Best Division in Football Goes 1-3 In Bowls

And that one win wasn't too impressive. Thank you very little Texas.

I don't think OU fans need a KU blog to pile on, but that was a game the Sooners just couldn't lose. So let me just lay it out there. You've successfully erased any shred of credibility that the Big 12 cultivated this year. After unwrapping the winning golden ticket for the south's slot to the Big 12 title game over Texas, you really owed it to the Horns to go out and clobber whatever opponent you came up against. Instead, you offer up a 24-14 non-effort  to a run-based Florida squad that was trying to give you the game in the first half. Two touchdowns? Is this a joke? Mission fail.

Of course, Texas can't say too much as things really started to fall apart when Tech played Lloyd Christmas in a public restroom to Ole Miss (47-34) during the Cotton Bowl. Ole Miss of course beat the Gators earlier this year in Gainesville (31-30). That alone took Texas out of the mix for me. Barely surviving Big 10 Champ Ohio State (24-21) did little to impress. The Big 10 was 1-6 for the bowl season. You'd like to laugh, but the Big 12 could have easily ended up at 2-5.

As I often do, I'd like to blame Missouri. They kicked off the bowl season with that miserable effort against Northwestern. They squeaked it out despite themselves, but I think they set a bad tone for the Big 12.

On the upside, who looked good for the Big 12 in the bowl season? Yep, KU and Nebraska. Sure, we weren't matched up against the level of opponent that most of the south teams were, but we took care of business and the Huskers actually overachieved. What does it all mean? Well, I know Nebraska isn't going to be in awe of the south division next year and will be looking to make a statement when they face Tech and OU in Lincoln. I think KU needs to wipe the aura of mystique from their eyes as well when they face the big three in 2009. Respect is good, but clearly these guys aren't the indestructible comic-book style mega-forces that we have been sold on all year. It's time to really step into their world and shake it up. 

Around the Big 12: Week #14

Three-Way Ties For Everyone

Okay, figuring out who is the champion of the south is impossible. In the case of a three-way tie, I believe all three teams should be disqualified and the last place team in the division should be awarded the Big 12 Championship birth. Or maybe we should give it to the winner of some lightweight conference like the Mountain West, Conference USA or the Big 10.

Anyway, I finally resolved it in my mind by giving each type of game a point value:

Road Win = 6
Neutral Win = 5
Home Win = 4
Road Loss = 3
Neutral Loss = 2
Home Loss = 1

Accounting for only the games played between Tech, OU and Texas the points are as follows -- Texas 8, Texas Tech 7 and Oklahoma 6. I'm still going to rank OU ahead of Tech, but I'm going to give Texas my top spot for now.

I'd also like to point out that NU, MU and KU all went 4-1 in their division and the only reason we avoided a three-way in the north is due to the extra loss KU took against south teams. MU and Nebraska each picked up their only south win against Baylor. Could I even make an argument that OU, Texas and Tech don't have it as rough as KU because we actually had to play all three of them -- they only have to play two. Oh well, the rotation comes back in 2010/2011 and that'll be just right for the new QB. 

1 (A+ 98%) - Texas (11-1)
Really, make the interception in Lubbock and we avoid all of this. Of course, if there was a playoff, Texas would probably get over the Conference title loss due to a chance for redemption on the national stage. Hmm, maybe that makes the case for the bowl system and how it creates huge regular season games that really matter. I don't know, I think I'm still with Mike Leach on the 64-team playoff system.
(HD rank 4-4-3-3-3-3-1-1-1-2-2-2-2-1)

2 (A+ 98%) - Oklahoma (11-1)
The Sooners are going to have to win out to get back to the top of my poll.
(HD rank 1-1-1-1-1-1-3-3-3-3-3-3-1-2)

3 (A 92%) - Texas Tech (11-1)
You kind of wonder if it's ever going to happen for Tech. I'd petition to join the North.
(HD rank 5-5-4-4-4-4-4-4-2-1-1-1-3-3-3)

4 (B+ 89%) - Oklahoma State (9-3)
Definitely not ready for primetime yet. Still a 9-3 season is a pretty good jump from a 6-6 regular season result last year.
(HD rank 6-6-6-7-6-6-2-2-4-4-4-4-4-4)

5 (B+ 88%) - Missouri (9-3)
The Chase Daniel era is fading away, but that changes drastically if the Tigers come up with something to take down Oklahoma at Arrowhead. They should note that KU battled the Sooners for a while down in Norman.
(HD rank 2-2-2-2-2-2-5-5-5-5-5-5-5)

6 (B+ 88%) - Nebraska (8-4)
The Huskers snatched one away from CU with an amazing 57-yard surprise field goal. Doesn't seem like the Corn should have struggled that much at home, but it is a rivalry game. Will they move it to Denver?
(HD rank 8-7-7-8-8-8-9-7-6-7-6-6-6-6)

7 (B+ 87%) - Kansas (7-5)
Personally, I feel like we're a better team than both MU and NU, but you've got to go with the results on the field and the Huskers got us pretty good in Lincoln. I guess Phil Steele nailed it with third place and a 7-5 record, but I think we were a lot closer to 9-3 than he would have imagined. Of course, we were also a lot closer to 5-7 than I ever would have imagined.
(HD rank 3-3-5-6-5-5-6-6-7-6-7-7-7-7)

8 (C 75%) Baylor (4-8)
Yes, I raised the Bears five percent after a road loss. This is a dangerous team and it'll be interesting to see what they bring to the table next year.
(HD rank 11-11-10-9-9-10-8-10-10-8-8-8-8-8)

