College Football Week 14 – Can Auburn do it?
Coaching with the Stars

Thirteen weeks into the season and this is as good a time as any to check the status of the contestants on Coaching with the Stars.  Who’s been eliminated?  Who’s in jeopardy?  And who’s safe to coach again next season.

To bring you up to date, after 13 weeks of competition, five coaches have been eliminated and won’t go on to coach again next year.  They are USC’s Lane Kiffin, Connecticut’s Paul Pasqualoni, Miami of Ohio’s Don Treadwell, Florida Atlantic’s Carl Pelini and Eastern Michigan’s Ron English.

Kiffin was the first coaching contestant to be eliminated.  It happened after Week 5 of the competition.  Although he had a winning routine – 28-15 (3-2 this season), Kiffin primarily was voted off because he was a jerk. 

In a dual elimination, Pasqualoni and Treadwell were both knocked out of the competition the following week.  Like Kiffin, Pasqualoni and Treadwell were each in their third year of the competition.  Pasqualoni not only had a losing routine – 10-18 (0-4 this season), but also he was booted out for what else – Passing the Baloney.

Treadwell, another loser with an 8-21 routine (0-5 this season), was eliminated for his overall lack of coaching abilities and knowledge. 

After the tenth week of competition, Pelini was voted off for taking performance enhancing drugs.  Some said he was a victim of the culture that is south Florida.  Just ask U.S. congressman Trey Radel.  Unfortunately for Pelini, the performance enhancing drugs weren’t helping him any.  In his second year, he was 5-15 (2-6 this season).

The following week, English was removed from the competition.  English, in his fifth season, suffered from a couple problems.  First, he had a bad routine going – 11-46 (1-8 this season).  But EMU officials said he wasn’t terminated for his record.  They said he was voted off for being a potty mouth.  Potty mouth?  What, was he wiping his tongue around the inside of a toilet bowl?  No wonder he had a losing record.  Actually, English had trouble speaking English – in an appropriate manner.

Five down and 120 still in the competition.  Of the remaining contestants, at least six are in jeopardy.  There may be more.  Those known to be in jeopardy are Virginia’s Mike London, Wake Forest’s Jim Grobe, Iowa State’s Paul Rhoads, Utah’s Kyle Whittingham, Wyoming’s Dave Christensen and Army’s Rich Ellerson. 

Two contestants, Texas’ Mack Brown and Nebraska’s Bo Pelini, have teetered on elimination this season.  At one time they were in serious trouble.  But they now appear to be safe to move on to next season.

Then there are Florida’s Will Muschamp and West Virginia’s Dana Holgorsen.  Boy, would the fans love to vote them off.  But the judges continue to give them high marks.  Some think Muschamp has video of Jeremy Foley performing lewd sexual acts.  And Holgorsen – the judges can’t afford to give him low marks.  They owe him too much money.

Coaching with the Stars is in its final two weeks – 14 and 15.  After Week 15 we should know the final cast of coaches who will be around to compete next year and those who will be gone.  And those who will make a move to represent someone else on the coaching floor next season.  But not Nick Saban.  Stay tuned.

Speaking of making a move, there were some big time moves being made on the football field over the weekend – moves so big that the scoreboards and the statisticians had trouble keeping up with them.

Two teams racked up 80 points each, one team racked up 820 total yards, two games combined for 110 or more points, three backs on the same team rushed for a combined 486 yards, one quarterback passed for 527 yards, but Boston College’s Andre Williams only rushed for 263 yards.  The 263 yards seems like peanuts compared to Williams’ 339 yards last week.

Saturday, Williams’ Eagles beat Maryland, 29-26, on a 52-yard field goal as time expired.  At 7-4, BC is one of the surprise teams this season.  And at 2,073 yards rushing, Williams has been one of the surprise running backs.

And how about the Carolinas – North and South.  They must have had something good in their Wheaties Saturday morning.  The Tar Heels beat Old Dominion, 80-20.  No, Roy Williams wasn’t coaching the Tar Heel football team.  Or was he?  Meanwhile, the Gamecocks beat Coastal Carolina, 70-10.

Speaking of 80, North Carolina didn’t have an exclusive on that number.  Florida State matched the Tar Heels, beating Idaho, 80-14.  Out in California, Fresno State amassed 820 yards of offense – all in one game.  The Bulldogs remained undefeated, beating New Mexico, 69-28.

And Fresno State’s quarterback – Derek Carr – passed for 527 yards in the win over the Lobos.  The Mountain West Conference had all the action Saturday.  In addition to Fresno State’s and Derek Carr’s impressive numbers, there were three overtime games in the conference. 

As time expired, San Jose State tied Navy, 38-38 in regulation.  The two teams played three overtimes before the Midshipmen survived, 58-52.  Hawaii scored a touchdown and made a two-point conversion in the final minute of the game to tie Wyoming, 56-56 in regulation.  But the Cowboys won in the first overtime, 59-56.  And finally, on a 41-yard punt return for a touchdown in the final four minutes of the game, San Diego State tied Boise State, 28-28 in regulation.  The Aztecs went on to upset the Broncos in the first overtime, 34-31.

But the MWC didn’t have an exclusive on overtimes and thrillers Saturday.  UAB kicked a 37-yard field goal in the closing seconds to tie Rice, 31-31 in regulation.  But the Blazers fell short in the first overtime, losing to the Owls, 37-34.  Trailing Tennessee for most of the second half, Vanderbilt scored on a 5-yard run with 0:16 on the clock and beat the Volunteers, 14-10. 

Connecticut won its first game of the season, but it wasn’t easy.  Trailing Temple, 21-0, at halftime, the Huskies scored 28 unanswered points in the second half to beat the Owls, 28-21.  And finally in the great Northwest, Washington had three backs rush for a combined 486 yards (Bishop Sankey – 179 yards; Deontae Cooper – 166 yards, and Dwayne Washington – 141 yards), as the Huskies downed Oregon State, 69-27.  Washington finished with a total of 530 yards rushing on the night.

In one more overtime game, Mississippi State downed Arkansas, 24-17, in OT.

Previously undefeated Baylor lost for the first time Saturday.  Oklahoma State beat the Bears, 49-17.  After week 13, only five teams remain perfect – Alabama (11-0), Florida State (11-0), Fresno State (10-0), Northern Illinois (11-0) and Ohio State (11-0).

In the latest BCS poll, Alabama, Florida State and Ohio State remain 1, 2 and 3 respectively.  Auburn (10-1) jumps into the No. 4 spot, while Missouri (10-1) moves into fifth place.

Word is if Auburn should beat Alabama and then Missouri or South Carolina in the SEC title game, the one-loss Tigers could jump over an undefeated Ohio State and play Florida State in the BCS championship game.  Likewise, if Missouri beats Texas A&M and then beats Alabama or Auburn in the SEC title game, a one-loss Mizzou could leap frog over Ohio State.  Stay tuned.

With Florida losing to Georgia Southern, it was a tough weekend for Swamp Mama.  If you talk to her, be kind.  But at least Texas Tech and Kliff Kingsbury didn’t lose.  They didn’t play. 

Touchdown Tom
November 25, 2013
www.collegefootballweek.blogspot.com


Weekend Recap

GAME OF THE WEEK:  The Bears are no longer perfect – Oklahoma State 49, Baylor 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Oklahoma State 41, Baylor 40).  Okie State came out and put a beating on the Bears.  The Cowboys led Baylor, 35-3, at the end of the third quarter.  Okie State’s Clint Chelf passed for 370 yards.  Baylor’s Bryce Petty passed for 359 yards, but most of Petty’s numbers came in the fourth quarter.  Three turnovers – all fumbles – didn’t help Baylor any.  A crowd of 60,218 attended the game in Stillwater.
 
RUNNER UP:  Mizzou can play some defense – Missouri 24, Ole Miss 10 (Touchdown Tom said: Missouri 26, Ole Miss 24).  Mizzou is determined to win the SEC East and the Tigers played like a determined team against Ole Miss.  James Franklin returned at quarterback for Mizzou.  A crowd of 61,168 attended the game in Oxford.

BEST OF THE REST:  Pac-12 South champs – Arizona State 38, UCLA 33 (Touchdown Tom said: UCLA 34, Arizona State 33).  The Sun Devils came into the Rose Bowl and put it to the Bruins.  ASU led UCLA, 35-13, at the half.  The Bruins rallied in the second half, but the Devils held on.  A crowd of 70,131 attended the game in Pasadena.

Can we play Ohio State again? – Wisconsin 20, Minnesota 7 (Touchdown Tom said: Wisconsin 28, Minnesota 27).  The Badgers held the Gophers to only 182 total yards – 83 yards passing, 102 rushing.  Three turnovers – all fumbles – didn’t help the Gophers any either.  A crowd of 53,090 attended the game in Minneapolis.

No Heisman repeat – LSU 34, Texas A&M 10 (Touchdown Tom said: Texas A&M 35, LSU 33).  It wasn’t Johnny Manziel’s day.  The Aggie quarterback completed less than 50 percent of his passes, throwing two interceptions.  He can kiss the Heisman Trophy goodbye.  The Tigers played an aggressive game.  A crowd of 92,949 attended the game in Baton Rouge.

MAC West Champs – Northern Illinois 35, Toledo 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Northern Illinois 35, Toledo 29).  The score was 10-7 at halftime, in favor of Toledo.  Then NIU came out and poured it on in the second half, outscoring the Rockets 28-7.  But this is how NIU seems to play every week.  The Huskies don’t get charged up until the second half.  Jordan Lynch passed for 202 yards and ran for 161.  A crowd of 21,974 attended the game in Toledo.

Wow! What a surprise – Arizona 42, Oregon 16 (Touchdown Tom said: Oregon 40, Arizona 24).  The Wildcats had a rushing game – Ka’Deem Carey (206 yards) and B.J. Denker (102 yards).  The Ducks had three turnovers – two were interceptions by Marcus Mariota.  The Wildcats were fired up.  A crowd of 45,777 attended the game in Tucson.

Mitt Romney loses again – Notre Dame 23, BYU 13 (Touchdown Tom said: BYU 22, Notre Dame 20).  Tommy Rees won the battle of the quarterbacks.  Notre Dame’s defense was too much for the Cougars.  A crowd of 80,795 attended the game in South Bend.

The Sooners are OK – Oklahoma 41, Kansas State 31 (Touchdown Tom said: Oklahoma 31, Kansas State 23).  This was anybody’s ball game throughout most of the contest.  The Sooners couldn’t shake the Wildcats.  The OU defense did hold K-State to 24 yards rushing.  A crowd of 52,773 attended the game in Manhattan.

Kay is okay – Cincinnati 24, Houston 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Houston 29, Cincinnati 26).  And still I’m wondering, how did Cincinnati ever lose to South Florida earlier in the season?  The Bearcats are still in the chase for the AAC title.  The Bearcat defense held Houston to 33 yards rushing.  The Bearcats Brendon Kay has become a darn good quarterback.  A crowd of 20,197 attended the game in Houston.

Improving Spartans – Michigan State 30, Northwestern 6 (Touchdown Tom said: Michigan State 29, Northwestern 22).  The Spartans seem to be getting better and better every week.  Maybe, just maybe, they can give Ohio State a battle.  We’ll see.  Northwestern suffered from three turnovers – all interceptions.  A crowd of 40,013 attended the game in Evanston.

Herbie escapes – Nebraska 23, Penn State 20 (Touchdown Tom said: Nebraska 30, Penn State 25).  These two were about as evenly matched as you can get.  It all came down to an overtime.  A crowd of 98,517 attended the game in State College.

Hoke could be in trouble – Iowa 24, Michigan 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Iowa 23, Michigan 20).  Iowa held Michigan to 158 total yards – 98 yards passing, 60 rushing.  The score would have been worse if the Hawkeyes didn’t commit four turnovers.  A crowd of 65,708 attended the game in Iowa City.

No close calls this week – UCF 41, Rutgers 17 (Touchdown Tom said: UCF 32, Rutgers 18).  UCF took command of the game early, opening up a 21-0 lead.  The Orlando Knights never looked back.  The UCF defense held Rutgers to 69 yards rushing.  A crowd of 41,244 attended the game in Orlando.

Aztecs sacrifice the Broncos – San Diego State 34, Boise State 31 (OT) (Touchdown Tom said: Boise State 31, San Diego State 28).  When was the last time Boise State suffered two conference losses in one season?  And when was the last time the Broncos’ record was as bad as 7-4?  A crowd of 33,161 attended the game in San Diego. 


….AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON: 

Is Randy Edsall safe? – Boston College 29, Maryland 26 (Touchdown Tom said: Boston College 32, Maryland 26).  BC had three turnovers and still won the game.  Nate Freese kicked a 52-yard field goal as time expired to win it for the Eagles.  A crowd of 32,147 attended the game in College Park.


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS:

Is there a team from Georgia that Florida can beat? – Georgia Southern 26, Florida 20 (Touchdown Tom said: Florida 30, Georgia Southern 16).  What an embarrassment for the Gators.  Georgia Southern had 429 yards of offense – all rushing, none passing.  The Eagles beat Florida without completing a single pass.  They also held Florida to 279 yards of offense.  The Gators even had a 2-0 edge in turnovers and still couldn’t pull it out.  You would have thought this would result in Will Mustake’s downfall.  But apparently not.  I hope the Gators don’t schedule Valdosta State.  A crowd of 82,459 attended the game in Gainesville.

Dookies move to 9-2 – Duke 28, Wake Forest 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Duke 31, Wake Forest 27).  The Dookies are amazing.  They were down 14-0 halfway through the second quarter and rallied.  They were down 21-14 in the third quarter and rallied.  Anthony Boone was 24-29-0, passing for 256 yards.  David Cutcliffe has done a heck of a job in Durham.  A crowd of 28,463 attended the game in Winston-Salem.

A win, but a loss – Georgia 59, Kentucky 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Georgia 32, Kentucky 15).  The Dawgs outgained the Wildcats 602 yards to 211.  Sadly, Aaron Murray suffered a torn ACL in the game and is out for the rest of the season – a real tragedy.  Murray is one of the good guys in college football.  A crowd of 92,746 attended the game in Athens.

Tough year for the Boilers – Illinois 20, Purdue 16 (Touchdown Tom said: Illinois 35, Purdue 30).  Illinois had four turnovers and still won the game.  Obviously, this season was a rebuilding one for the Boilers.  I don’t know how much building they got done.  It was almost like one step forward and two steps backwards.  Not sure I saw any progress.  A crowd of 37,459 attended the game in West Lafayette.

