The Week 7 schedule features six top-25 matchups, giving contenders ample opportunity to strengthen their playoff cases before next month's first selection committee rankings. Nearing the midway point, preseason expectations now carry little weight -- ask teams like LSU, Texas &M, Michigan and Penn State -- with narratives already materializing. We're picking several of Saturday's showdowns that come with playoff implications, raising the stakes for teams in the SEC, Big Ten and Big 12 trying to protect unbeaten records.
Ohio State-Indiana, Notre Dame-BYU, Alabama-Tennessee -- good luck finding a quiet window on this slate. Season results: Brad Crawford (38-13 straight up, 29-21-1 ATS); Chris Hummer (40-11 straight up, 27–23-1 ATS) We're coming off my personal worst picks week of my career straight up (3-5, yuck!) after a bevy of upsets I didn't see coming. The against-the-spread total wasn't fatal, at least.
Hummer has narrowed the gap to two games back ATS and has assumed the lead straight up after a terrific showing. If these picks aren't enough this week, head to our CBS Sports expert picks page where Hummer's on a heater. Hummer (LSU -10.5): This game sets up for a LSU bounce back.
Even if Kamario Taylor were healthy -- and his status is in doubt this week -- the Tigers have a lot of advantages in this game, including an elite secondary and pass rush. The big question for LSU is whether Sam Leavitt can avoid turnovers. If he plays clean, which has been a problem all year given that he leads the nation in INTs, LSU should roll. … LSU 38, Mississippi State 24.
Crawford (LSU -10.5): Is this the week LSU finally puts it together against an opponent of substance? It is time the Tigers look the part as a potential CFP team after two SEC losses already. A third ends any hope of getting to the 12-team bracket, even if LSU wins out from there and finishes 9-3.
The resume simply won't be good enough to warrant enough attention. I'm giving this the must-win label for Lane Kiffin, whose first season is teetering on total disappointment if he's handed a third loss before playing Alabama in November. ... LSU 37, Mississippi State 20.
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