Not a Hobby, Just a Passion

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

A Downtown Columbia Ministry Gives the Homeless Hope During the Summer Heat

Oscar Gadsden and Keepin' It Real Ministries reminds the homeless that their situation is not hopeless.

By: Justin Stevens

A couple of weeks ago, Carolina News introduced the public to Oscar Gadsden, a former homeless man that founded a ministry to help the homeless. He was giving out water and food during the week, to help the homeless in Finlay Park under the summer heat.

On Sundays, Gadsden and his ministry set up on the stage at Finlay Park to provide a religious service to the homeless. Since 2005, the ministry has been providing food, beverages and guidance to the homeless during their Sunday service. Gadsden says that the main focus of the ministry is to be there for those people who Gadsden and others in the ministry once lived with, just like God is.

"We are here," Gadsden said. Just liker God has always been with his arms out, open, strectched out wide. Getting ready to love us and love them. We also have to show them our love that God is inside of us, loving them."

Brian Wright, a volunteer at Keepin' It Real Ministry, often leads the sunday service in prayer. He has been helping out with the ministry for over two years now and says whether it is giving out water or food to people, he loves being there for people when they need him the most.

"My favorite part about it is just helping the people," Wright said. "I love it. I mean I remember when I did no have and someone helped me, so I am just trying to return the favor. Come out here and try to help out as much as I can because I enjoy it. I thank God for it."

This past Sunday, Chapin United Methodist was out at the park helping the homeless along side Keepin' It Real Ministry. The church gives the ministry around eleven thousand dollars every month and holds a water and backpack drive every year. Tim Walker, the youth director at Chapin United Methodist, says that many churches often overlook the homeless, but helping them is a calling for his church.

"Keepin' It Real is our Samaria," Walker said. "Often time when people see homeless they kind of walk away from them, but we want to be a church that walks towards the homeless and serve them."

So whether you see Oscar or someone else with Keepin' It Real Ministry in Finlay Park, they will be giving back and praying for those living without a home.

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Eat, Drink And Paint: Corks and Canvas Offers a Relaxed Art Class for Everyone

Have you ever been interested in taking an art class, but were afraid to give it a try? Corks and Canvas might have the solution for you.

By: Justin Stevens

At Romano's Macaroni Grill on Sunday night, a party of about 40 people sat down to enjoy a nice evening at the popular Italian restaruant. But this was not your average dinner party. Instead of a plate of pasta di mare or eggplant parmesan in front of them, a blank canvas was their dinner view.

Corks and Canvas, a local business that holds art classes at local wine serving restaurants, started business in the Columbia area on July 1st. The class is inteneded for patrons to eat and drink whatever they want from the restaurant, while painting a picture they can take home at the end of the night.

Tammy Jones, Co-owner of Corks and Canvas, believes that this is an alternative form of entertainment people can enjoy in the Columbia area.

"There is only so much of going out to eat and going to see a movie that people can do," Tammy Jones said. "We are a form of entertainment. This is art entertainment. So you can come out and paint and you can eat and drink and socialize."

Corks and Canvas' event at Macaroni Grill was there fourth event in the Columbia area. Originally based out of Augusta, Georgia, the buisness is the only art class in Columbia that is held at local restaurants.

Tammy Jones said that this class not only helps out her business, but also helps out the restaurants that host these classes.

"It's a win-win situation," Tammy Jones said. "They are purchasing the painting class from us, and their purchasing food and beverage from the restaurant so it is helping us both."

Homeowners know that purchasing a nice piece of art work can get expensive when decorating a home. Lex Jones, Co-Owner of Corks and Canvas, believes like the $35 cost to take the class can help people with the decision of buying artwork, by creating their own.

"We feel like we are taking those people who don't want to [purchase artwork] or cannot afford to that with artwork, allowing them to create their own and beginning to appreaciate art and see art in a different way, Lex Jones said.

Corks and Canvas has two locations in Columbia where they hold class; Romano's Macaroni Grill and Gilligans Seafood is Lexington. The Jones' plan on expanding their business to the Northeast Columbia side at Stonefire American Grill and to undecided location in The Vista in August.

For more information about Corks and Canvas, visit their website at www.corksandcanvas.us.com.

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Former Homeless Man Helps Out the People he Onced Lived With

Oscar Gasdsen provides the homesless with food and guidance to get off of the streets.

By: Justin Stevens

Homelessness in Columbia can be witnessed from every corner of the Capital City. In a recent survey conducted by the S.C. Coalition of the Homeless, more than 400 new homeless people have arrived in Richland County since 2011.
Many of these people that are homeless are going through a time period drug additions, mental illnesses and bad hardships from their past. A time period one man used to live through, but now is helping out others in that situation.
Oscar Gadsden, Pastor of Keepin' It Real Ministries, is at Finlay Park giving out water and food to homeless people battling the South Carolina heat. This some thing that Gadsden dreamed about ten years ago.
"Right here in Finlay Park," Gadsden said. "I was homeless right here in Columbia."

