Oh yeah, it's time to get back to the college football world. Welcome to the mecca of college football discussion. You will get a breakdown of every single conference, every single team and just about everything you could want in Div I-A (I refuse to call it FBS because there are too many BS's in college football nowadays). You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll hurl. Wait, wasn't that on the movie poster for Wayne's World? Anyways, the best part about all of this is you get everything for free. So, let's skip the foreplay and get into the teams.
Arkansas St.- Well, this team could be good once again, a possible darkhorse for the Sun Belt crown. With Reggie Arnold back again at TB and Corey Leonard at QB they could be a scare for Nebraska and Iowa on the road, although it will be hard to duplicate any upset road victories like the one they pulled at Texas A&M last year. With a good secondary and a dominant DE in Alex Carrington (10.5 sacks) they will have a good shot at taking down Florida Atlantic and Troy, the two most dominant teams in the Sun Belt the last few years. They will need to step things up on special teams after being subpar in KR and PR and losing their punter. The K they do have is consistent and one of the best, but they will have to get by Troy in late September to have a good shot at the title. The Red Wolves' best bet is to lean on Arnold and keep the offensive balanced with most of their receivers returning. I could see 7-5 or 8-4 in their future.
Florida Atlantic- Just the fact that QB Rusty Smith and WR Cortez Gent are still around makes me feel old. Those two are a great combo and with TEs Jason Harmon and Jamari Grant back to help out the passing game, Smith could easily surpass 3,500 yards. Heck, he may have to with a running game that is very inexperienced. The fact that this program has back-to-back bowl wins would make one think they are on the rise. However, all of that momentum may be halted by a defense that loses a ton of starters. The secondary may be able to recover and do well, but the front 7 will take awhile to gel. They couldn't rush the passer last year and likely won't do that this season unless a star emerges. The schedule also does not favor them going to Louisiana and Troy while finishing the season with a good up-and-coming FIU squad. I predict 6-6 or 7-5, even with Wyoming and UAB on the schedule, both winnable games.
Florida International- Well, the bad news is that the Panthers lost their top 2 rushers from last season. The good news; their running game sucked anyways, so they can only improve. Besides that, with a stud like TY Hilton at wideout, they won't need to run too much. Hilton will be a lesser-known version of Ted Ginn Jr. as he can return kicks and punts and average a good 20+ yard plus per reception (I spared USC fans some pain by not comparing him to R. Jay Soward). They have 10 offensive starters back, including the entire OL, which should help the run game. Also, an experienced passer in Paul McCall means the offense should improve. The defense may not be as strong with a DL that needs immediate help, but a strong secondary may bend but not break during the conference schedule. The non-conference is brutal playing at Alabama, Rutgers and Florida. Anthony Gaitor is a potential All-American at CB but the team will go only as far as McCall's arm and Hilton's speed takes them. I say 5-7, with an upside of 7-5 max.
Louisiana Ragin' Cajun- This program should thank the lord they have a good OL returning and a defense that should keep them competitive. Losing QB Michael Desormeaux, RB Tyrell Fenroy and WR Jason Cherry will be tough to replace. That may be the biggest collection of losses on offense for any one team because it's much tougher for a club in the Sun Belt to just replace three standouts. Brad McGuire looked decent when playing but he has a tough job with no real experienced RBs returning. The question is whether or not the strength of the receiving corps, relative to the rest of the offense, dictates a more down-the-field approach rather than ball-control and option. The defense is in good hands with a great set of LBs returning, a strong DL and only losing a SS in the secondary. The defense was a bit shaky at times, making them underachieve, but returning so many starters should help them make tremendous strides. Catching Kansas State in week 2 without Josh Freeman at QB for the Wildcats is a big break. The real problem will be going to FIU, Arkansas St. and Middle Tennessee for three consecutive weeks late in the season. Although the defense could carry them to a .500 season, the offense is on life support. I'll call for 3-9 or 4-8.
Middle Tennessee- Maybe it was dropping the state from the end of their name, but whatever it is, this program has not been the same since being a perennial power in Div I-AA before they stepped up divisions. While Dwight Dasher did not look good at QB in mop-up duty last year, he has looked impressive before in his college career and the rest of the offense returns intact. Phillip Tanner is an underrated RB and he has 5 good receivers coming back. While only one receiver had a good yards per catch average, the offense should be explosive as long as Dasher matures and regains his confidence. Their defense loses 3 good LBs, including one standout, which is never a good sign, but as seems to be the norm in this conference, they return a strong secondary. They have some good DL who can get to the QB and what they lack in superstars, they make up for in productivity. Despite a brutal non-conference schedule where they probably will come away with zero wins, they only need get by Troy and FAU on the road to have a good shot at the conference title. However, I see a bad start with their schedule that they won't be able to recover from until it's too late. I'll go 6-6 with an upside of 7-5 if they get by both FAU and Troy.
North Texas- This is the great unknown in the Sun Belt conference. I see far better days ahead for the Mean Green, especially with the coach's son, Riley Dodge, set to take over at QB. Dodge can run and perhaps this offense should be a lot more run-oriented. While they shouldn't be a pure option club, a nice mix, such as the one Rich Rodriguez had set up at Tulane with Shaun King would work perfectly. Cam Montgomery is maybe the best RB in the conference and Micah Mosley and Lance Dunbar are very good backups. The receivers are not very experienced but will put up good numbers in this offense. Losing Casey Fitzgerald is something they cannot recover from with one player, so the entire starting OL that returns will have to give Dodge time to hit his targets and develop a good rhythm. Starting at Ball St. and home against Ohio won't be too difficult with a game against Army late in the season winnable. The team does return 9 starters on defense, but as bad as the defense was last year, that's not a good thing. They allowed under 40 points only twice. TWICE!! The LBs are strong but the secondary is shaky at best. I don't see a huge upgrade in wins right away, but they will be much more competitive, so I'll go 4-8 with an upside of 6-6 if they go 2-2 in non-conference. However, that is being very optimistic to say the least.
Troy- This will be another strong squad led by Larry Blakeney and as long as the defense can patch up a few holes in the secondary, they will cruise to another conference title. The LBs are outstanding and the DL can rush the passer like no one else in the SBC. The offense has a strong leader in Levi Brown at QB and various threats at WR including Jerrel Jernigan, RB DuJuan Harris and OK transfer Josh Jarboe is expected to be a big contributor. The OL is good, but they don't have either of their tackles returning so if the protection falters and Brown has no time to throw, the Trojans may struggle. However, this is not very likely, and playing at Bowling Green and home against UAB provides a manageable non-conference schedule. They have to play at Arkansas St. early in the season and a loss could derail their title chances. Despite Troy's experience and pedigree, I see the ASU-Troy tilt as being the title decider and the Red Wolves coming out on top. I think Troy could still finish 7-5, maybe even 9-3, but that's with all the breaks going their way.
ULM- The Warhawks may lose a very good leader in QB Kinsmon Lancaster, but Trey Revell is a good dual-threat option who should fill in nicely. Frank Goodin is a fantastic runner and receiver out of the backfield and Darrell McNeal could be a stud at WR if they let him loose. Anthony McCall is another good receiver, but losing TE Zeek Zacharie will hurt their productivity somewhat. The OL returns 4 of 5 so they should protect Revell enough to find his plethora of weapons while still opening up holes for Goodin. The schedule is brutal going on the road to Texas, Arizona St. and Kentucky, plus they play SBC powers Troy and FAU away from home. The defense is not as solid as the offense, but DE Aaron Morgan can rush the passer and LB Cardia Jackson is a solid all-around player. The secondary is solid in every way possible, no real weaknesses, which will help immensely in this conference. I think 4-8 is realistic with a tough overall schedule, but the upside is 6-6 and that's about all.
Western Kentucky- Oh, where have you gone Willie Taggart. The former standout QB may have only thrown for 1,000 yards once, but he ran for nearly 4,000 during an illustrious career. This paved the way for a good recruiting class that produced a national title in 2002. This team will struggle immensely with no one of any experience at QB. They could win against Central Arkansas, but that's about it. They do get a star back at TB in Tyrell Hayden and two other contributors in Bobby Rainey and Marell Booker. Possibly the lone bright side for whoever starts at QB is they get an experienced group of receivers coming back. The depressing part is the defense where they return Blake Boyd and Darvis McBride, two very good LBs coming back, but little else. This will be a brutal season for Hilltoppers fans who may only experience one win, and not even from a Div I-A opponent. Bad times indeed.
Well, there's your first conference preview, check in down the road for the MAC.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Who Has the Best College Football Program of All-Time?
First off, each conference with a legitimate representative should be used. This eliminates the ACC sadly because no matter how good Florida State is, their program has only been good a short amount of time compared to the others on this list. We are using the polls since 1936 to decide which national championships count. The UP (United Press) from 1950-57 counts, so does the AP (Associated Press) since 1936, INS (International News Service) from 1952-57, the UPI (United Press International) from 1958-90, the FW (Football Writers Association of America) from 1954-now, the NFF (National Football Foundation and Hall of Fame since 1991, and finally, the USA Today/CNN since 1991. Now, the criteria used will be the following…
National Championships and NC opportunities (broken down into 3 categories)
#1 vs. #2 Matchups in major bowl games for the NC. Outright national championships before 1968, when it was finally decided that AP polls for who should be NC would be taken after the bowl games. Every year before (except 1965) the NC was decided before the bowl games, which means you could be NC but lose your bowl game, and that makes no sense. If you split the national title, that counts, almost as much as an outright because at least the pollsters realized that the best team is subjective, and maybe two teams are the best but never played (USC and LSU in 2003). I cannot take into account EVERY single season where a #4 team could have jumped to #1 with all the losses had they won their bowl game, such as in 1983 when all that mess happened. Three of the top 5 teams lose, but a #5 Miami-FL leapfrogs a #3 Auburn. Huh? If Texas wins, ranked #2, they win the national title, but ifs are just that, ifs, and didn’t happen.
Ok, there will be no points system. I’m not going to arbitrarily decide that some national title should count for a 100 points and this for that many points or whatever, that’s BS. I could manipulate the points systems so that whoever wins by 7 points because they have the most Academic All-Americans or some BS. No, this will be stat based, but at the same time, the stats need to be examined in context, not just, hey they won a title, check. Also, no awards for individuals will be counted and this includes All-Americans, Academic All-Americans, Heismans and any other individual trophies, it’s all about teams, because this is about the greatest program in history, which to me means the most consistently great program that rarely has bad eras where they could not compete. Every program is allowed a bad year or two to rebuild based on rebuilding if they lost a great senior class or early draft picks, which happens a lot more now. But still, consistency is the key, as is how strong your conference is. If we go from 1935 on, the last year before the AP stepped in and started declaring national champions, look at the conference breakdowns of what programs have won national championships.
Big 10: Iowa (1958), Michigan (2), Minnesota (5), Michigan St. (3), Ohio State (7), and Penn State has 2, but none as a member of the Big 10.
Big 8: Oklahoma (7), Nebraska (5), and Colorado (1990).
SWC: SMU (1935), TCU (1938), Texas A&M (1939), Arkansas (1964) and Texas (4).
Pac-10: USC (7), UCLA (1954), Washington (1991)
SEC: Alabama (7), Tennessee (2), Florida (3), LSU (3), Auburn (1957), Ole Miss (1960) and Georgia (1980). Arkansas has not won a title since joining the SEC.
By this statistical evidence, the SEC and Big 10 would be the most well-rounded conferences, but the SEC has their national champions spread out over decades (every one since the 50s). I will also put how many wins each team that comes into consideration has, but this will be going since 1953 because that’s the most comprehensive and accurate info I could find. Bowl wins mean very little since you could have won the California Bowl but who cares, the major bowls are what matters, where you face the best competition. The Big 5 matter most (Cotton, Rose, Sugar, Orange and Fiesta), but the Fiesta only counts since the mid-80s, when Penn St.-Miami FL legitimized it as an important bowl game that could decide the national title.
Lastly, a team’s worst ten-year period since 1953 will be counted. It’s important as I mentioned earlier that a team has consistency. Losing records, very few bowl wins, a lack of high conference finishes, few AP poll appearances (at the end of the season) will be factored. I’ve broken down the criteria and who qualifies, here are the candidates: Alabama, Michigan, Nebraska, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Southern Cal, and Texas. I give Michigan a break even though the criteria should be at least 4 national titles, which means Minnesota would make it over them. However, looking at winning from 1936-2008, Michigan is far superior.
