We promised the college football season would not disappoint for the fans that thirst for upsets, surprises, and excitement. Entering the season there were a number stories surrounding college football to keep an eye on and now since the start of the season there has been even more shocking headlines to emerge. With only 3 weeks of football in the books, what will happen next? We take a look at the Top 10 biggest headlines to date early in the 2009 College Football Season as we prepare for even bigger stories as the year progresses.

#10. Ohio State Buckeyes “Big Hump”

Ohio State entered the 2009 season with tons of anticipation behind their new star quarterback Terrelle Pryor. However, the one common agreement among college football enthusiasts is that the Buckeyes would need to finally win the big games. The Buckeyes knew they would have to beat USC this season if there was to be any glory. However, the Buckeyes failed to deliver yet again losing 18-15. The focus now turns back to salvaging the Big Ten Title and possibly making a BCS Bowl Game. Ohio State is now 0-4 against Top 5 teams over the last two seasons not to mention losing 3 straight losses in BCS Bowl Games over the last 3 seasons. If the Buckeyes are to return to the National Championship stage, they must find a way to get over the hump against the top teams in the country.

#9. “BCS Busters”

Heading into the 2009 season there was tons of talks surrounding the “BCS Busters.” Teams that were outside of BCS conferences played well in 2008 highlighted by Utah who took down Alabama out of the mighty SEC in the Sugar Bowl. BYU seemed to be the most likely candidate for this season after upsetting Oklahoma in week 1. However last Saturday both BYU and Utah suffered critical losses. It now appears that the non-BCS teams have their work cut out for them if they are to somehow make noise again in the 2009 postseason. Only Boise State and TCU has legitimate opportunities remaining. TCU still has a difficult schedule with meetings with Clemson and BYU. If any team is to become a BCS Buster this year it will likely be the guys in blue out of Boise State.

#8. ‘Rich Rod’ “Under Fire”

Coach Rich Rodriguez had much higher expectations for his first season in Ann Arbor in 2008. After introducing the spread offense at West Virginia, Rodriguez was considered a modern day mastermind with the headset. Anticipation was high in the “Big House” for the 2008 season, but the Wolverines just managed a 3-9 record struggling all season on the offensive side of the ball. However, the Wolverines have found confidence in year 2 of the Rodriguez campaign and are off to a solid 3-0 record including a big victory over Notre Dame 38-34. With the restored faith from Michigan faithful, perhaps in time Michigan will return to the national prominence.

#7. Blount “Punch seen around the world”

Do you think college football fans were disappointed after the opening night of the season for 2009? As Boise State and Oregon took center stage on the opening night of football, football fans tuned in around the world to the first meeting between top 25 teams in a premier match-up on Thursday night. Oregon came out flat and was never able to get things rolling in the game. The Broncos rolled in a low scoring 19-8 victory. However, it was the post game activity that had everyone in America talking that Friday morning. Oregon running back LeGarrette Blount was held to an ineffective performance on the playing field. Frustration reached its boiling point after the game when Blount was taunted by Broncos Bryon Hout who taunted the Ducks tailback during post celebration. However, things took a quick and sudden turn when Blount landed a right jab that sent Hout to his knees. Making matters worse, Blount was out of control while ushers attempted to escort him off the field making moves towards Boise State fans on the exit ramp. The “punch” ended Blount’s career as he was suspended for the rest of the season while this was his anticipated senior season.

#6. The SEC

One of the biggest questions heading into the season was if anyone would be able to stop the SEC from their 4th consecutive National Championship? All indications early on say no. The Florida Gators entered the season with the most 1st place votes in history. Until last week’s 23-13 victory over the Tennessee, the Gators seemed invincible. However, they are still going to be extremely difficult to beat. Also, the likes of Alabama and Mississippi have joined the Gators making up 3 of the top 5 teams in the country. Throw LSU in the picture at number 7 and the SEC is controlling the top of the rankings and it appears they will have their share of teams in BCS Bowls this year. With the former top 5 teams like Oklahoma, USC, and Oklahoma State already suffering losses, the best conference in football looks like they have all the making to bring home another crown.

#5. California at its “Best”

If you paid attention to any of our preseason conference breakdowns, we warned that the Pac-10 would be wide open this season. USC is under the control of a freshman quarterback and Oregon does not appear to be the front runner many thought they could be. While much of the Pac-10 is struggling, California is striving. The Golden Bears have climbed the polls to number 6 in the country with a 3-0 start outscoring opponents 146-41 in the process. One of the main factors in the Golden Bears success is no surprise by the name of Jahvid Best. The star running back is averaging a lucrative 7.8 yards per carry and already has 8 touchdowns in just 3 games which also have him catching some Heisman Trophy attention. Best is undoubtedly the top running back in the land and he has the Golden Bears prime success. If California contends to roll and can take out USC at home on October 3rd, then Best could lead the Golden Bears back to the BCS or even National Title stage.