Week 13 Picks:   13 Correct, 7 Wrong (65.0 percent)
On the Season:    184 Correct, 62 Wrong (74.8 percent)


ELSEWHERE AROUND FLORIDA 

Florida State mashed Idaho, 80-14.  A crowd of 65,061 attended the game in Tallahassee….  Miami spanked Virginia, 45-26.  A crowd of 44,732 attended the game in Miami Gardens….  South Florida lost to SMU, 16-6.  A crowd of 28,397 attended the game in Tampa….  Florida Atlantic pounded New Mexico State, 55-10.  A crowd of 12,253 attended the game in Boca Raton.

Florida International was clobbered by Marshall, 48-10.  A crowd of 15,891 attended the game in Miami….  Bethune-Cookman downed Florida A&M, 29-10. A crowd of 45,321 attended the game in Orlando….  Stetson fell to Mercer, 41-14.  A crowd of 12,027 attended the game in Macon….  Florida Tech beat Alderson-Broaddus, 32-20.  A crowd of 1,002 attended the game in Philippi.


Superlatives

Impressive Passers:  Fresno State’s Derek Carr – 27-37-0 for 527 yards; Hawaii’s Sean Schroeder – 37-50-1-499; Wyoming’s Brett Smith – 29-48-0-498; Washington State’s Connor Halliday – 39-62-0-488; San Jose State’s David Fales – 42-56-1-440; North Carolina’s Marquise Williams – 20-27-0-409; Cincinnati’s Brendon Kay – 29-50-2-386, and Oklahoma State’s Clint Chelf – 19-25-0-370.

Also, Baylor’s Bryce Petty – 28-48-0 for 359 yards; Kansas State’s Jake Waters – 17-29-2-348; UCF’s Blake Bortles – 21-30-0-335; Stanford’s Kevin Hogan – 17-26-0-329; Florida Atlantic’s Jaquez Johnson – 15-22-1-321; NC State’s Brandon Mitchell – 28-44-0-312; Oregon’s Marcus Mariota – 27-41-2-308; Iowa State’s Grant Rohach – 15-20-1-300, and Michigan State’s Connor Cook – 16-23-0-293.  


Impressive Rushers:  Boston College’s Andre Williams – 263 yards; Navy’s Keenan Reynolds – 240 yards; UNLV’s Tim Cornett – 220 yards; Arizona’s Ka’Deem Carey – 206 yards; Western Kentucky’s Antonio Andrews – 204 yards, and Oklahoma’s Brennan Clay – 200 yards.

Also, Tulsa’s Trey Watts – 189 yards; Washington’s Bishop Sankey – 179 yards; Washington’s Deontae Cooper – 166 yards; Northern Illinois’ Jordan Lynch – 161 yards; Buffalo’s Anthone Taylor – 154 yards; Buffalo’s Branden Oliver – 150 yards, and Michigan State’s Jeremy Langford – 150 yards.  


Quotes of the Week

“I don’t know what’s going on in the world.  I watch the Weather Channel for 10 minutes in the morning,” Alabama coach Nick Saban.

“I don’t know what the hell’s going on.  I don’t know why this wasn’t a police matter last December.  It makes Tallahassee look like a Podunk town,” Florida State merchandise seller Guy Moore, on the Tallahassee police mishandling the Jameis Winston situation.

“In the big picture, I really think UCF’s a program that is on the rise.  It’s a program that’s steadily gaining more traction nationally.  It doesn’t stop after this season,” ESPN college football analyst Jesse Palmer.

“I think Blake Bortles is an NFL quarterback.  He’s one of the best quarterbacks in the country that nobody talks about,” ESPN college football analyst Jesse Palmer, on the UCF quarterback. 

“I’m very disappointed for our program, and an embarrassment to be in this situation.  It’s all disappointing.  It’s hard to measure at this point.  We’re going to get it fixed,” Florida coach Will Muschamp, after the loss to Georgia Southern.

“Say it after me: ‘Florida coach Ed Orgeron,’” Bobby Big Wheel, a blogger on SI.com.

“You mean they lost to Wofford?,” Rockledge Gator, upon hearing that Georgia Southern lost to Wofford this season.  (Note: Georgia Southern also lost to Furman and Stamford this season). 


Touchdown Tom’s Predictions for
This Week’s 15 Biggest and Most Intriguing Games.…and then some

GAME OF THE WEEK:  1. Alabama (11-0) at Auburn (10-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) (TV: CBS, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday) – The only team that came close to Alabama all season was Texas A&M.  The Aggies lost by seven points.  Auburn beat Texas A&M.  Do the Tigers have it in them to beat Alabama?  Or will Bama’s defense shutdown the Tigers?  Bama will definitely score on Auburn.  But can the Tigers keep up.  The game is in Auburn.  That should be a plus for the Tigers.  Close, but no cigar for Aubie – Alabama 32, Auburn 27.

RUNNER UP:  2. Clemson (10-1) at South Carolina (9-2) – (ACC vs. SEC) (TV: ESPN2, 7 pm ET, Saturday) – This is the game where Jadeveon Clowney says that he can see the fear in Tajh Boyd’s eyes.  The Gamecocks have had their way with Clemson for four years.  Will they make it five straight?  There is no conference pressure on the teams in this game.  It’s all for pride – state pride.  Cocky’s proud again – South Carolina 26, Clemson 24.

BEST OF THE REST:  3. Texas A&M (8-3) at Missouri (10-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) (TV: ESPN, 7:45 pm ET, Saturday) – Mizzou needs this win to claim the SEC East title.  Lose and South Carolina goes to the SEC title game.  Johnny Manziel needs a win and good game after his poor performance against LSU last week.  The Tigers play better defense – Missouri 32, Texas A&M 29.

4. Minnesota (8-3) at Michigan State (10-1) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) (TV: BTN, 12 noon ET, Saturday) – Michigan State doesn’t need the win.  But I’m sure the Spartans would like to be 11-1 when they meet Ohio State in the Big Ten title game.  The Gophers have had an outstanding year.  But they don’t have the muscle to handle the Spartans.  Sparty tackles Goldy – Michigan State 24, Minnesota 13.

5. Ohio State (11-0) at Michigan (7-4) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) (TV: ABC, 12 noon ET, Saturday) – I know it’s a rivalry, but I can’t imagine this is going to be much of a game.  The Wolverines are the most disappointing team in the Big Ten.  A bad loss and it could be curtains for Brady Hoke.  The Buckeyes improve to 12-0 – Ohio State 35, Michigan 20.

6. UCLA (8-3) at USC (9-3) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) (TV: ABC, 8 pm ET, Saturday) – Remember when the USC-UCLA games used to be donnybrooks?  I think those days have returned.  Either team could win this game.  Ed Orgeron was a magic potion for the Trojans – just what they needed.  But Jim Mora has been good for the Bruins too – UCLA 34, USC 33.

7. Notre Dame (8-3) at Stanford (9-2) – (Ind. vs. Pac-12) (TV: Fox, 7 pm ET, Saturday) – The Trees are back in the Pac-12 title game.  But first they have to take care of a little non-conference business.  This could boil down to the defenses.  This Cardinal isn’t Catholic – Stanford 20, Notre Dame 16.

8. East Carolina (9-2) at Marshall (8-3) – (C-USA vs. C-USA) (TV: CBSSN, 12 noon ET, Friday) – This has the makings for an exciting and high-scoring game.  Both teams are playing well.  It could come down to whoever has the ball last wins.  Two good quarterbacks – Shane Carden (East Carolina) and Rakeem Cato (Marshall) will be competing.  And it’s for the C-USA East title.  No treasure for the Pirates – Marshall 35, East Carolina 34.

9. Bowling Green (8-3) at Buffalo (8-3) – (MAC vs. MAC) (TV: ESPNU, 1:30 pm ET, Friday) – This one is for the MAC East title.  If it were played in Bowling Green, the Falcons would win.  But it is in Buffalo.  The Bulls win – Buffalo 29, Bowling Green 26.

10. Arizona (7-4) at Arizona State (9-2) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) (TV: Pac-12 Network, 9:30 pm ET, Saturday) – You just know that Arizona is going to be sky high after beating Oregon last week.  So sky high that the Wildcats will lose to ASU.  The Sun Devils are talented – Arizona State 37, Arizona 34.

11. Iowa (7-4) at Nebraska (8-3) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) (TV: ABC, 12 noon ET, Friday) – Iowa has been playing well late in the season.  However, not well enough to beat the Huskers in Lincoln.  But Nebraska has to keep a handle on those turnovers.  After the game, Bo celebrates with his brother, and his brother’s new friend – Trey Radel.  It’s bird hunting season in Nebraska – Nebraska 28, Iowa 27.

12. Tulane (7-4) at Rice (8-3) – (C-USA vs. C-USA) (TV: Local Cable, 3 pm ET, Saturday) – Here’s a couple of surprise teams in 2013.  Both have played better than expected.  Tulane’s quarterback – Nick Montana – is the son of Joe Montana.  Looking krispie in Houston – Rice 31, Tulane 24.

13. Oregon State (6-5) at Oregon (9-2) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) (TV: Fox Sports 1, 7 pm ET, Friday) – The Beavers were a hot team earlier in the season.  But my how they have fallen on hard times.  The Ducks have suffered a couple losses late in the season.  One of these teams needs to finish strong.  The Quacks do – Oregon 44, Oregon State 25.

14. Penn State (6-5) at Wisconsin (9-2) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) (TV: ESPN, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday) – The Badgers are about to put a cap on another fine season.  And under a first-year coach too – Gary Andersen.  Wisconsin has one of the best ground attacks in the country.  The Nitts are about to find out – Wisconsin 28, Penn State 15.

15. Duke (9-2) at North Carolina (6-5) – (ACC vs. ACC) (TV: ESPN2, 12 noon ET, Saturday) – The Dookies need this win for the ACC Coastal Division title.  But beating the Tar Heels is never easy.  And the Heels have been playing well lately.  But so have the Dookies.  And the Dookies really want to play Florida State.  They will – Duke 31, North Carolina 30.


….AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON: 

16. Texas Tech (7-4) at Texas (7-3) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) (TV: Fox Sports 1, 7:30 pm ET, Thursday) – The Longhorns used to play the Aggies on Thanksgiving, but the Aggies have been replaced by the Red Raiders.  The Horns and Aggies were rivals, but they shared some mutual respect.  I don’t think Texas and Texas Tech share any mutual respect.  Tech comes into the contest riding a four-game losing streak.  Sorry Swamp Mama.  Make it a five-game losing streak – Texas 33, Texas Tech 25.


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS: 

Iowa State (2-9) at West Virginia (4-7) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) (TV: Fox Sports 1, 4 pm ET, Saturday) – It was looking bad for the Cyclones until they beat Kansas last week.  And the Eers just lost to Kansas the week before.  Neither team is going to a bowl.  Not much to celebrate here, even for the winner.  Iowa State has lost some close games.  They are better than the 2-9 reflects.  But they lose another close one – West Virginia 24, Iowa State 23.

Florida State (11-0) at Florida (4-7) – (ACC vs. SEC) (TV: ESPN, 12 noon ET, Saturday) – I have a feeling The Swamp is going to be dominated by FSU fans.  Florida fans haven’t had much to cheer about.  Not in the past six games.  The Gators have lost six straight.  Make it seven straight – Florida State 33, Florida 17.

Georgia (7-4) at Georgia Tech (7-4) – (SEC vs. SEC) (TV: ABC, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday) – Tech doesn’t seem to beat the Dawgs very often.  The Jackets have an advantage since Aaron Murray won’t be playing for the Dawgs.  But Hutson Mason looked pretty good against Kentucky.  Good enough to beat the Bees – Georgia 30, Georgia Tech 23.

Purdue (1-10) at Indiana (4-7) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) (TV: BTN, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday) – Seems like Purdue usually always beats Indiana.  But I wouldn’t bet on it this year.  Both teams had an awful season.  The Hoosiers will definitely score on the Boilers.  Indiana has a good offense.  But the Hoosiers don’t play defense.  That may not be a problem since the Boilers don’t play offense – Indiana 38, Purdue 27.


ELSEWHERE AROUND FLORIDA: 

Miami (8-3) travels to Pitt (6-5) – (ACC vs. ACC) (TV: ABC, 3:30 pm ET, Friday). ....  UCF (9-1) hosts South Florida (2-8) – (AAC vs. AAC) (TV: ESPN, 8 pm ET, Friday). ....  Florida Atlantic (5-6) entertains Florida International (1-10) – (C-USA vs. C-USA) (TV: Fox Sports 1, 3 pm ET, Friday). 

Bethune-Cookman (10-2), Florida A&M (3-9), Jacksonville U. (5-6), Stetson (2-9) and Florida Tech (5-7) have completed their seasons.


In the Huddle

Elsewhere around college football. . .  Texas A&M and Arizona State will open their seasons against each other on September 5, 2015 in Houston’s Reliant Stadium.  Texas A&M’s non-conference schedule in 2014 consists of Lamar, Rice, SMU and Louisiana-Monroe….  Alabama’s non-conference schedule in 2014 consists of West Virginia, Florida Atlantic, Southern Miss and Western Carolina….  Boise State and Ole Miss will open their seasons against each other on August 30, 2014.

Touchdown Tom
www.collegefootballweek.blogspot.com


P.S.

Not directly college football related, but sadly there was one passing of note last week – Vern Mikkelson.

Vern Mikkelson, who helped lead the Minneapolis Lakers to four NBA championships in the early 1950s, died last week at his home in Wayzata, Minnesota.  He was 85.  Mikkelson played 10 seasons for the Lakers.  He was a six-time All Star and was elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1995.  Arild Verner Agerskov Mikkelson was born on October 21, 1928, in Parlier, California – a suburb of Fresno.  His father was an immigrant from Denmark and a Lutheran minister.  The family moved to Askov, Minnesota, when Mikkelson was a youngster.  He played college ball for Hamline University in St. Paul.  Hamline won the NAIA national championship in 1949 – Mikkelson’s senior year.  He played for the Lakers from 1949 to 1959.

College Football Week 13 – Can Baylor and Mizzou handle the pressure?
Miraculous catch, lucky catch
Anything you want, you got it

“Anything you need, you got it.
Anything at all, you got it.
Baby!”

Yes, it was another one of those wild and wacky weekends in college football – mind-blowing catches, last second wins, streaks broken, streaks extended, 339 yards rushing, “can’t catch a break” again, overtime games and a remarkable individual performance on both sides of the ball.  There was something for everybody.

