SEC College Football Preview: Can Ole Miss Beat No. 10 Arkansas?

The 2011 college football season has not been kind to Houston Nutt. The Rebels are 2-4 overall and 0-3 in the Southeast Conference with three ranked teams left to play on their schedule and the annual Egg Bowl showdown.

Coming off a lopsided 52-7 loss to second ranked Alabama, Ole Miss must host tenth ranked Arkansas this weekend. Can Mississippi beat the Razorbacks?

Through all of the difficulty Houston Nutt and his team have endured during the 2011 season they still have a chance to beat Arkansas because Nutt likes coaching against the Razorbacks, there is talent on campus, and a win against the tenth ranked team in the country could salvage their season.

Ole Miss has had their share of suspensions, injuries, and shuffling of quarterbacks causing the offense to lack continuity. More importantly they have lacked production. The Rebels rank 117th in the nation in total offense out of 120 FBS teams by averaging 251.83 yards per game.

Senior running back Brandon Bolden has underperformed due to injuries and playing behind an offensive line that has not been the force Mississippi fans expected beginning the season. Bolden has rushed 23 times for 105 yards on the season after posting 976 total rushing yards in 2010 with an average of 6.0 yards per carry.

The rushing duties have been left to sophomore scat back Jeff Scott. Scott leads the team in rushing yards compiling 361 yards with six touchdowns.

Entering the Arkansas game the Rebel rushing attack is eleventh in the SEC with 606 total yards in six games; barely averaging 100 rushing yards per game.

Barry Bruneti, Zack Stoudt, nor Randall Mackey has been productive under center for Mississippi. Ole Miss is 10th in the SEC in total passing yards with 905 total yards. The combined four passing touchdowns ranks last in the SEC. Their touchdown to interception ratio is 1-2 having thrown eight interceptions this season.

The Alabama game proved to be more than a loss on the scoreboard for Ole Miss. Two of their players, senior defensive end Wayne Dorsey and senior corner back Marcus Temple, were lost to season-ending injuries. Temple fractured his ankle during the first half and Dorsey broke his arm in the fourth quarter. Both players were team captains for the Rebels.

Safety Charles Sawyer left the game with a back injury against Alabama and did not return to the game. He is not expected to miss game time and could see action at a corner position against Arkansas on Saturday.

To make matters more difficult for the already short-handed Ole Miss squad, they cut ties with troubled junior wide receiver Melvin Harris on Monday. The dismissal comes a couple of days after Nutt suspended running back Brandon Bolden, wide receiver Philander Moore, center A.J. Hawkins, and guard Alex Washington for violation of team rules for the Alabama game.

Reasons for Ole Miss fans to believe

During Nutt’s 10 years as head coach at Arkansas his must win game was beating his old college coach and mentor Lou Holtz when Holtz was the head coach at South Carolina. Nutt was 7-3 against the Gamecocks while at Arkansas. Now his must win game is beating the Razorbacks, a team he currently holds a 2-1 record against.

Nutt has proven to be a great motivator throughout his coaching career. He routinely wins games when his team is not favored to win. Most famously in 2007 when Arkansas beat top ranked LSU in three overtimes 50-48. With Ole Miss, Nutt’s unranked 2008 team beat the eventual national champion Florida Gators in the Swamp 31-30.

In 2008 Nutt knew the strengths and weaknesses of his former players and used that knowledge to his advantage. Struggling with a 2-4 overall record, much like this season, he took the Rebels into Fayetteville and won 23-21. The win ignited Ole Miss eventually leading to a 9-4 season culminating with a Cotton Bowl victory.

In 2009 Nutt waited until the seventh game of the season to unleash running back Dexter McCluster against the Hogs. McCluster finished the game with career-highs in rushing yards with 123 and receiving yards with 137 with one touchdown.

During the game the rested McCluster appeared to be a step ahead of everyone else on the field as he was rarely used before the Razorback matchup.

Former Mississippi quarterback Jevan Snead also set a career high in passing yards against the Razorbacks with 332 in 2009.

The game was not without controversy when the officiating crew was suspended after several bad calls that went against the Razorbacks.

In 2010 Bobby Petrino held the wild card with running back Knile Davis. Davis slowly asserted himself as the Razorback’s leading rusher three games prior to the Arkansas versus Ole Miss showdown. Davis finished the game with the first 100-yard rushing game of the 2010 season for the Razorbacks. He rushed for 176-yards and three touchdowns.

Which Ole Miss players could be the breakout player against the Hogs this season?

The Rebels have had three consecutive recruiting classes ranked in the top 20 per Rivals.com. The 2008 class was a ranked a respectable 29th. The talent is there to play against the Razorbacks.

True freshman Nickolas Brassell (Batesville, Mississippi) could make a difference for the Rebels. Nickolas played a reported 30 snaps on offense and 30 on defense for Ole Miss against Bama. He finished the game with four catches for 104 yards and five tackles.

Another true freshman, Tobias Singleton (Madison, Mississippi), is starting to make a name for himself as a kick returner. Against the Tide he had five returns for 131-total return yards.

Watch out for the four previously suspended Rebel players; Bolden, Moore, Hawkins, and Washington. The timing of their suspensions could not have been better for those players.

Nutt’s decision to rest or suspend key players before a personal game against Arkansas is not out of the realm of questioning.

Key in-game matchups

Ole Miss running attack versus Arkansas run defense

Look for Ole Miss to run their version of the Wildcat offense, the Wild Rebel, early and often. Arkansas will have to limit big play opportunities on the corners.

The Hogs gave true freshman Tevin Mitchell (Mansfield, Texas) his first start at corner against Auburn. Greg Gatson got his second career start at corner against Auburn.

Mitchell was out of position against Auburn that led to a 55-yard Michael Dyer touchdown run. Ole Miss will look to exploit their inexperience if possible.

The Razorback defense could benefit from the bye week with the return of starting cornerbacks Isaac Madison, Darius Winston, and defensive lineman Robert Thomas from injuries. Arkansas defensive coordinator Willy Robinson may rest his banged up players if the game dictates that scenario.

The Razorback rushing attack versus the Rebels rush defense

Look for the Hogs to establish a running game against Ole Miss to set up their play action passing attack. Since the second quarter of the Arkansas versus Texas A&M game the Hogs have ran the ball effectively. Against Auburn they ran for 171 yards.

Bobby Petrino’s running game came to life this time last year. If the Hogs can find balance between their established passing game and their budding running game, they will be tough to beat for the rest of the season.

Arkansas wide receiver Joe Adams could receive a couple more carries against the Rebels. Adams broke a 92-yard touchdown run against Auburn. His speed and ability in the open field gives the Razorbacks an added dimension to their running game.