Alabama: 7 national titles. Let’s look at them. Five of them have been split titles, in 1961, 1964, 1965, 1973 and 1978. Now, in the two taken before the bowl games, they won the Sugar Bowl over Arkansas in 1961, then lost in 1964 to Texas in the Orange Bowl. So, how many are legit? Well two are outright, no disputing those. In 1973 they won despite losing their bowl game. So, we can count 5 as truly legitimate. Their record since 1953: 460-182-18. Alabama is 2-1 in bowl games where they were in a #1 vs. #2 bowl matchup. They won in 1978 and 1992, but lost to Nebraska in 1971. Alabama has won 4 of the 5 major bowl games, losing their only Fiesta Bowl appearance in 1990 to a very good Louisville team, 34-7. Worst 10-year period: 1997-2006. They have one BCS appearance, losing to Michigan by one. They have six bowl appearances overall, 2 AP poll appearances, and 5 winning records. By all means that’s a good resume, especially considering how good the SEC has been forever, having won a national title in every decade since the 50s.
Michigan: 2 national titles. Now, the Wolverines have an impressive history, there’s no questioning that. However, they’ve never been in a #1 vs. #2 bowl matchup, so no groundbreaking victories to capture a NC and their 1948 title featured no bowl game. Also, their only title in the last 50 years is a split title. So, only one may really be legitimate and the other was 60 years ago. Their record since 1953: 447-171-12. They have won 3 of the 5 major bowls, but the 1985 Fiesta Bowl win was over a good, but not great 9-2 Nebraska team. From 1960 to 1990 they lost 7 Rose Bowls and won only 3, which is of course the premier bowl they could have gone to being in the Big 10. Their worst 10-year period was from 1958 to 1967 when they only had 4 winning records, 1 AP Poll appearance (1964, #4), and just one bowl appearance. This run was pretty bad, but after 1967 they only missed the final AP poll two times in the following seasons until 2004. It’s a resume that most programs would love to have, but then again, they have a lack of major bowl success and not as many national titles as the others.
Nebraska: 5 National titles. All of Nebraska’s national titles came as a result of polls taken after the bowl games and every single NC has been undefeated or unbeaten (11-0-1 in 1970). Now, in 1970, Ohio State and Texas split the title with Nebraska, but both of them won polls that were decided on before the bowl games, and both lost. Therefore, the ‘Huskers remained the only unbeaten team. They then won 3 of 4 undisputed national titles in 1994, 1995, and 1997. They also lost a #1 vs. #2 national title matchup in 1993 with Florida State, beat Alabama in 1971 in the Orange Bowl in a 1 vs. 2 and also lost to Miami in the BCS title game in 2001 (a game they probably shouldn’t have been in to begin with, being ranked #4 by the AP). Thusly, by losing in 1983 to Miami (FL), they have had plenty of legit national title opportunities and only one title, 1997, could really be considered controversial, splitting with Michigan. Their record since 1953: 484-170-7. The only Big 5 bowl they haven’t won is the Rose, having played in it just once. They are under .500 in the Big 5 bowl games, which isn’t impressive, but they have been to over 30 of them combined. Their worst 10-year period was from 1953-62 when they only had two winning seasons, and is easily the worst decade of the 7 teams up for consideration. The one positive for them was when they hired Bob Devaney at the end of that run (in 1962) they immediately turned the program around. The final verdict is it’s a great program, but that 10-year run was pretty bad, however, the lack of controversial NC helps a lot.
Ohio State: 7 national titles. Their first national title was in 1942, and they had a loss, but after the bowls, nobody was undefeated. In 1954 they won the national title again but split it with UCLA, however, of the 3 undefeated teams, they were the only ones to play a bowl game. In 1957 they swept 3 of the 4 major polls for the national title, but they split it with Auburn. The reverse happened in 1961 when they won one major poll, with Alabama taking the other three. In 1968 they were undefeated and swept every poll, but in 1970 they had the split with Nebraska and Texas and the poll was taken before the bowls. They also won the title in 2002 by beating Miami (FL) in the BCS title game. Therefore, only 3 of the titles may be undisputed, but another did have 3 of the 4 major polls. Their record since 1953: 470-143-13. The Buckeyes won the 1968 title in a #1 vs. #2 matchup with USC, then beat Miami (FL) in 2002 but lost a golden opportunity losing to Florida in 2006. They have had countless other national championship opportunities losing to Michigan so many times, but that’s neither here nor there. It was hard picking a 10-year lull for the Buckeyes because they had bad years from 1958-67, but also won a national title in 1961, so no there. 1983-1992 was their worst period, with just one Big 10 title, missing the final AP poll 4 times and their highest final ranking was #7. They also went 3-5 in bowls. The Buckeyes make another very good case, hardly ever having bad seasons for more than 5 years in a row and they also have plenty of titles, some controversial, some not.
Oklahoma: 7 National titles. Ok, the first Sooners title in 1950 is marred by an Orange Bowl loss to Maryland since the NC was decided before the bowls. However, every other top 5 team lost their bowl, so who would have taken their place? 1955 features no argument as they were undefeated and won their bowl. They didn’t get to play in a bowl after their 1956 title, but every top 5 team lost besides #5 Texas A&M, so again, no controversy. Oklahoma may have won an outright title in 1974, but they were on probation. Therefore, USC took 3 of the 4 major polls in 1974. In 1975 they had one loss and #2 Arizona State went undefeated, so why not the Sun Devils? In 1985, Oklahoma had one loss and was chosen over Michigan, since the Sooners beat #1 Penn St. in the Orange Bowl. The 2000 title was undisputed as that featured a BCS title win over Florida St. The 1-loss national titles are somewhat controversial, and so is the no bowl season, but the others are pretty cut and dry. Their record since 1953: 485-155-11. Oklahoma is one of the few teams to win the Big 5 bowl games, with the Rose and Cotton victories coming in the last decade. Regarding the issue of #1 vs. #2 bowl matchups, Oklahoma is an unimpressive 1-4, only winning in 2000. They lost to Miami (FL) in 1987, LSU in 2003, USC in 2004 (a massacre) and to Florida in 2008. Their worst ten-year period may have been the worst of any major program being considered. The 1990s were horrible, going to 4 bowl games, winning only 2. They finished in the final AP poll just three times (#16 in 1991 was the highest) and had five seasons where they either had a losing record or were just .500. Well, all things considered, Oklahoma has been very good and very consistent, but that run in the 1990s was awful. How can the greatest program in history have an off-decade? No other team was that bad for that long. OU fans should be grateful Bob Stoops stepped in to save them.
Southern Cal (USC): 7 national titles. Well, of the Trojans seven titles, 1962 was undisputed, having blownout #2 Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl (before the Badgers made a near-legendary comeback). In 1967, USC survived as the best 1-loss team and won their bowl, despite it being a pre-bowl poll NC. In 1972 they won their bowl and took an outright NC, as they did again in 1974, winning 3 of the 4 polls thanks to OU’s probation. In 1978, they only took one poll’s NC thanks to Alabama’s dominance, but who was the outright champion was controversial considering so many teams had one loss. They split the title in 2003 with LSU despite the BCS’s plans, but they were dominant in 2004, beating OU in the BCS title game. Therefore, thanks to OU’s probation, 4 of their titles should be undisputed, with 1967, 1978 and 2003 being either/or situations. Their record since 1953: 448-182-18. They have a very good Rose Bowl record at 15-6, helping their overall mark in the Big 5 bowl games, also having won the Cotton and Orange bowls (3-0 between the two bowls). They have only been to the Fiesta once and never to the Sugar, so that hurts their cause, but then again, generally when they were dominant, they went to the Rose Bowl. They have a very impressive resume of going into bowl matchups as either a 1 or a 2. They beat #2 Wisconsin in the 1962 Rose Bowl, then lost to Ohio State in 1968, but made up for it by crushing Oklahoma in 2004. However, they lost their last #1 vs. #2 Texas, but that was one of the great bowl games of all-time so, let’s cut them some slack. Their worst 10-year period was from 1991 to 2000, but still, they won the Cotton and Rose Bowls in back-to-back years, 1994 and 1995 (as well finishing #13 and #12, respectively). They also shared 2 Pac-10 titles. 1991 and 2000 featured losing seasons, but every other season had them at .500 or better, so for a bad stretch, it wasn’t bad at all. Now, considering the overall strength of those stats, USC can make a very good case, but then again, their conference may easily be the weakest of the bunch. Even though Oklahoma and Nebraska have weak competition, they still had to battle each other and Colorado, which were legit threats.
Texas: 4 National Titles. Despite only having 4 titles, the Longhorns still have some pretty good claims, considering in 1963 they beat #2 Navy and Heisman winner Roger Staubach convincingly in the Cotton Bowl. In 1969, after a grueling game with Arkansas ended with President Richard Nixon proclaiming the ‘Horns the NC, UT survived an amazing game with Notre Dame, 21-17. In 1970 they had a little less to brag about, splitting the NC with Nebraska and Ohio State. They also lost their bowl game to Notre Dame. In 2005 they survived maybe the greatest game of all-time, beating 2-time defending champs USC in the BCS title game, so three of the four titles are pretty undisputed. Only the 1970 title has reason for doubt, what with two other legit contenders. Their record since 1953: 457-180-10. Texas can claim 4 of the Big 5 bowls, but considering they’ve only played in the Sugar Bowl twice, they could easily have had them all. Nonetheless, they had numerous Cotton Bowl appearances during the SWC’s heyday, clinching numerous NCs and playing in some bowl games with major NC implications. Vince Young also led them to back-to-back Rose Bowls. They beat Navy in a #1 vs. #2 bowl game in 1963 and they also clinched some polls in 1969 by beating Arkansas in a #1 vs. #2 clash in December (since some polls still voted before the polls). There is also the 2005 BCS game, where enough has been said. The worst part for Texas is their 10-year drought from 1984 to 1993 where they only finished in the final AP poll once, 1990 (#12). They had four losing seasons, but the shining light is not just 4 bowl games, but making the then-prestigious Cotton Bowl in 1990, even though that game ended badly. In conclusion, that 10-year streak is inexcusable for a team that doesn’t have enough national titles to begin with to really be considered the best. The SWC was also getting a little weak at that point, especially with SMU getting the death penalty. Houston, Arkansas and Texas A&M had become very good however, so maybe the losing ways were to be expected.
After looking at all the evidence, every team has a very good record since 1953, so going by that is probably pointless, but it’s fun to compare who had the most wins (best win pct.). Also, even though national titles are subjective, Texas, Michigan and Nebraska get the axe. Nebraska was a tough cut to make, especially considering how indisputable their national titles really are. Still, they have had a good run since 1962, and that’s how they pile up most of their points. Then again, their titles come in spurts, back-to-back ones in the 70s, then 3 of 4 in the 90s, so it’s almost as if they have great spurts, then a 9-win season and a Big 5 loss (2-6 in Big 5 bowls from 1984 to 1992, and a Citrus Bowl loss to NC GA Tech in 1990). That won’t cut it.
Now, you have USC, Ohio State, Oklahoma and Alabama. Ohio State, I would love to choose you, it seems pretty wise, but then again, you have struggled so many times in big games and could do so much more to be an all-time program. While the Buckeyes had chances at winning NC if they could just beat Michigan numerous times, from 1980 to 2001 they basically went 22 seasons without having a shot at the NC come bowl season. USC, yeah very impressive, but I can’t get over the lack of real competition. Yes, Oregon is coming on, Stanford was good in the 70s, UW was great under Don James and UCLA has been consistent for decades, but only a handful of times was USC’s competition elite.
