THE BODOGS ARE BARKIN: BCS BOWL EDITION

Boy oh boy, the Bodogs have been turned upside down in the past month. Hinkle's giant lead has not only evaporated, but now he has his own mountain to climb heading into the final slate of games. Tulsa's huge moneyline victory has propelled Chuck into prime position for an unlikely season victory. Mattare has continued his steady rise since the third week of November and finally has taken over the top spot. Mikey is...so...far...behind.

Mattare, Chuck, and Hinkle are all in the hunt heading into the BCS games. Here's a quick breakdown of the standings followed by the final week of picks.

Non-BCS Bowl Results
1. Chuck: $566…Holy Bang-a-rang, Chuck's back!
2. Mikey: $95…Could he make a Cinderella run at breaking even?
3. Mattare: $57…Could being conservative come back to bite him?
4. Hinkle: -$198...Epically bad timing for a terrible week

Updated Season Standings
1. Mattare: $447.10…The question becomes will he hold on.
2. Chuck: $338.90…No one saw this coming, not even GJ Kinne.
3. Hinkle: $200.50…First time he's not the leader since Week #2.
4. Mikey: -$299…Not even Tim Tebow could will him to a victory.

BCS Picks Summary
Mattare: Stanford > VT, Wisconsin > TCU, Oregon > Auburn
Chuck: Wisconsin > TCU, UConn > Oklahoma, Oregon > Auburn
Hinkle: Arkansas (ML), UConn (ML), Oregon (ML)
Mikey: UConn > Oklahoma, Stanford > TCU, Auburn > Oregon

-----MATTARE-----

It's good to be in the top spot. One more week to victory...

Orange Bowl: Stanford (-3) over Virginia Tech...$110 to win $100

In my mind Stanford is one of the three best teams in the country. Virginia Tech has done a great job digging themselves out of the crater they created when they lost to James Madison in September, but they're just not in the same class as the Cardinal. My only worry is that Stanford will be distracted by all the Harbaugh-to-Michigan rumors...but I'm not that worried.

Rose Bowl: Wisconsin (+3) over TCU...$77 to win $70

Wisconsin has been steamrolling over opponents at the end of the year after looking shaky early on. If this game were played the first week of December I'd say Wisconsin rolls but normally teams that are so Jeykll & Hyde from the beginning and end of the season sputter out of the gate in the bowl game. I think Wisky gets it done but in a tight one.

National Championship: Oregon (+3) over Auburn...$66 to win $60

The Ducks have been absolutely unbelievable from start to finish this season. They had a taste of the BCS stage last year and that experience where they got their doors blown off in Pasadena will do them a lot of good this year. I'm surprised how most people seem pretty dismissive of Oregon. In what will go down as the best title game in five years, The Quack will come out of the gate strong and hold on for dear life in the end.

-----CHUCK-----

I'M BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACK!

Rose Bowl: Wisonsin (+3) over TCU...$280 to win $254.55

The Badgers have looked mighty powerful in steamrolling through the Big Ten following their loss to Michigan State. For the loyal readers, you will remember that I took Indiana against the spread versus Wiscy and the Badgers proceeded to hang 83 points. I will not make the same mistake in this one. Andy Daulton scares me a bit with his heady play under center and his ability to make plays with his legs, but the Wisconsin offense can simply outscore the Frogs. TCU has one of the best defenses in the country, but they have not seen as powerful and balanced of an attack as they will see from the Badgers. I LOVE Wisconsin in this one.

Fiesta Bowl: UConn (+17) over Oklahoma...$10 to win $9.09

Bob Stoops has proven time and again that his teams do not perform well as heavy favorites in BCS games. The Sooners gifted Bill Stewart the head coaching job at West Virginia with the way they choked in the desert aginst the Mountaineers three years ago. You might also remember a little school called Boise State that made some noise against them in the very same game four years ago. The bottom line is that UConn is well-coached, gritty, and has a very underrated and scrappy running back in Jordan Todman. I think they easily keep this game within two scores, and might do just enough to pull out a win.

National Championship: Oregon (+3) over Auburn...$10 to win $9.09

First, let me say that this is the most I've looked forward to a National Championship game since Michael Vick and the Virginia Tech Hokies took on FSU in the 2000 Sugar Bowl. This is a classic case of the spread being crafted based on the conference that the teams play in, and not necessarily the quality of the teams themselves. The SEC deserves respect given their track record in National Championship games, and Auburn has certainly proven that they are one of the best teams in the country. It is just hard for me to think that Auburn's defense can legitimately slow down Oregon's Blur offense. Auburn simply cannot afford to fall behind in this one like they did in several games this year (cough, Clemson) because the Ducks will keep the peddle to the metal.