Miraculous.  Lucky.  Call them what you want, there were two amazing and unbelievable catches Saturday.  The first one occurred in Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.  With less than two minutes remaining in the UCF-Temple game, the Owls led the Knights, 36-29.  At the 1:06 mark, UCF receiver J.J. Worton made an incredible, diving, one-handed catch in the left-corner of the end zone – touchdown Knights.  The ensuing extra point tied the score at 36-36.

Then after holding the Owls, UCF got the ball back on its own 19-yard line with no time outs.  A spectacular 64-yard pass play put the ball on the Temple six.  Quarterback Blake Bortles spiked the ball to stop the clock with 0:02 remaining.  Shawn Moffitt then kicked a 23-yard field goal as time expired and the Knights rallied to beat Temple, 39-36. 

The second miraculous catch occurred in Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Alabama.  This catch was even more amazing – and perhaps lucky – because there was no way it should have been or would have been caught.

Early in the fourth quarter, Auburn led Georgia, 37-17.  Then in the span of eight minutes, the Bulldogs scored three touchdowns and took a 38-37 lead with 1:49 remaining.  On fourth and 18 with less than a minute on the clock, Auburn quarterback Nick Marshall heaved a desperation pass down the field. 

The ball was coming down several feet short of its intended receiver – Auburn’s Ricardo Lewis.  It was falling into the hands of Georgia safety Josh Harvey-Clemons.  In his attempt to intercept the pass, Harvey-Clemons deflected the ball into the air and further down field, where it fell into Lewis’ hands.  Maintaining his balance, composure and focus, Lewis, who briefly bobbled the ball, held onto it, remained on his feet and scampered into the end zone.  Auburn 43, Georgia 38.

But hold on.  In the final 25 seconds of the game, Georgia moved the ball down field on the pin-point passing of Aaron Murray.  However, the Dawgs came up short of the end zone.  Auburn hung on to win, 43-38.

Northwestern’s misery continued Saturday as the Wildcats lost their sixth-straight game – this after a 4-0 start and a Top-25 ranking.  It was their fourth-straight loss by a few points and in the closing seconds.  A few weeks ago, Minnesota beat Northwestern, 20-17.  That was their third-straight loss.  Then Iowa beat the Wildcats, 17-10, in overtime.  Next, Nebraska beat Northwestern, 27-24, on a desperation Hail Mary pass as time expired. 

Saturday, Michigan beat the Wildcats, 27-19, in three overtimes.  This, after Michigan kicked a 44-yard field goal as time expired in regulation to tie the game at 9-9.  This week, Northwestern plays Michigan State (9-1).  The Wildcats just can’t catch a break.  Or can they?  Stay tuned.

Speaking of misery, how about Texas Tech?  The Red Raiders began the season at 7-0.  They since have lost four-straight games, the last three by an average of 23 points.  Saturday, Baylor beat Texas Tech, 63-34.  But Swamp Mama still loves Kliff Kingsbury.  She’s pulling a Tammy Wynette and standing by her man.     

Four teams ended long losing streaks to other teams on Saturday.  In Lane Stadium in Blacksburg, Virginia, Maryland beat Virginia Tech for the first time since 1990.  It took an overtime to do it, but the Terrapins beat the Hokies, 27-24 (OT). 

Down the road in Wallace Wade Stadium in Durham, North Carolina, Duke pulled off one of the big stunners of the day.  The Blue Devils, with a strong ground attack (358 yards rushing), knocked off Miami (Florida) big time, 48-30.  It was only the second time Duke has beaten the Hurricanes and the first time since 1976.  The Blue Devils are 8-2 and sitting atop the Coastal Division of the ACC. 

In the Heartland, in Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska, Michigan State got its first ever win over Nebraska.  Coming into the contest, the Spartans were 0-7 against the Huskers.  Saturday Michigan State beat Nebraska, 41-28.

On the Pacific Coast in the Los Angeles Coliseum, before a crowd of 93,000 plus, USC upset Stanford, beating the Cardinal for the first time since 2008.  Andre Heidari kicked a 47-yard field goal with 0:19 remaining and the Trojans beat Stanford, 20-17.  After a struggling start at 3-2 under Lane Kiffin, USC has gone 5-1 under Ed Orgeron, winning its last four in a row.         

Just the night before, only a few miles northeast of the Coliseum, UCLA freshman linebacker Myles Jack put on the performance of the weekend.  In the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Jack, as a linebacker, was not only in on several tackles, but, as a running back, he also scored four touchdowns for the Bruins.  UCLA beat Washington, 41-31.  Jack had 59 yards rushing on 13 carries, averaging 4.5 yards per carry. 

And speaking of rushing, how about Boston College’s Andre Williams?  In Alumni Stadium in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, Williams rushed for an amazing 339 yards, as the Eagles beat NC State, 38-21.  He averaged 8.1 yards per carry in the game.  On the season, Williams has rushed for 1,810 yards in 10 games.  

In a thriller in Bill Snyder Family Stadium in Manhattan, Kansas, the Wildcats of Kansas State beat TCU, 33-31.  K-State’s Jack Cantele kicked a 41-yard field goal with 0:03 on the clock to win the game for the Wildcats.  After a 2-4 start, K-State has won four straight.  

In a strange game in Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, North Carolina led Pitt, 27-3 about halfway through the third quarter.  But the Panthers then scored 24 unanswered points in the span of 13 minutes and tied the Tar Heels, 27-27.  With 4:46 remaining in the game, North Carolina’s Ryan Switzer returned a punt 61 yards for a touchdown and the Tar Heels bounced back to beat Pitt, 34-27. 

So as we head into Week 13, Alabama, Florida State and Ohio State are still 1, 2 and 3 respectively in the latest BCS poll.  Baylor has moved into the No. 4 spot, followed by Oregon at No. 5.  Stay tuned!

Six teams remain undefeated.  Along with Alabama (10-0), Baylor (9-0), Florida State (10-0) and Ohio State (10-0), Fresno State (9-0) and Northern Illinois (10-0) have spotless records. 

Conversely, after 12 weeks of football, five teams remain winless.  They are Connecticut, Georgia State, Hawaii, Miami (Ohio) and Southern Miss.

Swamp Mama and I had a great time Saturday eating, drinking and watching Maryland-Virginia Tech, Miami-Duke and Georgia-Auburn on television with Betty ‘The Duchess of Indialantic’ Pappas and Russ and Sandy Grunewald. 

My friend Tim Muth shared a funny story with me.  Tim and his family recently attended the Florida State-Wake Forest game in Winston-Salem.  Throughout the game, the stadium Jumbotron at BB&T Field ran commercials for Dominos Pizza, with the vocal message, “Remember Deacon fans bring your ticket to today’s game into any Dominos Pizza and get a free topping for every touchdown Wake Forest scores.”

At halftime, Florida State led 42-0 and the Jumbotron was still running the commercial – “Remember Deacon fans………free topping for every touchdown Wake Forest scores.”  After the third quarter, the score was 52-0, and still – “…….. free topping for every touchdown Wake Forest scores.”

Finally, in the fourth quarter and still down 52-0, Wake Forest was moving down the field approaching the Florida State goal line.  The “Free topping with every Wake Forest touchdown” message piped over the Jumbotron.  On fourth and goal, Wake Forest kicked a field goal instead of going for the touchdown. 

Tim said the fans booed.  Then the fans began chanting, “No free toppings.  No free toppings.” 

Meanwhile, someone said that fired Florida Atlantic coach Carl Pelini is going to become a Canadian citizen so he can run for the Mayor of Toronto.

“Anything at all, you got it.”

Touchdown Tom
November 18, 2013
www.collegefootballweek.blogspot.com


Weekend Recap

GAME OF THE WEEK:  Swamp Mama is still standing by her man – Baylor 63, Texas Tech 34 (Touchdown Tom said: Baylor 44, Texas Tech 25).  Eight minutes into the game, Texas Tech led 14-0.  Twelve minutes into the game the Red Raiders led 20-7.  It was all Baylor after that.  The teams combined for 1,133 yards of offense.  A crowd of 69,188 attended the game in Arlington. 

RUNNER UP:  Hornless in Austin – Oklahoma State 38, Texas 13 (Touchdown Tom said: Oklahoma State 35, Texas 33).  The Longhorns were hampered by three turnovers.  Texas’ six-game winning streak came to an end.  A crowd of 99,739 attended the game in Austin. 

REST OF THE BEST:  There’s always a first time – Michigan State 41, Nebraska 28 (Touchdown Tom said: Michigan State 19, Nebraska 14).  The Spartans beat the Huskers for the first time in eight tries.  Nebraska was hampered by five turnovers.  A crowd of 90,872 attended the game in Lincoln. 

Trojans uproot the Trees – USC 20, Stanford 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Stanford 28, USC 23).  The Trojans won the game in spite of only having 23 yards rushing.  Stanford suffered from three turnovers.  A crowd of 93,607 attended the game in Los Angeles.

The Tigers made their Mark – Auburn 43, Georgia 38 (Touchdown Tom said: Auburn 30, Georgia 26).  What a game!  What an ending!  You can’t script games like this.  This is what makes college football the most passionate and fun of all sports.  In spite of the loss, you had to admire Aaron Murray.  He played a heck of a game.  A crowd of 87,451 attended the game in Auburn.

Taking care of business – Louisville 20, Houston 13 (Touchdown Tom said: Louisville 31, Houston 20).  Louisville defense held Houston to 195 total yards – 121 yards passing, 74 rushing.  A crowd of 53,027 attended the game in Louisville.

Lynch, Lynch, he’s our man – Northern Illinois 48, Ball State 27 (Touchdown Tom said: Northern Illinois 35, Ball State 28).  A close game for three and a half quarters, Ball State led 24-20 at the half.  The score was tied 27-27 after three.  Then NIU went on a rampage and scored 21 unanswered points in the final six minutes of the game.  Huskies quarterback Jordan Lynch passed for 345 yards and ran for another 123 yards.  The teams combined for 1,063 yards of offense.  A crowd of 18,290 attended the game in DeKalb.

See, we’re not really as bad…… -- Clemson 55, Georgia Tech 31 (Touchdown Tom said: Clemson 30, Georgia Tech 20).  …..as Florida State made us look.  Ever since Clemson got pummeled by Florida State, the Tigers have made it a point to show they are a good football team.  Clemson took the lead early on and there was never a doubt about who was going to win this game.  Tajh Boyd passed for 340 yards.  A crowd of 75,324 attended the game in Clemson.

Football not just mayonnaise anymore – Duke 48, Miami (Florida) 30 (Touchdown Tom said: Duke 25, Miami 24).  The Dookies are for real.  They are heading for the ACC title game against Florida State.  Uh oh!  The teams combined for 1,103 yards of offense.  The Dookies had 358 yards rushing.  A crowd of 30,044 attended the game in Durham.

Huskies got pounded by a Jack hammer – UCLA 41, Washington 31 (Touchdown Tom said: UCLA 34, Washington 26).  The Bruins jumped out to a 27-7 lead early in the second quarter.  The Huskies made it close, pulling within three points – 27-24 – early in the third quarter.  Then the Bruins took charge again, pulling out to a 41-24 lead early in the fourth quarter.  UCLA’s Myles Jack was amazing, playing both ways – linebacker and running back.  He had 59 yards rushing and scored four touchdowns for the Bruins.  A crowd of 68,106 attended the game in Pasadena.

Sun Devils pelt the Beavers – Arizona State 30, Oregon State 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Arizona State 27, Oregon State 22).  Oregon State was hampered by five turnovers.  A crowd of 62,386 attended the game in Tempe.

Gettin’ sloppy with it – Alabama 20, Mississippi State 7 (Touchdown Tom said: Alabama 34, Miss State 19).  The Bama defense held the Bulldogs to 197 total yards – 144 yards passing, 53 rushing.  Alabama, surprisingly, had four turnovers in the game.  The Tide offense seemed a little laid back after the win over LSU.  A crowd of 57,211 attended the game in Starkville.

Holy Toledo! – Toledo 51, Buffalo 41 (Touchdown Tom said: Toledo 29, Buffalo 27).  Two different halves of football – Toledo led 31-0 at halftime.  Then Buffalo woke up and outscored the Rockets 41-20 in the second half.  The teams combined for 1,152 yards of offense.  A crowd of 15,036 attended the game in Toledo.

Where was Chris Christie? – Cincinnati 52, Rutgers 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Cincinnati 26, Rutgers 23).  What’s happened to Rutgers?  The score was 52-7 at one point.  The Knights have gone flat.  Cincinnati had 619 total yards – 507 passing.  A crowd of 40,870 attended the game in Piscataway.

Kush is looking more like his Nebraska days – Bowling Green 49, Ohio 0 (Touchdown Tom said: Bowling Green 28, Ohio 25).  The Falcons held the Bobcats to 172 yards – 116 passing and 56 rushing.  Ohio has been a big disappointment this season.  Bobcat coach Frank Kush seems to be going downhill.  A crowd of 8,527 attended the game in Bowling Green.


….AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON: 

The Ducks are back – Oregon 44, Utah 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Oregon 33, Utah 18).  The Stanford loss puts Oregon atop the Pac-12 North.  And the Ducks are back in the thick of the BCS race.  A crowd of 56,481 attended the game in Eugene.


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS: 

Crap – Kansas 31, West Virginia 19 (Touchdown Tom said: West Virginia 27, Kansas 20).  When you recruit crap, you play like crap.  The only thing Dana Holgorsen has done for three years is recruit crap.  I can’t imagine there’s a high school player in the country who would want to play for Holgorsen – not one that’s worth a crap.  And it’s all the worse when his coaching staff doesn’t know what the crap they are doing.  Holgorsen is 6-13 in his last 19 games. I’m convinced that as long as Holgorsen is in Morgantown, the WVU football program will be crap.  And he’s making how much money?  And while I’m in a crappy mood, those uniforms look like crap.  A crowd of 30,809 attended the game in Lawrence.

Fourth quarter rally again – South Carolina 19, Florida 14 (Touchdown Tom said: South Carolina 30, Florida 17).  In spite of all the adversity, the Gators gave the Gamecocks a good game.  The Gator defense played well.  The game plan for the offense almost worked.  It took the Gamecocks by surprise for a while.  Gamecock defense played good too.  Gamecock offense just wasn’t into the game.  A crowd of 83,853 attended the game in Columbia.

Conference doormat – Penn State 45, Purdue 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Penn State 31, Purdue 14).  This week it was Penn State’s turn to beat up on the Boilers.  The Nitts held the Boilers to 41 yards rushing.  A crowd of 96,491 attended the game in State College.

