Benster and D Pick Your Games -- Badgers Have No Pressure Edition

Hi there, folks! We're going early because D and I are on assignment this weekend. 

Yes, very hush hush.

Should we give them a hint?

Sure. Try this:

Tell your mama, tell your pa, I'm gonna send you back to Arkansas

So how are you gonna send me back to someplace I've never been?

After we get there, you'll know.

Okay, old dude. Whatever ya say. What'd you say? Last week went very well for both the Badgers and the Packers. And we got to laugh at the Bears yet again thanks to the Vikings. You really hate to see it. 

I'm surprisingly okay with it, actually.

 Wisconsin ain't in as bad a position as you might think on Saturday, just saying. I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYYYPPPEEEEE! and ready to pick some games. Watch me work. 

Beloved Wisconsin Badgers (+20.5) vs. Alabama Crimson Tide The Badgers struggled a bit against the MTSU Blue Raiders, but got their crap together in the second half. Now, I am not going to lie to you and say that going down to Tuscaloosa is going to be easy. We all know that Alabama is very good, and that they destroyed the Badgers up in Madison a year ago. But I sense that there are issues. Remember, Wisconsin is a heavy underdog with nothing to lose. The spoiled Tide fans and boosters are already angry at Kalen Deboer after what happened against the Noles a couple weeks ago, and should the Badgers hang in there and keep it close, the Alabama fans are going to be nervous and direct a lot of anger towards them. I also get the sense that this Wisconsin team is a lot better then what people are thinking. To steal a quote from Florida State, Nick Saban can't save you now. Don't be surprised if Wisconsin pulls off an upset. I am getting the same feeling that I had when Wisconsin played Villanova in the 2017 NCAA tournament. Badgers 31, Tide Rolled 14. 

Cool story, bro. I think that was the lingo at some point in this century. The Badgers look better than they did at the end of last season, but that doesn't mean they're ready for Alabama. Tide 34, Bucky 17.

  Minnesota Golden Elite Rowers of the Boat (-2.5) vs. Cal Golden Bears The Gophers frankly did what was expected against Northwestern State. PJ didn't run up the score or anything, but he probably was glad to see his backups get a lot of playing time. What is concerning is that Darius Taylor went down, and that is going to be a huge storyline for the Gophers given that the Gophers love to be a physical team. Cal is stuck in the ACC because conference realignment has gone too far, but that is a discussion for another time. I think that Cal is going to be tough, but the Gophers should win a tight one as the Gophers have more support for their football team and Aaron Rodgers isn't there to save you. Row Row Row Your Boat Elitely 23, Golden Bears 22. 

I don't have a good feel for Cal, because they haven't been a factor in football in a real sense in over a half century. They do have some talent, but on balance the Gophers have more. And absent any other obvious differences, talent will win out. Gophers 27, Cal 20.

 Washington Commanders (+3) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers It was really great to see the Packers win in such impressive fashion. The new look defense looked amazing, Jordan Love looked in command and let the game come to him, and order seems to be getting closer to be restored with the NFC North. However, the Commanders are going to be a tough test. Jayden Daniels is a very good quarterback, and this Commanders team has been very impressive. Also, Thursday Night Football games that are not Week 1 or on Thanksgiving are a terrible idea, but the NFL can't quit the Amazon bag. This should be fairly high scoring, but Micah Parsons is going to make a key play late. Having him in Green and Gold might be like what getting Reggie White was to the older generation of Packers fans. Packers 45, Commanders 34. 

It was an impressive performance, but I wonder if Detroit hasn't taken a step back. Washington is a good team and they have weapons. Daniels is elusive, much more so than statue-like Jared Goff. I do think the Packers will be able to move the ball on whatever the hell they're calling Washington these days. So your high-scoring thought may have merit. Packers 31, Washington 27.

Hotlanta Falcons (+3) vs. Minnesota Vikings So Mrs. D aka Mom was really happy with how things went on Monday. I thought that the Vikings do deserve more credit for making some adjustments and taking advantage the LOL Bears moments. Also, the NFL needs to change the ruling on the last play. DJ Moore didn't fumble. One interesting thing is that this matchup is a QB rematch of the Michigan-Washington matchup in Penix and McCarthy. The Vikings are going to be fired up and are going to continue building up what they are working on. Maybe they want to prove me wrong for wanting to trade McCarthy for draft picks? Vikings 21, Falcons 10. 

Vikings got it together. McCarthy could have folded but he didn't. I don't know what to think about Atlanta, either. Game is here, so I think that makes the difference. Vikings 24, Falcons 19.

 I'll try and enjoy Arkansas this weekend. Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out.

Benster and D Pick Your Games---Who Replaces Joe Barry Edition?

Seriously, I've had enough of Joe Barry. His performance on Sunday was a complete joke, and it's getting to the point that the Packers need to fire every single one of the defensive coaches. The guy has been given plenty of time, resources, and power to mold this defense. It's not working, and you need to pull the plug.

Oh, so we're back to firing again?

Yes, we are.

Well, I'm glad you're being somewhat more selective in your dismissals.

I may be an irrational, shameless homer, but I try to be reasonable about it. Meanwhile, the Vikings are up a creek right now. JJ really came back for this?

It's next man up, ya know.

That's what I'm talkin' about.

