Monday, October 31, 2011

You can't take the Mountain out of the Eers

College Football Week 10 – The Game: LSU-Alabama

You can’t take the Mountain out of the Eers

West Virginia will begin play in the Big 12 Conference.  The announcement was made last week by Chuck Neinas, interim commissioner of the Big 12.  The conference presidents voted unanimously to accept the Mountaineers as the Big 12’s 10th member, replacing Missouri.

Missouri is departing the Big 12 for the SEC, effective July 1, 2012.  Previously, Texas A&M announced its departure from the Big 12 for the SEC, also effective July 1, 2012.  The Aggies were replaced in the conference with TCU. 

With the move to the Big 12, it may seem appropriate for the Mountaineers to become the Plainseers (Plains-eers).  After all, there are no mountains in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and Iowa.  But Plainseers just doesn’t sound right.  You might put West Virginia in the Big 12, but you can’t take the Mountain out of the Eers.

But when will the Mountaineers’ membership in the Big 12 become effective?  That is the big question.  The Big 12 says July 1, 2012.  West Virginia says July 1, 2012.  Big East commissioner John Marinatto begs to differ.  He points to the Big East bylaws that state members planning to leave the conference must remain in the Big East for 27 months after their announced departure.  If so, West Virginia can’t legally leave the Big East until January 2014. 

Obviously, West Virginia plans to challenge the Big East on this issue.  Apparently, WVU believes it has the wherewithal to get around the 27-month requirement.  West Virginia athletic director Oliver Luck, a former quarterback at WVU, has a law degree from the University of Texas.  So one would assume that Luck knows what he is doing when he says West Virginia will be a member of the Big 12 on July 1, 2012.  Stay tuned! 

The impact on the Big East is its qualification as a BCS conference.  The rules state that BCS designated conferences must have a membership of eight or more schools.  With West Virginia’s planned departure next summer that would leave the Big East with only seven members for the 2012 football season.  The Big East would no longer be a BCS conference and its champion would not receive an automatic bid to a BCS bowl. 

Reports have the Big East inviting Boise State, Air Force, Navy, Houston, SMU and UCF to join the conference.  Boise State, Air Force and Navy would join as football members only.  Those invites and possibly some acceptances could be announced this week.  But it is unknown if any of those schools would join by next summer. 

Interestingly, in this week’s BCS rankings, the Big East only has one team represented in the Top 25 – West Virginia.  Conference USA, of which Houston, SMU and UCF are members, has two teams in the Top 25 – Houston and Southern Miss.  Boise State, of the Mountain West Conference, is No. 5 in the BCS rankings.

Earlier in the season, Pitt and Syracuse, of the Big East, announced they were leaving the conference to join the ACC.  But Pitt and Syracuse aren’t expected to leave the Big East until 2013 or 2014.  However, Texas A&M and Missouri are leaving the Big 12 and joining the SEC next year, as will TCU who is leaving the Mountain West to join the Big 12.  Actually, TCU was going to join the Big East until the Big 12 opportunity came along. 

And so, conference realignment remains a hot topic.  One can only imagine what the next moves will be.  Cincinnati, Connecticut, Louisville and Rutgers have all made it known they want out of the Big East.  Notre Dame insists it will remain an Independent in football.  But depending on what happens to the Big East, the Irish may be forced to join a conference, if they feel the Big East is no longer a good spot for their basketball and Olympic sports programs.  The ACC and the Big Ten who would love to have Notre Dame, have said they would only take the Irish as an all-sports member.  Stay tuned!

Bootsie, Rockledge Gator, Swamp Mama and I spent Saturday in Jacksonville at the World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party.  We drove up I-95 to Jacksonville in the morning, arriving around 10:30.  It rained off and on most of the way, but fortunately, the rain stopped by the time we hit Jacksonville and the sun eventually came out.

We parked in a garage downtown and walked over to the Landings where we checked out the scene and had lunch on the St. John’s River.  A Georgia fan even took our picture.  All Dawgs aren’t bad.

As the game time approached, we caught the shuttle bus out to the stadium.  We walked around the grounds, checking out some of the tailgaters and other pre-game activities that were going on outside the stadium.  One Georgia sign read:  “Our bark is bigger than your bite!”

Yeah, but our bite hurts more than your bark.

Rockledge Gator had ordered our tickets from one of the Websites – Stubhub, etc.  We didn’t know where our seats would be.  But wouldn’t you know it, we were smack dab in the middle of the Georgia section.  There we were in our Orange and Blue surrounded by all those Dawgs in their Red and Black.

Talk about being in the Dawg pound or the Dawg kennel.  That’s how we felt.  And none of the Dawgs were on a leash either.  It was woof, woof this and woof, woof that.  U-G-A this and U-G-A that.  I don’t ever want to hear a Dawg bark again.  And to make matters worse, those Dawgs won the dang game.  Do you know how it feels to be a Gator fan sitting in the midst of 42,000 Dawg fans when Georgia beats Florida?  I do.  And I don’t ever want to experience that feeling again. 

Then after the game, as we walked down the winding ramp, exiting the stadium (it seemed like it took forever), we were surrounded by Dawgs.  They were happy.  And happy people make a lot of noise.  They don’t shut up.  And we didn’t dare say a thing.  As hard as we tried, it was all we could do to keep a smile on our faces.  And it was all we could do to keep from doing the Gator chomp.     

But we survived.  Actually, the Dawg fans were mostly good natured.  However, the next time we go to the Florida-Georgia game, we’ll make sure our tickets are among the 42,000 Gator fans.

We caught the shuttle bus back downtown, got to our car and headed out of Jacksonville on I-95 South.  About halfway home, we stopped for a late dinner.  As we were eating, the four of us commented that we couldn’t wait to get home and take a shower to get that Dawg washed off of us.

Aren’t football rivalries fun?

My favorite quarterbacks over the weekend were Houston’s Case Keenum, Oklahoma’s Landry Jones, Pitt’s Tino Sunseri, Stanford’s Andrew Luck, Wyoming’s Brett Smith and North Carolina’s Bryn Renner.

My favorite running backs were Boston College’s Rolandan Finch, Utah’s John White, Louisiana-Lafayette’s Alonzo Harris, Auburn’s Michael Dyer and Georgia Tech’s Tevin Washington.

No rest for the weary.  This weekend, Bootsie, Rockledge Gator, Swamp Mama and I are off to Gainesville for the Vanderbilt-Florida game, where we will hook up with Princess Gator, Bama Gator, Gator Gabe and Gator Babe, who will be coming down from the north – north Florida.

The game has a 12:30 kickoff so that means tailgating will be a brunch – with Bloody Mary’s and Mimosa’s.  Or if you prefer, straight vodka or straight champagne.  But I wouldn’t mix the two.  You might miss the game.  How about cold pizza and chili dogs with a few cold ones?  Nothing like a little diversity. 

There should be time for a nap after the game.  Then we will all gather at the hotel to watch the LSU-Alabama game on TV.  More pizza and cold ones.  Oh boy!  Now let’s see.  Who will be cheering for LSU and who will be cheering for Alabama?  I won’t tell.   

Woof, woof…..I mean…..Go Gators!

Touchdown Tom
October  31, 2011

     
Weekend Review

GAME OF THE WEEK:  The Landry Express – Oklahoma 58, Kansas State 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Oklahoma 31, Kansas State 27).  Landry Jones passed for 505 yards, and the Oklahoma defense held K-State to 58 yards passing.  The Wildcats actually held a brief lead in the game at 17-14 early in the second quarter.  K-State never scored another point after that. A crowd of 51,004 attended the game in Manhattan.   

RUNNER UP:  It’s not over until it’s over – Stanford 56, USC 48 (3OT) (Touchdown Tom said: Stanford 33, USC 27).  This game lived up to its billing – three overtimes.  Andrew Luck and Matt Barkley both had good games, passing for 330 and 284 yards respectively.  A crowd of 93,607 attended the game in Los Angeles. 

REST OF THE BEST:  Welcome to the Big 12, Spartans – Nebraska 24, Michigan State 3 (Touchdown Tom said: Nebraska 22, Michigan State 20).  I know, Nebraska is no longer in the Big 12.  But the Huskers are still playing like a Big 12 team.  And the Spartans generally are bad against good teams from outside the Big Ten.  Nebraska is 6-0 all-time against Michigan State and has outscored the Spartans 205-37.  The Husker defense held Kirk Cousins to 86 yards passing.  A crowd of 85,641 attended the game in Lincoln. 

Stung! – Georgia Tech 31, Clemson 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Clemson 26, Georgia Tech 19).  Georgia Tech literally ran all over Clemson.  The Jackets had 383 yards rushing – 176 by Tevin Washington.  Clemson’s Tajh Boyd passed for 295 yards, but threw two interceptions.  A crowd of 55,646 attended the game in Atlanta. 

