Adam Rittenberg

  (1:04 PM)

Hey guys, sorry I'm late. Beanie Wells now doubtful for the game against USC. Not good for the Buckeyes. Let's chat!

Matt (Cincy, OH)

Is it foreal that beanie might not play for the buckeyes now? ESPN just said that he might not play..

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:04 PM)

Matt, he didn't respond well after practicing Wednesday night (took about 20 carries, no contact). OSU coaches feared this might happen, but they expected him to be near 100 percent.

Will J (Portland, OR)

So Beanie is now doubtful for the USC game. How much do you think this will affect the psyche of Ohio St., and in particular the offense?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:05 PM)

It can go both ways, Will. Sometimes a team can come together around this, but the offensive line will have to be better than it was against Ohio. Dan Herron is a strong capable back and Brandon Saine brings speed to the mix, but Beanie definitely looked missed last Saturday

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:05 PM)

Also big for QB Todd Boeckman to rally the group.

Edwin from Washington D.C.

I was at the first two Penn State games and have to agree with #7 Anthony Scirrotto that something about this team feels special. Not just the final score or how they played, but their attitude. How do you the chances are of 11-1 (assuming we lose to OSU) PSU team going to the Rose Bowl or national championship game ahead of a two loss Big 12 or SEC team?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:07 PM)

Edwin, I'd keep the competition in mind, but Penn State has been the Big Ten's most impressive team this year. Daryll Clark looks like the missing piece for an explosive offense, and Evan Royster could have a monster season. I have Ohio State in the Rose Bowl, but you never know.

Harry Washington DC

I think the Wisconsin v. Fresno State game has more implications to a BCS bowl bid than OSU v. USC does. If Wisconsin loses to Fresno there's no way they'll go to a BCS and vice versa. But with the quality oppenents of OSU or USC and since it's still early in the season I think they will be able to bounce back. What do you think?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:08 PM)

Harry, that's an interesting take. Fresno obviously can't afford a loss. Wisconsin can still get to the BCS by winning the Big Ten, and the Badgers have OSU, PSU and ILL at home.

Jim ( Albany, NY)

Adam does Michigan have a shot going into Notre Dame this weekend?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:08 PM)

More than a shot, in my opinion. I picked the Wolverines in that game. Their defensive line will be the difference against a Notre Dame offense that still looks soft to me.

Geoffrey (Mill Creek, WA)

Hi Adam... I have really enjoyed your blog thus far. Being a MSU Spartan alum living in the Seattle area makes it difficult to get up to the minute updates... so thank you. My question is this: Do you think MSU can end the season with only 2 losses, and make it into a) a BCS game... most likely the Rose Bowl or b) the Capital one Bowl?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:09 PM)

Thanks, Geoffrey. I would say the Capital One Bowl is more likely, and the Spartans are probably more than a two-loss team. Ohio State obviously will be tough, even though the game is at home, and MSU needs to get over the hump against Michigan

Will J (Portland, OR)

Adam, which game will you be attending this weekend? Oregon v. Purdue should also be an exciting game.

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:10 PM)

Glad you mentioned Oregon-Purdue, because that's exactly where I'll be. Two pretty dynamic spread offenses. I'm especially excited to see Roper, Johnson and the Ducks' attack.

Ché (Orlando, FL)

Adam I got a chance to talk to Tress yesterday via his call in show. He and the team sound focused as ever. I have a good gut feeling, I really do. Do you think Tress has an ace up his sleeve?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:11 PM)

He might need one with Beanie Wells now doubtful. This puts increased pressure on the OSU coaches to be creative. Terrelle Pryor has to be a bigger part of the game plan, and they can't come out with the vanilla offense they showed against Ohio. Won't work.

Kyle (Louisville, KY)

I saw where Illinois' coaches said that Juice Williams' mistakes against Eastern Illinois were "very correctable." Still, I can't help but wonder why he would throw 2 interceptions against Eastern Illinois in the first place. Should we expect more of the Juice we saw against Missouri, throwing 5 TD passes, or the Juice against Eastern, where he runs for 100+ yards?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:12 PM)

Kyle, he's got to limit mistakes, but I'd be much more concerned about a veteran defense that, to this point, hasn't been able to stop the run.

