The Weis era of over-hyped mediocrity has come to an end. Why beat a dead horse? We all know I felt about this guy here, so there's no need to say anymore about him. BTW, Brian Kelly's the front-runner for the job, but I don't know if he should take it. They say it's still the best job and that the program is just a "good hire" away from returning to prominence. I'm not so sure. More on that later. For now, goodbye and good luck to Mr. Weis. May that new NFL coordinator's spot feel more like home.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Goodbye.
The Weis era of over-hyped mediocrity has come to an end. Why beat a dead horse? We all know I felt about this guy here, so there's no need to say anymore about him. BTW, Brian Kelly's the front-runner for the job, but I don't know if he should take it. They say it's still the best job and that the program is just a "good hire" away from returning to prominence. I'm not so sure. More on that later. For now, goodbye and good luck to Mr. Weis. May that new NFL coordinator's spot feel more like home.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
SEC Bowling
Here's my guesses as to where the SEC teams will hash out when it comes to bowl season. The only things that could come out differently are obviously Florida and Alabama (depending on the outcome of the SECCG), maybe Auburn and Arkansas, and some say Tennessee could go to the Cotton Bowl, but why would they not take the West team? The SEC gets 9 tie-ins (10 if 2 teams make BCS bowls). This year the conference will have no problem filing all the available spots, but, for future reference, if they weren't able to, the Sun Belt would be next in line to send teams to the Independence and Papajohns.com Bowl (Ugh, a Sun Belt-Big East game? Gross).
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UPDATE: I went back in and projected opponents, too. Enjoy.
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1. and 2. - BCS team(s): BCS Title Game: Florida (vs. Texas); Sugar: Alabama (vs. Cincy)
3. - Capital One: LSU (vs. Penn State)
4. and 5. - Cotton picks West: Ole Miss (vs. OK State); Outback picks East: Tennessee (vs. N'western)
6. - Chick-Fil-A: Georgia (vs. Clemson)*
7. and 8. - Music City and Liberty (order decided with SEC): South Carolina (vs. UNC) and Auburn (vs. Houston)
9. Independence: Arkansas (vs. Iowa State) Imagine if AU and Ark are swapped...
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UPDATE 2: I'm actually thinking this will be Texas A&M. Even thought he Cyclones are higher in the standings, I doubt Shreveport will pass up the team closer to home.
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10. Papajohns.com: Kentucky (vs. South Florida)
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* This is iffy - VA Tech very well could end up here. Of course, that's assuming a GA Tech win in the ACC CG. If Clemson wins, they'll get the Orange Bowl. That would bring up the possibility of Miami coming to ATL.
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UPDATE: I went back in and projected opponents, too. Enjoy.
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1. and 2. - BCS team(s): BCS Title Game: Florida (vs. Texas); Sugar: Alabama (vs. Cincy)
3. - Capital One: LSU (vs. Penn State)
4. and 5. - Cotton picks West: Ole Miss (vs. OK State); Outback picks East: Tennessee (vs. N'western)
6. - Chick-Fil-A: Georgia (vs. Clemson)*
7. and 8. - Music City and Liberty (order decided with SEC): South Carolina (vs. UNC) and Auburn (vs. Houston)
9. Independence: Arkansas (vs. Iowa State) Imagine if AU and Ark are swapped...
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UPDATE 2: I'm actually thinking this will be Texas A&M. Even thought he Cyclones are higher in the standings, I doubt Shreveport will pass up the team closer to home.
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10. Papajohns.com: Kentucky (vs. South Florida)
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* This is iffy - VA Tech very well could end up here. Of course, that's assuming a GA Tech win in the ACC CG. If Clemson wins, they'll get the Orange Bowl. That would bring up the possibility of Miami coming to ATL.
Tech Wrecked, Order Restored...and other stuff.
Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate: Despite what the ABC announcers said, Martinez does not deserve amnesty because of last night. We might have won, but the Tech offense still killed us at the corners and the secondary threatened to give it away all night. Well, except maybe Reshad Jones, but he was playing his ass off for atonement. I'm not saying we need to fire WM or keep him, I'm just saying that last night's win should not have an impact on the decision. But, it will...
That said, who would have thought we would have won like that? Outrushing, winning the turnover battle, and dominating at the line? That's not what we do. You knew the roles were completely reversed when Tech was having to pass late and pretty much lost their last chance on a dropped pass. How very UGA of you, Jackets.
Um, yeah...about number 3...sorry...
Either way, it feels like order has been restored in the Peach State. All the Tech "fans" that popped up out of nowhere last year will slowly melt back into the woodwork and we won't see them again until another Jackets win down the road. Eight out of Nine, baby!
Yes, really, Kentucky; the new transitive champions of the ACC
From Rivalries to Recruiting: Well, the second week of rivalries is down and there's one more to go. And the matchup I've honestly been looking forward to the most is finally here: The Civil War. The Ducks and Beavs play for a Rose Bowl bid and it should be a great game. Masoli versus the Rodgers brothers, lots of speed and surprising defenses. Plus, if State wins, what does that say about Cincy? They would have beaten the champion of a much-IMPROVED PAC-10 this year. That should lend them some credibility. And, if the Ducks win, hello Boise State! I know we hate to hear it, but that's the sound of parity. There's still only a few 4 and 5 star recruits out there and the premiere programs get them. But there's a hundred 3 star recruits to pick up and a good coaching staff can make all the difference in the world, whether it's in the SEC or WAC.
I have no problem with Pete Carroll's decision to bomb the Bruins with under a minute left. You shouldn't have called the timeout, Nuheisel. It's what I feel like doing when the computer does it to me and we all know life is exactly the same as video games. You want the game to be drawn out? You got it - now you have to stop them. Now we know why Carroll didn't criticize Harbaugh's 2-pt. conversion in public after the Stanford game...he secretly loved it!
No Transitive Victories Here: Please look at the SEC standings and try to make sense of them. There are six 7-5 teams in the league, and playing the who-beat-who game will only get you a migraine. Georgia beat SoCar, who beat Kentucky, who beat Auburn, who beat Ole Miss, who beat LSU, who beat Georgia, who beat Arkansas, who beat Auburn, who beat Tennessee, who beat Kentucky, who beat Geor...you get the idea. Plus, apparently any one of them could have won the ACC.
Heisman: Toby Gerhart had an insane night and would get my Heisman vote right now if I had one. 200+ yards, 3 rushing TD's, including the game-winner, and a crucial 4th down passing score to tie it up late. That's a clinic, son. Rounding out my ballot would be the QB's McCoy and Tebow, who both had great days against their rivals, and then maybe a defensive player for fun, like Brandon Graham. I would probably leave my 5th spot blank because statistically it should be Clausen and fuck that.
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UPDATE: Actually, my fifth spot would go to Kellen Moore.
That said, who would have thought we would have won like that? Outrushing, winning the turnover battle, and dominating at the line? That's not what we do. You knew the roles were completely reversed when Tech was having to pass late and pretty much lost their last chance on a dropped pass. How very UGA of you, Jackets.
Um, yeah...about number 3...sorry... Either way, it feels like order has been restored in the Peach State. All the Tech "fans" that popped up out of nowhere last year will slowly melt back into the woodwork and we won't see them again until another Jackets win down the road. Eight out of Nine, baby!
Yes, really, Kentucky; the new transitive champions of the ACCFrom Rivalries to Recruiting: Well, the second week of rivalries is down and there's one more to go. And the matchup I've honestly been looking forward to the most is finally here: The Civil War. The Ducks and Beavs play for a Rose Bowl bid and it should be a great game. Masoli versus the Rodgers brothers, lots of speed and surprising defenses. Plus, if State wins, what does that say about Cincy? They would have beaten the champion of a much-IMPROVED PAC-10 this year. That should lend them some credibility. And, if the Ducks win, hello Boise State! I know we hate to hear it, but that's the sound of parity. There's still only a few 4 and 5 star recruits out there and the premiere programs get them. But there's a hundred 3 star recruits to pick up and a good coaching staff can make all the difference in the world, whether it's in the SEC or WAC.
