Oklahoma vs. Texas
Draper: The Red River Shootout (yeah, I said it, big whoop, wanna fight about it) is actually semi-relevant this year after Texas disappearing. That being said, these aren't the polished McCoy to Shipley from 2006-2009. While the younger brothers are improving, they aren't good enough to take down the Sooners. Jones will have a field day with Broyles and Stills, and the Stoops defense will knock the Longhorns off their undefeated high horse with relative ease. OU: 48--UT: 20
Auer: Texas has seemingly returned to form after an abysmal 2010 season, and here they sit at 4-0. The problem is Texas really hasn't beaten anyone. The Sooners on the other hand have a key win at Florida State, and look to continue on their collision course for a date with the Crimson Tide. This one really shouldn't be close, as much as I want UT to make it so. OU: 35--UT: 10
Hoying: In so many other years, 4-0 Oklahoma vs. 4-0 Texas would serve as a mid-season determinant of the Big XII South champion. Not so this year; there are five (Five!) undefeated Big X(II) teams heading into this week, and all of them will play each other before the season is done. This is the first (second if you count KSU-Baylor of what should be an excellent set of Big X(II) showdowns. Look for Oklahoma's steadier offense, led by veteran QB Landry Jones, to have a big day and the better-than-advertised OU defense to cause confusion for the 2-headed Texas QB monster. OU: 34 -- UT: 16
Schweinfurth: Undefeated Texas and undefeated Oklahoma? One would think this game would be close but you have to go with McCoy and Shipley. Wait, it's not Colt and Jordan? In all seriousness, Oklahoma is the better team. The Sooner D is down right nasty and will just be too much for both Texas QBs. OU: 42 -- UT: 17
Florida @ LSU
Draper: Sucks for Florida that they get the 2 best teams in the country back-to-back. Also, they have lost their QB (Brantley) to dismemberment at the hands of the Saban defense. This could have been a good matchup, but the Gators haven't turned the corner yet. LSU is rolling and should make easy work of the Gators without a QB. Demps and Rainey are good, but no passing threat will be a killer. Death Valley will be insane and will send more Gators to the doctor. UF: 6--LSU: 24
Auer: Not much chance for Will Muschamp's Gators as they head to Death Valley without a QB. LSU is really good, but not quite as good as Alabama, but still won't have a problem with UF this week. UF: 10--LSU: 32
Hoying: I still think Florida is shaping up to make some noise in the weak SEC East (and get hammered by 'Bama again), but LSU in Baton Rouge is too tall an order for the Gators, especially without their starting QB (we've seen what effect losing your only good QB can have). The LSU defense is slightly more forgiving than the Crimson Brick Wall, but Florida will be in no position to challenge it. UF: 13 -- LSU: 20
Schweinfurth: Will Muschamp has the Gators turning the corner and Jabba the Weiss has figured has been putting Demps and Rainey in positions to succeed. Unfortunately for Florida, LSU has one of the best secondaries in the nation. This should be an exciting game but Baton Rouge will prove to be too much for Florida. UF: 14 -- LSU: 31
Auburn @ Arkansas
Draper: Auburn has been living on borrowed time with 3 of their 4 wins coming in heart-stopping fashion. The little known secret is that they're not that good and have been super lucky. Give them credit for hanging around long enough to steal a win, but not happening in Fayetteville. Tyler Wilson and the Hogs dug a HUGE hole last week (thankfully it was against the choke artists at TAMU) but looked great and under poise coming back. Expect another huge passing day from Wilson to lead the Hogs to victory and send the Tigers back to reality. Aub: 17--Ark: 38
Auer: Auburn is officially about to become the schizophrenic team of 2011. They'll upset highly ranked USC one week, then turn around and lose to Clemson, and then struggle against the likes of Utah State. The Tigers will surely come back to earth after last week's upset of the Gamecocks. Aub: 21--Ark: 45
Hoying: In the last two weeks, Arkansas got hammered by the best team in the country and looked beatable against Texas A&M before a well-played comeback. This team is itching to make a statement and dismantle an opponent, and look who's coming to Fayetteville. The Auburn Tigers have derailed two trendy SEC picks (South Carolina and Mississippi State) and their only loss is to a quality Clemson team, but anyone who's been watching this team has to be scratching their head wondering how long Gene Chizik's brain farts can power this team to victory. Here's a fun stat to close with: the SEC-worst Auburn defense gives up 233 passing yards per game. Arkansas's QB Tyler Wilson led the SEC's best offense to 510 passing yards last week against Texas A&M. Uh-oh. Aub: 20 -- Ark: 56
Schweinfurth: Auburn continues to live on the edge and keeps gutting out close wins. The last time the Tigers faced a top offense (in Clemson), the Tiger defense was exposed. Auburn can score and I don't buy into the Razorback defense. Auburn's magic touch has to run out sometime and, even though I say it every week, it runs out this week in a not so close shootout. Aub: 28 -- Ark: 42
Ohio State @ Nebraska
Draper: We just can't catch a break (mostly due to stupid players). No Boom and No Posey most likely means no help on offense. The return of Mike Adams (and possibly even Solomon Thomas) will help but the biggest boon to the offense will be Nebraska. Their defense is well behind MSU at the line of scrimmage. This bodes well for the OSU running game. Hall will run for a solid 100 yards, but the flip side is Nebraska's O is better than MSU. One aspect that has given the Bullets fits is a running QB...uh oh. The Bullets play tough and the offense looks more competent, but on the road is gonna be trouble for the young QB. I think it will be much closer than the experts think. I have to do it (for the first real time), but I don't have to like it. OSU: 20--Neb: 27
Auer: Struggling to find the positives in this one. The Buckeyes have to click eventually, don't they? The defense has to score eventually, right? I have literally no rhyme or reason to do this, but I have a feeling that Nebraska *might* be the type of team that chokes under pressure. The Buckeyes are going to be lucky to have anything to play for by the time November rolls around, so they might as well throw whatever they've got out Saturday night in Lincoln and maybe Lady Luck will be on the side of Fickell's team. OSU: 13--Neb: 10
Hoying: The Buckeyes are bad, m'kay? The team has no quarterback, its best running back and wide receiver have slipped through its grasp indefinitely, and key players are being lost left and right to serious injuries (Verlon Reed, Philly Brown, Nate Williams). The Bucks are teetering on the edge of collapse as evidenced by RB Carlos Hyde's comments about the coaching staff. Now for the good news. Aside from a few problems with the secondary (looking at you, #7), the defense still works, which is remarkable considering how long they've had to stay on the field. Also, Nebraska's defense isn't going to be anywhere near as tough as MSU's to crack. However, nighttime in Lincoln is going to be very unforgiving to this young team. Even though this one is winnable, the young Bucks don't quite have the poise to get it done. OSU: 16 -- Neb: 17
Schweinfurth: This game is will be all about defense. Ohio State has a walrus calling plays and Taylor Martinez makes my throwing motion look good. If one offense has an advantage, it has to be the 'Husker's pseudo-option attack. One gets the feeling that, if Nebraska scores early, the Silver Bullets may revolt against the offense. The Buckeyes are on tilt and Bo Pelini is looking to make a statement. This one is close but Nebraska moves the ball thanks to a few missed tackles. Martinez throws a few picks (including a pick 6) but the Bucks can't take advantage of the field position. OSU: 10 -- Neb: 17
Upset Specials
Draper: Mizzou over Kansas State
Auer: Ohio State over Nebraska
Hoying: Northwestern over Michigan (I don't know, I don't see a lot of upsets this week)
Schweinfurth: Maryland over Georgia Tech (I'm with Hoying on this one. Not many upset chances)
Tuesday, October 04, 2011
5 Thoughts from the Week that Was
1) Still we have questionable officiating...with no explanation or consequences.
Last weeks problem was much more crucial with a missed PAT call but the fact remains that too many calls are missed or not addressed. As the time ticked down in a critical matchup between South Carolina and Auburn, the Gamecocks get a first down with 2 seconds left; (barely) enough time to spike the ball and get a last second field goal off to tie the game. Alas, the clock ran out and when Spurrier asked for the referee to review it, he refused and called the game. One argument was that there was only 1 second left and that means there was not enough time to spike the ball with time remaining. If that's the case, then come out at confirm it! As of now, the South Carolina faithful are left holding the bag with questions abounding and Gene Chizik (the current edition of Les Miles-'winning games despite poor coaching). This is yet another incident of poor referee-ing with no consequences or explanations. It's time to hold these officials to a higher standard.
2) Media money drives opinion and, therefore, polls
OSU has a near miss against Toledo and everyone destroys the B1G. South Carolina has a near miss against Navy (arguably closer than OSU/Toledo) and no one mentions it rather than another SEC win. Give credit to Navy who is always a tough matchup. Unfortunately, you'll never know because the $EC drives E$PiN. The polls are clearly driven by the highlights shown on ESPiN and those highlights are skewed in favor of those who pay the bills. The top SEC teams are that good, but the rest are the same as every other conference also-ran.
3) Undefeated doesn't always mean the best.
Quick, one conference has 5 undefeated teams, which is it? No, not the be-all, end-all SEC, but the Big 12. Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas, Texas Tech, and Kansas State. This is more than double any other conference, but hold the phone folks. The Oklahoma teams each have quality wins (FSU and TAMU) but the other 3 played no one but the Little Sisters of the Poor (yeah, I said it). KSU under Snyder is known to play no one but creampuffs (yes, this year he played Miami but whopee...). Texas played UCLA....yawn. I didn't even know Texas Tech has played a game since Michael Crabtree left. Good for them being undefeated, but let's wait until they play quality opponents to anoint the conference. The Oklahoma teams are legit, but I don't think the others will get more than 8 wins a piece.
4) Pains me to say this, but the National Championship (as of now) should be a
rematch of Alabama vs. LSU.
I said this before and I'll say it again: everyone sucks. This year has been extremely painful to watch. That being said, Bama and LSU are (as of now) the clear best teams in the country. Yes, OU is good, but they'll most likely drop one like they always do. Ok St offense can't keep the questionable defense going undefeated. Wisconsin is very tough but who knows if they can hold up against a defense on the road. Boise is Boise and will most likely go undefeated but no one cares. Stanford and Oregon play in a tossup but the Cardinal have an easy schedule and the Ducks already lost to LSU. The SEC powers are very very good and I really think there is a possibility that they rematch in the Title Game. The most likely contender is Wisconsin in my opinion due to schedule and what I've seen. I hate the SEC, but those 2 teams have the best resumes and talent that I've seen thus far.
5) Fair or foul, Robert Griffin III is most likely out of the Heisman race already.
Remember how I said that it's very hard to break into the Heisman race without preseason hype; it's nearly impossible when you're on a team that's out of the race (translation: has a loss). This is, of course, not fair at all, but it's the world we live in. RG3 has eye-popping stats with slightly fewer TDs than incompletions, 1 interception, and 5 TD passes a piece in 3 games, but no one will remember him if he doesn't win. Small market and non-contender never really have a chance. Many people are giving him lip-service in the media, but I don't buy that they actually believe it. I do think he is a legit candidate, but when the voters turn in their ballots, I feel they will be skewed by their preconceptions and drop him down below the NFL #1 pick (Luck), the golden boy (Kellen Moore), the best player on the best team (Trent Richardson), the hot transfer (Russell Wilson), and the best QB the number 1 team (Jones). RG3 needs to go crazy EVERY game from here on out and he absolutely HAS to beat OU with some crazy stats to even get back in the legit discussion. Pay attention to this kid because he's really good (and he'll get his compensation next year in the NFL), but the preconceptions kill his realistic chance in my opinion.
