MSU v Middle Tennessee

SEC Weekend Preview: Week 8

Flobots - Handlebars

Look at me,
Look at me
Driving and I won't stop.
And it feels so good to be
Alive and on top.
My reach is global,
My tower secure.
My cause is noble,
My power is pure.
I can hand out a million vaccinations,
Or let 'em all die in exasperation.
Have 'em all healed of their lacerations.
Have 'em all killed by assassination.




(Mr. Hooch) Welcome back faithful viewers!  This week MSU faces Middle Tennessee State, and there are some good games on the slate for the rest of the SEC as well.  The song this week is Handlebars by the Flobots.  I was reminded of this song when reading some message boards earlier in the week.  I was reading a post about how MSU doesn't get much respect from the national media, and how some of our in-state rival Ole Miss' fans continually poor-mouth the program, to which a poster responded "It's good to be hated again."  I think that just 

about sums it up... the rest of the conference, hell the rest of the NATION be damned!  MSU is 6-0, soon to be 7-0 and going in to one of the biggest games this year as one of two undefeated SEC teams vying for the top spot in the SEC West!  Of COURSE people are going to hate us... that just goes to show that our reach IS global, our tower, secure.  Our cause is noble, and our power is pure.  Hate all you want, but the Bulldogs worked hard to get where they are, and they deserve it...


(Professor D) With three teams off this looks to be a light week across the SEC in terms of numbers, but in terms of match ups, there are a couple of huge ones. Great offenses will square off with legendary defenses. The former new kids on the block go up against an old giant whose looking to step back into the ring. And one of the SEC’s many rivalries gets another lopsided installment. Here we go with week 8.


Now on to the show!



Auburn at Vandy

It's the interdivisional battle of bottom dwellers!  Ok that's not exactly fair to the Commodores, as they actually have a win in the conference, but it's out there now... anyway, Auburn limps into this game toting the SEC's worst offense, and still looking to pick up their first conference win.  Vanderbilt has notched an SEC win already, having defeated Missouri on the road, but the first half of the Commodores' schedule was a murderer's row with teams like South Carolina, Florida and Georgia proving to be more than Vandy could handle.  I like Vanderbilt's chances in this one, though.  Auburn is an unmitigated disaster, and with no clear leader at the QB position that's not likely to change.  The Dores look to pick up their second conference win this weekend, and there's little the Tigers can do to stop that...

Auburn 10 - Vandy 24


Vanderbilt can salvage their hopes of a bowl game with a win over Auburn this weekend. Auburn on the other hand can… get a win? That’s really the best I’ve got for the Tigers in this game. For the Tigers to be bowl eligible this year they will have to win five of their last six games. With a schedule that includes Texas A&M, Georgia, and Alabama that’s a tall order. This game may be Auburn's last chance to notch an SEC win this year, but they will have to go into Commodore territory and take it from a Vanderbilt team that is probably best described as “scrappy”. The offense hasn’t been anything special, but they are decent enough moving the ball. The defense has been middle of the road nationally, which puts them pretty low in the SEC. The good news is Auburn is worse in almost every statistical category. Gene Chizik’s team has also played especially poor on the road, while Vanderbilt has been particularly strong at home. This makes for a pretty decent match up, but one Vanderbilt will ultimately win.

Vanderbilt 17 – Auburn 10




Alabama (1) at Tennessee

The most interesting thing about this game for MSU fans will be watching AJ McCarron to see how much truth there is to the rumors that he has a meniscus tear.  If true that could give the Bulldogs a little help next week in Tuscaloosa... As for this week, the Crimson Tide travels to Tennessee to collect another SEC win, much the same way a farmer would pluck a ripe apple from a tree, and with possibly less effort.  Bama 

There's definitely an apple-innuendo-laden joke
in here somewhere...

sports the number one overall defense in the nation, and that means it's going to be a long night for the Vols.  The Vols are as good a team as any with 3 losses this season, especially when you consider all 3 losses came at the hands of teams ranked #15 or higher in the nation.  Unfortunately this time they're playing #1.  I could go into detail, but what's the point?  

Alabama 35 - Tennessee 14


Tennessee has the sort of passing offense that could strain Alabama’s secondary; especially with Tennessee’s offensive line. That isn’t to say Alabama’s secondary are a bunch of slouches, they're probably the second best in the SEC actually. If Tyler Bray, injury or no, can do what he couldn’t against Mississippi State and get his receivers in the game the Volunteers have a chance to put up some points. That doesn’t mean the Volunteers have a chance at winning, they just have a chance to not make it look so bad. Alabama is in rhythm, and they can keep the beat without a metronome…. and I’m sure ride a bike with no handle bars (see I got around to referencing Mr. Hooch’s songs eventually). (Editor's note: YAY!!!) Derek Dooley’s squad will again be cut down by a complete lack of defense. Theoretically Tennessee could score 28 against the Tide, but they will not be able to hold Alabama to less than 35 in the game. Nick Saban just has too many weapons, on the ground and in the air, for this sub-par Tennessee defense to hold down the score. This will be another win for Alabama, and Tennessee’s SEC woes will continue.