Harry (Washington DC)

Ok, Wisconsin can win the Big Ten and still make it to the Rose Bowl even if they lose to Fresno State. However, if they don't win the Big Ten and finish with 2 losses (1 Fresno and 1 to the Big Ten Champ) what do you think their chances are of making a BCS?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:13 PM)

Very slim. A lot hinges on that Penn State game in Mad-town.

Stephen ( Chattanoga

With the ACC not looking that great do you see Florida State having a shot at winning the ACC. When do you see them returning the national scene

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:13 PM)

It certainly looks like a league where anyone can make a strong push. I liked Jimbo Fisher's decision to go with his instincts and pick youth over experience at QB.

Aaron St. Paul, MN

Reading the Fresno papers, sounds like the Valley is hyped for this weekends game with Bucky. What type of athmosphere can the Badgers expect compared to other stadiums in the Big Ten?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:15 PM)

It's a different type of rowdiness at Fresno State. Smaller stadium by far but potentially scarier fans.

Jamal (Baltimore)

When do you think Evans and Koroma will be back for PSU (if ever)? How far can the Lions go if they have to play without them?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:16 PM)

No charges have been filed yet, so it's hard to say. Obviously Penn State is making sure it doesn't get burned by playing these guys and later having them charged with a crime. Not having Evans long-term really hurts. He's the Big Ten's top pass rusher.

Ann Arbor, MI

What is your take on McGuffie and Shaw? If Michigan can solidify the O-line, what do you expect from these RB's and consequently, the Michigan Season?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:17 PM)

They've both shown the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, which will help with inexperienced quarterbacks adjusting to the new offense. The O-line is a greater concern with the injuries -- Ortmann's loss is big. But if the line stays together and the QBs limit mistakes, 7-8 wins is within reach.

rod, Iowa

Hawkeyes or Cyclones and Stanzy or Christensen

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:17 PM)

Hawkeyes. Stanzi.

Daniel (Minneapolis)

Given that we're in the 2nd year of the Brewster regime, what record do you feel the Gophers need in order to consider this season a success? Right now, I'd say 6-6 should be the absolute floor for this team, with 8 or even 9 wins being a (somewhat unrealistic) possibility. What are your thoughts?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:18 PM)

Keep in mind that six wins would be five more than last year. That's a big jump for any program. Minny should sweep its nonconference schedule, even with RB Duane Bennett lost for the season. I love QB Adam Weber and the offense, but the defense will have some growing pains in league play. Six or seven wins is realistic.

Scott (Columbus, Ohio)

Hell Adam - What do you think the Nationwide opinion of Ohio State will be in they beat USC? Will they then be ranked number 1?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:19 PM)

No question they'll be ranked No. 1 if they beat USC on the road. And if anyone needs more convincing, Ohio State likely will do so without Chris Wells. Quite a challenge there.

Austen (Tallahassee)

Who wins by more, PSU over Syracuse or FSU over Chattanooga?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:20 PM)

Wow, tough call. I'll say Syracuse holds it together for a little while longer. FSU is my pick.

Nate (Madison)

Kellen Lewis = Randle El clone?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:21 PM)

The comparisons are very real, and unlike Antwaan, Lewis has some good pieces around him and a decent defense. Lewis is probably a little better passer, but Randle El had a gift for the freakin' amazing play.

Keith (State University, AR)

I know it's still no BCS conference, but do you see the Sun Belt at least competing regularly with BCS schools in the next decade?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:22 PM)

The Belt seems a little less inclined to settle for big paydays and is scheduling games with teams it can beat. Larry Blakeney does an excellent job at Troy, and Florida Atlantic is emerging in a state where there's more than enough high school talent to go around.

Adam (Chicago, IL)

Hi Adam, What are the prospects of Carlos Brown seeing some snaps this weekend in South Bend? Thanks.

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:24 PM)

I don't see it. He looks to be healthy, but Rich Rodriguez would be wise to test him out at running back first. If Threet and Sheridan continue to fizzle, you might see him for a snap or two, but not much.

Chris ( Erie, PA)

Does Penn St. have a legitimate shot at an outright big ten title, and do you think they have enough depth and fire power to put up the numbers the 1994 team did? Roar Lions!!

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:25 PM)

They'll have to be excellent on the road, which is tough with a new starting quarterback and two young running backs. The defensive line depth continues to be a concern, but man, is that offense fun to watch. There's an outside shot for the Lions, but it's still hard to go against Ohio State.

Phil: (Columbus, OH)

Adam, have you ever gotten the feel that Tressel might be playing media games? Bollman said this morning (Thurs) that Beanie was "75 percent." Not that I think it would throw USC off...

