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Welcome to HQ Spotlight. It is a Wednesday. That means this is the college football pick show. Records from last week. Le Dubible taking a bit of a hit, but still a better overall record than our Danny Canal, which just inches ever so closer. Somebody's getting nervous over there. Look at that. He's getting a little rattled. You know what they say, Tom? You get above 500. You know what they say, Tommy. The elite rises to the occasion and it finishes strong. It's not how you start, it's how you finish. So, is that what you tell yourself? That's what I'm telling myself. Uh Danny just plugging along with some
bogeies. Dude's got a couple blowup pulls two of the last three weeks, but he did respond the last time he had a bad week. So, that's Le Dable. That's Danny Canel. I'm Tommy Tran. Welcome to another week of college football picks against the spread. It is week 11. Not nearly as big that we saw as in week 10, but still a lot of CFP implications here. And let's start with arguably the biggest one of the week, which Danny in the cover three podcast will be at. That's USC and Indiana where we have the Hooers laying seven and a half with questions about uh Josh Hoover's availability in this one.
Again, early days in the week here taping on a Wednesday. But Danny, I'll give you first word here. What interests you most about what you guys are going to see when you guys get down there? By the way, I know we're taping on Wednesday and this might I don't think we're going to know who's playing quarterback until that ball meets 11. There is no way Kirk signed is going to say, "Sure, here's my starting quarterback." But it is the biggest question. Like that to me is the biggest question mark for a couple of different reasons. One, if we see Josh Hoover, like did the by-week help him get healthy enough to where he returns to form where he was earlier in the season? The first four weeks of the season, he was phenomenal.
And then the competition got harder. He got beat up a little bit and he was not the same thrower. He was missing wide openen throws and just wasn't very accurate and he was banged up and so then he gets benched that second half. You see Grant Wilson come in. I don't like first of all are we going to see Josh Hoover and if we do what version are we going to get? And then if we get Grant Wilson what does that offense look like with him who hasn't played very much. So that to me is one of the bigger question marks not only of this game but the entire weekend the impact this game has on the college football landscape. I mean, and Granton Wilson had that go-ahead touchdown to push the game into
overtime to Charlie Becker, but before that, the offense was still pretty stagnant. So, to me, it comes down to the Hoosers run game. And we've seen the Trojans defense play significantly better the last couple weeks, cuz remember, DK, that was always our question. They made some changes on that defensive side, but we hadn't seen it bear any fruit. Last couple weeks, that defense has actually played significantly better. So, to me, it always comes down to the Hooers running game. Can they get that run game continues continuing going because they've really struggled at the quarterback position this year. It's interesting. I mentioned the CP implication in this game because SC's in that bunch of Big 10 teams. It could be the third team and then you would think
Indiana was going to be safe coming off a bye-week, but then they got leaprogged by a bunch of teams. So all of a sudden if like Indiana loses this game, they could be in trouble. Maybe it's the SIG comments, you know, out there. I know you brought that up in the cover three. All right. As it comes to the seven and a half, Danny, where do you land on that? So, you guys are gonna hate this because I'm taking a copout bet because I think the first half play in this one. I would probably lean towards USC in the points, especially like I like the under in the game, but I'm going to take the first half under because I do look at Lincoln Riley and what he's able to do as an offensive
mind. I think at some point he'll figure out Brian Haynes. Brian Haynes exceptional defensive coordinator. Indiana's defense one of the best in the country. And maybe, who knows, maybe we'll see a game like we saw was against Wisconsin where they only put up seven points, but this team is healthier. They have the trio of true freshman wide receivers who I think will be able to put up some points, but early in this game, not knowing who's playing quarterback, and D's mentioned the run game, I think they're going to try to run the ball, establish the line of scrimmage, I think could be a little bit more of one of and then Big 10 unders across the board have been pretty solid
plays due to some of the quarterback issues, but also due to great defenses. I like the first half under in the play in the game. Give me the Trojan plus seven and a half. Lincoln Riley, this is your opportunity. We saw earlier this year them go to Penn State and get a big time win, but then you talk about it DK had another opportunity in the Midwest and you got boat raced by Wisconsin. You want to end that narrative that the Trojans are a soft team. This is your opportunity to do it versus Kirk Sedetti. We just saw a Minnesota team who doesn't have nearly the explosion you have on offense push Indiana to the
brink and actually probably should have won that game straight up. So Lincoln Riley, this is your opportunity. This is your chance to prove that USC is about that life when it comes to Big 10 football play. I'm backing the Trojans plus seven and a half. Lincoln Riley could potentially face two backup quarterbacks against the two biggest teams that he's had so far this season if Josh Hoover cannot give it a go again. Danny Canel, the Cover Three podcast going to be there quickly. Going to give you some love. There's the layout there. What can fans expect if they're going to join you guys? Oh, we're going to have a ton of fun.
We're going to get some fan interaction going as well that it's going to be chilly. I'm ready to bundle up. Space warm. You got gloves from Cardell last week. The equipment room. I might pack those gloves. But it should be a ton of fun, man. We're fired up. Can't wait. Already got a ton of interaction from Indiana fans. I've been to Bloomington. It is a great college football town. Great college town in general. So, we're super pumped about getting to go. Should be fun. Big time on CBS 3:30 Eastern with that kickoff. Let's get to our other ranked on ranked game that's in the SEC. Missouri and Georgia. Dues.
Uh, the Dogs get the number one top billing after Miami fell. Before we break down the game, just give me a sense of this matchup, especially maybe from a UG perspective. Yeah, Georgia proved last week they're the best team in the nation. I even thought that before that loss to Auburn, but remember guys, we thought they were beat up after that Alabama game and Auburn got them at the right place. Did you guys see Kirby Smart still getting after his players even up big in that game last week? And I think that continues this week cuz he remembers what happened in that Auburn game at home. So, when you talk about this game,
Double T, the health of Missou, right? Austin Simmons got beat up. Kaden Lee got beat up in that game and it looks like Kayen Lee's going to play cuz that hit looked ugly. I didn't think he was going to get up from that hit, but it looks like he's going to play. But, so to me, Missou is beat up right now. And Georgia didn't get much of a fight last week. So, they're probably going to come into this game a lot healthier. I think Missou, I mean, Georgia's defense will mitigate the run game from Jamal Roberts and the Missou Tigers. And they're going to test out Austin Simmons to see how healthy he is and Kaden Lee is as well.
