Thought I needed to start some thoughts on the basketball Buckeyes. The Bucks entered Phog Allen Fieldhouse without (arguably) their best player. I've heard many apologists that say that OSU is a 'good' team without Sully and a 'great' team with him. I disagree with this assessment as I believe this Buckeye team is still a 'great' team without Sully and a nearly unstoppable one with him. Listen, the offense certainly struggled yesterday, but we lost in one of college basketball's most intimidating venues without our number 1 in a game in which we were never out of it (within 4 with 4 to go and 5 with 2 min. to go). Kansas (a good team--not great) couldn't shake a team with no rhythm. This Buckeye team showed me a lot of heart and talent in the loss. I have a hard time finding a team that will beat us when we have the whole lineup.
Now, some X's and O's:
--Craft had a poor game (by his standards) which may be attributed to the loss of the rock in the middle. He was out of sync on offense but his usual pesty self on defense. I was concerned with the lack of drives to the buckets from #4 but again, this may be due to the absence of Sully as the bigs could double the drive. Craft has to improve his jump shot then he will be the best guard in the nation.
--Thomas was the hot hand in the 1st and kept us hanging around. I don't understand why the team left him in the 2nd but when 'Shooter McGavin' feels it, feed the beast.
--Buford shows that he is our number 2 (Sully as number 1) offensive threat. He was cold as ice in the first, but you have to keep feeding him without Sully as he'll get it done eventually. If we had more offensive threats, I'd say spread the wealth, but our other guards aren't great scoring options (especially when Craft can't drive the bucket).
--Ravenel had a really nice game filling in for Sully. Not perfect by any stretch, but he's stepped up big time when needed.
--Amir Williams is the guy who struggled mightily, but that will happen with a freshman on the road. He will get better, but experience is needed. Also, guarding Thomas Robinson in major minutes isn't a baptism by fire, it's a baptism by an inferno.
--Smith and Sibert need to step up their presence on the offensive end. Sibert needs to develop into a 3-point (consistent) threat and Lenzelle just needs to get a shot worked out--his shot needs work. I love their defensive intensity, but you need to play both ends (usually it's defense that suffers but they need to polish the O).
--Matta is always criticized for not using the bench, but I didn't see a real problem. I might have seen if Scott could have provided a little more offense than Craft early on, and perhaps give Weatherspoon a couple minutes to spell Smith/Sibert to spark some offense, but I trust the coach.
Two issues going forward:
1) Lack of depth for the big men.
--This has always been an issue for Matta but I like what I saw from Ravenel. Sully will be back so this isn't a huge problem in the future unless injuries flare. I think Craft and Buford are more integral but we have depth at the guard position. Underneath, there's Sully, Ravenel, and Williams (maybe count Ross in the future but not a true post guy). Having a freshman in the post is always a scare (unless it was Sully--but he still had Lauderdale to learn from). This can't be fixed so let's just not get hurt and develop Williams (I think Matta's on this).
2) 3-point consistency
--I said coming into this season that the only glaring weakness is consistency from long range. The loss of Jon Diebler is always going to hurt, but we just don't have anyone to stretch the defense. Thankfully, Sully can create for himself, but without him, we need to have the threat of the 3-ball. Buford is probably the best, but that's not his game. Thomas and Sibert are streaky. If Shooter, Craft, and Sibert can get the 3-ball around 50+%, we'll be unstoppable.
Overall, this loss means little going forward. I love the fight the team showed and I'm very excited going forward. If Sully comes back healthy, I find it hard to see a loss before the tournament. Kohl center is always tough and IU is starting to emerge as a contender, but OSU is still the force in the B1G. Keep the train rolling and we'll be fine. Congrats to KU on a big win, and I hope we get a chance for revenge in March (with Sully of course)!
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Friday, December 09, 2011
Draper Index--Final Rankings Pre Bowl
Well, it had to happen. For the 2nd time in 12 years of making this computer poll, I did not correctly tab 1-2 in the BCS (although I think mine 1-2 is better than the BCS). Of course, I'm referring to Oklahoma State over Alabama. The only way it could have happened was a blow out of the Sooners (which happened). My computer poll is unbiased when compared to the SEC-centric media giant of ESPiN which was the downfall. Regardless, I'm pretty pleased. Here we go.
Draper Index Top 25 (Final)
1) LSU (They can't be caught even after the bowl. They are the National Champions)
2) Oklahoma State
3) Alabama
4) Oregon
5) Oklahoma (Only losses @OSU, @Baylor, home TT--bad, but good wins like @FSU/@KSU)
6) Stanford
7) Boise State
8) Wisconsin
9) Arkansas
10) USC
11) Virginia Tech
12) South Carolina
13) TCU
14) Clemson
15) Nebraska
16) Kansas State
17) Michigan State (ahead of UM like they should be)
18) Michigan
19) Georgia
20) Baylor
21) Houston
22) Penn State
23) Auburn
24) West Virginia
25) Southern Miss
Were these the final rankings of the BCS, the bowls would look like this:
BCS Title: LSU vs. Oklahoma State
Rose: Wisconsin vs. Oregon
Fiesta: Oklahoma vs. Stanford
Sugar: Alabama vs. TCU
Orange: WVU vs. Clemson
TCU would be guaranteed and OU is too sexy to pass up in the Fiesta. Bama and Stanford are no brainer at large picks.
My top 25
1) LSU
2) Oklahoma State
3) Alabama
4) Oregon
5) Stanford
6) Wisconsin
7) Boise State
8) USC
9) Arkansas
10) Kansas State
11) South Carolina
12) Oklahoma
13) Clemson
14) Michigan State
15) Michigan
16) Baylor
17) Virginia Tech
18) Nebraska
19) TCU
20) Georgia
21) Florida State
22) Houston
23) West Virginia
24) Penn State
25) Southern Miss
Draper Index Top 25 (Final)
1) LSU (They can't be caught even after the bowl. They are the National Champions)
2) Oklahoma State
3) Alabama
4) Oregon
5) Oklahoma (Only losses @OSU, @Baylor, home TT--bad, but good wins like @FSU/@KSU)
6) Stanford
7) Boise State
8) Wisconsin
9) Arkansas
10) USC
11) Virginia Tech
12) South Carolina
13) TCU
14) Clemson
15) Nebraska
16) Kansas State
17) Michigan State (ahead of UM like they should be)
18) Michigan
19) Georgia
20) Baylor
21) Houston
22) Penn State
23) Auburn
24) West Virginia
25) Southern Miss
Were these the final rankings of the BCS, the bowls would look like this:
BCS Title: LSU vs. Oklahoma State
Rose: Wisconsin vs. Oregon
Fiesta: Oklahoma vs. Stanford
Sugar: Alabama vs. TCU
Orange: WVU vs. Clemson
TCU would be guaranteed and OU is too sexy to pass up in the Fiesta. Bama and Stanford are no brainer at large picks.
My top 25
1) LSU
2) Oklahoma State
3) Alabama
4) Oregon
5) Stanford
6) Wisconsin
7) Boise State
8) USC
9) Arkansas
10) Kansas State
11) South Carolina
12) Oklahoma
13) Clemson
14) Michigan State
15) Michigan
16) Baylor
17) Virginia Tech
18) Nebraska
19) TCU
20) Georgia
21) Florida State
22) Houston
23) West Virginia
24) Penn State
25) Southern Miss
Sunday, December 04, 2011
Gut reaction to the end of the regular season
1) LSU and Oklahoma State should play for the National Title
--Bama is really, really good. However, been there, done that. We know that LSU is better than Alabama, on the field; on Bama's field. Why do they need to prove it again? The one knock on the Pokes is a worse loss, but it was on the road, in double OT, after a tragedy in the school. This is not the only correct answer, but I strongly believe that this is what should happen to make sure the integrity of the regular season is upheld. Also, I want to see what the explosive Cowboy offense does to a stingy Tiger defense.
2) RGIII deserves the Heisman
--No, he's not the best pro prospect, or on a title contender, but he's had the best season of any college player this season. Stellar numbers, Heisman moments in key times, and leadership of a mediocre team to a 9-3 record. Ball is a close second, but he doesn't match up to Robert Griffin III. Don't give me Luck or Richardson. Their numbers pale when compared to RGIII and Ball. In fact, Richardson and Luck did it against worse competition.
3) Bama and Michigan just had the worst day ever!
--LSU blows out UGA which is helpful, and Houston loses which is kind of middling for UM, but the Ok State blowout of OU is a killer for Bama. That was the only thing that could prevent the rematch and I think it just may have. Speaking of bad news, Wisconsin squeaks by MSU....which means they both may be ranked ahead of Michigan....uh oh... TCU and almost certainly Clemson may jump the Wolverines....Yikes since Big Blue needs to move up 2 spots to even be eligible. I think there's a decent shot that Bama gets knocked out of the championship and Michigan will be relegated to the Capitol One Bowl (or lower). If OSU goes to the title, the Fiesta may desire another Big 12 team to replace the Sooners...which knocks UM out since TCU, Bama, and Stanford are more or less guaranteed the other at large spots.
BCS Predictions
Championship: LSU vs. Oklahoma State
Rose: Oregon vs. Wisconsin
Fiesta: Stanford vs. Kansas State
Sugar: TCU vs. Alabama
Orange: WVU vs. Clemson
My Heisman vote (if I had one)1) Robert Griffin III
2) Montee Ball
3) Trent Richardson (I can be swayed on this one)
--Bama is really, really good. However, been there, done that. We know that LSU is better than Alabama, on the field; on Bama's field. Why do they need to prove it again? The one knock on the Pokes is a worse loss, but it was on the road, in double OT, after a tragedy in the school. This is not the only correct answer, but I strongly believe that this is what should happen to make sure the integrity of the regular season is upheld. Also, I want to see what the explosive Cowboy offense does to a stingy Tiger defense.
2) RGIII deserves the Heisman
--No, he's not the best pro prospect, or on a title contender, but he's had the best season of any college player this season. Stellar numbers, Heisman moments in key times, and leadership of a mediocre team to a 9-3 record. Ball is a close second, but he doesn't match up to Robert Griffin III. Don't give me Luck or Richardson. Their numbers pale when compared to RGIII and Ball. In fact, Richardson and Luck did it against worse competition.
3) Bama and Michigan just had the worst day ever!
--LSU blows out UGA which is helpful, and Houston loses which is kind of middling for UM, but the Ok State blowout of OU is a killer for Bama. That was the only thing that could prevent the rematch and I think it just may have. Speaking of bad news, Wisconsin squeaks by MSU....which means they both may be ranked ahead of Michigan....uh oh... TCU and almost certainly Clemson may jump the Wolverines....Yikes since Big Blue needs to move up 2 spots to even be eligible. I think there's a decent shot that Bama gets knocked out of the championship and Michigan will be relegated to the Capitol One Bowl (or lower). If OSU goes to the title, the Fiesta may desire another Big 12 team to replace the Sooners...which knocks UM out since TCU, Bama, and Stanford are more or less guaranteed the other at large spots.
BCS Predictions
Championship: LSU vs. Oklahoma State
Rose: Oregon vs. Wisconsin
Fiesta: Stanford vs. Kansas State
Sugar: TCU vs. Alabama
Orange: WVU vs. Clemson
My Heisman vote (if I had one)1) Robert Griffin III
2) Montee Ball
3) Trent Richardson (I can be swayed on this one)
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Week 14 Picks--Championship Week
B1G--Michigan State Spartans vs. Wisconsin Badgers
Draper: The first of many rematches....why championship games suck. I expect something very different as the Spartans are totally different when not at home. Wisconsin is the better team and that will be shown here. Bielema will try to feed Ball the ball to get some more Heisman love, but the Spartans will slow him down. Then comes Russell Wilson who will be the difference. Kirk Cousins won't be able to hang around. MSU: 13--UW: 27
Auer: The Spartans found a way to capitalize on the Badgers mistakes, as well as took some serious risks in their surprising win over Wisconsin. Face it, MSU was lucky to win the initial game, and Wiscy has had quite the run of bad luck for being such a talented team. The Badgers win the the inaugural Big Ten Championship Game in style. MSU: 24--UW: 38
Hoying:Let's see, Michigan State has the best conference record in the B1G and a head-to-head win over Wisconsin...the most sensible course of action would be to make them play again! I foresee another classic in this matchup. In such a close contest, the edge goes to the biggest playmaker, which, in this case, is Wisconsin RB Montee Ball, possibly the most outstanding player in college football this season. The Spartan defensive front is talented, but Rex Burkhead was able to have success and the Wisconsin running game is clicking too well. Please let me be wrong. MSU: 27--UW:34
Schweinfurth: Well, it looks like we got the rematch some of the talking heads wanted. The last time these two squared off, it was an epic battle that came down to one of the most exciting finishes in recent memory. This one will not be as close but will have the same result. Last time these two played, Spartan defensive end William Gohlston was suspended. This time he is ready to knock some heads. It will be a tough go for Montee Ball and the Badger offense. MSU: 24 -- UW: 10
Pac 12--UCLA Bruins vs. Oregon Ducks
Draper: 31.5 point favorites are the Ducks...in the championship game...and smart money is probably on them. UCLA is only in this game because USC is ineligible. The Trojans are the only viable candidate in the South. The Bruins will play hard for their recently fired coach, but it won't be enough to overcome the talent of the Ducks. Ducks roll to the Rose Bowl. UCLA: 13--UO: 41
Auer: Why does this game matter? Oh wait, it doesn't. UCLA: 6--UO: 75
Hoying: Win one for Neuheisel, right? Right? Right? Anyone...? Maybe if UCLA brings their A-game and Oregon is caught sleeping...it won't be over by the end of the 1st quarter. UCLA: 6--UO: 63
Schweinfurth: This game will be an absolute slaughter. TheMichael has a big day and jumps back into the Heisman talk. UCLA: 14 -- UO: 52
SEC--LSU Tigers vs. Georgia Bulldogs
Draper: Can it happen? Can we get some more stupid craziness with a Bulldog win that most likely lets 3 SEC teams into the BCS (barf)? No. It can't. It would be funny, but the only reason Georgia is here over South Carolina is that they haven't faced any of the top 3 teams in the SEC West (LSU, Bama, Arkansas). This will be a rude awakening for the Dawgs who have been feeding off the dregs of the SEC. LSU: 41--UGA: 10
Auer: A meaningless game in the grand scheme of things. Some will use its outcome to praise the BCS, others to justify the importance of switching to a playoff system. Me on the other hand, this game will prove why going back to the old bowl system and ties would make more sense. LSU is better than anyone they've played so far this year, and most people think they deserve a spot in the BCS Championship regardless of outcome. It won't matter because they'll win easily. LSU: 35--UGA: 17
Hoying: There hasn't been a game this unimportant for the BCS's top team since Oklahoma - Kansas State in 2003. This would be a perfect trap game for the Tigeouxrs if the SEC East had a single viable candidate. Georgia has put together a nice 10-game win streak, but the best team they faced was Auburn? Georgia Tech? This one's not as cut and dry as the Pac-12 embarrassment, but Georgia doesn't have the tenacity or the defensive fortitude to pull this one out. LSU: 40 -- UGA: 20
Schweinfurth: All LSU has to do in this game is show up and they will play for the National Title. Marc Richt will have the 'Dogs ready to go. If Georgia can limit the big plays and turnovers, this game will be close. Unfortunately for Georgia, that LSU defense is just too good. LSU: 17 -- UGA: 3
ACC--Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Clemson Tigers
Draper: Rematch of another matchup. The Tigers beat the Hokies in Lane Stadium, but now they need to do it AGAIN at a neutral site. Unfortunately for them, Clemson has reemerged as Clemson. Tajh Boyd and Sammy Watkins are supremely talented, but also supremely inconsistent. The Hokies have beaten NO ONE, but they'll tag Clemson this time to go slaughter the Big East champion. VT: 24--Clem: 17
Auer: VT is the better coached team and it's not even close. I firmly believe the early season loss of the Hokies to the Tigers was a bit of a fluke, but then again, both these teams are a bit flaky. VT wins this one going away. VT: 41--Clem: 20
Hoying: Thanks to Florida State crapping the bed, the Clemson Tigers have been able to skate backwards on their faces into the ACC Championship in a "prove-it" game against their most valiant vanquished opponent. VT, meanwhile, has ridden the cupcake train on the way to crushing the laughable ACC Coastal division. Who wins the rematch? It all depends on whether Clemson decides to be Clemson. They did everything they could in November to escape the Atlantic crown, but fate pushed them to this point. This must be the Tigers' year. VT: 17--Clem: 20
Schweinfurth: Virginia Tech can cap off a very good, albiet quiet, season with yet another ACC Championship. Taj Boyd and Clemson have been a let down (typical for them, I know). I have faith that this is Clemson's year. The Tigers' D is bad, but the offense is explosive. Dabo will get to spout off again. VT: 35 -- Clem: 38
Big 12 (Defacto)--Oklahoma Sooners @ Oklahoma State Cowboys
Draper: Biggest game of the weekend that still means something. If OSU can beat the Sooners soundly, they will (and should) get back in the title talk. I think they can do it. Weeden and Blackmon laid an egg in Ames, but this game surpasses the rest. The Pokes know how to rile the Sooners. This will be hard hitting and really high scoring. Neither defense is worth much, but the Orange Nation in Stillwater tip the offensive scales. A late key turnover sends the Cowboys to the Fiesta at worst and maybe, dare we dream, New Orleans? OU: 45--OSU: 51
Auer: Time for Mike Gundy's team to get off the schnide against OU and beat up on the depleted sooners. This game will come down to turnovers, and OSU's offense will capitalize as they lead the nation in forced turnovers. OU: 28--OSU: 45
Hoying: Who can handle the pressure? Oklahoma State rides in on an 8-game losing streak in the series, but this matchup is potentially the biggest in the history of Cowboy football. Meanwhile, Oklahoma still has a chance to grab their 5th conference title in the last 6 years? Sadly, experience often wins out in such a situation. Big Game Bob and the Sooners are used to these types of clashes, while Okie State's nerves will cause some critical mistakes to doom their title chances and set up the worst. BCS. title. ever. OU: 42--OSU: 38
Schweinfurth: Ahh Bedlam. This game was setting up to be an epic battle of two undefeated only a few weeks ago. Losses to Texas Tech and Baylor have derailed the Sooner Schooner. A loss to Iowa State also knocked the Cowboys out of the national title picture. A win here for OSU would be big and could put them back into the national title game. In true Big 12 fashion, this will be a shootout in Stillwater. OU: 42 -- OSU: 49
CUSA--Southern Miss Golden Eagles @ Houston Cougars
Draper: This was circled as the one game the Cougs could lose, but Southern Miss has recently been exposed as crap after losing to UAB (shocker). Case Keenum will not disappoint and Kevin Sumlin will continue to pad the resume with a BCS game appearance. Let's go 7 TD passes for Keenum just to pad those stats and book a flight to New York....to lose the Heisman to ESPN; I mean Luck. USM: 20--UH:52
Auer: Don't care, not one iota. Houston wins easily in another stat-padding rout. USM:28--UH: 57
Hoying: Hey! Houston is still undefeated! Whoopee! And how about that great Southern Miss win over...SMU...why is this game necessary? USM: 10--UH: 49
Schweinfurth: The Golden Eagles will be the biggest test for the Cougars all year. I expect Case Keenum to continue his tear and score big.
