Wizard Weygint's Guestbook

E-mail the Wizard and your sentiments will be posted in the guestbook.

SPECIAL NOTE: To protect WWCFM readers from spamming and other pesky solicitation, the Wiz will no longer post e-mail addresses in the guestbook. In addition, he has removed all e-mail addresses of those who made prior guestbook entries.

Due to time constraints and the fact that it is labor intensive to post guestbook entries, I am way behind in posting them. Will try to get them up-to-date as soon as time allows.

Name: Tom Taira
Date: Sept 21 1998
Subject: Wizard

Wizard,
I can't thank you enough for the wonderful picks and insight. Just from your pre-season analysis and fertile games sections alone, I was able to "pick" out Washington and Arkansas games before they were posted, giving me a chance to get the lines a full point and a half in my favor (than game day). Although I had a horrible Sunday, your plays on Saturday kept my weekend bankroll in the black.

Anybody who subscribes to any other service, paying hundreds of dollars and hearing endless bullsh*t, needs to take a serious look at your service. I tear at the sight of the weekly JJA, because I know it has a 75% chance of winning. You can't get odds like that anywhere.

Tom Taira
Manhattan Beach, CA

Tom: Thanks for taking the time to voice your appreciation. Am perty sure you were with me from the get-go in August '96, which makes your checking in all the more of a bonus.

Yes indeed there's lot of "bullsh*t" in this industry, which is one of several reasons that I was reluctant to go the pay route and "become one of them." I simply couldn't have gone this route without telling readers/prospective subscribers that achieving success in this endeavor is far from easy, and that anyone can have a down week, season, or year. Don't think you'll find many, if any, other services that will include that type of info on their pitch pages.

Please, if I ever claim to have a lock game or call you at home pestering you to subscribe, call the local psych unit and have me committed. Or better yet, have the local toughs lynch me.

Good luck this season and thanks for subscribing.

Name: Leo Jablonski
Date: Sept 4 1998
Subject: The Wiz is a wiz

You nailed the over-under in the USC - Purdue game last weekend. And even though I watched Virginia beat Auburn 19-0 last night (and I didn't read your analysis until today) I had to totally agree with your decision not to pick the game because of the storm in the Atlantic. I saw highlights of the NC State - Ohio game and it was just pouring rain. It easily could have done that in the Virginia game also. Good move although that would have been an easy winner for you if the threat of a storm hadn't messed with your mind.

Your analysis of this weeks games makes me feel like I have spent time in the coaches meetings. Your service is a steal at any price. The Wiz is truly "The Wiz".

Best of Luck,
Leo the Lionhearted

Leo: Thanks for the kind words. To get an e-mail like that in the heat of the handicapping battle is very much appreciated.

Ya, woulda been nice if I woulda never heard of a hurricane named Earl. Que sara, hope to take it to 'em tomorrow.

Name: ??? from Ottawa
Date: July 25, 1998
Subject: Great work

I've followed you over the net from Ottawa Canada since you commenced the "96" season and have received a well thought out response from you when asking a question, I appreciate that. Pertaing to you new system this year, I can get a US money order from a Canadian Chartered bank and fire it your way. Your fee's are very reasonable when compared to your knowlege of the game. It's unfortunate because eventually you'll have a bad year and everyone will be on ya. Money order's on it's way!
Take care mike

Nice to have a long time reader check in. Thanks a lot for the words of praise. I get up to BC once in a while and always enjoy the friendliness of the people there and based on your e-mail, gotta believe people are much the same in the Ottawa area.

You're right saying that eventually I'll have a down year and people will get on me, but I knew full well when I began this endeavor that it's very much a "what have you done for me lately" type industry. So que sara, sara...all I can do is keep on keeping on in my pursuit of insightful selections and maintaining an entertaining site.

Name: Barry Sullivan
Date: Thurs, 2 July 1998
Subject: Too Expensive

Sad that you had to to a pay-per-view web page...I enjoyed your site last year, but won't pay $60.00+ to view this year. Should you decide to offer any lower fee's, please let me know. I'd be willing to pay something for the cause.

I've also had a bad string of luck with people when they go for pay....seems the pressure is to much, and all of a sudden instead of being smart, and playing without much pressure, they instead turn to brash, pressure pic's...and thus a losing season.

So, if you can offer a better deal for me, let me know. How much do you need to keep the page free? 100 customer's would be $6K..and I think you should be able to get that many customers...and that's a nice salary for making college football pic's don't you think?

Best of luck! I'll miss you.
-BARRY-

Barry: Sorry to hear about your bad luck with those who have gone from free to fee.

Undoubtedly I'll feel a bit more pressure this season, but I'm used to the pressure that this web site endeavor entails. Believe me, posting selections with full rationale for all the world to see on a weekly basis for two years comes with a heapin' helpin' of pressure, with or without receiving compensation from readers.

Brash?? Well, somehow I just don't see myself as becoming a bragging, foolhardy, cocky sort, no matter how I offer my handicapping. If you are a regular visitor to WWCFM, you know that I often poke fun at myself and am the first to say that I made a mistake. If you can find that quality in another handicapper (good luck in that endeavor), please heed his/her words for that says volumes about one's integrity.

The last thing I'll do is try to persuade someone who is reluctant to subscribe. You are likely well aware that the $59.95 price for the season is very low relative to other handicappers who offer their services, most who don't offer full rationale as do I. If you feel that $59.95 is too high for one who for two years has offered free picks hitting at 58.8 % (61% last year) then so be it.

Good luck.

Name: Steve Palmer
Date: Thurs, July 2, 1998 21:22
Subject: YOU!

Hey, Wiz...once on the net, YOUR page was the very first I saved as a "favorite". Keep up the good work.

As an 'ol Oklahoma State grad and contemporary fan, I was pleased to see your acknowledgement of the team that has struggled since the mid sixties. Thanks for your high expectations of the team and encouragement. Hopefully they will improve and gain even greater faith in themselves for the 98 season. I eagerly await your prognostications...
Thanks again...Steve

What an honor to be your first fave bookmark! Thanks for the nice thoughts about my 'capping.

As for your alma mater, I've always had a place in my heart for the 'Pokes. I grew up in Lincoln and numerous times watched Ok-State give the heavily favored Huskers all they could handle. I always liked them cuz no matter their talent level, they hit harder than hell and gave the full 110 the whole game. They are held in high regard by most Husker fans for their play.

They look perty hot this year, especially on defense. But unlike last year, when they were a "secret," they are now known, thus we won't get the same line value as last year. Hopefully they can find some good CB's. If so, they could have one of the nation's better D's.

Have a good summer.

Name: Gary Chelf
Date: Tues, 31 March 1998
Subject: Questions for you.

I have found you to be the most honest & reliable on the net. If you have the time I would your opinion on 2 items. Offshore betting establishments & pro football betting help. If you have the time I would appreciate hearing from you. Can't wait for college football
gary

Gary: Thanks for your kind words about my handicapping. Rarely hear from readers during the offseason so yours was a refreshing e-mail. You asked about offshore sports books and I've found the Global Sports Connection to be very reliable and customer oriented.

Wanna let you know that I'm likely gonna end my two-year run in the no-cost mode. If you're a regular reader, you know that I about lost my marbles last season working my full time "day job" and doing the full-time web site.

Am planning on charging $69 for the 17 week season, which as you likely know, is dirt cheap relative to most sports advisors. Woulda loved to keep it free but I couldn't procure enough ad revenue to take a leave of absence from my day job, and the only way that I will produce Wizard Weygint's College Football Magic again is if I can take a leave from my day job. Might offer a discount, say $59, for those who subscribe before July 15.

If you would, please lemme know if you'd be interested in subscribing at the rates that I mention. Ya, I could have a down year, but so could anyone. I think that given what I offer, $59/$69 is a great deal.

Anyway, thanks for checking in and I too wait for the CFB season with breath oh so baited.

Name: Bob
Date: Tue, 6 Jan 1998
Subject: Great Season

Unfortunately, like many others, I didn't jump fully on the "Wizard Wagon" until a few weeks into the season (and a few $$$'s lighter in the wallet) but you helped me keep my CF plays in the black.

I certainly hope you can keep this as THE BEST handicapping site on the net -successful AND free, a deadly combo, but if you do have to go to a fee basis, please keep it small so we small timers can still afford to employ your sage advice. Will be looking forward to some more "Wizard Wisdom" next year.
Bob

Bob: Thanks for taking the time to voice your appreciation of my site and all the work that it entails. Glad I could help you stay in the black with your CF plays.

It has been a great two-year run for WWCFM and I really hope to keep it free again in '98. But unless I can generate enough ad revenue, I simply cannot offer it again for free unless I wanna lose my day job, my babe, friends and my sanity...not necessarily in that order. In other words, I need to be able to do the site full-time, and will not do that unless I can procure enough revenue to quit my day job.

Should I go the pay route, it would definitely not be a large fee, say around $69.

Anyway, lots of avenues to explore in the offseason. Have a great '98 and best of luck in all your endeavors.