First of all, let me just reflect on the number one overall ranking. Yeah, that is only eye test and looking the part because we've completely just glossed over the Auburn loss which is the that is the worst loss of almost anybody in the top five and definitely the top 10. And guess what? Like we can talk about UT Utah and UCLA's losses. Oh, we can't because they didn't lose a game as a three touchdown favorite. So like that was one of those if those teams slip up, they're not even the top 15. George is number one because of the big win against Alabama and a big win over Miss. That being said, that loss was the best thing that happened to Kirby Smart because it woke up his team.
I think they took that game a little bit lightly. Uh I don't think they were as dialed in as focused as they usually are. And look at what's happened since that game. And I think that trend continues. I think they are going to be the number one seed. I think they are probably the best team in the country. Resumes aside, I test and I think that game was really an aberration. And if Missouri couldn't go to Oxford, Mississippi and keep a competitive game, good luck in this game. Like I think there is zero chance of an upset in this game. Yeah, it's interesting to both your guys' point really with dues. Like we've yet to see if Missouri doesn't rush for like 200 yards. They usually don't win games. The times they haven't. Simmons hasn't been able to power them through.
So, as it pertains to the 15 and a half, dudes, you're going with an early play to try to cash this ticket. Yeah, I think Kirby will get after his team. Remember in that Auburn game, Georgia started quick. I think they were up 14 nothing and Auburn came back. So, I like that play. Give me the first quarter minus three and a half. I think Austin Simmons and Kaden Lee, they'll battle in this game. I just think they're too beat up to have a chance for Georgia. To DK's point, we've been talking about the offense the entire time. We haven't even talked about Georgia's defense. What Chris Cole and that defense does on the other side, they're one of the best defenses in
football. They can get after the passer and when they hit you, you feel it. And they're opportunistic. They will force you to turn the football over. Give me Georgia in the first quarter. If you were to play the whole game, I would still like the 15 and 1/2. I think Georgia is going to dominate this game. I do too. I was thinking about laying the 15 and a half cuz I think it's a big number. It is a conference game. If Georgia come out, maybe struggles a little bit against Missou's defense, but I do think this is going to be a long day for Austin Simmons, Kaden Lee, and that Missouri offense. I think, you know, playing on the road, this going to be super tough. I could see a score
similar to the 313 outcome that we saw in Oxford against Old Miss. Similar type of game. I think Georgia Cruises, you may want to take both of those under and Georgia laying the points. All right, time to hit a break here on the show. When we come back, more ranked on ranked match ups, including one in the SEC where Texas is at LSU. Sarkc versus Lane. Boy, it should be fun. Tigers Lane at four and a half. Welcome back to the show. Let's keep the conversation going with DK and Doo. We go Big 12. The Utah Utes second in the country taking on Brent Brennan Noafita and company out in Tucson in this game.
Danny, the youth are road favorites. What are we thinking in terms of what you're looking out for in this game with them coming off that Holy War victory? That is what I am looking for. That has been the trend this season. Number one or number two ranked teams have gone down so many times this season and usually there is a formula. It's after a big emotional win or loss in some cases and then it's on the road the next week. Utah coming off, you know, regular week. You had Arizona with an extra week with a Friday night game and I know it was a close game against TCU, but maybe, just maybe, they had circled this Utah game and we're looking ahead to the Utes
coming to town. So, I think that emotional letdown has been the theme of this college football season. Do we see it from the Utes? I think that's a big thing to keep an eye on. I don't think we do. Uh just speaking with Morgan Scally and the culture he always talks about with that team. Let's not forget earlier this year they had an emotional win versus Houston. What they do to Cincinnati the next week boat raced them where other teams like Texas Tech lost. We saw BYU's loss after a big emotional win versus Notre Dame. I think this youth team is just playing at a different level. They play man coverage on defense. They get in your face and
then they have the most dynamic backfield in all of college football with Wayan Parker and Devin the Spider-Man Dan Pair. adversely. When you look at Arizona, right, a Mooral lost the week before the TCU game to Texas Tech and then they should have lost that game to Texas Tech. Took it took a pooch kick for them to win that game. Touchdown and a two-point conversion. I love that Brett Brennan team is resilient, but that's scary going forward because I think they were beat up verse Texas Tech and it affected them versus TCU and then that game came down to the wire. So, a lot of energy spent over the last two weeks for the Wildcats. And uh Arizona, they did drop a spot.
Yeah, despite they should have lost that game. Yeah, but they didn't. But they didn't lose. Like that's what drives me nuts. We almost give teams more credit for close losses than we do with close wins. Like what are we doing? They won the game, which something a lot of teams haven't been able to do. Drives me insane. So when we look at this matchup here, Utah had Bear Bachmeire, four interceptions in that game. He came into it throwing four all season long. Again, they're road favorites. Danny, you mentioned the scenario. which way you leaning in terms of the so this to me I would say stay away from
this game this is a fishy line and I so I'm looking at it from that perspective of what do the odds makers know that we don't and this is a ton of credit to Brent Brennan and more to Noah FIA who's had his team competitive in almost every single game he was a big reason they were able to come back against TCU he is just an incred incredible player he's a great quarterback unfortunately for Arizona they've had issues at wide receiver. They haven't been able to run the football, but this one to me is where does their defense step up, which nobody else has been able to do against Utah and at least slow them down where this is a field goal type of game. So, I think it's almost I think Arizona
either wins this game or Utah wins by double digits and we're talking like that's kind of the feel like the line is fishy. So, I'm going to go ahead and say the oddsmakers know something. I'm going to say Arizona keeps it close inside that number and maybe even pulls off the upset. It's almost one of those moneyline alt line games we're talking about where it's going to be that way. I don't think the line is fishy. Arizona's a really good team, right? And they're tough to play at Arizona. Like I think they're undefeated at home this year if I'm not mistaken. And you talked about it. I think the odd makers know that Utah just came off an
emotional rivalry game and that's why the line and then also Arizona had a scare. So you know Brett Brennon is talking the entire week. Hey guys, you see if you don't show up a team can beat you that you're that's not supposed to beat you. I just think this Utah team is different. Now, I'm with DK. I think that line could flip either way just because this is going to be a tough game that comes down to the wire, which is why I'm taking the over cuz both of these teams can score a lot of points. Give me the over 54 and a half. This game might get into the 60s. All right, let's get to Texas and LSU.