Alabama 42 – Tennessee 17




Georgia (13) at Kentucky

Georgia is looking to rebound from a tough loss to division foe South Carolina.  The normally prolific offense was nowhere to be seen in the loss, where they managed only one touchdown on the game, as Aaron Murray went an abysmal 11 for 31 in passing.  Unfortunately for Kentucky, this will be the game where a pissed off Georgia team bounces back.  The Bulldogs will come out swinging, with Murray likely taking to the air early to set the tone.  The Wildcats will find themselves outclassed yet again, and will need more than a little luck to pull off the upset.

Georgia 41 - Kentucky 10


Georgia has had their fair share of disappointments defensively, but nothing to the collapse of Kentucky. The Wildcats were supposed to have a ferocious offensive attack this year, but injuries have sidelined most of their starters and Joker Phillips job has come into serious questions. Meanwhile just when Mark Richt thought his seat had cooled off it is starting to get a little warm again. The Bulldogs have only faced one top 25 team this year, a game which they lost 35 – 7 against South Carolina. The good news for Georgia is that even healthy Kentucky is not a top 25 team. Mark Richt should have no problem coaxing enough out of his defense to come out of this game with a win, but don’t expect a win against the Wildcats to soothe disgruntled fans.

Kentucky 7 – Georgia 42




South Carolina (9) at Florida (3)

This should be a great game to watch.  Wil Mushchamp's Florida Gators are giving fans a reason to get excited again, and the Ol' Ball Coach is bringing his Gamecocks back to the Swamp for a little visit to his old stomping grounds.  This game will help shape the top half of the SEC East, as Florida looks to stay undefeated in the conference and South Carolina looks to rebound from the heartbreaking loss at LSU last weekend.  Florida will try to keep the explosive South Carolina offense on the sidelines by managing the clock and pounding things out on the ground.  If South Carolina should win they would put themselves in a tie for first place in the East with Florida.  More importantly, this game could have National Championship implications for both teams... Home field advantage is ultimately what led me to giving the nod 
to Florida, but the Gamecocks could very easily take control of this game if they jump out to an early lead.  

South Carolina 17 - Florida 27

One of two stellar match ups this weekend in the SEC, the undefeated and well coached Florida Gators will take on the one-loss and hungry South Carolina Gamecocks. For South Carolina the formula for this game is similar to the formula last week for beating LSU (we all know how that turned out). Stop the run and force Florida to go to the air. The Gamecocks certainly have the defense to do just that, but can they shake off their performance at Tiger Stadium and actually get it done this Saturday? I don’t know if I see South Carolina losing two in a row, but this schedule is tough. Florida has the defense to hold down South Carolina’s scoring within striking distance, and the home field advantage should give the Gators enough of a push to overcome their traditional 1^st half slump. This pick may come back to bite me, but I think the SEC East race will close up a little bit and Florida will remain undefeated.  

Florida 24 (with the FG coming in the first half) – South Carolina 17 (but just 7 in the 2^nd half) 

LSU (6) at TAMU (18)

The one-loss Tigers travel to College Station to take on the Aggies this weekend, and this promises to be a good game for a number of reasons.  Just like the SC/Florida game, this game his implications for how the Western division will shake out.  Should TAMU upset the Tigers they will set up Alabama and Mississippi as the only SEC West teams left undefeated.  The Aggies are on a 5 game winning streak, and their only loss so far was the season opener to Florida.  Will A&M's Johnny Football and his electric offense be able to move the ball as effectively against LSU as they have against other, lesser opponents?  Smart money says no... look at the score of the Florida/TAMU game.  The Aggies only managed 17 points against a legitimate SEC defense.  LSU should be able to hold them to a similarly low output, so the question becomes can the Tigers move the ball on offense?  Admittedly the Tigers' O-line has some gaps due to injuries, but they should still be able to do what's needed to win this game.

LSU 21 - TAMU 14


This may just be a game of an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object. Well almost unstoppable and almost immovable, seeing as Florida has stopped and moved both. Anywho, this is a great matchup. Texas A&M’s improvisational offense versus LSU’s talent heavy defense. So will A&M’s defense fold under LSU’s running game, or will LSU’s one dimensional offense let down Tiger fans again this season. I don’t see LSU scoring more than 21 points on the road against an SEC opponent, except 

Missouri, but it still makes me twitch to count them as an SEC opponent right now. The big question in this game is how Johnny Manziel will do against LSU’s defense. LSU’s line is big enough to take the pass away from Manziel, but if they start getting sack-happy Manziel will shred this LSU defense. If the lineman can play disciplined all game and contain Manziel, A&M could be held to single digit points. That’s right I said it. LSU could hold TAMU to single digit points, but they would have to play some disciplined football. I can’t believe I feel like I’m picking an upset by giving LSU the nod 
in this game. If this game was being played in Death Valley it would be much easier to pick. At College Station, with the Aggie 12th man their backs, A&M has looked good all year, even in that loss to Florida. A loss, it should be noted, which LSU and Texas A&M share. Although Arkansas is TAMU’s traditional rival (now that Texas is out of the 

