NFL Cheerleader of the week

This weeks cheerleader comes to us from "your" New England Patriots.

As always, the entire gallery can be seen here.

SEC Picks - Week #13

Finally, a little bit of difference in the records last week. If it wasn’t for some heroics from JaMarcus Russell and Dwayne Bowe, we would have had the same records, so let’s not get too excited.

I am sitting at 58-10 and 32-30-1 while Junior is at 54-14 and 27-33-1. It is unlikely there will be much difference in our straight up winners, but a little drama is possible in the picks against the spread.

This week features what should be solid games involving SEC teams. In fact, Kentucky at Tennessee is the only double digit spread and the game might possibly be closer than that. In other words, good weekend to sit on the couch and do nothing. That's what makes this weekend so great, the wives go shopping and we are free to watch football.


Kentucky at Tennessee – Tennessee favored by 18.5

Junior: The Wildcats are attempting to move up the bowl ladder. The winner of this game may go to the Peach, although Tennessee probably has that locked up and could improve with a solid win. Tennessee 27, Kentucky 10.

Buford: Kentucky has had a solid year that could be improved with a big win here. Ummmm, very unlikely. Kentucky can throw the football (#1 in passing in the SEC), but Tennessee has a solid defense that will limit what the Cats can do. Tennessee will struggle early and pull away late. Tennessee 31, Kentucky 14.


Georgia Tech at Georgia – Georgia favored by 1.5

Junior: Georgia, off their big win over Auburn, hosts what very well could be the ACC champions. Tech 41, Bulldogs 14.

Buford: I’m fighting the urge to forget that Tech is destined to be a 7-5 team. It is difficult. A better bet on this game would be the under. It is currently set at 43. That’s not too bad considering the defenses in this game. This is scary, but I like the Bulldogs. Georgia 14, Georgia Tech 10.


Florida at Florida State – Florida favored by 9.5

Junior: F$U is terrible. Good. I hate them because of the Bandit. Florida 42, Florida State 10.

Buford: Florida is a better team. Florida is on a roll. And don’t forget, Florida has Tim Tebow, aka God. Florida 38, Florida State 3.


Mississippi State at Mississippi – Mississippi favored by 3

Junior: Both teams have really shown signs of life the last few weeks. Ole Miss had LSU on the ropes and State beat Alabama. I just think that Ole Miss is a little better, plus they are at home. Rebels 21, Bulldogs 20.

Buford: This might be the best game of the weekend. A guess here, the Bulldogs will fight and fight hard, but yeah the Rebels are at home. Mississippi 21, Mississippi State 17.


South Carolina at Clemson – Clemson favored by 5

Junior: I know how much Spurrier enjoys beat a Bowden, I don’t think it happens this weekend. Clemson 24, South Carolina 13.

Buford: South Carolina has been right on the cusp several times this year. Call me crazy, but they get it done this time and start building for the SEC championship run next year. South Carolina 21, Clemson 18.


Louisiana State at Arkansas – Pick

Junior: I’m wondering if Arkansas is caught looking ahead to the SEC Championship and a possible shot at Ohio State. Tigers 31, Hogs 30.

Buford: Do I still doubt Arkansas? Stupidly, yes. Don’t get me wrong, I think they are good. But this is by far the most talented team they have played all year. I just like LSU’s ability to make this into a track meet. Louisiana State 38, Arkansas 27.

SEC Power Poll - Week #13

We probably should have had this up yesterday or the day before, but hey it’s Thanksgiving, cut us some slack. Last weekend taught us that Auburn is better than Alabama and not much more really. Only one piece of movement this week. The games this weekend will settle once and for all if LSU is truly better than Arkansas, if South Carolina can finally get over the hump and beat a good football team, if Georgia’s performance against Auburn was a trend or a fluke, and if Mississippi or Mississippi State is the worst team in the SEC. So, this week, little movement, but next week expect a lot of movement.

Power Poll – Week 13

1. Florida (10-1, 7-1) – Question. What does the win over Western Carolina prove? About the same as the win over Florida State will prove. Last Game: Beat Western Carolina 62-0, Up Next: at Florida State.
   
2. LSU (9-2, 5-2) – Well, that was about what I expected. Mississippi was playing better and clearly LSU overlooked them. Now, stop the run, force Arkansas to beat you throwing the football and turn this puppy into a track meet. Last Game: Beat Mississippi 23-20, Up Next: at Arkansas.
   
3. Arkansas (10-1, 7-0) – Normally, one might say that facing the pressure that comes with possibly winning the SEC and heading to the national title game would cause a team to fold. But, who would you rather have to diffuse the pressure for you team than Houston Nutt? Do you honestly think Arkansas is even remotely tight? Last Game: Beat Mississippi State 28-14, Up Next: Louisiana State.
   