Upset Special:
Draper: Iowa State over Kansas State (not copying Tyler...I swear)
Auer: Texas over Baylor
Hoying: Connecticut over Cincinnati
Schweinfurth: Iowa State over Kansas State
Draper: The first of many rematches....why championship games suck. I expect something very different as the Spartans are totally different when not at home. Wisconsin is the better team and that will be shown here. Bielema will try to feed Ball the ball to get some more Heisman love, but the Spartans will slow him down. Then comes Russell Wilson who will be the difference. Kirk Cousins won't be able to hang around. MSU: 13--UW: 27
Auer: The Spartans found a way to capitalize on the Badgers mistakes, as well as took some serious risks in their surprising win over Wisconsin. Face it, MSU was lucky to win the initial game, and Wiscy has had quite the run of bad luck for being such a talented team. The Badgers win the the inaugural Big Ten Championship Game in style. MSU: 24--UW: 38
Hoying:Let's see, Michigan State has the best conference record in the B1G and a head-to-head win over Wisconsin...the most sensible course of action would be to make them play again! I foresee another classic in this matchup. In such a close contest, the edge goes to the biggest playmaker, which, in this case, is Wisconsin RB Montee Ball, possibly the most outstanding player in college football this season. The Spartan defensive front is talented, but Rex Burkhead was able to have success and the Wisconsin running game is clicking too well. Please let me be wrong. MSU: 27--UW:34
Schweinfurth: Well, it looks like we got the rematch some of the talking heads wanted. The last time these two squared off, it was an epic battle that came down to one of the most exciting finishes in recent memory. This one will not be as close but will have the same result. Last time these two played, Spartan defensive end William Gohlston was suspended. This time he is ready to knock some heads. It will be a tough go for Montee Ball and the Badger offense. MSU: 24 -- UW: 10
Pac 12--UCLA Bruins vs. Oregon Ducks
Draper: 31.5 point favorites are the Ducks...in the championship game...and smart money is probably on them. UCLA is only in this game because USC is ineligible. The Trojans are the only viable candidate in the South. The Bruins will play hard for their recently fired coach, but it won't be enough to overcome the talent of the Ducks. Ducks roll to the Rose Bowl. UCLA: 13--UO: 41
Auer: Why does this game matter? Oh wait, it doesn't. UCLA: 6--UO: 75
Hoying: Win one for Neuheisel, right? Right? Right? Anyone...? Maybe if UCLA brings their A-game and Oregon is caught sleeping...it won't be over by the end of the 1st quarter. UCLA: 6--UO: 63
Schweinfurth: This game will be an absolute slaughter. TheMichael has a big day and jumps back into the Heisman talk. UCLA: 14 -- UO: 52
SEC--LSU Tigers vs. Georgia Bulldogs
Draper: Can it happen? Can we get some more stupid craziness with a Bulldog win that most likely lets 3 SEC teams into the BCS (barf)? No. It can't. It would be funny, but the only reason Georgia is here over South Carolina is that they haven't faced any of the top 3 teams in the SEC West (LSU, Bama, Arkansas). This will be a rude awakening for the Dawgs who have been feeding off the dregs of the SEC. LSU: 41--UGA: 10
Auer: A meaningless game in the grand scheme of things. Some will use its outcome to praise the BCS, others to justify the importance of switching to a playoff system. Me on the other hand, this game will prove why going back to the old bowl system and ties would make more sense. LSU is better than anyone they've played so far this year, and most people think they deserve a spot in the BCS Championship regardless of outcome. It won't matter because they'll win easily. LSU: 35--UGA: 17
Hoying: There hasn't been a game this unimportant for the BCS's top team since Oklahoma - Kansas State in 2003. This would be a perfect trap game for the Tigeouxrs if the SEC East had a single viable candidate. Georgia has put together a nice 10-game win streak, but the best team they faced was Auburn? Georgia Tech? This one's not as cut and dry as the Pac-12 embarrassment, but Georgia doesn't have the tenacity or the defensive fortitude to pull this one out. LSU: 40 -- UGA: 20
Schweinfurth: All LSU has to do in this game is show up and they will play for the National Title. Marc Richt will have the 'Dogs ready to go. If Georgia can limit the big plays and turnovers, this game will be close. Unfortunately for Georgia, that LSU defense is just too good. LSU: 17 -- UGA: 3
ACC--Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Clemson Tigers
Draper: Rematch of another matchup. The Tigers beat the Hokies in Lane Stadium, but now they need to do it AGAIN at a neutral site. Unfortunately for them, Clemson has reemerged as Clemson. Tajh Boyd and Sammy Watkins are supremely talented, but also supremely inconsistent. The Hokies have beaten NO ONE, but they'll tag Clemson this time to go slaughter the Big East champion. VT: 24--Clem: 17
Auer: VT is the better coached team and it's not even close. I firmly believe the early season loss of the Hokies to the Tigers was a bit of a fluke, but then again, both these teams are a bit flaky. VT wins this one going away. VT: 41--Clem: 20
Hoying: Thanks to Florida State crapping the bed, the Clemson Tigers have been able to skate backwards on their faces into the ACC Championship in a "prove-it" game against their most valiant vanquished opponent. VT, meanwhile, has ridden the cupcake train on the way to crushing the laughable ACC Coastal division. Who wins the rematch? It all depends on whether Clemson decides to be Clemson. They did everything they could in November to escape the Atlantic crown, but fate pushed them to this point. This must be the Tigers' year. VT: 17--Clem: 20
Schweinfurth: Virginia Tech can cap off a very good, albiet quiet, season with yet another ACC Championship. Taj Boyd and Clemson have been a let down (typical for them, I know). I have faith that this is Clemson's year. The Tigers' D is bad, but the offense is explosive. Dabo will get to spout off again. VT: 35 -- Clem: 38
Big 12 (Defacto)--Oklahoma Sooners @ Oklahoma State Cowboys
Draper: Biggest game of the weekend that still means something. If OSU can beat the Sooners soundly, they will (and should) get back in the title talk. I think they can do it. Weeden and Blackmon laid an egg in Ames, but this game surpasses the rest. The Pokes know how to rile the Sooners. This will be hard hitting and really high scoring. Neither defense is worth much, but the Orange Nation in Stillwater tip the offensive scales. A late key turnover sends the Cowboys to the Fiesta at worst and maybe, dare we dream, New Orleans? OU: 45--OSU: 51
Auer: Time for Mike Gundy's team to get off the schnide against OU and beat up on the depleted sooners. This game will come down to turnovers, and OSU's offense will capitalize as they lead the nation in forced turnovers. OU: 28--OSU: 45
Hoying: Who can handle the pressure? Oklahoma State rides in on an 8-game losing streak in the series, but this matchup is potentially the biggest in the history of Cowboy football. Meanwhile, Oklahoma still has a chance to grab their 5th conference title in the last 6 years? Sadly, experience often wins out in such a situation. Big Game Bob and the Sooners are used to these types of clashes, while Okie State's nerves will cause some critical mistakes to doom their title chances and set up the worst. BCS. title. ever. OU: 42--OSU: 38
Schweinfurth: Ahh Bedlam. This game was setting up to be an epic battle of two undefeated only a few weeks ago. Losses to Texas Tech and Baylor have derailed the Sooner Schooner. A loss to Iowa State also knocked the Cowboys out of the national title picture. A win here for OSU would be big and could put them back into the national title game. In true Big 12 fashion, this will be a shootout in Stillwater. OU: 42 -- OSU: 49
CUSA--Southern Miss Golden Eagles @ Houston Cougars
Draper: This was circled as the one game the Cougs could lose, but Southern Miss has recently been exposed as crap after losing to UAB (shocker). Case Keenum will not disappoint and Kevin Sumlin will continue to pad the resume with a BCS game appearance. Let's go 7 TD passes for Keenum just to pad those stats and book a flight to New York....to lose the Heisman to ESPN; I mean Luck. USM: 20--UH:52
Auer: Don't care, not one iota. Houston wins easily in another stat-padding rout. USM:28--UH: 57
Hoying: Hey! Houston is still undefeated! Whoopee! And how about that great Southern Miss win over...SMU...why is this game necessary? USM: 10--UH: 49
Schweinfurth: The Golden Eagles will be the biggest test for the Cougars all year. I expect Case Keenum to continue his tear and score big.
Upset Special:
Draper: Iowa State over Kansas State (not copying Tyler...I swear)
Auer: Texas over Baylor
Hoying: Connecticut over Cincinnati
Schweinfurth: Iowa State over Kansas State
Monday, November 28, 2011
Draper Index--Week 13
Draper Index--Top 25
1) LSU
2) Alabama
3) Oklahoma
4) Oklahoma State
5) Oregon
6) Stanford
7) Boise State
8) Virginia Tech
9) Arkansas
10) USC
11) South Carolina
12) Wisconsin
13) Michigan State
14) TCU
15) Nebraska
16) Georgia
17) Michigan
18) Houston
19) Kansas State
20) Clemson
21) Penn State
22) Auburn
23) Baylor
24) Notre Dame
25) West Virginia
My Ballot
1) LSU
2) Bama
3) Oklahoma State (will move to 2 with win over OU)
4) Stanford
5) Virginia Tech
6) Oregon
7) Oklahoma
8) Boise State
9) Houston
10) Wisconsin
11) Arkansas
12) USC
13) Michigan State
14) South Carolina
15) Kansas State
16) Michigan
17) Georgia
18) Baylor
19) Nebraska
20) TCU
21) Florida State
22) Clemson
23) West Virginia
24) Texas
25) Penn State
BCS Bowl Predictions
BCS National Championship: LSU vs. Bama
Rose: Oregon vs. Wisconsin
Fiesta: Oklahoma State vs. Stanford
Sugar: Michigan* vs. Houston
Orange: Virginia Tech vs. West Virginia
* If UM ends outside the top 14 (real possibility), replace them with Oklahoma
Gator: OSU vs. Florida
1) LSU
2) Alabama
3) Oklahoma
4) Oklahoma State
5) Oregon
6) Stanford
7) Boise State
8) Virginia Tech
9) Arkansas
10) USC
11) South Carolina
12) Wisconsin
13) Michigan State
14) TCU
15) Nebraska
16) Georgia
17) Michigan
18) Houston
19) Kansas State
20) Clemson
21) Penn State
22) Auburn
23) Baylor
24) Notre Dame
25) West Virginia
My Ballot
1) LSU
2) Bama
3) Oklahoma State (will move to 2 with win over OU)
4) Stanford
5) Virginia Tech
6) Oregon
7) Oklahoma
8) Boise State
9) Houston
10) Wisconsin
11) Arkansas
12) USC
13) Michigan State
14) South Carolina
15) Kansas State
16) Michigan
17) Georgia
18) Baylor
19) Nebraska
20) TCU
21) Florida State
22) Clemson
23) West Virginia
24) Texas
25) Penn State
BCS Bowl Predictions
BCS National Championship: LSU vs. Bama
Rose: Oregon vs. Wisconsin
Fiesta: Oklahoma State vs. Stanford
Sugar: Michigan* vs. Houston
Orange: Virginia Tech vs. West Virginia
* If UM ends outside the top 14 (real possibility), replace them with Oklahoma
Gator: OSU vs. Florida
Grading the Buckeyes--Week 13 Michigan
Offense: B
Overall, the offense....did their job. Crazy, but true. It appeared Bollman had already headed out the door with some diversified playcalling. The running game wasn't too hot from the RBs but Boom got his and Miller was electric running. If Miller could throw a deep ball, we may be undefeated with the WRs streaking open deep on every play. A real QB coach will do wonders for that. The O-Line was degenerated, but they had a decent performance. This is the first loss that lays nearly no blame on the offense. The 2-minute drill was disgusting, but that was the only real issue. No turnovers is another plus.
Defense: D
You knew it...I knew it...Everyone in the world knew it. Denard can win the game unless you take him out of his zone. Our defense seemed to help him turn in the performance of his career. The correct defensive playcall is to assign a linebacker or defensive lineman whose one job is to knock Denard down on EVERY PLAY!! He runs the QB belly read perfectly so the only solution is to make the RB beat you and knock him flat. We didn't. Missed tackles, blown coverages, unacceptable at OSU. The Bullets made Denard look like a competent pocket passer....that's on us.
Special Teams: B
Punting fine, kicks fine, coverage fine, returns ok. No complaints, no accolades. Buchanan had ups and downs but nothing that changed the game. Also, can't give credit to OSU for the UM punter's failure.
Coaching: B-
Offensively, up to the last drive, the offensive coaching was just fine. Calling the first slant of the year on 2nd down in a 2 minute drill, and then spiking the ball on 3rd!!!, is simply ridiculous. After 3 quarters of innovation with the offense, we regressed horribly in the final drive. Also, the defensive gameplan of tiptoeing around Denard was completely asinine. To beat him, you must physically beat him down. Force the handoff by selling out on hitting Denard. If the back beats you, tip your cap. The only mistake we could have make was letting Denard beat us running. OSU let him do that, and it was over. The best offensive performance of the year was overshadowed by the worst defensive performance. The team had talent, but it was never utilized...and that's why we now have Meyer. The expectations being laid at his feet are completely crazy, but I'm certainly excited for what he can do with this team. I see great things in the future! GO BUCKS! And Michigan still sucks!
Overall, the offense....did their job. Crazy, but true. It appeared Bollman had already headed out the door with some diversified playcalling. The running game wasn't too hot from the RBs but Boom got his and Miller was electric running. If Miller could throw a deep ball, we may be undefeated with the WRs streaking open deep on every play. A real QB coach will do wonders for that. The O-Line was degenerated, but they had a decent performance. This is the first loss that lays nearly no blame on the offense. The 2-minute drill was disgusting, but that was the only real issue. No turnovers is another plus.
Defense: D
You knew it...I knew it...Everyone in the world knew it. Denard can win the game unless you take him out of his zone. Our defense seemed to help him turn in the performance of his career. The correct defensive playcall is to assign a linebacker or defensive lineman whose one job is to knock Denard down on EVERY PLAY!! He runs the QB belly read perfectly so the only solution is to make the RB beat you and knock him flat. We didn't. Missed tackles, blown coverages, unacceptable at OSU. The Bullets made Denard look like a competent pocket passer....that's on us.
Special Teams: B
Punting fine, kicks fine, coverage fine, returns ok. No complaints, no accolades. Buchanan had ups and downs but nothing that changed the game. Also, can't give credit to OSU for the UM punter's failure.
