TEXAS TECH PASS VERSUS OHIO STATE PASS DEFENSE
Edge: Texas Tech
Let's face it. We are talking about a senior Heisman Candidate QB in Kliff Kingsbury. If Texas Tech has any chance of pulling this one out in Columbus, they will need to ride the arm of the K man. Insert that necessity in every game the Red Raiders do battle. If Kingsbury had the Ohio State targets, we might be talking about a conference title run. But he does have some of his own receivers. The returning Tech personnel have over 230 catches carrying over from last fall. There is no standout in this group, but more of a star by numbers exists. OSU needs to improve the pass coverage but has a better defensive back department due to starting safeties, All-American Mike Doss and free safety Donnie Nickey. All eyes will be on the Buckeye corners as new replacements have stepped in for departures. Good news has been coming out of Columbus on young Dustin Fox.

OHIO STATE PASS VERSUS TEXAS TECH PASS DEFENSE
Slight Edge: Ohio State
Hints are in the air suggesting that Ohio State is going to be utilizing the pass more as opposed to recent years past. But don't look for the running game to take a back seat in Buckeye Country, as the quarterbacks on this side of the field are not going to be the focus of 2002. The OSU receivers broke our Top 5 Unit Rankings for this year. These kids own the company receivers.org. The depth is just plain silly with names such as Vance, Jenkins, Gamble, and Childress. This may be the best set of receivers to play in the Horseshoe in the last 5-7 years. Texas Tech has been fair against the pass. There just does not seem to be one player that stands out as somebody who can step up. Too many weapons in scarlet and gray running routes. But the edge is only slight due to the inexperience of the man pulling the trigger and the fact that Texas Tech will bring pressure with excellent pass rushing numbers.

TEXAS TECH RUN VERSUS OHIO STATE RUN DEFENSE
Edge: Ohio State
Texas Tech isn't based on the run, especially with the ungodly numbers of personnel running pass patterns. Watch out for a young kid though by the name of Johnnie Mack this year in the Red Raider backfield, a California JUCO speedster. But this was an easy call. Keep an eye on Cie, Cie Grant that is, the cornerback turned linebacker at OSU. Some of the match ups with the linebackers should be interesting.

OHIO STATE RUN VERSUS TEXAS TECH RUN DEFENSE
Edge: Ohio State
The rushing cupboard is very well stacked in Columbus. Starting TB Lydell Ross has been hampered by a hamstring injury, but should be ready to go. No matter, some people call me Maurice. That would be the replacements in either big Maurice Hall or super recruit Maurice Clarrett. The later was the USA Today Offensive Player of the Year and Mr. Football in the state of Ohio just last season as a high school senior. Oh yea, forgot to mention he is a 230-pound tailback. FB Brandon Joe is suspended for this game. The middle of the defense for Texas Tech starts with All-American Candidate Lawrence Flugence at linebacker. He provides the big obstacle. For this edge to get closer, Flugence needs to rock on.

TEXAS TECH OL VERSUS OHIO STATE DL
Edge: Ohio State
The Raiders are probably better pass blockers due to the fact practice makes perfect. Giving Kingsbury time could prove costly to the opponent. Toby Cecil and Rex Richards are two of the best linemen in Big 12 country, but gaps remain in between with talent but inexperience. Newcomers will be protecting both of Kingsbury's sides at the tackle spots. This is a very big key match up to watch; the Tech tackles blocking the OSU rush ends. The starting defensive front wall for the Buckeyes is more experienced and talented.

OHIO STATE OL VERSUS TEXAS TECH DL
Slight Edge: Ohio State
There is a lack of depth up front offensively for the Buckeyes, but the starting unit looks solid. Basically, it is a typical Big Ten power group capable of moving obstacles. The front wall for the Red Raiders is just as stellar and racked up 35 sacks last year, they just have questions concerning stopping the run, a bad combo for this week's match up. But due to the pass rushing skills, this may be closer then the experts think.

SPECIAL TEAMS
EDGE: Even
The Buckeyes have an outstanding punter in senior Andy Groom, who averaged 45 yards per punt last season. But Ohio State was extremely lackluster in the kicking department last year, going a sub par 10 for 24 in field goals. Senior Robert Treece on the other hand, gives Texas Tech a distinct advantage with the kickers. If the game were to come down to a game of field goals, the Red Raiders have the definite edge. The combination of Chris Vance and Chris Gamble gives the Buckeyes a definite threat at returning punts. But the Raiders counter with a playmaker of their own in Wes Welker.