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:26 PM)

That could be true, Phil, but Tressel all along seemed concerned at how Beanie would respond from actually practicing, which he finally did last night. USC is preparing for Wells -- no doubt there -- so I don't know how much advantage there is in playing games.

Calvin (Traverse City, MI)

Is Notre Dame ANY better than last year? Will Navy beat them again this year?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:27 PM)

Like a lot of folks, I was really disappointed in how Notre Dame played in its season opener. The lack of a run game is troubling, and San Diego State seemed to move the ball well on the defense. Yes, Notre Dame is better, but it might not be by much.

Mike (Milwaukee, WI)

I know that the papers here in Milwaukee are saying Travis Beckum will play Saturday but what type of impact do you think he will make playing in his first game this season?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:30 PM)

When I asked Bielema about this last week, he said Travis would play against Marshall, but he didn't. I would guess he'll be out there against Fresno, but the impact might be a little less than people hope.

Scott (Chicago)

Is Northwestern the worst 2-0 team in the country? Giving up almost 500 yards to Duke!?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:30 PM)

I wouldn't go that far, but Northwestern was totally outplayed in a game where it had a lot at stake. The offense better get on track Saturday against SIU. Having Tyrell Sutton fully healthy should help after he cramped up last week.

Will J (Portland, OR)

If Notre Dame has another dismal season like last year, will they fire Weis, or will he get one more shot?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:31 PM)

The buyout is so big, the foolish contract extension so long, that I have a hard time seeing ND doing anything unless Weis wins fewer than five games.

Mike - Anaheim

Personally i think its a smart move for OSU to keep Beanie on the sideline. So they lose to USC, big deal. They still have a shot to get to the NC game or at least win the Big 10. If he plays Saturday and gets hurt worse, he could miss many games and lose any chance of going to a BCS game.

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:32 PM)

That's an interesting take, Mike. But Ohio State players seemed convinced that because of the last two title game losses, they needed to be perfect this season to have a shot. It'd be hard to see a 1-loss OSU team back there.

Joshua (Orlando, Fl.)

Adam , after watching the UCF-USF game , how much did it help the USF program to join a weak BCS conference and do you see UCF being a part of the Big East's expansion plans?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:33 PM)

It'll be tough for the Big East to expand because it's already at 16 for basketball. Could you see a 17-team basketball league? What a scheduling headache. But you're right, UCF football should be on a bigger stage.

Nick (NJ)

Who you got tonight? The Mighty Knights in Scarlet or the wimpy Tar Heels?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:34 PM)

The Knights didn't look too mighty against Fresno State at home, but they'll bounce back.

Lou (Bethesda, MD)

Adam, speaking of Weis's contract - why do the universities put themselves in this situation with these huge buyout, ridiculously long-term contracts? Especially when it seems the coach can break it whenever they want? Do the coaches really have that much control?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:35 PM)

When trustees and boosters get involved, logic and reason go out the window. Add in some fear about losing a coach to the NFL, and these things get out of hand.

David, DC

There are other teams in the Pac 10 beyond USC. Take a look at the top 25. Don't sleep on ASU,CAL,and Oregon. It is just too bad that the consolation prize for 2nd place in the pac 10 is the silly Holiday Bowl.

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:36 PM)

That's an excellent point, David. As a Pac-10 guy growing up near Cal, it always frustrated me that the Holiday Bowl was the No. 2 bowl. You've got to get your second-place team playing in January somewhere. Cal went to the Citrus Bowl as the second-place team in 1991, but the bowl agreements have suffered since. Nothing against the Holiday Bowl, but January carries more prestige. No way am I sleeping on those three teams, especially Oregon.

scott (tucson)

hey adam. big missouri tiger fan here. i was looking at the offensive statistics for nevada and theyre very impressive. do me and my tigers have anything to worry about or will we shut them down and put up 52 points...again. Thanks!

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:38 PM)

Scott, you guys should be fine because Nevada always has issues on defense and made some questionable coaching moves last week against Texas Tech. You're right about the pistol offense, though, a very potent system.

Ali (Diamond Bar)

BYU v UCLA...who wins? and how?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:39 PM)

I like BYU at home in this one. Arguably the biggest home game for the Cougars in recent memory, and Kevin Craft won't be able to survive all those mistakes again. A close game, but BYU takes it.