Coaching: B-
Offensively, up to the last drive, the offensive coaching was just fine. Calling the first slant of the year on 2nd down in a 2 minute drill, and then spiking the ball on 3rd!!!, is simply ridiculous. After 3 quarters of innovation with the offense, we regressed horribly in the final drive. Also, the defensive gameplan of tiptoeing around Denard was completely asinine. To beat him, you must physically beat him down. Force the handoff by selling out on hitting Denard. If the back beats you, tip your cap. The only mistake we could have make was letting Denard beat us running. OSU let him do that, and it was over. The best offensive performance of the year was overshadowed by the worst defensive performance. The team had talent, but it was never utilized...and that's why we now have Meyer. The expectations being laid at his feet are completely crazy, but I'm certainly excited for what he can do with this team. I see great things in the future! GO BUCKS! And Michigan still sucks!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Week 13 Picks--Rivalry Madness
Texas Longhorns @ Texas A&M Aggies
Draper: Thanksgiving ends with a nice rivalry to kick off the weekend. A&M took this game to kick Texas from the ranks of the bowl bound. This year, the game means even less. Kyle Field and the 12th man will be the difference. Tannehill will lead the underachieving Aggies to another win over the vaunted Longhorns. UT: 24--TAMU: 38
Auer: While it may not be the last time these two teams ever meet, but now the Aggies are headed to the SEC. A&M will certainly look back on this season as "What if..." considering four of their five losses came by a total of 15 points... ouch. The Aggies are a better team and will send one final goodbye present to "big brother" in Austin. UT: 18--TAMU: 31
Hoying: If the game goes 30 minutes, bet heavily on the Aggies. Unfortunately, Texas A&M will be forced to come out after halftime and finish a game against a dangerous team looking for a statement win. The Longhorns feature a decent defense but lack the offensive firepower to keep up with Tannehill. Texas dies, Texas dies, and it's goodbye to A&M! Maybe West Virginia can be Texas's crappy rival from now on. UT: 17 -- TAMU: 34Schweinfurth: Aggies (woooo!) and the Longhorns, the battle for Texas. This is the last go 'round for this rivalry as a Big 12 conference game. Texas has shown some life, but is still a middle of the road team. The Aggies (woooo!) are just better and it's at Kyle Field. Aggies (woooo!) barbeque the Horns. UT: 17 -- TAMU: 45
Arkansas Razorbacks @ Louisiana State TigersDraper: The (arguably) biggest game of the weekend is this 'rivalry'. Neither of these teams have an in state rival, but Arkansas is familiar with knocking LSU from the BCS title (until everyone else lost the following week in 2007). This Arkansas team doesn't have Run DMC. Tyler Wilson has been very good except for the game vs. a defense (Bama)...uh oh. I will be rooting like crazy for the Razorbacks to win this and create utter chaos, but it's not going to happen. LSU keeps rolling. Ark: 13--LSU: 23
Auer: Without a doubt LSU has a chance to book their flights to the BCS National Championship game with a win today, regardless of what happens in the SEC Championship game next weekend. I will admit that I've watched R-kansas a grand total of maybe 15 minutes this year, and I didn't see anything that makes me think they can beat LSU in Death Valley. Ark: 7--LSU: 31
Hoying: LSU has indisputably built the best body of work to date, but they have a tough game this week against Ar-Kansas (have a grrreat day). Last time the Tigers came into this one ranked #1 the Razors knocked them down...into the title game. This season is just crazy enough for that scenario to play out again! Arkansas QB Tyler Wilson will test the LSU defense more than McCarron did in Tuscaloosa, but it'll take more than 9 points to match LSU's output against a good-but-not-great Hog defense. This rivalry has produced some of the most exciting clashes in the past 5 years, so let's hope the 1-3 matchup gives a better show than the 1-2 snoozefest earlier this month. Go Razor. Ark: 28--LSU: 21Schweinfurth: SEC gets teams 1, 2, 3 *puke*. But that ends this week. Arkansas has just been steady all year and very quietly putting together a good season. The Razorbacks can send the BCS and the SEC into utter chaos with a win (which I would love to see). Unfortunately, LSU is deserving of the number one ranking. I expect no Les than one fake kick out of Miles and LSU (see what I did there?). Ark: 17 -- LSU: 32
Georgia Bulldogs @ Georgia Tech Yellow JacketsDraper: Clean, Old-fashioned Hate has little implications nationally, but it's always of importance to beat your neighbors. UGA looks forward to an SEC title game that they ascend to thanks to scheduling leaving Bama, LSU, and Arkansas off the schedule. Tech has been flighty but I think the bring the Bulldogs down to earth. Richt will focus on the SEC title and lose sight of the rivalry. Tech has nothing else to look to. Close game taken by Paul Johnson's tricky option. UGA: 27--GT: 28
Auer: I've got a special place in my heart for a team and coach like Paul Johnson. I believe this could end up being the best game of Rivalry Weekend with UGA coming on strong lately, and UGA possibly looking ahead to the SEC Title game, it should be a doozy. Not to mention that the triple option is still a b*tch to defend against. UGA: 31--GT: 38
Hoying: GT looked like an ACC steamroller at the start of this season, until they played a team that had...what's it called...defense. Since then, the Yellow Jackets have looked shaky, taking advantage of a Clemson moment to score a big win. Meanwhile, Georgia has knocked out 8 creampuffs, punctuated with a nice dismantling of a decent Auburn squad. It's simple. One team is getting better, and one team is getting worse (ehhhh...ahhsome). Bulldogs win, again. UGA: 31--GT: 20Schweinfurth: A good old fashioned in-state rivalry. It's the ACC vs. the SEC except in this case I think the better team isn't in the SEC. The Yellow Jackets have a quick strike (!) offense that can effectively shorten any game. It's in the ATL and Johnson is the better coach. UGA: 17 -- GT: 24
Alabama Crimson Tide @ Auburn TigersDraper: Iron Bowl could also provide some intrigue into the SEC/National title. Last year was Bama's shot to derail Auburn and perhaps elevate themselves back into the title hunt and they gagged away a huge lead. This year is all about payback. No Cam Newton=no Auburn win. Saban will be ruthless in this one at home remembering last year. Expect Dyer's running game to be stopped stone cold and the Tide to roll. Aub: 6--Bama: 24
Auer: Alabama is good, Auburn is not. What else needs to be explained? Auburn is a shell of what they were last year, and Gene Chizik should not last much longer in the SEC. Trent Richardson is a beast and may use this game to vault his name to the top of the Heisman Race. Aub: 7--Bama: 37
Hoying: Remember when Auburn beat South Carolina in Columbia? Anyone? Back when the Tigers were living on crazy late-game idiocy from their opponents, this team still had a bright future. Since then, they've been embarrassed by their other not-horrible opponents, losing to Arkansas, LSU, and Georgia by an average of 32 points. The Iron Bowl is always close, but Auburn has neither the offensive firepower to move the ball on the nation's best defense nor the the defensive fortitude to slow down Trent Richardson. This is going to be ugly. Like 2008 Ohio State - Michigan ugly. Aub: 3--Bama: 30Schweinfurth: Ahh the Iron bowl. I want to start off by saying that Auburn is not good and Alabama is. For some reason, Auburn has the ability to keep teams close. Alabama's D will be the difference in the game. This is closer than the experts think and and the Tide keep rolling toward a NC birth. Aub: 7 -- Bama: 13
Penn State Nittany Lions @ Wisconsin BadgersDraper: A berth in the B1G title is on the line in Madison. Penn State has fought through the controversy to win in Columbus for the second time since God knows when. Wisconsin has been rolling since the 2 Hail Mary upsets. This one could get ugly. PSU doesn't have the talent to hang with Wisconsin...and it's in Camp Randall. This is going to be brutal for the players and fans. Bielema doens't know what's happening so will go for 2 when up 40. OSU was lauded for keeping it relatively clean when the Lions came to town (avoiding the jokes/comments about Sanducky); don't expect the Badgers to hold back. Real potential to completely mute the game with the FCC issues of the crowd's chants. South Park's take on the situation will look tame in comparison. PSU: 9--UW: 34
Auer: Penn State now promptly gets to make a fool of themselves (again), after the Buckeyes let them off the hook in Columbus. The Badgers are an outstanding team that honestly should be playing in the BCS Championship game, but some odd losses, yes we got lucky, will keep them from that. PSU will use this game as an opportunity to remind everyone how bad they really are. PSU: 6--UW: 48
Hoying: Here you go, Penn State. One last chance to take a big game and a division title before your university ceases to exist as we know it. Penn State supposedly features the conference's top defense, but the only teams to really move the ball on Wisconsin were an imposter Ohio State squad and a very good Spartan team that Penn State had the fortune to miss. Wisconsin has Russell Wilson and Montee Ball. Penn State has...nasty all-white road uniforms. Bucky lays the beatdown Penn State managed to duck in Columbus. PSU: 0 -- UW: 24Schweinfurth: Penn State, after all the turmoil, the terrible offense, and the removal of JoPa, have rallied and find themselves on the brink of the B1G Championship game. Defense leads the way for the Nittany Lions. Wisconsin has shown this year, that, when up against a decent defense, they struggle. The Lions D is good, but I can't see them winning a third high stress, big game in a row. the Lions keep it close, but Russell and Ball lead the way. PSU: 9 -- UW: 25
Clemson Tigers @ South Carolina GamecocksDraper: Another unsung rivalry. Clemson reminded us that they're still Clemson in a big way by choking at NC State. South Carolina has been forgotten after the loss of Lattimore, but the only reason they're not in the SEC title game is scheduling (beat UGA and lost to Ark and Aub). Home field gives the Head Ball Coach another win. Clem: 24--USC: 31
Auer: Flaky versus Flaky... should be a fun one. Let's look at this how the media will... SEC vs. ACC... automatic win for the SEC squad... and I can't disagree. Clem: 20--USC: 37
Hoying: Welcome to the Head & Shoulders Bowl, featuring the flakiest teams in the SEC and ACC. South Carolina has been able to avoid the bad loss this year, but at the cost of not getting a big win (Georgia in Athens is OK, I suppose). Meanwhile, Tajh Boyd and the Tigers are recovering from pooping the bed against a terrible NC State squad last week. Who has the advantage? Clemson is clearly more talented, but South Carolina has played more cohesively and consistently. Unfortunately, they also happen to be ranked higher than Clemson, so you know what that means. Clem: 31 -- USC: 27Schweinfurth: What happened to Clemson? Well, the Tiger's pulled the typical Clemson choke, going from national title contender to just another underachieving Clemson team. Like all schools, a win in the rivalry can salvage a disappointing season. South Carolina just hasn't been the same team without Lattimore. The Gamecocks keep it close, but Clemson pulls away late. Clem: 45 -- USC: 28
Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ Stanford CardinalDraper: Blah, Blah, Blah. Andrew Luck. Everyone says that he will prove Heisman mettle vs. Oregon and ND. He sucked against Oregon and Notre Dame has no defense. Luck will destroy the Irish secondary and will Stefphan Taylor will steam roll. The Irish offense will score some points, but this game is not as close/important and it's hyped. ND: 24--Stan: 35
Auer: My fellow predictors decided to against their favorite homer pick and be realistic for once. Notre Dame is vastly overrated, Brian Kelly has gotten away with far worse than what has been allowed to happen at Penn State, and Stanford is still a much better team. ND: 12--Stan: 38
Hoying: I am always wrong about Notre Dame. I'm Catholic and I hate Stanford's band, so I pick the Irish to lose. ND: 17 -- Stan: 41Schweinfurth: Notre Dame is still an underachieving team and Stanford has Andrew Luck. I don't expect much out of this game except that Luck throws for 4 TDs. ND: 20 -- Stan: 35
Florida State Seminoles @ Florida GatorsDraper: FSU loses another game by a field goal....shocker. Talk about a lost season after all the hype. How do you save it? Beat the Gators. The Gators have also underacheived, and even more than the Noles in my opinion. The Swamp is a huge advantage, but athletically, FSU is just better. Look for the Noles to save their season by winning the State of Florida. Future is bright, but this was a befuddling year. FSU: 31--UF: 23
Auer: Interesting game in a down year for both squads. FSU has more talent this year than UF, but that doesn't always translate to wins, especially on the road in your arch-nemesis' stadium. UF has struggled all year for consistency and could find it here in their regular season finale. FSU: 19-UF: 21
Hoying: How does a state with loads of talent and 4 BCS conference teams manage to produce 4 crappy teams? Florida hasn't been the same since John Brantley went down, and the Noles have had trouble producing against quality competition. Fortunately, the Gators are not quality competition. Expect to see a lot of great defense as FSU pulls out a close one in BHG. FSU: 14--UF: 10Schweinfurth: Has any team been more snake bitten than the Seminoles? FSU loses to Oklahoma and in the process loses some of their best playmakers. Once healthy, the 'Noles miss a FG wide left...again. Redemption is nigh for the 'Noles. Florida is bad, enough said. EJ Manuel has a big day. FSU: 35 -- UF: 17THE Ohio State Buckeyes @ Michigan WolverinesDraper: The Game. After a season of garbage, this is all the matters to Buckeye Nation. Michigan is quietly hanging around by outscoring opponents. Yes, their defense is improved, but the stats are a reflection of poor opponents (the B1G is bad, mmmkay). These teams are remarkably similar (mobile QB who can't pass, passable running game, ok receivers, decent D-line, crap secondary), but UM has decent playcalling while the walrus calling plays for the Buckeyes is killing us. I am not confident at all in this game, but I can't pick the Maize and Blue. I'm going total heart that this Buckeye team will enter the game with one goal: Beat Michigan; Save the Season; Destroy their hopes. GO BUCKS!! BEAT BLUE!! OSU: 20--UM: 17
Auer: A one game season it is. The Buckeyes have literally nothing to play for but pride. Luke Fickell can give on final middle finger to all those clamoring for Urban Meyer, or as I call him, scUM (part II). The Buckeyes have been a modern day version of Jekyll and Hyde, usually with the worst outcome, at the worst possible time. Michigan and it's fans are chomping at the bit to start off the Brady Hoke era with a win. This could either be 8 years of frustration coming to a head, and the Buckeyes getting bounced, and hard... or the squad that beat Wisconsin will make an appearance and keep us on our toes to the very end. OSU: 24--UM: 23
Hoying: The game of IF
IF the offensive line can get a good push at the line of scrimmage and handle the talented Wolverine D Line, the Buckeyes can have success running the ball, as the talent on the Michigan D drops off from there. If not, expect a long day of sacks, fumbles, and overall confusion out of the scarlet and gray.
IF the play-calling is creative and situation-appropriate, the vision and power of Boom, the escapability of Braxton, and the penetrating instincts of Posey will mold the Buckeye offense into the juggernaut we saw against Wisconsin and Nebraska. If not, expect 2nd and 9, 2nd and 11, and lots of punts (if we're lucky, and hopefully not from the Michigan 35).
IF the linebackers remember how to tackle, arrange themselves intelligently pre-snap, and take good pursuit angles, Denard's potential will be severely limited, and his frustration will lead to a few key turnovers. If not, Shoelace will shred the secondary with his legs and even his arm. Just ask Nebraska.
IF these pieces can come together, the Buckeyes are more than talented enough to take down Meatchicken for the 8th straight year. OSU: 28--UM: 20If not, at least we'll have Urban Meyer next time.
Schweinfurth: The one game I point to on the calendar every year. This is the first time in since Cooper was the coach that I am actually scared about this game. Both teams are identical. Both QBs can't, or aren't allowed to throw the ball. Both teams have young and questionable defenses. The Walrus, in his last game calling plays, unleashes the full force of Braxton Miller. Denard Robinson is broken in half by Ryan "The Razor" Shazier and the band rushes the field again!!! GO BUCKS, BEAT BLUE!!!!!
OSU: 1234478972 -- UM: -7 (Hoke ate the ball and the Wolverines are penalized for it)
Upset Specials:
Draper: UVA over Va Tech, Tulsa over Houston
Auer: Northwestern over Michigan State, Ohio State over Michigan
Hoying: Boston College over Miami, and 4 freaking upsets aboveSchweinfurth: Lions over the Packers!!!
