A Week of Paterno, the Big East, Cam Newton and Todd Grantham

College Football Week 11 – Gamecocks-Gators for the SEC East

A Week of Paterno, the Big East,
Cam Newton and Todd Grantham

Every week introduces something new to college football. Last week was no exception. It was a week of celebration and a week of allegation. It was a week of expansion talk and a week of trash talk. It was a week of positives and a week of negatives.

Saturday, Penn State hosted Northwestern at Beaver Stadium in State College. Coming in at 6-2, Northwestern was having a good season. At 5-3, Penn State was a little disappointing. Neither team was ranked in the Top 25.

The importance of the game had nothing to do with the teams’ records or rankings. Instead, it marked a milestone for one of college football’s legendary coaches. Penn State’s Joe Paterno, in his 45th year coaching the Nittany Lions, was going for his 400th win.

After a slow start, trailing Northwestern 21-0, Penn State rallied and beat the Wildcats, 35-21. Paterno’s record at Penn State is 400-132-3. He became the first coach in Division I-A (Football Bowl Subdivision) to win 400 games. Two other coaches have achieved the honor, but not in Division I-A.

Grambling’s Eddie Robinson had 408 victories. Grambling is a Division I-AA (Football Championship Subdivision) school. Robinson, who retired in 1997, passed away in 2007. John Gagliardi, the coach of Division III St. John’s (Minnesota) has 477 wins. Gagliardi, who turned 84 last week, is still coaching St. John’s.

Paterno turns 84 on December 21. The Nittany Lions have four games remaining – three regular season contests and a bowl game. Paterno not only got his 400th win, but at 6-3, Penn State became bowl eligible. The remaining season games are against Ohio State, Indiana and Michigan State. Of the three, only Michigan State is home.

Congratulations Coach Paterno!

And, no, it’s not true that a “Dadgummit” was heard out of Tallahassee when Penn State beat Northwestern.

In addition to Penn State’s win over Northwestern in the Big Ten Saturday, Iowa escaped an upset in Bloomington. The Hawkeyes scored late in the fourth quarter to beat Indiana, 18-13. And in Ann Arbor, Michigan won the shootout against Illinois. The Wolverines beat the Banned Indians in triple overtime – 67-65.

Still in the Big Ten, Michigan received fairly good news last week. The NCAA finally handed down judgment on the five major rules violations it had charged the Wolverines with back in 2009. Four of the five violations dealt with practice and training time exceeding the amount allowed by the NCAA, and the use of student managers and graduate assistants to conduct the additional training time. The fifth charge said that Michigan coach Rich Rodriguez was not in compliance with the NCAA rules.

In response to the charges and prior to last week, Michigan had instituted self-imposed punishment, giving itself two years probation and reducing its practice/training time by 130 hours over a two-year period. The NCAA added a third year to the probation and said that Rodriguez had to attend a NCAA rules seminar. Michigan had feared that it could get hit with a reduction in scholarships over a period of time, along with additional reduction in practice/training time beyond what it had self imposed.

The Michigan ruling should bode well for West Virginia. This past summer, the Mountaineers were charged with almost the exact same violations by the NCAA. The common denominator here is Rich Rodriguez. West Virginia won’t know the outcome of its violations until sometime in 2011.

Speaking of West Virginia, the Big East Conference, of which the Mountaineers are a member, approved expansion, adding at least two more schools. The presidents and athletic directors of the 16 schools in the Big East met in Philadelphia and unanimously approved the expansion.

However, there is a caveat. The new schools only would participate in football and not the other sports – basketball, etc. Schools mentioned as expansion candidates, included TCU, Houston, UCF, Villanova and Temple.

I can’t imagine that TCU, of the Mountain West, and Houston and UCF, of Conference USA, would want to join the Big East for football only. Where would their other sports compete? I don’t think the MWC and C-USA would allow them to leave for football only, while keeping the schools for the other sports. It’s either all or nothing.

Villanova, already a member of the Big East, does not compete in football in the conference. Only eight of the Big East’s 16 schools compete in Division I-A (FBS) football. The Wildcats compete at the Division I-AA (FCS) level. Villanova would have to elevate its football program.

Temple fits the expansion requirements in that its football team competes in the Mid-American Conference, while its other sports’ teams compete in the Atlantic 10 Conference. However, the Big East expelled Temple from the conference several years ago. It doesn’t make sense to invite them back. With the football only caveat, I don’t think the Big East can attract any decent schools. Stay tuned.

In the Big East on Saturday, Louisville handed upstart Syracuse a loss in the Carrier Dome. The Cardinals beat the Orange, 28-20. Wednesday night, South Florida edged Rutgers, 28-27.

Around mid-week last week, the college football world received a shock. ESPN and The New York Times reported that the NCAA was investigating allegations that an agent, supposedly representing Auburn quarterback Cam Newton, had sought financial return for the services of Newton.

According to reports, former Mississippi State quarterback John Bond said that Kenneth Rogers, the supposed agent for Newton, approached him and wanted upwards of $180,000 for Newton’s commitment to Mississippi State. Bond reported the incident to Mississippi State who in turn informed the SEC who in turn notified the NCAA.

Mississippi State was recruiting Newton. Bulldogs coach Dan Mullen previously coached Newton when both were at Florida. The two had a good rapport. Newton left Florida for a year at a junior college in Texas and Mullen became the head coach at Mississippi State. Newton was also being recruited by Auburn and Oklahoma and he eventually signed with Auburn where he enrolled last January.

If the allegations are false, this is a terrible smear on Newton, a leading candidate for the Heisman Trophy. The supposed incident was reported to the NCAA much earlier in the year and the NCAA’s investigation was not considered a public matter at this point. So who informed ESPN and The New York Times that the investigation was taking place? And why did they do it now?

One report said that Florida coach Urban Meyer was the source of the leak. But this has been adamantly denied by Meyer and discounted by others who are familiar with the situation. You also have to ask was Rogers hired or contracted to be an agent for Newton, and if so, why? Newton’s talents were known. He didn’t need an agent to promote him.

All we know for sure at this point is that the NCAA investigation continues. And until we know more, no one should come to any conclusions.

Still in the SEC, another nasty incident surfaced last week from the Florida-Georgia game. This one occurred near the end of the game in overtime when Florida kicker Chas Henry was about to kick the game-winning field goal.

Prior to the kick, Georgia, as expected, called a time out to ice Henry. During the time out, Georgia defensive coordinator Todd Grantham yelled at Henry, “I hope you f…ing miss.” And while yelling the expletive, Grantham made the infamous “choke sign,” moving his hand across the front of his neck. Henry looked at Grantham and blew him a kiss.

Early last week, several members of the media in the southeast, including some in Georgia, opined that Bulldog coach Mark Richt should punish Grantham for his actions, suggesting Grantham be banned from coaching in Georgia’s game against Idaho State Saturday. Richt only scoffed at the suggestions, indicating that Grantham was a “high energy” individual. So much for Richt’s discipline, or lack thereof. Georgia rebounded from the loss to Florida, beating Idaho State, 55-7.

Elsewhere in the SEC Saturday, there was a donnybrook down in Baton Rouge. LSU upset Alabama, 24-21. Arkansas spoiled the evening in Columbia for South Carolina fans. The Hogs devastated the Gamecocks, 41-20. In Nashville, Florida beat Vanderbilt, 55-14. In Auburn, Cam Newton passed for 315 yards, all in the first half, as the Tigers beat Chattanooga, 62-24.

Life became interesting in the ACC’s Atlantic Division Saturday as Florida State lost and Clemson beat N.C. State. North Carolina knocked off the Noles in Tallahassee, 37-35. Clemson rallied to beat the Wolfpack, 14-13. Thursday night, Virginia Tech remained undefeated in conference play. The Hokies beat Georgia Tech, 28-21. Miami scored in the closing seconds to beat Maryland, 26-20.

In the heartland, Texas lost again. Kansas State beat the Longhorns, 39-14. Also in the Big 12, Texas A&M upset Oklahoma, 33-19, and Texas Tech handed Missouri its second loss. The Red Raiders beat Mizzou, 24-17. Oklahoma State destroyed Baylor, 55-28. In Ames, overtime was necessary for Nebraska to overcome Iowa State. The Huskers won, 31-30.

Out West, Stanford was impressive, beating Arizona, 42-17. Elsewhere in the Pac-10, UCLA upset Oregon State, 17-14, and USC slipped by Arizona State, 34-33. Oregon continued to roll. The Ducks beat Washington, 53-16.

The big game in the Mountain West Conference turned out to be no game at all. TCU spanked Utah, 47-7. Hawaii was no match for Boise State in the WAC. The Broncos beat the Warriors, 42-7. Also in the WAC, Nevada ran over Idaho, 63-17.

Air Force won the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy. The Falcons, who beat Navy earlier in the season, downed Army, 42-22. Navy exploded in the second half to beat East Carolina, 76-35. Friday night, UCF beat Houston, 40-33. Elsewhere in C-USA, Tulsa downed Rice, 64-27 and Marshall beat UAB, 31-17. Also, UTEP beat SMU, 28-14 and Southern Miss dumped Tulane, 46-30.

Some interesting names have surfaced in Minnesota’s search for a new coach – Boise State’s Chris Petersen, TCU’s Gary Patterson, former Texas Tech coach Mike Leach and former Tennessee coach Phillip Fulmer. Stay tuned!

Well, it finally felt like football weather in east-central Florida – highs in the 60s and 70s with lows in the 40s and 50s. That’s my kind of weather.

Rockledge Gator and Bootsie are off to Auburn for the upcoming weekend. They will be attending the Georgia-Auburn game. Bootsie will be watching the game and Rockledge Gator will be watching the coeds.

Touchdown Tom
November 8, 2010


Weekend Review

GAME OF THE WEEK: Bull Frog – TCU 47, Utah 7 (Touchdown Tom said: TCU 27, Utah 24). This was supposed to be a close game – a game between the two best teams of the Mountain West Conference. But by halftime, TCU had outgained Utah 328-72. The Horned Frogs went on to amass 558 yards to the Utes’ 199. If Utah is the second-best team in the MWC, and it is, TCU is a man amongst boys in the MWC. Andy Dalton passed for 355 yards. A crowd of 46,522 attended the game in Salt Lake City.

RUNNER UP: Powder – LSU 24, Alabama 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Alabama 28, LSU 23). I could hear the Miami Dolphins’ fans cheering all the way from South Florida. They still don’t like Nick Saban. Bama won’t be repeating in the BCS championship bowl, and, most likely, won’t be three-peating in the SEC championship game. You have to wonder what happened to Bama’s running game. The Tide doesn’t have one anymore. Yes, the Tide rushed for more yards than they passed. But when they needed the running game, it wasn’t there. And this isn’t the first time it’s been missing. A crowd of 92,969 attended the game in Baton Rouge.

REST OF THE BEST: Trees root the Wildcats – Stanford 42, Arizona 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Stanford 28, Arizona 24). I don’t often get to see the West Coast teams, but I watched this game late Saturday night. And I have to tell you, I was impressed with Stanford. The Cardinal are a complete team. Andrew Luck passed for 293 yards. You wonder how long they can hold onto Jim Harbaugh. A crowd of 43,506 attended the game in Palo Alto.

Cowboys lasso the Bears – Oklahoma State 55, Baylor 28 (Touchdown Tom said: Oklahoma State 35, Baylor 32). I think the Cowboys were trying to make a statement. Okie State tallied 725 yards of offense. That’s an embarrassment to Baylor’s defense. Brandon Weeden passed for 435 yards. A crowd of 50,741 attended the game in Stillwater.

Hogs raid the Hen house – Arkansas 41, South Carolina 20 (Touchdown Tom said: South Carolina 26, Arkansas 24). Before the game, Steve Spurrier said, “I’ve never been 7-2 at South Carolina.” Well, he won’t be either – not this year. Maybe never. South Carolina plays like its politicians – demint-ed. A crowd of 75,136 attended the game in Columbia.

Surfless in Boise – Boise State 42, Hawaii 7 (Touchdown Tom said: Boise State 45, Hawaii 31). Like Utah against TCU, Hawaii was supposed to give the Broncos a fight. I think the Warriors left their fight on a surf board. And like TCU in the MWC, Boise State in the WAC is like a man amongst boys. Kellen Moore passed for 507 yards. A crowd of 34,060 attended the game in Boise.

Oklahoma isn’t OK – Texas A&M 33, Oklahoma 19 (Touchdown Tom said: Oklahoma 31, Texas A&M 26). The Aggies held the Sooners to 72 yards rushing. OU trailed 19-0 early in the third quarter, but closed the gap to 19-17 by the end of the quarter. A&M scored two unanswered touchdowns early in the fourth to extend its lead to 33-17. A crowd of 81,392 attended the game in College Station.

Wide right – North Carolina 37, Florida State 35 (Touchdown Tom said: Florida State 27, North Carolina 19). FSU missed a 40-yard field goal as time expired. T.J. Yates passed for 439 yards. Tar Heel running back Johnny White broke his right clavicle and is out for the season. A crowd of 70,157 attended the game in Tallahassee.

Hokies get the honey – Virginia Tech 28, Georgia Tech 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Virginia Tech 32, Georgia Tech 17). Georgia Tech led until early in the fourth quarter. The score was tied until the Hokies scored the winning touchdown with 2:23 remaining. Yellow Jackets’ quarterback Josh Nesbit was injured near the end of the second quarter and didn’t return to the game in the second half. A crowd of 66,233 attended the game in Blacksburg.

400 – Penn State 35, Northwestern 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Penn State 31, Northwestern 29). For a while, it looked like Joe Paterno was going to have to wait a game, or two or three before he got his 400th win. The Lions trailed Northwestern 21-0 late in the second quarter. Then Penn State proceeded to score 35 points. A crowd of 104,147 attended the game in State College.

Turtle soup – Miami (Florida) 26, Maryland 20 (Touchdown Tom said: Miami 30, Maryland 26). Miami scored on a 35-yard touchdown pass with 0:37 remaining to win the game. The Canes Stephen Morris passed for 286 yards. A crowd of 55,434 attended the game in Miami Gardens.

Swish – Michigan 67, Illinois 65 (3OT) (Touchdown Tom said: Illinois 29, Michigan 26). No, this wasn’t a basketball game. The score was 42-42 at the end of four quarters. In the third overtime, Michigan made its two-point PAT and Illinois failed on its two-point attempt. Wolverine quarterback Denard Robinson left the game at the end of the third quarter with concussion symptoms. Tate Forcier replaced Robinson for the fourth quarter and three overtimes. Robinson passed for 305 yards. A crowd of 111,441 attended the game in Ann Arbor.

Tigers forgot their cornflakes – Texas Tech 24, Missouri 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Missouri 30, Texas Tech 29). Tech held Missouri to 95 yards passing. Blaine Gabbert only completed 40 percent of his passes. A crowd of 55,667 attended the game in Lubbock.

Tigers stack the Pack – Clemson 14, N.C. State 13 (Touchdown Tom said: N.C. State 28, Clemson 26). You know you are in trouble when your leading rusher only has 29 yards. But Clemson wasn’t any better on the ground. State rushed for 63 yards and Clemson rushed for 46. A crowd of 74,000 attended the game in Clemson.

Middies make the Pirates seasick – Navy 76, East Carolina 35 (Touchdown Tom said: East Carolina 31, Navy 29). This was a close game at the half. Navy led 28-21. Then the Middies outscored the Pirates 48-14 in the second half. Navy rushed for 521 yards. A crowd of 50,191 attended the game in Greenville.