9 (D 65%) - Kansas State (5-7)
You're still going to keep the Power Towel promo right? I'm still bringing it to every game.
(HD rank 9-9-9-10-10-11-7-9-9-9-9-9-9-9)

10 (D- 61%) Texas A&M (4-8)
Did the Aggies really do the right thing?
(HD rank 12-12-12-12-12-12-12-11-11-10-10-10-10-10)

11 (D- 60%) - Colorado (5-7)
Pretty good defense for the Buffs ... too bad they couldn't get a hand up.
(HD rank 7-8-8-5-7-7-10-8-8-11-11-11-11-11)

12 (F- 49%) Iowa State (2-11)
Still securing the bottom spot.
(HD rank 10-10-11-11-11-9-11-12-12-12-12-12-12-12)

Around the Big 12: Week #13 (Border War Edition)

 

There Is No Other Rivalry

It's here. You only get to play Missouri once a year in football. I hear a lot of whiners talkin' about how they don't want to be anywhere near Mizzou fans. They're talking about the cold and about how they don't want to support the Arrowhead concept. I guess some people are just made that way. When the boys of crimson and blue strap on their helmets and it's within reasonable driving distance -- you better believe I'm gonna be there. When they're taking on the dark force from the east, I consider it an honor to be on hand to support the Jayhawks. Concrete Hell ... here we come!

1 (A+ 98%) - Oklahoma (10-1)
How can I justify ranking OU ahead of Texas? Hmmm. That's a tough one, but I think I'll go with absolute destruction of #2 Texas Tech on Saturday night.
(HD rank 1-1-1-1-1-1-3-3-3-3-3-3-1)

2 (A 97%) - Texas (10-1)
How can I rank UT ahead of Tech? The Horns didn't ever get abused quite like Tech. Texas lost one game on virtually the final play (not too mention a simple fly ball interception on the previous play means that Colt and Co. would be undefeated).
(HD rank 4-4-3-3-3-3-1-1-1-2-2-2-2)

3 (A+ 94%) - Texas Tech (10-1)
It was a nice ride while it lasted.
(HD rank 5-5-4-4-4-4-4-4-2-1-1-1-3)

4 (A- 92%) - Oklahoma State (9-2)
Looking to throw another wrinkle into the south race this Saturday.
(HD rank 6-6-6-7-6-6-2-2-4-4-4-4-4)

5 (A- 91%) - Missouri (9-2)
A game against Kansas that means nothing and means everything. Shortly after, the Tiggers will head into the Big 12 Championship game after spending weeks mentioned as a minor league team with no shot against Tech, OU or Texas. It's hard not to like that scenario in KC if your a fan of the Bumblebees.
(HD rank 2-2-2-2-2-2-5-5-5-5-5-5)

6 (B 87%) - Nebraska (7-4)
A simple home win against Colorado gets that 8-4 record. Track down another win in a bowl and a nine-win season will probably result in a Bo Pelini statue.
(HD rank 8-7-7-8-8-8-9-7-6-7-6-6-6)

7 (C 74%) - Kansas (6-5)
An absolute must win.
(HD rank 3-3-5-6-5-5-6-6-7-6-7-7-7)

8 (C- 70%) Baylor (4-7)
See -- going to Lubbock this Saturday won't be that bad. All you have to do is what OU did. Any questions?
(HD rank 11-11-10-9-9-10-8-10-10-8-8-8-8)

9 (D 65%) - Kansas State (5-7)
Let the re-rebuilding begin. Hey, it already started with a magical senior day win over ISU (38-30). Good luck Bill. (HD rank 9-9-9-10-10-11-7-9-9-9-9-9-9)

10 (D- 61%) Texas A&M (4-7)
Thanksgiving in Austin -- what are the Aggies thankful for?
(HD rank 12-12-12-12-12-12-12-11-11-10-10-10-10)

11 (D- 60%) - Colorado (5-6)
The Buffs can play some defense, but that doesn't seem like it will be enough. Catch the NU/CU showdown on Friday in Lincoln.
(HD rank 7-8-8-5-7-7-10-8-8-11-11-11-11)

12 (F- 49%) Iowa State (2-11)
At least it's over now.
(HD rank 10-10-11-11-11-9-11-12-12-12-12-12-12)

Around the Big 12: Week #12

1 (A+ 98%) - Texas Tech (10-0)
So the bye week creates kind of a championship type week buildup for the Tech/OU game. Good stuff. When you're not playing these guys, they're a lot of fun to watch. Didn't appreciate that Tech fan coming onto phog.net and talking trash to KU after the UT game though. How does that make sense?
(HD rank 5-5-4-4-4-4-4-4-2-1-1-1)

2 (A 97%) - Texas (10-1)
Because I've never witnessed it, they still represent the team I'd like to beat most in the Big 12. Mainly though, I'm pretty jealous of the scores of talented athletes they stock up on.
(HD rank 4-4-3-3-3-3-1-1-1-2-2-2)

3 (A 96%) - Oklahoma (9-1)
It's been a long wait for the Sooners since losing to UT. Can they deliver and create chaos in the division?
(HD rank 1-1-1-1-1-1-3-3-3-3-3-3)

4 (A- 92%) - Oklahoma State (9-2)
Not exactly a dominating win at Colorado (30-17), but I'll give the Cowboys the benefit of the doubt until I see them against OU. By the way, it looks like they'll catch the Sooners at a good time no matter what.
(HD rank 6-6-6-7-6-6-2-2-4-4-4-4)