Gadsden said he became homeless due to drug and alcohol addiction, but started to turn his life around when he founded Keepin' It Real Ministries in 2005.
"It is awesome to see people when it started out everyone was homeless in this ministry," Gadsden said. "Thirteen of us living out here in the street, all homeless, used to hold hands at night and pray."
Gadsden continued to live out on the streets until 2010, the same year he would marry his girlfriend, Cheryl Gadsden. Cheryl believes that many of the homeless people trust Oscar because he lived through many of the situations that they are going through right now.
"When Oscar was out there, where Oscar slept, they slept," Cheryl Gadsden said. "What Oscar did, they did. They [were] following behind Oscar, but now they are seeing he is off the streets. Of course they want to follow him."
Oscar, who is now a full-time pastor with the ministry, holds a Sunday service at the Park every Sunday. The ministry provides food and water to those homeless who stop by. Gadsden knows his spiritual message might not stick with some of the homeless at Finlay Park, but hopes his biggest message does.

"Biggest message is do not give up," Gadsden said. "Do not give up. I do not care how much this society or this city dumps on you, do not give up."
Since the start of the ministry in 2005, the ministry now provides the homeless with blankets, clothing, job training, recovery programs and transitional houses. To learn more information, please visit www.keepinitrealministriessc.blogspot.com

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

Soda City Market Provides Local Vendors the Chance to be Successful

Many local vendors are finding new openings due to the exposure from the market

By: Justin Stevens

   The Soda City Market on the 1500 block of Main Street in Columbia has brought thousands of shoppers to the downtown area every Saturday. However, the shoppers are not the only one's benefitting from this market, as local vendors are seeing an increase in income from the growing number of people that come out each Saturday.
   Bryan Tayara, the owner of Our Local Catch, has been participating in the market for a couple of months and his business has doubled in income from the market.
   Our Local Catch now provides fresh local seafood from North and South Carolina to four restaurants in Columbia including Blue Marling in The Vista. Tayara believes that the Soda City Market is great for new and local businesses that are trying to get established.
   "This is a great thing for businesses because I feel like businesses are going to start here and move onto a more bricks and mortar location and really, really support the town and be a part of the landscape of Columbia," Tayara said.
   Some of the shoppers that are attracted to the market love to buy from local businesses. Erin Galloway, an Irmo resident, has been coming to the market since the start of summer and feels like the market is a way for local vendors to showcase their products.
   "There are a ton of vendors out here that we didn't know anything about, so they are getting a great oppurtubnity to showcase products that are made right here in Columbia and I really love to be able to buy local," Galloway said.
   Stuart James, a full-time real estate agent, sells homemade jewelry at the market. She believes that the businesses on Main Street are the ones that are benefitted the most from the thousands of shoppers.
   "The Main Street businesses have benefitted the most because they have a lot more traffic on Saturday morning that they didn't have before," James said. "So they open earlier now so it helped our Main Street ebcome better and thrive, which is what Columbia needs as a city, especially being the capital of South Carolina."
   Tayara is unsure that he will one day own a permanent location to sell his local seafood, but like many others he will continue to sell at the Soda City market to grow his business.

SportsTalk Articles

Thursday, July 7, 2011

2011 Women's World Cup

I wish it was the Men's world cup so I could see a little less crying and a little more flopping, but the Women's cup is what we have and the group stages are over. No it is time to have a Champion. Will Germany repeat? Or how about Marta capturing the Player of the Cup and the Title? Or will home town favorite US, bounce back from the defeat against Sweden, and stun the world?

Here ar my Elimination Round predictions

Germany vs. Japan

Germany had the 2nd easiest round to the elimination round, and Japan had the 2nd hardest. That doesn't matter in this one, as Germany wins this one impressively by two goals. 2-0

Sweden vs. Australia
Sweden had an impressive win against the United States yesterday, but they face a hugry Aussie team that held off Norway, who was eliminated for the first time in group stages. The Aussie surprise the Swedes in this one. 2-1

France vs. England
Two european power houses clash in this quaterfinal matchup. France had to battle Brazil in the group stages and England had to hold off Mexico and Japan. This one will be a tough battle through extra time, going into PK's. England wins 2-2 in PK's.

United States vs. Brazil
The United States could have easily won the group, and being on there way to play Australia in the quarters, but mislapses on defense prevented that. I'm sure the defense will be much more focused against Brazil, and Brazil will be much more focused as they look to blank the American's for the second cup in a row. Tough game, but Brazil powers through 2-1.

Semi-finals

Germany vs. Australia
The Aussies have made an impressive run to the semis, but this is where there road will end, as Germany uses the home crowd to get passed Australia in a 2-1 victory.

England vs. Brazil
England has played good all of this world cup, but the Brazilians might be the most athletic team in the cup. Brazil puts up three as they win 3-2.

World Cup Final

3rd Place Game- Austalia vs. England
England will have the advantage coming into this game, but everyone in Germany will be pulling for the Aussies. Me Too!! Aussies 1-1. PK Victory.

Germany vs. Brazil
This is what many people have expected going into this World Cup, besides the people who think the United States will win at everything because we have freedom or somethin...
Germany is the smarter team and has the home field, and Brazil is more athletic and has the world's best player. I will pick Brazil in this one. 3-2.