These boots were made for running – Oklahoma State 59, Baylor 24 (Touchdown Tom said: Oklahoma State 41, Baylor 24).  Okie State led 42-0 early in the third quarter.  Then the Cowboys decided to let Baylor score some points.  The two teams combined for 1,223 yards of offense.  A crowd of 58,274 attended the game in Stillwater. 

409! – Penn State 10, Illinois 7 (Touchdown Tom said: Penn State 19, Illinois 15).  Joe Paterno now has 409 wins – the most of any Division I coach.  The Lions play good defense.  Can’t say much about their offense.  The Banned Indians play like a Zooker team – losers.  This one was 0-0 at the half.  Illinois scored in the third quarter and Penn State scored all 10 of its points in the fourth.  A crowd of 97,828 attended the game in State College. 

These Bucks are no greenbacks – Ohio State 33, Wisconsin 29 (Touchdown Tom said: Wisconsin 26, Ohio State 25).  After a hot start this season, Wisconsin has lost two straight.  The Badgers often seem to have troubles on the road against good teams.  The Buckeyes’ defense shut down Wisconsin’s running game.  A crowd of 105,511 attended the game in Columbus. 

Snowball – West Virginia 41, Rutgers 31 (Touchdown Tom said: West Virginia 28, Rutgers 21).  Trailing Rutgers 31-21 at the half, the Mounties outscored the Knights 20-0 in the second half.  The game was played in horrible conditions – blowing winds with a mixed rain and snow falling throughout the contest.  A crowd of 47,303 attended the game in Piscataway. 

Purple power – TCU 38, BYU 28 (Touchdown Tom said: TCU 27, BYU 20).  As an independent, I can see BYU getting worse and worse.  As a member of the Big 12, TCU will remain tough, especially with coach Gary Patterson.  A crowd of 50,094 attended the game in Arlington.

Oink! – Arkansas 31, Vanderbilt 28 (Touchdown Tom said: Arkansas 30, Vanderbilt 20).  Two weeks ago, the Commodores almost beat Georgia.  Saturday, they almost beat Arkansas.  Vandy led 28-17 late in the third quarter.  And the Commodores held Arkansas to 72 yards rushing.  The Hogs Tyler Wilson passed for 316 yards and no interceptions.  A crowd of 33,247 attended the game in Nashville.  

Wolverines blow some steam – Michigan 36, Purdue 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Michigan 30, Purdue 27).  Michigan’s magic number was 170.  Denard Robinson passed for 170 yards and Fitzgerald Toussaint rushed for 170 yards.  Purdue scored first and last in the game.  A crowd of 112,115 attended the game in Ann Arbor.

Dogma – Georgia 24, Florida 20 (Touchdown Tom said: Florida 30, Georgia 29).  The Gators were an offensive disaster – -19 yards rushing and John Brantley was a miserable 12-34 passing.  Brantley couldn’t hit the broad side of a blue barn.  Actually Aaron Murray wasn’t much better passing – 15-34.  And Murray tossed an interception.  Florida has no running game.  In the second half, Florida only managed 32 yards and one first down.  Both teams looked bad, but Florida definitely looked worse.  Both teams’ scores were set up on miscues, turnovers, and special teams play.  You figure that Mark Richt saved his job with the win.  Meanwhile, Florida fans are wondering if Will Muschamp will last as long as Ron Zook.  The writing team of Muschamp/Weis hasn’t had any hits so far.  And the Gators remain the most penalized team in the country.  A crowd of 84,524 attended the game in Jacksonville.

Defense! – South Carolina 14, Tennessee 3 (Touchdown Tom said: South Carolina 26, Tennessee 23).  The Gamecocks’ defense held the Vols to only 35 yards rushing, 186 yards total.  A crowd of 96,651 attended the game in Knoxville.   

SEC! SEC! – Missouri 38, Texas A&M 31 (OT) (Touchdown Tom said: Texas A&M 31, Missouri 26).  For the third time this season, the Aggies blew a halftime lead.  A&M led 28-17 at the half, only to be outscored 14-3 by the Tigers in the second half.  A crowd of 86,934 attended the game in College Station.  

Heels exorcise the Demons – North Carolina 49, Wake Forest 24 (Touchdown Tom said: North Carolina 29, Wake Forest 20).  The Heels had too much offense – passing and running.  Bryn Renner threw for 338 yards and Giovani Bernard rushed for another 154.  The game was close well into the third quarter when UNC only led, 21-17.  A crowd of 57,000 attended the game in Chapel Hill. 

Jimbo isn’t Dumbo anymore – Florida State 34, N.C. State 0 (Touchdown Tom said: Florida State 30, N.C. State 22).  And Stoops isn’t Oops.  FSU’s defense held the Wolfpack to only 36 yards rushing and just 166 total.  The Noles’ E.J. Manuel passed for 321 yards.  A crowd of 80,849 attended the game in Tallahassee.  

Tie died – Virginia 28, Miami (Florida) 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Miami 26, Virginia 20).  Jacory Harris showed up, but none of the other Canes did.  Virginia can play some defense.  And not bad on offense either.  Maybe it’s time for Al Golden to change ties.  A crowd of 40,403 attended the game in Miami Gardens.

Cougars caught in a Web – Oregon 43, Washington State 28 (Touchdown Tom said: Oregon 42, Washington State 16).  Closer than expected.  The Cougars actually outgained the Ducks in yardage – 462 to 454.  Cougars quarterback Marshall Lobbestael passed for 337 yards.  A crowd of 59,126 attended the game in Eugene.  

Shock! – Iowa State 41, Texas Tech 7 (Touchdown Tom said: Texas Tech 35, Iowa State 18).  The Red Raiders must have been suffering a hangover from last week’s win over Oklahoma.  Either that, or they were caught looking ahead to Texas.  How else do you explain it?  A crowd of 59,260 attended the game in Lubbock. 

Neuheisel breathes a sigh of relief – UCLA 31, California 14 (Touchdown Tom said: California 26, UCLA 24).  Cal had five turnovers – four interceptions and one fumble.  A crowd of 55,604 attended the game in Pasadena. 


AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON: 

Tino’s Sun shined – Pitt 35, Connecticut 20 (Touchdown Tom said: Pitt 21, Connecticut 20).  Pitt lost running back Ray Graham early in the contest.  He left the game with a season-ending knee injury.  But that didn’t matter for the Panthers.  Tino Sunseri passed for 419 yards.  But the game took its toll on Pitt.  In addition to Graham, the Panthers lost two other players – a receiver and offensive lineman – to season-ending injuries.  A crowd of 40,219 attended the game in Pittsburgh.


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS: 

A squeamer for Beamer – Virginia Tech 14, Duke 10 (Touchdown Tom said: Virginia Tech 32, Duke 15).  And 14-10 was the score at the end of the third quarter.  Neither team could muster a point in the fourth.  A crowd of  27,392 attended the game in Durham.

Sharp Horns – Texas 43, Kansas 0 (Touchdown Tom said: Texas 39, Kansas 17).  Hey, Bevo finally found a team he can beat.  Actually, the Longhorn defense played tough, limiting the Jayhawks to 46 yards of offense – 48 passing and -2 rushing.  Turner Gill has to be on shaky ground in Lawrence.  A crowd of 99,211 attended the game in Austin.


Comment: Routs in the Big 12, shockers in the ACC and Big Ten and a triple-overtime thriller in the Pac-12.  How appropriate for Halloween. 

A so-so week at 16-7 on my picks.  That brings my season total to 153-58 (72.5 percent).


AROUND FLORIDA: 

UCF beat Memphis, 41-0.  A crowd of 37,683 attended the game in Orlando….  Florida International edged Troy, 23-20.   A crowd of 15,852 attended the game in Miami….  Bethune-Cookman downed North Carolina Central, 34-6.  A crowd of 12,516 attended the game in Durham.  

Superlatives

Impressive Passers:  Houston’s Case Keenum – 24-37-1 for 534 yards; Oklahoma’s Landry Jones – 35-47-2-505; Baylor’s Robert Griffin – 33-50-2-425; Pitt’s Tino Sunseri – 29-42-0-419; Bowling Green’s Matt Schliz – 29-49-2-400; Wyoming’s Brett Smith – 25-36-0-341; North Carolina’s Bryn Renner – 21-28-0-338; Hawaii’s Bryant Moniz – 32-53-1-338, and Washington State’s Marshall Lobbestael – 28-48-2-337.

Also, Ball State’s Keith Wenning – 35-50-2 for 335 yards; Stanford’s Andrew Luck – 29-40-1-330; East Carolina’s Dominique Davis – 29-46-1-329; Arkansas State’s Ryan Alpin – 28-42-1-322; Florida’s E.J. Manuel – 25-34-1-321; Texas A&M’s Ryan Tannehill – 35-53-1-317; Arkansas’ Tyler Wilson – 27-43-0-316; Miami of Ohio’s Zac Dysert – 20-25-1-313, and Miami of Florida’s Jacory Harris – 21-30-0-311.