Name: Tom
Date: Thu, 15 Jan 1998
Subject: Wizzard's College Football Magic

Wiz: Tried to access your CFM but was unable to get the latest picks. Is that because there is no more football, or no more magic? What about those Huskers? #1 or not. Is there any wizzardry or magic for any other sports? What about the possibility of getting harrassed by the police in Lincoln, Ne.? Any odds?

Tom: The Wizard is certainly not out of magic, he just devotes it to non-football related matters after the bowl games.

The odds on police harrassment in Lincoln are as follows:

if male and hair below the collar: 2-1
if male and look like a yup: 1500-1
if female and look like a soccer mom: 3000-1
if female and look like a Spice Girl: 3-1
if not a Husker football lackey (any gender): even money
if black and male and not a prominent athalete: 1-5
if asian and male: 7-2
if American Indian and male: 2-5
if hispanic and male: 5-2
if a prominent athalete: 2500-1
if any gender and drive a BMW: 1000-1
if any gender and drive a beat up '74 Fury: 4-5
if total household income is below $25,000 (any gender): 3-1
if quietly enjoying a beer on your porch with a couple pals: 3-2
the field: 10:1

Back to the magic. The Wizard is a purist and offers selections/in-depth analysis only on college football games. Because he is such a purist, he can devote his precious handicapping energy to cfb and cfb only, hence his stellar record.

Hope all is swell Tom. By the way, what's your last name?
PS: Huskers undoubtedly the best team in the country.

Name: Robert Zuponeck
Date: Tues, 6 Jan 1998
Subject: Happy New Year

WW: Just wanted to thank-you for your time in putting up your selections this year. Have a Happy New Year. Will be checking you out in the summer. BZ

BZ: Thanks for taking the time to voice your appreciation of my handicapping. Tis a lotta work and I hope to again bring it to you for free in '98. Have a great offseason.

Name: Adam Rathbun
Date: Thu, 08 Jan 1998
Subject: Thanks for all your help

Thanks for all your help this year. Unfortunately I was not able to stick with your picks exclusively and I ended up on the short end of the stick this year. Hopefully next season I will have a stronger will than I did this one. Thanks again and see ya next fall.

P.S. Every get into the college hoops scene?

Adam: Thanks for taking the time to voice your appreciation of my handicapping. Sorry to say that I don't delve into college hoops. Have a great '98.

Name: Colin Savoy
Date: Thu, Jan 08 1998
Subject: Thanks for your efforts

Wiz, what a great season ... what a great web sight. I refuse to tell my friends about it - I would hate to give up my prognosticating advantage. I occasionally win a six pack or two based upon your analysis. I owe you. I have unfailingly looked to your sight each week this season until the Bowl games (no internet access while on vacation), and have found your analysis insightful and very much on point.

But I have one bone to pick with you. I wish I would have seen your picks earlier, then it wouldnt seem as though I'm playing Monday morning QB, but your Vegas bowl pick was way off. A little too much egg-nog in the Wiz's lair maybe? Your analysis was sound to a point - the Falcons are much more disciplined, and Oregon was a terrible tackling team this year (we Quacker Backers are ecstatic our Def Coor has decided to move on... go on back to Canada we say!) but player for player Oregon has much better athletes. Air Force just couldnt match up. Furthermore the competition in the Slack10 was tremendous this year (solid conference from top to bottom) and the Ducks were battle tested, and strongly motivated to perform in a bowl game.

Anyway, thanks for your other picks. If you ever get to Eugene I'll share some of our winnings with you! Congratulations on an outstanding season! Looking forward to 98!

Colin: Thanks for taking the time to voice your appreciation and to critique my AF pick.

I am the first to admit that although my bowl selections went 3-2 and my bowl opinions 2-1, I was not on my game during the bowl season. To be honest, I was pretty burned out after 16 straight weeks of all that WWCFM entails, in addition to working my day job. I got in a bit too deep this season and am shocked that I finished at 61%.

You are exactly right in your Duck-AF analysis and I sit down corrected for my blunder on that game.

As for '98, I really wanna continue to offer WWCFM for free but the only way I can do so, without going nuts, is if I get enough ad revenue to allow me to take a leave of absence from my day job during the season. Another possibility is selling my work, but that entails lotsa paper work, accounting and other BS that I really don't dig. I'll let you and other readers know of my plans via my home page as soon as I know what path will be taken.

Sounds like you might be in for some snow this weekend. I get a kick outta Seattle when it snows here. Even an inch renders people scared to leave their homes. Have a great '98.

Name: Dave
Date: Wed, Jan 07 1998
Subject: Football

Congrats Wiz on a great year. This only proves you really are THE MAN!!! What do you think of the games Sunday?

A true fan,
DAVE

Dave: As you may know, I don't aggressively handicap the pros, but my gut tells me under in the Pitt game and SF in the other game. Also, thanks for your generous words about my web site. Happy winter.

SPECIAL NOTE: Both of the Wizard's "gut" predictions in the previous guestbook entry covered like warm quilts. Dare the Wizard try his hand in the pro ranks?? Nah, this Wiz, at least for now, shall remain a college football purist.

Name: David Ford
Date: Sun, 4 Jan 1998
Subject: Thanks Wiz for another excellent season.

You are one of the best and if next year you do not put it up for free... not a problem, you will definitely have me as a paying customer. Thanks again and good luck in the off- season.
David Ford in Clutch City

David: Thanks for taking the time to voice your appreciation of my handicapping and letting me know that you would be interested in paying should that situation arise. I really hope to generate enough ad revenue to keep it free for the third straight year. I'll be working on doing that in the offseason. Should I go the pay route I will keep the fee low and try to work out a pay only if I hit above 52% setup.

Lotsa avenues to explore in the offseason, and hope to bring it to you again next season sans cost. Thanks again for checkin' in.

Name: Rich Hutzler
Date: Sat, 3 Jan 1998
Subject: Another Great Year

Wiz, thanks for some great cf insight this year, you seem to be one of the few who does their homework. Of course, I had to disagree with your last pick of the year (Clemson +6.5), which cost me some, but I rebounded big with Nebraska (who would lose 2 games a year if in the SEC or PAC-10). I don't know if you do this, but at the end of each year I reflect back on the season to project for the next year who could be a big winner (ATS). Last year I thought FSU would be the team to take against the line, and they fared well this year (+4). After watching the season unravel, I believe Kansas State will be playing for a top 5 finish, especially since the Big 12 is a joke and Nebraska loses a ton. They should "run it up" and cover, like they did much of this year.

Oh, and thanks for the tip on Global Sports Network, have not had a problem with them all year. Have a great 98 and I'll be looking forward to your insight in August.

Thanks for taking the time to voice your appreciation of WWCFM and glad to hear that the GSC worked out for you. Hope to be back again for free next season. Have a fun-filled '98.

Name: Wayne Hoehn
Date: Sat, 3 Jan 1998
Subject: What Now?

Mike I have really enjoyed your insight even though I just found it about 2 weeks ago. Now that NCAA football is over will we be missing any further insight till next year? Regards Wayne

Wayne: Glad you found WWCFM, even if it was only a few weeks ago. It's been a fun, free and often lucrative two-year ride here at WW's College Football Magic, and I hope to bring it to you and others again next season, preferably for free.

Sorry to say that, for now at least, all I handicap is college football. Que sara. Have a frolic-filled offseason.

Name: Kevin McElmoyle
Date: Sat 03 Jan 1998
Subject: Great Game Calling Mr. Wiz

Hi Wiz,
First let me say I've enjoyed reading your theories about the games this year. You have done exceptionally well this year predicting the college games. I am very impressed with your bowl selections. I found them too late to do any damage. Keep up the great work!!! Ever think of doing pro games?

Thanks for a prosporus and fun season.
KevMack

Kevin: Thanks for taking the time to write, and glad to hear that you've enjoyed my handicapping. It's a lotta work and always nice to hear it's appreciated. I will likely not handicap the pros cuz my heart just ain't in it. Have a great '98.

Name: Glenn Lum
Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997
Subject: Thank you

Wiz,
I want to thank you for another wonderful year not only for your picks (which are unparalleled), but also of your insightful and often humorous writing each and every week. I look forward to your picks but your wonderful prose makes it all the more enjoyable. During football season, I always look forward to reading your analysis (I don't know how I'll fill the void until next year) especially your Studs & Buffoons section. I hope you have a wonderful year and I look forward to reading you next year!

One of your biggest fans,
Glenn

Glenn: I haven't received a nicer e-mail during the two years that I've been running the site. Thank you very much for taking the time to express your appreciation. As you may know, I receive what is essentially chicken scratch from a few advertisers so this endeavor is basically a labor of love. To read that it is enjoyed and appreciated makes the long hours easier.

I'm sorry to say that unless I can somehow generate enough revenue to take time away from my "day job," I will not be back. I simply can't continue to do this about 30 hours per week and work my other full time job....that is, unless I don't care about my health, friends, etc....Hopefully I can procure enough ad revenue to keep it free. Otherwise, the only other route would be subscription, not something I really wanna do, but may ultimately be the only solution.