I'd ask what the heck you were doing, but it's clearly not contributing anything positive to this feature.

My work is done, then.

No, you still have to pick some games. Meanwhile, I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYPPPEEEEEEEEE! Watch me work.

Beloved Wisconsin Badgers (+10) vs. LSU Tigers, in Tampa The Badgers have had an up and down season, but the good news is that this team got into a New Years Day game somehow. By the way, the tailgating is going to be an incredible scene. It sucks that there are a ton of opt outs/portal guys in this game. I realize why, but with NIL the money excuse doesn't fly as much. That is a topic for another day, though. The Badgers are going to have to slow down LSU's offense, but the good news is that the Tigers are not a great defensive team. This should be a close one, but the Badgers hopefully can continue their bowl winning streak. Badgers 35, Bayou Bengals 23.

LSU is far more talented. They don't have their Heisman-winning quarterback, though. Not sure who the Badgers will have going, but historically the Badgers play well in bowl games. Is it enough? LSU 27, Wisconsin 20.

Alabama Crimson Tide (+1.5) vs. Michigan Sign Stealers, in Pasadena It's a shame that this wasn't a Michigan-Washington game as an end of an era game, but that's just another thing that the committee screwed up in picking this game. Alabama has gotten a lot better, but Michigan wants to take the next step and play for a national title before the NCAA goes after Harbaugh and he flees to the NFL like Pete Carroll did. With the Big Ten-SEC cold war heating up next year when they start their new look forms, look for Michigan to use their great defense and more experienced quarterback to at least have a championship game that doesn't involve the SEC. Jim Harbaugh Can't Win On A Level Playing Field 28, CFP Committee's Favorite Team 14.

Alabama is getting the hype. Not sure why, though. They haven't won that impressively this year and while the talent level remains stellar, it's not clear they have better talent than The Victors. Michigan 27, Alabama 17.

Texas Longhorns (-4) vs. Washington Huskies, in New Orleans Ah yes, the unofficial other Big Ten-SEC semifinal. Texas might be back, but they are going to go to a tougher neighborhood and a third conference to cause a ton of drama. Washington is a legit team, and I look forward to having them join the Big Ten next year. What makes me like Washington in this game is that they are tough, and won all of their games in the toughest conference in America and beat the Ducks twice. Their defense is very good, and their offense is very explosively deadly. Even though this might be a partisan Longhorn crowd in New Orleans, look for the Huskies to try and get back to the Don James mold in winning big games. Huskies 49, Texas Isn't Back, Folks 48.

Washington has quietly been awesome all year long. They have everything they need to win. And so they shall. Washington 31, Texas 23.

Glorious Green Bay Packers (+1) vs. Minnesota Vikings So in the interest of full disclosure, I ended up  watching the Packers game and missed almost all of the Vikings game last week. When you give up 30 points to Panthers of all teams, you know that the defense is bad, and the Packers were bailed out by the offense and the clock running out in the nick of time. Jaire Alexnder was right to be suspended, as you can't just walk out to the coin toss and almost screw it up. Don't worry, Vikings fans. Jaren Hall will look like an elite quarterback and it wouldn't surprise me if Joe Barry's 5D chess brain will have Preston line up against JJ. But the good news is that the Packers will overcome that to win a game, because the Vikings history tells us that in big games, they don't often win. Sorry, you know it's true. Packers 24, Vikings 17.

I have no idea who wins. I would recommend betting the over, though. Vikings 35, Packers 33.

So, who replaces Joe Barry? This list is who I want to, and is in no particular order.

Jim Knowles: Defensive coordinator at Ohio State. While he has been mostly a college coach, I like how tough minded he is and how he was able to find success at Oklahoma State given that the Cowboys play in an offensive league in the Big 12.

Jim Leonhard: Analyst at Illinois. While he doesn't have any pro coaching experience, he has developed a lot of good defensive players at Wisconsin, and brings a lot of the Rex Ryan scheme with him.

Daniel Bullocks: Safeties coach for the Niners. He is someone who is considered and up and comer and has been a big part of the success that the Niners have had on defense. Would be a good hire.

Chris Hewitt: Secondary coach for the Ravens. Ravens have had a great defense this year, and Hewitt could view this as a promotion given that the Ravens are very stable in terms of coaches leaving. His defensive backs are fundamentally sound. 

Sean Desai: Defensive coordinator for the Eagles. With Desai having been demoted from the defensive playcaller role, it wouldn't surprise me if he might leave the Eagles. Would be a fresh voice and someone who would have learned from his first year being a coordinator. 

Mike Zimmer: Analyst at Colorado. He has a point to prove given how his time with the Vikings ended, and is a great defensive mind. Tough coach, and wants to be in the NFL in 2024. Why not come back to the NFC North?

Bringing Zimmer to Green Bay would be pretty amusing, actually. Don't see it happening. Desai might be a guy to bring in, but I'd suggest waiting until after the season ends. There may be a better option out there that's not on your list. But we'll see. Just don't bring in Uncle Rico.

Oh, I won't. That's the list. Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games----Zimmer's Last Ride? Edition

Old dude, it's quite possible that the Mike Zimmer era could be ending against the Bears at US Bank Stadium on Sunday. But I thought that the Vikings were going to win last week? Even the KFAN approved Vikings hosts like Meatsauce, PA, and Bumper to Bumper told me so. 

