College Football Thread

[boozehound]

Only a little over a week until College Football starts up again, and I can't wait!

Is this the year that my Wolverines finally get it together? (I hope so, but don't think it is likely)

Will the Buckeyes live up to the lofty expectations? How will Pryor look this year? Will they win another National Championship?

UC is a huge question mark. They appear to return significant talent from a team that made a BCS bowl game, but got absolutely shellacked. I know a lot of people who are expecting UC to be very good again this year. I wouldn't be shocked to see them finish near the top of a Big East conference that I don't really think is that good. I kind of wonder how good they really were last year though...

Who is going to be the class of the SEC? How about the Big 12? What Non-BCS team(s) will go undefeated but still get screwed out of the opportunity to play for a National Championship?

So many questions waiting to be answered.

[Porkopolis]

I have a degree from Marshall so they own my football allegiance. Doc Holliday has a brutal start to his career, traveling to OSU and following that up by hosting WVU in Huntington. If The Herd can come out of that stretch without any major injuries I think the other non-conference games (Ohio and Bowling Green) are easier and the C-USA crown is up for grabs. As much as I'd love to see Marshall shock the Bucks in Columbus, I'm not holding my breath. OSU has a very solid squad.

I think UC is primed for a let down but will still be very good. I'd love to see TCU and Boise put together BCS-buster seasons again and I think they can do so.

[drudy23]

Is this the year that my Wolverines finally get it together?

No.

[xudash]

1. Is this the year that my Wolverines finally get it together? (I hope so, but don't think it is likely)

No. I'm wondering what Rich Rod's life expectancy in Ann Arbor is at this point.

2. Will the Buckeyes live up to the lofty expectations? How will Pryor look this year? Will they win their bowl game?

From what I've read and heard, Pryor is focused and has been working very hard. He already has stated that he'll come back for his senior year. Ohio State won last year's Rose Bowl, so I'm not sure what you're digging at with that one, unless you're focusing on their near-miss against Texas the year before and the two NC losses. The Senator had gone 4-0 in his first four BCS bowls, including a NC against Miami. Yes, I'm tired from the last two losses to Florida and LSU in particular, but Ohio State's resume for the last 10 years would be desired by any program in the nation.

3. UC is a huge question mark. They appear to return significant talent from a team that made a BCS bowl game, but got absolutely shellacked. I know a lot of people who are expecting UC to be very good again this year. I wouldn't be shocked to see them finish near the top of a Big East conference that I don't really think is that good. I kind of wonder how good they really were last year though...

I don't follow UC football so I'm in no position to judge their chances this year. ESPNU just replayed their Sugar Bowl shellacking against the Gators. So perhaps being good in the BE does not necessarily translate to being relevant on the national stage.

4. Who is going to be the class of the SEC?

Alabama.

5. How about the Big 12?

I imagine Mack Brown will have Texas in the hunt again.

6. What Non-BCS team(s) will go undefeated but still get screwed out of the opportunity to play for a National Championship?

They've positioned Boise State in the pre-season rankings in a way to not let that happen. Now the question is: can they go undefeated?

7. So many questions waiting to be answered.

So very true.

[XU 87]

Is this the year that my Wolverines finally get it together? (I hope so, but don't think it is likely)


UC is a huge question mark. They appear to return significant talent from a team that made a BCS bowl game, but got absolutely shellacked. I know a lot of people who are expecting UC to be very good again this year. I wouldn't be shocked to see them finish near the top of a Big East conference that I don't really think is that good. I kind of wonder how good they really were last year though...



I'll give my two cents on those two.

I think this is Rich Rod's last year. But I don't understand how a guy who was so successful at WVU has been such a failure at Michigan (so far).

As for UC and the Sugar Bowl, they had no chance of winning or even competing in that game. I've heard that they didn't practice the allowed amount of time because of lack of coaches. And when they did practice, at times players were running their position practices because the position coach wasn't there. It really makes me think the NCAA should have some rule about a coach not leaving for another school before the season is over.

As for UC this year, my gut feeling is that UC's talent really wasn't all that great. They just had a great coach. I think it will be tough for this new guy to take similar talent to the previous success. My guess is that UC will be in some minor bowl this year.

[boozehound]

1. Is this the year that my Wolverines finally get it together? (I hope so, but don't think it is likely)

No. I'm wondering what Rich Rod's life expectancy in Ann Arbor is at this point.

2. Will the Buckeyes live up to the lofty expectations? How will Pryor look this year? Will they win their bowl game?

From what I've read and heard, Pryor is focused and has been working very hard. He already has stated that he'll come back for his senior year. Ohio State won last year's Rose Bowl, so I'm not sure what you're digging at with that one, unless you're focusing on their near-miss against Texas the year before and the two NC losses. The Senator had gone 4-0 in his first four BCS bowls, including a NC against Miami. Yes, I'm tired from the last two losses to Florida and LSU in particular, but Ohio State's resume for the last 10 years would be desired by any program in the nation.
.

I absolutely think that this is Rich's last year unless they win at least 8, but probably 9, games. The AD that hired Rich is out and I can't imagine that the new guy really wants to sit around losing with another AD's hire for too much longer. I personally wanted RR out after last year, both due to his record and the way in which he conducts himself and runs his program. I don't think that the spread option that RR runs will get Michigan back to prominance. They need to get a new coach in there and transition back to a more traditional offense. They can, and should, still incorporate some spread elements. The best I have seen Michigan play in years was the bowl game against Florida a few years back. RR and Lloyd Carr worked together to prepare the team and the offense was unstoppable, running a traditional-style offense with some spread elements thrown in.

A lot of Michigan fans think that RR is all but gone already and that Harbaugh is going to be the next coach. I think that we could certainly do worse than Harbaugh.

I guess that by OSU winning their bowl game I am talking about a National Championship game, assuming that they make it that far. That seems to be the goal for them this year for what I understand. I think it is reasonable due to the talent that they return, but the SEC has been very tough lately. I would like to see a Big 10 team dethrone the SEC this year in the NC game, and I think that OSU is (unfortunately...) the only one who can do it. It wasn't really meant as a dig, but I can see how it came across that way.

[boozehound]

I'll give my two cents on those two.

I think this is Rich Rod's last year. But I don't understand how a guy who was so successful at WVU has been such a failure at Michigan (so far).
As for UC and the Sugar Bowl, they had no chance of winning or even competing in that game. I've heard that they didn't practice the allowed amount of time because of lack of coaches. And when they did practice, at times players were running their position practices because the position coach wasn't there. It really makes me think the NCAA should have some rule about a coach not leaving for another school before the season is over.

As for UC this year, my gut feeling is that UC's talent really wasn't all that great. They just had a great coach. I think it will be tough for this new guy to take similar talent to the previous success. My guess is that UC will be in some minor bowl this year.

I think that the Big East really isn't that good at football and is way overrated as a football conference, no matter how badly ESPN wants them to be good.

RR had some impressive records at WVU beating up on UConn and Rutgers, but he never got them over the hill and never even played in a NC game that I can recall. Their Bowl Game win against Oklahoma was impressive but that was after RR had left.

I didn't understand the hire at the time and I understand it even less now.

[XU05and07]

Is this the year that my Wolverines finally get it together? (I hope so, but don't think it is likely)

No


Will the Buckeyes live up to the lofty expectations? How will Pryor look this year? Will they win another National Championship?

No...He will be improved but he will have to wait to his senior year to be all that he is said to be...No



What Non-BCS team(s) will go undefeated but still get screwed out of the opportunity to play for a National Championship?

Boise State...If they win at VaTech (FedEx Field) then they go undefeated and play for the National Title. They have done what was asked of them; play a big time game away from the smurf turf.




So many questions waiting to be answered.

I will add a question: What is the upset that you are predicting now?

Mine: Wisconsin over Ohio State in Madison, WI (October 16)...if WI didn't give up a Pick 6 and give up a punt return for a TD last year, the Badgers would have won that game

[GoMuskies]

I think that the Big East really isn't that good at football and is way overrated as a football conference, no matter how badly ESPN wants them to be good.

I think the Sagarin ratings are a pretty accurate, objective ranking system. According to Sagarin, the Big East has been better than the Big Ten in four of the past five seasons (and each of the last four in fact).

Edited to add:

2009:

1 SOUTHEASTERN (A) = 80.48 81.07 ( 1) 12 80.87 ( 1)
2 BIG EAST (A) = 77.33 76.97 ( 2) 8 77.06 ( 2)
3 PAC-10 (A) = 76.23 75.45 ( 5) 10 75.77 ( 4)
4 ATLANTIC COAST (A) = 76.04 75.90 ( 3) 12 75.92 ( 3)
5 BIG 12 (A) = 74.61 75.54 ( 4) 12 75.32 ( 5)
6 BIG TEN (A) = 73.74 74.49 ( 6) 11 74.30 ( 6)

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/sagarin/fbc09.htm

2008:

1 SOUTHEASTERN (A) = 78.31 79.08 ( 1) 12
2 BIG 12 (A) = 77.86 77.80 ( 2) 12
3 ATLANTIC COAST (A) = 77.70 77.67 ( 3) 12
4 PAC-10 (A) = 76.14 75.39 ( 4) 10
5 BIG EAST (A) = 75.23 74.11 ( 5) 8
6 BIG TEN (A) = 73.21 73.49 ( 6) 11

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/sagarin/fbc08.htm

2007:

1 SOUTHEASTERN (A) = 81.99 81.83 ( 1) 12
2 PAC-10 (A) = 79.47 79.63 ( 2) 10
3 BIG 12 (A) = 78.62 78.35 ( 3) 12
4 BIG EAST (A) = 77.46 77.12 ( 4) 8
5 ATLANTIC COAST (A) = 75.21 74.98 ( 5) 12
6 BIG TEN (A) = 74.63 74.17 ( 6) 11

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/sagarin/fbc07.htm

2006:

1 SOUTHEASTERN (A) = 81.60 81.23 ( 1) 12
2 BIG EAST (A) = 79.57 79.90 ( 2) 8
3 PAC-10 (A) = 78.78 79.15 ( 3) 10
4 ATLANTIC COAST (A) = 75.49 73.79 ( 6) 12
5 BIG TEN (A) = 74.89 75.62 ( 4) 11
6 BIG 12 (A) = 74.34 74.01 ( 5) 12

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/sagarin/fbc06.htm

2005:

1 BIG TEN (A) = 80.72 80.55 ( 1) 11
2 ATLANTIC COAST (A) = 78.96 78.26 ( 4) 12
3 BIG 12 (A) = 78.96 80.02 ( 2) 12
4 PAC-10 (A) = 77.92 78.65 ( 3) 10
5 SOUTHEASTERN (A) = 75.28 74.92 ( 6) 12
6 I-A INDEPENDENTS (A) = 74.44 75.02 ( 5) 3
7 BIG EAST (A) = 72.12 72.42 ( 7) 8

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/sagarin/fbc05.htm

[boozehound]

I don't really know a lot about Sagarin rankings, but I have to question any ranking system that puts the Big East as the #2 conference last year over the Big 12 and Big 10. Especially the Big 12.

I base a lot of my opinions on conference strength on the bowl games. Look the 2009 season bowl games in detail. They went 4-2, which is a solid bowl record. On the exterior it looks very good, actually.

As you look at the individual games, however, I think that the picture changes somewhat.

Pitt beat North Carolina. Barely. I don't think that UNC was that good of a team and Pitt could have very easily won the Big East.
UConn beat South Carolina 20-7. Solid win over a lower tier SEC team, but South Carolina isn't a powerhouse.
Rutgers beat Central Florida.
South Florida beat Northern Illinois. That's right. Northern Illinois.
WVU lost to FSU. It was Bowden's last game, so I will give them a partial pass on that one but they really should have won that game.
Cincinnati got absolutely destroyed by Florida. That game was over in the first quarter. They couldn't even compete.

