College football predictions - week two

What did we learn last week? We learned that Kansas' program has taken a huge step back, that Kansas State has the best running back in the conference and that Missouri has the best quarterback in the Big 12. We also learned that Gary Pinkel CAN make half-time adjustments, that Bill Snyder CAN beat Division 1 non-conference foes, and that Turner Gill CAN remain upbeat even after the most embarrassing loss in recent KU history.

Let's look at week two action in the Big 12 and elsewhere--here are the predictions.

Georgia Tech over Kansas. The intrigue in this game is whether we see Kansas improve, particularly in the area of coaching preparedness on offense. Jordan Webb is the new QB and Jeremiah Hatch has been inserted back into the starting offensive line. Gill has said that freshman James Sims will see action at RB. The line is 14--I think staying within two touchdowns of Tech would be a definite improvement in week two for the Jayhawks.

Missouri over McNeese State. Last week was the Tigers' non-conference test. This week, and the two following, are contests where MU will be fine-tuning its game in preparation for the start of the Big 12 season on October 9 against Colorado. And, it's the first of four straight home games for Missouri.

Kansas State over Missouri State. Terry Allen had a horrid record against Kansas State during his tenure at KU. That record won't improve tomorrow. The issue for Wildcat fans is the play from the quarterback position--will it improve?

Oklahoma over Florida State. This is the best game in the Big 12 tomorrow. Which OU team will show up? Disciplined? Focused? Or, the team which almost squandered the big lead last week?

Iowa over Iowa State. The Cyclones lost big in this game last year at home. It won't get better in Iowa City.

Oklahoma State over Troy. Kendall Hunter stakes his claim to being the best RB in the conference.

Baylor over Buffalo. The Bears get win #2 over Gill's old school.

California over Colorado. Welcome to the Pac-10, CU.

Nebraska over Idaho. Another tune-up win for NU before heading to Washington next week.

Texas over Wyoming. The Cowboys can't rope the Longhorns.

Texas Tech at New Mexico. Tech needs to be careful and not overlook a New Mexico team which was embarrassed last week at Oregon.

Texas A&M over Louisiana Tech. The A&M offense continues to roll.

Notre Dame over Michigan. Remember when this match-up would've been at the top of the watch list? It's an intriguing game as it will give us a better sense as to which team is more legit--both won their openers last week.

Alabama over Penn State. This is the game drawing most of the attention this week. I can't see Joe Pa going into Bama and stealing a road win.

Miami over Ohio State. Yep, my upset pick of the week. Each year, Ohio State lays an egg in the non-con schedule--tomorrow will be this year's version.