You know, our social team had posed a question to us. Who would you trust to win a big game? Steve Sarkeesian or Lane Kein? What was your answer, dudes? It was close, but I went with Lane Keifin. And I would have loved to seen him coach that Old Miss team cuz then I would have probably had a better chance to really answer this question. But I've seen Steve Sarkeesian with the talent that he's had not be able to get over the hump. And I think that's my concern with him because it seems like every year when you just look at the personnel, they have the best personnel in college football, but yet he's not able to get over the top.
Danny, what's your answer? Did you give an answer? Not yet. Um, they did beat Ohio State. Yeah. Like, so that's Sark. At least he has like a signature. They got a couple signature wins this year. So like I would lean towards Sarkc been there like I think there's so many distractions around Lane Keifin and LSU. I think it does him a disservice. Like I don't love all the you know celebrities walking in and Kevin Foster and Shaq just becomes a circus and I think it has impacted the team to some extent suing you know trying to get players to play before the season. It's always something with them. I still think he's a great coach but I have not seen him step up in these moments. At least I've seen it
with the Texas Longhorns. They have a playoff win uh going back to when they've, you know, they've won in the college football playoffs against Arizona State. Like I trust them to get it done a little bit more. All right, so the line's four and a half. A couple things here. Texas has been good on the road this year. LSU, despite the loss last week, it is a night game and they still have the proverbial everything in front of them when it comes to the CF. As it comes to this game though, dudes, what's the pick? I'm taking the under. Uh I think when you look at that LSU game from last week, the defense still played really well. Lane Keifin put them in some tough
spots by being aggressive and going for it and not taking points early in a game. You have to understand there's a es and flows and I look crazy because I said I would take Lane Kein over star cheese, right? There's a es and flow to a game. You're playing Alabama a rivalry game. Points are going to be at a premium. You got to take the field goal early in that game. I think because he didn't do that, it changed the trajectory of the game later where he was forced to go for it on fourth down with eight minutes left where if you had taken that field goal and you're only down by one score, you kick the ball away and play defense. So the defense actually played well. They just were in
a tough spot. They were always backed up when they went out there on the field. I don't trust either one of these offenses to be consistent. You go to the Texas game last week, if not for fortuitous call by the ref, they most likely go down 14 in that game, right? So, it's just like I don't trust either offense, which is why I'm taking the under in this game. I know that number is not that high, but 46 and a half. I love both of these defenses. The other thing is which quarterback do we trust more? That's what I'm saying. I don't trust either quarterback. You 0 for four on fourth down. Do you think he changes though? Because he has always been super aggressive when it comes to analytics, when it comes to fourth downs, just go
for it. And he does not deviate from that. I do wonder if he learns something and Lane Kein says, you know what, let's utilize those, but we don't have to live or die by them. Like there has to be at some point you have a feel for the game. I don't know if that happens here, but since you mentioned the defensive uh, you know, impact of this game, I do think this will be the difference. And I Arch Manning has been great. I'm sure he'll make a play or two that are wow throws, but this is the type of game where he's been in some and you've had a costly interception or two. I'm gonna follow that trend. I like LSU here. I'll lay the four and a half.
Okay. Uh, a couple of things here. Cam Coleman always up in the air when it comes to his availability, so we'll keep tabs on that one as well. We do have one more ranked game to talk about. Texas Tech and Oklahoma State Cowboys all of a sudden getting some Big 12 scenarios, which also can kind of be in their favor. home favorites over the Red Raiders at three and a half dues. Uh that totaled 72 in a hook. But just give me the Big 12 implications of this one. This is going to be an old school Big 12 shootout. And implications wise, Texas Tech, they need this game cuz if they were to lose this game, you look at their schedule, it's pretty soft outside of the games that they won. Remember,
they lost on the road to Cincinnati, which right now doesn't look like a terrible loss cuz it looks like Cincinnati will be a bowl eligible team. but they don't have really a strong schedule when you look at their strength of record and strength of schedule is at 70 right now. So Oklahoma State can be spoilers to Texas Tech and for the Big 12. There's a real opportunity for three teams to potentially get into this CFP. And also don't forget about Houston at 14 on the outside looking in. So love what I've seen from Tommy Costalanos. DK was right when he said last week was going to get into the 50s versus West Virginia and it definitely did. I mean I think the game the line at that game was like 60 something. got up to in the 90s, man,
almost 100 points. So, I look for this game to be similar, right? Both of these defenses have struggled at times, which is weird because Texas Tech actually has a pretty good defense, but they have not been able to stop people recently when it comes to throwing the ball or running the ball. I mean, Cam Cook ran for nearly 200 yards against them, but when you look at their Dline and linebackers, you wouldn't think that would happen. So, to me, whatever defense can come up with that pivotal stop is going to give their team an edge. Watch out. If Oklahoma State wins this game, if they can, and this will be a huge resume builder, top 15 team in Texas Tech, Oregon, remember they were all the way. If they can get to the same pod
as Oregon, and compare resumes side by side. Remember, Oregon lost to Oklahoma State early this season. That could play a factor for the Big 12. That Tulsa loss is going to kill them, though. I But it didn't this year. It didn't this week, right? I mean, they're still in the top 25. So, I agree with you, but the committee got to turn to look the other way. Um, in this game, I'm with you. I think it's going to be an absolute shootout. I think these teams are up and down the field. Drew Memaker has been incredible. He's probably going to be the top quarterback taken if he does decide to come out. And on the flip side, for Texas Tech, it was all about
upside for making the quarterback change going from Will Hammond to Tommy Costalanos. And we've seen that upside go huge. which I think is one of the most pivotal coaching decisions of the entire season, especially if Texas Tech wins this game because they got to the college football playoff last year and they said, "You know what? We were a quarterback away. We need more explosive plays." And they are getting him with Tommy Costalanos. It is a roller coaster ride. It can be a little bit he'll miss a throw or he'll throw a whoopsy daisy throw as our buddy Tom Forelli likes to call and they haven't burned him yet, but that has absolutely opened up this offense. So, I think we see points all
over the place. So, both of you guys agree. Shoot out over the 72 and a half. Don't be scared of that. Love I would actually love if you had like a slow first quarter. Line comes down to 66 or something like that. Then hammer it. Don't hesitate. Okay, so both of the guys on the over. That wraps up our second block here on HQ Spotlight. We'll hit a break here when we come back. Miami. Mm- off of that late loss in Southbend back at home hosting Duke laying nearly two touchdowns against the Blue Devils. Welcome back to HQ Spotlight of the College Football Pick Show. Let's go Big 10 where UCLA and Bob Chzn's team nearly
double digit favorites against a sneaky good Illinois team. So the numbers 9 and a half with a total of 47 and a2. This is a Friday night game. Danny, I'm going to start with you. Um, if Ty Defbach is going to go eight completions for 320 yards, I don't know if anybody's beaten UCLA. However, I guess a good Golden Gopher's team, but once you come off of that, how do you follow up with I think this is exactly what UCLA needed. I mean, we've talked about that a lot, them being a little bit too one-dimensional running the football with Wayne Knight playing great defense. And again, I think this might have been one of those games because I thought it would happen against Nevada, but they didn't exactly explode like they did in
this game. And it does when you think of themies who run so much. They're so runheavy. It opens up the door for the big plays cuz the defense is like we'll dare you. We're going to put eight nine guys around there and it presents opportunities. And finally, we saw Tai Debbach able to take advantage of that with some of those explosive plays. So that's going to be critical. Do I trust it to happen every single week against a little bit tougher opponents as we keep going? I don't know. But I thought that was a huge confidence builder and it'll make teams. It'll be tougher to defend UCLA. But this is a tough game for UCLA.