Last weeks problem was much more crucial with a missed PAT call but the fact remains that too many calls are missed or not addressed. As the time ticked down in a critical matchup between South Carolina and Auburn, the Gamecocks get a first down with 2 seconds left; (barely) enough time to spike the ball and get a last second field goal off to tie the game. Alas, the clock ran out and when Spurrier asked for the referee to review it, he refused and called the game. One argument was that there was only 1 second left and that means there was not enough time to spike the ball with time remaining. If that's the case, then come out at confirm it! As of now, the South Carolina faithful are left holding the bag with questions abounding and Gene Chizik (the current edition of Les Miles-'winning games despite poor coaching). This is yet another incident of poor referee-ing with no consequences or explanations. It's time to hold these officials to a higher standard.
2) Media money drives opinion and, therefore, polls
OSU has a near miss against Toledo and everyone destroys the B1G. South Carolina has a near miss against Navy (arguably closer than OSU/Toledo) and no one mentions it rather than another SEC win. Give credit to Navy who is always a tough matchup. Unfortunately, you'll never know because the $EC drives E$PiN. The polls are clearly driven by the highlights shown on ESPiN and those highlights are skewed in favor of those who pay the bills. The top SEC teams are that good, but the rest are the same as every other conference also-ran.
3) Undefeated doesn't always mean the best.
Quick, one conference has 5 undefeated teams, which is it? No, not the be-all, end-all SEC, but the Big 12. Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas, Texas Tech, and Kansas State. This is more than double any other conference, but hold the phone folks. The Oklahoma teams each have quality wins (FSU and TAMU) but the other 3 played no one but the Little Sisters of the Poor (yeah, I said it). KSU under Snyder is known to play no one but creampuffs (yes, this year he played Miami but whopee...). Texas played UCLA....yawn. I didn't even know Texas Tech has played a game since Michael Crabtree left. Good for them being undefeated, but let's wait until they play quality opponents to anoint the conference. The Oklahoma teams are legit, but I don't think the others will get more than 8 wins a piece.
4) Pains me to say this, but the National Championship (as of now) should be a
rematch of Alabama vs. LSU.
I said this before and I'll say it again: everyone sucks. This year has been extremely painful to watch. That being said, Bama and LSU are (as of now) the clear best teams in the country. Yes, OU is good, but they'll most likely drop one like they always do. Ok St offense can't keep the questionable defense going undefeated. Wisconsin is very tough but who knows if they can hold up against a defense on the road. Boise is Boise and will most likely go undefeated but no one cares. Stanford and Oregon play in a tossup but the Cardinal have an easy schedule and the Ducks already lost to LSU. The SEC powers are very very good and I really think there is a possibility that they rematch in the Title Game. The most likely contender is Wisconsin in my opinion due to schedule and what I've seen. I hate the SEC, but those 2 teams have the best resumes and talent that I've seen thus far.
5) Fair or foul, Robert Griffin III is most likely out of the Heisman race already.
Remember how I said that it's very hard to break into the Heisman race without preseason hype; it's nearly impossible when you're on a team that's out of the race (translation: has a loss). This is, of course, not fair at all, but it's the world we live in. RG3 has eye-popping stats with slightly fewer TDs than incompletions, 1 interception, and 5 TD passes a piece in 3 games, but no one will remember him if he doesn't win. Small market and non-contender never really have a chance. Many people are giving him lip-service in the media, but I don't buy that they actually believe it. I do think he is a legit candidate, but when the voters turn in their ballots, I feel they will be skewed by their preconceptions and drop him down below the NFL #1 pick (Luck), the golden boy (Kellen Moore), the best player on the best team (Trent Richardson), the hot transfer (Russell Wilson), and the best QB the number 1 team (Jones). RG3 needs to go crazy EVERY game from here on out and he absolutely HAS to beat OU with some crazy stats to even get back in the legit discussion. Pay attention to this kid because he's really good (and he'll get his compensation next year in the NFL), but the preconceptions kill his realistic chance in my opinion.
Sunday, October 02, 2011
Grading the Bucks--Week 5: Michigan State.....GROSS
Offense: F
What a pathetic display! I thought this was Ohio State but apparently not. Under 100 yards of offense until late in the 4th and shutout until 10 seconds left....putrid. It's painfully clear that we do not have a quarterback on the roster. I still support Bauserman but he's the lesser of two evils. Miller has happy feet and is afraid to hit the hole. The running lanes open but he dances rather than just running. His passing has much to be desired as well. JB shows that he can throw...sometimes, but he can also overthrow the receivers by 20 yards. The running game took a giant step back and the best O-line I've seen obviously was a fluke. Jordan Hall failed to step up to the plate for his audition and the offensive line was pathetic after 2 solid weeks of above average play. Maybe the suspended players will make a difference but it's hard to envision fixing all of these holes. Give some credit to MSU's D-line but the guard play and QB play at OSU is inexcusable. Who starts at QB next week? God only knows. Personally, I'd start JB on the road, but I'm not comfortable with it. I expect Fickell to go with Miller, but there is no good answer.
Defense: A- (Side grade--Travis Howard: F-----)
How can you fail to gain more than 100 yards until the 4th and still have a (legit) chance to win in the waning seconds? Have a defense that plays sound and bends but doesn't break. While the offense was throwing up on the field, the defense never seemed to get a break. Yet, they continued to run out there and shut down the senior QB. The return of Nate Williams from injury and Solomon Thomas from suspension to join John Simon and Jonathan Hankins will make the front four very very scary. The run defense was stout but the secondary had some holes. The hole is named Travis Howard. BJ Cunningham (the leading receiver in MSU history) absolutely torched the Buckeyes because Howard was burnt toast on every play. Yes, Cunningham is good, but no adjustments to help Howard (or simply pull him) is just dumb. OSU defense is certainly not the reason for the loss, but I've seen that opposing teams will learn to pick on the weak link. Look for number 7 on the D to be continually beat (just think, some booster actually paid him extra benefits!!).
Special Teams: B-
Nothing special here, but the punting was not as good this week. Buchanan was asked to do a lot, but he wasn't a sharp as usual. Returns and coverage were fine, but the punting has been above average in the last few weeks. Simply average this week. With all the punts, you don't expect perfection but I don't think the net average was as good as the past few weeks. Passable but nothing to wow me.
Coaching: D
Sorry Luke, you never had a chance. Lost in the talk of Fickell is the fact that he was not allowed to hire his own staff. His defensive staff is just fine and the addition of Mike Vrabel is very good, but the offensive coaching staff is just awful. Jim Bollman (the OC) has been terrible since he began coaching and he has arguably regressed. OSU hasn't learned about simple plays to relax your QB like screens and quick slants (and this has been true since I arrived at OSU). Every play is a dave block run or a deep pattern down field. Without simply underneath, slant, or intermediate routes, the QBs cannot get into a rhythm and make the defense respect any semblance of a passing game. Also, while the first half showed an absolute failure by the offense, the second half showed that no one knows how to adjust as we just got more failure. Nothing is changing. The coaches seem to be beating their heads against the wall expecting to have the wall to apologize. If it doesn't work with your personnel, you must adjust. Fickell is a great guy and probably a great coach. He has coached up the defense to a high level without the top level talent, but there is just no hope for him if he gets no help from the offensive coaching staff. It's pretty much a done deal that Gene Smith is targeting Urban Meyer right now. Just think that every weekend, Chris Spielman calls games with Urban Meyer. Wouldn't be surprised if he's dropping hints during commercials. Nothing against Luke, but the situation pretty much screwed whomever got the interim job.
What a pathetic display! I thought this was Ohio State but apparently not. Under 100 yards of offense until late in the 4th and shutout until 10 seconds left....putrid. It's painfully clear that we do not have a quarterback on the roster. I still support Bauserman but he's the lesser of two evils. Miller has happy feet and is afraid to hit the hole. The running lanes open but he dances rather than just running. His passing has much to be desired as well. JB shows that he can throw...sometimes, but he can also overthrow the receivers by 20 yards. The running game took a giant step back and the best O-line I've seen obviously was a fluke. Jordan Hall failed to step up to the plate for his audition and the offensive line was pathetic after 2 solid weeks of above average play. Maybe the suspended players will make a difference but it's hard to envision fixing all of these holes. Give some credit to MSU's D-line but the guard play and QB play at OSU is inexcusable. Who starts at QB next week? God only knows. Personally, I'd start JB on the road, but I'm not comfortable with it. I expect Fickell to go with Miller, but there is no good answer.
Defense: A- (Side grade--Travis Howard: F-----)
How can you fail to gain more than 100 yards until the 4th and still have a (legit) chance to win in the waning seconds? Have a defense that plays sound and bends but doesn't break. While the offense was throwing up on the field, the defense never seemed to get a break. Yet, they continued to run out there and shut down the senior QB. The return of Nate Williams from injury and Solomon Thomas from suspension to join John Simon and Jonathan Hankins will make the front four very very scary. The run defense was stout but the secondary had some holes. The hole is named Travis Howard. BJ Cunningham (the leading receiver in MSU history) absolutely torched the Buckeyes because Howard was burnt toast on every play. Yes, Cunningham is good, but no adjustments to help Howard (or simply pull him) is just dumb. OSU defense is certainly not the reason for the loss, but I've seen that opposing teams will learn to pick on the weak link. Look for number 7 on the D to be continually beat (just think, some booster actually paid him extra benefits!!).
Special Teams: B-
Nothing special here, but the punting was not as good this week. Buchanan was asked to do a lot, but he wasn't a sharp as usual. Returns and coverage were fine, but the punting has been above average in the last few weeks. Simply average this week. With all the punts, you don't expect perfection but I don't think the net average was as good as the past few weeks. Passable but nothing to wow me.
Coaching: D
Sorry Luke, you never had a chance. Lost in the talk of Fickell is the fact that he was not allowed to hire his own staff. His defensive staff is just fine and the addition of Mike Vrabel is very good, but the offensive coaching staff is just awful. Jim Bollman (the OC) has been terrible since he began coaching and he has arguably regressed. OSU hasn't learned about simple plays to relax your QB like screens and quick slants (and this has been true since I arrived at OSU). Every play is a dave block run or a deep pattern down field. Without simply underneath, slant, or intermediate routes, the QBs cannot get into a rhythm and make the defense respect any semblance of a passing game. Also, while the first half showed an absolute failure by the offense, the second half showed that no one knows how to adjust as we just got more failure. Nothing is changing. The coaches seem to be beating their heads against the wall expecting to have the wall to apologize. If it doesn't work with your personnel, you must adjust. Fickell is a great guy and probably a great coach. He has coached up the defense to a high level without the top level talent, but there is just no hope for him if he gets no help from the offensive coaching staff. It's pretty much a done deal that Gene Smith is targeting Urban Meyer right now. Just think that every weekend, Chris Spielman calls games with Urban Meyer. Wouldn't be surprised if he's dropping hints during commercials. Nothing against Luke, but the situation pretty much screwed whomever got the interim job.
My Gut-Reaction Top 10 10/1/11
The wheat is quickly separating from the chaff. It's tough to even find 10 teams to fill this out.
1) Bama--Top to bottom most efficient team with the best D in the country. Going into the Swamp is no easy task, and they made it look easy.