It would be very hard to walk away from what has been a lot of fun, and for the most part, very rewarding. Lots of decisions this offseason...

Anyway Glenn, thanks again and best of luck with the bowl games and in all your other endeavors.

Name: Neal Malavsky
Date: Sun, 28 Dec 1997
Subject: Good Calls

Wiz,
Ole Miss, LSU, New Mex. Oh yeah, you did it again. The wiz is still the wiz. Thanks buddy. Jingle me thru New Years and the the world will Jangle with you.

Through thick and thin, good times and bad, the Wiz hopes to always be the wiz. Good luck Neal.

Name: Barry J. Sullivan
Date: Sun, 28 Dec 1997
Subject: I LOVE YOU MAN

Your DA-best I've seen!
Thank you for your bowl selections, as they are a 'saving' grace to an otherwise losing season for myself. I'm a 'PRO' surfer of the net and must say that while the others have all the bells and whistles, your simple straight-forward page is the best knowledge available. (I often wonder if some of the pages I see posted are 'scams' in order to help their cause and keep the uneducated 'losers'. I mean if they can get enough suckers to take their picks, then they can be winners.)

Keep up the good work, and let's hope ND and LSU can show some defense and keep the under '46' so you can continue your winning ways!
Peace, and good luck.

Lou Holtz

Thanks a lot BarryLou for the kind words about my site and oh so glad that LSU game was an unders cake walk.

Name: Joan La Marca
Date: Mon, 22 Dec 1997
Subject: Bowl games

Dear Wiz,
I am one of your biggest fans if not the biggest. You are the best handicapper I have ever seen and that's no lie! I always bet all of your games and you always seem to make it a winning day.

Thanks Joan.

Name: Frog
Date: Mon, 22 Dec 1997
Subject: Fine Work Wiz!!

Just like to thank you for an insightful season of handicapping. This is my first year in following your work and am very impressed. I find your sight more attractive than others due to its straight-forwardness, plus you don't try and pick every game. Well, I won't take up any more of your time, thanks again.
FROG

Happy to be of service to an appreciative and intelligent WWCFM reader. Best of luck in all your endeavors Frog. Happy Bowl Season.

Name: Red OctoBoy
Date: Mon, 22 Dec 1997
Subject: Bowls and playoffs

Thanks for a great year. I followed your picks from about week 5 or 6 on. I also followed Silly Sports picks, so the year was about a wash for me.

Red Octo Boy: Thanks for sending your appreciative words regarding my handicapping. Best of luck with the bowl games and happy holidaze.

Name: Don
Date: Thu, Dec 18 1997
Subject: Bowl Picks

Wiz, first of all I, like so many others, would like to say congratulations on a fine season. This was my first year of using the net to find my football information and I was a bit skeptical of following someones weekly picks. Luck would have it I found you and the rest is history. Thanks again!

The reason I am writing you is I have a couple questions. Do you make a pick on all the bowl games or just the best plays? Also, what was your bowl record last year? One other question, I noticed how the number of J.J.A. picks this year is down considerably from last year. Did you change your method or it just worked out that way?

Wiz, I would like to be in touch with you next year. Do you keep this same sight every year or a mailing list or anything? If your ever in the Youngstown,Ohio (Mafia City) area, bring your golf clubs. I am an assistant pro at one of the local clubs. Greens fees on me! Thanks again for a great year and have a happy and safe holiday season.

Don: Glad you have been aboard this season. The answers to your queries are as follows:

I make selections only on the bowl games that I deem to have playable lines. I may have a bit of commentary on others.
Attached are my bowl picks from 1996. As you can see I was 4-0 with the Jingle Jangle selections and 3-2 with the others.
I've had fewer Jingle Jangle selections this season because simply didn't see as many good ones relative to '96.
As for next season, I simply cannot do this again for free unless I can procure a lot of ad revenue. It's one hell of a lot of time and work, and as much as I like to offer it for free, I also need a life with more than 5 hours sleep a night, social life, etc.... Anyway, I'll keep the URL at least through next September no matter what direction this takes.
If I'm ever in Youngstown, I'll e-mail you for some hang time.
Happy Holidaze and best of luck in all your endeavors.

Name: Kevin Pfeiffer
Date: Mon, 8 Dec 1997
Subject: You the Man!!

Hey Wiz,
I just thought that I would drop you a note to let you know how much I appreciate your website and always insightful picks. I have been following you for the last 2 years and have been quite impressed. YOU ARE TRULY A WIZARD!
PS:When are you gonna start predicting the pros?

Kevin: Thanks a lot for the nice thoughts about my web site and glad to hear that you've been aboard the WWCFM train from the get-go. It's a lot of work keeping the site up and running, and it's essentially a labor of love, so it's always appreciated when readers take the time to extend their appreciation.
Best of luck this bowl season and sorry to say, I will not be doing pros, as least not in the near future. Happy Holidaze.

Name: Macavoy2
Date: Tue, Dec 9 1997
Subject: Congrats

Great job on a super year. I wish I would of hopped on the wagon earlier in the year. Heres looking forward to the bowls and to next year!! We appreciate your work!!

Dear Macavoy: Thanks a lot for taking the time to praise my work. It is essentially a labor of love and nice to hear that it's appreciated. Best of luck in the bowl games.

Name: Scraps deSelby
Date: Wed, Nov 19 1997
Subject: Football

Hello. Thanks for your handicapping web page, which I enjoy a great deal.

I'd like to respectfully disagree with Peter Flemberger, not about the media reporting their poll votes (I agree with him about that), but about the polls themselves.

In my opinion, the polls should be an estimation of who the best team actually is. If there is more than one undefeated team, I think it is important to re-examine their relative performance each week. I do think Penn State's narrow victories over weaker teams were significant, and I think it showed in their bad loss to Michigan. I think Michigan and Florida State's big wins over better teams than Missouri merited rating them ahead of Nebraska (though I think Nebraska should still get credit for their solid wins against Kansas State and Washington eariler in the year).

I understand that this may place too much emphasis on margin of victory (though in my case I'm putting more emphasis on quality of opposition), but it seems to me the alternative is worse: rewarding a team (Nebraska) simply because people thought they were better than Michigan and Florida State early in the season. Why shouldn't people re-evaluate later in the year, when they have more information? The real travesty would be when a team wins a national championship only because they were rated higher in a pre-season poll.
Sincerely,
Scraps

Scraps: First of all, great name!! Thanks for taking the time to voice your thoughts regarding Flemburger's commentary. I agree that teams shouldn't be rewarded for playing poor schedules such as those of Nebraska, Penn State, etc.. But in the case of Nebraska a few weeks back, I see Mizzou as a good, underrated team, and don't believe that Neb's meager margin of victory should have caused them to drop in the polls as they looked impressive in all their previous games.

To be honest with you, I put little energy into whose ranked where. It matters little in the 'capping biz. I forwarded your letter to Flemburger so he may respond with his thoughts.

Name: Chris Walters
Date: Fri, Nov 21 1997
Subject: Football

Hey wiz, I really enjoy all of your commentary, insights and write-ups of college football. They are humorous and usually accurate. However, it tends to suck when you say that your picks will be up no later than Thursday evening and they are not up by Friday night. Is there a problem with my system? I've refreshed the page several times with no luck. I'll keep looking. Keep up the good work; it is appreciated...........Walt

Glad you appreciate both the handicapping and humor that the Wiz tries to successfully incorporate in this web page endeavor. Sorry to hear that you weren't able to access my selections. I had them up by Thursday afternoon and no one else mentioned any problems so gotta believe the problem was at your end. That's about all I know to tell you. Thanks for checking in.

Name: Eric
Date: Fri, 21 Nov 1997
Subject: Thanks

Thanks for the free advice. Unfortunately I am a internet rookie and I didn't find your site until I had already lost a plethora of games this season. Even more unfortunate was the fact that I was around for the 1-5 week. I am often in the wrong handicapping place at the wrong time.

You have a great site. I'll stick with it next year and see what happens. (Please don't publish my last name or e-mail address.)
Thanks, Eric

Eric: Sorry to hear you didn't become a WWCFM reader until the worst week that the Wiz has had in the 1+ years that he's been on the net. As you likely know, it's hard to do much spread covering when your teams commit 22 turnovers and their opponents only nine. Hopefully you reaped some of the benefits of this week's 3-1 performance. Thanks for the kind words about Wizard Weygint's College Football Magic and best o' luck to you.

Name: Joyce
Date: Wed, Dec 3, 1997
Subject: Great Picks

Just wanted you to know how much I have enjoyed following your picks this year. Thanks so much.

Joyce: Glad to hear that you've enjoyed my labor of love and thanks for taking the time to write. Best of luck in all your endeavors.

Name: Sharky
Date: Thur, 4 Dec 1997
Subject: Thank you.

Dear great Wizard,
Thankyou for your insight into the college games this year. Keep up the good work.

Glad to be of help Sharky and best of luck in all your pursuits.

Name: Chris
Date: Thur, 4 Dec 1997
Subject: Small correction.