What did that damned Benster write about me this week?

Now you're just trolling, Benster. But that's okay. Trolling is fun. And yeah, Zim appears to be dead coach walking now.

You love to see it. You also loved to see the Packers clinch home field a week early. 

It does make things more comfortable. But that's a double-edged sword. The last time the Packers came in feeling fat and sassy, the Saints handed them their asses.

True. But know this much -- I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYYPPPEEE! and am ready to talk about some games. It is time to watch me work. 

Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck (+5.5) vs. Minnesota Vikings Remember when Bears fans claimed that the NFC North was run by the Bears? Pepperidge Farm remembers. Matt Nagy and Ryan Pace should stick in their jobs. I've said it before, they have done a great job running the Bears. As for the Vikings, I'll be talking more about Kirk later, but testing positive wasn't Kirk's fault. All credit to the Vikings fans for being just has hard on Kirk as they were on Aaron earlier in the year. I wouldn't be surprised if both teams go in different directions on Black Monday, but who would be the right people to lead a rebuild? This game is going to be a bit odd. Nobody has anything to play for, and I think it might be slightly more open than most people think. Vikings 26, Bears 23.

It puzzles me a bit, but the Bears seem to be playing better the last few weeks. Maybe the team wants to save Nagy. I agree -- I'm all for it. The Bears haven't had a real GM since Jim Finks and we won't belabor the quarterback jokes. As for the Purple, last week's performance was, well, pathetic. I can't prove the team quit on Zim, but it sure seemed that way. I should pick the Vikings here, but it feels like the Bears are more motivated. Therefore, Bears 24, Vikings 20.

Glorious Green Bay Packers (-3.5) vs. Detroit LOLions Meanwhile, the Packers have nothing to play for. It might have been a strange journey, but the Packers have the top seed clinched, and have the luxury of choosing to be careful. I personally would have sat Aaron to give him another week of rest for the toe, but that would have insulted Hub Arkush. When Mike Florio calls you out for hating on Aaron, that is something. I was also glad to see that some of the injuries are starting to heal, and that the Packers have fresh legs. This game has worried me for about a month. On an intellectual level, I see that the LOLions are terrible. But they have clearly fought hard for their coach, and played a lot of teams tough. In Week 2, they gave the Packers a lot of problems in the first half at Lambeau. I think the Packers will win, but it won't be easy, especially when the regulars get their bye week started. Packers 31, LOLions 17.

If you had told me at the beginning of the year that the Lions would look like the second most stable franchise in the division by the end of the year, I wouldn't have believed you. But here we are. The Lions are set up well for success for the first time in, well, 65 years. Extra draft picks and some nice pieces in place; if they don't blow it completely, the Lions could rule the division in a few years. But then again, they are the Lions. Packers 28, Lions 24.

Georgia Bulldogs (-2.5) vs. Alabama Crimson Tide, in Indy Oh great, another SEC vs. SEC title game that nobody asked for. The only redeeming factor to this Big Ten loyalist is that this game will be in Big Ten country, which is something that I have been advocating for years. If college football is to grow and prosper, it's time that the Big Ten get the chance to play games in locations favorable to us and our fans, who have been good soldiers in traveling to SEC, ACC, Big XII, and Pac 12 country for bowl games for years. Georgia laid an egg in Atlanta a month ago, and I'm sure that Kirby Smart has been very clear about reminding the Bulldog players of  that fact. It is hard to beat a good team twice in one season in college football. As much as I want both teams to lose, that isn't possible. If Georgia wins, then at least someone new wins, which could be healthy. If Georgia loses, then at least Bulldogs fans can console themselves with the Braves? Hate Feeds the Dawg 35, Can't Nick Saban Retire Already 34.

I agree -- it's not good for the college game if the SEC keeps dominating, but it's up to the other schools to get better. Georgia looked like a complete juggernaut against Michigan, but they have a mental block where the Tide is concerned. Can they break through? I'd like it, but. . . . Alabama 38, Georgia 29.

It's time for A Very Special Comment, and it's not another rant about why the SEC is evil or why they will rue the day they invited the Longhorns into the league. The Vikings are at a crossroads, and it's clear that Kirk Cousins is at the center of it. Now, I'm not a Vikings fan, and I have no emotional attachment to Kirk. That being said, Mike Zimmer and Rick Spielman haven't done a great job in giving Kirk the best chance to win. Zimmer clearly has struggled to keep offensive coordinators, even allowing for losing two to head coaching jobs. John DeFilippo wasn't the right fit, but he was hired in part to improve the offense, and they showed promise. He was right to hand the keys of the offense to Kirk, and to attempt to build an offense around what Kirk does best. Zimmer just wants to run the ball, and as we saw at Lambeau when that fails he is screwed. Also, how come Kirk doesn't have full control of the two minute drill? If Kirk is at the level of an Aaron, Brady, and Mahomes, then he should get more trust in him. Klint Kubiak is a nepotism hire, and the offense is a pale imitation of his dad's. Justin Jefferson might force his way out, as he seems frustrated with the offense at times. 

