Category Archives: College Football

SEC Football: Week 13

It has come to this. The final full slate of SEC regular season games. It’s been a crazy season, 2023. And I, for one, wouldn’t have it any other way. One thing I feel sure about, there are plenty more fireworks to come. Week 13 promises to be a “dandy”. I’ve had fun with the great Keith Jackson’s familiar phrases. And a few nods to Leonard’s Losers. No, “Whoa Nellie” was actually not one of those Keith Jackson exclamations.. That is somewhat of an Urban legend. 2023 has been a good one for pickin’ on my part. Last week we were 8-2. The season now stands at 80-17. That is an .824 percentage. My best effort to date! I’ll take it! Onward to Rivalry week!

Ole Miss (-10) at Miss State

Break out the eggs. And a bowl (the “bowl” of your choice, of course). It’s time to focus solely on StarkVegas, as far as the SEC is concerned, on Thanksgiving night. RebBears and Bull Pups. YeeHaw! Ole Miss could wrap up the regular season with 10 wins. State could become bowl eligible. In other words, a lot is on the line. From this angle it appears to be… Ole Miss 31, Miss State 21.

Missouri (-9) at Arkansas

The Tigers could also put an exclamation point on the regular season with a victory in Fayetteville. 10-2 should put the visitors in a New Years Six bowl. Eli might have a Drinkwitz several friends and family members if it turns out that way. I think it will. Missouri 35, Arkansas 21.

Kentucky at Louisville (7.5)

Don’t look now but the Cardinals are looking at an 11-1 record if they can whack the Wildcats. One of those “who’d a thunk it” musings. Ol’ Kentuck’ has lost four of its last five games and I’m afraid another loss shall occur in the great city which gave us Muhammed Ali and Hunter S. Thompson. Louisville 28, Kentucky 24.

Texas A&M at LSU (-11.5)

Ladies and gentlemen, Jimbo has left the building. We’ll miss you, Coach Fisher. You’re richer than God, but that’s not necessarily a good thing. She remains the giver of true riches untold. Along with Mongo, we are only pawns in game of life. I don’t believe that but I do love Blazing Saddles. I regress. Good luck to you, Jimbo! Well anyway. LSU 38, TEXAS A&M 27.

Vanderbilt at Tennessee (-27)

The hosting Vols are looking for redemption after a couple of shellackings here of late. Will the Commodores be “Easy” or a “Brick House”? Methinks a bit of both. Also the Rocky Toppers look to enhance their bowl position. Tennessee 42, Vandy 16.

Florida at Florida State (-6.5)

That’s a pretty tight line for this matchup, eh? Nope! Upset special! Gators 27, Noles 23.

Georgia (-24) at Georgia Tech

Upset special number two? No way, José! The Dawgs are headed for Hotlanta with a bullet as they meet Bama next Satday for the SEC Championship. They will not be “Wrecked” along the way. They will “Ramble” on ($1 to Led Zeppelin). Georgia 45, Georgia Tech 17.

Clemson (-7.5) at South Carolina

Upset special number two? Huh? Yeah? Nope. Clemson 34, Cocks 22.

And. And! And…

The Iron Bowl

Alabama (-13) at Auburn

Oh boy! Here we go. My 43rd Iron Bowl to attend. The first one was in 1964. Numero uno Alabama (9-0) and unranked Auburn (6-3). Auburn led at the half, 7-6, behind Tucker Frederickson and QB Tom Bryan. Bama’s Ray Ogden takes the second half kickoff 107 yards to the house. Namath to Perkins seals it, though the Tigers scored late but didn’t recover the onside kick. Bama 21-14.

Fast forward nine years. 1972. No need to get into a deep rehash of it. Three words will suffice. Punt Bama Punt. The ecstasy in the Auburn student section was beyond exhilarating. Did that really happen? Auburn 17-16.

There were the ‘85 and ‘96 squeakers. The Van Tiffin field goal as time expired. Bama 25-23. And Kitchens to Riddle with seconds remaining. Bama 24-23. Respectively.

But ahhhhh. There was 1982 and 2020. Bo over the top and The Camback. 23-22 and 28-27. Auburn.

That brings us to the present. The visitors are double digit favorites. They continued to improve as the season wore on. Bama is on a roll as it travels to the Loveliest Village.

On the other hand there’s the home team. Dare we even speak to the embarrassment of last week? After winning three straight in a most impressive fashion.

Signs and logic point to Bama. At stake are an SEC Championship and an outside chance at the College Football Playoff. And there also exists the slight possibility of this Tigers team rising to efforts like The Reverse. Lawyer Tillman in 1986. And The Kick Six. 2013. 21-17 and 34-28.

Well over 200 highly rated recruits will be in attendance to witness one for the ages. Auburn 27, Alabama 26.

THERE was your Upset Special number two! How do you do!? It has been a great deal of fun, this fine college football season. The cherries on top await many. Wait till next year for others. As always, take care out there and love your neighbor.

Take us home Mouseketeers!

“Now it’s time to say

goodbye, to all our company,

M-I-C, See you real soon!

K-E-Y, Why? Because we like you!

M – O – U – S – E”

Good bye boys and girls!






SEC Football: Week 12

Awright awright awright! (Matthew McConaughey’s book “Greenlights” is a great read BTW) SEC Football fans! Perfection was achieved last week. Again. 7 and 0! That’s three of the last five weeks into the books perfecto. If it were not for Arkansas’s three point overtime victory over Florida I would have had four of the last five weeks perfect. Dude! We be sizzlin’! On the season. 70-15. that an .823 percentage! HOT DANG! LET’S GO!

