September 26, 2003
Looking at this weeks games
This week's C-USA slate is already off and running following last night's Nebraska - Southern Miss debacle. (For more on that one, check the Big XII page.) Here's a look at the games coming up this weekend.
South Florida (1-1) at Army (0-3) - 1 pm EST
The Bulls kick off their C-USA schedule with a matchup at Army. Both teams are still looking for their first win against a D-IA club, but there doesn't seem to be too much chance of the Knights getting their's against USF. The Bulls aren't the high-octane scoring machine that they were last year, but they're no slouch either. Army has shown a complete lack of interest/ability in stopping the passing game, so USF should score early and often in this one. USF can throw the ball, but they haven't proven they can run it effectively. If the Bulls get out to a lead, look for South Florida to try to get their running backs some work in preparation for future C-USA opponents. Prediction: USF over Army.
Cincinnati (3-0) at Miami (Ohio) (2-1) - 2 pm EST
This could be a very interesting ballgame. Cincy is unbeaten and has knocked off a couple of Big East schools. Miami is red-hot after big wins against Northwestern and Colorado State. This is Miami's home opener and the game against the Bearcats always brings out the best in the Red Hawks. This is a must-see if you're interested in two of the country's under-rated passers, Miami's Ben Roethlisberger and UC's Gino Guidugli. The question in this game comes down to defense. Miami is solid, but will give up the big play once every quarter or so. Cincinnati has a so-so defense, especially against the pass. Given Miami's passing ability, I think they will be able to take advantage of the UC defense. Prediction: Miami beats Cincy.
Temple (0-3) at Louisville (3-0) - 3 pm EST
This is Louisville's last game before beginning conference play and --on paper-- they win this one handily. Temple is better than their record indicates, however, and they can keep it close with the Cardinals. Louisville should be playing with a short field most of the game against Temple, the nation's worst ranked punt coverage team. In the end, Louisville is just too much for the Owls. Prediction: Louisville over Temple.
Arkansas State (2-2) at Memphis (2-1) - 2 pm EST
Arkansas State will try to bounce back after surrenduring 54 points against Tulsa. Memphis is trying to find their offensive teeth. Doesn't sound like a good matchup for Arkansas State. ASU can't throw the ball, so they'll have to run at a Memphis defense that has had two weeks to bone up for the Indians. Memphis will shut down ASU's offense. The Tigers could go absolutely nuts on offense against ASU - 54 or more is not out of the question. Good home game for the Memphis fans, but a long ride home for ASU. Prediction: Memphis big over Arkansas State.
TCU (3-0) at Arizona (1-3)
The Horned Frogs have been circling this date for a while. For TCU, it's another BCS-conference opponent and one more (potential) notch in the belt. TCU has fared well against the PAC-10 recently and Arizona only wishes they could say the same. Arizona is a total mess losing its last three games by a combined score of 166 to 30. That's a final score average of 55-10. The Wildcats are near the bottom in college football in every major statistical category playing horribly on both sides of the ball. Even with a depleted offense, TCU has shown they can perform and win the games their "supposed to win". I still believe that TCU is on it's way to an undefeated season. This may not be a blowout, but TCU should still win handily and give themselves a shot to move up in the rankings. Prediction: TCU over Arizona (and John Mackovic will be up late working on his resume!)
Tulane (3-1) at Texas (2-1) - 7 pm EST
Texas has been dominating against less-than-wonderful teams, but there's still the concern over whether or not the Longhorns can handle anyone of substance. Texas leads the nation in pass defense, but that's misleading since the Longhorns haven't faced anyone who can remotely throw the ball. Matt Jones of the Hogs completed 9 of 16 passes for 139 yards and a touchdown against the Horns. That might be the first quarter for J.P. Losman. That being said, Tulane's defense has looked a lot like swiss cheese - giving up 31 points per game. This should be a great offensive game for both teams. You can't turn off the TV if either team gets a lead - because the other squad can even it up in a hurry. In the end, Tulane might lose this one on depth - UT is just a deeper team. Prediction: Tulane loses to Texas.
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