Picks of the Week

Colorado (+5 1/2) over Florida State
This game is technically at a neutral site (Alltell Stadium in Jacksonville), but FSU will have the clear home-field advantage. However, the Noles offense is sputtering with its two-QB system (Christian Ponder and D'Vontrey Richardson). Let's also note that Jimbo Fisher is the most overrated offensive coordinator/future head coach in the country. Colorado is 4-0 and very confident following the upset win over West Virginia last week. I like Buffs QB Cody Hawkins to find a way to beat FSU. He's not the most consistent thrower, but he's gutsy.
Pick: Colorado 27, FSU 17

Georgia (-7) over Alabama
The Bulldogs don't need a "Black Out" to lower the Tide on Saturday night. Georgia is simply better than Nick Saban's boys. Alabama is better and will continue to improve under sad-sack Saban, but the Tide won't roll this week. Matthew Stafford and Knowshon Moreno will shine inside the hedges in Athens.
Pick: Georgia 28, Alabama 20

Purdue (+1) over Notre Dame
Both teams are 2-1 and this match up has had some memorable games. This game could very easily come down to which quarterback plays better--Purdue's Curtis Painter or Notre Dame's Jimmy Clausen. Clausen has improved from last year and he's getting a little more protection, but Painter will win this battle. I hate to take Purdue on the road, but the Boilermakers will make fewer mistakes and pull out the mini-upset.
Pick: Purdue 22, Notre Dame 14

Nebraska (-7) over Virginia Tech
This is a gut pick. I haven't seen enough of the Cornhuskers to pick this one on facts. Here's what I know. Nebraska is more disciplined under Bo Pelini and the Huskers are playing at home. Virginia Tech is young and have struggled each week. Beamer Ball is highly overrated. Frank's a good coach, but his team will cave in Lincoln.
Pick: Nebraska 34, Virginia Tech 17

Upset special

Illinois (+15 1/2) over Penn State
Ask anyone who knows me and they'll tell you I think Penn State is the most overrated team coming into every season. Despite Jo-Pa enjoying a 4-0 start, the Nittany Lions victories are against weak teams. Ron Zook, on the other hand, is developing something with the Fighting Illini. Following a wild 52-42 loss in the season opener against Missouri, Illinois has righted itself against weaker competition. QB Juice Williams has been tough to stop the past two weeks running and throwing. He humbles the PSU defense, which the heads at ESPN are giving way too much credit.
Pick: Illinois 30, Penn State 27

Last week: 4-1
Season: 4-1