Campus Confidential

You know who I'm talking about. The annoying kid from Willy Wonka. He loved TV, specifically Westerns. His mom let him bring his dinner in front of the TV he loved it so much.

Anyway, I had to fill in for a coworker on our high school football show. Check it out. I think I look really tired on camera.

I'll be back with a Heisman watch.

It might be easier -- and more sensible -- if I start making this my Monday post and figure something else out for Tuesday that's less time consuming. Any suggestions?

This is by far the toughest poll I've compiled to date.

25. Virginia
I was suspect of Virginia's success. The loss in Raleigh proves the Cavaliers are not elite. But they're still dangerous.

24. Boise State
Where would the Broncos be ranked had they not lost to Washington? Top 10? Top 5?

23. South Florida
Former Syracuse standout quarterback Don McPherson told me on Saturday that USF's biggest mistake was ignoring their early season success. He's right.

22. South Carolina
The way South Carolina played early on, it really had no business in that game. Put this team in the Big East or ACC and you have a Top 10-15 program by season's end, no question.

21. Wake Forest
At Virginia followed by a trip to Clemson. One, if not both, will be pretty ticked off at the Deacons.

20. Clemson
Speaking of...James Davis and CJ Spiller ran all over Maryland like they need to every weekend. Davis: 29 for 129 and a TD. Spiller: 17 for 106. Do that and they'll win out. Including the BC and South Carolina games.

19. Hawaii
There's a reason the computers don't have the Warriors ranked.

18. Connecticut
An impressive win on Saturday. This team is one point away from an unblemished campaign. Remember who had them ranked first.

17. Florida
Is it fair to say they're the best three-loss team in the country? Are they? The defense looked rather porous.

16. Alabama
Coach Saban has a big one coming up. Lucky for him, it's in Tuscaloosa. Unluckily, his team doesn't match up well with LSU.

15. Virginia Tech
Still not sure what to say. Defensive coordinator says the Hokies didn't play prevent, that they rushed three a dozen times earlier in the game and those who question the calls can go to hell. Is nobody held accountable for not finishing the football game?

14. Georgia
If Georgia could play that dominant as it did on Saturday, we'd be talking about this team playing for all the marbles. The good news? The offense that you saw Saturday is pretty, pretty young.

13. Southern California
Considering the Trojans had their backup start in one of the toughest places to play in the country and they were in position to tie near the end of the game, it's not a terrible loss. USC is just not as good as everyone thought, but they're still good.

12. Auburn
The Tigers play with a lot of energy that's generated from the defense. I'm just wondering what happens if the offense doesn't wake up in time.

11. Texas
The Longhorns can thank Jamaal Charles for this ranking.

10. Kansas
A nice win by the Jayhawks in College Station, but the Aggies are pretty bad. Are the Jayhawks really a Top 10 team? Really? Computers have 'em Top 5.

9. Michigan
No Henne, no Hart, still no problem. The loss to App State made UM the employee who made the inappropriate pass at the boss during the Christmas Party. Eventually you have to just let it go and realize it was an open bar and bad decisions were made.

8. Missouri
The loss of 'Pig' Brown on the defense will hurt the Tigers, but not enough to hold them down. It won't be easy to win out, but it's necessary if Mizzou wants to play in the Big XII Championship.

7. Boston College
Didn't impress me at all. Thursday night was Christmas in October for the Eagles. Maybe I'm bitter.

6. West Virginia
The big guns looked good on the road against Rutgers. With three tricky games ahead, they can't pull one of those shoot-yourself-in-the-foot games like the Tampa meltdown. The Big East is theirs to win.

5. Oklahoma
Relatively smooth sailing for the Sooners to finish the regular season. Just can't sleep on anyone, like they did with Colorado.

4. Arizona State
In a league that's not playing very good defense -- shocking -- ASU might be in fantastic shape. Saturday night was a display of a very balanced offense.

3. Oregon
This offense vaults the Ducks into the Top 3. I've been touting Jonathan Stewart all year and it's time you start watching him. He's the real deal.

2. LSU
Will a week off get the Tigers back on track? This weekend is a big test, but it's LSU's last major one.

1. Ohio State
We were able to see some of what that offense is really made of. Doesn't seem like the Buckeyes are going anywhere until the Michigan game.

By Adam Abramson

The title of this entry says enough.

I'll give some quick background. After I finish up my weekly duties at Newsday, I hop in the car (sometimes on a plane) and head to northern Virginia for my Saturday show on XM radio. Sundays are generally spent on the couches of my college friends' place in Arlington, where I stay each weekend.

In an ideal world, I'd love to leave after the 1 p.m. NFL games and get home in time for some dinner and a chance to wrap up the weekend in the comforts of home. However, the Jersey Turnpike - Hades' gift to earth - is a parking lot between exits 7 and 8 and what takes me 4 hours at night turns into 7 hours on Sunday. So, we sit on the couch and let an advertisement peak our interests and we finish the weekend with a dinner somewhere around town.

This week it was "Endless Shrimp" at Red Lobster. I admit to everyone I had never been to a Red Lobster (always lived near the ocean and went to local seafood restaurants). They go insane and demand we go there for dinner.

Fast forward to 7:30, when we're seated. One of my friends pitches the idea of a shrimp eating contest. But all of us shoot that down. He then proceeds to gloat how he would destroy all of us. My pride gets the best of me, mainly because I know I can take him out with the blink of an eye. The game is on.

Within five minutes I'm up 15 shrimp. He closes the gap to 10. Before he knows it, he's down 30 and gives the obligatory handshake, officially ending the competition. It was pure intimidation with speed, plus the fact I ate three cheddar biscuits, a salad and a baked potato.

The end result of this story, in addition to my swelled pride, is an interesting drive home filled with ingestion and an intense craving for water (it was probably more of a necessity than craving).

That's my story.

As for the weekend, we'll get into it big time tomorrow, but let's point out a few things.

1. Paul, I watched Arizona State instead of going out to meet friends after the show. It was important that I watch the Sun Devils and I'm glad I did. They're a ton of fun. I definitely think I watched a 10-win team and a unit that could be playing in a BCS game when it's all said and done. Dennis Erickson was having a ton of fun out there, it was really a treat to see.