Off we go – Air Force 42, Army 22 (Touchdown Tom said: Air Force 29, Army 26). The victory gives Air Force the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy. A crowd of 38,128 attended the game in West Point.

The bubble burst – Louisville 28, Syracuse 20 (Touchdown Tom said: Syracuse 18, Louisville 17). With back-to-back wins over West Virginia and Cincinnati, Syracuse was on a roll. A crowd of 40,735 attended the game in Syracuse.

Wolves raid the potato patch – Nevada 63, Idaho 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Nevada 32, Idaho 20). Nevada improves to 8-1. A crowd of 11,247 attended the game in Moscow.

What a bunch of Bull – South Florida 28, Rutgers 27 (Touchdown Tom said: South Florida 24, Rutgers 22). South Florida beat Rutgers for the first time since 2005. Rutgers had won four in a row. Bulls Moise Plancher rushed for 135 yards. A crowd of 39,465 attended the game in Tampa.

Looking Quacky – Oregon 53, Washington 16 (Touchdown Tom said: Oregon 46, Washington 16). Oregon only led 25-16 halfway through the third quarter. Then the Ducks reeled off 28 unanswered points. The Duck didn’t get a break in his pushups. A crowd of 60,017 attended the game in Eugene.


AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON:

Primrose Lane – USC 34, Arizona State 33 (Touchdown Tom said: USC 33, Arizona State 24). Dennis Erickson’s seat is getting hotter. A crowd of 68,744 attended the game in Los Angeles.


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS:

Gators sing – Florida 55, Vanderbilt 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Florida 27, Vanderbilt 12). I know it was only Vanderbilt, but the Gators put together a complete game and looked relaxed doing it. Often, Florida goes up to Nashville after the Georgia game and doesn’t play well. The Gator defense held Vandy to 109 yards of offense. John Brantley passed for 157 yards and backup quarterback Jordan Reed passed for another 120 yards. A crowd of 33,848 attended the game in Nashville.

Herbie survives – Nebraska 31, Iowa State 30 (OT) (Touchdown Tom said: Nebraska 28, Iowa State 17). With back-to-back wins over Oklahoma State and Missouri, the Huskers didn’t have a lot left for Iowa State. The score was 24-24 at the end of four. In the overtime, the Cyclones attempt at a two-point conversion failed. Nebraska won on the ground. The Huskers only had 79 yards passing. A crowd of 51,159 attended the game in Ames.

Basketball? – Duke 55, Virginia 48 (Touchdown Tom said: Virginia 27, Duke 25). The Dookies scored on a 35-yard touchdown run with 0:40 remaining to win the game. A crowd of 22,741 attended the game in Durham.

Uga recuperates – Georgia 55, Idaho State 7 (Touchdown Tom said: Georgia 56, Idaho State 0). Wonder if Georgia defensive coordinator Todd Grantham had a piece of tape over his mouth during the game? A crowd of 92,746 attended the game in Athens.

Cheese rules – Wisconsin 34, Purdue 13 (Touchdown Tom said: Wisconsin 30, Purdue 13). Even in the stats, each team had 303 yards of offense. Purdue led 10-6 at the half, but was outscored 28-3 in the second half. The Boilers suffered from four turnovers. A crowd of 45,227 attended the game in West Lafayette.

Bevo’s ill – Kansas State 39, Texas 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Kansas State 27, Texas 23). Kansas State led 39-0 at the end of the third quarter and went into cruise control. Garrett Gilbert threw five interceptions. A crowd of 46,734 attended the game in Manhattan.

Comment: An awful week at 17-10, brings my season total to 175-68 (72.0 percent).


AROUND FLORIDA:

UCF downed Houston, 40-33. A crowd of 32,008 attended the game in Houston…. Florida Atlantic trimmed Western Kentucky, 17-16. A crowd of 10,275 attended the game in Bowling Green…. Florida International got by Louisiana-Monroe, 42-35. A crowd of 17,301 attended the game in Miami.

Florida A&M edged North Carolina A&T, 22-19. A crowd of 7,242 attended the game in Greensboro…. Bethune-Cookman slipped by Hampton, 23-18. A crowd of 12,244 attended the game in Hampton…. Jacksonville U. beat Butler, 24-16. A crowd of 2,815 attended the game in Indianapolis.


Superlatives

Impressive Passers: Boise State’s Kellen Moore – 30-37-2 for 507 yards; North Carolina’s T.J. Yates – 24-35-0 for 439; Oklahoma State’s Brandon Weeden – 34-42-0 for 435; East Carolina’s Dominique Davis – 43-65-0 for 413; Tulsa’s G.J. Kinne – 26-39-0 for 371; Temple’s Mike Gerardi – 21-29-2 for 368; TCU’s Andy Dalton – 21-26-0 for 355; Troy’s Corey Robinson – 26-39-2 for 347; Houston’s David Piland – 27-44-2 for 344, and Louisiana-Monroe’s Kolton Browning – 27-38-1 for 339.

Also, Tennessee’s Tyler Bray – 19-33-0 for 325 yards; Nevada’s Colin Kaepernick – 20-30-0 for 317; Auburn’s Cam Newton – 15-21-0 for 315; Michigan’s Denard Robinson – 10-20-2 for 305; Marshall’s Brian Anderson – 25-41-1 for 304; Arkansas’ Ryan Mallett – 21-30-1 for 303; Central Michigan’s Ryan Radcliff – 23-36-1 for 300; UCF’s Jeff Godfrey – 15-19-0 for 294; BYU’s Jake Heaps – 19-31-0 for 294; Stanford’s Andrew Luck – 23-32-0 for 293, and Iowa’s Ricky Stanzi – 22-33-1 for 290.

Also, Oklahoma’s Landry Jones – 36-59-1 for 290 yards; Miami of Florida’s Stephen Morris – 18-30-2 for 286; Kentucky’s Mike Hartline – 15-24-1 for 272; Western Michigan’s Alex Carder – 27-44-0 for 272; North Texas’ Riley Dodge – 17-29-0 for 269; Baylor’s Robert Griffin – 30-48-1 for 267; Colorado State’s Pete Thomas – 22-40-1 for 266, and Florida State’s Christian Ponder – 24-34-0 for 264.


Impressive Rushers: Fresno State’s Robbie Rouse – 286 yards; Boston College’s Montel Harris – 183 yards; Michigan State’s Edwin Baker – 179 yards; Rice’s Sam McGuffie – 178 yards; Akron’s Alex Allen – 175 yards, and Colorado’s Rodney Stewart – 175 yards.

Also, Navy’s Alexander Teich – 157 yards; Western Kentucky’s Bobby Rainey – 152 yards; San Diego State’s Ronnie Hillman – 151 yards; Wyoming’s Alvester Alexander – 151 yards; Tulane’s Orleans Darkwa – 138 yards, and Ole Miss’ Brandon Bolden – 136 yards.


Quotes of the Week

“May Randy Moss disappear into infamy,” Orlando Sentinel columnist George Diaz.

“There’s not a student in the student section that knows the school’s fight song,” ESPN commentator Chris Fowler, on the South Florida student section.

“Cam Newton is no longer a feel-good story,” Orlando Sentinel columnist George Diaz.

“In the wake of Reggie Bush being stripped of the Heisman Trophy due to integrity issues, I’m going to stay away from casting my vote for Cam Newton. It’s not worth it to me. Newton has legal issues, potential NCAA issues and who knows what other issues on his resume. There are plenty of other worthy Heisman candidates who have never been in any trouble and who are outstanding players. I’ll cast my vote for one of them, if you don’t mind,” Orlando Sentinel columnist Mike Bianchi.

“Idaho State at Georgia: I’m not sure that the Dogs can cover a 45-point spread. But at least Todd Grantham should be able to make it through four quarters without lithium,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“Michigan has lost three straight and Les Miles may have a wandering eye again, not to be confused with the wandering head in the final two minutes,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“Lamar at Georgia State: Lamar returned to college football after dropping it 21 years ago. That’s an even longer layoff than Bill Curry had,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“North Carolina at Florida State: The Seminoles are probably the best team in the ACC. The Tar Heels are just happy nobody is making them play in leg chains. How does Butch Davis still have a job?,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“I feel like they haven’t faced anybody else like me and Aaron Murray with our offense. We’re really going to show them. We’re going to shock a lot of people,” Georgia receiver A.J. Green, on the Dawgs’ upcoming game against Auburn.


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

GAME OF THE WEEK: 1. South Carolina (6-3) at Florida (6-3) – (SEC vs. SEC) – The ol’ ball coach returns to the Swamp, but the odds aren’t good. South Carolina has only beaten Florida once in 18 tries and the Gamecocks have never won in Gainesville. But never has the opportunity been so great for the Cocks. If South Carolina wins, the Cocks go the SEC championship game for the first time in history. But figure the odds. South Carolina generally can’t handle success. And the Cocks appear to be catching Florida at the wrong time. After a severe mid-season slump, the Gators seem to have found themselves again – offensively and defensively. Urban Meyer is fired up. And when Meyer is fired up – watch out. Demint-ed again – Florida 30, South Carolina 22.

RUNNER UP: 2. Penn State (6-3) at Ohio State (8-1) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – After back-to-back losses to Iowa and Illinois, Penn State appears to be rejuvenated. The Nitts have won three in a row. But the competition in those three wins doesn’t compare to the competition Penn State will be facing in Columbus. Plus, the Buckeyes had the week off to rest and lick their wounds. Paterno has 400, but he won’t see 401 this week. Buckeyes are more than peanut butter and chocolate – Ohio State 29, Penn State 19.

REST OF THE BEST: 3. San Diego State (7-2) at TCU (10-0) – (MWC vs. MWC) – San Diego State is the last chance for anyone to beat TCU. After the Aztecs, the Frogs play New Mexico and there ain’t no way New Mexico is going to beat TCU. It’s not likely the San Diego State will either. But the Aztecs are playing better and they may catch the Frogs celebrating the big win over Utah. But with their sights on the BCS championship game, TCU doesn’t figure to have any letdowns. Aztecs sacrificed – TCU 33, San Diego State 16.

4. Mississippi State (7-2) at Alabama (7-2) – (SEC vs. SEC) – Several weeks ago, this appeared to be a sure win for Bama. It probably still is a win for the Tide, but not as sure as it once was. State is on a six-game winning streak. And Bama is coming off its second loss of the season. The Bulldogs should be playing inspired ball; while the Tide may suffer a letdown from the LSU loss. That combination should make for a closer, more exciting game. We’ll see. Tide washes the Bull out of the Dog – Alabama 28, Mississippi State 16.

5. Iowa (7-2) at Northwestern (6-3) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – Iowa often plays its worst against weaker teams. Northwestern often plays its best against stronger teams. Sounds like the makings of a close game. Salmonella strikes again – Iowa 30, Northwestern 27.

6. Kansas State (6-3) at Missouri (7-2) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – Mizzou is coming off a two-game losing streak. I’m sure the Tigers are glad to be home. The two losses were on the road. You gotta figure K-State is still celebrating the win over Texas – may be for months to come. But what’s to celebrate – everybody is beating Texas. Mo puts the Wildcats in a Zou – Missouri 26, Kansas State 23.

7. USC (6-3) at Arizona (7-2) – (Pac-10 vs. Pac-10) – Remember USC is just playing for fun this year and that’s what makes them dangerous. Little Kiffy is coaching like a wild man. He has nothing to lose. But lose he will to the Wildcats. Wildcats have a horse – Arizona 24, USC 17.

8. Texas A&M (6-3) at Baylor (7-3) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – After the win over Oklahoma, Mike Sherman is breathing easier. But he may be breathing harder again after Saturday. Baylor has a good thing going and the Bears don’t want to blow it. Bears give the Aggies a hug – Baylor 27, Texas A&M 26.

9. Oregon (9-0) at California (5-4) – (Pac-10 vs. Pac-10) – Cal definitely plays better at home than on the road. The Bears are almost like a different team at home. But, even at home, Cal isn’t better enough to keep up with the Ducks. Ducks get a Teddy Bear – Oregon 32, California 20.

10. Georgia (5-5) at Auburn (10-0) – (SEC vs. SEC) – A.J. Green thinks Georgia will win. He says Auburn hasn’t faced anyone like him or Aaron Murray. What’s A.J. smoking? He better share it with Mark Richt. The Dawgs are looking in the face of 5-6. Cam muzzles the Mutts – Auburn 30, Georgia 26.

11. Virginia Tech (7-2) at North Carolina (6-3) – (ACC vs. ACC) – Last year, heavily favored Virginia Tech was upset by North Carolina in Blacksburg. So the Hokies will be out for revenge – big time. After beating Florida State in Tallahassee, the Tar Heels proved they are big time. But can they put up two big-time wins in a row? Hokies can’t herd the Sheep – North Carolina 24, Virginia Tech 22.

12. Stanford (8-1) at Arizona State (4-5) – (Pac-10 vs. Pac-10) – Next to Oregon, Stanford appears to be the best team in the Pac-10. Look for the Cardinal to be in the Rose Bowl. But they can’t stumble in their final three games. Trees sap the Devils – Stanford 36, Arizona State 23.

13. Boise State (8-0) at Idaho (4-5) – (WAC vs. WAC) – Man do these two schools ever hate each other. Boise State has no interest in playing Idaho after the Broncos leave the WAC for the MWC. That should provide some incentive for the Vandals. They need all they can get. Broncos spud the Vandals – Boise State 39, Idaho 19.

14. Clemson (5-4) at Florida State (6-3) – (ACC vs. ACC) – This ain’t the father-son game anymore. The son left Clemson a couple of years ago. And daddy took down his teepee and left the tribe last January. Now, it’s the Dabo-Jimbo game. Or is it the Jimbo-Dabo game. Jimbo scalps Dabo – Florida State 23, Clemson 20.

15. Nevada (8-1) at Fresno State (6-2) – (WAC vs. WAC) – Two teams with dreams of derailing Boise State. But before the Broncos come along, they have to get by each other. And only one will get by. Wolves are no Dogs – Nevada 35, Fresno State 27.

16. Toledo (6-3) at Northern Illinois (7-2) – (MAC vs. MAC) – The winner of this contest should go on to win the MAC West and on to the MAC championship game. Toledo has been a surprise this year, but the Rockets won’t surprise the Huskies. No glare in these Rockets – Northern Illinois 29, Toledo 27.

17. Utah (8-1) at Notre Dame (4-5) – (MWC vs. Ind.) – The records say that Utah should win. But after the humiliating loss to TCU, the Utes may be totally demoralized. And the Irish had the week off to prepare. We’ll see what the Utes are made of. Utah 28, Notre Dame 27.

18. Texas Tech (5-4) at Oklahoma (7-2) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – The Sooners stumbled last week. Now they are back in Norman. And the Sooners know the Big 12 South is on the line. That spells trouble for the Red Raiders. Sooners make the Red Raiders look like Green Raiders – Oklahoma 35, Texas Tech 25.

19. Oklahoma State (8-1) at Texas (4-5) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – The way the Horns are playing, this should be the year the Cowboys beat them. But it seems like Okie State can never beat Texas. And if the Cowboys get a big lead early in the game, you just know the Horns are going to win. But can Texas beat anybody this year? Sorry Nebraska. Cowboys brand Bevo – Oklahoma State 29, Texas 27.

20. Southern Miss (6-3) at UCF (7-2) – (C-USA vs. C-USA) – The Eagles are UCF’s last real hurdle in the way of the C-USA East title. A win and the Knights should finish 8-0 in the conference and 10-2 overall. Knights raid the Eagles’ nest – UCF 32, Southern Miss 20.


AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON:

21. Pitt (5-3) at Connecticut (4-4) – (Big East vs. Big East) – Pitt is undefeated in Big East conference play. It’s not likely that the Huskies are going to change that. Huskies get neutered – Pitt 25, Connecticut 16.


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS:

Cincinnati (3-5) at West Virginia (5-3) – (Big East vs. Big East) – Both teams are in a slump and only one can come out of it. Both had the week off to correct their problems too. Obviously, WVU didn’t correct its biggest problem – Bill Stewart. Interestingly, Bearcat coach Butch Jones, a former assistant at WVU, sought the job in Morgantown when Stewart was chosen. Jones has reason to prove something. It’s not almost heaven for the Bearcats – West Virginia 30, Cincinnati 18.

Kansas (3-6) at Nebraska (8-1) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – Now you have to figure that Nebraska can’t be too rough on the Jayhawks. After all, Kansas is coached by a golden icon – a former Husker. After Nebraska leaves the Big 12, I’m sure Husker fans would love to see Kansas win the conference every year – as long as the Jayhawks are coached by Turner Gill. But unfortunately for Gill, no love lost between Nebraska and Kansas this year. Huskers mash the Jayhawks – Nebraska 38, Kansas 9.

Boston College (4-5) at Duke (3-6) – (ACC vs. ACC) – The Dookies are on a roll – two wins in a row. But so are the Beantown Birds. They’ve won two straight as well. Something’s got to give here. Hard to believe the Dookies can win three in a row. But you gotta believe. Dookies put a feather in their hat – Duke 25, Boston College 22.

Michigan (6-3) at Purdue (4-5) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – The Boilers should score some points this week. The Wolverines don’t have a defense. Unfortunately, the Boilers won’t score enough points to win. Denard denies the Boilers – Michigan 36, Purdue 27.


Comment: Winner of the South Carolina-Florida game goes on to the SEC title game as the SEC East Division champion. A lot of jockeying for position going on in the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12 and Pac-10. The picture should be clearer after this week. Northern Illinois and Toledo battle for the MAC West Division title and UCF can all but wrap up the C-USA East Division title with a win over Southern Miss. Another fun week.


AROUND FLORIDA:

Miami (6-3) visits Georgia Tech (5-4)…. South Florida (5-3) is on the road at Louisville (5-4)…. Florida Atlantic (3-5) hosts Louisiana-Lafayette (2-7)…. Florida International (3-5) travels to Troy (5-3)…. Florida A&M (6-3) entertains Hampton (5-4)…. Bethune-Cookman (9-0) is home against Howard (1-8)…. Jacksonville U. (9-1) is home playing Campbell (3-6).


Tuesday’s Television Schedule – November 9

Toledo at Northern Illinois – 7:00 p.m. ET – ESPN2


Wednesday’s Television Schedule – November 10

Miami (Ohio) at Bolwing Green – 8:00 p.m. ET – ESPN2


Thursday’s Television Schedule – November 11

Grambling at Texas Southern – 7:30 p.m. ET – ESPN Classic
Pitt at Connecticut – 7:30 p.m. ET – ESPN
South Carolina State at Morgan State – 7:30 p.m. ET – ESPNU
East Carolina at UAB – 8:00 p.m. ET – CBS-CSN


Friday’s Television Schedule – November 12

Ball State at Buffalo – 6:00 p.m. ET – ESPNU
Boise State at Idaho – 9:00 p.m. ET – ESPN2


Saturday’s Television Schedule – November 13

Brown at Dartmouth – 12:00 noon ET – Versus
Cincinnati at West Virginia – 12:00 noon ET – Big East Game of the Week
Indiana at Wisconsin – 12:00 noon ET – ESPN2
Iowa at Northwestern – 12:00 noon ET – ESPN
Miami (Florida) at Georgia Tech – 12:00 noon ET – ACC Game of the Week
Ole Miss at Tennessee – 12:00 noon ET – CBS
South Florida at Louisville – 12:00 noon ET – ESPNU
Southern Miss at UCF – 12:00 noon ET – CBS-CSN
Vanderbilt at Kentucky – 12:20 p.m. ET – SEC Game of the Week
Kansas State at Missouri – 12:30 p.m. ET – Fox Sports Network
Georgia at Auburn – 3:30 p.m. ET – CBS
Central Michigan at Navy – 3:30 p.m. ET – CBS-CSN
Penn State at Ohio State – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC/ESPN
Virginia Tech at North Carolina – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC
Texas Tech at Oklahoma – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC
Syracuse at Rutgers – 3:30 p.m. ET – ESPNU
Utah at Notre Dame – 3:30 p.m. ET – NBC
San Diego State at TCU – 4:00 p.m. ET – Versus
Texas A&M at Baylor – 7:00 p.m. ET – Fox Sports Network
UTEP at Arkansas – 7:00 p.m. ET – ESPNU
Mississippi State at Alabama – 7:15 p.m. ET – ESPNU
South Carolina at Florida – 7:15 p.m. ET – ESPN
Oregon at California – 7:30 p.m. ET – Versus
Clemson at Florida State – 8:00 p.m. ET – ABC
USC at Arizona – 8:00 p.m. ET – ABC
Oklahoma State at Texas – 8:00 p.m. ET – ABC
Tulsa at Houston – 8:00 p.m. ET – CBS-CSN


In the Huddle

Elsewhere around college football . . . Michigan State and Boise State have scheduled a three-game series for 2012, 2022 and 2023. Two of the games will be played in East Lansing and one game will be played in Boise.

BBVA Compass bank has taken over sponsorship of the PapaJohns.com Bowl played in Birmingham, Alabama. The bowl features teams from the Southeastern and Big East conferences. The game is owned and operated by ESPN and will be played January 8 at Legion Field. BBVA Compass bank is based in Birmingham.

Sadly, Mississippi State defensive end Nick Bell died last week at the University of Alabama-Birmingham Hospital after a short battle with cancer. Bell, a 20-year-old from Bessemer, Alabama, was diagnosed in late September after experiencing headaches during football practice and had surgery on October 1 to remove a mass from his brain.

And, on another sad note, Bob Fulton, the voice of the South Carolina Gamecocks for more than 40 years, died last week at his home in Lexington, South Carolina. He was 89. Fulton was one of the legendary announcers in college athletics. His career with South Carolina spanned from 1952-1964 and 1967-1995. He worked football, basketball and baseball games for the Gamecocks Sports Network. His career at South Carolina spanned 13 athletic directors, 10 basketball coaches, nine football coaches and 10 university presidents.


Extra Points

AP Poll – 1. Oregon, 2. Auburn, 3. TCU, 4. Boise State, 5. LSU, 6. Wisconsin

Coaches Poll – 1. Oregon, 2. Auburn, 3. TCU, 4. Boise State, 5. Wisconsin, 6. LSU

TT’s Poll – 1. Oregon, 2. TCU, 3. Auburn, 4. Boise State, 5. Stanford, 6. Nebraska

BCS Rank – 1. Oregon, 2. Auburn, 3. TCU, 4. Boise State, 5. LSU, 6. Stanford


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

On the Radio – Listen live to Touchdown Tom every Friday morning from 8:05 to 8:40 ET on the Bill Mick Live show, talking college football with Bill Mick on NEWS TALK 1240 and 1350 WMMB AM. The show streams on http://www.wmmbam.com/. To listen, go to the Web site and click on “Listen Live.”

Touchdown Tom


P.S.

Not directly college football related, but in early November as the college football season was in its final stretch, the number one song in the country…

…75 years ago this week in 1935 was “Truckin’” by Fats Waller

…70 years ago this week in 1940 was “Only Forever” by Bing Crosby

…65 years ago this week in 1945 was “Till the End of Time” by Perry Como

…60 years ago this week in 1950 was “Goodnight Irene” by Gordon Jenkins and The Weavers

…55 years ago this week in 1955 was “Autumn Leaves” by Roger Williams

…50 years ago this week in 1960 was “Georgia On My Mind” by Ray Charles

…45 years ago this week in 1965 was “Get Off of My Cloud” by The Rolling Stones

…40 years ago this week in 1970 was “I’ll Be There” by The Jackson 5

…35 years ago this week in 1975 was “Island Girl” by Elton John

…30 years ago this week in 1980 was “Woman in Love” by Barbra Streisand

…25 years ago this week in 1985 was “Miami Vice Theme” by Jan Hammer

…20 years ago this week in 1990 was “Love Takes Time” by Mariah Carey


Not directly college football related, but on a sad note, in addition to Nick Bell and Bob Fulton mentioned above, there were five other passings of mention last week – Charlie O’Donnell, Andy Irons, Sparky Anderson, Jill Clayburgh, Charles McDowell.

Charlie O’Donnell, whose resonant off-camera voice was a fixture on American television for decades, most notably in heralding the opening of the game show “Wheel of Fortune” for 28 years, died last week at his home in Sherman Oaks, California. He was 78. While best known for his decades on “Wheel of Fortune,” O’Donnell also was the voice for other popular game shows, including “To Tell the Truth,” as well as for Dick Clark’s “American Bandstand,” the Oscars, the Emmys and the Golden Globes.

Over the decades, O’Donnell also did stints as the announcer for “The Dating Game,” “The Joker’s Wild,” “The Gong Show,” “The Newlywed Game,” and “Tic Tac Dough,” among other shows. Born in Philadelphia on August 12, 1932, O’Donnell got his start in television in his hometown as the announcer for “American Bandstand” in 1958. He had previously been a disc jockey in New York.

Andy Irons, a three-time world surfing champion from Hawaii whose progressive wave riding and intense rivalry with Kelly Slater invigorated the sport’s competitive scene, died last week in a Dallas hotel room while traveling home to Kauai. He was 32. Philip Andrew Irons was born on July 24, 1978, in Hanalei, Hawaii, on the island of Kauai.

Sparky Anderson, who managed Cincinnati’s powerful Big Red Machine to baseball dominance in the 1970s and became the first manager to win World Series championships in both the National and American Leagues, died last week at his home in Thousand Oaks, California. He was 76. Anderson managed the Cincinnati Reds to four pennants and two World Series titles in the 1970s, a memorable seven-game victory over the Boston Red Sox in 1975 and a sweep of the New York Yankees in 1976. After nine years in Cincinnati, he managed Detroit for 16 ½ seasons, capturing his third World Series championship when the 1984 Tigers defeated the San Diego Padres in five games.  George Lee Anderson was born on February 22, 1934, in Bridgewater, South Dakota. His family moved to Los Angeles when he was eight.

Jill Clayburgh, an Oscar-nominated actress known for portraying strong, independent women, died last week at her home in Lakeville, Connecticut. She was 66. Clayburgh received Best Actress Oscar nominations for her roles in “An Unmarried Woman” (1978) and “Starting Over” (1979). Her other films include “Semi-Tough” (1977), opposite, “It’s My Turn” (1980), “Monday in October” (1981), “I’m Dancing as Fast as I Can” (1982). Clayburgh was born in New York City on April 30, 1944. She earned a bachelor’s degree in theater from Sarah Lawrence College in 1966. Her many television credits include guest appearances on “Law & Order,” “The Practice” and “Nip/Tuck,” and a recurring role on “Ally McBeal.” Most recently Clayburgh was a member of the cast of “Dirty Sexy Money,” broadcast from 2007 to 2009 on ABC.

Charles McDowell, a retired columnist for The Richmond Times-Dispatch who brought a folksy manner to a regular stint on the PBS program “Washington Week in Review” and to a prominent role in Ken Burns’ PBS series “The Civil War,” died last week. He was 84. McDowell worked for the Richmond paper for almost half a century, covering local news and state politics from 1949 until 1965, when he became the paper’s Washington correspondent. His nationally syndicated column ran from 1954 until his retirement in 1998. Charles Rice McDowell Jr. was born in Danville, Kentucky, on June 24, 1926. He joined the Richmond paper after graduating from Washington and Lee University and the Columbia University School of Journalism.

Time for a Reality Check

College Football Week 10 – TCU-Utah, Bama-LSU, Arizona-Stanford

Time for a Reality Check

September and October are history. November is upon us and college football enters its final stretch. Five weeks remain – four in November one in December. When we go to bed on Saturday night December 4, we’ll know which two teams will be playing for the national championship on January 10.

The next five weeks are not only critical for determining the scene on January 10, but also the participants in the other BCS bowls, the Heisman Trophy winner, and what coaches won’t be back for the 2011 season.

As we begin the final stretch, it is a good time to do a reality check. After all, with nine weeks down and five to go, reality is almost upon us.

With all the craziness in the SEC East Division this season, two games Saturday were significant – Florida-Georgia and Tennessee-South Carolina. For after all, it is Florida and South Carolina who control their destinies towards winning the division. And the two teams are on a collision course – November 13.

In Jacksonville, the Gators beat the Dawgs for the 18th time in 21 years. Florida won, but the outcome of the game was not decided without extra time. Florida beat Georgia, 34-31 in overtime. The Gators led the Dawgs 21-7 at halftime, but Georgia fought back in the second half and tied the score 24-24 with 9:01 remaining in the fourth quarter.

Both teams added another touchdown and the game was tied 31-31 at the end of regulation. Georgia had first possession in overtime, but Florida intercepted an Aaron Murray pass to kill the Dawgs’ opportunity. The Gators only moved the ball five yards on their first three downs. On fourth down, Chas Henry kicked a 37-yard field goal to win the game for Florida.

In Columbia, the Gamecocks had a tough time shaking off the Vols. The game was tied 10-10 at the half. It remained close until 3:28 remaining in the final quarter when South Carolina scored to take a two-touchdown lead. The Gamecocks beat Tennessee, 38-24.

So South Carolina sits at 4-2 in the SEC East and Florida is 3-3. All other teams in the East have four or more conference losses. Assuming South Carolina beats Arkansas and Florida downs Vanderbilt, the winner of the South Carolina-Florida game in Gainesville November 13 will win the SEC East and go to the conference title game in Atlanta on December 4.

The SEC West is a contrast to the SEC East. In the West, one team (Auburn) is undefeated and two teams (Alabama and LSU) only have one loss. Two more teams (Mississippi State and Arkansas) just have two losses. Saturday, Auburn beat Ole Miss, 51-31 and Mississippi State downed Kentucky, 24-17. Alabama and LSU were idle.

Auburn and Alabama control their destinies. LSU needs Auburn to lose its remaining two SEC games. Alabama and LSU play this Saturday in Baton Rouge. Auburn and Alabama clash on November 26 in Tuscaloosa.

Six SEC teams are bowl eligible – Auburn, Alabama, LSU, Mississippi State, Arkansas and South Carolina. No SEC coaches are in serious trouble of losing their jobs. However Georgia’s Mark Richt, Vanderbilt’s Robbie Caldwell and LSU’s Les Miles are feeling some warmth on their seats.

Three games in the ACC were significant. Significant because the underdog won in all three contests. Thursday night, N.C. State handed Florida State its first loss in ACC play. The Wolfpack beat the Noles, 28-24. FSU was on the Wolfpack goal line with about a minute left, but a fumble by Noles’ quarterback Christian Ponder turned the ball over to N.C. State.

Saturday, Boston College, winless in conference play, upset Clemson, 16-10. The loss was Clemson’s third in ACC play and all but removed any hopes the Tigers have of winning the Atlantic Division. Then Virginia, also winless in conference action, knocked off Miami, 24-19. Canes’ quarterback Jacory Harris was injured early in the game.

