It's a busy morning here, but I wanted to get some initial quick thoughts down before I am lost to meetings until the early afternoon, during which I will give a full analysis of last night's game and Thursday's big game (plus give my bonus pick for the GMAC Bowl in the shameless promotion of one of our clients).
1. Colt McCoy should have won the Heisman Trophy. I posted about this earlier in the season, but it seems there is a new term out there worth mentioning, and that is the "word" Heisman-esque. Everyone seems to be searching for that Heisman-esque moment from a quarterback, and it is looking more and more like that is the ultimate criteria for voters. Yet among the three finalists, only Tebow and McCoy truly had these moments. And Tebow's was not so much one moment as his famed post game speech that led to his ridiculous numbers for the remainder of the season. What was Bradford's moment? That idiotic leap toward the end zone in an eventual blowout win of Okie State? He didn't even score! Meanwhile, Colt lead a 2 (now three) fourth quarter comebacks this year, one against Bradford and the Sooners and (HOLD YOUR BREATH) one against the Red Raiders. Unlike Tebow, who blew it on 4th and 1, Colt was watching from the sidelines as the defense rendered his efforts futile. On Monday, Colt showed again why he is the leading candidate for next year's Heisman trophy. Which leads me to point number 2...
2. Terrelle Pryor is incredible. He will definitely be in the mix for the next 3 Heisman trophies, and his team will be in the BCS Championship game in the near future. But heed this, oh Sweater Vest: be careful in Pryor's development. He could be a better overall quarterback than Vince Young if he is allowed to be. In the second half of the Fiesta Bowl, Pryor became a run-first guy. And it worked. And the more he realizes that running will help him win games, the more he will run. But he cannot afford to start thinking running is the only answer, given that he needs to work on his checks, mechanics and down field vision. He's not a great passer by any stretch, so I hope he develops that aspect of his game, because then he will truly be fun to watch.
3. Beanie Wells actually might have hurt his draft stock last night. His first half performance was leading to a game for the ages. But then he got hit and concussed in the second half. Another injury for the big running back. Is he durable enough for the NFL? There is a little of the Adrian Peterson caution aura around him that he might not be injury prone. He will likely need to fine tune his running style to limit big hits, or else he needs to work out a little harder. Beanie could be a top running back in the NFL, but he has to be healthy to get there.
4. Texas needs a running back. Chris Ogbannaya is a senior, and he was never hugely effective unless he was catching passes out of the backfield. Fozzy Whittaker has gamebreaking speed and runs a 4.4 40-yard dash, but he is small and has poor vision. Cody Johnson is a big boy, but not fast enough to be an every down back. Vondrell McGee didn't even see a snap last night (was he hurt?) As good as Colt is, someone needs to step up next season if the Longhorns are going to live up their inevitable pre-season hype. That someone could be a guy like DeSean Hales, a top 3 ATH recruit that red shirted this year and who has 4.3 speed. Hales is expected to see time at RB and WR. It could also be a combination of Fozzy and Chris Whaley, an incoming freshman who, at 6'3, 218 is already running 4.5 and had a great game at the Army All-American Bowl. If Whaley can run over people and wear down defenses while occasionally breaking a big run, it will take a lot of pressure off of Fozzy and Colt, allowing the run game to progress from what it was this year. And don't forget Vondrell. His year was up and down this season, but there were times (more so in 2007) where he showed he can be an explosive back.
5. Todd Boeckman throws a good ball. If he could just work on his footwork, he actually could succeed in the NFL. The problem is he never moves from the pocket and can't throw on the run. Some conditioning and reps can really help him here. He made some really good throws yesterday, despite being Brian Orakpo's tackling dummy.
6. I will really miss college football. This time of the year is the dark ages. But we can already look forward to next year. And I think the teams to beat will be Florida, Texas, Alabama and USC. Expect a lot more on these predictions later, as well as more game analysis, recruiting updates and a live title game blog. And also look for us to debate why Utah does/does not deserve to be a national champion, but certainly does deserve to be considered.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Monday, January 5, 2009
Fiesta Bowl Live Blog
Welcome to the Fiesta Bowl. Unfortunately, this game features a Big 10 team, so I did not rush through my dinner to open my computer. I'll open with first quarter thoughts from me and D Brown (who is suffering from (James) Laurenitis and can't reach a computer), and hopefully Hoogs will bribe Time Warner in order to join us in the second half.
Predictions this game:
Uncle D: Texas by 28
Hoogs: Texas 36-14
Brooks: Any score that will keep the Big 10 in the BCS next year. Let's say, Texas by 14
First Quarter Thoughts
-- Pryor looks good early. Some nice intermediate throws, but an incredibly impressive run for a first down on 3rd and 11 where he broke three tackles after failing to find an open receiver. Thankfully, his stride isn't nearly as duck-like as his throws downfield. No word on if he whispered "Vince who?" to Mack Brown as he went back to the huddle.
-- Per Uncle D: "Jim Tressell hands out buckeyes like monopoly money."
-- Colt McCoy, as expected, looks really sharp. Hoogs is frustrated by the lack of a run game early for the Longhorns. By the way, did you know McCoy and Jordan Shipley are both friends, roommates, and teammates? This is breaking news!
-- The announcers let us know that after giving up 0 first quarter points, it is fair to assume Jim Tressell is pleased with his defense. Somewhere, however, Craig James is criticizing McCoy as "simply another Big 12 QB who can't my find my son open in the flat."
-- It's now 3-3 early in the second where I pick up
-- I'm confused by both coaches demeanors. Both Mack Brown and Jim Tressell are normally very cool on the sideline, but tonight both look angry and are yelling at their players. My guess: they are hoping Will Muschamp will let them sit at the "cool" table postgame if they show some rage
10:11 in the 2nd
Beanie Wells is having a really solid start to this game. He's broken two long runs and just picked up a big first down on a screen pass after Pryor followed the suggestion on the Mom in "Rookie of the Year and simply "Float[ed] It" over the heads of the Texas D Line
7:06 in the 2nd
Wells continues to run like a Top 10 Pick in the NFL Draft is waiting for him in the end zone. Another 20 yard run puts the Buckeyes in the Red Zone for the first time tonight. Old Spice-- looks like you're missing out on a valuable marketing opportunity . . .