FINAL THOUGHTS
This game is very big for both of these squads, maybe a little underrated for this weekend of football. You have to respect that the game is in Columbus. You have to respect that Ohio State has more overall talent and size. But you cannot dismiss the fact that Texas Tech has an ultimate passing weapon in Kingsbury. He is enough alone to get this game within Red Raider striking distance. If Ohio State loses this home opener, they are straight into a deep, deep hole with all of the preseason expectations abound. If the game were in Lubbock, Buckeye fans should have been sweating, as everyone knows how gritty Tech can be in their own back yard on the artificial turf. It ain't gonna happen on the grass of Columbus. Take Ohio State and give the 7 points.

INSIDE99 PICK: OHIO STATE -7

FLORIDA STATE PASS VERSUS IOWA STATE PASS DEFENSE
Slight Edge: Florida State
This may be the best "inside the game" match up to follow, with the experienced secondary of Iowa State battling the athletic receivers of Florida State. The Seminole receiving troops represent some of the most deepest Coach Bowden has seen in a while. Anquan Boldin is questionable for this game after restraining that season ending knee injury from 2001. His partner Talman Gardner will be one of the nation's best at season's end with his size and speed (FSU's fasted 40-yard dash with height at 6'2). Contrary to popular belief, FSU QB Chris Rix is not a Heisman type signal caller just yet, but he is going to be a good one. Flat out, Iowa State has the best secondary since Head Coach Dan McCarney took over. All two-deeps return except for departed Adam Runk. The slight edge is due in part to the height of the Nole receivers and the shortness of the ISU defensive backs. FSU loves to put it up for grabs with these kids, which could spell trouble.

IOWA STATE PASS VERSUS FLORIDA STATE PASS DEFENSE
Edge: Iowa State
If you haven't heard of Cyclone QB Seneca Wallace yet, you will after the first couple of series. His sleek mobility and athleticism allows Iowa State to keep any defense on its heels. He has quite an arm and a senior mentality. Watch one of the most underrated receivers in America, as Lane Danielson gives the Cyclones a go-to weapon on the outside. FSU's pass rush disappeared last fall. Chasing Wallace around may not be advisable, which leaves the Seminole DB's covering longer with two new safeties playing from a unit that was questionable last year. If Iowa State is going to have a shot, it will come from this category.

FLORIDA STATE RUN VERSUS IOWA STATE RUN DEFENSE
Edge: Florida State
The FSU front wall is big and mostly all seniors. The FSU tailbacks are the deepest and most talented unit in Tallahassee. FSU will attempt to mix a balanced array of running and passing. But Iowa State is no stranger to big linemen and good backs as the Big 12 has prepared them well. MLB Matt Word and a gritty defensive front will make FSU earn every yard. But one of the biggest differences between last year and this year for FSU is their focus on executing a potent running attack, with the weapons to do it.

IOWA STATE RUN VERSUS FLORIDA STATE RUN DEFENSE
Edge: Florida State
A Cyclone concern is on the offensive line. What was a thin and inexperienced depth chart has been thinned out a little more due to injury. The services of tailback Ennis Haywood no longer exists from last year as three runners may see action. The FSU defensive line and linebackers are way too much to block at this juncture for Iowa State, as the only strength from last year's defensive fall out for FSU brings most all of its starters back. Keep an eye on Michael Boulware at OLB, he is your playmaker. This edge would be more glaring if not for the running threat that Wallace provides.

FLORIDA STATE OL VERSUS IOWA STATE DL
Edge: Florida State
It is funny how year's past would find the FSU front wall being criticized for their run blocking ability, only two years later to be questioned about their pass blocking ability. Maybe because this unit goes over 300 pounds per man. Most preseason prognosticators agree this FSU group is one of the nation's best. True with the starters, but there is a huge drop off in the second group. The Iowa State trench dwellers are short on experience, but are led by a good one in tackle Jordan Carstens. Coaches will have to mix it up to keep this unit hanging tough for four quarters.