Inside the Numbers

Arkansas offense: 39.17 points per game, 17th in the nation

Ole Miss offense: 20 points per game, 103rd in the nation

Arkansas total offense: 466.17 yards per game, 23rd in the nation

Ole Miss total offense: 251.83 yards per game, 117th in the nation

Arkansas scoring defense: 21.33 points per game, 34th in the nation

Ole Miss scoring defense: 29.17, 80th in the nation

Arkansas total defense: 389.50 per game, 64th in the nation

Ole Miss total defense: 442.83 per game, 106th in the nation

Arkansas rush defense: 188.67 yards per game, 95th in the nation

Ole Miss rush defense: 225.67 rushing yards per game, 115th in the nation

Arkansas pass defense: 200.83 yards per game, 33rd in the nation

Ole Miss pass defense: 217.17 yards per game, 56th in the nation

3rd down conversion defense

Arkansas: 34.41 percent, 37th best in the nation

Ole Miss: 46.34 percent, 101st worst in the nation

Analysis

Houston Nutt will throw everything at Arkansas including the kitchen sink to try and win this game. Nutt’s back is up against the wall and a victory over Arkansas could take some heat off of his seat and change the season around in Oxford as it did in 2008.

Ole Miss offensive coordinator David Lee will have a couple of trick plays or misdirection plays for the Hogs.

Nutt will have his team fired up for this game.

Ole Miss came out of the gate against Bama scoring first. The 72-yard drive was highlighted by a 59-yard pass from Mackey to Brassell with Jeff Scott scoring on a one-yard run. Six possessions against the Tide were three-and-out or less.

The Rebels did not have sustaining drives until the second half when the Tide had removed their starting units.

Arkansas better be ready to stop the Wildcat. The Hogs defense saw Auburn’s version of the Wildcat before their bye. Can they stop the Rebels’ version?

Ole Miss is short handed on defense with two starters out and a weak pass defense. The Rebels will have to improve upon their 10 total sacks on the season to keep Arkansas quarterback Tyler Wilson out of rhythm if possible.

Arkansas has been short handed with injuries. Coming off a bye week with no ranked opponent looming overhead, the Razorbacks will be fresh and ready for Ole Miss. No trap game for the Hogs.

The Hogs will rely on the pass to help the running game and put pressure on Ole Miss as needed. The Hogs lead the SEC in passing yards and are ranked 8th in the nation in passing offense with 2,021 total yards.

Ole Miss packed the stadium last week with 61,792 in attendance when Alabama came to town. That was the fourth-largest crowd at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium for an Ole Miss football game.

By proximity, Oxford is the closest SEC school to Fayetteville. The Razorback nation travels well. Look for another sell-out crowd this weekend.

All-Time Series History

Arkansas 31 wins, Ole Miss 25, 1 Tie.

Last Meeting: October 23, 2010

Arkansas 38, Ole Miss 24

Outcome

Ole Miss will try to make it interesting with their rushing option attack. Arkansas has been susceptible to trick plays.

Ole Miss will keep it close initially but the Razorback passing attack will be too much for the Rebels.

The Rebels will score one special teams touchdown on a return.

Petrino has been embarrassed twice by Nutt in 2008 and 2009. Don’t look for it to happen again with a top ten ranking on the line, a possible share of the SEC West title, and a possible BCS bowl berth at stake.

The only thing that keeps the score close is if Petrino chooses to abandon the pass in the second half to further develop the running game as he did against Auburn.

Final Score

Petrino proves a point as Arkansas wins 52-23.  

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College Football: Coaches and Coordinators on the Hot Seat

Every football season begins with hope and promise for college football fans nation wide. Fans count their teams returning starters, ponder the ability of incoming recruits, look over this season’s schedule, and talk about how the off-season workouts went for their players.

Fall practices flames the passion of fans a little more and then game day comes. For most fans reality hits somewhere between the first and second quarter. A lucky fan does not see the reality of their season until a couple of weeks into the season, but once reality sets in regardless of who you cheer for, the same words will be spoken, “We are not a good team again this year”.

Who or what’s to blame for your team’s bad start? Was the schedule too hard? Did the team incur too many injuries? Or is your favorite college team just not that good? Regardless of what the problem may be, the ultimate responsibility lies on the head coach and his staff.

Here’s a list of head coaches and coordinators that are in trouble four weeks into the 2011 season.

Houston Nutt, Head Coach, Ole Miss

David Lee, Offensive Coordinator, Ole Miss

Many pundits saw this one coming. Nutt had back-to-back 9-4 seasons in 2008 and 2009 including back to back Cotton Bowl victories. Then he had a 4-8 2010 season with a 1-7 SEC record. After a last second loss to BYU at home and an embarrassing loss to Vanderbilt and Georgia, Nutt is in deep trouble before the 2011 season really gets going.

This is Houston Nutt’s fourth year on campus at Ole Miss. Typically a head coach wants four years to get “his” own players on the team so those player fit the schemes he wants. There’s no blaming Ed Orgeron for leaving the Rebels without talent, his last recruiting class in 2007 was ranked 27th in the nation. This is Houston’s team with solid talent available.

Nutt brought in David Lee from the Miami Dolphins to direct his offense in hopes of generating the same offense they had together at Arkansas with Darren McFadden, Felix Jones, and Peyton Hillis. Only problem is McFadden, Jones, and Hillis are NFL Pro Bowl quality running backs. Does Nutt have that type of talent in Oxford?

Ole Miss Recruiting:

In 2008 Mississippi finished recruiting ranked 29th in the nation.

In 2009 Mississippi finished recruiting ranked 18th in the nation.

In 2010 Mississippi finished recruiting ranked 18th in the nation.

In 2011 Mississippi finished recruiting ranked 19th in the nation.

Ole Miss offensive ranking in 2011(out of 120 FBS teams) after week four:

Total offense: Ranked 118th

Scoring Offense: Ranked 103rd, 18.75 points per game

Rushing Offense: Ranked 102nd, 90.5 rushing yards per game

Rushing Offense: Averages 2.85 rushing yards per attempt

Passing Offense: Ranked 113th, 144.5 passing yards per game

Passing Offense: 54 completions, 7 interceptions, 3 passing touchdowns

What excuses can Nutt and Lee provide for their poor offensive showing? None. Should the Rebels return from Fresno State with another loss look for the alumni and boosters to start gathering buy out money sooner than later.

Vic Sealy, Defensive Coordinator, Kansas Jayhawks

Yes Turner Gil has only been the head coach at Kansas since 2010 and the Jayhawks are off to a 2-1 start, but his 5-10 coaching record has to be of concern for fans and alumni. There is some talent left on campus from former head coach Mark Mangino’s days and Turner turned in a solid 2011 class.

Kansas Recruiting:

In 2008 Kansas finished recruiting ranked 40th in the nation.

In 2009 Kansas finished recruiting ranked 31st in the nation.

In 2010 Kansas did not finish ranked in the top 50 in recruiting rankings.

In 2011 Kansas finished recruiting ranked 36th in the nation.

What’s the problem in Lawrence? Vic Sealy’s defense is a major problem. The Jayhawks have given up 24 or more points in all three games this season; McNeese State 24, Northern Illinois 42, Georgia Tech 66.

Kansas has given up 18 touchdowns and only held teams to two field goals.

Total Defense: Ranked 120th (last) in the nation, 550 yards per game.

Scoring Defense: Ranked 120th (last) in the nation, 44 points per game.

Rushing Defense: Ranked 120th (last in the nation, 282 yards per game.