I have no problem with Pete Carroll's decision to bomb the Bruins with under a minute left. You shouldn't have called the timeout, Nuheisel. It's what I feel like doing when the computer does it to me and we all know life is exactly the same as video games. You want the game to be drawn out? You got it - now you have to stop them. Now we know why Carroll didn't criticize Harbaugh's 2-pt. conversion in public after the Stanford game...he secretly loved it!
No Transitive Victories Here: Please look at the SEC standings and try to make sense of them. There are six 7-5 teams in the league, and playing the who-beat-who game will only get you a migraine. Georgia beat SoCar, who beat Kentucky, who beat Auburn, who beat Ole Miss, who beat LSU, who beat Georgia, who beat Arkansas, who beat Auburn, who beat Tennessee, who beat Kentucky, who beat Geor...you get the idea. Plus, apparently any one of them could have won the ACC.
Heisman: Toby Gerhart had an insane night and would get my Heisman vote right now if I had one. 200+ yards, 3 rushing TD's, including the game-winner, and a crucial 4th down passing score to tie it up late. That's a clinic, son. Rounding out my ballot would be the QB's McCoy and Tebow, who both had great days against their rivals, and then maybe a defensive player for fun, like Brandon Graham. I would probably leave my 5th spot blank because statistically it should be Clausen and fuck that.
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UPDATE: Actually, my fifth spot would go to Kellen Moore.
Top-25: 11/29
It's beginning to clear up now, thanks to some upsets and faves pulling away from the pack. Florida handled their season ending rival, while both 'Bama and Texas struggled, so the Gators hold number one. I would have tied the Horns and Tide for 2nd, but McCoy's playing too well right now. It now looks like the best ACC team, Virginia Tech, will not be in the conference championship game. The SEC, however, clearly has its 2 best teams (arguably the nation's best) in their CG. The middle of the PAC-10 is the most competitive 2-6 in all of football and could hang in any league, despite what the local homers will tell you. Because of this, I wanted to make sure they were all ranked, USC higher than Cal because of the head-to-head, both those teams higher than Stanford due to overall record, and Arizona bringing up the rear. I did not punish GA Tech too much for their loss because their offense was still moving almost at will and it's hard to use emotional rivalry games against non-undefeated teams. So, why did Oklahoma drop? I wanted them behind Nebraska, the Big-XII North champ. Once again, I'll rank through 30 since things are just fuzzy from 12 on down. This also allows me to nclude some mid-pack Big-Ten and -XII teams. Enjoy:
- Florida
- Texas
- Alabama
- TCU
- Cincinnati
- Boise State
- Oregon
- Ohio State
- Iowa
- Virginia Tech
- Georgia Tech
- Penn State
- Oregon State
- LSU
- Miami
- Pitt
- USC
- Cal
- Stanford
- Houston
- Nebraska
- Oklahoma State
- BYU
- Clemson
- Utah
- Arizona
- Northwestern
- Wisconsin
- Texas Tech
- Oklahoma
I'm even HAPPIER We Won, Now!
I saw this online today:
Real classy, Tech. Remember, you're having your best season in 20 years and are still just the second-best team in the state. Of late, I had become somewhat neutral when it came to Tech's games. I never "pulled" for them necessarily, but was definitely not outright rooting against them on principle. After seeing this, I've reverted. I'm anti-Tech all the time. So, come on Clemson, Wreck Tech!
Real classy, Tech. Remember, you're having your best season in 20 years and are still just the second-best team in the state. Of late, I had become somewhat neutral when it came to Tech's games. I never "pulled" for them necessarily, but was definitely not outright rooting against them on principle. After seeing this, I've reverted. I'm anti-Tech all the time. So, come on Clemson, Wreck Tech!
Saturday, November 28, 2009
6 Resons Tim Tebow is a Terrible Person
I was invited to do a guest bit for Fox News, so I figured I'd take on a sensitive issue. It's time somebody stood up to Tim Tebow and exposed the truth that the pro-Tebow media won't show you. So, here you go: 6 reasons Tim Tebow is a bad person.
First: He wears anti-Semitic eye-black. You don't call them 'Hebes', Tim. That's like you're grandad using 'Jap' in everyday convo. It just doesn't happen anymore, you racist.
Second: Tim Tebow is an agent of aggression, carrying out the white, western world's agenda by mutilating the genitals of indigenous populations in the pacific. I mean, c'mon, is it still 1855? Why don't you force children to run a diamond mine in Africa while you're at it, Cecil Rhodes.
Something like this
Third: He obviously does not understand the proper mechanics a real QB would use. Jumping? What are you, five years old? Loser. He's so overrated, but the spread option-media won't tell you that, will they?
Fourth: He never beat Auburn. That's right, 0-2 against the Tigers. And, we all know they're the true measuring stick of success. It's not the Heisman or the conference titles or the national titles, or the 11-1 record against your rivals, but Auburn. Obviously, OVER-rated.
Fifth: It is a fact that Tim Tebow, while he puts up a good-guy front, actually spends his time with known felons. That's right, Tebow hangs out with hardened criminals while talking about living a clean life. What a hypocrite.
Probably organizing an Aryan Nation riot
Sixth: He steals. Possession is 9/10ths of the law and that record was possessed by Herschel.
Sir, can you prove to us that you're not a pedophile?
First: He wears anti-Semitic eye-black. You don't call them 'Hebes', Tim. That's like you're grandad using 'Jap' in everyday convo. It just doesn't happen anymore, you racist.
Second: Tim Tebow is an agent of aggression, carrying out the white, western world's agenda by mutilating the genitals of indigenous populations in the pacific. I mean, c'mon, is it still 1855? Why don't you force children to run a diamond mine in Africa while you're at it, Cecil Rhodes.
Something like thisThird: He obviously does not understand the proper mechanics a real QB would use. Jumping? What are you, five years old? Loser. He's so overrated, but the spread option-media won't tell you that, will they?
Fourth: He never beat Auburn. That's right, 0-2 against the Tigers. And, we all know they're the true measuring stick of success. It's not the Heisman or the conference titles or the national titles, or the 11-1 record against your rivals, but Auburn. Obviously, OVER-rated.
Fifth: It is a fact that Tim Tebow, while he puts up a good-guy front, actually spends his time with known felons. That's right, Tebow hangs out with hardened criminals while talking about living a clean life. What a hypocrite.
Probably organizing an Aryan Nation riotSixth: He steals. Possession is 9/10ths of the law and that record was possessed by Herschel.
There. I hope this has opened your eyes. How can we allow such an awful person to garner so much praise? He's single-handedly destroying college football, and we're letting it happen. I just...it's just that...I love this sport so much, and...and seeing it brought down by someone like Tim Tebow...it's scary. We're losing our sport!
Sir, can you prove to us that you're not a pedophile?Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Weekly Picks - Deathbed Edition
I'm dedicated to you, dear reader. I think I've got the flu, but yet I make my picks. Seriously, though: chills, aches, a fever, cough, etc...but I'm kind of happy. It means I might not have to go home for Thanksgiving! That said, here are my picks for rivalry week:
Texas Turkey Day Showdown
Texas 45, Texas A&M 16 - Congrats to the Aggies for getting bowl-eligible, but that's about it. The way McCoy has come on the last few weeks leaves me very worried about that suspect A&M defense.
Black Friday
First off, UPSET ALERT: Illinois over Cincy? Could the Illini ruin the BearCats' season? It sets up perfectly for an upset here.
Alabama 29, Auburn 17 - The machine keeps rolling along.
Pitt 31, West VA 30 - The Mountaineers could salvage their season by derailing the Panthers', but I think the 'Stache pulls it out. Crap that's scary: putting my faith in Wanstedt.
Saturday
Clemson 27, SoCar 20 - Ugh.
Oklahoma 30, Oklahoma St. 14 - I've been calling the Sooners in this game all season. And now that Robinson might sit out, it seems like a lock.
Utah 24, BYU 14 - I'll take the Utes in the Holy War, as the Cougs have been flat lately.
LSU 34, Arkansas 32 - I was planning on taking the Razorbacks here, but then Miles gave up that game to Ole Miss last week. I don't see the Tigers losing two-in-a-row.
Georgia Tech 38, Georgia 17 - If everything plays out like it's been going lately, this could be more like a 45 or 52 to 17 situation. The Dawgs would have to play a perfect game to win and that's not likely since the best they've done this year is slightly awful.