Week 12 Picks:   17 Correct, 2 Wrong (89.5 percent)
On the Season:    171 Correct, 55 Wrong (75.7 percent)


ELSEWHERE AROUND FLORIDA: 

Florida State walloped Syracuse, 59-3.  A crowd of 74,491 attended the game in Tallahassee….  UCF squeaked by Temple, 39-36.  A crowd of 20,174 attended the game in Philadelphia….  South Florida lost to Memphis, 23-10.  A crowd of 30,831 attended the game in Tampa….  Florida Atlantic beat Southern Miss, 41-7.  A crowd of 20,802 attended the game in Hattiesburg….  Florida International fell to UTEP, 33-10.  A crowd of 29,882 attended the game in El Paso.

Florida A&M lost to Delaware State, 29-21.  A crowd of 7,026 attended the game in Tallahassee….  Bethune-Cookman beat Hampton, 42-12.  A crowd of 4,104 attended the game in Daytona Beach….  Jacksonville U. defeated Stetson, 45-24.  A crowd of 2,983 attended the game in Jacksonville….  Florida Tech downed Webber International, 17-3.  A crowd of 2,641 attended the game in Melbourne. 


Superlatives

Impressive Passers:  Buffalo’s Joe Licata – 36-58-0 for 497 yards; Marshall’s Rakeem Cato – 33-58-1-456; Georgia’s Aaron Murray – 33-49-1-415; Cincinnati’s Brendon Kay – 24-38-0-405; UCF’s Blake Bortles – 27-38-0-404; Temple’s P.J. Walker – 26-44-1-382; Miami of Florida’s Stephen Morris – 30-49-1-379; Colorado’s Sefo Liufau – 23-36-1-364, and SMU’s Garrett Gilbert – 33-52-0-353.

Also, East Carolina’s Shane Carden – 21-31-2 for 347 yards; Northern Illinois’ Jordan Lynch – 26-32-0-345; Clemson’s Tajh Boyd – 20-26-1-340; Baylor’s Bryce Petty – 17-31-0-335; San Jose State’s David Fales – 28-43-0-326; Ball State’s Keith Wenning – 35-49-1-324; Washington State’s Connor Halliday – 39-53-1-313; Texas Tech’s Baker Mayfield – 28-51-1-314; Pitt’s Tom Savage – 23-38-0-313, and Colorado State’s Garrett Grayson – 20-28-0-302.   


Impressive Rushers:  Boston College’s Andre Williams – 339 yards; Colorado State’s Kapri Bibbs – 291 yards; Ohio State’s Carlos Hyde – 246 yards; Rice’s Charles Ross – 215 yards; Kansas’ James Sims – 211 yards; Wisconsin’s James White – 205 yards; Toledo’s Kareem Hunt – 186 yards, and Ohio State’s Braxton Miller – 184 yards.

Also, Arkansas State’s Michael Gordon – 184 yards; Tulsa’s Trey Watts – 169 yards; San Diego State’s Adam Muema – 163 yards; Alabama’s T.J. Yeldon – 160 yards; Stanford’s Tyler Gaffney – 158 yards; Ball State’s Jawon Edwards – 156 yards; Michigan State’s Jeremy Langford – 151 yards, and Hawaii’s Joey Iosefa – 150 yards.   


Quotes of the Week:

“I’m a thousand percent convinced that Will Muschamp is the guy to lead this football program.  Nothing has changed in what we feel about Will Muschamp from the day we hired him,” Florida athletic director Jeremy Foley. 

“I want the Gator Nation to know that I have full confidence in Coach Muschamp and his leadership of the football program,” Florida president Bernie Machen.

“The Dogs fantasize about a possible SEC East title.  Probably not happening.  They also believe the defense has turned the corner.  Maybe also fantasy.  Wins over the remains of Florida and Appalachian State don’t prove much,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“Former Miss Alabama Katherine Webb is pushing her boyfriend, A.J. McCarron, for the Heisman Trophy.  Well, that should lock up the dirty old man vote,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“Kentucky has lost 13 straight conference games and 16 of 20 overall.  Coach Mark Stoops sent a message to fans: ‘Stay with this team.’  I’m sure they’ll get the voicemail after the Final Four,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“Nick is a friend and he’s done a tremendous job at Alabama.  Nick’s not trying to get my job.  I mean, I know Nick.  So I don’t have to worry about that.  And if I do my job, there won’t be any job to be open to get,” Texas coach Mack Brown.


Touchdown Tom’s predictions for
This Week’s 15 Biggest and Most Intriguing Games…and then some

GAME OF THE WEEK:  1. Baylor (9-0) at Oklahoma State (9-1) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) (TV: ABC, 8 pm ET, Saturday) – Baylor’s undefeated record could come to an end this week.  But if it doesn’t, the Bears should leap frog over Ohio State in the BCS poll.  I hope this game lives up to its billing.  It has the potential to be a dandy.  Cowboys delight – Oklahoma State 41, Baylor 40.

RUNNER UP:  2. Missouri (9-1) at Ole Miss (7-3) – (SEC vs. SEC) (TV: ESPN, 7:45 pm ET, Saturday) – Mizzou has two games left and they have to win both to claim the SEC East and play in the conference title game.  Ole Miss is the first one and the Rebels won’t be easy in Oxford.  One down and one to go – Missouri 26, Ole Miss 24.

REST OF THE BEST:  3. Arizona State (8-2) at UCLA (8-2) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) (TV: Fox, 7 pm ET, Saturday) – The battle for the Pac-12 South title.  ASU is sitting in the driver’s seat.  But the Devils must beat the Bruins.  It won’t happen – UCLA 34, Arizona State 33.

4. Wisconsin (8-2) at Minnesota (8-2) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) (TV: ESPN, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday) – The Gophers have done well – very well – but they may have bitten off more than they can chew with Wisconsin.  The Badgers running attack is awesome.  Awesome wins – Wisconsin 28, Minnesota 27.

5. Texas A&M (8-2) at LSU (7-3) – (SEC vs. SEC) (TV: CBS, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday) – This game could make or break Johnny Manziel’s Heisman chances for 2013.  An Aggie win coupled with a star performance by the A&M quarterback could secure the trophy for Manziel.  Then again, a loss, especially a loss combined with a poor performance, and Manziel may just as well kiss the Heisman goodbye.  The Tigers won last year in College Station, 24-19.  The Aggies win this year in Baton Rouge – Texas A&M 35, LSU 33.   

6. Northern Illinois (10-0) at Toledo (7-3) – (MAC vs. MAC) (TV: ESPN2, 8 pm ET, Wednesday) – NIU has the MAC West title secured, but Toledo could spoil the Huskies perfect season and a potential BCS bowl spot.  Jordan Lynch still has a shot of making the Top 3 in the Heisman race, but he has to finish strong – very strong.  He does – Northern Illinois 35, Toledo 29.  

7. Oregon (9-1) at Arizona (6-4) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) (TV: ABC/ESPN2, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday) – The Ducks are back in the saddle again in the Pac-12 North and they don’t want to fall out.  Arizona could give them a battle in Tucson.  But the Wildcats won’t win the war – Oregon 40, Arizona 24.

8. BYU (7-3) at Notre Dame (7-3) – (Ind. vs. Ind.) (TV: NBC, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday) – This year’s Madrassa Bowl – the Mormons against the Catholics.  It all comes down to how well Taysom Hill plays for the Cougars and how well Tommy Rees plays for the Irish.  Regardless, both teams are going bowling.  Cougars out to score – BYU 22, Notre Dame 20.

9. Oklahoma (8-2) at Kansas State (6-4) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) (TV: Fox Sports 1, 12 noon ET, Saturday) – K-State is on a four-game winning streak.  The Wildcats are vastly improved since the beginning of the season.  But the Sooners are playing well too – Oklahoma 31, Kansas State 23.

10. Cincinnati (8-2) at Houston (7-3) – (AAC vs. AAC) (TV: ESPN News, 12 noon ET, Saturday) – Cincinnati is still in the hunt for the AAC title.  Houston isn’t, but the Cougars are spoilers – Houston 29, Cincinnati 26.

11. Michigan State (9-1) at Northwestern (4-6) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) (TV: ESPN, 12 noon ET, Saturday) – If Northwestern loses, it will be the seventh-straight loss for the Wildcats.  The Spartans are playing awfully well.  But there may be a bit of a letdown after the win over Nebraska.  Spartans make it seven straight – Michigan State 29, Northwestern 22.

12. Nebraska (7-3) at Penn State (6-4) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) (TV: BTN, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday) – As long as the Huskers can hold onto the ball, they should bounce back this week.  The Nitts are no pushovers, but they aren’t that tough either.  Herbie plants some corn in Pennsylvania – Nebraska 30, Penn State 25. 

13. Michigan (7-3) at Iowa (6-4) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) (TV: BTN, 12 noon ET, Saturday) – Both teams have had their share of close wins.  Figure this one is going to be close too – for whoever wins.  The Hawkeyes do – Iowa 23, Michigan 20.

14. Rutgers (5-4) at UCF (8-1) – (AAC vs. AAC) (TV: ESPN, 7:30 pm ET, Thursday) – After that scare from Temple you figure the Knights are going to let it loose this week – pour it on.  Everybody has been pouring it on Rutgers lately.  The Knights can taste the Sugar – UCF 32, Rutgers 18.

15. Boise State (7-3) at San Diego State (6-4) – (MWC vs. MWC) (TV: CBSSN, 10:30 pm ET, Saturday) – Looks like the Broncos are going to win their division and play Fresno State in the MWC title game.  But the Aztecs could be troublesome.  Not troublesome enough – Boise State 31, San Diego State 28. 


….AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON: 

16. Boston College (6-4) at Maryland (6-4) – (ACC vs. ACC) (TV: FSN, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday) – Maryland has been up and down all season.  BC has been getting better all season.  The Eagles are still getting better – Boston College 32, Maryland 26.


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS: 

Georgia Southern (6-4) at Florida (4-6) – (Southern vs. SEC) (TV: Local Cable, 2 pm ET, Saturday) – The Gators should safely put this one in the win column.  It could be a good time to experiment prior to the Florida State encounter.  Albert finally gets some Georgia chow (just not the Bulldog kind) – Florida 30, Georgia Southern 16.

Duke (8-2) at Wake Forest (4-6) – (ACC vs. ACC) (TV: ESPN2, 12 noon ET, Saturday) – After that big win over Miami, I can see the Dookies blowing it this week.  The Deacons may catch the Dookies still celebrating.  Regardless, it should be a good week for free toppings on your Dominos pizza in Winston-Salem.  Dookies hang in there – Duke 31, Wake Forest 27.

Kentucky (2-8) at Georgia (6-4) – (SEC vs. SEC) (TV: ESPNU, 7 pm ET, Saturday) – Kentucky is winless in SEC play.  Uga takes out his Auburn frustrations on the Wildcats.  Kentucky remains winless in SEC play – Georgia 32, Kentucky 15.

Illinois (3-7) at Purdue (1-9) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) (TV: BTN, 12 noon ET, Saturday) – This week it is the Banned Indians turn to beat up on Purdue.  Problem is – the Banned Indians haven’t been beating up on anybody themselves.  That means the Boilers might have a chance.  A chance in hell – Illinois 35, Purdue 30.

West Virginia (4-7) is off.


ELSEWHERE AROUND FLORIDA: 

Florida State (10-0) hosts Idaho (1-9) – (ACC vs. Ind.) (TV: ESPNU, 3:30 pm Et, Saturday). ….  Miami (7-3) is hosting Virginia (2-8) – (ACC vs. ACC) (TV: ESPNU, 12 noon ET, Saturday). ….  South Florida (2-7) entertains SMU (4-5) – (AAC vs. AAC) (TV: None, 7 pm ET, Saturday). ….  Florida Atlantic (4-6) is home against New Mexico State (1-9) – (C-USA vs. Ind.) (TV: None, 3 pm ET, Saturday).

Florida International (1-9) is home playing Marshall (7-3) – (C-USA vs. C-USA) (TV: Local Cable, 6 pm ET, Saturday). ….  Florida A&M (3-8) tangles with Bethune-Cookman (9-2) in Orlando – (MEAC vs. MEAC) (TV: ESPN Classic, 2 pm ET, Saturday). ….  Stetson (2-8) visits Mercer (9-2) – (Pioneer vs. Pioneer) (TV: None, 4 pm ET, Saturday).

Jacksonville U. (5-6) and Florida Tech (4-7) have completed their seasons. 


In the Huddle

Elsewhere around college football . . . Virginia Tech athletic director Jim Weaver announced his retirement, effective December 31, 2013.  Weaver is retiring due to health reasons….  Texas A&M and Rice have agreed to a two-game, home-and-home series to be played in 2014 and 2019….  Virginia Tech and Old Dominion have agreed to a seven-game series to be played between 2017 and 2025.  Four of the games will be in Blacksburg and the other three in Norfolk.  

Touchdown Tom
www.collegefootballweek.blogspot.com


P.S.

Not directly college football related, but as the regular season was coming to a climax and Thanksgiving turkeys and pumpkin pies were almost in the oven, the number one song in the country…

…70 years ago this week in 1943 was “Paper Doll” by The Mills Brothers

…65 years ago this week in 1948 was “Buttons And Bows” by Dinah Shore

…60 years ago this week in 1953 was “You, You, You” by The Ames Brothers

…55 years ago this week in 1958 was “Tom Dooley” by The Kingston Trio

…50 years ago this week in 1963 was “Deep Purple” by Nino Tempo and April Stevens

…45 years ago this week in 1968 was “Hey Jude” by The Beatles

…40 years ago this week in 1973 was “Photograph” by Ringo Starr

…35 years ago this week in 1978 was “MacArthur Park” by Donna Summer

…30 years ago this week in 1983 was “All Night Long (All Night)” by Lionel Richie

…25 years ago this week in 1988 was “Bad Medicine” by Bon Jovi

…20 years ago this week in 1993 was “I’d Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That)” by Meat Loaf


Not directly college football related, but sadly there were two passings of note last week – Todd Christensen and Mike McCormack.

Todd Christensen, a record-setting tight end for the Oakland and Los Angeles Raiders who made five Pro Bowl teams and played on two Super Bowl champions, died last week in Murray, Utah.  He was 57.  Christensen played 10 seasons on the Raiders, from 1979 to 1988.  From 1983 to 1986, he was one of the best tight ends in the NFL.  Christensen played fullback at BYU.  Todd Jay Christensen was born in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, on August 3, 1956.  His father taught at Penn State and later at the University of Oregon in Eugene, where Christensen went to high school. 