Passing Defense: Ranked 102nd in the nation, 268 yards per game.

Rick Neuheisel, Head Coach, UCLA

Rick Neuheisel has no one to blame but himself in 2011. Neuheisel fired five assistant coaches from last year’s staff and made himself the play caller for 2011. He installed the Pistol Offense in 2010 with mixed results. The Bruin offense finished 2010 ranked 32nd in rushing offense but finished 116th in passing offense for a total of 100th best or worst offense in the nation.

UCLA has underperformed with the talented recruits they have on campus. There’s no reason or excuse for not having a top 20 recruiting class every year and seeing that ranking translate to wins on the field. Last year’s 45th ranked recruiting class should have the Bruin faithful concerned along with a seven win 2009 and a four win 2010.

UCLA Recruiting:

In 2008 UCLA finished recruiting ranked 13th in the nation.

In 2009 UCLA finished recruiting ranked 14th in the nation.

In 2010 UCLA finished recruiting ranked 8th in the nation.

In 2011 UCLA finished recruiting ranked 45th in the nation.

How has Neuheisel’s 2-2 team performed statistically?

Total Offense: Ranked 59th in the nation, 411.25 yards per game.

Scoring Offense: Ranked 74th in the nation, 27 points per game.

Scoring Defense: Ranked 91st in the nation, 20.75 points per game.

Rushing Defense: Ranked 93rd in the nation, 183.25 yards per game.

Passing Defense: Ranked 72nd in the nation, 229 yards per game.

Total Defense: Ranked 98th in the nation, 412.25 yards per game.

Little offense and no defense should make for another long season in Westwood especially in the offensively minded PAC-12.

Frank Spaziani, Head Coach, Boston College

Frank Spaziani has only been the head coach at Boston College for three years but his 17-14 record is worrisome. His 1-3 2011 record is frightening for Eagle fans.

BC has lost to Northwestern (24-17) at home, University of Central Florida (30-3) on the road, and Duke (20-19) at home. Their lone win is against a Football Championship Subdivision school, Massachusetts (45-17).  

Spaziani did not walk into the Boston College head coaches’ position without knowing the team and the system ahead of time. Spaziani was on the BC coaching staff for 12 years as a running back’s coach and defensive coordinator before becoming their head coach in 2009.

Each year the Eagles’ record has slowly dipped under Spaziani; 8-5 in 2009, 7-6 in 2010, and 1-3 to date in 2011. Spaziani has taken the Eagles to back-to-back bowl games but lost both games in those lesser bowls; Emerald Bowl and Fight Hunger Bowl.

What’s the problem in Chestnut Hill? Recruiting could be better… a lot better. The last time BC finished in the top 25 in recruiting was in 2004 at 24th in the nation.

Boston College Recruiting:

In 2008 Boston College finished recruiting ranked 33rd in the nation.

In 2009 Boston College did not finish ranked in the top 50 in recruiting.

In 2010 Boston College finished recruiting ranked 47th in the nation.

In 2011 Boston College finished recruiting ranked 38th in the nation.

BC has not played the toughest part of their schedule and they have under performed against lesser quality teams thus far. The Eagles still have to play at Clemson, at Virginia Tech, versus Florida State, at Notre Dame, and at Miami.

Total Offense: Ranked 99th in the nation, 328 yards per game.

Scoring Offense: Ranked 99th in the nation, 21 points per game.

Total Defense: Ranked 92nd, 406 yards per game.

Scoring Defense: Ranked 50th in the nation, 22.75 points per game.

Ted Roof, Defensive Coordinator, Auburn University

How can a defensive coordinator coming off a BCS National Championship win be on the hot seat? Having the 60th ranked defense in 2010 and the 110th ranked defense in 2011 is a start. This has to drive Auburn head coach Gene Chizik crazy as he is known as a defensive coach; Auburn 2002-2004, Texas 2005-2006.

Auburn has as much talent on campus as any other team in the nation. (Auburn fans will argue this point to their advantage or to their defense one way or another.) They lost eight defensive starters to graduation, the NFL, and/or armed robbery (Mike McNeil). Roof did not substitute for linebackers Josh Bynes or Craig Stevens much last year, so they do have a lack of experience this season at those positions.

Regardless those are all excuses with the recruiting classes they have hauled onto campus (25 four-star recruits and 4 five-star recruits since 2009). If Auburn was shutting everyone down they would point to how great they have recruited over the past three years.

Auburn Recruiting:

In 2008 Auburn finished recruiting ranked 20th in the nation.

In 2009 Auburn finished recruiting ranked 19th in the nation.

In 2010 Auburn finished recruiting ranked 4th in the nation.

In 2011 Auburn finished recruiting ranked 7th in the nation.

Auburn has given up 15 red zone scores out of 17 red zone drives for 90 total points allowed in 2011.

Scoring Defense: Ranked 92nd in the nation, 31 points per game.

Total Defense: Auburn is giving up 477.50 yards of offense per game.

Rushing Defense: Ranked 112th in the nation, allowing 226.50 rushing yards per game.

Passing Defense: Ranked 90th in the nation, allowing 251 yards per game.

Gus Malzahn needs Roof to come up with quality stops to take some of the pressure off of Auburn’s offense. When a two-touchdown lead becomes a two-touchdown loss, who do you blame?

Other head coaches on the hot seat:

University of Memphis, Larry Porter: a 1-10 2010 season and zero wins to start the 2011 season will not help Porter keep his job. The Tigers scoring offense is ranked 117th in the nation only scoring 11 points per game.

University of Georgia, Mark Richt: 2-2 record in 2011. Richt has not advanced to SEC Title game since 2005. Bulldog fans expect more.

University of Illinois, Ron Zook: a 4-0 start and a win against ranked ASU helps start the season out well, but if things go south Fighting Illini fans will remember the 7-6 2010 record quickly.

Arizona State University, Dennis Erickson: ASU has not gone bowling 2007. If ASU stumbles through the season, the Sun Devils will look to replace him.

Ohio State University, Luke Fickell head coach. Fickell could be replaced by elite coach before the bowl season is over.

Washington State University, Paul Wulff: Three year record entering this season was 5-32 (2 wins, 1 win, 2 wins). A 3-1 start has Cougar fans excited but WSU has yet to reach the meat and potatoes part of their schedule. A bowl appearance would take him off the hot seat but three or four more wins will be tough to reach.

*All recruiting rankings based off of Rivals.com.

**All statistics given from the NCAA. 

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SEC College Football Recap: All Teams Week 3 in Review

The SEC had a rough week in out of conference action when Auburn and Kentucky lost their games to Clemson, ACC and Louisville, Big East respectively.

The rest of the SEC teams held their ground in preparation for this week’s big games: Arkansas vs. Alabama, LSU vs. West Virginia, and Vanderbilt vs. South Carolina.

LSU (2-0) vs. Mississippi State (1-1)

Mississippi State and their fans still had questions left over from their road loss to Auburn… LSU’s defense answered the rest of their questions. MSU is not ready to take that next step in the SEC as they lost 19-6 to the Tigers.

