Week 1 Previews - Big 12 North

Since I don't think you, the reader(s), can handle it all at once, here are my Big 12 North Division previews

• Missouri vs Illinois - this is a huge border rivalry in two flyover states, aptly names the Arch Rivalry, and it's been played in St. Louis all the way back to 2002. The rivalry dates back to 1896 and has been played every year since - 2007. Missouri has won the last three games. Many people think the Arch Rivalry relates to the St. Louis Arch, however, a little known fact is that the winner gets dinner on the Hill, an Italian section of St. Louis with great restaurant, and the loser gets to drive through a Golden Arches on the bus ride back to campus. Pick: Missouri
• Western Michigan at Bugeaters - The Bo Pelini era resumes in Lincoln as Nebraska looks to remain undefeated against directional Michigan schools. Prediction: Bugeaters
• Florida International at Phog U - The Mario Cristobal era begins at Florida International. FIU has never won a non-conference game. I don't see that changing in Lawrence, KS. Prediction: Jayhawks
• North Texas at Willie and Friends - the second season of Todd Dodge ball kicks off in the Little Apple. If you're interested in additional information on this game, please seek medical attention immediately. Prediction: Wildcats
• South Dakota State at Baylor North - South Dakota State is one of the better teams in 1-AA. Iowa State is one of the better Big 12 North teams in the state of Iowa. Pick: South Dakota State
• Colorado vs Colorado State - The Steve Fairchild era begins in Colorado State. Fairchild left the Buffalo Bills as Offensive Coordinator at the end of 07. Rumors are the Bills season ticket holders posted the resume on the CSU website on Fairchild's behalf. Pick: Colorado

We should have the South previews up tomorrow evening.