5:39 in the 2nd
Jim Tressell once again shows why he's the WNBA of bowl game coaches. They may not be flashy on offense or successful in the end zone, but he will field goal the shit out of you (he has already attempted 3 tonight). 6-3 Buckeyes after OSU fails to convert a 3rd and 2 from the Texas 6.
By the way, what the hell is "G"? This commercial confuses the hell out of me. I think it has to do with athletics, but suddenly there's a random kid and the Jaborwakeez Dance Team at the end. I think it's Gatorade, but after watching season 2 of the Wire and seeing Avon in prison, I'm not exactly sure I want to know if "G is in me."
Hoogs is concerned with the lack of confidence in the demeanor of the Texas offense, that the D is not staying in lanes, but more importantly, about what the hell a "Vondrell McGee" and "Fozzy Whittaker" are. All he knows is that they certainly aren't running backs
5:34 in the 2nd
Scary moment as an Ohio State senior is getting carted off on a head board. Thoughts go out to him and we hope it's not serious
5:15 in the 2nd
McCoy hits his "room mate, best friend, and the only man who understands him and his touch" Jordan Shipley for a big conversion on 3rd and 10. Finally, the UT line gave McCoy some time and actually gave him a play off from getting popped in the mouth
Brad: Ohio State is winning the battle of the trenches so far tonight on both sides of the ball
2:32 in the 2nd
Tonights halftime show is brought to you by Southwest Airlines. Feel free to "Want to Get Away" and watch Comedy Central on the break. I'm sure they'll have Britney Smith and Aerosmith-- and you will be confused.
2:25 in the 2nd
Huge play. While I admire Mack Brown for pulling his sack out by going for it on 4th and 7 to show Jim Tressell what giant balls look like, it leads to a big sack for the Buckeyes. They now get the ball at midfield with plenty of time before the half. I can't tell if Hoogs is screaming or whimpering-- he lives in New York City plus I have double paned glass windows.
1:03 in the 2nd
Jim Tressell once again shows that he's never met a momentum swing he couldn't slowly suffocate until it stopped twitching. After the big turnover on downs, the Buckeyes are stymied after only one first down and is forced to punt. This game is like Washington and Lee football-- it's all about the kicking game.
:04 Left in the 2nd
Unfortunately for Texas, Colt McCoy has also seen Rookie of the Year. McCoy floats a pass while back pedaling from his own 9 yard line that gets picked off. So far the best offense we've seen all game are the eyes Colt McCoy's Dad is giving Colt's girlfriends in the stands.
6-3 Ohio State at the Half
Halftime Chatter
-- I've learned that Anderson Russell, the Ohio State player who just came through with that big INT at the end of the half, is apparently also from Atlanta and went to a high school (Marist School) that is a rival of the school at which I work. Basically, I think that makes us best friends. Guess who I'm friending on facebook tonight . . .
-- Barry Switzer is apparently toning it down slightly tonight. The pin stripes on his suit are only wide enough to hold enough coke to get him high, not the entire 1985 Oklahoma Sooners offensive line
-- I can't tell which teams marching band has the more effeminate uniforms. One teams has tassells, not on strippers ta-tas, but on their shirts. The other wear's berets. . . like a Frenchmen. Both schools should be almost as embarrassed by these uniforms as they are by their offenses performances in the red zone.
-- Brad gave me these thoughts on what Texas needs to do: actually block on the O line so McCoy stops getting popped like vicodin in Brett Favre's medicine cabinet, actually put in a running back with speed to diversify the offense, and find some way to keep Pryor in the pocket.
-- My suggestions for Ohio State: get some red zone efficiency, try to completely a pass downfield, and most importantly, hope that Jim Tressell of 2001 travels through time and kills 2009 Tressell (like a Terminator) in order to save Big 10 football
11:38 in the 3rd
I love the way that Mack Brown is coaching this game so far. First, he goes for it on 4th and 7 late in the 2nd quarter. Then, goes for it again on 4th and 1 on his opening drive of the second half. Now, after his drive stutters at midfield, he fakes the punt and gets just enough from the direct snap to the upback. Those are testicles in his pants, sweater vest.
9:26 in the 3rd
4th and 1, and he goes for it again! And-- shock!-- the football gods reward him with another conversion. Somewhere, ESPN's TMQB is beaming. This is awesome
8:29 in the 3rd
McCoy scores on a 15 yard QB draw, capped with him tapping B Button to spin around the helpless OSU defensive back. What's most impressive about this drive is that it took 15 plays. That's a lot of plays for a single drive, and could really come back to haunt OSU later in the game. I hate to sound like I'm plagiarizing Phil Simms' "Phil"osophy (trademark CBS Sports, 2002), but this next drive is big for both teams
10-6 Texas
6:58 in the 3rd
Terrelle Pryor is apparently dead set on leading the Buckeyes to a miraculous 4th quarter come back, because he throws his third down pass which puts the OSU defense back on the field after a quick 3 and out.
5:50 in the 3rd
After Texas seemed to be driving once again, a foolish grounding call and a horrible running play leaves the Longhorns with a 4th and 36. It not only gives the Buckeyes the ball, but it also seems to throw off the chess match between these two mediocre coaching minds as the Buckeyes now own the "field position game." 1rst and 10 Buckeyes at midfield. In order to match this ineptitude by Brown, I'm sure Tressell will opt to take the knee three times and punt to pin the Longhorns deep.