Ben H Syracuse, NY

Who is better Wisconsin or Penn State?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:39 PM)

Ben, you have no idea how much I've wrestled with that question. Wisconsin barely has the edge in my power rankings and can keep it by beating Fresno, but Penn State looks awfully good.

Seth (lafayette, In)

If Purdue pulls off the upset (IF) and Painter has a great day, can he join the Heisman talks?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:41 PM)

That's an interesting point, Seth. Purdue is campaigning for Painter, but he has no real chance. Some big wins could obviously change that a bit. Those marquee W's are what's missing from Painter's record-setting resume

JAP (Dallas)

Who should I start on my fantasy team? Ricky Williams or Vince Young?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:41 PM)

Don't ask me about fantasy football. I had the Seahawks defense last week. Brutal.

Jason (louisville, KY)

I'm wondering if you have had a chance to see the Ernie Davis movie, "The Express"? The world premiere is this weekend and may be the best football Syracuse plays this year!

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:42 PM)

I haven't seen it but look forward to. I know the Northwestern football team saw a special screening this morning because many of the scenes were filmed in their home stadium. It seems like an excellent movie.

Sam (Evanston, IL)

Looking at the NU offense, I'd say it was pretty fluid when Bacher had the greenlight and he was on target (which was commonplace). We know that the new offense dictates that he throws shorter passes, but I think his gunslinger mentality is interfering with his adjusting. Might we see more of that if the passing offense is not in sync?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:43 PM)

He makes an awful lot of plays on third-and-long and not enough on first down, so the gunslinger thing is very true there. Getting first-down yardage is what has separated this offense from the ones Brett Basanez ran. They'll get their timing down eventually, but it's important not to abandon the run, even with a young O-line.

Travis ( Los Angeles, CA)

What does Purdue need to do to knock off the Ducks?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:44 PM)

Control the clock as much as possible. Purdue's offense, as Joe Tiller points out, isn't as big-play oriented as Oregon's. It's important for Kory Sheets to get going early and for the defense to force a first-quarter turnover. Purdue's coaches have all but acknowledged that they have a major speed deficit in this game.

Jeremy (Greensburg, PA)

Adam Penn State is beginning to get the recognition they deserve but are still losers to Ohio State in many peoples eyes. How doyou see it?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:45 PM)

It's in Columbus, so it's hard for me to go against the Buckeyes. But it will be interesting to see how they respond -- good or bad -- from the USC game. If confidence begins to fade and the PSU offense surges like it has been lately, a win there isn't out of the question.

Ryan (East Lansing, MI)

Do you think that Michigan State will beat Michigan this year? I am sick of us losing to them.

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:46 PM)

I do think this is the year for the Spartans, but they need better play from the defensive line before heading to Ann Arbor. Javon Ringer should have a big day in that game. He said he'd be embarrassed if he never beat Michigan.

Zach O (New York, NY)

Adam do you foresee Wisconsin employing a more pass intensive offense to start the game against Fresno this weekend or is it just back to business with rushing plays?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:47 PM)

They've got to start with the run and pass when necessary. Wisconsin's biggest advantage always will be the huge offensive line and the huge running backs, so you have to start there. I'll say this, though. Allan Evridge will need to make several critical throws to win the game.

Mike (Altoona, PA)

Come on Adam, start drinking the blue kool aid in Happy Valley now because this team is on a mission! Are you giving OSU and Wisc the edge because PSU plays them on the road? To be honest, neither team scares me!

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:48 PM)

Mike, love the confidence in your team, but I'm still concerned about that defensive line. If Evans and Koroma come back, they should be OK, but Penn State has yet to face any adversity on the field. You better believe they'll face some in Columbus, if not Madison as well.

Jon (Pensacola, FL)

When did Clemson become a bad team? Does one bad loss make you a bad team?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:49 PM)

Not at all, but one loss in that manner certainly raises some concerns.

John B Bay City, MI

Adam whos season will Michigan spoil this year among Ohio state, Penn state and wisconsin?

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:50 PM)

The Wolverines could gain some confidence from beating ND, and they have a bye week before hosting Wisconsin. The other two games are on the road, and I don't see Michigan winning those.

Adam Rittenberg

  (1:50 PM)

Hey guys, sorry to cut this a bit short. Got to get back to Beanie-mania. Let's do it again next week, same time, same place. And don't hesitate to send me your questions on the blog.