5 (A- 91%) - Missouri (9-2)
Not quite exactly the chase for the national title that they expected, but definitely a season that cements them as a solid Big 12 program. Claiming the north means they get one last crack at an elite team from the south and the benefit of playing it at Arrowhead.
(HD rank 2-2-2-2-2-2-5-5-5-5-5-5)

6 (B 87%) - Nebraska (7-4)
Bo Pelini good, Bill Callahan, not so good. Nebraska fans can breathe again.
(HD rank 8-7-7-8-8-8-9-7-6-7-6-6)

7 (C 74%) - Kansas (6-5)
The fact that KU is not happy about a trip to a low-level bowl is good thing. The facilities are in place and check the recruiting classes and you'll see continued improvement there. Is 7-5 or 6-6 where you want to be in year seven? No, but the Big 12 is in a totally different stratosphere right now and I think we know now that losing six talented players was a bit more than we could handle.
(HD rank 3-3-5-6-5-5-6-6-7-6-7-7)

8 (C- 70%) Baylor (4-7)
The Bears handled A&M 41-21 in Waco and as usual it looks like they'll be a dangerous team by the time they get back on our rotation.
(HD rank 11-11-10-9-9-10-8-10-10-8-8-8)

9 (D- 62%) - Kansas State (4-7)
At this point, I think they should shutdown the university and move the vet and engineering schools to Lawrence. We can expand Memorial to 80,000 and finally have that one solid team that a small population state like Kansas should have. Hopefully, we can get Arkansas or Iowa to join the north to fill up that slot.
(HD rank 9-9-9-10-10-11-7-9-9-9-9-9)

10 (D- 61%) Texas A&M (4-7)
That one had to be hard to take. Two weeks to prepare for Austin, then wait until next year.
(HD rank 12-12-12-12-12-12-12-11-11-10-10)

11 (D- 60%) - Colorado (5-6)
They didn't get embarrassed, but once again, they didn't get the win. Still, a shot a bowl though.
(HD rank 7-8-8-5-7-7-10-8-8-11-11-11)

12 (F- 53%) Iowa State (2-9)
Can't even help out a friend with a simple home win that could have possibly* made the Border War a playoff for a Big 12 title game spot. You're dead to me ISU.
(HD rank 10-10-11-11-11-9-11-12-12-12-12-12)

*If CU could have won at Lincoln, which they can't.

Around the Big 12: Week #11

1 (A+ 98%) - Texas Tech (10-0)
I don't have any questions ... do you have any questions? Two weeks until the biggest game in the history of organized sport this week. 
(HD rank 5-5-4-4-4-4-4-4-2-1-1)

2 (A 97%) - Texas (9-1)
Beating up on Baylor (45-21) can't be that much fun anymore. The Horns have to take care of business and hope. Looks like it could be nasty weather in Lawrence.
(HD rank 4-4-3-3-3-3-1-1-1-2-2)

3 (A 96%) - Oklahoma (9-1)
No mercy for the Aggies -- 66-28. I guess the Sooners are about as ready as they'll ever be to host Texas Tech. Too bad we have to wait two weeks.
(HD rank 1-1-1-1-1-1-3-3-3-3-3)

4 (A- 92%) - Oklahoma State (9-1)
Join the club Cowboys. Well, Oklahoma is still at the end of the schedule, so there is still damage to be done. Maybe a trip to Boulder will clear your heads.
(HD rank 6-6-6-7-6-6-2-2-4-4)

5 (A- 91%) - Missouri (8-2)
Why was everybody so sad on senior day? I was kind of happy. The Tigers are bored. Should be a lovely evening up in Ames next Saturday night.
(HD rank 2-2-2-2-2-2-5-5-5-5-5)

6 (B 85%) - Nebraska (6-4)
The Huskers are beating the teams they can and staying on target for 8-4. Looks like an easy finish at KSU then hosting CU. Empty seats in Lincoln looked weird.
(HD rank 8-7-7-8-8-8-9-7-6-7-6)

7 (C 75%) - Kansas (6-4)
A game to remember for all of the wrong reasons. Are the Hawks going to knock off a good team this year? Time is getting short. 
(HD rank 3-3-5-6-5-5-6-6-7-6-7)

8 (D+ 68%) Baylor (3-7)
First off, Robert Griffin III is fun to watch. Second, I bet he'll be an absolute nightmare by the time they get back on our rotation. Third, I really liked what the Bears did defensively against Colt McCoy to start the game. Mixing it up between dropping nine into coverage and disguised blitzes. A&M visits next week in what should be a good matchup.
(HD rank 11-11-10-9-9-10-8-10-10-8-8)

9 (D 65%) - Kansas State (4-6)
That blowout rolled out kind of slow. Are the Cats improving? For once, I may root for the Cats to beat NU.
(HD rank 9-9-9-10-10-11-7-9-9-9-9)

10 (D- 62%) Texas A&M (4-6)
Kind of a rough senior day (66-28 to OU). It's almost over -- at Baylor, at Texas.
(HD rank 12-12-12-12-12-12-12-11-11-10-10)

11(D- 61%) - Colorado (5-5)
Decisive. The 28-24 win over ISU keeps bowl hopes alive. OSU visits this week, then there is the Thanksgiving trip to the land of corn.
(HD rank 7-8-8-5-7-7-10-8-8-11-11)

12 (F- 53%) Iowa State (2-8)
One foot. The death of hope. Mizzou visits next week, then a trip to Manhattan (not the fun Manhattan).(HD rank 10-10-11-11-11-9-11-12-12-12-12)

