:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/44280174/usa-today-8060397.0.jpg)
This week will conclude my season-long pick'em series. With a light Pac-12 slate this week, I will be selecting four random games from across the country and an extra lock of the week. Feel free to post your own picks in the comments.
Record to Date: 19-12
ARIZONA +13 vs Oregon
I actually think Oregon will be in control for most of the game, but a late Arizona touchdown pulls the final margin to within 10 or so points. The Ducks are playing at a much higher level than when these two met back in October and are also a lot healthier. I just do not see the Wildcats beating them for a third straight time, especially with a spot in the College Football Playoff on the line.
FRESNO STATE +20 vs Boise State
This game has already been played once, with the Broncos winning 37-27 at home in Boise. Fresno State has won three of its last four since that tight loss and now gets another crack at their rivals in the conference championship games. Yes, the Bulldogs do have to play on the road again, but they are coming in with a lot of momentum and I do not see them getting blown out. Give me Boise State by eight.
ALABAMA -14.5 vs Missouri
This is the pick I'm worried about most this weekend. While Alabama does have far more talent than Missouri, this is the SEC championship game, and strange things can happen. I doubt the Tigers can play their way into the playoff with a win, but it is not impossible either. At the end of the day, I think the Crimson Tide will do to Missouri what they did to Auburn last Saturday. After a close game for three quarters, the Tide should begin to roll, and cover. Barely.
OHIO STATE +4.5 vs Wisconsin
I think Vegas is overreacting slightly to the loss of Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett. This is still a very good Ohio State team, and Cardale Jones is a serviceable backup that can be tough to prepare for in just a week's time. I don't know if the Buckeyes will win, but I expect the final to be somewhere around 31-28 or 28-24, no matter who pulls it out.
Bonus Pick (Lock of the Week, Worth Double)
OKLAHOMA STATE +19 at Oklahoma
Yes, Oklahoma State is in a bad slide. But this is Bedlam, where anything can happen. The Cowboys are playing for bowl eligibility and they should be able to keep the score within three possessions for the entire afternoon. Go Fightin' Mike Gundy's.