So, this leaves Alabama and OU. Now, Sooners fans, there’s no love lost, but let’s face it, the Big 8 wasn’t that great. I know Colorado has been good since the early 70s and Nebraska was on a roll for awhile, but Iowa State, Missouri, Kansas St. Those are some of the worst programs ever, hardly ever rising up for great seasons. Oklahoma State was only good sparingly, but never NC competition. Kansas has been good at times, but again, not NC worthy. Alabama meanwhile, they have had 6 other teams win NC. In the 2000s they had Florida and LSU win NC, which I realize wasn’t Alabama’s strongest decade. Still, besides Alabama’s title, Tennessee and Florida each won titles in the 90s, Georgia took one in the 80s and the Crimson Tide dominated the 70s. Before that, Ole Miss and Auburn would claim titles under great coaches like Johnny Vaught and Shug Jordan in the 50s and 60s. Auburn even deserved a title in 1993 but were on probation. Paul “Bear” Bryant saved this program in 1958 and the tradition he established delivered titles in the 60s, 70s and then resurrected itself under a Bryant protégé, Gene Stallings, in 1992. All of this coupled with the scandals and probation involved with the Oklahoma programs during some national title runs (’74), it’s hard to excuse the Sooners. Would they have won without cheating under Switzer’s reign, because NCAA officials were constantly snooping around? The probation doesn’t seal the deal, however, it’s the SEC competition, and considering what Alabama has been doing for decades, against all of that talent, makes them my greatest college football program since 1936 (the invention of the AP poll).
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Mid-Season All-American Team
If you're a hardcore college football fan, you'll know why each person is at each position, but still, I will offer some notes.
QB Colt McCoy, Texas- Shouldn't need much explanation. Has been arguably the best QB on the best team in the country. Honorable mention: 2nd Team Chase Clement, Rice 3rd Team Sam Bradford, Oklahoma Honorable Mention: Nate Davis, Ball St.
RB Miquale Lewis, Ball St. & Donald Brown, UConn- First off, Lewis has a 100-yard game in every contest except the opener (Northeastern) where a lot of the starters rested. He's also 6th in yards total, has more yards than in his 2 previous years and only one player has more TD runs. Brown is 2nd nationally in yards, 3rd in TDs, and 2nd in carries. He's been the heart & soul of the UConn offense in some tough games. 2nd Team Javon Ringer, Michigan State & Tyrell Fenroy, Louisiana-Lafayette 3rd Team Evan Royster, Penn State & Knowshon Moreno, UGa Honorable Mention: Shun White, Navy and Vai Taua, Nevada (filled in nicely for Luke Lippincott)
WR Jarrett Dillard, Rice and Michael Crabtree- These two speak for themselves on the field and are quiet off it; both in the top 11 nationally in receiving yards, TD catches and receptions. 2nd Team Aldrick Robinson, SMU and Eric Decker, Minnesota 3rd Team Austin Collie, BYU & Dez Bryant, Oklahoma Honorable Mention: Casey Fitzgerald, North Texas & Jordan Shipley, Texas
TE Mark Hafner, Houston- It was between him and Chase Coffman, but arguably Hafner doesn't have as good a WR to play off of as Coffman does with Maclin. In the top 10 in TD catches. 2nd Team Chase Coffman, Missouri 3rd Team Dennis Pitta, BYU Honorable Mention: Eddie Williams, Idaho
Ts Dallas Reynolds, BYU & Rylan Reed, Texas Tech- I went based on pure stats here and both tackles have kept their QBs virtually untouched. Max Hall of BYU had been sacked once before the TCU game and Graham Harrell once as well for TT. 2nd Team Michael Oher, Mississippi and Andre Smith, Alabama 3rd Team Alex Boone, Ohio State & Phil Loadholt, Oklahoma Honorable Mention: Sam Young, Notre Dame & Adam Ulatoski, Texas
Gs Cedric Dockery, Texas & Herman Johnson, LSU- Johnson has a huge responsibility protecting two unproven QBs for LSU, while Dockery is helping to provide huge holes for previously unproven Longhorn runners (including McCoy). 2nd Team Duke Robinson, Oklahoma & Steve Rehring, Ohio State 3rd Team Jeff Byars, USC & Seth Olsen, Iowa (have you seen TB Shonn Greene's numbers?) Honorable Mention: Jeremy Perry, Oregon State and John Jerry, Ole Miss
C Antoine Caldwell, Alabama- Helps in keeping John Parker Wilson safe and is providing the backbone for a strong Crimson Tide running game. 2nd Team AQ Shipley, Penn State 3rd Team Ryan McDonald, Illinois Honorable Mention: Jon Cooper, Oklahoma
DEFENSE
DE Brian Orakpo, Texas and Aaron Maybin, Penn State- Maybin has been great at getting to the QB and is leading a ferocious Nittany Lions' D. Orakpo may be the best defender in the country, getting to the QB at will and blowing up opponents RBs in the backfield. 2nd Team William VanDeSteeg, Minnesota & Paul Kruger, Utah 3rd Team Nick Reed, Oregon and Jake Paulson, Air Force (nation's leader in sacks through 7 weeks) Honorable Mention: Alex Carrington, Arkansas St. & Phillip Hunt, Houston
DT Cody Moore, TCU & Roy Miller, Texas- Moore has 7.5 TFL already this season and anchor's the nation's leading defense. Miller, meanwhile, anchors maybe the DL in college football and along with Orakpo has helped UT dominate all season. 2nd Team Sen'Derrick Marks, Auburn & Ryan Baker, Purdue 3rd Team Vance Walker, GT & Ted Laurent, Ole Miss Honorable Mention: Clinton McDonald, Memphis & Peter Tverdov, Rutgers
OLB Sean Weatherspoon, Missouri & Clint Sintim, Virginia- Weatherspoon has been the lone bright spot on an otherwise atrocious Mizzou offense, averaging nearly 2 TFL per game. Sintim has 7.5 TFL (through week 7) and has been a key senior leader on a UVa team searching for leaders. 2nd Team- Navarro Bowman, Penn State (8.5 TFL) & Quentin Davie, Northwestern 3rd Team Joe Henderson, UAB & Sergio Kindle Honorable Mention: Derek Burrell, Kent State (fifth in the nation in tackles per game) & Travis Lewis, Oklahoma
MLB Brit Miller, Illinois- Has 12.5 TFL (through 7 weeks, tied for 1st), 61 tackles and 4 sacks. FR for TD and INT while taking over for Illinois icon J Leman. 2nd Team- Scott McKillop, Pitt 3rd Team Derek Nicholson, Florida State Honorable Mention: Mike Tauiliili, Duke
CB Alphonso Smith, Wake Forest and Vontae Davis, Illinois- Smith has 3 INTs despite the fact no one will throw to him while Davis is an all-around great player (53 tackles, 5.5 TFL, 7 PBU, 3 FF) 2nd Team- Jairus Byrd, Oregon (top 2 in pass breakups and passes defended, 3 INTs) & Syd'Quan Thompson, Cal (3 INTs) 3rd Team- Anthony Gaitor, FIU & Kyle Wilson, Boise St. Honorable Mention: Malcolm Jenkins, Ohio St. & Victor "Macho" Harris, VA Tech
SS Eric Berry, Tennessee- Is he the best DB in the country? If not, he's close. 5 INTs for 175 yards (1 TD) 4.5 TFL, 2 sacks and 44 tackles. Team leader (as a sophomore) on a struggling Vols defense. 2nd Team Otis Wiley, Michigan St. 3rd Team- Trimane Goddard, UNC Honorable Mention: Brian Lainhart, Kent State (65 tackles, 2 FF, 4 INTs)
FS Daniel Charbonnet, Texas Tech- 42 tackles, 4 INTs (tied for nation's lead through week 7) and 5 passes broken up on a bend-but-don't-break Red Raider defense. 2nd Team Louis Delmas, Western Michigan (4 INTs for 98 yards and 1 TD) 3rd Team- Steven Coleman, TCU Honorable Mention: Taylor Mays, USC
K Josh Arauco, Arkansas St.- Is 12-for-12 so far on FGs and all 4 were important against Texas A&M in the Red Wolves huge upset. Brett Swenson, Michigan St. (15-for-16 FGs) 3rd Team Dustin Keys, VA Tech His FGs in 4th quarter were the difference against both GT and UNC. Honorable Mention: Jonathon Phillips, Florida
P Don't need one, this is a man's All-America team.
QB Colt McCoy, Texas- Shouldn't need much explanation. Has been arguably the best QB on the best team in the country. Honorable mention: 2nd Team Chase Clement, Rice 3rd Team Sam Bradford, Oklahoma Honorable Mention: Nate Davis, Ball St.
RB Miquale Lewis, Ball St. & Donald Brown, UConn- First off, Lewis has a 100-yard game in every contest except the opener (Northeastern) where a lot of the starters rested. He's also 6th in yards total, has more yards than in his 2 previous years and only one player has more TD runs. Brown is 2nd nationally in yards, 3rd in TDs, and 2nd in carries. He's been the heart & soul of the UConn offense in some tough games. 2nd Team Javon Ringer, Michigan State & Tyrell Fenroy, Louisiana-Lafayette 3rd Team Evan Royster, Penn State & Knowshon Moreno, UGa Honorable Mention: Shun White, Navy and Vai Taua, Nevada (filled in nicely for Luke Lippincott)
WR Jarrett Dillard, Rice and Michael Crabtree- These two speak for themselves on the field and are quiet off it; both in the top 11 nationally in receiving yards, TD catches and receptions. 2nd Team Aldrick Robinson, SMU and Eric Decker, Minnesota 3rd Team Austin Collie, BYU & Dez Bryant, Oklahoma Honorable Mention: Casey Fitzgerald, North Texas & Jordan Shipley, Texas
TE Mark Hafner, Houston- It was between him and Chase Coffman, but arguably Hafner doesn't have as good a WR to play off of as Coffman does with Maclin. In the top 10 in TD catches. 2nd Team Chase Coffman, Missouri 3rd Team Dennis Pitta, BYU Honorable Mention: Eddie Williams, Idaho
Ts Dallas Reynolds, BYU & Rylan Reed, Texas Tech- I went based on pure stats here and both tackles have kept their QBs virtually untouched. Max Hall of BYU had been sacked once before the TCU game and Graham Harrell once as well for TT. 2nd Team Michael Oher, Mississippi and Andre Smith, Alabama 3rd Team Alex Boone, Ohio State & Phil Loadholt, Oklahoma Honorable Mention: Sam Young, Notre Dame & Adam Ulatoski, Texas
Gs Cedric Dockery, Texas & Herman Johnson, LSU- Johnson has a huge responsibility protecting two unproven QBs for LSU, while Dockery is helping to provide huge holes for previously unproven Longhorn runners (including McCoy). 2nd Team Duke Robinson, Oklahoma & Steve Rehring, Ohio State 3rd Team Jeff Byars, USC & Seth Olsen, Iowa (have you seen TB Shonn Greene's numbers?) Honorable Mention: Jeremy Perry, Oregon State and John Jerry, Ole Miss
C Antoine Caldwell, Alabama- Helps in keeping John Parker Wilson safe and is providing the backbone for a strong Crimson Tide running game. 2nd Team AQ Shipley, Penn State 3rd Team Ryan McDonald, Illinois Honorable Mention: Jon Cooper, Oklahoma
DEFENSE
DE Brian Orakpo, Texas and Aaron Maybin, Penn State- Maybin has been great at getting to the QB and is leading a ferocious Nittany Lions' D. Orakpo may be the best defender in the country, getting to the QB at will and blowing up opponents RBs in the backfield. 2nd Team William VanDeSteeg, Minnesota & Paul Kruger, Utah 3rd Team Nick Reed, Oregon and Jake Paulson, Air Force (nation's leader in sacks through 7 weeks) Honorable Mention: Alex Carrington, Arkansas St. & Phillip Hunt, Houston
DT Cody Moore, TCU & Roy Miller, Texas- Moore has 7.5 TFL already this season and anchor's the nation's leading defense. Miller, meanwhile, anchors maybe the DL in college football and along with Orakpo has helped UT dominate all season. 2nd Team Sen'Derrick Marks, Auburn & Ryan Baker, Purdue 3rd Team Vance Walker, GT & Ted Laurent, Ole Miss Honorable Mention: Clinton McDonald, Memphis & Peter Tverdov, Rutgers
OLB Sean Weatherspoon, Missouri & Clint Sintim, Virginia- Weatherspoon has been the lone bright spot on an otherwise atrocious Mizzou offense, averaging nearly 2 TFL per game. Sintim has 7.5 TFL (through week 7) and has been a key senior leader on a UVa team searching for leaders. 2nd Team- Navarro Bowman, Penn State (8.5 TFL) & Quentin Davie, Northwestern 3rd Team Joe Henderson, UAB & Sergio Kindle Honorable Mention: Derek Burrell, Kent State (fifth in the nation in tackles per game) & Travis Lewis, Oklahoma
MLB Brit Miller, Illinois- Has 12.5 TFL (through 7 weeks, tied for 1st), 61 tackles and 4 sacks. FR for TD and INT while taking over for Illinois icon J Leman. 2nd Team- Scott McKillop, Pitt 3rd Team Derek Nicholson, Florida State Honorable Mention: Mike Tauiliili, Duke
CB Alphonso Smith, Wake Forest and Vontae Davis, Illinois- Smith has 3 INTs despite the fact no one will throw to him while Davis is an all-around great player (53 tackles, 5.5 TFL, 7 PBU, 3 FF) 2nd Team- Jairus Byrd, Oregon (top 2 in pass breakups and passes defended, 3 INTs) & Syd'Quan Thompson, Cal (3 INTs) 3rd Team- Anthony Gaitor, FIU & Kyle Wilson, Boise St. Honorable Mention: Malcolm Jenkins, Ohio St. & Victor "Macho" Harris, VA Tech
SS Eric Berry, Tennessee- Is he the best DB in the country? If not, he's close. 5 INTs for 175 yards (1 TD) 4.5 TFL, 2 sacks and 44 tackles. Team leader (as a sophomore) on a struggling Vols defense. 2nd Team Otis Wiley, Michigan St. 3rd Team- Trimane Goddard, UNC Honorable Mention: Brian Lainhart, Kent State (65 tackles, 2 FF, 4 INTs)
FS Daniel Charbonnet, Texas Tech- 42 tackles, 4 INTs (tied for nation's lead through week 7) and 5 passes broken up on a bend-but-don't-break Red Raider defense. 2nd Team Louis Delmas, Western Michigan (4 INTs for 98 yards and 1 TD) 3rd Team- Steven Coleman, TCU Honorable Mention: Taylor Mays, USC
K Josh Arauco, Arkansas St.- Is 12-for-12 so far on FGs and all 4 were important against Texas A&M in the Red Wolves huge upset. Brett Swenson, Michigan St. (15-for-16 FGs) 3rd Team Dustin Keys, VA Tech His FGs in 4th quarter were the difference against both GT and UNC. Honorable Mention: Jonathon Phillips, Florida
P Don't need one, this is a man's All-America team.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Week 7 Preview
Alright, we're going hardcore this week, more picks than ever before. But first, some random observations about the season and the upcoming games this weekend.
