The college football regular season is one third complete for most teams. This time last season, it appeared the whole world had gone crazy with upsets and surprises occurring almost weekly. 2008 has been less dramatic and I would argue this season has been disappointing. Alabama/Clemson, USC/OSU, GA/ASU were essentially duds. The only top ranked game that has has been exciting is LSU/Auburn last weekend.
What do we know about this season? Here are some well knowns right now:
1. The Big 10 is better and deeper this season. Michigan St, Purdue, Northwestern, Minnesota and Iowa are all better teams this year. None are great, but they are better. Add in what appears to be a strong Pa St and Wisconsin to go along with OSU and Illinois, the depth is much better this year than 2006 and 2007. Don't be surprised if preseason favorite, OSU, drops two league games.
2. The PAC 10 is much weaker this season. Besides USC, the whole league is average to poor and in my opinion has been a huge disappointment. USC should be cautious - not in losing a league game, but in not playing quality opponents each week to get better (see OSU 2006/07). Sadly, the best team USC will face all season is their 2nd team in practice.
3. Colorado, Vanderbilt, Uconn, Northwestern and Bama are all undefeated and likely to have good seasons.
4. Texas is good, but will only gain recognition after a signature win. Texas has been up and down the last few seasons, but it appears the pieces are in play for a run at the South title.
5. LSU's defensive line can carry it to the BCS Championship game. After watching LSU play Auburn, there is little doubt the Bayou Tigers are ready for another run. I still think Florida is the SEC team to beat right now, but do not sleep on LSU.
6. Terrelle Pryor and Chris Wells make OSU an offensive threat. With these two on the field together, the Buckeyes will win the Big 10. Separately, the Buckeyes lose to Wisconsin or Penn St or both.
The season is in full swing and we're not even into October yet. I am looking forward to the next third. It is time to separate the men from the boys.
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