Also, Arizona State’s Brock Osweiler – 18-28-0 for 307 yards; Clemson’s Tajh Boyd – 23-40-2-295; Florida International’s Wes Carroll – 20-37-1-285; Colorado’s Tyler Hansen – 22-35-2-285; USC’s Matt Barkley – 28-45-1-284; Nevada’s Cody Fajardo – 19-29-0-283; Buffalo’s Chazz Anderson – 24-41-2-281; Tulsa’s G.J. Kinne – 24-36-1-274, and Oklahoma State’s Brandon Weeden – 24-36-0-274.     


Impressive Rushers:  Iowa’s Marcus Coker – 252 yards; Boston College’s Rolandan Finch – 243 yards; San Diego State’s Ronnie Hillman – 224 yards; Utah’s John White – 205 yards; Louisiana-Lafayette’s Alonzo Harris – 189 yards; Nevada’s Lampford Mark – 185 yards, and Auburn’s Michael Dyer – 177 yards.

Also, Georgia Tech’s Tevin Washington – 176 yards; Florida International’s Kedrick Rhodes – 172 yards; Michigan’s Fitzgerald Toussaint – 170 yards; Rice’s Tyler Smith – 170 yards; UCLA’s Kevin Prince – 163 yards; Missouri’s Henry Josey – 162 yards; Ohio State’s Daniel Herron – 160 yards, and Army’s Raymond Maples – 159 yards.

Also, Colorado State’s Chris Nwoke – 156 yards; North Carolina’s Giovani Bernard – 154; Oklahoma State’s Joseph Randle – 152 yards; Indiana’s Stephen Houston – 151 yards; Virginia Tech’s David Wilson – 148 yards; USC’s Christian McNeal – 145 yards; Washington’s Chris Polk – 144 yards; Central Michigan’s Anthony Garland – 141 yards, and Rice’s Turner Petersen – 140 yards.


Quotes of Last Week

“Here we go again.  Does I-95 morph into Georgia’s ‘Trail of Tears’ again?,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz, before the Florida-Georgia game.

“Blowing another Cocktail Party would be the last straw for Richt,” CBSSports.com writer Tony Barnhart, before the Florida-Georgia game.

“And what’s going on with Texas Gov. Rick Perry’s presidential bid?  He’s dropped further in the polls during the last month than Florida State,” Orlando Sentinel columnist Mike Bianchi.

Chazz Bono was voted off ABC’s ‘Dancing With the Stars.’  And if Mark Richt loses again today, Georgia fans will vote him off the SEC’s ‘Coaching With the Stars,’” Orlando Sentinel columnist Mike Bianchi.

“If Charlie Weis is a genius, then Steve Addazio was a mastermind,” Orlando Sentinel columnist Mike Bianchi.

“Believe me, there’s nobody more disappointed or impatient than I am.  We have to evaluate ourselves, starting with me,” Florida coach Will Muschamp, after the Georgia game. 

“At least our offense isn’t that bad,” Jacksonville Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio, on Florida’s offense.


The 20 Hottest and Most Intriguing Games of the Week…and then some

GAME OF THE WEEK:  1. LSU (8-0) at Alabama (8-0) – (SEC vs. SEC) – Or as some are calling it, “the semifinals to the national championship game.”  Or, could these two possibly meet again in the national championship game?  That would be a first.  When LSU is on offense, I figure it would be wise for the officials to check the ball.  It could be a synthetic football.  Nick Saban can’t lose.  If LSU wins, Saban can always say that he was the one responsible for rebuilding the Tiger program.  If Alabama wins, well, that’s obvious.  He’s the winning coach.  The defenses are so good there won’t be any touchdowns – only field goals.  The Tigers get one more field goal than the Tide – LSU 9, Alabama 6.

RUNNER UP:  2. Kansas State (7-1) at Oklahoma State (8-0) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – Texas lost back-to-back games to Oklahoma and Oklahoma State.  Looks like it is K-State’s turn now.  But the Wildcats may make this one more exciting than last week’s loss to OU.  Cowboys stay in the saddle – Oklahoma State 41, Kansas State 27.

REST OF THE BEST:  3. South Carolina (7-1) at Arkansas (7-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) – The Gamecocks’ defense won the game for South Carolina against Tennessee.  They may have to win this one too.  But, unlike Tennessee, Arkansas has a potent offense.  South Carolina better find an offense.  The Gamecocks don’t – Arkansas 23, South Carolina 20.

4. Oregon (7-1) at Washington (6-2) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) – Washington State proved that a Pac-12 team can stay in the game with the Ducks.  And that game was in Eugene.  Now the Huskies hope to stay in the game with the Ducks.  And this one is in Seattle.  The Huskies can score.  But they don’t have a defense – Oregon 37, Washington 26.

5. Texas A&M (5-3) at Oklahoma (7-1) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – Think the Sooners have revenge on their minds?  Last year the Aggies handed OU one of its two losses.  So I think OU has a bone to pick with A&M.  Plus, this is the last time the two teams will be playing – at least for a while, if not longer.  So the Sooners don’t want their last Big 12 game with A&M to be a loss.  The odds aren’t good for the Aggies – Oklahoma 35, Texas A&M 25.

6. Texas Tech (5-3) at Texas (5-2) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – The Red Raiders had to be looking ahead to this game when they lost to Iowa State last week.  All for naught.  Tech may have beat Oklahoma in Norman, but the Red Raiders won’t beat Texas in Austin – Texas 33, Texas Tech 22.

7. Michigan (7-1) at Iowa (5-3) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – This is not a good year for Iowa.  The Hawkeyes can play some defense, but they have no offense.  And the Hawkeye defense isn’t good enough to stop Michigan.  The Brady bunch rolls – Michigan 26, Iowa 17.

8. Southern Miss (7-1) at East Carolina (4-4) – (C-USA vs. C-USA) – Key game in C-USA.  Both are tied for the lead of the East Division.  Southern Miss has to contain the Pirates’ quarterback Dominique Davis.  ECU has to stop the Eagles’ balanced attack.  They don’t – Southern Miss 36, East Carolina 34.

9. Louisville (4-4) at West Virginia (6-2) – (Big East vs. Big East) – Louisville has been winning games on its defense, which is what you would expect from a Charlie Strong team.  WVU will definitely test the Cardinals’ defense.  Look for Louisville to attack the West Virginia offense like Syracuse did.  The Orange succeeded.  The Cardinals won’t – West Virginia 27, Louisville 13.

10. Purdue (4-4) at Wisconsin (6-2) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – Wisconsin doesn’t play well on the road.  But the Badgers are back home this week.  Much to Purdue’s chagrin.  The Boilers don’t play well on the road either – Wisconsin 30, Purdue 17.

11. Arizona State (6-2) at UCLA (4-4) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) – Rick Neuheisel is fighting for his survival in Westwood.  That makes the Bruins a dangerous team for the Sun Devils, especially in the Rose Bowl.  But the Bruins aren’t dangerous enough – Arizona State 40, UCLA 24.

12. Cincinnati (6-1) at Pitt (4-4) – (Big East vs. Big East) – Cincinnati’s offense has looked good in just about every game except for one – Tennessee.  The defense has looked good in every game except for two – Tennessee and South Florida.  That says the Bearcats are basically stable and solid on both sides of the ball.  Pitt’s offense and defense have been all over the place from one game to another – very unstable and certainly not solid.  Stable as a Bearcat – Cincinnati 28, Pitt 19. 

13. North Carolina (6-3) at N.C. State (4-4) – (ACC vs. ACC) – The Tar Heels have a potent offense.  At times, they can play some decent defense.  The Wolfpack have been up-and-down and all over the place on offense and defense.  And now there are reports that Tom O’Brien could be in trouble.  He may be after this game – North Carolina 29, N.C. State 22.

14. Notre Dame (5-3) at Wake Forest (5-3) – (Ind. vs. ACC) – Some think this could be a trap game for the Irish.  I don’t think so – Notre Dame 33, Wake Forest 23.

15. Missouri (4-4) at Baylor (4-3) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – Beware Baylor.  Down-and-out Mizzou woke up last week and knocked off Texas A&M.  The Tigers may still be awake.  If so they can be dangerous.  But the Bears can be dangerous too – Baylor 30, Missouri 29.

16. South Florida (4-3) at Rutgers (5-3) – (Big East vs. Big East) – Except for the Notre Dame game, South Florida hasn’t played well on the road.  Guess what?  The Bulls are on the road this week.  The Bulls get homesick – Rutgers 28, South Florida 20.