4. Auburn (10-2, 6-2) – Six SEC wins with a team that never got a week off isn’t too shabby. However, the season should have resulted in a trip to Atlanta. That’s the standard in Auburn now. Last Game: Beat Alabama 22-15, Up Next: Bowl Game.
   
5. Tennessee (8-3, 4-3) – A win over Kentucky will shore up a solid season for Tennessee. I think this is what the people in Knoxville wanted all along. Last Game: Beat Vanderbilt 39-10, Up Next: Kentucky.
   
6. South Carolina (6-5, 3-5) – A beatdown of Clemson will but a nice shine on a disappointing season. Of course, to do this the Gamecocks will have to beat a solid team. Not a great team, just a solid team. And they will have to do it on the road. We shall see? Last Game: Beat Middle Tennessee State 52-17, Up Next: at Clemson.
   
7. Kentucky (7-4, 4-3) – So, the big question is who deserves a bowl game more, Alabama or Kentucky. My guess is both. Who gets the SEC’s bowl spot? Well, that is a different question. A good performance in Knoxville will go a long way to help Kentucky’s cause. Last Game: Beat Louisiana-Monroe 42-40, Up Next: at Tennessee.
   
8. Alabama (6-6, 2-6) – The central question in my mind is if the administration is truly talking to people about the head coaching job. If so, Mike
   Shula should just go ahead and resign. Does anyone really think he can save his job next season? It would take eight to nine wins. Is that possible? Look at the schedule, I don’t think it is. Last Game: Lost to Auburn 22-15, Up Next: Bowl Game.
   
9. Georgia (7-4, 4-4) – A strong performance against Calvin Johnson and company in Athens this weekend might move them up in the W.W.B.S. poll. I know Mark Richt and company are counting on that. Last Game: Bye, Up Next: Georgia Tech.
   
10. Vanderbilt (4-6, 1-7) – It kind of fell apart for Vanderbilt at the end of the season. That is what happens when you play 12 straight weeks. Of course, playing Florida, Kentucky, and Tennessee probably didn’t help. Last Game: Lost to Tennessee 39-10.
    
11. Mississippi State (3-8, 1-6) – Not a bad showing against Arkansas this past weekend. Honestly, winning the Egg Bowl won’t prove much. Except that the Bulldogs aren’t the worst team in the conference. Is the Croom experiment over? Probably not. One more year? Probably, but how do you measure improvement? A bowl game? A 0.500 season? That is the central question. Last Game: Lost to Arkansas 28-14, Up Next: at Mississippi.
    
12. Mississippi (3-8, 1-6) – The Rebels had a fairly decent game in Baton Rouge. Albeit against a team that was clearly overlooking them, but still. It was kind of disappointing the way that one ended. Will they have a little better luck this week? Last Game: Lost to Louisiana State 23-20, Up Next: Mississippi State.

NFL Cheerleader of the Week

This weeks cheerleader is from the world famous Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders...
As usual, the entire gallery can be seen here.

Junior feels Shula's pain

Copied from an Auburn message board, but I feel Shula's pain...

Bo Schembechler, 1929-2006

It's never easy when God calls home one of his children. Rest in peace Bo, the world of college football mourns.

He really is in The Big House now.

SEC Picks - Week #12

Bank it, Junior and I will not have the same record this week. For three straight weeks we have been pumping out identical records. This past week, we both were 5-0 straight up and 3-2 against the spread. While we are humming along at 53-9, for me, and 48-14, for Junior, straight up, the bookies are making money off of our 30-27-1 and 25-30-1 against the spread records. Not good. We don’t like owing bookies. We would be fine if it wasn’t for Junior.


Western Carolina at Florida – No Line

Junior: Florida takes out some BCS anger on the Catamounts. Florida 47, Western Carolina 6.

Buford: I guess my high school team wasn’t available this weekend. I shouldn’t laugh, Auburn is probably going to end up opening with the Catamounts next season. Florida 28, Western Carolina 21.


Middle Tennessee State at South Carolina – South Carolina favored by 15.5

Junior: Cocks get their sixth win and lock up the Peach Bowl. South Carolina 42, MTSU 14.

Buford: First game we disagree on this week. I like South Carolina to win, but they won’t cover. Middle Tennessee is a decent team, currently leading the Sun Belt. The Gamecocks haven’t made anything easy this year. South Carolina 28, MTSU 17.


Louisiana-Monroe at Kentucky – Kentucky favored by 19.5

Junior: The Cats are already bowl eligible and will attempt to improve their stock. If Alabama beats Auburn, Kentucky might be in the Independence Bowl. Otherwise, they head to the Music City Bowl. Cats 33, ULM 9.

Buford: Kentucky rolls. Kentucky 42, ULM 21.


Mississippi at Louisiana State – Louisiana State favored by 27.5

Junior: What will we see more of? LSU scoring TDs? Coach O screaming? Or Billy Cannon highlights? LSU 37, Ole Miss 14. Oh, Billy Cannon Punt Return Highlights 2.

