Tim Griffin

  (4:01 PM)

Guys: Already a loaded stack of questions. I'm ready to get started.

Chad (Denver, CO)

Tim, please tell me there is a chance my Buff's can pull off a win this weekend. I know the offensive line is very YOUNG but I have faith in coach Grimes getting them prepared. Do you agree?

Tim Griffin

  (4:02 PM)

Chad: I don't know about that. Losing Miller was huge. Texas' defensive line has been the strength of its team the last few weeks. It will be a huge, huge challenge. And it might take more than faith to pull that off.

Jesse (Ada, OK)

Hey Tim. Big 12's looking better than ever this year. I know its another week off, but whats your prediction for OU v. TX?

Tim Griffin

  (4:04 PM)

Jesse: I still reserve my right to change next week. But I'd say that OU should win 27-17. I think the massive OU offensive front will be strong enough to keep Orakpo and Co. away from Sam Bradford. And I don't think Colt McCoy can beat OU by himself. He needs some help. That's not to say something like a couple of big special teams can't turn it around. OU has looked susceptible to that in the last couple of weeks. And the Sooners need to be able to run the ball a little better, too.

Jeremy Maclin: (Columbia, MO)

Am I the best player in College Football?

Tim Griffin

  (4:04 PM)

Jeremy: You might be. But your guy at quarterback is taking all of your Heisman votes. I suggest you run a couple of punts back against Nebraska to jump back in the race.

Ty H (Austin, TX)

After all the preseason talk. Do you feel that Texas Tech is being overlooked now that the season has started? Still putting up gaudy numbers, and Harrells issues are probably attributed to the left side of the line not being 100%. Guns up!

Tim Griffin

  (4:06 PM)

Ty: It's hard to say that Tech is being overlooked, considering they do have their highest ranking in the polls in more than 30 years. But that being said, I think their weak non-conference schedule and lack of television apperances have hurt them. I know a lot of my friends across the country are curious about watching them in their first ABC game this week.

Matt (Columbia, MO)

Who has a better shot at an at home upset this weekend: Colorado or Nebraska?

Tim Griffin

  (4:08 PM)

Matt: Actually I think both should win rather easily. I do a confidence pick with some friends of mine. The game that might be the toughest for any of the ranked teams might be Kansas' trip to Iowa State. I still think the Jayhawks win, but they've got to run the ball better against the Cyclones.

Anthony Austin, TX

How do you feel the progress of Texas' young secondary has been over a soft nonconference schedule start and do you think the emergence of a solid pass rush will give Bradford and Daniel trouble in the coming weeks?

Tim Griffin

  (4:09 PM)

Anthony: It better. If not, the Longhorns are going to get blistered. I'm very anxious to see how Orakpo, Miller and Co. do against OU next week. They've got to have a huge game to have any hopes of springing the upset. And they will be challenging the Sooners' supposed offensive strength.

Aron Rockville Maryland

Name someone that is playing better then colt. Sure Bradford has similar numbers but he has -31 yards rushing and throws the ball alot more to get them.

Tim Griffin

  (4:10 PM)

Aron: I think Colt McCoy is a serious Heisman threat - if his team can keep winning. Colt has better rushing yards than Bradford because he has to run. I bet McCoy wishes he had somebody like DeMarco Murray or Chris Brown in the backfield next to him.

NEWPORT NEWS, VIRGINIA

Tim, Do you think after a big road win at Nebraska. Can the Hokies repeat as ACC champs and get a rematch against a Big 12 team in a bowl game.

Tim Griffin

  (4:11 PM)

NN: Nice victory for the Hokies, who are already 2-0 in the conference. That's a huge step up. If they play like they did most of the game against Nebraska, they've got a great chance of winning the ACC.

Clark (Durham, NC)

Who has the best chance of getting out of the big 12 unscathed? Will it happen?

Tim Griffin

  (4:13 PM)

Clark: I'm guessing it will be either Missouri or Oklahoma. And I expect that one or both could lose at least one game. I do think the margin that Missouri has over the rest of the North is much wider than that of Oklahoma with the rest of the South.

Brent (Dallas, TX)

Tim, Love your blog (99% of the time). Do you think that the Cowboys should try and move up in the draft and get hometown guy Crabtree? His dad has already said he would come out.

Tim Griffin

  (4:15 PM)

Brent: Thanks for the endorsement - I guess ... I think Crabtree will be a great pro. Mike Leach raves about his work ethic in practice. He's got to do a better job catching balls, however. He had several drops a couple of games ago that were a little disconcerting. And he would be an ideal pick for the Cowboys, filling in a role for the days after TO leaves. He would be the first Dallas hometown product to star for them since Cubby Walls, correct?