3:50 in the 3rd
Oh my god. I was just kidding when I said that, but the Buckeyes just went 3 plays for zero yards and punted to put the Horns at their own 15. That . . . that is Big 10 football
2:33 in the 3rd
Shipley has another nice grab, but is unable to get any yards after the catch once again. Hopefully by the time he's on his 16the year of eligibility, he'll have the speed to break one of those tackles. Texas is driving again on the Buckeye's defense with ease both passing the ball-- and new for the second half: running the ball!
1:04 in the 3rd
Remember what I said about that opening drive? Well, the Buckeyes were so tired they didn't even both to get in their stance at the end of that drive. McCoy hits Cosby for a 7 yard TD on the play. I'm about to give up on this game.
17-6 Longhorns
14:52 in the 4th
Todd Boekman denies all the odds and completes what I can only assume his first collegiate pass. Brian Robiskie also made an amazing grab on the play-- if he Dad could coach as well as Brian can catch, his Dad would be doing better than waiting to be the next interim coach of the Washington Redskins
13:22 in the 4th
This may be difficult to imagine, but stay with me here. After an awful pass by Boekman on first down, a Beanie Wells run straight up the middle for two yards, and a woefully under thrown pass by Pryor that should've been picked off, the Buckeyes settle for a field goal in the red zone. This is certainly unprecedented. And watchable
10:06 in the 4th
Here's a rule question for all of you out there. I've just watched the Texas punter roll out for the fifth time tonight before punting. The question is: why doesn't Ohio State just unload on the guy? Once he rolls out of the pocket, aren't they allowed to hit him since it could be a fake? Wouldn't knocking 3 punters out of the game possibly help Ohio State?
9:20 Left in the 4th
Well, it took 21 minutes, but they finally decided to have Pryor run the ball this half. Shockingly, it is a pickup for a startling 16 yards. Next play: play action screen to the tight end. Naturally.
8:26 in the 4th
Pryor just runs for another 26 yard gain. That sound you just heard was every defensive coordinator in the country vomit in fear of having to scheme for this kid for another three years.
It's OK, Texas fans, I'm sure this drive will end in a field goal.
7:26 Left in the 4th
So maybe this will be a game. After lining up Pryor at WR multiple times throughout the game, they finally throw the fade to him with Boekman at QB. Unfortunately, this happens just as the announcers were wondering allowed if the Buckeyes would run the play, so they now believe they are competent at their jobs.
On the two point attempt, shockingly, Pryor's throw off his back foot is about a yard and a half short of its target. Consistency is key I guess.
17-15 Texas
3:59 Left in the 4th
The announcers once again just showed their brilliance, as after three and a half quarters they have finally caught on to the fact that Pryor's a running quarterback: "If I'm Texas and Pryor is in the game, I'm going to try to stop the run." No word yet on if they've figured out Texas is the team in red jerseys.
2:06 in the 4th
Back up running back Daniel Herron scores on a 15 yard scamper off the left tackle with no one in the secondary around to help out the Texas front 7.
On the 2 point conversion, there are off setting pass interference penalties on Pryor and the DB covering him. I've never seen that before in my life. When was the last time you saw a 2 pointer replayed from the 2.
On the replay, a wide open TE Rory Nichol drops Pyror's pass in the end zone.
21-17 Ohio State.
2:05 in the 4th
Well, we've just been told the BCS implications of a Ohio State upset are "staggering." Yes, I was really being kept up all night wondering if Texas or Utah was going to be the #3 team in the final poll. Jeez, let the game stand on it's own. 2 minutes left and a 4 point game between two Top 10 teams-- how is that not dramatic enough for you?
:38 Left in the 4th
Texas completes a pass on 4th and 3 right at the yard stick. Currently, both coaches are going ape shit over the spot of the ball. Texas hated the original spot of the ref's foot (the pass was completed on their sideline), Ohio State flipped out when the ball was actually placed.
Chains say first down Texas at the 40, but Ohio State is going to challenge. I don't know which Coach is more surprised to learn that they can make a challenge in the bowl game.
Ruling stands on the field, which both announcers say they agree with. Sorry, Hoogs, I can only assume then that the refs blew it.
:16 Left in the 4th
Wow. Texas hits Cosby on a quick slant with no safety help deep, he breaks the tackle and runs in for a 20 yard touchdown run. Great read by McCoy.
What's interesting is that Texas is up by a field goal, but they also drew an unsportsmanlike penalty call after the play. This gives the Buckeye's an extra 15 yards of field position off the kick since Teas is kicking from their own 15, with 2 TO and a kicker who already made one 50+ field goal. This is a great game.
Those two missed 2 point conversions for OSU are looming large now. If they made one and got the other extra point, it's a tie game. Hindsight.
24-21 Ohio State.
:11 Left in the 4th
Ohio State returns the kick to it's own 45, so they'll need roughly 20 yards on 2 play max to get into field goal range.
:05 Left in the 4th
Well, Orakpo has made his presence known, as he is somehow able to track down nimble Todd Boekman for a sack in the backfield. Next for Orakpo after this demonstration of pure speed and athletic ability? An obstacle race again Ussein Bolt.
Game Over
In a pass that perfectly sums up his career at Ohio State, Boeckman's pass lands 15 yards short of the end zone and is batted down by the Texas DB's. A great ending to an entertaining 4th quarter. See you all Thursday for the national title game.
Predictions this game:
Uncle D: Texas by 28
Hoogs: Texas 36-14
Brooks: Any score that will keep the Big 10 in the BCS next year. Let's say, Texas by 14
First Quarter Thoughts
-- Pryor looks good early. Some nice intermediate throws, but an incredibly impressive run for a first down on 3rd and 11 where he broke three tackles after failing to find an open receiver. Thankfully, his stride isn't nearly as duck-like as his throws downfield. No word on if he whispered "Vince who?" to Mack Brown as he went back to the huddle.
-- Per Uncle D: "Jim Tressell hands out buckeyes like monopoly money."