Harris was replaced by Spencer Whipple who played the rest of the first half. In the second half, Whipple was replaced by true freshman Stephen Morris. Trailing 24-0 in the fourth quarter, Morris rallied the Canes to three touchdowns in the final 10 minutes. The loss all but dashed Miami’s hopes of winning the Coastal Division. In another ACC game, Maryland exploded for 62 points, beating hapless Wake Forest, 62-14.

So in the ACC Atlantic Division, Florida State, Maryland and N.C. State are in the driver’s seat, with the Wolfpack in control of its destiny. Maryland plays Florida State on November 20 and N.C. State on November 27. Both games are in College Park.

Virginia Tech remains the leader in the Coastal Division. Four ACC teams are bowl eligible – Florida State, Maryland, N.C. State and Virginia Tech. No ACC coaches are in serious threat of losing their jobs, but North Carolina’s Butch Davis, Clemson’s Dabo Swinney and Wake Forest’s Jim Grobe are feeling some heat.

Two games were significant in the Big 12 Saturday – Missouri-Nebraska and Baylor-Texas. In Lincoln, Nebraska handed Missouri its first loss of the season. The Huskers beat the Tigers, 31-17. Missouri quarterback Blaine Gabbert, who was so effective against Oklahoma the previous week, was totally ineffective against the Huskers. Missouri’s pain was caused by Nebraska running back Roy Helu and the Husker defense. Helu rushed for 307 yards.

In Austin, Baylor handed Texas its third conference loss (fourth loss overall). The Bears beat the Longhorns, 30-22. Texas, one of the preseason favorites in the Big 12 South, falls to 2-3 in Big 12 play and 4-4 overall. In another Big 12 game, Oklahoma State bounced back from its first loss last week. The Cowboys beat Kansas State, 24-14.

In the Big 12 North, Nebraska and Missouri are the two leaders. But by virtue of its win over Missouri, Nebraska is in the driver’s seat. Baylor, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State are the leaders in the Big 12 South, and each have yet to play each other. Baylor plays at Oklahoma State this week and hosts Oklahoma on November 20. Okie State hosts OU on November 27.

Five Big 12 teams are bowl eligible – Nebraska, Missouri, Baylor, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State. Colorado coach Dan Hawkins is all but assured of losing his job at or near the end of the season.

In the Big Ten, two games were significant Saturday – Michigan State-Iowa and Michigan-Penn State. The Hawkeyes, suffering a one-point loss to Wisconsin the previous week, bounced back big-time to hand Michigan State its first loss. Iowa beat the Spartans, 37-6. The Hawkeye defense intercepted three of Kirk Cousins’ passes.

Then in a game where both teams really needed the win, Michigan’s Denard Robinson rushed for 191 yards, but was denied victory, as Penn State beat Michigan, 41-31. The loss was the Wolverines’ third-straight, after beginning the season at 5-0. Both teams are now 5-3 overall, but the Nittany Lions are 2-2 in Big Ten play, while Michigan drops to 1-3. In another Big Ten game, improving Illinois slammed Purdue, 44-10.

Michigan State and Ohio State are sitting at 4-1in the conference, while Wisconsin and Iowa are 3-1. Iowa entertains Ohio State on November 20. Five Big Ten teams are bowl eligible – Michigan State, Ohio State, Wisconsin, Iowa and Northwestern. Indiana coach Bill Lynch is in serious trouble and Michigan coach Rich Rodriguez is on thin ice. Minnesota already fired Tim Brewster.

Two games were significant in the Big East – West Virginia-Connecticut and Syracuse-Cincinnati. Friday night, UConn handed the Mountaineers their second-straight conference loss. The Huskies beat WVU, 16-13 in overtime. West Virginia, who some thought would win the Big East at preseason, has fallen onto hard times. The Mountaineers are 1-2 in conference play and 5-3 overall.

Meanwhile, in Cincinnati, Syracuse, who was picked for the conference cellar, blew past the Bearcats, 31-7. The Orange improved to 6-2 overall. In another Big East game, Pitt beat Louisville, 20-3. Pitt is in first place in the Big East with a 3-0 record, followed by Syracuse at 3-1. Syracuse is the only Big East team that is bowl eligible. West Virginia coach Bill Stewart is feeling some serious heat.

There was one significant game in the Pac-10 Saturday. Undefeated Oregon wore down USC in the second half and beat the Trojans, 53-32. USC led the Ducks, 32-29 with 11:19 to go in the third quarter, but it was all Darron Thomas and LaMichael James after that. Oregon went on to score 24 unanswered points.

In other Pac-10 games, Stanford beat Washington, 41-0; Arizona downed UCLA, 29-21, and Oregon State tripped up California, 35-7. Arizona quarterback Matt Scott passed for 318 yards.

Oregon is in sole possession of first place in the Pac-10 with a 5-0 record. Arizona, Stanford and Oregon State all follow with only one loss each. Arizona plays at Stanford this week and at Oregon on November 26. Oregon State plays at Stanford on November 27 and hosts Oregon on December 4. Three Pac-10 teams are bowl eligible – Oregon, Arizona and Stanford. Washington State coach Paul Wulff definitely will be fired, and UCLA’s Rick Neuheisel and Arizona State’s Dennis Erickson are feeling some heat.

The Mountain West Conference had a significant game Saturday – Utah-Air Force. Some thought the Falcons had a chance of upsetting the Utes and they almost did. But in the end, Utah prevailed, 28-23. The Utes improved to 8-0. In another MWC game, San Diego State beat Wyoming, 48-38.

Utah and TCU lead the MWC with 5-0 records. San Diego State is just behind at 3-1. The Utes and Horned Frogs play in Salt Lake City this weekend. San Diego State plays at TCU on November 13 and hosts Utah on November 20. Three MWC teams are bowl eligible – TCU, Utah and San Diego State. New Mexico coach Mike Locksley will be canned at or near the end of the season.

Boise State continues to rule the roost in the WAC. Last Tuesday night, the Broncos beat Louisiana Tech, 49-20. In other WAC action Saturday, Hawaii downed Idaho, 45-10, and Nevada beat Utah State, 56-42. Boise State and Hawaii are both undefeated in WAC play. Fresno State and Nevada each have just one loss.

Boise State still has to play Hawaii, Fresno State and Nevada. Of the three, only Nevada is a road game. Nevada plays at Fresno State on November 13. Boise State, Hawaii and Nevada are bowl eligible. No coaches in the WAC are in danger of losing their jobs.

Conference USA had a big game Saturday. The two leaders in the East Division – UCF and East Carolina – met in Orlando. UCF prevailed, 49-35. In other conference games, UAB outlasted Southern Miss, beating the Eagles 50-49 in two overtimes. Houston downed Memphis, 56-17; SMU beat Tulane, 31-17, and Marshall edged UTEP, 16-12.

UCF leads the C-USA East with a 5-0 record. East Carolina follows with one loss. In the West Division, Houston and SMU lead with 4-1 records. But the Cougars beat the Mustangs in an earlier meeting. UCF is the only C-USA team that is bowl eligible. UTEP’s Mike Price, UAB’s Neil Callaway, Tulane’s Bob Toledo and Rice’s David Bailiff are feeling some heat.

In the Mid-American Conference, all of the division leaders won Saturday. Temple and Miami of the East Division beat Akron and Buffalo respectively. The Owls downed the Zips, 30-0, and the RedHawks trimmed Buffalo, 21-9. Northern Illinois and Toledo of the West Division beat Western Michigan and Eastern Michigan respectively. NIU edged Western Michigan, 28-21, and the Rockets blasted Eastern Michigan, 42-7.

Temple, Ohio and Miami each have 4-1 records in the MAC East. Northern Illinois and Toledo have 5-0 records in the MAC West. Temple hosts Ohio on November 16 and plays at Miami on November 23. Toledo plays at Northern Illinois on November 9. Four MAC teams are bowl eligible – Temple, Ohio, Northern Illinois and Toledo. No MAC coaches appear to be in trouble.

There was a big upset in the Sun Belt Conference on Saturday. Louisiana-Monroe surprised Troy, 28-14. Troy still leads the Sun Belt with a 3-1 record, followed by Middle Tennessee and Florida International, who each have 2-1 records. No Sun Belt teams are bowl eligible yet. Louisiana-Lafayette’s Rickey Bustle and Arkansas State’s Steve Roberts are feeling heat. North Texas already fired Todd Dodge.

Among the Independents, there were two surprises Saturday. Duke knocked off Navy, 34-31. Then, under solemn conditions in South Bend, Tulsa edged Notre Dame, 28-27. Navy at 5-3 and Notre Dame at 4-5 are disappointments this season, while Army at 5-3 is a pleasant surprise.

At the top of my Heisman list (after nine weeks): 1. Cam Newton (Auburn), 2. LaMichael James (Oregon), 3. Kellen Moore (Boise State), 4. Andrew Luck (Stanford), 5. Taylor Martinez (Nebraska), 6. Andy Dalton (TCU), 7. Jordan Wynn (Utah) and 8. Terrelle Pryor (Ohio State).

Just off of my radar (down but not necessarily out): Missouri’s Blaine Gabbert, Michigan’s Denard Robinson, Alabama’s Mark Ingram, Oklahoma’s DeMarco Murray, Wisconsin’s John Clay and Michigan State’s Kirk Cousins.

Boise State was criticized by some last week. Up 42-14 against Louisiana Tech in the fourth quarter, the Broncos were running trick plays to continuing scoring. That doesn’t speak well for Boise State coach Chris Petersen. Meanwhile, on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” show, the Broncos were being chastised by Joe Scarborough. Scarborough, an Alabama grad, said “Real football teams don’t play on Tuesday night.” He went on to add, “No team that plays on Tuesday night deserves to play in the BCS championship game.”

I read last week about the San Francisco Giants’ baseball fans waving their rally thongs at the Giants’ games. It seems that Giants first baseman Aubrey Huff wears thong underwear as a good luck charm during the games. That made me think that Georgia fans should be waving rally red panties at the Dawgs’ football games. Florida wears jean shorts; Georgia wears red panties.

Tennessee coach Derek Dooley had a “Lane Kiffin” moment last week. Speaking to the press, Dooley compared his football team to the Germans on D-Day. Wonder if Dooley compares himself to Sergeant Shultz.

The SEC is coming down hard again on Mississippi State fans. Conference commissioner Mike Slive threatened last week to hit Miss State with some heavy fines for the cowbell violations during the Bulldogs’ home football games. This year, Miss State fans were told they could only shake the bells when play is not in action on the field – before the game, after the game, at halftime and during timeouts.

Apparently, Miss State fans have been abusing the ruling, shaking the cowbells while play is in action on the field. If Miss State fans keep it up, Slive threatened to ban the cowbells entirely next season. Stay tuned.

Well, forget Lady Gaga. I guess it’s not so easy to dress up like the glam queen for Halloween. And besides, Rockledge Gator wanted Bootsie to go with him. So, they went as a “Jersey Shore” couple. Bootsie dressed as “Snooki” and Rockledge Gator was who else – “The Situation.” (Now, in reality, Bootsie was “Olive Oil” and Rockledge Gator was “Popeye.” Yeah, I really want to see Rockledge Gator eating a can of spinach.)

Touchdown Tom
November 1, 2010


Weekend Review

GAME OF THE WEEK: LaDucky – Oregon 53, USC 32 (Touchdown Tom said: Oregon 35, USC 27). At this point, you have to wonder if anyone will beat Oregon. If anyone does, they need an offense that can stay with the Ducks. If there’s a weakness, and there is, it’s the Oregon defense. The Trojans stayed with the Ducks for a little more than two quarters. But USC lost its zip after that. LaMichael James and Darron Thomas are a dynamic duo. A crowd of 88,726 attended the game in Los Angeles.

RUNNER UP: Helu trashes the Zou – Nebraska 31, Missouri 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Nebraska 28, Missouri 26). I think Mizzou spent itself on Oklahoma and had nothing left for Nebraska. Roy Helu was too much for the Mizzou defense. And Blaine Gabbert and the Mizzou offense couldn’t cope with the Nebraska defense. A crowd of 85,907 attended the game in Lincoln.

REST OF THE BEST: Birds pick Cousins – Iowa 37, Michigan State 6 (Touchdown Tom said: Iowa 33, Michigan State 32). You could tell Iowa was mad about the loss last week to Wisconsin. The Hawkeyes took all their frustrations out on Michigan State. A crowd of 70,585 attended the game in Iowa City.

Poor little garnet riding hood – N.C. State 28, Florida State 24 (Touchdown Tom said: Florida State 27, N.C. State 26). The Wolfpack won the first quarter; the Noles won the second quarter; the Wolfpack won the third quarter, and the Noles fumbled in the fourth quarter. All-in-all, not a bad game, especially if you like to howl. A crowd of 56,807 attended the game in Raleigh.

Back in the saddle again – Oklahoma State 24, Kansas State 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Oklahoma State 39, Kansas State 27). Nebraska knocked the Cowboys off their horses, but K-State couldn’t keep them out of the saddle. Okie State bounced back from its loss to the Huskers. A crowd of 50,831 attended the game in Manhattan.

Ute force – Utah 28, Air Force 23 (Touchdown Tom said: Utah 28, Air Force 14). Trailing 28-10 at the end of the third quarter, Air Force closed the gap to five points with 10:22 remaining in the fourth. A crowd of 37,211 attended the game in Colorado Springs.

Knights shine – UCF 49, East Carolina 35 (Touchdown Tom said: UCF 32, East Carolina 30). The Knights move to the top of Conference USA. A crowd of 40,073 attended the game in Orlando.

Rolls Royster – Penn State 41, Michigan 31 (Touchdown Tom said: Michigan 36, Penn State 29). Michigan loses its third-straight game; while Penn State wins its second in a row. The Nittany Lions made a point to score more than the Wolverines. State’s Evan Royster rushed for 150 yards. Rich Rod is back in the doghouse. A crowd of 108,539 attended the game in State College.

A Tree grows in Seattle – Stanford 41, Washington 0 (Touchdown Tom said: Stanford 34, Washington 26). Wow, Stanford held Washington to 88 yards passing and 19 yards rushing. Andrew Luck excelled again, not only passing, but also rushing for 92 yards. A crowd of 69,020 attended the game in Seattle.

Dance with me Henry – Florida 34, Georgia 31 (OT) (Touchdown Tom said: Florida 27, Georgia 26). This one started out like another rout for the Gators. Florida was up 21-7 at the half. But then somebody let the Dawgs out. Georgia came back and tied the score, 24-24. Then it was 31-31. Then it was overtime. Then it was Chas Henry’s 37-yard field goal. I was impressed with Georgia quarterback Aaron Murray. Yeah, he made his mistakes, but he’s young. He’s got a future ahead of him. The question is: Does Mark Richt have a future ahead of him at Georgia? I was also impressed with Florida’s Trey Burton. He’s got a future ahead of him too. It was interesting watching the two coaches during the fourth quarter and overtime – when the game was tight. You would have thought Urban Meyer was the coach on the hot seat. Meyer was going through all sorts of contortions and spasms. He was as tight as the game. Meanwhile, Richt acted as cool as a cucumber. But maybe that was Georgia’s problem – Richt was too cool – emotionless. Maybe the three-straight wins prior to the Florida game had cooled-down Richt. While the three-straight losses really bothered Meyer. He didn’t want a fourth loss. Meyer was emotional. Richt is now a cool 2-8 against Florida. A crowd of 84,444 attended the game in Jacksonville.

Claws take the Paws – Auburn 51, Ole Miss 31 (Touchdown Tom said: Auburn 33, Ole Miss 16). The more I see Auburn play, the more I think the Tigers and Oregon would make a great matchup in the national championship game. Both teams score – score a lot and score fast. And both have defenses that give up a fair amount of points. A crowd of 61,474 attended the game in Oxford.