Vick Ballard was held to 38-yards rushing after averaging 150-yards rushing per game in the first two games of the season. MSU’s only netted 52 yards rushing for the entire game.

LSU’s defense harassed Chris Relf sacking him three times and sacking Tyler Russell once.

Jarrett Lee got the job done for LSU and answered his critics, yes he can win a big game on the road, by completing 21 of 27 passes for 213-yards with one touchdown and one interception.

Spencer Ware pounded the MSU defense 22 times for 107-yards rushing.

Ruben Randle was Lee’s go to guy hauling in six catches for 98-yards receiving with one score.

This week’s games:

LSU (3-0) vs. West Virginia (3-0)

Louisiana Tech (1-2) vs. MSU (1-2)

Ole Miss (1-1) vs. Vanderbilt (2-0)

James Franklin is all smiles after he led the Commodores past Ole Miss 30-7 in Nashville. Franklin has surpassed last year’s win total of two games and earned his first SEC in-conference victory in the process.

Vanderbilt’s defense gave the Ole Miss offense all they could handle picking off Zack Stoudt four times returning one of those picks for a touchdown. Ole Miss was held to 234-yards of total offense while Vandy amassed 387-yards, 281-yards rushing.

Junior Zac Stacy led the Commodores with 169-yards rushing on eleven attempts and one score. Larry Smith was efficient for Vanderbilt finishing 13 of 20 for 103-yards passing.

Ole Miss’ lone score was with 2:48 seconds left in the game on a 47-yard pass play from Stoudt to Donte Moncrief.

This week’s games:

Vanderbilt (3-0) vs. South Carolina (3-0)

Georgia (1-2) vs. Ole Miss (1-2)

Auburn (2-0) vs. Clemson (2-0)

Everyone was waiting to see if or when Auburn would lose their winning magic from the 2010 season. Clemson found a way to stifle the Tiger’s offense in the second half winning 38-24.

Tied at 21-21 going into halftime, Clemson struck first after halftime on their opening series on a 65-yard pass play from Tajh Boyd to Sammy Watkins. Auburn would respond with a field goal later in the third but the Clemson Tigers tacked on another Boyd to Watkins touchdown to pull ahead 35-24.

Tajh Boyd finished the day with four passing touchdowns and completing 30 of 42 passes for 386-yards.

Michael Dyer led Auburn with 151-yards rushing on 16 attempts.

Auburn’s defense allowed 624-yards of total offense.

This week’s games:

Florida Atlantic (0-2) vs. Auburn (2-1)

Florida State (2-1) vs. Clemson (3-0)

Coastal Carolina (2-0) vs. Georgia (0-2)

Georgia unleashed some early season frustration on the Chanticleers beating them 59-0.

Aaron Murray completed 69 percent of his passes for 188-yards and three passing touchdowns while adding one rushing touchdown against Coastal Carolina. True freshman running back Isaiah Crowell finished with a game high 86-yards rushing in his first start as a Bulldog.

Georgia shut down Coastal Carolina’s offense only allowing 10 different runners a total of 63-yards rushing. The Chanticleers finished the game with 49-yards passing.

This week’s games:

Georgia (1-2) vs. Mississippi (1-2)

Coastal Carolina (2-1) vs. North Carolina A&T (1-1)

Tennessee (2-0) vs. Florida (2-0)

Chris Rainey and Florida extended their six-game dominance over the Vols to seven games, winning 33-23 in the Swamp.

Rainey had 108-yards rushing, 104-yards receiving with one touchdown, and blocked a punt against Tennessee. Rainey’s performance has gained him additional national Heisman recognition with voters.

Florida’s defense was too much for Tyler Bray and the Volunteers to handle. Bray was sacked three times and threw two interceptions. The Gator defense dropped several would be interceptions throughout the game as the Vols offense was one dimensional during the game. Bray finished the game 26-48 for 288 yards-passing with three touchdowns.

Bray’s stat line was impressive but that was all the offense Tennessee could muster against the Gators. The Gators shut down Tennessee’s running attack not allowing any positive yards for the game (negative nine yards). Tauren Poole has not gotten on track during the 2011 season for Tennessee. Poole finished the game with 18-yards rushing on ten attempts.

Tennessee wide receiver Justin Hunter left the game with a torn ACL and will be out the rest of the season. He only had one catch for 12-yards before his injury.

John Brantley was not flashy but got the job done throwing two touchdown passes on 14-23 attempts for 213 yards.

This week’s games:

Tennessee (2-1) Bye

Florida (3-0) vs. Kentucky (2-1)

Navy (2-0) vs. South Carolina (2-0)

South Carolina hung on for a well deserved victory against Navy winning 24-21.

Both teams are known for their rushing attacks but the game came down to a fourth-down Midshipmen pass that was intercepted by the Gamecocks to stop Navy’s upset bid.

South Carolina ran their sophomore sensation Marcus Lattimore 37 times for a career high 246-yards rushing and three touchdowns in the game. Steve Spurrier did not have another running back carry the ball against Navy.

Stephen Garcia completed 72 percent of his passes finishing with 204-yards passing and one interception.

South Carolina’s defense held Navy to 274-yards rushing, 126-yards below their 400-yards per game average entering the game.

Navy held the lead twice during the game. The Midshipmen scored first leading 7-0 in the first quarter then regained the lead with 4:23 left in the third quarter on a two-yard touchdown run going up 21-17 over the Gamecocks.

Neither team lost a fumble during the game on a combined 91-rushing attempts.

This week’s games:

Vanderbilt (3-0) vs. South Carolina (3-0)

Air Force (1-1) vs. Navy (2-1)

Louisville (1-1) vs. Kentucky (2-0)

Louisville ended their four-game losing streak to the Wildcats winning 24-17 in Lexington.

Louisville’s passing attack was the primary concern for Kentucky going into the game but their rushing attack made the difference. The Cardinals ran for 181-yards to the Wildcats 35-yards rushing.

Louisville played most of the game without their starting quarterback, Will Stein. True freshman Teddy Bridgewater replaced Stein finishing the game with 106-yards passing and two touchdowns on 10 of 18 passing attempts.

Morgan Newton finally found a rhythm throwing the ball in the second half for Kentucky. Newton ran Kentucky’s no-huddle offense for a late touchdown in the fourth quarter to pull within 24-17. Perhaps Joker Phillips will use their no-huddle offense in upcoming games to help make Newton more effective in the passing game?

Newton finished with two passing touchdowns on 27-41 attempts for 255-yards.

This week’s games:

Florida (3-0) vs. Kentucky (2-1)

Louisville (2-1) Bye

North Texas (0-2) vs. Alabama (2-0)

Alabama ran past the Mean Green 41-0 in a tune-up game for the Arkansas Razorbacks. This was the first shut-out for Alabama since 2009.

Alabama’s backfield combo of Trent Richardson and Bo Lacy set an Alabama rushing record as both backs topped the 160-yard mark. Alabama has never had two backs rush for more than 150-yards each in a game previously. Richardson finished with 167-yards rushing on eleven attempts with three rushing touchdowns and Lacy finished with 161-yards on nine rushes with two scores.