-- Colt McCoy, as expected, looks really sharp. Hoogs is frustrated by the lack of a run game early for the Longhorns. By the way, did you know McCoy and Jordan Shipley are both friends, roommates, and teammates? This is breaking news!
-- The announcers let us know that after giving up 0 first quarter points, it is fair to assume Jim Tressell is pleased with his defense. Somewhere, however, Craig James is criticizing McCoy as "simply another Big 12 QB who can't my find my son open in the flat."
-- It's now 3-3 early in the second where I pick up
-- I'm confused by both coaches demeanors. Both Mack Brown and Jim Tressell are normally very cool on the sideline, but tonight both look angry and are yelling at their players. My guess: they are hoping Will Muschamp will let them sit at the "cool" table postgame if they show some rage
10:11 in the 2nd
Beanie Wells is having a really solid start to this game. He's broken two long runs and just picked up a big first down on a screen pass after Pryor followed the suggestion on the Mom in "Rookie of the Year and simply "Float[ed] It" over the heads of the Texas D Line
7:06 in the 2nd
Wells continues to run like a Top 10 Pick in the NFL Draft is waiting for him in the end zone. Another 20 yard run puts the Buckeyes in the Red Zone for the first time tonight. Old Spice-- looks like you're missing out on a valuable marketing opportunity . . .
5:39 in the 2nd
Jim Tressell once again shows why he's the WNBA of bowl game coaches. They may not be flashy on offense or successful in the end zone, but he will field goal the shit out of you (he has already attempted 3 tonight). 6-3 Buckeyes after OSU fails to convert a 3rd and 2 from the Texas 6.
By the way, what the hell is "G"? This commercial confuses the hell out of me. I think it has to do with athletics, but suddenly there's a random kid and the Jaborwakeez Dance Team at the end. I think it's Gatorade, but after watching season 2 of the Wire and seeing Avon in prison, I'm not exactly sure I want to know if "G is in me."
Hoogs is concerned with the lack of confidence in the demeanor of the Texas offense, that the D is not staying in lanes, but more importantly, about what the hell a "Vondrell McGee" and "Fozzy Whittaker" are. All he knows is that they certainly aren't running backs
5:34 in the 2nd
Scary moment as an Ohio State senior is getting carted off on a head board. Thoughts go out to him and we hope it's not serious
5:15 in the 2nd
McCoy hits his "room mate, best friend, and the only man who understands him and his touch" Jordan Shipley for a big conversion on 3rd and 10. Finally, the UT line gave McCoy some time and actually gave him a play off from getting popped in the mouth
Brad: Ohio State is winning the battle of the trenches so far tonight on both sides of the ball
2:32 in the 2nd
Tonights halftime show is brought to you by Southwest Airlines. Feel free to "Want to Get Away" and watch Comedy Central on the break. I'm sure they'll have Britney Smith and Aerosmith-- and you will be confused.
2:25 in the 2nd
Huge play. While I admire Mack Brown for pulling his sack out by going for it on 4th and 7 to show Jim Tressell what giant balls look like, it leads to a big sack for the Buckeyes. They now get the ball at midfield with plenty of time before the half. I can't tell if Hoogs is screaming or whimpering-- he lives in New York City plus I have double paned glass windows.
1:03 in the 2nd
Jim Tressell once again shows that he's never met a momentum swing he couldn't slowly suffocate until it stopped twitching. After the big turnover on downs, the Buckeyes are stymied after only one first down and is forced to punt. This game is like Washington and Lee football-- it's all about the kicking game.
:04 Left in the 2nd
Unfortunately for Texas, Colt McCoy has also seen Rookie of the Year. McCoy floats a pass while back pedaling from his own 9 yard line that gets picked off. So far the best offense we've seen all game are the eyes Colt McCoy's Dad is giving Colt's girlfriends in the stands.
6-3 Ohio State at the Half
Halftime Chatter
-- I've learned that Anderson Russell, the Ohio State player who just came through with that big INT at the end of the half, is apparently also from Atlanta and went to a high school (Marist School) that is a rival of the school at which I work. Basically, I think that makes us best friends. Guess who I'm friending on facebook tonight . . .
-- Barry Switzer is apparently toning it down slightly tonight. The pin stripes on his suit are only wide enough to hold enough coke to get him high, not the entire 1985 Oklahoma Sooners offensive line
-- I can't tell which teams marching band has the more effeminate uniforms. One teams has tassells, not on strippers ta-tas, but on their shirts. The other wear's berets. . . like a Frenchmen. Both schools should be almost as embarrassed by these uniforms as they are by their offenses performances in the red zone.
-- Brad gave me these thoughts on what Texas needs to do: actually block on the O line so McCoy stops getting popped like vicodin in Brett Favre's medicine cabinet, actually put in a running back with speed to diversify the offense, and find some way to keep Pryor in the pocket.
-- My suggestions for Ohio State: get some red zone efficiency, try to completely a pass downfield, and most importantly, hope that Jim Tressell of 2001 travels through time and kills 2009 Tressell (like a Terminator) in order to save Big 10 football
11:38 in the 3rd
I love the way that Mack Brown is coaching this game so far. First, he goes for it on 4th and 7 late in the 2nd quarter. Then, goes for it again on 4th and 1 on his opening drive of the second half. Now, after his drive stutters at midfield, he fakes the punt and gets just enough from the direct snap to the upback. Those are testicles in his pants, sweater vest.
9:26 in the 3rd
4th and 1, and he goes for it again! And-- shock!-- the football gods reward him with another conversion. Somewhere, ESPN's TMQB is beaming. This is awesome
8:29 in the 3rd
McCoy scores on a 15 yard QB draw, capped with him tapping B Button to spin around the helpless OSU defensive back. What's most impressive about this drive is that it took 15 plays. That's a lot of plays for a single drive, and could really come back to haunt OSU later in the game. I hate to sound like I'm plagiarizing Phil Simms' "Phil"osophy (trademark CBS Sports, 2002), but this next drive is big for both teams
10-6 Texas
6:58 in the 3rd
Terrelle Pryor is apparently dead set on leading the Buckeyes to a miraculous 4th quarter come back, because he throws his third down pass which puts the OSU defense back on the field after a quick 3 and out.
