A couple of weeks ago, while pulling the curtain back on how this project comes together, I alluded to the fact that sometimes I misplace my motivation. Now is one of those times. It is late on Wednesday night and I am powering thru, because we are picking a Thursday night game, and I will be busy all day tomorrow. Perhaps you’ll enjoy my lack of verbosity…but don’t get used to it.
My Season: 17-37
Zach’s Season: 24-30
James Madison (-10.5) at Appalachian State
Once upon a time these teams seemed to be ascending in a parallel manner. However, at the moment, the undefeated Dukes are chasing their third 11+ win season in the past four years and just announced an impending move from the Sun Belt to the American Conference, while the 4-2 Mountaineers are hoping to avoid a third consecutive losing season. This is the Thursday night contest on ESPN, and though I’d love to see a fun, exciting battle, that seems unlikely. Zach concurs.
My Pick: James Madison
Zach’s Pick: James Madison
Houston at Utah (-6.5)
They were my preseason favorites in the Big 12, and neither team has disappointed. The Utes are an unbeaten Top Ten program, while the 6-1 Cougars are lurking closely behind. The kickoff isn’t until after 10pm Saturday night for me, so I might end up missing the second half. At any rate, I won’t predict an outright upset, but I believe it’ll be a bit closer than the oddsmakers think. Zach foresees a high scoring shootout, and likes the visiting underdogs by a field goal.
My Pick: Houston
Zach’s Pick: Houston
Ole Miss at Texas (-3)
The coronation of Arch Manning is officially on hold, as most of the talking heads have turned on him. The Longhorns have lost their last two games, and face the possibility of missing the playoff altogether. Conversely, the 5-1 Rebels are still trying to figure out what the hell happened in The Swamp a few weeks ago, but otherwise they’re in good shape. This would be an emphatic statement win for Ole Miss, and I think they pull it off on the road. Zach has no confidence in Texas, and believes another visiting underdog can overcome the odds.
My Pick: Ole Miss
Zach’s Pick: Ole Miss
San Francisco (-3.5) at Atlanta
Much to my surprise, the unbeaten Niners are running away with their division. Meanwhile, the 2-4 Falcons have looked good at times, but they just can’t get over the hump. Atlanta will probably show flashes and be competitive, but ‘Frisco is likely to win by a comfortable margin. Zach thinks the 49ers might be the best team in the NFL.
My Pick: San Francisco
Zach’s Pick: San Francisco
NY Giants at Houston (-9.5)
JJ McCarthy will be the Giants starting QB, which doesn’t feel like the right decision, but at 3-2-1 I guess head coach John Harbaugh figures “Why not?”. The 2-4 Texans might’ve figured some things out winning their last two games after an 0-4 start. If this game was being played in New Jersey I might give the underdogs a chance, but I feel like the folks in Vegas probably got it right. Zach agrees.
My Pick: Houston
Zach’s Pick: Houston