Well, I'm off to chug some type of 'Quil, either Day or Ny, pound some OJ, self-medicate and take a nap. Happy Thanksgiving, mofos!
Texas Turkey Day Showdown
Texas 45, Texas A&M 16 - Congrats to the Aggies for getting bowl-eligible, but that's about it. The way McCoy has come on the last few weeks leaves me very worried about that suspect A&M defense.
Black Friday
First off, UPSET ALERT: Illinois over Cincy? Could the Illini ruin the BearCats' season? It sets up perfectly for an upset here.
Alabama 29, Auburn 17 - The machine keeps rolling along.
Pitt 31, West VA 30 - The Mountaineers could salvage their season by derailing the Panthers', but I think the 'Stache pulls it out. Crap that's scary: putting my faith in Wanstedt.
Saturday
Clemson 27, SoCar 20 - Ugh.
Oklahoma 30, Oklahoma St. 14 - I've been calling the Sooners in this game all season. And now that Robinson might sit out, it seems like a lock.
Utah 24, BYU 14 - I'll take the Utes in the Holy War, as the Cougs have been flat lately.
LSU 34, Arkansas 32 - I was planning on taking the Razorbacks here, but then Miles gave up that game to Ole Miss last week. I don't see the Tigers losing two-in-a-row.
Georgia Tech 38, Georgia 17 - If everything plays out like it's been going lately, this could be more like a 45 or 52 to 17 situation. The Dawgs would have to play a perfect game to win and that's not likely since the best they've done this year is slightly awful.
Well, I'm off to chug some type of 'Quil, either Day or Ny, pound some OJ, self-medicate and take a nap. Happy Thanksgiving, mofos!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Thank You, Damon Evans.
Well, it looks like no more special uniforms for the Bulldogs. On the Bulldog Hotline, Athletic Director Damon Evans exposed his preference for sticking with the classic UGA unis: "I like our traditional uniforms--the silver britches, the red jerseys, the white jerseys and the red helmets--and that’s what we need to stick with at the University of Georgia.” I agree wholeheartedly, sir. We don't need gimmicks, we need discipline, fundamentals, and some fire in our fucking bellies. That's how you win games. Now, he doesn't come right out and say he'll be banning the special uniforms, but god I hope he does - at least for a while. Those black helmets? They were a $30,000 ass-whipping. The last blackout? A blowout. A blowout, by the way, to a program who hasn't changed their uniforms since Ezekiel was the long snapper. This isn't a rant against special unis, mind you; I do like the black jerseys. We just need to save them for a time when the players have earned them, because right now it feels like Richt trots them out when he needs a quick, cheap gimmick to win a game.
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UPDATE: Oh yeah, and the red face-masks were U-G-L-Y. We looked like some D-3 or high school team. And we played like one, too.
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UPDATE 2: Let me reiterate, I do like special uniforms - sometimes. As a matter of fact I loved the new Nike unis that TCU sported two weeks ago. I also liked the Jolly Roger motif ECU adopted for the VA Tech game. And, like I said, I like the black jerseys...I just don't want to break them out anytime soon.
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UPDATE: Oh yeah, and the red face-masks were U-G-L-Y. We looked like some D-3 or high school team. And we played like one, too.
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UPDATE 2: Let me reiterate, I do like special uniforms - sometimes. As a matter of fact I loved the new Nike unis that TCU sported two weeks ago. I also liked the Jolly Roger motif ECU adopted for the VA Tech game. And, like I said, I like the black jerseys...I just don't want to break them out anytime soon.
Tuesday Top-25
Meant to get this up Sunday, but was fuming over the UGA loss, the Hawks' fail in NOLA and the turd the Falcons were laying. Last night, I honestly just forgot. So, like back in the day, you get it on Tuesday. There's not much change really. Once you get past the undefeated and 1-loss teams, it's just a jumbled mess, much like a rush-hour pile-up in Mexico City at the height of kidnapping season. Because of that, I'll just rank through 30 and openly admit that any team from 16-30 could beat any other one given the right circumstances. I also wanted to make sure I got Nebraska, Navy and the knot in the middle of the PAC-10 on the board. SEC, I meh in your general direction right now. Honestly, why shouldn't Ole Miss beat ranked higher than LSU; same record and a head-to-head win...?
- Florida
- Texas
- Alabama
- TCU
- Cincinnati
- Boise State
- Georgia Tech
- Oregon
- Pitt
- Ohio State
- Iowa
- Oklahoma State
- Virginia Tech
- Penn State
- Oregon State
- Clemson
- LSU
- Miami
- Utah
- Stanford
- USC
- Cal
- Houston
- Nebraska
- Wisconsin
- Ole Miss
- UNC
- BYU
- Navy
- Arizona
The Rich Get Richer
Here's how you qualify for the BCS:
1. Be the champion of one of the automatic-qualifying conferees: SEC, B10, B12, BE, ACC and PAC-10
2. Be the champion of a non-AQ conference and be ranked in the top-12 of the BCS
3. Be undefeated, ranked in the top-12 and ranked higher than an AQ conference winner
or, be LSU, Miami, and USC. Are you kidding me?
1. Be the champion of one of the automatic-qualifying conferees: SEC, B10, B12, BE, ACC and PAC-10
2. Be the champion of a non-AQ conference and be ranked in the top-12 of the BCS
3. Be undefeated, ranked in the top-12 and ranked higher than an AQ conference winner
or, be LSU, Miami, and USC. Are you kidding me?
Clausen KO
I'd like to say first of all, that I do not condone this sort of behavior. Second, HAHAHA:
Jimmy Clausen got punched by a fan!
Seriously, that's a pretty lame move. But, if it had to happen, god I'm glad it happened to this douche bag. Sounds like the wheels are really coming off up in South Bend...
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UPDATE: I mean, honestly, who wouldn't want to punch him? Look at that stupid fucking face.
Jimmy Clausen got punched by a fan!
Seriously, that's a pretty lame move. But, if it had to happen, god I'm glad it happened to this douche bag. Sounds like the wheels are really coming off up in South Bend...
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UPDATE: I mean, honestly, who wouldn't want to punch him? Look at that stupid fucking face.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Monday Night QB
See the previous post for thoughts on Kentucky-UGA. Our last shot at glory is ruining Georgia Tech's season. The Jackets win one and run their mouths like they've got a 10-game streak. They're well coached, athletic, fast, and way too tricky for Martinez. They'll probably hang 40 on us, but for some reason, I know we can beat them if we play the right way. Jesus, I'd love to beat them.
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UPDATE: Now we're hearing about offensive tells that are noticed by fans in the stands!! If grandma is picking up on the play from 27 rows back, I'm guessing Charlie Strong is having zero difficulty doing it. Fuck, this is getting embarrassing.
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And, while Richt has some issues to deal with, at least he hasn't fucked us out of a win quite as bad as Les Miles did for LSU Saturday. Sheesh. What's worse, Miles came out and said he didn't know why Jefferson tried to spike the ball...even though the camera clearly shows CLM running down the sidelines ordering the clock play. What a douche.
But, at least Miles isn't Yale coach Tom Williams. He's definitely the winner of the COACHING FAIL award for the week.
The PAC-10 is the most exciting conference in football. Arizona and Oregon had to win out to get to the Rose Bowl and their first tests were against each other. They didn't disappoint, playing a lightening death-match OT-thriller. Throw in the back-and-forth Big Game (Cal-Stanford), and we realize that all this conference had to do to get interesting was overthrow USC. It's like they're having their own football-style French Revolution...Oregon better be careful, I think we all remember what happened to Robespierre...
If Arkansas and Miss. St. win next week, the best record in the SEC behind Florida and 'Bama's will be 4-4. Not only that, but we've seen some crappy play from teams out of conference and middle-of-the-pack mentality losses all over the place. People, I think the SEC is the new PAC-10, just with a two-headed king. Regicide, anyone?
After the loss to UConn, Charlie Weis should be out at Notre Dame soon. Let the Urban Meyer to South Bend talk begin in earnest now, even though he'd have to be an idiot to do it.
Guess what? Katie Couric's kind of hot.
