- it’s too unpredictable. But what I do know is that The Men of Troy need to work on improving that defense and fast. I do not rest all the blame on new defensive coordinator/Tampa 2 guru Monte Kiffin, but he deserves some blame.

Tony Dungy (tweaked the Tampa 2 from the 1970’s Steelers playbook to his liking) and Monte Kiffin put the Tampa 2 defense on the map in their Tampa Bay days in the mid-nineties to early two thousands but it is not working for the Trojans. The way I see it is that you need the personnel to run this defense and that means above average speedy linebackers, corners and safeties. Also there must be pressure created by the front four that can get at the quarterback without a blitz by the linebackers or corners. But speed, tackling, and smarts are a premium and at this moment USC is having big trouble running this defense.

The Tampa 2 works in the NFL, but this system might be complicated for the college kids to run because the time they have to digest this defensive scheme and meet with coaches is severely limited unlike the pro athletes, where their entire week is meetings at the team facility. One must also look at the drop off of recruits coming in the last couple of years under Pete Carroll as a factor too. There is no way a program can sustain bringing in kids like Rey Maualuga, Brian Cushing, Clay Matthews, and many others. There was bound to be talent that did not pan out.

In no way am I saying that USC is incapable of running this defensive scheme, but they need heady players that have primo speed and will not whiff on tackles. We have seen the undisciplined defense rack up penalties (ranging from false starts to delay of game and unsportsmanlike penalties), miss numerous tackles, and allow gaping holes all over the field. Head Coach Lane Kiffin is not doing any live tackling in practice because of the sanctions and lack of depth but something needs to be done. Some live tackling needs to take place or you will have more bittersweet losses like Washington and Stanford.

No one fears the Men of Troy anymore, USC has loss their swagger. Bring back Marcus Allen, Snoop Dogg, the zany Will Ferrell, and the others that used to line the sideline like it was celebrity-row. This was a boost for the current players to play in front of these stars; it motivated them, gave them that extra shot of adrenaline. In 2005, sophomore wide receiver, Dwayne Jarrett had this to say about the national attention and the how celebrities gravitate toward the team: “It just shows we're very looked at. It just shows how much they respect us. It gives us motivation to play hard." But all that is lost now; the sidelines are mundane and boring.

I know Lane is different than Carroll but you do not need to change everything, especially when the formula has worked for so long; tweak things hear and there but keep what works. The Hollywood atmosphere works for USC unlike any other school in the nation and this is their identity and it needs to come back. Carroll was very proficient at allowing kids to buy into the fun atmosphere and play football but now everything is too workman-like and not every player will buy into this.

The Trojans used to be the best big-game team in the nation a couple of years ago. When the lights where on, they could beat anyone by at least two touchdowns. That’s how good they were. But now, they are lost on defense. In the Washington game, they looked confused and slow; players were looking around or at each other, trying to get into position and figure out how to line up.

Cornerback Shareece Wright is playing like a man possessed and showing that aggression and the rest of the players need to follow his lead. And why is Monte in the booth when he should be on the field? He needs to be down there at eye-level and get in the faces of players that are not doing their job properly. Every once in a while a player needs a kick in the butt or some encouraging words.

Lane, Monte, and Ed Oregon will have a small margin of error when it comes to recruiting kids to the school. They need to find tough, hard-nosed kids that live and breathe football and have a high motor. They do not have time for kids that are semi-interested and who are attending University of Southern California to soak up the sun and fun with the girls.

Lane, if you are listening, your team needs to find their swagger. Once that is found, the wins will come and the respect that has been garnered for so many years will come back to this storied program. And like the MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko said, after his shocking loss against Fabricio Werdum,"The one who doesn’t fall doesn't stand up.” Every Trojan faithful and fan alike needs to remember that.

Alabama sleepwalks for the win over Florida, 31-6

The good old days, a distant memory now.

My Thoughts and going forward:

• Alabama did not look impressive; as a matter of fact, they were uninspired in their efforts. 

• For all the flak over ‘Bama’s defense they have stepped up when needed. Why doubt them? They are coached by Nick Saban and have defensive coordinator Kirby Smart whipping them into shape mentally. 

• Florida needs to find an identity on offense, spread attack or pro-style offense? Pick one. 

• I have been singing the praises of John Brantley to everyone; it was premature of me to think they would not have a hiccup with Tebow gone. 

• Brantley probably would be best served at the next level, where they do not run spread-option attack plays. 

• Did Florida actually think ATH Trey Burton was going to make a fool of Nick Saban and his defense?? Not a chance. Florida needs to stop channeling Tebow and let Burton be Burton, you are not Tebow. 

• This game was really flat, nothing like the last two meetings in the SEC Championship games. 

• I do not know if emotionally and physically the Crimson Tide was beat up after their game with Arkansas. 