2. Sticking with the Pac-10. Does UCLA have an identity? Losing to Washington State was pretty bad. The ups and downs this team is going through has to leave someone accountable when it's all said and done. I've said all year that this could be the end for Karl.

3. I'm starting to think Urban Meyer might be a little too 'new school' for his own good. I really question some of the play calls I saw on Saturday in Florida's loss to Georgia. There's a time for ingenuity and there's a time for stuff that works. On a fourth and two, there are better choices than an attempt at a reverse.

4. Fact: Hawaii is on the cusp of being BCS eligible. Remember this come late November.

5. Ohio State is looking more dangerous every week. The Buckeyes' performance in Happy Valley was pretty impressive.
   

Oh, if you go to Red Lobster, stay away from the "new" buffalo shrimp. No good.

By Adam Abramson

BLACKSBURG -- About 90 minutes after Boston College pulled off its comeback I was driving off campus when I saw Daily Press columnist David Teel walking by.

I rolled down my window to say hey and Dave says “You ever see anything like that?”

Well…yeah, I have. Maybe not exactly that, but I’ve come to expect situations like last night from Virginia Tech.

The Hokies are new to this elite football game and aren’t quite good at it yet. They aren’t winners in the proper sense. They aren’t finishers, be it a game or a season (in years prior, Tech has been notorious for not finishing a season). They’re a step below the Southern Cals, LSUs, Michigans, Ohio States and even Floridas of the country. The proof was in last night’s pudding.

As for the end of that game: What happened to the play calling on defense? Where was all of that pressure? If the prevent defense didn’t work the first time around when Matt Ryan put together his first touchdown drive, why go back to it? Furthermore, if you drop eight guys to cover the field, why is one of them defensive end Orion Martin. Not sure who that is? He’s the guy who haplessly flailed at the ball as Andre Callender camped out in the end zone with 11 seconds left.

You can’t ask a defensive end to play safety in a prevent. If you want to give up rushing the quarterback, make sure the guys you entrust to stop a touchdown are familiar with their roles (read as “Let no man behind you”).

I don’t blame the players. This one is chalked up to the Tech coaching staff, no questions about it.

But, like I said. I’ve come to expect situations like that. I’ve caught a lot of heat for riding Tech a little too hard in the blog this season, but I feel vindicated. Boston College didn’t make my pick look good, Virginia Tech did.

Oh, and just for the record, Matt Ryan is not a Heisman quarterback yet, but he sure is a great pro prospect.

I’m just gonna rip through a few picks for the weekend and leave it at that. I forgot how tiring it was to watch a game from outside the press box. Enjoy the games this weekend.

By Adam Abramson

No interview this week because I want to preview the game I'll be attending.

No. 2 Boston College vs. No. 8 Virginia Tech

There's a lot of questions that will be answered on Thursday night, we hope.

1. Is Boston College ready for the big boys of the conference?
Much has been made at the lack of talent BC has faced, although I don't think it has been brutal. A home win over a sound Wake Forest team and a road win against Georgia Tech are worth noting.

2. Is Virginia Tech one of these said Big Boys of the conference?
Will the team that got roasted by LSU show up? Or will it be the team that baffled Clemson on a Saturday night on the road?

3. Is Matt Ryan REALLY the real deal?
If he passes this test, the answer will be yes. His game against a very tough Georgia Tech defense and the rest of his work this year has him in the mix with the top QBs in the country, but one bad game against a good defense and many will jump off the bandwagon.

There are more, but we'll stop there.

On Tuesday I talked about how it wasn't very wise for BC coach Jeff Jagodzinski to downplay the atmosphere of Thursday night's game. He clearly believes in the mental fortitude of this team. The defense has limited opponents to just 46 yards per game this year -- the country's best average. But is this a product of teams falling behind and trying to pass their way back into games? Even if that's the case, the Eagles are a Top 15 unit against the pass.

Virginia Tech has flat-out stunk in the running game this year. Actually, its offense has been miserable. One of the worst in the country. As it did in Clemson, the Hokies used that trademarked Beamerball that the media loves so much: Special teams and defense. But I think it's more than that. I've followed this team closely for six years and I've come to understand that Beamerball is Tech's way of finding ugly ways to win games. The offense has ranked in the Top 50 once since Michael Vick left town.

So, will VT use Beamerball to win tonight? That's the ultimate question. Because BC just beats VT on paper, so that's what it will take. And I've seen it happen tons of times in six years. You'd like to think so considering the wave of upsets and the curse of No. 2 this year. Why not another one?

I am hearing rain and cold which means we might see a lot of stuff near the line of scrimmage, an advantage that can go both ways. Expect a healthy dose of screens, much like the BC-Notre Dame game when Andre Callender had 10 catches for 96 yards and a score. This could be the bait that Virginia Tech ends up biting somewhere in the third quarter and the next thing you know it's a fake screen and there's a man open 40 yards down field.

I just can't see Virginia Tech moving the ball against the Eagles. Tech's leading tackler and rock on defense, Vince Hall, is out so that's an instant advantage for BC with respect to football being played within 10 yards from the line of scrimmage.

Kevin, who sits next to me at work and is an avid BC football fan, is worried that BC can't handle the pressure. But I think the answer to No. 2 above is the former.

I'm going to take BC to win. Hate to say it, but it just makes sense.

By Adam Abramson

Honestly, I'm not thrilled by the available names for the Heisman at this point. Of the names below, one is a sophomore and one didn't play last week. But I really feel like this is what's left: Too many guys have played themselves out of the race.

• Brian Brohm: He has some big numbers this year, but the biggest one of all is four losses. Yeah, UL was the victim of a ridiculous call against UConn, but that's not excuse enough.

• Darren McFadden: In the last two games McFadden has 39 carries for 169 yards. Those numbers are worse than Ray Rice's night against South Florida. See below.

• Michael Crabtree: It's a shame that 10 catches for 76 yards will take you off the list, but voters are looking for the slightest reason to take freshman off the list. The dream is not entirely over, though.