Chattanooga at Alabama (No line)

The most interesting thing about this game is the origin of the visitors nickname. “History. Chattanooga was formerly the ‘Moccasins’ named after nearby Moccasin Bend. Several identities have been associated with UTC.” They are now the Mocs. Ho hum. Bams.

Abilene Christian at Texas A&M (No line)

The most interesting thing about this game is the coaching situation in Aggieland. Ain’t nothing Christian about what will happen to the Wildcats Saturday at noon ET. Bend over and grab your ankles boys. Aggies.

UL Monroe at Ole Miss (-37.5)

The most interesting thing about this game, for me, is the head coach at Monroe. Terry Bowden. I nicknamed him “Shiny” when he was at Auburn. I still appreciate that 20 game winning streak. Land Bear Shark Rebs.

FIU at Arkansas (-29.5)

The most interesting thing about this game is the coaching situation at Arky. Tickets are going for $3 on Vivid Seats. Auburn is playing in the Vivid Seats basketball tournament tonight and tomorrow night. FIU’s nickname is the Panthers. Ho hum indeed. Hawgs.

Southern Miss at Miss State (-14)

The most interesting thing about this game the coaching situation at Miss State, unless you are a
fan of either squadron. Could be a good game. State 28, Southern Miss 17.

Florida at Missouri (-11)

This should be an interesting game. (Horns honk and people yell). How bout dat? If the Water Lizards are gonna turn things around then this is the time to start. If they beat Mizzou and Florida State it could turn out to be an acceptable season with a bowl game. Does that happen? No. Missouri 34, Florida 27.

Georgia State at LSU (-31.5)

The only thing interesting about this game is that it’s played in Baton Rouge at night. If you’ve never experienced that tailgating and gameday experience then put it on your bucket list. I don’t have a bucket list. I have enjoyed my life immensely and plan to continue doing that as long as it is possible. laissez le bon temps rouler! Snooze. Bayou Bengals.

Kentucky at South Carolina (-0.5)

As Artie Johnson used to say on ‘Laugh In’, one of my favorite shows ever, very interesting. Indeed! A good scrap in Columbia, SC. The Cocks need to rise up and win their last two in order to play in a bowl. The Cats need two wins to greatly enhance their bowl status. Kentucky 30, South Carolina 27.

New Mexico State at Auburn (-25)

This un is sho nuff interesting to fans of both squads. And whenever my Tigers play it’s a big deal here at 116. As many of you know we had a two week trip out west and spent nine nights in New Mexico. Roswell, Sandia City, Lindrith, Santa Fe, and Taos. Stunning scenery and wonderful folks. Family and friends. But we didn’t get down go Las Cruces where New Mexico State is located. Beautiful down there, as well. The visitors are also Aggies. They beat a Hugh Freeze coached Liberty team, 49-14, last season. Look for that to happen and flip the script. Auburn 49-14.

And the big one.

Georgia (-10) at Tennessee

Number one versus (please stop using the term ‘verse’ sportscasters and media!) number 18. Could an upset be brewing? This is probably the last real chance the Dawgs have to be beaten in the regular season. No offense to GA Tech. That game is next week. Could be a stemdoggie. Hmmmm.

Georgia 35, Tennessee 24.

Y’all enjoy the games. I’m looking forward to them and others that are not within the SEC where “It Just Means More.” Do it? I don’t know. But I do know we’ll be celebrating Thanksgiving here at 116 Sunday. Big crowd. Great food. Miss LeCroy does it up big time with great assists from fellow family members. Turkey, dressing, mashed taters, asparagus casserole (my favorite), cranberry celebration, 24 hour salad, and sourdough rolls, and pecan pie. Beverages of many ilks. Dogs and grandkids. Yes indeed, we are blessed and extremely thankful. I know y’all are too.

Yep! Take care out there. Love your neighbor. And please don’t eat the daisies. (Don’t know where that came from), Life is a stream of consciousness. Peace out!

Take us home Little Feat. Or Linda Ronstadt on a great cover. This one goes out to a dear friend of ours in The Land Of Enchantment. Of the good folks in Sandia City. Formerly of Georgia. Here’s to you, Carmen.

I’ve been warped by the rain, driven by the snow
I’m drunk and dirty, don’t you know
And I’m still willin’

And I was out on the road, late at night
I seen my pretty Alice in every headlight
Alice, Dallas Alice

And I’ve been from Tucson to Tucumcari
Tehachapi to Tonopah
Driven every kind of rig that’s ever been made
Driven the back roads so I wouldn’t get weighed
And if you give me; weed, whites, and wine
And you show me a sign
I’ll be willin’ to be movin’

Photo by me. Taos Mountain. Taos, NM.



SEC Football: Week 11

No offense to Arkansas and the Razorback fans, but those Hawgs have been giving me grief. First of all, they are favored over my Auburn Tigers this week AND they were the sole cause of my not sporting a perfect record for three of the past four weeks. Yes, the Piggies upset Florida and that put me at 6-1 in Week 10. Arrrgggghhh! But hey! We’re 63-15 on the year! That is an .807 percentage. “Fine and dandy, just like sugar candy.” That quote will bring back memories for my Camden clan. On to some pickin’!

Alabama (-11) at Kentucky

“Kentucky woman, she shines with her own kind of light
She’d look at you once and a day that’s all wrong, looks alright
And I love her, God knows I love her…”

As I typed “ Kentucky”, I immediately thought of this song. Great song. Neil Diamond was a favorite for millions of folks and I’m certain that he remains so. Me and Paul saw him in Atlanta back in the spring of 2012. He was 71 then. A grand show. He opened with “Soolaimon”. You’re singing it now, aren’t you? He never cut a bluegrass record, but Bama will be mowing some Cats in the bluegrass Saturday at noon. Alabama 31, Kentucky (Sans the “woman”) 14.