Illinois six and three. They've won four games in a row. Brett Beumma is, you know, slowly getting his team better and better. He's been kind of puffing out his chest and deservedly so about the, you know, SEC versus Big 10. This is a tricky game for UCLA. All that being said, like I don't want to lay that big number cuz I don't know if I trust UCLA's offense to open up, but I do trust their defense and I don't know if I'm going to buy in yet to this explosive new UCLA offense that's just going to be able to light up the scoreboard. So, I like the under in the game. Yeah, DK, this is an overcorrection by Vegas just because Tai def threw for 300 yards, but like you said, T double T was like on eight passes. Like he still was
only completing around like 55% of his passes. So, the accuracy still wasn't there. And to your point, it's interesting, right? Because we talked about Tai Definbach taking some shots down the field. He essentially did what Josh Hoover has struggled to do the entire year. You get one-on-one scenarios, capitalize on him. He did that last week versus Minnesota. I don't know if he could do it two weeks in a row. You talked about it. This is a scrappy Illinois team. Let's not forget on their resume, they got an Oregon win. And they did that with a backup quarterback, but Kaitton Hower has come back these last couple games and played really well at the quarterback position.
I'm with DK. I think this is going to be a lowscoring game. Give me the under on this. Yeah, you guys talk about overcorrection. 38 and a2 against Minnesota, by the way, which all of a sudden uh I took that over last week and was able to get that sweat free. Let's get to Houston and Colorado. You've got Goku here laying 10 a half out in Boulder. And dudes, you can correct me if I'm wrong cuz I was looking at the scenarios. We were hinting at the Big 12 stuff. Like if Houston ends up with just two conference losses, they have the tiebreers over the BYU's and the Texas Tex of the world, I think.
However, they're on the road. The close call against Cincy here. Uh what are you looking out for in this one? Yeah, to me this could be a sleepy game. It's Friday night 10:15. Colorado has played people tough at home. Remember that Texas Tech game came down to the wire. Now the score got away late and also that Utah game came down late at home. So when you look at this, Isaac Wilson is a guy if he gets hot, it could be troublesome for the Cougs. Also worry about the Cougs maybe looking ahead because to your point, Tommy, they got an explosive West Virginia team coming up on the docket next week and they got
to be ready for that. and that Baylor team. I don't know what's gotten into DJ Lagway, but ever since his coach has been fired, he's played at a different level. So, those are two tough games. This could be a look ahead spot, which is why I'm taking it under in this game. Yeah, I don't love my play because of what you talked about. Colorado's been tough to figure out. Sometimes they come up and they put up these herculean efforts and they almost beat Utah. Uh some of them, you know, the Oklahoma State game a little bit, you know, kind of deceiving the score the way it was, but they scored late, made it look respectable out there. So, I'm going to go ahead and trust you, excuse me, Houston here. They just got the big bump
in the rankings. They're playing with a ton of confidence. I think the defense does travel. I don't know if I trust Isaac Wilson yet. So, I'm going to say Connor Wiggman and Houston get it done, but I do not love I love it if it was nine and a half. You feel a little bit better. Uh Colorado just lost to Arizona State by 10. Like, I feel like that's the number is really good. But also, I don't love some of the stuff you're hearing coming out of Colorado. Just distractions galore. You know, there's a fan base that's divided. What do they do with Dion's future? It's a little bit of a mess there. So, I'm going to trust Houston to get it done.
All right, let's enter the ACC portion of our conversation here. Yeah, it took three blocks, but we got there. Uh Miami drops from 1 to seven in the latest CFP rankings back home. Early kickoff hosting a Duke team favored by nearly two touchdowns. DK, what do you like? What do you don't like? What do you want? You know what I don't like? I don't like that here at the office. I hear Monron and Tito and Ruby all still crying about the catch. You know, the catch or no catch. It was not a catch. By the letter of the law, it was clearly not a catch. The officials got it right. But that has been a big talking point. And this one does. This is a scary spot for Miami.
They're playing back at home. They're a favorite. They're coming off that emotional loss, which was physical, by the way. We don't have Malachi Tony. So, we've seen that offense. Now, they did a great job and Dari Mensah did a phenomenal job battling back from 24-3 to make it where they had a chance late in that game. But don't forget who's coming to town. It's it's Darien Mensah and Cooper Bar's old team. Former teammates would love nothing more. They won't say it cuz they're kind of line Manny Diaz. You don't think he would love to beat the team that fired him not that long ago?