Even though their defense was outmanned, the Mean Green stopped Alabama inside the red zone twice in the first half forcing them to kick two field goals. Bama’s offense gave up four sacks in the game, sacking AJ McCarron three times.

The Tide’s defense only gave up 169-net yards for the game.

This week’s games:

Arkansas (3-0) vs. Alabama (3-0)

North Texas (0-3) vs. Indiana (1-2)

Troy (1-1) vs. Arkansas (2-0)

Arkansas avoided a trap game with Troy before finally winning 38-28 in Fayettville, Arkansas.

Tyler Wilson added another 300-yard passing game and two more passing touchdowns to his collegiate resume against the Trojans. The Razorback offense seemed fairly basic in their final tune-up game before starting conference play against Alabama. The Razorbacks rarely stretched the field with their passing game instead choosing short yardage pass plays to help move the chains.

Ronnie Wingo Jr. had his best rushing performance of the season and his career with a game high 109-yards rushing and two scores. Wingo also had a six-yard touchdown catch for the first score of the third quarter.

The Razorbacks were up 31-7 in the third quarter before Corey Robinson and the Trojans made the game interesting. Troy did not give up against the Hogs as the Arkansas game was their last chance to defeat a major BCS Conference team during the regular season.

Robinson attempted 63-passes, completing 36, for 373-yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. The Trojans intercepted a Tyler Wilson pass which was returned for a touchdown making the score 31-21 Arkansas.

Arkansas would respond in the fourth quarter with a 56-yard touchdown pass from Wilson to Joe Adams (eight catches, 109-yards receiving). Robinson threw his third touchdown of the game with 47 seconds to play making the final score 38-28.

Arkansas looked flat at times against the up-tempo Trojan offense as they seemed to be looking ahead to this week’s game against Alabama in Tuscaloosa.

Robinson may be the best quarterback the Hogs will face during the regular season. Robinson is the fifth-rated quarterback in FBS and the eleventh rated quarterback in yards per game at 315.5.

This week’s games:

Arkansas (3-0) vs. Alabama (3-0)

Middle Tennessee (0-2) vs. Troy (1-1) 

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College Football Preview: Predictions for Every SEC Football Game in Week 3

LSU (2-0) vs. MSU (1-1)

Before the season started this game appeared to be a swing game for MSU. Now this game is a must win game for the Bulldogs. After last week’s disappointing loss to Auburn, MSU still has to play four ranked SEC teams including LSU. Having two conference losses could push the Bulldogs out of the SEC West Division race before the conference races really get started.

MSU has two starting offensive linemen that will be a game time decision. Even if both linemen suit up will their play be effective enough to open holes for Vick Ballard, the nation’s third leading rusher (150.5 yards per game)? Especially against the nation’s 12^th rated total defense and a run defense that is ranked eighth in the nation only allowing 45.5 yards per game.

Mississippi State’s rushing defense is ranked 99^th in the nation giving up 199.5 yards per game. Les Miles loves to run the ball and let his defense win games for him. Look for LSU to add to their 175 rushing yards per game average against the Bulldogs defense.

Prediction: LSU makes it look easy winning 28-18.

Auburn (2-0) vs. Clemson (2-0)

The last two games between Auburn and Clemson have gone into overtime with Auburn winning both meetings. Auburn won last year 27-24 and has won the last eleven meetings against Clemson.

Both teams are horrible against the run. Clemson’s defense allows an average of 218.5 rushing yards per game, good for the 107^th ranked rushing defense in the nation. Not to be outdone by Clemson, Auburn is allowing 280 rushing yards per game for a ranking of 118^th out of 120 NCAA FBS schools.

Clemson is averaging 206 yards rushing per game (vs. Wofford and Troy). Andre Ellington had 140 yards rushing against Auburn in last year’s meeting in Jordan-Hare Stadium and he is averaging 127 yards per game so far this season.

Clemson has won going away in both games early this season in Death Valley; the other Death Valley for those of you not familiar with football life outside of the SEC. Wofford hung tough but Clemson looked disinterested in the game.

Auburn continues to find ways to win and this will be the first real test for Clemson this year.

The offensive coordinators know each other from their head coaching days in high school. Gus Malzahn (Arkansas) was actually a mentor to Chad Morris (Texas) and recommended Morris to replace him as the offensive coordinator at Tulsa when Malzahn took the Auburn job. So there will be no surprises for either team’s offense or defense, unless either team’s defense shows up to play. Look for a high scoring shootout with whoever scores last winning.

Prediction: Auburn to keeps their mojo going winning 38-31.  

Mississippi (1-1) vs. Vanderbilt (2-0)

The Ole Miss versus Vanderbilt game may seem like the least interesting game of the week in the SEC, or for the season, but there are several things to take from the outcome of this game which should be interesting for all SEC fans.

This is a match up of two programs going in two different directions. First year head coach James Franklin is selling the future while Houston Nutt is talking about winning back to back Cotton Bowls in the past. Vanderbilt is coming off a big win over Connecticut (24-21) and Ole Miss is still licking their wounds from an opening day loss to BYU; a game they had in hand until a fourth quarter Ole Miss fumble was returned for a touchdown. Houston Nutt is on the hot seat in Oxford and Vanderbilt is drawing recruiting attention not seen in Nashville in years.

If Vanderbilt’s game against the Huskies is an indication of the Commodores season, senior quarterback Larry Smith is in for a bruising 2011. Smith was sacked seven times losing 46 yards. Vanderbilt was able to get stops when they need them on defense but the offense put the defense in tough situations throughout the game. The Commodores only converted two third-down attempts in 16 tries. Smith also threw two interceptions and fumbled once in the fourth quarter which was returned for a touchdown and a go-ahead score (21-14) by Connecticut.

Both teams are anemic on offense. Vanderbilt has the 105^th ranked offense in the nation averaging 284 yards per game from the line of scrimmage. Ole Miss is even worse averaging 261.5 yards per game for a FBS ranking of 111^th. Neither team has an effective passing game which will make this a game of field position and three-and-outs.

Through all of the bad for the Commodores, they have won three of the last four meetings against Ole Miss. Having already tied last seasons win total and playing at home, look for Vanderbilt to give Ole Miss everything they’ve got. This could be the Commodores best chance to get a SEC victory during the 2011 season. Franklin won’t let this opportunity pass him by.

Ole Miss’ one potentially saving grace is their punt team. The Rebels average a net gain of 43.22 yards per punt which swings the field position each time they kick.

The Commodores rush defense is ranked 30^th in the nation only giving up 86 yards per game. Ole Miss gives up close to double that amount (157 per game). If the game comes down to who can run the ball and who can stop the run, on paper this game favors the Commodores.

Predicition:

Vanderbilt wins 21-18.

Coastal Carolina (2-0) vs. Georgia (0-2)

Through the first two games of the season no other FBS team has played a tougher schedule than Georgia. Georgia lost at home to fifth ranked Boise State (35-21) and twelfth ranked South Carolina (45-42). This week Georgia gets a break in their schedule and an opportunity to put a stop to their three game losing streak dating back to their 2010 Liberty Bowl loss to Central Florida (6-10).