Draper: Thanksgiving ends with a nice rivalry to kick off the weekend. A&M took this game to kick Texas from the ranks of the bowl bound. This year, the game means even less. Kyle Field and the 12th man will be the difference. Tannehill will lead the underachieving Aggies to another win over the vaunted Longhorns. UT: 24--TAMU: 38
Auer: While it may not be the last time these two teams ever meet, but now the Aggies are headed to the SEC. A&M will certainly look back on this season as "What if..." considering four of their five losses came by a total of 15 points... ouch. The Aggies are a better team and will send one final goodbye present to "big brother" in Austin. UT: 18--TAMU: 31
Hoying: If the game goes 30 minutes, bet heavily on the Aggies. Unfortunately, Texas A&M will be forced to come out after halftime and finish a game against a dangerous team looking for a statement win. The Longhorns feature a decent defense but lack the offensive firepower to keep up with Tannehill. Texas dies, Texas dies, and it's goodbye to A&M! Maybe West Virginia can be Texas's crappy rival from now on. UT: 17 -- TAMU: 34Schweinfurth: Aggies (woooo!) and the Longhorns, the battle for Texas. This is the last go 'round for this rivalry as a Big 12 conference game. Texas has shown some life, but is still a middle of the road team. The Aggies (woooo!) are just better and it's at Kyle Field. Aggies (woooo!) barbeque the Horns. UT: 17 -- TAMU: 45
Arkansas Razorbacks @ Louisiana State TigersDraper: The (arguably) biggest game of the weekend is this 'rivalry'. Neither of these teams have an in state rival, but Arkansas is familiar with knocking LSU from the BCS title (until everyone else lost the following week in 2007). This Arkansas team doesn't have Run DMC. Tyler Wilson has been very good except for the game vs. a defense (Bama)...uh oh. I will be rooting like crazy for the Razorbacks to win this and create utter chaos, but it's not going to happen. LSU keeps rolling. Ark: 13--LSU: 23
Auer: Without a doubt LSU has a chance to book their flights to the BCS National Championship game with a win today, regardless of what happens in the SEC Championship game next weekend. I will admit that I've watched R-kansas a grand total of maybe 15 minutes this year, and I didn't see anything that makes me think they can beat LSU in Death Valley. Ark: 7--LSU: 31
Hoying: LSU has indisputably built the best body of work to date, but they have a tough game this week against Ar-Kansas (have a grrreat day). Last time the Tigers came into this one ranked #1 the Razors knocked them down...into the title game. This season is just crazy enough for that scenario to play out again! Arkansas QB Tyler Wilson will test the LSU defense more than McCarron did in Tuscaloosa, but it'll take more than 9 points to match LSU's output against a good-but-not-great Hog defense. This rivalry has produced some of the most exciting clashes in the past 5 years, so let's hope the 1-3 matchup gives a better show than the 1-2 snoozefest earlier this month. Go Razor. Ark: 28--LSU: 21Schweinfurth: SEC gets teams 1, 2, 3 *puke*. But that ends this week. Arkansas has just been steady all year and very quietly putting together a good season. The Razorbacks can send the BCS and the SEC into utter chaos with a win (which I would love to see). Unfortunately, LSU is deserving of the number one ranking. I expect no Les than one fake kick out of Miles and LSU (see what I did there?). Ark: 17 -- LSU: 32
Georgia Bulldogs @ Georgia Tech Yellow JacketsDraper: Clean, Old-fashioned Hate has little implications nationally, but it's always of importance to beat your neighbors. UGA looks forward to an SEC title game that they ascend to thanks to scheduling leaving Bama, LSU, and Arkansas off the schedule. Tech has been flighty but I think the bring the Bulldogs down to earth. Richt will focus on the SEC title and lose sight of the rivalry. Tech has nothing else to look to. Close game taken by Paul Johnson's tricky option. UGA: 27--GT: 28
Auer: I've got a special place in my heart for a team and coach like Paul Johnson. I believe this could end up being the best game of Rivalry Weekend with UGA coming on strong lately, and UGA possibly looking ahead to the SEC Title game, it should be a doozy. Not to mention that the triple option is still a b*tch to defend against. UGA: 31--GT: 38
Hoying: GT looked like an ACC steamroller at the start of this season, until they played a team that had...what's it called...defense. Since then, the Yellow Jackets have looked shaky, taking advantage of a Clemson moment to score a big win. Meanwhile, Georgia has knocked out 8 creampuffs, punctuated with a nice dismantling of a decent Auburn squad. It's simple. One team is getting better, and one team is getting worse (ehhhh...ahhsome). Bulldogs win, again. UGA: 31--GT: 20Schweinfurth: A good old fashioned in-state rivalry. It's the ACC vs. the SEC except in this case I think the better team isn't in the SEC. The Yellow Jackets have a quick strike (!) offense that can effectively shorten any game. It's in the ATL and Johnson is the better coach. UGA: 17 -- GT: 24
Alabama Crimson Tide @ Auburn TigersDraper: Iron Bowl could also provide some intrigue into the SEC/National title. Last year was Bama's shot to derail Auburn and perhaps elevate themselves back into the title hunt and they gagged away a huge lead. This year is all about payback. No Cam Newton=no Auburn win. Saban will be ruthless in this one at home remembering last year. Expect Dyer's running game to be stopped stone cold and the Tide to roll. Aub: 6--Bama: 24
Auer: Alabama is good, Auburn is not. What else needs to be explained? Auburn is a shell of what they were last year, and Gene Chizik should not last much longer in the SEC. Trent Richardson is a beast and may use this game to vault his name to the top of the Heisman Race. Aub: 7--Bama: 37
Hoying: Remember when Auburn beat South Carolina in Columbia? Anyone? Back when the Tigers were living on crazy late-game idiocy from their opponents, this team still had a bright future. Since then, they've been embarrassed by their other not-horrible opponents, losing to Arkansas, LSU, and Georgia by an average of 32 points. The Iron Bowl is always close, but Auburn has neither the offensive firepower to move the ball on the nation's best defense nor the the defensive fortitude to slow down Trent Richardson. This is going to be ugly. Like 2008 Ohio State - Michigan ugly. Aub: 3--Bama: 30Schweinfurth: Ahh the Iron bowl. I want to start off by saying that Auburn is not good and Alabama is. For some reason, Auburn has the ability to keep teams close. Alabama's D will be the difference in the game. This is closer than the experts think and and the Tide keep rolling toward a NC birth. Aub: 7 -- Bama: 13
Penn State Nittany Lions @ Wisconsin BadgersDraper: A berth in the B1G title is on the line in Madison. Penn State has fought through the controversy to win in Columbus for the second time since God knows when. Wisconsin has been rolling since the 2 Hail Mary upsets. This one could get ugly. PSU doesn't have the talent to hang with Wisconsin...and it's in Camp Randall. This is going to be brutal for the players and fans. Bielema doens't know what's happening so will go for 2 when up 40. OSU was lauded for keeping it relatively clean when the Lions came to town (avoiding the jokes/comments about Sanducky); don't expect the Badgers to hold back. Real potential to completely mute the game with the FCC issues of the crowd's chants. South Park's take on the situation will look tame in comparison. PSU: 9--UW: 34
Auer: Penn State now promptly gets to make a fool of themselves (again), after the Buckeyes let them off the hook in Columbus. The Badgers are an outstanding team that honestly should be playing in the BCS Championship game, but some odd losses, yes we got lucky, will keep them from that. PSU will use this game as an opportunity to remind everyone how bad they really are. PSU: 6--UW: 48
Hoying: Here you go, Penn State. One last chance to take a big game and a division title before your university ceases to exist as we know it. Penn State supposedly features the conference's top defense, but the only teams to really move the ball on Wisconsin were an imposter Ohio State squad and a very good Spartan team that Penn State had the fortune to miss. Wisconsin has Russell Wilson and Montee Ball. Penn State has...nasty all-white road uniforms. Bucky lays the beatdown Penn State managed to duck in Columbus. PSU: 0 -- UW: 24Schweinfurth: Penn State, after all the turmoil, the terrible offense, and the removal of JoPa, have rallied and find themselves on the brink of the B1G Championship game. Defense leads the way for the Nittany Lions. Wisconsin has shown this year, that, when up against a decent defense, they struggle. The Lions D is good, but I can't see them winning a third high stress, big game in a row. the Lions keep it close, but Russell and Ball lead the way. PSU: 9 -- UW: 25
Clemson Tigers @ South Carolina GamecocksDraper: Another unsung rivalry. Clemson reminded us that they're still Clemson in a big way by choking at NC State. South Carolina has been forgotten after the loss of Lattimore, but the only reason they're not in the SEC title game is scheduling (beat UGA and lost to Ark and Aub). Home field gives the Head Ball Coach another win. Clem: 24--USC: 31
Auer: Flaky versus Flaky... should be a fun one. Let's look at this how the media will... SEC vs. ACC... automatic win for the SEC squad... and I can't disagree. Clem: 20--USC: 37
Hoying: Welcome to the Head & Shoulders Bowl, featuring the flakiest teams in the SEC and ACC. South Carolina has been able to avoid the bad loss this year, but at the cost of not getting a big win (Georgia in Athens is OK, I suppose). Meanwhile, Tajh Boyd and the Tigers are recovering from pooping the bed against a terrible NC State squad last week. Who has the advantage? Clemson is clearly more talented, but South Carolina has played more cohesively and consistently. Unfortunately, they also happen to be ranked higher than Clemson, so you know what that means. Clem: 31 -- USC: 27Schweinfurth: What happened to Clemson? Well, the Tiger's pulled the typical Clemson choke, going from national title contender to just another underachieving Clemson team. Like all schools, a win in the rivalry can salvage a disappointing season. South Carolina just hasn't been the same team without Lattimore. The Gamecocks keep it close, but Clemson pulls away late. Clem: 45 -- USC: 28
Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ Stanford CardinalDraper: Blah, Blah, Blah. Andrew Luck. Everyone says that he will prove Heisman mettle vs. Oregon and ND. He sucked against Oregon and Notre Dame has no defense. Luck will destroy the Irish secondary and will Stefphan Taylor will steam roll. The Irish offense will score some points, but this game is not as close/important and it's hyped. ND: 24--Stan: 35
Auer: My fellow predictors decided to against their favorite homer pick and be realistic for once. Notre Dame is vastly overrated, Brian Kelly has gotten away with far worse than what has been allowed to happen at Penn State, and Stanford is still a much better team. ND: 12--Stan: 38
Hoying: I am always wrong about Notre Dame. I'm Catholic and I hate Stanford's band, so I pick the Irish to lose. ND: 17 -- Stan: 41Schweinfurth: Notre Dame is still an underachieving team and Stanford has Andrew Luck. I don't expect much out of this game except that Luck throws for 4 TDs. ND: 20 -- Stan: 35
Florida State Seminoles @ Florida GatorsDraper: FSU loses another game by a field goal....shocker. Talk about a lost season after all the hype. How do you save it? Beat the Gators. The Gators have also underacheived, and even more than the Noles in my opinion. The Swamp is a huge advantage, but athletically, FSU is just better. Look for the Noles to save their season by winning the State of Florida. Future is bright, but this was a befuddling year. FSU: 31--UF: 23
Auer: Interesting game in a down year for both squads. FSU has more talent this year than UF, but that doesn't always translate to wins, especially on the road in your arch-nemesis' stadium. UF has struggled all year for consistency and could find it here in their regular season finale. FSU: 19-UF: 21
Hoying: How does a state with loads of talent and 4 BCS conference teams manage to produce 4 crappy teams? Florida hasn't been the same since John Brantley went down, and the Noles have had trouble producing against quality competition. Fortunately, the Gators are not quality competition. Expect to see a lot of great defense as FSU pulls out a close one in BHG. FSU: 14--UF: 10Schweinfurth: Has any team been more snake bitten than the Seminoles? FSU loses to Oklahoma and in the process loses some of their best playmakers. Once healthy, the 'Noles miss a FG wide left...again. Redemption is nigh for the 'Noles. Florida is bad, enough said. EJ Manuel has a big day. FSU: 35 -- UF: 17THE Ohio State Buckeyes @ Michigan WolverinesDraper: The Game. After a season of garbage, this is all the matters to Buckeye Nation. Michigan is quietly hanging around by outscoring opponents. Yes, their defense is improved, but the stats are a reflection of poor opponents (the B1G is bad, mmmkay). These teams are remarkably similar (mobile QB who can't pass, passable running game, ok receivers, decent D-line, crap secondary), but UM has decent playcalling while the walrus calling plays for the Buckeyes is killing us. I am not confident at all in this game, but I can't pick the Maize and Blue. I'm going total heart that this Buckeye team will enter the game with one goal: Beat Michigan; Save the Season; Destroy their hopes. GO BUCKS!! BEAT BLUE!! OSU: 20--UM: 17
Auer: A one game season it is. The Buckeyes have literally nothing to play for but pride. Luke Fickell can give on final middle finger to all those clamoring for Urban Meyer, or as I call him, scUM (part II). The Buckeyes have been a modern day version of Jekyll and Hyde, usually with the worst outcome, at the worst possible time. Michigan and it's fans are chomping at the bit to start off the Brady Hoke era with a win. This could either be 8 years of frustration coming to a head, and the Buckeyes getting bounced, and hard... or the squad that beat Wisconsin will make an appearance and keep us on our toes to the very end. OSU: 24--UM: 23
Hoying: The game of IF
IF the offensive line can get a good push at the line of scrimmage and handle the talented Wolverine D Line, the Buckeyes can have success running the ball, as the talent on the Michigan D drops off from there. If not, expect a long day of sacks, fumbles, and overall confusion out of the scarlet and gray.
IF the play-calling is creative and situation-appropriate, the vision and power of Boom, the escapability of Braxton, and the penetrating instincts of Posey will mold the Buckeye offense into the juggernaut we saw against Wisconsin and Nebraska. If not, expect 2nd and 9, 2nd and 11, and lots of punts (if we're lucky, and hopefully not from the Michigan 35).
IF the linebackers remember how to tackle, arrange themselves intelligently pre-snap, and take good pursuit angles, Denard's potential will be severely limited, and his frustration will lead to a few key turnovers. If not, Shoelace will shred the secondary with his legs and even his arm. Just ask Nebraska.
IF these pieces can come together, the Buckeyes are more than talented enough to take down Meatchicken for the 8th straight year. OSU: 28--UM: 20If not, at least we'll have Urban Meyer next time.
Schweinfurth: The one game I point to on the calendar every year. This is the first time in since Cooper was the coach that I am actually scared about this game. Both teams are identical. Both QBs can't, or aren't allowed to throw the ball. Both teams have young and questionable defenses. The Walrus, in his last game calling plays, unleashes the full force of Braxton Miller. Denard Robinson is broken in half by Ryan "The Razor" Shazier and the band rushes the field again!!! GO BUCKS, BEAT BLUE!!!!!
OSU: 1234478972 -- UM: -7 (Hoke ate the ball and the Wolverines are penalized for it)
Upset Specials:
Draper: UVA over Va Tech, Tulsa over Houston
Auer: Northwestern over Michigan State, Ohio State over Michigan
Hoying: Boston College over Miami, and 4 freaking upsets aboveSchweinfurth: Lions over the Packers!!!
Monday, November 21, 2011
Five Thoughts on the Week that was--Week 12
1) Chaos has doomed us to a rematch
All the rooting for the underdogs this past week has essentially sewn up an all SEC title. Are they the best teams in the country? Maybe. Is it definite? No. I will be rooting to absolute brutal chaos this weekend and next. If Arkansas beats LSU and the underdogs win in the conference title games, it's absolutely nuts. That being said, OU/OSU means significantly less; Oregon is out; Clemson is out. The only chance to avoid the punter's rematch is for Ok State to blow out Oklahoma and get lucky. I hope the voters avoid the rematch, but they may not have a choice. SEC is the best we have this year, but they don't stack up to the great teams of the decade let alone history.
2) The one problem of the BCS is that Bama's road to the title game is easier than LSU's (yes, playoffs dilute the season but rule changes could help).
Yes, I like the BCS in principle. I do not wholly support a playoff because I'd rather ensure that my title recipient deserves it (even if it excludes a team or two that also deserves it). A playoff allows teams to sneak away with championships (Steelers, Packers, Giants in football and Cardinals in baseball). The playoffs showed that a team can get hot and not necessarily be the best team but be crowned champion. This year's problem is that non-conference champion (Bama) has the easiest path to the title. They need not play an extra game because they lost at home to LSU. LSU is 'punished' with another game. I wouldn't be opposed to requiring BCS title participants win their conference. In regards to griping this year, there is only 1 team that can (potentially) complain about being 'left out': Houston. Everyone else has a loss so the remaining argument among 1-loss teams could have been avoided by winning all the games. Houston has a crap schedule so their argument is valid yet weak. Every season is a playoff is the argument for BCS apologists which isn't that bad an argument. Without the BCS, Oregon's game vs. USC is a seeding game, not an elimination game. Same with Bedlam (if they didn't suck last week). BCS requires your champion to be worthy while the playoff makes sure all worthy (and some unworthy) have a chance. It's a tradeoff that can't be solved with one system, but Bama's road being easier than LSU's is unfair.
3) RG3 finally had a Heisman quality moment/win
Andrew Luck was/is the Heisman frontrunner all year due to media hype and NFL potential. Is it deserved? For the NFL? Sure. For the Heisman? No. His stats are weak against a bad schedule. Many have pointed to Robert Griffin III as a potential contender but his low exposure and losses have buried him. Now he is resurrected by the upset of Oklahoma. Without the OU win, RG3 had no chance (fair or not), now.... He's right there. If the voters are fair, they should give him a second and third look. His stats are incredible against decent competition and he finally led his team to a HUGE win. I think it's time to jump off the Luck bandwagon. Hype shouldn't determine the greatest individual award in sport.
4) Urban Meyer will be the next coach at Ohio State in 2012.
Read between the lines. It's a done deal. Yes, he's denied 'being offered or accepting a job', but that doesn't mean that hypotheticals haven't been discussed and/or agreed upon in principle. Chris Spielman is his commentating partner so you know it's been discussed around the meeting room table. He will return home to Ohio to lead the Buckeyes in the next phase of success. ESPiN has even taken Meyer out of the 'field' and put him behind a desk due to the rumors. OSU must wait until the season is over to be fair to the coaching staff and players, but it's done. Fickell will be asked to hang around and we'll see what happens, but look for new excitement in Columbus.
5) Rivalries can make or break a season
OSU/Michigan, enough said. This season has been nothing but disappointment for the Scarlet and Gray but all wounds are healed by 1 game. If the Buckeyes beat the Wolverines, this year, Fickell's short tenure as head coach, and this senior class legacy will go down as a success. Without it, everything fails. Auburn can derail Bama's title dreams. The Cowboys can send the Sooners crying and stay in the hunt or be relegated to mediocrity. Gators vs. Noles is for Florida (and recruiting) supremacy. It's all that matters. In the NFL, the Superbowl is the only thing that matters. In college, the title matters, but for most teams who won't get that shot, the rivalry defines the season. So eat the turkey and cheer for your team. Let's break the 3000 day barrier for days since that school up north has beaten THE Ohio State University. It's all we have left....but it's enough.
All the rooting for the underdogs this past week has essentially sewn up an all SEC title. Are they the best teams in the country? Maybe. Is it definite? No. I will be rooting to absolute brutal chaos this weekend and next. If Arkansas beats LSU and the underdogs win in the conference title games, it's absolutely nuts. That being said, OU/OSU means significantly less; Oregon is out; Clemson is out. The only chance to avoid the punter's rematch is for Ok State to blow out Oklahoma and get lucky. I hope the voters avoid the rematch, but they may not have a choice. SEC is the best we have this year, but they don't stack up to the great teams of the decade let alone history.
2) The one problem of the BCS is that Bama's road to the title game is easier than LSU's (yes, playoffs dilute the season but rule changes could help).
Yes, I like the BCS in principle. I do not wholly support a playoff because I'd rather ensure that my title recipient deserves it (even if it excludes a team or two that also deserves it). A playoff allows teams to sneak away with championships (Steelers, Packers, Giants in football and Cardinals in baseball). The playoffs showed that a team can get hot and not necessarily be the best team but be crowned champion. This year's problem is that non-conference champion (Bama) has the easiest path to the title. They need not play an extra game because they lost at home to LSU. LSU is 'punished' with another game. I wouldn't be opposed to requiring BCS title participants win their conference. In regards to griping this year, there is only 1 team that can (potentially) complain about being 'left out': Houston. Everyone else has a loss so the remaining argument among 1-loss teams could have been avoided by winning all the games. Houston has a crap schedule so their argument is valid yet weak. Every season is a playoff is the argument for BCS apologists which isn't that bad an argument. Without the BCS, Oregon's game vs. USC is a seeding game, not an elimination game. Same with Bedlam (if they didn't suck last week). BCS requires your champion to be worthy while the playoff makes sure all worthy (and some unworthy) have a chance. It's a tradeoff that can't be solved with one system, but Bama's road being easier than LSU's is unfair.
3) RG3 finally had a Heisman quality moment/win
Andrew Luck was/is the Heisman frontrunner all year due to media hype and NFL potential. Is it deserved? For the NFL? Sure. For the Heisman? No. His stats are weak against a bad schedule. Many have pointed to Robert Griffin III as a potential contender but his low exposure and losses have buried him. Now he is resurrected by the upset of Oklahoma. Without the OU win, RG3 had no chance (fair or not), now.... He's right there. If the voters are fair, they should give him a second and third look. His stats are incredible against decent competition and he finally led his team to a HUGE win. I think it's time to jump off the Luck bandwagon. Hype shouldn't determine the greatest individual award in sport.
4) Urban Meyer will be the next coach at Ohio State in 2012.
Read between the lines. It's a done deal. Yes, he's denied 'being offered or accepting a job', but that doesn't mean that hypotheticals haven't been discussed and/or agreed upon in principle. Chris Spielman is his commentating partner so you know it's been discussed around the meeting room table. He will return home to Ohio to lead the Buckeyes in the next phase of success. ESPiN has even taken Meyer out of the 'field' and put him behind a desk due to the rumors. OSU must wait until the season is over to be fair to the coaching staff and players, but it's done. Fickell will be asked to hang around and we'll see what happens, but look for new excitement in Columbus.
5) Rivalries can make or break a season
OSU/Michigan, enough said. This season has been nothing but disappointment for the Scarlet and Gray but all wounds are healed by 1 game. If the Buckeyes beat the Wolverines, this year, Fickell's short tenure as head coach, and this senior class legacy will go down as a success. Without it, everything fails. Auburn can derail Bama's title dreams. The Cowboys can send the Sooners crying and stay in the hunt or be relegated to mediocrity. Gators vs. Noles is for Florida (and recruiting) supremacy. It's all that matters. In the NFL, the Superbowl is the only thing that matters. In college, the title matters, but for most teams who won't get that shot, the rivalry defines the season. So eat the turkey and cheer for your team. Let's break the 3000 day barrier for days since that school up north has beaten THE Ohio State University. It's all we have left....but it's enough.
Grading the Bucks--Week 12 Penn State
Offense: C-
The one good thing about this game is we won't have to see Jim Bollman in the Shoe ever again. Playcalling was as expected with unimaginative runs up the middle on most of the plays. Surprisingly poor play our of Senior Mike Brewster was offputting to say the least. Also, the return of Posey is quite infuriating seeing the impact he has on the field. If only he wasn't so stupid, perhaps a few more wins could have been squeezed out of this trying season. Braxton can still run but his passing is not up to FBS standards let alone OSU. He is late on throws and they are consistently off target. The bomb to Philly Brown should have been caught, but had it been thrown early, he's wide open and waltzes into the endzone. Hopefully defenses don't realize that our option plays consist of Option 1: Miller run and Option 2: Miller run. The turnovers killed us (Hyde and Hall....looking at you). More to come on this in the coaching section.