Vanderbilt at South Carolina (-14)

If this game were being were being played in that holy mess of construction zone rubble in NashVegas I’d pick the Dores. Hit ain’t and I ain’t. Cocks 34, Vandy 21.

Tennessee (-2) at Missouri

“Tennessee, Tennessee, there ain’t no place I’d rather be
Baby won’t you carry me back to Tennessee…”

Yes, the Vols are a two point favorite. But the game is in Mizzou. I’d call it a dead heat. The Tigers lost a hard fought game to UGA last week. My hunch is they will redeem themselves in the friendly confines of CO-MO and the visitors will be singing the above Grateful Dead refrain. Missouri 27, Tennessee 24.

Florida at LSU (-14)

Gators took an excruciating 3 point loss, in OT, to Arky. In The Swamp. LSU looks to redeem itself after losing to The Crimson Tide on the road. Now it’s back to Death Valley. At night. LSU 38, Florida 23.

Miss State at Texas A&M (-18.5)

State is headed south with a bullet. The Jim-Trinos continue as such. Moping along. The homies will win, but the bigger question is, will that dissuade the legions of doubters in Aggieland? Their likely final record is 7-5. Continued mediocrity with a highly talented roster. As Frasier Crane once said to Woody, on a Cheers episode, “Tick tick tick.” A&M 30, State 13.

Auburn at Arkansas (-2.5)

When I began thinking about the series between these two teams it seemed, to my mind, that Arkansas had done quite well against Auburn over the years. Not so much in reality. Yes, the Hawgs have thumped the Tigers badly on a couple of occasions when they shouldn’t have, but Auburn has won eight of the last 10, and the series stands at 19-12-1 in favor of Auburn. And so, the here and now. This is a very evenly matched game. Arky getting a slight nod at home. It’s surprising win at Florida has to have given it great confidence. Same for Auburn winning its last two outings while improving each week. The bottom line is, I’m a homer. Auburn 35, Arkansas 28.

And the big un!

Ole Miss at Georgia (-10.5)

I can hear the late great Keith Jackson now. “Athens, Georgia! Between the hedges! The ninth ranked Ole Miss Rebels and the second ranked Georgia Bull-doggies in what should be a dandy!” I do miss him. He and Frank Broyles were a great pair in the booth. Unlike today’s hen parties with everyone cackling and giggling in the press box. It’s a different world in college football today, as you well know. I’m old school to the core. This could be like one of those slugfests of yore. I’m thinking the home team has the advantage. If it were in Oxford I would go with the Rebels. But yes, it’s between those hedges. Georgia 33, Ole Miss 27.

Take care. Keep it between the lines. And love your neighbor. When Jesus was asked by one of those pesky disciples, “Who is my neighbor?” He told them the story of the Good Samaritan. The Jews and Samaritans despised each other. That gave em something to chew on. It should give us all a chunk to gnaw on. Peace out!

And take us home Flatt and Scruggs…

“Now it’s time to say goodbye to Jed and all his kin. And they would like to thank you folks for kindly droppin’ in. You’re all invited back next week to this locality to have a heapin’ helpin’ of their hospitality. Hillbilly that is. Set a spell. Y’all come back now! Ya hear!”

Photo credit goes to someone standing nearby. Maybe Mel or Luke? I don’t know. Little Rock. 1995. Auburn vs. Arkansas. We won’t talk about which squad won that clash. Many thanks to the Bill and Hilary impersonators.

SEC Football: Week 10

Hot diggity dank! We had ourselves another perfect week of pickin’ last Satday! Five and OH! That’s two of our last three weeks going unblemished! And the scores were picked close to the true outcomes. Such as Texas A&M 30-17. The final was 31-17. We stand at 57-14 for an .802 percentage. Let’s shoot for perfection yet again!


Texas A&M at Ole Miss (-3)

The teams with the two best tailgate experiences, outside of the Plains, square off in The Grove in a morning kickoff. The home team is ascending. I don’t know if the visitors are descending or just treading water. At any rate, it should be a good football game and a great tailgate. The Bear Sharks will enjoy the support of a crowd highly biased and will also be motivated by the possibility of an 11-1 season with an outside shot at the College Football playoff. Rebs 27, Aggies 23.

Connecticut at Tennessee (-35.5)

The Yankees in King Arthur’s court invade Knoxville and will be beaten like a rented mule. (Are only rented mules beaten? What if said mules were borrowed or bought? I don’t know.) “Corn won’t grow at all on Rocky Top, Dirt’s too rocky by far, That’s why all the folks on Rocky Top, Get their cord from a jar”. Tennessee 45, UConn 10.

Arkansas at Florida (-6)

Yawn. Gators 28, Hawgs 16

Jax State at South Carolina (-16.5)

Alright! We have two sets of Roosters vying to be the Cocks of the walk. And I have a feeling this will be a barnyard brawl. Rich Rod has done a terrific job up in north Alabama. My daddy played center on the Jax State squad the fall of his freshman year. Later transferred to Auburn and no more football. So there’s that soft spot for those Gamecocks (except when they play Auburn or Troy). The visitors will lead for a bit but in the end the Palmetto State Roosters will pull it out. South Carolina 31, Jax State 24.

Missouri at Georgia (-15.5)

Canines and Felines. We got ourselves a veritable zoo in the works here in Week 10. And yet another one that will be closer than expected. The Dawgs truly had their way with the Gators last week. But they’ll have a Tiger by the tail in Athens Saturday. In a stemwinder. Georgia 28, Missouri 27.