First off, let me begin by saying that I have followed your picks throughout the season and have been impressed with them. Analysis is thorough and logic seems to be sound. I noticed today as you are comparing Nebraska and Texas A&M, you mention A&M's performance against Texas Tech, but you say Nebraska did not play Tech. Nebraska did in fact play Tech on October 18 and ran for 400 yards in a 29-0 victory over the Red Raiders. I graduated from Tech so I follow their football program, although sometimes that is painful to do. Keep up the good work.

Chris: Thanks a lot for both your kind words about my handicapping and for pointing out my oversight on the TT-NU game. I graduated from NU and knew damn well that they beat TT this year but for some reason pulled a vapor lock on that game when doing my analysis of the Big 12 championship game.

Anyway Chris, thanks again for being a good editor and best of luck the rest of the season. Oh, sorry to say I will not be doing basketball.

Name: Bob
Date: Tue, 2 Dec 1997
Subject: Arizona

Well, Wiz, I only wish I saw your Az pick before I decided to play Az St. In the amount of time I have seen your picks which I discovered around Week 10 I saw not only great handicapping but some nice commentary to go with the pick. Your better than most of the touts out there, I'm glad to have discovered you. Next time I look before I leap. Yours truly, a West Coast Steeler fan.

Bob: Sorry to hear about your ASU selection. Glad you found my site but too bad you weren't with me all season as it has been a fun and for the most part, lucrative one.
Thanks for your kind words about my work and best of luck to you and your Steelers.

Name: Anthony Pisello
Date: Fri, 28 Nov 1997
Subject: College Bowl Games

Hi Wiz.....I just started to read your selections and find your win percentage very impressing. I was wondering how good you are in picking winners in the bowl games. I usually bet just the NFL games, but i would like to try the college scene. Please let me know your win % on the Bowls....Thanks.

Anthony: A weary Wizard here. Glad to have you aboard as a reader. I have been handicapping college football for the last 15 years and kept records for all but five of those years. Over those ten years I've hit at 62% in the bowl games.

Hopefully I will continue to do well this bowl season. Best o' luck and thanks for checking in.

Name: Robert Calderon
Date: Thur, 27 Nov 1997
Subject: Kudos

Congrats on an excellent prognosticating season. I discovered you midway through the season and have quickly become a convert. I spend a lot of time on the internet researching winning systems and looking for good advice. You're the best in the college game. I did notice this year that your quantity is down from last year. Is that a conscious decision or simply the way things broke this year? I hope you can continue next year with the types of season you've put back to back.

Thanks for the kind words about my site. It's a lotta work and is essentially a public service, so it's nice to hear that it's appreciated.

The # of selections is down this year relative to last simply because the demands of my site have increased (the non-handicapping duties) therefore I have had less time to handicap. To be honest with you, I'm surprised to be hitting 61% given that I've put in less handicapping time this year than most others.

I'm going to make some big decisions at the end of the season regarding what direction, if any, I'm gonna go with Wizard Weygint's College Football Magic. One thing I know for sure is that I can't continue to keep the site going AND work another job. It is simply way too much work and not near enough sleep, exercise, social life etc....
Anyway, thanks for checkin in and best of luck to you.

Name: Bernie D.
Date: Tue, 18 nov 1997
Subject: Great Page!

Wiz, You are the greatest! I only found your page a week ago and am now a faithful reader. Thanks and I look foward to you page each week. Bernie D.

The Wizard is especially fond of the name "Bernie" for his favorite uncle harbored said moniker. Uncle Bernie was a monster Husker fan and would make big batches of popcorn for munching while watching or listening to all the Husker outta town games. Of course, he was at the home games where he was a Red cross volunteer so he got in free. Please, a moment of silence for the passing of beloved Bernie.....

Glad to hear that you've become a faithful reader and here's wishing you the best in all your endeavors.

Name: David Bentz
Date: Tue, 18 Nov 1997
Subject: We believe...

After reading the Wizard Weygint all season, can I be so bold as to say, "We still believe in you." Remember, bad weeks happen. Thanks for the weekly chuckle. Just thought I'd let you know "I'm out there, Man."

DB: Thanks for staying with me through the tough turnover-ridden weekend. Last Saturday blew major wad and I hope to get back on the saddle of success this week. Hope all is coo and thanks for being out there man.

Name: hyattrl
Date: Mon, 17 Nov 1997
Subject: Wizard's Web Page

I just wanted to drop you a note on your page. It is a good one. I seemed to find it on a bad week but i will continue to check it out. How have you faired in past bowl seasons? Great page, keep it up!

Thanks a lot for the nice sentiments about WWCFM. Sorry to hear that you just found it last week, which was one of only two weeks all season that the Wiz finished below .500.

In the aftermath of the 1-5 Saturday, WW received several e-mails maligning him for the bad week. These from people who never uttered a word during the eight consecutive weeks at or above .500 earlier this season. Human nature never ceases to amaze Wizard Weygint. Anyway, thanks again for your kind words and best of luck the remainder of the season.

Name: Your buddies in Las Vegas
Date: Sun, 16 Nov 1997
Subject: Keep Your Head Up Wizard

Dear Wizard,
We've shaken our Saturday blues now. We're still big believers in you. In fact, we're gonna play you for the mother load this weekend.
Your buddies in Las Vegas.

Wow. How refreshing to get an e-mail that doesn't say something like "you idiot" or "I made a bundle betting against you, you fool." Sometimes this is a thankless endeavor and I want you for taking the time to show your support. Glad to hear that you've shaken those Saturday blues and hope to take it to 'em next Saturday.

Name: Todd
Date: Thu, Nov 13 1997
Subject: You are pretty much finaminal

so far your selections have been "money", however I can't understand why you don't continually ride a team out. I don't know, but like in black jack if that "window of opportunity" is there you go for it! Like the Cowboys of OSU why not ride them every week. You began the season on their bandwagon, but then seemed to disappear when the going went good. I am glad to see that you are back on. I am an avid bettor, but I ride the teams that are hot. 2 years ago i was huge on Virgina Tech, but have realized their time is done without Drunk. But, you have to ride them out until that time. I realize that i have won alot of money with them, but it is pretty much over. I've noticed that you jump around i was just wondering why?
thank you for the wonderful info, Todd

Glad you like my site. It's a lot of work and nice to know that it's appreciated.

You ask a good question about riding teams out. That is definitely something I need to consider implementing more in the future. The reason I got off OSU after tabbing them in their opener was that I didn't like them in the road dog role. As you may know, I like to get off teams who are in unfamiliar pointspread waters. When they showed they were good enough to overcome that unfamiliarity I should have jumped back on 'em. Hindsight is always 20-20. As you may know, I rode Oklahoma last year and they treated me mighty fine.

Each game has its own set of circumstances and sometimes maybe I overanalyze and in the process scare myself off teams on a roll. This is an endeavor that one can never cease learning. Best o luck this weekend.

Name: Cha
Date: Wed, 12 Nov 1997
Subject: Whew!

I just want to tell you that I have been following your picks for the past couple of years and I should probably be sending you a check. I know that you had a rare off week this time and luckily for me, I disagreed with you on all but Navy and Michigan.

I just wanted to send you some words of encouragement because I think you do amazingly well to have as few weeks like this last one as you do. Hang in there. Obviously you've been doing this for awhile and you know that you get weeks where not one things goes right.

I also commend you for having the fortitude (or something) to put your picks out there for all the world to judge week after week. I don't know how many of us would be willing to do that, or at least we'd have that page changed by Sunday. So just consider this a thank you letter. Even after an off week, this falls into your "praise" category.

It says a lot about a person who can see the forest amongst the trees. You sound like a class act and I really appreciate your sentiments. Glad you've been aboard since the get-go and happy to have been of help to you.

Name: Michael Todd McHugh
Date: Tue, 11 Nov 1997
Subject: You are the man!

Wiz, you are the man!! I really enjoy the picks, but i most enjoy the historical analysis that you post about each of the games. Thanks for the reading pleasure and the picks becuase you are MONEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! thanks again.

Happy to be the man and best of luck in all your endeavors.

Name: ???
Date: Sun, 9 Nov 1997
Subject: Your column

Certainly have enjoyed your column and research-your hard work and insights have helped a lot- looking forward to your comments on the bowl games and nfl playoffs- thanks.

Thanks a lot for your kind thoughts about my site. It's a lotta work and essentially a labor of love, so always nice to hear it's appreciated. Best of luck and thanks for checkin' in.

Name: Roderick Rice
Date: Thu, 6 Nov 1997
Subject: THE WIZARD IS KING

JUST OUT OF CURIOSITY, WHY DO YOU HATE LOU HOLTZ SO MUCH? (I MEAN BESIDES THE 2 OR 3 THOUSAND OBVIOUS REASONS.) AND IF YOU DON'T MIND ME ASKING, WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN IT'S NOT FOOTBALL SEASON? DO YOU TAKE THE REST OF THE YEAR OFF OR ARE YOU THE MASTER OF ANOTHER SPORT? DO YOU RECOMMEND ANYBODY FOR BASKETBALL PICKS? PEACE.

