HoyaFanNY
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Post by HoyaFanNY on Oct 5, 2009 5:57:16 GMT -5
I guess RichRod's cuddling didn't help all that much this week. all the cuddling in the world wouldn't have helped as bad as the michigan oline played. without molk, that line is below average. they are in trouble this week going to iowa at night with the dline they have.
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hifigator
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Post by hifigator on Oct 5, 2009 10:08:36 GMT -5
i thought unc was supposed to be good. they suck. maybe even consider putting in the kid thats from down the street from me at qb...renner I haven't watched them play much this year, but I did see a good bit of their game with Ga. Tech. You're dead on. They were just not a very good team. But that freshman wide receiver Highsmith -- number 88, I think -- is a true stud. Anyone know if he's related to Alonzo, who used to play for Miami? For that matter, Alonzo's son is a freshman QB at Miami. I wonder if they could be twins? Probably not, but I know Butch Davis does have all those Miami ties and recruits well from that area.
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kchoya
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Post by kchoya on Oct 5, 2009 12:09:37 GMT -5
I guess RichRod's cuddling didn't help all that much this week. all the cuddling in the world wouldn't have helped as bad as the michigan oline played. without molk, that line is below average. they are in trouble this week going to iowa at night with the dline they have. Maybe, but Iowa seems to be, over the past couple of years, a team that's up and down. I think they could lay an egg this weekend.
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RDF
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Post by RDF on Oct 5, 2009 12:32:57 GMT -5
Thoughts on the weekend:
1. The officiating in the LSU-UGA game was disgusting. Flagging guys for unsportsmanlike penalties when they didn't do anything remotely close to taunting really changed the field position in favor of LSU and at end of game as well.
2. Jeff Tedford's Cal team has not scored a TD in Pac 10 play. They have 6 points against Oregon and USC the past 2 weeks--yet Tedford is always talked about as a "genius". His team beat USC in a 3OT game where USC missed a FG to extend it, and then he played them close in '04 in a LOSS. That is Tedford's legacy. Time to upgrade the head coaching position in Berkley. The Bears just don't bring anything to justify the hype.
3. Oregon is really coming on in Pac 10--and they DESERVE it. Love that they play tough non conference schedule and as it should be-they are rewarded for it. Good for them and playing tough opponents should be model for all programs whether you win/lose. If you ever have sights on being in National Title hunt--you have to beat tough teams and that doesn't happen by hiding and playing nobody.
4. FSU's imploding. What a disaster. That team is better then a 2-3 team--but when your Head Coach in waiting (who I believe is going to be a disaster in Tally) is fighting with the SPACE COWBOY--aka Clown Shoes---aka Chuck Amato before games--what do you expect?
5. Miami hype is back on and not sure what to think. Maybe because I am still disgusted with how the defense played against FSU and VA Tech, I'm not buying it. Like the spirit being back in program--but let's just point out a few things about the 3-1 start and hype of the "return" we're hearing:
ESPN has a special documentary covering Miami football that will debut in December--so that leads to a lot of overpromotion of the program anytime they do something positive
The vaunted "tough schedule" is a joke. Canes played 1 tough team--and got slaughtered. They faced an average GA Tech team and won and FSU and Oklahoma are a COMBINED 4-5. Now Bradford/Gresham being out has hurt--but OU NEVER scores against tough opponents and never wins. That loss put them 16-14 in games outside of state since '05 as I mentioned above. Don't let the NAME fool you into thinking they are good. That Sooner team will get crushed by Texas, lose another game--I'll say against Nebraska and end up with the obligatory upset they always get--could be against Oklahoma State this year--so I'm going with 5 losses for Stoops, Venables--the most overrated DC in country, and Kevin Wilson who is an arrogant twirp. They also employ the worst coach in CFB in Jay Norvell who is an awful coach no matter where you try to hide him.
Is Miami getting better? No doubt. Still think they are further then most and they'll lose 2-3 more games this year. Weak ACC might make them appear to be better too--but it's not going to prevent another loss and then another if they make a Major Bowl against a good opponent.
That being said--it's about time Shannon let Ray Ray Armstrong take over for the inept Joe Nicholas and Randy "Clappy Player" Phillips. He's type of player the program needs to get back to top and will be a STAR!
