Race for number two in college ball is one to watch
Andy Lindberg '08
Issue date: 11/29/06 Section: Sports
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On Nov. 18, number one Ohio State played number two Michigan in the second one vs. two match-up of the season.
In the end, Ohio State pulled out a squeaker of a win, 42-39. That may have been the end result, but the game itself consisted of the championship-caliber play of two very good football teams.
Michigan quarterback Chad Henne played very well, and runningback Mike Hart was phenomenal. But Michigan's efforts weren't enough, as Troy Smith practically engraved his own name in the Heisman trophy with his amazing play. Runningback Antonio Pittman's back-breaking runs in the second half didn't help Michigan's cause either.
While it was made quite apparent that Ohio State is number one and will go to the National Championship game, it is not clear who will play against them. In a huge surprise in the polls - and one I agree with - Michigan is still ranked number two after their outstanding play against Ohio State. However, there are other teams who are pushing for a title bid.
Notre Dame has a great chance to play for a title if they soundly beat USC. Led by senior quarterback and Heisman hopeful Brady Quinn, the Irish stand a fair chance of beating Sunshine Pete and his team. Quinn will probably be the first quarterback taken in the April draft, even over Troy Smith. Senior wide-receiver Jeff Samardjia is Quinn's favorite target and most likely a first round draft choice. Runningback Darius Walker is having a good year, and hard-hitting safety Tom Zbikowski adds power and fear to a tough defense.
USC is still in the title hunt for the fourth year in a row, even after losing Matt Leinart and Reggie Bush. Quarterback John David Booty is putting up solid numbers and the running of a coalition of young runningbacks is helping to pave the way for them to play OSU in the title game. They are currently .07 points back after taking the number two slot from Michigan, and a win over rival Notre Dame would likely seal a title bid for USC. Plus, they have the great advantage of playing Notre Dame at the Colosseum.
Arkansas is currently ranked sixth, but with a USC loss and Notre Dame playing sloppy, the Razorbacks may be able to slip in, especially if they pull off a big win in the SEC championship game against the Florida Gators.
Once again, this year goes to show how well a playoff system would work in Division-1 college football. Either way, the race for number two will be fun to watch.
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