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Weekly NFL and College Football Picks
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 13 NFL Picks
Week 12 Results: ALL TIMES EASTERN Thursday, November 28 (Thanksgiving) Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions (-10, 48.5), 12:30 pm (CBS) - Cruising toward the post-season with nine straight wins, the Lions haven't been challenged very often. Other than a week 7, 31-29 win at Minnesota and week 10's 26-23 victory at Houston, they've won the remaining seven games by at least seven points and most by two, three or more scores. The Bears have had bad news at the ends of games, losing again last week in overtime to the Vikings, 30-27, for their fifth straight loss. Of their seven losses (4 wins), five have been by six points or fewer. They actually have a +4 points differential. Considering both the Bears' close calls and Lions' romps, it's a tough call, but sticking with the winning Detroit squad seems a fair assessment. Coin Flip: Chicago Fearless Rick's Pick: Lions 34 Bears 17
The Cowboys at least have a serviceable defense and Cooper Rush has solid experience. The Cowboys seem to be on the improve. Coin Flip: Dallas Fearless Rick's Pick: Cowboys 23 Giants 13
Miami has won three straight since Tua Tagovailoa returned at QB. Their two losses prior to that were against Arizona (28-27) and at Buffalo (30-27), so they're back to playing at a high level. They're now 5-6 and need every win they can get to make the playoffs. Coin Flip: Green Bay Fearless Rick's Pick: Dolphins 24 Packers 21
Las Vegas Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs (-12, 42.5), 3:00 pm (Prime Video) - Kansas City has been living on borrowed time and the skills of Patrick Mahomes. After losing to the Bills in Buffalo, 30-21, the Chiefs nearly lost a second straight game when Carolina (yes, Carolina!) rallied to tie the score late, eventually falling 30-27 on a last-second field goal. KC hasn't covered the spread in four weeks. Desmond Ridder or Aidan O'Connell will get the start for the Raiders, with QB Gordon Minshew out for the season after suffering a broken collarbone against Denver last week. That's probably good news, as Minshew led them to seven straight losses. If the trend is your friend, it says take the dogs to win the fight against ugly spreads. The Chiefs just survived the Raiders a month ago, winning 27-20 in Vegas, baby. Coin Flip: Las Vegas Fearless Rick's Pick: Chiefs 24 Raiders 20
Los Angeles Chargers at Atlanta Falcons (-3, 48.5), 1:00 pm (CBS) - The Chargers ran into a wrecking ball in the form of the Baltimore Ravens Monday night and now have to travel cross-country. They're also going to be without stud running back J.K. Dobbins, out with a sprained knee. The Falcons come off a bye week after getting thumped and abused at Denver, 38-6. For both teams this figures to be a closer game than recent experiences, though the Chargers are probably the better play, depending on their defense to counter Kirk Cousins and RB Bijan Robinson. Coin Flip: Los Angeles Chargers Fearless Rick's Pick: Chargers 26 Falcons 24
The Steelers lost to Cleveland, 24-19, last Thursday, so they've had time to assess and prepare. Losing that road game in a short week was understandable, given they had just beaten Washington and Baltimore in successive weeks and were likely somewhat drained. They should be up to taking down the Bengals. Coin Flip: Pittsburgh Fearless Rick's Pick: Steelers 23 Bengals 16
The Jaguars are just playing out the string now, and have nothing to gain or lose against their division rivals from the Lone Star state. Trevor Lawrence may be available after missing two games, but even if Mac Jones is the starter, Jacksonville has an excellent opportunity to knock off the Texans. C.J. Stroud, last season's hero, seems more apprehensive and doubtful as this season has progressed. Coin Flip: Jacksonville Fearless Rick's Pick: Jaguars 30 Texans 20
Arizona has played a rugged schedule and has done well to get to 6-5. For a team that went 4-13 last season, it seems a bit unfair that they'v had to play the Bills, Rams, Lions, Commanders, 49ers, Packers, and Chargers. Losing last week at Seattle shouldn't worry anybody. They're still tied with the Seahawks in the conference. Coin Flip: Arizona Fearless Rick's Pick: Vikings 27 Cardinals 21
New England is, however, just 1-4 at home, while the Colts are 1-3 on the road. With Houston looking somewhat vulnerable, Indianapolis may have an opportunity to pick up another game, get to 6-7 and possibly win the AFC South. This is a game the Colts should win, though it probably won't be easy. Coin Flip: Indianapolis Fearless Rick's Pick: Colts 26 Patriots 20
Seattle looks to be the class of the NFC West and should be able to win this by a touchdown or more. Face it, the Jets stink. Geno Smith should make his return to his former team a memorable one. Coin Flip: Seattle Fearless Rick's Pick: Seahawks 27 Jets 13
They're home for the visiting Titans, who are 2-4 in road games, and haven't beaten an NFC foe this season, with losses to the Bears, Lions, Packers, and Vikings, the whole North division. They may break that streak against the Commanders or at least keep it close. Don't expect too much in the way of defense here. Coin Flip: Washington Fearless Rick's Pick: Commanders 34 Titans 31
Carolina made strides tying the Chiefs late last week but still losing by a field goal, but Tampa's defense is unlikely to be very forgiving and Baker Mayfield is playing like a man possessed. A win puts the Bucs at 6-6, and an Atlanta loss would have them tied for the division lead. Coin Flip: Carolina Fearless Rick's Pick: Buccaneers 31 Panthers 17
While Los Angeles is 2-3 in road games, the Saints are an even 3-3 at home, and two of those losses were with Spencer Rattler at QB, not Derek Carr (Tampa Bay, 51-27; Denver, 33-10). After seven straight losses the Saints have won their last two and appear capable of being very streaky. Coin Flip: New Orleans Fearless Rick's Pick: Saints 30 Rams 23
Philadelphia won their first 10 games last year before flaming out late, but are well-known for long winning streaks. Baltimore will test them, but the Eagles have more weapons at more positions and are likely to take this game very seriously. Coin Flip: Baltimore Fearless Rick's Pick: Eagles 30 Ravens 24
San Francisco looked pathetic at Green Bay in a 38-10 rout. Brock Purdy is listed as questionable, but how can they win with Christian McCaffrey playing at stall speed? Looks like a Bills blowout. Coin Flip: San Francisco Fearless Rick's Pick: Bills 42 49ers 13
