Week 3 Predictions: Sept 15

Cincinnati (-7) @ Miami (OH)
Another in our series of backyard rivals. The Bearcats are looking like they can hold their own in the tough Big East, while the Redhawks have played some close ones against so-so competition. The Bearcats will roll because of their surprising D.

Cincinnati by 14

Ohio (+21.5) @ Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech is the sentimental favorite this year, and you've gotta admire Frank Beamer for handling tough situations with class. But the Hokies haven't looked all that good this year, Ohio has had some easy competition to go 2-0, and they have a good chance to pull the upset.

Virginia Tech wins, but Ohio covers the spread

Tennessee (+7.5) @ Florida
This will be Florida's first true test of the season after two cupcake games, while Tennessee has already played in a huge game against Cal. Look for the Vols to jump out to a quick lead, but they won't be able to hold it against the solid Gators.

Florida by 14

Ohio State (-3.5) @ Washington
Huskies D-Line Coordinator Randy Hart was part of the 1968 Buckeye National Championship team and coached at Ohio State for a long time. You can bet he's going to have his guys invested in this one. The Buckeyes are looking very beatable this year, but they will probably hit their stride at some point.

Ohio State by 7

Notre Dame (+8) @ Michigan
As bad as Michigan has looked on D, Notre Dame doesn't have the tools to run the type of offense that can beat them. Look for Mike Hart to have a huge day with Chad Henne sitting out.

Michigan by 17

Florida Intl. (+32.5) @ Miami (FL)
We all remember what happened when these teams met last year, but I don't expect any brawl problems. This is the Canes chance to get their season back on track, so look for them to be on their best behavior. Florida Intl. might get a little steamed when they start getting pasted.

Miami (FL) wins, but Florida Intl. covers the spread

Arkansas (+3) @ Alabama
This should be a good game with the winner having the inside track to 2nd place in the SEC West. In all likelyhood, one of two situations is going to take a major hit, either McFadden's Heisman chances or the Tide's love affair with Saban.

Alabama by 7

Fresno State (+16.5) @ Oregon
Oregon is looking tough, but admittedly against so-so competition. Fresno State took Texas A&M down to the wire, but I'm not sure they can hang with the Ducks for four quarters,

Oregon wins, but Fresno State covers the spread

Louisville (-6) @ Kentucky
This one's gonna be a shootout, no question about it. Both the Cardinals & Wildcats can put points on the board, and their D's are more than shaky. Louisville's played in bigger games than Kentucky and should have more poise at the end, but I wouldn't be surprised if the Wildcats pull the upset at home.

Kentucky by 3

Southern California (-10.5) @ Nebraska
After two weeks off, USC should have their kinks worked out and be ready to play. Nebraska looked beatable at Wake Forest, and they're gonna need to play a mistake-free game to have a chance.

Southern California by 17

Boston College (+6.5) @ Georgia Tech
These two are looking like the cream of the ACC crop, but that's not saying much. It should be a good game though, with the victor having jumped a major conference hurdle. We might see this matchup again in December.

Boston College by 7

Florida State (-5) @ Colorado
Florida State is still sputtering, even with their new/old coaches and schemes. Colorado is playing solid despite losing last week. They should have no problem with the Seminoles at home.

Colorado by 7