I really didn't believe in Vanderbilt until last week. As I said, Nickson had to limit mistakes for them to win, and after falling behind 13-0, Mackenzi Adams comes in and leads the victory with smart decision-making. Don't expect them to lose to Mississippi St. this weekend, even though the Bulldogs will be a tough road test.
TCU, who's only blemish is to a very good Oklahoma squad on the road, best be careful at Colorado St. this week. Gartrell Jenkins is a very productive TB and HB/FB/TE Kory Sperry is one of the best in the hybrid role.
If it's on anywhere in your area, check out Buffalo vs. Western Michigan because Tim Hiller, Naaman Roosevelt, Drew Willy and Jamarko Simmons should help put a lot of points on the board. This isn't quite Rice/Tulsa offensive potential from last weekend, but I'd put the over under at about 65 or 70. Should be a fun game to watch.
New Mexico St. at Nevada should be interesting because the Aggies can get their season on track and it would be a vital win in their quest for bowl eligibility. If you had asked me before the season, the Aggies would have no chance, but that's before Luke Lippincott decided not to play this year. As good as Colin Kaepernick is in the versatile QB role, Chase Holbrook is maybe even better as a precision passer for the Aggies.
The teams who really need to turn around their seasons and have chances to do it this weekend; Virginia at home against ECU. UCLA on the road at Oregon. Arizona State at USC (yeah right for Sun Devils fans), Arkansas at Auburn and Purdue at Ohio State. I think only the Cavaliers have a good shot at winning their game, they looked impressive last week vs. Maryland. Ok, onto the picks. I'm 14-4 on the season so far, so let's hope that keeps up.
Clemson at #21 Wake Forest- I know I'll probably regret this later because Thursday night games dictate that an upset will happen. However, is it really an upset if Clemson wins? No, not really, they were supposed to be a top 10 team before the season and besides, WF knows how to win these close games. Besides, the Demon Deacons want revenge for last year's 44-10 shellacking. Just remember, that loss against Navy was an aberration, the Demon Deacons may not lose the rest of the year. WF 24 Clemson 20
Minnesota at Illinois- Illini CB Vontae Davis vs. Gophers' WR Eric Decker, now that's an elite matchup. Too bad it won't determine the entire game. Here's what we know; the Illini have had a brutal early schedule, a better running game than Minnesota and more experience in important games. This is where Illinois can make a statement, by proving the Gophers are frauds. Will they? Yes, but it won't be easy from the first whistle, but talent and experience will prevail. Illinois 37 Minnesota 28
South Carolina at Kentucky- Was the Ole Miss defense really that bad last weekend? I mean come on, even Wofford didn't allow the Gamecocks to score 30 points. This is a tough game because the Gamecocks often times have trouble scoring and moving the ball, but looked good last week, while UK was just the opposite last week. Kentucky's good offense looked horrible vs. Alabama and saved itself with a late TD. I'm taking the Gamecocks because I think their offense is finally healthy and they may be ready to play some decent football (I'm nuts for this pick). South Carolina 20 Kentucky 14
#5 Texas vs. #1 Oklahoma- Oh no, can't we delay this game, like, until after the national championship game has been played. The Longhorns don't have much of a shot. The Sooners have a balanced offense, a good defense, and all the intangibles. UT has well, two good WRs and Colt McCoy. The young, but talented UT secondary isn't ready for Iglesias and Johnson on the outside, and if they can somehow contain them, who will stop TE Gresham. Unless McCoy channels his inner Vince Young, this game will be over by the start of the 4th quarter. Oklahoma 42 Texas 27
Nebraska at #7 Texas Tech- Ha! If Nebraska couldn't stop Missouri, why will they do it against Texas Tech? I only mention this game because my nephews and their dad will be at the game, die-hard 'Huskers fans that they are, it's their first game. Too bad it won't be a fun experience. Set low expectations Nebraska fans. Texas Tech 56 Nebraska 33
#23 Michigan St. at Northwestern- Possibly the most intriguing game of the weekend for serious college football fans. Javon Ringer has been a beast, and easily the Heisman candidate getting the least amount of respect (besides BYU QB Max Hall). Can he help the Spartans win at Northwestern, especially with QB Brian Hoyer and WR Mark Dell not living up to their abilities on offense for MSU? I think common sense says the Spartans are more talented, and usually heart and determination only get you so far, but with Wildcats' TB Tyrell Sutton, I think this is a special season. Along with an underrated defense, smart QB CJ Bacher and efficient WRs, the Wildcats pull off the upset. Northwestern 26 Michigan St. 23
Notre Dame at #22 North Carolina- Two teams that had all the potential to be surprise picks in their own right, going from young squads that lost a lot of close games to serious bowl contenders. Jimmy Clausen has been on fire, and people around the country love Golden Tate for the Irish. Me, I love the Tar Heels heart, coming back against Miami (FL) and just obliterating UConn last week (who was always overrated by the way) after losing their starting QB. Plus, ND is not on NBC this week, so that spells doom for the Irish. UNC 31 Notre Dame 28
#6 Penn St. at Wisconsin- I'll go with the easy pick of the night games first. The Nittany Lions will not give up an undefeated season in Madison just because the Badgers have an incredible home record in Big 10 play recently. Besides, the Badgers choked away a win against a true freshman QB last weekend (albeit Terrelle Pryor, no ordinary freshman). Evan Royster will carry the load for PSU and QB Daryll Clark will spread the ball around to his bevy of weapons at WR and TE. Clark is averaging 9.0 yards per attempt, in a non-passing offense, that's crazy. Michael Robinson anyone? Penn St. 34 Wisconsin 24
#17 Oklahoma St. at #3 Missouri- I can't wait until everyone calls this a statement win for Missouri. No, that will come, if it happens, against either Texas or Kansas during the season, and the Big XII South winner in the championship game (I'll go out on a limb and say that will be Oklahoma). Chase Daniel will go off, which sucks because I play him in fantasy this week, while Zac Robinson finds out what life is like playing catch-up and your favorite WR, Dez Bryant, can't get open because 6 and 7 DBs are out on the field. Missouri 62 Oklahoma St. 38
#4 LSU at #11 Florida- Logic says Florida is pissed after losing to LSU last year in a very close game at Baton Rouge. Logic also states that Florida rarely loses two home games in a season. Also, LSU decided to give the Gators some bulletin board material by saying they wanted to take out Tim Tebow. I think the main question here is whether or not the Tigers can stop the Gators explosive weapons on offense; Percy Harvin is a blur when he's in the open field and Chris Rainey can take it the distance any time, while the RB spot has more options than any time in recent memory for the Gators. However, the Tigers have tons of experience, albeit not at QB. Then again, Jarrett Lee learned on the road at Auburn and came away big in the clutch. Will he do it a 2nd time this season? Logic says no, but I disagree. LSU 29 Florida 27
Ok, enjoy the games. Go Vols against UGa, even though they won't win. Also, go San Jose St., which should be easy against Utah St. Also, EMU at Army may be a guilty pleasure game for me this weekend; a game I shouldn't be watching, neither have good bowl hopes, but they are two offenses coming together and I think it will be a fun game. ESPN Classic, 1:00 EST. tune in. Eagles' TB Terrence Blevins is a future NFL player in my book. He may be on a bad team but he can make broken plays, or plays blown up in the backfield into positive yardage and even TDs. See all of you next week.
I really didn't believe in Vanderbilt until last week. As I said, Nickson had to limit mistakes for them to win, and after falling behind 13-0, Mackenzi Adams comes in and leads the victory with smart decision-making. Don't expect them to lose to Mississippi St. this weekend, even though the Bulldogs will be a tough road test.
TCU, who's only blemish is to a very good Oklahoma squad on the road, best be careful at Colorado St. this week. Gartrell Jenkins is a very productive TB and HB/FB/TE Kory Sperry is one of the best in the hybrid role.
If it's on anywhere in your area, check out Buffalo vs. Western Michigan because Tim Hiller, Naaman Roosevelt, Drew Willy and Jamarko Simmons should help put a lot of points on the board. This isn't quite Rice/Tulsa offensive potential from last weekend, but I'd put the over under at about 65 or 70. Should be a fun game to watch.
New Mexico St. at Nevada should be interesting because the Aggies can get their season on track and it would be a vital win in their quest for bowl eligibility. If you had asked me before the season, the Aggies would have no chance, but that's before Luke Lippincott decided not to play this year. As good as Colin Kaepernick is in the versatile QB role, Chase Holbrook is maybe even better as a precision passer for the Aggies.
The teams who really need to turn around their seasons and have chances to do it this weekend; Virginia at home against ECU. UCLA on the road at Oregon. Arizona State at USC (yeah right for Sun Devils fans), Arkansas at Auburn and Purdue at Ohio State. I think only the Cavaliers have a good shot at winning their game, they looked impressive last week vs. Maryland. Ok, onto the picks. I'm 14-4 on the season so far, so let's hope that keeps up.