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

College Football Preview (SEC)

Last year we saw one man take a team all the way to the National Title game, and come out with a victory. Is there a kid like Cam Newton out there this year? We won't know until further into the season, but what I do know is that I have spent countless hours looking over college football for next season, and I have made my final predictions unless something drastic happens to certain teams. I am going to start with the one conference that has come up with the National Title team for the past five years, and a conference that is undefeated in BCS title games. The Southeastern Conference.

What I will do for future references down the road, is list the order of what I have predicted the conference to look like at the end of the season, then give you my predictions for each team, every game, and the Bowl game and award winning segment which I will do after all of the conferences are done with.

The Southeastern Conference

East

1. South Carolina: 10-2 (6-2) (4-1) <--In conference record, followed by region record.

2. Florida: 8-4 (5-3) (4-1)

3. Tennessee: 8-4 (4-4) (4-1)

4. Georgia: 8-4 (5-3) (2-3)

5. Kentucky: 5-7 (2-6) (1-4)

6. Vanderbilt: 2-10 (1-7) (0-5)

West

1. Alabama: 11-1 (7-1) (4-1)

2. Arkansas: 10-2 (7-1) (4-1)

3. Louisiana State: 9-3 (6-2) (4-1)

4. Mississippi State: 6-6 (2-6) (2-3)

5. Auburn: 4-8 (1-7) (1-4)

6. Ole Miss: 4-8 (1-7) (0-5)

East

South Carolina Gamecocks Schedule

vs. East Carolina (Charlotte): Win (1-0)
- The Southern Miss/USC game was supposed to be close last year also..Turned out to be 41-13.

at Georgia: Win (2-0) (1-0) (1-0)
- Last time USC went between the hedges, they came out with a loss. With a lack of playmaker established USC will win again like last year.

vs. Navy: Win (3-0) (1-0) (1-0)
- I do not believe South Carolina has ever faced a triple-option team, and it usually takes a few weeks to prepare for. But with Navy's QB Ricky Dobbs graduating this past year, Navy won't have what it takes.

vs. Vanderbilt: Win (4-0) (2-0) (2-0)
- Lattimore will be too tough on the defence that was 100th in the nation last year stopping the run.

vs. Auburn: Win (5-0) (3-0) (2-0)
- The Gamecocks were a Garcia and Shaw away from winning the game last year in Auburn. Plus this year is no Cam Newtown.

vs. Kentucky: Win (6-0) (4-0) (3-0)
- Last year it was a huge disappointment, but the Gamecocks will look for a healthy Lattimore to finish the game and a 4-game home field win streak.

at. Mississippi State: Win (7-0) (5-0) (3-0)
- The Bulldogs are the last team a good team wants to face in the SEC, because of how dangerous they are to ending a perfect season, but the Gamecocks get the W in a close one.

at. Tennessee: Loss (7-1) (5-1) (3-1)
- Last year Kentucky, this year Tennessee. At the end of the game last year Vols QB Tyler Bray went off on the Gamecocks secondary. The Gamecocks are not good against spread offenses that light up the skies. Rocky Top = Tough road loss for USC.

at. Arkansas: Loss (7-2) (5-2) (3-1)
- Arkansas= A better Tennessee. Even without Ryan Mallet, QB Tyler Wilson looks good enough to sling it to a numerous of wideouts. Lets not talk about last year...

vs. Florida: Win (8-2) (6-2) (4-1)
- The Gamecocks end region play with a victory against the Gators. Gators will be really good in a couple of years, but right now is USC's chance.

vs. The Citadel: Win (9-2) (6-2) (4-1)
- Even though Julian Baxter is amazing, South Carolina will have no trouble handling this obstacle. Furman score last year (38-19)

vs. Clemson: Win (10-2) (6-2) (4-1)
- Dabo still can't hang with the Gamecocks. Don't expect this one to be fun for Tiger fans either.

Florida Gators

vs. Florida Atlantic: Win (1-0)
- Even though the inexperience of the Gators might make this one look sloopy at first, lets remember who they are playing. Gators only return 4 on offense, and 2 on defense.

vs. Alabama Birmingham: Win (2-0)
- Besides playing Florida State at the end of the season, the Gators have one of the worst non-conference schedules in football. Brantley Shines?!?

vs. Tennessee: Win (3-0) (1-0) (1-0)
- Muschamp's and Weis' first SEC victory will come in the Swamp. Crowd will be crazy, Muschamp will be fired up, and Weis loses a couple pounds jumping up and down.

at. Kentucky: Win (4-0) (2-0) (2-0)
- USC slipped up last year in Kentucky, but the Gators will win this one defensively with Muschamp.

vs. Alabama: Loss (4-1) (2-1) (2-0)
- The Gators first big test of the season will end in disappointment. Alabama's defense will be too strong for the Gators. Turnovers Bite..

at. LSU: Loss (4-2) (2-2) (2-0)
- After reeling from a home loss, the Gators travel to Death Valley to play another defensive team...Tough two weeks in Gatorland.

at. Auburn: Win (5-2) (3-2) (2-0)
- Three SEC West opponents in a row, and the Gators get the W on the last one. The Tigers were 108th in passing defense last year..