6. Illinois FINALLY benched Juice Williams. His lone great play was in the upset win over Ohio State--but that still didn't prevent them from ruining the BCS Title game, so forget about that moment. Eddie McGee was/is the superior QB at Illinois and they've held him behind Juice due to location--McGee from Washington DC and Juice from Chicago and "ranking"--Zook put more stock in getting a "name/ranked" guy over playing superior player. Don't be surprised if Illinois gets one upset--and for them that might mean a win at Minnesota or something like that---which would NOT happen if they had Juice and his Reggie Ball like play behind the center.
7. FAVRE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Did you know about this guy? Just checking because Nessler and Musburger didn't mention him enough on Saturday Night.
8. Still think Steve Sarkisian is going to end up as a mediocre hire in Seattle once the Willingham players leave---Locker is one kid I'd take and try to develop in NFL--but he's signed with Angels and might go MLB route. Locker is raw-but if you are a good franchise--you take him and develop him--oh nevermind--NFL doesn't do that anymore. Forget it. Sark did what he does-the guy has a talented RB in Chris Polk who runs tough and kid touches ball 1 time inside 4 plays-and proceeds to get 5 yards on a play he should've lost 3 and along way breaks 3-4 tackles--but Sark calls 2 QB sneaks with tight formation on a wet field. Nice call Sark--and typical. The "Nick Montana" Error--will take over and end up with Sarkisian being fired. Montana is AWFUL and if his last name were Idaho--he'd not even be talked about. Spirit is great for a team who needed it--but talent/coaching will matter in long run and Sark is a mediocre coach. He's very Friedgen-esque.
9. If Texas loses a game in Big XII South this year--they should be eliminated from Title talk. That Division is horrific this year.
10. Big 10 is improving but will get talked poorly about due to past--but you look at their bad teams---Purdue--who had Oregon/ND on ropes, and their good teams are built around strong defense. Everyone talks about offense/scoring but you win with DEFENSE. Ohio State's defense is 10 times better and partly due to more speed/playmaking at LB. You'll never hear that from Lauaranitis fanatics and Brian Rolle is 10 times more active then either Lauranitis or Marcus Freeman whose slow feet hurt. Ross Homan is a good player too. Michigan is on right track as is Iowa--who has a lot more athleticism at the WR spot and is recruiting well--(I don't look at rankings--as much as talent on field). I'd put Iowa's DL up there with anyone in country too--(starters) and their back 7 is smart and has 2 very good LB in Edds and Hunter and 2 good CB's in Prater and Spievey. Penn State is a good team--and was hurt by not playing tougher non conference schedule but they'll be tough by end of year--although I'm more of a Stefon Greene fan then an Evan Royster fan. Michigan is on right track and Forcier is leader--not just a good QB for them but a leader--and that is how you turn it around. Wisconsin has a functional QB--and they win with that. So the league is improving and not going to see me bash them this year. It's much better league then Big XII which has one good team--Texas--and that is due to Mack Brown being smart enough to realize you put aside ego to WIN--and he embraces the Muschamp hire--which puts them far ahead of other teams in that league. Nebraska is getting there--and think Pelini is perfect for them as well--in fact I expect them to play Texas in Big XII Title Game and that could be Horns toughest game prior to facing SEC team in National Title game.
11. Alabama is best team I've seen this year--SO FAR. They are well coached and have most balance. Question is McElroy good enough to rally them when they need it? We'll find out soon as every team has "that game" they have to find a way to win.
12. Florida should beat LSU rather handily this week. For whatever reason this is year I think Spurrier will give Gators their "scare" game and I'm not high on his team---just think that is the game that for whatever reason will be a weird game for Gators--on their way to face Bama for place in Rose Bowl opposite Texas.
13. USC--I hope Stafon Johnson plays again--but in a FB way--the loss of him has cleared the way for what worked/works best--a dual RB rotation of McKnight/Bradford--who are the best two RB's for them. I think Marc Tyler is their 2nd best RB--but he's always injured--so Bradford who is too talented to be wasted on bench--he could be a LB or Safety if he's not getting touches gets call. Why they've gone to the "stable" is stupid. You win 2 National Titles and play in another--with a 35+ game winning streak in there with a Bush/White duo and then change is beyond me?
Taylor Mays catching Jahvid Best TWICE from behind was most impressive thing I saw this weekend. To be 6'4 240 and run down one of the fastest players in country--with a knee injury/brace on--pretty awesome display of talent.