Life of Riley – Oregon State 35, California 7 (Touchdown Tom said: California 30, Oregon State 29). I should know better than to pick Cal on the road. The Bears are good at home, but a disaster on the road. The Beavers still have a shot at the Pac-10 crown. A crowd of 45,439 attended the game in Corvallis.

Bears milk the Cows – Baylor 30, Texas 22 (Touchdown Tom said: Texas 27, Baylor 24). When quarterback Garrett Gilbert is the leading rusher for Texas, you know the Longhorns have problems. A crowd of 100,452 attended the game in Austin.

Cards get shuffled – Pitt 20, Louisville 3 (Touchdown Tom said: Pitt 35, Louisville 27). Don’t look now, but Pitt has won three in a row. A crowd of 48,562 attended the game in Pittsburgh.

Orange Blossom Special – Syracuse 31, Cincinnati 7 (Touchdown Tom said: Cincinnati 26, Syracuse 18). What’s with Syracuse? The Orange are 6-2. A crowd of 32,072 attended the game in Cincinnati

Bruins scratched – Arizona 29, UCLA 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Arizona 30, UCLA 17). Rick Neuheisel has to be in some kind of trouble. A crowd of 53,408 attended the game in Pasadena.

Cowbells rule – Mississippi State 24, Kentucky 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Mississippi State 32, Kentucky 29). Dan Mullen is doing a heck of a job in Starkville. A crowd of 54,168 attended the game in Starkville.

Grimacing in the Nutmeg State – Connecticut 16, West Virginia 13 (OT) (Touchdown Tom said: West Virginia 30, Connecticut 19). The wheels are off the bus at West Virginia. WVU’s inept execution on offense Friday night was one of the strangest, saddest and most frustrating performances I have ever seen in football. The fumbles, the penalties, the mistakes were never ending. And what’s with Geno Smith? A quarterback who looked so promising earlier in the season can’t hit the broadside of a red barn now. He looks like a scared chicken when he runs. He looks confused and frustrated. Maybe I would look scared, confused and frustrated too if Bill Stewart was my coach. And therein lies the problem – Bill Stewart. He never should have been named the coach of West Virginia back in 2008. He didn’t have the credentials to be a big-time college football coach. He’s the friendliest guy in the world. He’s obnoxiously friendly. He’s so friendly he should be a greeter at Wal-Mart. That was his calling. On the sideline of a football field, he looks and acts like the village idiot. He stands there and almost constantly grimaces. He acts like he is in pain. I think West Virginia is about to find out how good its new athletic director – Oliver Luck – is. Yes, the wheels are off the bus. And I think there is a Wal-Mart in Morgantown. A crowd of 40,000 attended the game in East Hartford.

Aggies scrub the Potts – Texas A&M 45, Texas Tech 27 (Touchdown Tom said: Texas A&M 28, Texas Tech 25). Tommy Tuberville’s luck ran out in College Station. And Mike Sherman keeps hanging in there. Wow! What was with Aggie quarterback Ryan Tannehill? He had 349 yards passing. A crowd of 84,479 attended the game in College Station.

Potatoes mashed – Hawaii 45, Idaho 10 (Touchdown Tom said: Hawaii 37, Idaho 29). Hawaii quarterback Bryant Moniz is a passing machine. A crowd of 37,466 attended the game in Honolulu.


AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON:

Hurtin’ Hoosiers – Northwestern 20, Indiana 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Northwestern 29, Indiana 28). The Wildcats always seem to play to the level of their competition. A crowd of 37,818 attended the game in Bloomington.


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS:

Blue Navy Blue – Duke 34, Navy 31 (Touchdown Tom said: Navy 29, Duke 19). Against Navy, Duke quarterback Sean Renfree obviously found a defense he likes. Renfree passed for 314 yards, completing 93 percent of his tosses. A crowd of 34,117 attended the game in Annapolis.

Boilers have no Hope – Illinois 44, Purdue 10 (Touchdown Tom said: Illinois 31, Purdue 17). Looks like Ron Zook is going to be around Champaign a little longer. The Banned Indians are impressive. A crowd of 50,371 attended the game in Champaign.

Comment: A tough week at 16-7, brings my season total to 158-58 (73.2 percent).


AROUND FLORIDA:

Miami lost to Virginia, 24-19. A crowd of 39,528 attended the game in Charlottesville…. Florida Atlantic surprised Florida International, 21-9. A crowd of 17,543 attended the game in Fort Lauderdale.

Florida A&M bested Morgan State, 31-17. A crowd of 30,459 attended the game in Tallahassee…. Bethune Cookman humbled North Carolina A&T, 67-17. A crowd of 8,112 attended the game in Daytona Beach…. Jacksonville U. dumped Morehead State, 61-17. A crowd of 6,854 attended the game in Morehead.


Superlatives

Impressive Passers: Oklahoma’s Landry Jones – 32-46-0 for 453 yards; Texas A&M’s Ryan Tannehill – 36-50-1 for 449; Arkansas’ Ryan Mallett – 27-44-0 for 409 yards; Utah State’s Diondre Borel – 24-38-0 for 399; Southern Miss’ Austin Davis – 30-48-2 for 388, and Louisiana-Lafayette’s Brad McGuire – 25-38-1 for 384.

Also, San Diego State’s Ryan Lindley – 16-32-2 for 365 yards; San Jose State’s Jordan La Secla – 22-35-0 for 361; Western Michigan’s Alex Carder – 31-53-2 for 360; SMU’s Kyle Padron – 18-32-0 for 354; Hawaii’s Bryant Moniz – 27-38-1 for 326; Arizona’s Matt Scott – 24-36-1 for 318; Duke’s Sean Renfree – 28-30-0 for 314, and East Carolina’s Dominique Davis – 39-54-1 for 310.

Also, Indiana’s Ben Chappell – 30-54-1 for 308 yards; Arizona State’s Steven Threet – 26-32-0 for 300; Oklahoma State’s Brandon Weeden – 22-39-0 for 298; Boise State’s Kellen Moore – 20-28-1 for 298; Houston’s David Piland – 20-23-0 for 292; Oregon’s Darron Thomas – 19-32-1 for 288, and USC’s Matt Barkley – 26-49-2 for 264.


Impressive Rushers: Nebraska’s Roy Helu – 307 yards; Oregon’s LaMichael James – 239 yards; North Texas’ Lance Dunbar – 215 yards; Tulane’s Orleans Darkwa – 193 yards; Michigan’s Denard Robinson – 191 yards; South Carolina’s Marcus Lattimore – 184 yards; UCF’s Ronnie Weaver – 180 yards; Auburn’s Michael Dyer – 180 yards; SMU’s Zach Line – 177 yards, and UAB’s Pat Shed – 176 yards.

Also, Memphis’ Gregory Ray – 176 yards; North Carolina’s Johnny White – 164 yards; Army’s Jared Hassin – 158 yards; Penn State’s Evan Royster – 150 yards; Boise State’s Doug Martin – 150 yards; Louisiana Tech’s Lennon Creer – 149 yards; Southern Miss’ Kendrick Hardy – 147 yards; Northern Illinois’ Chad Spann – 146 yards; Oklahoma State’s Kendall Hunter – 143 yards, and Boston College’s Montel Harris – 142 yards.


Quotes of Last Week

“From the moment the Gators’ receiver (Chris Rainey) was suspended indefinitely, didn’t you sort of figure that the ‘indefinite’ period would end this week?,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“But as for Urban Meyer, I really would like to see a copy of his discipline guidelines. Is buying a stolen laptop worse than a player texting a death threat to a former girlfriend?,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“At least 31 Florida players have been arrested since 2005. There’s also the high-profile issue of violence against women. But two things trump heat in sports: Talent and desperate coaches,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“According to legend, or sources close to legend, the origins of Halloween date back over 2000 years when the summer harvest ended and the weather turned cold and the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead were so narrow that SEC football coaches figured it was safe to start recruiting and NCAA executives and college presidents lounged inside their palatial suites that were paid for by network executives and texted each other, ‘Time To Close Our Eyes. Hey, are you going to Urban’s pool party later?’,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“It’s the 30th anniversary of Buck Belue to Lindsay Scott. Now let’s advance to more recent decades. The Gators have won 17 of the last 20 meetings. The last two came by a combined score of 90-27, give or take a major organ,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“I understand Derek Dooley is entertaining and well read but he might want to hold off on any more analogies that liken his football team to panicking Nazis when the Allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy. Better to just mix in a Lane Kiffin joke,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“The note of the year: Dan Mullen (6-2) is bowl eligible before Urban Meyer, Mark Richt, Steve Spurrier and Bobby Petrino. He doesn’t make as much money as the others but there’s that psychic income of living in Starkville,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“Georgia State at South Alabama: South Alabama has won seven games by an average score of 44-7. I guess Tuscaloosa will be a step down for the Panthers,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“OK, now that we’ve had opening night in the new arena and seen the Magic play the Heat, can we get to the NBA playoffs now?,” Orlando Sentinel columnist Mike Bianchi.

“He doesn’t know his butt from a goal post,” Facebook quote about West Virginia coach Bill Stewart.

“I’m going to be drawing social security before the Dawgs figure out how to win against Florida,” Georgia grad Susan Eaton.

“Georgia under (Mark) Richt has become the toothless tiger – the team everyone respects but nobody fears,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Mark Bradley.

“He’s (Mark Richt) no longer a championship coach. Dating back to November 29, 2008, his Bulldogs are 13-11, which means he’s barely even a winning coach,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Mark Bradley.

“I almost burst into tears after the game. This is the biggest win we’ve had,” Florida coach Urban Meyer, after the Georgia game.


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

GAME OF THE WEEK: 1. TCU (9-0) at Utah (8-0) – (MWC vs. MWC) – Utah is a good team with a good up-and-coming quarterback in Jordan Wynn. But TCU has a mean defense and a cool quarterback in Andy Dalton. That’s why TCU is the better team. But it will be close. The winner will definitely get a big boost in the polls and the BCS standings. Frogs take the salt out of the lake – TCU 27, Utah 24.

RUNNER UP: 2. Alabama (7-1) at LSU (7-1) – (SEC vs. SEC) – Always a fun game. Nick Saban goes up against his former team. Some folks in Zydeco land love him; others hate him. Well, he does have a national championship under his belt for both schools – LSU and Alabama. He’s working on his second for the Tide. They have a good chance to make it to the “big game.” But so do the Tigers. Each has one loss, but if the cards fall right they could make it to Glendale. That’s why this game is so important. LSU’s defense, so highly touted at one time, has to play better than it did against Florida or Auburn. I know, the Tigers beat Florida, but LSU’s defense sucked. Bama should be glad this isn’t a night game in Baton Rouge. Winner will also take a big jump in the polls and standings. Tigers awash in soap suds – Alabama 28, LSU 23.

REST OF THE BEST: 3. Arizona (7-1) at Stanford (7-1) – (Pac-10 vs. Pac-10) – What a game this should be. Both play good offense and defense. The winner will also move way up in the polls and BCS standings. Wildcats go too far out on a limb – Stanford 28, Arizona 24.

4. Baylor (7-2) at Oklahoma State (7-1) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – Can Baylor keep a good thing going? The Bears are hot. But so is Okie State. Oklahoma State 35, Baylor 32.

5. Arkansas (6-2) at South Carolina (6-2) – (SEC vs. SEC) – Steve Spurrier better hope his Gamecocks aren’t looking ahead to Florida. The Gamecocks better hope Steve Spurrier isn’t looking ahead to Florida. South Carolina is so close to Atlanta. Chickens feed on Pork Butt – South Carolina 26, Arkansas 24.

6. Hawaii (7-2) at Boise State (7-0) – (WAC vs. WAC) – Can the Pineapple Boys upset the Broncos? A lot of people would like to see Boise lose. Hawaii is too much of a one-dimensional team to win. Pineapples sliced – Boise State 45, Hawaii 31.

7. Oklahoma (7-1) at Texas A&M (5-3) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – OU isn’t out of the big picture. But the Sooners have to keep winning. The Aggies looked good last week against Texas Tech. Possible upset? Wagons ho! – Oklahoma 31, Texas A&M 26.

8. North Carolina (5-3) at Florida State (6-2) – (ACC vs. ACC) – Now here’s a North Carolina team that FSU should be able to beat. But on a given day, the Heels can play some defense. Mutton – Florida State 27, North Carolina 19.

9. Georgia Tech (5-3) at Virginia Tech (6-2) – (ACC vs. ACC) – One team (Virginia Tech) on the way up, and one team (Georgia Tech) on the way down. The Hokies have gotten their act together after the first two games. They are on a roll. Meanwhile, the Bumble Bees are still trying to find their act. Hokies raid the Hive – Virginia Tech 32, Georgia Tech 17.

10. Northwestern (6-2) at Penn State (5-3) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – After Indiana, Northwestern should play better against Penn State. But can the Wildcats play well enough to win in Happy Valley. And how will the Lions perform after the win over Michigan? Do they still have emotion? Pride – Penn State 31, Northwestern 29.

11. Maryland (6-2) at Miami (Florida) (5-3) – (ACC vs. ACC) – At 6-2, Maryland is a surprise team. The Terps may keep the Fridge around for another year. But can the Terps surprise the Canes? Not in Miami. Besides, Randy Shannon doesn’t like a warm bottom. Sugar Canes – Miami 30, Maryland 26.

12. Illinois (5-3) at Michigan (5-3) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – You got to figure that four losses in a row would be curtains for the Rod. I don’t think Michigan fans could stomach that. This should be a good one. Curtain Rods – Illinois 29, Michigan 26.

13. Missouri (7-1) at Texas Tech (4-4) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – Now how will Mizzou respond to the big loss at Nebraska. The Tigers could self-destruct. Or they could bounce back. Tech doesn’t have near the defense that Nebraska does. They're great – Missouri 30, Texas Tech 29.

14. N.C. State (6-2) at Clemson (4-4) – (ACC vs. ACC) – The Wolfpack have their eyes on the ACC title game in Charlotte – a first for N.C. State. But that could be the problem – they have their eyes on Charlotte. Dabo Swinney may not survive another loss. Two baseball playing quarterbacks will be going against each other. Clemson is no Wolf trap – N.C. State 28, Clemson 26.

15. Navy (5-3) at East Carolina (5-3) – (Ind. vs. C-USA) – Both teams coming in off losses. But East Carolina’s loss was more emotional. Middies have been a strange team this season. Sailors walk the plank – East Carolina 31, Navy 29.

16. Air Force (5-4) at Army (5-3) – (Ind. vs. Ind.) – Air Force is going for the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy. Only Army stands in the way. Bombs away – Air Force 29, Army 26.

17. Louisville (4-4) at Syracuse (6-2) – (Big East vs. Big East) – The Orange are on a roll and I don’t think the Cardinals are going to stop them. Orange Birds – Syracuse 18, Louisville 17.

18. Nevada (7-1) at Idaho (4-4) – (WAC vs. WAC) – Except for the slip up against Hawaii, the Wolf Pack would be undefeated. And they have thoughts about their upcoming game against Boise State. That’s why they can’t overlook the Vandals. Wolf Pack scallops the Vandals – Nevada 32, Idaho 20.

19. Rutgers (4-3) at South Florida (4-3) – (Big East vs. Big East) – South Florida found itself in its last game. The Bulls hope to keep a good thing going. Rutgers is still playing in the shadow of Eric LeGrand’s injury. The Knights need to regroup and pick themselves up. Knights stuck in Cow manure – South Florida 24, Rutgers 22.