Clemson at #21 Wake Forest- I know I'll probably regret this later because Thursday night games dictate that an upset will happen. However, is it really an upset if Clemson wins? No, not really, they were supposed to be a top 10 team before the season and besides, WF knows how to win these close games. Besides, the Demon Deacons want revenge for last year's 44-10 shellacking. Just remember, that loss against Navy was an aberration, the Demon Deacons may not lose the rest of the year. WF 24 Clemson 20
Minnesota at Illinois- Illini CB Vontae Davis vs. Gophers' WR Eric Decker, now that's an elite matchup. Too bad it won't determine the entire game. Here's what we know; the Illini have had a brutal early schedule, a better running game than Minnesota and more experience in important games. This is where Illinois can make a statement, by proving the Gophers are frauds. Will they? Yes, but it won't be easy from the first whistle, but talent and experience will prevail. Illinois 37 Minnesota 28
South Carolina at Kentucky- Was the Ole Miss defense really that bad last weekend? I mean come on, even Wofford didn't allow the Gamecocks to score 30 points. This is a tough game because the Gamecocks often times have trouble scoring and moving the ball, but looked good last week, while UK was just the opposite last week. Kentucky's good offense looked horrible vs. Alabama and saved itself with a late TD. I'm taking the Gamecocks because I think their offense is finally healthy and they may be ready to play some decent football (I'm nuts for this pick). South Carolina 20 Kentucky 14
#5 Texas vs. #1 Oklahoma- Oh no, can't we delay this game, like, until after the national championship game has been played. The Longhorns don't have much of a shot. The Sooners have a balanced offense, a good defense, and all the intangibles. UT has well, two good WRs and Colt McCoy. The young, but talented UT secondary isn't ready for Iglesias and Johnson on the outside, and if they can somehow contain them, who will stop TE Gresham. Unless McCoy channels his inner Vince Young, this game will be over by the start of the 4th quarter. Oklahoma 42 Texas 27
Nebraska at #7 Texas Tech- Ha! If Nebraska couldn't stop Missouri, why will they do it against Texas Tech? I only mention this game because my nephews and their dad will be at the game, die-hard 'Huskers fans that they are, it's their first game. Too bad it won't be a fun experience. Set low expectations Nebraska fans. Texas Tech 56 Nebraska 33
#23 Michigan St. at Northwestern- Possibly the most intriguing game of the weekend for serious college football fans. Javon Ringer has been a beast, and easily the Heisman candidate getting the least amount of respect (besides BYU QB Max Hall). Can he help the Spartans win at Northwestern, especially with QB Brian Hoyer and WR Mark Dell not living up to their abilities on offense for MSU? I think common sense says the Spartans are more talented, and usually heart and determination only get you so far, but with Wildcats' TB Tyrell Sutton, I think this is a special season. Along with an underrated defense, smart QB CJ Bacher and efficient WRs, the Wildcats pull off the upset. Northwestern 26 Michigan St. 23
Notre Dame at #22 North Carolina- Two teams that had all the potential to be surprise picks in their own right, going from young squads that lost a lot of close games to serious bowl contenders. Jimmy Clausen has been on fire, and people around the country love Golden Tate for the Irish. Me, I love the Tar Heels heart, coming back against Miami (FL) and just obliterating UConn last week (who was always overrated by the way) after losing their starting QB. Plus, ND is not on NBC this week, so that spells doom for the Irish. UNC 31 Notre Dame 28
#6 Penn St. at Wisconsin- I'll go with the easy pick of the night games first. The Nittany Lions will not give up an undefeated season in Madison just because the Badgers have an incredible home record in Big 10 play recently. Besides, the Badgers choked away a win against a true freshman QB last weekend (albeit Terrelle Pryor, no ordinary freshman). Evan Royster will carry the load for PSU and QB Daryll Clark will spread the ball around to his bevy of weapons at WR and TE. Clark is averaging 9.0 yards per attempt, in a non-passing offense, that's crazy. Michael Robinson anyone? Penn St. 34 Wisconsin 24
#17 Oklahoma St. at #3 Missouri- I can't wait until everyone calls this a statement win for Missouri. No, that will come, if it happens, against either Texas or Kansas during the season, and the Big XII South winner in the championship game (I'll go out on a limb and say that will be Oklahoma). Chase Daniel will go off, which sucks because I play him in fantasy this week, while Zac Robinson finds out what life is like playing catch-up and your favorite WR, Dez Bryant, can't get open because 6 and 7 DBs are out on the field. Missouri 62 Oklahoma St. 38
#4 LSU at #11 Florida- Logic says Florida is pissed after losing to LSU last year in a very close game at Baton Rouge. Logic also states that Florida rarely loses two home games in a season. Also, LSU decided to give the Gators some bulletin board material by saying they wanted to take out Tim Tebow. I think the main question here is whether or not the Tigers can stop the Gators explosive weapons on offense; Percy Harvin is a blur when he's in the open field and Chris Rainey can take it the distance any time, while the RB spot has more options than any time in recent memory for the Gators. However, the Tigers have tons of experience, albeit not at QB. Then again, Jarrett Lee learned on the road at Auburn and came away big in the clutch. Will he do it a 2nd time this season? Logic says no, but I disagree. LSU 29 Florida 27
Ok, enjoy the games. Go Vols against UGa, even though they won't win. Also, go San Jose St., which should be easy against Utah St. Also, EMU at Army may be a guilty pleasure game for me this weekend; a game I shouldn't be watching, neither have good bowl hopes, but they are two offenses coming together and I think it will be a fun game. ESPN Classic, 1:00 EST. tune in. Eagles' TB Terrence Blevins is a future NFL player in my book. He may be on a bad team but he can make broken plays, or plays blown up in the backfield into positive yardage and even TDs. See all of you next week.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Week 6 Preview
Ok, sorry I missed last week, there was a lot to do with college classes, so, I kind of got behind and didn't want to make picks the day before. However, let's get to business for this week. First off, no Oregon State will not upset Utah and Pitt should get destroyed at South Florida. That's all for the pre-Saturday games.
Some fun matchups to watch out for include Duke at GA Tech in an early game. If the Blue Devils really want to establish themselves in the ACC, a win over the good Yellow Jackets triple-option offense would go a long way in proving the doubters wrong. Indiana can make up for a home loss to Michigan State by pounding Minnesota in the Metrodome. All things considering, I doubt the Gophers will shut down Kellen Lewis. Penn State also needs to stay awake against Purdue as the Boilermakers have a good TB in Kory Sheets and a pair of fantastic WRs in Desmond Tardy and Greg Orton. Their defense just needs to step it up a notch. Arizona State at Cal is the overrated Pac-10 game of the week as neither team is that good, even though the winner be hyped as "back on track" with a win.
For the mid-afternoon games we have many subplots; Florida State couldn't have asked for a worth spot than to travel to Miami needing a win. The 'Canes won't let that happen. Texas Tech should roll over Kansas State in a game where neither is expected to play much defense. Heck KSU could barely stop Louisiana-Lafayette. For the night games, Maryland needs to be careful at Virginia, as usually rivalry games produce surprise outcomes, no matter how inept one offense may be. Texas A&M could keep coach Sherman off the hotseat with a win at Oklahoma State, but I think the Cowboys will be too focused and have too many weapons on offense. Nonetheless, should be an entertaining game. Let's get to my picks of the week...
South Carolina at Ole Miss- This is the perfect letdown game for Ole Miss after a huge win on the road against Florida. However, I think being at home takes the pressure off and Rebels' QB Jevan Snead will do just fine. Besides that pressure, have you seen how horrible the Gamecocks are offensively? There's no way they win, even if their defense will keep it close. Ole Miss 26 South Carolina 14
Stanford at Notre Dame- I can't pick because I hate the Irish too much. I would never root for ND to win so I can be right. I think ND wins, but go Stanford.
Illinois at Michigan- The Illini have not many things going for them; they still need a dominant RB to produce and their offense is just finding itself after transitioning to more of a spread passing game instead of option. The balance will prove to be a good thing next year, when a lot of their key players have another year of experience. I still think this game could make or break both team's season. The winner is still in the hunt for a Big 10 title. I would say Michigan has momentum and the home-field advantage, but their lack of a passing game makes the Illini a slight favorite. Illinois 21 Michigan 17
#13 Auburn at #19 Vanderbilt- Nobody will taking the Commodores lightly this season, not after they beat South Carolina and have now become ranked in the top 20. That's the bad news for them, considering their biggest wins in the SEC have come from teams underestimating them. Auburn will not do that here. I know Auburn's offense is really bad, and has trouble establishing the run, which should be their strength. However, I just don't think the Commodores will be able to put enough points on the board against that tough Tigers' D. Commodores QB Chris Nickson is the key; if he can scramble for good yardage and make good choices in the passing game, with no turnovers, Vandy wins. I'd love to see Vandy win, but... Auburn 13 Vandy 7
#24 UConn at North Carolina- I love how the Huskies play ball; a smash-mouth running style combined with an effective passing game and a defense that can score points at any time and make big plays. However, losing their starting QB, Lorenzen, is not a good sign. UNC just saved their season last with a gigantic win at Miami, in comeback fashion no less. The momentum is so far on the Tar Heels side that I think it swings a pick 'em game into their favor. Hakeem Nicks will have a huge game I think, and while Donald Brown may have a big game rushing for the Huskies, it won't be enough. Surprisingly high-scoring here... UNC 34 UConn 30
#23 Oregon at #9 USC- Let's see, a freshman QB on the road, a passing game that rarely goes anywhere and a defense that was blasted at home by Boise State. These aren't good signs for the Ducks. If the Trojans aren't focused in this game, after losing to the "other Oregon" football team, then they don't deserve to be ranked, period. Blount and Johnson are great TBs for Oregon, heck even TE Ed Dickson and WR Jaison Williams are great weapons. However, their QB just isn't experienced enough to pull this off. USC 45 Oregon 28
#14 Ohio State at #18 Wisconsin- The Badgers seem like they should pull this game off. The Buckeyes are starting a true freshman at QB in one of the toughest places to play in college football. The only thing is, this is the LeBron James of freshman football players. And I promise you Buckeyes fans, this frosh won't turn out like Maurice Clarett. Terrelle Pryor will use his stable of RBs and his quick feet to move the ball early, then use play action to Robiskie and Hartline and it will be smooth sailing. The Badgers have no threats on offense. PJ Hill is a good, bruising TB, but you won't beat the Buckeyes in a ground-it-out, smash-mouth Big 10 game this season. The Buckeyes can score now that Boeckman is benched and this isn't your Woody Hayes/John Cooper OSU squad. The Buckeyes jump out early and the Badgers play catchup with little results. OSU 38 Wisconsin 28
Also, ranked Big 12 teams will face stiff competition on the road; Oklahoma plays at Baylor and the Bears have a phenomenal freshman QB, but the Sooners need not worry, their depth and talent will eventually win out. The Longhorns travel to Boulder, CO and will crash the Buffs. Missouri also goes on the road to Lincoln where the Huskers are ripe for getting blown out. Like I would trust that 'Huskers defense to stop a Mizzou offense that's averaging 600 total yards and 54 points per game. Enjoy the games everyone.
Some fun matchups to watch out for include Duke at GA Tech in an early game. If the Blue Devils really want to establish themselves in the ACC, a win over the good Yellow Jackets triple-option offense would go a long way in proving the doubters wrong. Indiana can make up for a home loss to Michigan State by pounding Minnesota in the Metrodome. All things considering, I doubt the Gophers will shut down Kellen Lewis. Penn State also needs to stay awake against Purdue as the Boilermakers have a good TB in Kory Sheets and a pair of fantastic WRs in Desmond Tardy and Greg Orton. Their defense just needs to step it up a notch. Arizona State at Cal is the overrated Pac-10 game of the week as neither team is that good, even though the winner be hyped as "back on track" with a win.
For the mid-afternoon games we have many subplots; Florida State couldn't have asked for a worth spot than to travel to Miami needing a win. The 'Canes won't let that happen. Texas Tech should roll over Kansas State in a game where neither is expected to play much defense. Heck KSU could barely stop Louisiana-Lafayette. For the night games, Maryland needs to be careful at Virginia, as usually rivalry games produce surprise outcomes, no matter how inept one offense may be. Texas A&M could keep coach Sherman off the hotseat with a win at Oklahoma State, but I think the Cowboys will be too focused and have too many weapons on offense. Nonetheless, should be an entertaining game. Let's get to my picks of the week...
South Carolina at Ole Miss- This is the perfect letdown game for Ole Miss after a huge win on the road against Florida. However, I think being at home takes the pressure off and Rebels' QB Jevan Snead will do just fine. Besides that pressure, have you seen how horrible the Gamecocks are offensively? There's no way they win, even if their defense will keep it close. Ole Miss 26 South Carolina 14
Stanford at Notre Dame- I can't pick because I hate the Irish too much. I would never root for ND to win so I can be right. I think ND wins, but go Stanford.