Mike McCormack, a Hall of Fame tackle for the Cleveland Browns in the 1950s and early 1960s and then became an NFL coach and executive, died last week in Palm Desert, California.  He was 83.  McCormick played college football at Kansas and was a third-round pick in the 1951 NFL draft.  He played for the Browns from 1954 to 1962, mostly at offensive tackle.  The Browns won the NFL championship in 1954 and 1955.  Michael Joseph McCormack Jr. was born on June 21, 1930, in Chicago.  He was head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles from 1973 to 1975 and the Baltimore Colts in 1980 and 1981.  But he never had a winning season.  McCormick became the president and general manager of the Seattle Seahawks in 1983 and later was the president of the Carolina Panthers. 

College Football Week 12 – Hug a veteran today!
‘When you’re feeling lonely and small,
You need somebody there to hold you’

“You can call out my name when you’re only lonely.”

What year was it?

It was the year of the Happy Meal and the year when we first learned of Margaret Thatcher.  Dire Straits, B.B. King, The Who, Elton John and U2 all had firsts during the year. 

Speaking of firsts, the CD made its debut, and “Morning Edition” premiered on National Public Radio.  It was also the year of Three Mile Island.

As the year began, the United States and the Peoples Republic of China established full diplomatic relations for the first time.  Meanwhile, in San Francisco, Bill Graham closed the Winterland Ballroom, following a New Year’s Eve concert by the Blues Brothers and the Grateful Dead.

A week later, Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge regime fell in Cambodia, and two weeks into the year, Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi of Iran and his family fled Iran, relocating to Egypt.

Television’s “CBS News Sunday Morning” debuted.  The following day, former U.S. Attorney General John N. Mitchell was released on parole after 19 months in a federal prison in Alabama.

Before January came to a close, the Pittsburgh Steelers won the Super Bowl, beating the Dallas Cowboys, 35-31, and “The Dukes of Hazard” debuted on CBS.

On the first of February, convicted bank robber Patty Hearst was released from prison after her sentence was commuted by President Jimmy Carter, and Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini returned to Iran after nearly 15 years of exile.

Still early in February, former Sex Pistols’ bassist Sid Vicious was found dead at the age of 21 of a heroin overdose in New York City.  Stephen Stills became the first major rock artist to record digitally, laying down four songs at the Record Plant in Los Angeles, and Rod Stewart’s “Do You Think I’m Sexy” hit No. 1 on the Billboard charts where it remained for four weeks.

On February 11, the Ayatollah Khomeini seized power in Iran.  Two days later, an intense windstorm struck western Washington, sinking a 1/2-mile-long section of the Hood Canal Bridge.

“When the world is ready to fall on your little shoulders,
And when you’re feeling lonely and small,
You need somebody there to hold you.”

All within three days, the Bee Gees collected four Grammys for “Saturday Night Fever,” The Peoples Republic of China invaded northern Vietnam, launching the Sino-Vietnamese War and the Sahara Desert experienced a snowfall.

Late in February, the Caribbean nation of Saint Lucia became independent from the United Kingdom, and Dire Straits began their first U.S. tour in Boston.  Also, B.B. King became the first blues artist to tour the Soviet Union, kicking off a one-month tour there. Meanwhile in New Orleans, the annual Mardi Gras celebration was canceled due to a strike called by the New Orleans Police Department.

March arrived and photos from the Voyager I space probe revealed Jupiter’s rings.  Philips demonstrated the Compact Disc publicly for the first time, while later in the month, the first fully functional space shuttle orbiter, Columbia, was delivered to the John F. Kennedy Space Center to be prepared for its first launch.  In a ceremony at the White House, President Anwar Sadat of Egypt and Prime Minister Menachem Begin of Israel signed a peace treaty.

At the end of March, Michigan State beat Indiana State, 75-64, in Salt Lake City, to win the NCAA basketball tournament, and America’s most serious nuclear power plant accident occurred at Three Mile Island, Pennsylvania.  Also, Gali Atari and Milk and Honey, representing Israel, won the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Hallelujah.”

Rod Stewart married Alana Hamilton early in April. 

Later in the month, a tornado hit Wichita Falls, Texas, killing 42 people.  It was the strongest of 26 tornadoes that pounded the Midwest on April 10.  The next day, Tanzanian troops took Kampala, the capital of Uganda.  Idi Amin fled. 

On April 15, a 7.0 earthquake struck Montenegro (in Yugoslavia) and parts of Albania, causing extensive damage and killing 136 people.  The same day, Fuzzy Zoeller beat out Ed Sneed and Tom Watson in a three-way playoff to win the Masters.

Two days into May, The Who played their first concert, following the death of drummer Keith Moon.  On May 4, Conservative Margaret Thatcher became Great Britain’s first female prime minister, ending the rule of James Callaghan’s Labour government.  The next day, Spectacular Bid won the Kentucky Derby.

A few days later, a Unabomber bomb injured Northwestern University grad student John Harris, and Arsenal beat Manchester United, 3-2, to win the FA Cup. 

On the 21st of May, Dan White received a light sentence for killing San Francisco mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk.  The Montreal Canadiens beat the New York Rangers, 4 games to 1, to win the Stanley Cup, and Elton John played the first of eight concerts in the Soviet Union.

“You can call out my name when you’re only lonely,
Now, don’t you ever be ashamed, you’re only lonely.”

Late in May, American Airlines Flight 191, a DC-10, crashed during takeoff at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, killing all 271 on board and two people on the ground in the deadliest aviation accident in U.S. history.  Also, Rick Mears won the Indianapolis 500 for the first time.

On the first day of June, McDonalds introduced the Happy Meal, and the Seattle Supersonics beat the Washington Bullets, 4 games to 1, to win the NBA Championship.  The following day, Pope John Paul II arrived in his native Poland, becoming the first Pope to visit a Communist country.  Two days later, Joe Clark became Canada’s 16th and youngest Prime Minister.

A week later, at the French Open Tennis Tournament in Paris, Chris Evert won the women’s singles title and Bjorn Borg won the men’s singles title.  In mid-June, Hale Irwin won the U.S. Open Golf Championship, and Jimmy Carter and Leonid Brezhnev signed the SALT II agreement in Vienna.

Summer was underway and while not yet able to listen to the games on the radio, college football fans were listening to “Love Is The Answer” by England Dan & John Ford Coley; “Reunited” by Peaches & Herb; “Just When I Needed You Most” by Randy Vanwarmer; “The Logical Song” by Supertramp; “Makin’ It” by David Naughton; “Deeper Than The Night” by Olivia Newton-John; “When You’re In Love With A Beautiful Woman” by Dr. Hook, and “Honesty” by Billy Joel.

Also, “You Take My Breath Away” by Rex Smith; “Love You Inside Out” by The Bee Gees; “Hot Stuff” by Donna Summer; “Dance Away” by Roxy Music; “Dance The Night Away” by Van Halen; “Chuck E’s In Love” by Rickie Lee Jones; “She Believes In Me” by Kenny Rogers; “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now” by McFadden & Whitehead; “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge; “I Want You To Want Me” by Cheap Trick; “You Can’t Change That” by Raydio, and “Minute By Minute” by The Doobie Brothers.

Late in the month, a Nicaraguan National Guard soldier killed ABC TV news correspondent Bill Stewart.  The killing was captured on tape.  Also, NATO Supreme Allied Commander Alexander Haig escaped an assassination attempt by the Baader-Meinhof terrorist gang. 

No sooner had July arrived and the Sony Walkman went on sale for the first time.  Meanwhile, U.S. President Jimmy Carter signed the first directive for secret aid to the opponents of the pro-Soviet regime in Kabul, Afghanistan.

A week into the month and Bjorn Borg and Martina Navratilova won the men’s and women’s singles championships respectively at Wimbledon in England.  A few days later, NASA’s first orbiting space station Skylab began its return to earth after being in orbit for six years and two months. 

A Disco Demolition Night publicity stunt went awry at Comiskey Park, forcing the Chicago White Sox to forfeit their game against the Detroit Tigers.  Iraqi President Hasan al-Bakr resigned and Vice-President Saddam Hussein replaced him. 

“When you need somebody around on the nights that try you,
Remember, I was there when you were a queen,
And I’ll be the last one there beside you.”

As the summer air grew thicker and warmer, the DJs were playing and college football fans were listening to “Heart Of The Night” by Poco; “Boogie Wonderland” by Earth, Wind & Fire and The Emotions; “Ring My Bell” by Anita Ward; “Does Your Mother Know” by ABBA; “Shine A Little Love” by Electric Light Orchestra; “Gold” by John Stewart; “Sad Eyes” by Robert John, and “If I Said You Have A Beautiful Body, Would You Hold It Against Me” by The Bellamy Brothers.

Also, “Shadows In The Moonlight” by Anne Murray; “Weekend” by Wet Willie; “People Of The South Wind” by Kansas; “I Can’t Stand It No More” by Peter Frampton; “Do It Or Die” by The Atlanta Rhythm Section; “I Was Made For Lovin’ You” by Kiss; “Bad Girls” by Donna Summer; “Lead Me On” by Maxine Nightingale; “Days Gone Down (Still Got The Light In Your Eyes)” by Gerry Rafferty, and “One Way Or Another” by Blondie.

On July 17, Nicaraguan dictator General Anastasio Somoza Debayle resigned and fled to Miami.  Two days later, the Sandinista National Liberation Front concluded a successful revolutionary campaign against the U.S.-backed Somoza dictatorship and assumed power in Nicaragua.

Maritza Sayalero of Venezuela won the Miss Universe pageant.  The pageant stage collapsed when contestants and photographers rushed to her throne.  Before July was over, Seve Ballesteros won the British Open Golf Championship.

August began on a sad note as New York Yankees catcher Thurman Munson died in a plane crash. 

David Graham won the PGA Championship, and Michael Jackson released his breakthrough album “Off The Wall.”  It sold seven million copies in the United State alone.

Summer was coming to an end and football fans couldn’t wait for another season to begin.  USC was the No. 1 team in the country at preseason.  Just days before the first games of the season, college football fans were grillin’ and chillin’ to “Suspicions” by Eddie Rabbit; “Mama Can’t Buy You Love” by Elton John; “Getting Closer” by Paul McCartney & Wings, and “The Main Event/Fight” by Barbra Streisand.

Also, “Good Times” by Chic; “Heaven Must Have Sent You” by Bonnie Pointer; “Highway Song” by Blackfoot; “The Devil Went Down To Georgia” by The Charlie Daniels Band; “Born To Be Alive” by Patrick Hernandez; “My Sharona” by The Knack; “I’ll Never Love This Way Again” by Dionne Warwick; “Let’s Go” by The Cars, and “I Know A Heartache When I See One” by Jennifer Warnes.

Late in August, “My Sharona” by the Knack hit No. 1 on the Billboard charts.  It was the first time in over a year that a song that was not either a disco song or a ballad hit No. 1.  Also, Lord Mountbatten, British admiral, statesman and uncle of the Duke of Edinburgh, and four others were assassinated by the Irish Republican Army. 

On the first two days of September, Pioneer 11 became the first spacecraft to visit Saturn, when it passed the planet at a distance of 12,600 miles, and U2 entered the studio for the first time to record a single.

Just a week into September and the first cable television sports channel, ESPN, was launched.  The long-running comic strip, “For Better or For Worse,” began its run, while at the U.S. Open Tennis Championship, John McEnroe won the men’s singles title, and Tracy Austin won the women’s singles title.

“So you can call out my name when you’re only lonely,
Now, don’t you ever be ashamed, you’re only lonely.”

Meanwhile, the college football season was underway and fans were tailgating to “Oh Well” by The Rockets; “Goodbye Stranger” by Supertramp; “After The Love Has Gone” by Earth, Wind & Fire; “The Boss” by Diana Ross, and “What Cha Gonna Do With My Lovin’” by Stephanie Mills.

Also, “Bad Case Of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor)” by Robert Palmer; “Driver’s Seat” by Sniff ‘N’ The Tears; “Lonesome Loser” by The Little River Band; “Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’” by Journey; “Where Were You When I Was Falling In Love” by Lobo; “Don’t Stop ’Til I Get Enough” by Michael Jackson, and “Rise” by Herb Alpert.

A first class U.S. postage stamp cost 15 cents, while a gallon of gas was only 86 cents.  The average price of a new home was $58,100, and the average income was $17,500.

During mid-September, Hurricane Frederic made landfall at 10 p.m. on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, and two families escaped from East Germany by fleeing in a hot air balloon. 

College football fans were celebrating their wins and mourning their losses to “Don’t Bring Me Down” by Electric Light Orchestra; “Dependin’ On You” by The Doobie Brothers; “Get It Right Next Time” by Gerry Rafferty; “Spooky” by The Atlanta Rhythm Section; “Sail On” by The Commodores, and “Pop Muzik” by M.

Also, “Rolene” by Moon Martin; “So Good, So Right” by Brenda Russell; “Arrow Through Me” by Paul McCartney & Wings; “Midnight Wind” by John Stewart; “Street Life” by The Crusaders; “Dim All The Lights” by Donna Summer, and “Please Don’t Go” by KC and The Sunshine Band.

As October began, Pope John Paul II arrived in the United States for a six-day visit.  Three days later, an EF4 tornado hit Windsor Locks, Connecticut, causing extensive damage to the town. 

On October 6, Ken Naber kicked a 56-yard field goal on the final play of the game, giving Stanford a 27-24 win over UCLA.  The following Saturday, October 13, No. 1 USC was tied by Stanford, 21-21.  This after the Trojans led 21-0 at halftime.  Two days later, Alabama became the No. 1 team in the country. 

In mid-October, near Guam, Typhoon Tip reached a record intensity of 870 millibars, the lowest pressure ever recorded at sea level.  This made Tip the most powerful tropical cyclone ever.  Two days later, a major gay rights march took place in Washington, DC, involving tens of thousands of people.

A loaf of bread cost 43 cents and the average price of a new car was $6,847.

“When the world is ready to fall on your little shoulders,
And when you’re feeling lonely and small,
You need somebody there to hold you.”

On October 16, a tsunami in Nice, France, killed 23 people.  The next day, the Pittsburgh Pirates beat the Baltimore Orioles in game seven of the World Series.  Willie Stargell was named the series MVP.  On October 20, Ted Peterson kicked a 49-yard field goal on the final play of the game, giving UNLV a 43-41 victory over Utah. 