#4. Trojans Fall

The USC Trojans entered the season ranked 3rd in the country, but the story surrounding the team evolved around freshman quarterback Matt Barkley. Barkley is the first ever freshman to start at quarterback for the Trojans. While the Trojans returned numerous starters on the offensive side of the ball, many figured they would not be as dominate as they have been over the Pac-10 in year’s past. However, nobody expected the Trojans would lose their first game of the year to Washington. The Huskies were winless last year at 0-12, but pulled off an amazing upset over USC kicking a field goal in the final seconds to lift the Huskies to a 16-13 victory. The Trojans losing seemed inevitable, but who would have thought it would have come from one of the bottom dwellers in the Pac-10. Now the question is will they be able to salvage a chance at their 8th straight Pac-10 Championship?

#3. The Return of the U

Entering the season there may have been no other team in the country with more concerns at quarterback than the Miami Hurricanes. After backups Taylor Cook and Cannon Smith announced plans to transfer, the Hurricanes were looking very thin at the most important position on the field. However, sophomore Jacory Harris has ended all concerns at the quarterback position. Harris has been spectacular in charge of the Miami passing attack. The Hurricanes have been absolutely dominant through the air averaging 328 yards each of their first two games. The emergence of the offense has contributed to Miami knocking off two straight Top 25 teams while looking unstoppable on offense. The Hurricanes who entered the season outside of the Top 25, have vaulted all the way to a number 9 national ranking. If the passing game continues to roll, Miami has all chances at contending for an ACC Championship. Perhaps their biggest test of the year will come this weekend when they travel to Blacksburg to take on the Virginia Tech Hokies.

#2. Sooners and Bradford Go Down

The return of the 2008 Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford had expectations riding high for the Sooners. Oklahoma sported the best offense in the country last season averaging over 50 points per game including an NCAA record 5 straight games over 60 points. The beloved offense was supposed to lead the Sooners to another shot at the National Championship after falling last year in the championship game to Florida. However, Oklahoma never made it past week 1 before those dreams were shattered. Oklahoma was upset by BYU 14-13. Not only did the Sooners offense fail to produce, but they lost Sam Bradford to a shoulder injury during the game as well. The loss ended most chances at contending for a National Championship, but any shot Bradford may have had at repeating for a 2nd straight Heisman Trophy.

#1. Gators “Road to Glory”

The biggest question of the year has yet to be answered, but it remains at the top of the list. The Florida Gators have already won two National Championships in just 3 seasons and are now big favorites to repeat again. The Gators entered the season as an overwhelming favorite and blew out their fist two inferior opponents 118-9. The Gators defense returned all 11 starters, and of course on offense they have the heralded former Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow. All indications show that Tebow is the front runner for another Heisman Trophy, but it is still early in the season. The Gators appeared untouchable until Tennessee kept the game close last week 23-13. Florida has already rewritten a bunch of pages in the record books. However, if they are to win another National Championship they will likely be considered the greatest team of the modern era. As for Tebow, he is already considered one of the greatest college football players of all time and winning another Heisman Trophy would concrete his legacy for all eternity.

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NASCAR’s version of the playoffs will kickoff this weekend from Loudon Speedway for the 2009 Chase for the Sprint Cup. Last week in Richmond it was the final chance for drivers to earn their spot among the top 12 drivers in the standings. Those 12 drivers will now be the lone contenders battling for the 2009 Championship. Brian Vickers raced his way into the Chase last weekend edging out Kyle Busch by just 8 points. It may be an even bigger surprise to see the younger Busch not in the Chase since many consider the young driver one of the most talented if not the most talented driver in NASCAR. Busch will now take a back seat ride for his hopes of winning his first championship for at least another year.

The focus now turns back to the 12 drivers who will be putting it all on the line for their chance at glory. Hendrick Motorsports houses 3 contenders in the Chase this season which is not any surprise considering they have dominated over the past few years. Jimmie Johnson and Jeff Gordon share 7 championships between each other which is more than any other duo in the sport. These two guys will be big favorites to add another piece of hardware over the next 10 races; especially Jimmie Johnson who is only the 2nd driver in history to win 3 straight championships. The other driver is Mark Martin who came out of retirement for a chance to driver the #5 car for the Hendrick owned team. What a story it would make if Martin could pull of his first championship after 21 years of racing and uncountable accomplishments. With Hendrick Motorsports unprecedented success over the last few years, there is no reason not to assume these 3 drivers will not be big favorites to win the 2009 Sprint Cup Title.