5:50 in the 3rd
After Texas seemed to be driving once again, a foolish grounding call and a horrible running play leaves the Longhorns with a 4th and 36. It not only gives the Buckeyes the ball, but it also seems to throw off the chess match between these two mediocre coaching minds as the Buckeyes now own the "field position game." 1rst and 10 Buckeyes at midfield. In order to match this ineptitude by Brown, I'm sure Tressell will opt to take the knee three times and punt to pin the Longhorns deep.
3:50 in the 3rd
Oh my god. I was just kidding when I said that, but the Buckeyes just went 3 plays for zero yards and punted to put the Horns at their own 15. That . . . that is Big 10 football
2:33 in the 3rd
Shipley has another nice grab, but is unable to get any yards after the catch once again. Hopefully by the time he's on his 16the year of eligibility, he'll have the speed to break one of those tackles. Texas is driving again on the Buckeye's defense with ease both passing the ball-- and new for the second half: running the ball!
1:04 in the 3rd
Remember what I said about that opening drive? Well, the Buckeyes were so tired they didn't even both to get in their stance at the end of that drive. McCoy hits Cosby for a 7 yard TD on the play. I'm about to give up on this game.
17-6 Longhorns
14:52 in the 4th
Todd Boekman denies all the odds and completes what I can only assume his first collegiate pass. Brian Robiskie also made an amazing grab on the play-- if he Dad could coach as well as Brian can catch, his Dad would be doing better than waiting to be the next interim coach of the Washington Redskins
13:22 in the 4th
This may be difficult to imagine, but stay with me here. After an awful pass by Boekman on first down, a Beanie Wells run straight up the middle for two yards, and a woefully under thrown pass by Pryor that should've been picked off, the Buckeyes settle for a field goal in the red zone. This is certainly unprecedented. And watchable
10:06 in the 4th
Here's a rule question for all of you out there. I've just watched the Texas punter roll out for the fifth time tonight before punting. The question is: why doesn't Ohio State just unload on the guy? Once he rolls out of the pocket, aren't they allowed to hit him since it could be a fake? Wouldn't knocking 3 punters out of the game possibly help Ohio State?
9:20 Left in the 4th
Well, it took 21 minutes, but they finally decided to have Pryor run the ball this half. Shockingly, it is a pickup for a startling 16 yards. Next play: play action screen to the tight end. Naturally.
8:26 in the 4th
Pryor just runs for another 26 yard gain. That sound you just heard was every defensive coordinator in the country vomit in fear of having to scheme for this kid for another three years.
It's OK, Texas fans, I'm sure this drive will end in a field goal.
7:26 Left in the 4th
So maybe this will be a game. After lining up Pryor at WR multiple times throughout the game, they finally throw the fade to him with Boekman at QB. Unfortunately, this happens just as the announcers were wondering allowed if the Buckeyes would run the play, so they now believe they are competent at their jobs.
On the two point attempt, shockingly, Pryor's throw off his back foot is about a yard and a half short of its target. Consistency is key I guess.
17-15 Texas
3:59 Left in the 4th
The announcers once again just showed their brilliance, as after three and a half quarters they have finally caught on to the fact that Pryor's a running quarterback: "If I'm Texas and Pryor is in the game, I'm going to try to stop the run." No word yet on if they've figured out Texas is the team in red jerseys.
2:06 in the 4th
Back up running back Daniel Herron scores on a 15 yard scamper off the left tackle with no one in the secondary around to help out the Texas front 7.
On the 2 point conversion, there are off setting pass interference penalties on Pryor and the DB covering him. I've never seen that before in my life. When was the last time you saw a 2 pointer replayed from the 2.
On the replay, a wide open TE Rory Nichol drops Pyror's pass in the end zone.
21-17 Ohio State.
2:05 in the 4th
Well, we've just been told the BCS implications of a Ohio State upset are "staggering." Yes, I was really being kept up all night wondering if Texas or Utah was going to be the #3 team in the final poll. Jeez, let the game stand on it's own. 2 minutes left and a 4 point game between two Top 10 teams-- how is that not dramatic enough for you?
:38 Left in the 4th
Texas completes a pass on 4th and 3 right at the yard stick. Currently, both coaches are going ape shit over the spot of the ball. Texas hated the original spot of the ref's foot (the pass was completed on their sideline), Ohio State flipped out when the ball was actually placed.
Chains say first down Texas at the 40, but Ohio State is going to challenge. I don't know which Coach is more surprised to learn that they can make a challenge in the bowl game.
Ruling stands on the field, which both announcers say they agree with. Sorry, Hoogs, I can only assume then that the refs blew it.
:16 Left in the 4th
Wow. Texas hits Cosby on a quick slant with no safety help deep, he breaks the tackle and runs in for a 20 yard touchdown run. Great read by McCoy.
What's interesting is that Texas is up by a field goal, but they also drew an unsportsmanlike penalty call after the play. This gives the Buckeye's an extra 15 yards of field position off the kick since Teas is kicking from their own 15, with 2 TO and a kicker who already made one 50+ field goal. This is a great game.
Those two missed 2 point conversions for OSU are looming large now. If they made one and got the other extra point, it's a tie game. Hindsight.
24-21 Ohio State.
:11 Left in the 4th
Ohio State returns the kick to it's own 45, so they'll need roughly 20 yards on 2 play max to get into field goal range.
:05 Left in the 4th
Well, Orakpo has made his presence known, as he is somehow able to track down nimble Todd Boekman for a sack in the backfield. Next for Orakpo after this demonstration of pure speed and athletic ability? An obstacle race again Ussein Bolt.
