College Football Picks: Week 4

Saturday, September 25

#1 Alabama at #10 Arkansas:

This game is arguably the most important and anticipated home game in Arkansas this decade.  Arkansas comes into the game after a late win at Georgia after a sparkling performance by Quarterback Ryan Mallet.  Worth noting though is that Georgia has really struggled this year and almost pulled an improbable comeback when Arkansas fell asleep in the fourth quarter.  Alabama has dismantled opponents behind the mistake-free production of Quarterback Greg McElroy and the bruising running back tandem of Trent Richardson and Mark Ingram.

Alabama 38-24

#12 South Carolina at #17 Auburn

South Carolina has struggled historically in big road games.  This year though, it seems that Gamecocks Head Coach Steve Spurrier has finally found a solid offense to go along with his normally stout defense.  Auburn might still be a little worn out after a hard fought victory last week over South Carolina’s in-state rival Clemson.

Auburn 24-20

NC State at Georgia Tech

 NC State Quarterback Russell Wilson looks like he is a ready to hit the national stage a year later than expected.  Provided he doesn’t get injured, he’s the best player on the field and he will lead the Wolfpack to a victory in Atlanta.

NC State 28-24

North Carolina at Rutgers

Rutgers has struggled this year against its two cupcake opponents (Norfolk State and Florida International).  North Carolina (while 0-2) has missed many of its starters due to suspensions but could just as easily been 2-0 with close losses to LSU and Georgia Tech.  Also, the Big East has by far been the worst of the BCS Conferences.

North Carolina 27-20

Temple at #23 Penn State

Temple has steadily improved after al Golden was hired in 2006.  The Penn State defense will be tested by Owls Running Back Bernard Pierce.  Penn State has dealt with a multitude of distractions this week involving the rumored “benching” of Running Back Evan Royster and the transfer of Wide Receiver Shawney Kersey.  Look for Penn State shut down Pierce and force the Temple passing game to beat them.  Don’t be surprised though if this is still a game late in the fourth quarter. 

Penn State 24-13

#16 Stanford at Notre Dame

Stanford is considered to be one of the frontrunners in the Pac Ten this season.  The Cardinal are led by Quarterback Andrew Luck and their explosive offense.  The Cardinal blew out the Irish last year when Notre Dame was fighting to make a bowl and had both Jimmy Clausen and Golden Tate.  One has to wonder if the Irish suffer from a hangover effect from last week’s loss to Michigan State

Stanford 34-24

#24 Oregon State at #3 Boise State

This is the last chance for Boise State to impress voters.  Should Boise State build a huge lead, I would recommend that they run up the score to help their profile.  Unfortunately for the Broncos, Oregon State will not be intimidated by the trip to Boise and the blue turf.  They already traveled to Arlington, TX to face TCU and more than held their own.   My prediction is that Boise will pull away late behind Quarterback Kellen Moore

Boise State 41-20