On a somewhat related note, I watched Mighty Ducks 3 this week for the first time in ten years and might have witnessed a moment in pickup artist history. Charlie Conway was talking to some hippy biscuit and stated that he couldn't believe she hadn't heard of the Mighty Ducks. Conway then slipped in, "They even named a professional team after us." If that doesn't work, I don't know what will.

Happy new year everybody, and remember that it was Hans who taught us to fly.

-----HINKLE-----

This is where I am not good at gambling. I knew big moneylines would be taken so I had to try to do something to get a nice lead and I failed miserably. Thats okay, in my books I was solid all year long but this "bowl season", catch-up, bet unrealistic crap is for the birds.

Sugar Bowl: Arkansas ML (+145) over Ohio State...$280 to win $406

I was thinking of taking Wisconsin so if the "small" school fails I would have something to cheer me up but I do not want to be put out of my misery yet. I want this losing streak to drag on for a few more days. Ryan Mallet former Wolverine will outplay Pryor and get the job done. Its that simple.

Fiesta Bowl: UConn ML (+475) over Oklahoma...$10 to win $47.50

Big Game Bob? How 'bout no.

National Championship: Oregon ML (+115) over Auburn...$10 to win $11.50

Newton runs out of Cammy Cam Juice.

-----MIKEY-----

Fiesta Bowl: Connecticut (+17) over Oklahoma...$165 to win $150

If you pick against Bob Stoops in the BCS it seems to work out pretty well. Let's keep it going.

Orange Bowl: Stanford (-1) over Virginia Tech...$82.50 to win $75

Virginia Tech finished its season on fire, going undefeated in the ACC and winning the conference title game. Stanford's been playing so consistently good all season, though, that it's hard not to be impressed and think they'll want to cap their best season ever with a BCS win. Harbaugh is a great coach and he keeps his guys motivated for thier most important game yet, making Stanford pride felt throughout the nation.

National Championship: Auburn (-2.5) over Oregon...$82.50 to win $75

Would Oregon even be close to the best team in the SEC? As they play now I think they would've had 3 or 4 losses in the SEC and somehow Auburn went through with none. A team going through the SEC undefeated should be handed a national title instantly, but Auburn will still earn theirs with a W over the Ducks. (Over/under on how many days Auburn will actually get to keep their national title: 7)

THE BODOGS ARE BARKIN: Non-BCS Bowls

Just a month ago it appeared that Hinkle had a stranglehold on the title. Unfortunately for Joshua though, the season did not end then. Mattare started a furious comeback with "All-In Weekend 2010" and rode that to a 9-3 finish, pulling him into almost a dead heat going into the bowl season. Mikey and Chuck? Not so much.

Now we have two more weeks on the slate. Week one will be all non-BCS games and there will be a $200 maximum just like the regular season (but you only have to select three games). Week two will be a $300 maximum for the BCS games (three game rule applies as well).

Can Mikey or Chuck come back thanks to an absurd win on the moneyline (Helloooo UConn!)? Will Mattare find a way to win or will Hinkle put the finishing touches on a great start-to-finish run?

The race is on! Let's check the standings and get to the picks!

Week 14 Results
1. Mattare: $85…Ends the regular season on a sizzling hot streak.

2. Hinkle: $21...His conservative moneyline plays stop the bleeding.

3. Chuck: -$104.55…Devastating blow to any slim comeback chances.
4. Mikey: -$198…Woof.

Preseason Prop Bet Results (Listed here)
1. Mattare: $85…Jordan Toddman and UConn get it done!
2. Mikey: $70…Took the under on Iowa and Southern Cal's win total.
3. Hinkle: $30…Kirk Cousins passes Hinkle to a small gain.
4. Chuck: $0…YOU'LL GET NOTHING AND LIKE IT.

Final Regular Season Standings
1. Hinkle: $398.50…A solid all-around year for Hinkle.
2. Mattare: $390.10…Epic comeback in the final month.
3. Chuck: -$227.10…Rough year.
4. Mikey: -$394…Rougher year.