However, there will be many more drivers led by the likes of Tony Stewart, Denny Hamlin, Carl Edwards, and more who will be extremely hungry for a shot at NASCAR immortality. Stewart has led the points for the majority of the season in his first year as owner of Stewart-Haas racing. The success was not expected to come so soon for Stewart after departing from Joe Gibbs Racing last season. However, Stewart has been successful behind the wheel in every car/division throughout his career and is a former 2-time Cup Champion. If anyone has any chance of breaking up the Hendrick show, it could come from Tony Stewart and the #14 team. Stewart also fields another car in the field by teammate Ryan Newman. Newman had a solid year behind the wheel with 12 top 10 finishes in his first season with Stewart-Haas and that should indicate how well their cars have run this season. If you still not sold on betting on Stewart-Haas racing, they are powered by Hendrick Motorsports equipment which should speak for itself.

Breaking away from everything Hendrick Motorsports related, drivers like Denny Hamlin and Carl Edwards have to be on the radar for championship talks. Hamlin especially has been one of the hottest drivers in the sport over the past few weeks. The driver of the #11 FedEx won at Pocono over a month ago and also scored a victory last week at Richmond. The #11 team seem to be peaking at the perfect time and could be the perfect candidate to steal the spotlight. Kurt Busch and Carl Edwards are also both legitimate threats. Edwards won more races than anyone in 2008 (9). However, Edwards has yet to get his first victory of the season and is driving with a fractured foot. The foot should not be an issue considering Edwards has won on the Nationwide Series, but the #99 team’s ability to get back to the front may be as issue. Kurt Busch has been very strong this year as well. The elder Busch has not had much success since his 2004 Championship. However, Penske Racing has made a big turn around and the driver of the #2 car could be a big threat if they continue to gain on the competition.

Teammates Kasey Kahne and Juan Pablo Montoya are two drivers who have really come on strong towards the end of the year. Montoya is a former open wheel star who has had his best year of his career making his first Chase. Kahne and Montoya will both be seeking their first championship opportunity. Earnhardt-Ganassi Racing has made big strides in getting back to a competitive standing in the sport and Montoya has surprised many with how well he has run over the past two months. Also, Greg Biffle is the last unmentioned driver in the Chase. Biffle has had a quiet season for Rousch Racing who has struggled to say the least. However, Biffle exploded at this time last year winning the first two races of the Chase and if not for troubles in the last few races could have pulled a huge upset in terms of the 2008 Title. Biffle will look to make those kinds of headlines early in this season’s Chase and contend for another shot at history. While all these drivers will be eager to prove they have what it takes to be called Sprint Cup Champion, we take a look at the odds for the 2009 Championship. Check out all drivers odds at the bottom of the page, and we provide our top 5 drivers to win the 2009 Championship.

Picks –

#1. Jimmie Johnson

How do you not bet on the 3 time reigning NASCAR Champion? Jimmie Johnson is the leading favorite to win this year’s title at +250 odds. Johnson always seems to shine in the last 10 races of the season despite how much success he has had early on. Johnson has 3 wins this season, but only one of those tracks will be revisited during the Chase (Dover). However, Johnson is able to put up strong finishes when others are not. The #48 bunch has not only possibly the best driver, but equally important the best team and crew chief. They are able to make changes to the car better than anyone throughout the race and salvage finishes better than anyone. If they avoid big mistakes like normal again this year, there is no reason not to say Jimmie Johnson can not rewrite history again with his 4th consecutive championship.

#2. Tony Stewart

Tony Stewart knows exactly what it takes to win the Sprint Cup playoff format as he conquered the feat in 2005. Stewart has not been running as well in the last few weeks as he did midway through the season, but do not let that fool anyone. Stewart has more top 5 finishes than any other driver this season at 13 and has also scored 3 victories on the year as well. The #14 bunch is eager to prove they are not a rookie organization and with Stewart at the wheel they are primed for success. Remember, Stewart has captured wins on some of the biggest stages of the season including the All Star Race held at Lowes Motorspeedway earlier this year and capping off a championship would be the perfect end to the season.

#3. Mark Martin

Rest assured it is not any type of fluke that the 50 year old is in the Chase for the Championship. Martin has taken advantage of his opportunity to drive for the #5 car out of the Hendrick stable and has looked very impressive throughout the year. Martin has scored more wins than any other driver this season at 4 victories and will be the #1 seed in the points going into the first race. Martin has also been running very well over the last few weeks, but on the counter side he has really not run badly at all this season. Earlier this season there was a few runs of mechanical failure, but other than that the veteran driver has been superb. Martin will definitely be the sentimental favorite to win the Championship since it has eluded him his entire career and this may be one of the best opportunities he has ever had through his career to end the season on top.