Rod: Glad you think that I am king. Too be honest with you, I am so tired from the handicapping this year, while working another job, that I feel far from kingly at this moment.

The only sport I handicap is college football and I really know of no one who does basketball successfully for free. During the off season I work at a cancer research facility. I am exploring avenues to make enough $$ to do this on a full time basis next year. There's simply no way I can do this again, unless I have lots more advertisers. It's an incredible amount of work, especially given that I work another job, and my friends and wife barely recognize me anymore which is getting old.

Anyway, this weary Wizard is gonna call it an e-mail. Thanks for your kind words about me and WWCFM. Good luck this weekend.

Name: Strat Syris
Date: Mon, 3 Nov 1997
Subject: New at the Site

Well wiz, I really enjoy the site. I just found it 2 weeks ago. What can I say....Story of my life. But I'm here now! I will keep checking out the site and your success! Hope to be able to cash in one of these weeks with you.

I really like the fact that you keep to your expertise. I admire that. But, given my inability to pick nba every year I ask you....Do you know anyone that can pick the hoops both college and pro? Preferably free or very reasonable? Trying to keep my but out of the hot seat for the hoop season.
(good luck, and keep up the good work!)

Strat: Welcome to WWCFM and glad to hear that you like my work. Wish you woulda been with me the whole season as I went the first 8 weeks at or above .500. Have gone 3-4-1 the last 2 weeks (a couple of bad beats really hurt) but hope to get back on a roll this week.

As for hoops, I've always been bored by college hoops and no longer can stomach the Nothing But Arrogance. I was a Sonics season ticket holder for several years and saw a lot of disgusting stuff on the part of both management and the players and finally said enough was enough.

Anyway, I don't know of any good NBA or college hoop handicappers that offer their work for free or very reasonable. As always, I recommend playing to your forte and not spreading yourself too thin. Thanks for checking in and best of luck.

Name: Heath Crane AKA Bubba Da Bomb
Date: Mon, 3 Nov 1997
Subject: Awesome!

You are still DA' MAN! I don't care what those bums wrote you the week before this one. I've taken most of your picks all year. I even took LSU, Okie St. and ECU saturday. I haven't heard of a pay service that's better than you. I'm pretty good at picking NBA, so I'll mail you my picks when I get them. Keep up the great handicapping.
Bubba Da' Bomb

Thanks BDB. It's nice being recognized as the man, but I still am a bit taken aback when referred to as "sir."

Name: Kelly Hernandez
Date: Tue, 04 Nov 1997
Subject: Terrible Tuesday

To the Wizard: I have been reading your column since the 96' season, and I wanted to drop you a line and let you know that you really do put out some quality college picks. It 's very refreshing to visit a site where the person who put the page together is not seeking some huge financial gain from the reader.
I know you get advertising dollars, but I get the feeling you would post your opinions, regardless of whether or not you were making money to cover your costs. In any event, keep up the good work, I truly look forward to your weekly postings.
See Ya

Kelly: What a nice e-mail you sent! Thanks a lot for the kind thoughts and WW is glad that you enjoy what is essentially a labor of love. It's nice to have thousnads of readers and know that my work is good, and my selections are more successful than the vast majority of services out there.

WW believes that what goes around comes around, and thanks you for being a faithful reader.

Name: James Burtwistle
Date: Thu, 6 Nov 1997
Subject: Nebraska Ties

Great site, we have been following your picks for four weeks now. I gather you are a born and raised in Nebraska guy that switched over to Sooner magic in the Switzer years. You mentioned you played in a high school state championship game. Where did you play? Nobody or no one has ever stole my dreams more than the Sooners back then. What did you think of the 97 game? I started to feel sorry for the once proud Sooners then I remembered back to those big disappointments from yester year and I seemed to lose some of my compassion.
What's up with Texas? Are they a go-against from here on out? Get ready to load the boat on the NU vs. CU game if the number is right, CU can't stop the run, that's bad news if you are playing against NU, I just hope the spread stays within reason. Keep up the good work and expect a present from us after a successful bowl season. Happy handicapping.

Always great to hear form a fellow Husker. WW was born and raised in Lincoln and moved to Seattle in 1985. And you are exactly right about his falling away from the Huskers, and falling in love with Sooner Magic in the Switzer years. As far as he's concerned, some of those Switzer OU teams were the among the most exciting teams in NCAA history. Plus, he loved their renegade mentality and cheesy chin wigs.

Lincoln Pius X was the team WW played on that won the state championship back in 1979. He played on both "O" and "D" and they really had a great team. Coach Vince Aldrich was the main reason they were so good as he didn't care about one's parent's socioeconomic status, or about one's reputation, all he cared about was you getting decent grades and busting ass on the football field (and making games and practices on time.) The day after winning said championship, WW's bestest pal Bush (the team's star tailback) and him went to the NU-Sooner game where Sims fumbled deep in NU territory at the game's end and stole the Sooner victory and robbed them of a chance for the natl. championship. Hard to believe that was almost 20 years ago. Now, back to the present...

Texas has lost all motivation and are simply playing out the string. It will be interesting to see the CU-NU line.
Glad you like my site. It's a lotta work and always nice to hear that it's appreciated. Hope the storm didn't hit you too hard.

Name: Michael Raucci
Date: Wed, 05 Nov 1997
Subject: Football picks

I just wanted to say thanks. Your picks have been greatly appreciated this season. I have a paid service I use for the NFL and your insight and knowledge about all of your picks is second to none. Thank-you.

SPECIAL NOTICE: Please take note that due to the outpouring of compassion that WW received during his acute episode of Dollar Deficit Disorder, he found it appropriate to respond to all correspondence in the first person. That's the Wizard's way of thanking one and all for their heartfelt support during his time of need.

Name: Terry Ryan
Date: Tues, 23 Sep 1997 12:12:52
Subject: (No Subject)

get serious
dont be greedy
you arent that good
NO ONE is going to pay you for your service
GOOD LUCK

Wow Terry, thanks for the upbeat e-mail.

As for me "getting serious," life is much too short not to have fun with stuff like Dollar Deficit Disorder.

As for me being "greedy," somehow I fail to see how someone who has offered totally free picks for 1+ years that are hitting well above 60%, is being greedy. In case you somehow missed the point of Dollar Deficit Disorder, it is simply a humorous attempt at making a few dollars to help pay for maintenance of my site and for the countless # of hours I put in maintaining it. If I was "greedy" wouldn't I try to sell my picks as the vast majority of handicappers do out there in internet land?

As for "you aren't that good," presumably you know what "good" is so you might wanna elaborate on that one. No, on second thought, don't bother. If 57.4% last year and 71.4% so far this year don't meet your "good" standards, please try and find another free site that meet your standards.

As for "no one is going to pay for your service," well, let's just say that I hope your better at football predictions than you are at predicting whether or not I'll get paid for my service.

Hope you continue to visit my free site.

Name: Raymond Anderson
Date: Tue, Sep 30 1997
Subject: Lovin' it

Just a quick note to tell you that i really love your page & can hardly wait each week for it. keep it coming!!!!!!send me your address, you deserve whats coming to you.

Thanks a lot Ray and I promise to keep at the handicapping grindstone all the way through the bowl games. Best of luck this season.

Name: KNyswander
Date: Fri, Oct 3 1997 02:36:02
Subject: Donations

Dear wiz,
Keep up the good work. I really enjoy your "this week's picks". Excellent reading and great predictions. Please send me your address so I can make a donation. sincerly,knyswonger @aol

Dear KN: Thanks for your nice thoughts about Wizard Weygint's College Football Magic. It's a lotta work and I'm happy to hear that you enjoy it.

Name: KILgore
Date: Mon, 22 Sep 1997 17:35:59
Subject: Dollar Deficit Disorder

I feel for the Wizard. What is your mailing address?

Dearest KILgore: With the help of readers like you, WW is back on the road to recovery. Bless your heart and thank-you so much.

Name: Gary Scott AKA Bamafan
Date: Mon, 22 Sep 1997 20:08:43
Subject: Dollar Deficit disorder

Wizard, I found your site 2 weeks ago. Thanks for making your picks available. Send me your mailing info and I`ll send some help. I know you were dissapointed in the Huskies Sat. I could`nt let Neb. go at +5 though. Once again thanks for the insight, I enjoy reading them.

Gary: With the help of readers like you, WW is back on the road to recovery. Bless your heart and thank-you so much. Also, nice call on Nebraska last week and more power to ya for getting them at +5. Also thanks for the nice thoughts about my site and best of luck this season.

Name: Marty Campbell
Date: Mon, 22 Sep 1997 18:43:22
Subject: Wizard Relief Fund Address

Please send the WWRF address. Enjoy your weekly insights.

Thanks a lot Marty and rest assured with the help from you and other readers, I am on my way back to a full recovery. Glad you enjoy my work.

Name: Marvin
Date: Wed, Sep 24 07:39
Subject: Life of loneliness

Its not like a Wizard to let another Wizard live a life alone. Which is what you will be if you don't take time to take care of the lady freind. So send me an address so I can send you a couple of marbles to go somewhere, or your life will be doomed talking to no one but Butt Ugly Hairy Butted Guys the rest of your sad life.

