2009-10 College Football Bowl Season thread

[Honolulu Blue]

I didn't see a thread for this, so I guess I have to start it.

My picks for the upcoming bowl season:

Dec. 24 - Hawaii Bowl
SMU (+15) over Nevada

There's little question that Nevada is the better team. But 15 points is an awful lot to give, even against a terrible team, and SMU isn't half bad.

Dec. 26 - Emerald Bowl
Boston College (+9) over USC

Several things going on here. First, BC has had a great recent record in bowl games. Second, this is a major step down for USC. And third, I'm not convinced that USC is all that good. I'm happy to get 9 here.

Dec. 31 - Sun Bowl
Stanford (+8) over Oklahoma

I actually think Stanford is the better team at this time and might be a fair bet outright. Getting 8 is a true gift.

Jan. 1 - Gator Bowl
West Virginia (-3) over Florida State

FSU has looked good this season... a long time ago. Bowden's old team should win comfortably.

Jan. 1 - Sugar Bowl
Cincinnati (+11) over Florida

Yes, Tebow is a great (college) player. Yes, Florida has a fine defense. But Cincy isn't chopped liver, and even with a new coach, I think they'll keep it close enough to cover.

Jan. 2 - Alamo Bowl
Texas Tech (-8) over Michigan State

Conventional wisdom says this is a poor matchup for MSU. I happen to agree with the conventional wisdom.

Jan. 4 - Fiesta Bowl
Boise State (+7) over TCU

I'm not as convinced as the "experts" that TCU is that much better than BSU. They may not be any better at all, but let's let the game decide that. It should be close.

Jan. 6 - GMAC Bowl
Central Michigan (-3.5) over Troy

My heart sunk when CMU beat MSU back in late summer. But CMU has turned out to be a pretty good team. I have a soft spot for Troy (long story), and they should expose enough soft spots for whomever takes over to lose by more than the spread.

DISLAIMER: Point spreads and discussion for entertainment purposes only.

[Matthean]

If Kelly was still there, I would have been tempted to take Cincinnati straight up.
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[Young Drachma]

Astounding that both Wyoming and Rutgers are playing on the same day.

In any case, I doubt the Pokes will be able to get past Fresno State. Nonetheless, I'm happy they're in the postseason again. A good job by the new coaching staff.

Meanwhile, Rutgers will hopefully win their bowl at the Juice Box.

[RainMaker]

I guess this is a college football catch-all but the Joe McKnight story is rather laughable. Here is the bizarre e-mail sent by the guy who bought McKnight...I mean his GF a car.

Joe McKnight story was 'rushed,' Santa Monica businessman says | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times (http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/sports_blog/2009/12/joe-mcknight-story-was-rushed-santa-monica-businessman-says.html)

[Honolulu Blue]

According to the latest line, SMU is now a 12.5 pt dog vs. Nevada. I'm wavering in my support for them. BC is now a 7.5 pt dog vs. USC. The other lines are more or less the same, but it's early for them.

Oh, and don't forget to check out these minor bowl standbys:

* The sponsor's commercial being played over and over and over ad nauseum.
* The university's commercials, usually at or near halftime.
* The sponsor's VP being interviewed by the network (the sideline reporter if they have one). He/she will mention how great it is to have two wonderful teams playing in fantastic (insert stadium name here) in wonderful (insert city name here). He/she will also mention how honored they are to be a sponsor for the Xth year and how they hope to make it a long-term partnership.
* Standard shots:
- The dude(s) painted in the team colors. Bonus points for spelling out the team's name or nickname.
- The cute kid in the stands. Bonus points for being asleep or yawning.
- The cheerleaders.
- The sign holder that tries to connect the network's abbreviation to the team and/or favorite player. Demerits for saying "Sportscenter is next". Bonus points for saying "World Series of Poker is next".

[Karlifornia]

Were you aware that Stanford is going to be without their starting QB when you made that bet? I still think they could cover, but I wouldn't be surprised if they didn't. The defense is below-average.

[Honolulu Blue]

Were you aware that Stanford is going to be without their starting QB when you made that bet? I still think they could cover, but I wouldn't be surprised if they didn't. The defense is below-average.

I didn't know that, and I should have. It doesn't make a whole lot of difference. I still like Ivy West to cover.

