College Football Week 12 Bold Predictions

I was on fire last week.  Can I keep it going in week 12?

1. Oklahoma State implodes against Baylor in multiple-TD loss

Playoff hopes are still alive for both these teams, though the path is clearer for the Cowboys : win and they're in.  But I expect an angry Baylor team to show up in Stillwater, as the Bears look to become a serious roadblock for Oklahoma State.  Baylor makes things interesting in the Big 12 race with a 48 - 34 thumping of the Cowboys, who seem destined for a collapse.

2. Virginia Tech spoils North Carolina's special season in Beamer's final home game

The Hokies are 5 - 5, but have been competitive against all their opponents this year, even in their losses.  They've picked up steam after beating Boston College and Georgia Tech but still look to get bowl eligible.  With a coaching legend on the sideline for his final game in Blacksburg, these players will be giving it their all to send Frank out on a high note.  The Tarheels have been playing lights-out since their week 1 loss but I think they fall victim to the trap game on Saturday.  Hokies prevail, 30 - 27.

3. Ohio State drops 40+ on Sparty

Since the season opener, the Buckeyes have only exceeded 40 points twice, in wins against Maryland and Rutgers.  Michigan State is undeniably the best team OSU will have faced so far, but the Spartan defense isn't quite as stingy as it has been the last two years.  Still, they give up only 22 points per game on average and Ohio State has been inconsistent at times moving the ball.  But I think this is where it all comes together for OSU's offense, as the Buckeyes make a statement in a 42 - 23 win.

4. Penn State ends Michigan's B1G hopes

The Wolverines were gashed on the ground by Indiana last week, and will have to get back to their earlier season form on defense to survive the Nittany Lions this weekend.  Penn State is by no means an offensive juggernaut, but they always play considerably better at home.  They've yet to lose one in Beaver Stadium in 2015 and I don't think they do this week.  Nittany Lions knock off Michigan, 27 - 24.

5. An SEC team falls in non-league play

As usual, the rest of the country plays cupcakes while college footballs premier conference takes on some real competition.  The SEC's non-conference gauntlet this week includes: Florida Atlantic, The Citadel, Idaho, Charleston Southern, Georgia Southern, and Charlotte.  It's a tough slate, but the SEC is still expected to sweep the field, because S-E-C!, S-E-C!, S-E-C!  However, I'm calling for a loss in there, despite how great the conference is.  I just can't imagine the entire league making it through the weekend unscathed with that set of match-ups.  And don't take my word for it, just listen to Alabama's Nick Saban talk up his FCS opponent.