Mid Major Game of the Week:
BYU vs. TCU
All eyes will be on this Mid Major matchup on Friday night. TCU is ranked eighth in the first BCS standings. The problem with that is Boise State ranks four spots higher. Most people would agree that TCU can close this gap by remaining undefeated against stronger Mountain West opponents. The remaining opponents for TCU are 19-20, while Boise State's opponents are 19-25. TCU would get a major boost by beating number 16 BYU on the road this week. The Cougars will be the toughest test for TCU thus far. BYU ranksn fourth in the nation in total defense. Last year, TCU defensive end Jerry Hughes had four sacks and two forced fumbles in their rout of BYU. Hughes has eight sacks this season. Keep an eye on TCU special teams player Jeremy Kerley who has been a secret weapon for the Horned Frogs this season, with 22.6 yards per punt return and two touchdowns. Look for TCU to take this one, by a slim margin.
Another Mid Major Notable:
Idaho vs. Nevada
Surprising Idaho travels to play a hot Nevada team this week. Idaho, who was picked to finish last in the league, became bowl-eligible last week and is off to its best start since 1994. At the same time, Nevada is on a 3 game win-streak having started the season 0-3, with their rushing game cranked up. However the key to this game remains Idaho QB Nathan Enderle vs. Nevada's pass defense. Nevada, for the second season in a row has been awful against the pass, allowing 282.3 yards per game. Enderle has had a big season, averaging 247.9 yards per game through the air, with nine touchdown passes. Regardless of Idaho's defensive ranking, Nevada will do some damage on the ground. But if Enderle is on point, the Vandals will certainly keep it close.
Here's your chance, now show us what you can do:
Temple running back Kee-Ayre Griffin is on the spot this week when Temple takes on Toledo. Toledo leads the MAC in total offense, and Temple leads in total defense. Toledo will have some success offensively, but for the Owls to pull this one out, they need big contributions from Griffin, a sophomore who had just lost his starting job to true freshman Bernard Pierce. Pierce was injured last week against Army, and is doubtful for this game. Griffin lacks the break-away ability of Pierce, but must find other ways to be successful against the Rockets.
Mid Major Madness Picks of the Week:
BYU 21 TCU 24
Idaho 31 Nevada 27
Houston 34 SMU 21
Florida Atlantic 17 Louisiana-Lafayette 24
Temple 21 Toledo 28