The 15 hardest picks

MISSOURI OVER KENTUCKY
But hardly a waltz, even with all those swift Missouri backs. Kentucky has Norton to throw, Bird to run and an urge to win.

ILLINOIS OVER OREGON STATE
Both have suffered serious losses in the line, but the Illini have the niftier runners.

COLORADO OVER WISCONSIN
The Buffs, on the way back at last, are tough, determined and ready to pull a surprise.

SYRACUSE OVER NAVY
Navy's Bill Elias will learn that enthusiasm is no substitute for talent. Syracuse has plenty of both, plus Floyd Little, a remarkable runner.

OREGON OVER PITT
Pitt can match Oregon in the backfield, but the Ducks have a solider look in the line.

ALABAMA OVER GEORGIA
Bear Bryant has gone back to a running game, and he has the backs for it. But 'Bama had better be wary—these Bulldogs can bite.

TENNESSEE OVER ARMY
Neither team is frightening on offense. The ambitious Vols, however, have more depth on defense.

MISSISSIPPI OVER MEMPHIS STATE
Ole Miss is ready for the Tigers. The defense is tested and the backs know how to score.

VIRGINIA OVER DUKE
After years of futility, the Cavaliers are a match for any team. Bob Davis' exciting passing and running will be too much for Duke.

AUBURN OVER BAYLOR
Everybody knows Baylor's game is passing, and Auburn will have to stop Terry Southall. A firm, hard defense should do it for the Tigers.

USC OVER MINNESOTA
Coach Johnny McKay has an abundance of big, mobile types in his line and Mike Garrett, a marvelous runner.

UTAH OVER ARIZONA
Utah has too much know-how and too many good players for the young but willing Wildcats.

WYOMING OVER AIR FORCE
The riddled Falcons need more time to regroup. Wyoming's old hands are bigger, faster and deeper.

HOUSTON OVER MISSISSIPPI STATE
By now the swifter Cougars should be more familiar with the slippery Astrodome turf.

TEXAS TECH OVER KANSAS
The rebuilt Jay-hawk line will have trouble holding down Tech's slasher, Donny Anderson.

LAST SEASON'S RECORD
117 RIGHT, 86 WRONG, 7 TIES. AVERAGE .576