The Cocktail Party just lost some luster. Florida and Georgia go down - both at home - both to conference foes. It brings up a point that was emphasized in the aftermath of USC's loss to Oregon State - conference play brings upsets. Conference opponents know each other better and are not intimidated....and its just getting started.
Who's No. 1? Oklahoma says the polls although the argument has been made for Alabama due to their impressive wins. The Clemson win doesn't look nearly as impressive as it did at the time but I'm willing to put some stock in the moment. Georgia was exposed as a fraud - at least for now - but it was a solid win for Alabama.
No opponent has even come close to even putting a mild scare in Oklahoma. Cincinnati isn't going to help the Sooners in strength of schedule because the 17 starters or so they had back from a 10 win team last year is in trouble as their top 2 QBs have gone down. Washington isn't going to help the Sooners or Tyrone Willingham's job status now that Jake Locker is out for most or all of the season. TCU was a pretty solid team and we shall see how they fare in conference.
Both Oklahoma and Alabama have solid lines and good skill players. The big difference is at QB. Kudos to John Parker Wilson for a nice start but there is no neutral observer that would pick Wilson over Sam Bradford.
Both the Sooners and the Tide are going to face challenges in tough conferences. One thing to watch - the Tide's win over Georgia and the subsequent No. 2 ranking has turned them from the hunter into the hunted. The Tide has a long history of championship football but this group has not experienced what they are about to face with exposure, pressure and the bullseye. Not a knock because a lot of teams that have experience in the VIP room of rankings haven't handled the spotlight well lately.
Oklahoma has to watch out but they have the best draw imaginable given the circumstances. Texas is neutral. Kansas and Tech is in Norman. The road games is where OU has tripped up but K-State and A&M? I thought they were trap games a few weeks ago but not right now. The Bedlam game could be huge in Stillwater but the more people talk about an upset there, the more unlikely it is to happen.
A lot of people are already anticipating a Red River Rivalry showdown between a pair of top five teams but Texas needs to watch out. They are in the exact same spot at Oklahoma last year before they were upset in Boulder. The Longhorns have not been tested and although they will say the right things, it wouldn't be tough to suggest they might be looking ahead to the game in Dallas, especially after Colorado's pathetic performance at Florida State in which the Noles score 39 points. This is the ultimate trap game because Colorado will rebound at home. It may not be enough but Texas will be tested on Saturday.
Oklahoma's box score against TCU looked solid - the score and passing yards anyway. Here's thinking the Sooners' offensive line is going to get lit up in practice after averaging 0.7 yards against TCU's defense. TCU sold out to stop the run - really sold out - and left the big pass play wide open. But the Sooners' massive and talented OL should have at least opened enough creases to spring their backs for some decent gains against an overly aggressive defense. Baylor's elusive freshman QB Robert Griffin will get the Sooners attention in the film room.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Thursday, September 25, 2008
U-S-C you later....
Just when you think it won't happen - it does. USC was supposed to cruise through a weak Pac-10 schedule. In fact, throughout this week the talk was whether or not the weak Pac-10 would cost USC a title game spot in a BCS beauty contest. Before the season, I thought this might be the one game USC might have trouble. Not Ohio State. Oregon State. It's about timing, setting and circumstances. For the last 10 days or so, USC has read about how great they are in the media. Some experts even starting putting Mark Sanchez in the Heisman race. USC took the Ohio State game seriously. Tonight's game is the type of game we see an elite team show up flat because they just aren't that fired up.
Make no mistake - this should be the loss that effectively eliminates USC from the national title hunt UNLESS the SEC and Big 12 champ has more than two losses. This is another bad loss and Carroll (who I still consider to be the best coach in college football) needs to get a ton of criticism. Oregon State lost the opener to Stanford and then got rolled by Penn State. There is no way that USC should elevate any Big 12 or SEC team with the same number of losses at the end of the season.
Tonight is what separates college football's regular season from all others. There is NOTHING like this in the NFL regular season. Not even close. This is why the system may frustrate but it's also great for the regular season. If not for the system, USC simply captures another Pac-10 title and gets a playoff spot. Tonight's game is a footnote instead of a shocking development that turned the college football world over.
It will be interesting to see how Oklahoma responds this weekend against TCU knowing that a win puts them at No. 1. If the Sooners are ranked No. 1 next week, I believe they would take the lead in most weeks at No. 1 of all time passing Notre Dame.
Make no mistake - this should be the loss that effectively eliminates USC from the national title hunt UNLESS the SEC and Big 12 champ has more than two losses. This is another bad loss and Carroll (who I still consider to be the best coach in college football) needs to get a ton of criticism. Oregon State lost the opener to Stanford and then got rolled by Penn State. There is no way that USC should elevate any Big 12 or SEC team with the same number of losses at the end of the season.