2) LSU--Good wins, but the D isn't as solid as Bama. Also, the tide wins (Ark home and at UF road) are better than LSU (Oregon neutral and WVU road). Not to mention the huge coaching advantage in Tuscaloosa.
3) Oklahoma--Big win at FSU and solid in all other games (against the scrubs). Oh, Mizzou win wasn't bad either but execution is slightly lower than the SEC teams above.
4) Wisconsin--Totally solid play but haven't seen the same competition as above. Nebraska was in Camp Randall (and let's be honest, their D is terrible) but they looked great.
5) Oklahoma State--D is questionable but I believe they have the best offense in the country. The huge comeback in Kyle Field will be dismissed because of the TAMU collapse this week as well, but you could contribute some of this week's failure to the Pokes crushing their spirit. Blackmon and Weeden are just that good.
6) Clemson--The body of work is spectacular. FSU was banged up....but they beat them in Death Valley. They smashed VT in their own backyard (but we have no clue if their any good). Give credit to Dabo and crew because they just keep winning.
7) Stanford--Yeah, this ranking is because of Luck and undefeated-ness but they have looked just fine. I know they haven't played anyone but they've taken care of business with relative ease. Only tough games are home v. Oregon and @ (?) ND.
8) Boise State--Way low for most people but they play no one and will play no one. Nothing they can do about it....it's just a fact of life. I'll give them credit, but they can't move up without teams above faltering. Not fair? Maybe. But True.
9) Oregon--After those turnovers against LSU, they have quietly righted the ship. Look out for the Ducks who are quietly smashing everyone on the West Coast. Big time showdown @ Stanford later this year.
10) ...I don't know...Nebraska? Florida? who cares...--I don't see anyone else. Nebraska got smoked, but it was in Camp Randall where almost everyone loses. Florida got smoked but Bama is really good. Who else? Arkansas maybe? Everyone sucks...that's it.
1091824098) Buckeye offense--we suck...
1) Bama--Top to bottom most efficient team with the best D in the country. Going into the Swamp is no easy task, and they made it look easy.
2) LSU--Good wins, but the D isn't as solid as Bama. Also, the tide wins (Ark home and at UF road) are better than LSU (Oregon neutral and WVU road). Not to mention the huge coaching advantage in Tuscaloosa.
3) Oklahoma--Big win at FSU and solid in all other games (against the scrubs). Oh, Mizzou win wasn't bad either but execution is slightly lower than the SEC teams above.
4) Wisconsin--Totally solid play but haven't seen the same competition as above. Nebraska was in Camp Randall (and let's be honest, their D is terrible) but they looked great.
5) Oklahoma State--D is questionable but I believe they have the best offense in the country. The huge comeback in Kyle Field will be dismissed because of the TAMU collapse this week as well, but you could contribute some of this week's failure to the Pokes crushing their spirit. Blackmon and Weeden are just that good.
6) Clemson--The body of work is spectacular. FSU was banged up....but they beat them in Death Valley. They smashed VT in their own backyard (but we have no clue if their any good). Give credit to Dabo and crew because they just keep winning.
7) Stanford--Yeah, this ranking is because of Luck and undefeated-ness but they have looked just fine. I know they haven't played anyone but they've taken care of business with relative ease. Only tough games are home v. Oregon and @ (?) ND.
8) Boise State--Way low for most people but they play no one and will play no one. Nothing they can do about it....it's just a fact of life. I'll give them credit, but they can't move up without teams above faltering. Not fair? Maybe. But True.
9) Oregon--After those turnovers against LSU, they have quietly righted the ship. Look out for the Ducks who are quietly smashing everyone on the West Coast. Big time showdown @ Stanford later this year.
10) ...I don't know...Nebraska? Florida? who cares...--I don't see anyone else. Nebraska got smoked, but it was in Camp Randall where almost everyone loses. Florida got smoked but Bama is really good. Who else? Arkansas maybe? Everyone sucks...that's it.
1091824098) Buckeye offense--we suck...
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Week 5 Picks: Conference Play Begins in Earnest
Texas A&M Aggies vs. Arkansas Razorbacks
Draper: SEC vs. soon-to-be-SEC. The Razorbacks got absolutely SMOKED by Alabama in a game that surprised no one. A&M fell apart last week by giving up a 17 point lead at home to an offensively dynamic team in Ok State. Both teams limp into this marquee matchup that (once again) no one is talking about. Arkansas is an also ran every year (as is Texas A&M) but I think the Aggies have a little more top to bottom talent. The second half collapse looms large but A&M needs to rebound. Arkansas's Tyler Wilson is good but they will come up just short. TAMU: 27--Ark: 24
Auer: After losing a game they shouldn't have, the Texas A&M Aggies will be looking to make a statement against an overrated R-kansas squad. The Aggies have surprised me, mostly in good was every time I've watched them, and their defense is better than expected. Arkansas has struggled, and karma has not been with them so far. TAMU: 21--Ark: 13
Hoying: A&M showed flashes of brilliance last week against Okie State, but QB Ryan Tannehill has proven to be as turnover-prone as ever, practically giving the game away. The Aggies also proved to be vulnerable against the pass, which gives an edge to Arkansas's airborne attack. However, Texas A&M is too balanced and too talented for the the Hogs to pull this one off. Look for the Aggies to win a shootout. TAMU: 41--Ark: 31
Nebraska Cornhuskers @ Wisconsin Badgers
Draper: I hate to say this, but I don't think this is going to be that close. Neither of these teams has played an opponent with a pulse but Wisconsin has looked solid on both sides of the ball whereas the Black Shirt defense of Nebraska has yet to make an appearance. Taylor Martinez and Rex Burkhead are spectacular runners but Wisconsin will probably load the box to slow down the running game. Martinez won't be able to throw well enough to keep up with the points his defense will give up. Also, Camp Randall at night is a trial by fire for the Nebraska welcome to the B1G. Nebraska: 17--Wisconsin: 31
Auer: Very torn in this one. Do I root for a team I despise, or a newcomer to the conference I know and love? Wisconsin really might be that good. Nebraska's defense might very well be a sieve. I'm going with the Badgers here, and I think it could be ugly. Nebraska: 13--Wisconsin: 41
Hoying: Which team wins this one: the one which has struggled to beat mid-level competition or the one which has spent 4 weeks mauling the Little Sisters of the Poor? Wisconsin has looked nigh unbeatable so far, but their lack of practice against quality opposition will come back to bite them here. Look for a big rushing day from Taylor Martinez and another great performance from Russell Wilson, but the over-hyped, over-confident Badgers will be brought down to reality at the hands of the B1G's newest contender. Nebraska: 35 -- Wisconsin: 34
Clemson Tigers @ Virginia Tech Hokies
Draper: Clemson is coming off a tailor made upset over Florida State (QB hurt, opponent off of a huge game, etc.) to face the other big bad boy in the ACC in Lane Stadium. Tajh Boyd has been spectacular as has the freshman Sammy Watkins, but Virginia Tech is quietly sneaking around under Logan Thomas. Clemson provides the first real test, but Blacksburg will be rocking. Let's not forget all of Clemson's big wins come at home. Lane Stadium shifts the needle to the Hokies and people will start to take note of Beamer's boys. Clem: 16--VT: 27
Auer: Clemson is off to a good start this season but is due for a let down. Haven't watched much of the Hokies, but Blacksburg and Beamerball are the perfect medicine to stop Dabo's Tigers. Clem: 10--VT: 19
Hoying: Clemson QB Tajh Boyd has been playing out of his mind this year, putting up ridiculous numbers against Florida State and Auburn (yes, Auburn has no defense this year, but they're no Marshall or Appalachian State). Meanwhile, Virginia Tech has been fed a steady diet of mediocre teams while waiting to trap the Tigers in Blacksburg. What have we learned from watching Clemson in the past? They have to seize a shot at the conference title before they can choke it all away! Clem: 27--VT: 21
Alabama Crimson Tide @ Florida Gators
Draper: This is a HUGE game in the SEC that will test to see if UF is for real and is Bama as good as we think they are. Florida has some awesome playmakers in Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps but Bama's defense is really really good. On the other side of the ball, both are relatively pedestrian except for the Tide's running back Trent Richardson. Being in the Swamp at night is a tall order, but I think Saban quiets the Gators again with some key defensive stops. Bama: 27--UF: 16
Auer: The Crimson Tide are proving time and again that they are the best team in the nation. The Gators are the Gators, and will stick with the top defense in the nation for a good bit of this game. The Swamp could slow down Alabama initially, but the solid ground game and stout D will prove too much for Florida. Bama: 35--UF: 20
Hoying: Make no mistake, the Gators are back after Urban Meyer's phoned-in 2010 season, but they're not quite in position to challenge Alabama yet. If Our Lord and Savior TIM TEBOW himself were back in orange and blue, all we would see is another waterworks on the sidelines after this scary Alabama D stuffed him again. This one shouldn't be close. Bama: 27--UF: 10
Michigan State Spartans @ Ohio State Buckeyes
Draper: One. more. game. That's all we need Buckeyes. This is the last game for which there are excuses. Following this game, WR1, RB1, LT, and...random defensive guy come back. This is the last statement game for those guys who did everything (or most things in the case of Jordan Hall) right. Huge statement game in the Shoe to show the Buckeyes haven't fallen completely away. The good news is that we get Sparty who, for lack of a better term, is Sparty. MSU has smoked the crappy teams and lost on their only road game vs. a mediocre opponent in ND. Look for Braxton to keep running with little umph in the passing game. Hall will go for 150 yards to stake his claim to challenge Herron upon return. Kirk Cousins and the Spartans will need to throw to score and a key interception late will seal a huge win for the Scarlet and Gray. It won't be pretty, but we'll escape. MSU: 23--OSU: 24
Auer: The Bucks have to win, don't they? Mark Dantonio is a great coach, but his QB, Kirk Cousins, is still a flake. The Buckeye defense will continue to improve, and needs to gel against an average MSU offense. They do present a variety of threats, but the Silver Bullets are just better. The Shoe should be rocking for the Big Ten opener and the final game before the "Friends of Pryor" return to the lineup. Go Bucks. MSU: 16--OSU: 24
Hoying: This game pits strength on strength: OSU's latest Superman, RB Jordan Hall, will need all his X-Ray vision to find gaps in a stout MSU run defense. Add in his phenomenal kick return ability, and he should do enough to keep the Scarlet and Gray close, but not enough to win. That task will fall squarely on the shoulders of Braxton Miller. Notre Dame's Tommy Rees was able to smoke the Spartan secondary, but Braxton will crumble under the pressure, making a crucial late-game mistake that seals the Buckeyes' fate. I hope I'm wrong. MSU: 21--OSU:17
Upset Special(s)
Draper: NW over Ill, Zona over USC (I don't really see any)
Auer: KState over Baylor, Iowa State over Texas
Hoying: Auburn over South Carolina (and lots of upsets above)
Draper: SEC vs. soon-to-be-SEC. The Razorbacks got absolutely SMOKED by Alabama in a game that surprised no one. A&M fell apart last week by giving up a 17 point lead at home to an offensively dynamic team in Ok State. Both teams limp into this marquee matchup that (once again) no one is talking about. Arkansas is an also ran every year (as is Texas A&M) but I think the Aggies have a little more top to bottom talent. The second half collapse looms large but A&M needs to rebound. Arkansas's Tyler Wilson is good but they will come up just short. TAMU: 27--Ark: 24
Auer: After losing a game they shouldn't have, the Texas A&M Aggies will be looking to make a statement against an overrated R-kansas squad. The Aggies have surprised me, mostly in good was every time I've watched them, and their defense is better than expected. Arkansas has struggled, and karma has not been with them so far. TAMU: 21--Ark: 13