Rick Spielman has been around since the Triangle of Authority days. While it is true that Spielman has drafted plenty of great players, he hasn't done a good job in getting Kirk the help he needs. Spielman can't draft offensive linemen, and seems to draft a ton of defensive backs in recent years. That is despite defense not being the problem for the Vikings. He also should have told Zimmer in no uncertain terms that Kirk was brought here to get the Vikings over the hump because he thought that Case Keenum couldn't. As much as Vikings fans hate to admit it, the Packers show what can happen when you build around a quarterback when you want to get over the hump. They hired an offensive coach to work with Aaron, got him more weapons on offense, and have improved their relationship with the quarterback since the summer. Why can't the Vikes do the same?

I don't usually say much about your Very Special Comments, but in the case I'd simply observe that Spielman has picked a bajillion defensive backs because that's what his head coach wanted. And I would also add the Packers have spent more draft capital on defensive backs than any other position in recent years, mostly in vain. Having a great quarterback cures many ills and the Packers have had consecutive Hall of Famers. Having grown up with David Whitehurst and the petrified remains of John Hadl, I remain eternally grateful for the efforts of ol' number 4 and Mr. Rodgers.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games----Badgers Got It Done Edition

 That was a pretty solid win for the Badgers earlier this morning. Thanks for scheduling a game at 9:30 at night local time, ESPN. 

What happens in Vegas should be broadcast very late at night, if at all. But a W is a W.

Oh well, at least it was only one game. The Packers game also got more interesting in the process of writing this post. 

It did, now didn't it? You can't spell COVID without Cousins, apparently.

I am feeling the HYYYYYYYYYYPPEEEE, and it is time to watch me work.

Cincinnati Bearcats (+13.5) vs. Alabama Crimson Tide, in JerryWorld The committee did the proper thing and gave the Bearcats a well-earned slot in the playoff. I personally think they should be ranked as the top seed, as they have been the only team in FBS to not slip up in a game. When I saw them against Notre Dame and in the AAC title game against Houston, they really impressed me. Desmond Ridder is a really good quarterback, and they are well-coached. But they are getting no love from the folks in the desert. We all know how good Alabama is, and Nick Saban won't be overlooking Cincy. No matter what happens, this Cincinnati team has changed the narratives in college football surrounding underdogs in a way that no team since Urban Liar's 2004 Utah team with Alex Smith did. Bearcats 35, Tide 34.

I would love to see Cincinnati pull this off, but I don't think they will. Alabama really should join the NFL and be done with it. Tide 42, Bearcats 24.

Georgia Bulldogs (-7.5) vs. Michigan Wolverines, in Miami Oddly, Georgia and Michigan have only met twice. You'd think that they would have played in a bowl game or something, but they haven't crossed paths that much. Georgia is coming off a bad performance in the SEC title game. Now, I don't think Georgia belongs in the playoff. Quite simply, if you aren't the best team in your conference, then you can't be the best team in the country. Nothing against Georgia, but I have to be consistent. Michigan is a team that is peaking at the right time, as their two best performances have been against Iowa and A School In Columbus in their last two games. And don't forget that Georgia does have a tendency to choke in big games, which is damning for Kirby Smart. Michigan 50, Georgia 10.

This game should be quite interesting, actually. Michigan has really surprised me this year; there was no indication coming into this season that they could get so much better. It's worth remembering where the Wolverines were last season:

That 2020 Michigan team was, well, inept. This year, things changed completely. It's been an amazing transformation. Can they beat Georgia? Yes. Will they? Georgia 28, Michigan 23.

Minnesota Vikings (+7) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers I am pretty sure that this line will change, because Kirk did test positive for the virus this morning. This is bad news for the Vikings, as that means that the Packers are going to probably put a bunch of guys in the box to slow down Dalvin. It wasn't a pretty game on Christmas for the Pack, but a win is always appreciated. Unlike the last meeting, this time the Packers will be a lot more healthy. While I do think the Vikings will keep it close as they are fighting for their collective lives, the Packers should pull away late. Packers 31, Vikings 14.

Dalvin is going to see 8 in the box for sure. All day long. Sean Mannion is not going to beat the Packers on a historically cold day in Lambeau. Packers 24, Vikings 10.

Arizona Cardinals (+6) vs. Dallas How Bout Them Cowboahs? Because the Cowboys are the main competition for the Packers in the race for the 1 seed in the NFC, it makes sense to pick this game. Now, I am a huge Cowboys hater. I really dislike Jerry Jones, hate the media cheerleaders like Skip Bayless who always overhype the Cowboys every single year, and find that the Cowboys fanbase has a lot in common with the Lakers fanbase in terms of the number of bandwagon jumpers. At least the Cowboys don't have Lebron, so they don't get the Lebron bandwagon fans. That being said, the Cowboys looked really good against the Gridlocks last week. Arizona is a team that is just tough to figure. They look great for a bit, and then they look just horrible the next week. Maybe call it an overreaction on my part, but after the Packers beat them in Arizona against all odds, how are the Cardinals real contenders? But they have a chance to redeem themselves. Please shut Skip up for a week. That's all I ask. Cardinals 21, The Accident Waiting To Happen 0.

It appears the Cowboys are on the upswing and the Cardinals are collapsing. But the NFL is all about odd narratives, so. . . Cardinals 24, Cowboys 21.

Enjoy the New Year this weekend, and enjoy your football. Ben out. 