Tonight is what separates college football's regular season from all others. There is NOTHING like this in the NFL regular season. Not even close. This is why the system may frustrate but it's also great for the regular season. If not for the system, USC simply captures another Pac-10 title and gets a playoff spot. Tonight's game is a footnote instead of a shocking development that turned the college football world over.
It will be interesting to see how Oklahoma responds this weekend against TCU knowing that a win puts them at No. 1. If the Sooners are ranked No. 1 next week, I believe they would take the lead in most weeks at No. 1 of all time passing Notre Dame.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Get your errands done early Saturday..
The Big Ten loves brunch football but nothing that should cause you pause unless you are a fan of such team. Some of the media was trying to play up the Alabama at Arkansas game. I don't think people realize just how mediocre the Razorbacks are right now. If not for Ike, Texas would have rolled them into obsurcity last week.
The only early afternoon game of interest is Florida at Tennessee (3:30e/2:30c CBS HD). Florida probably was set to face medium resistance from an average Tennessee team in Knoxville and then some comments got out that Gators questioned the Vols' pride last year. I would not be surprised if Tennessee rose up and made it a four quarter affair. The Gator offense needs to get back on track after a subpar effort vs. Miami.
Speaking of Miami, they travel to Texas A&M in a game of names only. I would be more interested to get some of the Canes mic-ed up. Those guys from South Florida have never seen anything like the bizarre scene in College Station.
If Notre Dame beats Michigan State, are they really headed to a bounce back season? I know they are 2-0 but it's the weakest 2-0 in the country outside of Arkansas.
Florida State has an opportunity to get back on the radar by defeating Wake Forest tonight in Tallahassee. The Noles have struggled due to poor QB play for several years but it looks like they might have something - maybe. The ACC stinks anyway.
What's the over-under on TDs tonight in the LSU at Auburn game? Two?
Is Arizona State more dangerous after losing to UNLV last week? They certainly don't have anyone on the bandwagon now. There is no pressure on Arizona State. Georgia has looked vulnerable. The Dawgs are better on paper but this one could go a number of different ways. Likely result: Georgia by a late FG.
The only early afternoon game of interest is Florida at Tennessee (3:30e/2:30c CBS HD). Florida probably was set to face medium resistance from an average Tennessee team in Knoxville and then some comments got out that Gators questioned the Vols' pride last year. I would not be surprised if Tennessee rose up and made it a four quarter affair. The Gator offense needs to get back on track after a subpar effort vs. Miami.
Speaking of Miami, they travel to Texas A&M in a game of names only. I would be more interested to get some of the Canes mic-ed up. Those guys from South Florida have never seen anything like the bizarre scene in College Station.
If Notre Dame beats Michigan State, are they really headed to a bounce back season? I know they are 2-0 but it's the weakest 2-0 in the country outside of Arkansas.
Florida State has an opportunity to get back on the radar by defeating Wake Forest tonight in Tallahassee. The Noles have struggled due to poor QB play for several years but it looks like they might have something - maybe. The ACC stinks anyway.
What's the over-under on TDs tonight in the LSU at Auburn game? Two?
Is Arizona State more dangerous after losing to UNLV last week? They certainly don't have anyone on the bandwagon now. There is no pressure on Arizona State. Georgia has looked vulnerable. The Dawgs are better on paper but this one could go a number of different ways. Likely result: Georgia by a late FG.
Monday, September 15, 2008
The perfect setup for a national title
It doesn't appear that USC will face much resistance the remainder of the season. They might get a scare if they overlook an opponent with some talent but they should be upset-proof in a mediocre Pac-10 conference. Most of the in-conference teams that might be able to hang for a while (with breaks) have to visit the Coliseum. Just don't see another Stanford.
USC has been brilliant in BCS games under Carroll. The loss to Texas was a classic game and the result of a super-human performance by Vince Young and the Longhorn defense stopping the inside run on the defining play of the game.
However, the USC players talked about complacency as the cause of last year's Stanford loss. They vow it won't happen again and it probably won't in the regular season. The question is that if USC cruises through a weak Pac-10, could it re-appear before the title game? No doubt ESPN will build them up as a candidate for greatest of all time - as they did before the Texas game.
Time and time again we see teams that have it too easy get overconfident, lose focus and are stunned at the first sign of a challenge. There is no way Oklahoma should have lost to Arkansas in the late 70s. No way Miami should have lost to Penn State in the 1987 Fiesta Bowl. Overconfidence played a role in Alabama's shocking upset over Miami in the early 1990s or Florida State's inept performance against Oklahoma in the 2001 Orange Bowl.