#4. Denny Hamlin

As noted before, there has not been any other driver hotter than Denny Hamlin heading into the Chase. Hamlin has scored 2 wins in the last 6 races and during that stretch has an average finish of 5.3. The average finish is fairly staggering considering those tracks have been from road courses, short tracks, and super speedways. The simple fact is that the #11 guys are fast everywhere and momentum is a big thing in NASCAR. Hamlin is also very strong at the flat races tracks and could get off to a fast start this week at Loudon (New Hampshire). Only Jimmie Johnson and Jeff Gordon have more top 10 finishes this season than Hamlin and it has been nearly two months since the #11 car finished outside of the top 10. If that type of consistency continues, Hamlin will be very tough to beat.

#5. Jeff Gordon

Jeff Gordon has had the season he needed to get the #24 Dupont program headed in the back direction. Gordon is still not putting up the wins like the team feels they should be grabbing, but there is no other driver that has run up front more than the #24 this season. Gordon got the season of strong with a victory at Texas, but has failed to reach victory lane since. However, Gordon has posted 12 top 5 finishes this season which is 2nd most of all drivers behind Jimmie Johnson. Not only does the entire team seem to be getting back to premier form, but Gordon has run very well in the last few weeks. There are some concerns of how the 4-time Champions back troubles will hold up as the season progresses, but you must consider Gordon in the championship talk considering how well they have run.

Complete NASCAR odds to win the 2009 Sprint Cup From BetUS (as of 9/17/09)
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• Brian Vickers +2000
• Carl Edwards +1000
• Denny Hamlin +800
• Greg Biffle +2500
• Jeff Gordon +400
• Jimmie Johnson +250
• Juan Pablo Montoya +2000
• Kasey Kahne +2000
• Kurt Busch +2000
• Mark Martin +300
• Ryan Newman +3000
• Tony Stewart +300

Complete NASCAR odds to win the 2009 Sprint Cup From Sportsbook.com (as of 9/19/09)
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• Brian Vickers  +3000
• Carl Edwards  +1000    
• Denny Hamlin  +800    
• Greg Biffle  +2500    
• Jeff Gordon  +400    
• Jimmie Johnson  +250    
• Juan Pablo Montoya  +3000    
• Kasey Kahne  +2500    
• Kurt Busch  +2500    
• Mark Martin  +300    
• Ryan Newman  +3000    
• Tony Stewart  +300

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At the bottom of this page, you will find the complete listing of week two lines for all the NFL games from BetUS Sportsbook (100% football signup bonus at BetUS when you click here). There were a few small surprises in week one, such as the New York Jets who handled the Huston Texans on the road, the San Francisco 49ers who upset the defending NFC Champion, Cardinals in Arizona, and the Denver Broncos took care of Cincinnati in a tight, and very ugly game. The Niners are 1.5 point favorites at home vs. the Seattle Seahawks (1-0) and the Denver Broncos are 3 point favorites at home vs. the Cleveland Browns (0-1). The oddsmakers have the New York Jets listed as 5 point home underdogs vs. the New England Patriots.  The Pats squeaked by the Buffalo Bills at home on Monday Night Football in week 1. There is not a single winless team that is favored in week two of the 2009 NFL season, including the Chicago Bears who lost star linebacker Brian Urlacher for the season on Monday Night. The Bears opened as 1 point underdogs at home vs. the defending Super Bowl Champion, Pittsburgh Steelers. Bettors quickly jumped on that line as the Steelers jumped to -3 in just a few short hours after the week two line opened for this game. Perhaps this was due to Jay Cutler’s pitiful performance on Sunday night where he threw 5 interceptions. The biggest line on the board is the Washington Redskins (1-0); listed as 10 favorite over St. Louis.  The Rams (0-1) may have looked like the worst team in football in week one. 2008’s worst team, the Detroit Lions (0-1) are listed as 9.5 home dogs vs. the Minnesota Vikings (1-0), who looked very impressive in their week one win at Cleveland where star running back Adrian Peterson ran wild. The Bears, Lions and Jets are three of the only four home underdogs listed on the week two schedule. The other is the Philadelphia Eagles (1-0), who may be without star Quarterback, Donovan McNabb. The ‘Iigles are listed as 1 point home dogs vs. the New Orleans Saints (1-0), who spanked the lowly Lions on Sunday. As for the Monday Night Football matchup, we have another home underdog in the Miami Dolphins (0-1). The Fins are listed as 3 point dogs at home vs. the 1-0 Indianapolis Colts (1-0).  Full list of week 2 spreads are listed below.  We will update these lines throughout the week as they are updated at Bet US. 