Game Over
In a pass that perfectly sums up his career at Ohio State, Boeckman's pass lands 15 yards short of the end zone and is batted down by the Texas DB's. A great ending to an entertaining 4th quarter. See you all Thursday for the national title game.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Media, You Always Surprise Me
More thoughts on Utah's terrific performance against Alabama tonight, but before we get there we have to cover the bigger story. It was a huge race to see which media member would be the first doucher to exclaim, "Man, if only Utah could play in the next round next week!"
Well, ladies and gentlemen, your winner is: Matt Wiener, who said this statement on ESPN at 11:55 pm EST. No word yet on whether he killed Steve Berthume in Bristol before stealing his exact facial structure
Well, ladies and gentlemen, your winner is: Matt Wiener, who said this statement on ESPN at 11:55 pm EST. No word yet on whether he killed Steve Berthume in Bristol before stealing his exact facial structure
The Beauty of Karma
Now, allow me to open by saying that in many ways this is a bitter and unfair post. When I was 19, I was stupid. I made bad decisions, I said stupid things, but luckily being a pledge at a small school wasn't exactly being a "public figure" so my indiscretions rarely made national news. Well, except once. But we don't bring that up.
The good thing for me was, in the end, I learned from these moments. Even when I got away with stupid things, something happened later on that made me realize my previous mistakes. It's karma. If you don't know what that is, take 24 minutes and watch an episode of "My Name is Earl." Then watch Mallrats, and please explain to tell me what the hell happened to Jason Lee's career. He's the Steve Spurrier of actors. They both were great 5-10 years ago. Now, you'd think it's still going well for them-- Lee has a hit primetime sitcom, while Spurrier is coaching a January 1 bowl-bound SEC team. But it only takes 30 minutes of watching either to realize something has gone terribly wrong for both men.
You'd think both of these men are currently successful, but you'd be wrong
So this week, we got to see two examples of karma at work with young quarterbacks. First, there was Michigan recruit Shavodrick Beaver (Disclaimer: I'm a bitter Michigan fan here. Not only does Michigan desperately need a ton of QB recruits to run RichRod's system, but look at his name! Shavodrick Beaver! The first name is enough, but to also add the possibility of shouting "Let's Go Beaver!' or "Beaver Scores" or "It's a cold one here in Ann Arbor, let's hope Beaver's got his fur!" Endless!). Beaver announced just before Christmas, and two weeks before he was supposed to arrive on campus, that he was changing his commitment from Michigan to Tulsa. One of the four best programs in college football history to a Conference USA team. Shocking, but after Tulsa's offense exploded under first year coordinator Gus Malzahn, not all that surprising. I mean, I'd prefer to play under the guy that made Pat White a Heisman contender as opposed to the guy that made Mitch Mustain a back up at USC, but that's just me.
So as a Michigan fan, I was thrilled to see karma come through for me shortly after Beaver's announcement (Beaver's announcement! Tell me you didn't giggle. Man, so close to greatness), another report came out: Malzahn was leaving Tulsa to bring the spread to Gene Chizik's Auburn staff. So, in short, he backed out of his commitment to Michigan at the last possible moment and too late to get another early enrollment QB into Ann Arbor, which was a cheap move, to play for a coach who ditched him at the last possible moment for a BCS job. Karma. I wish Beaver well at Tulsa, but hope his success there comes no where near the success of Tate Forcier at Michigan.
I will save my laughter that Chizik is trying to bring in a spread offense one year after Tony Franklin's spread marked the end of the Tuberville-era on the Plains for a later date.
Karma appeared again this past week in southern Florida. Freshmen quarterback Robert Marve demanded and received his release from Hurricane's coach Randy Shannon. Why did he demand his release? Because he's livid that coach Randy Shannon suspended him, not once, but twice this season. The first time was because Marve was arrested for "resisting arrest without violence and criminal mischief" in the off season. He was then suspended for the Emerald Bowl after he missed his fourth class of the semester-- he claims he was just late after meeting with another professor, which as a former TA, I believe as much as I believe that Britney Spears lost all that weight without the natural energy boost of 3 grams of coke per day-- which prompted his demand to be released.
Coach Shannon granted him this release, but with simple restrictions: you can't go anywhere in the SEC, ACC, or Florida. Simply put, Shannon said you can't go anywhere where we might play you in the regular season. When Marve found out he wasn't getting his way, his family and his high school coach both lost it. They called it bitter and spiteful move by Shannon, I call it Karma. If you're going to demand your release to a school because you screwed up, you don't get to do whatever you want. If you hurt the team by getting suspended, the team may hurt you. Notre Dame told football and lacrosse player Will Yeatman that he was allowed to transfer to any school not on Notre Dame's 2009 football or lacrosse schedule. Shannon essentially told Marve the same thing. I don't want to pile on Marve, because again, I am still young and stupid, but I hope Shannon has taught him a lesson about earning what you want in life. This will hopefully make him a better citizen and teammate where ever he ends up, meaning that he learned from this run in with Karma.
The good thing for me was, in the end, I learned from these moments. Even when I got away with stupid things, something happened later on that made me realize my previous mistakes. It's karma. If you don't know what that is, take 24 minutes and watch an episode of "My Name is Earl." Then watch Mallrats, and please explain to tell me what the hell happened to Jason Lee's career. He's the Steve Spurrier of actors. They both were great 5-10 years ago. Now, you'd think it's still going well for them-- Lee has a hit primetime sitcom, while Spurrier is coaching a January 1 bowl-bound SEC team. But it only takes 30 minutes of watching either to realize something has gone terribly wrong for both men.