14. Notre Dame is back on offense--but like Miami--think their defense is just too shaky to beat the elite level teams. If they can turnover USC--the offense is good enough to win--although losing Michael Floyd (again) will hurt and you have to run against SC because they can get after passer. Clausen's toe could be major factor because USC's pass rush is impressive and to me Trojans weakness is inside--think you can run right at them--although Jurrell Casey is a beast--not much behind/beside him. Armon Armstead is supposed to comeback for ND game--and he'd be who I would place alongside Casey--but he's listed as a big DE for USC right now. USC's Secondary gets hyped--but you can throw at Kevin Thomas and I'd isolate Will Harris--who is highly overrated--good in run support but is lost in coverage and goes for hit too much instead of playing ball.
Do think this should be best ND-SC game since '05 though--although that isn't saying much considering the teams ND has had past couple of years.
15. Dan Hawkins predicted a 10 win season for Colorado this year. Anyone know if drug testing takes place for coaches?? I could gather 10 other guys from HoyaTalk and we could form a faster group then Hawkins has on offense or defense and I know that at least 5 people are better QB's then Cody Hawkins--whose lone bright spot was beating Brent Venables defense/OU team.
A lot more to talk about--but these things jumped out to me after the weekend.
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hifigator
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Post by hifigator on Oct 5, 2009 13:18:56 GMT -5
RDF, for probably the first time ever, I pretty much agree with just about everything you said. I think you might be over valueing the Big Ten a tad, but only time will tell. I think Iowa and Wisconsin are the 2 teams still undefeated, yet the talking heads were saying it was a clear Ohio State, followed a tad by Penn St. and then "everyone else." I think you are closer to being right than they are, but I'm still not as sold on the Big Ten as you are. Until the Big Ten will go out and win on the big stage in a major BCS game -- Rose Bowl, Fiesta, Title game ... SOMEWHERE ... I'm going to have to give them a back seat to the best SEC teams or the USCs and Texases of the world. But from what we've seen so far, there does at least appear to be a lot more depth in the Big 10.
Also, the Big East continues to look solid, albeit often with questionable opposition.
I agree with the criticism of the refs in that Georgia-LSU game. I think they need to just get rid of the excessive celebration penalty. Taunting is one thing, but celebration is another. Maybe they should implement a rule that says that you must get back to your own side of the line of scrimmage as quickly as possible at the end of each play. Off the top of my head, that would seem to be a better rule than what we have now. It's just too arbitrary. And if we thing about it, much of the celebration is simply an illustration of legitimate emotion. And it's pretty obvious that the more important the play, the more crucial the situation and the bigger the game, the more emotion everyone will have. Doesn't that sort of inherantly suggest that celebrations will be bigger at some points than others? There just has to be a more consistent way to define "excessive." I think that requiring players to go back to their own huddle "immediately" after any non-scoring play would serve the purpose better.
It's tough to argue Bama as being the "best" team right now. Although, Kentucky moved the ball much better against them and scored 20 points against them as opposed to the 7 they got against Florida.
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kchoya
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Post by kchoya on Oct 5, 2009 13:23:51 GMT -5
Thoughts on the weekend: 1. The officiating in the LSU-UGA game was disgusting. Flagging guys for unsportsmanlike penalties when they didn't do anything remotely close to taunting really changed the field position in favor of LSU and at end of game as well. 2. Jeff Tedford's Cal team has not scored a TD in Pac 10 play. They have 6 points against Oregon and USC the past 2 weeks--yet Tedford is always talked about as a "genius". His team beat USC in a 3OT game where USC missed a FG to extend it, and then he played them close in '04 in a LOSS. That is Tedford's legacy. Time to upgrade the head coaching position in Berkley. The Bears just don't bring anything to justify the hype. 3. Oregon is really coming on in Pac 10--and they DESERVE it. Love that they play tough non conference schedule and as it should be-they are rewarded for it. Good for them and playing tough opponents should be model for all programs whether you win/lose. If you ever have sights on being in National Title hunt--you have to beat tough teams and that doesn't happen by hiding and playing nobody. 4. FSU's imploding. What a disaster. That team is better then a 2-3 team--but when your Head Coach in waiting (who I believe is going to be a disaster in Tally) is fighting with the SPACE COWBOY--aka Clown Shoes---aka Chuck Amato before games--what do you expect? 