Forecaster Frank NCAA Six Pack Week 9
Georgia 34 Florida 13
It is time for the World Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party, as the Florida-Georgia game is great again with both teams in the Top Ten at 6-1. The Gators loss came early in the season as they were stunned by Kentucky, while the Bulldogs are playing for the first time since their loss to LSU two weeks ago. While each team is 6-1, their skill levels are not equal; Florida has basically feasted on an easy schedule, while Georgia is a legitimate contender that can get back in the National Championship picture if they win out. Look for Georgia to take the lessons from Baton Rouge and go into Jacksonville and win going away.
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Penn State 23 Iowa 17
Penn State got back on track last week, edging Indiana 33-28 after losing two straight games. This follows the same pattern of 2017 when they lost two in a row after suffering a hangover following their loss to Ohio State. Iowa comes in at 6-1 but has not beaten any teams in the Top 25, losing their only previous game against a ranked opponent. The Hawkeyes have a solid defense, but the secondary can be vulnerable at times. Look for the Nittany Lions to get a big game from Trace Sorely to get the win in front of the home fans.
Stanford 34 Washington State 30
Washington State earned their biggest win in years when they defeated Oregon last week in Pullman. Stanford meanwhile has been scuffling as Bryce Love has dealt with injuries all season. However, this the Middle of the Pack 12 Conference and mediocrity is its calling card. The Cougars already have lost one tough road game at USC and here is another, as the Cardinal let the air out of the Wazzu Balloon with K.J. Costello having a big day, as he outguns Gardner Minshew.
Syracuse 38 NC State 34
NC State is hoping to rebound after suffering a 41-7 loss at Clemson last week. It was the first loss of the season for the Wolfpack. Syracuse also suffered their first loss against Clemson and lost the following week as well. The Orange have played two straight high scoring overtime games. Look for more fireworks in the Carrier Dome as both Eric Dungey and Ryan Finley will have big games. The Orange being more battle tested and holding the home field get the win and clinch a bowl appearance.
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Oklahoma State 31 Texas 20
At 6-1, Texas is flying high, winning their last six games to become the sixth-ranked team in the country. However, great programs are not rebuilt overnight, and the Longhorns have the feel of a team due for a letdown. Oklahoma State has struggled as of late, losing three of their last four games, but they can still be a tough team at home. The Cowboys feel like a snake lying in the weeds ready to strike. Look for Taylor Cornelius to have a big game for the home fans in Stillwater to end the Texas winning streak and spoil their hopes of making the FBS Playoff.
Notre Dame 41 Navy 20
Notre Dame takes their 7-0 record to California as Navy plays a rare home game in San Diego. The city of San Diego is known for its Naval base which is the base of SEALS training and the nearby Camp Pendleton Marine Base, all of whom should provide enthusiastic support. This game will be the Super Bowl for Navy who at 2-5 is in the midst of a down year. The Irish will get all they can handle so they must be on guard. However, Navy’s defense has been terrible all year, as they have allowed more than 30 points in four of their first seven games. Notre Dame will put up big numbers, but Navy will make them sweat until the fourth quarter.