• Sam Bradford: Honestly, the same logic applies here. He's still the No. 2 passer in the country and very dangerous, but the last two games he has just two touchdowns and a pick. He's a freshman, there will be more chances.
  

Anyway, on to the rankings this week. By the way, I wrote the word "Tebow" five times below. Man crush? Not yet.

Tim Tebow, Florida QB
The sophomore has finally unseated Oklahoma's Sam Bradford as the country's top passer. Going 18-for-26 for 256 yards and 4 TDs and adding 78 yards on the ground and another touchdown really helps. By the way, he's 55th in the country in rushing. He has 27 total touchdowns -- the 10 on the ground are better than 85 of the country's top 99 rushers not named Tim Tebow. Oh, he has just three picks.

Andre Woodson, Kentucky QB
Woodson has 121 more attempts than Tebow this year and just one more interception. He actually had better numbers than Tebow (35-50 for 495 yards and all 5 Kentucky TDs). However, the hype machine has Woodson behind Tebow -- for now. If Woodson can find a way to keep winning and putting up the numbers consistently, his senior status might earn him the coveted hardware.

Ray Rice, Rutgers RB
A huge game against South Florida -- 39 carries for 181 yards -- was enough to get him back in the mix. He leads the country in carries and averages almost five yards a carry. He has to keep it up this weekend against West Virginia, though. Rice has just one effort this year under 100 yards -- 12 for 72 against Norfolk State.

Dennis Dixon, Oregon QB
Probably the most electric player on the list. He's completing 70% of his passes and will need that kind of effort this weekend against Southern California. Lead your banged up team to a win there and you're moving up on this list. Don't forget, he didn't play football this summer and had the entire Ducks fan base extremely worried.

Mike Hart, Michigan RB
It's a shame he couldn't play agianst Illinois. If Ron Zook's team couldn't stop third-string Carlos Brown, there's no way Rice would have missed the 150-yard mark. The loss to App State really set him back, but missing a game might have been the nail in the coffin. However, if he snaps off two HUGE games, one being against Ohio State, you never know.

I love all of you. Work was a killer today and I am starting this at 1:20am, Tuesday morning (update: I'm publishing this at 2:51am)

25. Connecticut
Everyone thought I was crazy when I had the Huskies here two weeks ago, but I was ahead of the grain.

24. Boise State
The blue Broncos are finally back. I'm not sure what else to say...big win over La. Tech? I'm not thrilled about this ranking, so don't get comfortable.

23. Alabama
The Tide is 4-1 in the conference and Nick Saban is the state's finest son. Actually, that title should go to DJ Hall, who has been tearing people apart this year: 50 catches, 764 yards and 5 TDs. Cal's DeSean Jackson wishes he could have numbers like that (41 catches, 453 yards and 4 TDs).

22. Rutgers
The team that showed up in the second half is who everyone was hoping to see all 12 weeks this year. Ray Rice was dominant, the defense was swarming and the receivers made plays on the edges. Can they keep it up against West Virginia this weekend? It's going to get ugly all around in Piscataway this weekend. Get ready for a dogfight.

21. Cal
And just like that. Three interceptions from Nate Longshore and it'll be tough to beat anyone. Don't forget this team was No. 2 in the country just two weeks ago. Microcosm of the whole season, if you will.

20. Georgia
Inconsistency has this team up and down more than Oprah's weight. Time to get it together...but with the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party on the docket, that won't be easy.

19. Penn State
The Nittany Lions had lulls on Saturday against Indiana that just reminded me of their overall inconsistency this year. I think this is a good football team, but we'll find out how good in just a few days. I'm not ready to put this team in the Top 15 until their quarterback proves he's a gamer.

18. Kansas
Yes, the Jayhawks remain undefeated, but a 19-14 win over Colorado just doesn't do it for me. Reminder, this was their second-toughest game to date. Let's see how they do in College Station and against Nebraska and we'll talk. If they win both of those games pretty easily, we'll start talking about the potential of an 11-win season.

17. Michigan
No Mike Hart? A dinged up Chad Henne? No problem. This team is finding itself at the right time and is in position to be 9-2 (7-0) come the Ohio State game. However, this team needs Mike Hart. Not every team will let Carlos Brown run all over them the way a free-falling Illinois did.

16. Auburn
They're staying in the same spot this week. The Tigers do not deserve to be dropped after losing on a last-second play to one of the country's top teams, on the road. This defense is phenomenal and coordinator Will Muschamp is insane. I love it.

15. Missouri
The Tigers can easily play themselves back into the Top 10 with a few wins. They were able to bounce back tremendously after the Oklahoma loss by shutting down Texas Tech's insane offensive attack. Do that the next few weeks and a regular season finale game with Kansas could determine who plays in the conference championship game.

14. South Carolina
Completely shut down. It took 15 minutes, but the defense that had been so good all year finally woke up. But it was too late. The young quarterback Smelley couldn't get it going, nor could the veteran Mitchell -- the two combining to throw three picks. I guess it was a matter of time, but to Vanderbilt? OK, maybe in Tennessee. But at home??

13. Kentucky
This is probably a little high, despite who their two losses have been to. But I really think a team with a quarterback as good as Andre Woodson has a fighter's chance in any game. Winning out is not a crazy thought, but it won't be easy.

12. Texas
I'm being very kind after a very mediocre win over Baylor. It's safe to say that McCoy is having a sophomore slump, having already thrown more interceptions than last year. But I think that 10 wins is a goal for this team within reach.

11. Virginia Tech
Yeah, the Hokies are 7-1, but their offensive bread -- the running game -- has been stale all year. And the butter? That's freshman QB Tyrod Taylor and he hurt his ankle against Duke two weekends ago. Obviously if Tech proves it can move the ball on Thursday night and win against Boston College, I'll put the Hokies in the Top 10.

10. West Virginia
Right now a loyal reader of mine is not happy seeing this. I will be watching Saturday's game closely and if WVU plays a complete game of football, teams will not have to lose in order for the Mountaineers to move up in the rankings. I promise.