Cleveland Browns at Denver Broncos (-5.5, 41.5), 8:15 pm (ESPN) - The Browns took advantage of a tired Pittsburgh team in last Thursday's 24-19 win, but now must travel to meet a fired-up Broncos team on the cusp of playoff contention. Jameis Winston give the Browns some hope. Bo Nix has been getting the job done for Denver and has them at 7-5 after two straight wins over Atlanta and Las Vegas. A win here gets them to a bye next week, setting up their final four games in good shape. Coin Flip: Cleveland Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 27 Browns 17 Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 12 NFL Picks
Week 11 Results: ALL TIMES EASTERN Thursday, November 21 Pittsburgh Steelers (-3.5, 36.5) at Cleveland Browns, 8:15 pm (Prime Video) - Coming off a convincing win over Baltimore last week, some may be expecting the Steelers to suffer a lapse or not take the Browns to seriously. It would be a surprise if Mike Tomlin allows his players to have a letdown against a team they know they can beat. Pittsburgh's defense will be more than adequate to handle the Browns. Coin Flip: Cleveland Fearless Rick's Pick: Steelers 24 Cleveland 12
Kansas City Chiefs (-10.5, 42.5) at Carolina Panthers, 1:00 pm (CBS) - Carolina is in the running for worst team in the league, along with the Giants, Browns, Raiders, Jaguars, and Titans, but they possess something those other teams do not: three wins and a two-game winning streak. Carolina managed to top New Orleans by a point, 23-22, and the Giants by three, 20-17, the latter played in Germany. Can they hit the trifecta with the Chiefs? It would be a serious shock, but, now that the Chiefs have proven to be not unbeatable, courtesy of the Bills' 30-21 victory last Sunday, maybe the Panthers have just enough confidence to upend the champs. Stranger things have happened. Carolina may keep this one closer than expected as the Chiefs have beaten only two teams - the 49ers and Saints - by more than a touchdown. Coin Flip: Kansas City Fearless Rick's Pick: Chiefs 27 Panthers 20
While the Bears are surely improving, Minnesota is 8-2, and seeking another shot at the Lions, which they won't get until January, in week 18 at Detroit. The Vikings, winners of three straight, should handle the Bears with aplomb. Coin Flip: Minnesota Fearless Rick's Pick: Vikings 24 Bears 14
That said, Houston is still working out some noticeable kinks and seemed to be a bit lost defensively against the hapless Cowboys, though they did manage a 34-10 win at Dallas. It may not be pretty, but the Texans should find the winner's circle. Coin Flip: Tennessee Fearless Rick's Pick: Texans 27 Titans 17
Indianapolis was just able to get past the Jets, 28-27, halting a three-game skid. Looks pretty much like a mismatch or nearly the lock of the week. Coin Flip: Indianapolis Fearless Rick's Pick: Lions 38 Colts 13
Should be a different story this time around, though the Patriots are improving with rookie Drake Maye settling into the QB role. Coin Flip: Miami Fearless Rick's Pick: Dolphins 38 Patriots 13
At 4-6, the Buccaneers are a dangerous animal. They've lost four straight, but have been close in each of their last three, taking KC into OT three weeks ago, and just being edged by San Fran, 23-20, heading into their bye week. They're refreshed and ready to storm New York. Maybe the Giants should start Danny DeVito, hoping he could laugh the TB defense into submission. Coin Flip: New York Giants Fearless Rick's Pick: Buccaneers 31 Giants 10
The season is over for the Cowboys and everybody knows it. Coin Flip: Dallas Fearless Rick's Pick: Commanders 38 Cowboys 6
This, even though it's in Las Vegas, is likely to return a similar result. Coin Flip: Denver Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 28 Raiders 17
For what it's worth, the Packers are just 3-3 as a home team, the losses coming from Detroit, Minnesota, and Philadelphia, though that week one game was played in Brazil. Coin Flip: San Francisco Fearless Rick's Pick: 49ers 24 Packers 23
The Cardinals had last week off, and have won four straight, though the last two were blowouts of the Bears and Jets. Their defense has stepped it up and Kyler Murray is playing lights out. Still, this appears to be a toss-up and maybe a shoot-out. Coin Flip: Seattle Fearless Rick's Pick: Seahawks 28 Cardinals 25
It's an iffy proposition, as the Eagles have won six straight, but the Rams are home and have won four of their last five. Coin Flip: Philadelphia Fearless Rick's Pick: Rams 26 Eagles 24
Baltimore Ravens (-3, 50) at Los Angeles Chargers, 8:15 pm (ESPN) - It's a mystery why the Ravens keep being made favorites. All they've done lately is find ways to lose games. They are 7-4 and now 1 1/2 games behind Pittsburgh in the AFC North. The 7-3 Chargers have won four straight, have a defense that is equal to, if not better than, that of the Steelers (who beat Baltimore last week), and they have a more potent offense. You take the Ravens. I prefer the Bolts with points at home. Coin Flip: Los Angeles Chargers Fearless Rick's Pick: Chargers 31 Ravens 24
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 11 NFL Picks
Week 10 Results:
ALL TIMES EASTERN
Thursday, November 14
Washington Commanders at Philadelphia Eagles (-3.5, 48), 8:15 pm (Prime Video) - Eagles are 3-1 at home and have won five straight. They already have 1/2-game lead over the Commanders in the division, so can they keep up their pace?
Washington has admittedly surprised most of the league - and maybe themselves - thus far, but the defense gave up a late TD to Pittsburgh last week that cost them the game. They look like a certain playoff team, so they don't really need a win here. Besides, the Eagles are probably a better team overall, especially on defense.
Coin Flip: Philadelphia
Fearless Rick's Pick: Eagles 30 Commanders 24
Green Bay Packers (-6, 40.5) at Chicago Bears, 1:00 pm (FOX) - A few weeks ago, the Bears were 4-2 and thought they could contend in the Black and Blue division, but three straight losses - and especially last week's 19-3 flub against New England - has faded their hopes.
At 6-3, the Packers are still in the hunt coming off a bye and prior to that, losing to Detroit, 24-14. They are relatively healthy and should handle the overrated Bears.
Coin Flip: Chicago
Fearless Rick's Pick: Packers 27 Bears 14
Making matters worse, QB Trevor Lawrence is out, leaving the signal-calling to Mac Jones. Good luck.
Coin Flip: Detroit
Fearless Rick's Pick: Lions 38 Jaguars 13
This is a good spot to continue their streak. The Raiders' offense rises and falls with Gardner Minshew, who is near the bottom in terms of efficiency and his O-line is fairly banged up, setting up a potential sack-fest for Miami's front seven.
Coin Flip: Miami
Fearless Rick's Pick: Dolphins 31 Raiders 13
Rookie QB Drake Maye is beginning to get a feel for the speed of the pro game and the Patriots are improving overall. They've won two of their last three, the middle game a 20-17 OT loss at Tennessee. The defense played exceptionally well in last week's 19-3 win at Chicago, sacking Caleb Williams nine times. Upset in the making.