Buford: I remember a few years ago when Eli Manning came into Baton Rouge and beat LSU. It was a magical night. It really was. Eli was great. Hmmm, haven’t picked an upset yet. Okay, why the hell not? Mississippi 21, Louisiana State 17.


Arkansas at Mississippi State – Arkansas favored by 14

Junior: The juggernaut that is Mississippi State football hosts the pathetic excuse for a team, the Razorbacks. Bow Wow, I say. State 3,142,857, Hogs 0. Croom pulls the starters out at halftime to rest them for the Egg Bowl (Assuming that Coach O even bothers to show up for that game). Honestly, the winner of the BCS title game is nothing short of a sham, unless the coaches admit that it’s nothing more than a runner-up to the Bulldogs.

For everyone, not named Travis – The Hogs are rolling. At this point, I think they are the class of the SEC and it’s a damn shame that if they win out, they are left out of the BCS title game just because they started out of the Top 25. Although I think State has improved (after all, they beat Alabama, and that is something I’m not sure Auburn can do), Arkansas is clearly the best team in the SEC. Arkansas 42, State 10.

Buford: Wow, Junior has a little pent up anger at Travis. Look man, he is just expressing his opinion that we are idiots. And, truthfully, we are. However, we didn’t go to State, so…… As for this game, Arkansas is rolling. But they have also started to get a little publicity. I actually like Mississippi State in this spot. At home against a team that will be looking ahead to the Tigers from Louisiana State and dreaming about playing in Tempe. I’m not saying that State wins, but they cover. Arkansas 28, State 17.


Auburn at Alabama – Auburn favored by 3

Junior: I can’t think of any reason why I should pick Auburn. We can’t play defense, our quarterback is injured, our wide receivers (except for Courtney Taylor) can’t get open. I should pick Alabama to kick the ever loving shit out of Auburn. The only thing I think of is that when his back is against the wall and everyone expects the Tigers to fold, Tubs pulls something out of his ass. Call this one wishful thinking. Auburn 27, Tide 13. BEAT BAMA!!!!! PUNT, BAMA, PUNT!!!!! ROUND THE BOWL, DOWN THE HOLE, ROLL TIDE ROLL!!!!

Buford: The saying goes that generally the better team wins the Iron Bowl. I just can’t figure out if Auburn is the better team. I think both teams have been average this year. Auburn has the better resume, but the game is in Tuscaloosa. Auburn probably has a slight edge in talent, but the matchups favor Alabama. Auburn has the edge in coaching, but do not discount the motivation that Alabama has after losing four straight and the associated “Fear the Thumb” nonsense. This game reminds me of the Georgia game a lot. A tough rivalry game against an opponent who is better than the record indicates. In the end, I like Auburn because I do think they are the better team. Plus, I think after a season of being incorrect on Auburn, the bookmakers finally got close. Auburn 31, Alabama 30.

SEC Power Poll - Week 12

Well, here is the poll. It has morphed into some terrible version of what we originally intended. Now we are just trying to keep the water from filling the boat because this thing has so many holes in it. Hey, that’s what actually playing the games will do for you. Oh and we certainly recognize that there are strong arguments (pro and con) for each of the positions. But, our poll, screw you.

Big rivalry weekend here at W.W.B.S., we are just hoping the good guys win and the bad guys lose. Outside of that little football game in Tuscaloosa, there isn’t much on the slate. Everyone else is tangling with a high school team or one of the Mississippi squads, which is kind of the same thing.

Power Poll – Week 12

1. Florida (9-1, 7-1) – Firmly into Atlanta. Now setting sights on how to stop Darren McFadden. Good luck. Last Game: Beat South Carolina 17-16, Up Next: Western Carolina.
   
2. LSU (8-2, 4-2) – Basically we are talking about a lost season for LSU. They are probably going to win out and be the Auburn of 2006, the team that the pundits claim is the best team in the conference at the end of the year. This, of course, assumes Arkansas wins the SEC title. And what does that get LSU? A trip to Dallas, a lot of media praise, and unrealistic expectations for 2007. Well, okay the last one probably isn’t true, but we will see. Last Game: Beat Alabama 28-14, Up Next: Mississippi.
   
3. Arkansas (9-1, 6-0) – They are literally running away with the SEC West division. All that remains is one more win. Beat Mississippi State and you are West Champs and heading to Atlanta. Last Game: Beat Tennessee 31-14, Up Next: at Mississippi State.
   
4. Auburn (9-2, 5-2) – Yes, we are biased and will be damning this position after a humiliation in Tuscaloosa this weekend, but when Auburn plays it’s best game it can beat anyone below it and most of the teams above it. When Auburn just shows up, well, they get creamed like last Saturday. Perhaps we should move them down considering they have only shown up for six quarters all year. Last Game: Lost to Georgia 37-15, Up Next: at Alabama.
   