vs. Georgia (Jacksonville): Win (6-2) (4-2) (3-0)
- The Gators somehow got a win last year at the Cocktail Party, and with an established offense they will win again.

vs. Vanderbilt: Win (7-2) (5-2) (4-0)
- The Gators have one thing on their mind and it is Atlanta. They won't allow the Commodores anything.

at. South Carolina: Loss (7-3) (5-3) (4-1)
- With only one win away from going to Atlanta, and an undefeated record against East opponents, the Gators run into a hungry Gamecock bunch, who had no problem getting on top of Brantley last year.

vs. Furman: Win (8-3) (5-3) (4-1)
- Last year it was Appalachian State before Florida State, and it was 48-10...

vs. Florida State: Loss (8-4) (5-3) (4-1)
- The Gators were speared by the Seminoles last year, and with an even tougher FSU team, the Gators will fall short at home.

Tennessee Volunteers

vs. Montana: Win (1-0)
- Tennessee-Martin was the victim last year, 50-0...

vs. Cincinnati: Win (2-0)
- Spread offense against another fast spread offense. A more talented SEC team wins this one.

at. Florida: Loss (2-1) (0-1) (0-1)
- Not a good start for the Vols as they go against a pumped Florida squad.

vs. Buffalo: Win (3-1) (0-1) (0-1)
- After losing to Florida last year, the Vols snuck by UAB in overtime. This year it is Buffalo, they aren't as good...

vs. Georgia: Win (4-1) (1-1) (1-1)
- First SEC home game in Rocky Top, and the Vols will surprise UGA with Senior RB Tauren Poole.

vs. LSU: Loss (4-2) (1-2) (1-1)
- LSU's defense will be too tough for the pass happy Vols. Morris Claiborne led the team in interceptions as they didn't throw Peterson's way. This year it is Tyrann Mathieu's turn.

at. Alabama: Loss (4-3) (1-3) (1-1)
- Another 1-2 punch just like the Gator's face. Alabama will turn on the machine named, Trent Richardson.

vs. South Carolina: Win (5-3) (2-3) (2-1)
- A Gamecock's worst nightmare is a spread offense, and Tennessee will look to bounce back after a couple of tough loses in a row.

vs. Middle Tennessee State: Win (6-3) (2-3) (2-1)
- The Vols get bowl eligible once again, with a strong win against a Sun Belt opponent.

at. Arkansas: Loss (6-4) (2-4) (2-1)
- The toughest three SEC West opponents you could draw up (Alabama, LSU, and Arkansas). Just a hard conference schedule for the Vols.

vs. Vanderbilt: Win (7-4) (3-4) (3-1)
- Tyler Bray will have a great game against the Dores. Tennessee goes 7-1 at home.

at. Kentucky: Win (8-4) (4-4) (4-1)
- With nothing to gain or lose, the Vols will have no pressure to crumble under when they go a state higher to take on the Wildcats.

Georgia Bulldogs

vs. Boise State (Atlanta): Loss (0-1)
- Virginia Tech was the victim last year, after losing to James Madison the previous week, they went on to win 11 straight. Kellen Moore is back in Boise...

vs. South Carolina: Loss (0-2) (0-1) (0-1)
- Again the Boise State syndrome latches on to the Bulldogs, and they still search for a reliable playmaker.

vs. Coastal Carolina: Win (1-2) (0-1) (0-1)
- Coastal Carolina is nothing to be afraid of. As said by Trey Poston, CCU student, "I never went to any of the sporting event." Maybe because they are not good...

at. Ole Miss: Win (2-2) (1-1) (0-1)
- Ole Miss was horrible against the pass last year also, and Aaron Murray is improving and will prove he is one of the best QB's in the SEC.

vs. Mississippi State: Win (3-2) (2-1) (0-1)
- The Bulldogs came away with a loss last year in Starksville, 12-24. The Bulldogs are sure to put up more than 12 points this year.

at. Tennessee: Loss (3-3) (2-2) (0-2)
- A confident Bulldog bunch has some swag going into Tennessee, but the Vols are fired up. Rushing defense struggles..

at. Vanderbilt: Win (4-3) (3-2) (1-2)
- UGA rebounds as Aaron Murray doesn't have to compete with another prolific passer. Rout.

vs. Florida (Jacksonville): Loss (4-4) (3-3) (1-3)
- Georgia just cannot find an answer against Florida and the speed of Chris Rainey.

vs. New Mexico State: Win (5-4) (3-3) (1-3)
- Some might think this is a random opponent for the Bulldogs, but last year they played Idaho State so think again.

vs. Auburn: Win (6-4) (4-3) (1-3)
- Auburn will win the game in the rushing yardage department, but not the final score as Auburn find trouble defending the pass.

vs. Kentucky: Win (7-4) (5-3) (2-3)
- Aaron Murray is on a hot streak, and routs Kentucky with an impressive win for the Dogs. Dogs > Cats.

at. Georgia Tech: Win (8-4) (5-3) (2-3)
- Georgia was able to come out with a win at home last year, against the best triple option team, when they were struggling to find out their QB. GT found their's, but it won't be enough to keep Murray off the scoreboard.