Coin Flip: New England
Fearless Rick's Pick: Patriots 21 Rams 17
A real tossup kind of encounter here. Tread lightly. Under a good possibility.
Coin Flip: Cleveland
Fearless Rick's Pick: Saints 20 Browns 16
While the Ravens appear to be the class of the division, the Steelers have a half-game lead at 7-2. Winner takes first place in the AFC North, though both appear headed for the playoffs. Pittsburgh's top-notch defense faces a stern test from Baltimore's bruising offense which leads the league with 318 points in 10 games. Close call, looking for the Steelers to increase their lead.
Coin Flip: Pittsburgh
Fearless Rick's Pick: Steelers 27 Ravens 24
Coin Flip: Minnesota
Fearless Rick's Pick: Vikings 24 Titans 13
Coin Flip: New York Jets
Fearless Rick's Pick: Colts 23 Jets 16
Atlanta has a solid, two-game lead in the NFC South despite losing last week at New Orleans, 20-17. Leaning toward Denver at home, where they are 2-2. Atlanta is 3-1 on the road. Denver needs the game more, and should be well-prepared.
Coin Flip: Denver
Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 23 Falcons 19
Seattle has been going in the wrong direction since the end of September, losing five of six, and their failures against Detroit, Buffalo, and the 49ers, who topped them 36-24 on October 10, are glaring, losing by multiple scores.
Coin Flip: San Francisco
Fearless Rick's Pick: 49ers 34 Seahawks 21
While the Chiefs are the only perfect team in the league, at 9-0, the Bills have won five straight and have a commanding 4 1/2-game lead over Miami in the AFC East. Buffalo is 4-0 at home and should stay unbeaten there.
Coin Flip: Kansas City
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bills 27 Chiefs 24
Just the way things are going for the Bengals, the Chargers, whose defense has allowed a league low 118 points through nine games, can hand them another tough loss.
Coin Flip: Los Angeles Chargers
Fearless Rick's Pick: Chargers 30 Bengals 27
Houston Texans (-7, 42.5) at Dallas Cowboys, 8:15 pm (ESPN) - Stick a fork in the Cowboys, they're done. 0-4 at home and facing a Houston squad that leads the AFC South with a 6-4 mark. The Texans have actually lost their last two, 21-13 at the Jets, and 26-23 last week to the Lions.
Watch the line here, as it could be as much as nine points by game time, but the Texans should put a good whipping on the home-standing Cowboys.
Coin Flip: Dallas Cowboys
Fearless Rick's Pick: Texans 35 Cowboys 17
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 10 NFL Picks
Week 9 Results:
ALL TIMES EASTERN
Thursday, November 7
Cincinnati Bengals at Baltimore Ravens (-6, 52.5), 8:15 pm (Prime Video) - At 4-5, the Bengals desperately need a win to even consider the post season at all. Meanwhile, the Ravens are playing lights out, coming off a 41-10 romp over the Broncos, plus they are home for a second straight week.
Being a divisional game, it should be quite competitive. Cincinnati may or may not win, but the final margin will be small.
Coin Flip: Baltimore
Fearless Rick's Pick: Ravens 26 Bengals 24
New York Giants (-6.5, 40.5) vs Carolina Panthers (Munich, Germany), 9:30 a.m. (NFL Network) - Hard to imagine the Giants beating any team by a touchdown, much the less doing it in a foreign environment. The Panthers got their second win of the year last week, topping the Saints, 23-20, as Chuba Hubbard may have saved Bryce Young's career.
Giants have little to offer offensively and Carolina's defense was never that bad. It was the offensive failures that kept them on the field far too long in too many games.
Coin Flip: New York Giants
Fearless Rick's Pick: Panthers 20 Giants 17
New England lost in overtime to the Titans, 20-17, while the Bears were hammered at Arizona, 29-9. Neither team is capable of running up the score, so we'll take the points.
Coin Flip: New England
Fearless Rick's Pick: Patriots 17 Bears 13
This line is only so small due to the Colts being 3-1 at home, but those wins have come over Pittsburgh, Chicago, and a depleted Miami team, and none have been by more than six points. Doubtful they can hold the Bills to under 30 points.
Coin Flip: Buffalo
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bills 34 Colts 10
Maybe being at home will perk them up. As long as they can keep Justin Jefferson under 100 yards receiving, they'll have a chance, though not much of one. Vikings are playing well enough to cover the line and head off any chance the Jags may have late.
Coin Flip: Jacksonville
Fearless Rick's Pick: Vikings 31 Jaguars 21
Tough to see how Denver can withstand the constancy of the KC offense. Statistically, the defenses are relatively even, though Kansas City's is probably better due to their tougher schedule.
Coin Flip: Kansas City
Fearless Rick's Pick: Chiefs 27 Broncos 17
Atlanta has won four of their last five and lead the NFC South with a 6-3 mark. They appear to be the class of the division.
Coin Flip: New Orleans
Fearless Rick's Pick: Falcons 30 Saints 17
The 49ers are just 4-4, and have yet to win two in a row, besides being just 1-2 in road games. Advantage Bucs.
Coin Flip: Tampa Bay
Fearless Rick's Pick: Buccaneers 27 49ers 23
Pittsburgh's defense is top shelf, having allowed only 14.9 points per game. Washington's offense is averaging 392 yards per game and scoring at a 29.2 per game clip.
Jayden Daniels has been spectacular thus far and should delight the home town fans.
Coin Flip: Pittsburgh
Fearless Rick's Pick: Commanders 29 Steelers 24
They should handle the second-rate Titans with ease.
Coin Flip: Los Angeles Chargers
Fearless Rick's Pick: Chargers 34 Titans 10
The Jets are just 1-4 in away games, so this may be a regrettable road encounter.
Coin Flip: New York Jets
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cardinals 24 Jets 17
They're in for a world of hurt (pun intended) against the soaring Eagles, who have won four straight and may be on a glide path to the playoffs.
Coin Flip: Philadelphia
Fearless Rick's Pick: Eagles 31 Cowboys 10
Detroit has emerged as a real Super Bowl contender and are playing at an extremely high level. With Houston's defense seriously banged up, the 7-1 Lions should win this by a huge score.
Coin Flip: Houston
Fearless Rick's Pick: Lions 34 Texans 16
Miami Dolphins at Los Angeles Rams (-1, 50), 8:15 pm (ESPN) - If the Dolphins have any post-season aspirations, winning this game is an absolute must. The Rams can afford some complacency, being smack in the middle of the NFC West contest, at 4-4, a half game out of first and last.