• Where does Florida go from here? Who knows? Maybe the Gators should play Texas and we can see which team has the better offense. 

• The Gators have a date with LSU in the Swamp, can Les Miles AKA The Mad Hatter pull off the upset. I wonder how much offense will be generated in this game. Both teams are atrocious on the offensive side of the ball. Get ready folks, this might be 19-16 score when it’s all said and done. Lots of field goals and maybe a safety or two thrown in for good measure. 

• I know it sucks for Brantley but Florida needs to go back to 2006 ala Leak and Tebow. Let Burton try to do his best impression of Tebow and Brantley can be Chris Leak. This is the only way they can get this offense moving. They can’t just go to a pro style offense with their skill players that are speedy and small; they are more suited for the spread attack and can make mismatches in space. 

• When have you seen an Urban Meyer team look so undisciplined? Can’t be good for his health condition? 

• Florida needs to draft a big back that can push the pile. They really need to establish run and punish defenses but they cannot with a scat back like Demps.

Oklahoma holds on to beat Texas in the Red River Rivalry game, 28-20

DeMarco Murray reigns supreme in Oklahoma's win over Texas

My Thoughts:

• Oklahoma’s defense is not that bad; I love the linebacker play. You cannot run laterally on this defense, too fast.

• The Sooners hurry-up offense tires defenses and keeps them on their heels.

• Texas is struggling to find consistency on offense. The running game is non-existent; they could use South Carolina’s Marcus Lattimore.

• Texas wideouts are not spectacular like year’s past.

• Garrett Gilbert will be good but this year -without a good supporting cast- he will struggle. Let’s see what next year’s recruiting class brings.

• Oklahoma’s defensive coordinator Brent Venables deserves credit; he is sorely underrated as a coordinator.

• I like Landry Jones a lot and Todd McShay thinks he will never be a great quarterback. The same McShay that is in love with Jake Locker (4-20, 71 yards against Nebraska), go figure.

• Oklahoma’s offensive line is a good unit and allows running backs Mossis Madu and DeMarco Murray holes to sprint through.

• DeMarco Murray is stronger than ever, after dealing with nagging injuries throughout his career in Norman. He is clearly special and integral part of this offense.

• Oklahoma wide receiver Kenny Stills is going to be special; he has great hands. And he is only a freshman.

• Junior wide receiver Ryan Broyles is dynamic and is one fast player and catches everything thrown his way.

• The Sooners are on track to meet Nebraska in the Big 12 Championship game on Dec. 4th and a lot of questions will be answered. But you never know, some questions could be answered before that matchup.

• This was not the most exciting Red River Rivalry game like the ’08 version.

• Texas defense is good but they are not the ’05 version.

• The Sooners are going to need to slow down the offense (after they jump out to an enormous lead) and focus on running the ball to hold on to leads if they expect to get to the national title game.

• I believe Oklahoma will play in the title game but games against Missouri, Texas Tech, Baylor and Oklahoma State, are worrisome if the defense has trouble holding teams.

Auburn spurns South Carolina, beating them 35-27

My thoughts:
• Cam Newton greatly improved his performance from the Clemson game: Newton rushed for 176 yards, 3 TDs and threw for 158 yards, 2 TDs. There was no indecision when the play called for a designed quarterback run; he ran for the hills and took on defenders, not once did he shy away and run out of bounds. You could tell this kid felt it that night.
• Gus Malzahn’s offense was in high gear in last Saturday night. The hurry-up offense wore down the Gamecock defense.
• Auburn freshman running back Michael Dyer started to show flashes of brilliance: 23 carries for 100 yards on the day. His highest output since Sept. 4th when they played Arkansas State (95 yards).
• The Auburn Tigers have played the most exciting football games in the SEC: Sept. 18th overtime thriller over Clemson and last week’s come from behind win over South Carolina.
• Quarterback Stephen Garcia is the most improved quarterback in the Southeastern conference. He made accurate, long throws against Auburn that were beautiful. He has good touch on this throws.
• Anyone else wondered why he tried to play Tim Tebow and coughed up the ball twice, costing his team the game?! Garcia had a phenomenal day: 15-21, 233, 3TDs, no Interceptions!!! But all that was marred by the fumbles.
• Bad move on Steve Spurrier to bench him for the freshman backup quarterback Connor Shaw, late in the fourth quarter. Shaw ended up throwing two interceptions and sealing their fate. Did Spurrier think the freshman would pull his team through in this crucial moment? Garcia should have been in there to redeem himself and win the game for his team; he deserved it.
• Sophomore wide receiver Alshon Jeffrey is a stud: 8 catches, 192 yards, 2 TDs. I might go so far as to put him up there with Alabama’s Julio Jones and Georgia’s A.J. Green, has anyone seen A.J.??
• I really did not think Auburn would be healthy enough to beat South Carolina after their tough game against Clemson.
• The Gamecocks gave up on the run too early. Freshman running back Marcus Lattimore only had 14 carries, 33 yards, 1TD. Lattimore had a measly 2.4 yards per carry average. This by far was the worst output he has had.
• Auburn has an opportunistic defense that makes plays when it counts: 2 fumble recoveries and 2 interceptions.
• Auburn sophomore running back Onterio McCalebb is one fast player that teams need to account for when he is in space. Seriously how do you game plan for Newton, Dyer and McCalebb?!
• Arkansas visits The Plains on Oct. 16th . This game will be one for the ages, as they say. I hope they have enough wattage in that scoreboard because it will be working overtime.