Non-BCS Pick Summary

Hinkle: Miami > Notre Dame, FSU-USC (Under), Toledo > FL Intl
Mattare: Boise St > Utah, Tulsa > Hawaii, Mizzou > Iowa
Chuck: Utah (ML) > Boise St, Tulsa (ML) > Hawaii, BC (ML) > Nevada
Mikey: Boise St-Utah (Under), SDSU > Navy, MSU > Alabama

-----HINKLE-----

It was a fairly good year for me so far. I was dominating then slacked off on my analysis which led to a mediocre finish but that is a good thing because now the bowl games mean something. You know what else means something? BEATING MATTARE, ON HIS SITE, AT THE HANDS OF HIS OWN TEAM!

Sun Bowl: THE U (-3) over Notre Dame...$110 to win $100

This is what I want Mattare to tell me for the next 9 months until its time for Round 2:

A. I really thought heading into Bowl Season I was on fire and going to beat you but damnit!

B. Not only am I pissed I lost, but its because Notre Dame blew it for me. (Insert 7 reasons why they should have won)

With that being said, I am not overly excited about this play but thats how I am going to roll!

Chick-Fil-A Bowl: FSU-South Carolina (OVER 54.5)...$22 to win $20

I just see this being monster shootout. Like 39-29. Hopefully they do not disappoint!

Little Caesars Bowl: Toledo (-1.5) over Florida International...$66 to win $60

Four of Toledo's losses came to Arizona, Boise, and Northern Illinois. Florida International is 3-4 on the road and only covered two times as a dog this year, the first two games of the season vs an overrated Rutgers and Texas AM. They PF and PA are identical, but playing a tougher schedule I think Toledo is a double digit victor.

PS. Brotzman is pathetic at kicking and catching.

-----MATTARE-----

Ohhhh Joshua, the enemy is at the gate. Time to deliver the death blow and set up a BCS showdown. All lines from Sportsbook.

Maaco Bowl: Boise State (-16.5) over Utah...$55 to win $50

Boise State is mad, especially after the Utes gave some serious bulletin board material this week. Utah was unbelievably underwhelming in every game I saw them play this season. They're going to watch their nine game bowl streak go down in flames

Hawaii Bowl: Tulsa (+10) over Hawaii...$44 to win $40

I love the Hawaii Bowl. I love Hawaii. I love the crazy, high-scoring games that seem to always take place on the big island. These are two high-octane attacks and though Hawaii's defense is far better than in recent memory I don't think it's enough to blow Tulsa out.

Insight Bowl: Missouri (-3) over Iowa...$33 to win $30

There isn't a chance in hell that Iowa can have its head in this game, is there? Their friends (and key starters) are getting suspended, their drug business has been ruined, and the underclassmen realize that they're stuck in Iowa City without any weed for the next few years. Bummer dudes. Mizzou rolls.

-----CHUCK-----

Just call me the Lord of the Moneyline.

Maaco Bowl: Utah (+550) over Boise State...$10 to win $55

Because I need a big, fat moneyline victory right out of the gate.

Hawaii Bowl: Tulsa (+320) over Hawaii...$180 to win $576

Do you hear that Matt and Hinkle? That is the sound of the Category 6's blowing into Aloha Stadium, and blowing away y'all's lead. Tulsa's superior offensive talent will find a way to outscore Hawaii's superior offensive scheme. The final score may be more reminiscent of a Maui Invitational final than a college football game.

Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: Boston College (+270) over Nevada...$10 to win $27

This is a strength vs. strength slugfest with Nevada's potent rush attack taking on the best run defense in the nation. Something tells me that Colin Kaepernick left everything on the field against Boise State and is due for a letdown.

-----MIKEY-----

My best pick all season was Andrew Luck to win the Heisman. Maybe they'll give it to him after Newton mails it back. C'mon backdoor Heisman win!!! (all lines from covers.com):

Maaco Bowl: Boise St-Utah (UNDER 60)...$110 to win $100

This just seems to be a matchup of 2 very disappointed teams. I can't see the normal display of firepower showing up that we normally see from them so give me the under.

Poinsettia Bowl: San Diego St. (-4) over Navy...$55 to win $50

San Diego St. has got to be the most overlooked school in the 2 major men's sports. Overlook this, Navy.

Capital One Bowl: Michigan St. (+11) over Alabama...$55 to win $50

11 points?? Are they serious? Would Alabama still be favored over Auburn and Oregon? I just can't ignore this line so go Sparty.