They've got a massive chip on their shoulder and they also bring Nate Shepard to town. One of the best running backs in the country. like this is going to be a physical game that Miami better be able to meet the physicality of Duke because one of the things that could be really frustrating for Miami's offense is sitting on the sideline and not seeing your defense being able to get off the field cuz Duke does not throw the ball very well but it hasn't impacted their ability to put up points and to score because of Nate Shepard and they are committed to the run. They have a very clear identity. I'm going to take Duke in the 13 and a half year. I think this is a tough spot for Miami.
This is a scary spot for Miami. I got a little history lesson for you guys. Darren Mens has been in this scenario. It just happened last year. Let's not forget the team he left in two lane. He went back to that school last year from Duke and took that L and it wasn't a close L. They got boat raced at two lane last year. So now his former team comes to him and you're right DK, they're going to be highly motivated cuz not only did the number one receiver left leave, the quarterback left as well. You have a tough emotional loss that Miami endured last week. You wonder about them starting a little bit slow. I think 13 and a half is way too many points. You talked about Shepard at the running back
position. That's going to eat away some of that clock as well. And let's not forget Double T's former quarterback from his school, Walker Egan, is at Duke as well, and he can be a gamer as well. So, I'm taking the Blue Devils plus 13 and a half. I think that's way too many points, especially Miami coming off an emotional loss. All right, so you guys are both on Duke grabbing the points at 13 and a half. Then we have Wake Forest at SMU. I'm sure the Demon Deacons would have liked the Mustangs to have been ranked in this game, but obviously they tripped up against Syracuse. However, two things here. Uh Gio Lopez questionable with the leg injury and Wake Forest Road Dogs even if it's by a point and a half. DK
is a WTF game. Is this a properly rated game? And what do you think? So Gio Lopez is questionable and it could be Steel Pazella freshman. Freshman who last week threw for 432. Yep. I think this Wake Forest team is good. Yeah, I'm not going to go crush their schedule cuz you know what they've done and this used to be a thing where the committee would talk about game control. If you didn't play anybody, they said, "Well, look how impressive they've been. They've controlled the games from start to finish." That's all Wake has done essentially uh since the Louisville win. That was a close game since the Miami loss. They have dominated the
opponents on their schedule. I think they're really good on both sides of the football. It does make me cautious if Gio Lopez does not go in this game. Like I would prefer to take this bet knowing he was going to go, but I SMU, do we trust that defense? Do we trust Kevin Jennings against Wakes's defense who was really good? Slowed down Miami with Malachi Tony. So I like Wake Forest. I like Demon Deaks. I'm going to say the Cinderella story continues in a game that absolutely should have had all the bells and whistles. They should have had all the pregame shows there on location. But the fact that SMU is not top 25 is why they didn't. I think SMU should be in the top 25. But I think this one is
wake. The story continues. Yeah, that Syracuse loss looms big for SMU cuz I thought they would be ranked this week. Kevin Jennings has actually played really well the last couple weeks. He's taking care of the football. The Syracuse loss was not on him, right? The defense just couldn't make a stop at the end of the game. And I would bet that Gio Lopez knowing what this game means for Wake Forest is going to do whatever he can to get out there. Like verse Mary back last week, there was no need to force him out on that field. And I think that's what the coach was thinking. So I like the over in this game. I think this is going to be a loose game. Both offenses are very
explosive. DK talked about Wake Forest and their defense. I don't think they've seen an offense like this as of yet this season besides the Miami offense. And we saw Miami score up to 30 plus points in that game, which is why I like the over in this game. Okay, wake and over for this particular game and then we'll hit a break here when we come back. You know, Danny Canel and Damen Harris, you could probably hear them talking in the fourth quarter at the shoe because it was quiet as the Ducks demolish the Buckeyes. They're back home hosting Northwestern laying 12 and a half. We'll get the guys' thoughts next.
Let's keep it going. Northwestern at Ohio State Buckeyes laying 12 a half just after a week where they got demolished by Oregon on big time on CBS with a total of 45 and a hook. Uh Aiden Childs upper body injury questionable for this game. Danny, you were there at the shoe watching the Ducks do their thing with Dylan Riyola. How do you think the Buckeyes are going to respond in this game? I think they'll respond strong. Luke Fehee, by the way, uh, all indications going to start. Yeah, a little bit surprised we don't see some tough.
Uh, we expect to see Jeremiah Smith, right? There was some speculation. My buddy Damen Harris, I saw the look on your face. I was like, what are you talking about? The dude is a competitor. I think he wants to continue to, you know, to finish what he started as far as his legacy as one of the best wide receivers in Ohio State's uh history. So, I do expect him to start. The other thing we kind of forget is it was 143. Ohio State did start fast. Oregon is a really talented football team who a lot of us, myself included, thought they were national championship contenders. And
now that Dylan Riyola is getting comfortable, we saw what they're capable of doing. By the way, one of the best fake punt calls you'll see that changed the face of their season potentially. I do think this is what Ohio State needs to get back. I still think their defense is really good. They're going to have their hands full, you know, trying to defend Chip Kelly's multiple look offense. It's going to throw the kitchen sink at you, but I think this is one they should be able to control both the lines of scrimmage. Aiden Charles, if he plays maybe makes me a little bit more nervous about this one. I'd be a little bit more cautious, but I'm going to lay it with Ohio State. Say they get a much
needed win to get back on track. I would say the line leans towards him not playing, right? Because I mean anytime he's played like they've been in close dog fights, right? And you talk about the inventiveness with Aid and Childs and what Tip Kelly has been able to do. That's that's what I want to watch. This defense has been embarrassed two weeks in a row. This was supposed to be the strong suit of this team, the defense with Matt Patricia. That's two weeks in a row. USC and Oregon, they had their way with him and now you have to deal with the inventiveness of Chip Kelly. So that's what I want to see and see how Ohio State responds. I would probably lean towards the Wildcats if I knew
Aiden Childs was playing because I don't know he's going to play. I'm gonna take the under in this game. I think it's going to be a lowscoring game. Let's move on to Bama at Vandy. This one north of two touchdowns. Our first monoemano. I had to double check here so it's taken us a little while to get our first moni. Uh Bama last week went to Baton Rouge and won. Keyn Russell though dealing with an ankle injury. Played through it. Kaylin Deborah says he's dayto-day. So officially questionable and you are on the side of the Crimson Tide laying the
points. It's not gonna change him dotting people up. DK, that was the Kean Russell that we saw in the beginning of the year with the ball placement. I mean, anywhere he wanted to place the ball versus LSU last week, he was able to do that. Now, he did make a few plays with his legs. You are concerned about that. But Vanderbilt has been getting boat raced by people. So, when you look at this, I think it'll be tough for Jared Curtis verse this defense. This Sooners defense, did you see the defensive coordinator on the sideline during that LSU game? They were hyped. I think Bama wins this game on defense. Even if Kelan Russell is banged up a little bit. I know that's a big
number. Little nervous about it 15 and a half. But the way that Alabama played last week, I think Kaylin Debor will get his team locked in to make sure they have a good outcome this week. We also saw this Alabama team in a similar line against Texas A&M at home struggle to get the win. Got the win, did not get the cover. This game's in Nashville. It's a good atmosphere. I think this is one Vanderbilt, you know, fans will be hyped for this one. Jared Curtis is uber talented as the true freshman quarterback. He has no conscience when he throws it around the yard. I think
this is one again emotional win on the road. Can you match that kind of, you know, intensity level that you had last week? Maybe a little bit of a let down spot, which is all you need for the 15 and a half points. Maybe a back door cover too. Kind of throwing it around late, trying to keep it inside that number. I like Vanderbilt here. I just think what how they struggled earlier in the year when they had some of those losses I think bodess well for this team and Kaylin Borg getting them ready. There's no look ahead game. When you look at their schedule it's not like well we got to prepare for Georgia somebody down they like there's no look ahead game. I think they'll be ready for this one.