17. Tulsa (5-3) at UCF (4-4) – (C-USA vs. C-USA) – Another key game in C-USA.  Tulsa is undefeated in conference play.  The Golden Hurricane are tied with Houston for first in the West Division.  Although looking grim, UCF still has a shot at winning the East Division.  Plus the Knights are anxious to become bowl eligible.  The Knights know how to handle Hurricanes – UCF 26, Tulsa 25.

18. Vanderbilt (4-4) at Florida (4-4) – (SEC vs. SEC) – Vandy is no slouch.  The Commodores almost beat Georgia and Arkansas.  They are two wins shy of becoming bowl eligible.  They have incentive.  The Gators are playing like a team without any incentive.  The Gators are playing like a team that can’t wait for the season to end – the sooner, the better.  Like Vandy, the Gators are two wins away from becoming bowl eligible.  A loss to Vandy and the Gators won’t go bowling.  The Commodores navigate through The Swamp – Vanderbilt 29, Florida 24.

19. Northwestern (3-5) at Nebraska (7-1) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – Northwestern can score, but the Wildcats’ defense couldn’t stop the Victoria’s Secret Lingerie team.  That says the Huskers’ offense should have a hay day….I mean….heyday.  Generally, Northwestern’s offense can play tough for two or three quarters.  But they typically run out of steam at some point in the second half.  The Huskers just can’t be looking ahead to Penn State.  Wildcats get lost in a Corn maze – Nebraska 34, Northwestern 19.

20. Stanford (8-0) at Oregon State (2-6) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) – This should be a no brainer for the Cardinal.  Except that – and it’s a big exception – strange things can happen in Corvallis – just ask USC, and next up for Stanford is Oregon.  Think the Cardinal won’t be looking ahead?  Beavers can’t fell the Trees – Stanford 31, Oregon State 13.


AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON: 

21. Syracuse (5-3) at Connecticut (3-5) – (Big East vs. Big East) – Both are 1-2 in Big East Conference play.  The loser will be out of any contention for the conference title.  Syracuse is close to bowl eligibility, while UConn has its work cut out if the Huskies are going to make it to a bowl.  UConn’s coach – Paul Pasqualoni – is a former head coach at Syracuse.  The Huskies have the home-field advantage, but the momentum is with the Orange – Syracuse 23, Connecticut 16.


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS: 

Duke (3-5) at Miami (Florida) (4-4) – (ACC vs. ACC) – The season has been disappointing for the Canes.  Now it is a case of salvaging something good out of it.  With the Dookies coming to town, the salvaging looks good.  However, three of the Devils’ five losses were by a combined seven points.  But those losses were at home.  South Beach doesn’t look like Durham – Miami 30, Duke 19.

New Mexico State (3-5) at Georgia (6-2) – (WAC vs. SEC) – Chalk this up as a win for the Dawgs even if Uga has to play quarterback.  The Aggies from Las Cruces are no match for the boys from Athens.  The Dawgs practice for Auburn – Georgia 39, New Mexico State 18.


Comment: The game we have been waiting for takes place in Tuscaloosa.  Otherwise, key conference games in the Big 12, Big East and C-USA.  South Carolina at Arkansas should be a thriller. 


AROUND FLORIDA: 

Florida State (5-3) visits Boston College (2-6)….  Florida International (5-3) travels to Western Kentucky (4-4)….  Florida Atlantic (0-7) hosts Arkansas State (6-2)….  Bethune-Cookman (5-3) entertains Morgan State (5-3)….  Florida A&M (5-3) is home against North Carolina A&T (4-4)….  Jacksonville U. (6-2) is away at Drake (7-2).


Tuesday’s Television Schedule – November 1

Northern Illinois at Toledo – 7 p.m. ET – ESPN2


Wednesday’s Television Schedule – November 2

Temple at Ohio – 8 p.m. ET – ESPN


Thursday’s Television Schedule – November 3

Akron at Miami (Ohio) – 7:30 p.m. ET – ESPNU
Florida State at Boston College – 8 p.m. ET – ESPN
Tulsa at UCF – 8 p.m. ET – CBS College Sports Network


Friday’s Television Schedule – November 4

Central Michigan at Kent State – 8 p.m. ET – ESPN2
USC at Colorado – 9 p.m. ET – ESPN


Saturday’s Television Schedule – November 5

Michigan at Iowa – 12 noon ET – ESPN
Louisville at West Virginia – 12 noon ET – Big East Game of the Week
Syracuse at Connecticut – 12 noon ET – ESPNU
Texas Tech at Texas – 12 noon ET – FX
Vanderbilt at Florida – 12:20 p.m. ET – SEC Game of the Week
North Carolina at N.C. State – 12:30 p.m. ET – ACC Game of the Week
Virginia at Maryland – 12:30 p.m. ET – ACC Game of the Week
Army at Air Force – 3:30 p.m. ET – CBS
Ole Miss at Kentucky – 3:30 p.m. ET – ESPNU
Purdue at Wisconsin – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC/ESPN2
Stanford at Oregon State – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC
Texas A&M at Oklahoma – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC
Troy at Navy – 3:30 p.m. ET – CBS College Sports Network
Cincinnati at Pitt – 7 p.m. ET – ESPNU
Houston at UAB – 7 p.m. ET – CBS College Sports Network
Notre Dame at Wake Forest – 7 p.m. ET – ESPN2
South Carolina at Arkansas – 7:15 p.m. ET – ESPN
Arizona State at UCLA – 7:30 p.m. ET – Versus
LSU at Alabama – 8 p.m. ET – CBS
Kansas State at Oklahoma State – 8 p.m. ET – ABC/ESPN2
Notre Dame at Wake Forest – 8 p.m. ET – ABC/ESPN2
Boise State at UNLV – 10:30 p.m. ET – CBS College Sports Network
Louisiana Tech at Fresno State – 10:30 p.m. ET – ESPNU


In the Huddle

Elsewhere around college football . . . Oregon has added Tennessee Tech to its 2012 schedule.


Extra Points

Third BCS Standings: 1. LSU, 2. Alabama, 3. Oklahoma State, 4. Stanford, 5. Boise State, 6. Oklahoma, 7. Arkansas, 8. Oregon, 9. South Carolina, 10. Nebraska

On the Internet – College Football Week now has a Website and can be found at www.collegefootballweek.blogspot.com.

Touchdown Tom


P.S.

Not directly college football related, but on a sad comment, there were four passings of note last week – Paul Leka, Robert Pierpoint, Greg Gantt and Bob Barry.

Paul Leka, a songwriter and record producer who worked with many recording stars, but who was best-known for writing the song “Na Na Hey Hey (Kiss Him Goodbye),” a No. 1 hit in 1969, died last week in Sharon, Connecticut.  He was 68.  The cause was lung cancer.  Leka wrote “Green Tambourine” a No. 1 hit in 1967 for the Lemon Pipers; signed REO Speedwagon to its first record contract, and produced four of Happy Chapin’s albums.  Paul Theodore Leka was born on February 20, 1943, in Bridgeport, Connecticut.  His parents were immigrants from Albania.  

Robert Pierpoint, a CBS News correspondent who covered the Korean War and reported on six presidents from Dwight D. Eisenhower to Jimmy Carter, died last week in Santa Barbara, California.  He was 86.  In more than 40 years with CBS radio and television, Pierpoint covered the major news stories of his time from Korea to the Kennedy assassination to Watergate.  Robert Charles Pierpoint was born on May 16, 1925, in Redondo Beach, California.  After naval service in World War II, he graduated from the University of the Redlands.  Pierpont went to work for CBS News in 1949.  He retired in 1990.

Greg Gantt, a former punter for Alabama and the New York Jets, died last week.  He was 59.  The cause was heart disease and diabetes.  Gantt led the SEC in punting for three seasons.  He also kicked long field goals for the Tide.  Gantt may be best known for having two of his punts blocked in Alabama’s 17-16 loss to Auburn in 1972.  Both were returned for touchdowns in the “Punt, Bama, Punt” game.  Gantt punted two seasons for the Jets. 

Bob Barry, the longtime radio voice of the Oklahoma Sooners, who was handpicked by Bud Wilkinson, died Saturday.  He was 80.  Barry was the “Voice of the Sooners” from 1961 to 1972, then from 1991 to 2010.  He retired last spring.  He called Oklahoma State games from 1973 to 1990 before coming back to OU.  Barry’s broadcasting career began in 1956 at a Norman, Oklahoma, radio station where he was a salesman, disc jockey and sportscaster for the Norman High School football games.  Wilkinson asked Barry to try out for the OU play-by-play job in 1961.


Monday, October 24, 2011

Save the Best for Last

College Football Week 9 – West Virginia headed to the Big 12?