Defense: B-
2nd half featured some play by the Bullets. The goal line stand was spectacular but that can't hold up against the missed tackles and poor pursuit angles in the first half. The first TD by PSU was blamed on the Lion wildcat but it was really a sense of poor angles (see Orhian Johnson). The PSU running game was sufficiently bottled up (except for the wildcat). McGloin clearly can't pass but our secondary makes anyone look like Montana. Travis Howard went back to being beaten every play then bringing the wood...too late. Opposing offenses have learned to avoid the beasts inside of Simon and Hankins and just pick on the edges of our defense. Quick releases and screens nullify the pass rush....if only we could figure that out.
Special Teams: B-
Nothing good, nothing bad. Can't comment much here. Buchanan was inexplicably sent in to punt at the OSU 38 and it sailed 10 yards deep. That's a loss for the special teams unit. Nice tackling but nothing else of note.
Coaching: D-
Slants, screens, sneaks, short passes, etc. These are all illegal for the Buckeyes according to the coaches. How do you get a young, inexperienced and semi-talented QB used to throwing the ball? Run quick routes or screens. Miller can't get in a groove or get used to reading defenses because the routes drawn up take way to long to develop. The most glaring error is the incredibly stupid/forced use of the wildcat. What is the purpose of the wildcat? To get the ball into the running backs hand earlier so he can make something happen. Who is our best runner? OUR QB!!! You can run the 'wildcat' with Miller. It's call a QB draw! There's no need to bring Hall or Hyde in to take the snap. Just call the 'wildcat' plays with our best player taking the snap. OSU has dropped from the top 20 in total offense in 2010 to the bottom 20 this year. How big the impact the loss of one head coach can make. Great defensive adjustments at half, but the whole offensive staff is bye bye. To whom it may concern: Urban Meyer will be the coach of OSU next year, it has been discussed (not 'officially'), and most likely agreed upon by both parties (in 'principle'). Read his statements and he doesn't deny the possibility. It will happen. Just wait and let this team and staff finish the season. Fickell deserves this last hurrah and let's face it, this game is all that matters. Fickell's short tenure at OSU will be completely ruled by the outcome of this next game. GO OHIO, BEAT MICHIGAN!!!
The one good thing about this game is we won't have to see Jim Bollman in the Shoe ever again. Playcalling was as expected with unimaginative runs up the middle on most of the plays. Surprisingly poor play our of Senior Mike Brewster was offputting to say the least. Also, the return of Posey is quite infuriating seeing the impact he has on the field. If only he wasn't so stupid, perhaps a few more wins could have been squeezed out of this trying season. Braxton can still run but his passing is not up to FBS standards let alone OSU. He is late on throws and they are consistently off target. The bomb to Philly Brown should have been caught, but had it been thrown early, he's wide open and waltzes into the endzone. Hopefully defenses don't realize that our option plays consist of Option 1: Miller run and Option 2: Miller run. The turnovers killed us (Hyde and Hall....looking at you). More to come on this in the coaching section.
Defense: B-
2nd half featured some play by the Bullets. The goal line stand was spectacular but that can't hold up against the missed tackles and poor pursuit angles in the first half. The first TD by PSU was blamed on the Lion wildcat but it was really a sense of poor angles (see Orhian Johnson). The PSU running game was sufficiently bottled up (except for the wildcat). McGloin clearly can't pass but our secondary makes anyone look like Montana. Travis Howard went back to being beaten every play then bringing the wood...too late. Opposing offenses have learned to avoid the beasts inside of Simon and Hankins and just pick on the edges of our defense. Quick releases and screens nullify the pass rush....if only we could figure that out.
Special Teams: B-
Nothing good, nothing bad. Can't comment much here. Buchanan was inexplicably sent in to punt at the OSU 38 and it sailed 10 yards deep. That's a loss for the special teams unit. Nice tackling but nothing else of note.
Coaching: D-
Slants, screens, sneaks, short passes, etc. These are all illegal for the Buckeyes according to the coaches. How do you get a young, inexperienced and semi-talented QB used to throwing the ball? Run quick routes or screens. Miller can't get in a groove or get used to reading defenses because the routes drawn up take way to long to develop. The most glaring error is the incredibly stupid/forced use of the wildcat. What is the purpose of the wildcat? To get the ball into the running backs hand earlier so he can make something happen. Who is our best runner? OUR QB!!! You can run the 'wildcat' with Miller. It's call a QB draw! There's no need to bring Hall or Hyde in to take the snap. Just call the 'wildcat' plays with our best player taking the snap. OSU has dropped from the top 20 in total offense in 2010 to the bottom 20 this year. How big the impact the loss of one head coach can make. Great defensive adjustments at half, but the whole offensive staff is bye bye. To whom it may concern: Urban Meyer will be the coach of OSU next year, it has been discussed (not 'officially'), and most likely agreed upon by both parties (in 'principle'). Read his statements and he doesn't deny the possibility. It will happen. Just wait and let this team and staff finish the season. Fickell deserves this last hurrah and let's face it, this game is all that matters. Fickell's short tenure at OSU will be completely ruled by the outcome of this next game. GO OHIO, BEAT MICHIGAN!!!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Draper Index Week 12--CHAOS!!
Let me preface this by saying: These rankings aren't that crazy although they might be very different from the SEC-centric media. Also, the lead LSU has at this point (over 7 points) over number 2 is pretty insurmountable. I believe an LSU loss will keep them firmly at number 1 in these rankings (not that that is wrong).
Draper Index--Week 12
1) LSU (by a ton)
2) Oklahoma State (even with the loss)
3) Alabama
4) Oregon
5) Oklahoma
6) Arkansas (yes they beat TAMU...and no one else--but so did the Oklahoma teams...)
7) Stanford
8) Boise State
9) Virginia Tech
10) USC
11) TCU
12) South Carolina
13) Michigan State
14) Wisconsin
15) Clemson
16) Kansas State
17) Nebraska
18) Penn State
19) Georgia
20) Michigan
21) Auburn
22) Houston
23) Notre Dame
24) Tulsa
25) Baylor
My Ballot1) LSU
2) Alabama
3) Oklahoma State
4) Arkansas
5) Virginia Tech
6) Stanford
7) Oregon
8) Houston
9) USC
10) Oklahoma
11) Boise State
12) Kansas State
13) Michigan State
14) Georgia
15) South Carolina
16) Baylor
17) Wisconsin
18) Michigan
19) Clemson
20) TCU
21) Penn State
22) Nebraska
23) Virginia
24) Georgia Tech
25) Notre Dame
Now that total chaos occurred, the nice neat BCS scenario has been completely altered. Here's my projections. While I hate the idea of a rematch in the title game, most think it's a foregone conclusion. Don't rule out Oklahoma State if they trounce OU. People (and by that, I mean me) don't want the rematch so voters might get creative.
BCS Title: LSU vs. Alabama
Rose: Wisconsin vs. Oregon
Fiesta: Oklahoma State vs. Stanford
Sugar: Michigan (hope I'm wrong) vs. Houston
Orange: Virginia Tech vs. WestVirginia
Hopefully this happens as the possible but ridiculous scenario
BCS Title: Arkansas vs. Oklahoma State (this assumes Ark beats LSU yet Bama goes to SEC title--and loses to UGA--which would happen if Bama and Ark top 2 SEC in BCS)
Rose: Penn State vs. UCLA
Fiesta: Kansas State vs. Houston
Sugar: Georgia vs. Oregon
Orange: Virginia vs. Rutgers
Draper Index--Week 12
1) LSU (by a ton)
2) Oklahoma State (even with the loss)
3) Alabama
4) Oregon
5) Oklahoma
6) Arkansas (yes they beat TAMU...and no one else--but so did the Oklahoma teams...)
7) Stanford
8) Boise State
9) Virginia Tech
10) USC
11) TCU
12) South Carolina
13) Michigan State
14) Wisconsin
15) Clemson
16) Kansas State
17) Nebraska
18) Penn State
19) Georgia
20) Michigan
21) Auburn
22) Houston
23) Notre Dame
24) Tulsa
25) Baylor
My Ballot1) LSU
2) Alabama
3) Oklahoma State
4) Arkansas
5) Virginia Tech
6) Stanford
7) Oregon
8) Houston
9) USC
10) Oklahoma
11) Boise State
12) Kansas State
13) Michigan State
14) Georgia
15) South Carolina
16) Baylor
17) Wisconsin
18) Michigan
19) Clemson
20) TCU
21) Penn State
22) Nebraska
23) Virginia
24) Georgia Tech
25) Notre Dame
Now that total chaos occurred, the nice neat BCS scenario has been completely altered. Here's my projections. While I hate the idea of a rematch in the title game, most think it's a foregone conclusion. Don't rule out Oklahoma State if they trounce OU. People (and by that, I mean me) don't want the rematch so voters might get creative.
BCS Title: LSU vs. Alabama
Rose: Wisconsin vs. Oregon
Fiesta: Oklahoma State vs. Stanford
Sugar: Michigan (hope I'm wrong) vs. Houston
Orange: Virginia Tech vs. WestVirginia
Hopefully this happens as the possible but ridiculous scenario
BCS Title: Arkansas vs. Oklahoma State (this assumes Ark beats LSU yet Bama goes to SEC title--and loses to UGA--which would happen if Bama and Ark top 2 SEC in BCS)
Rose: Penn State vs. UCLA
Fiesta: Kansas State vs. Houston
Sugar: Georgia vs. Oregon
Orange: Virginia vs. Rutgers
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Draper Index--Week 11
There won't be a 'Five Thoughts' this week due to a very busy week.
Draper Index1) LSU
2) Oklahoma St
3) Oklahoma
4) Oregon
5) Alabama
6) Arkansas
7) Stanford
8) Boise State
9) Clemson
10) TCU
11) Virginia Tech
12) Nebraska
13) USC
14) South Carolina
15) Michigan State
16) Wisconsin
17) Auburn
18) Georgia
19) Kansas State
20) Penn State
21) Southern Miss
22) Notre Dame
23) Michigan
24) Houston
25) Florida State
My Ballot
1) LSU
2) Oklahoma State
3) Oregon
4) Alabama
5) Oklahoma
6) Arkansas
7) Stanford
8) Clemson
9) Virginia Tech
10) Nebraska
11) Houston
12) Boise State
13) Wisconsin
14) USC
15) Michigan State
16) South Carolina
17) TCU
18) Georgia
19) Southern Miss
20) Florida State
21) Kansas State
22) Penn State
23) Michigan
24) Auburn
25) Georgia Tech
My BCS Projections
BCS National Championship: LSU vs. Oklahoma State
Rose: Wisconsin vs. Oregon
Fiesta: Oklahoma vs. Stanford
Sugar: Alabama vs. Houston
Orange: Clemson vs. West Virginia
I think this is pretty solid right now. If Bedlam goes to OU, swap OU and OSU.
Draper Index1) LSU
2) Oklahoma St
3) Oklahoma
4) Oregon
5) Alabama
6) Arkansas
7) Stanford
8) Boise State
9) Clemson
10) TCU
11) Virginia Tech
12) Nebraska
13) USC
14) South Carolina
15) Michigan State
16) Wisconsin
17) Auburn
18) Georgia
19) Kansas State
20) Penn State
21) Southern Miss
22) Notre Dame
23) Michigan
24) Houston
25) Florida State
My Ballot
1) LSU
2) Oklahoma State
3) Oregon
4) Alabama
5) Oklahoma
6) Arkansas
7) Stanford
8) Clemson
9) Virginia Tech
10) Nebraska
11) Houston
12) Boise State
13) Wisconsin
14) USC
15) Michigan State
16) South Carolina
17) TCU
18) Georgia
19) Southern Miss
20) Florida State
21) Kansas State
22) Penn State
23) Michigan
24) Auburn
25) Georgia Tech
My BCS Projections
BCS National Championship: LSU vs. Oklahoma State
Rose: Wisconsin vs. Oregon
Fiesta: Oklahoma vs. Stanford
Sugar: Alabama vs. Houston
Orange: Clemson vs. West Virginia
I think this is pretty solid right now. If Bedlam goes to OU, swap OU and OSU.
Week 12 Picks--SEC vs. FCS!!!
USC Trojans @ Oregon Ducks
Draper: This probably would have been the Pac 12 Championship Game had the Trojans not been on probation. USC has been one of the few teams in the Pac 12 that plays defense, but I don't think they have the horses to keep up with the Ducks. LaMichael James, Kenyon Barner, and Darren Thomas are playing at a whole new level offensively. Autzen will be rocking and will send the Trojans home for the holidays unfulfilled. USC: 27--UO: 45
Hoying: The Ducks face a potential trap game after surging back into the national title discussion. USC gave Stanford all they could handle, but that contest was in Los Angeles and the Cardinal appear to have been exposed as of late. Interestingly enough, without the NCAA punishment of the Trojans, this could have been the Pac-12 title game. Barkley and Woods have been unstoppable as of late, but this surprisingly effective Duck D will cause them fits. I don't see Oregon stumbling here. USC: 24--UO:41Schweinfurth: The Ducks, coming off the dismantling of Stanford, are firing on all cylinders again and look to have their offensive swagger back. The Trojans see to be trapped in limbo and lost in NCAA purgatory. The Trojan defense has been suspect against some of the better teams, especially spread offenses. Expect another big day out of The Michael. USC, possibly without Robert Woods, will have a difficult time out-scoring the Ducks. USC: 31 -- UO: 52
Oklahoma Sooners@ Baylor Bears
Draper: It's a ranked matchup, but I don't see much contest here. OU is finding their stride while Baylor is finding the slide. Robert Griffin III is a forgotten commodity that will be good for a score or two, but the Sooners have their eyes back on New Orleans. Jones reenters the Heisman race with another big game. OU: 52--Baylor: 27
Hoying: My early season favorite Robert Griffin has tailed a bit as the season has progressed. Oklahoma is capable of letting this one get away from them, as the Bear attack is more potent than Texas Tech's, but don't expect Oklahoma to fall asleep again with a BCS title berth squarely in their sights. The Bears are giving up 36 points per game. Uh oh. Okla: 60--Baylor: 28Schweinfurth: Baylor is having a great season, but the Bears are still the Bears. Oklahoma is starting to roll again and is by far the better team. RG3 puts up some numbers and goes for 4 TDs. Okla: 41 -- Baylor: 28
Kansas State Wildcats @ Texas Longhorns
Draper: Texas is coming off a bad loss to Gary Pinkel (drinky drinky) and the Tigers while KSU lost a thriller to OSU then won a thriller over TAMU. The Wildcats look pretty darn good under Colin Klein while Texas is just....eh. Fozzy Whittaker wakka wakka's for a few scores, but not enough to avoid the dreaded home loss. KSU: 31--UT: 17
Hoying: How about Wildcat QB Collin Klein? This kid threw for 281 yards and added 5 rushing touchdowns in a 4OT thriller over everyone's favorite 1st half team, Texas A&M. That win may be the best among these two teams' combined 14 wins. Meanwhile, Texas is reeling after an embarrassing 17-5 loss at Missouri. Don't expect them to turn it around this week. Bill Snyder's loose skin and...you know the rest...will extend the Wildcats' improbable run for another week. KSU:31--Texas:20Schweinfurth: Like Baylor, Kansas State is having a dream season. Texas on the other hand, is still reeling and trying to find an identity on offense. Kansas' offense is moving the ball every efficiently and Texas will have a rough time stopping them. Texas, even though struggling a bit, should be able to keep up on the scoreboard. Texas will keep them close but, in the end, the Wildcats keep winning. KSU: 45 -- UT: 38
Nebraska Cornhuskers @ Michigan Wolverines
Draper: The loser of this game is more or less out of the B1G title talk so it's all on the line. Both QB's can run, but passing will be an issue. The Black Shirts are starting to play a little defense but the game is in the Big House. With that said, I think the maize and Blue get caught looking ahead to the Buckeye game in which they can end 7 years of failure. Martinez completes 1 more pass than Robinson to keep Nebraska's hope alive to be crushed again by Wisconsin. Neb: 31--UM: 27
Hoying: The last time these two teams met (2005 Alamo Bowl), the refs missed a crucial call on the final play of the game that let Big Red escape with a victory over Big Blue. This contest may prove to be as exciting. These teams are remarkably similar: both play much better at home and both feature great running QB's that can't really throw. I think the difference in this one will be the toughness of the QB's. Denard has continued to be banged up this season, while Martinez has been able to weather the storm and rely on the rushing attack of Burkhead. Look for Denard to make an early exit and the Huskers to pull out a squeaker. Neb: 24--UM: 23Schweinfurth: This game really shouldn't be close. Michigan's defense is much improved this year (ie. not giving up 40+ points a game) but the talent still isn't quite there. Nebraska has the ability to control the ball and enough talent up front to contain Robinson (if he plays) or Gardner. Neb: 28 -- UM: 17Penn State Nittany Lions @ THE Ohio State Buckeyes
Draper: The allegations continue to pile up in Happy Valley while the suck piles up in Columbus. Penn State is the overachieving team of the year while the Buckeyes are their underachieving counterpart. The return of Posey might mean something if we had a QB who could throw a forward pass. The biggest difference in this game will be the home crowd. In all honesty, without the situation at PSU, I don't think the Buckeyes could overcome the lack of coaching, but present circumstances point to an absolute deflated Lion squad. They'll play hard for 60 minutes, but the home crowd will tip the scales. Buckeyes win a close one. PSU: 17--OSU: 20