Kentucky Wildcats

vs. Western Kentucky (Nashville): Win (1-0)
- Western Kentucky has a pretty good running game, which is what the Wildcats lack at defending, but Kentucky has a QB with the last name NEWTON.

vs. Central Michigan: Win (2-0)
- The Chippewas are a dangerous MAC team to play because of their spread offense, but Kentucky ranked 14th last year in passing defense. The Wildcats also return their entire secondary.

vs. Louisville: Loss (2-1)
- Former Gator coach Charlie Strong will finally get his first win against Kentucky as a head coach. The lack of a playmaker on the offensive end hurts the Wildcats.

vs. Florida: Loss (2-2) (0-1) (0-1)
- Last year, the Wildcats were demolished by a unstable Gator squad. This year they will have an identity. Not good for the Cats.

at. LSU: Loss (2-3) (0-2) (0-1)
- Death Valley is not a place you want to be playing at nighttime. The times aren't established yet, but day or night the Wildcats have no chance.

at. South Carolina: Loss (2-4) (0-3) (0-2)
- Kentucky was able to shock the Gamecocks last year with Randall Cobb. This year UK doesn't have him...

vs. Jacksonville State: Win (3-4) (0-3) (0-2)
- Two Gamecock teams, back to back. This one is not as intimadating...

vs. Mississippi State: Win (4-4) (1-3) (0-2)
- The biggest SEC win of the season will go against the Bulldogs out of Starksville at home.

vs. Ole Miss: Loss (4-5) (1-4) (0-2)
- The Rebels are not that great this year, but they will be troublesome for the Wildcats who are not as good as they were last year.

at. Vanderbilt: Win (5-5) (2-4) (1-2)
- With the Wildcats needing a win, they show up against Vanderbilt, exposing the holes they have to fill on defense, linebacker.

at. Georgia: Loss (5-6) (2-5) (1-3)
- The Wildcats only need one win to be bowl eligible, but they run into Aaron Murray and the Dogs.

at. Tennessee: Loss (5-7) (2-6) (1-4)
- The Wildcats fail to make it to a bowl game because of their inability to win a second SEC East game, or beat Ole Miss...

Vanderbilt Commodores

vs. Elon: Win (1-0)
- Even though the Dores fell to Northwestern last year in the opener, Elon is not ready to play with the big boys.

vs. Connecticut: Loss (1-1)
- The Dores lost to the Huskies last year allowing 40 points. With a shaky defense, Vanderbilt might match that again this year.

vs. Ole Miss: Win (2-1) (1-0) (0-0)
- The first SEC for the Dores comes at home in Vanderbilt Stadium. They were able to beat Ole Miss last year by 14, and it seems Vanderbilt knows how to beat the Rebels.

at. South Carolina: Loss (2-2) (1-1) (0-1)
- The Dores only allowed 21 points against the Cocks last year, but a more developed offense at USC might put up more than that.

at. Alabama: Loss (2-3) (1-2) (0-1)
- They didn't play Alabama last year, and it seems they play a little better against primarily run offenses under center, but Bama is a little better...

vs. Georgia: Loss (2-4) (1-3) (0-2)
- Trying to get their first SEC East win of the year, the Dores will throw everything out at Georgia, but the Dores will get a taste of freshman RB, Isiah Crowell.

vs. Army: Loss (2-5) (1-3) (0-2)
- Army is a run first type of offense, and they will most likely run the entire game. The style of running is much different then what they will see in the SEC though.

vs. Arkansas: Loss (2-6) (1-4) (0-2)
- The Hogs put up 49 on the Dores last year. I expect this one to be closer than last year, but last year Arkansas won by 35...so 28?

at. Florida: Loss (2-7) (1-5) (0-3)
- The hopes of a late charge to get bowl eligible will end in the Swamp, as Brantley and Weis gain control of momentum early.

vs. Kentucky: Loss (2-8) (1-6) (0-4)
- They were unable to stop Randall Cobb last year, so they should have an easier job on the offensive end, but a good LB core and defensive backfield prevent Vandy from gaining any big plays.

at. Tennessee: Loss (2-9) (1-7) (0-5)
- They have to travel to Rocky Top for their final SEC game of the year. What is there to lose? Or win? Vandy might not even show up...

at. Wake Forest: Loss (2-10) (1-7) (0-5)
- The young Demon Deacon team walloped the Dores last year, and with the starting QB and RB returning for the Deacons, Vandy has trouble again.

