Every week, Maxwell Award-winner, Heisman Trophy finalist, former NFL starting quarterback and CBS Sports analyst Brady Quinn will be here offering his picks on some of the closest, most-competitive college football games.
We have already seen some surprises, but you can set your mind at ease this weekend with these straight-up winners.
Week 1 was tough for everyone. There were upsets among the top 10 teams in the nation. As for my picks, two games that went to overtime ultimately fell outside my prediction. Florida State played like a true contender should, and it took care of business in the second half, saving me from a goose egg to begin the year.
Let's get to Week 2, which includes two rivalry games.
Penn State at Pittsburgh: The Nittany Lions make the short trip to take on the Panthers for state bragging rights. State led by quarterback Trace McSorley, Penn State will rely on a strong running game with behind Saquon Barkley, who rushed for 105 yards and a touchdown in Week 1 vs. Kent State. Pitt is up for the challenge after holding Villanova to 53 yards last week. At home, with the combination of QB Nate Pederson and star running back James Connor back, I believe it's the Panthers' game to lose. Pick: Pitt
SportsLine ATS projection: Penn State +5 -- Full analysis, expert picks
BYU at Utah: The Utes have home field advantage but are still looking to rebuild an offense that lost key contributors at key positions from a year ago (QB Travis Wilson, QB Kendal Thompson, RB Devontae Booker, WR Kenneth Scott). Quarterback Troy Williams and rushers Troy McCormick and Joe Williams seem up to the task, but I'm betting on BYU with a rebuilt defense and QB/RB combo Taysom Hill and Jamaal Williams back after missing last season. The Cougs win this one. Pick: BYU
SportsLine ATS projection: BYU +3.5 -- Full analysis, expert picks
South Carolina at Mississippi State: The Bulldogs begin SEC play after a disappointing loss to South Alabama last week. The loss of Dak Prescott to the NFL left a gaping hole at the quarterback position with a four-man race. Nick Fitzgerald started the game but was ineffective, leading to Damian Williams, who helped to build a lead but couldn't maintain it in the second half. That gave way to an upset and a battle that remains unsettled. The Gamecocks have quarterback issues of their own but, it appears Perry Orth should be the starter after leading a second half comeback win over Vanderbilt in Week 1. Both teams are in rebuilding mode but one stands out Saturday. Pick: South Carolina
SportsLine ATS projection: Mississippi State -7 -- Full analysis, expert picks