The GMs Top 10

Here is my opinion on the top 10 teams in the country. This isn't necessarily about what you will finish but more what have you done. I do factor in expectations and public perception but I think winning games says more.

So here you go....my top 10:

1. USC - Is there really any doubt here? They destroyed Ohio State Saturday night. I am not impressed with their win over Virginia since UVa is bad this year but the OSU win was huge and the Trojans are tops.
2. Oklahoma - The best team they have played is Cincinnati and that isn't saying much. But they have done what they are supposed to do. They have destroyed their other opponents including a road win at Washington.
3. Florida - They were idle this week and will play against Tennessee this weekend which may or may not be a legitimate test. But they shut down Miami (still not real impressive) but I think they are good.
4. Missouri - Illinois is struggling a bit since that first game and that is making Missouri's win a little less impressive but they are still my #4 team in the country. Personally I am looking forward to Missouri/Oklahoma in the Big 12 title game.
5. Georgia - They are lucky to be this high after struggling mightily against the Gamecocks. I really thought they would walk through that game but they didn't seem up for it. Stafford looked quite average on Saturday and I don't think the team is good enough for him to be average. If he stays average than they lose at least 2 games.
6. Wisconsin - They went into Fresno and left with a win. That is pretty impressive in my opinion. This is probably the highest ranking you will see (especially from a Penn State fan) but I think they are the team to beat in the Big Ten right now.
7. Alabama - The Clemson win is still somewhat impressive. It is early in the season yet and things are going to happen that open people's eyes to how good some teams are but that really hasn't happened yet. The Tulane struggle is somewhat bothersome but they did win.
8. East Carolina - At #8?? Yes because they have won 3 big games already. They beat Virginia Tech at a technically neutral site, West Virginia at home, and Tulane on the road. The Tulane game is a classic let down game after two BIG wins but they pulled it out.
9. USF - They won a rivalry game last week against in state rival UCF and then they welcome Kansas to Tampa by beating them at the end of the game with a field goal from a freshman kicker. I doubt they last the season this high but right now they are good enough.
10. BYU - A road win against Washington (even if it should have gone to OT) plus a complete destruction of UCLA puts the Cougars in the top 10. And they should be undefeated when they face Utah on November 22. They could stay in the top 10 if they play well.

Just out (no particular order):

• Texas - They haven't played anyone yet. If they win when they do they will move up easily.
• LSU - See Texas. Appy State doesn't count as a good win right now.
• Ohio St - An almost big upset against Ohio last weekend and then got embarrassed in the Coliseum. They need to shape up quick.
• Penn St - I think they are good but they haven't played anyone yet. Oregon St is a decent win but it was at home. Syracuse is bad. Curious to see what happens in Big Ten play.