9. South Florida
Quite an interesting way to lose a football game, but it was due. It's time to see what this team is made of...a little adversity. Chance to beat a team atop the conference standings on the road. USF better hope the injury bug has moved on because I have a feeling there isn't a lot of depth in Tampa.

8. Arizona State
Twelve in both polls but four in the BCS? I think the BCS computers were at a Tempe party on Saturday night and were hungover. Either way, the fun for the Sun Devils has ended and it's time to play serious football. It starts with Cal this weekend, then a trip to Oregon followed by a trip to UCLA then a date with USC. Three out of four would be swell. Two would be a victory in my book. Either way, the offense is as fun as that party the BCS computers hit up on Saturday. And I'm glad Rudy Carptenter is getting it done there, he deserves it.

7. Southern California
After the South Bend tune-up, it's go-time back in Los Angeles as the Ducks come to town. Do the Trojans have enough to out-sprint Oregon? Five weeks ago it wouldn't even have been a question...

6. Florida
What I said about Woodson above applied to Tebow and the Gators. The glaring difference, as we saw on Saturday, is that UF has a much more skilled team than Kentucky. The tendency to be streaky really keeps this team from being in the Top 5.

5. Boston College
"The big stadiums don't faze these guys at all. Or how loud it is. We went down to [Georgia] Tech, it didn't matter. Went to Notre Dame, they had 80,000 last week, it didn't matter." That was said by Jeff Jagodzinski, coach of the Eagles, on Mike Tirico's radio show. It wasn't smart. Blacksburg isn't an easy place to play on Thursday night. I was there last year when Clemson came in and was upset. I've been to the aforementioned Georgia Tech for a night game. It pales in comparison. The quote is circulating on the VT message boards and throughout the student body. The Blacksburg crowd doesn't need any added incentive to get insane. All I know is that I'll be there for BC's first big test. West stands, 50-yard line, Row G.

4. Oregon
The nation's No. 2 offense is very close to being undefeated. There's a huge road test against USC this weekend, but hurdle that and things are looking way up for the Ducks. If you watch any game this weekend, make sure it's Oregon-USC and see what the offense in green is all about.

3. Oklahoma
I was ready to say Oklahoma had been playing some of the country's best football, but the Sooners were pretty sluggish against a bad Iowa State team. However, in addition to Sam Bradford's outstanding play, I had a chance to see a lot of DeMarco Murray and I came away extremely impressed. Talk about a bright future with those two...

2. LSU
I'm not talking about anything here except the call. It was gutsy. It was also idiotic. It's clearly a play you practice with the mantra "If you can't catch it, you MAKE SURE nobody else can." But what if you have to commit pass interference to break up the play? You're out of field goal range. I don't get it. Alright, I can't just talk about the play...LSU better not let teams hang around like it has if the Tigers want to play for the national championship.

1. Ohio State
The first of two huge tests comes this Saturday night. The score last Saturday (24-17) isn't a great indicator of the game, but the turnovers against Michgian State have to be great cause for concern. Do that against a half-legit team and there could be some major problems.

So the blog has a new look and now you see what I look like, which is scary. What do you think of the new format?

Everything will stay the same. I'm going to try and keep that video player fresh. I imagine that will be tough during the offseason, but we're a ways from that.

As for this weekend, I read Michael Wilbon's column in the Saturday Washington Post about parity and it sparked a discussion: Is parity alive because there's a lack of talent across the board? What about an abundance of talent? AKA, is this just an off-year?

Are the roots of the 85-scholarship rule finally taking its grasp on college football? I think that's it. But, we'll talk more about this another day.

The upsets are beautiful in the fact that they make a weekend that looks bad on Friday into something pretty interesting.

I was disappointed to see South Carolina come out so flat, excited to see Auburn play so well, perplexed at LSU's periods of ineptness and impressed with Oregon's offense and Tim Tebow's poise.

Also, Louisville on Friday? At 4-4 and 1-2 in the Big East, This has to be the most disappointing team in the country.

I really don't have much time to get into the depths of the weekend today, but I will put a lot of time into the Top 25 tomorrow and further break down the weekend.

By Adam Abramson

I'll be honest. I'm pretty crabby and extremely tired thanks to Joe Torre's unexpected choice to say "good riddance" and suicide bombing in Pakistan (what a mess…poor people). This will be quick, especially considering the slate of games is…I'll stop myself there before foot goes in mouth, again.

As for Thursday night: Greg Schiano and Ray Rice get the credit. That offense made plays we all knew it was capable of - through the air and on the ground. Rice was dominant as the game churned along and the trick plays were perfectly executed and neutralized two costly special teams turnovers.

Last week I said the ACC is a mini version of the SEC, with everyone beating each other up and all. Let me rephrase. The Big East is a mini version of the SEC and the ACC is a mini version of the Big East at this point (only Connecticut is unbeaten in-conference and only Pittsburgh is winless at 0-1).

We'll do this week's picks like we did this week's Top 25. Just click the link to continue onto the picks. Let me know what you think of this format.

By Adam Abramson

I had planned a full analysis, but Joe Torre decided to say no to the Yankees and my cohort at night called in sick.

The only good news behind that is I can watch the football game instead of the Sox (Kevin, who called in sick, is a Boston native).

I think it's a slap in the face that USF is favored by two. I've liked what I've seen from the Bulls. I'm taking them to win and cover.

By Adam Abramson

I took a different route this week.

You may have heard that Chadron State's Danny Woodhead is college football's new all-time leading rusher, but there's another tailback on the Division II ranks who is worth highlight - especially because his ceiling is a little higher than the 5'8" Woodhead's.

Xavier Omon of No. 9 Northwest Missouri State Bearcats is Division II's leading scorer and fourth in rushing yards per game and probably the league's top NFL prospect.

He's carried his team to two national championship appearances and garnered preseason first team All-American honors. Two weeks ago he carried 34 times for 274 yards and all five of his team's touchdowns in a 37-34 overtime win against No. 16 Pittsburg State.

He has NFL size, speed and vision and your favorite team might just pick him up the second day. Guys like James Thrash, eleven-time Pro Bowler Larry Allen, Jon Kitna and Al Harris are guys who came from the D2 ranks, so Omon might just be a diamond in the rough.

