:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47702055/usa-today-8797027.0.jpg)
:format(webp):no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/assets/1625363/Big_E_CFB_Picks_banner__font.jpg)
Our very own pburns2010 led the way last week with 16 wins!
Our overall leader remains dudeacow with a 135-85 record. That's a 3-game lead--kind of comfortable with a couple weeks left to go.
Big E: 11-12 (116-104, 32nd place)
I started out 6-0 last week and finished a cool 5-12. Way to go, me.
Now for this week's top picks...
No. 17 North Carolina (-6.5) at Virginia Tech
Pick: Virginia Tech
Warning! Warning! Warning! This has upset written all over it. That the spread is under a touchdown is a good indicator that the Tar Heels better watch their backs this weekend. Noon start, too. Beamer's going to finish this season in glorious fashion. Watch a pick six win this game for the Hokies.
No. 9 Michigan State (+13) at No. 3 Ohio State
Pick: Ohio State
This line is a little high for my liking but I just can't shake how Michigan State looked last week. That was the early game last week I spent the most time watching (why, I do not know) and the Spartans offense looks downright putrid. Plus, there's no way Connor Cook is healthy. It's time for Ohio State to step up their game and begin their title defense for real. I think this could be a 31-10 type of victory.
No. 24 USC (+4.5) at No. 23 Oregon
Pick: Oregon
Are the Ducks back? The Ducks we've come to know over the years? The offense certainly seems like it's humming on full blast again. Moreover, the Trojans suffered a couple big injuries on defense last week. We really need USC to win this game but Oregon probably has too much offense for the Trojans. Let's say 38-28 for the Ducks.
No. 10 Baylor (PK) at No. 6 Oklahoma State
Pick: Oklahoma State
My heart wants the Bears because of the implications for Notre Dame. But the status of Baylor quarterback Jarrett Stidham is uncertain due to his back injury. Which means they could be trotting out their 3rd string QB who hasn't taken a snap this year. The guy who got beat out by a true freshman, and yes Stidham is crazy talented but still. Who knows maybe he plays anyway but I'll take the Cowboys in a pick 'em situation. I mean come on.
No. 18 TCU (OFF) at No. 7 Oklahoma
Pick: Oklahoma
Free win for everybody! This one stayed off the board this week due to the uncertain status of TCU quarterback Trevon Boykin who may or may not play. Most are expecting the Sooners to romp in this one and I'll join in on that chorus. The Frogs need to hold it down or else they'll have a Notre Dame 2014-like fall to end the season.