Dearest fellow Wizard: Your compassion knows no bounds. I thought I was doomed to a life, or at least a football season, of talking to hairy-assed fellas instead of my fine lady. Thank-you for your marbles and your great sense of humor. Hopefully I can stay hot and keep picking winners. My fine lady thanks you also.

Name: Grady Thrasher IV
Date: Tue, 23 Sep 1997 15:00:25
Subject: The Great Wiz

Hey Wiz- Congrats on a stellar season so far. I have been handicapping for several years now and have rarely found such an enjoyable combination of wit and wisdom. You are up there among my two favorite handicappers Leonard's Loosers, a good ole Georgia boy, and David Compton, a Texas native (both free, of course). I just wish I had jumped on you earlier in the year, but you have already provided me with some guiding light.
Keep up the good work.

P.S: I think you're donation system is completely appropriate. Let me know your address, and I will give as give gets!

Thanks for your kind words about Wizard Weygint's College Football Magic. Also GT, I'm glad to hear that you think my asking for donations is appropriate. A couple people have e-mailed me saying I'm greedy and the like for doing so. Anyway, thanks for checking in and best of luck in all endeavors.

Name: Jack Matsukawa
Date: Tue, 23 Sep 1997 12:59:28
Subject: WW Rehab Relief Fund

Dear wiz, i'm just letting you know that when it comes to handicapping college football, i think you are the BOMB!!! i am a novice cyber gambler and have used your website for all my college football picks and, needless to say, you have made me a 100% winner! What impress me most about your picks is that you back it up with insightful info, stats, history and any thing that is relevant to that particular game so i won't gamble on blind faith.

I would like to show my appreciation by donating to your fund. please email me your address. i wish you a speedy recovery from your fatigue. Thank you.

Right before I read your e-mail, I received an e-mail from someone giving me a hard time about "being greedy" and for "not being that good." Anyway, your e-mail was a breath of fresh air and I sincerely thank you for it. I'm happy to hear that I have helped you out this season and hope that my selections stay hot. It really is a lot of work and it's nice to hear that people appreciate it.

Also, rest assured, with your help, and that of several others, I am recovering from the fatigue associated with DDD and on the road to a full recovery. Thanks again Jack.

Name: Sajones
Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 19:00:43
Subject: SEND IT QUICK

I don't know if I could go a week without signing on to see what your picks are for the week.....down here in Texas, we can't wager, but I love playing the office pools with your picks....hope you will continue, but most of all I hope you will be VERY WELL and VERY SOON!
Send the Address!!!!!!

Thanks so much for having a place in your heart for the Wizard. Also, thanks for your kind words about my site and I really appreciate any offering you send my way.

Name: PJK
Date: Wed, Sep 24 1997 17:39:16
Subject: Relief Fund

wiz: im in on that, you are smokin!!!!!!!!! ill share a peice of the aciton, the arkansas pick was divine as well as cinci!!!later pjk

Dearest PJK: Bless your heart for offering to donate a few for the Wizard. With your help the Wiz will be back to 100% stat.

Name: Tony Bianco
Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 20:41:28
Subject: Donation

Dear Wizard:
Thanks for the picks this season. This is the first year I've followed you on the internet, and I really admire your football knowledge. Could I have your home address so I can send you a contribution? Thank You! Tony

Tony: Thanks a lot for your offer to send a donation to the Wizard Relief fund. Also glad that I have been helpful for you this year and I'll keep working hard to stay successful.

Name: Bruiser42
Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 21:57:37
Subject: To help maintain a good site

send me your mailing address so that can donate. I got burn last year on the touts but your service is a 100 times better. So count me in helping you maintianing the best college site on the net.

Dear Bruiser42: That name is da coolest. Thanks a lot for your praise regarding my site. I hope my work keeps paying off for you and others.

Name: BogeyFree
Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 13:39:38
Subject: Picks

You have an excellent publication, although i do like your picks vs. your angles---but combined with your handicapping picks, one could throw out those that did not meet my own personal criteria.
I'd really say you were 3-0-1 last week...In most cases, the OU game was 4...and considering how it covered, i'd rather claim a tie than a win!!!!

Keep up the good work. As a group of my fellow 'pickers' are going to LV this wknd with your notes in hand, pls. e-mail back your address, so we may compensate you in the event of a successful weekend!!! Thanks again, BogeyFree.

Dear BogeyFree: Thanks for your nice words about my site. It's a lot of work and a lot of fun.

As for your claim that OU should have been listed as a tie instead of a win, I check out lines from several Vegas books during the 72 hours prior to Weds eve when I post my picks. Most of them had OU at 4.5 so there's no way I'm not gonna consider that a win. Granted they got a lucky late cover, but if you've been doing this as long as I have, you know that gifts like that are extremely rare and I never look a gift horse in the mouth.
Best o' luck in Vegas this weekend.

Name: Ivan
Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 10:44:12
Subject: Wiz

Dear Wiz,
I have been following your picks since the first weekend and I must say that I am very impressed. I very much enjoy reading your insight on the games, because it gives me something to agree with rather than just a pick out of a hat. I would gladly send you a token of my appreciation for your generosity, just let me know what to do. I am really looking forward to some analysis of the upcoming games this weekend. And I would just to thank you for all your help, I have been around the block before and I must say that I have never agreed with so many convincing picks of any other handicapper in the past. Please contact me as soon as possible. Much thanks, Ivan

Dear Ivan: Sorry about the delay getting back to you. I've been a busy Wizzy this week! Glad to hear that you like my work and thanks a lot for your kind words regarding my analysis. It's a lotta work and a lotta fun. Hope I can continue on this nice roll.

Name: Mike
Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 16:24:20
Subject: Loot

Wiz,
You are so full of shit, but you are amazing!......send me the address.

Dearest Mike: Thanks for the compliment. Most people would take being called "full of shit" as a slam, but I certainly don't. I combine sense of the absurd with a lotta hard work and to be called full of shit is a great way to start my day. Thanks Mike and best wishes to you and yours.

Name: PJK
Date: Wed, Sep 24 1997 17:39:16
Subject: Relief Fund

wiz: im in on that, you are smokin!!!!!!!!! ill share a peice of the aciton, the arkansas pick was divine as well as cinci!!!later pjk

Dearest PJK: Bless your heart for offering to donate a few for the Wizard. With your help the Wiz will be back to 100% stat.

Name: Rambo
Date: Wed, Oct 1 1997 13:46:04
Subject: Wiz

Hey Whiz! There are handicappers, and there are handicappers, but you are the bomb. Anyone who documents his picks the way you do, puts them on the internet for free, and describes each pick in such detail is definately a man of conscience. A true American. All I have to say is YOU DA MAN!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rambo: A red-blooded American man is the Wizard. Glad you dig the Wiz and his labor of love. Best o luck this weekend.

Name: Bobby Sparks
Date: Wed, 1 Oct 1997 15:48:24
Subject: Thank U

wizard: thanks for those gracious picks of yours.i loved the cincinnati call over kansas that one was easy thanks to u.i won big on that game ....i feasted off the arkansas game ...thanks to the wizard...u are a awesome handicapper .

Name: Tom Taira
Date: 9-30-97 10:58am
Subject: THANKS

Wiz- So far you have had a stellar season. I really enjoy you insightful picks and look forward to the weeks to come. You brought me Oregon St. last week and Cincy the week before. We (Mr. Nagoo and I) are getting prepared to hit next week's games BIG. The earlier you get them to us, the better. Have you checked out Ehud Knoll's free picks on www.collegeinsider.com. Your followers will enjoy his weekly winning plays too. Although he went 3-4 last week, his overall winning percentage rivals your 70% for the season. Take care and pray for us. Tom T., Manhattan Beach, CA

Rest assured that you and Mr. Nagoo are in WW's heartfelt prayers

Name: Rusell Whitehead
Date: Fri, 26 Sep 20:12:54
Subject: Keep 'em Coming!

Keep those good picks rolling in -- although it's hard for me too trust the jingle jangle picks too much, I've been taking your other picks all the way to the promised land this year!

Russ: Glad you are reaping the bennies of WW's labor. It's a lotta work yet a lotta fun. You are a smart man to consider his weekly selections as stronger than the JJA's. Best of luck this season.

Name: Hckywld
Date: Wed, Sep 24 1997 22:42:36
Subject: Your well being

Given that I have only followed your advice for 1 week (1st week I found you)...and given your current state of health....I have only one thing to say:
GET TO WORK.....YOUR THE GREATEST....

Ummm....about that donation.....I have a great recipe from my mother for chicken soup.....she use to tell me that it'll cure anything that ails you......I'm sure that would be better than some dirty old dollar bills any 'ol fool could send you.....
PS: I actually played against your Okl. play vs. Cal. Even though Cal lost....I still think I had the right side (given how the game ended)....meanwhile....I really respect and appreciate your handicapping....you do an excellent job.....thank-you...

By gum you're right. Those dirty $ bills are bacteria transporting units!! Send that chickee soup recipe stat! Thanks for your compassion.