20. Washington (3-5) at Oregon (8-0) – (Pac-10 vs. Pac-10) – Washington has been a strange team – up-and-down. But not strange enough to hang with the Ducks, especially not in Eugene. Ducks make the Huskies look Daffy – Oregon 46, Washington 16.


AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON:

21. Arizona State (4-4) at USC (5-3) – (Pac-10 vs. Pac-10) – Well, USC has had its bowl game and lost. No telling how the Trojans will play for the rest of the season. Dennis Erickson is fighting for his job at ASU. Dennis is no Menace – USC 33, Arizona State 24.


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS:

Florida (5-3) at Vanderbilt (2-6) – (SEC vs. SEC) – The Gators may have spent themselves against Georgia and could have a mental let down against Vandy. They have to be on guard for that. The game is in Nashville and on occasion, the Commodores can cause problems. But not on this occasion. Albert gets Captain Hook – Florida 27, Vanderbilt 12.

Nebraska (7-1) at Iowa State (5-4) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – The Huskers have to be careful in Ames. Nebraska has had so many big games lately (Texas, Oklahoma State, Missouri) that there could be room for a letdown. Birds can’t pick the Corn – Nebraska 28, Iowa State 17.

Virginia (4-4) at Duke (2-6) – (ACC vs. ACC) – Both teams surprised their opponents last week. Only one can surprise this week. It’s back to ACC play for the Dookies so that means they lose. Cavs make ham out of the Devils – Virginia 27, Duke 25.

Idaho State (1-7) at Georgia (4-5) – (Big Sky vs. SEC) – Now here’s a team Mark Richt doesn’t need to show any emotion over. Heck, Uga VIII could play offense and defense against the Bengals and Georgia would win. But, tell me, how do you get up for Idaho State after losing in overtime to Florida? Uga drools on the Bengals – Georgia 56, Idaho State 0.

Wisconsin (7-1) at Purdue (4-4) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – Everyone else is pounding the crap out of Purdue. Now it’s Wisconsin’s turn. Besides, the Badgers are the highest ranked Big Ten team in the BCS standings. They could still go a long way yet. Limburger in the Boiler – Wisconsin 30, Purdue 13.

Texas (4-4) at Kansas State (5-3) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – Go figure the Longhorns. They don’t make sense. A good opportunity for K-State to beat Texas. Those opportunities don’t come along very often. Cows can’t moo – Kansas State 27, Texas 23.

West Virginia (5-3) is off.


Comment: What a week! Two unbeatens (TCU-Utah) go head-to-head in Salt Lake City. Four one-loss teams face off – one game in Baton Rouge (Alabama-LSU) and the other game in Palo Alto (Arizona-Stanford). Throw Baylor at Oklahoma State and Arkansas at South Carolina into the mix and you’ve got quite a week.


AROUND FLORIDA:

UCF (6-2) visits Houston (5-3)…. Florida Atlantic (2-5) travels to Western Kentucky (1-7)…. Florida International (2-5) is hosting Louisiana-Monroe (4-4)…. Florida A&M (5-3) is on the road at North Carolina A&T (1-8)…. Bethune-Cookman (8-0) plays at Hampton (5-3)…. Jacksonville U. (8-1) visits Butler (4-5).


Tuesday’s Television Schedule – November 2

Middle Tennessee at Arkansas State – 7:00 p.m. ET – ESPN2


Wednesday’s Television Schedule – November 3

Rutgers at South Florida – 7:00 p.m. ET – ESPN2


Thursday’s Television Schedule – November 4

Buffalo at Ohio – 7:30 p.m. ET – ESPNU
Georgia Tech at Virginia Tech – 7:30 p.m. ET – ESPN


Friday’s Television Schedule – November 5

Western Michigan at Central Michigan – 6:00 p.m. ET – ESPNU
UCF at Houston – 8:00 p.m. ET – ESPN2


Saturday’s Television Schedule – November 6

Air Force at Army – 12:00 noon ET – CBS-CSN
Illinois at Michigan – 12:00 noon ET – ESPN
Maryland at Miami – 12:00 noon ET – ESPNU
N.C. State at Clemson – 12:00 noon ET – ACC Game of the Week
Louisville at Syracuse – 12:00 noon ET – Big East Game of the Week
Florida at Vanderbilt – 12:20 p.m. ET – SEC Game of the Week
Baylor at Oklahoma State – 12:30 p.m. ET – Fox Sports Network
Penn at Princeton – 3:00 p.m. ET – Versus
Alabama at LSU – 3:30 p.m. ET – CBS
Nebraska at Iowa State – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC
Northwestern at Penn State – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC/ESPN2
Washington at Oregon – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC/ESPN2
North Carolina at Florida State – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC
TCU at Utah – 3:30 p.m. ET – CBS-CSN
Hawaii at Boise State – 3:30 p.m. ET – ESPNU
Arkansas at South Carolina – 7:00 p.m. ET – ESPN
Louisiana-Lafayette at Ole Miss – 7:00 p.m. ET – ESPNU
Oklahoma at Texas A&M – 7:00 p.m. ET – Fox Sports Network
Oregon State at UCLA – 7:00 p.m. ET – Versus
Arizona at Stanford – 8:00 p.m. ET – ABC
Missouri at Texas Tech – 8:00 p.m. ET – ABC
Texas at Kansas State – 8:00 p.m. ET – ESPN2
Tennessee at Memphis – 8:00 p.m. ET – CBS-CSN
Arizona State at USC – 10:30 p.m. ET – Fox Sports Network


In the Huddle

Elsewhere around college football . . . SMU has added Northwestern State (Louisiana) to its 2011 schedule. The game will be played in Dallas…. UNLV has added Southern Utah to its 2011 schedule. The game will be played in Las Vegas…. Southern California will construct a $70 million athletics building with new offices and training facilities for the football team. Construction on the two-story, 110,000-square foot building will begin in January, finishing in about 18 months.


Extra Points

Injury Update – Notre Dame quarterback Dayne Crist, who left the Tulsa game in the first quarter, has a torn left patellar tendon in his knee and is out for six months. Miami (Florida) quarterback Jacory Harris, who left the Virginia game in the second quarter, has a concussion and is doubtful for the Maryland game this week.


AP Poll – 1. Oregon, 2. Boise State, 3. Auburn, 4. TCU, 5. Alabama, 6. Utah

Coaches Poll – 1. Oregon, 2. Auburn, 3. Boise State, 4. TCU, 5. Alabama, 6. Utah

TT’s Poll – 1. Oregon, 2. Auburn, 3. Boise State, 4. TCU, 5. Utah, 6. Alabama

BCS Rank – 1. Oregon, 2. Auburn, 3. TCU, 4. Boise State, 5. Utah, 6. Alabama


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

On the Radio – Listen live to Touchdown Tom every Friday morning from 8:05 to 8:40 ET on the Bill Mick Live show, talking college football with Bill Mick on NEWS TALK 1240 and 1350 WMMB AM. The show streams on http://www.wmmbam.com/. To listen, go to the Web site and click on “Listen Live.”

Touchdown Tom


P.S.

Not directly college football related, but on a sad note, there were eight passings of mention last week – Alex Anderson, Gregory Isaacs, James Phelps, Lisa Blount, James MacArthur, Roy Skinner, Theodore Sorensen and Maurice Lucas.

Alex Anderson, the cartoonist who first drew Rocky the flying squirrel and his buddy, the bumbling moose Bullwinkle, television characters who captivated young baby boomers in the early 1960s, died last week in Carmel, California. He was 90 and lived in Pebble Beach, California. Alexander Anderson Jr. was born in Berkeley, California, on September 5, 1920. He graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, and served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

Gregory Isaacs, reggae’s “Cool Ruler,” whose aching vocals and poignant lyrics about love and loss and ghetto life endeared him to fans of Caribbean music, died last week at his home in London. He was 60. Isaacs was born on July 15, 1950, in Kingston, Jamaica.

James Phelps, a gospel and R&B singer who performed with Lou Rawls and Sam Cooke, died last week in Los Angeles. He was 78. Phelps had a hit single “Love Is a Five-Letter Word” in 1965. James Phelps was born in Shreveport, Louisiana in 1932. In his late teens, he moved to Chicago.

Lisa Blount, who played a local girl hoping to marry a Navy pilot trainee in the 1982 film “An Officer and a Gentleman,” was found dead last week at her home in Little Rock, Arkansas. She was 53. Blount was nominated for a Golden Globe as new star of the year for her portrayal of Lynette Pomeroy, the cynical friend of Debra Winger’s character, Paula Pokrifki, in “An Officer and a Gentleman,” which also starred Richard Gere. Blount made guest appearances in a number of television shows, including “Murder, She Wrote” and “Picket Fences.” She also had a supporting role in “Great Balls of Fire!,” a 1989 film about the rock ’n’ roll star Jerry Lee Lewis, starring Dennis Quaid and Winona Ryder. In 2004, Blount played the title role in the film “Chrystal,” which also starred Billy Bob Thornton. Blount was born on July 1, 1957, in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

James MacArthur, who played Danno, the boyish-looking but hard-driving sidekick on the long-running television detective show “Hawaii Five-O,” died last week. He was 72. For 11 of the 12 years that “Hawaii Five-O” first ran on CBS, MacArthur, as Detective Danny Williams. His boss was Detective Steve McGarrett, played by Jack Lord. The original “Hawaii Five-O” ran from 1968 to 1980, making it one of television’s longest-running crime shows. MacArthur left in 1979, saying that he wanted to pursue other acting challenges. James Gordon MacArthur was born in Los Angeles on December 8, 1937. When he was seven months old he was adopted by the celebrated actress Helen Hayes and her husband, the playwright Charles MacArthur. Before “Hawaii Five-O,” MacArthur acted in several Disney adventures, including “Kidnapped” and “Swiss Family Robinson.” He had a small but significant role in the taut 1965 cold war thriller “The Bedford Incident.” In the rambunctious 1967 film “The Love-Ins,” MacArthur’s character hung out in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood of San Francisco and smoked banana peels. Besides “Hawaii Five-O,” MacArthur acted in many TV shows, including “Gunsmoke,” “Bonanza,” “The Love Boat” and “The Untouchables.” But it was his appearance in the 1968 movie “Hang ’Em High,” a low-budget spaghetti western starring Clint Eastwood that prompted Leonard Freeman, the creator of “Hawaii Five-O,” to cast him.

Roy Skinner, the Vanderbilt University coach who recruited the first black athlete to play varsity basketball in the Southeastern Conference and who led the Commodores to more victories than any other coach, died last week in Nashville. He was 80. Roy Gene Skinner was born in Paducah, Kentucky, on April 17, 1930. He graduated from Presbyterian College in South Carolina in 1952, where he played point guard. In 1957, Skinner became an assistant coach at Vanderbilt, and in 1958 he became the acting head coach. He became the head coach in 1960 and held the position until 1977. Skinner won 278 games during his career and was named the SEC’s coach of the year four times.

Theodore (Ted) Sorensen, one of the last links to John F. Kennedy’s administration, a writer and counselor who did much to shape the president’s narrative, image and legacy, died yesterday in New York City. He was 82. Theodore Chaikin Sorensen was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, on May 8, 1928. Sorensen earned undergraduate and law degrees at the University of Nebraska.

Maurice Lucas, the bruising All-Star forward who helped take the Portland Trailblazers to their only NBA championship, died yesterday. He was 58. Maurice Lucas was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He starred at Marquette University, joining with Bo Ellis in taking the team to the 1974 NCAA tournament championship game. Marquette lost in the final to N.C. State, led by David Thompson.

No. 1 is a Dangerous Position

College Football Week 9 – Ducks, Mizzou and Spartans Face Challenge

No. 1 is a Dangerous Position

Remember that old television commercial for Chiffon Margarine? “It’s not nice to fool Mother Nature.” Well, let me tell you, it’s not nice being No. 1 in college football. It’s downright dangerous. Just ask Alabama, Ohio State and Oklahoma.

You don’t even want to be ranked No. 1 this early in the season. At the end of the season, yes. But not at this point and time. It’s too dangerous.

For six weeks, Alabama was the No. 1 ranked team in the country. That is until the Crimson Tide went on the road to Columbia, South Carolina, to play the Gamecocks. Steve Spurrier’s team had a surprise waiting for the Tide. South Carolina put a 35-21 whopping on Alabama and the Tide was no longer No. 1.

Enter Ohio State. The Buckeyes became No. 1. But only for a week. Ohio State went on the road to Madison, Wisconsin, to play the Badgers. Bret Bielema’s team was waiting for the Buckeyes. Not only waiting, but prepared. Wisconsin handed Ohio State a 31-18 whipping.

Entree vous Oklahoma. The Sooners became No. 1 in the season’s first BCS Standings. But not for long. Oklahoma went on the road to Columbia (must be something about Columbia), Missouri, to play the Tigers. Gary Pinkel’s team had a trap set. And the Sooners got caught. Missouri showed Oklahoma how it’s done, tripping up the Sooners, 36-27.

Three No. 1 teams went on the road. Three No. 1 teams lost.

This week Oregon remains No. 1 in the AP and Coaches Polls. And guess what the Ducks are doing this week? They are going on the road. Oregon is headed to the Coliseum in Los Angeles to face USC. Will Lane Kiffin’s Trojans stuff the Ducks? Will USC be eating foie gras next week? Not if Tennessee fans have anything to do with it.

But unfortunately for Vols’ fans, they don’t have anything to do with it. It’s a dangerous game for Oregon. We may have a new No. 1 team next week. Stay tuned!

Oregon remained in the No. 1 spot in the AP and Coaches Polls, following its impressive 60-13 win over UCLA last Thursday night. Elsewhere in the Pac-10 over the weekend, Arizona throttled Washington, 44-14; Stanford beat Washington State, 38-28, and California pounded Arizona State, 50-17. Will Dennis Erickson still be coaching the Sun Devils next year?

In the Big Ten, Michigan State survived a scare from Northwestern. Trailing 17-0, the Spartans rallied to beat the Wildcats, 35-27. State coach Mark Dantonio was on the sidelines for the first time since his heart attack after the Notre Dame game on September 18. Also in the Big Ten, Wisconsin edged Iowa, 31-30, and Illinois beat Indiana, 43-13.

Auburn’s Cam Newton put on a Heisman performance Saturday. The Tiger quarterback rushed for 217 yards, as Auburn edged LSU, 24-17. Newton’s 49-yard touchdown run early in the third quarter was a quintessential Heisman-winning play. And speaking of Auburn, the Tigers have a target on them too. Auburn is No. 1 in the BCS Standings. Also in the SEC, Arkansas spanked Ole Miss, 38-24; Georgia downed Kentucky, 44-31, and Alabama blasted Tennessee, 41-10.

Oklahoma wasn’t the only undefeated Big 12 team to lose Saturday. Nebraska knocked off previously undefeated Oklahoma State, 51-41. Husker quarterback Taylor Martinez revived his Heisman hopes, passing for 323 yards and rushing for another 112. Baylor outlasted Kansas State, 47-42, and Texas Tech beat Colorado, 27-24. The biggest surprise in the Big 12 occurred in Austin, Texas. Iowa State upset heavily favored Texas, 28-21.

There was a big upset in the Big East too. Syracuse came into Morgantown and stymied West Virginia, 19-14. Improving Pitt stomped Rutgers, 41-21, and Louisville skunked Connecticut, 26-0. On Friday night, South Florida surprised Cincinnati, 38-30.

Miami got back on the winning track in the ACC. The Canes spanked North Carolina, 33-10. In another ACC game, Clemson bested Georgia Tech, 27-13.