5. Tennessee (7-3, 3-3) – It is always nice to have Vanderbilt and Kentucky to end the season. It ensures a good feeling heading out of the regular season. Wait? What? The Vols lost to Vandy last year? When did this happen? Where were we? Last Game: Lost to Arkansas 31-14, Up Next: at Vanderbilt.
   
6. South Carolina (5-5, 3-5) – With Middle Tennessee State on the docket this week, the Gamecocks lie in wait for what appears to be a vulnerable Clemson team (we can’t believe we just typed that sentence). The Gamecocks could be 8-2. Coulda, woulda, shoulda. Last Game: Lost to Florida 17-16, Up Next: Middle Tennessee State.
   
7. Alabama (6-5, 2-5) – Another team that seems to be hard luck losers. Or hard luck winners as they have struggled with teams they shouldn’t have had problems with. I know, big words coming from an Auburn alum. Last Game: Lost to Louisiana State 28-14, Up Next: Auburn.
   
8. Kentucky (6-4, 4-3) – Yeah baby we’re going bowling. SWEET!!!!! Just remember, a contract extension for Rich Brooks is a bad, bad, bad idea. Last Game: Beat Vanderbilt 38-26, Up Next: Louisiana-Monroe.
   
9. Georgia (7-4, 4-4) – The rumors of the demise were greatly overstated. Of course, it helps a lot when the opposing team's quarterback throws four balls right at your defensive backs. Oh, did we mention all four interceptions were thrown within Auburn’s 40 yard line? Yeah, let’s not start up the “Offense is back” parade in Athens quite yet. We will be very surprised if the Dawgs beat Georgia Tech. Hate? Bias? Damn straight. Would you expect anything less? Last Game: Beat Auburn 37-15, Up Next: Bye.
   
10. Vanderbilt (4-7, 1-6) – God Vanderbilt should have more to show for this season than a 4-7 record and home for the holidays. Yep, pretty much a win over Tennessee (making it an actually winning streak) would solve all those blue feelings. Last Game: Lost to Kentucky 38-26, Up Next: Tennessee.
    
11. Mississippi State (3-7, 0-5) – Barely squeaked out a win over Bye this past week. It was close. This prompted Coach Croom to pronounce that a true turning point has been achieved. I mean they are on a two game winning streak. Last Game: Bye, Up Next: Arkansas.
    
12. Mississippi (3-7, 1-5) – After squaring off with Mississippi State in the morning, Bye made a quick trip to Oxford for the doubleheader. This time, Bye was not as fortunate. It probably had something to do with fatigue because it certainly wasn’t due to the overwhelming force that is Ole Miss football. Last Game: Bye, Up Next: at Louisiana State.

Great Moments in Iron Bowl History

1996 - When leaving Legion Field, following a heartbreaking loss, Buford and Junior were accosted by several large woman wearing “Alabama Law” sweatshirts. Surrounded by a sea of Crimson and White, the leader of the whales showed her remarkable intellect by telling Buford and Junior that they “Sucked” and that they had just had their “asses whipped.” Buford, without missing a beat, politely pulled a Dean Wormer, and told her, “Miss, Fat, Drunk, and Stupid, is no way to go through life.”

Has three sisters that went to Alabama Law School.

NFL Cheerleader of the Week

This weeks Cheerleader comes from the Miami Dolphins.



As always, the entire shoot can be seen here.

Dear Santa.....

Anyone interested in some early Christmas shopping for Ol' Buford? Well, delete "Frank Shirley" and insert "Tommy Tuberville."

Sounds about right....

Hey Tempe, Guess Who's Coming For Dinner?

What was the worst part about #3 Louisville, #4 Texas, #5 Auburn, and #8 California losing last week? Well, we think there are two things.

#1 – The BCS will be saved. For the huffing and puffing over the last month about what if this, what if that, the damned thing is off life support and somewhat breathing on its own. While there is a little bit of trouble on the horizon if certain things don’t happen, the most pathetic, dipshit way of determining who is the best (or as we like to say prettiest) college football team is still alive.

#2 – We have to deal with this idiot again. We thought we were done with him.

That is enough to make us puke, but we should have known that he would show back up.

Zip-a-dee-doo-dah, Zip-a-dee-ay....

.... my oh my what a wonderful day. Plenty of sunshine headin' my way, zip-a-dee-doo-dah, zip-a-dee-ay.

We could rant on and on about why there was no sustained blitzing of a freshman quarterback on the road. We could ask why Brandon Cox was not sat down for at least one possession after he obviously had lost his cool and was not properly focusing on the correct things. We could even question why Tommy Tuberville’s teams struggle in games they are supposed to win.

However, we are taking a positive spin on things here at W.W.B.S. Keeping that frame of reference, here are ten things to be positive about after Saturday’s debacle.