Save the Best for Last

That’s what college football did Saturday.  It saved two of the day’s best games for last – Wisconsin-Michigan State and Texas Tech-Oklahoma.  Or in the case of the Red Raiders-Sooners, you could say, better late than never.  Their game, originally scheduled to start at 8 p.m. ET, was weather-delayed for a good 95 minutes or so.

Both games resulted in two undefeated, Top-5 teams getting beat on the same Saturday for the first time this season.  The Wisconsin-Michigan State game, which began at 8 p.m. ET as scheduled, started out in favor of the Badgers.  At the end of the first quarter, Wisconsin was up 14-0. 

Just when you thought Michigan State could be out of it, the Spartans came storming back in the second quarter, scoring 23 unanswered points.  State led the Badgers at the half, 23-14.  The third quarter was pretty much a stalemate between the two.  Wisconsin added a field goal and closed the gap to 23-17. 

Then it got chaotic in the fourth quarter.  Michigan State scored first and increased its lead to 31-17 with 10:58 remaining.  Wisconsin countered with back-to-back touchdowns, the second one coming with 01:26 remaining.  The score was tied 31-31 and by all appearances the game was headed to overtime.

After the ensuing kickoff, the Spartans moved the ball to the Wisconsin 44-yardline with about 00:04 remaining.  Overtime was still in the foreseeable future.  On the last play, Kirk Cousin rolled out to his right and threw a Hail Mary pass to the end zone.  The ball bounced off the facemask of a Michigan State player in the end zone and into the hands of the Spartans’ Keith Nichol.  Nichol caught the ball outside of the end zone, but fought two Wisconsin defenders to get the ball across the goal line.          

The officials ruled the ball did not cross the goal line.  Game over.  Overtime.  But the officials' call was challenged.  The play was reviewed.  Upon further review, the officials ruled, “touchdown.”  Game over.  Michigan State wins, 37-31.  Bedlam broke out in Spartan Stadium.

The Texas Tech-Oklahoma game finally got underway around 9:45 p.m. ET.  Tech scored first, but the Sooners responded with a touchdown.  The score was 7-7 at the end of the first quarter.  It was in the second quarter that you got the feeling it might be a strange night.  The Red Raiders scored 17 unanswered points – two touchdowns and a field goal.  Tech was up at the half, 24-7.

But hey, Oklahoma has been down before and rallied to win.  Early in the third quarter, the Red Raiders scored again and led, 31-7.  Now you’re thinking you really could be viewing an upset in the making.

Then the Sooners scored 17 unanswered points.  With 14:55 remaining in the fourth quarter, Oklahoma trailed Texas Tech, 31-24.  And just when you are thinking the Sooners are coming back, the Red Raiders add another 10 points.  With 07:38 remaining in the game, Tech is now up, 41-24.  Not looking good for OU.

But in the next six minutes, Oklahoma scored two touchdowns.  With 01:10 remaining, the Sooners had closed the gap to 41-38.  OU attempted an on-side kick.  Tech recovered and ran out the clock.  For the second time within a couple hours an undefeated, Top-5 team lost.  First Wisconsin, then Oklahoma.  Unbelievable.

In the Tech-OU game, the two quarterbacks – Seth Doege and Landry Jones – combined for 853 yards passing.  About the only difference between the two – Jones threw one interception, Doege threw none. 

Saturday was a record-setting day for Penn State coach Joe Paterno.  The Nittany Lions 34-24 win over Northwestern gave Paterno his 408th career victory.  That ties Paterno with former Grambling coach Eddie Robinson – most wins by a Division I coach.  The only coach with more wins is Division III St. John’s (Minnesota) University coach John Gagliardi.  Gagliardi has 481 wins.

Northwestern, as it turns out, is the ideal opponent for Penn State whenever Paterno is going for a record.  When Paterno got his 323rd win to tie Bear Bryant, the Nittany Lions beat Northwestern.  Then, last year when Paterno got his 400th victory, Penn State beat Northwestern.        

Eight teams remain undefeated going into Week Nine – Alabama, Boise State, Clemson, Houston, Kansas State, LSU, Oklahoma State and Stanford.  Two teams remain winless – Florida Atlantic and New Mexico.  UAB was removed from the winless list.  The Blazers got their first win of the season Thursday night, beating UCF, 26-24.  

Tulane coach Bob Toledo was fired last week.  Toledo, a former coach of UCLA, was in his fifth season with the Green Wave.  His overall record at Tulane was 15-40, including 2-5 this season.  The firing didn’t seem to help the Green Wave any.  Saturday, Tulane lost to Memphis, 33-17. 

Toledo is the third coach to be fired this season.  Earlier, New Mexico’s Mike Locksley and Arizona’s Mike Stoops were terminated from their schools.  Stoops departure seemed to fire up Arizona.  Thursday night, the Wildcats beat UCLA, 48-12.  It was Arizona’s first win over a FBS team this season.

A coach doing a remarkable job turning around a program is Ron English at Eastern Michigan.  For many years EMU has been the doormat of the Mid-American Conference.  English, in his third year at EMU, has the Eagles off to a 5-3 start. 

Included in the five wins are two impressive victories over EMU’s intrastate rivals Central Michigan and Western Michigan.  English is a former defensive coordinator at Michigan and Louisville.

Newspapers out of Texas, Missouri and other Midwest states are reporting that Missouri will announce today it is leaving the Big 12 Conference to join the SEC.  The same newspapers report the Big 12 will replace Missouri in the conference with West Virginia.  Stay tuned!

My favorite quarterbacks over the weekend were East Carolina’s Dominique Davis, Houston’s Case Keenum, Arkansas State’s Ryan Alpin, Syracuse’s Ryan Nassib, Michigan State’s Kirk Cousins and Clemson’s Tajh Boyd.

My favorite running backs were Western Kentucky’s Bobby Rainey, Vanderbilt’s Zac Stacy, Nevada’s Mike Ball and Penn State’s Silas Redd.

Saturday, Swamp Mama and I attended the Suntree/Viera Lightning-Rockledge Raider football game at Rockledge Park.  The game was between two Brevard Youth League football teams.  We were there to see David Stein who plays defense and does the placekicking and kickoffs for Suntree/Viera.

David, age 10, kicked three PAT’s and a 30-yard field goal, as Suntree/Viera beat Rockledge, 40-0.  Obviously you can tell from the score that David played good defense.  David is the son of Neal and Stephanie Stein.  His sister Julia is a star soccer player.

This coming Saturday, Bootsie, Rockledge Gator, Swamp Mama and I are going to a rather large cocktail party.  The party is an annual affair and is held outdoors.  The four of us will be at the Florida-Georgia game in Jacksonville, cheering on the Gators.  Or then again, we could be booing Charlie Weis.  Let’s hope not.

Swamp Mama and I haven’t been to a Florida-Georgia game since the 1970s.  We went to the 1977 game when Florida won, 22-17, and the 1978 game when Georgia won, 24-22.  Both thrillers.  This will be Bootsie’s and Rockledge Gator’s first Florida-Georgia game.  I’ll do my best to make sure Rockledge Gator behaves.

Touchdown Tom
October 24, 2011


Weekend Review

GAME OF THE WEEK:  Full of grace – Michigan State 37, Wisconsin 31 (Touchdown Tom said: Wisconsin 28, Michigan State 24).  Kirk Cousins’ 44-yard Hail Mary pass as time expires wins the game for the Spartans – a game that had overtime written all over it.  Now, it’s quite possible that these two could meet again in the Big Ten championship game.  Stay tuned!  A crowd of 76,405 attended the game in East Lansing.  

RUNNER UP:  More than Luck – Stanford 65, Washington 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Stanford 34, Washington 16).  Stanford is more than just a passing team.  The Cardinal rushed for 446 yards.  A crowd of 50,360 attended the game in Palo Alto.

REST OF THE BEST:  And Florida lost to Auburn – LSU 45, Auburn 10 (Touchdown Tom said: LSU 33, Auburn 14).  Not that Florida is that good, but Auburn just doesn’t look like the same team from one week to the next, going all the way back to the Utah State game.  Of course, nobody looks like the same team against LSU.  A crowd of 93,098 attended the game in Baton Rouge.

Hurtin’ Heels – Clemson 59, North Carolina 38 (Touchdown Tom said: Clemson 32, North Carolina 21).  Good game until the third quarter.  That’s when the Tigers outscored the Heels, 35-7.  Clemson won the game with only 77 yards rushing.  But Tajh Boyd had a great day passing.  The Heels had six turnovers.  A crowd of 79,000 attended the game in Clemson.

O’Kiffin – USC 31, Notre Dame 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Notre Dame 30, USC 23).  Trojans hold the Irish to 41 yards rushing.  Lane Kiffin calls it his biggest win since he has been at USC.  A crowd of 80,795 attended the game in South Bend.