All right let's get we got more mono. Yes we do actually right next here with Tennessee at Texas A&M. We got the balls laying two and a half here. And Danny you mentioned the mono. You also got a two for one in this one. Yes cuz I do like Yeah. I like the under in this. I like the under in this game. We Tennessee's defense has been outstanding. I think they should have some success. Although Marcel Reed, it can run around. He can make plays. So, that's something that concerns you. But I also think Texas A&M's defense should be well equipped at home to slow down Deshawn Bishop. And with the quarterback play that we've seen at Tennessee, it's been a little bit more
game manager-l like. They've lost some of the explosiveness in the past game. So, if Texas A&M can keep this onedimensional, which I think they can, I think that bodess for a defensive lower scoring game, I also think this line is pretty fishy. Mike Elko's squad has been battling tough for him throughout the season. I don't think they've thrown in the towel on him by any means. I think they're looking to sort of, you know, get things back on track with some of the veteran leadership on this team. So, I do like the Aggies at home to potentially pull off the upset as well. M. So, you trust Marcel Reed not to turn the football over versus this Tennessee defense that turns everybody over? We like literally we seen Kenny Mitchi not
turn it over the entire year and then verse Tennessee last week. And to me, it's not just stopping Deshawn Bishop, you got to stop Morris in the back field as well cuz Kentucky had no answer for the run game. So, you're right, George McIntyre, all he needs to do is be the point guard for this team. Coach Hyper has done a really good job of managing him, but I'm going to lean towards that defense in the run game. I don't trust Marcel Reed. I thought he had a great opportunity to pull off the upset last week for South Carolina. And what'd he do? He turned the football over. So that's kind of been his MO. So I'm going to lead to coach towards coach hypo and the balls. Also, they're still feel
disrespected DK. We talked about this before. They have the headto-head to Bama and yet they're still behind them. So I think that's something he's leaning on for the rest of this season as well. They got to get a little closer to the pod. The pod is like a two difference, which three versus eight's apparently too far right now. Uh, in terms of pods, last game here in this segment, we got Baylor and BYU again. Cougars coming off that loss in the Holy War back home laying seven and a half. You were mentioning DJ Lagway and what they're playing right now. Uh, but you stayed away from the spread, dudes, and I sure did. Tackling the total this one.
This game scares me. I ain't going to lie to you. Double T and DK. Um, BYU come coming off an emotional loss, right? Bear Bogmire probably had his worst game of the year. Four interceptions. one that literally like I just don't understand how he literally drove the ball. All he had to do was float it over the linebacker's head and the game is tied up. And I thought about DJ Lagway. He's playing unconscious and before he would be scared to scramble. He's using his mobility and he's running with physicality when he runs with the ball. Joe Clannerman has done an amazing job since he's taken over as head coach. Um coach Spavo has always been inventive on the offensive side and you see the numbers the last three games, man. He
he's been playing out of his mind. I will say this, it looks like BYU is getting healthier on defense. Evan Johnson, their number one corner, was out last week. Looks like he could come back. LJ Martin played sparingly. You would think hopefully another week he feels a little bit better. And I just know the resolve of Bear Bachmire. He's not going to let that one game get him down. And if you're BYU, you kind of need style points at this point cuz when you look at the rest of their schedule, there's not going to be many games besides this Baylor game cuz Baylor's playing a lot better than most people uh thought to push you up. Like you play Kansas, they're not above 500.
Cincinnati may be above 500 when they get to that game. So that could be a potential big win. But when you're at the 10th spot, right, there's could be teams that jump you. So you need some style points. So I would lean towards the Cougar, but the way Baylor's been playing, give me the under. I think this is going to be a low defensive scoring game because Baylor has actually one of the best D lines in the football. So like 2821 2417, something like that. Something like that. That's why I stayed away from it. I'll take Baylor and over a touchdown and get that hook. I think that's big. I think dudes is still reeling from the ba beat down that Baylor put on UCF. His alma mo there,
but that was sort of the DJ Lagway game coming out. Whoa. And you mentioned be able to rush the football over 115 yards this past week against Iowa State. That has kind of opened up a dimension that I don't even know uh if Baylor was aware that he could do. But now they're going to start utilizing that. That could be problematic. And I do, again, it's in Provo. If it wasn't in Provo, I'd be way more like, hey, this could be an upset. Yeah, I think they're able to get the win, but I do think it's one of those starting games. You got to get things back up.