West

Alabama Crimson Tide

vs. Kent State: Win (1-0)
- Alabama might have been the most talented team in college football last year, but with mental lapses, and the inability to finish games they finished the year with three losses.

at. Penn State: Win (2-0)
- The Tide beat the young Nittany Lions last year in Bama. Penn State will be better than last year and will give Bama an early scare in Beaver Stadium.

vs. North Texas: Win (3-0)
- Besides the lone game against Penn State, Bama has had one of the easiest non-conference schedules in college football. Maybe that is why they are unable to close games against good teams?

vs. Arkansas: Loss (3-1) (0-1) (0-1)
- The first SEC game of the year for the Tide comes at home against the Hogs. Last year they won a close one in Arkansas, this year it is the their turn.

at. Florida: Win (4-1) (1-1) (0-1)
- Nick Saban won't allow the new SEC coaches come in, and take out one of the top teams in the conference. The Trent Richardson gives Mushcamp frustration.

vs. Vanderbilt: Win (5-1) (2-1) (0-1)
- A poor rushing defense in Vanderbilt, will give Bama a field day at home.

at. Ole Miss: Win (6-1) (3-1) (1-1)
- The first SEC West victory of the year comes against the worst team in the West. It was sort of close last year, but Ole Miss didn't score over 10 points. Same this year.

vs. Tennessee: Win (7-1) (4-1) (1-1)
- The game against Arkansas was good practice for the Tide. Saban will study the film, and Dre Kirkpatrick picks one off against the Vols.

vs. LSU: Win (8-1) (5-1) (2-1)
- Bama has all of the big games against West teams at home this year. They failed to capitlize against Arkansas, but they will be able to finish this one.

at. Mississippi State: Win (9-1) (6-1) (3-1)
- Bama was able to score on the Bulldogs last season. Some of the big playmakers are gone from the Tide, but the defense is full of studs.

vs. Georgia Southern: Win (10-1) (6-1) (3-1)
- A cupcake game before a rematch against the Tigers.

at. Auburn: Win (11-1) (7-1) (4-1)
- Last year's second half collapse against Auburn was the reason the Tigers, had a chance to play in the title game. Bama knows that, and they will show no mercy on Auburn at Jordan-Hare.

Arkansas Razorbacks

vs. Missouri State: Win (1-0)
- The only flaw the Razorbacks going into this season is the absence of Ryan Mallett. Even though he slung the ball to multiple receivers last year. His inability to finish in the clutch against Bama and Auburn, won't be missed in Hogland.

vs. New Mexico (Little Rock): Win (2-0)
- Even though this game is being played at a "neutral" site. The site is in Arkansas. The hogs shouldn't have any trouble.

vs. Troy: Win (3-0)
- Troy was 100th in the nation in pass defense last year, so look for QB Tyler Wilson to have a tune up game before a clash against Alabama, in which they can release RB Knile Davis.

at. Alabama: Win (4-0) (1-0) (1-0)
- Mallett's first half heroics and second half stumbles were the story line last year. Knile Davis is a huge factor running and catching the football. Hogs get an early big win to propel them in the Top 5.

vs. Texas A&M (Arlington): Loss (4-1) (1-0) (1-0)
- After Hog Heaven is feeling pretty from an upset win against the Tide. Texas A&M meets the Hogs in Arlington. The Razorbacks won last year by 7, but that was before the Aggies change their starting QB's last season which made a huge difference in the team.

vs. Auburn: Win (5-1) (2-0) (2-0)
- The Tigers put up 65 points last year against the Razorbacks. That was because of Arkansas' inability to tackle Cam Newton. No Cam Newton= Big win for Arkansas.

at. Ole Miss: Win (6-1) (3-0) (3-0)
- Ole Miss kept it close last year, but look for Arkansas to mix up both the pass and the run, to give them a balanced victory.

at. Vanderbilt: Win (7-1) (4-0) (3-0)
- So far Arkansas has had no trouble against SEC competition, and it is the same case against Vandy.

vs. South Carolina: Win (8-1) (5-0) (3-0)
- The Razorbacks continue to roll, as they put it in the air against the Gamecocks. Something they had no problem doing last year at Williams-Brice.

vs. Tennessee: Win (9-1) (6-0) (3-0)
- Both team's are replica's of each other on offense, but Arkansas knows how to defend what they have. They were 20th in the nation against the pass last year.

vs. Mississippi State (Little Rock): Win (10-1) (7-0) (4-0)
- The Bulldogs took the Razorbacks into double overtime last year, but with momentum on their side and a previous game at Little Rock already this year, Arkansas does what it needs to do.

at. LSU: Loss (10-2) (7-1) (4-1)
- With a prefect SEC record on the line, SEC West title, and a potential game against the Gamecocks' in Atlanta, Arkansas is not fully prepared for LSU. A nightgame at Death Valley = Nightmare for the Razorbacks.

Louisiana State Tigers

vs. Oregon (Arlington): Loss (0-1)
- The Tigers might have one of the most hyped about teams in the country this year, but Oregon is the most talented and the most flashy.

vs. Northwestern State: Win (1-1)
- A rebound game for the Tigers after a tough loss against the Ducks. Don't get too relaxed (Virginia Tech?!?!?)...

at. Mississippi State: Win (2-1) (1-0) (1-0)
- The Tigers were able to handle the Bulldogs with no problem last year, and this year should be no different.

at. West Virginia: Win (3-1) (1-0) (1-0)
- The Tigers might have the most difficult non-conference schedule against Oregon and the Mountaineers, but they will be able to squek out of Morgantown with a victory.

vs. Kentucky: Win (4-1) (2-0) (1-0)
- The Tigers are on a hot streak since the loss against Oregon. They have no problem against the Wildcats in conference game before the Gators.

vs. Florida: Win (5-1) (3-0) (1-0)
- They were able to win last year with some gutsy calls by Les Miles, but with a change of venue, it should be less stressful for the Tigers.