Around the Big 12: Week #10

1 (A+ 98%) - Texas Tech (9-0)
An incredible game polished off by an amazing play -- undefeated lives in Lubbock. OSU on deck, then a trip to Norman before finishing with Baylor. The Red Raiders can taste it. Should be #1 in the nation. (HD rank 5-5-4-4-4-4-4-4-2-1)

2 (A 96%) - Texas (8-1)
Not a lot of shame in that loss. The Longhorns battled like warriors through a tough schedule and came up just short. They need some Tech losses and have a feisty Baylor team on deck. (HD rank 4-4-3-3-3-3-1-1-1-2)

3 (A 95%) - Oklahoma (8-1)
Didn't get to watch much as the game with NU was over in a heartbeat, but this is quite a team. OU, NU and Tech really look like legitimate top five programs. For OU, I think a win over Tech creates a huge messy tie-breaker, so the Sooners have new life. Travelling to A&M this week.
(HD rank 1-1-1-1-1-1-3-3-3-3)

4 (A 95%) - Oklahoma State (8-1)
Um, don't forget about us. The Cowboys can re-insert themselves into the conversation with a simple road win in Lubbock. If they could pull it off, fan mail will poor in from Austin and Norman.
(HD rank 6-6-6-7-6-6-2-2-4-4)

5 (A- 90%) - Missouri (7-2)
Kind of a mediocre giant if you ask me, but they got the job done against a Baylor team that is looking to pull down somebody's pants. Next, we get to watch them score 90 on KSU in Columbia as they continue to rest up for the Arrowhead matchup. Why are they getting a pass from the media on this schedule?
(HD rank 2-2-2-2-2-2-5-5-5-5)

6 (B 83%) - Kansas (6-3)
I believe in spat. In fact, I think I'll spat before I head to work today. The Jayhawks re-claimed their swagger against a KSU team that can be dangerous and they now head to Nebraska for a monster game that is totally off the radar. (HD rank 3-3-5-6-5-5-6-6-7-6)

7 (C+ 78%) - Nebraska (5-4)
It's no fun getting pounded by your old rival, but the Huskers have to feel much better about the upcoming schedule -- KU, @KSU, CU.
(HD rank 8-7-7-8-8-8-9-7-6-7)

8 (D+ 68%) Baylor (3-6)
The record doesn't show it, but of all these bottom level teams, the Bears are the one I would want to avoid. We'll see how that holds up in Austin. (HD rank 11-11-10-9-9-10-8-10-10-8)

9 (D 65%) - Kansas State (4-5)
I'm not sure how these guys beat A&M, but that win keeps them in this spot. I don't think below average is going to cut it for Captain Ron, especially after the upcoming visit to Columbia.
(HD rank 9-9-9-10-10-11-7-9-9-9)

10 (D 64%) Texas A&M (3-5)
A solid 24-17 win against a flailing CU team isn't a bad place to start. Unfortunately, progress will probably be tough to measure this week when the Sooners roll into town on a new mission.
(HD rank 12-12-12-12-12-12-12-11-11-10)

11 (F 59%) - Colorado (4-5)
Um, it's not working. It may be time to ease up on the aggressive non-con schedule. ISU is next and it's televised! Wee-hoo!
(HD rank 7-8-8-5-7-7-10-8-8-11)

12 (F- 55%) Iowa State (2-7)
The Clones aren't the first north team to be humiliated against a south team this year, but put it up against the body of work and it's pretty bleak. The Clones get another "escape the cellar" head-to-head matchup, but this one is in Boulder -- televised for your enjoyment.
(HD rank 10-10-11-11-11-9-11-12-12-12)

Around the Big 12: Week #8

It's clear now, the South rules ... 1-7 vs the North.

1 (A+ 99%) - Texas (7-0) #1, s = 12
I'm not sure what an Orakpo is but I want one. OSU visits next Saturday.
(HD rank 4-4-3-3-3-3-1-1)

2 (A 95%) - Oklahoma State (7-0) #8, s = 67
OSU will be looking to "shock the world" in Austin next Saturday. They'll actually have to play better than they did in Columbia.(HD rank 6-6-6-7-6-6-2-2)

3 (A 94%) - Oklahoma (6-1) #4, s = 3
I guess the Sooners will be rooting for OSU next week. They have a nice rest week planned in Manhattan.
(HD rank 1-1-1-1-1-1-3-3)

4 (A- 92%) - Texas Tech (7-0) #6, s = 81
Mike Leach adds the last minute touchdown to make it look convincing against A&M 43-25. Going to Lawrence to finally play in a big game.
(HD rank 5-5-4-4-4-4-4-4)

5 (B 85%) - Missouri (5-2) #18, s = 2
That one was for mature audiences only, but the Tigers still indicate that winning the north will be no problem.
(HD rank 2-2-2-2-2-2-5-5)

6 (B 84%) - Kansas (5-2) #22, s = 32
Well, the Hawks should be prepared for Tech. Finally, a big game in Lawrence.
(HD rank 3-3-5-6-5-5-6-6)

7 (C 75%) - Nebraska (4-3) #45, s = 16
Hey, it kind of seemed like old times with the 35-7 win at Ames. Beating Baylor at home doesn't seem like to much to ask.
(HD rank 8-7-7-8-8-8-9-7)

8 (C- 70%) - Colorado (4-3) #49, s = 6
You can't say the 14-13 home win over KSU was a work of art, but it was a nice way to recover from the early schedule. Travelling to Columbia could cause a serious relapse against the "angry" Tigers.
(HD rank 7-8-8-5-7-7-10-8)