Hoying: A&M showed flashes of brilliance last week against Okie State, but QB Ryan Tannehill has proven to be as turnover-prone as ever, practically giving the game away. The Aggies also proved to be vulnerable against the pass, which gives an edge to Arkansas's airborne attack. However, Texas A&M is too balanced and too talented for the the Hogs to pull this one off. Look for the Aggies to win a shootout. TAMU: 41--Ark: 31
Nebraska Cornhuskers @ Wisconsin Badgers
Draper: I hate to say this, but I don't think this is going to be that close. Neither of these teams has played an opponent with a pulse but Wisconsin has looked solid on both sides of the ball whereas the Black Shirt defense of Nebraska has yet to make an appearance. Taylor Martinez and Rex Burkhead are spectacular runners but Wisconsin will probably load the box to slow down the running game. Martinez won't be able to throw well enough to keep up with the points his defense will give up. Also, Camp Randall at night is a trial by fire for the Nebraska welcome to the B1G. Nebraska: 17--Wisconsin: 31
Auer: Very torn in this one. Do I root for a team I despise, or a newcomer to the conference I know and love? Wisconsin really might be that good. Nebraska's defense might very well be a sieve. I'm going with the Badgers here, and I think it could be ugly. Nebraska: 13--Wisconsin: 41
Hoying: Which team wins this one: the one which has struggled to beat mid-level competition or the one which has spent 4 weeks mauling the Little Sisters of the Poor? Wisconsin has looked nigh unbeatable so far, but their lack of practice against quality opposition will come back to bite them here. Look for a big rushing day from Taylor Martinez and another great performance from Russell Wilson, but the over-hyped, over-confident Badgers will be brought down to reality at the hands of the B1G's newest contender. Nebraska: 35 -- Wisconsin: 34
Clemson Tigers @ Virginia Tech Hokies
Draper: Clemson is coming off a tailor made upset over Florida State (QB hurt, opponent off of a huge game, etc.) to face the other big bad boy in the ACC in Lane Stadium. Tajh Boyd has been spectacular as has the freshman Sammy Watkins, but Virginia Tech is quietly sneaking around under Logan Thomas. Clemson provides the first real test, but Blacksburg will be rocking. Let's not forget all of Clemson's big wins come at home. Lane Stadium shifts the needle to the Hokies and people will start to take note of Beamer's boys. Clem: 16--VT: 27
Auer: Clemson is off to a good start this season but is due for a let down. Haven't watched much of the Hokies, but Blacksburg and Beamerball are the perfect medicine to stop Dabo's Tigers. Clem: 10--VT: 19
Hoying: Clemson QB Tajh Boyd has been playing out of his mind this year, putting up ridiculous numbers against Florida State and Auburn (yes, Auburn has no defense this year, but they're no Marshall or Appalachian State). Meanwhile, Virginia Tech has been fed a steady diet of mediocre teams while waiting to trap the Tigers in Blacksburg. What have we learned from watching Clemson in the past? They have to seize a shot at the conference title before they can choke it all away! Clem: 27--VT: 21
Alabama Crimson Tide @ Florida Gators
Draper: This is a HUGE game in the SEC that will test to see if UF is for real and is Bama as good as we think they are. Florida has some awesome playmakers in Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps but Bama's defense is really really good. On the other side of the ball, both are relatively pedestrian except for the Tide's running back Trent Richardson. Being in the Swamp at night is a tall order, but I think Saban quiets the Gators again with some key defensive stops. Bama: 27--UF: 16
Auer: The Crimson Tide are proving time and again that they are the best team in the nation. The Gators are the Gators, and will stick with the top defense in the nation for a good bit of this game. The Swamp could slow down Alabama initially, but the solid ground game and stout D will prove too much for Florida. Bama: 35--UF: 20
Hoying: Make no mistake, the Gators are back after Urban Meyer's phoned-in 2010 season, but they're not quite in position to challenge Alabama yet. If Our Lord and Savior TIM TEBOW himself were back in orange and blue, all we would see is another waterworks on the sidelines after this scary Alabama D stuffed him again. This one shouldn't be close. Bama: 27--UF: 10
Michigan State Spartans @ Ohio State Buckeyes
Draper: One. more. game. That's all we need Buckeyes. This is the last game for which there are excuses. Following this game, WR1, RB1, LT, and...random defensive guy come back. This is the last statement game for those guys who did everything (or most things in the case of Jordan Hall) right. Huge statement game in the Shoe to show the Buckeyes haven't fallen completely away. The good news is that we get Sparty who, for lack of a better term, is Sparty. MSU has smoked the crappy teams and lost on their only road game vs. a mediocre opponent in ND. Look for Braxton to keep running with little umph in the passing game. Hall will go for 150 yards to stake his claim to challenge Herron upon return. Kirk Cousins and the Spartans will need to throw to score and a key interception late will seal a huge win for the Scarlet and Gray. It won't be pretty, but we'll escape. MSU: 23--OSU: 24
Auer: The Bucks have to win, don't they? Mark Dantonio is a great coach, but his QB, Kirk Cousins, is still a flake. The Buckeye defense will continue to improve, and needs to gel against an average MSU offense. They do present a variety of threats, but the Silver Bullets are just better. The Shoe should be rocking for the Big Ten opener and the final game before the "Friends of Pryor" return to the lineup. Go Bucks. MSU: 16--OSU: 24
Hoying: This game pits strength on strength: OSU's latest Superman, RB Jordan Hall, will need all his X-Ray vision to find gaps in a stout MSU run defense. Add in his phenomenal kick return ability, and he should do enough to keep the Scarlet and Gray close, but not enough to win. That task will fall squarely on the shoulders of Braxton Miller. Notre Dame's Tommy Rees was able to smoke the Spartan secondary, but Braxton will crumble under the pressure, making a crucial late-game mistake that seals the Buckeyes' fate. I hope I'm wrong. MSU: 21--OSU:17
Upset Special(s)
Draper: NW over Ill, Zona over USC (I don't really see any)
Auer: KState over Baylor, Iowa State over Texas
Hoying: Auburn over South Carolina (and lots of upsets above)
Monday, September 26, 2011
Five Thoughts from the Week that was
1) There needs to be more harsh consequences for referees errors...especially those which should NEVER happen.
Who saw the Toledo/Syracuse game? No one? What about the replay that is being shown briefly then hidden? With a few minutes left in the game, Syracuse scored a TD to go up 29-27. They proceeded to MISS THE PAT!! But the official under the goalpost, the referee, AND THE REPLAY OFFICIAL ruled the extra point went through the uprights. Of course, Toledo ended up kicking a field goal to send the game into overtime which Syracuse ended up winning. Toledo is requested the game to vacated (which won't happen), but people aren't placing enough blame on the officials. Sports officials (NBA refs, MLB umps, NFL/NCAA officials) are routinely given passes for mistakes they make. It's time for this to stop. These officials are paid a lot of money to make the correct calls. Some calls a judgement calls or subjective, but those that are cut and dry and still missed need to result in severe consequences (termination in most cases). Jim Joyce cost Armando Gallaraga a perfect game due to a blown call and this weekend, the officials cost Toledo a win (which could cost them a lot down the road) because the referees were incompetent. Officials often hide behind a veneer of 98-99% success rate on calls. This is blatantly skewed. 75% of the calls in every sport are such that a 5 year old child can make them correctly (like whether or not a PAT goes through the uprights or if someone is out in baseball by 40 ft.). These officials are extremely well paid (5 figures PER GAME in some cases). To miss calls of this simplicity is not acceptable. And then to examine this on video replay and not correcting an error that a monkey wouldn't make makes the matter so much worse. I have been trained as an official in basketball and football and I agree that it is a difficult job. With that being said, these missed calls are completely inexcusable at any level. These officials should tender their resignations immediately (unless they've already been canned) and beg thee league to try to rectify their error which has cost others so dearly.
2) Teams must be constantly ready for that upset possibility.
It seems that there are simply no free lunches in college football anymore. Toledo pushes OSU to the buzzer, LA Tech forced Mississippi State to overtime, Utah State should have beaten Auburn. There are myriad examples this year alone of teams rising well above themselves to scare a powerhouse or even defeat them. Ever since App State beat Michigan in 2007, the little guy has believed. Now the big boys must always be vigilant for the scrappy team that will always threaten to derail a season. We must never forget that those little teams circle the games 4 years previous. No one remembers the Little Caesar's Bowl winner, but everyone remembers Appalachian State upsetting the Wolverines (hehehehe).
3) The Pac 12, like the Big Ten, is also very bad
Those teams that will contend for a title are few and far between this year, but it's a pretty safe bet that they won't come from the B1G or Pac 12. Yes, there are Wisconsin (played no one), Nebraska (terrible defense), Oregon (lost their only big game), and Stanford (1 player and play no one), but no one really buys these teams as legitimate contenders. The cream of the SEC (LSU and Bama), Oklahoma, and maybe Boise or Ok St. are the only contenders now. The Big Ten traditionally takes the beating for being overrated, but let's heap some of the blame on the Pac 12. USC almost (and probably should have) lost to the worst Big Ten team, Minnesota. ASU lost to a mediocre B1G Illinois. Oregon St. lost at home to Sacramento St. The Washington and Washington State's are as billed (bad). Here's an example of East Coast bias helping the reputation of the Pac12 by hiding how bad the conference is. Oregon and Stanford are pretty good, but the rest of the conference is terrible.
4) Heisman trophies are more or less decided in the preseason unless a truly special player throws his hat in the race...early.
Luck. Moore. James. Jones. There're your Heisman finalists in September and most likely in December. Yes, everyone likes to pretend that someone else has a chance, but let's be honest, it's not realistic. ESPiN tried to anoint Denard Robinson after the Notre Dame game because of the explosive runs, but that game did nothing but show me he has absolutely no chance of winning without any talent throwing the ball. He'll fall off in B1G play just like last year. Anyone else is pushed to the side by the media so the preseason contenders can compete. There are other good players, but media shows what it will to determine. Blackmon and Lattimore have a slim shot, but they need to be transcendent to enter the ring. Every once in a while, a Cam Newton comes from nowhere, but we won't get a chance to see that unless some unknown leads their team to an undefeated season.
5) There are some REALLY good teams (top 10) that no one knows about due to media undercoverage.
Quick, what was the matchup of top 10 teams last week? Most would guess LSU/WVU or Bama/Arkansas but it was Ok State/Texas A&M. If you saw the hype for this Big 12 matchup, you would probably be alone. The worldwide leader (and their SEC contract) hid this incredibly big early season matchup on the back page to highlight a good SEC team vs. a Big East contender. I truly believe that the Cowboys are one of the best teams in the country, but you'd never know with the coverage they get. We need the media to come out from behind the screen of unbiased-ness and own up to their true allegiance: $$$$. Yes, LSU and Bama are very very good teams, but there are others that are being ignored due to the sexiness of the name. Even Boise St. is a sexier name for the media due to the cinderella story that pushes teams that are better in my opinion (OkSt., TAMU, SoCarolina, Stanford, Wisconsin, etc.). The SEC isn't the only conference, althought that's what the media wants you to think.