In 2008, they also went 4-2, however the only team to play in a BCS bowl was UC who got pounded by Virginia Tech.

The Big East will have another chance to prove it this year, but I still am not impressed with them after watching them play. They may have a fairly balanced conference with a lot of teams that can win some games but I don't see them as a conference that can produce a true powerhouse football team.

[gladdenguy]

Boozehound,
This is gonna be another tough year for us Wolverine fans.
Hopefully Rich Rodriguez is gone-dy.

As far as the Big East, I don't care what ratings you use, the Big East is the WORST "BCS" conference and its not even close. If there are ratings that say the Big East was the 2nd best conference in America since VT, Miami, and BC left the conference.....well, that is an absolute joke.

[GoMuskies]

Sorry about using facts gladdenguy. Your argument is much more persuasive.

[wkrq59]

Not as interested in Michigan and Ohio State. Don't care to share the reasons.
UC football is local, and has for the past half century been either irrelevant or ignored completely. So I'll start with the past two bowl games UC played.
First, Virginia Tech.
Facing one of the best coaches in college football today or the past five years, UC was and should have been underdog and there was little chance of winning that game. Crying over that game and using it as proof of how bad was the BE and how much of a pretender the Bearcats were serves no purpose and is also irrelevant. They lost and as Bruce Coslet used to say "Deservedly So."
The Sugar Bowl was a miss-match, period. Tebow's last game, Meyer's too, maybe. No Brian Kelly and coaches who didn't give a sh!t. Inmates running the asylum. That said, UC was one extra second granted when the game should have been over and one near-miss field goal from the national championship game which they would have lost worse than the
Florida game.
The Sugar Bowl shouldn't have spoiled a perfect 12-0 season. I submit that the talent at UC, while excellent last season, was not and most likely never will be as good as that at the Alabamas, the Floridas, Texas, Nebraskas, or some of the PAC-10 (or whatever number they are) schools.
But that still doesn't take away from the excellence those players and that coach gave us, the ratings nationally (when was UC ever as high as fourth?) or the sheer fun of watching a bunch of young men stand a city on end and make people who love football, proud.
As far as this season is concerned, anybody remember who Phil Bengston was? Who Bob Davey was? Etc?
Butch Jones has a helluva high standard to follow and his players from Day One have a target on their backs that won't go away, starting with Fresno State.
The UC talent is probably there but the depth of an Ohio State, a Michigan, an Alabama or Florida isn't and may never be. That does not mean whatever that team accomplishes should be held up to ridicule or crinkled noses like some smelling you know what.
One of the great things about college football, and one of the main reasons I love it is the little guy can still matter. The Mardy Gilyards and Tony Pike's can still do seemingly magical things that border the superhuman. That's one of the reasons I really love college basketball and Xavier basketball in particular. The non-behemoths can rise up and "almost.." and someday will. That's what makes the Final Four and March Madness so wonderful. It's also what makes the Boise State's, the TCU's and yes, the UC's not only worth watching, but also for cheering our lungs
out on a bitter cold and snowy day.
:logo::shield::sword:

[gladdenguy]

Sorry about using facts gladdenguy. Your argument is much more persuasive.

I know Go, I don't fault you.....I just hate the Big East........football and basketball.

[muskiefan82]

UC is a huge question mark. They appear to return significant talent from a team that made a BCS bowl game, but got absolutely shellacked. I know a lot of people who are expecting UC to be very good again this year. I wouldn't be shocked to see them finish near the top of a Big East conference that I don't really think is that good. I kind of wonder how good they really were last year though...



This question will be answered early against Oklahoma.

[XUglow]

College football fires up tonight. That is great. I will have something to do between now and basketball season.

[Masterofreality]

Sorry.

My opinion, but.....

Yawn...........

[Muskie]

I'll be tuned into Indiana v. Towson and I might take a peak at the Marshall game.

[sylvester]

Sorry.

My opinion, but.....

Yawn...........

Thanks for your continued contributions to football threads MOR...you really bring a lot to the table.

[GoMuskies]

Sorry.

My opinion, but.....

Yawn...........

Blasphemy

[X-band '01]

Sorry.

My opinion, but.....

Yawn...........

I'd feel the same way if I also listened to the media shoving football at all levels down our throats.

[GuyFawkes38]

It's really weird to see OSU play on a Thursday night. It just doesn't feel right.

[gladdenguy]

Go,
Really......Pittsburgh is the best team in the Big East? Its gonna be a long year for the Big East.

[GoMuskies]

Go,
Really......Pittsburgh is the best team in the Big East? Its gonna be a long year for the Big East.

3 point underdog loses by 3. Shocker.

[X-band '01]

It's really weird to see OSU play on a Thursday night. It just doesn't feel right.

They did it once before - for the Pigskin Classic against Wyoming back in 1997. I'm sure the Big 10 Network probably lobbied to make sure that OSU and Penn State both had debuts at separate times (with Penn State playing on Saturday).

[sash19]

I have a degree from Marshall so they own my football allegiance. Doc Holliday has a brutal start to his career, traveling to OSU and following that up by hosting WVU in Huntington. If The Herd can come out of that stretch without any major injuries I think the other non-conference games (Ohio and Bowling Green) are easier and the C-USA crown is up for grabs. As much as I'd love to see Marshall shock the Bucks in Columbus, I'm not holding my breath. OSU has a very solid squad.

I think UC is primed for a let down but will still be very good. I'd love to see TCU and Boise put together BCS-buster seasons again and I think they can do so.

Pork:

I am from Huntington and my dad played at Marshall back in the 60's. Last night was sad....That was a perfect showing of the have's and have not's right now. The Herd looked shell shocked and while they never gave up, just dont have the athletes and overall team talent. Was it 45-7 bad-no but it was still a game that was gonna be a 3 score win. Next week vs. the Mountainqueers, I expect a win and a much better performance. Playing in the shoe is not easy and Marshall proved that last night. I sat there at the game and just wished for the end!! Then I got to deal with the traffic!!

[xu95]

The dismantling of teams begins tomorrow at 6PM CT in Tuscaloosa Alabama. I hope they rest Mark Ingram until SEC play. He won't be needed against San Jose St, Penn St, or Duke.

xu95

[gladdenguy]

3 point underdog loses by 3. Shocker.

Best team in the Big East loses to the third best team in the Mountain West.
Yes, not a shocker. TCU, BYU, and Utah would beat anybody in the Big East.
By the way, if you watched the game it wasn't that close. Pittsburgh was very fortunate to be that close.

[Masterofreality]

Best team in the Big East loses to the third best team in the Mountain West.
Yes, not a shocker. TCU, BYU, and Utah would beat anybody in the Big East.
By the way, if you watched the game it wasn't that close. Pittsburgh was very fortunate to be that close.

Did B-Espn have any note on the game, or did they just ignore it so they could ceaselessly pump their programming source as to its quality?

Big East Football. Catch the Fraud.

[GoMuskies]

A game that went to OT wasn't close? I'm not going to spend any time defending Pitt, because Wannstedt is terrible, but they lost a three point game on the road in OT as three point underdogs against a team with an 18 game home winning streak. I don't see much of a story here.

[XUglow]

A lot of snoozefest games last night. South Carolina looked OK, but enough about that FR running back. The dude had 54 yds on 14 carries, and ESPN is trying to make him out to be the next Herschel Walker. Minnesota could have a long year. FAMU looked like a bunch of guys playing in a sandlot. Hawaii can't tackle. Marshall was over-matched. The "haves" certainly appear to be separating more from the "have nots". I haven't done a count, but the number of quality non-BCS teams seems to be well under 10. (Boise St., TCU, Utah, BYU, Houston, Air Force, Navy...?)

[Porkopolis]

Pork:

I am from Huntington and my dad played at Marshall back in the 60's. Last night was sad....That was a perfect showing of the have's and have not's right now. The Herd looked shell shocked and while they never gave up, just dont have the athletes and overall team talent. Was it 45-7 bad-no but it was still a game that was gonna be a 3 score win. Next week vs. the Mountainqueers, I expect a win and a much better performance. Playing in the shoe is not easy and Marshall proved that last night. I sat there at the game and just wished for the end!! Then I got to deal with the traffic!!

That was a brutal game but not unexpected. Here's to a win in Huntington Friday night!

[Snipe]

I love college football and UC is the only outlet of college football in Cincinnati. I grew up rooting for the home team and I used to be a season ticket holder. When they run deals I take my kids. It is fun. I am hoping to make the Oklahoma game at PBS.

I love college football. UC is my only option without a long drive. I still watch all the games with my kids on Saturdays. We root for OSU and then decide who to root for given the matchups. College football is fun and being a UC fan is too.

I hope that UC does well. I don't know what to expect. I think that Brian Kelly was a geniius, and that he will do well even at Notre Dame. They made the best hire they could. I think it was the best hire they have made since Hotz. I am interested to see what Kelly does there. I am rooting for him to do well because I think he will, and it is no use rooting against them if he is a genius. It will be interesting.

I also feel sorry for UC because their basketball program is so sad. They used to be titans, but now they have Mick Cronin. Not one of the UC fans I know likes the guy. None of the Xavier fans I know likes the guy. Not one of the guys I know who don't root for either school like the guy. I haven't found one guy that likes Mick Cronin. Their program sucks. They take pride in football now, and if they lose that they really are just a shytstain the underpants of humanity with no relevance whatsover.

So if they lose I can at least take consolation with that. I love the football Cats though. I think it is cool when the city gets some Catitude. They do better than the Bengals on an annual basis, and it is nice to have an option outside of the Mike Brown Football Monoploy. And in the end it is just fun.

People in the past have said that it is both Un-American and Un-Xavierian to root for Bearcat Football. I understand your thoughts to a point. I am Xavier through and through and we don't have a football team. Bearcat Football is fun, and college football is fun. So save your negative reps this time. I know some of you don't like any mention of UC in a favorable light. You don't have to remind me.

I am so glad college football is back. As I have lived my life it seems that I like college football more and more. I love it all. I have teams I root for or root against in just about every major conference. Go Bucks. Go Cats. Go me laying on the couch on Saturday with my boys. What a great tradition that was to start an early age. When they were really young I used to give them treats when a certain team scored. Like pavolian dogs they responded, my kids love the college game. They don't even need treats now to salivate at the begining of the seaon. Collge Football is epic.

I just rambled forever without any consequential breakdowns of any team. To tell the truth I don't know what is going to happen. I am just glad to be back in the saddle.

[Masterofreality]

A game that went to OT wasn't close? I'm not going to spend any time defending Pitt, because Wannstedt is terrible, but they lost a three point game on the road in OT as three point underdogs against a team with an 18 game home winning streak. I don't see much of a story here.

Except that somehow Pitt was ranked #15 and lost to a non-BCS school road or not. Road means very little in football- certainly not like basketball.

If Utah was ranked #15 and lost to Pitt on the road, B-Espn would be playing up Big Greased Football like it was the greatest thing since sliced bread.

Just one more reason why the MWC being excluded and the Big Greased being included in the BCS is a joke.

[GoMuskies]

Road means very little in football

Seriously, please stop posting on football threads.

[gladdenguy]

A game that went to OT wasn't close? I'm not going to spend any time defending Pitt, because Wannstedt is terrible, but they lost a three point game on the road in OT as three point underdogs against a team with an 18 game home winning streak. I don't see much of a story here.

If Fresno St. and Michigan take care of business on Saturday (which they should) it will be another year where the Big East only gets its automatic winner in the BCS.
And after next year when the Big 10 adds Nebraska and the Pac 10 adds their teams, the Big East will be even worse.
In 04/05 when Virginia Tech, Boston College, and Miami left the Big East there has been no more than one team a year to earn a BCS bid in the Big East conference and NOBODY has played for the National title.
How are they BCS worthy? The Borecats also have pushed the Big East record to 3-3 in BCS games with 2 straight losses.