A native of Beatrice, Neb. (40 miles south of Lincoln), it's tough to miss No. 2 at 5'11", 220 lbs. when he's running downfield straight at you. So why not pick his brain a little bit…

Campus Confidential: Talk a little about high school football in Nebraska, specifically your experience?
Xavier Omon: I think it was overall a fun experience, I wish I would of had a chance to play somewhere that got more exposure to their athletes but I learned a lot from playing in Nebraska. The only thing I can think of really that bothered me was being the only black person on the field in every game we played. It kind of made me feel uncomfortable, but I think in the end it really helped me out.

CC: Were you recruited by D-I schools? If so, who? Why did you choose NW Missouri State?
XO: I was recruited by some D-I schools such as Iowa State, Nebraska, [Kansas]. The others that were recruiting me I didn't even get to hear about. My high school coach was supposed to be handling all of that. Come to find out, he really didn't help me out much with recruiting. The way I ended up at [Northwestern Missouri State] was basically [everything] fell through with my chances of going to Nebraska. And honestly I don't think my coaches did enough to help get me to a D-I program, but in the end I guess going to Northwest has been a big benefit for me. [It] kind of humbled me and made me the man I am and becoming today.

CC: If there were schools that went another direction do you ever wish you could pick up the phone and make the "how do you like me now?" call?
XO: Umm, I think about it. Like Nebraska, it was weird how Frank Solich was the head coach at the time and like the next year he was fired. I always thought I could have helped save his job if he would have only given me that scholarship instead of trying to grey shirt me.** As I have grown up I have come to realize that everything happens for a reason, and though I know I could have and wish I would have gotten an opportunity to play D-I ball I think things turned out good for me.
(**A grey shirt is a term for an athlete that a school sends to a semester or two of prep school and the scholarship will be used towards the following year's class, when the student-athlete arrives on campus)

CC: What kind of success would you have on the D-I level?
XO: I think I would have just as much success at the D-I level as I am at D-II. I know there are probably better athletes up on that level than down on D-II, but I have friends that play D-I ball and tell me all the time that I could easily play there, it's not even a matter of them telling me. It's really about my belief in myself. That given the same opportunities as others, I'd make the best of it like I did at the D-II level. I am a hard worker and know I could have easily stepped my game up to their level. Not to be cocky, but I refuse to say some of these people I watch are better than me.

CC: What's it like to play for two national championships?
XO: It's an amazing feeling. People try the majority of their career to play for some kind of championship, whether it be baseball, basketball, football, track, tennis… It don't matter. That's what it's all about: Is making it to the big game. That's what you work for all off season. To put yourself in that situation. Though we came up short in both of them, I wouldn't change that experience for any individual award.

CC: You all have lost one this season and played some close ones but are still in the Top 10, do you have the pieces to make it back to the title game? If so, how determined are you to win?
XO: Man, I will do whatever it takes to make it back to the championship. People keep dogging us and saying that we are not the team we were last year, and they are right. We have new pieces. Seniors left. Younger people stepped in and [are] making their mark on this team. Though we aren't the same we worked just as hard, if not harder, than we did in the off season the previous year. We are just as athletic, if not more, and we definitely have more experience than we did last season. I think I speak for my whole team when I say we are tired of making it to the dance and not enjoying the music. I am not a dummy, I'm not going to guarantee that we will make it back or even guarantee that if we make it back we will win, but if we make it back I guarantee that everything I have will be left out on that field.

CC: Who do you model your game after and why?
XO: I try to have a little mix. To be honest, I am trying to make my own mark so when I'm done with the game people can say, 'That kid runs like Xavier Omon.' But I try to have the heart of someone like Walter Payton, or the play making ability of Barry Sanders or the consistency of Emmitt Smith. Today if I had to compare my game to anyone I'd probably say Priest Holmes. He is a patient runner and he is smart. He sees holes and makes plays when everyone doubts that he can. He is not the fastest and he is not the biggest but he gets the job done and to me that's all that matters.

CC: How do you spend your free time?
XO: Man, since I don't hang out with my teammates I am usually with some of my classmates just playing the video games or sometimes get out of town hit the city and just chill. I don't drink and never have, so I am not the party-crazy type person, but I do like to hit the clubs and dance and just relax. My thing is all about getting away.

CC: What's your favorite part of the college experience?
XO: Probably getting the chance to meet people that I will know for the rest of my life. Though there is not very many, I have some quality friends that, when I leave here, I will always keep in touch with them.

CC: What are your goals for this season and beyond?
XO: Well for this season is obvious, get back to Alabama by any means necessary and this time win the damn game. Nothing else really matters as far as this season goes because that's what it's all about. I don't care about any individual goals or conference rings. I want a championship ring. I haven't won a championship since I was in fourth grade on my little league basketball team. After this season my goal is to do what I have been doing all my life. And that is prove people wrong. They say I can't make it to the next level because of this or that, and like I said, I have been doing this my whole life. Nothing new, just another challenge.

Morning,

I'll be coming at you with two posts today...

1. Interview

2. Preview of South Florida-Rtugers. And maybe a little tag-team action with our NFL guru.

Stay tuned.

By Adam Abramson

BNG - I know, I'm being critical of the Mountaineers. But trust me when I say they're being watched with a close eye and unlike the BCS, it doesn't take the teams in front of you losing to move up in the Campus Confidential polls.

Let's talk some Heisman.

Dennis Dixon, Oregon QB
The leader of the country's No. 6 offense lost two weapons in Saturday's blowout of Washington State (receiver Cameron Colvin and running back Jeremiah Johnson). Dixon has done much of it by spreading the wealth, so he should be OK. While accounting for 21 total touchdowns in six games, Dixon has thrown just two interceptions.

Mike Hart, Michigan RB
The country's leading rusher is being slowed by an injury, so clearly there's worry time missed could hurt his Heisman chances. He has far-and-away the most carries this season and could use a breather -- which he might be able to get after the Illinois game this weekend. If he can manage to get 250 yards and 4 TDs the next three weeks and be right for Wisconsin and Ohio State to finish up the season, he should be in good shape.