Alabama shows why they are the No.1 team in the nation, pushing past Arkansas, 24-20

Alabama is a great team -the best team in the nation- and they showed it Saturday in Fayetteville. In the opening moments, the entire Arkansas team was fired up to be at home and get the chance to knock off the No. 1 team. If there are still any doubts about Ryan Mallett, please put them to rest. He threw for 250 yards in the first half, and finished the day with 357 yards through the air. You have to be special to do this against an Alabama defense, albeit a young and inexperienced unit. But I tip my hat to Mallett because he is the real deal. The Razorbacks picked on cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick all game long and exploited his inexperience for a few big plays by Arkansas wideout Jarius Wright (6 catches, 131 yards). In the first half, the upset alert was going off as the wheels were falling off of the Crimson Tide. Greg McElroy was not his steady self in the first half and that had to do with a couple of bad passes and a fired up Razorback team. The second half was when Alabama stuck to their bread and butter: the running game with Mark Ingram (157 yards and 2 TDs) and Trent Richardson (85 yards, no rushing TDs, 1 REC TD), perfect strategy to keep the potent Arkansas offense off the field and wear away at the Razorback defense. Nick Saban’s boys showed resolve and true grit in the face of adversity. McElroy orchestrated drives that put his team in position to win; there was a sense of been-here-done-that attitude by the Crimson Tide. There was no point where I saw this team panic being down for the majority of the game, taking the lead with 3:18 left in the game. Three interceptions by the ‘Bama defense was the key factor to thwarting the Razorbacks. Robert Lester had two interceptions on the day, one very important one, setting up Alabama to take the lead; and cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick picked off the last interception to seal the game and put an end to any chances for an Arkansas comeback. I feel in my gut that the Crimson Tide faced their biggest and stiffest test they will see all season. This team will be undefeated and have a chance to be back-to-back national champions. I really believe it and you should too. Greg McElroy will continue to improve, and he’s no longer a game-manager, maybe last year he was but not anymore; he comfortable with the offense and the playmakers around him. McElroy will end up being the most efficient passer in the SEC, or out of the BCS conferences. Arkansas really needs to work on establishing a running game to become more balanced with the passing attack. It’s a lot for Mallett to carry the offense with his arm for four quarters. But this team might just get the majority of their wins in shootouts; and the defense needs to improve as well. There are still signature wins to be had against Auburn, South Carolina, and LSU. And how Mallett performs in these games will put him right in the thick of the Heisman race, but no better win would have been bigger than downing Alabama.

Our Two Cents-Which team will have the quickest turnaround, Texas or Florida?

Matt Deringer Texas. Forget that the Longhorns are 3-0 and don't need a "turnaround" as much as they do an "acceleration", and look at the schedule. Sure, the first half of October is brutal - Oklahoma and at Nebraska - but after that, there's not a game they won't be at least touchdown-favorites in. The Gators, on the other hand, have to go to Alabama, play better-than-expected Kentucky and Mississippi State, host LSU and South Carolina - my pick to win the SEC East - and get rivals Georgia and Florida State. I think Urban Meyer is a better game coach than Mack Brown, but just-as-much talent in a not-as-tough conference makes Texas the pick. Matt Melon I do not think picking Texas is the easy answer to this question. I literally think both teams cannot stop tripping over themselves. Florida finds life in the second half of games, while Texas awakens in the second quarter. Both teams rely on their defenses and that is why they are undefeated. It’s true that defense does win championships, but you need to score as well. Of course, we know that Texas has perennially played cupcake teams in their nonconference games so you would think they would be lock to end up having a better season, and a quicker road to the BCS Championship game. However, Nebraska and Oklahoma are licking their chops to get a piece of this team that has no Colt McCoy or running game. And Texas finishes off with Texas A&M that gives them problems. Florida has some tricky SEC games coming up: @Alabama, LSU, Mississippi State, Georgia, and South Carolina. They are fortunate that the meat of the schedule is at home, but the brutal Southeastern conference teams won’t be as forgiving as they will bring the toughness and the big hits, every Saturday. The Gators cannot afford to start scoring in the third quarter against their SEC brethren it will be too late, and when you are pressing turnovers happen. Both teams will stumble season-long to find their legs. Pick: Florida and Texas.