Go, I can't believe you back the Big East even if you are a football fan of one of the teams (which I think you back Louisville, right?).

[Masterofreality]

Seriously, please stop posting on football threads.

Gladly.

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!

[GoMuskies]

The Big East has clearly been one of the top 6 conferences in that six year stretch. It's been better than the ACC every year in that stretch. That's why they've remained a BCS conference. By any objective measure, you'd have to take away the ACC's BCS bid before you took away the Big East's. And that's obviously not happening.

[sash19]

That was a brutal game but not unexpected. Here's to a win in Huntington Friday night!

Pork:

Agreed. I will be there on the sidelines cheering for a win over WVWho.....

[X-band '01]

I will give teams like Pitt and UC credit for at least having the balls to schedule a game out west against teams that matter. Utah deserves a shot at getting marquee games at home, and you see why not too many teams are willing to venture out to SLC (although next year they'll be one of the big boys in the Pac-12).

UC's game is a tossup at Fresno State, although I'd have to give Fresno the edge at home. It's a good thing that UC was able to practice outdoors during the past couple of weeks in hot weather because the weather in Fresno tomorrow night ain't gonna be kind.

[Espe]

Except that somehow Pitt was ranked #15 and lost to a non-BCS school road or not. Road means very little in football- certainly not like basketball.

If Utah was ranked #15 and lost to Pitt on the road, B-Espn would be playing up Big Greased Football like it was the greatest thing since sliced bread.

Just one more reason why the MWC being excluded and the Big Greased being included in the BCS is a joke.
Come on cuz

[Masterofreality]

Come on cuz

What? Like Tennessee never waltzes into Vanderbilt Stadium and wins? Or..

Florida never strolls into Lexington and wins? Or...

Ohio State never strides into Michigan Stadium and wins?

That "home advantage" sure helped Notre Dame against Navy the last two times they've played them at home, huh?

Look. If Pitt was good enough, they would win. Football is totally different than basketball. The refs are not as influenced by the home crowd, nor is the crowd as big an influence to begin with as it is in basketball when they are right on top of the court. There are far less upsets in football than in basketball when the better team is on the road. Period.

If you think that a home game in football has anywhere near the effect of a home game in basketball, there is a nice bridge in Brooklyn that I'd like to sell you.

[XUglow]

Coolest play of the season so far...

http://deadspin.com/5629773/college-football-season-means-trick-plays

[Masterofreality]

Road means very little in football- certainly not like basketball.


Seriously, please stop posting on football threads.

Here's documented proof.

We'll use Ohio State throughout their football and basketball histories since 1899. These stats are true home and road games. No neutral sites used.

Football: Total win percentage: 73.5%. Home win percentage: 77.7%, Road win percentage: 69.1%.

Basketball:Total win percentage: 60.0%. Home win percentage: 73.7%, Road win percentage: 42.2%
(Ohio State has played 291 more home basketball games than road games in their history)

Numbers don't lie. Football home field means little-certainly not like basketball.

[GoMuskies]

Let's run those numbers with a basketball program comparable to OSU football. Try them with UK basketball. I bet UK's football road winning percentage isn't nearly as good as their basketball road winning percentage. And that stat would tell you just as little as the one you posted.

[GoMuskies]

Coolest play of the season so far...

http://deadspin.com/5629773/college-football-season-means-trick-plays

Sweet play, but why waste it in a game you're down 28-0 in with zero chance to win?

[Masterofreality]

Let's run those numbers with a basketball program comparable to OSU football. Try them with UK basketball. I bet UK's football road winning percentage isn't nearly as good as their basketball road winning percentage. And that stat would tell you just as little as the one you posted.

C'mon Go. OSU has been pretty damn good over the years in both sports including winning National Championships in basketball and football.

The significant stat is that there isn't much difference between OSU's home winning percentages in football and basketball. There is a HUGE discrepancy in basketball. Same school, two quality programs over the long term.

The problem with running UK is that their football program has sucked for the most part over the years. They've lost lots of games in football both home and away. You need to pick out a program that has been good in both and has won championships in both. Ohio State fills the bill- and it is not meaningless at all- especially when you have an over 30 percentage point discrepancy.

I've proved my point with numbers. Show me something different.

[GoMuskies]

I'm sending you to David Flaspohler for some remedial stats work if you really think what you posted has proven anything.

And by the way, it may well be that college basketball is tougher on the road than college football. But your statement that road doesn't mean much in college football is, quite frankly, ludicrous.

For a trusted independent source, let's use Jeff Sagarin. I think we can both agree he's a lot better statistician than you or I. He gives home teams a 3.78 point advantage in college basketball (that's a 7.56 difference between playing someone at home and playing them on the road). He gives home teams a 3.08 point advantage in college football (6.16 points total difference home vs. road). I can agree with you and Jeff that college basketball's home court advantage is greater. I don't see how anyone can disagree that a TD difference doesn't mean much, however. It was the difference between a 3 point win and a 3 point loss for Pitt last night.

[Masterofreality]

Just for the hell of it, for your UK fix.

Kentucky has a basketball winning percentage at home all time of 86.5%. Their road winning percentage is 61.3%- an over 25 percentage point difference. Ohio State's basketball was about 30 percentage points lower on the road. Not a gigantic difference between OSU and UK.

Ohio State football? Only an 8 percentage point difference home vs road win percentage.

Kentucky football sucks both home and away. They lose both places. Irrelevant.

And are you really trying to use some guy's point spread as a comparison over actual winning percentages over time? Holy crap, talk about a weak ass stretch. At least I'm comparing apples to apples.

I'll say this very slowly. F-o-o-t-b-a-l-l ...h-o-m-e... f-i-e-l-d...g-i-v-e-s...l-i-t-t-l-e...a-d-v-a-n-t-a-g-e.......M-u-c-h...l-e-s-s...t-h-a-n...b-a-s-k-e-t-b-a-l-l.

[GoMuskies]

I love you man. But you don't know what the hell you're talking about.

[waggy]

The points Sagarin gives to football are actually a greater percentage of total points scored compared to basketball. So I guess the argument could be made that it's tougher to win on the road in football.

[X-band '01]

Here's a nice stat so far - Florida is leading the Miami RedHawks 21-6. Their offense has a grand total of 17 yards so far in the game.

[X-band '01]

Yes, that's right - Florida has 37 pass yards and a whopping -20 rushing yards exacerbated by a pair of bad snaps in their own end. Miami got a FG on the ensuing drive, but a little disappointing considering their drive started at the Florida 30.

[waggy]

I might become an Irish fan, and I didn't think I'd ever say that. I like Brian Kelly.

[Masterofreality]

I love you man. But you don't know what the hell you're talking about.

Go, I love you too, but sorry. Home field in college football means little. Talent makes the difference. Oklahoma always beats Kansas whether it is in Lawrence or anyplace else. Ohio State always beats Northwestern, whether it's in Chicago or anyplace else. Tennessee always beats Vandy whether it's in Nashville or anyplace else.
The last 3 times Notre Dame and Navy have played, the home team LOST. I could go on ad nauseum.

The dump can't beat us in Cincinnati, but occasionally win at home.

We'll never agree on this, but....I'm right.

[boozehound]

My Wolverines looked pretty good today...

[xudash]

My Wolverines looked pretty good today...

They did, actually. Today will make for an interesting next Saturday.

Is it true that Tate F. is bad news, as far as his teammates are concerned?

[xudash]

Pitt

UConn

UC

Presuming they're the best of that conference this year.

The Big East, in football, had a bad year this weekend.

[stophorseabuse]

I didn't realize a football school is supposed to get crushed at Fresno St.

[Masterofreality]

"Cattitude"? More like "Catti-screwed".

Snipe should direct his football passions, and those of his sons, to a good local high school program. He's playing with fire letting his kids dance around the edges of the darkside. All they will learn is underachievement and disappointment anyway.

Sorry, you can't cheer for a rival in any sport. Sinner.

And nice opening weekend for the Big Greased. I'm sure that B-Espn will play up the West Virginia/South Florida matchup like it's equal to the Super Bowl however.

[golfitup]

Went to the UL/UK game yesterday. Holy gawd does Louisville suck. Hard to believe 3 and a half years ago I was in Miami watching them win the Orange Bowl. Apparently, the previous coaching regime decided recruiting was not a top priority...

[XUglow]

Personal observation:

Memphis cheerleaders and pom squads: Lot of talent.
Memphis football team: Not so much.

C-USA has had a rough start.

Also:

Miss Muskie is in mourning over beloved Rebels losing to FCS Jacksonville State.

[X-band '01]

"Cattitude"? More like "Catti-screwed".

Snipe should direct his football passions, and those of his sons, to a good local high school program. He's playing with fire letting his kids dance around the edges of the darkside. All they will learn is underachievement and disappointment anyway.

Sorry, you can't cheer for a rival in any sport. Sinner.

And nice opening weekend for the Big Greased. I'm sure that B-Espn will play up the West Virginia/South Florida matchup like it's equal to the Super Bowl however.

I'm pretty sure Mrs. Snipe is a UC grad, so Snipe at least has a good reason to follow UC in football. I said this would be a tough game, and not surprisingly Fresno was able to straighten out their defense and take over in the 2nd half.


Went to the UL/UK game yesterday. Holy gawd does Louisville suck. Hard to believe 3 and a half years ago I was in Miami watching them win the Orange Bowl. Apparently, the previous coaching regime decided recruiting was not a top priority...

Considering how Bobby Petrino quit on the Atlanta Falcons, is it really surprising that he would leave after taking UofL as far as they could go? At least they struck while the iron was hot.


Personal observation:

Miss Muskie is in mourning over beloved Rebels losing to FCS Jacksonville State.

I can't say I feel sorry for Ole Miss - serves them right after the NCAA reversed their original decision and let Jeremiah Masoli play for the Rebels this year.

[waggy]

Irish opener ratings up 77 percent


NEW YORK -- The start of the Brian Kelly era attracted a large television audience for Notre Dame.

Saturday's preliminary rating was up 77 percent from last year's opener. NBC said Sunday that the Fighting Irish's 23-12 win over Purdue drew a 2.3 overnight rating and 6 share. It was up 15 percent from the last Notre Dame home game against Purdue in 2008.

The 2009 opener against Nevada earned a 1.3 rating and 3 share.

Ratings represent the percentage of all homes with televisions tuned into a program. Shares represent the percentage of all homes with TVs in use at the time. Overnight ratings measure the country's largest markets.

[X-band '01]

MOR, I know you're itching to say it, but I'll save you the trouble. It's not terribily difficult to do better than an opener against Nevada, nor is it terribly difficult when Brian Kelly is making his ND debut as head coach.

I wonder what the ratings were for the ABC/ESPN games - did you really think the following games would trump the interest generated by Notre Dame and Purdue:

Texas/Rice
UConn/Michigan
UCLA/K-State
Kentucky/Louisville

Next weekend you've got 2 very good matchups that would merit better ratings - 3:30 you've got OSU and Miami-FL and 7:00 you've got Penn State-Alabama.

Boise State-Virginia Tech is a very good matchup tomorrow night - I wish they would have had that as the Chick-Fil-A Kickoff instead. I get that it's an SEC-ACC matchup, but LSU-UNC sounds more like a year-end bowl matchup.

[boozehound]

They did, actually. Today will make for an interesting next Saturday.

Is it true that Tate F. is bad news, as far as his teammates are concerned?

I had heard that there were effort issues with Tate, however that is the extent of what I know. To go from being the starter to being number 3 on the depth chart is pretty serious though. It certainly sounds like his playing time at Michigan is about done. After watching Robinson run the offense yesterday it looks like they made the right choice.

[vee4xu]

One word, four letters and a bunch of exclamation points.

OH-IO!!!!!

[xudash]

Question: have Reece Davis, Holtz and the Dipstick May gotten too cute on their show?