Sam Bradford, Oklahoma QB
I wonder how much attention he'll get by the voters who actually matter, being that he's a freshman. The country's top passer definitely deserves it, especially after two big-time performances in huge wins over Texas and Missouri. In those two games: 45-66, 510 yards, 5 TDs. If you need reminding, both of those teams have enough talent to play for the conference title and he torched them.

Andre Woodson, Kentucky QB
A win over the former No. 1 team in the country will get you on anyone's list, especially winning the game using so many intangibles. With such a brutal schedule ahead, it will be tough for Woodson to keep his stock high if the Wildcats don't win every game, but if he pulls off some magic along the way, anything is possible. It will surely make him a rich man in a few months.

Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech WR
For the first time in his college career he was kept out of the end zone. Oh, but he grabbed 8 passes for 170 yards along the way. Do yourself a favor and watch him play. Learn more about him by reading this. When I wake up Wednesday, I'm putting in word to TTU to get this kid lined up for an interview, promise.

By Adam Abramson

I've been saying it for about a month now: Evan Sharpley should be starting at Notre Dame.

Finally the coaches have logged on to Campus Confidential and realized I was right.

The junior will start over Jimmy Clausen on Saturday against Southern California. He came in against Purdue and played well. Came in against Boston College and played well -- relatively speaking in both cases, of course.

“I think Evan this week gives us the best chance of winning,” head coach Charlie Weis said Tuesday.

I wouldn't go that far, my man.

What gives you the best chance of winning against the Trojans is finding a way to get Jonathan Ogden, Walter Jones, Alan Faneca, Larry Allen and Jeff Saturday to suit up for you and protect Sharpley. Even then, it's questionable.

Clausen has been sacked 23 times this year, give the kid a rest. However, Weis has a stable of OL coming through and if Clausen isn't the next coming of Montana, Dayne Crist is coming in.

Until then, make me look good, Sharpley!

14. Arizona State
The first-place Sun Devils have two weeks to prepare for their brutal stretch of games to finish the season. At 7-0, things are looking good. But a win over Cal on Oct. 27 and things are looking real good in Tempe.

13. Cal
Speak of the devil. What could have been for the Bears…instead it's

12. West Virginia
This is still a little low for the Mountaineers, mainly because te defense is performing. There's plenty of football left and lots of run defenses to destroy.

11. Texas
Quarterback Colt McCoy looked pretty darn good last week against Iowa State and he'll likely look really good this week against Baylor. The Longhorns are another team that can end up with 10 wins, moreso than most I would say (Baylor, Nebraska, OK State, Texas Tech, Texas A&M).

10. Kentucky
Coming off a huge win, huuuuge win, the Wildcats are back in the Top 10. But Kentucky has been so inconsistent, in games, and throughout the season. I really do feel bad for UK, though, because it's Florida next week, a trip to Georgia and a date with Tennessee to finish the season.

9. Southern California
How good is this USC team? The same group who I thought had the most talent in the country two months ago. I really do think they have more talent than 115 or so teams in the country, but the Trojans are going through an identity/injury crisis. Luckily for them, it's Notre Dame this weekend. Time to get back into the groove.

8. Florida
At first I had the Gators in the Top 5, but if UF was a Top 5 team it would have found a way to beat one of Auburn or LSU. I think the youth is coming into play, it's tough to win those close games without that veteran composure.

7. Oregon
With Dennis Dixon, anything is possible. We knew he could run, he did it well last year, but he's been absolutely on fire through the air this season -- 15:2 TD to interception ratio. It's going to take a lot for the Ducks to work themselves into the BCS title mix, but the team is good enough to play for a title.

6. South Carolina
Steve Spurrier has his quarterback and everything is working well with that pass defense. There's a brutal schedule to go, especially with Arkansas on the road (USC has a pretty rough rushing offense) -- but we have a while before we get deeper into that game.

5. Boston College
Now it's time for the Eagles to prove their worth, and Matt Ryan as well. Virginia Tech, Florida State, Maryland, Clemson and Miami -- the ACC's version of murder's row, right? I have a chance to go to the BC-VT game, but it will require me taking two of my four remaining days off for the year...should I go??

4. Oklahoma
The Sooners are doing everything right, except losing to Colorado. It's going to be a shame if OU wins out and doesn't make the title game because of that loss.

3. South Florida
I'm not convinced this team will win out. Nor am I convinced the Bulls have a No. 3 roster, but there aren't many times below them on this list (technically speaking, it'd be above, not below, right?) that are better. Rutgers Thursday night will be interesting.

2. LSU
Maybe I'm crazy. The dominance slowed down with the win over South Carolina. Then it was the sluggish start against Tulane. They followed that with the escape against Florida. Finally the loss. We'll see what happens against Auburn this week.

1. Ohio State
Model of consistency. That's what it's going to take down the stretch.

By Adam Abramson

Jon, you're absolutely right. A bye for the top two teams would be too big an advantage - starting from a physical standpoint. Top two seeds would have to play.

Spellchecker, thanks for being so vigilant. I actually did complete my college education according to a piece of paper, but your superior editing has me questioning its validity ... and my purpose.

I'm changing the format of the Top 25 this week, so I need your feedback. Because it takes a little longer, I'll tease you with 25-15 and hit you with the rest later today. I need to get some rest.

25. Virginia
The Cavaliers have come a long way since their opening stumble in Wyoming. I actually thought the Huskies would pull a fast one on Saturday, and they almost did. But Virginia's defense has stepped up in a big way and have the Cavs in contention for a trip to the ACC title game, believe it or not.

24. Hawaii
If you're looking for the Boise State-type darling, I don't know that Hawaii is it. Do the Warriors have a good enough team to pull off a BCS win? Questionable.

23. Illinois
Two losses. I'm being kind with No. 23, but I think a strong rushing attack is a powerful thing and the Illini will still throw some wrinkles into the Big 10. However, a lacking on defense takes them out of the title hunt.

22. Texas Tech
The Red Raiders are a dropped touchdown away from being undefeated. I honestly think they make Hawaii's offense look like child's play.