Tua and the offense should be able to score just enough to win this one, possibly in overtime.
Coin Flip: Miami
Fearless Rick's Pick: Dolphins 27 Rams 24
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 9 NFL Picks
Week 8 Results:
ALL TIMES EASTERN
Thursday, October 31
Houston Texans at New York Jets (-2, 42), 8:15 pm (Prime Video) - While the Jets may be home for this encounter, they are coming off a loss at New England and they pretty much stink at 2-6. Aaron Rodgers or not, this team has issues.
Houston, on the other hand, survived a challenge at Indianapolis (divisional rival) and is on track to win the AFC South, are 5-0 in conference games and will romp.
Coin Flip: Houston
Fearless Rick's Pick: Texans 30 Jets 17
Dallas Cowboys at Atlanta Falcons (-3, 52), 1:00 pm (FOX) - At 3-4, America's Team, the Cowboys, still haven't gotten on the winning track. Atlanta outlasted Tampa Bay last week and are home for a second straight week, while the Cowboys are on the road again after losing, 30-24, at San Francisco.
Dallas' defense has been giving up too many big plays. Atlanta QB Kirk Cousins is playing at Pro Bowl level. Dallas could get a win, but it seems unlikely.
Coin Flip: Dallas
Fearless Rick's Pick: Falcons 27 Cowboys 21
If the season ended today, Denver would be in the playoffs, a position they're probably going to defense as well as they can. Bo Nix has breathed new life into the offense and the defense can play lights out at any given moment. Generous amount of points say Denver's the choice.
Coin Flip: Baltimore
Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 27 Ravens 20
Coin Flip: Miami
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bills 34 Dolphins 24
Coin Flip: Carolina
Fearless Rick's Pick: Saints 28 Panthers 14
Cincinnati may finally get a home win, but the sledding will be tough.
Coin Flip: Cincinnati
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bengals 24 Raiders 21
Could go either way, but the AFC West seems to be gaining momentum as the season schedule builds.
Coin Flip: Cleveland
Fearless Rick's Pick: Chargers 26 Browns 20
Honestly, this line should be more like 6-7, not 3-4.
Coin Flip: New York Giants
Fearless Rick's Pick: Commanders 30 Giants 13
New England squeaked out a win over the Jets last week, 25-22, but so what? The Jets aren't very good. Could be a close call, and the refs may decide this one.
Coin Flip: New England
Fearless Rick's Pick: Titans 24 Patriots 17
The Cardinals are in a three-way tie for first place in the NFL West, while the Bears are looking uphill at Minnesota, Green Bay, and Detroit, the leagues' toughest conference. Coin flip says go with the Bears, but they're 0-3 on the road, so, no.
Coin Flip: Chicago
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cardinals 34 Bears 31
Coin Flip: Philadelphia
Fearless Rick's Pick: Eagles 34 Jaguars 14
The Packers getting points at home should be cause for alarm, as QB Jordan Love is dinged up once again.
Coin Flip: Green Bay
Fearless Rick's Pick: Lions 38 Packers 27
Since getting their offense healthy, the Rams have won two straight and will likely get a third in noisy Seattle. Last year, the Rams won both meetings, but these games are usually very close, so those two points at home may be worth taking with the Seahawks.
Coin Flip: Los Angeles Rams
Fearless Rick's Pick: Rams 20 Seahawks 19
Minnesota is coming off two straight losses, so maybe the Sam Darnold show has seen better days. Gotta like the Colts' chances.
Coin Flip: Minnesota
Fearless Rick's Pick: Vikings 26 Colts 24
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Kansas City Chiefs (-8.5, 45.5), 8:15 pm (ESPN) - The Chiefs are the only team in the NFL that is undefeated, at 7-0. The 4-4 Bucs have an uphill climb against the reigning champs, but Baker Mayfield and Patrick Mahomes are sure to put on a good show of passing acuity.
Take those juicy points. Tampa Bay was a playoff team last season and may find their way to the winner's circle here. Even if they don't, it's probably going to be fun.
Coin Flip: Kansas City
Fearless Rick's Pick: Tampa Bay 27 Kansas City 24
Bye: Pittsburgh, San Francisco
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Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 14 College Picks
Week 13 Results: Rick: 9-7; Flip: 6-10
All Times Eastern
Thursday, November 28
7:30 pm Memphis at 17 Tulane (-13.5, 55.5) (ESPN) - The Green Wave of Tulane has had a solid season, but they need to get past Memphis to have any hope of making the top 12 and the playoffs.
With a 7-0 record in the AAC, Tulane is set up to play Army (also 7-0) for the conference championship, so wins in these two games could move them up enough to get the 12 or 11 spot in the polls.
Memphis, 5-2 in the conference and 9-2 overall, can play spoiler with a high-powered offense and gritty defense. Tulane seems to have the edge, scoring 34 or more points in eight of their nine wins. They've held opponents to just nine points total their last three games.
Coin Flip: Tulane
Fearless Rick's Pick: Green Wave 41 Tigers 24
12:00 pm Oregon State at 11 Boise State (-19, 56.5) (FOX) - The Beavers, one of two PAC-12 holdouts (Washington State the other) needs a win to become bowl eligible. They lost five straight before whipping Washington State last week, 41-38.
Boise State is a MWC powerhouse with a 10-1 record. Win or lose, they will play for the conference championship next week and are in position to make the national playoffs. Their only loss was non-conference, a 37-34 defeat at #1 Oregon back in September. The Broncos are 5-0 at home, winning all but one game by 21 or more points (Nevada, 28-21). They have more than enough motivation to roll up on the Beavers.
Coin Flip: Oregon State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 48 Beavers 21
The Cowboys hav lost eight straight and are 0-8 in conference play. There have been a number of blowout losses, but the Cowboys lost to Utah and BYU by three points and last week took a 56-48 loss to Texas Tech as freshman Maealiuaki Smith got his first start and three for 316 yards, 2 TDs with one pick.
Colorado's defense has been lacking all season. Looks like they can squeak by with a win, though an upset is not out of the question in a track meet kind of affair.
Coin Flip: Oklahoma State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Buffaloes 48 Cowboys 37
Wisconsin (5-6) needs a win for bowl eligibility. Minnesota, already 6-5, can deny them any post-season play by taking back the prized wedge. The Golden Gophers nearly bumped off Penn State last week, losing, 26-25, at home and appear eager to win their fifth conference game.
The Badgers have lost four straight, last week getting pounded at Nebraska, 44-25, as the defense collapsed, the third time this season they've allowed an opponent to score 42 or more points.