How about the mock courtroom hearing deal on Mazoli last night. Pretty dumb. And allowing May to act like an attorney enables him to be even more condescending than he is already.

p.s. vee is the man.

p.s.s. it was fun watching Gator fans suffer for 3 quarters.

[GoMuskies]

One word, four letters and a bunch of exclamation points.

OH-IO!!!!!

Go Bobcats!

[kyxu]

Next weekend you've got 2 very good matchups that would merit better ratings - 3:30 you've got OSU and Miami-FL and 7:00 you've got Penn State-Alabama.

I would argue ND-Michigan will merit comparable ratings next weekend to these match-ups. Next Saturday is going to have some good games, that's for sure.


I had heard that there were effort issues with Tate, however that is the extent of what I know. To go from being the starter to being number 3 on the depth chart is pretty serious though. It certainly sounds like his playing time at Michigan is about done. After watching Robinson run the offense yesterday it looks like they made the right choice.

I'm honestly not surprised Forcier is now buried on the depth chart. His ability is inferior to that of Robinson and freshman Devin Gardner. Tate was very average after about the fourth game of the season when the secret was out. And unlike Forcier, Robinson can throw the ball a little.

I'm looking forward to next weekend when the NBC announcers spend another 20 minutes talking about how Denard doesn't tie his shoes. Oh my god, so outrageous.

[gladdenguy]

Boozehound,
This could be a solid year if Denard Robinson stays healthy.
Devin Gardner isn't even close to the level of Denard.
The defense really surprised me yesterday, however, if and when we play a tough passing qb, our dbs are very young and inexperienced.
nonetheless, we did only beat UConn. The Big East is horrible this year.
Herbstreit said Uconn would win in Michigan and that UConn would win the Big East.
Good call Kirk.
Michigan should beat ND. Speed kills.
Fk Brian Kelly.
Another note: UC now sucks in football and basketball.......BAAHHHAAAAHHAAA

[GoMuskies]

The Big East is horrible this year.


Even I think this is probably true, although I think all three of Pitt, UC and UConn will be fine.

Despite MOR's protestations to the contrary, it's pretty tough to win on the road. Those were tough openers for those three.

[XULucho27]

The defense really surprised me yesterday, however, if and when we play a tough passing qb, our dbs are very young and inexperienced.
nonetheless, we did only beat UConn.

I wasn't really surprised or impressed by the D. They gave up 343 yds. of offense, 0 sacks, gave up 4.7 yds. per rush, and it all could have been much worse were it not for dropped passes by UConn in the first half.

You're right that the DBs are very inexperienced. The D is going to be a HUGE problem if they don't tighten up the secondary. Hopefully Denard can bail them out while they get the kinks worked out of the system.

[SixFig]

Biggest game of the year for non-BCS lovers like me is tonight: Fresno State vs Va Tech.

[Masterofreality]

Biggest game of the year for non-BCS lovers like me is tonight: Fresno State vs Va Tech.

I believe that that would be Boise State.

Fresno already blew up the Borecats and the Big Least mythology.

[SixFig]

I believe that that would be Boise State.

Fresno already blew up the Borecats and the Big Least mythology.

Oops. Thats what I get for posting at 5AM west coast time.

[boozehound]

I wasn't really surprised or impressed by the D. They gave up 343 yds. of offense, 0 sacks, gave up 4.7 yds. per rush, and it all could have been much worse were it not for dropped passes by UConn in the first half.

You're right that the DBs are very inexperienced. The D is going to be a HUGE problem if they don't tighten up the secondary. Hopefully Denard can bail them out while they get the kinks worked out of the system.

Yeah, I don't think we are going to have a good defense this year at all. I think that our offense could be very very good though, so it depends on how the 2 balance out. We really don't have the DBs to play a 3-3-5, so I am not sure why we are doing it.

[Muskie]

Oops. Thats what I get for posting at 5AM west coast time.

For a guy that despises college football MOR is on top of things. I'm also ready for Boise State v. Va Tech.

[GoMuskies]

Boise/VPI is one of the best matchups of the season. Looking forward to it.

[Masterofreality]

For a guy that despises college football MOR is on top of things. I'm also ready for Boise State v. Va Tech.

Anytime SucKS loses at anything, I memorize the entity that abuses them.

[X-band '01]

These new unis by Boise State and Va Tech are hideous. Thanks for nothing Nike.

[Juice]

These new unis by Boise State and Va Tech are hideous. Thanks for nothing Nike.

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=lukas/100901_college_football_update

You can see pictures of all the Nike combat uniforms here.

[Muskie]

These new unis by Boise State and Va Tech are hideous. Thanks for nothing Nike.

yes. yes they are.

[X-band '01]

Only Alabama comes out of those designs looking traditional and tasteful (nice try Ohio State - the design may be circa 1942 but the red helmets just will not cut it).

Miami - my goodness. I thought the bad jerseys AND helmet schemes would be restricted to Oregon and their numerous combinations.

I'm glad to see at least teams like Penn State always keep it simple (and noticeably absent from this group). I would add Notre Dame, but there's always that green jersey and name-on-the-back thing that just doesn't seem right with them.

[Muskie]

I think VT's normal uniforms are classic looking (at least colors wise). Not sure where they came up with this black and orange.

[GoMuskies]

Boise's sort of a new age program, so I don't mind the new age look on them.

[GoMuskies]

It's on in D.C. now. From 17-0 Boise to 21-20 VaTech. Epic 20 minutes to come.

[rhyno2110]

I remember watching Ryan Williams last year, and he looked nasty. But now, he is just a complete BEAST!!!

[GuyFawkes38]

I have a passionate hatred of schools outside BCS conferences who think they are just as good. It pisses me off. Join a major conference or shut up.

Sorry Boise, I'm rooting for Va Tech.

[GoMuskies]

TD Boise. That's quite an answer.

[GoMuskies]

I have a passionate hatred of schools outside BCS conferences who think they are just as good. It pisses me off. Join a major conference or shut up.

Yeah. Xavier sucks.

[GuyFawkes38]

Yeah. Xavier sucks.

Ummm, I was referring to Boise State.

[GoMuskies]

Sure, but you obviously have a passionate hatred of Xavier as well.

[rhyno2110]

Fawkes, you don't make any sense.

[rhyno2110]

A great sight is seeing a sea of Vatech fans absolutely and collectively stunned.

[X-band '01]

Don't ever tell me that teams like Boise State don't get breaks from the officials. There was a borderline block to the side of a Va Tech player on the last punt return (and, mind you, the flag was originally thrown but was overturned). And the Hokies imploded with a late hit on the drive as well.

But - did the Broncos score too quickly?

[GoMuskies]

Don't ever tell me that teams like Boise State don't get breaks from the officials. There was a borderline block to the side of a Va Tech player on the last punt return (and, mind you, the flag was originally thrown but was overturned). And the Hokies imploded with a late hit on the drive as well.

But - did the Broncos score too quickly?

Boise has 11 penalties. And that personal foul probably helped VaTech. Boise scored quicker. They werent' stopping them.

Do you think teams like Xavier get breaks from the officials in the NCAA Tournament?

[GoMuskies]

Boise winner. Amazing game.

[GuyFawkes38]

I really don't want to see Boise State get blown out in the BCS championship game. To put it simply, if you play football in Idaho, you don't deserve to be in the BCS championship game.

Hopefully a more deserving team will be in the game.

[X-band '01]

Do you think teams like Xavier get breaks from the officials in the NCAA Tournament?

Texas fans in 2004 had to be wondering what possessed the officials to throw out Rick Barnes at the end of the game. If you remember that sequence, Texas missed a couple of 3s late with some incidental contact, but nothing to warrant a foul being called. I can only assume that Barnes used the magic word a few times to Ted Valentine during that sequence to warrant an ejection.


I really don't want to see Boise State get blown out in the BCS championship game. To put it simply, if you play football in Idaho, you don't deserve to be in the BCS championship game.

Hopefully a more deserving team will be in the game.

As always, let the whole season play itself out before passing judgment. They still get Oregon State at home, but if they slip up once in any of their other games, then their best possible outcome is a BCS bowl but not the national title game.

Besides, for all the hoopla that Erin Andrews gets as a sideline reporter, how come we never hear Heather Cox mentioned more?

[GoMuskies]

Texas fans in 2004 had to be wondering what possessed the officials to throw out Rick Barnes at the end of the game. If you remember that sequence, Texas missed a couple of 3s late with some incidental contact, but nothing to warrant a foul being called. I can only assume that Barnes used the magic word a few times to Ted Valentine during that sequence to warrant an ejection.


So you DO think teams like Xavier get some breaks from the officials? Did you watch the Duke game that followed the Texas game?

[GuyFawkes38]

Besides, for all the hoopla that Erin Andrews gets as a sideline reporter, how come we never hear Heather Cox mentioned more?

yes, she was great tonight. I had no idea she played volleyball. Seems much friendlier than Erin Andrews.

[coasterville95]

A friend of mine invited me to the UC home opener at Nippert on Saturday. I took him up on it since I've never seen a game at Nippert.

It is comforting to know he already has his excuses in hand what with the new coach, and the WR out for the season.

Might be satisfying in a perverse kind of way to see them start the freefall back into college football obscurity and irrelevance on their home field. (user checks the football scores from the past weekend) Let me amend that: Continue the steep slippery slope into obscurity and irrelevance they started at that major football powerhouse Fresno St.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

A friend of mine invited me to the UC home opener at Nippert on Saturday. I took him up on it since I've never seen a game at Nippert.

It is comforting to know he already has his excuses in hand what with the new coach, and the WR out for the season.

Might be satisfying in a perverse kind of way to see them start the freefall back into college football obscurity and irrelevance on their home field. (user checks the football scores from the past weekend) Let me amend that: Continue the steep slippery slope into obscurity and irrelevance they started at that major football powerhouse Fresno St.

My favorite UC Football fan reaction was posted on Lance's Blog and it was something like "Well, they can't win the National Championship. I'm done watching."

The fickleness is incredible. I realize every team has their extreme bandwagoners, but yikes.

[Masterofreality]

Great game last night.

I really don't hate college football. It's just that I don't know how many games you can watch. It just seems that it's being crammed down your throat every second of every night.

I know, I know, there are a helluva lot more college basketball games on than football, but I actually am passionate about college basketball.

Football? Not so much, but I do enjoy an entertaining game, and last night was one of them.

And, I love Boise sticking it to the BCS Cartel.

[Kahns Krazy]

Here's documented proof.

We'll use Ohio State throughout their football and basketball histories since 1899. These stats are true home and road games. No neutral sites used.

Football: Total win percentage: 73.5%. Home win percentage: 77.7%, Road win percentage: 69.1%.

Basketball:Total win percentage: 60.0%. Home win percentage: 73.7%, Road win percentage: 42.2%
(Ohio State has played 291 more home basketball games than road games in their history)

Numbers don't lie. Football home field means little-certainly not like basketball.

How can you put up numbers that prove that a certain college football team is 33% more likely to lose on the road, and then go on to say that home field advantage is meaningless?

[Masterofreality]

I'll say this very slowly. F-o-o-t-b-a-l-l ...h-o-m-e... f-i-e-l-d...g-i-v-e-s...l-i-t-t-l-e...a-d-v-a-n-t-a-g-e.......M-u-c-h...l-e-s-s...t-h-a-n...b-a-s-k-e-t-b-a-l-l.


How can you put up numbers that prove that a certain college football team is 33% more likely to lose on the road, and then go on to say that home field advantage is meaningless?

I never said, "meaningless" Kahns. That's your words. What I said was above.

Home field gives little advantage. There is some slight effect, but much less than basketball. in football, there may be an early game emotional lift to the home team, but after about a quarter and a half, the speed, size, depth and strength of the more talented team will take over. Crowd noise, against a talented well-coached team means little.