THE BODOGS ARE BARKIN: WEEK #14

We're rapidly approaching the finish line and suddenly we have a race on our hands. Hinkle's Boise Broncos took the gas in Reno on last Friday night which has allowed Mattare to sneak right back into the thick of things with only Championship Weekend and the Bowl Games to go. Will he hold on to what seemed like an insurmountable lead? Will Mattare continue his Lazarus-esque comeback? Will Mikey go four digits into the red? Stay tuned...

Week 13 Results
1. Mattare: $89…Could be right on Hinkle's heels if not for NC State.

2. Mikey: -$8…Four straight weeks of 2-2, four straight weeks of -$8.

3. Chuck: -$28.18…Limping to the gate.
4. Hinkle: -$143…First goose egg of the year makes the final weeks interesting.

Week 13 Standings

1. Hinkle: $347.50…The footsteps are getting louder...
2. Mattare: $220.10…(CLICK CLACK).
3. Chuck: -$122.55…Will need something ridiculous to get back in it.
4. Mikey: -$266… Will need a miracle to break even.

Week 14 Pick Summary

Hinkle: Ore (ML) > OSU, FS-Ill (Over), Aub (ML) > SC, LU > Del
Mattare: Pitt > Cin, SC > Aub, Conn > USF, USC-UCLA (Under)
Chuck: OSU > Ore, UCLA > USC, SC > Aub, Idaho > SJST
Mikey: SC > Aub, Neb > Okla, UCLA > SC, WSU > Wash

-----HINKLE-----

How was my Thanksgiving at the beach? Horrible. I finally understood what it felt like to be a die hard Notre Dame fan the past few years. I now understand the misery you all endure watching heartbreak after heartbreak. Alabama, I will forever hate you more than Mike Guman does. Up that many point and you blow it...are you serious??? Then, to top it off a kicker ruins another great football game. TWICE! In the end, I am glad Auburn came back. If the door to Tempe was wide open and that crap happened...OH MY GOD I do not even know what I would have done.

Boise State is a great team. I am not mad they lost. Every team loses at some point. But to lose a game like that. Horrible. You know who feels for that piece of crap kicker? Bill Buckner. That bum lives in Boise and owns a car dealership. Kicker may at least get some sympathy from Billy and have a job there since everyone else in the state will forever hate him.

I am up $130. I am playing conservative.

Game #1: Oregon (ML) over Oregon State...$83 to win $12

If I lose this bet I do not even want to win this competition.

Game #2: Fresno State-Illinois (Over 58)...$11 to win $10

I saw Fresno's awesome D in Boise. Illinois is not much better.

Game #3: Auburn (ML) over South Carolina...$83 to win $31

I am a believer in them after last week on the road. Cam Newton is a man child.

Game #4: Lehigh (+17) over Delaware...$11 to win $10

I looked up the rules. No where does it say one must bet on an NCAA Division 1-A game. I will take the fightin Donnie Robert's plus the points.

-----MATTARE-----

Apparently being engaged gives you gambling superpowers. Hinkle is slipping up and I'm coming at him like a SPIDER MONKEY. All picks are sportsbook.com unless noted.

Game #1: Pittsburgh (-1.5) over Cincinnati...$110 to win $100

Cincinnati just isn't very good. They've had Pitt's number over the past few years, but that was due in large part to the man who was leading the Bearcats...and now that man is patrolling the sidelines in South Bend. Nippert Stadium just isn't as intimidating as it once was.

Game #2: South Carolina (+5.5) over Auburn...$55 to win $50 (www.betfair.com)

For a few reasons. First of all, I think the Ol' Ball Coach has something up his sleeve. Second of all, Auburn has to be mentally worn down after the grueling Bama game while the Gamecocks' confidence is soaring thanks to crushing a hated rival on the road. Third of all, South Carolina should've won the last game at Auburn and blew it down the stretch. And lastly, karma is eventually going to rise up and smack Cam Newton in the face.

Game #3: Connecticut (+2.5) over South Florida...$22 to win $20

Connecticut squashes all these convoluted Big East BCS scenarios and secures their spot in what's sure to be the most uninteresting BCS game ever.

Game #4: UCLA-Southern Cal (Under 53.5)...$22 to win $20

Southern Cal has a pretty darn good defense, but their offense is so vanilla and reined in with Mustain at the helm that I just can't see a lot of points being scored.

-----CHUCK-----

Welcome to my final week of the regular season picks: Clemson style. Like Kyle Parker, I have decided to mail it in for the season. No, I am not going to "quit" on this column. I am, however, going to give very little effort while still handing out my picks. Buyer beware. Also, there's a theme in my analysis. It's subtle, but see if you can find it.