[MacroGuru]

What can I say, BYU plays tonight against Oregon State and I truly hope we see the BYU that played against Oklahoma and not the one that made FSU look like a top team.

[MJ4H]

Cougars and Beavers. Isn't that a new show on NBC?

[I. J. Reilly]

What can I say, BYU plays tonight against Oregon State and I truly hope we see the BYU that played against Oklahoma and not the one that made FSU look like a top team.

I think BYU will show up ready to play, but I’m not sure the Beavs will hold up their end of the bargain. A few of the players even came out and said what a letdown it is to be in the Las Vegas bowl after being so close to the Rose Bowl. Hopefully the Seniors will give the younger guys a kick in the ass and get them ready to go.

[MacroGuru]

Solid game defensively for BYU so far, but that wind is just sick, it's eliminating the passing and kicking game basically of the team playing into it.

[Young Drachma]

Another bowl, another MWC victory. 3-0 so far. Sorta funny that all three have come in MWC stadiums, but hey...wins are wins nonetheless.

[MrBug708]

PAC-10 is 0-fer

[JonInMiddleGA]

SMU doing nasty things to Nevada

[thealmighty]

WOW!!! Did not have that pegged. Go Ponies.

Kickin' ass and takin' names- once every quarter century.

[k0ruptr]

That June Jones guy is a decent coach huh? who woulda thought ?? ;)

[k0ruptr]

WOW!!! Did not have that pegged. Go Ponies.

Kickin' ass and takin' names- once every quarter century.

its funny, I don't see how 91% of the country saw nevada winning this game. lets see we have June Jones who is probably the best passing/QB coach in the country, and runs a great passing offense. Then you have Nevada's pass defense ranked 119th out of 120 teams in FBS. It seemed like anyone who coulda done a bit of research would of bet on SMU to at least cover, if not win.

[sterlingice]

That June Jones guy is a decent coach huh? who woulda thought ?? ;)

:D

SI

[Matthean]

its funny, I don't see how 91% of the country saw nevada winning this game. lets see we have June Jones who is probably the best passing/QB coach in the country, and runs a great passing offense. Then you have Nevada's pass defense ranked 119th out of 120 teams in FBS. It seemed like anyone who coulda done a bit of research would of bet on SMU to at least cover, if not win.

Nevada was without two of it's three RBs who had 1,000 yards as well.

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[Eaglesfan27]

I always love watching Havili play. :)

[Swaggs]

I can't wait to see the attendance numbers for this game. I'm sure it will say that there are ~30,000, but I'd be shocked if there are more than 8,000.

[Noop]

Nice BS call during the USC-BC game.

[Noop]

USC's offense could be a bit more explosive but I am liking what I am seeing so far. Perhaps they can start throwing med and long range passes to mix it up.

[DaddyTorgo]

wow...the refs are absolutely FUCKING bc over in this game to try to throw it to USC

[DaddyTorgo]

Nice BS call during the USC-BC game.

seriously - "blocked into the ball?" ummm no...he was fucking engaged in the block when the ball bounced up and hit him. that was some serious bullshit

[Eaglesfan27]

That was an amazing catch by Williams.

[Swaggs]

Is Williams draft-eligible? He looks pretty damn impressive tonight.

[Eaglesfan27]

Is Williams draft-eligible? He looks pretty damn impressive tonight.

Yes and he is almost certain to go pro early. I expect he'll announce sometime early this upcoming week. He'll be missed. He's been a great player for USC. He's clearly been the MVP this year.

[Eaglesfan27]

Speaking of players going early, USC sideline reporter states that DE Everson Griffen announced immediately after the game while on the field that he is declaring for the NFL draft.

[EagleFan]

seriously - "blocked into the ball?" ummm no...he was fucking engaged in the block when the ball bounced up and hit him. that was some serious bullshit

+1

I didn't have a horse in the race but I was dumbfounded by that call. Horrible, just horrible!!!

[DaddyTorgo]

+1

I didn't have a horse in the race but I was dumbfounded by that call. Horrible, just horrible!!!

it was pretty clearly a hometown-call. not to mention the long reception the USC guy caught earlier on the sidelines where it seemed to me he hadn't established possession before he landed out of bounds and yet it was still ruled a reception inside the 10.

[bhlloy]

Punt call was BS, reception was the right call. If it "seems" to you that he was out of bounds then I think you are agreeing there wasn't enough evidence to overturn the call on the field, no? But no argument about the punt call, that one turned the momentum of the whole game right there.