Eagles pin a loss on the Pony – Southern Miss 27, SMU 3 (Touchdown Tom said: SMU 34, Southern Miss 32).  The Eagles handed SMU its first C-USA loss of the season.  The Southern Miss defense shut down a talented SMU offense.  A crowd of 32,685 attended the game in Hattiesburg. 

Boomer….I mean…Bummer for OU – Texas Tech 41, Oklahoma 38 (Touchdown Tom said: Oklahoma 49, Texas Tech 25).  The Red Raiders led 31-7 with 12:00 remaining in the third quarter and then held off the Sooner rally.  It was only OU’s third loss at home in 78 games since Bob Stoops has been with the Sooners.  A crowd of 85,204 attended the game in Norman.

This Tide isn’t ebbing – Alabama 37, Tennessee 6 (Touchdown Tom said: Alabama 36, Tennessee 9).  Good game until the second half.  Alabama scored 31 of its 37 points after the intermission.  Tennessee was held to six first downs and 155 yards of offense.  A crowd of 101,821 attended the game in Tuscaloosa.

Falcons can’t bust the Broncos – Boise State 37, Air Force 26 (Touchdown Tom said: Boise State 42, Air Force 19).  The Falcons hung tough with the Broncos.  A crowd of 34,196 attended the game in Boise.

Bang, bang – Oklahoma State 45, Missouri 24 (Touchdown Tom said: Oklahoma State 31, Missouri 22).  The Cowboys ended Missouri’s 10-game home winning streak.  Good game in the first half.  Okie State ran away from Mizzou in the second half.  Four turnovers didn’t help the Tigers.  A crowd of 64,202 attended the game in Columbia.

Swat – Miami (Florida) 24, Georgia Tech 7 (Touchdown Tom said: Georgia Tech 27, Miami 24).  After a 6-0 start, the Yellow Jackets have now dropped two straight.  A crowd of 43,716 attended the game in Miami Gardens.

Syracuse 49, West Virginia 23 (Touchdown Tom said: West Virginia 33, Syracuse 17).  Dana! Dana! Dana!  I know it’s your first year as a head coach, but in order to have a successful season, you have to play defense and you have to have good special teams.  Your offense won’t always win games for you.  Didn’t you learn anything from the LSU loss?  Oh, and by the way, it helps to recruit too.  Nuff said.  A crowd of 45,265 attended the game in Syracuse.

Looking like the Zooker – Purdue 21, Illinois 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Illinois 29, Purdue 20).  Two weeks ago when the Banned Indians were 6-0, you couldn’t believe this was a Ron Zook-coached team.  Now that Illinois has lost two-straight games, the Banned Indians are looking more like a Zooker team.  Purdue scored all 21 of its points in the first half.  Illinois scored all of its points in the fourth quarter.  A crowd of 45,146 attended the game in West Lafayette.

Aggies bid farewell to the Cyclones – Texas A&M 33, Iowa State 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Texas A&M 35, Iowa State 17).  The Aggies’ Christine Michael and Cyrus Gray rushed for a combined 267 yards.  After opening the season at 3-0, Iowa State has lost four straight.  A crowd of 51,131 attended the game in Ames.

Flying Cougars – Houston 63, Marshall 28 (Touchdown Tom said: Houston 35, Marshall 20).  The Cougars’ Case Keenum eclipsed the NCAA career passing record of 16,910 yards.  Keenum has now passed for 17,173 in his career.  The Cougars are making a statement to the pollsters.  A crowd of 32,107 attended the game in Houston.

408 wins for JoePa – Penn State 34, Northwestern 24 (Touchdown Tom said: Penn State 25, Northwestern 22).  I think these two ran out of energy by halftime.  Fifty-one of the combined 58 points scored were scored in the first half.  The Nittany Lions led at the half, 27-24.  After a 2-0 start, Northwestern has lost five straight.  A crowd of 40,004 attended the game in Evanston.

Bearcats hit the Bullseye – Cincinnati 37, South Florida 34 (Touchdown Tom said: Cincinnati 26, South Florida 21).  Cincinnati quarterback Zach Collaros scored on a two-yard run with 00:12 on the clock to rally the Bearcats.  Cincinnati outscored USF 20-7 in the fourth quarter.  A crowd of 44,246 attended the game in Tampa. 

The Price is right – Wake Forest 24, Duke 23 (Touchdown Tom said: Wake Forest 28, Duke 19).  The Deacons beat the Dookies for the 12th-straight time.  Strange game – Wake scored the first 17 points.  Then Duke scored 23 unanswered points and led 23-17.  The Deacs scored with 6:52 remaining in the fourth quarter on a 66-yard pass from Tanner Price to Chris Givens.  A crowd of 22,258 attended the game in Durham.

The Knights are for the Birds – Louisville 16, Rutgers 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Rutgers 28, Louisville 22).  Louisville is looking more and more like a Charlie Strong team – good defense.  A crowd of 48,435 attended the game in Louisville.

Bears come out of hibernation – California 34, Utah 10 (Touchdown Tom said: Utah 28, California 24).  Cal wins its first Pac-12 game, but a different story for the Utes.  At 0-4 in conference play, Utah is off to a rough start in its first year in the Pac-12.  The Utes are averaging only 13-points-a-game against Pac-12 opponents.  A crowd of 35,182 attended the game in San Francisco.


AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON: 

Leave it to Beaver – Oregon State 44, Washington State 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Washington State 32, Oregon State 27).  Both coaches are fighting to hold onto their jobs.  Mike Riley needed the win more than Paul Wulff.  A crowd of 49,219 attended the game in Seattle. 


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS: 

Gophers can’t pop the Corn – Nebraska 41, Minnesota 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Nebraska 48, Minnesota 10).  The Huskers led 34-0 at halftime.  A crowd of 49,187 attended the game in Minneapolis.

Comment:  Two top-ten, undefeated teams fall – Oklahoma and Wisconsin.  Notre Dame lost, after winning four straight.  Illinois lost its second-straight game, after starting out 6-0.       

A disastrous week at 12-10 on my picks.  That brings my season total to 137-51 (72.9 percent).


AROUND FLORIDA: 

Florida State beat Maryland, 41-16.  A crowd of 72,697 attended the game in Tallahassee….  UCF lost to UAB, 26-24.  A crowd of 8,872 attended the game in Birmingham….  Florida International fell to Arkansas State, 34-16.  A crowd of 15,573 attended the game in Jonesboro….  Florida Atlantic lost to Middle Tennessee, 38-14.  A crowd of 16,344 attended the game in Boca Raton.

Bethune-Cookman downed Norfolk State, 14-6.  A crowd of 10,053 attended the game in Norfolk….  Florida A&M edged South Carolina State, 27-24.  A crowd of 17,153 attended the game in Orangeburg….  Jacksonville U. smothered Davidson, 56-13.  A crowd of 4,214 attended the game in Jacksonville.  


Superlatives

Impressive Passers:  Texas Tech’s Seth Doege – 33-52-0 for 448 yards; Central Michigan’s Ryan Radcliff – 30-44-1-436; Louisiana-Lafayette’s Blaine Gauthier – 32-51-1-419; Oklahoma’s Landry Jones – 30-55-1-412; South Florida’s B.J. Daniels – 31-47-0-409; Buffalo’s Chazz Anderson – 35-53-2-404; Cincinnati’s Zach Collaros – 26-41-2-389; Tulane’s Ryan Griffin – 31-50-0-377, and Houston’s Case Keenum – 24-28-0-376.

Also, Oregon State’s Sean Mannion – 26-34-1 for 376 yards; East Carolina’s Dominique Davis – 40-45-0-372; Clemson’s Tajh Boyd – 27-46-0-367; Oklahoma State’s Brandon Weeden – 33-49-1-338; West Virginia’s Geno Smith – 24-41-2-338; Miami of Ohio’s Zac Dysert – 24-37-2-333; North Texas’ Derek Thompson – 23-39-0-332; Ohio’s Tyler Tettleton – 21-29-1-328, and UAB’s Jonathan Perry – 31-42-2-327.

Also, Ball State’s Keith Wenning – 28-37-1 for 325 yards; Tulsa’s G.J. Kinne – 21-34-0-318; Fresno State’s Derek Carr – 20-37-0-315; Nevada’s Cody Fajardo – 19-27-0-313; Northwestern’s Dan Persa – 26-34-1-294; Arizona’s Nick Foles – 26-39-1-291; Michigan State’s Kirk Cousins – 22-31-0-290; Alabama’s A.J. McCarron – 17-26-1-286, and Boise State’s Kellen Moore – 23-29-1-281.    


Impressive Rushers:  Western Kentucky’s Bobby Rainey – 206 yards; Vanderbilt’s Zac Stacy – 198 yards; Nevada’s Mike Ball – 198 yards; UTEP’s Vernon Frazier – 167 yards; Fresno State’s Robbie Rouse – 167 yards, and Penn State’s Silas Redd – 164 yards.