If teams are totally evenly matched, the nod may slightly go to the home team, but there is no where near the effect of what happens in a basketball game.

My gawd. Can't you guys read simple english and extract numbers? Ohio State has won almost 69% of their away football games over 110 years. They've won 77% of their home football games. By my calculation that is maybe an 11% (8 percentage point) difference between home and road win result. They have won a little over 42% of their road basketball games. That isn't definitive enough?

[coasterville95]

My favorite UC Football fan reaction was posted on Lance's Blog and it was something like "Well, they can't win the National Championship. I'm done watching."

The fickleness is incredible. I realize every team has their extreme bandwagoners, but yikes.

That's been pretty much the reaction I've been observing. To imagine a fan base can be deflated that easily!

[wkrq59]

Observations:
1)Fresno State is no lesser team. When I saw UC was playing them in Fresno and it was the opening game for both I penciled it in as a UC loss. Period. That Fresno coach is very, very good and respected in his profession. Year in and out he has winning teams that go on the road and play tough schedules, often beating the big boys.
2)No team that plays in Idaho should play in a national championship game because the BCS teams will always beat them! Hey, Sparky, Do the name Oklahoma and the Statue of Liberty play stir up some memories. And they came back the following year and did it again. Ask Frank Beamer if Boise State deserves its lofty ranking.
3)The home field advantage in football depends on two factors, the near insane and rabid devotion of the fans and the stadium and its location. I've been at LSU when they start chanting "Tiger bait" hours before the game and the visiting teams warming up figuratively sh!t their collective pants. I've been at Doak Campbell Stadium when the rider slams that flaming spear into Oceola's head on the field and it took me a full quarter to get my ears to hear anything. I've been in the swamp at U of Fla. and at South Carolina and at Bryant Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and heard the "roll," from one side and the "tide" from the other. Those places give the home team a better than 95% chance of winning.
I've been in Nippert and Yager Stadiums and could probably hear the mass read at one end of both fields during the game. I've also been in Cameron Indoor Stadium and yes, Schmidt Fieldhouse when the advantage for the home team was equally evident. But in different years.
:logo::D

[coasterville95]

According to the paper - UC is expecting 27,000-28,000 for Saturday's game. That place holds what - 35K?

I know UC hasn't started yet - but surely there are enough UC fans around town to fill Nippert right. I mean they are a big BCS conference leading college football powerhouse right? They play in top BCS Bowl games. First home game of the year.

Is that a bandwagon I see rolling down Clifton Ave with people jumping off left and right?

[X-band '01]

yes, she was great tonight. I had no idea she played volleyball. Seems much friendlier than Erin Andrews.

Not that I know either of them personally, but it is easier to be more friendly and outgoing when people are drilling peepholes into your hotel doors. I figured Cox probably played volleyball - she is a commentator (not just a sideline reporter) whenever ESPN has the NCAA volleyball championships for the men and women.

[X-band '01]

According to the paper - UC is expecting 27,000-28,000 for Saturday's game. That place holds what - 35K?

I know UC hasn't started yet - but surely there are enough UC fans around town to fill Nippert right. I mean they are a big BCS conference leading college football powerhouse right? They play in top BCS Bowl games. First home game of the year.

Is that a bandwagon I see rolling down Clifton Ave with people jumping off left and right?

Indiana State is not going to move the needle - even last year that game would not have sold out. If they can get to Big East play and somehow make it back to the Top 25, they'll be near capacity or at full capacity. They failed the test at Fresno, but they still have games at NC State (which was also a game Pitt lost last year in the regular season) and then Oklahoma at Paul Brown Stadium. I'd be surprised if that one doesn't sell out.

[Kahns Krazy]

According to the paper - UC is expecting 27,000-28,000 for Saturday's game. That place holds what - 35K?

I know UC hasn't started yet - but surely there are enough UC fans around town to fill Nippert right. I mean they are a big BCS conference leading college football powerhouse right? They play in top BCS Bowl games. First home game of the year.

Is that a bandwagon I see rolling down Clifton Ave with people jumping off left and right?

I gotta say, as a Xavier basketball fan and a UC football fan, I am most confused by the "slams" on UC football that apply equally to Xavier basketball.

[X-band '01]

All of the Big East fans have further reason to smile now - Marshall is leading WVU at home 14-6 in the 3rd quarter.

[waggy]

That guy took over for Rich Rod is a nice guy, but is not long for being HC of the Mountaineers.

[gladdenguy]

Boy Marshall really blew that game against the best team in the Big East....hahaha
The Big East is pathetic.

[GoMuskies]

That guy took over for Rich Rod is a nice guy, but is not long for being HC of the Mountaineers.

Since they pulled out the win that prevents the admin from firing him on the spot, I think WV fans are hoping for a Bill Stewart heart attack.

[gladdenguy]

Go, it only takes you a minute to get on this thread.
I'm just busting your big east balls.

[GoMuskies]

Doesn't bother me. It's pretty obvious the Big East is poised for an awful, awful year. I only defend the Big East when it deserves to be defended.

[gladdenguy]

Doesn't bother me. It's pretty obvious the Big East is poised for an awful, awful year. I only defend the Big East when it deserves to be defended.

I do agree that the ACC has had its fair of terrible since Florida St. was good.

[GuyFawkes38]

Not that I know either of them personally, but it is easier to be more friendly and outgoing when people are drilling peepholes into your hotel doors.

Ha, yeah, I think there's a lot of truth to that.

[GoMuskies]

I do agree that the ACC has had its fair of terrible since Florida St. was good.

Don't sell the non-Ohio State Big Ten short on its share of terrible in some recent years.

[X-band '01]

What, just because teams like Maryland, Wake Forest and Georgia Tech have all gone on to Orange Bowl bids and wet themselves in the process?

Weren't we supposed to have about 3 or 4 Miami-Florida State matchups in the ACC Championship by now? I know Miami has never made it to the ACC title game, but has Florida State even made it that far?

[SlimKibbles]

Just came here to say... GO CANES! It's all about The U baby!

[boozehound]

The Big East had another banner night last night with 23rd ranked WVU barely beating Marshall.

Big East Fever... Catch it!

[boozehound]

Just came here to say... GO CANES! It's all about The U baby!

I think I may actually be able to root for Ohio State against the U. We will see when game time comes if I am actually able to do it.

I just got done moving the upstairs TV downstairs so that the wife and I can watch the OSU - Miami and Michigan - Notre Dame games at the same time! Love this time of year!

[Juice]

Just came here to say... GO CANES! It's all about The U baby!

7th Floor Crew http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ujKxpAvLKg

[XULucho27]

I think I may actually be able to root for Ohio State against the U. We will see when game time comes if I am actually able to do it.

Spoiler alert: You won't. No self respecting Michigan fan could root for OSU. Search your feelings booze, you know this to be true. :)

Go Blue!
Go Canes!

[GoMuskies]

The Big East had another banner night last night with 23rd ranked WVU barely beating Marshall.

Get in, get a win, get out.

- Skip Prosser

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

We'll see what the big 10 is made out of today starting at 330. But so far:

South Dakota taking it to Minnesota 34-24
Wisconsin beating up on SDSU 27-7
Northwestern taking Illinois State to the woodshed 30-3
Michigan State slapping around Florida A&M with their best Bjork at the airport impersonation 30-14
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYyyqIZTvYY
Purdue handling Western Illinois 24-7

[GoMuskies]

With SD over Minnesota and JMU over VT, the Big East and Pac Ten are the only BCS leagues that haven't had a loss against a I-AA team.

Also, I think JMU just knocked Boise out of BCS championship contention.

[boozehound]

Michigan squeaking out a win in South Bend!!! Denard Robinson had 502 yards of offense by himself! Special teams was amazingly bad though, so much so that we switched kickers for the final extra point...

Time to root for Penn State!!!

[gladdenguy]

Two words........Denard Robinson
Four words.........Hail to the Victors.....f you Brian Kelly...u fat loser

[GoMuskies]

So the Big East sucks this year. Agreed.

But how about the start the ACC has had? Five ranked teams in week 1. UNC (lost to LSU with half the team suspended), FSU (slaughtered at Oklahoma today), Georgia Tech (lost at KU a week after mighty North Dakota beat KU 6-3), Miami (lost at Ohio State which ain't so bad) and, of course, the mighty Hokies of Virginia Tech (two losses within the Commonwealth of Virginia, to Boise State and mighty James Madison). So the ACC's ranked squads are a combined 3-6 with wins over three I-AA schools. Impressive way to get the season going.

[boozehound]

So the Big East sucks this year. Agreed.

But how about the start the ACC has had? Five ranked teams in week 1. UNC (lost to LSU with half the team suspended), FSU (slaughtered at Oklahoma today), Georgia Tech (lost at KU a week after mighty North Dakota beat KU 6-3), Miami (lost at Ohio State which ain't so bad) and, of course, the mighty Hokies of Virginia Tech (two losses within the Commonwealth of Virginia, to Boise State and mighty James Madison). So the ACC's ranked squads are a combined 3-6 with wins over three I-AA schools. Impressive way to get the season going.

Couldn't agree more. The ACC is not good at football right now. I will forgive Miami for their loss to OSU at the shoe. Ohio state is a very good team. Virginia Tech? Come on? The ACC is very very weak. It seems like every year lately they over-hype the U and FSU based on name alone, but at the end of the season nobody is all that good.

[X-band '01]

At least Virginia looked respectable against LA's pro team last night, even in a losing effort.

[XUglow]

I was at the Bama - Penn State game in T Town. Let me sum it up.

Penn State - Good team
Bama - damn

[GuyFawkes38]

ugghhhh, Big 10 teams play crappy OOC schedules. They are all playing just one good OOC opponent and the rest are awful.

I'm not sure how, but I wish the NCAA would put in some incentives to force teams to have better OOC schedules.

[GoMuskies]

This Cal/Nevada game has been pretty good for a half. It would be a boon to Boise State's championship hopes if Nevada hangs on to win in the second half, too.

[vee4xu]

Go Bobcats!

How's that going for you today?

[GoMuskies]

How's that going for you today?

Fantastic. I love the O-H-I-O Bobcats cheer that they do at the Shoe.

[X-band '01]

Here's a recent tradition that Duke has now caught on to - sell out your season ticket base and take a pounding at home against Alabama.

[Masterofreality]

Here's a recent tradition that Duke has now caught on to - sell out your season ticket base and take a pounding at home against Alabama.

Yep, that "home field advantage" really made a big difference.

[Masterofreality]

Temple 30- U-Con 16.

Hahahahahahahaha. The Big Greased sucks.

[xudash]

Temple 30- U-Con 16.

Hahahahahahahaha. The Big Greased sucks.

I think I enjoyed seeing that score the most.

Wannabes - UConn, that is.

[waggy]

Is it just my imagination or did the Temple football program start improving after it moved to the MAC?

[XUglow]

Big East puts on another display... Miami 31 - Pitt 3

Next up: Cincy gets a shot at Oklahoma and West Virginia goes to LSU. While these games won't make or break the B12 or SEC, they are HUGE for the Big East.

[xudash]

Big East puts on another display... Miami 31 - Pitt 3

Next up: Cincy gets a shot at Oklahoma and West Virginia goes to LSU. While these games won't make or break the B12 or SEC, they are HUGE for the Big East.

I watched that mess last night.

The timing for the next two games that you mentioned could not have been worse for a conference that was already reeling enough that it was discussed at some length, during last night's telecast.

OK will shred UC. They'll cover the spread.

WVU in Baton Rouge. Sure. Based on how well they did in Huntington, as one example, I see them beating them by at least 10 - just beyond the spread.

[Masterofreality]

The only win the Big Least has against a BCS league this year is WVU beating horriffic Maryland on the heels of their luck out against Marshall.

What a joke of a league.

[Masterofreality]

Fresh tweet from Dave Telep:

".@ACCSports @accnow Just received word that Big East has cancelled its football season due to your new memo. Pillow fights to decide winners".