Illinois at Michigan- The Illini have not many things going for them; they still need a dominant RB to produce and their offense is just finding itself after transitioning to more of a spread passing game instead of option. The balance will prove to be a good thing next year, when a lot of their key players have another year of experience. I still think this game could make or break both team's season. The winner is still in the hunt for a Big 10 title. I would say Michigan has momentum and the home-field advantage, but their lack of a passing game makes the Illini a slight favorite. Illinois 21 Michigan 17
#13 Auburn at #19 Vanderbilt- Nobody will taking the Commodores lightly this season, not after they beat South Carolina and have now become ranked in the top 20. That's the bad news for them, considering their biggest wins in the SEC have come from teams underestimating them. Auburn will not do that here. I know Auburn's offense is really bad, and has trouble establishing the run, which should be their strength. However, I just don't think the Commodores will be able to put enough points on the board against that tough Tigers' D. Commodores QB Chris Nickson is the key; if he can scramble for good yardage and make good choices in the passing game, with no turnovers, Vandy wins. I'd love to see Vandy win, but... Auburn 13 Vandy 7
#24 UConn at North Carolina- I love how the Huskies play ball; a smash-mouth running style combined with an effective passing game and a defense that can score points at any time and make big plays. However, losing their starting QB, Lorenzen, is not a good sign. UNC just saved their season last with a gigantic win at Miami, in comeback fashion no less. The momentum is so far on the Tar Heels side that I think it swings a pick 'em game into their favor. Hakeem Nicks will have a huge game I think, and while Donald Brown may have a big game rushing for the Huskies, it won't be enough. Surprisingly high-scoring here... UNC 34 UConn 30
#23 Oregon at #9 USC- Let's see, a freshman QB on the road, a passing game that rarely goes anywhere and a defense that was blasted at home by Boise State. These aren't good signs for the Ducks. If the Trojans aren't focused in this game, after losing to the "other Oregon" football team, then they don't deserve to be ranked, period. Blount and Johnson are great TBs for Oregon, heck even TE Ed Dickson and WR Jaison Williams are great weapons. However, their QB just isn't experienced enough to pull this off. USC 45 Oregon 28
#14 Ohio State at #18 Wisconsin- The Badgers seem like they should pull this game off. The Buckeyes are starting a true freshman at QB in one of the toughest places to play in college football. The only thing is, this is the LeBron James of freshman football players. And I promise you Buckeyes fans, this frosh won't turn out like Maurice Clarett. Terrelle Pryor will use his stable of RBs and his quick feet to move the ball early, then use play action to Robiskie and Hartline and it will be smooth sailing. The Badgers have no threats on offense. PJ Hill is a good, bruising TB, but you won't beat the Buckeyes in a ground-it-out, smash-mouth Big 10 game this season. The Buckeyes can score now that Boeckman is benched and this isn't your Woody Hayes/John Cooper OSU squad. The Buckeyes jump out early and the Badgers play catchup with little results. OSU 38 Wisconsin 28
Also, ranked Big 12 teams will face stiff competition on the road; Oklahoma plays at Baylor and the Bears have a phenomenal freshman QB, but the Sooners need not worry, their depth and talent will eventually win out. The Longhorns travel to Boulder, CO and will crash the Buffs. Missouri also goes on the road to Lincoln where the Huskers are ripe for getting blown out. Like I would trust that 'Huskers defense to stop a Mizzou offense that's averaging 600 total yards and 54 points per game. Enjoy the games everyone.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Three Greatest Div I-A Teams of the Modern Era
Here we go, the greatest teams of the modern era, from 1988-2007. After USC's resounding victory a few weeks ago over Ohio State, everyone in the country, and not just media outlets, even some diehard, knowledgeable fans were ready to give the Trojans all-time status. After all, they have a competent QB, young RBs who could start for any major college program, and a fantastic defense. However, the success got to their heads and they felt invincible. This team should have been on a mission in 2008 after being snubbed for the national title game when some people felt they were much better than Ohio State. Georgia, on the other hand, seems to be on that mission in 2008 because they had a tough game against South Carolina, a conference rival, on the road (sound familiar? Oregon State last night) but pulled out a narrow victory. Anyways, we shall see how the rest of the season plays out because it will be mighty fun as usual.
Now, onto the criteria for selecting the greatest and most dominant teams in the recent era. The teams had to follow this criteria; players advancing to the NFL, they were not in danger of losing during the regular season, and had both a great offense and great defense. Also, a dominating bowl performance against a very good team, which is a given for the top 2 teams because the Bowl Alliance had been established for one team, while the other had the BCS in place. Now, some teams who didn't quite make the cut and the reasons why...
#7 1988 Notre Dame A fantastic squad, led by all sorts of future NFL studs and some magical moments. However, should they have beaten Miami (FL) in South Bend, IN on that mid-October day. First off, Cleveland Gary never fumbled at the 1-yard line, it should have been either a TD or incomplete pass, look it up. They could have lost that game, plus the close calls with Michigan and Pittsburgh mean they are out.
#6 Alabama 1992 This team just couldn't score enough points, nor did they really have to, their defense was so good. But Gene Stallings was not an offensive coach, so its not like it's his fault. They do however have a very impressive feat of not allowing a single team to score more than 21 points. They also beat Tennessee, Florida, and Ole Miss, all who won their bowl games, and Mississippi State, who lost their bowl game and went 7-5. Plus, they destroyed the defending national champion Miami (FL) Hurricanes 34-13 in the national championship game, aka Sugar Bowl.
#5 2004 USC They had a fantastic offense, a good defense and all the pizazz you could want, but they loved to live dangerously. A questionable pass interference call against VA Tech is what some people felt cost the Hokies in the opening game of the season, a very tough contest. Also, Stanford and UCLA both had very good chances to beat them in the 4th quarter, as well as a very tough game with Oregon State. Their BCS championship game victory over Oklahoma is good enough to get them at #5.
#4 2005 Texas The Longhorns get punished for 2 reasons. First off, they had to survive the greatest college football game ever played, the 2006 Rose Bowl against USC, so no matter how good Vince Young was, it still wasn't a truly dominant bowl performance. They also had to make a miraculous comeback against Oklahoma State and they had to overcome very close contests with Texas A&M and Ohio State. Their national championship game is really what gives the #3 team the edge, even as impressive as the Longhorns victory over the Trojans was.
Now, onto the top 3.
#3 1991 Washington Their biggest strength was without question their defense, but let's get real about the Huskies and what made them so great. #22 in passing offense, #3 in pass efficiency defense, #2 in turnover margin, #2 in scoring offense and scoring defense, #17 in rushing offense, #2 in rushing defense, #7 in total offense, #2 in total defense. They had at least 10 players on defense who played in the NFL, and one of those who didn't, All-American CB Walter Bailey, was 9th nationally in INTs with 7 returned for 114 yards and 2 TDs. Both of their QBs would see significant time in the NFL, Billy Joe Hobert and Mark Brunell (both were Rose Bowl MVPs at UW). Hobert was 11th in the nation in passing efficiency while his favorite target, Mario Bailey, caught 62 passes for 1037 yards and 17 TDs. His 102 points ranked him 6th nationally. Two of their TBs, Napoleon Kaufman and Beno Bryant, would go on to play in the NFL, but Bryant was always hampered by knee injuries. Their 3rd RB, and 2nd leading rusher, Jay Barry, scored 68 points off of 11 TDs and would author the season's key signature moment for the Huskies. Two TEs (Aaron Pierce and Mark Breuner) and 5 offensive lineman would also play in the NFL for this UW team.
In Lincoln, the 9th ranked Nebraska Cornhuskers had a shot to end the Huskies national championship dreams early, with a 21-9 3rd quarter lead. However, Bryant scored a TD, and Hobert scored a TD rushing and passing. Then, with the lead and just under 6 minutes left to play, Barry went 81 yards for the clinching TD. The game wasn't really close in the 4th quarter as the Huskies sealed the game with their dominant defense and superb speed on offense. Their lone close game came against Cal in Berkeley, where the undefeated and #7 Cal Bears played them to a 17-17 tie going into the 4th quarter. However, Bryant would proceed to dash 65 yards for a TD at the beginning of the 4th, ending any hopes of a Bears' upset. Then, in the Rose Bowl, #4 Michigan had no shot, even with Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard at FL/KR/PR. Note that Howard was in the top 15 in receiving yards and receptions per game, but had 1 catch for 35 yards. Mario Bailey put the icing on the cake with a diving TD catch in the 4th quarter and mocked Desmond Howard's infamous Heisman pose by striking one of his own. Tyrone Wheatley scored a 53 yard TD run late in the 4th quarter, which helped the Wolverines save face and they only lost 34-14. Michigan had 72 yards rushing overall, so that long TD run was the bulk of it. Nobody could match the Huskies all year, and thus, they finish #3 on this list.
#2 2001 Miami (FL) If we did this purely on who produced the most NFL talent, this Hurricanes squad would be very hard to beat. 19 of their 22 regular starters made the NFL, including 3 backup RBs, a backup TE, and a backup LB and DT. Now I call that depth. RBs Clinton Portis, Frank Gore and Willis McGahee combined for 2076 yards rushing and Portis had 11 TDs overall. Their TE, Jeremy Shockey, led the team in receiving, while SE Andre Johnson had 37 rec. for 682 yards and scored 10 TDs on the season. Ken Dorsey was a fantastic QB, throwing for over 2600 yards and 23 TDs. The real stars on offense however were the O-line led by Ts Bryant McKinnie and Joaquin Gonzalez and C Brett Romberg. On defense depth was everywhere with DL Jerome McDougle, William Joseph and Vince Wilfork. At LB, two 2nd year players, DJ Williams and Jonathan Vilma, were ball-hawking players who knew where to be at all times. The defense allowed only 9 points per game while giving up 13 TDs, and amazingly enough, the team scored 11 non-offensive TDs, so that almost washes out. Also, #13 Syracuse lost 59-0, and then #11 Washington got beat 65-7, the largest combined margin ever for a program over back-to-back ranked opponents. Now, onto the signature moments for this Miami squad.
Ed Reed could have been a good candidate for the 2nd defensive player ever to win the Heisman as he made the two biggest plays of the season. First, in an extremely close game at Boston College, the Eagles drove deep into 'Canes territory with under a minute to play. DT Matt Walters made an INT off of Eagles' QB Brian St. Pierre and went 10 yards, but then Reed stole the ball and went 80 yards for the decisive TD in an 18-7 win. In fact, here's the play... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02fppIV9pik
Also, in another tough contest against Virginia Tech, the Hokies final two drives ended on INTs by Reed, to give him 21 for his career at Miami and a school record. Sure, a drop by Hokies' WR Ernest Wilford on a 2-point conversion helped the 'Canes escape with a 26-24 victory in Blacksburg, but Miami had not won there since 1992, so it had become a house of horrors, and this team overcame it. Also, Miami had jumped out to a 20-3 halftime lead, so it was really only a lack of focus as to why the game was as close as it was. The 'Canes should get points taken away for beating one of the worst BCS championship game teams in history, the Nebraska Cornhuskers led by QB Eric Crouch, but that was the computer's fault, not Miami's. Johnson was the true star for the 'Canes with 7 rec. for 199 yards and a 49 yard TD that gave Miami a 7-0 lead. Then, Portis scampered 39 yards for another TD, followed by a 47 yard INT for a TD by S James Lewis. Shockey then caught a TD pass and Johnson followed up with his 2nd of the 1st half as the 'Canes needed 15 plays to score 4 offensive TDs. Miami eventually won 37-14 and had an easy 2nd half where the 'Huskers never got within 20 points.
#1 1995 Nebraska They were #4 in scoring defense and #2 in rushing defense, while leading the nation in rushing (399.8 yards per game), scoring (52.8 points per game) and #2 in total offense (556.3 yards per game). It was the offense that most people remember, led by perhaps the greatest option QB of all time, Tommie Frazier, and his backup Brook Berringer, who tragically died in a plane crash shortly after the season. Frazier threw for 1362 yards and 17 TDs while also scoring 14 TDs on the season and rushing for 604 yards. IB Ahman Green ran for 1086 yards and scored 16 TDs on the season while Lawrence Phillips, in his final, oft-controversial career at Nebraska, finished 547 yards (on just 71 carries, over 7 yards per carry). Even the receivers were dangerous, as WB Clester Johnson and SE Reggie Baul combined for 39 receptions for 671 yards, and over 17 yards per catch. Mark Gilman and Tim Carpenter were good TEs, but clearly they had depth at that position, as freshman Sheldon Jackson would later play in the NFL. On the offensive line, Ts Adam Treu and Chris Dishman would go on to the NFL, as would C Aaron Graham (all would play at least 7 years in the NFL). However, the real depth lie on defense. 6 defensive lineman would make the NFL eventually, including starters Jason and Christian Peter, and DEs Grant Wistrom and Jared Tomich. Also, backups Chad Kelsay and Mike Rucker would go on to fine NFL careers. The LB corps was a rotating bunch that liked to stay fresh and starters Jay Foreman, Doug Colman and Terrell Farley were outstanding (only Farley didn't make the NFL). Even backups at this position made the pros as Jamel Williams and Jon Hesse eventually got their shots. Another 6 DBs would also make the NFL as Michael Booker and Tyrone Williams were fantastic shut-down CBs and Tony Veland and Mike Minter were outstanding safeties. Eric Stokes and Eric Warfield, two future NFL guys only added to the amazing depth. That's 16 out of 22 players on the 2-deep chart who made the NFL, and that's just on defense. Ok, onto the big games and signature moments for Nebraska.