Game #1: Oregon St. (+16.5) over Oregon...$50 to win $45.45

Corvalis might burn down.

Game #2: UCLA (+7) over USC...$50 to win $45.45

LA will burn down either way.

Game #3: South Carolina (+4.5) over Auburn...$50 to win $45.45

I hope the Gamecocks win so that Columbia does burn down.

Game #4: Idaho (-13.5) over San Jose State...$50 to win $45.45

I smell potatoes burning.

-----MIKEY-----

I should've never stopped picking Temple after Week 4. (all lines from covers.com):

Game #1: South Carolina (+5.5) over Auburn...$110 to win $100

Will karma finally kick in and deal Auburn a loss? Nobody wants to watch a national title game that they know won't count.

Game #2: Nebraska (+4.5) over Oklahoma...$33 to win $30

This game should be a pick em so points are a gift.

Game #3: UCLA (+6) over USC...$33 to win $30

Just think USC is reeling right now and Rick Neuheisel will have his boys ready to play.

Game #4: Washington State (+6) over Washington...$22 to win $20

This has to be the worst rivalry matchup of the weekend. I see a 3-0 final score so 6 points looks good.

THE BODOGS ARE BARKIN: WEEK #13

The boys are back at it and closing in on the finish line. Hinkle has what looks to be an insurmountable lead heading into the home stretch but you never know...

Can Chuck and Mattare make a charge? Will Hinkle falter? Will Mikey have all his fingers intact at Christmas after his bookie gets through with him? Stay tuned...

Week 12 Results

1. Mattare: $167…All-in weekend goes as planned on all fronts.

2. Hinkle: $26…He's just looking to coast to victory.

3. Mikey: -$8…Treading water--but not really.

4. Chuck: -$171…Aloha means goodbye to Chuck's chances.

Week 12 Standings

1. Hinkle: $490.50…All he has to do is avoid something stupid.

2. Mattare: $131.10…He's back from the dead...but is it too late?

3. Chuck: -$94.37…A crushing blow has Chuck back in the red.

4. Mikey: -$258…Very cozy in the basement.

Week 13 Pick Summary

Hinkle: Bama > Aub, EM > NI, EM-NI (Over), Boise > Nev

Mattare: TCU > NM, BC > Syr, NCST > Mary, GT > Geo

Chuck: Tex > TAMU, Tul > SM, SC > ND, Clem > SC

Mikey: Tex > TAMU, Pitt > WV, Bama-Aub (Under), Neb > Colo

-----HINKLE-----

Josh, tell us why this week is/was pretty sweet. Ok I will.

A. The first bachelor party of our friends is heading to Vegas thanks to Mattare's plunge.

B. I took in a game live at the Smurf Turf.

C. I am leaving today for a weekend at the beach for Thanksgiving.

D. Thanksgiving Football

E. Auburn vs Bama, Oregon vs Arizona, Boise vs Nevada BACK to BACK to BACK!!!!

F. One week closer to cashing in on my prize.

Game #1: Alabama (-4) over Auburn...$11 to win $10

I need them to win so so so so bad for Boise to get a shot at the title game. As a college football fan what more could you want. As a Bronco fan what more could I want. Christmas can come as early as 5pm Friday. Nick Saban and Co. will not allow the Tigers to come in and win this game. They give up too many points to get away with it this week vs Alabama on the road. Roll Tide Roll!!

Game #2: Eastern Michigan (+23.5) over Northern Illinois...$11 to win $10

98% of the public is on Northern Illinois. Ill go with Vegas. Plus, I had to sit with their women's basketball team on a plane from Salt Lake to Detroit Monday. For having to look at that sight I feel the football crew will give me this one.

Game #3: Eastern Michigan-Northern Illinois (UNDER 61)...$11 to win $10

UNI- 34 EMU- 23

Game #4: Boise State (-14) over Nevada...$110 win $99

Nevada beat Fresno two weeks ago by 1. Last week when I walked out of the stadium with 5 minutes left in the game Boise had 29 first downs and Fresno had 7 rushing yards. 51-0 Broncos. Looking for Auburn to fall and Boise to play beyond inspired. Their defense is super fast and they have 5-6 helmets on the ball each play. I know Nevada is good as I have rooted for them the entire year so this game would mean something for the Broncos in the polls and it certainly will if they win. Here is to beating Nevada, jumping TCU, and jumping Auburn.

-----MATTARE-----

Came up big last weekend but I'm still only about 1/4 of the way up the mountain. Can't control what Hinkle does so it's time to keep pushing for the big bucks.