[GoMuskies]

Pretty good day of college football.

UC showed well against Oklahoma, but when you've been to back to back BCS bowls, showing well in a home game against anyone isn't good enough anymore.

Boise State/Oregon State was a little unsatisfying to everyone. Boise basically controlled the game, but it wasn't the kind of dominating performance they wanted in prime time on national TV. On the other hand, if you're a Boise State hater, they beat a top 25 team from the Pac-10 by two TDs, so that's not exactly a knock on Boise.

UAB flat blew the best shot they'll ever have to win at Tennessee. 5 missed FGs in a game that goes to OT? Ouch. The Vols are really bad, though.

This WV/LSU game that's still going has been pretty interesting. LSU got up 17-0 while doing absolutely nothing on offense. WV has cut it to 17-14 in the 3rd quarter, but the Mountaineers probably dug themselves too big a hole with their early ineptitude.

[Masterofreality]

Pretty good day of college football.


I'll say. -SucKS loses- check.
-Not-re Dame loses- check
-Big Least 0-3 vs BCS leagues. Check.
-Another Big Least loss to an ACC team (that was decimated by suspension)- check
-Home field "advantage" not worth much (unless you bet)- check

Arkansas, the Borecats, Rutgers, the FIrish all at home, all lose, among others.

Plus St. Eds beats Elder in Price Hill and St Ignatius gets pole-axed again.

Yep. Pretty good day.

[gladdenguy]

Memo: Notre Dame sucks
Suck it Brian Kelly.........fat loser

[waggy]

Harbaugh has the Cardinal playing some pretty good ball.

[GuyFawkes38]

Harbaugh has the Cardinal playing some pretty good ball.

I just read that Stanford has more difficult admission standards for football players than ND.

Not only did Stanford play with a lot more passion. But they looked bigger, taller, stronger, faster...

How the hell is Harbaugh pulling this off. Steroids???? Who knows.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Harbaugh has the Cardinal playing some pretty good ball.

Love this hybrid big 10/pac 10 offense. They have the option of smashmouth football like they did to ND in the 2nd half to control the game/clock/line of scrimmage and they have Luck who is one of the best QB's in the country. Their defense is vastly improved from last year. They freakin hit.

Stanford is for real. They whooped up on UCLA in Pasedena who just whooped up on Texas at Texas. Their recruits this year were real good, next year is supposed to be even better. Hopefully Mr. California Tyler Gaffney is ok.

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/blog/dr_saturday/post/Owen-Marecic-Stanford-iron-man-scores-both-way?urn=ncaaf-272413

Harbaugh's reaction to Marecic's defensive touchdown (after he already scored on offense) was priceless. It's not often Harbaugh shows his emotions like this

[GoMuskies]

Memo: Notre Dame sucks
Suck it Brian Kelly.........fat loser

Notre Dame is going to finish 8-4, beating absolutely no one, and it's going to be "proof" that ND is back. Bank on it.

[gladdenguy]

I think they lose to Utah and USC for sure. I don't know who else is on their schedule but I don't think they get 8 wins.

[GoMuskies]

I think USC will end up being pretty average once they actually play someone with a pulse. It wouldn't surprise me at all if ND beats them, BC, Army, Tulsa, Navy, Pitt and Western Michigan.

[boozehound]

I have to give the Bearcats credit. They played Oklahoma tough and should have won that game. I expected them to get thoroughly destroyed and they hung in until the end. If DJ woods could hold on to a Football they would almost certainly have won that game.

It actually makes me wonder if they might make another BCS bowl game this year. The only tough team that the Big East really has this year is WVU (maybe Pitt...) so winning the conference is not out of the question at all for the Bearcats.

[boozehound]

Love this hybrid big 10/pac 10 offense. They have the option of smashmouth football like they did to ND in the 2nd half to control the game/clock/line of scrimmage and they have Luck who is one of the best QB's in the country. Their defense is vastly improved from last year. They freakin hit.

Stanford is for real. They whooped up on UCLA in Pasedena who just whooped up on Texas at Texas. Their recruits this year were real good, next year is supposed to be even better. Hopefully Mr. California Tyler Gaffney is ok.

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/blog/dr_saturday/post/Owen-Marecic-Stanford-iron-man-scores-both-way?urn=ncaaf-272413

Harbaugh's reaction to Marecic's defensive touchdown (after he already scored on offense) was priceless. It's not often Harbaugh shows his emotions like this

Harbaugh is a hell of a coach. I really wanted him at Michigan, and I still do.

It's time to come home, Jim!

[GoMuskies]

I have to give the Bearcats credit. They played Oklahoma tough and should have won that game. I expected them to get thoroughly destroyed and they hung in until the end. If DJ woods could hold on to a Football they would almost certainly have won that game.

It actually makes me wonder if they might make another BCS bowl game this year. The only tough team that the Big East really has this year is WVU (maybe Pitt...) so winning the conference is not out of the question at all for the Bearcats.


I would be surprised if UC finishes higher than 4th in the Big East. I don't think they'll finish that high.

Granted, I think more of them this week than I did last week, and not just because of the good performance against OK. I thought their performance against NC State was embarrassing (and they did play poorly), but it looks like NC State is a lot better than most were giving them credit for (at least they're a helluva lot better than I thought they were). So that loss doesn't look as bad. Then again, Ole Miss hanging half a hundred on Fresno State isn't particulary encouraging....

[boozehound]

I would be surprised if UC finishes higher than 4th in the Big East. I don't think they'll finish that high.

Granted, I think more of them this week than I did last week, and not just because of the good performance against OK. I thought their performance against NC State was embarrassing (and they did play poorly), but it looks like NC State is a lot better than most were giving them credit for (at least they're a helluva lot better than I thought they were). So that loss doesn't look as bad. Then again, Ole Miss hanging half a hundred on Fresno State isn't particulary encouraging....

4th huh? I could definitely still see that. I really don't know how good UC is. They looked good against Oklahoma, but as you pointed out they looked bad against Fresno State and NC State.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Harbaugh is a hell of a coach. I really wanted him at Michigan, and I still do.

It's time to come home, Jim!

You may get your wish. I can't see him at Stanford much longer (and I'm a Stanford fan). Heck of a coach.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

4th huh? I could definitely still see that. I really don't know how good UC is. They looked good against Oklahoma, but as you pointed out they looked bad against Fresno State and NC State.

I can't see them finishing worse than 3rd to be honest. The Big East isn't that good this year. I think UC has a legit shot to win the BE, but that's not really saying much for a BCS conference

[Masterofreality]

I can't see them finishing worse than 3rd to be honest. The Big East isn't that good this year. I think UC has a legit shot to win the BE, but that's not really saying much for a BS conference

Fixed that for you.

[boozehound]

You may get your wish. I can't see him at Stanford much longer (and I'm a Stanford fan). Heck of a coach.

The question is what Michigan does, I can't see him turning down Michigan.

I know a lot of boosters just plain don't like Rich Rod, but he has the offense in pretty good form. The AD who hired Rich is gone, though, so he may be as well, particularly if the defense lets us down to the tune of less than 4 Big Ten wins.

I know that a lot of Michigan fans, myself included, hate the thought of 'starting over' again with a new coach and a new system. Still, I think I would can RR and get Harbaugh in there next year. You can't win without a defense.

[XUglow]

I don't know that OU is that good. Other than the FSU pasting, they have been pretty pedestrian. Maybe UC did OK... maybe not.

UC still has a chance to do well in conference because there isn't much there. WVU seems to be happy with a close loss at LSU, but that game would not have been close if LSU had anything resembling a QB. John Chavis absolutely shut them down. Les Miles needs to be swapping checks with Chavis.

Petrino is getting close at Arkansas. They may be #2 in the SEC now behind Bama. The SEC power has clearly shifted from East to West... Bama, Auburn, LSU, Arkansas vs. UF, SC in the East. UT is horrible. UK is apparently still UK. Georgia??? No clue what is wrong with them.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

The question is what Michigan does, I can't see him turning down Michigan.

I know a lot of boosters just plain don't like Rich Rod, but he has the offense in pretty good form. The AD who hired Rich is gone, though, so he may be as well, particularly if the defense lets us down to the tune of less than 4 Big Ten wins.

I know that a lot of Michigan fans, myself included, hate the thought of 'starting over' again with a new coach and a new system. Still, I think I would can RR and get Harbaugh in there next year. You can't win without a defense.


If Harbaugh can bring top flight recruits to Stanford, imagine what he could do at Michigan with all their resources.

I know they had a semi-public falling out a couple of years, but I would imagine both parties would get over it if the opportunity presents itself again. Harbaugh turned down ND and others the last couple years so I tend to think he wanted/wants the Michigan job. Then again, all this is moot if Rodriguez takes them back to prominence this year.

[boozehound]

If Harbaugh can bring top flight recruits to Stanford, imagine what he could do at Michigan with all their resources.

I know they had a semi-public falling out a couple of years, but I would imagine both parties would get over it if the opportunity presents itself again. Harbaugh turned down ND and others the last couple years so I tend to think he wanted/wants the Michigan job. Then again, all this is moot if Rodriguez takes them back to prominence this year.

That whole falling-out was a little ridiculous, and was kind of blown out of proportion. Harbaugh basically called out Michigan for steering kids toward certain, easier, majors. He was right and it was a fair criticism, IMO.

You are 100% correct about his ability to recruit at Stanford with their tough academic standards. That is a big part of why I think he would be great at Michigan.

[waggy]

I don't know why he'd ever want to leave Stanford. Great place to live, and the fan base expectations never get stupid unrealistic.

[xudash]

I don't know that OU is that good. Other than the FSU pasting, they have been pretty pedestrian. Maybe UC did OK... maybe not.

UC still has a chance to do well in conference because there isn't much there. WVU seems to be happy with a close loss at LSU, but that game would not have been close if LSU had anything resembling a QB. John Chavis absolutely shut them down. Les Miles needs to be swapping checks with Chavis.

Petrino is getting close at Arkansas. They may be #2 in the SEC now behind Bama. The SEC power has clearly shifted from East to West... Bama, Auburn, LSU, Arkansas vs. UF, SC in the East. UT is horrible. UK is apparently still UK. Georgia??? No clue what is wrong with them.

Isn't it ironical in Georgia's case. Mark Richt is a truly decent man. I can't see how he's going to make it past this year at this point.

[nuts4xu]

Memo: Notre Dame sucks
Suck it Brian Kelly.........fat loser


Suck Ftanford....hate those bastards.

[GuyFawkes38]

I don't know why he'd ever want to leave Stanford. Great place to live, and the fan base expectations never get stupid unrealistic.

it's just not a destination job.

Jim is paid about a million a year. By BCS standards, that's below average.

Additionally, Paulo Alto is one of the most expensive places on earth. I read that Harbaugh's assistants have to live on campus because they can't afford housing.

[Juice]

it's just not a destination job.

Jim is paid about a million a year. By BCS standards, that's below average.

Additionally, Paulo Alto is one of the most expensive places on earth. I read that Harbaugh's assistants have to live on campus because they can't afford housing.

Well I bet the 49ers job will be open soon, he can be the next Bill Walsh but without the misfortune of coaching for the Bengals early in his career.

[XUglow]

Isn't it ironical in Georgia's case. Mark Richt is a truly decent man. I can't see how he's going to make it past this year at this point.

I spent a lot of time with UGA fans before the game. They refer to Richt as "The Reverend", and they seem to genuinely like him a lot, but 16 arrests plus losing on the field is something that is getting hard to tolerate.

[XUglow]

I don't know why he'd ever want to leave Stanford. Great place to live, and the fan base expectations never get stupid unrealistic.

My dad was at Stanford for years. He loved Palo Alto, but I never warmed to the place at all even when I ran an office in Mountain View. Their fans will never be unrealistic.