Well, the home tailgating season is over and I'd like to say to all my peeps that I had a blast this season, despite all the night games. So, thanks again to Weezy, a.k.a Father Tailgate, for the infrastructure and to The Moviegoer for all the Chick-Fil-A. I always had a blast with JINX, enjoyed arguing with Aroo when he showed up, and there'd be no work done without LTDx. I wouldn't trade the friends in my life for any number of victories on the field.
Lastly, if you're not watching It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, what the fuck's wrong with you? Seriously, we should have an intervention for that. Well, onward and upward, chaps, The top-25 should be along shortly.
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Also, thanks to the tailgate crew for reminding me of how great a song "Kiss From a Rose" is.
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UPDATE: Now we're hearing about offensive tells that are noticed by fans in the stands!! If grandma is picking up on the play from 27 rows back, I'm guessing Charlie Strong is having zero difficulty doing it. Fuck, this is getting embarrassing.
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And, while Richt has some issues to deal with, at least he hasn't fucked us out of a win quite as bad as Les Miles did for LSU Saturday. Sheesh. What's worse, Miles came out and said he didn't know why Jefferson tried to spike the ball...even though the camera clearly shows CLM running down the sidelines ordering the clock play. What a douche.
But, at least Miles isn't Yale coach Tom Williams. He's definitely the winner of the COACHING FAIL award for the week.
The PAC-10 is the most exciting conference in football. Arizona and Oregon had to win out to get to the Rose Bowl and their first tests were against each other. They didn't disappoint, playing a lightening death-match OT-thriller. Throw in the back-and-forth Big Game (Cal-Stanford), and we realize that all this conference had to do to get interesting was overthrow USC. It's like they're having their own football-style French Revolution...Oregon better be careful, I think we all remember what happened to Robespierre...
If Arkansas and Miss. St. win next week, the best record in the SEC behind Florida and 'Bama's will be 4-4. Not only that, but we've seen some crappy play from teams out of conference and middle-of-the-pack mentality losses all over the place. People, I think the SEC is the new PAC-10, just with a two-headed king. Regicide, anyone?
After the loss to UConn, Charlie Weis should be out at Notre Dame soon. Let the Urban Meyer to South Bend talk begin in earnest now, even though he'd have to be an idiot to do it.
Guess what? Katie Couric's kind of hot.
Well, the home tailgating season is over and I'd like to say to all my peeps that I had a blast this season, despite all the night games. So, thanks again to Weezy, a.k.a Father Tailgate, for the infrastructure and to The Moviegoer for all the Chick-Fil-A. I always had a blast with JINX, enjoyed arguing with Aroo when he showed up, and there'd be no work done without LTDx. I wouldn't trade the friends in my life for any number of victories on the field.
Lastly, if you're not watching It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, what the fuck's wrong with you? Seriously, we should have an intervention for that. Well, onward and upward, chaps, The top-25 should be along shortly.
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Also, thanks to the tailgate crew for reminding me of how great a song "Kiss From a Rose" is.
6-5 and Headed for Disaster
OK, this loss to Kentucky really pisses me off. It'd be one thing if we'd just come out flat and dropped a close game to a team that outplayed us, but, despite that first TD, that's just not what happened. After their first score, we owned them through the first half. We ran well, controlled both lines, had no penalties and protected the ball. Then Cox's pass was deflected late in the 2nd, forcing us to settle for a FG. And, even though we were up 20-6, you could just feel the malaise seeping in. Play calls got more questionable and execution got shabbier. We made no adjustments and allowed the 'Cats to take over the trenches. Once that happened, they caught up and in the commotion we lost our focus and tried to settle for just hanging on for the win. It didn't happen. 4 turnovers later, the game was decided and once again we were on the short end of the stick. I could spend hours dissecting this game and proposing different theories and offering fix-it solutions or dream personnel we could hire, but there's no point. We know what's wrong and it better get fixed by next season or this program will begin a steady decline towards mediocrity, or what I like to call the early 90's. Coach Richt, handle your business.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
R.I.P. UGA VII
To a Damn Good Dawg! He will be missed...
Hopefully tonight I can get to the weekly picks, weigh-in the big games this weekend, and comment on the Klan's plans (ha, rhyme!) to attend the LSU-Ole Miss game this weekend.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
This is going to be the worst BCS ever (ed. note: OR IS IT?)
UPDATE FROM JOAJ34: Well, Aroo stole my thunder by posting his BCS projections/opinions today, as I was planning on doing the same this week. That said, it's always great to have someone besides me get some input, so I'll just throw in with his post and drop my projections in below. I'll leave Aroo's writing in tact and just interject my thoughts. For style and ease of reading, my picks will be in red:
If the season ended today (and in MY best estimation)
National Championship: Florida/Bama vs. Texas
Strong! I dont want any part of picking this game.
Ditto. I will go ahead and say that I'll take Florida over 'Bama, though. And, if I have to pick Fla vs. Texas, I'll take the Gators. Why? We saw Texas manage a season-low 16 points against a tough, athletic defense (OU) earlier this year. I think the Gators' D is actually tougher than the Sonners' D and with Tebow at the helm, the offense always seems to do enough to win big games. McCoy, on the other hand, seems to tighten up, which could cost the 'Horns late.
Sugar Bowl: Florida/Bama vs. TCU
While I think this could be a great game, a tough loss by either Florida or Bama in the SEC Championship Game could prove a major bust to motivation for their BCS game.
With the Orange Bowl getting the next pick from the at-large teams, I think they'll pick TCU. The Fiesta would take Boise St. with the 2nd pick and then the Sugar would be left a default SEC 2nd place and the Big East Champion. So, we're looking at 'Bama vs. Cincy, which is still a match-up that could be a lot of fun. Honestly, to me, wherever Cincy plays, with that offense, could be fun. Not only that, but don't expect 'Bama to be unmotivated twice in a row...
Orange Bowl: Cincinnati vs. Georgia Tech
Easily the best of the non championship games. Two up and coming underdogs both trying to finish up great seasons. I actually am holding out hope that Cincy goes undefeated so BCS naysayers have more to gripe about on Capital Hill this offseason.
So, using my logic from the Sugar Bowl above, I would say that this would end up being GA Tech and TCU. To me, that's still an interesting match-up. Maybe not as much potential fun as the triple-option vs. the air raid spread, but how will a tough disciplined D like the Frogs hold up against the Jackets? And, the Tech D has been suspicious at times and could find itself susceptible to the read-options and roll-outs TCU runs. Throw in the special teams and turnover margins and this could be a GREAT game for fundamental football. Not only that, but Patterson will be in discussion for almost every big-time coaching opening in the off-season and this game could go a long way to padding his resume.
Fiesta Bowl: Boise St vs. Oklahoma St?
Is this the best that we can offer the Broncos? A chance to win bragging rights in the state of Oklahoma?
I do like Boise here, but I do not think OK St will make it. I think the Pokes drop a season-ender to OU, putting them out of the BCS pool and opening the door for the 3-way glut of 2-loss Big 10 teams. Iowa is currently the highest ranked of these teams, but Penn State and Wisconsin are creeping, all in the top-16 of the BCS (and most likely top-14 by season's end). Without Stanzi, Iowa might lose to Minnesota, but probably not, and since the Hawkeyes have head-to-head wins over both the Nits and Badgers, this is where they'd most likely land.
So, Fiesta Bowl: Boise State and Iowa. Honestly, with Stanzi back by then and the RB corp healed up, I'll take Iowa. Sure the Broncos will have 500 yards of offense, but turnovers, safeties, special teams, lightening, prayer and the force will push the Hawkeyes over 19-18.
Rose Bowl: Oregon/Oregon St vs. Ohio St
The winner of Civil War vs. an overrated Ohio State team with 2 losses? Boring!
I'd love to say Stanford will make it to Pasadena, but too much needs to happen for that be the case. Arizona contorls it's own destiny, but their back stretch is too tough to run undefeated. That leaves us with the Civil War. Really, if the Ducks beat 'Zona, they could drop the CW and still go to the Rose Bowl. But, I don't think they lose either game. So, Ducks and Bucks it is, and I honestly don't see how it's boring. Let's not forget Ohio State's Fiesta Bowl last year, taking Texas to the wire in a surprisingly-fun-to-watch showdown. I also think Masoli's development into a top-notch QB will give us enough fireworks to make this Rose Bowl worth the watch.