21. Penn State
Anything less than a nine-win season is a disappointment at this juncture. There's a home, Saturday-night date at the end of the month with Ohio State that could dictate a 10-win campaign, which wouldn't be bad at all.

20. Kansas
Fact: The Jayhawks have not lost this year. Fact: The Jayhawks have a Top 10 offense.

19. Michigan
The Wolverines are officially back. Their top two tailbacks - Mike Hart and Brandon Minor - both were dinged up in a blowout of Purdue, something worth keeping an eye on.

18. Auburn
Much credit to the Tigers for slowing down the Razorbacks attack and making my pick look good. Auburn has a Top 10 defense and has played some pretty powerful offenses in the form of Florida, South Florida and aforementioned Razorbacks. The problem is, however, the abysmal offense which is running smack into LSU this weekend.

17. Missouri
Can't penalize the Tigers for losing to a tough Oklahoma team. I'd love to see Mizzou make it to the Big 12 title game and give it one more go.

16. Virginia Tech
Freshman quarterback Tyrod Taylor went down with a high ankle sprain. Last year Sean Glennon, then starter, did absolutely nothing against a BC team that pummeled the Hokies in Chestnut Hill. BC's on the schedule again and this year's version of the Eagles seems to be much better than last year.

15. Tennessee
If you remember, the two Volunteer losses have come at Cal and at Florida. Yeah, neither were pretty games, but neither should tarnish them severely. Alabama this weekend and South Carolina the following will tell us just how good this team is.

By Adam Abramson

We're halfway through the season and I'm pretty much speechless.

Tranquil weekend? Not so much. This has gotten out of hand.

The argument for a post-season playoff couldn't be any stronger at this point. I've been a proponent of such a system, but I understand the power of the bowls. So, my argument is: Why not make the bowls playoff games?

16 qualifying teams make the playoff, leaving a need for 13 games, right?

We have four BCS bowls: Quarterfinals.
We have a NC game: Keep that the same.

So you need 8 more games to fill. Create two "bowls" for the semifinals. The TV revenue would be insane.

So, six games: Capital One, Cotton, Holiday, Gator, Outback and Alamo?

Keep the sponsors. Create more bowls for all I care. And what about the time issue? Well, the World Series has a game schedule for November this year, so I think we'd be OK if we played football into the second week of January, need be.

It would need some perfecting, but I think I'm on to something here.

But, that's a pipe dream. Let's talk about the weekend. What did we learn?

Jeff Tedford can't groom a quarterback overnight
The master QB tutor had to work with freshman Kevin Riley courtesy of Nate Longshore's injury and the result was a 31-28 loss to Oregon State for the former No. 2 team in the country. Riley had 294 yards passing, but couldn't get the ball to DeSean Jackson (4 catches, 5 yards). Lavelle Hawkins had 192 yards and two touchdowns through the air and senior running back Justin Forsett picked up 150 yards on 28 carries. I had Cal ranked up there like all the other polls did, but I was weary of the USC game…even I was looking too far ahead.

Strange calls come in threes
Tedford gets greedy and goes for the win when he could have kicked the field goal. With Longshore, that's the right move, not so sure when you have a first-time starter. Les Miles calling three straight runs up the gut in 3OT, where's the versatility? Perhaps he was banking on the fatigue of the Kentucky defense; however, the unit had watched Kentucky tie the game in 2OT, then stayed on the sideline for the beginning of the third while Kentucky scored again, giving it maybe a 10-15 minute breather? There are just so many options that Miles didn't go to. And finally, Zook, who probably made the most alarming bad decisions of the day. Two chances to decline third down penalties and force fourth downs and he declines - one leads to a touchdown, the other leads to a first down. I just don't get it.

Andre Woodson is back, baby
The Kentucky quarterback was nothing short of a man against the country's best team. Yeah, he had two interceptions, but he was the leader the Wildcats needed in about 30 crucial moments in the game. When you have a rock like that to lean on, anything is possible - as made clear on Saturday night. The Tigers threw everything they could at the Heisman hopeful and he just kept answering. He has NFL written all over him. I actually have to give props to Ivan Maisel who tabbed him as a first-team All-American before the year started. I thought he was crazy for passing up Brohm and Booty, but clearly he's the vet and I'm the rook.

Consistency will win the national championship
It's clearly more important than dominance this year. Ohio State has been a model of consistency and has a great shot to make a run at the title despite not having the best team. Schools like LSU and USC have more talent on their rosters, but made their buck by crushing teams. Ohio State is putting up big numbers, but it's almost methodical. Once again, that Ohio State-Michgian game is going to be intense.

Michigan belongs in the Top 25
It took a little while, but the Wolverines are actually better than the ranking shows. Yeah, the loss to App State was a killer, but they could still end up with nine wins. This coming Saturday night in Champaigne is a big game for UM, who - by the way - is sitting alone atop the Big 10 standings. The Blue and Maize is far from dead and could be back in the Rose Bowl.

The ACC is a junior version of the SEC
Especially if Virginia Tech beats Boston College on Oct 25. Everyone is just beating up on each other at this point - however, the teams involved are a few rungs lower on the ladder than the SEC schools. And Georgia Tech might be the most unpredictable school in the country.

There's so much more to talk about, but I'll stop there at the risk of writing a short novel.

I'll fill the Tuesday poll entry with more thoughts and discussion. Send your thoughts from another crazy weekend my way.

An adjustment is not benching your starting quarterback for a series.

It's what Wake Forest did to shut down Xavier Lee in the second half. It's paying extra attention to Greg Carr when he runs more than 20 yards down field, knowing another jump ball would be coming.

Has Florida State existed in a lethargic state for the last two years? There's just no offense. The penalties are pathetic. Worst in the country. It's a mess. I mean, how bad was that third down facemask by Alex Boston? He's a fifth-year SENIOR and he shot his whole team in the foot when there was plenty of time to mount something together.

On a positive note: How money is Sam Swank?

But I just want to say it again: Florida State was overall pathetic. I'm this angry and I care nothing for Florida State football. The Seminoles bring in too much talent to be this mediocre. But they'll still go up to Blacksburg and beat Virginia Tech. I'm tired of talking about this game.