Student A: What just happened? I don't get it.
Student B: We just lost.
Student A: That sucks. Do you want to go back to the library or go hang at the dorm.
Student B: Dude, it's a football weekend. We're going to go party.
Student A: OK. Man, we lost? Were we the team in red?

[GuyFawkes38]

Well I bet the 49ers job will be open soon, he can be the next Bill Walsh but without the misfortune of coaching for the Bengals early in his career.

definitely. The 49ers is a really good job.

[GuyFawkes38]

My dad was at Stanford for years. He loved Palo Alto, but I never warmed to the place at all even when I ran an office in Mountain View. Their fans will never be unrealistic.

Student A: What just happened? I don't get it.
Student B: We just lost.
Student A: That sucks. Do you want to go back to the library or go hang at the dorm.
Student B: Dude, it's a football weekend. We're going to go party.
Student A: OK. Man, we lost? Were we the team in red?

I get the impression that a lot of places in California would have been awesome to live 30-50 years ago, but today they are super expensive with a lot of obnoxious residents.

[XUglow]

I get the impression that a lot of places in California would have been awesome to live 50 years ago, but today they are super expensive with a lot of obnoxious residents.

Every time I get the urge to move back, I sit down a few minutes and think rational thoughts until the urge goes away. For me, CA is a great place to visit, but you wouldn't want to live there. MS is a great place to live, but you wouldn't want to visit there.

[waggy]

Spot on with lack of sports passion and knowledge of the Stanford set Glow. And yet there are some...

No question CA was better 25-50 years ago, and many here need attitude adjustments in the worse way, but there a lot of great people too. It's a Big place.

[Masterofreality]

MS is a great place to live, but you wouldn't want to visit there.

Depends if the Glow Harem Cavalcade is available.

[XUglow]

I like college football.

http://i325.photobucket.com/albums/k370/Stingray23_photos/SG2/cheer3.jpg

[GoMuskies]

Stanford at Oregon Saturday night is basically college football porn.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Stanford at Oregon Saturday night is basically college football porn.

Giggity

[Juice]

Stanford at Oregon Saturday night is basically college football porn.

Then Notre Dame and Boston College must be Two Girls, One Cup

[XUglow]

Has Florida-Alabama ever received less press? One would think Bama is hosting FIU instead of the Gators.

[American X]

Has Florida-Alabama ever received less press? One would think Bama is hosting FIU instead of the Gators.

Don't know. Is the game missing something this year?

http://www.woosk.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/tebow.jpg

[XUglow]

Tried to Rep you, AmX.

[GoMuskies]

Is anyone else watching the Ohio State/Illinois game as confused as I am as to what Ohio State is trying to accomplish? They have played this one amazingly conservative for some reason.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Is anyone else watching the Ohio State/Illinois game as confused as I am as to what Ohio State is trying to accomplish? They have played this one amazingly conservative for some reason.

It might come back to haunt them in the end. Honestly, aside from Pryor's two runs, they haven't done much at all offensively.

[GoMuskies]

And then Illinois gets inside the 15 with under 5 minutes to play and kicks a FG?!? With a chance to tie the #2 team in the country? Questionable.

[waggy]

Are the mormons trying to spite the mountain west?

[THRILLHOUSE]

Tenn-LSU had one of the craziest endings you will ever see. Derrick Dooley out-stupided Les Miles to give LSU the victory.

[GoMuskies]

Louisville 31-7 at the half at Arkansas State. The Cards are BCS bound!

As bad as the Big East is this year, I'm only half joking. WV is the only team clearly better.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

TD Cardinal!



Nice sustained drive. Gotta keep Oregon's Offense off the field

Fumble recovery Stanford!

[GoMuskies]

Stanford doesn't suck.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

This game is gonna be like 150-145

[BENWAR]

Has Florida-Alabama ever received less press? One would think Bama is hosting FIU instead of the Gators.


Florida looks like FIU.

[X-band '01]

Stanford doesn't suck.

Neither does Oregon - unless someone like Oregon State makes a late run, the Ducks and Cardinal are the class of the Pac-10 at this point.


Florida looks like FIU.

Compared to Alabama, yes. Otherwise they still will likely finish in the Top 10 this year. I will say this, though - if South Carolina can't beat Florida this year and somehow win the SEC East, I doubt they ever will. That division is wide open compared to years past in which Florida/Georgia/Tennessee could win in a cakewalk.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Damn.

Owusu just got knocked out and fumbled.

Luck is now limping after making the tackle

[GoMuskies]

Stanford is crumbling.

[GoMuskies]

If Ohio State and Alabama keep winning, locking up title game spots, Boise State and Oregon would make for one helluva Rose Bowl for #2.

[Titanxman04]

Wow... what a GREAT football weekend. First off, my Irish won, which is just fantastic to see after a tough couple of weeks.

Second, USC lost. Which I always find enjoyable.

Third, Bama looks just incredible. I really find it hard to believe they will lose if they stay on form, and they just have so many weapons on both sides of the ball, that it's truly an uphill battle for anyone playing them. Arkansas sort of hit them in the mouth early and they stumbled, but I don't think they'll struggle like that from here on out. Sorry Buckeyes, but as talented as you are, I just think that if you run into Bama on a good day, it could may not be a great day.

Finally, the Oregon/Stanford game was fantastic to watch. What a great game of two fantastic teams, and even when losing, Stanford belongs in the discussion for top 7 or 8 teams in the country, easy. Marching into Oregon and giving them the game that they did...yea, those teams are just that good, I feel. I am upset I didn't bet on the over/under for that game, seeing as it was 63.5 points. I would have taken the over in that, and in a big way.

[XUglow]

Is there a dumber coach in the game than Les Miles? He would be 9-3 or 10-2 with Bama's talent. Saban could win the NC with the players on LSU's roster.

[LutherRackleyRulez]

It will be interesting how the NCAA deals with this situation

from Sat's game.....MSU v. UW.....


FYI: It was a U. of Michigan fan who picked up on this + placed info on net!




http://www.detnews.com/ar...artans-collect-a-victory





"It was fourth-and-goal at the Wisconsin 1-yard-line, and Michigan State held a three-point lead with 2:48 on the clock in the fourth quarter......Defensive coordinator Pat Narduzzi was on the phone in the coaches' box --with head coach Mark Dantonio."

"Coach D was with me the entire game," Narduzzi said. "I won't show you the texts, but we did texting or calling the entire game in the press box. I have never been on the phone so much during a game. He was with us the entire time." And during those exchanges with his boss, Narduzzi was sure to get direction from Dantonio."

Dantonio was at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, watching the game on television.





NCCA Rule 1-4 Article 9

b. Only voice communication between the press box and team area is permitted.

Where press-box space is not adequate, only voice communication may originate from any area in the stands between the 25-yard lines extended to the top of the stadium.

No other communication for coaching purposes is permitted anywhere else.

[xu95]

The way Oregon played on Saturday, it wouldn't surprise me if they pass up OSU soon. The thing hurting Alabama right now is they are going to hit a stretch of six conference games where their opposing team just had a bye week.

xu95

[GoMuskies]

College football polls are silly. Another example:

Oregon State started the season in the top 25. Lost at #5 TCU and fell out. Beat an average Louisville team and jump back in. Lose at #3 Boise State in a relatively close game, and they fall out again. Beat a decent Arizona team and then go win at #11 Arizona and......still unranked. So exactly what is it about Oregon State that made them a preseason top 25 team that they haven't lived up to? They were supposed to win at TCU or Boise?!? To stay 25th?!? Silly.

[GoMuskies]

Jimmy should enjoy seeing this by Stanford's QB:

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/blog/dr_saturday/post/Video-On-behalf-of-QBs-everywhere-Andrew-Luck-?urn=ncaaf-275859

[nuts4xu]

Puck Fittsburgh....

Hate dem bastards!!

[gladdenguy]

Tonight GOMUSKIES......This Bud's For You....GO LOUISVILLE CARDINALS!!!
Nice Pick......Cashed in. Tie ball game.
Now beat those Kittens!!!

[gladdenguy]

Go:
This Powell kid can run......WOW......Go Cards!!!!

[gladdenguy]

Louisville really blew this game.......2 missed field goals....missed opportunities galore

[GoMuskies]

My Cards still suck.

[gladdenguy]

My Cards still suck.

A couple times towards the end of the game the camera was right on Charlie Strong and his face seemed to say......how in the hell are we gonna lose this ballgame.

[xsteve1]

UC has a real good shot at winning the Big East again. Collaros is very good.

[xudash]

http://www.ndsmcobserver.com/viewpoint/wins-are-important-too-1.1670066

[GoMuskies]

It's been a fantastic day for Boise State so far....and they haven't even kicked off yet.

[GoMuskies]

With Wisky just going up 28-18, it's time to start getting used to the idea of Boise State and Oregon playing each other for the national championship.

[gladdenguy]

With Wisky just going up 28-18, it's time to start getting used to the idea of Boise State and Oregon playing each other for the national championship.

Would Boise go if Alabama won the rest of their games?

[GoMuskies]

I can't see any one loss team beating out Boise. Oklahoma, Oregon, Iowa, Auburn and LSU would all obviously jump Boise if they stay undefeated (maybe even Michigan State, but I'm not sure of that since they don't play Ohio State). But it's pretty unlikely that more than one will go undefeated.

ETA that I guess you can add OK State and Mizzou to the list as well, but obviously no more than one team will come out of the Big XII undefeated, and my guess is that Nebraska ensures that no one comes out of the Big XII undefeated now.

[XU05and07]

Prediction made 8/23/10:




I will add a question: What is the upset that you are predicting now?

Mine: Wisconsin over Ohio State in Madison, WI (October 16)...if WI didn't give up a Pick 6 and give up a punt return for a TD last year, the Badgers would have won that game

Anyone take my prediction and make any money? If so, you're welcome

[Titanxman04]

Wow. Great weekend of games. Three top 10 teams going down, which is about the most one can expect any given week.

On the Boise situation, if this trend continues, Boise and TCU will be handed the championship game appearance. Despite a weaker schedule, the fact remains that if those guys stay undefeated while others fall, you have to think at least one of them will go. I don't like it personally, since I think you should beat the best in order to be the best - that sort of thing - but if it works, it works.

[gladdenguy]

I can't see any one loss team beating out Boise. Oklahoma, Oregon, Iowa, Auburn and LSU would all obviously jump Boise if they stay undefeated (maybe even Michigan State, but I'm not sure of that since they don't play Ohio State). But it's pretty unlikely that more than one will go undefeated.

ETA that I guess you can add OK State and Mizzou to the list as well, but obviously no more than one team will come out of the Big XII undefeated, and my guess is that Nebraska ensures that no one comes out of the Big XII undefeated now.

Iowa lost to Arizona already

[xudash]

Auburn and LSU play each other next week - they'll cancel one of themselves out of it.

Oklahoma - hell, none of them maybe save for Oregon has a clear road ahead from here, other than BSU and TCU, or course.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Auburn and LSU play each other next week - they'll cancel one of themselves out of it.

Oklahoma - hell, none of them maybe save for Oregon has a clear road ahead from here, other than BSU and TCU, or course.

Oregon has a tougher road ahead than people realize...

At USC
Arizona
Civil War At Oregon State

Those are the 3 biggest games.

Also,


Another potential team that could provide problems is Washington. Also AT Cal won't be easy. I realize they sucked it up bigtime today, but you never know which Cal team you're gonna play. The one that puts up 52 points per game or the one that just flat out sucks. UCLA is playing better now as well.

My prediction: I think Oregon will lose in 2 weeks at USC. And potentially last game of the year At Oregon State

[xudash]

Oregon has a tougher road ahead than people realize...

At USC
Arizona
Civil War At Oregon State

Those are the 3 biggest games.