Coin Flip: Minnesota
Fearless Rick's Pick: Golden Gophers 24 Badgers 10
Ole Miss missed out on an opportunity to advance by losing at Florida last week, 24-17. Oddsmakers are looking for them to crush their in-state rivals, whose only loss by 26 or more points was to Arkansas, 58-25 and that includes games against Georgia, Texas, Tennessee, and Missouri.
Take the points.
Coin Flip: Ole Miss
Fearless Rick's Pick: Rebels 33 Bulldogs 24
Georgia will play the winner of Saturday's Texas-Texas A&M game in the SEC Championship next week regardless of the outcome of this game.
Already bowl-eligible at 7-4, Georgia Tech is playing for pride and the rivalry. Freshman QB Aaron Philo has breathed new life into the offense and should see extensive action. Tech hasn't beaten the Bulldogs since 2016, but had their best showing last season in a 31-23 loss. They might surprise and are worth a shot with the generous spread.
Coin Flip: Georgia Tech
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bulldogs 27 Yellow Jackets 20
12:00 pm Michigan at 2 Ohio State (-21, 43.5) (FOX) - The only question to be answered here is by how many points the Buckeyes will win. The Wolverines are 6-5, and were beaten by Texas by 19 points, Illinois by 14, and Oregon by 21.
It's a rivalry game, so both teams should be geared up, but Ohio State has buried most of their opponents this season. 38-7 over Michigan State, 35-7 over Iowa, 45-0 over Purdue, 31-7 over Northwestern, and last week, crushing upstart Indiana, 38-15.
Coin Flip: Michigan
Fearless Rick's Pick: Buckeyes 38 Wolverines 10
Vandy has lost their last two, 28-7 to South Carolina, and 24-17 at LSU, but they'll be up for this big rivalry game. Tennessee failed in their last SEC game, losing at Georgia, 31-17, but then taking out their frustrations last week on UTEP, with a 56-0 rout.
Taking the underdog at home isn't a bad move.The Vols need to win to stay in the top 12 and the Commodores know it.
Coin Flip: Vanderbilt
Fearless Rick's Pick: Volunteers 27 Commodores 19
While Clemson has a future in the ACC championship game a loss here could knock them out of the top 12 nationally and open the door for South Carolina as a first 3-loss team.
It doesn't get any bigger for South Carolinians. This game is life, death, and a year's worth of bragging rights or shame.
Coin Flip: Clemson
Fearless Rick's Pick: Gamecocks 31 Tigers 19
The Trojans beat crosstown rival UCLA last week, 19-13, but the Irish are a different story. Notre Dame has won each of their last six contests by at least 18 points.
Coin Flip: USC
Fearless Rick's Pick: Fighting Irish 34 Trojans 17
The Hurricanes are just one Georgia Tech loss from perfection this season and are likely to light up the scoreboard, but their defense will also allow Syracuse multiple trips to the end zone. If the Orange keep the mistakes to a minimum, they could produce a major upset.
Coin Flip: Miami
Fearless Rick's Pick: Hurricanes 38 Orange 34
Coin Flip: SMU
Fearless Rick's Pick: Mustangs 35 Golden Bears 10
Auburn has different plans. They need a win to get into a bowl game and this, being an enormous rivalry is their ticket to the post-season. While they're just 5-6, they're not bad, last week winning 43-41 in four OTs over Texas A&M. They'll give Alabama more than they expect.
Coin Flip: Alabama
Fearless Rick's Pick: Tigers 38 Crimson Tide 35
They're unlikely to encounter much resistance from Arizona, The Wildcats are just 2-6 in conference and 4-7 overall. Five different Big 12 teams have topped the Wildcats by at least 21 points. Should be a piece of cake for Arizona State.
Coin Flip: Arizona State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Sun Devils 38 Wildcats 17
Oregon has multiple offensive weapons and an improving defense which will make life difficult for the Washington offense. This one could be over by half time though the Ducks have to stay focused rather than looking ahead to a rematch with Ohio State in next week's Big Ten championship.
Coin Flip: Washington
Fearless Rick's Pick: Ducks 38 Huskies 6
The Aggies have had this game circled since the schedule came out in the Spring and getting the Longhorns on their home turf adds to their confidence.
Texas has looked iffy at times this season, but who hasn't? The Aggies will pull off the upset and take their chances next week.
Coin Flip: Texas
Fearless Rick's Pick: Aggies 27 Longhorns 24
The 9-2 Cyclones can pretty much play their way in. They'll need help, but not as much as the Jayhawks. Most scenarios favor them and Arizona State. Iowa State may know their destiny by game time, with only BYU playing later. They should make the most of it.
Coin Flip: Iowa State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cyclones 27 Wildcats 21
Depending on the scenario, this could go any which way, but Houston looks just good enough to cover the spread in this all-Cougar match-up. Watch the line, as it could move quite a bit depending on circumstances.
Coin Flip: Houston
Fearless Rick's Pick: BYU Cougars 30 Houston Cougars 20
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 13 College Picks
Week 12 Results: Rick: 5-8; Flip: 3-10
All Times Eastern
Thursday, November 21
7:30 pm NC State at Georgia Tech (-8, 51.5) (ESPN) - Georgia Tech, by virtue of their 28-23 upset win over Miami, became bowl eligible with their sixth win in 10 games. The return of QB Haynes King give the Yellow Jackets an edge in this ACC contest.
The 5-5 Wolfpack is in a tough spot, needing to win wither this game or next week at North Carolina to become bowl eligible. They've only played two road games, one a loss to Clemson, 59-35, and an October 19, 24-23 squeaker, at Cal. From the looks of things, they'll be needing a win over the Tar Heels next week.
Coin Flip: Georgia Tech
Fearless Rick's Pick: Yellow Jackets 34 Wolfpack 20
8:00 pm Purdue at Michigan State (-14, 48.5) (FOX) - The 1-9 Boilermakers have had their brains beaten in all season long, but mostly in three of their last four games, in huge losses to Oregon, Ohio State and Penn State. Obviously, they are not prime time material.
However, they may have some hope against the 4-6 Spartans, whose wins have come against Florida Atlantic, Maryland, Prairie View, and Iowa. Their last three games have all registered in the "L" column, losing to Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois, the last two not even close.
Coin Flip: Michigan State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Boilermakers 27 Spartans 21
The 6-4 Spartans hav little to gain other than respect here, being already bowl eligible. They did kind of mail in their 42-21 defeat to #13 Boise State last week and may not be emotionally prepared for this home contest.