As for the rest of the weekend, it's finally safe to say that this weekend's schedule really raise the hair on the back of my neck. There's only a handful of games that have "big picture" implications, but if the upset trend continues, who knows what we'll be saying on Sunday and Monday. Normalcy has been as disciplined as Florida State, so I won't assume too much.

No. 11 Missouri at No. 6 Oklahoma (-12)
This could be game #1 between this pair as both are on the fast track to winning their respective divisions of the Big 12. Unbeaten Missouri has its toughest test, but has cleared its other hurdles including Nebraska and Illinois. Once again we're looking at a game where the key is defense. Oklahoma plays it well, Missouri doesn't. The Tigers were able to outscore Illinois, but the Sooners are a Top 15 offense and defense. Sounds overwhelming. Can Mizzou's No. 4 offense, led by QB Chase Daniel, create enough opportunities?

I think it's a tall order on the road. I'm going to say Missouri to cover, but OU finds a way to win a close one. This is definitely the best game of the week on paper and worth watching.

No. 19 Wisconsin at Penn State (-7)
Two teams that have completely let me down. The Nittany Lions are fighting for their conference lives, but with two losses on the slate, it's a long way to the top. Both of these schools are very mediocre on offense and because of that I think Penn State, who has been playing great defense all year, can neutralize P.J. Hill - but Dan Connor & Co. better be ready for a healthy dose. I can see this line being a push, but Wisconsin has been a dog against the spread this year (1-4) because everything is close. Penn State's offense has been so asleep at times this year that I think it'll be another close one. Badgers cover, but pick up a second straight loss.

No. 1 LSU at No. 17 Kentucky (+9.5)
Ahhh, memories.

I'm sure every NFL scout will be watching to see how Andre Woodson responds to this insane defense. My guess? Another so-so outing. And when Woodson has so-so outings, the Wildcats don't win games. LSU to cover…the Tigers are tired of close games.

Louisville at No. 15 Cincinnati (-10)
The Cardinals are one of those groups where you keep thinking it'll eventually click. That the defense and offense will both say "hey, we're in this together!"

Louisville just looks completely awful and uninspired. I think a lot of that has to do with Bobby Petrino - that was a huge loss for UL and now he's wallowing in the NFL hoping he doesn't get embarrassed on Monday night. Cincy is a perfect 5-0 against the spread this year for three main reasons: 1. Ben Mauk, their quarterback, 2. A No. 1 turnover margin rating, 3. Their rushing defense.

No. 3 can be skewed. Leading games, teams are trying to pass their way back into it and abandoning the run, so who knows there (Cincy is awful against the pass).

Louisville is still the country's second-rated offense, but the team's kryptonite? Facing another good offense - which Cincy has.

With all of that said, I am going say…wow, this is tough. Cincy to cover, but it could go either way. It wouldn't surprise me to see UL actually win this.

No. 22 Auburn at Arkansas (-3)
Another who knows game. The SEC has been insane this year and it's not fair that I have to pick these games.

It's easy to pick Auburn for the "upset." I mean, at 4-2, one of their losses came against a pretty good team. Their wins…well, look no further than at Florida. The defense is top 15 and playing well…but that offense is pretty gross.

Honestly, another coin flip. I'll take Auburn to win.

Purdue at Michigan (-5.5)
The question posed this week was "What does Michgian have to do to get back into the Top 25?" Well, if the Wolverines win this one, time to start considering them.

It's definitely Mike Hart time. If he gets 25 carries for 130 and a score, UM will have no problem covering at home. I'm banking on that. UM to cover.

As for a lock of the week, I like Miami to cover the 2.5 it's giving Georgia Tech. While both are unpredictable, I think Miami is quite salty about last week's embarrassing loss in Chapel Hill and will run it all afternoon.

Happy watching. Shameless plug: If you have XM, check out Ch. 144 between 4-7, might hear a guy you know.

By Adam Abramson

Get used to the kid in the above photo.

I have to admit I'm concerned with the question of who will be LeSean McCoy's coach after this year?

Despite his ugly playcalling (again) last night against Navy, I'd like to see Dave Wannstedt stick around. That offense has a bright future with McCoy and Pat Bostick at quarterback -- two guys he recruited. Throw in the handful of blue chip offensive linemen and stud tight end Nate Byham and you have yourself an offense for two or three years.

As for last night, I'm not sure what was worse: Lou Holtz or Wannstedt's decision-making process in the second overtime.

I'm going with Holtz for choosing Peppi's over Primanti Bros. (featured on this blog a few months ago here).

With respect to tonight's game, I'm continuing my stance on Wake Forest being a far different team than what took the field last year. Florida State should have no problem covering the 5.

Back tomorrow with the weekend madness.

By Adam Abramson

I've been a big proponent of DeSean Jackson on this blog.

It would be silly to question to his talent and you would not be crazy to rank him amongst the top wide receivers and playmakers in the country.

However, he has not done enough to be a Heisman candidate yet. Desmond Howard has him as the favorite through this point in the season, which is way off base. Here are some facts:

1. He's not in the Top 100 for all-purpose runners. Two other guys with the last name Jackson are.
   
2. He has eight punt returns this year for 95 yards and a touchdown. Yes, the touchdown was awesome, but so was Virginia Tech's Eddie Royal's against Clemson on Saturday, his second of the year.
   
3. He's No. 94 in the country in receiving yards per game with 62. Of the Top 100 in this category, 29% have just one or two receiving touchdowns. Jackson is one of them.
   
4. In five games, Jackson has 28 catches for 312 yards. That's 11.1 per catch. Of the 46 guys in front of him in receptions per game, only nine have a lower YPC average.
   

I know Jackson changes the way defenses prepare for Cal, but defenses change the way they prepare for a lot of guys. Jackson isn't the only one.

I was guilty of it, so I'm lumping myself into this, but it's unfair to say someone is a Heisman favorite, or even a hopeful, based on hype and playmaking ability. Sure DeSean Jackson is primed to bust one loose at any second, but the fact is that he hasn't.

With that said, click below for a look at this week's picks.