The best recipe for a team other than USC to win a national title is for the challenger to become battle tested through a tougher conference to counter the Carroll's post-season mojo. Right now the prime contender seems to be the winner of a potential Big 12 title game with Oklahoma/Missouri or perhaps the winner of Georgia/Florida. That rounds out the current top 5. Don't worry about the polls and a snub so early in the year.
Oklahoma's schedule is more favorable than Georgia's as they play Texas on a neutral field like the Bulldogs do with the Gators. However, quality and potentially dangerous teams Kansas and Texas Tech have to play in Norman. The Sooners have been extremely vulnerable on the road in recent years. 1-2 last year with the win being a near disaster against a poor Iowa State team. Saturday was a sign this Oklahoma team might be different. I think every rational Sooner fan expected some kind of struggle - at least early. Instead, the Sooners cruised in every way possible. Sam Bradford, who actually looked like a rookie on the road last year, looked as calm and cool as he would have in Norman. Oklahoma is virtually unbeatable in Norman but it looks like they are going to take more of their A or B game on the road to upset-minded K-State, A&M and Oklahoma State.
Missouri continues to roll up PlayStation type numbers and they have a favorable schedule outside of the trip to Austin which they have to win to get into the national title mix. The Tigers are a confident bunch and I'm sure they would prefer to see Oklahoma in the Big 12 title game to get over that hurdle and get a lot of respect.
Georgia has potential but they did not impress on Saturday. Still, it's early and the schedule is there to make an impression. Matthew Stafford is a quality player but still does not belong in the category of elite college QBs right now. The Bulldogs got a major break with the fumble that prevented a potential OT game. Florida did not look sharp against Miami but they have the talent and a somewhat favorable draw in the SEC this year.
If USC ends up playing Oklahoma, I can easily see a scenario in which the consensus and the Trojans themselves think it will be a cakewalk because of what happened in the 2005 Orange Bowl. All things considered, it would be the best scenario for what would be a battle-tested Oklahoma club that plays well with a chip on their shoulder. Georgia or Florida probably would not be as overlooked by USC. Hard to say with Missouri.
So far the upsets don't seem to be a lot of flukes like last year, just confirming that the polls need to be adjusted. We'll see. Lots of football to be played.
USC has been brilliant in BCS games under Carroll. The loss to Texas was a classic game and the result of a super-human performance by Vince Young and the Longhorn defense stopping the inside run on the defining play of the game.
However, the USC players talked about complacency as the cause of last year's Stanford loss. They vow it won't happen again and it probably won't in the regular season. The question is that if USC cruises through a weak Pac-10, could it re-appear before the title game? No doubt ESPN will build them up as a candidate for greatest of all time - as they did before the Texas game.
Time and time again we see teams that have it too easy get overconfident, lose focus and are stunned at the first sign of a challenge. There is no way Oklahoma should have lost to Arkansas in the late 70s. No way Miami should have lost to Penn State in the 1987 Fiesta Bowl. Overconfidence played a role in Alabama's shocking upset over Miami in the early 1990s or Florida State's inept performance against Oklahoma in the 2001 Orange Bowl.
The best recipe for a team other than USC to win a national title is for the challenger to become battle tested through a tougher conference to counter the Carroll's post-season mojo. Right now the prime contender seems to be the winner of a potential Big 12 title game with Oklahoma/Missouri or perhaps the winner of Georgia/Florida. That rounds out the current top 5. Don't worry about the polls and a snub so early in the year.
Oklahoma's schedule is more favorable than Georgia's as they play Texas on a neutral field like the Bulldogs do with the Gators. However, quality and potentially dangerous teams Kansas and Texas Tech have to play in Norman. The Sooners have been extremely vulnerable on the road in recent years. 1-2 last year with the win being a near disaster against a poor Iowa State team. Saturday was a sign this Oklahoma team might be different. I think every rational Sooner fan expected some kind of struggle - at least early. Instead, the Sooners cruised in every way possible. Sam Bradford, who actually looked like a rookie on the road last year, looked as calm and cool as he would have in Norman. Oklahoma is virtually unbeatable in Norman but it looks like they are going to take more of their A or B game on the road to upset-minded K-State, A&M and Oklahoma State.
Missouri continues to roll up PlayStation type numbers and they have a favorable schedule outside of the trip to Austin which they have to win to get into the national title mix. The Tigers are a confident bunch and I'm sure they would prefer to see Oklahoma in the Big 12 title game to get over that hurdle and get a lot of respect.