2009 NFL Football Week Two Lines & Odds From BetUS (as of 9/15 @ 11am ET):
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* Denotes Line Is From Sportsbook.com / Currently Off The Board At BetUS
Will Be Updated Once The In-Week Line is Posted At BetUS Sportsbook

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We have had the luxury of watching college football’s biggest stars for 2 straight weeks now and we can get a slight grasp of what to expect during the 2009 season. The big 3 quarterbacks of Tim Tebow, Sam Bradford, and Colt McCoy were overwhelming favorites entering the season to win the Heisman Trophy after all three players where finalist in last year’s race. While the odds are still favorable for one of those quarterbacks to take home the hardware, the is an emerging ground threat making his way up the Heisman ladder out of the Pac-10. Last year’s Heisman winner Sam Bradford has already suffered a shoulder injury which has put a huge damper in his chances to repeat. Check out our weekly Heisman Trophy watch as we continue to keep an eye on the best players in college football.

Current Odds To Win The Heisman Are From Sportsbook.com (as of 12/7/2009):
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• Colt McCoy 5/4
• Mark Ingram  2/7
• Ndamukong Suh 5/1
• Tim Tebow  15/1
• Toby Gerhart  3/1

Current Heisman Trophy Odds From JustBet Sportsbook (as of 12/6/2009):
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• Odds Currently Off The Board – Will Update When Available

#1. Quarterback, Tim Tebow (Florida Gators)
Tim Tebow Current Odds To Win The Heisman Trophy: 5/2

Tim Tebow totaled 5 touchdowns in the Gators 50 point blowout over Troy last weekend. Tebow threw 4 touchdowns through the air while posting 237 yards. It is the 2nd straight week that the Gators have blown the game wide open in the first half. Tebow has actually had limited playing time with their first two games being out of reach so early in the contest. Still, the Gators look like a team that is going to be extremely difficult to stop this year. Tebow not only gets things done through the passing game, but his ability to make plays with his legs adds as a stat builder. On the year, Tebow has completed 25 of 39 passing for 425 yards totaling 5 touchdowns passing. The Gators former Heisman winner has also pounded two more touchdowns on the ground. Considering how great Florida has looked early on, it appears Tebow could have one hand on his 2nd Heisman Trophy.

#2. Running Back, Jahvid Best (California Golden Bears)
Jahvid Best Current Odds To Win The Heisman Trophy: 5/1 (opened at 7/4)

If there is going to be any player to steal the spotlight from the quarterbacks this year it will be Golden Bears running back Jahvid Best. Best like Tebow has yet to play an entire 60 minutes due to the fact California has won by a combined 91 points in their first two contests. However, Best has been extremely affective every time he has touched the ball. Best had 17 carries for 144 yards and two touchdowns in last week’s victory. Also, the star back caught two passes for 19 yards and an additional touchdown. On the season, Best has 281 yards and a ridiculous 10.4 yards per carry average. Best is without much debate the best running back in college football. However, it will still be a difficult task to take the Heisman away from the prominent quarterbacks in this year’s race. Still, the California offense is appearing to be a big force out west. If California continues their pace, Best has all the makings to bring home the hardware.

#3. Quarterback, Colt McCoy (Texas Longhorns)
Colt McCoy Current Odds To Win The Heisman Trophy: 25/1 (opened at 9/2)

Colt McCoy kept things rolling for the Longhorns this weekend putting together his 2nd straight 300 plus yard passing performance. McCoy was 21 for 29 and 317 yards in the Longhorns 41-10 victory over Wyoming. McCoy also has put together 5 touchdowns through the air this year with one addition touchdown on the ground. In the midst of two straight solid performances, McCoy has thrown 2 interceptions to dampen the picture. However, McCoy looks to be well on his way to another big year especially if the offense is to continue to develop throughout the year. The offense got off to a slow start in their battle with Wyoming, but was able to pull through in the 2nd half. The Longhorns will meet rival Texas Tech in a showdown next week and eyes will be on McCoy as they try to extract revenge from last year’s upset.