The following week, Park Chung Hee, the President of South Korea, was assassinated.  Also, Michigan beat Indiana, 27-21, on the final play of the game.  The Wolverines Anthony Carter scored on a 45-yard touchdown pass from John Wangler.  The next day, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines gained independence from the United Kingdom.

At Halloween, college football fans were being tricked or treated to “Hold On” by Ian Gomm; “Come To Me” by France Joli; “Good Girls Don’t” by The Knack; “Fins” by Jimmy Buffet, and “Gotta Serve Somebody” by Bob Dylan.

Also, “Dirty White Boy” by Foreigner; “You Recorded My Life” by Kenny Rogers; “You’re Only Lonely” by J.D. Souther; “Rainbow Connection” by Kermit (Jim Henson), and “Please Don’t Leave” by Lauren Wood.

As November came upon us, five members of the Communist Workers Party were shot to death and seven more were wounded by a group of Klu Klux Klansmen and Neo-Nazis, during a “Death to the Klan” rally in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Still early in November, 3,000 Iranian radicals invaded the U.S. Embassy in Tehran and took 90 hostages, 53 of whom were American.  They demanded that the United States send the former Shah of Iran back to stand trial.  On November 5, the radio news program “Morning Edition” premiered on National Public Radio.

Five days later, Penn State edged NC State, 9-7, on the final play of the game when Herb Menhardt kicked a 54-yard field goal.

The next week, Iranian leader Ruhollah Khomeini ordered the release of 13 female and African-American hostages being held at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran.  In the final week of November, in Dublin, Ireland, Provisional Irish Republican Army member Thomas McMahon was sentenced to life in prison for the assassination of Lord Mountbatten, and Air New Zealand flight 901, a DC-10, crashed into Mount Erebus in Antarctica on a sightseeing trip, killing all 257 people on board. 

In the annual Harvard-Yale game on November 17, undefeated Yale was upset by Harvard, 22-7.  Also, on the same Saturday, Air Force beat Vanderbilt, 30-29, on the last play of the game.  Andy Bark scored on a 14-yard touchdown pass from Dave Ziebart 

“So don’t you ever be ashamed, you’re only lonely
Ah, you can call out my name when you’re only lonely.”

At Thanksgiving, college football fans were stuffing themselves on turkey and pumpkin pie, while listening to “Dreaming” by Blondie; “Half The Way” by Crystal Gayle; “Damned If I Do” by The Alan Parsons Project; “Still” by The Commodores; “Dream Police” by Cheap Trick; “Tusk” by Fleetwood Mac; “Heartache Tonight” by The Eagles; “Babe” by Styx; “Ladies Night” by Kool & The Gang; “Crusin’” by Smokey Robinson; “Highway To Hell” by AC/DC, and “Ships” by Barry Manilow.

Also, “Take The Long Way Home” by Super Tramp; “I Want You Tonight” by Pablo Cruise; “Better Love Next Time” by Dr. Hook; “No More Tears” by Barbra Streisand and Donna Summer; “Cool Change” by Little River Band; “We Don’t Talk Anymore” by Cliff Richard; “Escape (The Pina Colada Song)” by Rupert Holmes; “This Is It” by Kenny Loggins, and “Do That To Me One More Time” by Captain & Tennille. 

Two days after Thanksgiving, Arizona downed Arizona State, 27-24, when Brett Weber kicked a 27-yard field goal as time expired. 

Having beaten a highly regarded Michigan team, 18-15, Ohio State replaced Alabama as the No. 1 team in the country.

Alabama, BYU, Florida State, McNeese State and Ohio State were all undefeated at the end of the regular season.  Wake Forest, under John Mackovic, was the most improved team on the season, going from 1-10 the year before to 8-3.

On December 3, eleven fans were killed during a crowd rush for unreserved seats before The Who concert at Riverfront Coliseum in Cincinnati, Ohio.  Three days later, the world premier of “Star Trek: The Motion Picture” was held at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC.

The consensus All-American first team offense consisted of wide receiver Ken Margerum – Stanford, (6-1, 175) Fountain Valley, CA; tight end Junior Miller – Nebraska, (6-4, 222) Midland, TX; tackle Greg Kolenda – Arkansas (6-1, 258) Kansas City, KS; tackle Jim Bunch – Alabama, (6-2, 240) Mechanicsville, VA; guard Brad Budde – USC, (6-5, 253) Kansas City, MO; guard Ken Fritz – Ohio State, (6-3, 238) Ironton, OH; center Jim Ritcher – NC State (6-3, 245) Hinckley, OH; quarterback Marc Wilson – BYU, (6-5, 204) Seattle, WA; running back Charles White – USC, (6-0, 185) San Fernando, CA; running back Billy Sims – Oklahoma, (6-0, 205) Hooks, TX; running back Vegas Ferguson – Notre Dame, (6-1, 194) Richmond, IN, and placekicker Dale Castro – Maryland, (6-1, 170) Shady Side, MD.

USC running back Charles White won the Heisman Trophy.  White beat out (2) Oklahoma running back Billy Sims, (3) BYU quarterback Marc Wilson and (4) Ohio State quarterback Art Schlichter.  White also won the Maxwell Trophy and the Walter Camp Award, as college football’s best player.

The Outland Trophy went to NC State center Jim Ritcher, and USC guard Brad Budde won the Lombardi Award. 

The best albums of the year were “Damn the Torpedoes” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers; “The Wall” by Pink Floyd; “Breakfast in America” by Supertramp; “Off the Wall” by Michael Jackson; “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC; “Tusk” by Fleetwood Mac; “Regatta de Blanc” by The Police; “Eat to the Beat” by Blondie, and “Secrets” by Robert Palmer.

Also, “Cornerstone” by Styx; “Evolution” by Journey; “Head Games” by Foreigner; “Candy-O” by The Cars; “Desolation Angels” by Bad Company; “Black Rose: A Rock Legend” by Thin Lizzy; “Into the Music” by Van Morrison; “Too Old to Change” by Jerry Jeff Walker, and “The Long Run” by The Eagles.

Also, “Rust Never Sleeps” by Neil Young and Crazy Horse; “London Calling” by The Clash; “In Through the Out Door” by Led Zeppelin; “Deguello” by ZZ Top; “Lodger” by David Bowie; “At Budokan” by Cheap Trick; “Back to the Egg” by Paul McCartney & Wings, and “I’m the Man” by Joe Jackson;

“When you’re only lonely,
Ah, it’s no crime
Darling, we got lots of time.”

With Christmas in the air and bowl games near, college football fans were doing their shopping to “Wait For Me” by Daryl Hall & John Oates; “Don’t Let Go” by Isaac Hayes; “Jane” by Jefferson Starship; “Send One Your Love” by Stevie Wonder; “Rock With You” by Michael Jackson; “Video Killed The Radio Star” by The Buggles; “Head Games” by Foreigner, and “Déjà Vu” by Dionne Warwick.

Also, “I’d Rather Leave While I’m In Love” by Rita Coolidge; “Savannah Nights” by The Doobie Brothers; “Third Time Lucky (First Time I Was A Fool” by Foghat; “Don’t Do Me Like That” by Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers; “Coward Of The County” by Kenny Rogers, and “Yes, I’m Ready” by Teri DeSario & KC and The Sunshine Band.

Later in December, the eradication of the smallpox virus was certified, making smallpox the first and to date only human disease driven to extinction.  An earthquake and resulting tsunami killed 259 people in Columbia.

Some of the better movies of the year were “Superman;” “Every Which Way But Loose;” “Force 10 From Navarone;” “The Deer Hunter;” “Norma Rae;” “The China Syndrome;” “Alien;” “Rocky 2;” “Escape From Alcatraz,” and “The Main Event.”

Also, “The Muppet Movie;” “Moonraker;” “Breaking Away;” “The Amityville Horror;” “Apocalypse Now;” “The Life of Brian;” “The Onion Field;” “The Great Santini,” and “The Rose,”

In the first bowl game of the season, Syracuse won the Independence Bowl, beating McNeese State, 31-7.  A week later, Indiana beat BYU, 38-37, to win the Holiday Bowl.  It was the first loss of the season for both BYU and McNeese State. 

In the Sun Bowl, it was Washington 14, Texas 7.  Also, LSU beat Wake Forest, 34-7, in the Tangerine Bowl, and in the Liberty Bowl, Penn State beat Tulane, 9-6.

The better reads during the year included “Chesapeake” by James A. Michener; “War and Remembrance” by Herman Wouk; “Evergreen” by Belva Plain; “The Far Pavilions” by M.M. Kaye; “Bright Flows the River” by Taylor Caldwell; “Prelude to Terror” by Helen MacInnes; “Eye of the Needle” by Ken Follett; “Overload” by Arthur Hailey; “The Empty Copper Sea” by John D. MacDonald, and “The Sixth Commandment” by Lawrence Sanders.

Also, “The World According to Garp” by John Irving; “Dress Gray” by Lucian K. Truscott; “Second Generation” by Howard Fast; “SS-GB” by Len Deighton; “The Coup” by John Updike; “Proteus” by Morris West; “The Matarese Circle” by Robert Ludlum; “Hanta Yo” by Ruth Beebe Hill; “Good as Gold” by Joseph Heller; “Shibumi” by Trevanian; “The Island” by Peter Benchley; “The Pigeon Project” by Irving Wallace; “Sophie’s Choice” by William Styron, and “Class Reunion” by Rona Jaffe.

Also, “Sphinx” by Robin Cook; “The Last Enchantment” by Mary Stewart; “A Woman of Substance” by Barbara Taylor Bradford; “Triple” by Ken Follett; “Jailbird” by Kurt Vonnegut; “The Establishment” by Howard Fast; “Shadow of the Moon” by M.M. Kaye; “To Catch a King” by Harry Patterson; “The Executioner’s Song” by Norman Mailer; “The Formula” by Steve Shagan, and “Memories of Another Day” by Harold Robbins. 

“Ah, there’s nothing wrong with you
Darling, I get lonely too.”

Well-known people who were born during the year included Brandy; Drew Brees; Claire Danes; Ross Douthat; Carl Edwards; Jennifer Love Hewitt; Kate Hudson; Norah Jones, and Heath Ledger.

Also, Adam Levine; Graeme McDowell; Tracy McGrady; Lamar Odom; Pink; LaDainian Tomlinson, and Nik Wallenda. 

Two days before Christmas, the highest aerial tramway in Europe, the Klein Matterhorn, opened in Switzerland.  On Christmas Eve, the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan.

The consensus All-American first team defense consisted of lineman Hugh Green – Pitt, (6-2, 220) Natchez, MS; lineman Steve McMichael – Texas, (6-2, 250) Freer, TX; lineman Bruce Clark – Penn State, (6-3, 255) New Castle, PA; lineman Jim Stuckey – Clemson, (6-5, 241) Cayce, SC; middle guard Ron Simmons – Florida State, (6-1, 235) Warner Robins, GA; linebacker George Cumby – Oklahoma, (6-0, 205) Tyler, TX; linebacker Ron Simpkins – Michigan, (6-2, 220) Detroit, MI; linebacker Mike Singletary – Baylor, (6-1, 224) Houston, TX; defensive back Kenny Easley – UCLA, (6-3, 204) Chesapeake, VA; defensive back Johnnie Johnson – Texas, (6-2, 190) LaGrange, TX; defensive back Roland James – Tennessee, (6-2, 182) Jamestown, OH, and punter Jim Miller – Ole Miss, (5-11, 183) Ripley, MS.

On Christmas Day, Pitt beat Arizona, 16-10, in the Fiesta Bowl.  Three days later, North Carolina won the Gator Bowl, beating Michigan, 17-15. 

Famous people who passed away during the year included Joan Blondell; Al Capp; Mamie Eisenhower; Arthur Fiedler; Lester Flatt; Jack Haley; Donny Hathaway; Conrad Hilton; Barbara Hutton; Jim Hutton; Emmett Kelly; Stan Kenton; Tommy Leonetti; Zeppo Marx; Van McCoy, and Lord Mountbatten.

Also, Thurmon Munson; S.I. Newhouse, Sr.; Merle Oberon; Walter O’Malley; Mary Pickford; Minnie Ripperton; Nelson Rockefeller; Richard Rodgers; Jean Seberg; Fulton J. Sheen; Vivian Vance; Sid Vicious; John Wayne; Michael Wilding, and Darryl F. Zanuck.

The most popular TV shows of the year were “60 Minutes;” “Three’s Company;” “M*A*S*H;” “Alice;” “Dallas;” “Flo;” “The Jeffersons,” and “The Dukes of Hazard.”

Also, “One Day at a Time;” “WKRP in Cincinnati;” “Taxi;” “Little House on the Prairie;” “CHiPs,” and “Happy Days.”

“If you need me
All you gotta do is call me
You’re only lonely”

During the final days of the year and on New Year’s Eve, college football fans were dancing, celebrating, drinking and singing to “Forever Mine” by The O’Jays; “I Wanna Be Your Lover” by Prince; “Romeo’s Tune” by Steve Forbert; “Lost Her In The Sun” by John Stewart; “The Long Run” by The Eagles, and “An American Dream” by The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.

Also, “The Second Time Around” by Shalamar; “With You I’m Born Again” by Billy Preston; “Why Me” by Styx; “Wonderland” by The Commodores; “Sara” by Fleetwood Mac; “When I Wanted You” by Barry Manilow; “Longer” by Dan Fogelberg, and “Working My Way Back To You/Forgive Me Girl” by The Spinners.

On New Year’s Eve, Baylor beat Clemson, 24-18, in the Peach Bowl.

At the close of the year, the unemployment rate was 5.8%, while the Dow Jones closed at 838.

In the final bowl games of the season, Houston beat Nebraska in the Cotton Bowl, 17-14, while Oklahoma won the Orange Bowl, beating Florida State, 24-7.

Alabama beat Arkansas, 24-9, in the Sugar Bowl, and in the Rose Bowl, it was USC 17, Ohio State 16. 

Alabama, under coach Bear Bryant, finished the season 12-0.  The Tide was named national champions by AP and UPI.  Alabama only gave up 67 points all season, shutting out five opponents.  The Tide only had two close games – 3-0 over LSU and 25-18 over Auburn.

“So if you need me, all you gotta do is call me
You’re only lonely”

“You’re Only Lonely” – by J.D. Souther (written by J.D. – John David – Souther)
The song entered Billboard’s Hot 100 chart on September 8.  It remained on the Hot 100 chart for 21 weeks, throughout the entire football season.  It peaked at No. 7.  J.D. Souther was born on November 2, 1945 in Detroit, but grew up in Amarillo, Texas.  He and Glenn Frey (The Eagles) formed the Longbranch Pennywhistle Band.  Then in 1974, Souther teamed with Chris Hillman (The Byrds and The Flying Burrito Brothers) and Richie Furay (Buffalo Springfield and Poco) to form the Souther, Hillman, Furay Band.