Game #1: TCU (-43.5) over New Mexico...$130 to win $117

This is a monster line, but the Horned Frogs have one last chance to make a statement that they should be in the BCS Title Hunt ahead of Boise State. This is going to be an absolute bloodbath along the lines of 60-0.

Game #2: Boston College (+130) over Syracuse…$10 to win $13

How the HELL did BC get back into the bowl picture?!?!?!?!

Game #3: NC State (-2) over Maryland...$50 to win $45

The Terps' slide from legit bowl to crappy bowl to continues.

Game #4: Georgia Tech (+13.5) over Georgia...$10 to win $9

The Dawgs are just laying too many points for a rivalry game.

-----CHUCK-----

Is it time to pick some college hoops games yet?

Game #1: Texas (+3.5) over Texas A&M...$90 to win $81.82

I have to go with the home underdog here. The 'Horns need this one to gain bowl eligibility and salvage what's left of a disappointing season. Ryan Tannehill has been a nice story for the Aggies, but Texas will be plenty motivated and I believe they have the superior talent in this one. Hook 'Em!

Game #2: Tulsa (-3.5) over Southern Miss...$90 to win $81.82

I have to go with my homeboys here. GJ Kinne, Damaris Johnson, and company will provide plenty of points for Tulsa's much improved defense to work with. The Golden Hurricanes need a win here to have a shot at landing in the Conference USA Championship Game.

Game #3: The Real USC (-4) over Notre Dame...$10 to win $9

With or without Barkley, there is no way this spread should be less than 5. The Coliseum has been a house of horrors for the Irish as the Trojans have won the last 4 in LA by an average of 29 points. I really hope I'm wrong on this one...

Game #4: Clemson (+3) over

USuCk

...$10 to win $9

Yet another trip to the alma mater for this weekend, and strangely I couldn't be more excited. In what has been nothing short of a disappointing season for my Tigers, a win here is the only preseason goal they can still obtain. The 7 pm kickoff allows ample time for this, that, these, and those. Good luck Shamecocks!

-----MIKEY-----

Really wish I wasn't so far back because this is a great college football weekend. At least my misery is ending (all lines from covers.com):

Game #1: Texas (+3.5) over Texas A&M...$44 to win $40

Texas needs a positive end to the season and A&M can't be this consistent.

Game #2: Pitt (-3) over West Virginia...$44 to win $40

Pitt continues it's strong finish.

Game #3: The Iron Bowl (Under 58.5)...$44 to win $40

There will be more D in this game than any Auburn game this season.

Game #4: Nebraska (-16.5) over Colorado...$44 to win $40

Bo Pelini is one great motivator, ask Taylor Martinez.

THE BODOGS ARE BARKIN: WEEK 12

I don't have time to update the standings or really do anything but post everyone's picks (I'm sure the formatting will be horrendous). McSorley's is calling my name. I'll update everything Sunday night, but here are the picks.

Some late additions to update everybody:

Week 11 Results

Hinkle: +53

Mikey: -8

Chuck: -9.10

Mattare: -39

Week 11 Standings

Hinkle: $464.50

Chuck: $76.63

Mattare: -$35.90

Mikey: -$250

-----Mikey-----

If anyone's been reading my picks and fading me this season, you're probably a millionaire by now. (all lines from covers.com):

Indiana (+10) over Penn St. $44 to win $40

Indiana's been surprisingly competitive at home this season, keeping it close with some good teams. Penn St. is another good team so hopefully the Hoosiers are ready for this one too and battle the Lions till the end.

Clemson (-13.5) over Wake Forest $44 to win $40

This line seems too high so Clemson's the pick. You heard me.

Illinois (-7.5) over Northwestern $44 to win $40

The Illini had a terrible loss at home last week against Minnesota. Northwestern beat Iowa at home last week, but also suffered a terrible loss as QB Dan Persa went down with a season-ending injury. That Wildcats loss is more important to this game as Illinois will hold them down and take the W.

Army (+8) over Notre Dame $44 to win $40

I pity all the college kids who go to this game because it will be hard to aford beer in the new Yankee Stadium. For the game though, the Irish seem to have trouble with the academies nowadays and Army should keep the trend going. Look for this one to come down to the final possession.

-----Hinkle-----

Well ladies and gentleman the time has come for me to make my return to the great state of Idaho to visit some friends from Boise. So yes, that means I will be in section 105 watching my Broncos hand it to Fresno Friday evening on the Smurf Turf. Jealous? I thought so.