Who saw the Toledo/Syracuse game? No one? What about the replay that is being shown briefly then hidden? With a few minutes left in the game, Syracuse scored a TD to go up 29-27. They proceeded to MISS THE PAT!! But the official under the goalpost, the referee, AND THE REPLAY OFFICIAL ruled the extra point went through the uprights. Of course, Toledo ended up kicking a field goal to send the game into overtime which Syracuse ended up winning. Toledo is requested the game to vacated (which won't happen), but people aren't placing enough blame on the officials. Sports officials (NBA refs, MLB umps, NFL/NCAA officials) are routinely given passes for mistakes they make. It's time for this to stop. These officials are paid a lot of money to make the correct calls. Some calls a judgement calls or subjective, but those that are cut and dry and still missed need to result in severe consequences (termination in most cases). Jim Joyce cost Armando Gallaraga a perfect game due to a blown call and this weekend, the officials cost Toledo a win (which could cost them a lot down the road) because the referees were incompetent. Officials often hide behind a veneer of 98-99% success rate on calls. This is blatantly skewed. 75% of the calls in every sport are such that a 5 year old child can make them correctly (like whether or not a PAT goes through the uprights or if someone is out in baseball by 40 ft.). These officials are extremely well paid (5 figures PER GAME in some cases). To miss calls of this simplicity is not acceptable. And then to examine this on video replay and not correcting an error that a monkey wouldn't make makes the matter so much worse. I have been trained as an official in basketball and football and I agree that it is a difficult job. With that being said, these missed calls are completely inexcusable at any level. These officials should tender their resignations immediately (unless they've already been canned) and beg thee league to try to rectify their error which has cost others so dearly.
2) Teams must be constantly ready for that upset possibility.
It seems that there are simply no free lunches in college football anymore. Toledo pushes OSU to the buzzer, LA Tech forced Mississippi State to overtime, Utah State should have beaten Auburn. There are myriad examples this year alone of teams rising well above themselves to scare a powerhouse or even defeat them. Ever since App State beat Michigan in 2007, the little guy has believed. Now the big boys must always be vigilant for the scrappy team that will always threaten to derail a season. We must never forget that those little teams circle the games 4 years previous. No one remembers the Little Caesar's Bowl winner, but everyone remembers Appalachian State upsetting the Wolverines (hehehehe).
3) The Pac 12, like the Big Ten, is also very bad
Those teams that will contend for a title are few and far between this year, but it's a pretty safe bet that they won't come from the B1G or Pac 12. Yes, there are Wisconsin (played no one), Nebraska (terrible defense), Oregon (lost their only big game), and Stanford (1 player and play no one), but no one really buys these teams as legitimate contenders. The cream of the SEC (LSU and Bama), Oklahoma, and maybe Boise or Ok St. are the only contenders now. The Big Ten traditionally takes the beating for being overrated, but let's heap some of the blame on the Pac 12. USC almost (and probably should have) lost to the worst Big Ten team, Minnesota. ASU lost to a mediocre B1G Illinois. Oregon St. lost at home to Sacramento St. The Washington and Washington State's are as billed (bad). Here's an example of East Coast bias helping the reputation of the Pac12 by hiding how bad the conference is. Oregon and Stanford are pretty good, but the rest of the conference is terrible.
4) Heisman trophies are more or less decided in the preseason unless a truly special player throws his hat in the race...early.
Luck. Moore. James. Jones. There're your Heisman finalists in September and most likely in December. Yes, everyone likes to pretend that someone else has a chance, but let's be honest, it's not realistic. ESPiN tried to anoint Denard Robinson after the Notre Dame game because of the explosive runs, but that game did nothing but show me he has absolutely no chance of winning without any talent throwing the ball. He'll fall off in B1G play just like last year. Anyone else is pushed to the side by the media so the preseason contenders can compete. There are other good players, but media shows what it will to determine. Blackmon and Lattimore have a slim shot, but they need to be transcendent to enter the ring. Every once in a while, a Cam Newton comes from nowhere, but we won't get a chance to see that unless some unknown leads their team to an undefeated season.
5) There are some REALLY good teams (top 10) that no one knows about due to media undercoverage.
Quick, what was the matchup of top 10 teams last week? Most would guess LSU/WVU or Bama/Arkansas but it was Ok State/Texas A&M. If you saw the hype for this Big 12 matchup, you would probably be alone. The worldwide leader (and their SEC contract) hid this incredibly big early season matchup on the back page to highlight a good SEC team vs. a Big East contender. I truly believe that the Cowboys are one of the best teams in the country, but you'd never know with the coverage they get. We need the media to come out from behind the screen of unbiased-ness and own up to their true allegiance: $$$$. Yes, LSU and Bama are very very good teams, but there are others that are being ignored due to the sexiness of the name. Even Boise St. is a sexier name for the media due to the cinderella story that pushes teams that are better in my opinion (OkSt., TAMU, SoCarolina, Stanford, Wisconsin, etc.). The SEC isn't the only conference, althought that's what the media wants you to think.
Grading the Bucks Week 4: Colorado
Offense: B
Braxton Miller makes his first start for the Scarlet and Gray and had a nice little game. See how 5 completions by Braxton was more acceptable to the fans with a win? Fair or not, the performance through the air was about as woeful as Miami. The offense was able to put up points this week so that's a major plus, but it was Colorado. Miller made some nice moves in the backfield and down field but he has some freshman flaws. His internal clock is about 1 second before he takes off running and he is rather indecisive with his running. He doesn't attack the hole but rather dancing through it. The running game was great and Jordan Hall is the stud we all expected. The 1-2 punch of Hall and Herron will be scary. Miller looked passable on his few throws and made 3 excellent throws (2 for TDs and 1 dropped). He still has much to learn in pocket presence and accuracy but he'll learn. Bauserman came in a little late for my taste because Miller takes a lot of hits due to indecision (not to mention JB looked fine at home). The major upside of the offense: 0 turnovers.
Defense: C
Not happy with this unit at all. They came out firing on all cylinders but certainly let up as the game went on. We're seeing the loss of Nate Williams is very costly allowing double teams for Simon on every play. The secondary is still very suspect. I was wrong about Travis Howard. He should probably head back to the bench rather than misplaying every deep ball. Also, I see Howard trying to blow people up rather than solid form tackling--something that will cost us in the future. Tyler Moeller has also not lived up to expectations. Way too many missed tackles, a TD given up on a broken 4th down play, and 17 points to a BAD Buffalo team shows we're not where we need to be.
Special Teams: A-
What makes a special teams day a good one? No one talking about you. Buchanan is punting extremely well (not the biggest leg but great accuracy), Basil is making the kicks now, coverage has been fine, and the return game is giving a little spark. Great kick return but Jordan Hall (again) almost giving a quick 7 and good awareness (or bad Colorado) to get the turnover before the half. I stuck with A- rather than A due to too many touchbacks on the punts and no scores but I could be convinced to bump them up to an A.
Coaching: B
Ok Bollman. You may be learning. We don't have a quarterback...yet. But we do have a fantastic running back and a fairly good O-line. Run. The. Ball. How many attempts did Miller have in the 1st quarter? 0. Great play calling. Everyone says you have to pass to set up the run, but I disagree if the run works. Hall was running up and down the field and Miller looked pretty good running a zone read option. Also, the receivers couldn't catch a pass (except Smith), so just stop throwing until you have to. When Posey gets back and if the receivers put some glue on their hands, we can start throwing (B1G play anyone), but if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Keep running the ball. Also, the fans hated the call to kick the FG with 6 seconds left in the half, but I think it was an ok call. Don't end the half without points when you kick off to start the 2nd half. Had Miller taken too long to decide and the Bucks came away without points, Fickell would be getting mauled. Good safe call, but need some more work in practice to shore up the execution. Keep riding the running game no matter if it's boring if it works.
Braxton Miller makes his first start for the Scarlet and Gray and had a nice little game. See how 5 completions by Braxton was more acceptable to the fans with a win? Fair or not, the performance through the air was about as woeful as Miami. The offense was able to put up points this week so that's a major plus, but it was Colorado. Miller made some nice moves in the backfield and down field but he has some freshman flaws. His internal clock is about 1 second before he takes off running and he is rather indecisive with his running. He doesn't attack the hole but rather dancing through it. The running game was great and Jordan Hall is the stud we all expected. The 1-2 punch of Hall and Herron will be scary. Miller looked passable on his few throws and made 3 excellent throws (2 for TDs and 1 dropped). He still has much to learn in pocket presence and accuracy but he'll learn. Bauserman came in a little late for my taste because Miller takes a lot of hits due to indecision (not to mention JB looked fine at home). The major upside of the offense: 0 turnovers.
Defense: C
Not happy with this unit at all. They came out firing on all cylinders but certainly let up as the game went on. We're seeing the loss of Nate Williams is very costly allowing double teams for Simon on every play. The secondary is still very suspect. I was wrong about Travis Howard. He should probably head back to the bench rather than misplaying every deep ball. Also, I see Howard trying to blow people up rather than solid form tackling--something that will cost us in the future. Tyler Moeller has also not lived up to expectations. Way too many missed tackles, a TD given up on a broken 4th down play, and 17 points to a BAD Buffalo team shows we're not where we need to be.
Special Teams: A-
What makes a special teams day a good one? No one talking about you. Buchanan is punting extremely well (not the biggest leg but great accuracy), Basil is making the kicks now, coverage has been fine, and the return game is giving a little spark. Great kick return but Jordan Hall (again) almost giving a quick 7 and good awareness (or bad Colorado) to get the turnover before the half. I stuck with A- rather than A due to too many touchbacks on the punts and no scores but I could be convinced to bump them up to an A.