IOWA STATE OL VERSUS FLORIDA STATE DL
Edge: Florida State
The biggest mismatches in this game are on the line of scrimmage. The biggest loses for Iowa State were on the offensive line, as only two starters are back on this unit. If that wasn't enough, starting guard Luke Vander Sanden has been lost for a long stretch with a broken ankle. If trench warfare is where the game is going to be won, FSU has a huge advantage. Starting FSU nose guard Jeff Womble is out for this game with a suspension. The group consisting of Dockett, Johnson, Jackson, and Emanuel will be more than a handful for the Iowa State offensive line. A key to watch in this game: can the deep set of defensive ends for the Noles contain Seneca Wallace and his running skills?

SPECIAL TEAMS
EDGE: Even
Tony Yelk developed into a fine punter last season for the Cyclones averaging 43.8 yards per punt, with 15 of them left inside the 20-yard line. Florida State on the other hand, may have its biggest weakness resting in the punting department. Quite the opposite on the kicking comparison as young sophomore Xavier Beitia went a cool 13-14 on field goals last season at Florida State, earning him All-ACC honors. The kicking woes for FSU are over. Tony Yelk also handled kicking duties last year for ISU, but his accuracy proved to be off with dismal numbers. The Noles have yet to locate a super star in the return department, something that has been missing the past few seasons. The Cyclones have some strong return men, but no consistent game breakers have emerged.

FINAL THOUGHTS
Florida State is a whopping 22-point favorite heading into this Kansas City tussle. It is hard to imagine a Seneca Wallace led team getting blown out by anybody in 2002. In Tallahassee, every game is crucial, you never get that feeling with most Cyclone teams. How that pans out can work either way, but the pressue is likely on Florida State. The distinctive edge here goes to the Seminoles at both sides of the line of scrimmage, at depth, and at athleticism. For Iowa State to have a chance at the end, Wallace will need to play the game of his life. Don't misunderstand, Iowa State has some players that can get after you, but the numbers always favor FSU in these types of match ups, especially in the heat of the early season. Chasing the ISU offense around can get tiring, but extreme depth at defensive end for Florida State should neutralize the sting. Both teams have grueling 13-game schedules. Losing the first one is going to force an up hill battle the rest of the way. Both teams have suffered through about the same amount of August injuries, most of them of the lesser variety. Even though we are not making this one of our picks against the spread, covering that many points will be too difficult for the first game rust and jitters that will likely show for both squads.

INSIDE99 PICK: FLORIDA STATE

ARIZONA STATE PASS VERSUS NEBRASKA PASS DEFENSE
Edge: Arizona State
Other than DeJuan Groce's big play ability there isn't much to be excited about when looking at Nebraska's secondary. The injury to Willie Amos in the spring will make it harder for 3 new and inexperienced starters to try to stop ASU's more than capable group of Wide Receivers. With All American candidate Shaun McDonald back with more than capable Justin Taplin, and veteran tight end Mike Pinkard, ASU should be able to gain some yards, and more importantly hope to make some big plays, given first Chad Christiansen (or Andy Goodenough) gets enough time in the pocket. Either way starting your first game for the Devils in Memorial stadium will not be an easy one.

NEBRASKA PASS VERSUS ARIZONA STATE PASS DEFENSE
Edge: Arizona State
Let's face it, Nebraska's game is not the pass and they rather not do it unless its either 3rd and Long or they're facing 10 guys in the box. That being said, Arizona State's strength is in the back 7 which returns 6 starters, they should be able to contain a green Jammal Lord when need be.

ARIZONA STATE RUN VERSUS NEBRASKA RUN DEFENSE
Slight Edge: Nebraska
Arizona State now gives the Running Back position to Mike Williams, Hakim Hill and Cornell Candidate, as they try to take some pressure off the QB position, though the offensive Line might have their work cut out for them, they could perhaps do some damage if they can penetrate Nebraska's back 7 which lacks both experience and a real difference maker, still the difference in talent probably goes in favor of Nebraska. One of the few bright spots on what could be a below average year for the black-shirts is the defensive line. Returning 3 of last years 4 starters including stand out Chris Kelsay, Nebraska's Defensive Line should cause havoc against what is a very inexperienced offensive line that returns only 1 starter. Arizona State's Running Back, Mike Williams and company will have their work cut out for them.