The only time the 'Huskers ever trailed during the regular season was against Washington State, and they pulled away in the 2nd half to win 35-21. Frazier threw for 148 yards and 4 TDs in a 49-25 beat-down of previously undefeated #8 Kansas State. #7 Colorado was at home for the 'Huskers the following week, but Frazier went to the Shotgun this time and threw TD passes to WBs Johnson and Abdul Mohammed. A 44-21 victory gave Nebraska the #1 spot in the AP poll the following day. The #10 Kansas Jayhawks at 8-1 hosted the 'Huskers two weeks later, but were dismantled after only rushing for 72 yards. WB Jon Vedral recovered a fumbled punt in the end zone, Frazier ran for 2 scores and threw for another and in the 4th quarter, DB Mike Fullman raced 86 yards for the clinching score in a 41-3 demolition. Keep in mind that at the end of the year Colorado would end up #5 in the country, Kansas St. 7, and Kansas 9, so its not like Nebraska's conference had all cupcakes. Even Iowa State wasn't completely pitiful as they had the first 2,000 yard rusher not to win the Heisman in Troy Davis, but the Cyclones got killed 73-14. To end the regular season, Nebraska shut out Oklahoma 37-0 to mercifully end the Howard Schnellenberger era in Norman. Then came the Fiesta Bowl and the showdown with #2 Florida.
I'm sorry, but this deserves its own paragraph as the Gators were undefeated, had the nation's leader in pass efficiency in Danny Wuerffel and four good receivers; Jacquez Green, Reidel Anthony, Chris Doering, and Ike Hilliard. They even had a three-headed monster of future NFL RBs who combined for over 1900 yards in Terry Jackson, Fred Taylor and Elijah Williams. Although their defensive stats weren't impressive, they had 4 future NFL LBs and a few in their secondary. Only Florida State and Auburn had really tested the Gators all season. Frazier got the 'Huskers an early 6-3 lead with a TD pass to IB Phillips, but Wuerffel sneaked in for a TD as the Gators regained the lead, 10-6. Then the 'Huskers came to life and were merciless. Phillips went 42 yards for a TD run and then Jamel Williams blitzed and sacked Wuerffel for a safety, 15-6 Nebraska. Freshman Green scored a TD after a long Frazier run and then Booker had a 43 yard INT returned for a TD. K Kris Brown added some FGs for a 35-10 lead at halftime. Frazier then tooka QB Draw 35 yards for a TD and then added his signature moment late in the 3rd quarter by breaking numerous tackles, bouncing off Gators like a pinball machine before being unleashed into the open field. He raced 75 yards for a TD and even looked back near the end of his run, making sure he had not just ignored a whistle, thinking the play had been blown dead since no one was near him. You could see his wide-eyed, ear-to-ear grin through the facemask as he was enjoying this coronation. The Gators would end up with minus-28 yards rushing and lose 62-24, the 2nd largest defeat for a team in a #1 vs. #2 matchup, the most being Army's 48-0 victory over Notre Dame in 1948. With their victory Nebraska became not only the first back-t0-back national champions since the 1970s and Bear Bryant's Alabama squad, but the greatest team of the modern era.
Thank you all for reading.
Now, onto the criteria for selecting the greatest and most dominant teams in the recent era. The teams had to follow this criteria; players advancing to the NFL, they were not in danger of losing during the regular season, and had both a great offense and great defense. Also, a dominating bowl performance against a very good team, which is a given for the top 2 teams because the Bowl Alliance had been established for one team, while the other had the BCS in place. Now, some teams who didn't quite make the cut and the reasons why...
#7 1988 Notre Dame A fantastic squad, led by all sorts of future NFL studs and some magical moments. However, should they have beaten Miami (FL) in South Bend, IN on that mid-October day. First off, Cleveland Gary never fumbled at the 1-yard line, it should have been either a TD or incomplete pass, look it up. They could have lost that game, plus the close calls with Michigan and Pittsburgh mean they are out.
#6 Alabama 1992 This team just couldn't score enough points, nor did they really have to, their defense was so good. But Gene Stallings was not an offensive coach, so its not like it's his fault. They do however have a very impressive feat of not allowing a single team to score more than 21 points. They also beat Tennessee, Florida, and Ole Miss, all who won their bowl games, and Mississippi State, who lost their bowl game and went 7-5. Plus, they destroyed the defending national champion Miami (FL) Hurricanes 34-13 in the national championship game, aka Sugar Bowl.
#5 2004 USC They had a fantastic offense, a good defense and all the pizazz you could want, but they loved to live dangerously. A questionable pass interference call against VA Tech is what some people felt cost the Hokies in the opening game of the season, a very tough contest. Also, Stanford and UCLA both had very good chances to beat them in the 4th quarter, as well as a very tough game with Oregon State. Their BCS championship game victory over Oklahoma is good enough to get them at #5.
#4 2005 Texas The Longhorns get punished for 2 reasons. First off, they had to survive the greatest college football game ever played, the 2006 Rose Bowl against USC, so no matter how good Vince Young was, it still wasn't a truly dominant bowl performance. They also had to make a miraculous comeback against Oklahoma State and they had to overcome very close contests with Texas A&M and Ohio State. Their national championship game is really what gives the #3 team the edge, even as impressive as the Longhorns victory over the Trojans was.
Now, onto the top 3.
#3 1991 Washington Their biggest strength was without question their defense, but let's get real about the Huskies and what made them so great. #22 in passing offense, #3 in pass efficiency defense, #2 in turnover margin, #2 in scoring offense and scoring defense, #17 in rushing offense, #2 in rushing defense, #7 in total offense, #2 in total defense. They had at least 10 players on defense who played in the NFL, and one of those who didn't, All-American CB Walter Bailey, was 9th nationally in INTs with 7 returned for 114 yards and 2 TDs. Both of their QBs would see significant time in the NFL, Billy Joe Hobert and Mark Brunell (both were Rose Bowl MVPs at UW). Hobert was 11th in the nation in passing efficiency while his favorite target, Mario Bailey, caught 62 passes for 1037 yards and 17 TDs. His 102 points ranked him 6th nationally. Two of their TBs, Napoleon Kaufman and Beno Bryant, would go on to play in the NFL, but Bryant was always hampered by knee injuries. Their 3rd RB, and 2nd leading rusher, Jay Barry, scored 68 points off of 11 TDs and would author the season's key signature moment for the Huskies. Two TEs (Aaron Pierce and Mark Breuner) and 5 offensive lineman would also play in the NFL for this UW team.
In Lincoln, the 9th ranked Nebraska Cornhuskers had a shot to end the Huskies national championship dreams early, with a 21-9 3rd quarter lead. However, Bryant scored a TD, and Hobert scored a TD rushing and passing. Then, with the lead and just under 6 minutes left to play, Barry went 81 yards for the clinching TD. The game wasn't really close in the 4th quarter as the Huskies sealed the game with their dominant defense and superb speed on offense. Their lone close game came against Cal in Berkeley, where the undefeated and #7 Cal Bears played them to a 17-17 tie going into the 4th quarter. However, Bryant would proceed to dash 65 yards for a TD at the beginning of the 4th, ending any hopes of a Bears' upset. Then, in the Rose Bowl, #4 Michigan had no shot, even with Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard at FL/KR/PR. Note that Howard was in the top 15 in receiving yards and receptions per game, but had 1 catch for 35 yards. Mario Bailey put the icing on the cake with a diving TD catch in the 4th quarter and mocked Desmond Howard's infamous Heisman pose by striking one of his own. Tyrone Wheatley scored a 53 yard TD run late in the 4th quarter, which helped the Wolverines save face and they only lost 34-14. Michigan had 72 yards rushing overall, so that long TD run was the bulk of it. Nobody could match the Huskies all year, and thus, they finish #3 on this list.
#2 2001 Miami (FL) If we did this purely on who produced the most NFL talent, this Hurricanes squad would be very hard to beat. 19 of their 22 regular starters made the NFL, including 3 backup RBs, a backup TE, and a backup LB and DT. Now I call that depth. RBs Clinton Portis, Frank Gore and Willis McGahee combined for 2076 yards rushing and Portis had 11 TDs overall. Their TE, Jeremy Shockey, led the team in receiving, while SE Andre Johnson had 37 rec. for 682 yards and scored 10 TDs on the season. Ken Dorsey was a fantastic QB, throwing for over 2600 yards and 23 TDs. The real stars on offense however were the O-line led by Ts Bryant McKinnie and Joaquin Gonzalez and C Brett Romberg. On defense depth was everywhere with DL Jerome McDougle, William Joseph and Vince Wilfork. At LB, two 2nd year players, DJ Williams and Jonathan Vilma, were ball-hawking players who knew where to be at all times. The defense allowed only 9 points per game while giving up 13 TDs, and amazingly enough, the team scored 11 non-offensive TDs, so that almost washes out. Also, #13 Syracuse lost 59-0, and then #11 Washington got beat 65-7, the largest combined margin ever for a program over back-to-back ranked opponents. Now, onto the signature moments for this Miami squad.
Ed Reed could have been a good candidate for the 2nd defensive player ever to win the Heisman as he made the two biggest plays of the season. First, in an extremely close game at Boston College, the Eagles drove deep into 'Canes territory with under a minute to play. DT Matt Walters made an INT off of Eagles' QB Brian St. Pierre and went 10 yards, but then Reed stole the ball and went 80 yards for the decisive TD in an 18-7 win. In fact, here's the play... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02fppIV9pik
Also, in another tough contest against Virginia Tech, the Hokies final two drives ended on INTs by Reed, to give him 21 for his career at Miami and a school record. Sure, a drop by Hokies' WR Ernest Wilford on a 2-point conversion helped the 'Canes escape with a 26-24 victory in Blacksburg, but Miami had not won there since 1992, so it had become a house of horrors, and this team overcame it. Also, Miami had jumped out to a 20-3 halftime lead, so it was really only a lack of focus as to why the game was as close as it was. The 'Canes should get points taken away for beating one of the worst BCS championship game teams in history, the Nebraska Cornhuskers led by QB Eric Crouch, but that was the computer's fault, not Miami's. Johnson was the true star for the 'Canes with 7 rec. for 199 yards and a 49 yard TD that gave Miami a 7-0 lead. Then, Portis scampered 39 yards for another TD, followed by a 47 yard INT for a TD by S James Lewis. Shockey then caught a TD pass and Johnson followed up with his 2nd of the 1st half as the 'Canes needed 15 plays to score 4 offensive TDs. Miami eventually won 37-14 and had an easy 2nd half where the 'Huskers never got within 20 points.