1. No wasted money on hookers, blow, and booze in Tempe. Cause let’s face it, Tampa is nice, but it can’t touch Phoenix when it comes to partying.


2. Extra vacation days for 2007, since Auburn’s bowl game will be in December.



3. Talk of Tuberville leaving for Miami/Texas A&M/Whatsamatta U can be held off for another year.



4. No season ticket price increase this offseason.



5. Mike Shula is still Alabama’s coach.



6. Auburn is all set for 2007 – The Rebound Season.



7. At least this isn’t basketball, so our top three players aren’t going transfer due to issues with the coach. And on that note, Jeff Lebo must be a real asshole.



8. Can spend the holidays in relative ease and not worrying about putting “our one-loss record” at risk.



9. Only one more game that we have to spend watching idiots where bright orange pants and bow ties. Who said this looks good? Is this the new fraternity outfit now? What happened to a nice seersucker suit with some white bucks? Come on fellas, let’s show some class and go old school.



10. Repeat after me, Alabama sucks and if you have to pick one of the two to lose, be honest, it’s Georgia.

Okay, back to regularly scheduled programming.....Bitchin' and Whinin'. Which really is quite good.

SEC Picks - Week #11

My attempts at allowing Junior to catch up is getting nowhere. We both had identical 4-3 straight up and 3-3 against the spread records last week. I’m doing my best, but I can’t help it if the boy can’t make the right selections. The overall records run out to 48-9 straight up and 27-25-1 against the spread for yours truly and 43-14 straight up and 23-28-1 against the spread.

Let’s see if Junior can catch up this week. Probably not, but everyone has to dream don’t they?


Vanderbilt at Kentucky – Kentucky favored by 2.5

Junior: Kentucky is playing for a bowl game. I like the Cats at home. Cats 21, Vandy 10.

Buford: Of all the games this weekend, this looks to be the least interesting. That means it will be a 4 OT thriller. Because Kentucky is at home, they get the W and Rich Brooks moves towards a contract extension. Kentucky 27, Vanderbilt 24.


Alabama at Louisiana State – Louisiana State favored by 18

Junior: Umm....What can I say about Bama that hasn’t been said already. Mississippi State? Wow. Just…..wow. I have a feeling this is going to be ugly. Very ugly. Louisiana State 45, Alabama 10.

Buford: Alabama is backed into a corner. There is always reason to fear a team that has spent the week being told how bad they are. Particularly one that has talent, but has been held back by their coach. There is no reason that Alabama should even stay on the field with LSU. Which is exactly why they will win. Okay, let’s just say we are hoping from a karmic standpoint they win. We will put this out as the Let Junior Catch-up Game of the Week. Alabama 17, Louisiana State 15.


South Carolina at Florida – Florida favored by 13

Junior: The Ol’ Ball Coach returns to the Swamp in what should be a fun game. I think he has enough in his bag to keep it close. Florida 31, South Carolina 24.

Buford: A lot is being made about Spurrier’s return to The Swamp. And he will certainly have a good plan on offense. Unfortunately, the Gamecocks will be playing Florida’s defense. It would be a story if South Carolina beat the Gators two years in a row. However, you know Urban Meyer has had this game circled in the calendar for ohhhh about a year. Florida rolls, big time. Florida 28, South Carolina 10.


Tennessee at Arkansas – Arkansas favored by 5.5

Junior: This will be Arkansas’ first real test since stomping Auburn. I like Arkansas to win, but I think Tennessee will cover. Arkansas 24, Tennessee 20.

Buford: This game would be very competitive and probably dangerous for Arkansas with Erik Ainge playing. I don’t have that same level of confidence in Jonathan Crompton. Tennessee is the type of team that could beat Arkansas (see strong running, decent possession offense), but the Hogs are just too strong this year. Plus, Arkansas wants to make a statement. Arkansas 35, Tennessee 17.


Georgia at Auburn – Auburn favored by 13

Junior: I can’t believe the line in this game. Thirteen points? Look, UGA is done, but they aren’t that bad. If Auburn struggles against the line versus Arkansas State, why in the world would I take them to cover. Auburn 17, Georgia 13.

Buford: Considering that in 109 years of these two teams playing there is two points separating them, I’m just not feeling the 13 point spread. That is not talking down your team, that is just brutal reality staring you in the face. Oh and I HATE Georgia. Auburn 27, Georgia 21.

SEC Power Poll - Week #11

Last weekend proved to be a very normal weekend in SEC. Sure. There was a lot of what we thought there would be, close games and upsets. But really, does this change much in the SEC? We really don’t see Alabama losing more games than they win against Mississippi State. Ditto for Georgia. The real question is where we stand with regard to the top 4 or 5 teams. See below for our pros and cons on each team.

This weekend features something special. Every game looks to be competitive. That is mainly because the Mississippi teams are not playing, but we digress. Not every game will be good or competitive of course, but you have some compelling storylines for nearly every single game. Well, the picks will come later. Right now, it’s rankings time baby!!!!

