Previewing the College Football Afternoon Games

The early games are going and Ohio State can't put away Navy and the Midshipmen are driving on them down by 8 points. They just scored, but fail on the two, throwing an INT that leads to two for Ohio State. How can Ohio State think they will compete with USC if they are struggling with Navy at home. Good luck preparing for the Trojans.

Some interesting games this afternoon.

Georgia vs. Oklahoma State: Oklahoma State has so much potential on offense, but the questions are abuot their defense. Is this the year the Cowboys finally become a force in the Big 12 South with the press around Texas and Oklahoma.

Nevada vs. Notre Dame: After two bad seasons, Notre Dame is getting the publicity. Some, like Lou Holtz, claim they will make the national championship with all their offense returning and favorable schedule. Some analysts just don't believe that. Nevada should be a good test. We'll see if the Golden Domers will finally live up to their billing.

San Jose State vs. USC: San Jose State led by Dick Tomey, known for his years with Desert Swarm at the U of A, will try to bring in his team to upset the Trojans. He knows how to beat them from his year at Arizona. He will blitz and put pressure on the true freshman QB Matt Barkely. Most of the SC offense is returning with the exception of QB, a key injury to a receiver, Ron Johnson, and a lineman, though many have played in the past due to injuries. On defense, USC is trying to replace its LB corp and some new starters on defensive line. It's time for SC to put up or shut up and show they are worthy of their number four ranking.

Western Michigan vs. Michigan: With all the criticism surrounding the Michigan program over the practicing too many hours etc, the players are ready to get out and play some football. Some are being critical of Rich Rodriguez after the horrible season the Wolverines had last year, but it will take some time for his system to start working. He had to recruit his own players and to play the spread offense. You can expect to see up to three qb's playing today and see how the team is coming along with the system.

Illinois and Missouri: This annual game on Labor Day is always a battle. This year Mizzou is rebuilding after losing Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin. Meanwhile, the Fighting Illni will try to rebound after a bad season last year. They had gone to the Rose Bowl the year prior to that and many had expected Juice Williams to have a good year last year. It just didn't happen and he's hoping to make up for it this year.