The Road to the BCS series is back and we will go through some games that will affect the non-BCS teams (not going to fall to the pressure of saying non-AQ) in their quest for a BCS game. Plus, for each game there will be a section of who you should be rooting for. These games will be realistic games that could provide an upset.
As always, I prefer chaos to possibly break the system; wouldn't it be cool if there was a tie for second in the BCS standings. All rankings will be the coaches poll until the BCS standings are released. Links go to team previews and all times are eastern time.
Things got in the way last week but here ya go for this week with a bunch of games that will have an effect, and look for some lower ranked teams to be featured since Air Force still has a shot at getting into the at-large consideration; a small chance, but still a chance. Also, this may look similar to the story I did at SB Nation Denver about Air Forces chances of being ranked, but this will focus on more on the BCS chances and less commentary because I am writing this late.
#1 Alabama @ #20 South Carolina (CBS 3:30 p.m.)
Rooting interest: South Carolina. Alabama needs to losses to have TCU or Boise State have a more clear path to the BCS title game.
#16 Michigan State @ #17 Michigan (ABC/ESPN 3:30 p.m.)
Rooting interest: Does not matter. Either team will help Air Force inch up the polls.
#12 LSU @ #14 Florida (ESPN 7:30 p.m.)
Rooting interest: Does not matter Neither team is going to win the rest of the way.
Colorado @ #22 Missouri (Fox Sports Regional 7 p.m.)
Rooting interest: Colorado. The Buffs are still on a high from beating 1-3 Georgia, so who knows.
USC @ #18 Stanford (ABC Regional 8 p.m.)
Rooting interest: USC. Both teams are coming off losses, but Stanford has something to play for.
#24 Florida State @ #14 Miami, FL (ABC Regional 8 p.m.)
Rooting interest: Florida State. Former Heisman trophy candidates Jacorry Harris and Christian Ponder meet up.
Purdue @ #25 Northwestern (Big Ten Network 5:30 p.m.)