Power Poll – Week 11

1. Florida (8-1, 6-1) – The Gators have defense and a lot of fortune going for them. That defense is stout, very stout. We are talking French body order stout. The weakness on the Gators seems to be offense, but really the offense has just sputtered since the second half of the Auburn game. Coincidently, that is when the Gators stopped benefiting from a short field. See Urban, a strong running game does help. Well, he knows that he just doesn’t have his guy running the football. Last Game: Beat Vanderbilt 25-19, Up Next: South Carolina.
   
2. LSU (7-2, 3-2) – The pros include a sexy offense that scores 40 on high school teams and a strong defense. The cons are no running game and thus no ability to control the clock and keep opponents’ offenses off the field. We doubt they would have beaten Tennessee with Erik Ainge on the field, but that is the reality right now, so that is what we are going with. Last Game: Beat Tennessee 28-24, Up Next: Alabama.
   
3. Arkansas (8-1, 5-0) – We like the Hogs a lot. In fact, we feel they are a strong team and Darren McFadden is an absolute beast. You pair the strong running game with probably one of the better defenses in the SEC (though not statistically) and you have a strong group with which to dominate opponents. What we don’t like about the Hogs is that they aren’t particularly strong at quarterback. That will lose games to strong defenses (unless said defense decides it doesn’t want to show up for an 11:30 kickoff in October, just saying Will Muschamp). Our question still remains, can the Hogs win from behind? Of course, they generally don’t have to do so. Last Game: Beat South Carolina 26-20, Up Next: Tennessee.
   
4. Auburn (9-1, 5-1) – The early season offense issues seem to have worked themselves out which bodes well for Auburn. We like pretty much every aspect of this team save one. The Tigers just don’t seem to have that moxie or gusto required of a true championship team. Yes, yes, you are saying forget 2004, this team wins. We would argue that the wins have been more a result of schedule. Flip Auburn’s road and home games and we are looking at a 8 or 9 win team instead of a 10 or 11 win team. Now, ask yourself the same question of the 2004 team. Auburn just doesn’t seem to leave it all out there and has not played a perfect game all year long. The pessimist in us sees this as indicative of a 1-1 finish and a solid, but not spectacular bowl performance. The optimist sees two straight wins against rivals and a BCS bowl game (after not having to play in the SEC championship). Last Game: Beat Arkansas State 27-0, Up Next: Georgia.
   
5. Tennessee (7-2, 3-2) – Robert Meachem is a big pro, so too is a stronger than expected defense that has kept on going despite the loss of so many lineman to graduation. The cons are injuries and a slow running game. This is the reason that Tennessee has dropped so much. Jonathan Crompton can’t beat any of the teams above the Vols. Last Game: Lost to Louisiana State 28-24, Up Next: at Arkansas.
   
6. South Carolina (5-4, 3-4) – The Gamecocks are improving, despite the loss to Arkansas, but continue to be an enigma. We like the defense a lot and we, of course, enjoy super stud Sydney Rice. We wonder what is going on with the offense from a consistency standpoint. Plus, like Steve says, the Gamecocks haven’t learned to win. Yet. Last Game: Lost to Arkansas 26-20, Up Next: at Florida.
   
7. Alabama (6-4, 2-4) – Due to the karma of a rivalry, we are big on Alabama despite the current evidence of less than dynamic offense and a surprising lack of focus on defense. We do like the defense and the offense has the potential to be very explosive. The downside of the Tide starts at the top. Mike Shula is clearly in over his head and plays to lose more than to win. He also doesn’t have faith in his team or himself and we don’t know too many successful coaches that fit that profile. Is Alabama overrated in our poll? Let’s just say there is some “irrational exuberance” for us. Whether the bubble pops remains to be seen. Last Game: Lost to Mississippi State 24-16, Up Next: at Louisiana State.
   
8. Vanderbilt (4-6, 1-5) – The strong points for Vanderbilt have been the quarterback play and the defense. We are pleasantly surprised by Chris Nickson. He has shown a lot of poise and really thrived while filling some rather huge shoes. What we don’t like is the overall level of talent in the program. Bobby Johnson has done an admirable job and will be patrolling the sidelines for another program soon (Alabama?), but he just doesn’t have the tools necessary. Last Game: Lost to Florida 25-19, Up Next: at Kentucky.
   
9. Kentucky (5-4, 3-3) – This is a nice team that we probably should have ranked a little higher. We like their effort and the offense is spectacular. Rafel Little and Andre Woodson are worth the price of admission. What we don’t like is a defense that is not particularly strong and the fact that Rich Brooks is still the coach. Probably the worst idea that Kentucky could get is to give Brooks a huge extension. Ask yourself what happens when Woodson and Little are gone next year. Last Game: Beat Georgia 24-21, Up Next: Vanderbilt.
   
