The FootballScoop Upset of the Week is back. Each week, the three of us will give you the game we see as the best chance for an underdog to dump a bucket of ice cold water on their opponents' (and Vegas') heads.
This season: Scott (1-1), Doug (1-1), Zach (0-2). Hey, picking significant dogs to outright win ain't easy.
Scott: Southeastern Louisiana over Tulane
Southeastern Louisiana is located about 45 minutes from the heart of New Orleans and will bring a large contingent of fans uptown when Ron Roberts' program takes on the Green Wave in only the second game in Tulane's new Yulman Stadium. Southeastern comes in 2-0 and isn't having trouble moving the ball or scoring points. In both of their two games, Southeastern has both rushed and passed for over 230 yards. That's balance folks and that's a recipe for putting Ws on the board. I believe that not only does Southeastern have the playmakers to win this game; but they also have the belief in themselves. This could be a huge year for Southeastern. Tulane's program is improving (and I expect them to only get better now that recruits can experience a game in Yulman); but I think the Lions shock them this week.
Zach: Virginia over Louisville
Hey, they call it an upset for a reason, right? Virginia has looked like a completely different team this season, pushing UCLA around for much of the opener, and then taking care of business last week against Richmond. Jon Tenuta's defense has proven to be a strength thus far, ranking in the top 25 nationally in rushing defense and yards per carry allowed, seventh in sacks and second in tackles for loss. The Cavs are also one of nine teams nationally to not allow a touchdown pass through two games while also nabbing three or more interceptions. Combine that with a first-time starter making his first road start in a conference game, and I'll take the Cavs. (Which means it's time for you to load up on Louisville.)
Doug: UCF over Missouri
During UCF's game across the pond against Penn State, they showed a tremendous amount of resolve. Somehow, the Golden Knights defense managed to allow over 400 yards passing, yet still only lost by 2 points. In that game they averaged less than a yard per rush attempt, and had just 51 plays for 246 yards of total offense...and that kind of performance isn't going to win many games. In their first game back on American soil against Missouri, they'll have to play a lot better on both sides of the ball, but I counted them out in the Fiesta Bowl game against Baylor back in January, and won't be making the same mistake over a ranked opponent here.