Kentucky (-4.5) at Miss State

An interesting one in StarkVegas. I think we’re looking at a defensive battle. Also more canines and felines. When it’s done the pups will wind up with a case of cat scratch fever. Kentucky 20, State 17.

Auburn (-12.5) at Vanderbilt

Another “Vegas” game.This one a “Nash.” Our Tigers got that much needed first SEC win over State down in Auburn. It was great running into a goodly number of my Wilcox County family, as well. I’d love to go honky tonkin’ in Music City Saturday night but that’ll have to wait. Auburn 34, Vandy 18.

The game of the week. Probably the game of the season in the SEC West…

LSU at ALLLLLLABAMA (-3)

I believe this is the tightest home line for the Tide since Nick’s first season in 2007. It should be. It also should be one of the highest scoring SEC games IN 2023. In the end it’s going to take a little bit of defense to bring home the victory. The shaky nod goes to the Pachyderms. Alabama 35, LSU 30.

She’s a wrap! Thanks for reading and sharing. It’s gonna be a great Saturday of football! Y’all enjoy! Always love your neighbor and take care out there. Peace out!

Take us home, Buck!

“I’ve got a tiger by the tail, it’s plain to see
I won’t be much when you get through with me
Well, I’m losing weight and turnin’ mighty pale
Looks like I’ve got a tiger by the tail”

Photo credit Country Music Hall of Fame

SEC Football: Week Nine

It’s another five game week in SEC football. 3-2 was last week’s tally and that puts us at 52-14 here in this 2023 season. We dipped just below 80%, at a .787 percentage, so let’s get her back to where she ought to be. Time’s a wastin’. Let’s do it!

South Carolina at Texas A&M (-15.5)

The Cocks are drooping having lost three straight and four of the last five. The Aggies under Jimbo are being the Aggies under Jimbo. Meh. Before I predict the outcome of the clash I’ll make another prediction. Coach Fisher will be gone after this season concludes. Texas A&M 31, South Carolina 17.

Florida vs. Georgia (-14.5) at Jacksonville

I think the Dawgs will drop a game this year but it ain’t gonna be Saturday. The World’s Largest Cocktail Party could be more exciting than people might be thinking. Billy Napier has the Water Lizards looking pretty good. They’ve shown improvement as the season has progressed, but the UGAS still have a bit more bite. Georgia 28, Florida 16.

Tennessee (-3.5) at Kentucky

The Corn Cobbers sashayed around for a half against the Tide last Saturday in T-Town. Then they drowned in a crimson gulf, losing by 14. They could very well lose in Lexington but I’m not feeling it. Tennessee 30, Kentucky 24.

Vanderbilt at Ole Miss (-24.5)

The Bear Sharks have a 95.9% chance of winning this contest according to ESPN’s FPI. The Commodores chances, therefore, come in at a whopping 4.1%. Nuff said. Ole Miss 42, Vanderbilt 17.

And in conclusion…

Miss State at Auburn (-6.5)

Let’s settle on in to the reality of this rebuild on the Plains. It’s going to require time and patience. Hugh Freeze was saddled with a holy mess. We were looking at 3-9 if he hadn’t come in and plugged a few of the holes. I was hoping for, and picked, eight wins for the Tigers this season. That remains possible. On paper. But it would require a sweep of these last five games left on the schedule. The odds are very much not in favor of 8-4. Auburn has a better football team than Mississippi State, Vanderbilt, and New Mexico State. Arkansas? In Fayetteville? Maaaaybe. Bama? Obviously not. But it’s at home. There’s always hope when the game is played at Jordan-Hare. Fact is, I’d settle for 6-6 and a bowl game. 7-5 is doable. Never forget Saban went 6-6 his first year at the Capstone. Pat Dye was 5-6 in his inaugural season, as was Tommy Tuberville. Dye was 8-3 in year two. Tubs was 9-2. That ain’t happening. Ok. One game at a time. Auburn should beat State at home. Period. Auburn 24, Bull Pups 15.

I’m headed to Lee County, AL this weekend for the first time in 2023. Greatly looking forward to it and a victory for the home team. Holler if you’re in town and care to visit a little while. It should be a lovely day.

Take care out there and love your neighbor(s). Peace out!

Take us home J. J. Cale. (Or Skynyrd if you so desire)

“Well, now they call me the breeze
I keep blowing down the road
Well, now they call me the breeze
I keep blowing down the road
I ain’t got me nobody
I don’t carry me no load”

SEC Football: Week Eight

We landed back in Acworth, GA late Wednesday afternoon from our trip out west. It was such a grand time of sightseeing and visiting with dear, dear friends. I hope you enjoyed the abbreviated SEC picks sessions of the past two college football Saturdays. The overall record now stands at 49-12. That’s an .803 pct. Still at 80% after seven weeks. Now let’s jump on in to Week Eight.

Miss State at Arkansas (-6.5)

The Hawgs have been playing opponents off their feet but just can’t seem to seal the deal. Seeing as how the Bull Pups might be the worst team in the SEC and the game is taking place in Fayetteville, a win appears to be in the offing for Sam “Cold Beer” Pittman and his troops. Arkansas 31, Miss State 20.

Tennessee at Alabama (-9.5)

The third Saturday in October. Vols (5-1) and Tide (6-1). Both teams coming off close wins. The visitors winning 20-13 0ver the Aggies and the home team squeaking by Arky 24-21. Bama will be looking to avenge a last second loss in Knoxville last season and the Rocky Toppers seek to stick close to Georgia in the SEC East race. Those two go to war on 11/18 in Neyland Stadium. But to the business at hand. I simply do not see Josh Heupel & Co. stealing one in T-Town. Alabama 28, Tennessee 21.