10. Georgia (6-4, 3-4) – There is talent abound at Georgia, but not where it needs to be. After being a particularly strong team at the line positions, there has been a huge dropoff this year. Yes, Quentin Moses is a force to be reckoned with, but one man can only do so much. We have been very disappointed with the will of this team as well. The Bulldogs have flat out quit in the four games they lost this year. That is a huge issue for Mark Richt. Last Game: Lost to Kentucky 24-21, Up Next: at Auburn.
    
11. Mississippi State (3-7, 0-5) – A big pro is Michael Henig. How do you not root for Henig? The kid’s got guts and has had some kind of bad luck. We also like Coach Croom as a person, not as a football coach. The dislikes include no talent and no scheme that is worth anything. They showed up strong at Alabama, but we feel that might be the shooting star scenario, one final flameout before death. Maybe we are wrong though, maybe the Bulldogs have turned a corner. Last Game: Beat Alabama 24-16, Up Next: Bye.
    
12. Mississippi (3-7, 1-5) – What do we like about Mississippi? Not much. We like Coach O who brings his own unique self to the cult of personality that is SEC head coaches. Other than that this team plays sloppy and undisciplined. There doesn’t seem to be much rhyme or reason to either offensive or defensive scheme. Really, they are playing out the string. Last Game: Beat Northwestern State 27-7, Up Next: Bye.

NFL Cheerleader of the week

From the Tampa Bay Bucs, the NFL Cheerleader of the week...

As always, the entire shoot can be see here.

SEC Picks - Week #10

Another week, more excellence from your humble sheriff and his erstwhile deputy son. We both went 7-0 straight up and 4-2-1 against the spread last week. The overall records stand at 44-6 straight up and 24-22-1 against the spread for Buford. While Junior sits at 39-11 straight up and 20-25-1 when battling the line. Yes, he still sucks.

Let’s just go ahead and call this weekend what it is, Upset Saturday in the SEC. There are four home underdogs this weekend. It is a good weekend to be Auburn and Alabama. They are the only two home favorites.


Northwestern State at Mississippi – No Line

Junior: The O takes out some frustration as Ole Miss wins easily. Rebels 41, Northwestern State 14.

Buford: The Rebels are going to win. By a safety, on the last play of the game. Mississippi 2, Northwestern State 0.


Florida at Vanderbilt – Florida favored by 14.5

Junior: Florida has had a bad habit of playing down to the level of their competition (but not like Auburn or Bama), so I'll take Vandy to cover. Gators 35, Vandy 24

Buford: I’m very close to calling for the upset here. And yes, I mean the straight up upset. However, Florida is too good defensively to let a game get away from them before they can pull it out. Florida 24, Vanderbilt 13.

Mississippi State at Alabama – Alabama favored by 14.5

Junior: I'm so torn where to pick this one, I know Bama will win, it's the classic "keep the other team hanging around until the 4th quarter, and then return a pick for a TD to ice it" type game that Bama has trademarked over the past 20 years or so. I just can't pull the trigger on MSU covering, for some reason. Bama 21, MSU 3.

Buford: Alabama hardly ever struggles with Mississippi State. They usually win going away and then the entire fanbase starts claiming another national title. Alabama 28, Mississippi State 7.


Georgia at Kentucky – Georgia favored by 6.5

Junior: I really think that playing well against UF last weekend will help UGA out these last couple of weeks. Sure, their QB is young, but UGA has loads of talent. I think UGA wins, but it's close. Dawgs 23, Cats 17

Buford: The Bulldogs are destined to get to a bowl game given the hot start to the season. The Cats can make one by finishing hot. Ladies and gentlemen, this is your battle for the bowl lineup. The winner goes to Nashville, the loser to Shreveport. I like Kentucky in this one simply because the game is in Lexington. Kentucky 17, Georgia 14.

Arkansas at South Carolina – Arkansas favored by 2

Junior: Obviously, in the Justice household, we're going to be big Cocks fans this week. I'm just not sure the Ole Ball Coach's defense can stop the Hogs running game. Hogs 28, Cocks 24.

Buford: I’m interested to see how Arkansas responds to this game. Beside the fact that they beat Auburn, I like Arkansas. They play the game with crispness and I feel they are getting somewhat of a bump rap because of the loss to USC. They can certainly play and are a better team than South Carolina. However, as the senile old man on Gameday says, “Not so fast my friend.” Spurrier will find a way to beat the Hogs’ defense. The big question is can South Carolina’s defense standup and stop McFadden and Jones. South Carolina 28, Arkansas 24.


Louisiana State at Tennessee – Louisiana State favored by 3

Junior: At the beginning of the year, this looked like it could have been a preview of the SEC Championship game. Given LSU's ability to blow big games, I'm taking UT. Vols 21, Tigers 20.

