Hello again.  Last week I did okay and went 6-4, but was very close to going 8-2 if a couple of teams had buckled down in the last two minutes.  That's the hard thing about picking these games.  You make the best picks you can and then some team let's the opponent tear down the field in the last two minutes and break your heart and your back.  It's okay.  I'm still 64-23 on the year, which could be my best year ever at this point.  Maybe I'll have the Fat Dog look that up for me later.  Oh, wait.  He can't read.

As always, five college, five pro, straight up.  Let's make history:

College:

• Texas Tech vs. Texas: Texas has had a lousy year while Texas Tech is very inconsistent.  Tommy Tuberville has pulled off an upset a time or two in his career, but tomorrow won't be one of those times.  Take Texas.
• Purdue vs. Wisconsin: You know the saying "Don't mess with a wounded Badger?" Well, Wisconsin has lost two very close road games and now return home to face Purdue. There will be no mercy rule tomorrow.  Take Wisconsin, BIG.
• South Carolina vs. Arkansas: These teams are similar in that they win the games against the okay teams but have a problem with the big boys.  This is a fairly big game for both teams, with USC in the hunt for the East title and Arkansas a chance to finish third in the west and the chance to perhaps play in a New Year's day bowl.  I think Arkansas just has too much offense for USC to handle.  Take Arkansas.
• Kansas State vs. Oklahoma State: Kansas State was exposed last week against Oklahoma.  The Cowboys will further expose them this week. Take Oklahoma.
• LSU vs. Alabama: Let's turn down the hype machine a little bit and talk about what this game is really about: Defense.  These are two terrifically talented defensive teams, so if you tune into this game and expect a track meet, you will be disappointed.  Alabama runs the ball better than LSU, but LSU can throw it better and has two quarterbacks, both with different styles.  The key to this game is Trent Richardson of Alabama.  If he can run the ball well, he'll keep LSU's offense off the field.  One key injury is Alabama's Eddie Lacey who has turf toe and can't be used that much, which means more touches for Richardson. I think home field could make a slight difference, and although this game could go either way, I'll make Mama happy and say take Alabama. One other note: Mama will be in Alabama watching the game (on TV, not at the game) for the second straight year. If the Tide doesn't roll, they will pass a law saying that she is banned from the state in November.

Pro

• New York J-E-T-S Jets, Jets, Jets vs. Buffalo: It's been a strange season in the NFL as evidenced by the fact that Buffalo is playing in a significant game in November.  The Bills have been good this year and the Jets have not.  However, at some point, the cream rises to the top and I believe the Jets ascension will begin this weekend.  Take New York
• Cincinnati vs, Tennessee: The Bengals have been a huge surprise this year while the Titans have had some good and some bad moments.  Although the Titans have done okay at home, the Bengals are a strong road team.  Take Cincinnati.
• Green Bay vs. San Diego: San Diego wants to bounce back from their horrific loss at Kansas City Monday night.  Given their injuries, the short week and the fact that the Packers are coming off a bye, they picked the wrong opponent.  Take Green Bay.
• Baltimore vs. Pittsburgh: The Steelers continue to defy the theory that they are old and washed up. The Ravens meantime are coming off a huge comeback win over Arizona.  I think Baltimore is a confident bunch and even though they are playing in Pittsburgh, they clearly  have the wind at their backs.  Take Baltimore.
• Chicago vs. Philadelphia:  The dream team has been more a nightmare this season with the Eagles only at 3-4.  However, Philly showed their stuff last week against Dallas and I'm afraid the Bears are the same kind of team.  I think the Bears secondary is going to get torched like Atlanta in 1864.  Take Philadelphia.