Ultimately here there are only two losers: LSU and the fans
LSU deserves a BCS game after being the best two loss team in the country, and by having those two losses come in very competitive games against 2 of the big 3.
The fans deserve more. And rather than reiterate the same top 8 team BCS playoff jargon that we hear annually, here is what I propose: Any team within a BCS conference that has 0 or 1 loss during the regular season (not including conference championship game) and any non BCS school that goes undefeated should make a playoff for the national championship. Some years you have more teams, some you would have less. This way teams that truly deserve spots would earn the chance.
As of today, we would have 7 teams (possibly 8 if Pitt beats Cincy) playing for all of the marbles, using the BCS for seeding. The BCS need not be fully abandoned as teams will still be working for the coveted first round home playoff game.
GT, Boise, and TCU also still have to win out but it would set up matchups as follows:
8 Pitt @ 1 Florida/Bama
5 Cincinnati @ 4 TCU
6 Boise @ 3 Florida/Bama
7 GT @ 2 Texas
(If Pitt lost to Cincy, Florida would get a first round bye)
All four games are a better watch than the ones above because they all will mean something. Not tomention, how important would the Cincinnati-Pitt game become? Plus, I'd like to see the 2nd round matchups take place in traditional BCS sites with the championship rotating annually. What are your thoughts?
Aroo's idea isn't bad, but all the talk in the world won't change things before Bowl Season. What I will take issue with here is Aroo's title for this post: "This is going to be the worst BCS ever." Ever? Really? I'd like to submit 2007 as evidence to the contrary. You had 2 games with double digit spreads (USC over Illinois and UGA over Hawaii), Kansas matched up with VA Tech (instead of the more entertaining WVU), and two 2-loss teams in the Title game; not to mention that one of those teams was Ohio State. If Ohio State is so "Boring!", why do we prefer years they were in the title game?
If the season ended today (and in MY best estimation)
National Championship: Florida/Bama vs. Texas
Strong! I dont want any part of picking this game.
Ditto. I will go ahead and say that I'll take Florida over 'Bama, though. And, if I have to pick Fla vs. Texas, I'll take the Gators. Why? We saw Texas manage a season-low 16 points against a tough, athletic defense (OU) earlier this year. I think the Gators' D is actually tougher than the Sonners' D and with Tebow at the helm, the offense always seems to do enough to win big games. McCoy, on the other hand, seems to tighten up, which could cost the 'Horns late.
Sugar Bowl: Florida/Bama vs. TCU
While I think this could be a great game, a tough loss by either Florida or Bama in the SEC Championship Game could prove a major bust to motivation for their BCS game.
With the Orange Bowl getting the next pick from the at-large teams, I think they'll pick TCU. The Fiesta would take Boise St. with the 2nd pick and then the Sugar would be left a default SEC 2nd place and the Big East Champion. So, we're looking at 'Bama vs. Cincy, which is still a match-up that could be a lot of fun. Honestly, to me, wherever Cincy plays, with that offense, could be fun. Not only that, but don't expect 'Bama to be unmotivated twice in a row...
Orange Bowl: Cincinnati vs. Georgia Tech
Easily the best of the non championship games. Two up and coming underdogs both trying to finish up great seasons. I actually am holding out hope that Cincy goes undefeated so BCS naysayers have more to gripe about on Capital Hill this offseason.
So, using my logic from the Sugar Bowl above, I would say that this would end up being GA Tech and TCU. To me, that's still an interesting match-up. Maybe not as much potential fun as the triple-option vs. the air raid spread, but how will a tough disciplined D like the Frogs hold up against the Jackets? And, the Tech D has been suspicious at times and could find itself susceptible to the read-options and roll-outs TCU runs. Throw in the special teams and turnover margins and this could be a GREAT game for fundamental football. Not only that, but Patterson will be in discussion for almost every big-time coaching opening in the off-season and this game could go a long way to padding his resume.
Fiesta Bowl: Boise St vs. Oklahoma St?
Is this the best that we can offer the Broncos? A chance to win bragging rights in the state of Oklahoma?
I do like Boise here, but I do not think OK St will make it. I think the Pokes drop a season-ender to OU, putting them out of the BCS pool and opening the door for the 3-way glut of 2-loss Big 10 teams. Iowa is currently the highest ranked of these teams, but Penn State and Wisconsin are creeping, all in the top-16 of the BCS (and most likely top-14 by season's end). Without Stanzi, Iowa might lose to Minnesota, but probably not, and since the Hawkeyes have head-to-head wins over both the Nits and Badgers, this is where they'd most likely land.
So, Fiesta Bowl: Boise State and Iowa. Honestly, with Stanzi back by then and the RB corp healed up, I'll take Iowa. Sure the Broncos will have 500 yards of offense, but turnovers, safeties, special teams, lightening, prayer and the force will push the Hawkeyes over 19-18.
Rose Bowl: Oregon/Oregon St vs. Ohio St
The winner of Civil War vs. an overrated Ohio State team with 2 losses? Boring!
I'd love to say Stanford will make it to Pasadena, but too much needs to happen for that be the case. Arizona contorls it's own destiny, but their back stretch is too tough to run undefeated. That leaves us with the Civil War. Really, if the Ducks beat 'Zona, they could drop the CW and still go to the Rose Bowl. But, I don't think they lose either game. So, Ducks and Bucks it is, and I honestly don't see how it's boring. Let's not forget Ohio State's Fiesta Bowl last year, taking Texas to the wire in a surprisingly-fun-to-watch showdown. I also think Masoli's development into a top-notch QB will give us enough fireworks to make this Rose Bowl worth the watch.
Ultimately here there are only two losers: LSU and the fans
LSU deserves a BCS game after being the best two loss team in the country, and by having those two losses come in very competitive games against 2 of the big 3.
The fans deserve more. And rather than reiterate the same top 8 team BCS playoff jargon that we hear annually, here is what I propose: Any team within a BCS conference that has 0 or 1 loss during the regular season (not including conference championship game) and any non BCS school that goes undefeated should make a playoff for the national championship. Some years you have more teams, some you would have less. This way teams that truly deserve spots would earn the chance.
As of today, we would have 7 teams (possibly 8 if Pitt beats Cincy) playing for all of the marbles, using the BCS for seeding. The BCS need not be fully abandoned as teams will still be working for the coveted first round home playoff game.
GT, Boise, and TCU also still have to win out but it would set up matchups as follows:
8 Pitt @ 1 Florida/Bama
5 Cincinnati @ 4 TCU
6 Boise @ 3 Florida/Bama
7 GT @ 2 Texas
(If Pitt lost to Cincy, Florida would get a first round bye)
All four games are a better watch than the ones above because they all will mean something. Not tomention, how important would the Cincinnati-Pitt game become? Plus, I'd like to see the 2nd round matchups take place in traditional BCS sites with the championship rotating annually. What are your thoughts?
Aroo's idea isn't bad, but all the talk in the world won't change things before Bowl Season. What I will take issue with here is Aroo's title for this post: "This is going to be the worst BCS ever." Ever? Really? I'd like to submit 2007 as evidence to the contrary. You had 2 games with double digit spreads (USC over Illinois and UGA over Hawaii), Kansas matched up with VA Tech (instead of the more entertaining WVU), and two 2-loss teams in the Title game; not to mention that one of those teams was Ohio State. If Ohio State is so "Boring!", why do we prefer years they were in the title game?