Coin Flip: UNLV
Fearless Rick's Pick: Rebels 42 Spartans 24
12:00 pm 5 Indiana at 2 Ohio State (-10, 52.5) (FOX) - Indiana, Army, and Oregon are the only teams without a loss at this point in the season. Ohio State's lone defeat was at Oregon, by a mere point, 32-31. A Buckeye win sets up a likely rematch with the Ducks
The Hoosiers haven't played a ranked team all season, and their last win, two weeks ago against Michigan, wasn't a very promising effort, slipping by the Wolverines with a 15-10 victory. Maybe they were looking ahead. Maybe they just aren't that good.
Indiana is a quality team, but the Buckeyes will be charged up for this showdown at the Horseshoe and so will their fans.
Coin Flip: Indiana
Fearless Rick's Pick: Buckeyes 35 Hoosiers 21
Miami has issued blowouts to a bunch of teams this season, though the biggest wins in ACC play were against Florida State and Duke, winning both by identical 22-point margins. 4-6 Wake Forest got blown out by Ole Miss and Clemson, but their other losses have been much closer.
With absolutely nothing to lose - needing wins here and next week against Duke to get to 6-6 - Wake will let it all hang out and hit pay dirt on enough occasions to cover the huge line.
Coin Flip: Miami
Fearless Rick's Pick: Hurricanes 38 Demon Deacons 24
5-5 Florida looked great against LSU with DJ Lagway back at QB, but the beating LSU in the Swamp doesn't compare to what Ole Miss brings. Florida could upset and they could keep this close. It's an iffy proposition, but that's what makes these games so great.
Coin Flip: Ole Miss
Fearless Rick's Pick: Rebels 31 Gators 26
Since that BYU loss, SMU has won seven straight. Besides a 28-27 win at Duke and a 34-27 victory at Louisville, nobody's come closer than 10 points, and that was Boston College last week, 38-28.
Virginia is 5-5 and needs a win here or next week at Virginia Tech to become bowl eligible. That's a reasonable goal, but the Mustangs are after bigger prizes and should roll to an eighth straight win and favoritism in the ACC title game. Virginia beat Pitt, 24-19 a few weeks ago, but they've lost four of their last five, including double-digit losses to Clemson, UNC, and Notre Dame.
Coin Flip: SMU
Fearless Rick's Pick: Mustangs 34 Cavaliers 20
While Texas has its flaws, they should handle Kentucky, though the Wildcats need two wins to secure bowl eligibility, so they may be more motivated than expected. Can they win here and defeat Louisville next week? Probably not, though they may hang with Texas. Remember, they lost by just a point to Georgia, beat Ole Miss, 20-17, and only lost by 10, 28-18, at Tennessee.
Coin Flip: Texas
Fearless Rick's Pick: Longhorns 31 Wildcats 14
That may be easier said than done, as Minnesota has already qualified for a bowl game with a 6-4 mark. Prior to their 26-19 loss at Rutgers two weeks ago, the Goldies had won four straight, and, other than a 31-14 loss to Iowa back in September, nobody's beaten them by more than seven points. Minnesota figures to be loose and ready to deliver what could be the upset of the week.
Coin Flip: Penn State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Golden Gophers 23 Nittany Lions 21
Of course, BYU is still a game ahead of them in the standings with a 6-1 conference mark and a win here makes them a virtual lock for the title as they face lowly Houston next week. This figures to be a tight one; not certain that the Sun Devils can cover, much less win outright.
Coin Flip: BYU
Fearless Rick's Pick: Sun Devils 20 Cougars 19
After a 2-6 start, the Jayhawks have to win out to make it to any bowl game. Four of their losses have been by four points or less, so they're seldom out of range for a win. The Colorado defense still lacks killer instinct, which should bolster Kansas' chances of a home win.
Coin Flip: Kansas
Fearless Rick's Pick: Jayhawks 32 Buffaloes 30
Army is 9-0, but who have they beaten? Lehigh, Rice, Tulsa, Air Force?
Notre Dame is a much different challenge. The Black Knights may be a solid team but Notre Dame may end up playing for the national championship.
Coin Flip: Army
Fearless Rick's Pick: Fighting Irish 42 Black Knights 13
The Broncos have already locked up a Mountain West championship game appearance. Their only loss was a 37-34 setback at Oregon. We'll lay the points and take our chances with Boise.
Coin Flip: Boise State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 41 Cowboys 6
Coin Flip: Alabama
Fearless Rick's Pick: Crimson Tide 38 Sooners 17
Early in the season, the Utes were ranked and among the favorites to win the Big 12. They started out 4-0, but have lost six straight since, last seen being disgraced at Colorado, 49-24. Their defense can be feisty, but their offense offers little. Chalk up a win and some hopium for the Cyclones.
Coin Flip: Utah
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cyclones 31 Utes 16
The Aggies control their own destiny. A road win over the 4-6 (1-5, SEC) Tigers sets up the big meeting against the Longhorns.
Auburn's sole conference win was over Kentucky, also 1-5 in conference play.
Coin Flip: Auburn
Fearless Rick's Pick: Aggies 27 Tigers 17
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 12 College Picks
Week 11 Results: Rick: 6-11; Flip: 6-11
All Times Eastern
Friday, November 15
9:00 pm UCLA at Washington (-4.5, 46.5) (FOX) - Both teams are 3-4 in Big Ten play, and both teams need a win for bowl eligibility (UCLA, 4-5, needs two). Whether or not that matters, this former PAC-12 game is a pretty even match.
The Bruins, however, have won three straight after losing five in a row to Indiana, LSU, Oregon, Penn State and Minnesota, a pretty rough crowd. QB Ethan Garbers may have a future, demonstrated in his cool play against the solid Iowa defense last week in a 20-17 UCLA win. Washington hasn't played nearly as tough a schedule, last seen losing at Penn State, 35-6. Edge to UCLA.
Coin Flip: UCLA
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bruins 27 Huskies 17
12:00 pm 2 Ohio State (-28, 45) at Northwestern (BTN) - Northwestern (2-4, 4-5) probably isn't going to present many problems for the Buckeyes, who have their sights set on bigger things. The Wildcats topped Purdue, 26-20 in OT on November 2, whereas Ohio State buried the Boilermakers, 45-0, last Saturday.
Looking like another huge win for the Buckeyes, who play Indiana next week and then close out the regular season with Michigan - both games at home - on the 30th.
Coin Flip: Ohio State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Buckeyes 42 Wildcats 6
Pitt, with two straight losses (SMU, Virginia) has lost their early season swagger and now have two conference losses, which makes this game very big for them. Having already lost to SMU, they have to hope Miami loses again, giving them a shot at the ACC title game. It's a long shot. Clemson will be ready for them.
