Gravley's Pig Pickin' T-minus 2

T-minus 2 weeks remain in the college football regular season and for Duke, State and Carolina that means the end of the season. Congrats to Wake Forest, ECU, NC Central and Appalachain State for having good enough seasons to have them extended to the post season. (ECU better get a bowl bid). This is called rivalry week but in our area that only applies to one game.

NC State @ North Carolina

There will be a powder keg of emotions in this game. It's a rivalry game, senior day in Chapel Hill and the final home game for Tar Heel coach John Bunting. There is no doubt that the Wolfpack has more talent but haven't they the last 2 years as well? Two straight losses to the Tar Heels has given the Pack something to think about. In fact, State running back Toney Baker said he knows this game is personal to Coach Chuck Amato. "The first thing he said to us this summer was, we have to take care of Carolina." Nuff said about motivation for the red and white. On Carolina's side, if they only get 1 win over a Division 1 team this year, beating State would be the one. There were a few pre-game shout-outs before last year's game. It could be an all out dog fight this year. I won't be surprised by either team winning.


Virginia Tech @ Wake Forest

How can you doubt the Deacs?? They dismantled FSU by playing smart, fundamental football. Watch their receivers block down field. Watch their pulling linemen lead receivers on reverses and NOT pick up silly blocking penalties. I like Wake in this one because of their disclipline...something Virgina Tech has not shown in every game.

ECU @ Rice

The Pirates can clinch a spot in the CUSA championship game with a win at Rice. A loss still leaves open a possibility IF Southern Miss loses twice. (they host UAB and Marshall). What a story it would be for Pirates to make the title game. The biggest reason, Skip Holtz. He brought hope, motivation and wouldn't let the Pirates waller in self-pity. Beware of the Owls...they lost their first 4 games to Houston, UCLA, Texas and Florida State but have since gone 5-1. I still like the Pirates.

Duke @ Georgia Tech

Nice homecoming for Duke coach Ted Roof who played for the Jackets but that's about the extent of the trip. Next game please. Oh, there are none so see you next week!

Jeff Gravley