5. Miami hype is back on and not sure what to think. Maybe because I am still disgusted with how the defense played against FSU and VA Tech, I'm not buying it. Like the spirit being back in program--but let's just point out a few things about the 3-1 start and hype of the "return" we're hearing: ESPN has a special documentary covering Miami football that will debut in December--so that leads to a lot of overpromotion of the program anytime they do something positive The vaunted "tough schedule" is a joke. Canes played 1 tough team--and got slaughtered. They faced an average GA Tech team and won and FSU and Oklahoma are a COMBINED 4-5. Now Bradford/Gresham being out has hurt--but OU NEVER scores against tough opponents and never wins. That loss put them 16-14 in games outside of state since '05 as I mentioned above. Don't let the NAME fool you into thinking they are good. That Sooner team will get crushed by Texas, lose another game--I'll say against Nebraska and end up with the obligatory upset they always get--could be against Oklahoma State this year--so I'm going with 5 losses for Stoops, Venables--the most overrated DC in country, and Kevin Wilson who is an arrogant twirp. They also employ the worst coach in CFB in Jay Norvell who is an awful coach no matter where you try to hide him. Is Miami getting better? No doubt. Still think they are further then most and they'll lose 2-3 more games this year. Weak ACC might make them appear to be better too--but it's not going to prevent another loss and then another if they make a Major Bowl against a good opponent. That being said--it's about time Shannon let Ray Ray Armstrong take over for the inept Joe Nicholas and Randy "Clappy Player" Phillips. He's type of player the program needs to get back to top and will be a STAR! 6. Illinois FINALLY benched Juice Williams. His lone great play was in the upset win over Ohio State--but that still didn't prevent them from ruining the BCS Title game, so forget about that moment. Eddie McGee was/is the superior QB at Illinois and they've held him behind Juice due to location--McGee from Washington DC and Juice from Chicago and "ranking"--Zook put more stock in getting a "name/ranked" guy over playing superior player. Don't be surprised if Illinois gets one upset--and for them that might mean a win at Minnesota or something like that---which would NOT happen if they had Juice and his Reggie Ball like play behind the center. 7. FAVRE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Did you know about this guy? Just checking because Nessler and Musburger didn't mention him enough on Saturday Night. 8. Still think Steve Sarkisian is going to end up as a mediocre hire in Seattle once the Willingham players leave---Locker is one kid I'd take and try to develop in NFL--but he's signed with Angels and might go MLB route. Locker is raw-but if you are a good franchise--you take him and develop him--oh nevermind--NFL doesn't do that anymore. Forget it. Sark did what he does-the guy has a talented RB in Chris Polk who runs tough and kid touches ball 1 time inside 4 plays-and proceeds to get 5 yards on a play he should've lost 3 and along way breaks 3-4 tackles--but Sark calls 2 QB sneaks with tight formation on a wet field. Nice call Sark--and typical. The "Nick Montana" Error--will take over and end up with Sarkisian being fired. Montana is AWFUL and if his last name were Idaho--he'd not even be talked about. Spirit is great for a team who needed it--but talent/coaching will matter in long run and Sark is a mediocre coach. He's very Friedgen-esque. 9. If Texas loses a game in Big XII South this year--they should be eliminated from Title talk. That Division is horrific this year. 10. Big 10 is improving but will get talked poorly about due to past--but you look at their bad teams---Purdue--who had Oregon/ND on ropes, and their good teams are built around strong defense. Everyone talks about offense/scoring but you win with DEFENSE. Ohio State's defense is 10 times better and partly due to more speed/playmaking at LB. You'll never hear that from Lauaranitis fanatics and Brian Rolle is 10 times more active then either Lauranitis or Marcus Freeman whose slow feet hurt. Ross Homan is a good player too. Michigan is on right track as is Iowa--who has a lot more athleticism at the WR spot and is recruiting well--(I don't look at rankings--as much as talent on field). I'd put Iowa's DL up there with anyone in country too--(starters) and their back 7 is smart and has 2 very good LB in Edds and Hunter and 2 good CB's in Prater and Spievey. Penn State is a good team--and was hurt by not playing tougher non conference schedule but they'll be tough by end of year--although I'm more of a Stefon Greene fan then an Evan Royster fan. Michigan is on right track and Forcier is leader--not just a good QB for them but a leader--and that is how you turn it around. Wisconsin has a functional QB--and they win with that. So the league is improving and not going to see me bash them this year. It's much better league then Big XII which has one good team--Texas--and that is due to Mack Brown being smart enough to realize you put aside ego to WIN--and he embraces the Muschamp hire--which puts them far ahead of other teams in that league. Nebraska is getting there--and think Pelini is perfect for them as well--in fact I expect them to play Texas in Big XII Title Game and that could be Horns toughest game prior to facing SEC team in National Title game. 11. Alabama is best team I've seen this year--SO FAR. They are well coached and have most balance. Question is McElroy good enough to rally them when they need it? We'll find out soon as every team has "that game" they have to find a way to win. 12. Florida should beat LSU rather handily this week. For whatever reason this is year I think Spurrier will give Gators their "scare" game and I'm not high on his team---just think that is the game that for whatever reason will be a weird game for Gators--on their way to face Bama for place in Rose Bowl opposite Texas. 