Sportsman of the Week Ending 3/30/2025

March Madness swings into the second weekend and the top seed just keep winning.  All four Number 1 seeds made the NCAA Men's Tournament Final Four, and Auburn was a part of it.  Led by Johni Broome.  Broome torched the state of Michigan, with two performances of 22+ points and 14+ rebounds.  And in an efficient 30 minutes per game.  The Auburn Tigers reached their first Final Four since 2019 (and only their second in history) with a thrilling comeback victory against the Michigan Wolverines (78-65) and Michigan State Spartans (79-64).  The former was more of a challenge with Auburn trailing by 8 points midway through the second half.  Johni to the rescue.  Auburn looks to continue its run behind the broad shoulders and strong play of Johne Broome, the Longhorndave Sportsman of the Week!

Sportsman of the Week Ending 1/14/2024

In one of the most anticipated College Football Playoff Championship games in recent memory, two 14-0 teams geared up to battle in Houston.  Intrigue skyrocketed as two conflicting styles of play... Michigan's running and defense versus Washington's weapon-laden, diverse offense and points would be settled on the field.  The former proved superior.  The tone was set early on two early breakout runs by Donovan Edwards, who had been relegated to more of a change-of-pace back through the year behind workhorse Blake Corum.  But it was Edwards who burst through the Huskies defensive line twice in the first 13 minutes of the game to stake the Wolverines to a 14-3 lead, after which Washington never got closer than a TD.  Both Edwards runs were 40+ yards and hit paydirt for the first two touchdowns of the game.  He totaled 104 yards on just 6 carries, but his strong start is worthy of the Longhorndave Sportsman of the Week!

Sportsman of the Week Ending 1/1/2023

What a weekend of sports and in particular, college football as the crescendo of Bowl Games played out daily with the highlight of the College Football Playoffs on New Year's Eve.  The matchups pitted two near TD favorite undefeated teams against one-loss teams that lost their last games.  Nobody gave Big XII runner-up Texas Christian University (TCU) much of a chance against Big Ten champion and undefeated Michigan in the Fiesta Bowl but the Horned Frogs proved worthy opponents.  With big plays on offense and defense, TCU surged to a 21-3 lead in the first half not flinching at the odds or experts.  Then the second half turned into a slug fest with the teams scoring a nice 69 points.  But the game was controlled by TCU in the running game by hammer Emari Demercado who continued to gash the Wolverines defense carry after carry.  Demercado bludgeoned the vaunted Michigan defense for 150 yards on 17 carries and a TD appearing unstoppable behind a powerful offensive line.  It was Demercado that was the difference in the game when it mattered, and he is the Longhorndave Sportsman of the Week!

Sportsman of the Week Ending 3/27/2022

As the blue blood programs rose to the top of the NCAA March Madness heap, Villanova proved once again they were built for tournament play.  For the third time in seven years (only six Final Fours) the Wildcats are among the elite.  The last two, and three of the last four, they won the National Championship.  Against a surging Michigan, and perhaps the most dominant tournament team to date Houston, Villanova moved along relatively easily.  Led by a rare senior Jermaine Samuels Jr., they punched their ticket, Samuels Jr. led the team in scoring over the South Regional Semifinals and Finals with 38 points.  But it was efficiency that was his calling card, with a 61% field goal percentage as well as 8-8 from the free throw line.  All in 68 minutes and only 3 personal fouls enabling his team flexibility in keeping him on the court.  Will Samuels Jr. complete his career after his freshman year National Championship in 2018 with another?  Our Sportsman of the Week will give his all!

