Week 9

Kentucky @ Missouri (11:00, ESPNU)- In another addition of "who cares in the SEC" we get a match up of 2 teams that are struggling. Luckily for Mizzou they final get an SEC opponent that isn't 100x better talent wise. I will assume no one outside of the families of the players will watch or care about this game. Home field will give the Tigers a slight advantage and ultimately win them the game.
Against The Spread: Kentucky (+13.5)

Tennessee @ South Carolina (11:00, ESPN)- This game is very very intriguing to me. Most think this is a complete mismatch and ultimately the last straw to break in Derek Dooley's employment. But both teams are coming off 2 demoralizing losses, and the Vols have so much more to play for. The USC defense that at one time looked like the best in the nation, has struggled the last few weeks. now with that said, I think the Gamecocks will pull away with a victory, but look for this game to be much closer than the experts think.
Against The Spread: Tennessee (+14)

Ole Miss @ Arkansas (11:21, SEC Network)- If you want offense, HERE'S YOUR GAME. Both teams are coming off a bye week, which always benefits the offense more than defense. Arkansas seemed to find somewhat of a rhythm going into the break, but still look horrendous on defense. Same recipe for Ole Miss. Should be a high scoring and the only edge I see is, not only are the Hogs at home, but they're in Little Rock which always seems to bring out the best in the Hogs.
Against The Spread: Arkansas (-6)

Florida @ Georgia (2:30, CBS)- What a cool match up this is. The 2 will meet up in Jacksonville with the East on the line. This (outside of Bama/LSU next week) has potential to be the defensive matchup of the year. And if that's the case, you have to take which offense you think is better, right? NOT SO FAST MY FRIEND!! I've learned this year to not bet against Will Muschamp. What an incredible job he has done. Florida to once again solidify their spot at #2 in the nation.
Against The Spread: Georgia (+6.5)

Texas A&M @ Auburn (6:00, ESPNU)- Another nail in Gene Chizik's coffin. This is getting really really ugly. I expect a blowout.
Against The Spread: Texas A&M (-15)

UMass @ Vanderbilt (6:00, FSN)- Vandy will be just 2 more wins away from bowl eligibility. Wow. Amazing job by James Franklin.
Against The Spread: UMass (+32.5)

Mississippi State @ Alabama (7:40, ESPN)- Being so emotionally wrapped up in this game I felt it wouldn't be fair for me to pick. So instead here are my keys to victory for both teams:

Mississippi State

• Protect the ball.
• Run the ball effectively.
• Play sound special teams.
• Don't give up the big play.
• Pressure the QB and force him to make a mistake.
• Don't let the enormity of the stage overcome you.

Alabama

• Stay out of 3rd and long.
• Create turnovers.
• Take Tyler Russell out of his comfort zone and make him throw the ball quick.
• Play Nick Saban, mistake free fooball.

Against The Spread: Mississippi State (+24)

My Record For Predicting SEC Games

Week 1: 10-1

Week 2: 9-2

Week 3: 10-2

Week 4: 9-1

Week 5: 6-0

Week 6: 3-3

Week 7: 6-1

Week 8: 6-0

Overall: 59-10 (86%)

Other Games I'm Excited About

• Texas Tech @ Kansas State (2:30, FOX)
• USC @ Arizona (2:30, ABC)
• Notre Dame @ Oklahoma (7:00, ABC)

I'll leave you with this: This Texas season has been just awful. And here is a picture of exactly how Mac Brown feels to this point. HOOK EM' HORNS!!