13. USC--I hope Stafon Johnson plays again--but in a FB way--the loss of him has cleared the way for what worked/works best--a dual RB rotation of McKnight/Bradford--who are the best two RB's for them. I think Marc Tyler is their 2nd best RB--but he's always injured--so Bradford who is too talented to be wasted on bench--he could be a LB or Safety if he's not getting touches gets call. Why they've gone to the "stable" is stupid. You win 2 National Titles and play in another--with a 35+ game winning streak in there with a Bush/White duo and then change is beyond me? Taylor Mays catching Jahvid Best TWICE from behind was most impressive thing I saw this weekend. To be 6'4 240 and run down one of the fastest players in country--with a knee injury/brace on--pretty awesome display of talent. 14. Notre Dame is back on offense--but like Miami--think their defense is just too shaky to beat the elite level teams. If they can turnover USC--the offense is good enough to win--although losing Michael Floyd (again) will hurt and you have to run against SC because they can get after passer. Clausen's toe could be major factor because USC's pass rush is impressive and to me Trojans weakness is inside--think you can run right at them--although Jurrell Casey is a beast--not much behind/beside him. Armon Armstead is supposed to comeback for ND game--and he'd be who I would place alongside Casey--but he's listed as a big DE for USC right now. USC's Secondary gets hyped--but you can throw at Kevin Thomas and I'd isolate Will Harris--who is highly overrated--good in run support but is lost in coverage and goes for hit too much instead of playing ball. Do think this should be best ND-SC game since '05 though--although that isn't saying much considering the teams ND has had past couple of years. 15. Dan Hawkins predicted a 10 win season for Colorado this year. Anyone know if drug testing takes place for coaches?? I could gather 10 other guys from HoyaTalk and we could form a faster group then Hawkins has on offense or defense and I know that at least 5 people are better QB's then Cody Hawkins--whose lone bright spot was beating Brent Venables defense/OU team. A lot more to talk about--but these things jumped out to me after the weekend. I agree, I don't know how Ray Ray is not starting at this point. I've been high on Polk for a while, but he was a beast with some of those runs against ND -- INCLUDING when he got in to the end zone at the end of the 4th. No way that should have been overturned. I like the Gators, but I think their offense is going to sputter in a game and may cause them to lose. Losing Harvin and Murphy and others really hurt their explosiveness. Of course, they could flip a switch in the middle of the season like they did last year. I almost think they start Brantley at LSU and if they lose, they'll have the excuse that Tebow was out.
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hifigator
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Post by hifigator on Oct 5, 2009 13:35:07 GMT -5
kc wrote:
I like the Gators, but I think their offense is going to sputter in a game and may cause them to lose. Losing Harvin and Murphy and others really hurt their explosiveness. Of course, they could flip a switch in the middle of the season like they did last year. I almost think they start Brantley at LSU and if they lose, they'll have the excuse that Tebow was out.
I think that is in the back of a lot of people's minds. Even going into the season, this weekend's LSU game was the one game that Florida "could" lose. I don't mean to imply that the rest are gimmes. That's not the meaning of "could" that I'm talking about. Florida could lose the LSU game and still accomplish most, if not all of their real goals. A close loss on the road to a high caliber opponent could be overcome. Florida would still win the SEC east if they had no other losses. That would set up a huge game against a likely undefeated Bama team, or a revenge game against that same LSU team that would have beaten them. Obviously, there's still a lot of football to be played, but that was at least the sentiment coming into the season. With Tebow questionable, that would only further such reasoning. If it were to work out that Florida lost to LSU without Tebow playing, but then ran the table, including a win in Atlanta against either Bama or LSU, then there would certainly be a lot of sentiment to discount the loss to LSU "because of Tebow." I'm not saying that's necessarily "right," but such reasoning would certainly be there. Looking long range, if USC doesn't lose again, then I think they have the inside track to the BCS game among potential one loss teams, but if that LSU-Florida scenario were to work out that way, then it might be a really close finish.