Georgia will have an opportunity to work on different facets of their game and hopefully rest some starters in the second half in preparation for their next game at Ole Miss.

True freshman running back Isaiah Crowell (Columbus, Georgia) will make his first start of the season. Crowell rushed for 118 yards last week against South Carolina.

Georgia turned the ball over three times against South Carolina which led to 21 Gamecock points.

Coastal Carolina is a FCS school stepping up a division to play Georgia. Their first two games have been home wins against Furman (30-23) and Catawba (20-3).

Georgia takes out all of their early season frustration on the Chanticleers winning 49-3.

Tennessee (2-0) vs. Florida (2-0)

The 40^th meeting between Tennessee and Florida promises to be a great showdown of two schools influx. What used to be one of the best college football rivalry games has lost some of its luster over the past few years… but don’t tell the die hard fans for either school.

Both teams are young with dynamic offenses looking to reestablish themselves among the college football elite. Tennessee enters the game averaging 485 total yards per game (24^th in FBS) and the Gators are averaging 490 yards per game in Charlie Weis’ pro-style offense (21^st in FBS).

Vols quarterback Tyler Bray is off to a blistering start to his 2011 season. Bray is averaging 349 yards passing per game (6^th best in FBS) with seven touchdown passes and zero interceptions. Bray’s 78.46 completion percentage has to worry Gator defensive coordinator Dan Quinn.

Gator quarterback John Brantley has been less spectacular but solid thus far in 2011. Brantley’s 212 yards per game (59^th in FBS) is average and his one touchdown pass has to concern Gator fans. Florida has relied on a solid rushing attack that is averaging 248.5 yards per game.

Florida will get their first true test of the year on defense. Florida’s rush defense has been stingy only allowing 50.5 yards per game but against lesser competition (Florida Atlantic and UAB). Their pass defense has been equally as impressive only allowing 124 yards per game (12^th ranked FBS).

Tennessee gives up 138 yards per game rushing which will be the focus of the Gator attack.

The big question for Tennessee fans is: Has Charlie Weis scaled back the offense waiting for SEC play? Will we see a different John Brantley against the Vols?

Tauren Poole has not got on track yet this year. Can Poole become a factor against the Gators or will Bray and standout receivers Justin Hunter and Da’Rick Rogers have to carry the Vols offense again?

Prediction:

It’s tough to win on the road in college football and even tougher to win at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida wins their seventh straight against the Vols 24-17.

Navy (2-0) vs. South Carolina (2-0)

If you enjoy watching teams run the ball then this is the game for you. Navy leads the nation in total rushing yards (801) and rushing yards per game (400.5). Behind the efforts of sophomore standout running back Marcus Lattimore, South Carolina is averaging 236.5 rushing yards per game (21^st in FBS).

USC’s Marcus Lattimore (144 yards per game) and the Midshipmen’s Kriss Proctor (99.5) will be the focal points for each team’s offense. Both teams have two of the worst statistical passing offenses in college football. South Carolina (107th) gets the slight statistical edge over Navy (119th) averaging 136 yards per game to Navy’s 73.

South Carolina gives up 136 rushing yards per game. Navy gives up 172. Can either team stop the other team’s rushing attack? On third and long situations the advantage goes to South Carolina’s passing attack. South Carolina has also played against tougher competition (East Carolina and Georgia) while the Midshipmen have played Delaware and Western Kentucky.

South Carolina’s size and talent should net them another win. If Navy can get a couple of early scores and stop USC early in the game, this could end up being a tight game in the fourth quarter.

Prediction:

South Carolina wins 35-21.

Louisville (1-1) vs. Kentucky (2-0)

Whoever said winning pretty was important didn’t get the message to Kentucky head coach Joker Phillips. But who really cares as long as you keep winning? The Wildcats hope to keep that momentum going against Cardinals.

Kentucky’s passing offense has been nonexistent with Morgan Newton under center (211 total passing yards in two games) against lesser competition (Western Kentucky and Central Michigan). UK is averaging 105.5 yards passing per game ranking them 115th in FBS. Louisville is averaging 294.5 yards per game (23^rd best in FBS).

The focus points for either team will be the Cardinals’ run defense against the Wildcats rushing attack and the Wildcats pass defense against the Cardinals’ passing attack.

The Cardinals are tough against the run only allowing 2.5 yards per attempt. The Wildcats ran for 230 yards against Central Michigan in a rallying win (down 13-6 at halftime) last week. Kentucky is allowing 194 yards passing per game (tied for 45th in FBS).

Starting running back Raymond Sanders is out against Louisville. He had surgery on his right knee to replace a slight tear. He is expected to miss 2-3 weeks. True freshman Josh Clemons (Fayetteville, GA) will get the start for Kentucky. Clemons ran for 124 yards against Central Michigan including an 87 yard run that gave Kentucky the lead in the fourth quarter.

The Wildcats will be without starting center Matt Smith and tackle Billy Joe Murphy again. UK will need those guys healthy for their next game against the Gators.

Prediction:

Kentucky finds a way to win their fifth straight against Louisville 17-14.

North Texas (0-2) vs. Alabama (2-0)

Alabama gets a tune-up game against the Mean Green before hosting Arkansas.

North Texas has lost at FIU 41-16 and at home to Houston 48-23. Alabama is coming off a big non-conference win against Penn State 27-11.

Bama should be able to rest their starters in the second half and provide quality playing time for all of their backups.

Prediction:

Alabama wins 49-3

Troy (0-1) vs. Arkansas (2-0)

The Razorbacks look to improve their record against Sun Belt Conference teams to 28-0 Saturday when the face Troy.

Troy lost their opening game to Clemson 43-19 and had a bye week last week. Troy hung tough with Clemson in the first half leading 16-13 at halftime. Clemson outscored the Trojans 30-0 in the second half to earn the season opening victory.

Troy should be Arkansas’ toughest opponent to date. Based off the Trojans first game, look for them to use a balanced attack as they ran the ball 36 times and passed 42 times against Clemson. The Trojans committed three turnovers against the Tigers losing two fumbles and throwing one interception.

The focal point for the Razorbacks will be to keep starting quarterback Tyler Wilson healthy for next week’s matchup against Alabama and to continue to make strides in the running game.

Wilson did not play in the second half against New Mexico with concussion like symptoms after a touchdown run against the Lobos. This was the second game in a row that Wilson has put himself in danger of taking an unnecessary big hit which could limit his play for the rest of the season.

Arkansas made strides in their running game against the Lobos finishing with 259 net yards rushing; Arkansas quarterbacks accounted for 103 of those net rushing yards. Against Missouri State the Hogs only netted 102 rushing yards. Look for Bobby Petrino to look for different lineups along the offensive line that can help the Razorbacks beef up their run attack going into conference play.

Dennis Johnson is scheduled to make his first appearance of the year for the Razorbacks after battling hamstring issues during the first two games of the season. The addition of Johnson should help bolster the running attack of the Razorbacks.