Boise State -30.5 33 win 30

Do I need to explain this pick?

Idaho +2.5 vs Utah St. 22 win 20

Idaho took one in the mouth last week on national TV vs. the Broncos. They had to have learned something from that defeat and will come out hungry for this game.

Colorado State/Wyoming OVER 50 44 win 40

Followed both of these teams all year long. I thought this line would be in the 60's. Guess thats why I live in Penn's Woods and not the desert.

Oklahoma -7 vs Baylor 22 win 20

Why? Because I need TCU's win vs Baylor to look just as pointless as their win vs Utah Fightin Frauds. BOOMER SOONER!!!

-----Mattare-----

Notre Dame (-8.5) over Army....$170 to win $153

ALL IN. GO IRISH.

Kansas State (-2.5) over Colorado...$10 to win $9

Go Fightin' Snyders.

Va Tech (-2) over Miami...$10 to win $9

Hokies keep winning for Boise.

UConn (+150) over Syracuse...$10 to win $15

The Huskies are coming on strong.

-----Chuck-----

Cal (+7.5) over Stanford (170 to win 154.55)

Iowa (+3) over Ohio St. (10 to win 9.09)

Colorado (+2.5) over Kansas St. (10 to win 9.09)

Wake Forest (+14) over Clemson (10 to win 9.09)

THE BODOGS ARE BARKIN: Week #11

Hinkle’s lead continues to grow and with less than a month left in the regular season the three chasers are in pretty dire straits. Is there a big charge in store? Let’s recap last week's bloodbath and roll the Week 11 picks out.

Week 10 Results

1. Chuck: $86.35…Delivers a big, necessary bounce-back week

2. Mikey: -$8…Could the hemorrhaging finally be stopping?

3. Hinkle: -$79…Doing everything he can to let people back in it.

4. Mattare: -$126.50…First 0-for of the year.

Week 10 Standings

1. Hinkle: $411.50…Still comfortably in the lead.

2. Chuck: $85.73…Big swing zips him by Mattare.

3. Mattare: $3.10…It’s been a long drop back to even.

4. Mikey: -$242…Livin’ in the red.

Week 11 Summary

Hinkle: Colo > ISU, BSU-ID (Over), USC-Az (Over), FINT > Troy

Mattare: OU > A&M, TCU-UT (Under), BSU-Haw (Over), SC > ASU

Chuck: UConn > Pitt, IU > Wisc, Neb > Kans, USF > Lou

Mikey: BC > Duke, Wisc > IU, ISU > Colo, Geo > Aub

Gamblers Breakdown

-----HINKLE-----

Still in the lead but not doing it the way I would like. Last few weeks have been pretty bland so its time to get back with a bang and take an even stronger lead on the "competition". One more week before I release my Play of the Year. Fasten your seat belts kids. No explanations need...just straight cash homie. Sit back and watch the lead grow!

Game #1: Colorado (+2.5) over Iowa State…$27.50 to win $25

Trap line city. ISU should have won last week vs. Nebraska...Hawkins just got fired and Colorado is only getting 2.5. Give me one reason I should bet on Colorado....yea I can't think of one either so I will take them.

Game #2: Boise State-Idaho (Over 63)…$44 to win $40

I wasn't sure if this line was for the 1st half or the game...then I realized it was for the game. BINGO.

Game #3: USC-Arizona (Over 59.5)…$22 to win $20

Even though Lane Kiffin said he cannot go for 4 after a TD, I feel this is the week he tries to do it for the first time in NCAA history.

Game #4: Florida International (+9) over Troy…$11 to win $10

Have you seen FLINT play lately? Are they really getting 9 points!!! Have you seen that offense? Yeah, I haven't either.

-----CHUCK-----

As I am sure many of you know, it is Matt's birthday this week. Being the nice guy that I am, I am going to give him more than a terrible hangover for his birthday: how about some winners?

Game #1: UConn (+6) over Pitt…$50 to win $45.45

With a victory here, Pitt would all but secure a league conference title by going 2 games up on all pursuers in the putrid Big East. This definitely qualifies as a big game for the Panthers, which means it's time for a classic Dave Wannstedt choke job. This is the same UConn team that many experts touted as a favorite to win the league, and with a win here they might be able to sneak in the back door and do it. This is a season-defining game for the Huskies, and I expect the envrionment in Storrs to be somewhat amped. If Jordan Todman can find enouch creases in the Pitt defense and the Huskies can force Tino Sunseri to make plays downfield, this will be a long night for The Fighting Wannstaches.