Hoying: If you own stock in these two teams, SELL! The Nittany Lions are lucky to still have an operational football team, which is something the Buckeyes arguably don't have (ok, maybe a little harsh). Neither team features a true passing threat, but the Buckeyes will certainly get a boost from returning star WR DeVier Posey, which should allow Braxton to just chuck it in his direction. Look for Braxton to Posey to be a difference maker, and Braxton's crazy legs to save some key conversions, as the Bucks send the Nittany Lions off to their beatdown next week in Madison. PSU: 10-- OSU: 20Schweinfurth: Penn State is a mess but so are the Buckeyes. Penn State has a hard time moving the ball, and they have Moxy this week under center. The Silver Bullets have been flat the last two weeks but have a tendency to get up for bigger games. It's Senior Day in the 'Shoe and the Bucks will certainly come to play. Penn State's D is very good and Ohio State could see 9-10 guys in the box if the wide receivers cannot stretch the field. This one will be low scoring. PSU: 6 -- OSU: 9
Upset Special
Draper: Ole Miss over LSU (kidding), Rutgers over Cincinnati
Hoying: Illinois over Wisconsin (come on!)Schweinfurth: Colorado State over TCU
Draper: This probably would have been the Pac 12 Championship Game had the Trojans not been on probation. USC has been one of the few teams in the Pac 12 that plays defense, but I don't think they have the horses to keep up with the Ducks. LaMichael James, Kenyon Barner, and Darren Thomas are playing at a whole new level offensively. Autzen will be rocking and will send the Trojans home for the holidays unfulfilled. USC: 27--UO: 45
Hoying: The Ducks face a potential trap game after surging back into the national title discussion. USC gave Stanford all they could handle, but that contest was in Los Angeles and the Cardinal appear to have been exposed as of late. Interestingly enough, without the NCAA punishment of the Trojans, this could have been the Pac-12 title game. Barkley and Woods have been unstoppable as of late, but this surprisingly effective Duck D will cause them fits. I don't see Oregon stumbling here. USC: 24--UO:41Schweinfurth: The Ducks, coming off the dismantling of Stanford, are firing on all cylinders again and look to have their offensive swagger back. The Trojans see to be trapped in limbo and lost in NCAA purgatory. The Trojan defense has been suspect against some of the better teams, especially spread offenses. Expect another big day out of The Michael. USC, possibly without Robert Woods, will have a difficult time out-scoring the Ducks. USC: 31 -- UO: 52
Oklahoma Sooners@ Baylor Bears
Draper: It's a ranked matchup, but I don't see much contest here. OU is finding their stride while Baylor is finding the slide. Robert Griffin III is a forgotten commodity that will be good for a score or two, but the Sooners have their eyes back on New Orleans. Jones reenters the Heisman race with another big game. OU: 52--Baylor: 27
Hoying: My early season favorite Robert Griffin has tailed a bit as the season has progressed. Oklahoma is capable of letting this one get away from them, as the Bear attack is more potent than Texas Tech's, but don't expect Oklahoma to fall asleep again with a BCS title berth squarely in their sights. The Bears are giving up 36 points per game. Uh oh. Okla: 60--Baylor: 28Schweinfurth: Baylor is having a great season, but the Bears are still the Bears. Oklahoma is starting to roll again and is by far the better team. RG3 puts up some numbers and goes for 4 TDs. Okla: 41 -- Baylor: 28
Kansas State Wildcats @ Texas Longhorns
Draper: Texas is coming off a bad loss to Gary Pinkel (drinky drinky) and the Tigers while KSU lost a thriller to OSU then won a thriller over TAMU. The Wildcats look pretty darn good under Colin Klein while Texas is just....eh. Fozzy Whittaker wakka wakka's for a few scores, but not enough to avoid the dreaded home loss. KSU: 31--UT: 17
Hoying: How about Wildcat QB Collin Klein? This kid threw for 281 yards and added 5 rushing touchdowns in a 4OT thriller over everyone's favorite 1st half team, Texas A&M. That win may be the best among these two teams' combined 14 wins. Meanwhile, Texas is reeling after an embarrassing 17-5 loss at Missouri. Don't expect them to turn it around this week. Bill Snyder's loose skin and...you know the rest...will extend the Wildcats' improbable run for another week. KSU:31--Texas:20Schweinfurth: Like Baylor, Kansas State is having a dream season. Texas on the other hand, is still reeling and trying to find an identity on offense. Kansas' offense is moving the ball every efficiently and Texas will have a rough time stopping them. Texas, even though struggling a bit, should be able to keep up on the scoreboard. Texas will keep them close but, in the end, the Wildcats keep winning. KSU: 45 -- UT: 38
Nebraska Cornhuskers @ Michigan Wolverines
Draper: The loser of this game is more or less out of the B1G title talk so it's all on the line. Both QB's can run, but passing will be an issue. The Black Shirts are starting to play a little defense but the game is in the Big House. With that said, I think the maize and Blue get caught looking ahead to the Buckeye game in which they can end 7 years of failure. Martinez completes 1 more pass than Robinson to keep Nebraska's hope alive to be crushed again by Wisconsin. Neb: 31--UM: 27
Hoying: The last time these two teams met (2005 Alamo Bowl), the refs missed a crucial call on the final play of the game that let Big Red escape with a victory over Big Blue. This contest may prove to be as exciting. These teams are remarkably similar: both play much better at home and both feature great running QB's that can't really throw. I think the difference in this one will be the toughness of the QB's. Denard has continued to be banged up this season, while Martinez has been able to weather the storm and rely on the rushing attack of Burkhead. Look for Denard to make an early exit and the Huskers to pull out a squeaker. Neb: 24--UM: 23Schweinfurth: This game really shouldn't be close. Michigan's defense is much improved this year (ie. not giving up 40+ points a game) but the talent still isn't quite there. Nebraska has the ability to control the ball and enough talent up front to contain Robinson (if he plays) or Gardner. Neb: 28 -- UM: 17Penn State Nittany Lions @ THE Ohio State Buckeyes
Draper: The allegations continue to pile up in Happy Valley while the suck piles up in Columbus. Penn State is the overachieving team of the year while the Buckeyes are their underachieving counterpart. The return of Posey might mean something if we had a QB who could throw a forward pass. The biggest difference in this game will be the home crowd. In all honesty, without the situation at PSU, I don't think the Buckeyes could overcome the lack of coaching, but present circumstances point to an absolute deflated Lion squad. They'll play hard for 60 minutes, but the home crowd will tip the scales. Buckeyes win a close one. PSU: 17--OSU: 20
Hoying: If you own stock in these two teams, SELL! The Nittany Lions are lucky to still have an operational football team, which is something the Buckeyes arguably don't have (ok, maybe a little harsh). Neither team features a true passing threat, but the Buckeyes will certainly get a boost from returning star WR DeVier Posey, which should allow Braxton to just chuck it in his direction. Look for Braxton to Posey to be a difference maker, and Braxton's crazy legs to save some key conversions, as the Bucks send the Nittany Lions off to their beatdown next week in Madison. PSU: 10-- OSU: 20Schweinfurth: Penn State is a mess but so are the Buckeyes. Penn State has a hard time moving the ball, and they have Moxy this week under center. The Silver Bullets have been flat the last two weeks but have a tendency to get up for bigger games. It's Senior Day in the 'Shoe and the Bucks will certainly come to play. Penn State's D is very good and Ohio State could see 9-10 guys in the box if the wide receivers cannot stretch the field. This one will be low scoring. PSU: 6 -- OSU: 9
Upset Special
Draper: Ole Miss over LSU (kidding), Rutgers over Cincinnati
Hoying: Illinois over Wisconsin (come on!)Schweinfurth: Colorado State over TCU
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Grading the Bucks--Week 11 Purdue
Editor's Note: Sorry for the delay but I'm still recovering from the horror in West Lafayette as it took me this long to find my way out.
Offense: D
Yuck, Yuck, Yuck. Much of the blame falls on the coaching staff and the play calls, but let's not let the players off the hook. On pure talent, the Buckeyes should have won easily against a terrible team in Purdue. Braxton Miller is not a good quarterback...now. He has exceptional running ability but his decision making and passing ability are horrendous (no coaching helps his regression). He holds the ball way too long. The receivers popped open deep downfield on seemingly every play and he Bauserman'd the ball way over their head. The running game was doing nothing. While I know that Purdue had 15 people in the box, it shouldn't have mattered. It's Purdue. The offensive line was not blowing people off the ball like they did against Wisconsin (what?). Shugarts was sorely missed even with the false starts. Only thing saving the offense from an F was the coaches burying them.
Defense: D+
Can anyone make a tackle? The 1st half was just horrendous with players out of position and seemingly confused on every play. The 2nd half wasn't much better, but at least we only game up 3 points. This week's secondary scapegoat is Bradley Roby who was beaten on almost every play of the half. Our secondary is horrendous and has been all year, but the opponent picks on a different weak link every week (Bryant, Howard, etc.). The line did their best, but the ball was out of the QB's hands within about 3 seconds every play--seems like other coaches watch tape and realize that once you get past the front four, it's easy pickins. 3rd and 12 in OT and you give up a wide open pass? I know the QB is running backwards 30 yards, but cover someone. Tackling must improve. I know there must be some talent there, but we didn't see it on Saturday.
Special Teams: D
Even after the worst performance by a Buckeye team, we still had a shot to win...just kick a PAT. Of course, that didn't even work. Punting was tough with the wind and coverage was fine. I don't blame Basil for the missed FG as it was about 50 yards. The PAT is just unacceptable. One great drive to steal a win....and you fail on the kick. I don't know who's fault it was (line, Basil, holder, etc.) and I don't care. It didn't cost us the game as we should have never been in that situation, but it adds to the list of failures.
Coaching: F-----
And we come to the gorilla in the room. All the talk that Fickell deserves another year is officially dead. I have NEVER seen a more poorly coached game in my life. I was in West Lafayette and focused on the sideline. Only one coach...ONE!!...ever got his troops together and coached them up during the game. Mike Vrabel. The others felt it was their duty to stare vacantly at the other units failing on the field without working to fix the problems occurring. They're running hurry up to the outside? Then adjust! Don't keep gettign beat and assume it will change. Underwood (Shugarts replacement) was getting destroyed. On the sideline, he sat alone with no coaches or offensive leaders (if we had them) coaching him up. Just a total failure from top to bottom. Then there's the playcalling. NOTE TO BOLLMAN: THE FOLLOWING PLAYS ARE INDEED LEGAL: SLANT, SWING, SCREEN, QB DRAW, QB SNEAK. Why keep running Dave and bomb when they aren't working (one because of the defense loading up and one because the QB is incompetent). We ran one....one swing to the RB and the OSU fans in the crowd marveled that it worked. Of course it did and it always will with this system because WE NEVER CALL IT. My mother saw a quick slant in the NE/NYJ game on Sunday night and asked why OSU never calls that play (I'm not joking, this actually happened). Perhaps OSU should hire her to be offensive coordinator even though she has no idea what half the positions are. It would be a major step up. Also, the 4th and 1 in OT. Go for it, Luke. This is OSU. We're bigger, nastier, meaner, and stronger. Challenge the line and run a QB sneak with your enormous QB. Don't hand it off, don't kick, don't drop back: smash them in the mouth. Bollman: your QB is the most explosive runner on the team in space, why run the wildcat with Jordan Hall? You can run QB draws and get more yards (see 3rd and a mile twice on the last drive when the play broke down). I could go on forever, but it's abundantly clear that this whole staff will be gone at the first opportunity. Fair or not to Fickell, it is what it is. Bollman may have cost him the job with his incompetence.
Offense: D
Yuck, Yuck, Yuck. Much of the blame falls on the coaching staff and the play calls, but let's not let the players off the hook. On pure talent, the Buckeyes should have won easily against a terrible team in Purdue. Braxton Miller is not a good quarterback...now. He has exceptional running ability but his decision making and passing ability are horrendous (no coaching helps his regression). He holds the ball way too long. The receivers popped open deep downfield on seemingly every play and he Bauserman'd the ball way over their head. The running game was doing nothing. While I know that Purdue had 15 people in the box, it shouldn't have mattered. It's Purdue. The offensive line was not blowing people off the ball like they did against Wisconsin (what?). Shugarts was sorely missed even with the false starts. Only thing saving the offense from an F was the coaches burying them.
Defense: D+
Can anyone make a tackle? The 1st half was just horrendous with players out of position and seemingly confused on every play. The 2nd half wasn't much better, but at least we only game up 3 points. This week's secondary scapegoat is Bradley Roby who was beaten on almost every play of the half. Our secondary is horrendous and has been all year, but the opponent picks on a different weak link every week (Bryant, Howard, etc.). The line did their best, but the ball was out of the QB's hands within about 3 seconds every play--seems like other coaches watch tape and realize that once you get past the front four, it's easy pickins. 3rd and 12 in OT and you give up a wide open pass? I know the QB is running backwards 30 yards, but cover someone. Tackling must improve. I know there must be some talent there, but we didn't see it on Saturday.
Special Teams: D
Even after the worst performance by a Buckeye team, we still had a shot to win...just kick a PAT. Of course, that didn't even work. Punting was tough with the wind and coverage was fine. I don't blame Basil for the missed FG as it was about 50 yards. The PAT is just unacceptable. One great drive to steal a win....and you fail on the kick. I don't know who's fault it was (line, Basil, holder, etc.) and I don't care. It didn't cost us the game as we should have never been in that situation, but it adds to the list of failures.
Coaching: F-----
And we come to the gorilla in the room. All the talk that Fickell deserves another year is officially dead. I have NEVER seen a more poorly coached game in my life. I was in West Lafayette and focused on the sideline. Only one coach...ONE!!...ever got his troops together and coached them up during the game. Mike Vrabel. The others felt it was their duty to stare vacantly at the other units failing on the field without working to fix the problems occurring. They're running hurry up to the outside? Then adjust! Don't keep gettign beat and assume it will change. Underwood (Shugarts replacement) was getting destroyed. On the sideline, he sat alone with no coaches or offensive leaders (if we had them) coaching him up. Just a total failure from top to bottom. Then there's the playcalling. NOTE TO BOLLMAN: THE FOLLOWING PLAYS ARE INDEED LEGAL: SLANT, SWING, SCREEN, QB DRAW, QB SNEAK. Why keep running Dave and bomb when they aren't working (one because of the defense loading up and one because the QB is incompetent). We ran one....one swing to the RB and the OSU fans in the crowd marveled that it worked. Of course it did and it always will with this system because WE NEVER CALL IT. My mother saw a quick slant in the NE/NYJ game on Sunday night and asked why OSU never calls that play (I'm not joking, this actually happened). Perhaps OSU should hire her to be offensive coordinator even though she has no idea what half the positions are. It would be a major step up. Also, the 4th and 1 in OT. Go for it, Luke. This is OSU. We're bigger, nastier, meaner, and stronger. Challenge the line and run a QB sneak with your enormous QB. Don't hand it off, don't kick, don't drop back: smash them in the mouth. Bollman: your QB is the most explosive runner on the team in space, why run the wildcat with Jordan Hall? You can run QB draws and get more yards (see 3rd and a mile twice on the last drive when the play broke down). I could go on forever, but it's abundantly clear that this whole staff will be gone at the first opportunity. Fair or not to Fickell, it is what it is. Bollman may have cost him the job with his incompetence.