Name: Allan Edelstein
Date: Wed, Sep 24 1997 23:13:37
Subject: Your Weekly Picks

Hey Wiz
I really enjoy your reviews and insights on the college games. Thanks for what you've done so far and good luck!

Glad you like my labor and best of luck to you this season.

Name: J.R. Ewing
Date: Wed, 24 Sep 1997 12:51:17
Subject: FOOTBALL PICKS

GREAT UPSET PICS LAST WEEK (9-20-97)!!!! YOU ARE DEFINITELY ON MY FAVORITE PLACES LIST. IT IS CRUNCH TIME FOR THE OFFICE POOL AND FOR THE PARLEE (SPELLING WRONG), SO GIVE ME SOME GOOD PICS. THANKS.

Name: Don Ables
Date: Wed, Sep 24 1997 19:51:51
Subject: College football Picks

The last couple of weeks I have been pulling up your football picks. You are pretty good. I notice that this is FREE, and was just wondering do you do this just for fun, hoppy, or what? You seem to do alot of research. Are you a full time handycapper? Just curious. I'm not complaining that it's free. Thanks a lot.

Thanks for your nice words about WWCFM. The Wizard puts in about 30-40 hours per week handicapping during the college football season, and countless hours during the summer. He is a professional in that he has a theoretical basis for his picks and busts his ass researching them.

The site is free because WW is a benevolent sort. Best o' luck this season.

Name: Prem Lalvani
Date: Tues 23 Sep 1997 16:18:46
Subject: Mr. Weygint

I came across you sight a couple of weeks ago and have been following your picks. They are excellent!!! I am very impressed at the depth of your research and your ability to analyze the data. Your analysis is informative and consise. Good luck for the rest of the year. I will be writing again.
Regards, Prem

Prem: Thanks a lot for your kind words about my picks and analysis. It's both a lotta work and a lotta fun, and am glad to hear that you enjoy my efforts. Have fun and best o' luck this season.

Name: Steve
Date: Tue 23 Sep 1997
Subject: Great week in college!!!

Hey wiz its steve e-mailing from PHILADELPHIA we gladly appreciate last weeks picks and hope you have many more for the up and comming college week thanks again and i'll look foward to this weeks winners. e-mail me back if you can. thanks, steve from Philly.
You are the king!!!

Hi Steve: Wizard Weygint here. Thanks a lot for checking in and your nice words about my "kingship" status. Glad I am helping you out and I hope to stay on a roll. I'm hitting at 71% which is perty incrediburgible. I've never finished a season above 63% and really hope this will be the first. Best o' luck in the land of brotherly love.

Name: Ty Turbo
Date: Mon, 22 Sep 1997 18:26:50
Subject: Football

You probably already know this, but you are amazing. I've been monitoring picks and it seems no one compares to you. Ty.

Hey Ty: Thanks for describing the Wizard as "amazing." Up to this point in the season, WW agrees with your description. Best of luck this season.

Name: Bruce Smith
Date: Mon, 22 Sep 1997 18:33:40
Subject: (No Subject)

Wiz, I run one of those "nickel and dime office pools" you refer to, perhaps somewhat disparagingly, in your handicapping tips. Hey, it beats dicking around with software _all_ day, and it gives me chance to entertain my audience and soemtimes even pick up a few of those nickels and dimes. We do both college and pro.

I've been following your pix for a few weeks and guess what? Between yours and mine I have won the college pool 3 weeks in a row. All in all, I get more bang for my buck from the ponies, but this ain't half-bad, no sir! My sincere congrats for your incredible 4-0 pix this week. Like your commentary, as well.
Best, Bruce Smith

Bruce: Glad to hear that I've helped with your office pool. I too am in a weekly pool with a bunch of pals and tied for the overall crown last year. More power to you or anyone who plays only the office pools. The main object of all this is to have fun and if a few $$ come along with it, that's gravy.
Best of luck for the rest of the season and thanks for checking in.

Name: Jason "92" Love
Date: Mon, 22 Sep 1997 23:17:42
Subject: (No Subject)

YOU ARE ON FIRE

Thank-you Jason for the "warm" regards. You are a perty hot prognosticator yourself and it's always nice to get compliments from another "in the industry." Be good Love Machine.

Name: Pat "the human eraser" Higgins
Date: Thu, 11 Sep 1997 09:10:00
Subject: Stellar Sooner-bration

Hey, I just read the rest of your site and I loved your Sooner 70s praise (what is really weird here is that none of the young people I know have a club about the Billy Sims-Kenny King-Thomas Lott-David Overstreet team, which I think should rank with the all time best.) Your memory's fading, though, Billy fumbled on the 3. What day do your new picks come out?

My weekly picks and studs and buffoons are updated each Weds eve. Thanks for the correction on the location of the Sims fumble. I could swear it was the 10ish yard line but it was 19 years ago and the day after we had won the state championship in football and the celebration left my fragile eggshell mind a tad scrambled.

There were no cooler college or pro teams ever than the Switzer Sooners of the late 70's/early 80's.

Name: Parker Smith
Date: Sun, 7 Sep 1997 06:27:37
Subject: Various

Way to go yesterday in college, you are on a roll. I really enjoy your site and if I had listened to you exclusivley yesterday I would have been way up instead of a little up. Best of luck for 97.....Parker Smith

Hey Parker, thanks for the nice words and hopefully WW can keep 'em coming for you. Good luck this year.

Name: Mark Wilson
Date: Wed, 3 Sep 1997 12:18:00
Subject: GREAT SITE!

Hey Wiz, I found your site a couple of weeks ago, great site. I have, and will continue to check in with you on a weekly basis. It's hard not to be bias being a Sooner in Sonner country, but I thought your analysis of the OU program was dead on. Once again, we shot ourselves in the foot one too many times. Don't give up on your first analysis of the season though, I believe the Sonners will still be a good bet against the line. While it was hard to notice, special teams have improved since last year, and will get better. The Syracuse game this week should show that. And don't be surprised if OU wins that game outright, with a very good showing from our defensive backfield, we could dominate the game. So don't quit on us yet..........We'll be back. Keep up the good work, nothing but praise for the work you do here.

Thanks a lot mark for your kind words. I must admit that I am a long time Sooner fan. Believe it or not I was born and raised in Lincoln, Ne but always found OU football more exciting. One of the saddest moments in my life was in Nov of 1978 when Billy Sims fumbled at the Husker 10 yard line late in the game that prevented an OU victory. That fumble also prevented them from winning the natl. championship. I was at that game and believe that OU team was one of the coolest ever.
Best o' luck this season and thanks for checking in.

SPECIAL NOTICE: Please take note that the Wiz got so teary eyed while recalling the late 70's OU heyday that he slipped into the first person. A rare and highly valued moment here at Wizard Weygint's College Football Magic!

Name: Don Ables
Date: Mon, 1 Sep 1997 19:59:37
Subject: Picks

Hi: Just wanted to say that you did pretty good on college picks. Do you pick NFL?? Don

No Don, I don't do the NFL. Thanks for your words of praise and good luck this year.

Name: W Dawson
Date: Mon, 1 Sep 1997 17:12:58
Subject: PICKS

GREAT PICKS! THANKS.

It always tickles the Wiz to know that he has brightened one's day. Thanks for checkin in.

Name: William L.
Date: Sun, 31 Aug 1997 23:53:19
Subject: So glad I found you!!

Dear Mr. Wizard,
Very very nice!! What more can I say? Just wanted to pass along some Kudos to the one who deserves them!!

Thanks again!
William

P.S. Do you have any feelings about the Green Bay - Chicago Monday night NFL affair?

William: Thanks for the kudos. After that OU violation in the Pigskin, the hot weekend was just what the doc ordered. As for the Pack-Bears, I really don't follow pros too closely but do agree that the Pack "D" is their heart and soul.

Best o luck in all endeavors.
Wizardo Weyginte

Name: WINKY W
Date: Sun, 31 Aug 1997 05:40:54
Subject: 4 FOR 4

GOOD PICKS ( GREAT JOB )

Name: sajones
Date: Sat, 30 Aug 1997 21:43:11
Subject: Excellent Job!

What a start! I just wish I had listened to you.......see ya next week!

Name: Cary McFarland
Date: Thu, 28 Aug 1997 18:15:55
Subject: Season's Greetings

Glad to see the Wiz is back for another steller season of potentially profitable prognostications! We, (me and my dog), rode the last half of the 96-97 season with you and yours, having particular success in the formerly known as "jingle-jangle angles". We hope this season finds you well in both mind and spirit, with special interest in mind. We find your analysis to be correct, concise and oftentimes hilarious in presentation. Keep up the great work.

PS: Critics should note that it's much easier to disagree on Tuesdays...
Thanks, Cary McFarland

Cary, you are one of my loyal readers from last year who has more than once checked in to say hello and thanks. I wanna thank-you for making the scene at WWCFM and for taking the time to e-mail. And by the way, the revered Jingle-Jangle Angles are back in 1997. Good luck this year Cary, and also best of wishes to your pooch from WW.