Monday, November 16, 2009
Thanks, Orson
Spencer Hall, a.k.a Orson Swindle (EDSBS and SBNation), gave Athens, and Georgia fans in general, a great shout-out in this week's Alphabetical. I'd summarize it, but that wouldn't do the town - or the writing - justice. Read for yourselves:
If, for some stupid reason, you're not reading EDSBS daily, you're missing out some great insight and observations, delivered with humor and the right amount of edge. Use the links above to get acquainted with his writing and be ready for two of the best weekly posts on the web: Mustache Wednesday and Schnellenberger's Top-25."P is for Pastoral. I was in Athens this weekend, and came away convinced of the truth and power of cliche. Ask a college football aficionado "What is the best college town?", and parrot-like they will respond "SQUAWK ATHENS SQUAWK." This usually means, like most universal opinions, that Athens is not the best college town, and that you have to make your own estimates and surveys before coming to a different and undoubtedly smarter, more correct judgment. In this case, however, broken clocks are right, and everyone is correct: Athens is the premiere college town in the known universe, and there is no real refutation of this available that is not total gibberish. It is inseparable from the campus due to proximity; architecturally consonant with the campus's Georgian stylings; arranged in a neat grid for maximum packing-in of bars, restaurants, and other student necessities; possessed of a nice mix of frat-boy booze troughs and hipster beer halls; warm; friendly; and finally, it has the Five Star Day Cafe, where they advertise their Kool Aid Flavor of the Day by color and serve fried green tomatoes in a sauce so good it must be made of pure evil and baby parts, because it cannot be legal in any of the fifty states.
Q is for Quarter, Granted. As Florida fan, this is treason, but I'm already guilty so why not press the case. Athens is nice, but Georgia fans are even nicer in person, and bear no resemblance to their online selves in the flesh. How do you know you're dealing with quality people? The answer is universal: THEY OFFER YOU DORITO SALAD: Pic of Dorito Salad. In addition to this, the fanbase showed superb humor for a collection of fans trodden upon by a miserable 5-4 season and a defensive coordinator who considers blitzing to be unspeakably rude. Points and kudos awarded all around to UGA fans. With the exception of the week leading up to the Cocktail Party, we love you all and your superior college town. (We didn't even mention the attractive ladies of Athens, because I'm old and that's creepy, but I just did, making me old and creepy. But yes: stunning in all directions. Not my type, because I saw no women carrying obvious knives or guns, but impressive nonetheless.)"
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Top-25
I was tempted to just put TCU at no. 1, but kept the big-3 holding strong.
I thought about Temple, but they need to win out to recover from that opening loss. I also thought about Navy, but they lost to Temple and, well, see the previous sentence.
I wanted Ole Miss for their blowout win and West Virgina for the close loss to Cincy, but Auburn beat both those teams and I just can't rank AU right now.
I did move Rutgers and Oregon State in to the rankings, but didn't have the heart to drop Houston or USC completely...yet.
Utah's out, but only to make room for the newbies, and if Nebraska wins next week, they'll be knocking on the door again.
Biggest winner: Stanford; Biggest Loser: Miami.
I thought about Temple, but they need to win out to recover from that opening loss. I also thought about Navy, but they lost to Temple and, well, see the previous sentence.
I wanted Ole Miss for their blowout win and West Virgina for the close loss to Cincy, but Auburn beat both those teams and I just can't rank AU right now.
I did move Rutgers and Oregon State in to the rankings, but didn't have the heart to drop Houston or USC completely...yet.
Utah's out, but only to make room for the newbies, and if Nebraska wins next week, they'll be knocking on the door again.
Biggest winner: Stanford; Biggest Loser: Miami.
- Alabama
- Texas
- Florida
- TCU
- Cincinnati
- Boise State
- Georgia Tech
- LSU
- Pitt
- Ohio State
- Stanford
- Oregon
- Iowa
- Wisconsin
- Oklahoma State
- Clemson
- Oregon State
- Miami
- Rutgers
- Virginia Tech
- Penn State
- Arizona
- BYU
- Houston
- USC
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Weekly Picks
So many of the odd-ball, upstart, underdog teams we've seen this season have pretty tough match ups this week. Most against stayed, steady, big-time programs who, while maybe they've seen better days, are poised to send these heart warmers home empty handed. Now, I love a good over-achiever makes it big story, but I'm trying not to let it cloud my judgment, which is why I took Boise, USC, OSU and Notre Dame.
Last week: 6-2; Season: 46-21
Thursday:
Rutgers 31, SoFla 24 -Why do I keep picking the Knights?!
Friday:
Cincinnati 33, West Virginia 21 - UPSET ALERT ONE!! This is a perfect place for the 'Neers to catch the 'Cats slipping. Cincy's coming off a short week and settling QB questions, while coming off an emotional game they barely won. They could be a bit slow out of the gates and if WVU's offense clicks...but, here's hoping that doesn't happen.
BTW, Temple's playing Friday night, as well...oh, and did I mention the Owls are 7-and-fucking-2?
Saturday:
Florida 27, SoCar 13 - Slow, sloppy, methodical...and still perfect on the year. The Gators add to the imploding Cocks' problems.
Boise State 41, Idaho 20 - OH MAN I"D LOVE TO SEE IDAHO WIN...not out of anti-Boise-ness, but I have a soft spot for the Vandals after pretend-building their program into true contention on NCAA 08. Either way, Idaho's bowl eligible for the first time in forever and Boise's likely on their way to another bCS bowl game, so congrats to the entire gem state.
USC 24, Stanford 16 - I love Toby Gerhart and Stanford this year, but it would be too perfect to see the Cardinal knock-off the Trojans this season. Besides, you think Pete Carroll is lsoing another game this year? Not likely.
Ohio State 31, Iowa 13 - No Stanzi, no miracle wins. The Bucks restore order after blasting Penn State last week and en route to yet another blasting of Michigan next week.
OK State 41, Texas Tech 37 - Pokes outlast Raiders in a shootout. How weird would a 3-2 game be between these two teams?
Arizona 26, Cal 20 - With no Jahvid Best, I don't like the Golden Bears' chances against the Wildcats.
TCU 24, Utah 21 - Honestly, this could go either way. I want the Frogs to win and make the BCS, so it probably won't happen. I guess I should probably pick the Utes...but fuck it. With the Nike Pro-Combat Unis (which include blood lines!), TCU's too tuff!
Notre Dame 34, Pitt 23 - They all shall fall.
UPSET ALERT TWO: #20 Wisconsin has everything on the line against a Michigan squad with it's back to the wall and nothing to lose. It could be a bad day at Camp Randall...
Last week: 6-2; Season: 46-21
Thursday:
Rutgers 31, SoFla 24 -Why do I keep picking the Knights?!
Friday:
Cincinnati 33, West Virginia 21 - UPSET ALERT ONE!! This is a perfect place for the 'Neers to catch the 'Cats slipping. Cincy's coming off a short week and settling QB questions, while coming off an emotional game they barely won. They could be a bit slow out of the gates and if WVU's offense clicks...but, here's hoping that doesn't happen.
BTW, Temple's playing Friday night, as well...oh, and did I mention the Owls are 7-and-fucking-2?
Saturday:
Florida 27, SoCar 13 - Slow, sloppy, methodical...and still perfect on the year. The Gators add to the imploding Cocks' problems.
Boise State 41, Idaho 20 - OH MAN I"D LOVE TO SEE IDAHO WIN...not out of anti-Boise-ness, but I have a soft spot for the Vandals after pretend-building their program into true contention on NCAA 08. Either way, Idaho's bowl eligible for the first time in forever and Boise's likely on their way to another bCS bowl game, so congrats to the entire gem state.
USC 24, Stanford 16 - I love Toby Gerhart and Stanford this year, but it would be too perfect to see the Cardinal knock-off the Trojans this season. Besides, you think Pete Carroll is lsoing another game this year? Not likely.
Ohio State 31, Iowa 13 - No Stanzi, no miracle wins. The Bucks restore order after blasting Penn State last week and en route to yet another blasting of Michigan next week.
OK State 41, Texas Tech 37 - Pokes outlast Raiders in a shootout. How weird would a 3-2 game be between these two teams?
Arizona 26, Cal 20 - With no Jahvid Best, I don't like the Golden Bears' chances against the Wildcats.
TCU 24, Utah 21 - Honestly, this could go either way. I want the Frogs to win and make the BCS, so it probably won't happen. I guess I should probably pick the Utes...but fuck it. With the Nike Pro-Combat Unis (which include blood lines!), TCU's too tuff!
Notre Dame 34, Pitt 23 - They all shall fall.
UPSET ALERT TWO: #20 Wisconsin has everything on the line against a Michigan squad with it's back to the wall and nothing to lose. It could be a bad day at Camp Randall...
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Thank You.