#1 1995 Nebraska They were #4 in scoring defense and #2 in rushing defense, while leading the nation in rushing (399.8 yards per game), scoring (52.8 points per game) and #2 in total offense (556.3 yards per game). It was the offense that most people remember, led by perhaps the greatest option QB of all time, Tommie Frazier, and his backup Brook Berringer, who tragically died in a plane crash shortly after the season. Frazier threw for 1362 yards and 17 TDs while also scoring 14 TDs on the season and rushing for 604 yards. IB Ahman Green ran for 1086 yards and scored 16 TDs on the season while Lawrence Phillips, in his final, oft-controversial career at Nebraska, finished 547 yards (on just 71 carries, over 7 yards per carry). Even the receivers were dangerous, as WB Clester Johnson and SE Reggie Baul combined for 39 receptions for 671 yards, and over 17 yards per catch. Mark Gilman and Tim Carpenter were good TEs, but clearly they had depth at that position, as freshman Sheldon Jackson would later play in the NFL. On the offensive line, Ts Adam Treu and Chris Dishman would go on to the NFL, as would C Aaron Graham (all would play at least 7 years in the NFL). However, the real depth lie on defense. 6 defensive lineman would make the NFL eventually, including starters Jason and Christian Peter, and DEs Grant Wistrom and Jared Tomich. Also, backups Chad Kelsay and Mike Rucker would go on to fine NFL careers. The LB corps was a rotating bunch that liked to stay fresh and starters Jay Foreman, Doug Colman and Terrell Farley were outstanding (only Farley didn't make the NFL). Even backups at this position made the pros as Jamel Williams and Jon Hesse eventually got their shots. Another 6 DBs would also make the NFL as Michael Booker and Tyrone Williams were fantastic shut-down CBs and Tony Veland and Mike Minter were outstanding safeties. Eric Stokes and Eric Warfield, two future NFL guys only added to the amazing depth. That's 16 out of 22 players on the 2-deep chart who made the NFL, and that's just on defense. Ok, onto the big games and signature moments for Nebraska.
The only time the 'Huskers ever trailed during the regular season was against Washington State, and they pulled away in the 2nd half to win 35-21. Frazier threw for 148 yards and 4 TDs in a 49-25 beat-down of previously undefeated #8 Kansas State. #7 Colorado was at home for the 'Huskers the following week, but Frazier went to the Shotgun this time and threw TD passes to WBs Johnson and Abdul Mohammed. A 44-21 victory gave Nebraska the #1 spot in the AP poll the following day. The #10 Kansas Jayhawks at 8-1 hosted the 'Huskers two weeks later, but were dismantled after only rushing for 72 yards. WB Jon Vedral recovered a fumbled punt in the end zone, Frazier ran for 2 scores and threw for another and in the 4th quarter, DB Mike Fullman raced 86 yards for the clinching score in a 41-3 demolition. Keep in mind that at the end of the year Colorado would end up #5 in the country, Kansas St. 7, and Kansas 9, so its not like Nebraska's conference had all cupcakes. Even Iowa State wasn't completely pitiful as they had the first 2,000 yard rusher not to win the Heisman in Troy Davis, but the Cyclones got killed 73-14. To end the regular season, Nebraska shut out Oklahoma 37-0 to mercifully end the Howard Schnellenberger era in Norman. Then came the Fiesta Bowl and the showdown with #2 Florida.
I'm sorry, but this deserves its own paragraph as the Gators were undefeated, had the nation's leader in pass efficiency in Danny Wuerffel and four good receivers; Jacquez Green, Reidel Anthony, Chris Doering, and Ike Hilliard. They even had a three-headed monster of future NFL RBs who combined for over 1900 yards in Terry Jackson, Fred Taylor and Elijah Williams. Although their defensive stats weren't impressive, they had 4 future NFL LBs and a few in their secondary. Only Florida State and Auburn had really tested the Gators all season. Frazier got the 'Huskers an early 6-3 lead with a TD pass to IB Phillips, but Wuerffel sneaked in for a TD as the Gators regained the lead, 10-6. Then the 'Huskers came to life and were merciless. Phillips went 42 yards for a TD run and then Jamel Williams blitzed and sacked Wuerffel for a safety, 15-6 Nebraska. Freshman Green scored a TD after a long Frazier run and then Booker had a 43 yard INT returned for a TD. K Kris Brown added some FGs for a 35-10 lead at halftime. Frazier then tooka QB Draw 35 yards for a TD and then added his signature moment late in the 3rd quarter by breaking numerous tackles, bouncing off Gators like a pinball machine before being unleashed into the open field. He raced 75 yards for a TD and even looked back near the end of his run, making sure he had not just ignored a whistle, thinking the play had been blown dead since no one was near him. You could see his wide-eyed, ear-to-ear grin through the facemask as he was enjoying this coronation. The Gators would end up with minus-28 yards rushing and lose 62-24, the 2nd largest defeat for a team in a #1 vs. #2 matchup, the most being Army's 48-0 victory over Notre Dame in 1948. With their victory Nebraska became not only the first back-t0-back national champions since the 1970s and Bear Bryant's Alabama squad, but the greatest team of the modern era.
Thank you all for reading.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Week 4 Review
Dammit Boise St., you ruined my prediction and any hope of a big Pac-10 game down the line this year, such as Oregon vs. USC. Can we all agree now that the Pac-10 is horrible? I'm sure it's shocking since oh let's see, the last team to win a national title from that conference besides USC was... anyone? Washington in 1991. Before that I believe it's UCLA in 1954, but anyways, let's get on to the helmet stickers.
1. Clutch teams- Some of the big boys are showing their mettle and why they are among the best teams in the country. For starters, LSU won a great game in the prairie against Auburn thanks to freshman Jarrett Lee and some great play-calling. I had a feeling they wouldn't give up their national title without a fight, and that appears to be the case. Even though Florida State was horrible overrated going into last weekend, Wake Forest still had to go on the road and beat the Seminoles. The Demon Deacons defense looks great and will only look better against the rest of the ACC. Utah went on the road and beat a tough Air Force squad with seriously high hopes in the MWC. Is there any doubt the Falcons could be the 3rd best team outside of Utah and BYU at the end of the year in that conference? This is one of the few times when both teams should move up in the rankings after the game because neither side deserved to lose. And finally, we have Georgia who went into Sun Devil Stadium and burned Arizona State. Moreno and Stafford may make up the best backfield on their own. With all of the teams mentioned above, it just goes to show how important staying focused and taking care of business is on the road, and not just in conference play.
2. Just climb on my back, I'll take you home- That's right, a few certain RBs over the weekend basically told their teams to give them the ball, make a few blocks, and sit back and enjoy the ride. Good RBs just know how to take over and that is certainly what Javon Ringer did for Michigan State against Notre Dame. Ringer had 39 carries for 201 yards and 2 TDs and bruised and battered a supposedly good Irish defense. Here's the real key though, Brian Hoyer didn't have a chance to throw horrible INTs for MSU, which is just as important for the Spartans' success. From a big Big Ten winner to a Big Ten loser. The Indiana Hoosiers had no answer for MiQuale Lewis of Ball State this past weekend, as the oft-injured Lewis had 166 yards and 4 TDs on 29 carries. The key now is to use Lewis properly with the loss of superstar WR Dante Love for Ball State. This may have been a very costly win for the Cardinals. In other news, Terrell Fenroy of ULL (the Ragin' Cajun) had a monster day with 68 yards receiving and 194 yards and 3 TDs total. While his QB Michael Desormeaux had 403 yards rushing and passing, it was Fenroy's first TD that gave ULL a lead they wouldn't relinquish and his last TD put the game out of reach against Kent State in a 44-27 win. The biggest one man show in Div I-A however may be Donald Brown of UConn who had 150 yards and 2 TDs on 34 carries in a close scare against Baylor Friday night. Brown is averaging 28 carries for 178 yards and 2 1/2 TDs per game over the season. Who knows how long the productivity will last, but as long as it does, the Huskies have a realistic shot at another Big East title.
3. The Injury Bug- Sometimes one injury can cost a team a shot a national title, conference title, or even an easy trip to a bowl game. Dante Love's injury for Ball State was already mentioned, and that could be the costliest one of all as the Cardinals had a manageable regular season and a possible undefeated season within reach. For North Carolina the season was going quite well until TJ Yates limped off against VA Tech, and now, the Tar Heels may go from ACC title contender to hoping for bowl eligibility. Yates is only out 6 weeks and games against Virginia, Notre Dame and BC may be winnable, but it will take a huge emotional response from the team. Another team looking to establish respectability is the Northwestern Wildcats who can only hope do-it-all TB Tyrell Sutton will be healthy the rest of the year. I think the Wildcats can scratch and claw their way past Iowa this Saturday and then they get a bye week, but after that, the Big Ten gets tough with Michigan State and Purdue no pushovers at home, and a final 3 of Ohio State, Michigan, and Illinois. Yikes! NC State lost a starting QB and LB to injury, but sorry, I didn't see much hope for that program anyways. That East Carolina game may have been an aberration as the Pirates put a major bullseye on their back beating West Virginia and VA Tech. I mean heck, ECU barely beat Tulane the week before, so they weren't THAT good.
Well, that's all for now, soon the week 5 preview should be up and running. On a final note, congratulations to Vanderbilt for cracking the top 25 for the first time in 24 years. It would be great to see them make another bowl. Take care everyone, go Illinois this weekend.
1. Clutch teams- Some of the big boys are showing their mettle and why they are among the best teams in the country. For starters, LSU won a great game in the prairie against Auburn thanks to freshman Jarrett Lee and some great play-calling. I had a feeling they wouldn't give up their national title without a fight, and that appears to be the case. Even though Florida State was horrible overrated going into last weekend, Wake Forest still had to go on the road and beat the Seminoles. The Demon Deacons defense looks great and will only look better against the rest of the ACC. Utah went on the road and beat a tough Air Force squad with seriously high hopes in the MWC. Is there any doubt the Falcons could be the 3rd best team outside of Utah and BYU at the end of the year in that conference? This is one of the few times when both teams should move up in the rankings after the game because neither side deserved to lose. And finally, we have Georgia who went into Sun Devil Stadium and burned Arizona State. Moreno and Stafford may make up the best backfield on their own. With all of the teams mentioned above, it just goes to show how important staying focused and taking care of business is on the road, and not just in conference play.
2. Just climb on my back, I'll take you home- That's right, a few certain RBs over the weekend basically told their teams to give them the ball, make a few blocks, and sit back and enjoy the ride. Good RBs just know how to take over and that is certainly what Javon Ringer did for Michigan State against Notre Dame. Ringer had 39 carries for 201 yards and 2 TDs and bruised and battered a supposedly good Irish defense. Here's the real key though, Brian Hoyer didn't have a chance to throw horrible INTs for MSU, which is just as important for the Spartans' success. From a big Big Ten winner to a Big Ten loser. The Indiana Hoosiers had no answer for MiQuale Lewis of Ball State this past weekend, as the oft-injured Lewis had 166 yards and 4 TDs on 29 carries. The key now is to use Lewis properly with the loss of superstar WR Dante Love for Ball State. This may have been a very costly win for the Cardinals. In other news, Terrell Fenroy of ULL (the Ragin' Cajun) had a monster day with 68 yards receiving and 194 yards and 3 TDs total. While his QB Michael Desormeaux had 403 yards rushing and passing, it was Fenroy's first TD that gave ULL a lead they wouldn't relinquish and his last TD put the game out of reach against Kent State in a 44-27 win. The biggest one man show in Div I-A however may be Donald Brown of UConn who had 150 yards and 2 TDs on 34 carries in a close scare against Baylor Friday night. Brown is averaging 28 carries for 178 yards and 2 1/2 TDs per game over the season. Who knows how long the productivity will last, but as long as it does, the Huskies have a realistic shot at another Big East title.
3. The Injury Bug- Sometimes one injury can cost a team a shot a national title, conference title, or even an easy trip to a bowl game. Dante Love's injury for Ball State was already mentioned, and that could be the costliest one of all as the Cardinals had a manageable regular season and a possible undefeated season within reach. For North Carolina the season was going quite well until TJ Yates limped off against VA Tech, and now, the Tar Heels may go from ACC title contender to hoping for bowl eligibility. Yates is only out 6 weeks and games against Virginia, Notre Dame and BC may be winnable, but it will take a huge emotional response from the team. Another team looking to establish respectability is the Northwestern Wildcats who can only hope do-it-all TB Tyrell Sutton will be healthy the rest of the year. I think the Wildcats can scratch and claw their way past Iowa this Saturday and then they get a bye week, but after that, the Big Ten gets tough with Michigan State and Purdue no pushovers at home, and a final 3 of Ohio State, Michigan, and Illinois. Yikes! NC State lost a starting QB and LB to injury, but sorry, I didn't see much hope for that program anyways. That East Carolina game may have been an aberration as the Pirates put a major bullseye on their back beating West Virginia and VA Tech. I mean heck, ECU barely beat Tulane the week before, so they weren't THAT good.
Well, that's all for now, soon the week 5 preview should be up and running. On a final note, congratulations to Vanderbilt for cracking the top 25 for the first time in 24 years. It would be great to see them make another bowl. Take care everyone, go Illinois this weekend.
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