You'd think both of these men are currently successful, but you'd be wrongSo this week, we got to see two examples of karma at work with young quarterbacks. First, there was Michigan recruit Shavodrick Beaver (Disclaimer: I'm a bitter Michigan fan here. Not only does Michigan desperately need a ton of QB recruits to run RichRod's system, but look at his name! Shavodrick Beaver! The first name is enough, but to also add the possibility of shouting "Let's Go Beaver!' or "Beaver Scores" or "It's a cold one here in Ann Arbor, let's hope Beaver's got his fur!" Endless!). Beaver announced just before Christmas, and two weeks before he was supposed to arrive on campus, that he was changing his commitment from Michigan to Tulsa. One of the four best programs in college football history to a Conference USA team. Shocking, but after Tulsa's offense exploded under first year coordinator Gus Malzahn, not all that surprising. I mean, I'd prefer to play under the guy that made Pat White a Heisman contender as opposed to the guy that made Mitch Mustain a back up at USC, but that's just me.
So as a Michigan fan, I was thrilled to see karma come through for me shortly after Beaver's announcement (Beaver's announcement! Tell me you didn't giggle. Man, so close to greatness), another report came out: Malzahn was leaving Tulsa to bring the spread to Gene Chizik's Auburn staff. So, in short, he backed out of his commitment to Michigan at the last possible moment and too late to get another early enrollment QB into Ann Arbor, which was a cheap move, to play for a coach who ditched him at the last possible moment for a BCS job. Karma. I wish Beaver well at Tulsa, but hope his success there comes no where near the success of Tate Forcier at Michigan.
I will save my laughter that Chizik is trying to bring in a spread offense one year after Tony Franklin's spread marked the end of the Tuberville-era on the Plains for a later date.
Karma appeared again this past week in southern Florida. Freshmen quarterback Robert Marve demanded and received his release from Hurricane's coach Randy Shannon. Why did he demand his release? Because he's livid that coach Randy Shannon suspended him, not once, but twice this season. The first time was because Marve was arrested for "resisting arrest without violence and criminal mischief" in the off season. He was then suspended for the Emerald Bowl after he missed his fourth class of the semester-- he claims he was just late after meeting with another professor, which as a former TA, I believe as much as I believe that Britney Spears lost all that weight without the natural energy boost of 3 grams of coke per day-- which prompted his demand to be released.
Coach Shannon granted him this release, but with simple restrictions: you can't go anywhere in the SEC, ACC, or Florida. Simply put, Shannon said you can't go anywhere where we might play you in the regular season. When Marve found out he wasn't getting his way, his family and his high school coach both lost it. They called it bitter and spiteful move by Shannon, I call it Karma. If you're going to demand your release to a school because you screwed up, you don't get to do whatever you want. If you hurt the team by getting suspended, the team may hurt you. Notre Dame told football and lacrosse player Will Yeatman that he was allowed to transfer to any school not on Notre Dame's 2009 football or lacrosse schedule. Shannon essentially told Marve the same thing. I don't want to pile on Marve, because again, I am still young and stupid, but I hope Shannon has taught him a lesson about earning what you want in life. This will hopefully make him a better citizen and teammate where ever he ends up, meaning that he learned from this run in with Karma.
Tennessee Update
After 6 weeks or so of speculation, Lane Kiffin has brought on the second key figure to his coaching staff in Knoxville. Ed Orgeron officially joined the Volunteers staff yesterday, under the title of defensive line coach and recruiting coordinator.
I've pointed out earlier that I think brining Orgeron onto the staff was a huge coup for Kiffin. Orgeron is a terrific recruiter who has successfully brought top talent to teams both on the West Coast and the SEC. He'll immediately help Kiffin with his '09 class, but especially his class in 2010 after Orgeron has a full year to sway high school players back to Rocky Top.
January 2nd Bowl Games
Rather than bask in the glory of my 4-1 record in predictions last night-- what the hell, Cincinnati? A QB roll out on 4th and goal on the 1?-- I'm going to continue my predictions today.
Cotton Bowl: No bowl has gotten more screwed in the last 15 years than the Cotton Bowl. First, the Southwestern Conference folds like a lawn chair leaving the folks in Dallas without any conference tie ins, then the BCS locks them out of the major bowls in favor of the Fiesta Bowl. Cruel way to watch what used to be one of the 4 biggest bowls in the sport die a slow death.
So this game is a tough choice for me. On the one hand, I'm on record in saying that Michael Crabtree deserved the Heisman Trophy this year. On the other hand, I have developed a Bill Simmons-esque man-crush on Ole Miss QB Jevon Snead. All this kid needs is an older brother and he could be the next Eli Manning-- complete with the 0 conference title game appearances. In the end, Grabtree and Kliff Kingsbury 2.0 are too much, since Houston Nutt couldn't win the Cotton Bowl with Darren McFadden after all.
Texas Tech 42 Ole Miss 24
Sugar Bowl: This game looked like a blow out on paper, but then Nick Saban did the unthinkable in the SEC: he actually disciplined a player. Stud left tackle Andre Smith was suspended for the Sugar Bowl by Saban, leading to rumors it was caused by illegal contact between Smith and an agent. The only game that Smith missed this year was the game against Tulane, in which the Green Wave held the Tide to a season low 172 yards of total offense.
This suspension is going to hurt, but I don't think it's enough. I assume that the chastity suits the Utes have to wear will cause havok with their sweat glands in the stifling Superdome humidity and hurt their chances to stay with the Tide in the second half.
Alabama 21 Utah 7
Cotton Bowl: No bowl has gotten more screwed in the last 15 years than the Cotton Bowl. First, the Southwestern Conference folds like a lawn chair leaving the folks in Dallas without any conference tie ins, then the BCS locks them out of the major bowls in favor of the Fiesta Bowl. Cruel way to watch what used to be one of the 4 biggest bowls in the sport die a slow death.So this game is a tough choice for me. On the one hand, I'm on record in saying that Michael Crabtree deserved the Heisman Trophy this year. On the other hand, I have developed a Bill Simmons-esque man-crush on Ole Miss QB Jevon Snead. All this kid needs is an older brother and he could be the next Eli Manning-- complete with the 0 conference title game appearances. In the end, Grabtree and Kliff Kingsbury 2.0 are too much, since Houston Nutt couldn't win the Cotton Bowl with Darren McFadden after all.