Georgia has potential but they did not impress on Saturday. Still, it's early and the schedule is there to make an impression. Matthew Stafford is a quality player but still does not belong in the category of elite college QBs right now. The Bulldogs got a major break with the fumble that prevented a potential OT game. Florida did not look sharp against Miami but they have the talent and a somewhat favorable draw in the SEC this year.
If USC ends up playing Oklahoma, I can easily see a scenario in which the consensus and the Trojans themselves think it will be a cakewalk because of what happened in the 2005 Orange Bowl. All things considered, it would be the best scenario for what would be a battle-tested Oklahoma club that plays well with a chip on their shoulder. Georgia or Florida probably would not be as overlooked by USC. Hard to say with Missouri.
So far the upsets don't seem to be a lot of flukes like last year, just confirming that the polls need to be adjusted. We'll see. Lots of football to be played.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
No Doubt on 1 and 2
USC is No. 1. Oklahoma is No. 2. Period.
Things change in college football so don't put this matchup in ink for the BCS title game. You might be able to put USC in ink though. Outside of the Trojans, the Pac-10 teams are almost as much a disgrace as the conference's officials. I don't think Oklahoma is traveling out to the west coast anytime soon. I don't think Tyrone Willingham will have to worry about Pac-10 officiating much longer. I have never seen so many cheap penalties in one game. Oklahoma was tabbed for 114 yards of penalties. Only 8 for Washington.
USC and Oklahoma look scary good. The Trojans look to be the more complete team but Oklahoma's no huddle offense might be an equalizer. The Sooners have the lines to compete with anyone. Sam Bradford is the Tom Brady of college football and the Sooners are loaded with weapons. We know things change quickly but no team is in the same zip code as the Trojans and the Sooners tonight.
I thought USC might need to watch out for the trip to Oregon State. No more. I don't see any team even challenging USC from here on out - but is that a good thing? We have seen plenty of college football teams cruise through the season only to lay an egg in their bowl game. USC doesn't lay eggs in January. That is a burden Oklahoma has to lift off its back.
I think tonight puts to rest any fears of Ohio State getting back to the national title game. Even as crazy as college football is with upsets and the reshuffling of the top ten of a year ago, no way do the voters allow the Buckeyes to work their way through the Big Ten to sneak back up into one of the top 2 positions.
Things change in college football so don't put this matchup in ink for the BCS title game. You might be able to put USC in ink though. Outside of the Trojans, the Pac-10 teams are almost as much a disgrace as the conference's officials. I don't think Oklahoma is traveling out to the west coast anytime soon. I don't think Tyrone Willingham will have to worry about Pac-10 officiating much longer. I have never seen so many cheap penalties in one game. Oklahoma was tabbed for 114 yards of penalties. Only 8 for Washington.
USC and Oklahoma look scary good. The Trojans look to be the more complete team but Oklahoma's no huddle offense might be an equalizer. The Sooners have the lines to compete with anyone. Sam Bradford is the Tom Brady of college football and the Sooners are loaded with weapons. We know things change quickly but no team is in the same zip code as the Trojans and the Sooners tonight.
I thought USC might need to watch out for the trip to Oregon State. No more. I don't see any team even challenging USC from here on out - but is that a good thing? We have seen plenty of college football teams cruise through the season only to lay an egg in their bowl game. USC doesn't lay eggs in January. That is a burden Oklahoma has to lift off its back.
I think tonight puts to rest any fears of Ohio State getting back to the national title game. Even as crazy as college football is with upsets and the reshuffling of the top ten of a year ago, no way do the voters allow the Buckeyes to work their way through the Big Ten to sneak back up into one of the top 2 positions.
Letdown in the Coliseum?
The Beanie Wells situation following Ohio State's struggle to beat Ohio last week at home has really taken some of the punch out of this matchup. I tend to go against the grain of conventional logic at times. The consensus probably thinks USC will roll and there is a good chance of that but time and time again we see a closer game or an upset because the favorite gets overconfident and the underdog plays with a chip on their shoulder.
Ohio State has a lot of talent on offense. The problem is that Todd Boeckman simply has not played well against good to great competition. The goal was to lean on Beanie Wells to slow down the pace of the game, move the sticks and take pressure of Boeckman in the passing game. Now, Ohio State has to be creative early unless the Buckeye defense creates some early turnovers. Tressel has to allow some of the younger backs with more play making ability than veteran Mo Wells the ability to make an impact. Tressel has to mix in Terrelle Pryor at the right time to possibly shake up USC's defensive approach.
Any chance for Ohio State begins with their defense in slowing the USC run game and putting Sanchez in predictable passing situations. Virginia provided no test for USC's inexperienced offensive line. We don't know much about them yet but we will find out tonight. If the Buckeyes can pressure Sanchez, the game may play out much different than some people think.