Arkansas running back Ronnie Wingo Jr. improved his yards per carry average against the Lobos. Against New Mexico he averaged 5.9 yards per attempt after only averaging 3.5 per attempt against the Bears.

The status on Jake Bequette and Jarius Wright playing against Troy will not be known until later in the week. Arkansas hopes they will not need either player against the Trojans and they can rest both before they start SEC play against Alabama.

Stats for Arkansas fans:

Arkansas is third in the nation in scoring offense (51.5 per game) behind Washington State and Georgia Tech.

Arkansas’ passing offense is ranked eighth in FBS averaging 368.5 yards per game.

Arkansas rush defense is ranked 33^rd in the nation only allowing 89.5 yards per game.

The Razorback defense is ranked 16^th in the nation in total defense.

Prediction:

Arkansas wins 49-17. 

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Week One College Football Recap: The SEC

Mississippi State vs. University of Memphis

Mississippi State easily rolled past Memphis at the Liberty Bowl 59-14. Vick Ballard picked up where he left off last year running for 166 yards on only 10 carries with three touchdowns. The Bulldogs totaled 645 yards from scrimmage; 336 passing, 309 rushing. Neither statistic will help Memphis’ total defensive numbers for the season.

                

Chris Relf threw for 202 yards and 2 touchdowns while amassing a 174.1 quarterback rating. Jameon Lewis caught four passes for 113 yards receiving including an 80 yard play for a touchdown and had a 19 yard run for a touchdown.

Notes to the game

The Bulldogs averaged more than 9 yards per play.

The Bulldogs suspended five players before the start of the game, including starting defensive tackle Fletcher Cox. No one seemed to notice.

MSU only committed one turnover while creating 3 on defense for a +2 turnover margin.

MSU had six penalties but only racked up 30 yards on those six penalties. Extra work in practice can help limit those penalties in upcoming games.

Was MSU’s victory that impressive or is University of Memphis that bad? Vegas picked Arkansas State as a 13.5 point favorite over the Tigers in week two action. The Red Wolves are a Sun-Belt Conference team that lost easily to the Illini in week one (33-15).

Kentucky vs. Western Kentucky

The Wildcats struggled in their season opener against the Hilltoppers holding on to win 14-3 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Western Kentucky defense played on a BCS Conference level all night forcing Kentucky starting quarterback, Morgan Newton to throw three interceptions, two in the fourth quarter. WKU sacked Newton three times and pressured him into bad throws all night.

Joker Phillips has to be nervous after the performance of his quarterback and offensive line. WKU was 2-10 last year and had only won two other games since starting play in the Football Championship Subdivision, formerly Division-1. UK’s offensive line was supposed to be strength of the team’s going into the 2011 season returning four starters. Extra attention will be given to the play of the line during practice this week.  

Kentucky had 190 yards of offense (97 passing, 93 rushing) to Western Kentucky’s 234 (93 passing, 141 rushing). UK’s defense came up with four interceptions to offset the three interceptions thrown by Newton.

Kentucky plays Central Michigan at home in week two action. Central Michigan beat South Carolina State at home 21-6 in week one.

Notes to the Game

The Wildcats only had to players with positive rushing yards Josh Clemons (11 rushes, 36 yards, 1 TD) and Raymond Sanders (13 rushes 35 yards). This includes a 58-yard run by Morgan Newton in the fourth quarter to set up the Wildcats second touchdown of the game. Newton ended up with 7 rushes for -5 yards.

WKU had more plays on offense 69 to UK’s 51.

WKU had 12 penalties for a loss of 120 yards.

La’Rod King led all UK receivers with two catches for 42 yards and a touchdown.

Auburn vs. Utah State

Auburn fought hard for a 42-38 victory over Utah State in their home opener. Utah State hung with the 2010 BCS Champions leading 38-28 with 4:00 minutes left to play in the fourth quarter. Junior quarterback Barrett Trotter threw a 15-yard touchdown pass to Philip Lutzenkirchen with 2:12 to play to narrow the score to 38-35. An onside kick timed perfectly for Auburn set up an eventual Michael Dyer 1-yard touchdown run for the winning score with 45 seconds left to play.

Auburn fans who felt their team had been snubbed by the national media going into the 2011 season received their wakeup call in week one... you were not snubbed. With only 5 total starters returning, Auburn has a lot of talent but needs a lot of game experience before competing for another SEC title much less a national title.

Auburn has a tough matchup in week two at home against Mississippi State. Gus Malzahn may have kept a few plays out of the Utah State game but one still has to question Auburn’s ability on offense against a tough SEC schedule.

Notes to the Game

Auburn had 364 yards of total offense; 286 passing yards and only 78 rushing yards.

Utah State had a balanced attack on offense with 221 yards passing and 227 yards rushing.

Michael Dyer led Auburn in rushing yards with 56 yards on 14 attempts with 2 touchdowns.

Auburn had two receivers with good games. Emory Blake had three catches for 95 yards and a score. Travante Stallworth had four catches for 93 yards and a score.

True freshman running back Tre Mason (Lake Worth, FL) had a 97-yard kickoff return for Auburn. He had 176 yards on four returns.

Auburn only sacked Chuckie Keeton once.

Alabama vs. Kent State

Alabama had a nice tune-up game to start the 2011 season beating Kent State 48-7. Sophomore AJ McCarron looked good against the overmatched Golden Flashes. McCarron completed 14 of 23 passes for 226 yards with one score and two interceptions. Phillip Sims also threw two picks while under center. Sims finished the game 7 of 14 for 73 yards and no touchdowns. Nick Saban has not named a starting quarterback for the next game against Penn State in Happy Valley but all signs point to McCarron to win the spot.

Penn State took care of Indiana State 41-7 in their first game of the season.

The main concern for Bama fans has to be the slow start to the running game, mainly Trent Richardson’s performance. Richardson ended up with only 30 yards rushing on 13 attempts; he did find the end zone three times. Big running back Jalston Fowler (6’1”, 246 lbs) ended the game with 69 yards on four rushing attempts to lead all rushers in yardage.

Marquize Maze showed his speed against Kent State. He had eight catches for 118-yards receiving with one touchdown. Maze also had one kickoff return for 39-yards.

Notes to the Game

Alabama running back Eddie Lacy had a great all around game. He finished the game with 8 rushes for 54 yards with a touchdown and he had 3 catches for 48 yards.

Jeremy Shelly was perfect for the Tide kicking six extra points and two field goals.

Alabama’s defense was in mid-season form, even against a weaker opponent. Bama only allowed 90 yards of total offense; 99 passing, -9 rushing.

BYU vs. Mississippi

Houston Nutt got the game he wanted but not the final outcome as BYU found a way to win 14-13 in Oxford. Nutt likes the “grind’em” out close games predicated on field position and the running game. The only problem is his offense gave up a fumble for a BYU touchdown with 5:26 to play for the winning/losing score.

Through spring and fall practices Ole Miss has shuffled their starting quarterbacks between Randall Mackey, Barry Brunetti, and Zack Stoudt. Stoudt ended up with the majority of the snaps for the Rebels throwing for 140 yards on 13 of 25 attempts. Ole Miss only accumulated 208 yards of total offense against BYU’s defense.

