Fourth and Inches
by Doc
Our second college six-unit play of the year won as expected as Wisconsin, a 7-point underdog, beat Purdue straight up, 20-17.
I felt the Badger's defense could handle the Boiler passing attack. The pass rush was there, forcing QB Orton to throw early against a senior-led secondary. Late in the game, obviously, I did have some concern, as the Badger defense became worn down and was hit hard by injuries. This team has a lot of character and confidence.
Once again, it's always nice to bring a 6-unit game home. For those of you that are looking at the Northwestern-Wisconsin game this week, the Badgers were hit hard by injuries. Keep that in mind. We will know more about this as the week progresses.
This is the week we have been waiting for, our Big Ten Game of the Year will go on Saturday. This game looks to be an outstanding choice. In fact, there are three games in the Big Ten this week that I absolutely love. It's time to pull the trigger. Locks are not in vocabulary, however, this game has as much merit and reasoning as any game I have ever released. I promise you that we will do our best to bring this one home.
One game outside the Big Ten conference I will be looking at this week will be the match up between Clemson and Maryland. The Tigers had a big win on Saturday against an over-matched Utah State club. It may be a game needed to salvage Clemson's season. The Tigers had a treacherous three game road trip, playing Texas A&M, Florida State, and Virginia. All three games ended up in defeat. This week Clemson is back home. A 3½-point favorite, revenge, and the fact that Maryland is now struggling. Looks like all Clemson to me. We will know more as the week progresses.
Another interesting game in college football this week is the Nebraska-Kansas State game. Nebraska has always been a power, but may be declining. The Huskers gave up 27 points to Baylor, and that certainly spells trouble. Kansas State has been taking it on the chin lately. Maybe this program is just rebuilding. A few years ago this would have been the game of the week. Not this year. If the Huskers lose this one, there will be a lot of grumbling in Lincoln.
This past weekend I had the good fortune of going on an very pleasurable golf outing in South Dakota. I was invited by Craig Culver, the president and owner of the Culver Franchise Systems, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. The Culver family, who also are from the small town of Sauk City, have built one of the fastest growing restaurant chains in the country. They feature their famous "Butter Burger" and frozen custard which comes in a different flavor every day. If you are not familiar with the Culver name, I am sure you will be within the near future.
Being away for the weekend, I still was in connected to what was going on with football. The four of us who went had the chance to watch the Wisconsin-Purdue game. It may be one of the best games I have ever watched. All of us being Wisconsin fans had a lot to cheer about. Of course, I had an extra incentive, because of the 6-unit game. These three friends are the best. The lodging was unbelievable and the food was great. As for my golf game, forget it. It seems to get worse every year. Sometimes I think these three guys invite me because I'm easy money.
Six teams remain unbeaten in college football, Southern Cal, Oklahoma, Auburn, Miami of Florida, Utah, Boise State and Wisconsin. The Trojans are number one in the country, and certainly deserve to be. Southern Cal will have no problem this week as they face Washington. In fact, this game spells 'rout of the week.' Oklahoma, Utah and Auburn should be safe. Wisconsin should be if they can get by all the injuries. Miami of Florida and Boise State may have their work cut out for them. The Hurricanes may have the biggest test as they go on the road against a very good N. C. State team. The Wolfpack's record is not that great, being 4-2. However they have played a tough schedule, especially on the road. Miami of Florida could be the first of these undefeated teams to go down. 7½ points; the dog may be a look here.
With the football season in full swing, the baseball season is rapidly winding down. By the time you receive this, the division pennants should be decided, as the World Series starts on Saturday, October 23. All four teams that are still in the running are having problems finding pitchers that are healthy. Just a reminder - Vince, our baseball man is offering a special package for the World Series. Call our sports office for details.
Big things to come this season. Our Big Ten Game of the Year is set to go on Saturday!
- 1-866-238-6696
- Member Log In
- Join
53 Years Strong! A Trusted Leader In Sports Picks, Best Bets and Predictions Since 1971.