Coin Flip: Clemson
Fearless Rick's Pick: Tigers 31 Panthers 17
They may be more trouble than the Longhorns are expecting.
Texas was outclassed and outplayed by Georgia in an October surprise, 30-15, barely escaped from Vandy with a 27-24 win, but rebounded nicely to whip up Florida, 49-17, in a game that was over after three quarters. Texas has won most of their games by big margins, and this is only their third road game. Their lack of consistent defense will keep Arkansas in the game.
Coin Flip: Arkansas
Fearless Rick's Pick: Longhorns 31 Razorbacks 24
They are, however, on the road here and facing a very dangerous offense. The surprising Buffs are on track to meet BYU in the conference championship and possibly barge into the national playoff picture. Being at home, this game could be a crowning achievement for coach Prime and his no-nonsense approach to winning football. Look for the Buffaloes to stampede the Utes.
Coin Flip: Utah
Fearless Rick's Pick: Buffaloes 31 Utes 17
The Lions just need to continue winning the rest of the regular season and get into the playoffs as probably a 5-8 seed. On the road, they may not get the cover.
Coin Flip: Purdue
Fearless Rick's Pick: Nittany Lions 34 Purdue 10
Notre Dame is virtually assured of making the playoffs and they've been pushing people of late. Their last four wins have been by a combined score of 183-37, no game closer than 18 points (Georgia Tech). The Irish should roll to another convincing win.
Coin Flip: Notre Dame
Fearless Rick's Pick: Fighting Irish 38 Cavaliers 10
The road gets tougher for SMU as the season winds along, and Boston College has some game, probably enough to keep this one relatively close but not enough to win.
Coin Flip: Boston College
Fearless Rick's Pick: Mustangs 37 Eagles 24
Florida needs two wins to make it to any bowl game, so this will be hotly contested in the Swamp.
Coin Flip: Florida
Fearless Rick's Pick: Gators 30 Tigers 28
The last four Oregon wins since their 32-31 victory over Ohio State have been by 35, 19, 21, and 21 points. Beating the Badgers by two TDs shouldn't be an obstacle.
Coin Flip: Oregon
Fearless Rick's Pick: Ducks 38 Badgers 17
The Spartans are 6-3 and no pushovers, especially on home turf, where they are 4-0. Boise often plays to the level of the competition, so, while an upset is not entirely out of the question, look for the Spartans to stay within striking distance.
Coin Flip: San Jose State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 31 Spartans 24
Tennessee's relentless pass rush will force errant throws and keep the Bulldogs out of the end zone consistently. When Tennessee has the ball, look for them to pound on the ground with elite running back Dylan Sampson, a touchdown machine with 20 scores this season. Sure, Georgia has reputation and are home, but 9 1/2 points to a Tennessee squad that continues to improve and is about to secure a spot in the national playoffs? Sucker bet.
Coin Flip: Tennessee
Fearless Rick's Pick: Volunteers 30 Bulldogs 20
BYU has had some close scrapes, including three-point wins over SMU and Oklahoma State and last week's 22-21 win at Utah. This could go either way and Kansas may just give the Cougars more than they can handle in a high-scoring affair.
Coin Flip: BYU
Fearless Rick's Pick: Jayhawks 38 Cougars 35
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 11 College Picks
Week 10 Results: Rick: 3-11; Flip: 5-9
All Times Eastern
Friday, November 8
9:00 pm Iowa (-6, 44.5) at UCLA (FOX) - The only reason idleguy.com is covering this game is because it's nationally broadcast. Otherwise, it should be a washout for the Hawkeyes. UCLA has the lowest-scoring offense in the Big Ten and is near the bottom in points allowed. Iowa has a superior defense. If they can get any scoring at all from their offense, a rout it will be.
Coin Flip: Iowa
Fearless Rick's Pick: Hawkeyes 30 Bruins 13
12:00 pm Purdue at 2 Ohio State (-38, 53.5) (FOX) - There's no reason at all to make a wager on this game, but, if you must, be mindful of just one stat: Ohio State, at 7-1, has allowed just 96 points total. Purdue, 1-7, has allowed 295.
Coin Flip: Purdue
Fearless Rick's Pick: Buckeyes 49 Boilermakers 3
Prior to that, he and his 9-0 Hurricane teammates have to attend to some business, like dusting the Yellow Jackets. While Georgia Tech has an OK defense, their offense is lacking. Turning the ball over to Miami's offense, especially in the second half, can be crippling.
Coin Flip: Georgia Tech
Fearless Rick's Pick: Hurricanes 42 Yellow Jackets 24
The Longhorns are still recovering from their 30-15 beatdown by Georgia on October 19, just squeaking by Vanderbilt on the 26th, 27-24.
Love the generous spread afforded the Gators in a game Texas cannot afford to lose.
Coin Flip: Florida
Fearless Rick's Pick: Longhorns 31 Gators 23
Georgia's only loss was at Alabama, 41-34, now a faded memory as the Bulldogs are now thinking SEC championship and playoffs in December. But, they have to win this game and have Tennessee XXX. Ole Miss has two losses, one a 29-26 OT defeat at LSU, the other a quirky 20-17 home loss to Kentucky. Their defense may be better than Georgia's and their offense most certainly is. Upset looming in a low-scoring affair.
Coin Flip: Georgia
Fearless Rick's Pick: Rebels 27 Bulldogs 20
Coin Flip: Indiana
Fearless Rick's Pick: Hoosiers 37 Wolverines 14
The Cyclones were upended by Texas Tech last week, 23-22, while the Jayhawks pushed K-State to the limit in a 29-27 loss. Four of Kansas' six losses have been by four points or fewer, and they are a good match for the Cyclones, but their habit of falling just short is likely to show up again.
Coin Flip: Iowa State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cyclones 27 Jayhawks 20
This should turn into something of a track meet and the home crowd may keep the Red Raiders focused on outrunning the Buffaloes.
Coin Flip: Texas Tech
Fearless Rick's Pick: Red Raiders 42 Buffaloes 34
The Gamecocks have only had one really bad game, a 27-3 loss to Ole Miss. Last week's 44-20 slaughter of Texas A&M was epic. Points at home is our choice.
Coin Flip: South Carolina
Fearless Rick's Pick: Commodores 26 Gamecocks 23
Coin Flip: Maryland
Fearless Rick's Pick: Ducks 45 Terrapins 10
The Bulldogs have held their own against ranked SEC opponents, losing to Texas, 35-13, Georgia, 41-31, and Texas A&M, 34-24. Can't see the Vols burying them.
