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 FSU should run past Tech
Posted: Friday September 10, 1999 11:50 AM
There are only two teams expected to challenge for the ACC title, Florida State and Georgia Tech. And after this weekend, one of their dreams of a conference championship is likely over. Tech travels to Tallahassee in a game that promises big plays. Last year, the Yellow Jackets tried to play ball control to keep their suspect defense off the field. But Tech offensive coordinator Ralph Freejon told me to watch for a different approach this year. Expect the Yellow Jackets to challenge the Seminoles' corners deep. Florida State's offense has few concerns. In fact, when I asked offensive coordinator Mark Richt how his unit could improve over last year, he paused, then came up with, "Well I guess we could block down field better." Tech defensive coordinator Ted Roof told me he will move free saftey Travares Tillman around in an attempt to confuse FSU QB Chris Weinke. But Georgia Tech is not quite there yet defensively, I like Florida State.
Brees focused too much on HeismanNotre Dame travels to Purdue. After facing Michigan's rugged ground attack last week, the Irish now face one of the country's most prolific passing attacks. But Purdue Head Coach Joe Tiller told me he's a little worried about Drew Brees' ability to handle the pressure of the Heisman race.After throwing for 273 yards and 4 TDs in the win against Central Florida, Brees was noticably dissapointed in his performance. But winning the Heisman is just about that, winning. Coach Tiller pointed out that in 1949 Notre Dame's Leon Hart won the Heisman with a total of 19 catches. Tiller told me, "Heck, that's just a good day at Purdue." This game comes down to Purdue's ability to stop Notre Dame's running attack. But with questions about the health of Jarious Jackson, I like Purdue at home.
Ohio State will pound UCLAIt's been two weeks since Miami derailed Ohio State. But redemption will come this week when UCLA visits Columbus. The Bruins' defense looked good in a 38-7 win last week against Boise State and UCLA defensive coordinator Bob Field told me he was proud of the way his young guys responded.But the Buckeyes present a much bigger challenge and all of Field's starting linebackers and his two top corners are suspended again this week for the infamous "Handicap Parking" scandal. That doesn't bode well against a Buckeye team that will likely line up in the I-formation and pound the ball. I like Ohio State.
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