#4. Quarterback, Max Hall (B.Y.U. Cougars)
Max Hall Current Odds To Win The Heisman Trophy: 50/1 (opened at 15/1)

If there is anything we learned from week 1, it was there was an equally talented quarterback lined up on the opposing side of the field from Sam Bradford. Max Hall led the Cougars to the biggest upset of the year so far over Oklahoma 14-13 in the first game of the season. Hall continued to impress this weekend completing 75% passing equaling 309 yards and two touchdowns. If not for a few interceptions, Hall may be getting much more Heisman attention and the fact the Mountain West is not a BCS Conference. However if the Cougars continue to roll with their favorable schedule, Hall will continue to linger around the top of the Heisman talk. Hall threw for just less than 4,000 yards in 2008 so he can put up the numbers to be a legitimate threat. BYU will take on Florida State at home this weekend and continue to make their charge towards a BCS Bowl Game.

#5. Quarterback, Sam Bradford (Oklahoma Sooners)
Sam Bradford Current Odds To Win The Heisman Trophy: OTB

I know Sam Bradford may be out of everyone’s Heisman ballot since the shoulder injury that has the Sooners quarterback sidelined for a least another game. However, Bradford can still put up some big numbers despite missing the time. Oklahoma lost to a solid BYU team before bouncing back to blowout Idaho State 64-0. The Sooners still have a dangerous offense and they will still have plenty of time to make noise in the Big 12. If Bradford returns and can lead the Sooners to another Big 12 title, the possibility is still there depending on how the competition performs. Hopefully for Oklahoma, the shoulder will heal fast and Bradford can get the offense firing on all cylinders. Oklahoma plays a lot of tough competition this year meaning if Bradford shows out he will return to the national spotlight with ease.

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NFL Football Week 1 News & Headlines Cycle:

• ESPN; Richard Seymour Expected To Arrive in Oakland on Saturday
• ESPN; Browns’ James Davis Now Questionable
• ESPN; Appeals Court Rules Vikings Can’t Suspend Two Players
• Twin Cities; Tarvaris Jackson to Backup Favre This Season
• NBC Sports; Arron Ross Out For Giants This Week
• NFL Spin Zone; Jon Runyan To Join a Team on Monday
• Baltimore Sun; Ravens’ L.J. Smith Will be a “Gameday” Decision
• Seattle New Tribune; Deion Branch May Miss Opener With Injury
• Fox Sports; Tamoa Bay Buccaneers Have 30 Million in Cap Space

Blogisphere & NFL Football Week 1 Opinion/Entertainment Cycle:

• Sharapova’s Thigh; The Fastest Freaking NFL Preview Ever
• Cheddar’s Sports Blog; Week 1 NFL Preview – Lots of Questions
• Bleeding Green Nation; Holmes Wears Vick Jersey at Press Conference
• Biz of Football; NBC Has Highest Rated Kickoff Game in Seven Years
• Randall Simon’s Sausages; NFL Week 1 Hot Off The Grill
• The Ebony Bird; Joe Flacco Highlight Reel (video)
• Midway Illustrated; Bears Match-up Well With Packers Receivers
• The Viking Age; Sean Salisbury Fired For ‘Sexting’

2009 Week 1 NFL Fantasy Football Cycle:

• Midwest Sports Fans; Week 1 NFL Fantasy Start ‘Em / Sit ‘Em
• Top Fantasy Football; Week 1 Last Minute Updates
• Rotoworld; Week 1 Waiver Wire Pick-Up Recommendations
• Favre Dollar Footlongs; Fantasy Football is a Game of Poker
• CBS Sports; Week 1 Fantasy Football Matchups
• Pro Football Weekly; Ten Most Intriguing Players For Week 1
• Gang Green Nation; Week 1 NFL Football Fantasy Focus
• Rumors & Rants; Who Will Sink or Swim in Week 1
• Club Seat; Week 1 In The Club / Out The Club

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The opening week of college football is always exciting given the unknown factor entering the season. Not that college football lacks any surprises throughout the season, but all the previews for teams and everything just do not tell the story until the teams actually take the gridiron. Who could have predicted the mighty Oklahoma Sooners would fall in their first game of the season? There was a lot of interesting stories over the past 7 days and they are sure to continue as we prepare for round 2 this weekend. We will take a look at some of the teams that impressed last weekend as well as the ones who really disappointed. Keep these teams in mind before making your selections this Saturday and be sure to check out our expert picks here at bankrollsports.com.

Surprise Teams:

No. 10 California Golden Bears

We warned a few weeks back that California could be the team to dethrone USC from the Pac-10 this season and they proved those expectations are legitimate with a 52-13 thrashing over Maryland last weekend. The Golden Bears possibly performed better than any of the top teams in the nation. Jahvid Best added more supporting evidence that he is the best running back in the land by carrying the ball just 10 times but posting 137 yards and 2 touchdowns in the process. Perhaps even more impressive was QB Kevin Riley. Riley threw 17 for 26 (65%) totaling 298 yards and 4 touchdowns. If the Golden Bears can have that type of success through the air with Best in the backfield, California can start thinking about a BCS Bowl Game by season’s end.