In the Mountain West, TCU and Utah remained undefeated. The Horned Frogs grounded Air Force, 38-7, and the Utes dumped Colorado State, 59-6. In the WAC, Boise State had the week off, but improving Hawaii squashed Utah State, 45-7. Fresno State downed San Jose State, 33-18, and Idaho beat New Mexico State, 37-14.

Navy beat Notre Dame for the third time in four years. The Middies stunned the Irish, 35-17. Navy’s Alexander Teich rushed for 210 yards. In the MAC, Temple and Ohio continue to be the best in the East Division. The Owls beat Buffalo, 42-0, while the Bobcats thumped Miami (Ohio), 34-13. The two best of the West Division both won. Northern Illinois downed Central Michigan, 33-7, and Toledo edged Ball State, 31-24.

Three teams lost for the first time Saturday – LSU, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State. Only seven teams remain undefeated – Oregon, Auburn, Boise State, TCU, Utah, Michigan State and Missouri. Oregon, Michigan State and Missouri all have tough games Saturday. And all three tough games are on the road – Oregon at USC, Michigan State at Iowa and Missouri at Nebraska.

Auburn, TCU and Utah are also all on the road Saturday. But all three face weaker competition – Auburn at Ole Miss, TCU at UNLV and Utah at Air Force. The Falcons could provide some angst for the Utes, while Auburn can’t afford to go to sleep. Boise State has a home game Tuesday night against Louisiana Tech.

Meanwhile, only two teams remain winless – Akron (0-8) and New Mexico (0-7). And the remainder of the season does not look promising for the Zips and Lobos. They may well finish winless. Western Kentucky won for the first time Saturday. The Hilltoppers beat Louisiana-Lafayette, 54-21. Hard to believe that Rickey Bustle will be back coaching the Cajuns next year.

Speaking of not returning for the 2011 season, North Texas fired head coach Todd Dodge last week. Dodge was in his fourth season coaching the Mean Green. He had a record of 6-37 (1-6 this season). Dodge was a high school coach when he was hired by North Texas. That was about as smart a move as when Notre Dame, several years ago, hired Jerry Faust, the Holy Roller from Moeller. North Texas offensive coordinator Mike Canales was named the interim coach for the remainder of the Mean Green’s season.

The Pac-10 which will be the Pac-12 next season announced its division setup last week. There will be a North and South Division. The North will include Washington, Washington State, Oregon, Oregon State, Stanford and California. The South will include USC, UCLA, Arizona, Arizona State, Utah and Colorado.

Each team will play every team in its division and four teams from the other division – nine conference games. There will be a conference championship game played at the end of the season between the two division champions. The title game will be played on the home field of the team with the best conference record. I assume the Pac-10 is hoping that Washington State never wins its division with the best overall conference record. Pullman in December?

So, as I see it, moving up on the Heisman list: Auburn’s Cam Newton, Oregon’s LaMichael James, Stanford’s Andrew Luck, Nebraska’s Taylor Martinez, Missouri’s Blaine Gabbert and TCU’s Andy Dalton. No movement – up or down: Boise State’s Kellen Moore and Michigan’s Denard Robinson. Moving down on the Heisman list: Alabama’s Mark Ingram, Ohio State’s Terrelle Pryor and Oklahoma’s DeMarco Murray. Waiting in the wings: Wisconsin’s John Clay.

Then, you have to figure, if Michigan State and Utah continue to go undefeated shouldn’t Spartan quarterback Kirk Cousins and Ute quarterback Jordan Wynn receive Heisman consideration? Cousins and Wynn are both having good seasons. And they’re both a significant reason for their respective teams being undefeated.

So, the target’s on Oregon. The target’s on Auburn. Who will be the next No. 1 team to fall?

Friday night, Swamp Mama and I attended the Melbourne Central Catholic-Holy Trinity football game at MCC with Tom and Jane Sharpe. Tom and Jane’s son Michael is a star player for MCC. Michael didn’t let us down. On MCC’s first offensive play of the game, he caught a touchdown pass. Michael went on to score two more touchdowns before the game was over. MCC won, 49-14.

Well, Rockledge Gator and Bootsie have returned from their sabbatical in Alabama and Georgia. Rockledge Gator had to get back before the Florida-Georgia game. But I’ll let you Dawg fans in on a little secret – Rockledge Gator was born in Georgia. But he never learned to say, “Woof, woof.”

Touchdown Tom
October 25, 2010


Weekend Review

GAME OF THE WEEK: Cam-shaft – Auburn 24, LSU 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Auburn 24, LSU 17). It takes an outstanding performance in a game like this to establish yourself as the leading Heisman contender. That’s exactly what Cam Newton did. His 49-yard touchdown run is in all the highlight films. Auburn racked up 526 yards of offense on the highly-touted LSU defense. A crowd of 87,451 attended the game in Auburn.

RUNNER UP: Sooners can’t show ’em – Missouri 36, Oklahoma 27 (Touchdown Tom said: Oklahoma 31, Missouri 24). Missouri coach Gary Pinkel gets his first ever win over Oklahoma. Tiger quarterback Blaine Gabbert was flawless. A crowd of 71,004 attended the game in Columbia.

REST OF THE BEST: Cowboys stuck in Corn syrup – Nebraska 51, Oklahoma State 41 (Touchdown Tom said: Nebraska 28, Oklahoma State 25). The Huskers found their offense which was so missing against Texas. Taylor Martinez can spell Heisman again. But the Nebraska defense was a no show. Granted, Okie State has a powerful passing attack. A crowd of 55,935 attended the game in Stillwater.

Hickory-dickory dock, the Badgers ran out the clock – Wisconsin 31, Iowa 30 (Touchdown Tom said: Iowa 27, Wisconsin 22). Well, this week’s “time mismanagement at the end of the game” trophy goes to Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz. The Hawkeyes could have won the game with a field goal had Ferentz not mishandled the remaining time at the end of the game. Deep in its own territory, Wisconsin kept its final winning drive alive with a fake punt. Iowa’s defense was pooped after that play. A crowd of 70,585 attended the game in Iowa City.

Wildcats miss the Mark – Michigan State 35, Northwestern 27 (Touchdown Tom said: Michigan State 30, Northwestern 20). Spartan quarterback Kirk Cousins passed for 329 yards. A crowd of 41,114 attended the game in Evanston.

Frogs glide – TCU 38, Air Force 7 (Touchdown Tom said: TCU 29, Air Force 19). Tight first quarter, then it was all TCU after that. A crowd of 46,096 attended the game in Fort Worth.

Bears hug the Wildcats – Baylor 47, Kansas State 42 (Touchdown Tom said: Baylor 34, Kansas State 33). Baylor’s duo of Robert Griffin and Jay Finley put on quite a show. Griffin passed for 404 yards and Finley rushed for 250 yards. A crowd of 40,057 attended the game in Waco.

Locker’s no rocker – Arizona 44, Washington 14 (Touchdown Tom said: Arizona 24, Washington 16). And Arizona was playing with a backup quarterback. The Wildcats are still alive in the Pac-10. What a disappointing season for the Huskies. A crowd of 56,244 attended the game in Tucson.

Tutorless in Miami – Miami (Florida) 33, North Carolina 10 (Touchdown Tom said: Miami 23, North Carolina 19). The Tar Heels’ four-game winning streak comes to an end. A crowd of 43,584 attended the game in Miami Gardens.

No Buzz in Clemson – Clemson 27, Georgia Tech 13 (Touchdown Tom said: Clemson 30, Georgia Tech 23). Let’s face it, Georgia Tech is not really a very good team this year. A crowd of 77,000 attended the game in Clemson.

Sailors swab the Irish – Navy 35, Notre Dame 17 (Touchdown Tom said: Notre Dame 27, Navy 25). Brian Kelly has a rebuilding job on his hands. The Irish are not out of the woods yet – facing a 6-6 season. A crowd of 75,614 attended the game in East Rutherford.

Bruins drown in the Duck Pond – Oregon 60, UCLA 13 (Touchdown Tom said: Oregon 42, UCLA 14). Ducks’ offense is awesome. So in its remaining games, whose defense is going to stop Oregon’s powerful offense – USC? Washington? Cal? Arizona? Oregon State? Maybe Arizona? Otherwise, you can pencil in the Ducks for the national championship game. Meanwhile, Rick Neuheisel has major problems. Will he survive in Westwood? A crowd of 59,372 attended the game in Eugene.

Elephant walk – Alabama 41, Tennessee 10 (Touchdown Tom said: Alabama 36, Tennessee 13). Close at halftime, Bama exploded in the second half, outscoring the Vols 28-0. Quarterback Greg McElroy, receiver Julio Jones and running back Trent Richardson each had a great game for the Tide. Tennessee falls to 2-5. A crowd of 102,455 attended the game in Knoxville.

Mounties can’t peel the Orange – Syracuse 19, West Virginia 14 (Touchdown Tom said: West Virginia 33, Syracuse 12). Mountaineer quarterback Geno Smith, who only had two interceptions all season coming into the game, threw three interceptions in the first half. Syracuse beat WVU for the first time since 2001. A crowd of 58,122 attended the game in Morgantown.

Hogs rib the Rebels – Arkansas 38, Ole Miss 24 (Touchdown Tom said: Arkansas 28, Ole Miss 24). Arkansas quarterback Ryan Mallett made a nice recovery from his concussion last week. A crowd of 73,619 attended the game in Fayetteville.

Nighty Knight – Pitt 41, Rutgers 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Pitt 24, Rutgers 18). Pitt’s coming on strong, winning two in a row and scoring a combined 86 points in the two wins. Panther quarterback Tino Sunseri passed for 307 yards. A crowd of 50,425 attended the game in Pittsburgh.

Bears come out of hibernation – California 50, Arizona State 17 (Touchdown Tom said: California 30, Arizona State 27). Cal plays much better at home than on the road. Meanwhile, ASU’s Dennis Erickson has to be in trouble. A crowd of 51,599 attended the game in Berkeley.

Rocky Mountain low – Texas Tech 27, Colorado 24 (Touchdown Tom said: Texas Tech 29, Colorado 26). Curtains for Dan Hawkins. A crowd of 47,665 attended the game in Boulder.

Looking Bully – South Florida 38, Cincinnati 30 (Touchdown Tom said: Cincinnati 26, South Florida 15). Surprise, surprise – the Bulls found an offense, but lost a defense. Meanwhile, the Bearcats still have an offense and still have no defense. Cincinnati had 590 yards total offense and lost the game. A crowd of 32,670 attended the game in Cincinnati.

Strong attack – Louisville 26, Connecticut 0 (Touchdown Tom said: Louisville 27, Connecticut 24). Charlie Strong is waking up the Cardinal. A crowd of 48,591 attended the game in Louisville.


AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON:

Lynch pinned – Illinois 43, Indiana 13 (Touchdown Tom said: Illinois 35, Indiana 28). Ron Zook is safe; Bill Lynch is in jeopardy. A crowd of 53,550 attended the game in Champaign.


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS:

Tyrod tie-dyes the Dookies – Virginia Tech 44, Duke 7 (Touchdown Tom said: Virginia Tech 35, Duke 11). Tech quarterback Tyrod Taylor had a great day. Meanwhile, the Dookies exhibit little-to-no improvement from week-to-week. A crowd of 66,233 attended the game in Blacksburg.

Cat bones for Uga – Georgia 44, Kentucky 31 (Touchdown Tom said: Georgia 30, Kentucky 29). After a 1-4 start, Georgia has won three straight. A crowd of 70,884 attended the game in Lexington.

Buckeyes blast the Boilers – Ohio State 49, Purdue 0(Touchdown Tom said: Ohio State 34, Purdue 17). The Boilers had a measly 118 yards offense to Ohio State’s 489 yards. Terrelle Pryor threw two interceptions. A crowd of 105,387 attended the game in Columbia.

Cyclones feast on T-Bones – Iowa State 28, Texas 21 (Touchdown Tom said: Texas 33, Iowa State 13). Iowa State gets its first ever Big 12 win over Texas. The Longhorns are a strange team. A crowd of 100,142 attended the game in Austin.

Comment: A better week at 19-6, brings my season total to 142-51 (73.6 percent).


AROUND FLORIDA:

UCF dumped Rice, 41-14. A crowd of 38,151 attended the game in Orlando…. Florida Atlantic lost to Arkansas State, 37-16. A crowd of 13,159 attended the game in Jonesboro.

Florida A&M edged Norfolk State, 17-13. A crowd of 21,118 attended the game in Norfolk…. Bethune-Cookman beat North Carolina Central, 23-10. A crowd of 7,645 attended the game in Durham…. Jacksonville U. flattened Marist, 56-14. A crowd of 4,233 attended the game in Jacksonville.


Superlatives

Impressive Passers: Cincinnati’s Zach Collaros – 30-53-1 for 463 yards; Baylor’s Robert Griffin – 26-38-1 for 404; Hawaii’s Bryant Moniz – 25-41-2 for 389; Western Michigan’s Alex Carder – 17-24-0 for 372; South Carolina’s Stephen Garcia – 31-39-1 for 355; Kentucky’s Mike Hartline – 27-43-1 for 353; Michigan State’s Kirk Cousins – 29-43-0 for 329, and Ole Miss’ – Jeremiah Masoli – 21-36-0 for 327.

Also, Nebraska’s Taylor Martinez – 23-35-0 for 323 yards; Utah’s Jordan Wynn – 23-29-0 for 321; SMU’s Kyle Padron – 26-46-2 for 318; Missouri’s Blaine Gabbert – 30-42-0 for 308; Oregon’s Darron Thomas – 22-31-0 for 308; Pitt’s Tino Sunseri – 21-27-1 for 307; Oklahoma’s Landry Jones – 32-50-2 for 303; Minnesota’s Adam Weber – 26-49-1 for 299; Washington State’s Jeff Tuel – 21-28-2 for 298, and San Jose State’s Jordan La Secla – 19-31-2 for 292.

Also, Idaho’s Nathan Enderle – 25-47-0 for 291 yards; South Florida’s B.J. Daniels – 13-16-0 for 286; Texas Tech’s Taylor Potts – 24-38-1 for 286; Oklahoma State’s Brandon Weeden – 18-35-1 for 283; Virginia Tech’s Tyrod Taylor – 13-17-0 for 280; Colorado’s Cody Hawkins – 22-43-0 for 274; Ohio State’s Terrelle Pryor – 16-22-2 for 270; Alabama’s Greg McElroy – 21-32-0 for 264, and Western Kentucky’s Kawaun Jakes – 18-22-0 for 262.


Impressive Rushers: Baylor’s Jay Finley – 250 yards; Auburn’s Cam Newton – 217 yards; Navy’s Alexander Teich – 210 yards; TCU’s Ed Wesley – 209 yards; Oklahoma State’s Kendall Hunter – 201 yards, and Arkansas’ Knile Davis – 176 yards.

Also, Hawaii’s Alex Green – 172 yards; Clemson’s Andre Ellington – 166 yards; Georgia’s Washaun Ealey – 157 yards; Eastern Michigan’s Javonti Green – 155 yards; South Carolina’s Brian Maddox – 146 yards, and Stanford’s Stepfan Taylor – 142 yards.


Quotes of Last Week

“He’s a coward, he ruined a bunch of people’s lives, a bunch of families, kids, because he didn’t have enough guts to stay there and finish the job. And that’s the truth. Most people in football have enough courage about them and enough fight to stick it out and not quit halfway through the year. It’s cowardly. He’s a gutless bastard. You can quote that,” Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, on Bobby Petrino, his former boss at the Atlanta Falcons.