Coaching: B
Ok Bollman. You may be learning. We don't have a quarterback...yet. But we do have a fantastic running back and a fairly good O-line. Run. The. Ball. How many attempts did Miller have in the 1st quarter? 0. Great play calling. Everyone says you have to pass to set up the run, but I disagree if the run works. Hall was running up and down the field and Miller looked pretty good running a zone read option. Also, the receivers couldn't catch a pass (except Smith), so just stop throwing until you have to. When Posey gets back and if the receivers put some glue on their hands, we can start throwing (B1G play anyone), but if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Keep running the ball. Also, the fans hated the call to kick the FG with 6 seconds left in the half, but I think it was an ok call. Don't end the half without points when you kick off to start the 2nd half. Had Miller taken too long to decide and the Bucks came away without points, Fickell would be getting mauled. Good safe call, but need some more work in practice to shore up the execution. Keep riding the running game no matter if it's boring if it works.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Week 4 Picks: Early Conference Showdown
Oklahoma State @ Texas A&M
Draper: This will most likely be the biggest game of the weekend that no one will talk about (even though it's between top 10 teams). The Aggies have high hopes on the season but haven't been able to show their skills against quality competition. The Pokes have the most explosive offense in the country but the defense is suspect. The home field advantage of the 12th man will be spectacular, but I'm riding the Cowboys all the way. Justin Blackmon will enter the Heisman race (even though he's already the clear cut number 1 WR in the country) with a huge performance. OSU: 42--TAMU: 35
Auer: Color me shocked that Texas A&M hasn't lost a game they shouldn't yet. Just like my esteemed colleague mentioned, this is probably the best game this weekend that literally no one is talking about. Frankly, I had no idea that Ok State was ranked this high. Based on how each team has performed this season, this is going to be a close one. The consistency of the fan support will help put the Aggies over the top in this one. OSU: 28--TAMU: 38
LSU @ West Virginia
Draper: The Mountaineers are riding an undefeated streak after squeaking by Maryland after the Terps roared back late. LSU won a big game in Starksville last Thurs which I believe is a more threatening environment than Morgantown. The WVU faithful will be out burning couches and showing their tooth, but the Tiger defense is just too good. Geno Smith will spend most of the game on his back and Jarrett Lee will do enough to not blow it. LSU: 20--WVU: 10
Auer: LSU has already ran through a gamut of difficult teams, and WVU will be no rollover. The Tigers have proved to be both unstoppable, and a bit lucky, waiting for teams to make the mistake that gives the Mad Hatter and his squad the win. The Mountaineers are on the cusp of making a huge statement, and vaulting themselves back onto the national scene, and into the BCS Championship conversation. I believe the Tigers will be looking ahead to the home-opener, and get nipped here by the 'Neers. LSU: 27--WVU: 29
Arkansas @ Alabama
Draper: Arkansas has been a surprise with the crazy loss of Knile Davis in the off season and Ryan Mallet's departure to the NFL. Problem is, Bama is a whole different animal. Richardson is a beast (even if he is the only offense they have) and the Tide defense is an immoveable object. Arkansas will start fast, but die off near halftime. Bama will score enough to win comfortably while the defense shuts it down. Ark: 10--Bama: 24
Auer: Alabama is nearly an unstoppable force it seems. The running game and defense form almost a perfect beast that is next to impossible to stop. Arkansas just does not have the horses to run with the Tide this year. Ark: 6--Bama: 38
Florida State @ Clemson
Draper: My Noles may have lost to the Sooners, but boy were they pumped. They got me excited for the remainder of this year and the future. EJ Manuel's injury could cost them but Trickett stepped up big time (even though he's 10 years old). Clemson looked pretty good last week ending Auburn's winning streak. Tajh Boyd and Edwards are very good but the Nole D is a bigger animal. I will admit that Death Valley is the 3rd loudest stadium I've been too (1. Swamp 2. Horseshoe) but they just don't have the horses. Noles roll! FSU: 34--Clem: 20
Auer: FSU proved last weekend that they are a very good team, but with a variety of injuries, and the HUGE potential of a let-down, Clemson is going to surprise everyone and pull off the upset. Ironically, with a QB who would have come to OSU had Terrelle Pryor not been here... FSU: 18--Clem: 28
Colorado @ Ohio State
Draper: The Buckeyes absolutely need this rebound game. Thankfully, Colorado is woefully bad. The lines for the Bucks need to completely dominate and I believe they will. It's looking like Braxton will get his first start so hold your breath on turnovers. Expect a conservatively called game with a heavy heavy dose of the run and a few safe passes. I'm sure Miller was coached up this week on ball security when running. Bauserman will most likely get some time so do me a favor Buckeye fans: don't boo your players. This is just what the doctor ordered after last week's abomination. The Bullets will turn up the heat and I expect to see an offense this week. CU: 0--OSU: 27
Auer: After quite possibly the ugliest offensive showing I've ever seen out of Ohio State the work really begins for Coach Fickell. Colorado isn't as bad as Akron, but they also aren't as good as Toledo or Miami. The Bucks defense took some time to gel in Miami, and the offense never really made an appearance. There must be some sort of consistency established, and it all starts with the quarterback position. CU: 10--OSU: 38
Upset Special
Draper: Arizona State over USC and San Diego State over Michigan
Auer: WVU over LSU and ASU over USC
Draper: This will most likely be the biggest game of the weekend that no one will talk about (even though it's between top 10 teams). The Aggies have high hopes on the season but haven't been able to show their skills against quality competition. The Pokes have the most explosive offense in the country but the defense is suspect. The home field advantage of the 12th man will be spectacular, but I'm riding the Cowboys all the way. Justin Blackmon will enter the Heisman race (even though he's already the clear cut number 1 WR in the country) with a huge performance. OSU: 42--TAMU: 35
Auer: Color me shocked that Texas A&M hasn't lost a game they shouldn't yet. Just like my esteemed colleague mentioned, this is probably the best game this weekend that literally no one is talking about. Frankly, I had no idea that Ok State was ranked this high. Based on how each team has performed this season, this is going to be a close one. The consistency of the fan support will help put the Aggies over the top in this one. OSU: 28--TAMU: 38
LSU @ West Virginia
Draper: The Mountaineers are riding an undefeated streak after squeaking by Maryland after the Terps roared back late. LSU won a big game in Starksville last Thurs which I believe is a more threatening environment than Morgantown. The WVU faithful will be out burning couches and showing their tooth, but the Tiger defense is just too good. Geno Smith will spend most of the game on his back and Jarrett Lee will do enough to not blow it. LSU: 20--WVU: 10
Auer: LSU has already ran through a gamut of difficult teams, and WVU will be no rollover. The Tigers have proved to be both unstoppable, and a bit lucky, waiting for teams to make the mistake that gives the Mad Hatter and his squad the win. The Mountaineers are on the cusp of making a huge statement, and vaulting themselves back onto the national scene, and into the BCS Championship conversation. I believe the Tigers will be looking ahead to the home-opener, and get nipped here by the 'Neers. LSU: 27--WVU: 29
Arkansas @ Alabama
Draper: Arkansas has been a surprise with the crazy loss of Knile Davis in the off season and Ryan Mallet's departure to the NFL. Problem is, Bama is a whole different animal. Richardson is a beast (even if he is the only offense they have) and the Tide defense is an immoveable object. Arkansas will start fast, but die off near halftime. Bama will score enough to win comfortably while the defense shuts it down. Ark: 10--Bama: 24
Auer: Alabama is nearly an unstoppable force it seems. The running game and defense form almost a perfect beast that is next to impossible to stop. Arkansas just does not have the horses to run with the Tide this year. Ark: 6--Bama: 38
Florida State @ Clemson
Draper: My Noles may have lost to the Sooners, but boy were they pumped. They got me excited for the remainder of this year and the future. EJ Manuel's injury could cost them but Trickett stepped up big time (even though he's 10 years old). Clemson looked pretty good last week ending Auburn's winning streak. Tajh Boyd and Edwards are very good but the Nole D is a bigger animal. I will admit that Death Valley is the 3rd loudest stadium I've been too (1. Swamp 2. Horseshoe) but they just don't have the horses. Noles roll! FSU: 34--Clem: 20
Auer: FSU proved last weekend that they are a very good team, but with a variety of injuries, and the HUGE potential of a let-down, Clemson is going to surprise everyone and pull off the upset. Ironically, with a QB who would have come to OSU had Terrelle Pryor not been here... FSU: 18--Clem: 28
Colorado @ Ohio State
Draper: The Buckeyes absolutely need this rebound game. Thankfully, Colorado is woefully bad. The lines for the Bucks need to completely dominate and I believe they will. It's looking like Braxton will get his first start so hold your breath on turnovers. Expect a conservatively called game with a heavy heavy dose of the run and a few safe passes. I'm sure Miller was coached up this week on ball security when running. Bauserman will most likely get some time so do me a favor Buckeye fans: don't boo your players. This is just what the doctor ordered after last week's abomination. The Bullets will turn up the heat and I expect to see an offense this week. CU: 0--OSU: 27
Auer: After quite possibly the ugliest offensive showing I've ever seen out of Ohio State the work really begins for Coach Fickell. Colorado isn't as bad as Akron, but they also aren't as good as Toledo or Miami. The Bucks defense took some time to gel in Miami, and the offense never really made an appearance. There must be some sort of consistency established, and it all starts with the quarterback position. CU: 10--OSU: 38
Upset Special
Draper: Arizona State over USC and San Diego State over Michigan
Auer: WVU over LSU and ASU over USC
Monday, September 19, 2011
Five Thoughts on the Week that was
1) I hope Brady Hoke never realizes how to use Denard Robinson at the beginning of the game.
Watching another Michigan game (part in parcel), I can see that Michigan's offense is being handcuffed by their coaches. The defense is atrocious and that won't change until the athletes change because they simply don't have the personnel. With regard to the offense, there's a reason the Wolverines continually get behind in every game and come storming back. Al Borges and Brady Hoke are convinced that they can force their system and make Robinson a pocket passer and that simply is not possible. After a few stalled drives against terrible defenses, they remove the reins and let Denard run all over the field to defeat the small schools they are playing now by himself. Denard Robinson is a stellar athlete but he is not a great quarterback. Hoke may install the offense bit by bit, but I hope he fails to use his most powerful weapon as effectively as possible. When the teams get better as the year goes on, Denard won't be able to come that size of a deficit with a decent defense. He will NOT win the Heisman either way because he simply cannot throw effectively, but he is the most explosive player in the country when let loose.
2) FSU is right on the cusp of being back
Some of the swagger is back in Tally. I loved the environment bringing me back to my rookie season with the Garnet and Gold. The town's rocking and the belief is there, but the talent is JUST short. Don't get me wrong, they are extremely talented and most likely will finish in the top 10 with a BCS berth and an ACC title, but the game against OU showed the importance of experienced veterans in a national title contender. The Noles will be a force to deal with in the years to come which is what is getting me excited about the future. Finally, I see a team that expects to win every game again. This year of experience and swagger will continue the reloading in Tallahassee. The country will once again fear the spear with the huge hits and rowdy atmosphere.
3) Suspensions kill
Yikes Buckeyes! That was pathetic. But let us look at the situation: suspensions have removed the quarterback (Pryor), #1 Running Back (Herron), #1 Receiver (Posey), Left Tackle (Adams), and an up-and-coming defender (Thomas). Imagine any team in which those pieces are removed for a few games...train wreck--and we in Columbus are seeing the brutal reality and results of the Tat 5 indiscretions and selfishness. Miami has a decent team which was underrated from the week 1 loss somewhat attributed to suspensions, but the Buckeyes should never let that happen to a mediocre team. Excuses don't feed the family, but there it is. This loss can be attributed in part to the selfishness of the 5 athletes who put themselves over the team. You have to rebound, but that severe of a loss is a killer.
4) Realignment is here...why couldn't this have been taken care of over the offseason.
After all the talk and speculation in the offseason surrounding conference realignment (primarily focused around the Big 12 schools), nothing happened before the season started. Everything looked to be at a standstill after the Pac 12 expansion until Texas A&M rocked the boat and sought out the SEC. Now, all of a sudden, the big boys in Texas and Oklahoma are seeking a move and out of left field, Pitt and Syracuse jump to the ACC in a move than will most likely destroy the Big East. Let's recap: we appear in line for 4 superconferences (Big Ten, Pac 12, SEC, and ACC). The ACC will be the basketball powerhouse and the SEC will be the football powerhouse (on paper). Three of the four are scrambling to catch the pieces as the fall while the schools in the Big East, Big 12, and non-AQ conferences scramble to find some conference to take them on. The Big Ten is notoriously absent from the realignment talks and they probably have to get in the game. Notre Dame is the big fish that will fall to the Big Ten shortly, but, like it or not, it appears the Big Ten must seek expansion to keep up--or, more likely, they will refuse any and all newcomers (other than ND) and show all other conferences how financially stable they are in comparison and stick with 13-14. Some think it won't work, but the Big Ten has enough of a following and traditional fanbase than it might. It appears that Texas and Oklahoma (and therefore Okie State and Texas Tech) are Pac 12 bound so all of the big fish are already gone (sans Notre Dame) so if Delany doesn't get on it, the Big Ten will be left with nothing but scrubs. I don't know how I feel about superconferences but, as I said last year, they are about to become a reality. I just wished that the schools could have handled this business in the summer rather than taking away from the sport.
5) This is a down year for the Big Ten (for real this year)--mostly due to Ohio State.