Steve (Rlaeigh, NC)

What is the story with Fozzy Whittiker? He may be the answer for Texas' running game. When will he play?

Tim Griffin

  (4:16 PM)

Steve: Whittaker has been idled with a knee injury that the coaches have been very careful in nursing back to health. Considering the Longhorns' first four games compared to the rest of the schedule, I think it was a wise move. But now, it starts getting tough for them. I would expect to see Whittaker if he's healthy.

Ryan (Chicago, IL)

Do you put most of Kansas' defensive struggles against South Florida on them being a good team, or the loss of Bill Young, and will that comeback to haunt them throughout the season?

Tim Griffin

  (4:18 PM)

Ryan: I think South Florida is an outstanding team. But I also think there's a natural growing process with a team and its new coordinator. It was a tough introduction for Clint Bowen, but one that should help them throughout the season.

Kyle (Omaha)

Do you think it's strange that the betting line for the Iowa State/Kansas game has moved from -14 to -12 for Kansas? Being a Cyclone fan this is good news. How do you see this game being played out?

Tim Griffin

  (4:19 PM)

Kyle: Maybe not. Has it come since this chat started? Maybe some of those guys in Vegas saw my lack of confidence in the Jayhawks ... It's like I said before. I think KU has the toughest road - except maybe for Tech at KSU - of any of the ranked teams this week. They have to run the ball. ISU has had a knack for producing turnovers and Arnaud showed me something with the comeback he directed at UNLV. The Cyclones get a break or two and Gene Chizik might be celebrating his first big victory with the Cyclones on Sunday morning.

Richard (Memphis, TN)

If my Crimson Tide can keep their heads out of the clouds and play 'tucky and ole miss strong and go into LSU undefeated, do you like our chances of playing for the crystal ball?

Tim Griffin

  (4:22 PM)

Richard: I like to see questions about teams from outside the Big 12. Thanks. I'm very impressed with Saban's coaching job. For some reason, this Bama team reminds me a lot of the OU championship team in 2000. It's the second season coaching for Saban at Bama, just like it was Stoops' second season at OU in 2000. Both teams played in the Independence Bowl the previous season (although Bama won and OU lost). Both have sturdy quarterback who might be a little underrated national in Wilson and Heupel. Maybe things come together for them. I was very impressed with their performance at Georgia and I don't think their high ranking is a fluke.

Matt, Dallas, TX

Tim, Cowboys WR Patrick Crayton is from Desoto.

Tim Griffin

  (4:26 PM)

Matt: I don't think that Crayton is a star like Walls was and like Crabtree likely will be.

Ben (Milwaukee)

Tim, Which OSU is the best, Oregon State, Oklahoma State, or The Ohio State University?

Tim Griffin

  (4:27 PM)

Ben: Right now in tradition, it's got to be Ohio State. As far as a one-game performance, it's got to be Oregon State And as far as offense, it would be Oklahoma State. But adding everything together, I still go with Ohio State. I don't think Oklahoma State has the defense to match the Buckeyes - yet.

Nick Saban (Tuscaloosa, AL)

Tim, do you feel that maybe I should show a little more happiness in what my team is doing. I know my coaching is working, but would the guys play at an even higher level if they knew I had some emotion. Or does downplaying every bit of success we have do us better in the long run

Tim Griffin

  (4:28 PM)

Nick: Gee, coach, I don't know. I think your team is playing pretty well right now. I wouuldn't change things.

Jordan (Tulsa, OK)

Hey, How good do you really think Oklahoma State is this year?

Tim Griffin

  (4:29 PM)

Jordan: I think their offense is really good - even better than last year. But I don't know how good the defense is. I see them finishing 8-4 or 9-3 this season. It depends on keeping Zac Robinson healthy. But get some growth in that defense this year and get a few playmakers. Their schedule turns around next season. I think next year is when the Cowboys really turn some heads. Give them anoither

Matt (Omaha, NE)

There has been much debate over Bo Pelini's unsportsmanlike penalty. Do you see Bo's passion as a positive or negative for the Cornhuskers?

Tim Griffin

  (4:31 PM)

Matt: I think it's a huge positive in building an identity for a new team. But he can't let it spill over into his game management. I think Pelini lives and learns from his mistake last week. Interesting thing will be if the players have that same passion.

