It was a week around the Capstone that can best be described as sleepy. That's not a surprise, today's matchup isn't exactly a barn-burner and everyone is looking ahead to "Black Friday" (which is what I hope Auburn fans refer to it for years to come). It was a good week around some corners of campus: Anthony Grant picked up his second win last night, beating the Big East's Providence at home. Elsewhere, the golf team has signed a truly spectactular recruiting class. Coach Jay Seawell has really built a suddenly fantastic men's golf program. Nice work, Coach.

But really, this week is about the calm before the storm. There's no real suspense in this morning's game; Chattanooga lost to Furman, after all. But in the next 14 days, the Tide will play for the National Championship. Last year, it frankly felt a little flukey. I was just happy to be there - and maybe our players were too. But this time, Bama's hungry. It should be a helluva lot of fun.

To the picks!

Last week, our reigining champion (nxojkt) put together a hard charge, and this year's upstart (Glen) faltered. Crump continues in his mediocrity, and I... well, I just keep winning. Standings:

And now, this week's games!

Well, now the suspense for this morning's Moc-Tide matchup!

Ell

This team can't beat Alabama. Seriously, this would be one of the biggest upsets since David beat Golliath. It would be an all-time upset. Ridiculous to consider.

Yes, Bama's players are looking ahead to Auburn, and probably to Florida. The coaches aren't, and unless there's some confusion and they all physically head to Auburn or Atlanta, this will be a snoozer. The only real question is whether Mark Ingram will break some big first half runs to put up gaudy Heisman numbers. Bama wins in a walk.

Glen

Will Bama win? Of course. Will they cover? Beats me, but I wouldn't bet on it. [ED: I've not seen a line on this game - anywhere]

This is a better test for the D than one might think at first blush. UTC lives off the short pass, throwing 61 times last week in the win over Citadel, and a short passing attack gives you your best chance when you are physically overmatched. If the Tide can shut this offense down consistently, that will be impressive.

nxojkt

This is a nice week for Alabama to work on some things that have caused a little trouble, and to get a lot of guys some playing time. The only real question marks are regarding how long certain guy will be in the game - namely Mark Ingram. Will the staff rest him Auburn? or will they let him get his yards in an attempt to bolster his Heisman campaign. My guess is that we will see something in between, but I doubt he'll have 20 carries.

Overall, it should be an easy week for everyone involved. Look for Bama to establish the run quickly, and make it a slow, methodical whipping. There's no need to pour it on. Bama gets up by five touchdowns and then empties the bench.

Crump

Yawn. The only suspense in this one will be if Mark Ingram plays enough to get 100 yards rushing (I say yes because it will probably only take a quarter or two) and how soon Star Jackson comes into the game (Probably not as soon as he should). But wait you might say, UTC has a Tennessee transfer, BJ Coleman, at quarterback so they must be decent. Right? Remember, Coleman couldn't beat out Jonathan Crompton in Knoxville. Ouch.

This game will remind you of an A day game only the competition won't be as strong.

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