Also, Arkansas State’s Ryan Alpin – 164 yards; SMU’s Zach Line – 163 yards; Arkansas’ Dennis Johnson – 160 yards; Florida Atlantic’s Alfred Morris – 153 yards; Kentucky’s CoShik Williams – 148 yards; Washington’s Chris Polk – 144 yards, and Texas A&M’s Christine Michael – 142 yards.    

Quotes of Last Week

“In my opinion there are three teams in the country – Alabama, LSU and Oklahoma – that are really, really good,” Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy.

“I’ve been blessed to be around some great quarterbacks,” Oklahoma receiver Ryan Broyles, on breaking the NCAA career reception record.  Broyles was referring to Landry Jones and Sam Bradford. 

“Worst idea:  Steve Spurrier allowing Stephen Garcia a second chance, much less a fifth,” CBSSports.com writer Dennis Dodd.

“It’s hard when you’ve got a six-year-old and a 10-year-old at home and you’ve got to go home and explain to them what you said.  So that’s not good and that’s not how we’re going to run our program.  That’s it.  Again, as far as the sideline stuff’s concerned, we’re going to be who we are.  I’m just apologizing for the language, nothing else,” Florida coach Will Muschamp, on his sideline outbursts during the Florida-Auburn game.

“I don’t think they know where my window is,” Georgia State coach Bill Curry, when asked if anyone had thrown a brick through his window yet.  Georgia State is 1-5. 

“As inaugurals go, Tim Tebow couldn’t have it any softer.  Not only are his Denver Broncos coming off a bye week, but they get to play the horrific Miami Dolphins, who will have limited prep time after Monday night’s debacle vs. the New York Jets.  Plus, Tebow might have the home-field advantage in Miami.  Fans there could be a lot more willing to cheer a Heisman Trophy-winning former Florida Gator than a collection of Dolphins who are 0-5.  Maybe somebody up there simply likes Tebow,” USA Today writer Tom Weir.   

“So the SEC suspends Georgia and Vanderbilt players, but not even a reprimand for the coaches.  The conference hasn’t been this whipped since it was taking orders from Urban Meyer,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

Nick Saban responded to questions about conference expansion and the Heisman race with something from Bartletts’ Quotations: ‘I could give a s--- about all that.  Excuse my French.’  Why do we blame the French every time we swear?  And hey, if Saban thinks he has problems, Derek Dooley can look at Tennessee game film and give you an entire dissertation in French,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“Three LSU players have been suspended, reportedly for ‘synthetic’ marijuana, which further magnifies the tragedy of today’s youth because they don’t know the first thing about planting seeds, putting a grow light in your closet, and….wait, where was I” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

Rick is my coach.  I don’t know who is talking about him being relieved early, but it’s certainly not me.  He’s a great Bruin.  I want to see him succeed,” UCLA athletic director Dan Guerrero, on Rick Neuheisel, after the Bruins 48-12 loss to Arizona.

Moammar Gadhafi’s last words: ‘But I just picked up Tebow on my fantasy team,’” Orlando Sentinel columnist Mike Bianchi.

“Did you see where Will Muschamp apologized for his profanity-laced tirade against SEC officials last week?  My question: When is Charlie Weis going to apologize for the Gators’ pathetic offense?,” Orlando Sentinel columnist Mike Bianchi.

“Something we’re doing ain’t right,” Georgia Tech coach Paul Johnson, after the Miami game.  

“A sobering truth revealed: Georgia Tech just isn’t very good,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Mark Bradley, after the Tech-Miami game.


The 20 Hottest and Most Intriguing Games of the Week…and then some

GAME OF THE WEEK:  1. Oklahoma (6-1) at Kansas State (7-0) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – If Texas Tech can beat Oklahoma in Norman, you got to figure that Kansas State can beat OU in Manhattan.  The Wildcats sure will try.  And with the magic of Bill Snyder, K-State might succeed.  Never underestimate the Wildcats.  But look for the Sooners to rebound – Oklahoma 31, Kansas State 27.

RUNNER UP:  2. Stanford (7-0) at USC (6-1) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) – Both teams are coming into this game at their peaks – Stanford on the huge win over Washington and USC on the big win over Notre Dame.  Both teams can pass – Andrew Luck and Matt Barkley.  And Stanford can run.  Therein lies the difference – Stanford 33, USC 27.

REST OF THE BEST:  3. Michigan State (6-1) at Nebraska (6-1) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – The Spartans pulled it out against Michigan and Wisconsin, handing each team its first loss.  But those games were in East Lansing.  This one is in Lincoln.  The Huskers can’t afford to let the Spartans get an early lead like Ohio State did against Nebraska.  The Spartans’ defense won’t let the Huskers rally like they did against the Buckeyes.  If Michigan State loses, the Spartans are still in the race for the Legends Division title.  If Nebraska loses, the Huskers are most likely out of the race.  Herbie stays in the race – Nebraska 22, Michigan State 20.

4. Clemson (8-0) at Georgia Tech (6-2) – (ACC vs. ACC) – The Tigers are on the rise, while the Jackets are in a funk.  Two weeks ago, both of these teams were 6-0.  Then Tech fell onto hard times.  The Jackets can’t pull out of their dive – Clemson 26, Georgia Tech 19.

5. Baylor (4-2) at Oklahoma State (7-0) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – If RG3 is hot, Baylor could be trouble for the Cowboys.  He and the Bears have had an extra week to prepare for Okie State.  But Baylor needs more than an extra week to prepare for the Cowboys – Oklahoma State 41, Baylor 24.

6. Illinois (6-2) at Penn State (7-1) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – Penn State is 7-1 and I’m not sure anybody knows it.  The problem is the Lions really haven’t made a big impression with their wins.  The scores have been close and the opponents haven’t been that strong.  The Lions win another close one – Penn State 19, Illinois 15.

7. Wisconsin (6-1) at Ohio State (4-3) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – We know the Buckeyes can play defense.  It’s the offense that is questionable.  But the offense has had two weeks to prepare for the Badgers, while the Badgers had to deal with Michigan State last week.  And how well will Wisconsin respond to the loss to the Spartans?  The Badgers are facing a challenge.  They put on a good face – Wisconsin 26, Ohio State 25.

8. West Virginia (5-2) at Rutgers (5-2) – (Big East vs. Big East) – Both teams were upset last week – West Virginia big time.  So which one gets its act together and bounces back this week?  Mountaineers take advantage of ‘The Situation’ – West Virginia 28, Rutgers 21.

9. BYU (6-2) vs. TCU (5-2) – (Ind. vs. MWC) – Well, this used to be a big Mountain West Conference game.  Not any more since BYU pulled out of the MWC last summer.  Now it’s just a big game for pride.  The Horned Frogs wear the pride well – TCU 27, BYU 20.

10. Arkansas (6-1) at Vanderbilt (4-3) – (SEC vs. SEC) – You would think this is an easy game for the Hogs.  And it may be.  But it is at Vandy and the Commodores have played very well at times this season.  Meaning, Vandy can be dangerous.  And the Hogs had a tough time against a poor Ole Miss team last week.  The Ole Miss scare was a wakeup call for the Hogs – Arkansas 30, Vanderbilt 20.

11. Purdue (4-3) at Michigan (6-1) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – Granted, Purdue is playing better these days, but not good enough to beat the Wolverines.  Still, the Boilers could make it interesting.  But the Wolverines take the interest out of interesting – Michigan 30, Purdue 27.

12. Florida (4-3) vs. Georgia (5-2) – (SEC vs. SEC) – More so than any Florida-Georgia game in recent years, this is a make or break game for both teams – and Georgia’s coach.  If Florida loses, the Gators are potentially facing their worst season since 1989 when the Gators went 7-5, and possibly 1987 when the Gators finished 6-6.  That’s assuming Florida beats Furman and Vanderbilt.  And the Commodores are no assumption.  Or it could be their worst since 1979 when Florida was, heavens forbid, 0-10-1.  If Georgia loses, it could mean Mark Richt’s extinction in Athens.  It also severely damages Georgia’s chances for winning the SEC East.  South Carolina would have to lose two more conference games.  Florida needs to bounce back from three-straight losses.  Georgia needs to keep its winning streak going after an 0-2 start.  The pressure is on.  But the big question of the day is Todd Grantham, Georgia’s defensive coordinator.  Will Grantham be contained in a cage, behind bars, on Georgia’s sideline during the game?  What else do you do with a wild animal?  Tame him?  The second big question:  Will Florida require Will Muschamp to wear a muzzle during the game?    Albert makes Grantham rabid and plays taps for Richt – Florida 30, Georgia 29.      