No. 9 BYU Cougars

I know a lot of people will be jumping on the BYU bandwagon after their huge upset over Oklahoma last weekend, but its hard to see if the Cougars were that impressive or simply the Sooners were not? The Cougars skyrocketed in the standings this week to #9 in the nation. The BYU defense is what really stood out in the game. The Cougars held the Oklahoma offense to just 265 yards of total offense nearly half what the Sooners offense produced in 2009. The Cougars defense returned 8 starters on that side of the ball and look very disciplined controlling the Sooners passing game. BYU has a favorable schedule for the rest of the season and that is why they are getting so much attention after the huge victory. The Cougars must be able to establish so more offense before they take on teams like Florida State and Utah, but they are definitely a team to keep on your radar this season. BYU is 17.5 point favorites on the road at Tulane this weekend to keep the momentum alive.

No. 23 Cincinnati Bearcats

The Bearcats took the Big East by surprise last year and evidently there has been a culture change down in Bearcats country that will be sticking around for a while. The Bearcats were 5 point underdogs on the road at Rutgers before the Cincinnati offense exploded to route the Scarlet Knights 47-15. QB Tony Pike led the no huddle offense to rack up a career high 362 yards of passing with 3 touchdowns. Cincinnati offense totaled 564 yards of total offense. The offense was so impressive they appear they could single handedly take down the Big East again this year. We know that is big words after just one game, but when are people going to start giving credit to the Bearcats program that looks as stable as any on top of the Big East.

Disappointment Teams:

No. 13 Oklahoma Sooners

Well, the idea of Sam Bradford returning to win a National Championship may already be out the window. There is no doubt that the Sooners loss this past weekend was the biggest shocker of opening week. Bradford went down with a shoulder injury and the Sooners offense never looked like the potent 50 point scoring machine they were in 2008. There is now even more concern with Bradford expected to miss as many as 4 weeks of football. Luckily, the schedule is less than difficult until they meet Miami 3 weeks from now. Still, the Sooners have tons of question marks to figure out. The offensive line did not look productive and it is apparent that the playmakers on the outside are vacant. It’s amazing how a team can be supernaturally powerful last season and come out looking like an average college football team a year later. There is work to be done and the Sooners best get things right before the Big 12 schedule starts. Oklahoma was previously number 3 in the country before dropping 10 spots with the defeat.

Illinois Fighting Illini

Illinois has all the makings to be a very strong team in the Big Ten this season, but they actually became the only Big Ten team to lose this weekend. The Illini passing game was expected to be the difference maker this season and get the team back on the Bowl Game path. However, Illinois was blown out by Missouri 37-9 in a dismal defensive performance. Illinois managed over 325 yards of offense which may not be extremely impressive, but could have perhaps produced more than 9 points. Dual threat QB Juice Williams had a solid performance throwing the ball, but the Illini defense simply could not stop the Big 12 offense of Missouri. The Tigers racked up nearly 450 yards of total offense. The Illinois defense was the biggest concern heading into the year and perhaps an even bigger concern now. Williams gives the offense the potential to contend in the Big Ten, but the defense could make 2009 another long disappointment.

No. 8 Ohio State Buckeyes

Illinois was not the only Big Ten team to disappoint this weekend. The Buckeyes nearly became the Oklahoma story early Saturday by barely escaping with a victory over Navy. The Buckeyes defense lost a ton of talent last season in players like Marcus Freeman, Malcolm Jenkins, and James Laurinaitis. The Buckeyes were expected to reload and remain a solid defensive threat. However whether it was the defense lack of experience or just simply thrown for a loop by the Navy option, the Buckeyes defense failed to impress giving up 342 yards on the game. The Ohio State offense managed just 365 total yards of offense and was far from overpowering. Of course, Terrelle Pryor remains a gifted talent that will give any defense a hard time. Still, that may not be enough if the Buckeyes do not find some explosion on offense and more productivity on the other side of the ball. The poor performance come from what many consider a weak opponent. However, the Buckeyes will have the opportunity to right the ship when they take on number 3 ranked USC Trojans this week. The Buckeyes will be 6.5 underdogs in the colossal battle that will take center stage Saturday night.