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SFHoya99
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Post by SFHoya99 on Oct 5, 2009 14:21:12 GMT -5
Locker signed with the Angels, but I have to think it is an "if the NFL doesn't work out type" type of thing. They have him for six years (including this year as one) -- enough for him to fail and switch careers.
Penn State has no talent at receiver and it is going to hurt them, but the young O line and D seem to be improving leaps and bounds. Not sure they have enough speed in the D backfield, though.
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hifigator
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Post by hifigator on Oct 5, 2009 15:20:25 GMT -5
SF, I'm not sure who actually "made" the list, but I caught a blurb on ESPN last week, listing the best NFL QB prospects. Sam Bradford was #1, followed by Locker, then Snead. McCoy was fourth and then fifth and sixth were the guy from Houston and Jimmy Clausen, but I don't remember the order. I like Locker's game, but I was a bit surprised to see him that high up the list. Of course down here, Tebow not even making the list was the "news."
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hifigator
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Post by hifigator on Oct 5, 2009 16:47:02 GMT -5
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hoyarooter
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Post by hoyarooter on Oct 5, 2009 20:49:36 GMT -5
Stafon Johnson is out for the year at USC. That was just an awful, horrific accident that he had, and he's lucky to be alive. You all probably know I'm not one to talk up USC, but I really like this kid. I think he's a heck of a power runner, and also seems to have his head on straight. I wish him the best.
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TBird41
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Post by TBird41 on Oct 5, 2009 21:12:19 GMT -5
Stafon Johnson is out for the year at USC. That was just an awful, horrific accident that he had, and he's lucky to be alive. You all probably know I'm not one to talk up USC, but I really like this kid. I think he's a heck of a power runner, and also seems to have his head on straight. I wish him the best. With those neck muscles, it's no surprise he has his head on straight.
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FLHoya
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Post by FLHoya on Oct 5, 2009 23:11:26 GMT -5
5. Miami hype is back on and not sure what to think. Maybe because I am still disgusted with how the defense played against FSU and VA Tech, I'm not buying it. Like the spirit being back in program--but let's just point out a few things about the 3-1 start and hype of the "return" we're hearing: ESPN has a special documentary covering Miami football that will debut in December--so that leads to a lot of overpromotion of the program anytime they do something positive Is Miami getting better? No doubt. Still think they are further then most and they'll lose 2-3 more games this year. Weak ACC might make them appear to be better too--but it's not going to prevent another loss and then another if they make a Major Bowl against a good opponent. That being said--it's about time Shannon let Ray Ray Armstrong take over for the inept Joe Nicholas and Randy "Clappy Player" Phillips. He's type of player the program needs to get back to top and will be a STAR! I don't think the 30 for 30 documentary per se has anything to do with the over-hype of Miami's "resurgence". The media doesn't need any help on this front--they're DYING for Miami to be good again because it's a good story, although for me there's a lingering question of whether they want the Michael Irvin version or the Ken Dorsey version...there is not a more stupid word in the English language than "SWAGGER" Honestly I think the team itself is handling the whole thing in a very level-headed manner--and that includes taking the appropriate lessons from the Virginia Tech loss and similarly from the OU victory. ESPN's over-promotion of the "Miami is back" story after the Georgia Tech victory was silly, but I don't think the team got a big head--they just simply aren't at the level where they can pull off that road victory at Va Tech in those conditions, no matter what ESPN.com says, and I think most Miami fans were aware/fearful of that going in. The schedule is what it is--they faced four different kind of tests and are 3-1...which is a game better than I thought they'd be before the season, and IDK who else played a more difficult stretch of games. A little ahead of the curve, but not without problems--still give up too many big plays, secondary has problems (wow Sam Shields is bad), Javarris James used up his good game for the season against OU. But structurally they're far more sound than any time in the past 3-4 years--still a very young team that'll be together for 2 more years when they can be in the BCS picture. Heck, they still COULD be*--I agree with RDF that 2-3 more losses is a decent guess, but who on their schedule left is gonna make that happen? ACC games left are Clemson, at UNC, Virginia, at Wake, and Duke. It's not exactly a murderer's row...the most difficult game on paper right now could be the season finale @ USF. (*Although I can't see Va Tech losing the grip on that division, and as much as the media would love "The U" to be back, they'd settle for Catholics vs. Convicts 2010 in the Gator Bowl.) Whipple's the truth though--the two play action passes on the final drive were clutch.