Texas Tech 42 Ole Miss 24
Sugar Bowl: This game looked like a blow out on paper, but then Nick Saban did the unthinkable in the SEC: he actually disciplined a player. Stud left tackle Andre Smith was suspended for the Sugar Bowl by Saban, leading to rumors it was caused by illegal contact between Smith and an agent. The only game that Smith missed this year was the game against Tulane, in which the Green Wave held the Tide to a season low 172 yards of total offense.This suspension is going to hurt, but I don't think it's enough. I assume that the chastity suits the Utes have to wear will cause havok with their sweat glands in the stifling Superdome humidity and hurt their chances to stay with the Tide in the second half.
Alabama 21 Utah 7
Thursday, January 1, 2009
New Year's Day Bowl Predictions
Well, we now officially being the biggest week in college sports. We have some great match ups, the first two BCS games, and four wicked hangovers to bring it all together. Let's get some predictions.
Gator Bowl: Uncle D sent this one via text. He is at the Gator Bowl today, watching Nebraska v. Clemson. D says "Nebraska 24 Clemson 17. I can't respect anyone named Dabo." I got to agree with him, I don't see Clemson starting 2009 with a win in Da Gator Bo. Bo Pellini also seemed to call a masterful game for Les Miles last night Peach Bowl, so I also see Nebraska winning by a touchdown.
Outback Bowl: Everyone is giving this game to South Carolina, and since I think everyone else is retarded, I will go ahead and pick an upset. Short of Danny Wuerfel suiting up again in Cock Red, I don't see how South Carolina wins this game. Shonn Green is a beast and will leave Spurrier shouting "He ran that TD how fast?!" on the sideline. I don't think Chris Smelley could beat out Nick Sheridan in a QB race and Garcia's parole officer might not let him play without his ankle bracelet, greatly hurting his mobility in the pocket. Steve Spurrier is about to get broom-broom vacced out of Tampa. Iowa 24- USC 10
Capital One Bowl: As I linked earlier this week, Mr. SEC pointed out that the Big 10 is 6-5 against the SEC in bowl games since 2004. Last year, Michigan pulled out an upset in this bowl game against Florida and their coach, Pope Urban the Douche. I don't see lightening striking twice here. While Javon Ringer will get yards and Matthew Stafford will throw enough INTs that I will be clueless as to why NFL teams will put him in the Top 10 on their draft boards, Mark Richt knows Knowshon Moreno is in his wallet, so he can win the bowl and fight against high interest rates. UGA 28 MSU 14
Rose Bowl: Whoa Nelly! The Granddaddy of them all! Again, no one is giving Penn State a chance in this game. Everyone thinks this is a blowout because Pete Carroll blatantly cheats and pays his players. You know what? They're right. While USC may be the worst NFL team I've ever seen, they are cleaning up house ever since they were relegated to college sports with Carroll. I do think that Penn State has enough offense to keep this game close, and I also think that USC's offense will struggle in its first game with a new offensive coordinator. USC 31 PSU 21
Orange Bowl: Did you know this bowl is still in the BCS? I had no idea, since I hadn't see this game in probably five years. Then again, no one has paid any attention to college football in South Florida for the past five years either. Out of tradition, I'll pick this game. I hate Virginia Tech. I hate the school, I hate the team, I hate the fans, I hate the colors, I hate their faces. Cincinnati is in Ohio. Cincinnati 28 VT 17
Gator Bowl: Uncle D sent this one via text. He is at the Gator Bowl today, watching Nebraska v. Clemson. D says "Nebraska 24 Clemson 17. I can't respect anyone named Dabo." I got to agree with him, I don't see Clemson starting 2009 with a win in Da Gator Bo. Bo Pellini also seemed to call a masterful game for Les Miles last night Peach Bowl, so I also see Nebraska winning by a touchdown.
Outback Bowl: Everyone is giving this game to South Carolina, and since I think everyone else is retarded, I will go ahead and pick an upset. Short of Danny Wuerfel suiting up again in Cock Red, I don't see how South Carolina wins this game. Shonn Green is a beast and will leave Spurrier shouting "He ran that TD how fast?!" on the sideline. I don't think Chris Smelley could beat out Nick Sheridan in a QB race and Garcia's parole officer might not let him play without his ankle bracelet, greatly hurting his mobility in the pocket. Steve Spurrier is about to get broom-broom vacced out of Tampa. Iowa 24- USC 10
Capital One Bowl: As I linked earlier this week, Mr. SEC pointed out that the Big 10 is 6-5 against the SEC in bowl games since 2004. Last year, Michigan pulled out an upset in this bowl game against Florida and their coach, Pope Urban the Douche. I don't see lightening striking twice here. While Javon Ringer will get yards and Matthew Stafford will throw enough INTs that I will be clueless as to why NFL teams will put him in the Top 10 on their draft boards, Mark Richt knows Knowshon Moreno is in his wallet, so he can win the bowl and fight against high interest rates. UGA 28 MSU 14
Rose Bowl: Whoa Nelly! The Granddaddy of them all! Again, no one is giving Penn State a chance in this game. Everyone thinks this is a blowout because Pete Carroll blatantly cheats and pays his players. You know what? They're right. While USC may be the worst NFL team I've ever seen, they are cleaning up house ever since they were relegated to college sports with Carroll. I do think that Penn State has enough offense to keep this game close, and I also think that USC's offense will struggle in its first game with a new offensive coordinator. USC 31 PSU 21
Orange Bowl: Did you know this bowl is still in the BCS? I had no idea, since I hadn't see this game in probably five years. Then again, no one has paid any attention to college football in South Florida for the past five years either. Out of tradition, I'll pick this game. I hate Virginia Tech. I hate the school, I hate the team, I hate the fans, I hate the colors, I hate their faces. Cincinnati is in Ohio. Cincinnati 28 VT 17
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