Buford: I want the Tigers to win. I really do. I need the Tigers to win. Plus, I know it’s a revenge game. I know LSU was pissed about Tennessee’s come from behind win in Baton Rouge last year. I just can’t do it. I can’t take LSU on the road, with Russell, and THE HAT. History is very important. Hopefully they will prove me wrong. Tennessee 14, LSU 10.


Arkansas State at Auburn – Auburn favored by 31

Junior: This better be the blowout we've been waiting for all season long. Tigers 51, Ark St 7.

Buford: Why oh why would I pick Auburn to cover? Besides, Junior has to catch up somehow. Tigers 35, Arkansas State 17.

NFL Cheerleader of the Week

I wish the Bandit had run to Denver, so Daddy and I could have seen the Denver Broncos Cheerleaders.

As always, the entire gallery can be seen here.

SEC Power Poll - Week 10

The real world has stepped in and given us a big ol’ slap in the head this week. Plus, the whole time difference is not helping. Oh well, you know what they say, excuses are like…….

If you tuned in expecting to see changes, you will be sorely disappointed. We have a saying that there can only be one upset in the SEC per weekend. This weekend sanity reigned in the SEC. This spells doom for the favorites this weekend.

Big games this weekend include the Rumble by the River (LSU at Tennessee) and…..and…..Mississippi State at Alabama? Nope. Florida at Vanderbilt? Nope. Arkansas at South Carolina?

Power Poll – Week 10

1. Florida (7-1, 5-1) – Everyone in Gator land is worried sick about the offense. I don’t see why, the defense is what is winning games. Last I checked, the defense is still chugging along. Last Game: Beat Georgia 21-14, Up Next: at Vanderbilt.
   
2. Tennessee (7-1, 3-1) – It’s real simple Tennessee, stop the run and make Russell throw to win the football game. Sounds crazy I know, but that is the strategy. Last Game: Beat South Carolina 31-24, Up Next: Louisiana State.
   
3. LSU (6-2, 2-2) – Okay, very simple. Repeat after me, Run the football with authority. You must establish the running game. Jamarcus scares the crap out of everyone with a good running game. Otherwise, he a statue that can through the ball 80 yards, but will make decisions that kill you. Last Game: Bye, Up Next: at Tennessee.
   
4. Arkansas (7-1, 4-0) – I’m sure in Arkansas they are going crazy as why this team isn’t getting more publicity. Hey, #1, you live in Arkansas and #2, if the Hogs had actually beat another team besides Auburn maybe they would. Now, the Hogs get their chances in the next month. If they finish 11-1, they will get my endorsement. Last Game: Beat UL-Monroe 44-10, Up Next: at South Carolina.
   
5. Auburn (8-1, 5-1) – Another week, another win. Since we are Auburn fans, we tend to fluctuate somewhere between unrestrained joy at being 8-1 and ranked in the top ten to wondering when the other shoe will drop. This week allows some introspective. Consider the three year run that Auburn is on? Yep, it is a thing of beauty. Last Game: Beat Mississippi 17-13, Up Next: Arkansas State.
   
6. Alabama (6-3, 2-3) – Struggling with Florida International a week after they suspended 18 players due to the Brawl in the Orange Bowl? This is Alabama Football. Last Game: Beat Florida International 38-3, Up Next: Mississippi State.
   
7. South Carolina (5-3, 3-3) – We would like to say that South Carolina is showing improvement, but we see more of just leveling. We don’t see the explosiveness that Spurrier is known for. In fact, we see a team winning with a good defense. Holy Crap!!! Lloyd Carr has infected Steve Spurrier. Last Game: Lost to Tennessee 31-24, Up Next: Arkansas.
   
8. Vanderbilt (4-5, 1-4) – Okay Bobby Johnson, you win two of the next three to get Vandy to a bowl game and you will be coach of the year. Last Game: Beat Duke 45-28, Up Next: Florida.
   
9. Georgia (6-3, 3-3) – The Dawgs did everything they could to give the game away in Jacksonville. Have they packed it in for the season yet? Guess we find out this week. Kentucky can beat Georgia. We aren’t going to say it will happen just yet, but Georgia better be ready. Last Game: Lost to Florida 21-14, Up Next: at Kentucky.
   
10. Kentucky (4-4, 2-3) – A nice strong effort against Mississippi State. Tough game this weekend against Georgia, but 2-2 over the next four games gets you to Nashville or Shreveport. That would be excellent. Last Game: Beat Mississippi State 34-31, Up Next: Georgia.
    
11. Mississippi (2-7, 1-5) – A perfect game would have beat Auburn on Saturday. Oh well. There is still the Egg Bowl. Last Game: Lost to Auburn 23-17, Up Next: Northwestern State.
    
12. Mississippi State (2-7, 0-5) – Will the Bulldogs get a win in the SEC this year? They have been so close, but just can’t turn that corner. Last Game: Lost to Kentucky 34-31, Up Next: at Alabama.