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TBird41
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Post by TBird41 on Oct 5, 2009 23:13:29 GMT -5
I don't think the 30 for 30 documentary per se has anything to do with the over-hype of Miami's "resurgence". The media doesn't need any help on this front--they're DYING for Miami to be good again because it's a good story, although for me there's a lingering question of whether they want the Michael Irvin version or the Ken Dorsey version...there is not a more stupid word in the English language than "SWAGGER" What about SWAGGA?
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jgalt
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Post by jgalt on Oct 6, 2009 8:51:02 GMT -5
I don't think the 30 for 30 documentary per se has anything to do with the over-hype of Miami's "resurgence". Yeah, it is just convenient for ESPN. There are 30 of those documentaries. The first one is about Gretzky's trade to the Kings, but you dont see them hyping hockey (although you dont see them talking about it at all so who knows what "hype" would actually look like) Having Miami back is good for college football. Its good for the ACC to have a power team back (and it is convenient that FSU is coming back slowly too). Having those two teams back brings back really the only rivalry they have in football. It is bad for Florida i suppose because it may impact recruiting a bit (but i dont know much of anything about FB recruiting so maybe it wont).
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hifigator
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Post by hifigator on Oct 6, 2009 10:39:53 GMT -5
jg wrote:
Having Miami back is good for college football. Its good for the ACC to have a power team back (and it is convenient that FSU is coming back slowly too). Having those two teams back brings back really the only rivalry they have in football. It is bad for Florida i suppose because it may impact recruiting a bit
Miami is certainly moving in the right direction, but this talk of "being back" is somewhat misleading. Miami had an extremely dominant run for some 15 plus years. I don't think they -- or anyone else -- is likely to match that kind of domination for that period of time. That being said, Miami is getting better and from everything I read, they are doing it the right way, and I commend them for that. As for FSU, to say they are "coming back slowly too" is a stretch. They are imploding and are certainly not moving in the right direction. They are 2-3 and are a fourth and 1 conversion with under a minute to play away from being 1-4! And that last minute, dramatic victory came at home against Jacksonville St!
As for the "rivalries," I personally don't need any extra incentive to "get up" for Half-A$$ U. I enjoy every minute of a Noles loss. I'm not one of those that want FSU to win all of their games so that our strength of schedule looks better. Now as for recruiting, there is enough talent in Florida -- and specifically south Florida -- to go around. But it does look like Florida and Miami are going to have a decided edge over the Noles, at least for the next few years.
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hifigator
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Post by hifigator on Oct 6, 2009 13:04:30 GMT -5
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Post by AustinHoya03 on Oct 6, 2009 19:20:48 GMT -5
It's much better league then Big XII which has one good team--Texas--and that is due to Mack Brown being smart enough to realize you put aside ego to WIN--and he embraces the Muschamp hire--which puts them far ahead of other teams in that league. Nebraska is getting there--and think Pelini is perfect for them as well--in fact I expect them to play Texas in Big XII Title Game and that could be Horns toughest game prior to facing SEC team in National Title game. Texas is clearly the only national title contender left in the conference, but I don't know if I buy the argument the conference is devoid of good teams just yet. I'd point out that RDF's beloved Pac 10 has been branded a "one good team" conference for more or less the past decade, and that argument didn't exactly hold water either. I do think we'll see more of North and South beating up on each other in 2009 than we have in years past. Nebraska has a tough game this Thursday in Columbia, MO. I think the Huskers' defense is good enough to win this football game, but don't forget Missouri hung 52 on Big Red in Lincoln last season. For me, it's still a Mizzou/Kansas/Nebraska toss-up for the Big 12 North title. (The other three teams in the division are an embarrassment, more on that later.) 12. Florida should beat LSU rather handily this week. For whatever reason this is year I think Spurrier will give Gators their "scare" game and I'm not high on his team---just think that is the game that for whatever reason will be a weird game for Gators--on their way to face Bama for place in Rose Bowl opposite Texas. I've been saying LSU is overrated since the preseason, and the Tigers have done nothing to disprove that. The Tigers let an athletically inferior Washington team hang around, should have lost to Mississippi State, and got lucky against UGA. Although this week's game against Florida is at home, the "big game" hype is mostly a result of unwarranted love for LSU, which magically parlayed a losing in-conference record in 2008 into a preseason Top 10 ranking in 2009 and just hasn't lost yet. They'll lose on Saturday, and the margin may well be significant. 