Last Week: 6-2

Season Record: 86-76-6

Smart Home Fix Lock of the Week:

MTSU +3.5 vs. Arkansas State (Saturday 8:00)

Middle Tennessee’s crowning achievement this year was beating Syracuse in the Carrier Dome. That Syracuse team beat Clemson. That has absolutely nothing to do with why I’m choosing MTSU.

Arkansas State builds a reputable program every year on weaker opponents and fast-paced offense. MTSU actually thrives on defense and has better athletes.

Come Bowling With Me:

Troy -6.5 vs. North Texas (Saturday 1:00)

A riveting start to bowl season no doubt… Troy has far exceeded its expectations this season. Expect that to continue.

Colorado State -5.5 vs. Marshall (Saturday 4:30)

Colorado State’s offensive coordinator came to Tennessee, but the team’s high-flying offense still owns its identity with the head coach. They scored the third-most points on Alabama this season and looked good doing it.

Georgia State +6 vs. Western Kentucky (Saturday 2:30)

Why not? Western Kentucky has endured as much coaching turnover as Tennessee recently, it just watches the coaches leave and don’t have to pay a buyout.

Oregon -7.5 vs. Boise State (Saturday 3:30)

Taggart gone? Don’t see that as an issue.

Mr. Goodell’s National Football League

Chiefs vs. Chargers over 46.0 (Saturday 8:25)

Alex Smith will relish the opportunity to play in warm weather and return to his September-like numbers. The Chargers have been hot and Phil Rivers realizes he only has a few opportunities left.

Panthers -4 vs. Packers (Sunday 1:00)

You realize the Packers just went to overtime with the Browns?

Browns vs. Ravens under 40.0 (Sunday 1:00)

Ah, speaking of which, don’t look for much offense in this game in Cleveland. Weather could be a factor but Baltimore will put the ball on the ground for the majority.

Saints vs. Jets over 47.0 (Sunday 1:00)

A strange part of me thinks this game will be close. I expect Kamara to be healthy and playing while Brees senses the opportunity to strike in the Carson Wentz-less NFC.

Raiders +3 vs. Cowboys (Sunday 8:25)

Smart Home Fix is the most trustworthy handyman service in Knoxville. It just takes one call to have the Smart Home Tech come out and solve all of your repair needs. Visit www.SmartHomeFix.com for a list of services.