Always curious to see how a quarterback responds after a four interception performance. I think they'll probably be a little less likely to throw the football, try to get LJ Martin and that run game going. So, I think I agree with you. Lower scoring game, but I'll take Baylor in the touch in the seven and a half. All right, couple more segments we still have to tackle here on the show. We'll take a break. When we come back, Notre Dame up to number five in the latest CFP rankings, hosting BC and favored by north of four touchdowns. We'll talk about it next. Welcome back to the show. Notre Dame now safe for now in terms of the CFP after being initially at 11. The win over Miami will certainly do that to you. So,
they're now favored by 28 and a half with a total of 51 and a hook. Saturday afternoon kickoff. Uh some defensive injuries to note for Notre Dame coming off that win against Miami. But deuce uh let's take a look here. Oh, first quarter play. Deuce back. Yeah, I think coach Freeman will get after his team cuz this could be a look ahead game. I think they still have SMU on the docket. When you look at who else they have on the schedule, but I think they're going to come out fast. I think Coach Freeman will get his team up. Now, remember coming off the buy after that emotional loss to BYU, they started real slow in that Navy game. This is why this game kind of makes me a little nervous because this could be a look ahead game.
And you see it that's that's their season. Those next two games, SMU, Syracuse, like those teams can actually put a point. So like you better be at your agame. But you cannot overlook anybody right now if the Irish now them going all the way to number five spots gives them a little leeway, right? But I think they'll start off fast. So give me the Irish in the first quarter minus 7 and a half. I don't know. I'm sure Marcus Freeman is watching. And if he is, I'm going to give him a little motivation for his team because in 1993, there was a game of the century with Florida State and Notre Dame. And Notre Dame came up with a big win. Came up
with a big stop against Charlie Ward late in that game to get the win. They were right on path to get a national championship. You know what happened the following week? They lost to Boston College. Dashed their idol hopes. Thank you. I have a ring because of that game. Yeah. So, I am appreciative of Boston College. Have a place in my heart for him. But this is, you mentioned it. You cannot afford. We've talked about let downs all the time about how teams, you know, fail to get up to the task. I think they'll be okay, but 28 12 is a big number against a Boston College team. It's been a little bit up and down. They got boat raced against Duke, but they do have
some potential to put up points. I think they'll claw away. That's a big number. I'm going to take the four touchdowns and a hook uh with BC here. Okay. Uh let's move on here and talk about Michigan and Oregon. Oregon coming off that big win against Ohio State. So they're now laying 11 and a half. Michigan firing its OC Jason Beck. So there's some changes there in terms of a UN perspective. And boy that total 38 in the hook, but we'll have to tackle that as well. But uh dues, what in terms of this one you're looking at because both
of you guys kind of like Oregon, but in different ways here. Yeah, I like the first quarter. I think Michigan's defense is really good. That's still a big number even though they're not getting anything from offense. You just talked about Jason Beck being fired and there's question marks in who's going to start at quarterback. They haven't got consistent quarterback play. But I like the first quarter play right here. I believe it's two and a half for Oregon. Give me them in the first quarter. DK talked about it earlier in our show. Dylan Ryola feels like he's found his stride. Like there was a lot of up and down for him early in the year. We talked about the Illinois game, how he didn't play well
in that game at all, but the last couple games he's playing with so much confidence. And me and DK, you know, we picked Oregon to win it all. We still got an outside chance, baby. So, give me the Ducks. Uh, first quarter might have soon half. Riola plays with a ton of confidence. It makes me a little bit nervous sometimes because he always tries to make a throw. He's kind like that Mahomes. It's his idol. You know, Mahomes always sees a throw that he does like he likes every He doesn't turn down any throws.
No. So, that's the one thing. But the one thing where I like your play and I think it fits well with mine. If Oregon starts strong and they go up, I think Michigan is very real to keep an eye on to see if they throw in the towel. like there is some significant toxicity around the program. You see a fan base which wants to see a one and done. You already fired the offensive coordinator. There's been complaints earlier in the season. You wonder if there's infighting in a defense which has been playing great. At some point, do they just roll over and be like, "Man, this is not fun to get out here. We don't get any points
on the other side of the ball." So, that's something to keep an eye on. But, I do think Oregon, you mentioned the dudes, they all of a sudden have been completely rejuvenated with an opportunity. They see their name pop up there in the rankings. They're like, "We have a path." So, not only do they need to win, but because Michigan isn't a great resume builder, I think if they have the opportunity, they will try to put points on the board late where maybe you're a little bit conservative, but I think they realize they don't. And Michigan, Michigan State, and uh Washington, not any of those will resonate, but you know what will?
Significant wins. If you win by two touchdowns, three touchdowns. So, I think Oregon wants to do that. We were talking about that Ducks fake punt. Tatum Tui fortunately out for the year with a knee injury. It was him and Uanga uh catching up with that one. All right, let's go to Old Miss in Oklahoma. Uh Rebels disappointing performance at VA Hemingway against the Dogs. Now back on the road here against OU. Slight road favorites here. DK staying away from the spreading the total under. Uh Oklahoma's defense is still one of the best in the country. They're starting to figure things out a little bit. Jason Whitten first game as a play caller gets a big win on the road against Gainesville, but it wasn't exactly a shootout. That defense
travels. and Miss, you know, they've been shut down at times this season and I think this is a prime spot where Oklahoma is able to control that line of scrimmage. I don't hate Oklahoma here as well to potentially win this game. This is a fishy line. Uh, you know, Miss, you know, maybe their playoff hopes are dashed. Are they kind of like looking at it a little bit more defeated? Oklahoma's trying to salvage a season coming off a big win. I don't hate the Sooners here to pull off the upset, but I do love the under.
Me either, DK. actually had circled this game before the Georgia game and said if Miss does pull it off for Georgia, this is a trap game for sure because of what you said, that defense. Now, I was wondering if the Sooners defense had gotten to the point where they were just so discouraged that they were going to start folding it in, but then they get a big win versus Florida last week and you talked about it. Jason Whitten came in. One thing he did was attack at the tight end position and he's a former tight end. Tight end was going to get the ball in that offense. Really concerning how the Rebels looked on a national stage versus Georgia at home. Trinidad
Chambers didn't look good. We talked about the impact of Kiwan Lacy not being there as well. So, this is a interesting game, right? I was actually surprised the Rebels are favored in this game. I'm attacking the total. I think it's going to be an under game because of how well the Oklahoma defense has played and we've seen at times the Rebels offense, even though it's explosive, not show up in games, right? We saw it last week versus Georgia and we saw it at Florida earlier this year as well. So, give me the under in this game. Let's end with a Pack 12 game. It's Oregon State catching 13 and a half on the turf. Uh taking on Boise State. This is one of those what if games.
