Week 1 Scorecast and Predictions (2015)

Synopses:

Jeremy

1. Texas @ Notre Dame - Ultimately I like Charlie Strong to get Texas back on track eventually. I just don't see it happening here. Meanwhile, Brian Kelly has Notre Dame back on track and it sounds as if Malik Zaire is the real deal. I think Texas holds on for a while but their inability to score is what will eventually be the difference. Notre Dame 27-13

2. Wisconsin vs. Alabama - It's tempting to pick Whisky here. But again, Alabama's defense is the key. Wisconsin's offense isn't up-tempo Auburn or even Ohio State here. Give Nick Saban a lot of time to prepare for a game and he's usually ready (last two bowl games excluded). He wants to make a statement against a good opponent here.  Alabama 31-17 

3. Ohio State @ Virginia Tech - Much like the above game, I want to take the Hokies. I really do. Lane Stadium is no easy place to play a night game and after last year's upset of the Buckeyes on the road, expectations will be high. But, I've seen Urban Meyer in revenge games. Especially when his team is loaded. This game has been marked on his calendar for a year now. I think he'll turn the dogs loose. Ohio State 34-14

4. Louisville vs. Auburn - Obviously I've been itching to go with the underdog for more than one game. I finally found the one I'm pulling the trigger on. Auburn is super talented and Louisville will be breaking in a new QB and defensive backfield. But that doesn't mean the Cardinals don't have talent. They could contend in the ACC if everything pans out. Let's not forget, that new defensive backfield has seen Auburn before and Bobby Petrino always seems to find a QB. The Tigers win but the I'll take the Fighting Grantham's and the points in this one. Auburn  34-27


Brian

1. Texas @ Notre Dame - Malik Zaire and Notre Dame looked impressive toward the end of last season. Not really sure what to expect from Texas, but with the game being played in South Bend, I'll take the Irish. Notre Dame 31-21

2. Wisconsin vs. Alabama - Alabama has the most question marks at the beginning of the season in quite some time. The Tide are replacing Sims at QB and the starting WRs from last season. However, Wisconsin is replacing Melvin Gordon, who was huge chunk of their offense. I like the Tide in this one. Alabama 31-10

3. Ohio State @ Virginia Tech - "Enter Sandman" and Lane Stadium will be rocking on Monday night. The Hokies handed the Buckeyes their lone loss last season. I expect Ohio State to have a slight National Championship hangover, but they will ultimately win the game (even though I don't think they will cover the spread). Ohio State 27-21

4. Louisville vs. Auburn - I undoubtedly think Auburn is the better team and will be one of the best teams in the country this season. However, often, really good coaches have their teams playing significantly better in year two. This is Petrino's second year at Louisville; so, I expect the Cardinals to battle Auburn down to the wire. Auburn sneaks out of Atlanta with an opening victory. Auburn 35-31

Keppel

1. Texas @ Notre Dame - I can't get things squared away at the office. I'll take Notre Dame. 

2. Wisconsin vs. Alabama - My car insurance is due soon. Alabama wins. 

3. Ohio State @ Virginia Tech - I hate the dentist. Buckeyes roll. 

4. Louisville vs. Auburn - Turn off the oven. Auburn wins.