Picks Trying Not to Suck: Week 15
BH has locked up this year's yuletide chocolate martini, but that won't stop us from coming at you with one last week of picks.
It's been emotional.
Blatant Homerism--Week 15
(Last week: 2-3; Overall: 40-29-1)
Kansas State (+7.5) at Baylor
If you take a look back at last season's meeting between these two, Bill Snyder seems to have a decent handle on how to frustrate Baylor. (No shock there.) I have my doubts about the mentality of a team that is playing for style points going up against a patient squad like KSU.
The pick: Even in Waco, I view the Wildcats as a live dog.
Georgia Tech vs. Florida State (-4)
*Charlotte
What would the spread by in this game if last week against Georgia the Yellow Jackets didn't hit a 53-yard field goal as time expired and did get bit in the ass by a missed extra point in overtime? FSU has been getting the fade treatment all season, and deservedly so. This number, however, is just too low for a team that is in a must-win scenario.
The pick: Seminoles, 34-21.
Arizona vs. Oregon (-14.5)
Santa Clara, Calif.
The Wildcats and Rich Rodriguez's renaissance make for a nice story, but they're walking into a buzz saw on Friday night at Levi's Stadium. Oregon has covered in seven straight games since losing to 'Zona back in October, and the Ducks will want revenge versus a team that has beaten them two times in a row. I'm sure Mark Helfrich will go all "one inch" and his squad before the game.
The pick: Let's call it 48-21 in favor of the Ducks.
Wisconsin vs. Ohio State (+4)
*Indianapolis
I'm well aware of the Buckeyes' quarterback situation. I still can't pass up a chance to play OSU getting points in this spot.
The pick: The Ohio State University straight up.
Oklahoma State at Oklahoma (-21)
Initially, I thought this line was way too steep. As I've looked closer, though, I get the impression that OU might roll. The Cowboys come off as a shell of Mike Gundy's recent squads, especially in terms of the skill positions. The Sooners should have a few exotic looks that will confuse OSU's likely starter behind center, freshman Mason Rudolph. Also, look for Bob Stoops to try to get Cody Thomas some confidence throwing the ball against the Pokes' lackluster secondary.
The pick: A big win in Bedlam would salvage something in a disappointing year in Norman.
The Skinny--Week 15
(Last week: 2-3; Overall: 33-36-1)
Arizona vs. Oregon (-14.5)
Georgia Tech (+4) vs. Florida State
Fresno state (+22.5) at Boise State
Houston (+7) at Cincinnati
SMU at UConn (-11.5)