Well, it was a great week one last weekend for college football. Some great matchups, some upsets, and some key performances. But, that was last week, and this is a brand new week, so let's look at some key matchups, and those we should watch out for.
#3 Alabama visits #23 Penn State.
I've always believed Penn State is one of the hardest places to go into and win. Of course Alabama has many key players, notable ones. Guys like Trent Richardson, Mark Barron and Don'ta Hightower. But here are some others I am looking out for.
NT Josh Chapman, a big force in the middle, at only 6'0 tall, but around 316 pounds, he is a wrecking machine. He is a guy not only should the entire league look at, but our 49ers should definitely take notice. If Sopoaga doesn't prove to be the answer, I can see Chapman right in the mix at NT for the 49ers.
FS Robert Lester, this guy intrigues me. This junior, wearing #37, while not playing much in 2009, he had a terrific 2010 season. 8 interceptions, showing he is a ball hawk FS. I want you to look at him, mainly because we aren't all set at FS. Goldson and Madieu Williams don't see like the long term answer.
Now as for Penn State, the only guy I look at for us is potential NT Devon Hill. 307 lbs, would be a nice fit at NT.
While I like Penn State, I just can't see them overcoming that dominating defense of Alabama.
#12 South Carolina at Georgia
Let me say this, South Carolina has some key players to watch, and a really good offense. I look at mainly two guys. WR Alshon Jeffery, a dynamic WR. The junior is a catching machine, 88 receptions in 2010, over 1,500 yards receiving, and 9 touchdowns. He seems like a guy who will go up and get the ball anytime needed.
As I mentioned with Floyd, if we have a down year, or someone doesn't show up, I could see us targeting Jeffery, but it would take a lot to get him.
My second player is CB Stephen Gilmore. He isn't a ball hawk per say. But he has the ability to be one. Look for him to be good in coverage.
Georgia's main guy is Brandon Boykin, I look forward to seeing how many times we see the Boykin/Jeffery matchup. I think Jeffery will be the winner, but I can definitely see Boykin getting in there and making some good plays.
I see South Carolina getting the close win here.
My final game to watch is, BYU at #24 Texas.
While BYU's top prospect I look at is Matt Reynolds, a OT, standing near 6'4 and over 300 lbs, he might have a challenge. I am looking forward to seeing how Reynolds does against some quick Texas linebackers. Keenan Robinson and Emmanuel Acho come to mind. As well as a tweener in Alex Okafor.
I see BYU actually getting the win here, for some reason, I think this team has some potential.
Well there you guys have it, I hope everyone enjoys a great weekend of football.
| Thursday, September 8 | |||||
| RESULT | GAMELINKS | ||||
| No. 9 Oklahoma State 37, Arizona 14 | Box Score | Recap | ||||
| Friday, September 9 | |||||
| RESULT | GAMELINKS | ||||
| Florida International 24, Louisville 17 | Box Score | Recap | ||||
| Arizona State 37, No. 21 Missouri 30 (OT) | Box Score | Recap | ||||