at. Tennessee: Loss (5-2) (3-1) (1-0)
- The Vols were a couple defenders away from beating the Tigers in an evening game in Death Valley last year. Look for the Vols to be more sound and focused this year.

vs. Auburn: Win (6-2) (4-1) (2-0)
- It is everyone's chance to beat up on the Tigers this year, as they struggle to replace Cam Newton...

at. Alabama: Loss (6-3) (4-2) (2-1)
- The Tigers have to go on the road and face a fiesty Tide bunch that won't allow anyone to score easily. The Tigers have trouble putting up more than 14.

vs. Western Kentucky: Win (7-3) (4-2) (2-1)
- Western Kentucky has a good RB, but the Tigers have some playmakers of their own. Russell Shepard has a huge game.

at. Ole Miss: Win (8-3) (5-2) (3-1)
- They scored a ton against the Rebels last year, but also gave up 36. Look for LSU to win the game on the defensive side of the ball this year.

vs. Arkansas: Win (9-3) (6-2) (4-1)
- The Tigers are tough at Death Valley at night. They were two close losses away from going undefeated last year, and one of those games was Arkansas. Revenge is lurking in Tiger Town.

Mississippi State Bulldogs

at. Memphis: Win (1-0)
- The Bulldogs are always a team that can surprise a lot of people. They are always a really good team, but faul to beat some of the major competition in the SEC West.

at. Auburn: Win (2-0) (1-0) (1-0)
- The one team the Bulldogs have a chance to jump in the West, and they will capatilize on their oppurtunity. They only lost by three last year, and with no Cammy Cam, the Bulldogs win.

vs. LSU: Loss (2-1) (1-1) (1-1)
- After a good and impressive win over the Tigers, the Bulldogs run into a better Tiger team. They fail to keep the game close early.

vs. Louisiana Tech: Win (3-1) (1-1) (1-1)
- The Bulldogs are able to bounce back with an easy win against Louisiana Tech. Big running game for Vick Ballard.

at. Georgia: Loss (3-2) (1-2) (1-1)
- They beat Georgia last year with the absense of A.J Green, and UGA doesn't have him this year. The hedges will be just too much for Mississippi State to overcome.

at. UAB: Win (4-2) (1-2) (1-1)
- They were able to hung on by 5 last year against this C-USA opponent, and they will be able to handle them more effectively this year with experience factor.

vs. South Carolina: Loss (4-3) (1-3)(1-1)
- This one will be tough for either team, and Mississippi State has what it takes to surprise the Gamecocks in Starksville. The Gamecocks hang on, not by Lattimore, but from a surprise receiver not named Alshon.

at. Kentucky: Loss (4-4) (1-4) (1-1)
- With the Bulldogs struggling with the loss against USC, they are unprepared for a Kentucky team, that will have a little boost of energy after playing Jacksonville State.

vs. Tennessee Martin: Win (5-4) (1-4) (1-1)
- They are able to stop the bleeding against Div.1 AA Tennessee Martin, and a big rest before Bama.

vs. Alabama: Loss (5-5) (1-5) (1-2)
- The Tide come into Starksville eyeing for a chance to play in Atlanta, and don't allow the Bulldogs to find much offense at all.

vs. Arkansas (Arlington): Loss (5-6) (1-6) (1-3)
- Arkansas will have too much fire power against the Bulldogs at Arlington, and the Bulldogs don't have the weapons on offense to answer the call.

vs. Ole Miss: Win (6-6) (2-6) (2-3)
- Mississippi State finishes there disappointing season with a win to become bowl eligible.

Auburn Tigers

vs. Utah State: Win (1-0)
- The one reason the Tigers won the National Title is Cam Newton. To believe this team will be the same they were last year is foolish. The QB situation is shaky, and they failed to land QB Russell Wilson.

vs. Mississippi State: Loss (1-1) (0-1) (0-1)
- The nation's longest winning streak of 16 is snapped, and TCU owns that distinction now with 15 wins.

at. Clemson: Loss (1-2) (0-1) (0-1)
- Auburn was able to escape Clemson last year at home by three. With a more developed offense at Clemson, and the game being played in South Carolina, Clemson gets the victory.

vs. Florida Atlantic: Win (2-2) (0-1) (0-1)
- Auburn bounces back from a two game losing streak to beat the Owls from the Sun Belt. Michael Dyer has a good game running the ball.

at. South Carolina: Loss (2-3) (0-2) (0-1)
- South Carolina is looking for some revenge from last year, and sophomore RB Lattimore will be able to get more holes than last year, without Nick Fairley clugging them up.

at. Arkansas: Loss (2-4) (0-3) (0-2)
- The woes are piling on the Tigers, as teams did not lose as much as the Tigers did in the offseason. The passing defense struggles like they did last year, which means an easy game for Arkansas.

vs. Florida: Loss (2-5) (0-4) (0-2)
- Muschamp and Weis have what it takes to stop Dyer and the Auburn rushing attack while the passing game struggles against Florida.

at. LSU: Loss (2-6) (0-5) (0-3)
- Auburn was able to sneak by LSU last year by a touchdown, but LSU returns too many weapons on the offesive and defensive end.

vs. Ole Miss: Win (3-6) (1-5) (1-3)
- The Tigers try to hold on to their season against Ole Miss, and are able to with a strong game by Michael Dyer.

at. Georgia: Loss (3-7) (1-6) (1-3)
- Georgia might have the best QB in the SEC, something that Auburn had last year. The trip to UGA is too much to keep the Tiger's bowl hopes alive.

vs. Samford: Win (4-7) (1-6) (1-3)
- A tune-up game before squaring off against the Tide, in the Iron Bowl.

vs. Alabama: Loss (4-8) (1-7) (1-4)
- The season ends at the hands of rival Alabama, and Auburn goes from National Title to a 4-8 season and only one win in the SEC.