It's Veteran's Day, America. And, personal political beliefs about our current wars aside, I want to say thank you to all who have served. I've had family and close friends, acquaintances and co-workers, classmates and folks I don't care for too much all serve, and I'd like to thank them all for doing it. For those coming back, welcome home. For those headed out, be safe and godspeed. And, for those who didn't make it home, you died a better man than most.
Now for the first thing to actually bring tears to my eyes in years: Dogs greeting their owners coming home from Iraq and Afghanistan.
Now for the first thing to actually bring tears to my eyes in years: Dogs greeting their owners coming home from Iraq and Afghanistan.
Scary
I see that picture of Slammin Sammy and this is all I can think of,
Does he want to be...?
A. WHITE
B. FLAMBOYANT
C. GOOD ON THE PIANO, BUT SUCK ON THE ORGAN
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
What...the...F...
...uck happened to Sammy Sosa? He looks like a mix between Michael Jackson and some pumped-up Batman villain. I saw this on Jeff Schultz's blog and had to share it.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Top-25
There was some big movement through the rankings, as upsets and key games have begun to settle out the mess. The big 3 are still together, with the little undefeateds hovering close, and a mash-up of 1- and 2-loss teams behind that. Throw in some solid 3-loss teams to finish it up, and here you go:
Biggest winner: Miami; Biggest Loser: Penn State
Biggest winner: Miami; Biggest Loser: Penn State
- Florida
- Alabama
- Texas
- Cincinnati
- TCU
- Boise State
- Georgia Tech
- Pitt
- LSU
- Ohio State
- Miami
- Oregon
- Iowa
- USC
- Arizona
- Houston
- Oklahoma State
- Utah
- Virginia Tech
- Clemson
- Stanford
- Wisconsin
- BYU
- Penn State
- Fresno State
- Oregon State
- Tennessee
- West Virginia
- Auburn
Sunday Morning QB
- First things first, the Georgia game: We still had a negative turnover margin and double-digit penalties. On the other hand, we pretty much were scoring at will until the starters were pulled early in the third. We also used the FCS-foe to get some running game drills in, which we desperately needed. No injuries, a big win, and hopefully a great tune-up heading into the last 3 games of the season.
- With some key losses yesterday, the BCS bowl picture is getting cleared up a bit. Notre Dame's most likely out, as is a second team from the Big-10 and Pac-10. The ACC and Big-XII have looked like 1 team entrants for a while now, and it does appear the SEC will get it's obligatory two squads in the mix. What this EQ-culling does is open the door for more of the busters, like Boise and TCU. Me personally, I like it. But, I will still likely be pulling for Idaho when the Vandals lock-up with the Broncos.
- I guess I understand why people are tired of hearing about Tim Tebow, anything repeated that much gets old. But, at least he deserves the attention. Why is no one complaining about the special attention (undeserved at that) that Jimmy Clausen gets from the media? I watched a good bit of the Navy-ND game, and from what I was hearing, you would think that JC was leading his team to a big win over a big-time foe, not losing to Navy. Clausen turned the ball over three times, showed poor sportsmanship, and confirmed for me that he is just a brat. It's not all his fault, though. Weis is a piss-poor developer of young men, a talent much needed in college coaching. Thank god the Irish played such a cake-walk schedule...
- The PAC-10 is the second best conference in the nation. Period. Maybe even the best. Think about it: Georgia is still number two in the SEC East. They barley beat Arizona State who's floundering near the bottom of the PAC-10 pack. I'd take the top-6 teams in that league to compete anywhere in the nation, including old kicking posts like Stanford and Arizona. Honestly, I'd keep the SEC at number 1, hold the PAC-10 steady at 2, and I guess default to the Big-XII. But, to me, there's no question that the PAC-10 is better than the Big-XII...I mean, the North division of the B12 is a giant cluster-fuck of mediocrity and the south is WEAK at the bottom.
- Speaking of Stanford, Toby Gerhart is a bona fide Heisman candidate. I hope the Cardinal absolutely BLAST Notre Dame in a couple weeks...but now that I've said it, I've jinxed them, and they'll lose on a career day for Clausen.
- Along the same lines (bruising, pace-setting RB's), I'll keep Mark Ingram on my list, as well.
- With both teams winning yesterday, Florida and Alabama have won their respective divisions and are locked in to square off in the SEC Championship game. It's setting up to be a great re-match from last season, and if both teams win out, they'll both be undefeated with the winner assured of a BCS Title Game spot. Definitely big doin's...
- Amusing side note: NBC carries Notre Dame football, so NBC has to put a competitive telecast together, which they do. They even have a rolling score board ticker to keep viewers updated on other games across the nation. Great. The interesting part? Guess who sponsors the NBC Scoreboard...give up? It's the United States Navy.
- With some key losses yesterday, the BCS bowl picture is getting cleared up a bit. Notre Dame's most likely out, as is a second team from the Big-10 and Pac-10. The ACC and Big-XII have looked like 1 team entrants for a while now, and it does appear the SEC will get it's obligatory two squads in the mix. What this EQ-culling does is open the door for more of the busters, like Boise and TCU. Me personally, I like it. But, I will still likely be pulling for Idaho when the Vandals lock-up with the Broncos.
- I guess I understand why people are tired of hearing about Tim Tebow, anything repeated that much gets old. But, at least he deserves the attention. Why is no one complaining about the special attention (undeserved at that) that Jimmy Clausen gets from the media? I watched a good bit of the Navy-ND game, and from what I was hearing, you would think that JC was leading his team to a big win over a big-time foe, not losing to Navy. Clausen turned the ball over three times, showed poor sportsmanship, and confirmed for me that he is just a brat. It's not all his fault, though. Weis is a piss-poor developer of young men, a talent much needed in college coaching. Thank god the Irish played such a cake-walk schedule...
- The PAC-10 is the second best conference in the nation. Period. Maybe even the best. Think about it: Georgia is still number two in the SEC East. They barley beat Arizona State who's floundering near the bottom of the PAC-10 pack. I'd take the top-6 teams in that league to compete anywhere in the nation, including old kicking posts like Stanford and Arizona. Honestly, I'd keep the SEC at number 1, hold the PAC-10 steady at 2, and I guess default to the Big-XII. But, to me, there's no question that the PAC-10 is better than the Big-XII...I mean, the North division of the B12 is a giant cluster-fuck of mediocrity and the south is WEAK at the bottom.
- Speaking of Stanford, Toby Gerhart is a bona fide Heisman candidate. I hope the Cardinal absolutely BLAST Notre Dame in a couple weeks...but now that I've said it, I've jinxed them, and they'll lose on a career day for Clausen.
- Along the same lines (bruising, pace-setting RB's), I'll keep Mark Ingram on my list, as well.
- With both teams winning yesterday, Florida and Alabama have won their respective divisions and are locked in to square off in the SEC Championship game. It's setting up to be a great re-match from last season, and if both teams win out, they'll both be undefeated with the winner assured of a BCS Title Game spot. Definitely big doin's...
- Amusing side note: NBC carries Notre Dame football, so NBC has to put a competitive telecast together, which they do. They even have a rolling score board ticker to keep viewers updated on other games across the nation. Great. The interesting part? Guess who sponsors the NBC Scoreboard...give up? It's the United States Navy.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
The Magic is Over...
Northwestern upended Iowa today, ending the Hawkeyes' win streak and effectively putting them out of BCS contention. Damn shame, too. I was wondering what combo of safeties, special teams and defensive scores, and last-minute pass plays they were going to use to knock off whoever they played for the title. At least all the Haters can be happy, now. I was going to write up a diatribe against all the anti-Iowa sentiment across the country, but then realized how hypocritical that would be since I am currently giving it all I have to push Navy past Notre Dame. Why? Because fuck Notre Dame, that's why.---------------------------------------------------------------
UPDATE: Anchors Aweigh, 23-21! Suck it, Irish.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Weekly Picks
First off, I'd like to thank Aroo for his in depth, high quality coverage of the World Series and congratulate him on his Yanks taking home number 27. I'd also like to congratulate the rest of us because we do not have to suffer through baseball season anymore. Here's to Aroo adding his two (or 3, or 4) cents through the rest of football season - we need to hear more from you, buddy.