“If 1-2 Vanderbilt wins out, it’s in the SEC title game. OK, not going to happen. But after South Carolina beat Alabama one week and lost to Kentucky the next, is anybody issuing guarantees? On a related note, Steve Spurrier is rooming with Cheswick and Martini but is said to be doing very well with finger paints this week,” Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Jeff Schultz.

“Hey, just think, if Auburn Heisman Trophy candidate Cam Newton had sent a threatening text message to his girlfriend instead of throwing a stolen laptop out the window, he might be the quarterback of the Gators right now,” Orlando Sentinel columnist Mike Bianchi.

"They’re big, they’re fast and they’re bold,” Air Force coach Troy Calhoun, on TCU.


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

GAME OF THE WEEK: 1. Oregon (7-0) at USC (5-2) – (Pac-10 vs. Pac-10) – They say this is USC’s bowl game. Since the Trojans can’t go to a real bowl game, they have been pointing to the Oregon game as their “bowl game.” USC’s defense must play better than it has all year if the Trojans want to stay in this contest. The Ducks move and they move fast. Little Kiffy needs Aflac – Oregon 35, USC 27.

RUNNER UP: 2. Missouri (7-0) at Nebraska (6-1) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – This could be another shoot out like the Nebraska-Okie State game last week. Mizzou is very similar to the Cowboys. Only the Tigers are lacking a strong running game. But Blaine Gabbert’s passing can open up some gains on the ground. Mizzou’s defense will be heavily tested by Nebraska. Tigers get lost in the Maize – Nebraska 28, Missouri 26.

REST OF THE BEST: 3. Michigan State (8-0) at Iowa (5-2) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – After stubbing their toes against Wisconsin, the Hawkeyes will be out to spoil Michigan State’s party. The Spartans seem to be a second half team. Iowa was worn out against Wisconsin in the final quarter. The Hawkeyes better be in better shape against the Spartans or Kirk Cousins will pick them to pieces in the fourth quarter. Hawkeyes are no yokes – Iowa 33, Michigan State 32.

4. Florida State (6-1) at N.C. State (5-2) – (ACC vs. ACC) – The Noles are undefeated in ACC play. The Wolfpack would like to change that. These two teams have had some good encounters in recent years. Looks like another good one. Noles bingo the Wolves – Florida State 27, N.C. State 26.

5. Oklahoma State (6-1) at Kansas State (5-2) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – Both teams need to bounce back from tough losses last week. Okie State bounces better. Cowboys boot the Wildcats – Oklahoma State 39, Kansas State 27.

6. Utah (7-0) at Air Force (5-3) – (MWC vs. MWC) – Air Force is hurting – two-straight losses. Three-straight losses is not typical of a Troy Calhoun team. Utes could have some problems on their hands. Fly Boys lose their wings – Utah 28, Air Force 14.

7. East Carolina (5-2) at UCF (5-2) – (C-USA vs. C-USA) – The two best teams in the C-USA East. UCF is lucky to have the home field advantage in this one. It should be quite a contest. Knights rum the Pirates – UCF 32, East Carolina 30.

8. Michigan (5-2) at Penn State (4-3) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – Will either team be able to stop the other team? Michigan has suffered two-straight losses. The natives are getting restless again in Ann Arbor. Rich Rod really needs this one. It wouldn’t hurt for Paterno to get a win too. I’m sure the natives are getting restless in Happy Valley as well. The Rod is too Rich for the Lions – Michigan 36, Penn State 29.

9. Stanford (6-1) at Washington (3-4) – (Pac-10 vs. Pac-10) – Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck is trying to keep his Heisman stock trading high. The Huskies can be a different team at home. They beat USC. Trees bark – Stanford 34, Washington 26.

10. Florida (4-3) vs. Georgia (4-4) – (SEC vs. SEC) – This game presents an interesting scenario. After winning its first game, Georgia lost four in a row, dropping to 1-4. Then the Dawgs won three straight. Georgia comes into this game on a high. The Dawgs are hot and talking about running the table. Then there’s Florida. The Gators won their first four games, although not always looking pretty in their wins. But in their last win, the Gators beat Kentucky, 48-14. It was their best game. Then Florida’s fate turned. The Gators lost three in a row. Fortunately for the Gators, they had a week off – a much needed week off. So the Dawgs who started in a funk, seemingly have turned things around; while the Gators, who were 4-0, have fallen into a funk. And Urban Meyer is so desperate for a win, he reinstated Chris Rainey. What will Mark Richt do this year to fire up the Dawgs? Recently, in this game, he’s had them storm the field after their first touchdown and wear black helmets for the first time in history. Maybe Saturday, he’ll have the Dawgs wear red panties under their team pants. After all, what happens in Athens doesn’t stay in Athens. Just ask Damon Evans. Red panty raid – Florida 27, Georgia 26.

11. Auburn (8-0) at Ole Miss (3-4) – (SEC vs. SEC) – After the big wins over Kentucky, Arkansas and LSU, the Tigers can’t afford a letdown in Oxford. Given a few breaks, Ole Miss can be tough. Aubie snags a Bear – Auburn 33, Ole Miss 16.

12. California (4-3) at Oregon State (3-3) – (Pac-10 vs. Pac-10) – This could be the turning point for these two teams. A win here is key for both teams. Little Beaver – California 30, Oregon State 29.

13. Baylor (6-2) at Texas (4-3) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – Well, if Iowa State can beat Texas, surely Baylor can. The Bears are a better team than the Cyclones. Baylor is ranked in the AP Top 25 for the first time since 1993. But if Texas lost last week, that means the Horns will probably win this week. Go figure. Bears can’t tip the Cows – Texas 27, Baylor 24.

14. Louisville (4-3) at Pitt (4-3) – (Big East vs. Big East) – Both teams looked good last week. Louisville is still young. Pitt has the experience. Plus Pitt has the home field. Bird shot – Pitt 35, Louisville 27.

15. Syracuse (5-2) at Cincinnati (4-3) – (Big East vs. Big East) – Could Syracuse be the surprise team in the Big East this year. Guess we’ll find out. The Bearcats will be mad after the loss to South Florida. Pulp – Cincinnati 26, Syracuse 18.

16. Arizona (6-1) at UCLA (3-4) – (Pac-10 vs. Pac-10) – Arizona is not out of the Pac-10 race yet. The Wildcats don’t want to stumble on a team like UCLA. Wildcats ruin the Bruin – Arizona 30, UCLA 17.

17. Kentucky (4-4) at Mississippi State (6-2) – (SEC vs. SEC) – Wow! Look at Miss State. Six-two. Who would have thunk it? The Bulldogs almost drowned in their success against UAB. They should be up for the Wildcats. Dapper Dan – Mississippi State 32, Kentucky 29.

18. West Virginia (5-2) at Connecticut (3-4) – (Big East vs. Big East) – WVU’s offense is snake bit. The Eers better get the problem fixed before the UConn game. I suspect if WVU loses this week, Mountie fans will be calling for Bill Stewart’s hide. Some are already. Mounties give the Dogs a bath – West Virginia 30, Connecticut 19.

19. Texas Tech (4-3) at Texas A&M (4-3) – (Big 12 vs. Big 12) – Aggie coach Mike Sherman really needs a win here. He’s definitely in jeopardy. This is Tech’s second-straight game on the road. The Raiders could be a little tired. Sherman’s march to the TD – Texas A&M 28, Texas Tech 25.

20. Idaho (4-3) at Hawaii (6-2) – (WAC vs. WAC) – The Hula Hula Warriors are coming on strong behind the passing of quarterback Bryant Moniz. The Vandals’ Nathan Enderle has a strong arm. Potatoes don’t go well with Pineapples – Hawaii 37, Idaho 29.


AND ONE TO KEEP AN EYE ON:

21. Northwestern (5-2) at Indiana (4-3) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – Indiana’s Bill Lynch is hanging on for his life in Bloomington. Northwestern plans to make his grip a little more precarious. But the Wildcats often play their worst games against the weaker teams. Wildcats pin Lynch – Northwestern 29, Indiana 28.


YE OLDE STOMPING GROUNDS:

Duke (1-6) at Navy (5-2) – (ACC vs. Ind.) – Ah, the Dookies get to put on their bellbottoms and go up to Annapolis. Believe me, the Middies will have the Dookies swabbing the decks when this one is over. Sailors Shanghai the Devils – Navy 29, Duke 19.

Purdue (4-3) at Illinois (4-3) – (Big Ten vs. Big Ten) – A cat has nine lives and so does Ron Zook. On the brink of extinction, it looks like Zook will be back for yet another year with the Banned Indians. Of course, he has to beat Purdue and another team or two. But a 4-3 start is better than expected. Banned Indians sabotage the Boilers – Illinois 31, Purdue 17.


Comment: Three undefeated teams (Oregon, Missouri and Michigan State) have very stiff challenges this week and all on the road: Oregon-USC, Missouri-Nebraska and Michigan State-Iowa). The winner of East Carolina at UCF may determine the C-USA East Division champion. Will Baylor beat Texas?


AROUND FLORIDA:

Miami (5-2) plays at Virginia (3-4)…. Florida Atlantic (1-5) hosts Florida International (2-4)…. Florida A&M (4-3) entertains Morgan State (4-3)…. Bethune-Cookman (7-0) is home against North Carolina A&T (1-7)…. Jacksonville U. (7-1) travels to Morehead State (3-4)…. South Florida (3-4) is off.


Tuesday’s Television Schedule – October 26

Louisiana Tech at Boise State – 8:00 p.m. ET – ESPN2


Thursday’s Television Schedule – October 28

Florida State at N.C. State – 7:30 p.m. ET – ESPN
North Carolina A&T at Bethune-Cookman – 7:30 p.m. ET – ESPNU


Friday’s Television Schedule – October 29

West Virginia at Connecticut – 8:00 p.m. ET – ESPN2


Saturday’s Television Schedule – October 30

Clemson at Boston College – 12:00 noon ET – ACC Game of the Week
Louisville at Pitt – 12:00 noon ET – Big East Game of the Week
Miami (Florida) at Virginia – 12:00 noon ET – ESPN
Oklahoma State at Kansas State – 12:00 noon ET – Fox Sports Network
Purdue at Illinois – 12:00 noon ET – ESPN2
Syracuse at Cincinnati – 12:00 noon ET – ESPNU
VMI at Army – 12:00 noon ET – CBS-CSN
Tennessee at South Carolina – 12:20 p.m. ET – SEC Game of the Week
Tulsa at Notre Dame – 2:30 p.m. ET – NBC
Arizona at UCLA – 3:30 p.m. ET – Fox Sports Network
Duke at Navy – 3:30 p.m. ET – CBS-CSN
Florida vs. Georgia – 3:30 p.m. ET – CBS
Michigan State at Iowa – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC/ESPN
Missouri at Nebraska – 3:30 p.m. ET – ABC/ESPN
Wake Forest at Maryland – 3:30 p.m. ET – ESPNU
Auburn at Ole Miss – 6:00 p.m. ET – ESPN2
Baylor at Texas – 7:00 p.m. ET – Fox Sports Network
Kentucky at Mississippi State – 7:00 p.m. ET – ESPNU
Stanford at Washington – 7:00 p.m. ET – Versus
Vanderbilt at Arkansas – 7:00 p.m. ET – Sun Sports Network
Utah at Air Force – 7:30 p.m. ET – CBS-CSN
Michigan at Penn State – 8:00 p.m. ET – ESPN
Ohio State at Minnesota – 8:00 p.m. ET – ABC
Oregon at USC – 8:00 p.m. ET – ABC
Colorado at Oklahoma – 9:15 p.m. ET – ESPN2
Utah State at Nevada – 10:30 p.m. ET – ESPNU
TCU at UNLV – 11:00 p.m. ET – CBS-CSN


In the Huddle

Elsewhere around college football . . . BYU and Georgia Tech have scheduled a four-game home-and-home series. The Cougars will play in Atlanta in 2012 and 2014. The Yellow Jackets will play in Provo in 2013 and 2017…. South Florida has added UTEP and Florida A&M to its future schedules. The Bulls will host UTEP in 2011 and will host FAMU in 2011 and 2015.

Alabama will open the 2011 season at home against Kent State. Kent State is the alma mater of Alabama coach Nick Saban…. Michigan State and Miami (Florida) have scheduled a two-game home-and-home series for 2020 and 2021.


Extra Points

AP Poll – 1. Oregon, 2. Boise State, 3. Auburn, 4. TCU, 5. Michigan State, 6. Alabama

Coaches Poll – 1. Oregon, 2. Boise State, 3. Auburn, 4. TCU, 5. Michigan State, 6. Alabama

TT’s Poll – 1. Oregon, 2. Auburn, 3. Boise State, 4. TCU, 5. Michigan State, 6. Missouri

BCS Rank – 1. Auburn, 2. Oregon, 3. Boise State, 4. TCU, 5. Michigan State, 6. Missouri


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

On the Radio – Listen live to Touchdown Tom every Friday morning from 8:05 to 8:40 ET on the Bill Mick Live show, talking college football with Bill Mick on NEWS TALK 1240 and 1350 WMMB AM. The show streams on http://www.wmmbam.com/. To listen, go to the Web site and click on “Listen Live.”

Touchdown Tom


P.S.

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

... 15 years ago this week in 1935 was “Truckin’” by Fats Waller

…70 years ago this week in 1940 was “Only Forever” by Bing Crosby

…65 years ago this week in 1945 was “Till the End of Time” by Perry Como

…60 years ago this week in 1950 was “Goodnight Irene” by Gordon Jenkins & the Weavers

…55 years ago this week in 1955 was “Autumn Leaves” by Roger Williams

…50 years ago this week in 1960 was “Save the Last Dance for Me” by The Drifters

…45 years ago this week in 1965 was “Yesterday” by The Beatles

…40 years ago this week in 1970 was “I’ll Be There” by The Jackson 5

…35 years ago this week in 1975 was “Bad Blood” by Neil Sedaka

…30 years ago this week in 1980 was “Woman in Love” by Barbra Streisand

…25 years ago this week in 1985 was “Saving All My Love for You” by Whitney Houston

…20 years ago this week in 1990 was “Black Cat” by Janet Jackson


Not directly college football related, but on a sad note, there were two passings of mention last week – Tom Bosley, and Johnny Sheffield.

Tom Bosley, a warm-voiced, round-bodied actor who personified paternal authority on television as a Middle American dad in the hit comedy “Happy Days,” died last week in Rancho Mirage, California. He was 83. He also had significant roles on popular crime-solving television dramas, including the title character in “The Father Dowling Mysteries” and Sheriff Amos Tupper, an ally of the sleuth and mystery writer Jessica Fletcher (Angela Lansbury), in “Murder, She Wrote.” Thomas Edward Bosley was born in Chicago on October 1, 1927. He also occasionally appeared as a character actor in movies, including “Love With the Proper Stranger” (1963) with Natalie Wood and Steve McQueen and “The World of Henry Orient” (1964) with Peter Sellers, among others. Bosley also made appearances in myriad television series, including “Ben Casey,” “Dr. Kildare,” “Get Smart,” “Mission: Impossible,” “The Mod Squad,” “Bonanza” and “Bewitched.”

Johnny Sheffield, who played the character Boy in the Tarzan movies of the 1930s and 1940s, died last week at his home in Chula Vista, California. He was 79. Sheffield beat out more than 300 youngsters for the role. He later played another jungle boy, Bomba, in a dozen low-budget movies but quit the business after the last one in 1955. He went on to earn a business degree at UCLA, and worked for various companies in contracting and real estate. Johnny Sheffield was born on April 11, 1931, in Pasadena, California.