Sportsman of the Week Ending 11/28/2021

What a weekend for college football as the final regular season week produced huge matchups and lots of hate.  Perhaps no more hate north of Alabama was felt in Ann Arbor, Michigan, as the state's beloved Wolverines took on the hated Ohio State Buckeyes.  While the rivalry is storied and easily Top 5 in college football no matter the circumstance, the stakes were significantly higher this week as Michigan was riding an 8-game losing streak against the perennial powerhouse Buckeyes and the teams were both ranked in the Top 5 coming in.  Big 10 title on the line.  Playoff spot on the line.  Enter cold weather and snow and it was the American dream for a football fan.  But this turned into a nightmare for the Buckeyes.  In Big 10 football style, Michigan lined up and took control of the game at the line.  The beneficiary was Hassan Haskins.  He put the team on his back with 28 carries for 169 yards and 5 TD, personally outscoring the Buckeyes in the 42-27 Wolverines victory.  And it wasn't the kind of effort where it was a few long runs.  Every time Michigan had the ball, Haskins pounded for 5 yards, 7 yards, 2 yards, 6 yards shedding tacklers on the way to setting up his team for good 3rd down distance.  Michigan scored a TD on its last 5 possessions that didn't end the half keeping Ohio State at bay.  What a win for Michigan and while the Sportsman of the Week goes to Haskins, his offensive line deserves much of the credit as well! 

Sportsman of the Week Ending 10/31/2021

No player was scarier on Halloween Weekend for defensive players than all world running back Kenneth Walker III as he single handedly won the intrastate rivalry, dealt the Michigan Wolverines their first loss of the season, and surged toward the top of the Heisman Trophy favorite board.  The Michigan State Spartan shredded the Wolverines defense for nearly 200 yards (197 to be exact) and five, read that FIVE touchdowns.  It was all the offense the Spartans needed to outscore the Wolverines 37-33 and move to 8-0 themselves and into the Big 10 title discussion.  Trailing Michigan 30-14, Walker III ran to pay dirt three times in the second half (including two 2-point conversions) from 1 yard, 58 yards, and 23 yards to deflate the favored Michigan squad.  An impressive effort in a huge game, nets Walker III our Sportsman of the Week!

Sportsman of the Week Ending 12/1/2019

The college football season is hitting its regular season climax, with a round of great rivalry games on Thanksgiving weekend, now followed by the Conference Championships this weekend.  And Ohio State is smack dab in the middle of it, led by their Heisman Trophy candidate running back J.K. Dobbins.  Dobbins sliced through the statistically stout Michigan Wolverine defense for 211 rushing yards on a workman-like 31 carries.  With OSU leading most of the game, there was no reason not to feed the monster.  And 4 of the 31 carries ended with him untackled as he crossed the goal line as the Buckeyes pummeled their rival 56-27.  Dobbins also added 2 catches for 49 yards as if his running wasn't unstoppable enough.  Dobbins now turns to a rematch with Wisconsin then the College Football Playoff.  Dobbins will be a big part of their success, and is the Longhorndave Sportsman of the Week!

Sportsman of the Week Ending 9/22/2019

In one of the biggest conference games to start the Big 10, a strong Heisman candidate stepped up and made a statement.  Jonathan Taylor of the Wisconsin Badgers plowed through what was expected to be a stingy Michigan Wolverine defense for over 200 yards.  203 to be exact, on 23 carries for two TDs.  His longest was a spectacular 72 yard scamper in the first quarter to set the tone for the game.  He even missed the 2nd quarter with a cramp, but returned in the second half to help ensure the 35-14 conference opening victory in one of their toughest projected games.  The win thrust the Badgers up to Number 8 and solidifies their favorite status in the Big 10 West.  Taylor has averaged over 2000 yards his first two seasons and is likely to find himself in New York competing for the Heisman, which he finished 9th last year.  Taylor is the Longhorndave Sportsman of the Week!