The year (and football season) was 1979.

Touchdown Tom
November 11, 2013
www.collegefootballweek.blogspot.com


Weekend Recap

In the latest BCS poll, Alabama remains No. 1.  Florida State is No. 2, followed by Ohio State at No. 3.  Holding down the No. 4 spot is Stanford, followed by Baylor at No. 5.

GAME OF THE WEEK:  Gaffney smacks the Quacks – Stanford 26, Oregon 20 (Touchdown Tom said: Oregon 27, Stanford 22).  Stanford all but knocks Oregon out of the BCS championship game, while making itself a strong contender for the game.  With remaining games against USC, Notre Dame and the Pac-12 title game opponent, the Cardinal’s strength of schedule just might get them into the title game even with a loss.  That assumes Stanford wins out.  The Cardinal shutout Oregon until the final 10 minutes of the game.  That’s when the Ducks caught fire.  But it was a little too late for Oregon.  The Cardinal held the Ducks to 62 yards rushing.  Stanford’s Tyler Gaffney ran for 157 yards.  A crowd of 51,545 attended the game in Palo Alto.

RUNNER UP:  Did the Bama fans stay past the third quarter? – Alabama 38, LSU 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Alabama 32, LSU 17).  I wouldn’t want Nick Saban to have a hissy fit.  The Tide only led by a touchdown – 24-17 – at the end of the third quarter so I imagine the Bama fans hung around at least until the Tide made it 31-17.  For those who thought Bama was getting complacent in recent games, they shouldn’t have any more thoughts.  The convincing win over LSU was proof that Alabama belongs in the No. 1 spot.  Although Zach Mettenberger had a good game (241 yards and no interceptions), the Tigers had no running game.  Bama held LSU to a measly 43 yards rushing.  A crowd of 101,821 attended the game in Tuscaloosa.

REST OF THE BEST:  Bears break the Sooners Neks – Baylor 41, Oklahoma 12 (Touchdown Tom said: Baylor 34, Oklahoma 29).  The Bears are for real.  And the win over Oklahoma makes them a serious contender for the BCS title game.  With remaining games against Oklahoma State and Texas, the strength of schedule will boost the Bears if they win out.  Baylor held Oklahoma to 237 yards of offense – 150 passing and 87 rushing.  The Bears Shock Linwood rushed for 182 yards.  A crowd of 50,537 attended the game in Waco.

We can see the BCS bowl at the end of the tunnel – UCF 19, Houston 14 (Touchdown Tom said: UCF 30, Houston 29).  Looking at the stats and looking at the score, this game was about as evenly matched as you can get.  Houston was on the UCF goal line in the closing seconds and the Knights kept the Cougars out of the end zone.  UCF is heading for a BCS bowl game, but the Knights still have four conference games to play and three of them could be troublesome.  A crowd of 44,665 attended the game in Orlando.

Logan Thomas where have you been? – Virginia Tech 42, Miami (Florida) 24 (Touchdown Tom said: Miami 26, Virginia Tech 15).  After being dormant all season, the Hokies offense finally came to life.  But I suspect the Canes still hadn’t gotten over the beating they took from Florida State last week.  And Miami definitely missed Duke
Johnson.  The Canes only had 28 yards rushing.  A crowd of 49,267 attended the game in Miami Gardens.

Badgered – Wisconsin 27, BYU 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Wisconsin 36, BYU 30).  BYU scored first and last.  In between, Wisconsin outscored the Cougars 27-7.  The Badgers running game was too much for the Cougars.  Wisconsin’s James White ran for 147 yards.  A crowd of 80,191 attended the game in Madison.

Bears paw the Wildcats – UCLA 31, Arizona 26 (Touchdown Tom said: UCLA 34, Arizona 33).  This was another close game, both in the score and the stats.  The Bruins were slightly dominant.  UCLA’s Brett Hundley passed for 227 yards and ran for 56.  A crowd of 51,531 attended the game in Tucson.

The Maize got lost in the Maze – Nebraska 17, Michigan 13 (Touchdown Tom said: Michigan 22, Nebraska 20).  A defensive battle – neither team was impressive on offense.  Least of all Michigan – the Wolverines were held to -21 yards rushing.  The Huskers were the first team to hand Brady Hoke a loss in the Big House.  No doubt Ohio State will be the second team to do it in a couple weeks.  I suspect Brady’s seat could be getting a little warm.  Meanwhile, Bo’s seat could be cooling off.  He may not need those drugs from his brother, after all.  The Huskers beat the Wolverines for the second-straight year.  A crowd of 112,204 attended the game in Ann Arbor.

Wild wings! – Buffalo 30, Ohio 3 (Touchdown Tom said: Buffalo 32, Ohio 29).  It wouldn’t have made a difference in the game, but Ohio got badly screwed on two calls by the officials.  Being a televised game, it was a downright embarrassment for officiating crews in the Mid-American Conference.  If I was the NCAA, I wouldn’t let MAC officials call a bowl game.  Buffalo remains undefeated in MAC play.  The Bulls Branden Oliver rushed for 249 yards.  A crowd of 22,918 attended the game in Buffalo.

Gopher momentum – Minnesota 24, Penn State 10 (Touchdown Tom said: Minnesota 23, Penn State 21).  The Golden Gophers are amazing.  They just keep rolling along.  Nothing about the team stands out other than they just keep winning.  A crowd of 48,123 attended the game in Minneapolis.

Tigers ground it out – Auburn 55, Tennessee 23 (Touchdown Tom said: Auburn 27, Tennessee 23).  Auburn won this game with only 35 yards passing, but the Tigers had 444 yards rushing.  Maybe the offense was Navy in Auburn uniforms?  Nick Marshall ran for 214 yards and Tre Mason rushed for 117.  Marshall was 3-for-7 passing with one interception.  It’s been a tough year for Butch Jones.  A crowd of 102,455 attended the game in Knoxville.

Aerial attack – Texas A&M 51, Mississippi State 41 (Touchdown Tom said: Texas A&M 39, Miss State 22).  The Aggies were almost the reverse of Auburn.  A&M only had 91 yards rushing, but 446 yards passing.  Johnny Manziel was 30-for-39, but he threw three interceptions.  The Aggies have no defense.  A crowd of 88,504 attended the game in College Station.

Panthers piss on the Irish – Pitt 28, Notre Dame 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Notre Dame 26, Pitt 19).  Last year, Pitt couldn’t quite get the job done in three overtimes against Notre Dame.  This year, the Panthers had no trouble in regulation.  Actually, the Irish dominated the stats, but Notre Dame had three turnovers.  Tommy Rees completed less than 50 percent of his passes and threw three interceptions.  A crowd of 65,500 attended the game in Pittsburgh.

Living on the edge – Arizona State 20, Utah 19 (Touchdown Tom said: Arizona State 27, Utah 22).  Utah led 19-7 at the start of the fourth quarter.  That’s when the Sun Devils woke up and scored two TDs in the final period.  The second touchdown came with 2:37 remaining.  ASU’s Marion Grice rushed for 136 yards.  A crowd of 45,183 attended the game in Salt Lake City.

Can’t wait till next year – Texas 47, West Virginia 40 (OT) (Touchdown Tom said: Texas 33, West Virginia 30).  When these two teams get together, it’s always exciting.  Last year, Texas came up short.  This year, WVU came up short.  Five turnovers and the lack of a rushing game didn’t help the Mounties any.  WVU only had 109 yards on the ground.  The Longhorns remain undefeated in Big 12 play.  A crowd of 58,570 attended the game in Morgantown.
 

….AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON: 

Tabasco! – Louisiana-Lafayette 41, Troy 36 (Touchdown Tom said: ULL 35, Troy 23).  Troy outplayed ULL, but the Cajuns hung on to win.  ULL had a great goal line stand in the closing minutes of the game which saved their victory.  Troy’s Corey Robinson passed for 271 yards.  A crowd of 22,562 attended the game in Lafayette.


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS: 

Waterloo? – Vanderbilt 34, Florida 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Florida 28, Vanderbilt 25).  If this game isn’t Will Mustake’s Waterloo, I don’t know what is.  Ron Zook never lost to Vanderbilt.  Saturday, Florida lost to Vandy for the first time since 1988 and the first time in Gainesville since 1945.  The Gators only had 39 yards rushing, along with four turnovers.  Tyler Murphy threw three picks.  Florida was penalized 11 times for 84 yards.  What is Jeremy Foley waiting for?  A crowd of 88,004 attended the game in Gainesville.

The Minnesota of the ACC – Duke 38, NC State 20 (Touchdown Tom said: Duke 25, NC State 22).  Or is Minnesota the Duke of the Big Ten?  Trailing NC State, 20-17, in the fourth quarter, the Dookies scored 21 unanswered points in the final 3:31 of the game.  The last two scores were on pass interceptions returned for touchdowns.  The game was marred by turnovers – four for Duke and four for the Wolfpack.  A crowd of 32,010 attended the game in Durham.

The pause that refreshes – Georgia 45, Appalachian State 6 (Touchdown Tom said: Georgia 40, Appalachian State 16).  In between Florida and Auburn, Uga needed a break.  That break was Appalachian State.  Aaron Murray passed for 281 yards.  Uga held Appy State to 32 yards rushing.  A crowd of 92,746 attended the game in Athens.

Can it get any worse? – Iowa 38, Purdue 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Iowa 27, Purdue 17).  It just can’t get any worse for the Boilers.  Well, yes it can.  They still have three games to play.  The Hawkeyes held the Boilers to 53 yards rushing, while Iowa’s Jordan Canzeri ran for 165 yards.  A crowd of 41,038 attended the game in West Lafayette.

Week 11 Picks:   15 Correct, 5 Wrong (75.0 percent)
On the Season:    154 Correct, 53 Wrong (74.4 percent)


ELSEWHERE AROUND FLORIDA: 

Florida State walloped Wake Forest, 59-3.  A crowd of 30,865 attended the game in Winston-Salem….  Florida International fell to Middle Tennessee, 48-0.  A crowd of 16,717 attended the game in Murfreesboro….  Norfolk State upset Bethune-Cookman, 27-24.  A crowd of 5,651 attended the game in Daytona Beach.

Florida A&M lost to South Carolina State, 25-21.  A crowd of 20,022 attended the game in Orangeburg….  Mercer outlasted Jacksonville U., 45-42.  A crowd of 9,729 attended the game in Macon….  Stetson beat Davidson, 26-13.  A crowd of 6,544 attended the game in Deland….  Florida Tech lost to North Alabama, 55-28.  A crowd of 4,000 attended the game in Melbourne. 


Superlatives

Impressive Passers:  Illinois’ Nate Scheelhaase – 38-57-1 for 450 yards; Ole Miss’ Bo Wallace – 26-33-2-407; SMU’s Garrett Gilbert – 38-47-0-403; East Carolina’s Shane Carden – 34-50-0-384; New Mexico State’s Andrew McDonald – 41-55-1-375; Virginia Tech’s Logan Thomas – 25-31-0-366, and Fresno State’s Derek Carr – 33-46-0-360.

Also, Western Michigan’s Zach Terrell – 24-39-1 for 348 yards; Miami of Florida’s Stephen Morris – 16-29-0-324; Washington’s Keith Price – 22-29-2-312; Idaho’s Taylor Davis – 15-29-2-308; San Jose State’s David Fales – 27-48-2-301; Ball State’s Keith Wenning – 20-29-0-299, and Cincinnati’s Brendon Kay – 27-32-2-299.   


Impressive Rushers:  Colorado State’s Kapri Bibbs – 312 yards; Boston College’s Andre Williams – 295 yards; Buffalo’s Branden Oliver – 249 yards; Navy’s Keenan Reynolds – 226 yards; Indiana’s Tevin Coleman – 215 yards; Auburn’s Nick Marshall – 214 yards; Louisiana Tech’s Kenneth Dixon – 207 yards; North Texas’ Brandin Byrd – 202 yards, and Hawaii’s Joey Iosefa – 191 yards.

Also, Baylor’s Shock Linwood – 182 yards; New Mexico’s Kasey Carrier – 179 yards; Air Force’s Anthony LaCoste – 177 yards; Iowa’s Jordan Canzeri – 165 yards; Stanford’s Tyler Gaffney – 157 yards; Kansas State’s John Hubert – 157 yards; Mississippi’s State’s Dak Prescott – 154 yards; Indiana’s Stephen Houston – 150 yards, and Penn State’s Zach Zwinak – 150 yards.  


Quotes of the Week

“I’m not renewing my season tickets.  I don’t agree with the pro-style offense were trying to run.  Just running it up the middle is not effective.  We need to get back to where we can throw.  They do the same damn plays over and over.  It’s just not effective,” former Palm Beach County Gator Club president Jeannie Macaluso, on the Florida football team under Will Muschamp.

“Not cool.  Not cool.  I think there is an expectation of discipline and control that needs to be delivered upon regardless of the outcome on the scoreboard,” Orlando attorney Fred Leonhardt, on the Gators lack of discipline.  (Note: Florida led the SEC in penalties each of Will Muschamp’s first two seasons and they are currently leading the SEC in penalties during Muschamp’s third season.)

“I think Muschamp is smart enough to know he has to change his style of play.  He has to change his style to meet the athletes the state of Florida has, and the way the game is changed.  Defensive players can’t do what they used to be able to do.  So offenses have an advantage,” Bull Gator Seth Ellis. 

“We hope to play them again in a BCS bowl or playoff game at some point,” Texas A&M senior associate athletic director Jason Cook, indicating that the Aggies have no interest in scheduling Texas as a regular season opponent.

“He has done a great job of really, really bonding with the team.  I love playing for the guy,” USC quarterback Cody Kessler, on interim Trojans coach Ed Orgeron.  