Now, on to the Picks!
Last week 3-3; Season 40 - 19
Thursday
VA Tech 30, ECU 13 - The Hokies bounce back against a plucky CUSA squad
Friday
Boise State 44, LA Tech 23 - I like Lil' Dooley's Lil' Dawgs, but they can't compete with the Broncs from Boise.
Saturday
Arkansas 27, South Carolina 16 - Mallet clicks and the Hawgs get it together late to upend the Cocks.
Alabama 24, LSU 21 - TAKE THE POINTS...
Oregon 31, Stanford 20 - I'd like to put the Ducks on upset alert, but they're just playing too hard right now. Even hard nose Gerhart won't be enough of a temp tool to slow down Oregon.
Ohio State 23, Penn State 21 - Bucks recover and pull the rug out from under the resurgent Lions
Oklahoma 30, Nebraska 14 - Pelini has fixed the blackshirt D; too bad the offense can't do ANYTHING with the ball
Cincinnati 27, UConn 20 - I like the continued emotion that the Huskies are carrying. It could throw the 'Cats off early, but won't be enough to keep Cincy down.
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UPSET ALERT - Wake over GA Tech and Tulsa over Houston. Not saying it's gonna happen, just saying these teams need to be careful.
Now, on to the Picks!
Last week 3-3; Season 40 - 19
Thursday
VA Tech 30, ECU 13 - The Hokies bounce back against a plucky CUSA squad
Friday
Boise State 44, LA Tech 23 - I like Lil' Dooley's Lil' Dawgs, but they can't compete with the Broncs from Boise.
Saturday
Arkansas 27, South Carolina 16 - Mallet clicks and the Hawgs get it together late to upend the Cocks.
Alabama 24, LSU 21 - TAKE THE POINTS...
Oregon 31, Stanford 20 - I'd like to put the Ducks on upset alert, but they're just playing too hard right now. Even hard nose Gerhart won't be enough of a temp tool to slow down Oregon.
Ohio State 23, Penn State 21 - Bucks recover and pull the rug out from under the resurgent Lions
Oklahoma 30, Nebraska 14 - Pelini has fixed the blackshirt D; too bad the offense can't do ANYTHING with the ball
Cincinnati 27, UConn 20 - I like the continued emotion that the Huskies are carrying. It could throw the 'Cats off early, but won't be enough to keep Cincy down.
---------------------------------------------------
UPSET ALERT - Wake over GA Tech and Tulsa over Houston. Not saying it's gonna happen, just saying these teams need to be careful.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Back to the Bronx
And back to the house the Jeter built (kinda cheesy but let's see if it sticks for the next 80 or so years). While I'm glued to the TV, as is aparently the largest crowd to watch a World Series in 15 years, I think this WS has been relatively boring. Sure, Chase Utley has tied Mr. October for the most home runs in a series (5), but one player a team does not make. All Phillies not named Chase are batting an astonishing .219, 40 points below their regular season average. Also, Chase has knocked in 8 of their 20 RBI's.
On the other hand, the Yankees have not been so stellar themselves. Jeter and Damon have been fantastic batting a combined .372 out of the top two spots which would be super dangerous if EITHER Tex or AROD was hitting the ball behind them. Instead the rest of the Yankees are hitting a paltry .201, over 80 points lower then their regular season average.
And its not that the pitching has been super stellar. Cliff Lee was lights out in Game 1, Burnett was in Game 2. Other then that the starting pitching on both sides has been ordinary to fairly awful. Starting pitchers have ammaassed a 5.04 ERA in the WS, yet none of the 7 guys who have started came with 3/4 of a run of that number during the regular season. The bullpens have been worse. It seems as if everyone who catches the Bell South call to the bullpen gives up a run as soon as they come in. Make that 3 if you are Brad Lidge. Apologies to Mo as he remains untouchable.
Game six stands to be the classic that everyone has been hoping for. Old reliable Andy Pettite standing on the mound in the NEW Yankee Stadium trying to earn his 17th lifetime playoff victory and the club's 27th championship banner. There is no one that Yankee faithful would rather have on the mound for a big game then #46 (well, maybe Whitey Ford). But there is always a a yin to your yang. And Pedro Martinez has been that to the Yankees for the past 10+ years, bringing countless memories, both good and bad, to Yankee lore. As a fan, he is Steve Spurrier to a GA fan, the man that you love to hate no matter where he goes and we relish in his failures. He stands toe to toe, perhaps for the last time in his career, against a team that he has made a career killing. And there is a 2003 Game 7 revenge that he is looking for payback on. Don't look for Pedro to throw 96 anymore, or for Charlie Manuel to leave him in long enough for him to self destruct like that night in 2003. But expect for this Game 6 to go down as an ESPN instant classic between two of the game all time best big game pitchers.
While it could go either way, I stand by my Yankees in 7 quote earlier, as I would love them to shove it down Cole Hamels throat one more time. But I will take a win in 6, just so long as Pedro leaves without that grin on his face that he left with in Game 2.
On the other hand, the Yankees have not been so stellar themselves. Jeter and Damon have been fantastic batting a combined .372 out of the top two spots which would be super dangerous if EITHER Tex or AROD was hitting the ball behind them. Instead the rest of the Yankees are hitting a paltry .201, over 80 points lower then their regular season average.
And its not that the pitching has been super stellar. Cliff Lee was lights out in Game 1, Burnett was in Game 2. Other then that the starting pitching on both sides has been ordinary to fairly awful. Starting pitchers have ammaassed a 5.04 ERA in the WS, yet none of the 7 guys who have started came with 3/4 of a run of that number during the regular season. The bullpens have been worse. It seems as if everyone who catches the Bell South call to the bullpen gives up a run as soon as they come in. Make that 3 if you are Brad Lidge. Apologies to Mo as he remains untouchable.
Game six stands to be the classic that everyone has been hoping for. Old reliable Andy Pettite standing on the mound in the NEW Yankee Stadium trying to earn his 17th lifetime playoff victory and the club's 27th championship banner. There is no one that Yankee faithful would rather have on the mound for a big game then #46 (well, maybe Whitey Ford). But there is always a a yin to your yang. And Pedro Martinez has been that to the Yankees for the past 10+ years, bringing countless memories, both good and bad, to Yankee lore. As a fan, he is Steve Spurrier to a GA fan, the man that you love to hate no matter where he goes and we relish in his failures. He stands toe to toe, perhaps for the last time in his career, against a team that he has made a career killing. And there is a 2003 Game 7 revenge that he is looking for payback on. Don't look for Pedro to throw 96 anymore, or for Charlie Manuel to leave him in long enough for him to self destruct like that night in 2003. But expect for this Game 6 to go down as an ESPN instant classic between two of the game all time best big game pitchers.
While it could go either way, I stand by my Yankees in 7 quote earlier, as I would love them to shove it down Cole Hamels throat one more time. But I will take a win in 6, just so long as Pedro leaves without that grin on his face that he left with in Game 2.
Monday, November 2, 2009
C'mon Falcons...
The Atlanta Falcons have never had back-to-back winning seasons...ever. So, I just want nine wins. I don't care about the division or the wild card. Just. Nine. Wins. The problem? That path runs right through New Orleans tonight, and the Saints are playing, lights-out, top-notch, almost perfect football. A win tonight would be huge, but it's not expected. And that's OK, as long as we get to nine somewhere down the line.
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UPDATE: Well, we lost. But, damn, did we make it exciting at the end. Not only that, but it seemed as though if we were able to clean up the mistakes, we could have actually WON. There's always next time, though, and it'll be here in the ATL...
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UPDATE: Well, we lost. But, damn, did we make it exciting at the end. Not only that, but it seemed as though if we were able to clean up the mistakes, we could have actually WON. There's always next time, though, and it'll be here in the ATL...
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Top-25
Top 25 - November 1
- Florida
- Texas
- Alabama
- Iowa
- Cincinnati
- Boise State
- Oregon
- TCU
- LSU
- Penn State
- USC
- Georgia Tech
- Pitt
- Ohio State
- Houston
- Oklahoma State
- Utah
- Miami
- Arizona
- Virginia Tech
- Notre Dame
- Oklahoma
- BYU
- South Florida
- Wisconsin
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