9 (D+ 69%) - Kansas State (4-3) #67, s = 83
Any kind of win at Boulder would have sufficed. That just can't happen. Up next: the Cats welcome OU to Manhattan.
(HD rank 9-9-9-10-10-11-7-9)

10 (D+ 68%) Baylor (3-4) #90, s = 54
Depending on what happens in Austin next Saturday, the 35-7 loss to OSU might not be as bad as it appeared. Going to Lincoln this week for a Husker team that looks like it wants to start picking on lightweights again.
(HD rank 11-11-10-9-9-10-8-10)

11 (D- 62%) Texas A&M (2-5) #92, s = 40
Since they gave it their best go against Tech, the Aggies move up one. They host the Cyclones for a head-to-head cellar match-up.
(HD rank 12-12-12-12-12-12-12-11)

12 (D- 61%) Iowa State (2-5) #95, s = 104
This train is going the wrong way.
(HD rank 10-10-11-11-11-9-11-12)

# = CBS Sportsline Rank

s = CBS Strength of Schedule  

Around the Big 12: Week #7 (Angry Edition)

Well, the South is off to a fantastic start on re-claiming dominance in the Big 12. After going 3-1 this weekend, the South now leads the head-to-head series 5-1 against the North. Should be an interesting weekend coming up as the projected two best teams in the South take on the projected two best teams in the North -- KU @ OU and MU @ UT.

1 (A+ 98%) - Texas (6-0) #1, s = 26
I think I'm going to have to start giving Mack Brown some credit going forward. As I said, I thought the Longhorns were better on paper, but somehow they always seemed to lose to OU. Not this time ... still the ESPN folk say that UT has to be wary of an "angry" Mizzou squad?
(HD rank 4-4-3-3-3-3-1)

2 (A 94%) - Oklahoma State (6-0) #10, s = 64
The Cowboys knock my Jayhawks down a slot, but we'll take it as they not only ended the "Chase for the Heisman," they also gave us a good luck at how a team other than OU can slow down the Mizzou spread -- hit the QB at every opportunity and play good pass coverage. Geez, that really seems kind of obvious. They get a home date with Robert Griffin and Baylor this week ... stay on target.
(HD rank 6-6-6-7-6-6-2)

3 (A- 92%) - Oklahoma (5-1) #4, s = 3
It was an epic battle and it's not like the Sooners played poorly, but that one had to hurt. Evidently the game against KU is an absolute lock, because the Sooners are "angry."
(HD rank 1-1-1-1-1-1-3)

4 (A- 91%) - Texas Tech (6-0) #5, s = 93
It's a little tough to rank the Red Raiders this high as they literally have played no one and pretty much had a loss in the bag at home to the Huskers. Joe Ganz decided to be a friend at the end though and Tech rolls on. The Red Raiders head to College Station to face an "angry" A&M squad.
(HD rank 5-5-4-4-4-4-4)

5 (B+ 89%) - Missouri (5-1) #12, s = 18
Ouch, it hurts to put a one where that zero should be for the national champion Tigers, but that's the way the scoreboard read. I know OSU can light it up, but it seems like a few people mentioned the possibility that the Mizzou defense wasn't really all that. That's okay, they should be able to build confidence against Colt McCoy and his weakling offense.
(HD rank 2-2-2-2-2-2-5)

6 (B 86%) - Kansas (5-1) #16, s = 60
I don't really believe the Jayhawks are the sixth best team in the conference, but that USF loss makes it difficult to slot them any higher (not like it was a home loss though). Anyway, we can now start talking about the game we've been thinking about since that night in Tampa. Apparently, forfeit paperwork has not been submitted and Mark Mangino and the Jayhawks  are planning to show up and play football against the "angry" Sooners. Another no-win situation for the Hawks, because when they pull it off, the talk will all be about what's wrong with OU. 
(HD rank 3-3-5-6-5-5-6)

7 (C- 72%) - Kansas State (4-2) #60, s = 102
The Cats rocket to the #7 spot based on the 4-2 record. Too bad they now travel to Boulder to face an "angry" Buffs squad.
(HD rank 9-9-9-10-10-11-7)

8 (C- 71%) Baylor (2-3) #85, s = 67
Well, everybody's talking about the Bears and the 38-10 home win over ISU is a pretty nice statement. If they really want to create some buzz, they'll get the chance next Saturday in Stillwater against the 6-0 Cowboys.
(HD rank 11-11-10-9-9-10-8)

9 (C- 70%) - Nebraska (3-3) #45, s = 1
The table was set ... a missed extra point by the Red Raiders in OT. Wow. The Huskers let what would have been a season-changer slip away. Still, clearly they learned something about defending the spread. Winning in Ames against an "angry" ISU team is critical for morale.
(HD rank 8-7-7-8-8-8-9)

10 (D+ 68%) - Colorado (3-3) #48, s = 2
Four weeks of hell finally ends for the Buffs, but is it too late? They'll host KSU next Saturday in a critical North pecking order match-up.
(HD rank 7-8-8-5-7-7-10)

11 (D 65%) Iowa State (2-4) #92, s = 105
Not able to build on the momentum from the near upset against KU, the Clones are now driving hard for the basement after a 38-10 road loss to Baylor. They get an "angry" Nebraska team at home in the "One Last Chance to Re-Claim Your Season Bowl."
(HD rank 10-10-11-11-11-9-11)

12 (F 56%) Texas A&M (2-3) #89, s = 61
I guess the Aggies are always just one win away from escaping the cellar, but so far, holding this spot for six straight weeks is impressive. A 44-30 home loss to Kansas State? What can you say, it's worse than what we thought. Thankfully, the Red Raiders shouldn't be "angry" when they come to College Station this weekend.
(HD rank 12-12-12-12-12-12-12)

# = CBS Sportsline Rank

s = CBS Strength of Schedule  

Around the Big 12: Week #6

Other than KU toying with emotions in Ames, the "elite" teams of the Big 12 took no mercy on the bottom half. Next week should be a little more entertaining for the rest of the league as more teams will play in there own flight (remind me to lay out my developmental division format in the offseason). As for KU, I think we could all handle a little less "entertainment" than we enjoyed at ISU.