Coin Flip: Tennessee
Fearless Rick's Pick: Volunteers 31 Bulldogs 17
Difficult to make any kind of a case for a close game unless there's a blizzard or tornado in South Bend. Even then, the Irish might win by even more.
Coin Flip: Notre Dame
Fearless Rick's Pick: Fighting Irish 38 Seminoles 10
LSU admittedly has played better overall, though they were out hustled and overmatched in their 38-23 loss at Texas A&M. Both teams have had an extra week to prepare for this annual war. Could go either way, but the Tigers may have an edge defensively.
Coin Flip: LSU
Fearless Rick's Pick: Tigers 34 Crimson Tide 28
Washington hasn't beaten any team better than Michigan or USC and are 0-3 in Big Ten road games. Iowa blew them out 40-16, and Indiana knocked them down, 31-17. Penn State will redeem themselves with a solid performance.
Coin Flip: Washington
Fearless Rick's Pick: Nittany Lions 31 Huskies 10
Coin Flip: Boise State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos 49 Wolf Pack 20
The Cavaliers will test them. They're an up-and-down team with a 4-4 record that needs two more wins to become bowl eligible, which still matters to some programs. Could be the beginning of the end for the Panthers.
Coin Flip: Virginia
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cavaliers 27 Panthers 26
A win here leaves them with Kansas, Arizona State and Houston to close out the season - all winnable games. Surprised the line wasn't more like 6.5-7 points. This is a pretty fierce rivalry, but BYU has most of the big guns.
Coin Flip: Utah
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cougars 30 Utes 9
Fearless Rick & Coin Flip Week 10 College Picks
Week 9 Results: Rick: 6-9; Flip: 7-8
All Times Eastern
Friday, November 1
8:00 pm San Diego State at 15 Boise State (-23.5, 57.5) (FS1) - The Aztecs ar e3-4, but they are 2-0 in Mountain West play, beating Hawaii and Wyoming by identical 27-24 scores. Last week they lost to Washington State, 29-26.
6-1 Boise, as usual, is cruising right along, their only loss a 37-34 nail-biter at Oregon back in September. Since then, five straight wins and a 3-0 conference record.
These two met last year, Boise State getting a 34-31 victory. Aztec defenders need to keep Ashton Jeanty contained. He's rushed for more than 100 yards every game this season. Advantage Boise, but 23.5 points? That's a bunch. Taking the Aztec underdogs to hang tough.
Coin Flip: San Diego State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Broncos31 Aztecs 20
12:00 pm 4 Ohio State (-3, 45.5) at 3 Penn State (FOX) - Great way to start off a Saturday with a Big Ten heavyweight tussle. Penn State is 7-0, but underdogs at home, while 6-1 Ohio State needs to win this to secure a spot in the national playoffs after their 32-31 loss at Oregon on 10/12. Last week's performance against Nebraska wasn't pretty, but they managed to pull out a 21-17 victory when they were favored by more than three TDs.
Penn State QB Drew Allar was injured in the Nittany Lions' 28-13 win at Wisconsin last week, but the defense and backup QB Beau Pribula stepped up and put away the Badgers.
Penn St. has lost seven straight to the Buckeyes, but at home, with a steadily improving defense, they can prevail.
Coin Flip: Ohio State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Nittany Lions 27 Buckeyes 21
6-2 Duke lost by a point, 28-27, to SMU last week and plays very disciplined defense, so, if their offense can manage to sustain a few drives against Miami's suspect defense, they may keep this closer than the Hurricanes might like.
Coin Flip: Duke
Fearless Rick's Pick: Hurricanes 34 Blue Devils 24
The Razorbacks are capable of going toe-to-toe with the best in the SEC, having already beaten Tennessee (19-14), and losing a close call to Texas A&M, 21-17. Hard to see the Rebels winning by a touchdown or more if even winning at all.
Coin Flip: Arkansas
Fearless Rick's Pick: Razorbacks 34 Rebels 27
Their match-up with Air Force could turn into Air Farce. The Falcons are 1-6, have scored only 107 points while allowing 192. This looks like a sure blowout.
Coin Flip: Army
Fearless Rick's Pick: Black Knights 42 Falcons 6
Either way, Oregon is a clear winner.
Coin Flip: Oregon
Fearless Rick's Pick: Ducks 44 Wolverines 17
Florida's three losses have all been to ranked teams - Miami, Texas A&M, and Tennessee, but they appear to be improving steadily. Senior QB Graham Mertz was lost in the Tennessee game, suffering a season-ending torn ACL. His replacement, DJ Lagway, has some experience, but faces a brutal defense in a huge game. Could get ugly.
Coin Flip: Florida
Fearless Rick's Pick: Bulldogs 38 Gators 13
The Cyclones may lose a game somewhere along the way, but this doesn't appear to be that spot.
Coin Flip: Iowa State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Cyclones 42 Red Raiders 20
The Spartans were blown out by both Ohio State and Oregon. A 32-20 upset win over Iowa is their only quality win.
Coin Flip: Michigan State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Hoosiers 34 Spartans 20
3-5 Houston doesn't pose much of a threat. In their five losses, they were shut out twice (Cincinnati, Iowa State) and scored a total of just 33 points in the other three games. Kansas State survived their rivalry game with Kansas last week and should be quite motivated to keep moving forward.
Coin Flip: Kansas State
Fearless Rick's Pick: Wildcats 31 Cougars 10
South Carolina is a tricky call. They usually play everybody tough, and despite their 4-3 record, they are very dangerous, nearly beating Alabama in Tuscaloosa in a 27-25 heart-breaker, and also losing earlier in the season to LSU, 36-33. Their only big loss was a 27-3 beatdown by Ole Miss a month ago. They may just prove too good for the Aggies. Could be a track meet.
Coin Flip: Texas A&M
Fearless Rick's Pick: Gamecocks 30 Aggies 27
Clemson, winners of six straight after their blown out opener vs. Georgia, is probably a notch or two better than the teams that have topped the Cardinals, plus, they're at home and should win this one handily.
Coin Flip: Louisville
Fearless Rick's Pick: Tigers 42 Cardinals 24
The Volunteers have had an extra week to savor their 24-17 win over Alabama, and appear to have found their mojo. Unless the Vols turn the ball over - which they seldom do - they should be able to establish a lead and pull away in the second half. Their defense, possibly the best in the SEC, will take care of the rest.
Coin Flip: Tennessee
Fearless Rick's Pick: Volunteers 41 Wildcats 14
They won't find the Mustangs to be as easy, but they are good enough to win this key conference showdown with heady defense and an offense that can keep drives alive.
Coin Flip: SMU
Fearless Rick's Pick: Panthers 27 Mustangs 24
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