South Carolina at Missouri (-7.5)

Speaking of nipping at UGA’s paws, the MO Tigers have only one conference loss. They’ll be trying to keep pace, as well. The Roosters are 2-4 with three conference losses. Thus, they are out of contention in the East. All they can do now is crush some other team’s hopes. Were this contest being held in Columbia, SC instead of Columbia, MO, I might be inclined to pick the Cocks. But it ain’t and I ain’t pickin’ Beamer’s boys. Eli’s Tigers go to 7-1! Missouri 34, South Carolina 24.

Army at LSU (-32)

My alma mater, the Troy Trojans, shutout the Black Knights up at West Point last Satday. That is one of the most beautiful campuses I’ve ever seen. On the shores of the Hudson River. This one will be played on the mighty Mississippi. Red Stick. Our Auburn Tigers were pummeled there last weekend. Army will see a similar fate tomorrow night. LSU 45, Army 6.

And…

Ole Miss (-6.5) at Auburn

Two teams seemingly headed in opposites directions. Our Tigers have dropped three conference games in a row and stand at 3-3 on the year. The Reb-Bears ar 5-1 with their only loss coming in Tuscaloosa to Nick’s Crimpson Tide. Quarterback quarterback. What are the hometown Tigers to do? Beats me. But if we want to hypothesize for a moment, here’s my take. Auburn meeds to run the football early and often. Keep the ball away from that high-powered Old Mrs., offense, run the clock, and keep it close with a chance to win in the fourth quarter. Peering into the crystal ball, I see fleet footed Robby Ashford leading a late drive, scoring himself, and propelling the home teams to an upset of the 13th ranked Lane Train. Auburn 30, Ole Miss 28.

That’s that. Only five games involving SEC teams this weekend. Football weather. We ran into football weather on our two week jaunt out west, featuring New Mexico. What a beautiful place! And having an evening to honky tonk in Ft. Worth was special. We spent our first three years of marriage in Cowtown. We loved it. But! There’s no place like home!

Hey! Enjoy the weekend and lotsa football! There are some big ones on the docket besides the SEC clashes. Penn State at Ohio State. Duke at Florida State. Utah at Southern Cal. Two Alabama teams have already chalked up victories. South Alabama clobbered Southern Miss, 55-3, and Jax State eased by Western Kentucky, 20-17. So onward we press. Take care out there and love your neighbor. Peace out!

Take us home, King George…

“Cold Fort Worth beer, just ain’t no good for jealous
I’ve tried it night, after night
You’re in someone else’s arms in Dallas
Does Fort Worth ever cross your mind?”

Photo credit Openverse

SEC Football: Week Five

Me and Miss LeCroy had a grand ol’ time at GABBAfest last weekend in Macon. Ate at Mama Louise’s H&H Soul Food Restaurant, God rest her soul, the best fried chicken in these United States and mouth watering sides. Mashed taters, mac n cheese, lima beans, fried okra, and sweet tea! Haw! The music was outstanding featuring Lee Roy Parnell on Friday night and the Bruce Katz Band on Saturday night. They were joined by a host of other musicians in a tribute to Dickey Betts, who remains underrated IMHO. God bless you Richard. Our pickin’ was not as good as these players’ was but it turned out okay. 7-2 took us to 40-9 on the season. That’s an .816 pct. And now I give you… Week Five!

Florida at Kentucky (-1)

The Water Lizards have been up and down. The Wildcats steady and proficient. Getting the job done. Neither team has lit it up or looked overpowering. Kroger Field Cats return to those friendly home field confines after a conference win in Music city. I expect them to take care of business once again. Kentucky 24, Florida 21.

Texas A&M (-6.5) vs. Arkansas (at Jerry World)

The JimboPetrinos took advantage of a bumbling Auburn squad last week. Don’t look for the same from the Piggies. They lost a tough one in Red Stick and look to turn it around Saturday. Upset special! Arkansas 27 Aggies 24.

Missouri (-13.5) at Vanderbilt

Eli’s coming to NashVegas! Better hide your heart girls, and boys. The 4-0 and 23rd ranked Tigers ain’t messing around and intend to keep that streak and have a Drinkwitz whomever they please. Missouri 38, Vanderbilt 23.

LSU (-2.5) at Ole Mrs.

And yet Ole Miss has a 56.6 chance to win according to ESPN’s FPI. Say what?! That don’t add up! Whatchu talking bout Willis?! Somebody been drankin’! LSU 24, Ole Miss 21

South Carolina at Tennessee (-12)

The Cocks wore the Corn Cobbers OUT in 2022. Scored 60 something. Well, that was in Columbia, SC. This un here is up on Rocky Top. Spencer Rattler is at the top of the SEC QB pile as we speak. The Vols Joe Milton ain’t too shabby either. Revenge of the Vowels. Tennessee 31, South Carolina 28.

Alabama (-14.5) at Miss State

The Tide tussled with one Mississippi in Week Four. Now they have two Mississippi in Week Five. The Bullies will not be a push over in Cowbellville on a Satday night but Nickydemus’s Elephants will prevail. Alabama 30, State 17.