1 (A+ 97%) - Oklahoma (5-0) #1, s = 27
Okay, seriously -- should Baylor really have to play OU every year. With the Texas game on deck, I guess we'll go ahead and eliminate one south contender next Saturday.
(HD rank 1-1-1-1-1-1)

2 (A 96%) - Missouri (5-0) #3, s = 4
A 52-17 win in Lincoln -- I know times have changed, but still you've got to give the Tiggers credit. To be honest, I'm not sure that I still believe OU is better than Mizzou, but I can't produce any factual evidence to move OU down. OSU comes to Columbia next Saturday to provide a real test for the MU defense.
(HD rank 2-2-2-2-2-2)

3 (A 95%) - Texas (5-0) #5, s = 58
Okay, a 38-14 win in Boulder looks pretty nice on the resume and shows that the Longhorns can play some defense. Now can they eliminate OU from the South race?
(HD rank 4-4-3-3-3-3)

4 (A- 91%) - Texas Tech (5-0) #9, s = 95
The way Texas Tech is easing into the season they should have plenty of momentum by the time they go to Lawrence on October 25--their first legitimate game of the season. They rolled the Cats up pretty good in Manhattan (58-28) and I'm sure they expect to treat Nebraska the same way this Saturday in Lubbock. Holding KSU to 28 indicates a nice defensive effort for the Red Raiders.
(HD rank 5-5-4-4-4-4)

5 (B 84%) - Kansas (4-1) #15, s = 64
The Jayhawks maintain a slight edge on OSU based on last year's win and gain one percentage point for finding a way to win at Iowa State after digging a 20-point hole. The game seemed similar to the KSU road trip last year. The Jayhawks need to build on it and protect their home turf when CU arrives at Memorial Stadium next Saturday.
(HD rank 3-3-5-6-5-5)

6 (B 83%) - Oklahoma State (5-0) #18, s = 106
Alright, the 56-28 home win over the Aggies looked pretty convincing for the 5-0 Cowboys, but they step up to the big time next Saturday when they travel to Columbia. They'll walk the fine line between exposed and dream season.
(HD rank 6-6-6-7-6-6)

7 (C 76%) - Colorado (3-2) #44, s = 2
Still the best of the rest despite the 38-14 home loss to UT. An immediate jump could take place if they could steal one in Lawrence next week. They should note -- no lead appears to be safe against the Jayhawks.
(HD rank 7-8-8-5-7-7)

8 (D+ 69%) - Nebraska (3-2) #45, s = 1
Okay, we know Mizzou is now a "mega-power college football program," but the Huskers still drop a full letter grade just for looking helpless at home. Oddly though, they hold the #8 slot. Next up: Texas Tech in Lubbock. Wheeeee! 
(HD rank 8-7-7-8-8-8)

9 (D+ 68%) Iowa State (2-3) #90, s = 108
The Clones look a lot like a team I watched in the middle part of this decade. Step one is showing that you can compete with any team that comes into your home stadium. ISU has pretty much established that with wins over Iowa, KSU and CU last year and now near misses vs OU and KU. Coming up, the Cyclones travel to Baylor where we can really get some clarification on the order in this sector of the conference.
(HD rank 10-10-11-11-11-9)

10 (D 66%) Baylor (2-3) #86, s = 37
The Bears get the edge over KSU due to playing the #1 team in the nation. The home game against ISU a must-win though if they want some respect for the 2008 campaign.
(HD rank 11-11-10-9-9-10)

11 (D 64%) - Kansas State (3-2) #65, s = 114
Let's face it -- Tech is going to humiliate a lot of teams this year, but the Cats are first so they get to take the punishment in the HD poll. Plus, this makes for a great battle for cellar in College Station next Saturday.
(HD rank 9-9-9-10-10-11)

12 (D- 61%) Texas A&M (2-3) #87, s = 81
A real opportunity to escape the Big 12 dungeon awaits as KSU comes into town. Plus, fans can celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the 1998 Big 12 Championship game with a live re-enactment. Woo-hoo!!!!!
(HD rank 12-12-12-12-12-12)

# = CBS Sportsline Rank

s = CBS Strength of Schedule 

Around the Big 12: Week #5

The Big 12 went 5-2 overall over the weekend, but 1-2 against BCS schools dropping the season record to .500 versus the big schools. That's not going to impress the SEC.