Benster and D Pick Your Games -- Dreams/Nightmares Edition

Old dude, the Vikings are 60 minutes away from the land of dreams, hoping to erase the memory of the Philly fans tormenting them and placing the Iggles into the dustbin of history. Dreams can come true, but dreams can also tatter into nightmares. Should the Vikings lose and the Eagles win, their dreams will be shattered, and the hot takes will be burning.

Souhan already has a sack of Kingsford in his shed for the occasion.

I imagine that these takes will make a certain former sportswriter shudder.

I'm not certain I know which sportswriter, but why choose?

I'm feeling the HYYYYYYYYYPPPPPEEEE!, and am ready to talk both pro and college. Watch me work.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish (+12.5) vs. Clemson Tigers, at Jerry World. Notre Dame feels that they are the underdog. A lot of people will disagree, because the Irish have a sense of entitlement that is hilarious to me. To be fair, they beat everyone they had to this year and belong in the playoffs based on that fact. Clemson has been around forever and are less annoying, but they always seem to win and it would be great to have a little bit of diversity in national title contenders. No team has a divine right to anything in sports. I think the Irish are better equipped to win this game because they don't have to answer questions about drug samples every 10 seconds. Irish 31, Tigers 23.

I think you hit the issue in the last sentence, Seabiscuit. Clemson is going to be missing some key players on defense, especially the mountainous Dexter Lawrence. This is a better Notre Dame team than we've seen in a while, but I'm not convinced they are good enough to beat Clemson. Clemson 28, Notre Dame 21.

Chokelahoma Boomer Sooners (+14) vs. The Crimson Tide Of Alabama. As a Packers fan, I will be watching this game with great interest. I really don't care about either team, but Lincoln Riley and Nick Saban are rumored candidates for the next head coach of the Packers. In the interest of full disclosure, I would prefer Alabama to lose so that Saban can come to Green Bay and start The Process. The Tide have a quarterback controversy again, and were lucky to escape Atlanta with their lives. I know that A School in Columbus is mad that they got screwed out of the playoffs. However, if you lose badly at Purdue, you have zero right to complain. I like Oklahoma in this one, even though Oklahoma historically has their fans down in the really important games. Oklahoma 45, Nick Saban to Green Bay? 21.

I've heard those rumors as well. This is the better of the two playoff games. Alabama is like a monster at the end of a slasher movie -- you swear they're dead, but somehow they survive. I don't think there's a controversy per se, but I wonder if Jalen Hurts doesn't see a grad transfer season in his future. Oklahoma can score. Alabama can stop you from scoring. Something's gotta give. Alabama 31, Oklahoma 28.

Detroit LOLions (+9) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers. If you call yourself a Packers fan and quit watching in the fourth quarter last week, please hand your fan identification card into your local Packer Fan Club branch. The Packers fought against long odds, and are a lot better than their record says they are. To all the loyal Packers fans who did not quit on the team last week, you are the real fans and should be commended for your loyalty. This team has shown true grit and determination, something that could lead to the start of something better. I think the Packers should win because they are all playing for their jobs. Packers 31, LOLions 0.

So I hear Matt Patricia might be in trouble in Detroit. Seems to show up late for his own meetings. The Lions have deteriorated this season and it's becoming evident that firing Jim Caldwell after last season was a mistake. The Packers had a nice rally last week against a dismal Jets team. Does it mean better days are ahead? I'm skeptical about that. But the Packers will beat the Lions this week. Packers 34, Lions 24.

Bear Down Chicago Da Bearz Still Suck (+5) vs. Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings fan I talked to claims to not be nervous. That's the right take, but I can see why Vikings fans are nervous. They need to win here or have the Eagles lose against the Gridlocks to make the playoffs. Gino would like to remind you that Bears NFC North champions gear is available at a store near you in the Chicago area, though I want to remind you that the Bears did not sweep the Packers despite holding a 20-0 lead in the fourth quarter of the first meeting. Da Bearz are playing for a playoff bye this week, and they won't lie down at all. Should the Vikings lose this game, there is going to be a lot of sniping in the media around here if they miss the playoffs. I want to watch the world burn, and I am a simple man. Da Bearz Still Suck 24, Vikings 10.

I take Henry Kissinger's stance about this game -- it's a shame they both can't lose. Desperate team at home wins, but the Bears take their revenge in Chicago next week. Vikings 23, Bears 17.

Enjoy your football this weekend. Ben out.

Benster and D Pick Your Games -- London Calling Edition

Old dude, the Vikings are over in London, hoping to enjoy their trip by beating the Cleveland Browns.

The Browns? They're still in the league? I assumed they were playing Chelsea.

Tickets would be too expensive, Geritol Fan.

I suppose you're right.

This game is starting way too early for Vikings fans. Why can't they just play it at noon so it can be in prime time for the folks in London, and we can get football on at a normal time?

Well, do you really want to watch them?

Good point.

I have them sometimes.

Don't flatter yourself. Anyway, back over here, we have more football games to discuss, and a rant from me about why the so called experts are giving one undefeated team a bad message of disrespect. So feel the HYYYYYPPPEEE! and watch me work!