Unfortunately, the Beavers lost at Fresno State a couple weeks ago to kind of take them out of the CFP conversation. But total at 65 and a hook. Both quarterbacks questionable. Barry Atinson, Maddox Matson. So, Dues, how do you break it all down? Well, Max Cup forth came in and he was lining it up last week. So, I'm taking the over in this game. Both of these defenses have struggled mightily at times. uh Dylan O'Reilly can run the ball at will at times in the pack 12 and it whether it's you know um Maddox Matson or cut forth they can really put up a lot of points. I think Braden Agson will ultimately play in this game and we already know Justin degree is one
of the most explosive players in all the nation on the other side. So give me the over in this game. Uh you mentioned Oregon State losing to Fresno State. They also lost to Texas State. So they've lost two games in a row, both of them by two touchdowns. So, I'm going to say that Boise State is better than both of those teams. The problem with Oregon State, I think, is they're so much fun to watch. They throw the ball all over the yard, but they're a little bit too one-dimensional. They don't really, they're not even concerned with the run game. And when you have that becomes a little bit easier to stop, teams aren't worried about you running the football. So, they start dropping guys into coverage. It's been
more challenging. So, I do like Boise State here. All right, time to hit a break. When we come back, talk about Will Stein's team UK dropping after being in the top six last week. So from 6 to 11 after that Tennessee loss, they host UF and are favored by a field goal and a hook. Home stretch on the college football pick show. Let's go Florida at Kentucky. Will Stein's cats are favored by three and a half with a total at 52 in the hook. We get another monoeo Danny Gator. Gator Danny's back. I feel like I've played the Gators pretty well this season. Earlier I had them beating Miss when they play came back. It was the first big game uh in Gainesville. Then I did have them losing to Missouri. They end up getting beat
that one and then I kind of forgot about him because they've been forgotten about the picture. And that is a headscratcher to lose at home against Oklahoma who is really struggling this season has John Summerl for some reason some crazy Gator fans are like ah we made the wrong mistake. I don't believe that at all. I think this team is fine. I think they're heading in the right direction and I think that potentially starts this week. This is a fishy line. There's a lot of them this weekend that are just like, man, is that is this where you want? Like, this just feels off to me just a little bit. Why is it so close? If Florida has lost a couple games in a
row, I think the oddsmakers realize this is the same team that beat Texas on the road and they've had quarterback issues. They've had quarterback injuries. They're trying to figure that out. I think this is a game where the defense travels. Kentucky licking their wounds a little bit from a rough loss last week. They better not feel sorry for themselves or they'll find themselves getting beat. I think Florida has a chance to win this game. It's a field goal game, so I'll take the three and a half.
Kentucky is playing for their lives, DK. I think Will Stein will get his team highly motivated. Some uncharacteristic turnovers. We don't see them turn the ball over as much as they turned it over last week in that loss versus Tennessee. I think they will bounce back in this game. They'll get the run game going with Baxter in the backfield. Kenny Mitchie, I think will respond well to turning the football over last week. Give me the Wildcats minus three and a half at home. Okay, let's get to the Big 10 where all of a sudden Iowa was unranked two weeks ago and now they're sitting at 15 in of the latest CFP and we're talking about, you know, the third
Big 10 team potentially here. They got to take care of business against Purdue though. Big number 17 and a half big total 47 in the hook. Dues, what about that total? And that's why I'm taking the under. I trust their run game and defense. You don't know what Purdue team you're going to get from a week- toeek basis, but one thing you're going to get from the Hawkeyes is a run game and a defense. I thought Hank Brown showed really well last week being efficient with the football. Didn't have gotty numbers. Did have the one interception, but he was essentially a point guard. That's why I lean towards the Hawkeyes. I think that's a massive number. 17 and a half. But if it were to get loose, I think
it would go one-sided towards the Hawkeyes in this game. But give me the under in this game. Under 47 and a half. I like that play cuz I'm playing them with excuse me, I'm not I'm taking Purdue and the 17. I and then I look and I look at Iowa how they played against Wisconsin 30 to nothing. Blew them out. You see him against Washington. It blew them out by multiple. I it's just a tricky spot. I think you and it maybe it's human nature to get a little bit conservative, lean on that run game a little bit more. Hank Brown has been good, but it's still a little bit up and down. I still don't know if I buy into the explosivity where they're just gonna go out there and put up 40 and not stop Purdue. Purdue's offense
can put up some points, too. Even though Iowa's off defense is phenomenal, I just I'm going to take the points. Kind of trust the parody of the season. I think Iowa wins. They're at home, but that's a big number to lay with the Hawkeyes. And last but not least, we got South Carolina road favorites here against Arkansas. North of a touchdown with a total of 51 and a hook. Daniel kind of chuckled. I almost went monoto with you, but now go ahead. Scared me. I ain't going to lie. Come on now. Lenor Cers. This is another fishy line. That's what I'm I don't think it's fishy. I think it's cuz it's the health of Lenor Celery.
Right. Take off. Yeah. So like that's why I think it's only 7 and a half. If he was healthy, I think this line would be upwards to like 10 or 11 and a half. Uh because he's healthy. But we even saw the grit and determination on one foot him scamper for 40ome yards, Tommy, to put the Gamecocks ahead. And thank God cuz he gave me a win uh last week because of that cuz I had the Gamecooxs covering in that game and because of that touchdown they did. So Ryan Silverfield and his Razerback team, they're scrappy though. Let's not forget earlier this year at home almost beat and upset Tennessee at home. I think they've been playing significantly better. I'm scared of that hook on the seven and a half. That's why
I'm taking the under in this game. Uh had a big win against Vanderbilt. Just barely lost to Auburn this past weekend. They've been a tough out. This to me becomes the parody in college football. Like this is and this is more NFL like point spreads. The fact they're playing in FFL, the fact they're playing at home, Lenora Cellers health is questioned. South Carolina has not been exactly the most bankable team. Like they've been a little bit all over the map this season, but I'm going to take those seven and a half for the Razerbacks. All right, fellas. Good hour here on HQ Spotlight. Our thanks to Danny Canel and Lejay Dooible. I'm Tommy Tran. Reminder about our college football YouTube page.
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