And down on the Plains…

Georgia (-14) at Auburn

Well well well! As R.L. Burnside used to proclaim. What have we here?! The Kirby Clan headed to East Alabama for a Saturday afternoon picnic. Piece of cake! 28 in a row. Oh how we fear and tremble! Make it 7 straight against the Tigers. Not so fast, my friend! Let’s turn it back 81 years…

GEORGIA SUFFERS ITS FIRST DEFEAT; Auburn Ends Bulldogs’ String of 15 Victories and Ruins Their Rose Bowl Hopes TUMBLING GEORGIA FROM THE NATION’S NO. 1 POSITION Georgia Upset by Auburn, 27-13, After Fifteen Straight Triumphs.

Columbus, Ga., Nov. 21, 1942- -Georgia lost today to brilliant and under-rated Auburn, 27 — 13, and the crash of America’s No. 1 football team probably resounded all the way to Pasadena, Calif. 

🎶 Lightning striking again… 🎶

Upset special number TWO!

Auburn 27, Georgia 20.

I saw Lightning Lou Christie a couple of times. At a Big Bam Summer Show and, oddly enough, at the Thomasville, AL High School Gymnasium. I was in the company of Reg Albritton and Miss Peggy Jean Tait at the Clarke County show . God bless em both! Those were the days! Dancing. Parking. Singing along to American Pie. Maybe having a cold one, or ten. Bless y’all’s hearts! Be safe out there and love your neighbor. Peace out!
Take us home, Mary Hopkin…

“Once upon a time there was a tavern
Where we used to raise a glass or two
Remember how we laughed away the hours
Think of all the great things we would do?

… Those were the days, my friend
We thought they’d never end
We’d sing and dance forever and a day
We’d live the life we choose
We’d fight and never lose
For we were young and sure to have our way
La-la-la-da-da-da 
La-la-la-da-da-da 
Da-da-da-da, la-da-da-da-da…”

Photo courtesy of openverse




SEC Football: Week Two

We’re having technical difficulties here at Bird’s Banter. I’ve written several predictions, some multiple times, over the last two days, only to have them not “save.” I come back to the site and they have vamoosed. The three immediately below somehow survived. Soooo, on the bigger competitive games it’ll just be teams, lines, picks. Below those games will be the NWTTE games. Not worth the time and effort. The heavily favored teams will win em all and said favorite will be underlined. Let us roll.

Vanderbilt at Wake Forest (-10)

The Dores and the Deacons. Almost sounds like Jim Morrison and company crashing a church committee meeting. “You cannot petition the Lord with prayer!” The clearly buzzed frontman screams at the chair of the ‘Harumphs’. That’s one I’d pay to see, particularly if said deacs were of the fundamentalist ilk. Ok! This is actually one of the best matchups in Week Two of NCAA Football. In a stemwinder. Wake Forest 31, Vanderbilt 28.

Ball State at Georgia (-42)

The Cardinals are do do hammered for the second week in a row versus an SEC foe. The Dawgs pit crew will be challenged as the home squad speeds through another laugher. Georgia 49, Ball State 3.

Ole Miss (-7.5) at Tulane

”Way down yonder in New Orleans…” It’ll be rockin’ in the Superdome Satday! The hometown Green Wave have a decent shot at besting the Reb-Bears but the visitors have too much firepower. And thinking about this game flings a roast beef po boy craving on me. Ole Miss 35, Tulane 27.

Texas A&M (-3.5) at Miami. Aggies in a dandy.

Texas at Alabama (-7) Bama by 8.

Arizona at Miss State (-9) State wins and look good doing it.

NWTTE

Eastern Kentucky at Kentucky

Kent State at Arkansas

Austin Peay at Tennessee

Grambling at LSU

McNeese at Florida

Furman at South Carolina

And…

Auburn (-6) at California

I had the pleasure of working at Berkley, in campus ministry, from August of ‘86 through mid-April of ‘87. We got to see the Big Game, as it is called, with a 1-9 Cal team, coached by Joe Kapp, upset an 8-1 Stanford team. Also saw John Prine for the first time. Arlo Guthrie opened for him. It’s a beautiful campus and I loved it. We had really hoped to get out there for this one but it didn’t work out. I don’t think Auburn showed a whole lot last week. It won handily without having to do so. Auburn will open it up Saturday night with a nicely balanced offense and will really get after Cal and its quarterback in Ron Roberts’ attack style defense. Special teams? Another pick six? Could Brian Battie take a kickoff return to the house? Will Jarquez Hunter return.? Yes he will. And the Tigers will take the Golden Bears down! Auburn 34, Cal 24.

Hot dang! Can’t wait for this late night clash! SEC Football from noon until about 2 AM Sunday! Love your neighbor and be safe if you’re traveling to see your team play. Peace out. Take us home Jonny Prine!

”And you may see me tonight with an illegal smile
It don’t cost very much, but it lasts a long while
Won’t you please tell the man I didn’t kill anyone
No, I’m just tryin’ to have me some fun…”

SEC Football: Week One

Welcome to Week One of SEC Picks on Bird’s Banter! Don’t we all remember Week Zero so fondly?! I was 1-0 on my only prediction of Vanderbilt over Hawaii. We saw a few good football games. Ah! Those were the days. Now we are pushing into Labor Day Weekend and many, many gridiron contests. A full slate of the best college football in the country! Along with ALL the other conferences. Bless their hearts! Let’s ride!

Florida at Utah (-5)

Da Utes (there’s more than two of them) are looking to avenge last year’s loss to the Gators in Gainesville. They will have the home field advantage way out yonder in Salt Lake City. I spent one night in Salt Lake City at a Best Western. My son, Luke, and I making our way from our home near Nashville to Boise, Idaho. It was my first far flung assignment as a AAA inspector. A “swing” inspector. That means I could be given work anywhere in the good ol’ USA. And I did see a whole lot of her during my 20 years in that job capacity. Back to the game at hand. In the Sodium Center. (I like mine Pink Himalayan). Tonight! The home squadron is ranked 14th in both polls. The Water Lizards are not ranked. Utah’s Kyle Whittingham is one of the best head coaches out there. Not just in NACLville, but in all of the US of A. Florida’s Billy Napier? We’ll see. A shaky nod to the Morton’s clan. Utah 24, Florida 21.