Big 12 vs BCS: 7-7
Big 12 vs All: 38-10

1 (A+ 97%) - Oklahoma (4-0) #1, s = 20
I don't have any questions. Anybody have any questions? The Sooners kick it off at Baylor this Saturday. Televised for your amusement at 11:30 a.m. on FSN.
(HD rank 1-1-1-1-1)

2 (A 94%) - Missouri (4-0) #4, s = 46
I raised Mizzou by a percentage point because I thought they should be #3 in the polls. The game in Lincoln has all kinds of intrigue. Nothing on paper says the Huskers can keep it close -- except it's in Lincoln. That didn't seem to bother the Hokies much.
(HD rank 2-2-2-2-2)

3 (A 93%) - Texas (4-0) #5, s = 62
Looks like Texas should beat Colorado 52-10, unless the Buffs want to accept the alternate Texas score of 42-13. Anyway, I'm convinced.
(HD rank 4-4-3-3-3)

4 (B+ 87%) - Texas Tech (4-0) #9, s = 110
Okay, we finally get to see the Leach offensive machine against BCS competition as Tech travels to KSU Saturday. ABC was interested so you can watch this at 2:30 p.m. on the ol' Telly. We assume Tech can score, but they'll need to limit KSU if they want to find some true believers in the defense.
(HD rank 5-5-4-4-4)

5 (B 83%) - Kansas (3-1) #15, s = 21
The Jayhawks move up a spot just for accepting the 2008 schedule. That and Colorado had to move down. As the ranked teams close in on the schedule, widespread paranoia grips the KU media -- Rock Chalk Talk, Tom Keegan and Bill Mayer. Take a breather boys -- we start at Iowa State this weekend. We'll worry about the rest later.
(HD rank 3-3-5-6-5)

6 (B- 82%) - Oklahoma State (4-0) #26, s = 105
I'd sure like to know more about the Cowboys. The 55-24 win over Troy was nice, but I'd like to see them play a real team before I start putting on my highway gear. They host A&M Saturday in a no-win situation. Doesn't really feel like they have done much to prepare to go into Columbia in two weeks.
(HD rank 6-6-6-7-6)

7 (B- 81%) - Colorado (3-1) #37, s = 79
One tough game too many for the Buffs as they fall to FSU 21-39. Hell month continues with UT travelling to Boulder on Saturday (FSN at 6:00 p.m.). You've got to wonder if the Buffs are going to be completely worn out by mid-October.
(HD rank 7-8-8-5-7)

8 (C+ 79%) - Nebraska (3-0) #41, s = 11
Strange game against Virginia Tech. Stuffed the Hokies in the red zone, but they couldn't answer on the other end. Seemed like they were throwing the ball around fairly well at times. Hosting the Tigers on Saturday night. We'll all be watching this one as long as it stays interesting.
(HD rank 8-7-7-8-8)

9 (C- 70%) Baylor (2-2) #81, s = 47
How can I have a two-loss Baylor team ahead of KSU? I don't know, maybe I'm still punishing the Cats for that brutal loss to Louisville. Maybe the Bears can back up this #9 ranking by kicking OU all over the field in Waco this Saturday.
(HD rank 11-11-10-9-9)

10 (D+ 68%) - Kansas State (3-1) #61, s = 118
The University of Louisana caught an angry KSU team and paid dearly with the 45-37 pounding at Wagner Field. Probably a lot of restless nights coming up this week for Mike Leach. Cat's open Big 12 play at home? First time since 1996. But there is no bias from the conference headquarters.
(HD rank 9-9-9-10-10)

11 (D+ 67%) Iowa State (2-2) #90, s = 106
The Clones can make it all go away with a simple home win over KU. That used to be a given, but the last three have gone KU's way 24-21 OT, 41-10 and 45-7. The 41-10 score was the last match-up in Ames.
(HD rank 10-10-11-11-11)

12 (D 66%) Texas A&M (2-2) #84, s = 113
The Aggies can make it all go away with a simple road win over OSU. That's still a given, right? A&M hasn't lost to the Cowboys since 2003.
(HD rank 12-12-12-12-12)

# = CBS Sportsline Rank

s = CBS Strength of Schedule   

Around the Big 12: Week #4

The slide continues as the conference went 5-4 overall and 2-2 against BCS schools. Texas, Nebraska and CU will have high profile BCS games coming up this week.

Big 12 vs BCS: 6-5
Big 12 vs All: 33-8

1 (A 95%) - Oklahoma (3-0) #2, s = 84
The last team to beat OU at home was this week's opponent -- 4-0 TCU (ranked #24 in the AP).
(HD rank 1-1-1-1)

2 (A 93%) - Missouri (4-0) #5, s = 26
I docked Mizzou a percentage point for keeping it close against Buffalo in the first half (42-21 final), but I'm sure they're just getting bored. I suspect they'll be ready to play at Lincoln in two weeks.
(HD rank 2-2-2-2)

3 (A- 90%) - Texas (3-0) #8, s = 83
Holding Rice (52-10) to their lowest score this season could be a good sign for the defense. The Arkansas game is this week and is our first real look.
(HD rank 4-4-3-3)

4 (B+ 87%) - Texas Tech (4-0) #11, s = 118
UMASS went down easy (56-14) and now it looks like KSU might not provide much a challenge either (even in Manhattan). Tech gets a bye before the K-State matchup and the won't face a ranked team until 10/25 (@KU).
(HD rank 5-5-4-4)

5 (B 84%) - Colorado (3-0) #26, s = 55
You gotta move the Buffs up after representing against the Big East with the 17-14 OT win over WVA. It could be a short stay though as they take on FSU (2-1, 3-12 home loss to Wake Forest) at Jacksonville. Of course, a win there gets the bandwagon really rolling. 
(HD rank 7-8-8-5)

6 (B 83%) - Kansas (3-1) #17, s = 51
KU fans have defended the Jayhawk football program all off season. They'd like to see the players do the same. The 38-14 win over Sam Houston didn't necessarily electrify the Jayhawk nation. Maybe the USF game took a little more out of the tank than we thought (it was a hard-hitting epic down there in Tampa). The bye week comes at a good time as the Hawks prepare for a road trip to Ames and KU needs a few guys to return to the line-up.
(HD rank 3-3-5-6)