Justin (OKC)

How can you possibly say Ohio State is better than Oklahoma State when considering the one common opponent, Troy State, was abused by Okla State and barely beaten by Ohio State. I would expect this from the east coast elite, but not the Big 12 expert.

Tim Griffin

  (4:33 PM)

Justin: Do you remember the last time Ohio State played Oklahoma State? Still a big difference in overall talent, although it's getting closer. I can't be a homer on that topic. Their defense still has a lot of growth it needs to make before we start printing plane tickets to BCS games, just yet.

Preston (College Station, TX)

Considering the bad o-line at A&M, Do you think that the Aggies are better or worse of with Johnson at QB?

Tim Griffin

  (4:34 PM)

Preston: I'm curious what Sherman will do. Does he keep McGee as a starter when he's healthy - if he ever gets that way? I think that JJ is the hope for the future and the more playing time he gets, the better for A&M's prospects down the line.

David Woodlands, Tx

Tim what was the deal with Duke Robinson not starting against TCU? He came in at the end of the 1st quarter. Grades, broke some sort of rules? Puffy Tacos are the bomb!!

Tim Griffin

  (4:35 PM)

David: Noticed the same thing. I think he violated "team rules," was what Bob Stoops would say. Your guess is as good as mine. And puffy tacos are the bomb, like you said. Try Henry's some time if you are ever in my fair city.

Alan (Plano, TX)

Tim, do you think Colt McCoy can win the Heisman if Texas doesn't go undefeated?

Tim Griffin

  (4:36 PM)

Alan: It will be tough. If he has one loss, I think he might need to win the Big 12 championship.

dale

How would you rate Fulmer's job security?

Tim Griffin

  (4:38 PM)

Dale: I was talking to my colleague Chris Low about that a few nights ago. Probably good enough to stick around unless things go totally in the tank this season. But he needs to turn things around next season.

Matt (OKC)

There aren't any players left from the last time the OSU's played each other. Ohio state's defense is better than Oklahoma State's, but the Cowboys offense is head and shoulders better than the Buckeyes. Ohio State has yet to even come close to dominating a game this year. I think the Cowboys would beat Ohio State by about 2 touchdowns.

Tim Griffin

  (4:40 PM)

Matt: I think Gundy and Tressel have completely different attitudes that you can tell in your coaching strategy. It's why OSU tends to blister non-conference opponents and Tressel plays it more close-to-the-sweater vest. I'm anxious to hear what you have to say after OSU's first two conference games. Let me hear from you after the Missouri game.

nick (md)

looking at notre dames schedule, what would you say there success will be the rest of the season?

Tim Griffin

  (4:42 PM)

Nick: I think the North Carolina trip looks tough and it wouldn't surprise me if Ty Willingham has one titanic effort still in him to beat the Irish in Seattle. I earlier thought that ND could play in a New Year's Day Bowl like the Cotton or Gator with an 8-4 record. I think they'll be right there with four or five losses.

Patrick (Austin)

When rankings are made by pollsters and analysts alike, how do they judge? Do they try to decide who is the best team now? Do they try to predict who will be on top at the end of the season? OR do they base it off of merit in the current season?

Tim Griffin

  (4:44 PM)

Patrick: I think every pollster does things a little differently. I can only answer for myself. My rankings always are predicated on what I think the best team at the current time is. I don't project things out two or three weeks with an upcoming schedule. That's always how I've done it. But I can't answer for everybody. I think it's a little like judging a beauty contest and everybody has a different way of looking at things.

Dustin (Austin, TX)

Tim. What are your concerns on Missouri's early defensive struggles? Play like that in Austin and see if you walk away with a win.

Tim Griffin

  (4:46 PM)

Dustin: I agree. Missouri hasn't played up to expectations defensively. Of course with their early schedule and Chase Daniel playing, it really hasn't been much of a concern. But I expect them to get better when William Moore gets back to health. He was only the best defensive player in the Big 12 in the final two months of the season. If he's healthy, his value will be magnified against all the great offenses we'll see in the conference this year.

Nick (Eugene, Or)

What are the chances of the Oregon schools sweeping SC this year? Can the ducks win at SC?

Tim Griffin

  (4:47 PM)

Nick: Sorry. Don't see it happening. I think Pete Carroll will have the Trojans ready for that game.

Knostrathomas (Dallas, TX)

Did you really say that Colorado and Nebraska should win this week rather easily (4:08 pm post) or can I just not read?

Tim Griffin

  (4:48 PM)

Knos: No, I meant to say that Mizzou and Texas both win easily. I think Kansas' challenge will be much more difficult than either of their's.