Ole Miss Rebels

vs. BYU: Loss (0-1)
- The Rebels return 9 starters on offense, but the quarterback situation that was supposed to be fixed last year is still not fixed. Troubles for Ole Miss this season, unless they find a stable QB. As for this one, BYU has to much fire power through the air to be stopped.

vs. Southern Illinois: Win (1-1)
- Even though the Rebels lost to Div.1 AA Jacksonville State to open the season last year, they will have the running game to get past Southern Illinois.

at. Vanderbilt: Loss (1-2) (0-1) (0-0)
- Ole Miss fell short at home against the Dores last season by 14 points. Ole Miss must find some passing game to get past Vandy this year.

vs. Georgia: Loss (1-3) (0-2) (0-0)
- Ole Miss was 103rd in the nation last year against the pass, and Georgia's Aaron Murray is going to look to get off to a hot start to the season. Georgia big.

at. Fresno State: Win (2-3) (0-2) (0-0)
- The Rebels got past Fresno State last year at home, but the Bulldogs have a numerous amount of starters returning on offense and defense. This one might be close, but the SEC talent prevails and gets a win on young Derek Carr.

vs. Alabama: Loss (2-4) (0-3) (0-1)
- The Bama defense will be too tough on the Rebels, plus Trent Richardson might have a field day.

vs. Arkansas: Loss (2-5) (0-4) (0-2)
- With a team that struggled to defend the pass last season, this one might not be close at all either. Arkansas in a route.

at. Auburn: Loss (2-6) (0-5) (0-3)
- Ole Miss fell to Auburn last year by 20 points. Ole Miss is the same team on offense practically, but different on defense. Auburn gets past the Rebels in a close one.

at. Kentucky: Win (3-6) (1-5) (0-3)
- Ole Miss doesn't have the best offense, but they will exploit Kentucky's flaw on defense, the running defense. Kentucky doesn't have an established offense to begin the season.

vs. Louisiana Tech: Win (4-6) (1-5) (0-3)
- Louisiana Tech struggled on the defensive side of the ball in both aspects, and Ole Miss has a better rushing offense. Back to back games for Brandon Bolden over 100 yards rushing.

vs. LSU: Loss (4-7) (1-6) (0-4)
- The Rebels fail to remain bowl eligible for consecutive years, as the Tigers have too many weapons on offense.

at. Mississippi State: Loss (4-8) (1-7) (0-5)
- With State's season on the line, the Bulldogs will come at more fired up than Ole Miss, and take this one by multiple touchdowns.

SEC Championship Game
South Carolina (East) vs. Alabama (West)

With the talent poll that Bama has been recruiting for the past couple of years, by the end of the season, they will have no problem finding a successful QB to complete the offense. The defense is going to be stout and the best in the nation as they were 3rd in scoring defense and 5th and total defense last year. The Tide don't allow the Gamecocks to beat them for a second consecutive year, and the West prevails again.

SEC Champs: Alabama

Bowl Eligible Teams
(In Order)
1. Bama
2. Arkansas
3. LSU
4. USC
5. UGA
6. UF
7. Tenn
8. Miss St.

All-SEC Team
Offense
QB- Aaron Murray, So, Georgia
RB- Trent Richardson, Jr, Alabama
RB- Michael Dyer, So, Auburn
WR- Greg Childs, Sr, Arkansas
WR- Tavarres King, Jr, Georgia
TE- Orson Charles, Jr, Georgia
LT- Barrett Jones, Jr, Alabama
LG- Stuart Hines, Sr, Kentucky
C- Ben Jones, Sr, Georgia
RG- T-Bob Herbet, Sr, LSU
RT- Bobby Massie, Jr, Ole Miss
Defense
DE- Devin Taylor, Jr, South Carolina
DT- Malik Jackson, Sr, Tennessee
DT-Josh Chapman, Sr, Alabama
DE- Jake Bequette, Sr, Arkansas
LB- Chris Marve, Sr, Vanderbilt
LB- Danny Trevathan, Sr, Kentucky
LB- Dont'a Hightower, Sr, Alabama
CB- Morris Claiborne, Jr, LSU
SS- Winston Guy, Sr, Kentucky
FS- Robert Lester, Jr, Alabama
CB- Dre Kirkpatrick, Jr, Alabama
Special Teams
K- Blair Walsh, Sr, Georgia
P- Drew Butler, Sr, Georgia
KR- Brandon Boykin, Sr, Georgia