Possible BCS scenarios
Posted: Monday, November 12, 2007 3:14 AM
Thanks to Juice Williams and Ron Zook, the various possibilities for the BCS Championship Game have come into clearer focus. There are still several ways that this could end up, but the following is a rundown of the five most likely matchups for Jan. 7.
LSU vs. Oregon
This would be the classic “Les Miles vs. the Pac-10” grudge match that we thought we’d be treated to from the beginning, minus USC, of course. Instead, the Ducks would have the responsibility of trying to teach the tough-talking Tiger coach about the strength of football along the West Coast. Unfortunately for Oregon, it would have to do so in LSU’s backyard. And that wouldn’t be the only difficulty. Facing a menacing defense that can run with them and a battering ram offense that isn’t afraid to use fourth down wouldn’t be easy.
Why it could happen: These two leaders have what it takes to hold serve.
Why it wouldn’t: “The Civil War” with Oregon State has a bloody history. So does the SEC Championship Game.
Who’d be favored (according to last week’s power rankings): LSU by 4.
LSU vs. Oklahoma
Those who seek the most “traditional” title bout would prefer to see it end up this way. The Tigers and Sooners have accounted for nine national titles, while the other four teams within the BCS Standings’ top six have combined for none. It would really be a treat to see Miles and Bob Stoops go toe-to-toe once again. Even though he never finished higher than third in the Big 12 South when he was the top Cowboy at Oklahoma State, Miles split his four games against Stoops.
Why it could happen: Oregon doesn’t have a good history with regard to the BCS.
Why it wouldn’t: The BCS formula has been changed slightly since Oregon got screwed in 2001.
Who’d be favored: LSU by 1.
Oklahoma vs. Oregon
The Sooners would finally get their rematch with the Ducks. But this time far, far away from Eugene and the Pac-10 officials who blew the call on that fateful onside kick on Sept. 16, 2006. The massive collection of offensive weaponry under one roof would be awe inspiring. Sam Bradford, DeMarco Murray, Malcolm Kelly, Dennis Dixon and Jonathan Stewart would make for great television.
Why it could happen: You heard it first from Les Miles himself, the SEC route to this game is just too tough.
Why it wouldn’t: LSU is so strong (or lucky) it doesn’t even need to be at its best to lock up one of the top two spots.
Who’d be favored: Oklahoma by 3.
LSU vs. Kansas
The Cinderella Jayhawks would likely be facing their third consecutive Top-5 foe. The Tigers, as Miles would like everybody to know, would be staring at their 11th elite opponent (Virginia Tech gets grouped in with the almighty SEC). But, no matter what you believe, the fact remains that this pair would have played teams such as Central Michigan, Southeastern Louisiana, Toledo, Florida International, Middle Tennessee State, Tulane and Louisiana Tech on their way to meeting up at the Superdome. More of Mark Mangino is always a good thing (you know what I mean) and America would really enjoy getting know him better.
Why it could happen: It’s Mangino’s world. We’re just orbiting it.
Why it wouldn’t: Conference title games can be a bitch.
Who’d be favored: LSU by 5.
Kansas vs. Oregon
The executives at FOX won’t be happy if this matchup materializes. One team without a heavy-duty heritage can be interesting. Two is a ratings disaster.
Why it could happen: It has been that kind of year. Why not?
Why it wouldn’t: Lou Holtz seems determined to jinx the Jayhawks by continuing to proclaim them No. 1.
Who’d be favored: Oregon by 1.