USC looked sharp in the opener but Sanchez had no pressure. Too many people only look at one side of an outcome. Virginia looks to be one of the worst teams in a bad conference. The Cavs are a far cry from the decent group that had Texas Tech on the ropes in the Gator Bowl. That group had Chris Long coming off the edge.
I might stick up for Ohio State more than most people that comment on college football but if the Buckeyes get blown out, I hope and expect the voters see to it that the Buckeyes have no shot to work their way back to the title game through the Big Ten schedule.
Ohio State has a lot of talent on offense. The problem is that Todd Boeckman simply has not played well against good to great competition. The goal was to lean on Beanie Wells to slow down the pace of the game, move the sticks and take pressure of Boeckman in the passing game. Now, Ohio State has to be creative early unless the Buckeye defense creates some early turnovers. Tressel has to allow some of the younger backs with more play making ability than veteran Mo Wells the ability to make an impact. Tressel has to mix in Terrelle Pryor at the right time to possibly shake up USC's defensive approach.
Any chance for Ohio State begins with their defense in slowing the USC run game and putting Sanchez in predictable passing situations. Virginia provided no test for USC's inexperienced offensive line. We don't know much about them yet but we will find out tonight. If the Buckeyes can pressure Sanchez, the game may play out much different than some people think.
USC looked sharp in the opener but Sanchez had no pressure. Too many people only look at one side of an outcome. Virginia looks to be one of the worst teams in a bad conference. The Cavs are a far cry from the decent group that had Texas Tech on the ropes in the Gator Bowl. That group had Chris Long coming off the edge.
I might stick up for Ohio State more than most people that comment on college football but if the Buckeyes get blown out, I hope and expect the voters see to it that the Buckeyes have no shot to work their way back to the title game through the Big Ten schedule.
The Big Least gets off the mat...for now
I'll admit, I lost temporary interest in last night's ESPN2 showdown between Kansas and S. Florida after the Jayhawks jumped out to a quick lead and looked like it was just going to get worse. USF scored the all important TD before the half to keep them mentally in the game and they owned the 3rd quarter. Kansas came back but QB Todd Reesing made a late game mental error by sending a deep ball into the middle of the field without recognizing the safety playing center field. The pick and subsequent return setup the Bulls for the last second win. Reesing has been a gamer but a mistakes like that can linger in the mind for a while. I'm glad I paid enough attention to watch the finish because it was a great college football game.
The stock of Rutgers and coach Greg Schiano is dropping fast. The opening loss to Fresno at home was a mild surprise but a blowout loss to North Carolina at home? Butch Davis is quickly improving the Tar Heel program with some good looking talent at the skill positions and an attitude on defense but the Scarlet Knights looked clueless on defense.
Less than a week after West Virginia gets humbled by East Carolina, the folks in Morgantown sign up Bill Stewart to a 6-year contract extension. Interesting timing. Credit the WV admin for showing support but the consensus of college football fans think they will end up playing this man for several years after they release him. This is Larry Coker all over again except the decline is already happening. At least Coker won a title and nearly another one with program Butch Davis rebuilt before the decline.
The stock of Rutgers and coach Greg Schiano is dropping fast. The opening loss to Fresno at home was a mild surprise but a blowout loss to North Carolina at home? Butch Davis is quickly improving the Tar Heel program with some good looking talent at the skill positions and an attitude on defense but the Scarlet Knights looked clueless on defense.
Less than a week after West Virginia gets humbled by East Carolina, the folks in Morgantown sign up Bill Stewart to a 6-year contract extension. Interesting timing. Credit the WV admin for showing support but the consensus of college football fans think they will end up playing this man for several years after they release him. This is Larry Coker all over again except the decline is already happening. At least Coker won a title and nearly another one with program Butch Davis rebuilt before the decline.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Review of Week 2
Not a great slate of games on Week 2 but interesting nonetheless.
East Carolina stunned West Virginia. There was an upset buzz on this game from East Carolina's 'upset' over Virginia Tech in the opener but only a few took the bait. The real shocker was the score. 3 points for West Virginia with Pat White at the controls? The Neers will bounce back for this season but Bill Stewart is Larry Coker all over again except the fall will be quicker.
Ohio State struggles to get past Ohio. This is the classic look ahead performance. I really can't decide whether or not USC is going to blowout the Buckeyes in LA. I think conventional logic would suggest yes, but college football doesn't follow that path. Right now, everyone is doubting Ohio State and USC has been told how great they are and they might be thinking they are going to cruise. The Buckeyes would be advised to keep their mouth shut but earlier WR Ray Small questions USC's class. Bottom line, if Ohio State does get thumped, they shall not appear even close to the top two spots in the land at season's end. I think the voters will see to it.