15. Dan Hawkins predicted a 10 win season for Colorado this year. Anyone know if drug testing takes place for coaches?? I could gather 10 other guys from HoyaTalk and we could form a faster group then Hawkins has on offense or defense and I know that at least 5 people are better QB's then Cody Hawkins--whose lone bright spot was beating Brent Venables defense/OU team. Two things on CU: One, this program used to have great athletes. The program was cheating at the time, but it had great athletes. The lack of speed/size/athleticism on the current roster is galling. Hawkins may have been handicapped in recruiting a bit by the previous regime, but his team does not look like a Big 12 team. Two, how was there an intense QB competition before the start of the season, the coach didn't even name a starter until minutes before the first game, and yet Cody Hawkins hasn't been pulled from a game yet? Oh yeah, nepotism. Social obligations caused me to miss most of the games last weekend, and I forgot to set the DVR, so I'm sorry I can't comment on the OU loss, but fans of all teams and/or CFB in general should thank Miami for eliminating the Sooners from the national title picture.
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hifigator
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Post by hifigator on Oct 7, 2009 12:19:46 GMT -5
Everyone knows my disdain for FSU, but I have always been willing to recognize charitable efforts, even from them. This is a slight spin on that. For the past couple of years, a nonprofit organization has attempted to capitalize on the football passion that fans of the "Big 3" Florida universities have, by organizing fundraisers in connection with games between two of the 3 programs. Now I think they are expanding even more. In any case, take a peek at some of the projects that this program has helped fund: ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- UF, FSU and UM former football players and fans have come together with our foundation to use the passion and energy for college football in Florida to create resources and opportunities for youth and family programs in our state. We’re taking the energy around our programs and rivalries and turn it into positive projects for our communities………. We need your help, are you in? If you are, join our mailing list to keep up-to-date (www.makeaplayfoundation.org). You can help by just spreading the word, making a donation, volunteering or by supporting our projects as a corporate sponsor. We’ve built partnerships with over 25 leaders (and some of your favorite players) from each three schools… many of whom have their own foundations and do a lot on the local level. We want to bring everyone together and create even more opportunities to Gator, Hurricane and Seminole kids!!! Past projects: #1- 2008 UF-FSU THANKSGIVING FOOD FIGHT- Last year we held a food drive during UF-FSU week and collected over 22 tons of food in one week for Gainesville and Tallahassee. #2- ‘UM-FSU TRASH TALK FOR CHARITY’- Earlier this fall we put together a competition with six UM-FSU players and their charities to help use the rivalry week to create more resources for youth programs – partnering with Dunn, Myron Rolle, Samari Rolle, Kevin Everett, Willis McGahee and Ed Reed. Current projects: (current) #3- ‘YARDS FOR YOUTH’ – Percy, Andre Johnson and Anquan Boldin to help create donations for Florida youth programs as fans pledge any amount per TD, catch or yard with 100% of all donations benefiting youth programs – not administrative or fundraising costs. (current) #4- BCS CHAMPIONSHIP RING RAFFLE - We’re also bringing fans an amazing opportunity to win an authentic, players 2006 BCS National Championship ring through a raffle. For as little as $10, you could own your own championship ring! YES, a FAN will win a 2006 BCS National Championship Ring……. We are putting a spin on giving, take your love for football to do something positive. Every little bit helps us tremendously, either by spreading the word or making a donation. Long after the games are over, we want our work to continue growing….. go to www.makeaplayfoundation.org to join our mailing list! Or add us on Twitter or Facebook to keep up-to-date on future projects! GO GATORS!!!! -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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CAHoya07
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Post by CAHoya07 on Oct 7, 2009 14:46:05 GMT -5
Apparently Tebow will be a game-time decision vs. LSU. Can't wait for the ESPN camera crew to unveil the "Tebow Cam" all day Saturday, and speculate on his status every other minute leading up to Saturday night's game time. sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=4539560
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