Wednesday, November 09, 2011
Week 11 Picks--Pac 12 Championship
Thurs: Virginia Tech Hokies @ Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Draper: Is Virginia Tech any good? I'm not sure. Lost to Clemson at home, squeaked by Duke, squeaked by Miami at home...can't tell anything yet. Georgia Tech is riding high after knocking Clemson from the undefeated and the option is always a beast for which to prepare. I think the Hokies are going into a 'hornet's nest' (Oh-Ho-Ho, see what I did there) and the option of GT takes the game and control of the ACC Coastal. Nice to have the first good Thurs. night game. Only one thing needs to be said: "Fire Craig James". VT: 27--GT: 34
Auer: VT has had too long to prepare for this one. GT played their best in an upset victory over Clemson, can lightning strike twice? Surely. But with the extra prep time for the superiorly talented Hokies, it won't be enough to save the Yellow Jackets. VT: 31--GT: 27
Hoying: Quick, name a team with 8 terrible wins and a loss to the only real team they played. No, it's not anyone in the WAC or MAC or PAC...12, it's Virginia Tech. On the other hand, we have a flaky Georgia Tech team that rallied to pull off a huge win against another flaky team, Clemson. Who has the edge here? The Georgia Tech option is always difficult to defend, but Beamerball is alive and well, as the Hokies have been shutting down the terrible teams they've faced. Georgia Tech chokes away another big game at home, and the Hokies take the inside track to a rematch with Clemson. VT: 20--GT: 17Schweinfurth: Virginia Tech (basketball and football) is this team that always seems to be right on the brink of being good. That said, the triple option offense of Paul Johnson is problematic for anyone. Believe it or not the Yellow Jacket offense can be very quick strike and a night game in the ATL will be the difference in this one. VT: 24 -- GT: 28
Oregon Ducks @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: Here comes the Cardinal's one real roadblock on the year. Last year, I was on the Stanford bandwagon and they let me down in the second half. While Luck is going to win the Heisman, he hasn't had a great year. The Ducks have been rolling since that turnover fest in Jerryworld. This is statement game for the winner and a death knell for the loser. With the ineptitude of the Pac12, the winner of this game will most likely be the winner of the North, who will most likely be the winner of the conference, who has a real chance of being in the National Championship. I think the crazy running attack will outduel Andrew Luck for a HUGE road win. UO: 41--Stan: 30
Auer: Homefield advantage shouldn't mean too much in this one as the Ducks are used to big crowds, and Stanford doesn't always bring their A-game... unless there band does something crazy. Anyway, Luck will be without some of his top weapons, possibly two TE's and a WR (Owusu). This Oregon squad hasn't had the pizazz of previous teams, and Stanford will assert themselves as the true class of the Pac12. UO: 35--Stan: 52
Hoying: Since losing a tough game to the best team in the country, the Ducks have had a 2009-esque year, tearing through a slate of squishy west coast defenses on the way to one of the most important games of the 2011 college football season. Stanford, meanwhile, was exposed in a big way in Los Angeles as a feisty USC team nearly knocked them off. The winner of this game will be the one who learned the most from these tough games. When in doubt, go with experience. Andrew Luck will be the difference maker as Stanford takes care of business at home. Stanford stays alive in the lottery to get slaughtered by LSU. UO: 38--Stan: 42Schweinfurth: I feel like this will be the game of the week. This is two high powered offenses that can go off for 50+ any given game. This will be a flat shootout. Andrew Luck will have his way with the Ducks defense that lost a ton from last year. Stanford's defense will also have it's hands full with the Ducks offense especially with TheMicheal healthy and ready to romp. This will be a fun one to watch with tons of points. UO: 52 -- Stan: 49
Nebraska Cornhuskers @ Penn State Nittany Lions
Draper: With everything happening in Happy Valley, will they rally around JoePa or be absolutely devastated by the allegations? I can't imagine the Lions will be able to play with these horrible events surrounding them this week. While I feel bad for the seniors and the current players, this will be a very tough situation from which to fight back. Nebraska comes off being upset at home by Northwestern and they will foaming at the mouth. Penn State has football issues as well that will be exposed against a better offense. The off-the-field issues are way to much to overcome even with the winningest coach on the sideline (Editor's Note: JoePa was fired after this was written). Neb: 31--PSU: 10
Auer: Prayers to the children and families of those children. The rest of you... HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. Neb: 41--PSU: 7
Hoying: Word is there's a football game in Pennsylvania this Saturday. If the coaching staff is still there, the game is an abomination. If they're gone, the Lions have no chance to keep it together. Not much needs to be said here. Neb: Win--PSU: DoneSchweinfurth: At this point, this game is a sideshow with all that is going on in Happy Valley. JoPa announcing his retirement may spark the Lions to play a bit higher, but the distractions will be way too much. Nebraska is upset after losing to Northwestern last week and the Blackshirts smell the blood in the water. Penn State has played way over their heads so far this year and, with the distractions, is about to come crashing down. This one is ugly early. Neb: 35 -- PSU: 3
Auburn Tigers @ Georgia Bulldogs
Draper: Titanic forces collide in another SEC showdown....in other words, yawn. The SEC is a joke outside of the top 3. Auburn continually squeaks the dregs while Georgia seems reborn after an 0-2 start. UGA should get it done between the hedges simply because Auburn isn't that good. The home crowd and the QB advantage lead me to lean Bulldogs. Aub: 13--UGA: 24
Auer: The momentum of the UGA win over Florida is going to go a long way. It might even save Mark Richt's job. Gene Chizik continues to prove his success was a flash in the pan. Aub: 7--UGA: 31
Hoying: Someone has to win the SEC East so the charade of an SEC championship can take place, and Georgia has seized control late in the season. Problem is, they still have an SEC West team standing in their championship path. Auburn has seriously overachieved this season, falling to three quality teams and taking care of business against the rest, most notably two other SEC East teams: South Carolina and Florida. Will Georgia provide a stiffer challenge? Not really. The Dawgs are still too inconsistent on offense to hang with a spurting Auburn squad. SEC Least falls again. Aub: 28--UGA:21Schweinfurth: This is the classic over achieving team versus the under achieving team. Auburn, somehow, continues to win close games against teams that should be blowing them out. Georgia got off to a terrible start this year and has quietly turned things around. The Bulldogs are still playing for Richt's job and Auburn just isn't that talented. Aub: 10 -- UGA: 17
Miami Hurricanes @ Florida State Seminoles
Draper: I put this on here because it means something to me. Miami continues to sleepwalk while waiting for the hammer to drop from the NCAA (who knows if anything will happen with the ineptitude of the organization) while FSU is quietly rebounding from the Oklahoma loss and subsequent losses due to injured QB. I will still take a minor miracle for FSU to make/win the ACC title game, but I believe they are the most talented team in the conference. EJ Manuel beats up on Clemson if he wasn't hurt (only 7 point loss at Death Valley without him). That being said, Miami has been blah and will continue. How do you salvage a season when the preseason title hopes are dashed? Annihilate your rivals. First up are the Canes. Welcome to Doak. UM: 13--FSU: 30
Auer: Didn't know they still played football in the Sunshine State. Doak will surely be fired up for this annual clash with their cross-state rival. Miami has been very hit-or-miss this season and might have a few tricks up their sleeves in the one remaining game that matters for the Hurricanes. UM: 23--FSU: 21
Hoying: Give the Hurricanes credit; they've hung tough in every game they played this season, even against such quality opponents as Virginia Tech and Kansas State (and crappy ones like Maryland). FSU has surged back after a slow start under the steady play of E J Manuel, but all four wins in their current streak have been against low-caliber competition. The important thing to remember is that Jacory Harris is still slinging the ball for the 'Canes, and that means big trouble against the tough Seminole defense. Miami mistakes cue a win for the garnet and gold. UM: 13--FSU:21Schweinfurth: Miami and Florida St. always seems to come down to the last play (or kick as it were). This year will be much different. Florida State is the better team by far. EJ Manuel and Jacory Harris will enjoy throwing to the team wearing garnet and gold. This isn't much of a game with Harris throwing 3+ picks. UM: 17 -- FSU: 35
Ohio State Buckeyes @ Purdue Boilermakers
Draper: Buckeyes slept walked through the game vs. Indiana and it showed. Offensive performance was pretty good but the defense can't play like that again. Thankfully, Purdue sucks. These Buckeye upperclassman will go in fired up to avenge the 'Get Used to It!' game of 2009. Hopefully, we'll see a steady dose of Boom and Hyde and maybe even a slant route (gasp!). Purdue doesn't run the option game like IU and the Bullets shut down standard offensive attacks. Look for a big Buckeye win to keep the train rolling (they'd better since I'm going to be there!). OSU: 31--PU: 16
Auer: Another trap game for the Buckeyes, but the problem is Purdue isn't very good. The Buckeyes cannot sleep walk into this one, or an upset could be in the making. The Bucks need some serious momentum to building heading into rivalry games with PSU and The University of Michigan. OSU: 27--PU: 9
Hoying: Dang, the Boilers can't win the Leaders division anymore. However, the Buckeyes are in prime position to build some momentum going into the season showdown with You Know Who (after they trash a shattered PSU team next week). The Bullets need some confidence after struggling all day with a better-than-advertised Hoosier attack, and the pedestrian Purdue offense is just what the doctor ordered. Run the ball, don't take stupid chances, and move one step closer to that division crown. OSU: 31--PU: 10Schweinfurth: The battle cry for the Bucks this weekend should be "REVENGE!" Especially after Danny Hope went on record and telling OSU fans to "Get used to it." The Silver Bullets had their wake up call against Indiana last week in what was a classic let down game. Purdue, much like the Hoosiers, has a hard time stopping the run. Watch for Boom, Hyde, and Braxton to have big games on the ground. Walrus ball has been working, so don't look for too many passes this week. Bucks win going away. OSU: 38 -- PU: 9
Upset Special
Draper: Wake over Clemson (stretch)
Auer: Florida over South Carolina, Illinois over Michigan
Hoying: Texas A&M over Kansas StateSchweinfurth: TCU over Boise St.
Draper: Is Virginia Tech any good? I'm not sure. Lost to Clemson at home, squeaked by Duke, squeaked by Miami at home...can't tell anything yet. Georgia Tech is riding high after knocking Clemson from the undefeated and the option is always a beast for which to prepare. I think the Hokies are going into a 'hornet's nest' (Oh-Ho-Ho, see what I did there) and the option of GT takes the game and control of the ACC Coastal. Nice to have the first good Thurs. night game. Only one thing needs to be said: "Fire Craig James". VT: 27--GT: 34
Auer: VT has had too long to prepare for this one. GT played their best in an upset victory over Clemson, can lightning strike twice? Surely. But with the extra prep time for the superiorly talented Hokies, it won't be enough to save the Yellow Jackets. VT: 31--GT: 27
Hoying: Quick, name a team with 8 terrible wins and a loss to the only real team they played. No, it's not anyone in the WAC or MAC or PAC...12, it's Virginia Tech. On the other hand, we have a flaky Georgia Tech team that rallied to pull off a huge win against another flaky team, Clemson. Who has the edge here? The Georgia Tech option is always difficult to defend, but Beamerball is alive and well, as the Hokies have been shutting down the terrible teams they've faced. Georgia Tech chokes away another big game at home, and the Hokies take the inside track to a rematch with Clemson. VT: 20--GT: 17Schweinfurth: Virginia Tech (basketball and football) is this team that always seems to be right on the brink of being good. That said, the triple option offense of Paul Johnson is problematic for anyone. Believe it or not the Yellow Jacket offense can be very quick strike and a night game in the ATL will be the difference in this one. VT: 24 -- GT: 28
Oregon Ducks @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: Here comes the Cardinal's one real roadblock on the year. Last year, I was on the Stanford bandwagon and they let me down in the second half. While Luck is going to win the Heisman, he hasn't had a great year. The Ducks have been rolling since that turnover fest in Jerryworld. This is statement game for the winner and a death knell for the loser. With the ineptitude of the Pac12, the winner of this game will most likely be the winner of the North, who will most likely be the winner of the conference, who has a real chance of being in the National Championship. I think the crazy running attack will outduel Andrew Luck for a HUGE road win. UO: 41--Stan: 30
Auer: Homefield advantage shouldn't mean too much in this one as the Ducks are used to big crowds, and Stanford doesn't always bring their A-game... unless there band does something crazy. Anyway, Luck will be without some of his top weapons, possibly two TE's and a WR (Owusu). This Oregon squad hasn't had the pizazz of previous teams, and Stanford will assert themselves as the true class of the Pac12. UO: 35--Stan: 52
Hoying: Since losing a tough game to the best team in the country, the Ducks have had a 2009-esque year, tearing through a slate of squishy west coast defenses on the way to one of the most important games of the 2011 college football season. Stanford, meanwhile, was exposed in a big way in Los Angeles as a feisty USC team nearly knocked them off. The winner of this game will be the one who learned the most from these tough games. When in doubt, go with experience. Andrew Luck will be the difference maker as Stanford takes care of business at home. Stanford stays alive in the lottery to get slaughtered by LSU. UO: 38--Stan: 42Schweinfurth: I feel like this will be the game of the week. This is two high powered offenses that can go off for 50+ any given game. This will be a flat shootout. Andrew Luck will have his way with the Ducks defense that lost a ton from last year. Stanford's defense will also have it's hands full with the Ducks offense especially with TheMicheal healthy and ready to romp. This will be a fun one to watch with tons of points. UO: 52 -- Stan: 49
Nebraska Cornhuskers @ Penn State Nittany Lions
Draper: With everything happening in Happy Valley, will they rally around JoePa or be absolutely devastated by the allegations? I can't imagine the Lions will be able to play with these horrible events surrounding them this week. While I feel bad for the seniors and the current players, this will be a very tough situation from which to fight back. Nebraska comes off being upset at home by Northwestern and they will foaming at the mouth. Penn State has football issues as well that will be exposed against a better offense. The off-the-field issues are way to much to overcome even with the winningest coach on the sideline (Editor's Note: JoePa was fired after this was written). Neb: 31--PSU: 10
Auer: Prayers to the children and families of those children. The rest of you... HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. Neb: 41--PSU: 7
Hoying: Word is there's a football game in Pennsylvania this Saturday. If the coaching staff is still there, the game is an abomination. If they're gone, the Lions have no chance to keep it together. Not much needs to be said here. Neb: Win--PSU: DoneSchweinfurth: At this point, this game is a sideshow with all that is going on in Happy Valley. JoPa announcing his retirement may spark the Lions to play a bit higher, but the distractions will be way too much. Nebraska is upset after losing to Northwestern last week and the Blackshirts smell the blood in the water. Penn State has played way over their heads so far this year and, with the distractions, is about to come crashing down. This one is ugly early. Neb: 35 -- PSU: 3
Auburn Tigers @ Georgia Bulldogs
Draper: Titanic forces collide in another SEC showdown....in other words, yawn. The SEC is a joke outside of the top 3. Auburn continually squeaks the dregs while Georgia seems reborn after an 0-2 start. UGA should get it done between the hedges simply because Auburn isn't that good. The home crowd and the QB advantage lead me to lean Bulldogs. Aub: 13--UGA: 24
Auer: The momentum of the UGA win over Florida is going to go a long way. It might even save Mark Richt's job. Gene Chizik continues to prove his success was a flash in the pan. Aub: 7--UGA: 31
Hoying: Someone has to win the SEC East so the charade of an SEC championship can take place, and Georgia has seized control late in the season. Problem is, they still have an SEC West team standing in their championship path. Auburn has seriously overachieved this season, falling to three quality teams and taking care of business against the rest, most notably two other SEC East teams: South Carolina and Florida. Will Georgia provide a stiffer challenge? Not really. The Dawgs are still too inconsistent on offense to hang with a spurting Auburn squad. SEC Least falls again. Aub: 28--UGA:21Schweinfurth: This is the classic over achieving team versus the under achieving team. Auburn, somehow, continues to win close games against teams that should be blowing them out. Georgia got off to a terrible start this year and has quietly turned things around. The Bulldogs are still playing for Richt's job and Auburn just isn't that talented. Aub: 10 -- UGA: 17
Miami Hurricanes @ Florida State Seminoles
Draper: I put this on here because it means something to me. Miami continues to sleepwalk while waiting for the hammer to drop from the NCAA (who knows if anything will happen with the ineptitude of the organization) while FSU is quietly rebounding from the Oklahoma loss and subsequent losses due to injured QB. I will still take a minor miracle for FSU to make/win the ACC title game, but I believe they are the most talented team in the conference. EJ Manuel beats up on Clemson if he wasn't hurt (only 7 point loss at Death Valley without him). That being said, Miami has been blah and will continue. How do you salvage a season when the preseason title hopes are dashed? Annihilate your rivals. First up are the Canes. Welcome to Doak. UM: 13--FSU: 30
Auer: Didn't know they still played football in the Sunshine State. Doak will surely be fired up for this annual clash with their cross-state rival. Miami has been very hit-or-miss this season and might have a few tricks up their sleeves in the one remaining game that matters for the Hurricanes. UM: 23--FSU: 21
Hoying: Give the Hurricanes credit; they've hung tough in every game they played this season, even against such quality opponents as Virginia Tech and Kansas State (and crappy ones like Maryland). FSU has surged back after a slow start under the steady play of E J Manuel, but all four wins in their current streak have been against low-caliber competition. The important thing to remember is that Jacory Harris is still slinging the ball for the 'Canes, and that means big trouble against the tough Seminole defense. Miami mistakes cue a win for the garnet and gold. UM: 13--FSU:21Schweinfurth: Miami and Florida St. always seems to come down to the last play (or kick as it were). This year will be much different. Florida State is the better team by far. EJ Manuel and Jacory Harris will enjoy throwing to the team wearing garnet and gold. This isn't much of a game with Harris throwing 3+ picks. UM: 17 -- FSU: 35
Ohio State Buckeyes @ Purdue Boilermakers
Draper: Buckeyes slept walked through the game vs. Indiana and it showed. Offensive performance was pretty good but the defense can't play like that again. Thankfully, Purdue sucks. These Buckeye upperclassman will go in fired up to avenge the 'Get Used to It!' game of 2009. Hopefully, we'll see a steady dose of Boom and Hyde and maybe even a slant route (gasp!). Purdue doesn't run the option game like IU and the Bullets shut down standard offensive attacks. Look for a big Buckeye win to keep the train rolling (they'd better since I'm going to be there!). OSU: 31--PU: 16
Auer: Another trap game for the Buckeyes, but the problem is Purdue isn't very good. The Buckeyes cannot sleep walk into this one, or an upset could be in the making. The Bucks need some serious momentum to building heading into rivalry games with PSU and The University of Michigan. OSU: 27--PU: 9
Hoying: Dang, the Boilers can't win the Leaders division anymore. However, the Buckeyes are in prime position to build some momentum going into the season showdown with You Know Who (after they trash a shattered PSU team next week). The Bullets need some confidence after struggling all day with a better-than-advertised Hoosier attack, and the pedestrian Purdue offense is just what the doctor ordered. Run the ball, don't take stupid chances, and move one step closer to that division crown. OSU: 31--PU: 10Schweinfurth: The battle cry for the Bucks this weekend should be "REVENGE!" Especially after Danny Hope went on record and telling OSU fans to "Get used to it." The Silver Bullets had their wake up call against Indiana last week in what was a classic let down game. Purdue, much like the Hoosiers, has a hard time stopping the run. Watch for Boom, Hyde, and Braxton to have big games on the ground. Walrus ball has been working, so don't look for too many passes this week. Bucks win going away. OSU: 38 -- PU: 9
Upset Special
Draper: Wake over Clemson (stretch)
Auer: Florida over South Carolina, Illinois over Michigan
Hoying: Texas A&M over Kansas StateSchweinfurth: TCU over Boise St.
Monday, November 07, 2011
Five Thoughts of the Week that was--Week 10
1) Events in Penn State are disgusting and make all other institutional comparisons pale in comparison.
Joe Paterno MUST go. That's all there is to this. No, he was not the person involved in the act, but withholding information of sexual assault on children from the authorities and keeping a sexual predator associated with the program is beyond wrong. Tressel paid for his negligence for not reporting extra benefits (rightfully so). This isn't even close! This involves the lives of many children, their friends, their families that will NEVER be the same due to this monster. What makes this so gross is that some of it could have been prevented by people following basic moral standards and standing up for what is right. Joe Paterno always has preached 'Success with Honor'....maybe he should practice what he preaches. An illustrious football career will never escape this and it never should. Penn State should be ashamed of what it tacitly allowed to happen. Ignorance is not an excuse when it's your job to be informed (looking at you Gene Smith). OSU Tatgate, USC benefits, Oregon payments, Auburn's 'perfectly legit' recruitment using pay for play....these are nothing compared to the atrocities in State College.
2) Arkansas can cause total chaos.
After the 'Game of the...zzzzz', many have crowned the Bayou Bengals and buried the Tide. No one is examining the armageddon that could ensue if Arkansas manages to win out (including a win in Baton Rouge). Yes, that may be unlikely, but certainly not impossible. If that were to happen (and LSU/Bama win their other games), there will be a 3 way tie in the SEC West. No longer will the talk be as much about a rematch as it will be about who will play in the SEC championship and which 2 get BCS bids. The SEC tie breaker as I read it states that the tie breaker that matters (all others are tied) is final BCS rankings. However, if the top 2 teams in the BCS are within 5 spots of each other, the head-to-head matchup determines the championship game participant. This means that the highest BCS team may not ascend to the SEC title game. LSU>Bama>Ark>LSU....contradiction circle. This is extremely similar to the 3 way tie in the Big 12 South in 2007 with Oklahoma, Texas, and Texas Tech. Talk about absolute craziness ensuing if this happens.....and I hope it does.
3) The so called 'Game of the Century'....sucked. Please, please, please, please, please DON'T have a rematch.