Oklahoma's fast break no-huddle offense might be the missing piece to making the Sooners better in January. The approach is not completely foreign to OU's Big 12 opponents but it might be to a BCS opponent. Oklahoma had powerful offenses during their runs to the title game in 2003 and 2004 but come gametime, LSU and USC had them figured out to a degree. There are so many weapons on this club and Sam Bradford is developing into the Tom Brady (pro and healthy version) of college football. Ryan Broyles just made the Sooners even more scary to defend. The Sooners were supposed to get a real test from Cincinnati and at one point they got it. OU started fast, stalled for a bit but finished strong on both sides of the ball. Stoops has to solve his kickoff coverage which allowed the only meaningful TD by the Bearcats in the second half.
I was actually more impressed by Miami than Florida in their matchup but its based on expectations. Miami still has a long way to go but they looked the part for most of the game. The U talked up their visit to Norman last year and left 51-13 losers. I expected Florida to cruise. I think Marve will show some promise throughout the year but they still need more recruits and ones that can get clearance to start school.
Somewhere on Saturday night there had to be a meeting of Notre Dame heavy hitters discussing the potential of raising enough capital to oust Charlie Weis if the season remains on its current direction. Talk about a leveraged buyout. The opener should encourage no one in the Irish faithful. From the moment Jimmy Clausen had his MTV-ish presser to announce his college choice, I thought he was destined to be a bust. Still early but my view has only gotten stronger.
Shame of football rule makers for trying to take fun out of a game. Eliminating the taunting - OK - even though trash talk is fun in my opinion. Once again the Pac-10 officiating seminars appear to be a total waste of time. Bob Stoops might be getting nervous a series of make up calls is in the works for OU's visit to Washington this weekend.
Should LSU just schedule away games during the month of September?
The replays of old SWC battles between Texas and Arkansas will provide fans with a lot more competition than they will see on Saturday. Texas is going to to roll.
Kansas at South Florida on Friday night - finally a decent reason to stay home. Also, big game for BCS potential as Fresno hosts Wisconsin.
East Carolina stunned West Virginia. There was an upset buzz on this game from East Carolina's 'upset' over Virginia Tech in the opener but only a few took the bait. The real shocker was the score. 3 points for West Virginia with Pat White at the controls? The Neers will bounce back for this season but Bill Stewart is Larry Coker all over again except the fall will be quicker.
Ohio State struggles to get past Ohio. This is the classic look ahead performance. I really can't decide whether or not USC is going to blowout the Buckeyes in LA. I think conventional logic would suggest yes, but college football doesn't follow that path. Right now, everyone is doubting Ohio State and USC has been told how great they are and they might be thinking they are going to cruise. The Buckeyes would be advised to keep their mouth shut but earlier WR Ray Small questions USC's class. Bottom line, if Ohio State does get thumped, they shall not appear even close to the top two spots in the land at season's end. I think the voters will see to it.
Oklahoma's fast break no-huddle offense might be the missing piece to making the Sooners better in January. The approach is not completely foreign to OU's Big 12 opponents but it might be to a BCS opponent. Oklahoma had powerful offenses during their runs to the title game in 2003 and 2004 but come gametime, LSU and USC had them figured out to a degree. There are so many weapons on this club and Sam Bradford is developing into the Tom Brady (pro and healthy version) of college football. Ryan Broyles just made the Sooners even more scary to defend. The Sooners were supposed to get a real test from Cincinnati and at one point they got it. OU started fast, stalled for a bit but finished strong on both sides of the ball. Stoops has to solve his kickoff coverage which allowed the only meaningful TD by the Bearcats in the second half.
I was actually more impressed by Miami than Florida in their matchup but its based on expectations. Miami still has a long way to go but they looked the part for most of the game. The U talked up their visit to Norman last year and left 51-13 losers. I expected Florida to cruise. I think Marve will show some promise throughout the year but they still need more recruits and ones that can get clearance to start school.
Somewhere on Saturday night there had to be a meeting of Notre Dame heavy hitters discussing the potential of raising enough capital to oust Charlie Weis if the season remains on its current direction. Talk about a leveraged buyout. The opener should encourage no one in the Irish faithful. From the moment Jimmy Clausen had his MTV-ish presser to announce his college choice, I thought he was destined to be a bust. Still early but my view has only gotten stronger.
Shame of football rule makers for trying to take fun out of a game. Eliminating the taunting - OK - even though trash talk is fun in my opinion. Once again the Pac-10 officiating seminars appear to be a total waste of time. Bob Stoops might be getting nervous a series of make up calls is in the works for OU's visit to Washington this weekend.