Ole Miss has a chance to correct some problems against Southern Illinois next week. Ole Miss’ offensive line was supposed to be the strength of the team with four starters returning. Attention to the running game will be needed. Ole Miss did not give up a sack against the Cougars’ defense.

Notes of the Game

Brandon Bolden finished the game with 21 yards on 4 rushing attempts.

Ole Miss created one turnover on a Jake Heaps interception but gave away two fumbles.

Tennessee vs. Montana

University of Montana proves to be an easy opener for the Tennessee Vols winning 42-16. Tyler Bray played well for the Vols and picked up from where he left off last year throwing for 293 yards and three touchdowns.

Bray did a good job spreading the ball around on offense finding Justin Hunter six times for 146 yards with a touchdown and Da’Rick Rogers five times for 100 yards with a score.

The Vols had some impressive drives namely a 96-yard drive in the second quarter that ended with a touchdown pass to Marlin Lane.

Bray was sacked three times and the run blocking was hit and miss. Tauren Poole added another strong game to his collegiate resume rushing for 97 yards and a touchdown.

Notes of the Game

Tennessee’s defense was average against the Grizzles. They only surrendered 346 total yards of offense but gave up 18 first downs. Tennessee’s offense held the ball for much of the game, lucky for the defense.

Tennessee plays University of Cincinnati this week at home.

South Carolina vs. East Carolina

Now we know why Steve Spurrier keeps letting Stephen Garcia back on the team after each suspension… they can’t win without him. After three first quarter fumbles, South Carolina was down 17-0 before Garcia was put in the game. Garcia rallied the Gamecocks 56-37 victory over the Pirates.

Once Garcia was in the game, the Gamecocks looked like a top 25 team. Marcus Lattimore finished the game with 112 yards rushing on 23 carries with 3 touchdowns. Stephen Garcia added two more rushing touchdowns and one throwing.

Alshon Jeffery had a good game hauling in five passes for 92 yards.

Notes of the Game

Both teams played evenly on offense. East Carolina had 345 yards of offense while South Carolina had 351.

Pirates quarterback Dominque Davis played well against the Gamecocks defense. He avoided being sacked and threw for 260 yards completing 37 passes. He did throw one interception but had four passing touchdowns.

Both teams lost four fumbles each.

Arkansas vs. Missouri State

Arkansas’ defense was dominating against the overmatched Missouri State Bears winning 51-7. Arkansas quarterback Tyler Wilson looked sharp against the Bears throwing for 260 yards while only playing in limited action. The Razorback run offense did not look so great. The Bears defense was focused on stopping the run so Bobby Petrino kept calling passing plays. When the Razorbacks did run the ball there wasn’t much push up front. Arkansas ended up with 102 yards rushing for the game led by Ronnie Wingo’s 38 yards.

Razorback receiver Jarius Wright caught six passes for 108 yards with two scores. Joe Adams only had one catch but provided two scores on punt returns; 61-yards and 84-yards.

Notes of the Game

Zach Hocker missed his first extra point try as a Razorback. He was perfect on extra point attempts in 2010.

True freshman running back Kody Walker (Jefferson City, MO) appears to be Bobby Petrino’s short yardage back for the 2011 season. Walker scored twice on two 1-yard runs.

Arkansas plays University of New Mexico in Little Rock this week.

Florida vs. Florida Atlantic Owls

Will Muschamp got his first victory as a head coach rolling past Florida Atlantic 41-3. John Brantley played well in Charlie Weis’ pro-style offense finishing with 229 yards passing, one touchdown, and two interceptions.

Florida’s defense dominated the Owls line and only gave up 137 total yards.

Gator scat back Chris Rainey scored on a 14-yard pass in the first quarter, a 14-yard run in the second quarter, and returned a block punt for 21-yards for his third touchdown of the game.

Notes of the Game

Florida had 468 yards of total offense against the Owls.

Gator running back Jeff Demps had 99 yards rushing and two touchdowns.

Florida did not punt against Florida Atlantic.

Vanderbilt vs. Elon

James Franklin drew mixed reviews in his head coaching debut for the Commodores winning 45-14. Vanderbilt has 18 returning starters but struggled at times against Elon. Three times Vanderbilt went for a first down on fourth down plays and Vanderbilt took advantage of four Phoenix turnovers, scoring three times off those turnovers, for their first win of the season.

The Commodores play Big East power Connecticut this week before starting conference play the following week against Ole Miss.

Notes of the Game

Larry Smith only threw for 125 yards with two touchdowns against Elon.

Elon outgained Vanderbilt in total yards 323-309.

LSU vs. Oregon

Before a crowd of 87,711 Tiger and Ducks’ fans in Arlington, Texas, LSU capitalized on four Oregon turnovers and 12 penalties to win going away 40-27. LSU was in control most of the game leading 16-13 at halftime and 30-13 at the end of the third quarter. Oregon true freshman running back De’Anthony Thomas (Los Angeles, CA) fumbled on back-to-back possessions leading to two LSU scores in the third quarter.

Darron Thomas tried to get revenge in his home state against Les Miles, who recruited him to play at LSU but would not promise him the opportunity to stay at quarterback. Thomas played well completing 31 passes for 240 yards, one passing touchdown and one rushing touchdown, but could not help overcome the mistakes made by the Ducks and the lack of a running game against LSU’s stout defense. Oregon was held to 95 rushing yards. More notably preseason Heisman candidate LaMichael James was held to 51-yards rushing on 18 carries.

LSU starting quarterback Jarrett Lee played the role of quarterback but did not impress pundits with his play; 10-22 for 98-yards with one touchdown. Spencer Ware and Michael Ford got tough rushing yards all game for the Tigers. Ware finished with 97-yards and Ford finished with 94.

If defense wins championships, LSU has a defensive unit capable of getting them to the BCS Championship Game.

Notes of the Game

This is Oregon’s first time with consecutive losses since 2007.

Oregon outgained LSU offensively 335 total yards to 273.

LSU has won 34 consecutive non-conference games.

Georgia vs. Boise State

If Mark Richt wasn’t feeling the pressure from fans, alumni, and boosters before the Boise State game, he has to after a lopsided 35-21 loss at home. Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore had his way with Georgia’s defense throwing for 261 yards on 28-34 attempts with three touchdowns.

Georgia started the scoring with an 80-yard touchdown run by cornerback Brandon Boykin but the rest was all Moore and the Broncos. The Broncos defense kept true freshman running back Ishaih Crowell bottled up all night. He finished with 57-yards rushing on 15 attempts. Sophomore quarterback Aaron Murray was battered and harassed all night being sacked six times for a total of 33-yards lost by the Broncos defense. Murray did throw two long touchdown passes; 36-yards in the third quarter and 51-yards in the fourth.

Life doesn’t get much easier for the Bulldogs this week. South Carolina comes to town to start SEC Conference play.

Notes of the Game

Boise State had never beaten a Southeast Conference team before beating Georgia.

Neither team lost a fumble but combined to fumble the ball three times.

Georgia’s defense was not able to sack Moore. 

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