Minnesota Golden Elite Boat Rowers (+7) vs. Iowa Hawkeyes. It is the battle for Floyd of Rosedale, and the Gophers are hoping to win a trophy game to prove that they can row the boat with the best of the elite. Mr. Fleck has struggled in Year 1, as he has not had a huge victory yet, and Iowa is a team that would be a pretty decent win. However, the Hawkeyes are tough to play in Iowa City, and are always going to be game opponents. I like Iowa in this matchup, as the Big Ten West teams continue to knock themselves off while the lead dogs stay the course. Hawkeyes 21, Gophers 14.

Far as I can tell, the Gophers still don't have a quarterback. That's a bad scenario in Kinnick Stadium. I think Iowa rolls in this one. Iowa 34, Gophers 13.

Beloved Wisconsin Badgers (-27.5) vs. Illinois Fighting Illini. All right, time for a Very Special Comment. The Badgers are undefeated and are in great shape and should be viewed as a top 4 contender. The media would have you think differently, because they are biased and do not like Wisconsin. Why? Because Wisconsin is not a blue blood program, nor have they received the respect they have earned. Alabama, Penn State, and Georgia are undefeated and have gotten a lot of love, but outside of Georgia winning at South Bend, what have those teams done this year? The SEC is down, and Alabama's best win out of conference is a bad Florida State team. Penn State has not played a difficult game all year, and they likely can lose at Columbus this weekend. Some more food for thought, why is a one loss Clemson team even being talked about as a contender this year, when they lost to freaking Syracuse on the road? The Badgers get panned for playing a soft schedule, but they won double digit games against a very difficult schedule a year ago, and Barry Alvarez has scheduled quality opponents in recent years like LSU, Notre Dame, Virginia Tech, Washington State, and UCLA. Isn't this what the powers that be in the sport want? Why is Jonathan Taylor, who is having an amazing freshman season, not getting more love for the Heisman? It is a complete joke that the Badgers get panned for scheduling a cross country trip to a very respected football program in BYU and get crapped on because this is the year BYU decides to suck? Meanwhile, Clemson loses to a bad team in conference, Alabama gets credit for beating bad Florida State team, and those programs get a free pass for it? What a freaking joke that Wisconsin, a team who has won multiple conference titles this decade and has proven that they are a consistent threat every year getting panned? Why? The reason is because Wisconsin does not seek credit for doing it, and because their program is based on doing their job and not playing a flashy game. The college football media is really doing a disservice to the fans, and what makes it worse is that the Big Ten is not promoting the success the Badgers are having in getting good players into the program, kids who are good human beings and very good college students.

Now that I got that rant out of my system, Illinois is a team that the Badgers always get a tough game from, and I expect that the Badgers will not blow them out. I like the Badgers, and I hope that the powers that be really take a long look in the mirror and give Paul Chryst, Alex Hornibrook, Jonathan Taylor, T.J. Edwards, Jim Leonhard, and Barry Alvarez the credit they deserve and move them up into the 4th slot in the next rankings. Wisconsin vs. Everyone 45, Illinois 27.

I take your point, Benster, but the Badgers need to be more flashy to get the attention of the silly people in the national media. You know what gets the attention of the media? A beatdown, that's what. Wisconsin 77, Illinois 0.

Penn State Nittany Lions (+6) vs. A School in Columbus. This game matches the other two Big Ten contenders, and for Ohio State, this game is the big one. Ohio State has not been challenged since Oklahoma had the stones to not only win, but plant their flag in the middle of Ohio Stadium. Penn State has not really had a win against a good team, but since they are a brand name program and have a coach that is respected and plays the game with the media, they still get a pass. This game is going to be physical, and I expect Penn State to get enough plays in order to eliminate Ohio State from the playoff, and to set them up for a run at the Big Ten Championship Game and a national title. Penn State 17, O-H-N-O 9.

I have no idea how to pick this one. Penn State looked very good against Michigan, but it's possible Michigan is a mirage this season. Ohio State is playing lights out football right now and the game is in Columbus. So we disagree. Ohio State 38, Penn State 27.

Cornell College Rams (NL) vs. Knox College Prarie Fire. The Fire are having their Homecoming celebrations this weekend, meaning that all the alums are back and looking for a win. Cornell is not the greatest outfit, and Knox has been very good at home this year. I like Knox to win again, and continue the fun I have had at games this year. Fire 31, Rams 17.

Knox is having a pretty good year, actually. I think they win a close one. Knox 24, Cornell 21.

Minnesota Vikings (-9.5) vs. Cleveland Browns, in London. The NFL continues to try and export the league over to folks in the United Kingdom, but why are they sending the Browns? That is like having the Premier League send Brighton and Hove Albion over to play a match against Newcastle in the Rose Bowl. That is not a shot, but it does not seem like good marketing. The Vikings are going to be fine, considering that they are a game up in the North, and Aaron Rodgers is doing rehab and will not be playing until December. I like the Purple's chances in this one, but don't let Anthony Barr tell whomever the Browns quarterback is that he is number one. Vikings 34, Clowns 0.

I think Brighton and Hove Albion would be a tougher matchup. Vikings cruise, but trouble awaits later on. Vikings 28, Browns 7.

Enjoy your weekend of football and if the media and the playoff committee have issues with my brutal message of truth and wisdom, you are welcome to debate me. Ben out!