Should LSU just schedule away games during the month of September?
The replays of old SWC battles between Texas and Arkansas will provide fans with a lot more competition than they will see on Saturday. Texas is going to to roll.
Kansas at South Florida on Friday night - finally a decent reason to stay home. Also, big game for BCS potential as Fresno hosts Wisconsin.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Games to Watch in Week 2
Week 2 begins with an upset - Vandy takes down Spurrier and the Gamecocks. Steve Martin and Vandy coach Bobby Johnson - separated at birth?
Navy at Ball State on Friday night - only if some football is better than no football but it might be competitive which might be rare this weekend.
Saturday, September 6th
Early time slot
The Big Ten loves the noon eastern kickoff. Can RichRod get his first win over Miami (Ohio)? Michigan is a 14.5 point favorite. ESPN2HD Ohio State tunes up minus Beanie Wells with Ohio U. ESPNHD
Boston College is a 7 point favorite over Georgia Tech. At least the ACC can't take another reputation hit in this one. RaycomHD/Gameplan
Mid-Afternoon
BYU (-9.5) at Washington - the Cougars are picked by some as a potential BCS buster. Tyrone Willingham could really use a win here. U Dub didn't look very good at Oregon last week. FSN HD
Cincinnati at Oklahoma (-21.5) - ABC is really downplaying this game by giving it the shaft on their regional coverage. It's gets only standard def treatment while HD cameras are being sent to the monster matchup of rebuilding Ole Miss at Wake. That's a joke. This game has potential national title implications for the home team. Cinci won 10 games last year and won't be intimidated. The Oklahoma team might disappoint in BCS games but they are dominant at home. ABC
West Virginia at East Carolina - ECU's upset of Va Tech last week is creating some buzz about this game. This should be one to watch. The line opened at WV -9.5 and has moved to 7.5. ESPNHD
Late-Afternoon
A&M at New Mexico - who had the worst week 1? Tommy Bowden, Phil Fulmer or Mike Sherman. The Aggies are in danger of starting the Sherman era 0-2. The line started at A&M -3 but has dropped 0.5 to -2.5. Versus Network
Early Evening
Kansas is a 21 point favorite at home against La Tech but don't be surprised if the Bulldogs make this a game. FSN HD
S. Florida (-14) at Central Florida - amazing there is actually interest in this game but these programs have earned it. S. Florida might end up winning the Big East but this one could be tougher than expected. ESPN2HD
Prime Time
Miami at Florida (-22) - this is a matchup in name only. Miami's defense apparently isn't impressed with Tim Tebow. This reminds me of last year when Miami was talking about a statement against Oklahoma in Norman. Sooners won 51-13. The Gators will cover. ESPNHD
Late Night
Texas (-27) at UTEP - McCoy looked like his freshman self in the opener and the pass defense settled down. The road trip might cause Texas to open slow but they will eventually pour it on in the second half. ESPN2HD
Game not on TV but should be - Texas Tech (-10) at Nevada (9 eastern / 8 central). The final score could resemble a basketball game. It could last 5 hours. Tech's defense did not show the improvement that some anticipated when putting them as a sleeper pick in the Big 12.
Navy at Ball State on Friday night - only if some football is better than no football but it might be competitive which might be rare this weekend.
Saturday, September 6th
Early time slot
The Big Ten loves the noon eastern kickoff. Can RichRod get his first win over Miami (Ohio)? Michigan is a 14.5 point favorite. ESPN2HD Ohio State tunes up minus Beanie Wells with Ohio U. ESPNHD
Boston College is a 7 point favorite over Georgia Tech. At least the ACC can't take another reputation hit in this one. RaycomHD/Gameplan
Mid-Afternoon
BYU (-9.5) at Washington - the Cougars are picked by some as a potential BCS buster. Tyrone Willingham could really use a win here. U Dub didn't look very good at Oregon last week. FSN HD
Cincinnati at Oklahoma (-21.5) - ABC is really downplaying this game by giving it the shaft on their regional coverage. It's gets only standard def treatment while HD cameras are being sent to the monster matchup of rebuilding Ole Miss at Wake. That's a joke. This game has potential national title implications for the home team. Cinci won 10 games last year and won't be intimidated. The Oklahoma team might disappoint in BCS games but they are dominant at home. ABC
West Virginia at East Carolina - ECU's upset of Va Tech last week is creating some buzz about this game. This should be one to watch. The line opened at WV -9.5 and has moved to 7.5. ESPNHD
Late-Afternoon
A&M at New Mexico - who had the worst week 1? Tommy Bowden, Phil Fulmer or Mike Sherman. The Aggies are in danger of starting the Sherman era 0-2. The line started at A&M -3 but has dropped 0.5 to -2.5. Versus Network
Early Evening
Kansas is a 21 point favorite at home against La Tech but don't be surprised if the Bulldogs make this a game. FSN HD
S. Florida (-14) at Central Florida - amazing there is actually interest in this game but these programs have earned it. S. Florida might end up winning the Big East but this one could be tougher than expected. ESPN2HD
Prime Time
Miami at Florida (-22) - this is a matchup in name only. Miami's defense apparently isn't impressed with Tim Tebow. This reminds me of last year when Miami was talking about a statement against Oklahoma in Norman. Sooners won 51-13. The Gators will cover. ESPNHD
Late Night
Texas (-27) at UTEP - McCoy looked like his freshman self in the opener and the pass defense settled down. The road trip might cause Texas to open slow but they will eventually pour it on in the second half. ESPN2HD
Game not on TV but should be - Texas Tech (-10) at Nevada (9 eastern / 8 central). The final score could resemble a basketball game. It could last 5 hours. Tech's defense did not show the improvement that some anticipated when putting them as a sleeper pick in the Big 12.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Quick Look back at Week 1
Apologies to the 1-2 people that stumbled upon this board from the link on ouinsider.com. I had some family matters that impacted by weekend and the ability to maintain this popular blog.