NEBRASKA OL VERSUS ARIZONA STATE DL
Edge: Nebraska
It all starts up front and that is where Nebraska's already got an edge. Sure Nebraska only returns 2 starters on the offensive line but they never have a shortage of meat plows to open holes for their backs. As for Arizona's inexperienced Defensive Line, they will need All American candidate Terrel Suggs to have a career day if they expect to contain Nebraska's ground attack. He returns as the only formidable presence on what is a relatively week Defensive Line.

SPECIAL TEAMS
Edge: Nebraska
For Nebraska, Josh Brown is one of the Big 12's best kickers, if not the best, and the steady play of punter Kyle Larson is adequate. Making the biggest difference though is Dejuan Groce's ability to make things happen on kick returns. Arizona State on the other side can count on Mike Barth to make most kicks, but they'll have to count on juco transfer Tim Parker for their punting duties. Justin Taplin will take care of punt return duties as a formidable threat.

FINAL THOUGHTS
Nebraska brings in the nation's longest home winning streak and probably their worst team in maybe 4 years, but will that be enough for Arizona State to pull off the upset? To do so they'll need to have some big special team breaks and make big plays through out the course of the game if its to happen. Nebraska's ability to dominate the lines though will make it very difficult for ASU to sustain enough drives to keep up with Nebraska's ground game. I expect both teams to put up some points on one another, but I think in the end Nebraska's home field advantage combined with ability to play keep away should prove to be too much for a undermanned Arizona State defense.

RickySixx prediction: Nebraska 45 ASU 27

WISCONSIN PASS VERSUS FRESNO STATE PASS DEFENSE
Edge: Wisconsin

FRESNO STATE PASS VERSUS WISCONSIN PASS DEFENSE
Edge: Fresno State
With two solid receivers, fast Bernard Berrian and aggressive Marque Davis Fresno should be able to beat up on Wisconsin's vulnerable secondary. In order to get big yards passing, the receivers need to get the ball and that means QB Jeff Grady, who has only thrown 23 career passes will have to step up. Wisconsin's secondary is led by CB Scott Starks, who was pushed into play as a freshman while showing some potential.

WISCONSIN RUN VERSUS FRESNO STATE RUN DEFENSE
Edge: Wisconsin
Anthony Davis, the Big Ten's and possibly the nations best rusher, who had 1,446 as a freshman, should gain alot of yards in this game, but perhaps not as many as some would think. Fresno returns five out of the front seven including their three best; strong nose tackle Jason Stewart, All-WAC end Nick Burley, and a great run stopper middle linebacker Marc Dailey.

FRESNO STATE RUN VERSUS WISCONSIN RUN DEFENSE
Slight Edge: Wisconsin
Hard call here, two very weak points for each team. Wisconsin only returns middle linebacker Jeff Mack while Fresno is without everyone except HB Alec Greco, a small contributor. Fresno was looking to Derrick Ward to make something happen, but he was lost to academics while Wisconsin never had much to begin with. Fresno may look to Therrian Fontenot but that remains undecided. Wisconsin is just hoping someone on the D-line will step up and contribute.

WISCONSIN OL VERSUS FRESNO STATE DL
Edge: Wisconsin
Wisconsin has one of the best OL's in the country led by center Al Johnson and left tackle Ben Johnson. Fresno has an okay D-line led by All-WAC end Nick Burley. If Wisconsin wins this game, it will be their OL that leads them to victory.

FRESNO STATE OL VERSUS WISCONSIN DL
Edge: Fresno State
A huge offensive line versus an inexperienced defensive line could be Fresno's biggest advantage. Led by center Rodney Michael all five returning starters weigh over 300 pounds. Wisconsin's Anttaj Hawthorne is no shrimp either. The 6' 3" 305-pound tackle will lead Wisconsin's D-line. He has three career starts under his belt.

SPECIAL TEAMS
Edge: Fresno State
Fresno might just have the nation's best unit with Berrian returning kick-offs and punts. All-WAC picks K Asen Asparuhov and P Jason Simpson make this unit is dangerous. As for Wisconsin, back-up RB Jerone Pettus will return kick-offs and punts while strong-legged Scott Campbell will handle kick-offs and FG's. R.J. Morse will once again do punts.

FINAL THOUGHTS
I might regret this pick in the end, but something's telling me not to pick Wisconsin without Lee Evans. Fresno is too strong to be denied by such a weak defense.

Sparty4600 PICK: Fresno State by 5