SPECIAL NOTE: Please note that WW was so touched and thankful for Cary's e-mail that he composed in the oh so rare first person.

Name: Mike Bower
Date: Thu, 28 Aug 1997 00:49:31
Subject: Jingle-Jangle Picks

I look forward to your jingle jangles again this year. Keep up the good work Mr. Wizard.

Mike: I just gone done posting this week's Jingle-Jangles; only two beacause of the light slate, but they are both perty compelling. Hopefully the JJA's will be as hot this year as last. Good luck this season and thanks for checkin' in.

Name: Gregg Jablonski
Date: Mon, 25 Aug 97 09:19:02
Subject: You are the greatest

Wizard, you are one of the most knowledgeable college football handicappers in the game today. When I read your insights I feel like I'm in the huddle. Good luck this season.

Wow, such lofty praise for the Wiz. Thanks a lot Gregg and I hope to keep you "in the huddle" all season.

Name: Gary Sobotka
Date: Mon, 25 Aug 97 22:31:44
Subject: Your site

Hi Wiz:
Great site you have! I am looking forward to reading it throughout the season. I am hoping your ad costs are cheap cheap cheap! Let me know. Thanks.
Gary

Thanks a lot Gary. Hope WW can supply you and other visitors a lotta helpful info and winning selections this year. He'll e-mail you with ad rate info. Thanks for checkin' in.

Name: Menezes
Date: Sun, 24 Aug 1997 00:00:15
Subject: My take on the game READ

Your handicapping was right .. OU is much better than NW that game was an abberation...the turnovers cost OU and the final score of 24-0 was not indicative of how close the game was ..... Having said all that...HEY ...HEY ...dont you know by now that if the line is dropping it means that the public and the touts are on OU..and even though its a good play.. you should be saying ...hmm...I will back off this one and tell my clients ( free but still clients ) "hey guys I like OU but the line is going the wrong way...its an opinion" So what did I do...well I bet half of what I will bet on your plays next week...so I did not.

Wow! You have an interesting take on things. First of all you say my handicapping was right and that OU is a "much better" team. Then you go on to say that I should have told people to "back off" because of line movement in that game.

If OU was indeed the "much better team" as you claim, and are GETTING 5.5 points, why would you or anyone care about a 1-2 point move in the line? I, and presumably you also given your "much better team" comment, believed the Sooners would win outright, so why would line movement of a point or two lead me to back off and/or warn my "clients."

By the way, if you look up the word "client" in the dictionary, you will find the following definition: A person who hires the services of a professional. Maybe you know something I don't, but as of last check nary a single person has paid me a cent for my picks/analysis.

Allow the Wiz a couple more responses to your comment: > HEY ...HEY ...dont you know by now that > if the line is dropping it means that the public and the touts are on > OU..and even though its a good play..you should be saying ...hmm...I > will back off this one and tell my clients ( free but still clients ) > "hey guys I like OU but the line is going the wrong way

If you are going to let line movement scare you when you feel a 4.5-6.5 underdog is the "much better" team, you're in for a long season. Getting points with a dog that has fundamental advantages (and looks like they'll win outright) is THEE EXACT handicapping situation I love to play. I wouldn't think of backing off it, nor would any astute 'capper.

And if you expect me to inform my "clients" of line changes (which are published virtually everywhere throughout the week,) you should use other handicapping sites (the vast majority of which ARE NOT free) to guide your picks.

Glad to hear that you "didn't get burnt" by my pick.

SPECIAL NOTICE: Please note that the Wizard was so emotionally charged about the previous e-mail that he assumed a very rare first person writing style.

Name: Wonka
Date: Wed, 20 Aug 1997 12:02:11
Subject: Excellent WEB site!

Excellent WEB site! I'll bookmark this one, and add it to my links. The only thing I would add to your analysis is that one of the players that OU signed, Reggie Skinner (The #1 rated JUCO running back) was kicked off the team. He was charged with felony burglery. Coach Blake said that if charges are dropped, or reduced to a misdemenor he woud consider allowing him back on the team. or, if he is acquited, he would be allowed back. Otherwise he's gone. Your analysis of OU made my back tingle with excitement. I'm passing on the link to your page to some Texas A&M & Texas Longhorn friends of mine. Thanks.

Wonka (Don)

Thanks Wonka for both your nice thoughts and OU info. Maybe one of these years OU can translate looking good on paper and in their post-game stats, into consistently covering the spread. I still feel violated after that Northwestern debacle. Que sara...tis a character builder. Have a fun season.

Name: Bill L.
Date: Sat, 23 Aug 1997 11:27:12 EDT
Subject: Like Your Web Site!!

Hi Wiz, Just found your web site, and found it to be interesting and informative. Have filed it in my "Favorite Places", and look forward to checking it out each week. Just wanted to let you know that your insights and efforts are appreciated! Looking forward to a profitable and fun football season. Keep up the good work! Thanks again, and good luck to you!!

Bill

Hey Bill, thanks a lot. It is nice to hear that people are out there and appreciate this endeavor. Hope your season is fun-filled and profitable, and glad to hear that the Wiz made your "Favorite Places" headquarters.

Name: Marvin Dunn
Date: Mon, 18 Aug 1997 19:52:29
Subject: Have Fun

Hello Mike. I just got this web thing and I can see where it's going to be a great tool. I handicap my own games for years now and this is really a great thing. I picked up your page from Austin Sports Book. They talk highly of you and putting as much effort as you are into your into your project, you should be very proud of yourself. I know how long it takes me to do my work.

One team I'm going to mark as a spreadbeater this year is Cincinnati Bearcats. Already put my marbles on Ok and Wisc. I don't play as many games as you, but if you have something going, don't change.

Hey Marvin, your e-mail address indicates that you are also of the wizardly persuasion, so no wonder you have such good taste in choosing handicapping web sites. Happy to hear that you that you and the Austin crew enjoy the Wiz's labor of love.

WW rarely saunters into Conference USA terrortory so can offer little response to your Cincinnati analysis except to say that their solid "D" is always a bonus to have on your side when wagering. Best o' luck this year and thanks for checking in.

Name: Chris Mills
Date: Thu, 10 Jul 1997 11:08:28 -0700
Subject: Your site rocks!!

I went back and reveiwed your '96 picks and analysis and found them to be super in-depth and most of the time, right on the money. Plus, you present your stuff in a fun-loving way, unlike most hamdicappers who take themselves too seriously and don't do half the work that you do.

You've got more bang for the buck than a stag in heat!!! I am looking forward to checking you out each week during the upcoming season. When will you have your picks up each week?

The modest Wizard blushed upon reading your words of praise, especially the part about the stag in heat! He thanks you very much for checking in and wants to let you know that his picks will be up each week no later than sundown on Thursday evening.

Name: Sylvia Ann Jones from SlyHam's Bar-B-Cue
Date: Fri, 20 Dec 1996 21:56:52
Subject: Thanks

Thanks so much for all the fun this season.....rest up during the off-season. Hope I can find your url next season....if you change it, be sure and send a message to let us know...it's been a lot of fun!

Sylvia, thanks for checking in throughout the season. It has indeed been a lotta fun (and a lotta work too!) I'll be keeping the same URL for the 1997 season and I hope to treat you to another fun and winning season.

Name: Fish
Date: Fri, 25 Oct 1996 15:37:03 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: THANKS

I stumbled upon your site thru silly sports, which i stumbled upon thru SWAT..lol. I do enjoy your site and it has put a few in my pocket. I look at your pics and take the ones that i agree with, or sometimes you convince me about a game i wasnt thinking of. I make copies of your page and pass them on to my non pc pals that bet...they enjoy it too...a few ask me each week to see it. I like to tell ya this so you know your work isn't in vain...you like me, do it for fun...but i still like to know that someone reads it ! Thanks for making me a link!

Name: Cary McFarland
Date: 12 Nov 1996 9:57am
Subject: Thanks

Just a note of praise. I generally don't listen to the plethora of prognosticators that abound with free advice and positive picks, however, I found your analysis of Nov 9 college games to be a real eye opener! The analysis was fact-based and insightful. I hope you can continue to provide this type of information for those of us that do their homework. I just stumbled onto this page by accident, but I will be watching in the future for more terrific insight. Good Job!

Name: Kevin Adelsberg
Date: 13 Nov 96 21:49:10
Subject: Great Week!

Before I went on my vacation in the opposite direction from yours (Marco Island, FL), I printed out your selections while sipping on my coolers! Great Week - I used your OU & Alabama selections and threw in my all-time favorite trend, the "old" SWC on grass and used BYU against Rice for a 3-0 weekend. Keep up the good work! Kevin A.

Name: David Jaynes
Date: Mon, 09 Dec 96 23:58
Subject: Picks

So we know you are the king of the hill in football, but can you pick the toughest of the tough, college basketball?

W.W. finds most college basketball games mind-numbingly boring, and believes that anyone who endeavors into college basketball prognostication harbors masochistic tendencies. Life deals the Wiz, and most everyone else, enough anxiety without searching for it. So no, he can't pick the "toughest of the tough."