All hype (SEC, SEC, SEC) and no substance; that's the story of this game. Yes, the two defenses on the field were phenomenal and most of those players will be playing on Sundays, but on the other side of the ball....blech. Yeah, Trent Richardson will make the next step, but that's about it. Missed field goals left and right, horrendous QB play, etc. This game was boring. I don't want to take anything away from the defenses, but pitchers' duels are boring. There was some big hits but it's like beating a Sun Belt offense. I don't judge these defenses based on this game (although other games have proven them stout). The only thing I took away from this is we don't need a rematch. Bama had their shot, and they lost....at home. They're done unless LSU loses a game (even then, done barring Arkansas madness). Rematches are stupid especially when Bama lost AT HOME. I don't care if it was close. They lost. Let another team with the same record (or better) have their shot. I don't want to see that atrocity replayed for all the marbles...even if it is the greatest conference of all time (sarcasm). I learned that these 2 teams may be the best to offer this year, but they don't stack up with the best teams of the decade, let alone the 'century'. Stop the hype machine of the SEC. It's a mediocre conference with 3 elite teams and a lot of garbage.
4) The trick play by Bama was a calculated gamble and a good call that just happened to fail
Saban was getting crushed left and right after the game for letting Maze throw a pass down by the redzone. The thing is, it was a good call. If he didn't hang the ball in the air for 20 minutes, if that 6'6'' TE could fight off a 6'1'' CB, if the line could have protected for more than 2 seconds; it's a TD and a fantastic gutsy call that seals a win (one TD would do it). Instead, Murphy's Law reared it's ugly head and LSU got the ball at the one. In hindsight, that shouldn't have mattered either with the LSU offensive ineptitude. Urban Meyer is the only one who defended the call...and I trust his coaching instincts more than the jokers ESPiN and CBS throw out to tout the merits of the SEC.
5) Oklahoma is in great shape to play for the title
Stanford loses to Oregon, and Oklahoma controls their destiny. Yep, that's it. Boise has no chance. Oregon can't jump them with only one quality opponent left. Oklahoma State plays the Sooners. Arkansas will lose to LSU or knock them out and be very hard pressed to jump OU. I think it's also clear that Bama will fall below the Sooners if Bedlam goes Norman way. Even the Chokelahoma standard might allow Big Game Bob to back into the Championship...but I'm the only person who believes in the Pokes. The wins over Florida State, Texas, Texas A&M, Kansas State, and potentially Oklahoma State will be enough for OU to have earned a shot even with that hiccup (barring an undefeated Stanford)...but let's not crown the Sooners Bedlam champions just yet.
Joe Paterno MUST go. That's all there is to this. No, he was not the person involved in the act, but withholding information of sexual assault on children from the authorities and keeping a sexual predator associated with the program is beyond wrong. Tressel paid for his negligence for not reporting extra benefits (rightfully so). This isn't even close! This involves the lives of many children, their friends, their families that will NEVER be the same due to this monster. What makes this so gross is that some of it could have been prevented by people following basic moral standards and standing up for what is right. Joe Paterno always has preached 'Success with Honor'....maybe he should practice what he preaches. An illustrious football career will never escape this and it never should. Penn State should be ashamed of what it tacitly allowed to happen. Ignorance is not an excuse when it's your job to be informed (looking at you Gene Smith). OSU Tatgate, USC benefits, Oregon payments, Auburn's 'perfectly legit' recruitment using pay for play....these are nothing compared to the atrocities in State College.
2) Arkansas can cause total chaos.
After the 'Game of the...zzzzz', many have crowned the Bayou Bengals and buried the Tide. No one is examining the armageddon that could ensue if Arkansas manages to win out (including a win in Baton Rouge). Yes, that may be unlikely, but certainly not impossible. If that were to happen (and LSU/Bama win their other games), there will be a 3 way tie in the SEC West. No longer will the talk be as much about a rematch as it will be about who will play in the SEC championship and which 2 get BCS bids. The SEC tie breaker as I read it states that the tie breaker that matters (all others are tied) is final BCS rankings. However, if the top 2 teams in the BCS are within 5 spots of each other, the head-to-head matchup determines the championship game participant. This means that the highest BCS team may not ascend to the SEC title game. LSU>Bama>Ark>LSU....contradiction circle. This is extremely similar to the 3 way tie in the Big 12 South in 2007 with Oklahoma, Texas, and Texas Tech. Talk about absolute craziness ensuing if this happens.....and I hope it does.
3) The so called 'Game of the Century'....sucked. Please, please, please, please, please DON'T have a rematch.
All hype (SEC, SEC, SEC) and no substance; that's the story of this game. Yes, the two defenses on the field were phenomenal and most of those players will be playing on Sundays, but on the other side of the ball....blech. Yeah, Trent Richardson will make the next step, but that's about it. Missed field goals left and right, horrendous QB play, etc. This game was boring. I don't want to take anything away from the defenses, but pitchers' duels are boring. There was some big hits but it's like beating a Sun Belt offense. I don't judge these defenses based on this game (although other games have proven them stout). The only thing I took away from this is we don't need a rematch. Bama had their shot, and they lost....at home. They're done unless LSU loses a game (even then, done barring Arkansas madness). Rematches are stupid especially when Bama lost AT HOME. I don't care if it was close. They lost. Let another team with the same record (or better) have their shot. I don't want to see that atrocity replayed for all the marbles...even if it is the greatest conference of all time (sarcasm). I learned that these 2 teams may be the best to offer this year, but they don't stack up with the best teams of the decade, let alone the 'century'. Stop the hype machine of the SEC. It's a mediocre conference with 3 elite teams and a lot of garbage.
4) The trick play by Bama was a calculated gamble and a good call that just happened to fail
Saban was getting crushed left and right after the game for letting Maze throw a pass down by the redzone. The thing is, it was a good call. If he didn't hang the ball in the air for 20 minutes, if that 6'6'' TE could fight off a 6'1'' CB, if the line could have protected for more than 2 seconds; it's a TD and a fantastic gutsy call that seals a win (one TD would do it). Instead, Murphy's Law reared it's ugly head and LSU got the ball at the one. In hindsight, that shouldn't have mattered either with the LSU offensive ineptitude. Urban Meyer is the only one who defended the call...and I trust his coaching instincts more than the jokers ESPiN and CBS throw out to tout the merits of the SEC.
5) Oklahoma is in great shape to play for the title
Stanford loses to Oregon, and Oklahoma controls their destiny. Yep, that's it. Boise has no chance. Oregon can't jump them with only one quality opponent left. Oklahoma State plays the Sooners. Arkansas will lose to LSU or knock them out and be very hard pressed to jump OU. I think it's also clear that Bama will fall below the Sooners if Bedlam goes Norman way. Even the Chokelahoma standard might allow Big Game Bob to back into the Championship...but I'm the only person who believes in the Pokes. The wins over Florida State, Texas, Texas A&M, Kansas State, and potentially Oklahoma State will be enough for OU to have earned a shot even with that hiccup (barring an undefeated Stanford)...but let's not crown the Sooners Bedlam champions just yet.
Draper Index Week 10
Draper Index Week 10
1) LSU
2) Oklahoma
3) Oklahoma State (razor thin margin behind OU)
4) Alabama
5) Oregon
6) Stanford
7) Boise State
8) Arkansas
9) Clemson
10) Auburn
11) TCU
12) Virginia Tech
13) Nebraska
14) South Carolina
15) Wisconsin
16) USC
17) Penn State
18) Michigan State
19) Ohio State
20) Texas
21) Kansas State
22) Southern Miss
23) Notre Dame
24) Houston
25) Georgia
No real surprises other than the resurgence of OU (again, one bad loss won't kill them with their quality wins--FSU, TAMU, KSU, Missouri). TCU and Auburn are ranked too highly, but that's vestiges of last year's success (can't wash out if they don't lose). UGA, Southern Miss, and Houston enter the rankings finally with their bad schedules. UGA bounced back finally but the Cougars and Eagles are in due to their gaudy schedules. This also mirrors the polls with the B1G dominating the teens.
My ballot
1) LSU
2) Oklahoma State
3) Stanford
4) Alabama
5) Oregon
6) Oklahoma
7) Boise State
8) Arkansas
9) Clemson
10) Virginia Tech
11) Wisconsin
12) Michigan State
13) Nebraska
14) Penn State
15) USC
16) Houston
17) South Carolina
18) Ohio State
19) Kansas State
20) Georgia
21) Texas
22) Auburn
23) Georgia Tech
24) Florida State
25) Southern Miss
Predicted BCS matchups:
BCS National Championship: LSU vs. Oklahoma State
Rose: Ohio State vs. Oregon
Fiesta: Oklahoma vs. Stanford
Sugar: Alabama vs. Boise State
Orange: Clemson vs. Cincinnati
Note: If Stanford makes the Championship Game...things get really interesting from a BCS selection standpoint. The implications could include Oklahoma State being excluded completely even with only 1 loss (assuming a loss to OU will be the only thing that catapults Stanford above). The reasoning is as follows
BCS Title: LSU vs. Stanford
Rose: B1G winner vs. at large #2
Fiesta: Big 12 vs. at large #3
Sugar: at large #1 vs. at large #4
Orange: Big East vs. ACC
Sugar selects Bama (or LSU if Bama weasels back to championship)
Rose selects Oregon to keep the Pac 12 tie in
If OU is the Big 12 rep (assumed if OSU loses to the sooners), Fiesta will not select Ok State and rematch. Choices are Boise St, Big East Champion, or other.
Scenario 1) I believe they will take Boise in which case, the Sugar happily selects Ok State, and Orange gets stuck with Big East champ.
Scenario 2) They take the Big East champ.......this will not happen
Scenario 3) Craziness. The Fiesta goes for money and selects a B1G school like Wisc, MSU, Nebraska, or UM due to the huge fan base and lots of money. The Sugar would then be forced to choose between Boise (assuming they are in the top 4) and Big East champ. They choose Boise and Orange is stuck with Big East--Orange gets stuck with Big East regardless because NO ONE will take them.
The Cowboys better hope to make the championship or at least have Stanford not make it. Their only other hope for an at large big is for the Fiesta to go for the rematch of OU/Boise. Craziness is coming.....oh yeah, if Arkansas wins out, the SEC is a TOTAL mess. Let's hope that happens too!
1) LSU
2) Oklahoma
3) Oklahoma State (razor thin margin behind OU)
4) Alabama
5) Oregon
6) Stanford
7) Boise State
8) Arkansas
9) Clemson
10) Auburn
11) TCU
12) Virginia Tech
13) Nebraska
14) South Carolina
15) Wisconsin
16) USC
17) Penn State
18) Michigan State
19) Ohio State
20) Texas
21) Kansas State
22) Southern Miss
23) Notre Dame
24) Houston
25) Georgia
No real surprises other than the resurgence of OU (again, one bad loss won't kill them with their quality wins--FSU, TAMU, KSU, Missouri). TCU and Auburn are ranked too highly, but that's vestiges of last year's success (can't wash out if they don't lose). UGA, Southern Miss, and Houston enter the rankings finally with their bad schedules. UGA bounced back finally but the Cougars and Eagles are in due to their gaudy schedules. This also mirrors the polls with the B1G dominating the teens.
My ballot
1) LSU
2) Oklahoma State
3) Stanford
4) Alabama
5) Oregon
6) Oklahoma
7) Boise State
8) Arkansas
9) Clemson
10) Virginia Tech
11) Wisconsin
12) Michigan State
13) Nebraska
14) Penn State
15) USC
16) Houston
17) South Carolina
18) Ohio State
19) Kansas State
20) Georgia
21) Texas
22) Auburn
23) Georgia Tech
24) Florida State
25) Southern Miss
Predicted BCS matchups:
BCS National Championship: LSU vs. Oklahoma State
Rose: Ohio State vs. Oregon
Fiesta: Oklahoma vs. Stanford
Sugar: Alabama vs. Boise State
Orange: Clemson vs. Cincinnati
Note: If Stanford makes the Championship Game...things get really interesting from a BCS selection standpoint. The implications could include Oklahoma State being excluded completely even with only 1 loss (assuming a loss to OU will be the only thing that catapults Stanford above). The reasoning is as follows
BCS Title: LSU vs. Stanford
Rose: B1G winner vs. at large #2
Fiesta: Big 12 vs. at large #3
Sugar: at large #1 vs. at large #4
Orange: Big East vs. ACC
Sugar selects Bama (or LSU if Bama weasels back to championship)
Rose selects Oregon to keep the Pac 12 tie in
If OU is the Big 12 rep (assumed if OSU loses to the sooners), Fiesta will not select Ok State and rematch. Choices are Boise St, Big East Champion, or other.
Scenario 1) I believe they will take Boise in which case, the Sugar happily selects Ok State, and Orange gets stuck with Big East champ.
Scenario 2) They take the Big East champ.......this will not happen
Scenario 3) Craziness. The Fiesta goes for money and selects a B1G school like Wisc, MSU, Nebraska, or UM due to the huge fan base and lots of money. The Sugar would then be forced to choose between Boise (assuming they are in the top 4) and Big East champ. They choose Boise and Orange is stuck with Big East--Orange gets stuck with Big East regardless because NO ONE will take them.
The Cowboys better hope to make the championship or at least have Stanford not make it. Their only other hope for an at large big is for the Fiesta to go for the rematch of OU/Boise. Craziness is coming.....oh yeah, if Arkansas wins out, the SEC is a TOTAL mess. Let's hope that happens too!
Sunday, November 06, 2011
Grading the Bucks Week 10--Indiana
Offense: B
I was pleased with the offensive performance on the ground. With Boom, Hyde, and Miller all eclipsing the 100 yard mark, the running game was clearly working. I believe OSU had 7.6 yards per carry which is just stupid good. However, the offense also includes the passing game which was pedestrian to below average. Miller missed some open targets, but more worrisome, he was sacked by Indiana at least 6 times. This is unacceptable. I will also say those sacks are on him. The O-Line was giving him FOREVER to find his targets but he was slow in his decision making. That may become an issue vs. a better defense in PSU. Offensive line blocked very well; running game was awesome; decision making was sub par, as was the receiver play (key drop by Philly when Miller hung in the pocket and got popped).
Defense: D
Yikes...what was that? This was a pathetic performance from the Bullets against a really bad team. Yes, the Hoosier offense is the better half of the team....but it's still Indiana. Hankins and Simon were driving over the offensive line, but the option was run away from them leaving them tackling a non-ball carrier. The secondary was atrocious going up against receivers who have no business hanging around in Ohio Stadium. Howard made a nice interception to seal the game, but let's be honest, Ohio State being up a TD in the 4th quarter is unacceptable versus IU. Roby made a bunch of misreads after a stellar game vs. the Badgers. Bryant has been a disappointment all year. The mobile QB curse with the Buckeyes always looms large. Thankfully, we only have 1 left in Ann Arbor.
Special Teams: B
Nothing of note here. Punts were fine, kicks were fine, returns were fine, coverage was fine. Can't go to an A because no big plays or clutch kicks, but they were solid enough. Can't even say more because they did their job.
Coaching: C-
Say it with me: "Fire Jim Bollman". How do you continually call deep pass plays with a QB who can't make decisions quick enough and eschew the running game that is absolutely destroying the Hooisers? All the dumb fans keep saying he needs to be 'balanced' and throw the ball more; that is just wrong. You play to your strengths. We are Ohio State. We should be able to look at Indiana, tell them where we are running, and dare them to stop us--they can't. The only team that could have defeated OSU on Saturday in the Shoe was in scarlet and gray--and the playcalling tried to make it happen. Practice passing is well and good....when the game is in hand. That game wasn't in hand until late due to the poor defensive play, but even so, more running plays would have led to over 500 yards rushing--yeah, I believe that. The defensive coaching was not much better with soft zones against the option, but the black mark was on the offensive coaching staff. I'd say the defensive failure was due to lackadaisical play by the players and the offensive drive stalling was due to coaching. Run until they prove they can stop it (sure you can pepper a few passes in to keep them honest, I'm not that dumb). The athletes on this team suggest a 75-25 split of run to pass, and that's not bad.
I was pleased with the offensive performance on the ground. With Boom, Hyde, and Miller all eclipsing the 100 yard mark, the running game was clearly working. I believe OSU had 7.6 yards per carry which is just stupid good. However, the offense also includes the passing game which was pedestrian to below average. Miller missed some open targets, but more worrisome, he was sacked by Indiana at least 6 times. This is unacceptable. I will also say those sacks are on him. The O-Line was giving him FOREVER to find his targets but he was slow in his decision making. That may become an issue vs. a better defense in PSU. Offensive line blocked very well; running game was awesome; decision making was sub par, as was the receiver play (key drop by Philly when Miller hung in the pocket and got popped).
Defense: D
Yikes...what was that? This was a pathetic performance from the Bullets against a really bad team. Yes, the Hoosier offense is the better half of the team....but it's still Indiana. Hankins and Simon were driving over the offensive line, but the option was run away from them leaving them tackling a non-ball carrier. The secondary was atrocious going up against receivers who have no business hanging around in Ohio Stadium. Howard made a nice interception to seal the game, but let's be honest, Ohio State being up a TD in the 4th quarter is unacceptable versus IU. Roby made a bunch of misreads after a stellar game vs. the Badgers. Bryant has been a disappointment all year. The mobile QB curse with the Buckeyes always looms large. Thankfully, we only have 1 left in Ann Arbor.
Special Teams: B
Nothing of note here. Punts were fine, kicks were fine, returns were fine, coverage was fine. Can't go to an A because no big plays or clutch kicks, but they were solid enough. Can't even say more because they did their job.
Coaching: C-
Say it with me: "Fire Jim Bollman". How do you continually call deep pass plays with a QB who can't make decisions quick enough and eschew the running game that is absolutely destroying the Hooisers? All the dumb fans keep saying he needs to be 'balanced' and throw the ball more; that is just wrong. You play to your strengths. We are Ohio State. We should be able to look at Indiana, tell them where we are running, and dare them to stop us--they can't. The only team that could have defeated OSU on Saturday in the Shoe was in scarlet and gray--and the playcalling tried to make it happen. Practice passing is well and good....when the game is in hand. That game wasn't in hand until late due to the poor defensive play, but even so, more running plays would have led to over 500 yards rushing--yeah, I believe that. The defensive coaching was not much better with soft zones against the option, but the black mark was on the offensive coaching staff. I'd say the defensive failure was due to lackadaisical play by the players and the offensive drive stalling was due to coaching. Run until they prove they can stop it (sure you can pepper a few passes in to keep them honest, I'm not that dumb). The athletes on this team suggest a 75-25 split of run to pass, and that's not bad.
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