The Big Ten has always taken the heat from the media (sorry from ESPiN) because they aren't the ESPiN cash cow of the SEC and the Big Ten Network has actually survived in a world in which the worldwide leader is an essential monopoly. They are always hammered for being slow and weak when most of the criticism was undeserved. Yes, the SEC has had the premier program in college football for the last few years and I won't argue it, but it has the Ole Miss, Vandys, and Kentuckys of the world like every other conference. Ohio State has been the standard bearer and has rebounded from the national championship losses of 06 and 07. The suspensions have hurt the premier program and led to more pundits smelling blood. Unfortunately, the much of the criticism is right this year. Wisconsin is pretty good but we have no real benchmark given the competition. Ditto for Nebraska but the defense has been very suspect. MSU drops the first 'big one' to ND, OSU is embarrassed in Miami, Michigan has been stupid bad defensively, and Penn State was spanked (no big surprise) at home to Bama and struggled with Temple. The one bright spot has been a better than expected Illinois team. I have defended the Big Ten in the past, but it's tough to argue this year. Yes, it's better than the Big East and maybe even with the other big conferences in the meat, but I don't see a single elite team that you can find in the other 4 big conferences (Bama/LSU, OU/OkSt, Oreg/Stanford, FSU). Wisky and Nebraska might join the 'elite' but the downfall of the Buckeyes is felt all around the midwest. Perhaps when the suspensions abate, the Buckeyes will reemerge as a contender, but no matter what, the Big Ten is in a down year.
Watching another Michigan game (part in parcel), I can see that Michigan's offense is being handcuffed by their coaches. The defense is atrocious and that won't change until the athletes change because they simply don't have the personnel. With regard to the offense, there's a reason the Wolverines continually get behind in every game and come storming back. Al Borges and Brady Hoke are convinced that they can force their system and make Robinson a pocket passer and that simply is not possible. After a few stalled drives against terrible defenses, they remove the reins and let Denard run all over the field to defeat the small schools they are playing now by himself. Denard Robinson is a stellar athlete but he is not a great quarterback. Hoke may install the offense bit by bit, but I hope he fails to use his most powerful weapon as effectively as possible. When the teams get better as the year goes on, Denard won't be able to come that size of a deficit with a decent defense. He will NOT win the Heisman either way because he simply cannot throw effectively, but he is the most explosive player in the country when let loose.
2) FSU is right on the cusp of being back
Some of the swagger is back in Tally. I loved the environment bringing me back to my rookie season with the Garnet and Gold. The town's rocking and the belief is there, but the talent is JUST short. Don't get me wrong, they are extremely talented and most likely will finish in the top 10 with a BCS berth and an ACC title, but the game against OU showed the importance of experienced veterans in a national title contender. The Noles will be a force to deal with in the years to come which is what is getting me excited about the future. Finally, I see a team that expects to win every game again. This year of experience and swagger will continue the reloading in Tallahassee. The country will once again fear the spear with the huge hits and rowdy atmosphere.
3) Suspensions kill
Yikes Buckeyes! That was pathetic. But let us look at the situation: suspensions have removed the quarterback (Pryor), #1 Running Back (Herron), #1 Receiver (Posey), Left Tackle (Adams), and an up-and-coming defender (Thomas). Imagine any team in which those pieces are removed for a few games...train wreck--and we in Columbus are seeing the brutal reality and results of the Tat 5 indiscretions and selfishness. Miami has a decent team which was underrated from the week 1 loss somewhat attributed to suspensions, but the Buckeyes should never let that happen to a mediocre team. Excuses don't feed the family, but there it is. This loss can be attributed in part to the selfishness of the 5 athletes who put themselves over the team. You have to rebound, but that severe of a loss is a killer.
4) Realignment is here...why couldn't this have been taken care of over the offseason.
After all the talk and speculation in the offseason surrounding conference realignment (primarily focused around the Big 12 schools), nothing happened before the season started. Everything looked to be at a standstill after the Pac 12 expansion until Texas A&M rocked the boat and sought out the SEC. Now, all of a sudden, the big boys in Texas and Oklahoma are seeking a move and out of left field, Pitt and Syracuse jump to the ACC in a move than will most likely destroy the Big East. Let's recap: we appear in line for 4 superconferences (Big Ten, Pac 12, SEC, and ACC). The ACC will be the basketball powerhouse and the SEC will be the football powerhouse (on paper). Three of the four are scrambling to catch the pieces as the fall while the schools in the Big East, Big 12, and non-AQ conferences scramble to find some conference to take them on. The Big Ten is notoriously absent from the realignment talks and they probably have to get in the game. Notre Dame is the big fish that will fall to the Big Ten shortly, but, like it or not, it appears the Big Ten must seek expansion to keep up--or, more likely, they will refuse any and all newcomers (other than ND) and show all other conferences how financially stable they are in comparison and stick with 13-14. Some think it won't work, but the Big Ten has enough of a following and traditional fanbase than it might. It appears that Texas and Oklahoma (and therefore Okie State and Texas Tech) are Pac 12 bound so all of the big fish are already gone (sans Notre Dame) so if Delany doesn't get on it, the Big Ten will be left with nothing but scrubs. I don't know how I feel about superconferences but, as I said last year, they are about to become a reality. I just wished that the schools could have handled this business in the summer rather than taking away from the sport.
5) This is a down year for the Big Ten (for real this year)--mostly due to Ohio State.
The Big Ten has always taken the heat from the media (sorry from ESPiN) because they aren't the ESPiN cash cow of the SEC and the Big Ten Network has actually survived in a world in which the worldwide leader is an essential monopoly. They are always hammered for being slow and weak when most of the criticism was undeserved. Yes, the SEC has had the premier program in college football for the last few years and I won't argue it, but it has the Ole Miss, Vandys, and Kentuckys of the world like every other conference. Ohio State has been the standard bearer and has rebounded from the national championship losses of 06 and 07. The suspensions have hurt the premier program and led to more pundits smelling blood. Unfortunately, the much of the criticism is right this year. Wisconsin is pretty good but we have no real benchmark given the competition. Ditto for Nebraska but the defense has been very suspect. MSU drops the first 'big one' to ND, OSU is embarrassed in Miami, Michigan has been stupid bad defensively, and Penn State was spanked (no big surprise) at home to Bama and struggled with Temple. The one bright spot has been a better than expected Illinois team. I have defended the Big Ten in the past, but it's tough to argue this year. Yes, it's better than the Big East and maybe even with the other big conferences in the meat, but I don't see a single elite team that you can find in the other 4 big conferences (Bama/LSU, OU/OkSt, Oreg/Stanford, FSU). Wisky and Nebraska might join the 'elite' but the downfall of the Buckeyes is felt all around the midwest. Perhaps when the suspensions abate, the Buckeyes will reemerge as a contender, but no matter what, the Big Ten is in a down year.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Grading the Buckeyes: Week 3 Miami...OUCH
Not much good to say here. Let's just get to it.
Offense: D+
Talk about ineptness. 2 completed passes before the last 2 plays....2. Many will hate me for my opinion, but here it is: Bauserman is and must be our quarterback. There is no doubt that Miller is the more talented of the two but he is just not ready. If we throw him to the wolves now, we will waste his talent and potential for future success for another win or two this season. Bauserman is serviceable (no matter what you think) but he needs help. Many point to the stats and the throw-aways (to the ghost men). The stats don't tell the story of failure by our receivers who dropped at least 6 passes that were on the numbers--by the way, our receivers caught, you guessed it, 0 passes. If those passes thrown away were forced in to the covered receivers (and they were covered) he would have at least 3 interceptions. Given the choice, I'm fine with it. He managed the game well, but he isn't a playmaker (all of ours are suspended). Miller can be a GREAT quarterback in the future, but he needs to learn first. I have seen this story before with an old quarterback benched for the flashy freshman. Learn from the past, Luke. I gave D+ rather than an F because there was a HUGE positive on this side. The best unit on the field for the Buckeyes was the offensive line (never thought I'd say that). They were opening up monster holes and the Buckeyes had great success with Jordan Hall running (why we abandoned that, I'll never know). The Buckeye offense will be boring this year, but it COULD be effective if we run. the. ball.
Defense: B+
This unit would deserve an A if it weren't for the first 2 drives where they obviously though the game started at 8:00. The Buckeyes could have been absolutely smoked if the defense didn't tighten up after the first 2 possessions. They came up with some Jacory Harris picks but dropped another two. With that being said, you can't expect the defense to stop the opposing team and score the points. They stiffened up and really gave the Buckeyes life until the last 2 minutes of the game but they definitely dug a hole from which this offense could not come back. The defensive line is not as deep as the past and the loss of Nate Williams really hurt. Giving up nearly 200 yards to a running back is inexcusable (even though most of those came on the first 2 drives. Clean up the slow start and some sloppy tackling and we'll talk.
Special Teams: A
Yes ladies and gentlemen, you read that right. The Ohio State Special Teams gets my coveted A grade for what seems like the first time ever. Ben Buchanan was phenomenal punting the ball and constantly flipping the field after the offense stalled (usually after 3 plays). Beautiful punts and very nice coverage prevented the big play from Miami. Also, Drew Basil made his first (and second) field goals of his career which will give him much needed confidence for the future. If special teams can get help from the offense, we might win some games. Absolutely loved the punting game but would rather not punt the ball that much anymore.
Coaching: F
Ok Luke, I think we've found you're in over your head. The camera caught the deer in headlights on the sideline which was difficult to watch. As I stated, the biggest mistake of the coaching staff in my opinion is the exact opposite of the greater Columbus area. Bauserman needs to be the guy and we need to run the ball (almost to the exclusion of the pass). Miller will learn and improve over time, but he's not there. When he was running free, Columbus was screaming MILLER TIME but I could see the cockiness in his eyes. I was waiting for the mistake and wasn't disappointed. Again, he. will. be. great. Not yet. Let Bauserman hand it off and run Woody style offense (3 yards and a cloud of dust) with the bevy of great backs and surprisingly good offensive line play. It will be boring, but it will work better than what we are seeing. The playcalling was forced and felt like they had to call a balanced game. Play to the strengths and ignore the pass until the run is stopped. The biggest coaching error occurred in the waning seconds of the game and had no effect of the outcome. As a coach, you never, ever, EVER give up on your team. EVER. Fickell had 3 timeouts in a 2 score game (1TD and 1FG) and he stuffed them in his pocket for a later date. I know that we had a 1 in a trillion chance of winning, but you always hold on and show your team belief in them and their abilities. By giving up, he showed me more than ever that he cannot stay without a major overhaul. I'd love to see Earle Bruce rip him a new one for giving up. I know Woody or Earle wouldn't slink away with his tail between his legs after this. He would claw and scratch until the clock strikes zero. We weren't going to win and you could see Luke thought that, but you never give up even when the world is against you....what about the lesson you're trying to teach with the off the field, 'us against the world' mentality. His actions showed his philosophy was nothing but empty words and that was the most painful thing about the loss.
Here's to leaving this week behind and hitting it hard for another day. Go Bucks!