Sportsman of the Week Ending 11/25/2018

One of the most fun weekends on the college football calendar is rivalry weekend, typically Thanksgiving.  And the main dish this year was Ohio State vs. Michigan, both teams 10-1, playing for a division title and a chance to make the college football playoff.  Michigan favored, but traveling to Ohio State.  And it was an unlikely hero that derailed the Wolverines title hopes.  Freshman Chris Olave came into the game with 5 catches for 70 yards on the season.  And left this biggest game of his career with 3 TDs.  All in critical spots.  His first TD catch started off the scoring giving the Buckeyes a 7-0 lead.  His second catch (also a TD) boosted Ohio State to a 14-6 lead.  But it was his blocked punt in the third quarter that put Ohio State up by more than 2 TD.  It would never get close again.  Ogave has a bright future in Columbus and in football, and is our Longhorndave Sportsman of the Week!

J.R. Ewing College Football Picks: 11/26/2016

I like rivalry week!  Big winners forecasted!

Early season winnings keep whittling away as another 2-3 week eats into profits.  Still ahead for the season and this with the house take.  Two weeks of picking left (before the Bowl pick special).  Here's how we stack up.

Summary:
Previous Week: 2-3 (-130)
Season: 31-27-2 (+$130, 2.2% profit)

There's some very curious lines this week that we'll take advantage of.  Gonna push up the profits just in time for the holidays!


Michigan (+6.5) at Ohio State (Noon EST)

Both of these teams are talented, both have had lapses where they lost, I see it as an even matchup.  At Ohio State I give them a field goal, not necessarily a touchdown.  Throw in a huge hunger by Michigan for losing this rivalry so much and I think they have an edge.  They might win straight up, but we'll take the points here.

Georgia (-4.5) vs Georgia Tech (Noon EST)

I guess Georgia Tech has won 4 of 5, but not against stellar competition (besides a surprise win over Virginia Tech).  Georgia is an improving team and historically handles the Jackets quite well.  The 4.5 points is almost as if it's seen as a push given the Dawgs are at home.  They win this by a TD, maybe two.


West Virginia (-7) at Iowa State (3:30 p.m. EST)

Just last week, West Virginia was playing a marquee game with an outside shot at the College Football Playoff.  An Iowa State was playing for their third win.  I get that this spread should be tight, but like 14 points tight, not a TD tight.  West Virginia has a plus QB and Iowa State still learning.  Seems like the Mountaineers take this by 10 at least.  Maybe 20.


Tennessee (-7.5) at Vanderbilt (7:30 p.m. EST)

Tennessee is playing for a New Years Bowl instead of a minor one.  And this is a rivarly.  The season has been disappointing for the Volunteers, but the talent is still there and Vanderbilt is overmatched.  Again, the 7.5 points seems too tight, I think 2 TD at least.


Florida State (-8) vs Florida (8:00 p.m. EST)

Florida State has three losses, two are to Clemson and Louisville, the other was flukeish to North Carolina.  Florida has battled in the SEC, but still has little offense to match up with the weapons in Tallahassee.  The game at Florida State makes it a tough win for Florida, who is looking forward to the SEC title game.  Seminoles by double digits.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving weekend and rivalry week!  And may the gambling gods be with you!

-JR

College Football Picks - 10/17/2015

Hook'em Horns!

A mediocre week in which two favorites picked to cover (Oklahoma and Georgia) couldn't win straight up.  Combined with TCU barely holding on for a win and it was a downer overall.  But I was glad to see my Longhorns beat those Sooners so it was all worth it.

So far for the season, treading water eeking out a meager profit.

Week of 10/10
Winnings last week: -$130 (2-3)
Winnings to date: +$90 (13-11-1, 3% profit)

There are tons of great games this week, so I'm leaning toward selecting the biggest one from each of the major conferences except the ACC which doesn't have the marquee matchup.  So we go wildcard with Notre Dame vs. USC

Kansas State (+4) vs. Oklahoma (2:30 pm CDT)

Unlike last week, I like the Wildcats at home to cover.  They're always sneaky good at matching up well with teams perceived to have more talent.  And Oklahoma looked bad.  Very bad.  This might inspire them (Stoops rebounds well from losses historically).  But I don't think the Cats lose two in a row at home.