South Dakota at Missouri (No line)

Now we bounce from the epicenter of the Morman universe to the capital of the Show Me State. The visiting Coyotes, hailing from Badlands/Mount Rushmoring country, are given a less than 5 per cent chance to win the game. I give them a less than one per cent chance to upset the Tigers. It ain’t happening. Mizzou coach Eli Drinkwitz (You) will have his Tigers growling loudly and they will rip the moon howlers to shreds. Missouri 52, South Dakota 3.

Virginia at Tennessee (-28)

The Double Dribblers will be traveling to good ol’ Rocky Top for this opener and the Cavs might get dunked in corn liquor or, at least, fouled. No three free throws or three pointers will save the visitors. The final score will be a margin of four TD’s or more. Tennessee 38, Virginia 9.

Ball State at Kentucky (-26.5)

Unlike Stanford, Ball State sports multiple Cardinals, yet 22, 44, or even 66 (multiples of 11 you see) traveling redbirds will be enough for Dave Letterman’s alma mater to skin the Cats. Kentucky 35, Ball State 7.

West Carolina at Arkansas (No line)

Allow me another AAA work reference if you will. When we moved to to the Peach State in 1996, Western North Carolina was in my territory. Asheville, Cherokee, Maggie Valley, Cashiers, Highlands, and yes, Cullowhee, the home of Western Carolina University, are all located in this beautiful region of the Tar Heel State. It will not be a pretty site for Catamount fans when the Razorbacks are done with them. Arkansas 48, Western Carolina 13.

Mercer at Ole Miss (No line)

The Baptist Bears versus the Black Bears. All the folks tailgating in The Grove better secure those “pickinic” baskets or ol’ Yogi, Boo Boo, and friends might make off with a huge haul of goodies. The Maconites will be crushed by the Lane Train and it won’t be a peachy sight. Ole Miss 49, Mercer 6.

OK! Enough. Let’s not continue to waste our breath or keep typing unnecessarily. Holy Zonkers, Batman! 

SE Louisiana at Miss State (No line.)

State! Whack!

UT Martin at Georgia (No line)

Dawgs! Stomp!

New Mexico at Texas A&M (-38) Which translates to “Just as well be no line.”

Aggies! Bam!

Alabama A&M at Vanderbilt (No line)

Dores! Bonk!

MTSU at Alabama (-39)

Crimpson Tide! Crush!

Batman TV theme song plays… And fades into…

“Nothing could be finer than to be in Carolina in the morning…”

And now for our second, and last true contest of Week One…

South Carolina vs. North Carolina (-2.5) at Charlotte

This one should be a dandy! The Tar Heels are ranked number 21. The Cocks (don’t be crude, Bird!) are almost ranked, accruing the 27th highest number of points both top 25 polls. The game features two potential Heisman candidates, Spencer Rattler (USCe) and Drake Maye (UNC). SEC-ACC. Prime time! (I wonder how Colorado will fare Saturday?) The wizened veteran, Mack “The Knife” Brown, and the young upstart, Shane “On You” Beamer. And break out the condiments! It’s the Duke’s Mayo Classic! Make it a ham on wheat with nothing but mayonnaise! YeeHaaw! North Carolina 35, South Carolina 31. 

FSU vs. LSU (-2.5) at Orlando

The biggest game of the weekend in college football. The only clash pitting two ranked teams, number five LSU and number eight Florida State. Last year’s hotly contested battle saw the Noles escape with a thrilling 24-23 win down in New Orleans. I wouldn’t be surprised to see something similar this time out. Should be a barnburner. Chief RC Cola and Mike the Tiger. A couple of fine mascots, as well. Another SEC-ACC matchup. Florida State has been doing more shopping than mall full of Christmas gift purchasing freaks on Black Friday. It’s looking to get the hail out of the Atlantic Coast Conference. More on that later in the season. Hoo Hooooo, mercy! We got us a doozie Sunday night! LSU 30, FSU 28.

And! Drumroll please!

UMass at Auburn (-35). PTL! It’s finally time for the opening day kickoff in “The loveliest Village of the plains.” Coach Hugh Freeze and his highly capable staff have done a remarkable job of revitalizing the roster through recruiting and the transfer portal. The NIL hasn’t hurt, at all, either. The Minutemen are to be commended for a nice win Week Zero, trouncing New Mexico State out in “The Land of Enchantment”. Las Cruces too be exact. The competition takes a hard uptick for the visitors Saturday afternoon as an angry and hungry group of Tigers are growling and snarling to prove they are back and ready prowl. The O line appears to be very much improved and the stable of running backs is deep and extremely talented. So look for a steady diet of totin’ the rock. That should lay the base for a few deep bombs and a diet of RPO’s from Michigan State transfer QB Payton Thorne, one of four Auburn captains. Robby Ashford should complement him well with his blazing speed and running ability. Watch out for a deep group of receivers, including the tight ends. Remember the names Renaldo Fairweather and Shane Hooks. Two potential beasts at tight end and wide receiver, respectively. And watch for true freshman running back Jeremiah Cobb coming out of the backfield to catch some passes. Think along the line of Cadillac Williams, his position coach. Offensive coordinator Ron Roberts will bring an aggressive style attacking defense that has plenty of hosses, but like the rest of the roster, they must step up and prove themselves. Oscar Chapman (punter), and Alex McPherson (placekicker)should prove to be outstanding. And watch for Brian Battie on kickoff returns. Jarquez Hunter will be back there with him. Lane Kiifin was quoted, a couple of years back, as saying Hugh Freeze is the best game day coach in college football. All this adds up to an exciting year on the Plains. Auburn fans, let’s be patient and enjoy it. Hope springs eternal as evidenced by the fact that all but a handful of tickets to the Miss State and New Mexico State games have been sold. They will be gone soon. “Heeeeeeere come the Tigers!!! Auburn 44, UMass 16.