Offense: D+
Talk about ineptness. 2 completed passes before the last 2 plays....2. Many will hate me for my opinion, but here it is: Bauserman is and must be our quarterback. There is no doubt that Miller is the more talented of the two but he is just not ready. If we throw him to the wolves now, we will waste his talent and potential for future success for another win or two this season. Bauserman is serviceable (no matter what you think) but he needs help. Many point to the stats and the throw-aways (to the ghost men). The stats don't tell the story of failure by our receivers who dropped at least 6 passes that were on the numbers--by the way, our receivers caught, you guessed it, 0 passes. If those passes thrown away were forced in to the covered receivers (and they were covered) he would have at least 3 interceptions. Given the choice, I'm fine with it. He managed the game well, but he isn't a playmaker (all of ours are suspended). Miller can be a GREAT quarterback in the future, but he needs to learn first. I have seen this story before with an old quarterback benched for the flashy freshman. Learn from the past, Luke. I gave D+ rather than an F because there was a HUGE positive on this side. The best unit on the field for the Buckeyes was the offensive line (never thought I'd say that). They were opening up monster holes and the Buckeyes had great success with Jordan Hall running (why we abandoned that, I'll never know). The Buckeye offense will be boring this year, but it COULD be effective if we run. the. ball.
Defense: B+
This unit would deserve an A if it weren't for the first 2 drives where they obviously though the game started at 8:00. The Buckeyes could have been absolutely smoked if the defense didn't tighten up after the first 2 possessions. They came up with some Jacory Harris picks but dropped another two. With that being said, you can't expect the defense to stop the opposing team and score the points. They stiffened up and really gave the Buckeyes life until the last 2 minutes of the game but they definitely dug a hole from which this offense could not come back. The defensive line is not as deep as the past and the loss of Nate Williams really hurt. Giving up nearly 200 yards to a running back is inexcusable (even though most of those came on the first 2 drives. Clean up the slow start and some sloppy tackling and we'll talk.
Special Teams: A
Yes ladies and gentlemen, you read that right. The Ohio State Special Teams gets my coveted A grade for what seems like the first time ever. Ben Buchanan was phenomenal punting the ball and constantly flipping the field after the offense stalled (usually after 3 plays). Beautiful punts and very nice coverage prevented the big play from Miami. Also, Drew Basil made his first (and second) field goals of his career which will give him much needed confidence for the future. If special teams can get help from the offense, we might win some games. Absolutely loved the punting game but would rather not punt the ball that much anymore.
Coaching: F
Ok Luke, I think we've found you're in over your head. The camera caught the deer in headlights on the sideline which was difficult to watch. As I stated, the biggest mistake of the coaching staff in my opinion is the exact opposite of the greater Columbus area. Bauserman needs to be the guy and we need to run the ball (almost to the exclusion of the pass). Miller will learn and improve over time, but he's not there. When he was running free, Columbus was screaming MILLER TIME but I could see the cockiness in his eyes. I was waiting for the mistake and wasn't disappointed. Again, he. will. be. great. Not yet. Let Bauserman hand it off and run Woody style offense (3 yards and a cloud of dust) with the bevy of great backs and surprisingly good offensive line play. It will be boring, but it will work better than what we are seeing. The playcalling was forced and felt like they had to call a balanced game. Play to the strengths and ignore the pass until the run is stopped. The biggest coaching error occurred in the waning seconds of the game and had no effect of the outcome. As a coach, you never, ever, EVER give up on your team. EVER. Fickell had 3 timeouts in a 2 score game (1TD and 1FG) and he stuffed them in his pocket for a later date. I know that we had a 1 in a trillion chance of winning, but you always hold on and show your team belief in them and their abilities. By giving up, he showed me more than ever that he cannot stay without a major overhaul. I'd love to see Earle Bruce rip him a new one for giving up. I know Woody or Earle wouldn't slink away with his tail between his legs after this. He would claw and scratch until the clock strikes zero. We weren't going to win and you could see Luke thought that, but you never give up even when the world is against you....what about the lesson you're trying to teach with the off the field, 'us against the world' mentality. His actions showed his philosophy was nothing but empty words and that was the most painful thing about the loss.
Here's to leaving this week behind and hitting it hard for another day. Go Bucks!
Thursday, September 15, 2011
LSU @ Mississippi State
Just wanted to give a heads up to watch this game tonight. Starksville will be rocking the cowbells. I think the Bulldogs were looking ahead in the collapse in Auburn (yeah--I know they were playing the defending National Champs but they were so pathetic in week 1 vs. Utah State, it's easy to look for the huge home game on Thurs.). LSU is the better team but Mississippi State will throw EVERYTHING at the Bayou Bengals but I think LSU will come out on top...barely. Look for a late field goal to be the difference in a game that is WAY closer than the experts think.
LSU: 31--MSU: 30
LSU: 31--MSU: 30
Week 3 Picks--Tats vs. Bounties, Prostitutes, Jet Skis, etc.
Oklahoma @ Florida State
Auer: Lacking a signature win like this would be, the FSU Seminoles will be highly motivated to pull out a W against Bob Stoops' boys. The problem lies in experience. Last year in Norman, FSU was embarrassed and it was clear who the most talented team on the field was that night. As exciting as the atmosphere will be in Tallahassee on Saturday night, the Noles just don't have the horses to hang with the extremely talented and experienced Sooners. OU: 38--FSU: 30
Draper: Head or heart? Gotta be a homer. Perhaps Doak Campbell Stadium can get the Noles' swagger back. The stadium isn't the most intimidating in the country, but the crowd will be rabid for the night game against a number 1 team. OU had 2 weeks to prepare, but anyone following college football knows that the Sooners are COMPLETELY different away from Norman. The Noles will be playing with a chip on their shoulder and flying around the field. Big Game Choke Artist Bob will make a key coaching error to bring the win back to Tallahassee. Jimbo gets the first big win to win back the fans and bring the swagger of the 90s back. GO NOLES! OU: 24--FSU: 27
Michigan State @ Notre Dame
Auer: If the Fighting Irish lose another close one, it'll be hard to dispute the existence of a curse on Brian Kelly. Last year's game was an absolute classic with one of the greatest finishes I've ever witnessed. As was seen last week, Notre Dame's defense is absolute trash and won't be able to stop MSU, yet again. Mark Dantonio should continue to prove he's the most underrated coach in the Big Ten. MSU: 23--ND: 9
Draper: Alright Notre Dame. I picked the upset by USF in week one but thought you could beat a hapless Michigan team and you crushed me by forgetting your defense in South Bend. This is your last chance. I think Rees will play a great offensive game just like the last 2 weeks but avoid the turnovers for once. MSU is sneaking around the B1G chicken coop with no talk, but I think they'll come into Notre Dame expecting a win. The Irish will play as if a cornered badger and will finally get their first win...even though they'll still give up a ton. The Spartans lost too many starters on defense to stop Rees. This is going out on a limb, but this is your last chance Brian Kelly. MSU: 31--ND: 34
Ohio State @ Miami
Auer: If you watched last week's game against the Rockets, there are many reasons to worry about the Buckeyes. If you watched Miami play the Maryland Terrapins on Labor Day, you're worrying should probably subside. The Buckeyes and Hurricanes are both doing a bit of soul searching and it's hard to be convinced that the Bucks could lose this one. I'm expecting a further reliance on the running game and Joe Bauserman to take advantage of the suspect Miami secondary. OSU: 35--UM: 20
Draper: In the game for the ESPiN ages, the Buckeyes invade South Beach. Except the over-under of references to some sort of improprieties to be set at 1038234028 (I'd take the over). Jacory Harris makes his inspired return to the Canes much to the exultation of the Buckeyes. More importantly for the Buckeyes, Jordan Hall, Corey Brown, and Travis Howard are back in the line up. Hall will improve the running game immensely but the biggest impact will come in the secondary. UM was pretty pathetic against Maryland as was OSU against Toledo. That being said, I think the Buckeyes are in prime position to take this game comfortably. Miami will attempt to run a pro offense which the Bullets are known for shutting down. They'll key off of Toledo's screens late, but it will be too late. I expect a huge improvement from a look ahead last week (and the first made Drew Basil FG!). GO BUCKS! OSU: 38--UM: 20
Upset Special:
Auer: Illinois over Arizona State, Toledo over Boise State
Draper: Tennessee over Florida, Washington over Nebraska--I wanted Toledo over Boise but don't think they have enough left in the tank
Auer: Lacking a signature win like this would be, the FSU Seminoles will be highly motivated to pull out a W against Bob Stoops' boys. The problem lies in experience. Last year in Norman, FSU was embarrassed and it was clear who the most talented team on the field was that night. As exciting as the atmosphere will be in Tallahassee on Saturday night, the Noles just don't have the horses to hang with the extremely talented and experienced Sooners. OU: 38--FSU: 30
Draper: Head or heart? Gotta be a homer. Perhaps Doak Campbell Stadium can get the Noles' swagger back. The stadium isn't the most intimidating in the country, but the crowd will be rabid for the night game against a number 1 team. OU had 2 weeks to prepare, but anyone following college football knows that the Sooners are COMPLETELY different away from Norman. The Noles will be playing with a chip on their shoulder and flying around the field. Big Game Choke Artist Bob will make a key coaching error to bring the win back to Tallahassee. Jimbo gets the first big win to win back the fans and bring the swagger of the 90s back. GO NOLES! OU: 24--FSU: 27
Michigan State @ Notre Dame
Auer: If the Fighting Irish lose another close one, it'll be hard to dispute the existence of a curse on Brian Kelly. Last year's game was an absolute classic with one of the greatest finishes I've ever witnessed. As was seen last week, Notre Dame's defense is absolute trash and won't be able to stop MSU, yet again. Mark Dantonio should continue to prove he's the most underrated coach in the Big Ten. MSU: 23--ND: 9
Draper: Alright Notre Dame. I picked the upset by USF in week one but thought you could beat a hapless Michigan team and you crushed me by forgetting your defense in South Bend. This is your last chance. I think Rees will play a great offensive game just like the last 2 weeks but avoid the turnovers for once. MSU is sneaking around the B1G chicken coop with no talk, but I think they'll come into Notre Dame expecting a win. The Irish will play as if a cornered badger and will finally get their first win...even though they'll still give up a ton. The Spartans lost too many starters on defense to stop Rees. This is going out on a limb, but this is your last chance Brian Kelly. MSU: 31--ND: 34
Ohio State @ Miami
Auer: If you watched last week's game against the Rockets, there are many reasons to worry about the Buckeyes. If you watched Miami play the Maryland Terrapins on Labor Day, you're worrying should probably subside. The Buckeyes and Hurricanes are both doing a bit of soul searching and it's hard to be convinced that the Bucks could lose this one. I'm expecting a further reliance on the running game and Joe Bauserman to take advantage of the suspect Miami secondary. OSU: 35--UM: 20
Draper: In the game for the ESPiN ages, the Buckeyes invade South Beach. Except the over-under of references to some sort of improprieties to be set at 1038234028 (I'd take the over). Jacory Harris makes his inspired return to the Canes much to the exultation of the Buckeyes. More importantly for the Buckeyes, Jordan Hall, Corey Brown, and Travis Howard are back in the line up. Hall will improve the running game immensely but the biggest impact will come in the secondary. UM was pretty pathetic against Maryland as was OSU against Toledo. That being said, I think the Buckeyes are in prime position to take this game comfortably. Miami will attempt to run a pro offense which the Bullets are known for shutting down. They'll key off of Toledo's screens late, but it will be too late. I expect a huge improvement from a look ahead last week (and the first made Drew Basil FG!). GO BUCKS! OSU: 38--UM: 20
Upset Special:
Auer: Illinois over Arizona State, Toledo over Boise State
Draper: Tennessee over Florida, Washington over Nebraska--I wanted Toledo over Boise but don't think they have enough left in the tank
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