7 (B- 81%) - Oklahoma State (2-0) #31, s = 120
The Cowboys had a bye week and get ready to host 2-1 Troy. The Trojans might provide a game as they put up a little bit of a fight against Ohio State in a 28-10 loss.
(HD rank 6-6-6-7)

8 (C+ 79%) - Nebraska (3-0) #37, s = 12
The Huskers get into the meat of it now. They'll host Virginia Tech (3-1), then Missouri and then travel to Texas Tech -- the critical stretch of the 2008 campaign for Nebraska.
(HD rank 8-7-7-8)

9 (C- 70%) Baylor (2-2) #80, s = 40
The Bears soar into the #9 spot by virtue of losing to UCONN 31-28. The Huskies are better than Louisville, so that gives Baylor the edge over Captain Ron and the Wildcats. The Bears have a bye week then they'll host OU (ouch).
(HD rank 11-11-10-9)

10 (D+ 68%) - Kansas State (2-1) #64, s = 116
It was more the way they lost, than who or where. KSU falls 38-29 at Louisville and everything appears the same as it was at the end of 2007. Louisiana-Lafayette should provide a little morale boost before conference play.
(HD rank 9-9-9-10)

11 (D+ 67%) Iowa State (2-2) #87, s = 91
I guess losing to UNLV 34-31 OT and Iowa on the road is better than losing to Arkansas State and Miami at home. The Clones get to rest up before the Jayhawks come to town.
(HD rank 10-10-11-11)

12 (D 64%) Texas A&M (1-1) #90, s = 88
Kind of a tough draw to have to beat Miami to escape the cellar. That didn't work out (41-23 loss), but Army comes to town and the Black Knights are 0-3. The early part of the Big 12 schedule isn't impossible or anything so if the Aggies can build some confidence they could start to turn this thing around.
(HD rank 12-12-12-12)

# = CBS Sportsline Rank

s = CBS Strength of Schedule  

Around the Big 12: Week #3

It was a rough week for the North as KU and ISU dropped games to produce a 2-2 record against BCS teams for the Big 12. Overall, the conference was 6-2 for the weekend. It's tough to be the Big 12 team that lost to the Big East.

Big 12 vs BCS: 4-3
Big 12 vs All: 28-4

1 (A 95%) - Oklahoma (3-0) #2, s = 96
I don't think OU is kidding around this year. Next up is a little bye week, then a match up with 3-0 TCU (just knocked off Stanford).
(HD rank 1-1-1)

2 (A 94%) - Missouri (3-0) #5, s = 43
After watching two quarters of Mizzou against Nevada I was ready to give them the national championship. Then I saw the OU game and then the USC game. Still, it looks like MU will be pretty comfortable playing against the elite programs this year. Buffalo next.
(HD rank 2-2-2)

3 (A- 90%) - Texas (2-0) #8, s = 85
We didn't get the big matchup with Arkansas this week, so the Horns will eat some Rice next week and we'll have to wait until 9/27 to get a good look at UT.
(HD rank 4-4-3)

4 (B+ 87%) - Texas Tech (3-0) #11, s = 105
Can we safely say that MU is better than Tech? The fashion parade continues as UMASS comes to Lubbock this week.
(HD rank 5-5-4)

5 (B  84%) - Kansas (2-1) #19, s = 32
Moving the Hawks down seems wrong, but until the rest of these guys play somebody and the running game puts up a 200-yard game, KU is going to have slum it here in the middle of the pack. Rhett Bomar and Sam Houston State come to Lawrence this week.
(HD rank 3-3-5)

6 (B- 81%) - Oklahoma State (2-0) #34, s = 107
Beating up on Terry Allen, eh? Baylor kind of took a little luster off of the WSU win, but the Cowboys look to be on schedule. They've got a bye week coming up then a home date with Troy (2-0 this season and 8-4 last year).
(HD rank 6-6-6)

7 (C+ 79%) - Nebraska (3-0) #44, s = 4
This week the Huskers took care of New Mexico State 38-7, but we're all anxious to see them take on Virginia Tech. Two weeks for that as NU has a bye this weekend.
(HD rank 8-7-7)

8 (C+ 78%) - Colorado (2-0) #46, s = 120
CU rested this weekend. Good idea with W. Virginia on the way. Followed by FSU in FLA, Texas, @KU. Weehoo!
(HD rank 7-8-8)

9 (C+ 77%) - Kansas State (2-0) #60, s = 92
The Cats go to Louisville on Wednesday and have a great opportunity to keep the momentum rolling. Sort of a "must win" to go bowling.
(HD rank 9-9-9)

10 (C 74%) Baylor (2-1) #78, s = 77
It looks like I might have the Bears under-ranked after a 45-17 beatdown of WSU, but that loss to #14 Wake is holding me back. Get that win @UCONN and you're going to soar in this poll.
(HD rank 11-11-10)

11 (C- 70%) Iowa State (2-1) #84, s = 81
Losing to Iowa is not like losing to Arkansas State so the Clones easily avoid the cellar. Next up a trip to UNLV. Gotta have it.
(HD rank 10-10-11)

12 (D+ 67%) Texas A&M (1-1) #89, s = 72
The bye week seems to be a little early in the season, but hopefully they put it to good use. Miami comes to town and the Aggies would love to erase a bad memory from 2007.
(HD rank 12-12-12)

# = CBS Sportsline Rank

s = CBS Strength of Schedule