Clark (Clovis, CA)

Tim, what do you think about Fresno State's chances with the BCS if they win out and beat an undefeated Boise State team in a "Battle for the WAC"? Go Dogs!!

Tim Griffin

  (4:50 PM)

Clark: That would be an interesting scenario. If they run the table and beat Boise convincingly, they would go. I think the Big 12 and SEC will beat each other up a lot this season. That should leave a place at the table for somebody from the WAC - with a good record.

Bill (Dallas, TX)

True or False: The MWC is better than the Big East, ACC, and Big Ten.

Tim Griffin

  (4:51 PM)

Bill: Maybe the Big East and the ACC. But there still are some good teams in the Big Ten.

Herbie (Lincoln, NE)

Are the good old days of Nebraska football gone?

Tim Griffin

  (4:52 PM)

Herbie: It might be a long drought for you, because I don't think the Cornhuskers will ever dominate the Big 12 like they did the Big Eight in the final stages in the leauge. Heck, it will be a big boost for them to get the program back to the level it was at when Eric Crouch was there with Frankie Solich calling the plays. They won Big 12 titles and played in national championship games back then.

John (Stillwater, OK)

Do you think that OSU's clock killing offense will keep them alive in bigger games against somewhat distraught defenses such as Mizzou and Texas?

Tim Griffin

  (4:53 PM)

John: It should, but I'm curious if the Cowboys will be able to run the ball as well against the Sooners and Longhorns as they did against the Cougars (Houston) and Trojans (Troy). There's a big difference in talent between them.

Ric A (formerly of San Antonio, now Boston)

Even if Texas winds up with one loss but no Big 12 championship, wouldn't that make him more valuable to Texas than Bradford or Daniels to their respective teams? Doesn't the Heisman consider value? Or is it simply the passing efficiency and record that are gonna win it? (Btw, long time fan from San Antonio here, until I moved to Mass five months ago)

Tim Griffin

  (4:55 PM)

Ric: If Colt keeps posting the numbers passing and rushing, I agree with you. But I think the Heisman is for the most outstanding player rather than the most valuable. And I think record really factors into most people's thinking, unless you have somebody with mammoth numbers like Tebow did last season with the 30-20 he posted.

Clint, Stillwater OK

If Ok State beats Mizzou then baylor and goes to TX 7-0, are the cowboys in the top ten?

Tim Griffin

  (4:56 PM)

Clint: Considering they are 21 now and would have likely beaten a top 10 team in Missouri, yeah, I think OSU would crack the top 10 then.

AJ (Lubbock,TX)

Will critics of Texas Tech be silenced after saturday's visit to Manhattan, or will doubt of the Red Raiders persist until the Texas game?

Tim Griffin

  (4:57 PM)

AJ: I still think the Red Raiders have a long ways to go. A lot of people nationally still remember how much trouble they had lining up with Texas. They've got to be more competitive. But beating KSU is the kind of game that many of Leach's previous teams found a way to lose. They can't let that happen on Saturday.

Darrell (Charlotte, NC)

Tim, is Cody johnson the answer for the Texas running game? He is getting more reps each game and can keep linebackers at home so Colt can rip them apart.

Tim Griffin

  (4:58 PM)

Darrell: Somebody has to emerge because I don't think Colt McCoy can keep it up through Big 12 play. And considering how nobody else has been able to emerge yet, why shouldn't they give him a chance?

Shane Denver

Is Kansas more upset prone because they aren't nearly as good, or competition better?

Tim Griffin

  (4:59 PM)

Shane: I think that's a little of both. This time last season was when their running game really picked up. I'm waiting to see that this season. And of course, playing OU, Tech and UT will be much more difficult for them.

Clint, Stillwater OK

What do you see as Mizzous biggest weakness that OSU can exploit?

Tim Griffin

  (5:00 PM)

Clint: I think it's there defense. Missouri's corners have been unimpressive this season. I think they should hit them with Bryant and Broadway. And having Pettigrew healthy for that game will be huge.

Darren (Ft Stockton, TX)

Does DeMarco Murray seem a step slower this year? Not many yards against TCU.

Tim Griffin

  (5:01 PM)

Darren: But nobody was running well for OU. TCU's run defense is very good - and very underrated. But I know that Murray hasn't been breaking the long runs like last season. I don't know the reason.

Tim Griffin

  (5:02 PM)

Guys: Thanks for all of the great questions. I'm looking forward to it again next week. Enjoy the games this weekend.