Michigan (-7.5) vs. Michigan State (2:30 pm CDT) - Pick of the Week

The line grew over the week but for good reason.  They haven't allowed points since September 19 and haven't allowed more than 7 since their opener on Labor Day weekend against #4 Utah (a mere 7 point loss).  Sparty has been underwhelming enough to fall to number 7, this is only their second trip away from home (the first a blah win at Rutgers).  Only a TD seems short, Michigan is back.

Alabama (-4.5) vs. Texas A&M (2:30 pm CDT)

Having won two straight against teams that many picked to win their divisions, Alabama rolls into College Station with a bit of an edge.  This game was a blowout last year.  Texas A&M isn't the world beaters at home you might think, didn't win a game last year at Kyle Field.  Alabama has the Aggies number without Manziel.  A TD win would be expected.

Southern California (+6.5) vs. Notre Dame (6:30 pm CDT)

Southern Cal comes in after a crazy week in which they lost their head coach due to behavioral issues.  Notre Dame has lost a lot of their opening day starters and hasn't played that many good teams if you look back (Georgia Tech, Texas, and Navy aren't necessarily blockbuster wins).  Why not the Trojans, sometimes incidents like what happened to Sarkesian pull teams together.  I think they surprise in a hostile environment.

Washington (-3) vs. Oregon (9:30 pm CDT)

Oregon is eroding from within.  With Chip Kelly a few years gone and Marcus Mariota now in the NFL, things aren't what they were.  One year away from playing for the National Championship, the Ducks are ailing.  Washington is improving, close losses to Boise State and Cal, both of whom are poised for 10 win seasons.  Just seems like the Huskies will roll in this one.

Big games, big teams, big conferences.  October.  Enjoy your Saturday!

Sportsman of the Week Ending 1/6/2013

With the first round of NFL playoffs and a feast of college bowls this week, a lot of great athletes to choose from.  Jadeveon Clowney stood head and shoulders above the rest during his play in the Outback Bowl.  While only registering 5 tackles total, his hit on Michigan running back Vincent Smith with the Gamecocks trailing halfway through the 4th Quarter.  Clowney moved so quickly to the backfield to rock Smith the minute he touched the ball, his helmet flew one direction 10 yards, and the ball dribbled by his side, which was promptly palmed by Clowney for the recovery.  All this after a momentum changing first down spot (and curious call) that kept South Carolina in the game, and eventually led to a South Carolina victory in the last 11 seconds.  Crazy that Clowney isn't even draft eligible until 2014, cue the "Suck for Clowney" signs around the NFL next year.

Week 7-8 Upset Specials

I got tied up in board meetings last week, it gets tough making as much dough as I do.

In Week 6, I cleared West Virginia over Texas straight up, adding $350 to my total (after subtracting the other two losses).  So I sat at $300 coming into Week 7.

For Week 7 I'll spare you the details, but I picked (straight up) Miami, Utah, and Louisiana Tech.  All covered, but none won.  So -$3,000 from last week's total puts me at -$2,700.  And 4-15 total.  This isn't going well.

But this is a new week, and all I need is to hit one a few weeks in a row and I'm in the money.

Pick #1
Michigan State (+10, +300) at Michigan
State has dominated this series.  Michigan has beat up on bad teams, but not won a quality game.  State has had nothing but quality games.  Too juicy of a money line to pass up.

Pick #2
New Mexico (+10.5, +315) at Air Force
There's going to be a lot of running this game.  A lot.  Which makes things even.  Air Force has some non-quality losses (Navy, UNLV) while New Mexico has more wins overall, and losses to ranked teams like Texas, Texas Tech, and Boise State.  A lot of money on that line, going with it.

Pick #3
Baylor (+11, +325) at Texas
This one is personal. Texas defense really looks inept, I mean really.  It's going to be a track meet, so either team can win.  And you're going to give me 3:1 on the Bears.  I'm taking it.

Back in the saddle, baby, I think this is a week I hit 2 of 3 and turn this ship around!