For someone navigating the middle of the pack in the standings, Ken Gassiot is making a splash this week by choosing Tennessee to beat Oregon.

The easy way out is just to choose the Oregon, considering the Ducks are a four-touchdown favorite. But Ken’s faith in UT commands respect, although some may view him as a little bit of a “quack” for not choosing the Ducks.

Ken Gassiot – in case you don’t know – is new to UT and in all seriousness, he is doing a great job as associate dean of students.

Moving on: Before crowning Troy and Melodi as visionaries, it should be known that Melodi consults numerous outside sources for intelligence before she makes her picks. While conducting research is certainly encouraged, it should be known that The Daily Beacon sports staff is investigating her practices that allegedly involve impermissible advice from media experts.

Troy is experiencing a classic case of beginner’s luck. As just a sophomore, he is new to the Pick ‘Em competition and does not understand the concept of pacing himself.

Because of his early success, he will soon begin over-analyzing the games each week and succumb to his own naiveté. A golden example of that is visible already this week as he chose Texas A&M to upset Alabama.

Gage is the only player in this game to be worried about. In case you do not already know, The Daily Beacon copy chief also contributes to the Knoxville News Sentinel’s sports section. He is in full bloom as a young sports journalist. Once I stop hustling this game, he will be the only one I’m legitimately afraid of.

But to be totally forthright, I’m only talking him up so much because I hope it goes to his head.

Cortney is bound to benefit once Troy falls off the map and when Melodi can no longer afford her intelligence. The assistant arts and culture editor has nothing to worry about and will return to the middle of the pack in no time.

As for that sports editor in “dead stinkin’ last,” just remember that he knows exactly what he is doing, even when it appears that he may be lost.

He is the one who makes the picks weekly and he is also the one who correctly predicted the point spread in UT’s win over Austin Peay, which should have been rewarded in some way.

Not to worry though, his expertise will soon shine through.

David Cobb loves all his colleagues. Follow him on Twitter @DavidWCobb.