Game #2: Indiana (+21.5) over Wisconsin…$50 to win $45.45

Has anyone seen this Indiana passing attack operate this year? Ben Chappell is throwing for nearly 300 yards per contest, easily tops in the Big Ten, and if it weren't for a dropped touchdown reception last week they would have taken down #13 Iowa. Don't get me wrong, Wisconsin has one of the top defenses in the Big Ten, and they will have their fans jumping around at Camp Randall. I just think that Indiana's offense keeps this within two scores at the end of the day. Besides, how could I pull for a school that has the drinking tendencies of a high school cheerleading squad? Advantage: Hoosiers.

Game #3: Nebraska (-34.5) over Kansas…$50 to win $45.45

Dan Hawkins gave the Jayhawk Faithful an early Christmas present last week, but don't expect Bo Pelini and company to be so nice this week. The Huskers' high-powered Big Red Machine will light the scoreboard up agains the worst defense in the Big 12.

Game #4: South Florida (+3) over Louisville…$50 to win $45.45

After losing their first two conference games, USF has rattled off two straight wins. The Bulls have arguably the fastest defense in the conference. Lousiville head coach Charlie Strong knows a thing or two about defense, having brough the success he had as the defensive coordinator at Florida to the Cardinals' D: they have held their opponents to under 300 yards of total offense their last 3 games. In the end, I think BJ Daniels makes enough plays to lead USF to victory at Papa John's Cardinal Stadium. Besides, aren't Cardinal fans more concerned about kicking off hoops season at the combination KFC/Cardinals' Basketball Arena? Let the Pizza Hut - Papa John's fued begin!!!

-----MATTARE-----

I’m mired in a terrible cold streak. Like Dan Hawkins cold. Maybe I should just take up poker or some sort of poker games instead. Or perhaps I could teach this poor girl how to run the 110 meter hurdles. All lines are from Sportsbook.

Game #1: Michigan (-13) over Purdue…$66 to win $60

The Boilers are down to their third string quarterback, which means they won’t be able to exploit the Skunkbears’ JV defense. Combine that with Denard running buckwild and you’ve got a blowout. These back-to-back wins will probably get Rich Rod a stay of execution, which is good news for Irish fans.

Game #2: Cal (+20) over Oregon…$33 to win $30

Two reasons for this. First, every team has a hiccup over the course of the season—even one as prolific as the Ducks. That hiccup doesn’t mean they’ll lose, it just means they won’t play great. Secondly, Cal has been absolutely ROLLING at home. They thrashed Colorado, UCLA, and Arizona State by 4+ touchdowns per game. The Bears don’t pull the upset, but they keep it close enough to cover.

Game #3: Virginia Tech (-3.5) over North Carolina…$33 to win $30

The Heels just don’t have the horses to compete with a red hot Hokie team. Virginia Tech can smell that ACC Championship.

Game #4: Air Force (-33) over New Mexico…$33 to win $30

The Lobos are horrendous and have given up 300+ yards rushing in each of their past two games. Guess what Air Force does really, really, really well? The Zoomies roll on Senior Day in Colorado Springs.

-----MIKEY-----

My fall to rock bottom is becoming epic, I've become the Wade Phillips of college football picking and there is no worse feeling. To restore some confidence I've started a program to teach inner city kids how to do the Dougie so anyone needing community service hours just let me know. (All lines from covers.com):

Game #1: Boston College (-3.5) over Duke…$44 to win $40

Duke is playing way too well (for them) and needs to be put back in their place. BC is pretty bad but they still have a shot at a bowl and will need this win if they want to keep that alive. I say they get it.

Game #2: Wisconsin (-21.5) over Indiana…$44 to win $40

Indiana should have beat Iowa last week but dropped the winning TD in the final minute. This week they'll still be disappointed about losing out on the opportunity and Wisconsin will run them over for it.

Game #3: Iowa St. (-2.5) over Colorado…$44 to win $40

No more Dan Hawkins, no more strippers at Colorado. I say it's a bad move for the team and all their incentive to play is gone, give me the Cyclones.

Game #4: Georgia (+8.5) over Auburn…$44 to win $40

There's just wayyyy too much speculation about Cam Newton nowadays and it has to be affecting him and the rest of the team. Auburn may have a tough time winning another game this year and I think they'll struggle against a solid Georgia team this week. Give me the points.