Benster and D Pick Your Games -- Wild Card HYYYYYYYYYYYYPPPEE! Edition

Old dude, it's time for the playoffs, and the national championship in college football. There is a lot of HYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYPPPPPEE! going on this weekend.

It's a growth industry, especially at Benster Enterprises. Good you have it, because I'm running a little bit short lately.

I will provide it for both of us. And the Gophers got a new coach, which should be interesting. He already has practice losing to the Badgers.

I wondered why they hired a banjo player:

You've got the wrong Fleck again. Man, you may need to up your Metamucil dosage! But enough talk about the Gophers and P. J. Fleck, it is time to pick some football games. It is time to watch me work!

Oakland Raiders (+3.5) vs. Houston Texans. Oakland is making a return to the playoffs for the first time since Jon Gruden destroyed them in the Super Bowl in 2003. The Raiders looked like they were going to get a bye, but disaster struck when Derrick Carr got lost for the year, and after another QB injury the Raiders have to rely on Connor Cook. The Texans also have QB issues since Tom Savage might not go, meaning that Brock "Waste of Money" Osweiler will have to try and earn the goodwill of Texans fans. Houston has motivation to win the AFC title, since they would make history as the first team to play in and host a Super Bowl in league history. That being said, Connor Cook was a good big game player at Michigan State, and the Raiders are arguably the best team in the AFC outside of New England. Raiders 35, Texans 17.

Tough spot for both teams. I'm not sure Cook is ready for this assignment. Osweiler is problematic, but he does have some experience. That should be enough. Texans 17, Raiders 13.

Detroit LOLions (+8) vs. Seattle Seachickens. Detroit is a team that looked like they were going to easily win the NFC North 7 weeks ago. However, as I have said repeatedly, it is questionable if they are actually as good as their record, or if they have simply been good at winning close games. Seattle has looked questionable all year, with offensive line issues that make me wonder if they should have spent more money on the offensive line instead of on other players. With no Tyler Lockett in this game, look for Seattle to finally lose a home playoff game and have all the bandwagon fans leave. LOLions 56, Seachickens 8.

I'd love to see it happen, but I don't think it will. The Seahawks are flawed this season, especially without Earl Thomas available, but the Lions have been fading down the stretch. I think it's close, but I think the homestanding Seahawks advance. Seahawks 21, Lions 17.

Miami Tuna Net Victims (+8) vs. Pittsburgh Steelers. The Dolphins got arguably the most difficult assignment of any playoff team so far. Pittsburgh really looks to be peaking at the right time, and with the weather looking like it is going to be cold, Le'Veon Bell is going to be the key person to watch. I think that if Bell has more than 100 total yards from scrimmage and Pittsburgh has at least a touchdown lead, Miami is going back down to South Beach in disgrace. Warm weather or dome teams do not do well in the cold. Steelers 45, Sorry, Charlie 0.

Your theory about warm weather teams is correct. Especially those who might not have their starting quarterback. Pittsburgh could be in the Super Bowl. For that to happen, clearly they need to win this weekend. Not a problem. Steelers 34, Dolphins 14.

New York Football Giants (+4.5) vs. Glorious Green Bay Packers. I am not going to front my audience, because this game makes me nervous. The last two times the Giants have come to Lambeau at playoff time, they came out with a win. And just like 2007 and 2011, the Packers are considered very real contenders, and the weather is going to be cold. Also, like in 2007 and 2011 the Packers beat the Giants head to head in the regular season. The Packers are running thin in the secondary, and the Giants have looked a lot better in recent weeks compared to their indifferent performance in October in Lambeau. I think the Packers can get through this game, but something just doesn't feel right. Packers 20, Giants 13.

I'm nervous, too. This is the game where Dom Capers has to earn his money. The Giants can attack with Odell Beckham and I'm not sure the Packers defensive backfield can keep up with him. So the secret is to plant Eli Manning on his backside early and often. Julius Peppers, this is your moment. Packers 24, Giants 20.

Clemson Tigers (+6.5) vs. Alabama Crimson Tide. This line seems a wee bit high to me. Alabama is a very good team, but they did struggle a bit offensively against Washington. I said Clemson was going to destroy A School in Columbus, and look what happened. Clemson really looks like the better team and they are motivated to get revenge. Bottom line is this -- Deshaun Watson has experience in big games, while his opposing number Jalen Hurts is only a true freshman, who really has been along for the ride and is more of a game manager. Hurts will have a new playcaller since Lane Kiffin has already moved on to his new job, which is the first monumental mistake Nick Saban has made in a few years. Clemson 45, Alabama 40.

The Alabama defense has been nothing short of awesome all season. This is where they prove it. Clemson is explosive and they rocked Brutus Buckeye good last weekend. This will be a test for Alabama, but I think they are the best team in the land. Alabama 31, Clemson 27.

Enjoy your weekend of fun football, and be sure to pray for the victims of the shooting at the airport in Florida. Ben out!

Benster and D Pick Your Games -- Galesburg Is Waiting Edition

All right old dude, before I mosey on back to Galesburg tomorrow, we have to make some football picks!

It should be a magic moment.

That's right, Geritol Fan. Filled with magic and HYYYYYYYYYPPPPPPPE! And since we're also at the end of 2016, that means we're headed for the national semifinals in college football, where three of the teams deserve to be there, and one does not. We'll get to that particular observation shortly.