Also,


Another potential team that could provide problems is Washington. Also AT Cal won't be easy. I realize they sucked it up bigtime today, but you never know which Cal team you're gonna play. The one that puts up 52 points per game or the one that just flat out sucks. UCLA is playing better now as well.

My prediction: I think Oregon will lose in 2 weeks at USC. And potentially last game of the year At Oregon State

Is their defense suspect? Did I hear or read that right somewhere?

[SixFig]

What a great day in college football! Boise is one (or three) steps closer to the BCS and Ohio State lost. Talk about a double play!

It's gonna happen...suck it BCS conferences!

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Is their defense suspect? Did I hear or read that right somewhere?

Its a lot better than in past years. Still not as good as say Ohio States or Alabama's or other top 10 teams. They are real fast and gamble a lot. Not huge up front but fast. It's hard to tell with their D. They definitely give up points that's for sure. What was impressive to me was how they pretty much shut out Stanford in the 2nd half.

But their offense is just insane to watch. They are never out of a game because of it. I want to see Boise State vs Oregon in the BCS championship. It will be like 54-51 - not to mention the drama from last year

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

I just cant figure out the pac 10 this year

Oregon, Stanford and Washington State are pretty much the only consistent ones thus far. Oregon State to some extent. Meanwhile:

UCLA - Loses at Kansas State, gets destroyed by Stanford, Beats up on #21 Houston, Beats #7 Texas at Texas, and gets blown out by Cal
Cal - Kills Colorado, Gets blown out by Nevada, Barely loses to Arizona, Beats up on UCLA, and gets annihilated by USC
Arizona - Beats Iowa, loses to Oregon State at home
Washington - Gets killed by Nebraska, loses to BYU, Loses to Arizona State, tied with Oregon State right now, and beats USC
USC - Barely beats minnesota, loses to Stanford and Washington, and destroys Cal
Arizona State - Loses by 1 to Wisconsin, barely loses to Oregon, barely loses to Oregon State, but beats Washington

Some inconsistency all around

[vee4xu]

I am on record as being a huge OSU fan, but take your hat off to Wisconsin. They manhandled OSU. I also think that OSU's defense is not as good as advertised. They have played well against much lesser opponents, but last night they played a good team and got beat up by Wisconsin's offense. I watched Eastern Michigan put points on the board against OSU and it made me unsettled. I guess now looking in retrospect, for good reason. Also, I have been concerned with OSU's RB's ability to run the ball in past games. Pryor is the team's leading rusher, but mostly because Herron and Sain have not been effective. Herron shows some promise, but without an Eddie George or Beanie Wells type runner, OSU's offense is reliant too much on #2.

If this had to happen, I am glad it did yesterday instead of watching another blowout of OSU by an SEC team in a BCS Championship game. I still love Tress and the Buckeyes, but they are not as good as advertised. I knew early on. The rest of the country saw it last night.

On another note, congratulations to Bourbonman who watched his beloved UK Wildcats beat a Steve Superior team for the first time in 18 meetings in Lexington. B-man has been a season ticket holder to UK football games for something like 25 or 30 years. I am really happy for him.

[GoMuskies]

Damn, I used to respect Bourbonman.

[xudash]

I am on record as being a huge OSU fan, but take your hat off to Wisconsin. They manhandled OSU. I also think that OSU's defense is not as good as advertised. They have played well against much lesser opponents, but last night they played a good team and got beat up by Wisconsin's offense. I watched Eastern Michigan put points on the board against OSU and it made me unsettled. I guess now looking in retrospect, for good reason. Also, I have been concerned with OSU's RB's ability to run the ball in past games. Pryor is the team's leading rusher, but mostly because Herron and Sain have not been effective. Herron shows some promise, but without an Eddie George or Beanie Wells type runner, OSU's offense is reliant too much on #2.

If this had to happen, I am glad it did yesterday instead of watching another blowout of OSU by an SEC team in a BCS Championship game. I still love Tress and the Buckeyes, but they are not as good as advertised. I knew early on. The rest of the country saw it last night.

On another note, congratulations to Bourbonman who watched his beloved UK Wildcats beat a Steve Superior team for the first time in 18 meetings in Lexington. B-man has been a season ticket holder to UK football games for something like 25 or 30 years. I am really happy for him.

With you all the way on this one vee. Perhaps they can progress under JT and still make a BCS Bowl and win that.

[xsteve1]

I thought there was parity in College hoops but it may be even more so in College football. UC should've beat Oklahoma who is #1 in the BCS poll and a mid level team like Boise is #3. Also LSU is number 6 in the poll and I'm not impressed with them at all as they should've lost to a terrible Tennessee team at home.

[Juice]

If this had to happen, I am glad it did yesterday instead of watching another blowout of OSU by an SEC team in a BCS Championship game. I still love Tress and the Buckeyes, but they are not as good as advertised. I knew early on. The rest of the country saw it last night.

I am curious to see what happens with Michigan State. If they run the table, which might be pretty easy since they don't play OSU and only have to play Iowa, I wonder if they can jump Boise and TCU. I think the country's head would explode if they made it into the NCS championship game and then got destroyed.

[XUglow]

I thought there was parity in College hoops but it may be even more so in College football. UC should've beat Oklahoma who is #1 in the BCS poll and a mid level team like Boise is #3. Also LSU is number 6 in the poll and I'm not impressed with them at all as they should've lost to a terrible Tennessee team at home.

LSU is impressive in all phases of the game except QB. The Mad Hatters coaching flaws are obvious, but they have a LOT of talent on the field. I don't know if anyone can shut down Cam Newton, but if anyone can, my money would be on LSU.

The SEC East is not very good this year. The SEC West is very good this year. The W is 17-1 against OOC competition and 10-2 against the East making them 27-3 in competition outside of their division. Ole Miss, the only unranked team in the division, has 2 of those 3 loses. Bama lost the other game to SC.

I think Oklahoma or Oregon or both will drop a game before we finish. Injuries down the stretch will be key. This season will have a fun finish. Anything can happen, including an undefeated SEC team not making the BCS CG.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

LSU is impressive in all phases of the game except QB. The Mad Hatters coaching flaws are obvious, but they have a LOT of talent on the field. I don't know if anyone can shut down Cam Newton, but if anyone can, my money would be on LSU.

The SEC East is not very good this year. The SEC West is very good this year. The W is 17-1 against OOC competition and 10-2 against the East making them 27-3 in competition outside of their division. Ole Miss, the only unranked team in the division, has 2 of those 3 loses. Bama lost the other game to SC.

I think Oklahoma or Oregon or both will drop a game before we finish. Injuries down the stretch will be key. This season will have a fun finish. Anything can happen, including an undefeated SEC team not making the BCS CG.

Agreed. I see Oregon losing 1 of the following:
At USC
Washington
Arizona
At Oregon State

I think Oklahoma will lose to at least 1 of the following:
At Missouri
At Texas AM
At Oklahoma State
Big 12 title game if they get there...

Auburn/Lsu next week will provide another loss. I don't see the winner going undefeated since Auburn has Georgia and At Alabama left while LSU has Arkansas and Alabama

TCU still has Utah to play

Boise is sitting pretty. Best case scenario for them would be Oregon State beating Oregon last game of the year. That would be a huge boost to the strength of schedule

Michigan State still has to go to Iowa...If they can get by that, they should run the table (assuming no choking job last game at Penn State)

I think the dark horse is Bama. If they win out - win at Tenn, at #6 LSU, #24 Mississippi State, #4 Auburn, and the SEC championship game - that may provide them with enough to move into the BCS championship game. They'd be the best 1 loss team winning the championship in the best conference. The numbers and polls would love them

[LutherRackleyRulez]

Bowl/BCS Projections.....



SI.com......


Current BCS forecast

Each week, I'll update my projected BCS lineup (as necessary) based on the latest week's games:


Title game: Boise State vs. Alabama

Rose: Iowa vs. Oregon

Fiesta: Oklahoma vs. Utah

Orange: Florida State vs. West Virginia

Sugar: Auburn vs. Michigan State





http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/stewart_mandel/10/17/bcs-standings-boise-state/1.html




CBSSports.com......



http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/bowls/predictions




College Football News........



http://cfn.scout.com/a.z?s=451&p=2&c=557866

[bourbonman]

Damn, I used to respect Bourbonman.

Glad we got that out of your system! :p

[gladdenguy]

Great win tonight South Florida!!!!!!

[XUglow]

The announcer just said Notre Dame doesn't have the speed to keep up with Navy. Seriously?

[bobbiemcgee]

I am curious to see what happens with Michigan State. If they run the table, which might be pretty easy since they don't play OSU and only have to play Iowa, I wonder if they can jump Boise and TCU. I think the country's head would explode if they made it into the NCS championship game and then got destroyed.

oops - msu was down 17-0 b4 comeback

[DC Muskie]

The announcer just said Notre Dame doesn't have the speed to keep up with Navy. Seriously?

What the hell ND? I think everyone knows I'm no ND fan, but Jesus. Did Charlie not leave any talent?

I really like Navy, but they have had an awful season.

What a pathetic loss.

[Strange Brew]

What the hell ND? I think everyone knows I'm no ND fan, but Jesus. Did Charlie not leave any talent?

I really like Navy, but they have had an awful season.

What a pathetic loss.

DC. Navy has at best 2 star recruits. It has nothing to do with talent. I'm a lifelong ND football fan and I've never seen an ND team play like pussies until today. It was an absolute embarrassment. ND football has become a bunch of entitled pussies.

[Masterofreality]

Great win tonight South Florida!!!!!!

Ahhhhh, but SucKS is a "Football School" now.

Oh, and nice "Ring of Red". I think that was the lifeblood flowing from the Borecat's season.

[Masterofreality]

What the hell ND? I think everyone knows I'm no ND fan, but Jesus. Did Charlie not leave any talent?

What a pathetic loss.

Don't you know, DC?

Not-re Dame has Top 5 recruiting classes every year. It's just that - Take Your Pick- Davie, Willingham, Weis, Kelly just can't coach. We all know those recruiting rankings are 1000% accurate. Those guys are experts.

Fun fact. Who has the highest winning percentage of any Not-re Dame coach since Lou Holtz?

Answer- Ty Willingham.

[Strange Brew]

Don't you know, DC?

Not-re Dame has Top 5 recruiting classes every year. It's just that - Take Your Pick- Davie, Willingham, Weis, Kelly just can't coach. We all know those recruiting rankings are 1000% accurate. Those guys are experts.

Fun fact. Who has the highest winning percentage of any Not-re Dame coach since Lou Holtz?

Answer- Ty Willingham.

I'd say Chuck's winning % is pretty good in KC and with Pats. I assume you're speaking about Ty's record before coaching at ND b/c he was terrible at UWash afterwards.

No matter, this ND team played like pathetic pussies and there is no way around it.

[GuyFawkes38]

You would think that the recruiting experts would look at the ND recruiting anomaly and try to address it.

[Masterofreality]

I'd say Chuck's winning % is pretty good in KC and with Pats. I assume you're speaking about Ty's record before coaching at ND b/c he was terrible at UWash afterwards.

No matter, this ND team played like pathetic pussies and there is no way around it.

No. I only am speaking about the various coaches' records while coaching Not-re Dame. Willingham's is .583- better than the Rotund One at .564. Of Course, George O'Leary didn't lose a game.

Look it up. The Fir-ish (for firing Davie, Willingham and Fat Charlie) have basically thrown away over $10 million (or, at least it cost their boosters or NBC that much) to get rid of coaches and then hire the next "Great Savior". What a disgrace.

[XUglow]

You would think that the recruiting experts would look at the ND recruiting anomaly and try to address it.

This. Some recruits get extra stars because they are getting recruited by certain teams. The evaluators figure that they must be missing something if a team like Notre Dame is interested in them. You will see a 3-star that Alabama signs becoming a 4-star the next day. In some cases, the adjustment is correct. In some cases, it is done without much justification.