The road to the playoff is getting intriguing as we come down to the wire, as the top teams try to scratch their way in. Alabama suffocated LSU last weekend in Death Valley, while Michigan and Clemson took care of business. Texas A&M proved that their #4 ranking was a little too high, which leaves Washington, Ohio State and Louisville battling for that final spot in the playoff. I'm excited to see how it turns out, but first, let's check out this week's predictions!
Last Week: 3-2 Overall Record: 20-9
5. #24 LSU vs. #25 Arkansas
LSU went many rounds with Alabama last weekend, eventually getting KO'd due to the fact that they can't move the ball on offense. On the upside, their defense looked really good and is something they can build on for the rest of this year. Arkansas roasted Florida, as they made the Gator defense look silly, and Austin Allen played like the quarterback I know. I see this game playing out just like last weekend with the Razorbacks able to move the ball against one of the best defenses in the country, while the Tigers will be stagnant on offense resulting in another Hogs' win.
Final Prediction: LSU 13, Arkansas 27
4. #9 Auburn vs. Georgia
I'm a huge Bulldog fan and will be attending this game on Saturday, so I'm looking for a Georgia upset of Auburn. Auburn's offense struggled against Vanderbilt last week as Sean White was out with a shoulder injury, but even with White set to return against the Bulldogs his shoulder will hurt his ability to throw the ball downfield which really allows this Auburn team to run the ball. Also, this Bulldog defense has been solid against the run and has the team speed to contain the jet sweeps and not allow this Auburn team to break the big plays like they were able to do against Arkansas. Blankenship kicks another game-winning field goal and Kirby lifts him on his shoulders.
Final Prediction: Auburn 21, Georgia 24
3. Baylor vs #11 Oklahoma
I really don't care about this game... at all. Baylor seems to be just going through the motions as they wait for their sanctions, and I've never really cared for the overrated Sooners. Also, if it wasn't for the lowly Pac-12, the Big-12 would be the worst power five conference. So with all that said I guess I'm going to pick the Sooners to wreck the Bears, after TCU, who was a decent underdog, beat the hell out of Baylor last weekend. Mayfield is playing good, so I'm expecting a decent beating here as Oklahoma keeps fighting for a New Year's Six Bowl Game.
Final Prediction: Baylor 21, Oklahoma 48
2. #3 Michigan vs. Iowa
This is a tricky spot for the Wolverines. Iowa is a solid team and could give the Wolverines a battle, especially in the trenches. Also, Kinnick Stadium is one of the best atmospheres in the country and with this being a night game home-field advantage will be crucial to the Hawkeyes' ability to pull the upset. However, Michigan is a very good team, and I expect them to play great defense limiting the Hawkeyes to very few points, and for Michigan to hit a couple of deep balls as they get a solid victory Saturday night.
Final Prediction: Michigan 21, Iowa 10
1. #20 USC vs. #4 Washington
The Trojans WILL win this game. They are one of the hottest teams in the country, and I just have a feeling that the Huskies are going to fall. Sam Darnold, the star-freshman quarterback for the Trojans, is playing phenomenal ball, and I'm expecting another big day for him against this tough Husky defense. Darnold also is a sneaky dual threat quarterback which may give Washington trouble. USC has some stars in the secondary and should be able to close some holes in the back end against Jake Browning. Lastly, Adoree Jackson will make a huge play on special teams leading USC to a massive win.
Final Prediction: USC 31, Washington 24