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Football enthusiast have gotten their taste of action with the college ranks kick starting the new season this past week. Now, we look forward to the opening week in professional football that will start this Thursday Night when Tennessee travels to Pittsburgh. If the college excitement over the past 7 days indicates what may be in store for the NFL’s opening weekend, there is sure to be a lot of excitement and surprises. We have already broken down conference previews, Super Bowl odds, and other types of betting strategies to take with you throughout the season. Currently, we will turn our focus to the opening week action as there are many Week 1 specials by all major bookmakers like Betus.com and more. Take a look at some of these interesting props to aid in cashing in big this weekend. Also, be sure to check here at bankrollsports.com where you can get the experts picks for Week 1 of the NFL.

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Free NFL Prop Bet #1 – Will the Detroit Lions win a game before their bye week?

Yes: +120
No: -160

Detroit Lions winless season last year has drawn attention from nearly every bookmaker with odds on their first victory. The Lions bye week on Week 7 after they have played: the Saints, Vikings, Redskins, Bears, Steelers, and Packers. Those first 6 games are not exactly the type of opponent to end a winless streak against. However, the odds are inviting to take a chance the Lions will score a victory in that time period. Matthew Stafford has been named the starting quarterback so the Lions will put the overall number 1 pick to the test right away. Excluding Matt Ryan from this conversation, normally it takes young quarterbacks time to develop or at least later in the year. Not only is this Jim Schwartz first year at head coach, but this is a whole different team than in 2008. Sure, they are still under talented but the effort level will change rest assured. Still, the first few games look very difficult with only Washington as maybe being the only vulnerable target. The Lions youngsters they have brought in to change the culture will need a few weeks to get the ball rolling and we expect that to happen after the break. After all, coming back from the bye week the Lions will take on Seattle, St. Louis, Cleveland, and Cincinnati over the next 6 games. We expect the Lions to get off to a slow start which should be expected, but the schedule towards the end of the year could really rack up some wins and surprise teams if they start playing well.

Free Football Pick – No -160

Free NFL Prop Bet #2 – Super Bowl XLIV Early Line

AFC: -3 points (-115)
NFC: +3 points (-115)

Sure we may not now what the future holds since nearly every football season has its ups and downs along with surprises. However, we can forecast some of the likely scenarios that could take place in 2009. Judging by all the team’s talent levels and in-depth reviews, the AFC will be one wild animal to bring down this season. In the AFC we have: the return of Tom Brady and the Patriots offense, the defending Super Bowl Champions, and possibly even more contenders in Baltimore and Indianapolis. Add to the fact that the NFC could likely see a down year in talent (Giants, Cowboys, Cardinals, Panthers) and the odds are very achievable for the AFC to conquer their 6th Lombardi Trophy in the past 7 years. The Steelers will return the best defense in the NFL and New England appears to be again the most dangerous offense in the league. Not to mention the Colts won 9 straight games to end the regular season, and also the Ravens could surprise and there are too many weapons on the AFC to pass up this betting opportunity.

Free Football Pick – AFC – 3points
– NFL Specials

Free NFL Prop Bet #3

Steelers, Falcons, Eagles, and Vikings all win: +425
Steelers, Dolphins, Jets, and Colts all win: +1200
Steelers/Colts both win 1st half, and Broncos win: +300

If you like parlay type betting action this may be prop bet of your preference. All of these bets are seemingly long shots, but make up for it with their profitable odds. After taking some time to review these options, only one seems to have a legitimate chance to actually hit. Notice you see the Steelers in all these bets. Do not let that alarm you because they should not have much trouble with the Titans considering Tennessee should not be near as good as they were last year. However, we really like the first bet with the Falcons, Eagles, and Vikings all winning. Minnesota will play the helpless Cleveland Browns in what has to be near a guarantee. If the Vikings can beat the Browns, how do they expect to challenge in the NFC North? On the other hand, the Vikings could actually be one of the better teams in the NFC now that they will have some consistency with Farve behind center and the team will ride on the legs of Adrian Peterson. Expect the Vikings to roll. The Falcons get Miami at home in the Georgia Dome and enter year 2 of the Matt Ryan era. Atlanta will be 4 point favorites against the Dolphins led by QB Chad Pennington. If Matt Ryan can just continue to accomplish what he did in year 1 the Falcons should be fine and we could only imagine what is in store for Atlanta if he improves. This should be a good game, but Atlanta may have the edge. In the final match-up in this bet, Philadelphia travels to Carolina. The Panthers were among the best in the NFC at 12-4 last year, but with QB Jake Delhomme collapse in the playoffs thrown up red flags. The Panthers must have Delhomme play well to contend. However, they will likely get the best defense in the NFC and an offense that is getting more dangerous by the day. Ever since McNabb was benched last season, the offense has been impressive. Add Michael Vick to the venue and it seems like there may be too many weapons for the Panthers defense who already took a step back last year.

Free Football Pick – Steelers, Falcons, Eagles, and Vikings all win +425