First of all, caution on reading too much into Week 1. USC looked really, really good and was rewarded in the polls. But, we don't know how Virginia (or any of these victims) will fare the remainder of the season. The perception of the Cavs might be due to last year's team that featured Chris Long and should have closed out Texas Tech in the Gator Bowl. Still, Sanchez looked sharp and Carroll might elect to put him into more of a playmaker role against Ohio State vs. a caretaker. If Wells can't go in LA, I just see a scenario in which Ohio State might get embarrassed again on the big stage.
The experts in the heartland might want to hold off on the predictions that improved defenses will result in Missouri and Texas Tech to elevate their status in the Big 12. Missouri is good because of Daniel and Maclin but the defense gave up too many big plays. Texas Tech gave up too many plays in general against Eastern Washington. Texas' secondary settled down after a rough first quarter and played well against a decent QB in Fla Atlantic's Rusty Smith. I still think Texas has issues but they exceeded my expectations in Week 1.
Michigan fans just need to accept the growing pains and realize there will be a payoff when Rodriguez settles in and has the talent to run his system. Utah is a decent team. Not sure where to begin with Clemson. Tiger fans need parole from the Tommy Bowden sentence. A&M is hard to figure out. Huge school deep in a recruiting hotbed. Big stadium. Big budget. Fans live football. A&M has to be one of the longest running disappointments in college football and the first game of the Mike Sherman era doesn't suggest change is on the way.
Fresno might just crash the BCS party this year. Solid win at Rutgers. The SEC took a reputation hit as a division winner in Tennessee travels west to get upset by rebuilding UCLA.
The 12th game decision has resulted in a lot of mismatches but credit the big name schools that agree to the neutral site meeting to open the season.
First of all, caution on reading too much into Week 1. USC looked really, really good and was rewarded in the polls. But, we don't know how Virginia (or any of these victims) will fare the remainder of the season. The perception of the Cavs might be due to last year's team that featured Chris Long and should have closed out Texas Tech in the Gator Bowl. Still, Sanchez looked sharp and Carroll might elect to put him into more of a playmaker role against Ohio State vs. a caretaker. If Wells can't go in LA, I just see a scenario in which Ohio State might get embarrassed again on the big stage.
The experts in the heartland might want to hold off on the predictions that improved defenses will result in Missouri and Texas Tech to elevate their status in the Big 12. Missouri is good because of Daniel and Maclin but the defense gave up too many big plays. Texas Tech gave up too many plays in general against Eastern Washington. Texas' secondary settled down after a rough first quarter and played well against a decent QB in Fla Atlantic's Rusty Smith. I still think Texas has issues but they exceeded my expectations in Week 1.
Michigan fans just need to accept the growing pains and realize there will be a payoff when Rodriguez settles in and has the talent to run his system. Utah is a decent team. Not sure where to begin with Clemson. Tiger fans need parole from the Tommy Bowden sentence. A&M is hard to figure out. Huge school deep in a recruiting hotbed. Big stadium. Big budget. Fans live football. A&M has to be one of the longest running disappointments in college football and the first game of the Mike Sherman era doesn't suggest change is on the way.
Fresno might just crash the BCS party this year. Solid win at Rutgers. The SEC took a reputation hit as a division winner in Tennessee travels west to get upset by rebuilding UCLA.
The 12th game decision has resulted in a lot of mismatches but credit the big name schools that agree to the neutral site meeting to open the season.
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