Obviously, week one is always the toughest slew of games to predict. With that in mind, I’ve been forecasting outcomes (or trying to) since I was in diapers and won’t use that as an excuse...Unless I end up with bigger losers than that T.V. show. We’ll start with the big one:
 
Nevada @ Notre Dame: Both teams are extremely capable on the offensive side of the ball and this should be a high scoring affair. Quarterbacks Jimmy Clausen and Colin Kaepernick are entering their junior years with cloud-high expectations. The winner, though, will make a few more plays on defense and the Fighting Irish seem to have more playmakers at the linebacker and defensive back positions. The student section at Notre Dame Stadium will surely help too. Chalk (a close one) up for the Blue and Gold.
Prediction: Notre Dame 42, Nevada 31.
 
Oregon @ Boise State: The Broncos have won 49 straight regular- season games at home. I’m not sure if it’s because of their maniacal fans (especially at night) or because their turf is as blue as Nicole Kidman’s eyes. Oregon’s new head coach Chip Kelly will have the Ducks ready, but how can I go against that streak? They’ll make it an even 50, barely. Prediction: Boise State 24, Oregon 21.
 
Oklahoma vs BYU (Game being played in Texas): Oklahoma turns out points like Nathan’s does hot dogs. BYU does have a reliable quarterback in Max Hall but their defense won’t last. Prediction: Oklahoma 50, BYU 20.
 
Virginia Tech vs Alabama (Game being played in Atlanta): The biggest game of the week, in terms of team rankings. Both squads flaunt top tier defenses and head coaching. This one will come down to quarterback play, and that’s where the Hokies have the edge. Prediction: Virginia Tech 20, Alabama 17 (OT).
 
LSU @ Washington: The Huskies went 0-12 last year. LSU is one of the SEC’s best. Barring a miracle by Washington’s stud QB Jake Locker, this game is over before it started.  Prediction: LSU 38, Washington 18.
 
Georgia @ Oklahoma State: No more Matt Stafford or Knowshon Moreno for the Bulldogs. That really hurts. The Cowboys on the other hand have their lowest preseason ranking in school history (No.9) and three of the nation’s top playmakers (Bryant, Hunter, Robinson). Done deal. Prediction: OK State 36, Georgia 21.
 
Navy @ Ohio State: I’m predicting Terelle Pryor to have a Heisman worthy season. It starts with Navy, who are trying to replace their top two tailbacks. I can’t remember when the Buckeyes lost an opener (31 years to be exact). Prediction: Ohio State 49, Navy 12.