Did he call us dirty?  Imma discipline his face
with mah corndog, son!

picture) this feels like the makings of a good SEC rivalry. The Tigers and the Aggies are already starting to butt heads on the recruiting trail, and the rugged military style of the Texas A&M clashes beautifully with the down and dirty Bengal Tigers. Could LSU have finally found their rival? This game could very well be the beginnings some good old fashioned SEC hatred.

Texas A&M 17 – LSU 21




Middle Tennessee State at MSU

Danger, Will Robinson! Danger, Danger!! Can you say 'trap game' kids?  Because that's exactly what this match up is... Middle Tennessee beat Georgia Tech's triple option by three TD's a few weeks ago, proving that they are not to be taken lightly, and they're coming off a win over FIU last week.  Unfortunately for the Blue Raiders they lost their star running back Benny Cunningham in that game, and that is going to hamstring an offense that was already outclassed coming in to the game.  The Blue Raiders will have to take to the air, which more than likely will play into the hands of Johnthan Banks and Darius Slay, who are looking to tally a few more INT's this week.  (Fun fact, MSU is currently leading the nation with their +15 turnover margin)

I just can't see Dan Mullen letting his Bulldogs come in to this game focused on what's down the road, though, instead of the game at hand.  LaDarius Perkins will run all over the meager MTSU defense, which will only serve to open up the passing game for Tyler Russell.  This one will likely get out of hand early, which works in the Bulldogs' favor as it will allow them to rest starters and get some valuable game-time experience for the 2nd and 3rd strings.  Call me cocky, but I don't really feel the need to delve too deeply into this match up...  Wrap this one in Maroon and White.

Middle Tennessee 10 - MSU 31


This might be the most important game of the year for Mississippi State. A win will guarantee Mississippi State a winning season. A big win will get some younger guys their last playing experience until they become starters next year. A loss could send State into a tailspin that would leave State fans scratching their heads at the end of the season; especially with Arkansas and Ole Miss playing decent football. I don’t see Mississippi State losing this game, but a big time win could be vital moving forward. Getting our starters off the field as soon as possible should be a priority to avoid injuries. I wouldn’t be surprised if Tobias Smith and Malcom Johnson saw very limited action in this game. Dak Prescott should get in on a few drives as well. I’m not sure I like the idea of playing this game with next week in mind, but if the starters take care of business early on that should become the mentality halfway through the third quarter. Tyler Russell should have no problem tearing up Middle Tennessee’s secondary, and Perkins should enjoy a softer run defense. The worry and upset potential for MTSU comes on the other side of the ball. The Blue Raiders have a decent run game, even without starter and Sun Belt rushing leader Benny Cunningham. Actually the Blue Raiders have a pretty decent football team. They rank middle of the road in pretty much all aspects of the game, and that is the type of balance that can take down bigger opponents. In fact it’s exactly what Mississippi State will be relying on down the road to try and take down some of the giants left on our schedule.

There are many things Mississippi State head coach Dan Mullen is good at. One of those things is keeping his team focused and preparing for the game in front of them. Mullen has lost just one game in which the Bulldogs were favored in his 3+ year tenure as head coach. The one loss was last year’s heartbreaker against Auburn in which Mississippi State was a 7 point favorite. It seems like his formula for success is to give some of his senior leaders ownership over the teams focus. Beginning with Anthony Dixon, then Chris White and K.J. Wright, and now coming to Tyler Russell, Johnthan Banks, and Chad Bumphis. There are certainly other leaders on the team, but those are the big three in my mind, and it will be their job to make sure the rest of their team mates take the Blue Raiders seriously. The whole Bulldog Nation is counting on them to pull out the W so State can roll into Tuscaloosa 7 – 0. On the whole I think the fan base is realistic about our chances against the Tide, but you can’t blame us for celebrating the possibility of a win. We didn’t think we would have that again for a long time.

Mississippi State 35 – Middle Tennessee 10

And there you have it... It's always interesting to me to see where the Professor and I differ on picks, scores, etc.  It would appear great minds think alike, as most of our score predictions were within 3-7 points of each other.  And in case you're wondering, we both write our pieces separately, and then I throw them into the blog, so there's no collusion happening here, folks.  We're just that good.

As always, thanks for reading, and be sure to stop by the new Facebook page for House of Hooch! Also be sure to spread the word on Twitter and tell all your friends, we'll be here all season, and remember, the 10:30 show is completely different!  Be sure to tip your bartenders and waitresses, they're out there workin hard for ya!  Until next time, folks...