There will be a new champion in the Stardust Invitational this year.

Big Al McMordie, the defending champion, had his win streak snapped at five straight Invitational victories -- four last year, one this year -- by Floridian Marc Lawrence.

Lawrence, a Professional Handicappers League member who made a name for himself in the publishing and sports gaming industries in Ohio before moving to the Sunshine State last year, went 4-2-1 while McMordie was 3-4.

Lawrence becomes the second person, joining Andy Iskoe, to advance to Round 3.

Up to bat this week are Tim Trushel and Steve Cofield, who both host radio sports shows.

Both players lost on Cal plus 18 1/2 and won on Iowa State plus 2 1/2, McMordie as a best bet.

Lawrence pushed on his, Alabama plus a field goal, which is what Georgia beat the Crimson Tide by.

Lawrence also won on Arkansas plus 1, Auburn plus 3 and his Ugly Pig Special (UPS), the Green Bay Packers, who not only covered the plus 9 1/2 pointspread, but won straight up.

Besides Cal, Lawrence lost on Arizona State plus 3.

McMordie, a member of the Professional Handicappers League, added the Bills minus 2 1/2 and Vikings plus 9 1/2 to his win column.

His losers in addition to the Bears were Wake Forest plus 17, Eagles minus 3 and Ravens plus 6 1/2.

McMordie and Lawrence were two of 16 players invited by Stardust Race and Sports Director Bob Scucci to participate in the Invitational's 11th renewal.

They were paired off into eight opening-round matches, with winners moving into the quarterfinals. Losers were eliminated.

Each week, the two featured guests make seven selections against the Friday night Stardust line.

Picks are unveiled on a Friday night radio show that airs on KDWN-720AM throughout the Western United States and into Canada.

John Kelly and Seat Williams are co-hosts.

Lynda Collins is a documented member of the Professional Handicappers League. Read all of her articles at http://www.procappers.com/Lynda_Collins.htm