So you're bagging on the Washington Huskies, then, huh?

No. I believe they should have been seeded higher, actually. But we'll get to that. First of all, watch me work!

Bear Down Chicago da Bearz (+6.5) vs. Minnesota Vikings. At last, we can put da Bearz out of their misery. Somewhere in California, Gino is coming to grips with yet another losing season and might be considering where it all went wrong. Here's a hint:

But that's just the start

As for Vikings fans, it's been a tough, injury-filled season that started with hope and now ends with some soul-searching. What needs to happen for the Vikings? They need to decide who their quarterback will be for next season, and whether they want to continue the Adrian Peterson Show. I think the Vikings are going to improve next year, but if they don't, there will be a lot of questions about whether the coaching staff and front office are earning their paychecks. Vikings 21, da Bearz 9.

I wonder about the Vikings, too. I suspect they'll get rid of Peterson and hope to find a suitable replacement at some point in the off-season. Chances are there will be players available. The larger question is the one Benster is asking -- do you trust the current staff with the future? If I'm looking for a culprit, I'm not looking at the head coach. Vikings 31, Bears 24.

Glorious Green Bay Packers (-3) vs. Detroit LOLions. Just before Thanksgiving, all the media were writing the obituaries for the Packers. Funny how a month can change one's perspective. The Packers have looked fantastic and are arguably the one team nobody wants to play. Detroit is very good, especially at home, but they've won all of their close games. This is something that's hard to sustain. The LOLions still have to confront their history, which teaches us that they cannot win a big game, at least since 1957. It's not 1957, and this time, Detroit fans will not have to complain about a Hail Mary. Packers 42, LOLions 31.

Shootout! I dunno. I'm still nervous about the Packers defense, which has been taking the ball away but still giving up big plays. If there is a limiting factor in their chances, that would be it. The Lions have become pretty abysmal at running the football, which puts a lot of pressure on Matthew Stafford. Stafford has been quite good this year, but I suspect his broken finger is a larger problem than he's letting on. Meanwhile, Aaron Rodgers is at the top of his game and will remain there. Packers 28, Lions 20.

Cotton Bowl, in Jerryworld -- Beloved Wisconsin Badgers (-7.5) vs. Western Michigan Broncos. Time for a little MACtion for the Badgers. Western Michigan is a sneaky good team and they have not been beaten all year. They handled Northwestern and Illinois and that makes me a bit nervous about them. I wonder if the Badgers even want to be in Dallas, especially after what happened in Indianapolis. If it's any consolation, at least the Badgers didn't get screwed over by the Committee. But we'll get to that. I think the Badgers should win this game, but it won't be easy. Badgers 28, Western Michigan 26.

First, an annoying musical interlude:

Yes, the Badgers are playing the school from Kalamazoo. Will the music play well? I think so. The Broncos are a good team, but the Badgers should be able to wear them down on offense. If the Badgers get to the lead early, it will be a bit of a beatdown. If not, all bets are off. Wisconsin 37, Western Michigan 21.

Peach Bowl, in Atlanta -- Washington Huskies (+13.5) vs. Alabama Crimson Tide. No love for the Huskies? They look pretty good to me! It's no secret that Alabama has been a juggernaut all year, but how much of that is their prowess, and how much of it is beating up on a shockingly weak SEC? I want to see what happens when Alabama gets challenged. When you win for so long, you forget how to pull yourself out of trouble. And I sense some trouble coming. Washington 35, Alabama 7.

Whaddyer, nuts? I can't say I'm an expert on the Huskies, since I haven't seen any of their games this season, but I have seen Alabama and they are a fearsome squad. This season the Pac-12 teams have been doing their best Big XII imitation -- a lot of offense and not much defense. I'm not sure that formula will work against Alabama, who can shut you down and score touchdowns from both sides of the ball. I think Alabama is #1 for a reason. Alabama 34, Washington 20.

Fiesta Bowl, in Glendale, AZ -- A School in Columbus (-3) vs. Clemson Tigers. Oh, I've been waiting for this one. Are you ready for a hot take, old dude? Here's your first clue:

It's getting all Oletangy in here

Ohio State owes the Committee a thank you, because they have no business being in this game. Penn State beat Ohio State head to head, and is the Big Ten Champion. If you're an Ohio State fan, you should accept that you were the inferior team. But of course, it doesn't work that way. Penn State is still the better team, but not the better brand. If I were the president of Ohio State, I would have turned the bid down and done the right thing for the Big Ten. But no. If the Big Ten championship game didn't matter, why was it played? Was it just for laughs? I'm not laughing. The Buckeyes should learn a lesson from this, but they won't. Next time, win your conference and you won't need to get bailed out. Thankfully, Clemson didn't need to rely on the kindness of strangers and should easily win this game. Clemson 56, No-hio State 0.

Hoo boy. This needs to be said:

Not that we have an opinion on the matter...

I'm willing to accept the premise that Penn State should be in the tournament, but 56-0? Naw. That ain't happening, Buckeye hater! I suspect it will be a very entertaining game; you need to make sure you don't trash the hotel room in Galesburg after this happens. Ohio State 27, Clemson 24.

We'll see about that. Happy New Year everybody! Ben out!