13. South Carolina (6-1) at Tennessee (3-4) – (SEC vs. SEC) – So, can the Gamecocks come up with a running back to replace Marcus Lattimore?  Not likely.  Running backs as good as Lattimore aren’t easy to find.  And is Connor Shaw improving?  The Gamecocks have a lot of questions.  And you get the feeling that Tennessee is on the brink of surprising someone.  The Gamecocks aren’t that someone – South Carolina 26, Tennessee 23.

14. Missouri (3-4) at Texas A&M (5-2) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – It’s been a tough season for Mizzou.  And it may be their last in the Big 12.  In fact, this could be an SEC Conference game next year.  We know the Aggies will be in the SEC.  We’ll know soon about Mizzou – very soon.  The Tigers are capable of pulling the upset, but not likely.  The Aggies are on a mission – Texas A&M 31, Missouri 26.

15. Wake Forest (5-2) at North Carolina (5-3) – (ACC vs. ACC) – Wow!  Did the Heels ever get spanked last week?  That loss to Clemson had to hurt.  And the Deacs barely beat Duke.  Kind of makes you wonder what these two teams are up to.  The Heels are up to winning – North Carolina 29, Wake Forest 20.

16. N.C. State (4-3) at Florida State (4-3) – (ACC vs. ACC) – Both teams are on the rebound – each has won two straight.  And we know when these two get together, it’s often a tight game, regardless of who wins.  This time, the Noles win a tight one – Florida State 30, N.C. State 22.

17. Virginia (4-3) at Miami (Florida) (4-3) – (ACC vs. ACC) – The Canes are on a roll with back-to-back wins over North Carolina and Georgia Tech.  We’re not sure what the Cavs are on.  The Canes continue rolling – Miami 26, Virginia 20.

18. Washington State (3-4) at Oregon (6-1) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) – The Ducks continue their waddle through the Pac-12, beating everyone in sight – all leading up to the encounter with Stanford.  This week, the Ducks have Washington State in their sight.  The Cougars can’t hide – Oregon 42, Washington State 16.

19. Iowa State (3-4) at Texas Tech (5-2) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – The best thing the Cyclones can hope for is that the Red Raiders are still celebrating their win over Oklahoma.  Still celebrating or not, the Cyclones won’t win – Texas Tech 35, Iowa State 18.

20. California (4-3) at UCLA (3-4) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) – Rick Neuheisel still has his job, but he has to be living on the fault line – a fault line that is about to shift.  A big win over Cal may help some.  But Cal’s Jeff Tedford is on shaky ground too.  Something’s got to give.  The Bears cause tremors on the Neuheisel fault – California 26, UCLA 24.


AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON: 

21. Connecticut (3-4) at Pitt (3-4) – (Big East vs. Big East) – This was supposed to be a big season for Pitt.  So far, it hasn’t gone well for the Panthers.  Following a big win over South Florida, Pitt stumbled badly to Rutgers and Utah.  Now, it’s a matter of trying to salvage something decent out of what has been a disappointing season.  Connecticut, on the other hand, wasn’t supposed to have a big season.  There was a bleak outlook for the offense.  But some hope for the defense.  So far, the Huskies have met expectations.  But a win, in their last game, over South Florida has sparked some hope – hope for salvaging a decent season.  Panthers get out of the pink – Pitt 21, Connecticut 20.    


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS: 

Virginia Tech (7-1) at Duke (3-4) – (ACC vs. ACC) – The only good thing about the Dookies is they are playing at home.  That means the loss to the Hokies may not be quite as bad.  But it won’t be good – Virginia Tech 32, Duke 15.

Kansas (2-5) at Texas (4-2) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – After a couple of rough weeks, Bevo gets a team he can handle – Kansas.  The Jayhawks really are sad.  Bevo makes them sadder – Texas 39, Kansas 17.

Comment:  The Big 12, Pac-12, Big Ten and ACC each have a key matchup – Oklahoma-Kansas State, Stanford-USC, Michigan State-Nebraska and Clemson-Georgia Tech.  It should be interesting – very interesting.  Throw in Illinois-Penn State, Wisconsin-Ohio State and Florida-Georgia and it’s going to be a fun week.  But, isn’t it always?


AROUND FLORIDA: 

UCF (3-4) hosts Memphis (2-6)….  Florida International (4-3) entertains Troy (2-4)….  Bethune-Cookman (4-3) travels to North Carolina Central (1-6)….  South Florida (4-3), Florida Atlantic (0-7), Florida A&M (5-3) and Jacksonville U. (6-2) have the week off.


Tuesday’s Television Schedule – October 25

Troy at Florida International – 8 p.m. ET – ESPN2


Wednesday’s Television Schedule – October 26

Connecticut at Pitt – 8 p.m. ET – ESPN


Thursday’s Television Schedule – October 27

Virginia at Miami (Florida) – 8 p.m. ET – ESPN


Friday’s Television Schedule – October 28

BYU vs. TCU – 8 p.m. ET – ESPN


Saturday’s Television Schedule – October 29

Lehigh at Colgate – 12 noon ET – CBS College Sports Network
Missouri at Texas A&M – 12 noon ET – FX
Michigan State at Nebraska – 12 noon ET – ESPN
N.C. State at Florida State – 12 noon ET – ESPNU
Purdue at Michigan – 12 noon ET – ESPN2
Arkansas at Vanderbilt – 12:20 p.m. ET – SEC Game of the Week
Virginia Tech at Duke – 12:30 p.m. ET – ACC Game of the Week
West Virginia at Rutgers – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC
Baylor at Oklahoma State – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC/ESPN2
Illinois at Penn State – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC/ESPN2
Florida vs. Georgia – 3:30 p.m. ET – CBS
Fordham at Army – 3:30 p.m. ET – CBS College Sports Network
Navy at Notre Dame – 3:30 p.m. ET – NBC
Oklahoma at Kansas State – 3:30 p.m. ET – ESPN
Wake Forest at North Carolina – 3:30 p.m. ET – ESPNU
Ole Miss at Auburn – 7 p.m. ET – ESPNU
South Carolina at Tennessee – 7:15 p.m. ET – ESPN2
Clemson at Georgia Tech – 8 p.m. ET – ABC
Southern Miss at UTEP – 8 p.m. ET – CBS College Sports Network
Stanford at USC – 8 p.m. ET – ABC
Wisconsin at Ohio State – 8 p.m. ET – ESPN


In the Huddle

Elsewhere around college football . . . BYU and Washington State have agreed to a two-game home-and-home series for 2012 and 2013….  Arkansas unveiled a 30-year $300 million plan to upgrade its athletic facilities.  The plan affects each of the school’s 19 athletic programs.   


Extra Points

Second BCS Standings:  1. LSU, 2. Alabama, 3. Oklahoma State, 4. Boise State,
5. Clemson, 6. Stanford, 7. Oregon, 8. Kansas State, 9. Oklahoma, 10. Arkansas

On the Internet – College Football Week now has a Website and can be found at www.collegefootballweek.blogspot.com.

Touchdown Tom


P.S.

Not directly college football related, but as the days were getting shorter, the nights were getting colder, the leaves were on the ground, the frost was on the pumpkins, and Halloween was just around the corner, the number one song in the country…

…75 years ago this week in 1936 was “The Way You Look Tonight” by Fred Astaire

…70 years ago this week in 1941 was “Piano Concerto in B Flat” by Freddy Martin

…65 years ago this week in 1946 was “Rumors Are Flying” by Frankie Carle

…60 years ago this week in 1951 was “Because of You” by Tony Bennett

…55 years ago this week in 1956 was “Don’t Be Cruel/Hound Dog” by Elvis Presley

…50 years ago this week in 1961 was “Runaround Sue” by Dion

…45 years ago this week in 1966 was “96 Tears” by ? & The Mysterians

…40 years ago this week in 1971 was “Maggie May/Reason to Believe” by Rod Stewart

…35 years ago this week in 1976 was “If You Leave Me Now” by Chicago

…30 years ago this week in 1981 was “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do)” by Christopher Cross

…25 years ago this week in 1986 was “True Colors” by Cyndi Lauper

…20 years ago this week in 1991 was “Emotions” by Mariah Carey


Not directly college football related, but on a sad comment, there were two passings of note last week – Kent Hull, and Gale Gillingham.   

Kent Hull, a former center for the Buffalo Bills, died last week.  He was 50.  Hull played for the Bills from 1986 to 1996.  He played college football for Mississippi State.  After his playing days, Hull worked his cattle farm in northeastern Mississippi. 

Gale Gillingham, an All-Pro guard for the Green Bay Packers, died last week at his home in Little Falls, Minnesota.  He was 67.  Gillingham became the Packers’ starting left guard during the 1967 season and moved to right guard in 1969.  He made the Pro Bowl five times.  Gillingham was born in Madison, Wisconsin, in 1944.  He played college football at Minnesota.