Like Porky Pig used to sputter, “That’s all Folks!” Take care out there and love your neighbor as yourself. That’s the key! Have a great Labor Day weekend! Peace out!

SEC Football: Week Zero

Zero is scored “love” in tennis. That might lead you to think what’s love got to do with college football, in general, and the SEC, in particular. Well, I love college football and the SEC, as do those who will take the time to read this blog. And I hope Auburn’s first opponent, the University of Massachusetts, scores zero points next week when we rabid football fans finally get to a full slate of SEC games.

There is one SEC game on tap for Week Zero. Vanderbilt will host Hawaii. The Dores are a 17 point favorite to defeat the Rainbows. And who doesn’t like rainbows? And lollipops? And roses? I digress. I like digressing.

(Clears throat)

The SEC. Enjoy this 2023 season of SEC football. It’s the last time you will see it in its current form. Next year the conference will add Texas and Oklahoma to its already stellar cast of 14 squadrons. There will be no divisions. No SEC East and SEC West. It’ll be one through 16. The top two teams will play in the SEC Championship Game. And there will be an expanded playoff field. The playoff has to be revisited and revised due to the new madness of conference upheavals. Then there’s NIL and the transfer portal. I truly hope greed doesn’t kill the games. A motto of mine is “Greed Kills”. So good luck to college football and her survival.

Here are my picks on how things will finish in the SEC. A couple of adjustments since I posted my initial impressions on Facebook immediately after SEC Media Days.

Once more with feeling!

SEC East

  1. Georgia
  2. Tennessee
  3. Kentucky
  4. Missouri
  5. South Carolina
  6. Florida
  7. Vanderbilt

SEC West

  1. LSU
  2. Alabama
  3. Texas A&M
  4. Auburn
  5. Ole Miss
  6. Arkansas
  7. Miss State

Georgia is, of course , a “Duh” pick to win the East, although that group of runners up continue to improve as the East gets better and better. The Dawgs and Tennessee game, in November at Neyland Stadium, could be for the all marbles in that division. There are no bad teams in the East any longer. Yes, I love what Clark Lea is doing in Music City. Vandy is not an automatic “W” as you glance over your favorite team’s schedule and it includes Vandy. Eli Drinkwitz (You) and Shane Beamer have both done great jobs at Mizzou and USCe, respectively. The jury is still out on Billy Napier and the Gators. He is recruiting quite well at Florida. And you can’t count out Mark Stoops and his Cats. They’ll be gnarly, per usual.

Will the SEC West be decided in Tuscaloosa when the Bayou Bengals come to town? ‘Twas the case in Red Stick in 2022. Preseason pundits seem to love the Aggies of College Station as they do every season and, to this point, that love has not translated to a division title.

Lane Kiffin has been quoted as saying that Hugh Freeze is the best game day coach in college football. I hope he is correct. What he has done on the Plains, thus far, is nothing short of remarkable. Auburn will be highly competitive and capable of beating anyone on its schedule. They will also be capable of losing to anyone except UMass, Samford and New Mexico State. I do believe the Tigers ceiling is nine wins. Who’d a thunk it after the 2022 mess. Thank God for Cadillac and Hugh. We Aubie folks were looking square at a 3-9 season before the “Freeze Warning” was issued and we were replenished with an incredible haul in recruiting and a portal bonanza. WDE!

I think Ole Miss has a cruel schedule that will keep the Rebs from being contenders to win the West. Arky and State have very good football teams but the SEC West simply doesn’t allow either team to land in its top three. One of them in the fourth slot? Maaaaay-be.

One more observation on the West. Bobby Petrino as OC at A&M will be fun to watch. Whatever else you think about him, he can flat out coach an offense. Harley’s? Not so much. Jimbo and Petrino. A match made in (fill in the blank).

How about a quick update on conference realignments. The Big 10 has 20 teams. The Big 12 has 18. The SEC sports 16 fine football teams. And the ACC is squabbling about adding Cal, Stanford, and SMU. That would give the “Atlantic” Coast Conference 18 teams. And we would say goodbye to the PAC 12. Tragic.

$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

On to the “pick”.

Hawaii at Vanderbilt (-17)

The Rainbows will be dancing to the hula beats while the Anchormen will pedal up the steel guitar and twang late into the early Sunday morning hours. A battle it shall not be as the Music City Home Boys thump the visitors from the Aloha state. Vanderbilt 44, Hawaii 10.

“Well I woke up Sunday morning with no way to hold my head that it didn’t hurt, and the beer I had for breakfast wasn’t bad so I had one more for dessert. Then I fumble through my closet for my clothes and found my cleanest dirty shirt. And I washed my face and combed my hair and stumbled down the stairs to meet the day…” ($1 to the great Kris Kristofferson!)

That’ll do it for Week Zero in the SEC and all of college football! Take care out there and love your neighbor as yourself.

Next week! Batman vs. Mr. Freeze! Peace out!