“Oh look, it’s another Nick Saban-to-Texas rumor.  ‘Well, I don’t know where these reports come from,’ he said.  Yeah, you do, numbskull.  It’s your agent – the guy you pay to start fires and say stuff like, ‘Nick’s under special pressures,’ and ‘(Fill in the blank) is the only job he would leave Alabama for,’ and then get your raises so that you can stand at a podium and say, ‘Tsk, tsk, you media gum on the bottom of my shoe.  I am not a candidate anywhere’,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“Virginia Tech is coming off consecutive losses to Duke and Boston College.  This might be a good time for Frank Beamer to meet with Bobby Bowden for lunch at Applebee’s,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“A Gators lineman broke his arm this week when he fell off a scooter.  Probably just a coincidence, but two days later somebody left a new scooter with a bow on it outside of Will Muschamp’s office,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“The problem in Raleigh isn’t that Duke is a nine-point favorite over NC State.  The problem is it’s football, not basketball,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“Where is Ron Zook when we need him,” Rockledge Gator, when Vanderbilt took a 17-0 lead over Florida in the second quarter.

“I’m a competitor.  I don’t like losing.  I certainly don’t like the product we’re putting on the field and that’s my responsibility.  I take credit for that, and when it’s good, it’s good, and when it’s not good, it’s not good.  And it hasn’t been good.  That’s on me,” Florida coach Will Muschamp, after the loss to Vanderbilt. 


Touchdown Tom’s Predictions for
The 15 Biggest and Most Intriguing Games this Week…and then some

GAME OF THE WEEK:  1. Texas Tech (7-3) vs. Baylor (8-0) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) (TV: Fox, 7 pm ET, Saturday) – An upset here, an upset there and the Bears have a chance of making it to the BCS title game.  But Baylor has to take care of its business first – one game at a time.  The first of those games is Texas Tech.  The Red Raiders started out hot, winning their first seven games.  Then they hit the skids, losing three straight.  Will the Raiders bounce back and spoil Baylor’s run?  Swamp Mama hopes they do.  But they won’t – Baylor 44, Texas Tech 25. 

RUNNER UP:  2. Oklahoma State (8-1) at Texas (7-2) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) (TV: Fox, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday) – It’s hard to believe that Oklahoma State’s only loss is to West Virginia.  But then Texas came oh so close to losing to the Mountaineers too.  This has all the ingredients for a barn burner.  Texas is undefeated in Big 12 play.  Will the Longhorns make it 2-0 over the teams from Oklahoma?  No – Oklahoma State 35, Texas 33.

REST OF THE BEST:  3. Michigan State (8-1) at Nebraska (7-2) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) (TV: ABC/ESPN2, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday) – The Huskers own the Spartans.  Since joining the Big Ten in 2011, Nebraska is 2-0 against State.  The Spartans probably have their best defense in three seasons.  So the Husker offense will be challenged.  State’s offense has been hot and cold.  Nebraska’s offense and defense has been hot and cold.  Will the Huskers make it a trifecta over the Spartans?  No – Michigan State 19, Nebraska 14.

4. Stanford (8-1) at USC (7-3) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) (TV: ABC, 8 pm ET, Saturday) – Stanford could be running into USC at the wrong time.  The Trojans have won three-straight and four of their last five games under interim coach Ed Orgeron.  The USC offense is clicking.  But the Trees are on a three-game winning streak too, including a 26-20 win over Oregon.  But that win was on the Farm, the USC game is on the road.  It’ll be some night in the Coliseum.  Will USC make it four straight?  No – Stanford 28, USC 23.

5. Georgia (6-3) at Auburn (9-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) (TV: CBS, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday) – Talk about on a roll, how ’bout Auburn.  The Tigers are riding a six-game winning streak.  Auburn’s hot and the Tigers will do all they can to keep Uga from pissing on them.  Auburn can put some points on the board and defense has been Georgia’s problem this year.  But the Dawgs have their weapons too – Aaron Murray and Todd Gurley.  Will the Tigers be riding a seven-game winning streak going into the Alabama game?  Yes – Auburn 30, Georgia 26.

6. Houston (7-2) at Louisville (8-1) – (AAC vs. AAC) (TV: ESPNU, 7 pm ET, Saturday) – Both of these teams still have a shot at the AAC championship and a BCS bowl.  But, and it’s a big but, UCF must lose twice in AAC play.  Louisville seems to be back in form after losing to UCF.  But Houston may have had the wind knocked out of its sails in the loss to UCF last week.  Will Houston get its wind back?  No – Louisville 31, Houston 20.

7. Ball State (9-1) at Northern Illinois (9-0) – (MAC vs. MAC) (TV: ESPN2, 8 pm ET, Wednesday) – Both teams are undefeated in MAC play.  This one is for the MAC West Division title.  NIU must win to keep its hopes alive for a BCS bowl spot.  It should be a good one.  The Huskies are wagging their tails – Northern Illinois 35, Ball State 28.

8. Georgia Tech (6-3) at Clemson (8-1) – (ACC vs. ACC) (TV: ESPN, 7:30 pm ET, Thursday) – Clemson still has a remote chance of making it to the BCS title game.  The Tigers are 7th in the BCS poll.  Granted, the chances are very remote – extremely remote.  Better yet, Clemson has a chance of getting into a BCs bowl game.  But for either to happen, the Tigers must win out.  Getting by Georgia Tech could be tough, especially if the Jackets play a near perfect game.  But that’s what the Jackets need to do if they expect to win.  They don’t – Clemson 30, Georgia Tech 20.

9. Miami (Florida) (7-2) at Duke (7-2) – (ACC vs. ACC) (TV: ESPNU, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday) – Talk about winning streaks, the Dookies have won five-straight.  They have no fear.  In come the Canes.  Miami has lost two in a row.  And the Canes have lost their running game.  The Dookies don’t really have a game.  They just take advantage of their opponents’ mistakes.  The Dookies haven’t beaten Miami since the Canes joined the ACC.  Will the Devils get their first ACC win over the Canes?  Yes – Duke 25, Miami 24.

10. Washington (6-3) at UCLA (7-2) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) (TV: ESPN2, 9 pm ET, Friday) – Both teams are playing well.  Both have good offenses.  But UCLA has the better defense.  The Bruins still have a shot at winning the Pac-12 South.  Washington has no chance of winning the Pac-12 North.  Will the Bruins keep their chances alive?  Yes – UCLA 34, Washington 26.

11. Oregon State (6-3) at Arizona State (7-2) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) (TV: Pac-12 Network, 9:30 pm ET, Saturday) – The Beavers only have one thing going for them – quarterback Sean Mannion.  They have no running game and their defense is so-so.  The Sun Devils have a lot going for them, including a four-game winning streak.  ASU is also atop the Pac-12 South.  Will the Sun Devils make it five-straight wins?  Yes – Arizona State 27, Oregon State 22.

12. Alabama (9-0) at Mississippi State (4-5) – (SEC vs. SEC) (TV: ESPN, 7:45 pm ET, Saturday) – The Bulldogs have to be hoping that Bama has a letdown after the big win over LSU.  But even with a letdown, the Tide should have no trouble with Miss State.  It would take a lot more than a letdown for the Bulldogs to win.  It’s been a tough season for Dan Mullen.  Will the Bulldogs make it close?  Not likely –     Alabama 34, Miss State 19. 

13. Buffalo (7-2) at Toledo (6-3) – (MAC vs. MAC) (TV: ESPNU, 7:30 pm ET, Tuesday) – Buffalo is looking good to win the MAC East Division title.  Toledo still has a remote chance to win the MAC West Division title.  Basically, the Bulls can afford to lose; the Rockets can’t.  Toledo is tough at home.  Too tough for the Bulls – Toledo 29, Buffalo 27.  

14. Cincinnati (7-2) at Rutgers (5-3) – (AAC vs. AAC) (TV: ESPN News, 12 noon ET, Saturday) – If it wasn’t for that strange loss to South Florida, the Bearcats would be tied with UCF at the top of the AAC.  Instead, they are bunched up with Louisville and Houston in second place.  That means they still have a shot at the marbles.  But Rutgers will be a challenge.  The Scarlet Knights are no pushover.  Will the Bearcats keep their chances alive?  Yes – Cincinnati 26, Rutgers 23.

15. Ohio (6-3) at Bowling Green (6-3) – (MAC vs. MAC) (TV: None, 7:30 pm ET, Tuesday) – Ohio has basically destroyed its chances of winning the MAC West, but Bowling Green still has a good chance of winning the West Division.  That gives the incentive to the Falcons – Bowling Green 28, Ohio 25.


….AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON: 

16. Utah (4-5) at Oregon (8-1) – (Pac-12 vs. Pac-12) (TV: Fox Sports 1, 4 pm ET, Saturday) – Utah was the spoiler against Stanford.  The Utes almost knocked off Arizona State last week.  But both of those encounters were in Salt Lake City.  The Utes are playing the Ducks in Eugene – in The Pond.  Only Ducks come out of The Pond alive.  The Utes can play some defense.  Will the Ducks score more than 30?  Yes – Oregon 33, Utah 18.


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS: 

West Virginia (4-6) at Kansas (2-7) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) (TV: FSN, 12 noon ET, Saturday) – WVU has two games remaining.  The Eers need to win both to become bowl eligible.  Meanwhile, Charlie Weis is hungry for a Big 12 win – something he hasn’t obtained in two seasons.  And Jayhawks fans are hungry for a new coach.  Will the Mountaineers bounce back after the tough loss to Texas?  Yes – West Virginia 27, Kansas 20.

Florida (4-5) at South Carolina (7-2) – (SEC vs. SEC) (TV: ESPN2, 7 pm ET, Saturday) – At 4-5, Florida is facing its first losing season since 1979.  With South Carolina and Florida State two of the three teams remaining on the schedule, it doesn’t look good for the Gators.  Last year, the Gamecocks self-disintegrated in The Swamp and literally handed the game to the Gators with multiple turnovers and mistakes.  Steve Spurrier will remember that.  He won’t let it happen again.  Is Will Mustake the Ray Goof of Florida?  Yes – South Carolina 30, Florida 17. 

Purdue (1-8) at Penn State (5-4) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) (TV: BTN, 12 noon ET, Saturday) – Neither team is having the best of seasons, but it has really been bad for the Boilers.  Purdue is giving up 37 points a game, while only averaging 12 of its own.  Will the Boilers remain winless in Big Ten play?  Yes – Penn State 31, Purdue 14. 


ELSEWHERE AROUND FLORIDA: 

Florida State (9-0) hosts Syracuse (5-4) – (ACC vs. ACC) (TV: ABC/ESPN2, 3:30 pm ET, Saturday). ….  UCF (7-1) visits Temple (1-8) – (AAC vs. AAC) (TV: AAC Network, 12 noon ET, Saturday). ….  South Florida (2-6) entertains Memphis (2-6) – (AAC vs. AAC) (TV: None, 7 pm ET, Saturday). ….  Florida Atlantic (3-6) travels to Southern Miss (0-9) – (C-USA vs. C-USA) (TV: Local Cable, 12:30 pm ET, Saturday). ….  Florida International (1-8) is on the road at UTEP (1-8) – (C-USA vs. C-USA) (TV: None, 8 pm ET, Saturday).

Florida A&M (3-7) is home against Delaware State (4-5) – (MEAC vs. MEAC) (TV: None, 2 pm ET, Saturday). ….  Bethune-Cookman (8-2) is hosting Hampton (4-6) – (MEAC vs. MEAC) (TV: None, 4 pm ET, Saturday). ….  Jacksonville U. (4-6) hosts Stetson (2-7) – (Pioneer vs. Pioneer) (TV: None, 1 pm ET, Saturday). ….  Florida Tech (3-7) entertains Webber International (5-4) – (Gulf South vs. Ind.) (TV: None, 2 pm ET, Saturday).  


In the Huddle

Elsewhere around college football . . . Oklahoma and UCLA have agreed to a two-game home-and-home series to be played in 2018 and 2019….  Texas named Arizona State athletic director Steve Patterson to replace DeLoss Dodds as the new athletic director for the Longhorns.  Dodds is stepping down at the end of August 2014.  Patterson is a graduate of Texas.  Previously, it was reported that West Virginia athletic director Oliver Luck was the favorite for the job.

Ohio State defensive coordinator Luke Fickell has interviewed for the Florida Atlantic coaching job, replacing Carl Pelini who was fired last week for using cocaine and marijuana.  Fickell was Ohio State interim head coach during the 2011 season.

The son of former Grambling State coach Eddie Robinson died.  Eddie Robinson Jr. was 70.  The younger Robinson played for his father at Grambling and later worked for him as an assistant coach….  Eastern Michigan fired Ron English.  Nine games into his fifth season at EMU English was 1-8 and 11-46 overall.

Touchdown Tom
www.collegefootballweek.blogspot.com


P.S.

Not directly college football related, but sadly there were four passings of note last week – Auline Robinson, Charlie Trotter, Ace Parker and Bobby Thomason.

Auline Robinson, a lifelong Florida Gator fan and affectionately known as Grand Swamp Mama, died last week in Melbourne, Florida.  She was 92.  A third-generation Floridian, Auline Wilkins Robinson was born on February 17, 1921, in Punta Gorda, Florida, where she lived for her first 86 years.  In 2007, she relocated to Melbourne where she lived the past six years.   

Charlie Trotter, a chef whose flagship restaurant, Charlie Trotter’s, helped establish Chicago as a serious dining city, died last week.  He was 54.  Charles Trotter was born on September 8, 1959, in Wilmette, Illinois.  He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Wisconsin in 1982.  He opened his famous restaurant in the Lincoln Park area of Chicago in 1987.

Ace Parker, a star running back in the National Football League who could do just about everything in the days of leather helmets, died last week in Portsmouth, Virginia.  He was 101.  Parker was an All-American tailback at Duke and he also was a star outfielder on the Blue Devils baseball team.  He signed with the Philadelphia Athletics out of college.  Parker played for the A’s during the 1937 and 1938 seasons.  He played football for the NFL’s Brooklyn Dodgers from 1937 to 1941.  In 1940, Parker was named the NFL’s most valuable player.  Clarence McKay Parker was born on May 17, 1912, in Portsmouth.  He played at Duke under Wallace Wade, one of college football’s best-known coaches.  After five seasons with the Dodgers, Parker served in the Navy in World War II.  After the war, he joined the NFL’s Boston Yanks.  In the late 1940s, Parker returned to Duke where he became an assistant football coach and the Blue Devils baseball coach.   

Bobby Thomason, a three-time Pro Bowler who in 1953 became the first Philadelphia Eagles quarterback to pass for more than 400 yards in a game, died last week at his home in Charlotte, North Carolina.  He was 85.  Robert Lee Thomason was born on March 26, 1928, in Albertville, Alabama, and grew up in nearby Leeds, Alabama.  He played football and baseball for VMI, graduating with an engineering degree in 1949.  Thomason played one season each for the Los Angeles Rams and the Green Bay Packers and five seasons for the Eagles.