BC is an OK team if they can find a QB, USC was unbelievably average again. Hopefully this will be Bates' last game as he rejoins Shanahan wherever he ends up (Redskins?). I've seen enough bizarre playcalling this season to last me a lifetime.

[DaddyTorgo]

Punt call was BS, reception was the right call. If it "seems" to you that he was out of bounds then I think you are agreeing there wasn't enough evidence to overturn the call on the field, no? But no argument about the punt call, that one turned the momentum of the whole game right there.

BC is an OK team if they can find a QB, USC was unbelievably average again. Hopefully this will be Bates' last game as he rejoins Shanahan wherever he ends up (Redskins?). I've seen enough bizarre playcalling this season to last me a lifetime.

no...as far as the reception call - from the angle they showed on tv it looked as if he hadn't caught the ball when his feet last came down in bounds. pretty clearly IMO.

[Honolulu Blue]

I've been away from the Net for awhile, and I don't have much time now. I just want to note that I'm 1-1 so far. No, I didn't know that SMU was that good. And yes, I knew USC could be that good.

I'll come back to this thread with updated lines and other thoughts. But for now, thank you for the discussion.

[CU Tiger]

Nashville is very blue.....Clemson traveled very poorly, uncharacteristically so.

And DAMN its cold....

[Noop]

Nashville is very blue.....Clemson traveled very poorly, uncharacteristically so.

And DAMN its cold....

I guess they're disappointed about not going to the Gator Bowl.

[CU Tiger]

I guess they're disappointed about not going to the Gator Bowl.


Actually it was a slap to not be in the Peach, Gator and Citrus bowls, but we did what we came to town to do, lets hope Diddy does the same...

BTW it was funny to listen to Kentucky fans chanting "SEC,SEC,SEC" as they walked out of the stadium. The ones not screaming SEC were talking about basketball...

Then ESPN runs a story that says Clemson is now 3-9 in their last 12 against the SEC....it was later corrected to 9-3.

[cartman]

ESPN just announced that Mike Leach is suspended from coaching Texas Tech in their bowl game. Evidently a player is claiming he was put in an electrical closet for several hours after complaining about an injury. Bizarre.

[Eaglesfan27]

ESPN just announced that Mike Leach is suspended from coaching Texas Tech in their bowl game. Evidently a player is claiming he was put in an electrical closet for several hours after complaining about an injury. Bizarre.

Specifically, they are saying he was put there after a concussion. I could see wanting someone to be in a dark room for a migraine, but this is bizarre and seemingly undefensible if true. The rumor is that it is Craig James' kid - actually ESPN's story now says it is his son.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/bowls09/news/story?id=4776848

[Young Drachma]

I think we're starting to see the fissures of what we've come to know as college athletics -- especially in the revenue sports -- slowly but surely. I can't imagine this system as we know it will last another decade.

[JonInMiddleGA]

I can't believe A&M let Georgia run back a f'n kickoff after they finally scored.

[JonInMiddleGA]

And I really can't believe they gave up a blocked punt to set Georgia up on their 2. It's suddenly 14-7 UGA less than a minute left in the half.

And this is on top of a blocked FGA earlier in the game.

[digamma]

I think we're starting to see the fissures of what we've come to know as college athletics -- especially in the revenue sports -- slowly but surely. I can't imagine this system as we know it will last another decade.

Say huh?

While college sports are always changing and evolving, this seems like an odd spot for this comment. I can't imagine how the Leach situation would ever trigger the comment. I realize you're making a larger point (and I'm not sure I agree with the larger point), but this Leach thing wouldn't rank in the top 100,000 of things to ever effect the college football or college athletic landscape.

[digamma]

aTm gets a nice little "gift" from the officials in re-spotting the ball three yards forward, preventing them from snapping the ball for a spike and a last second field goal attempt.

[JonInMiddleGA]

I can't believe A&M was bowl eligible with this QB.

[BishopMVP]

I can't believe A&M was bowl eligible with this QB.Jerrod Johnson? He was phenomenal against Texas but definitely boom or bust. Plus, A&M was 6-6 with one win over a decent team (Texas Tech), so they weren't really good.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Jerrod Johnson? He was phenomenal against Texas but definitely boom or bust. Plus, A&M was 6-6 with one win over a decent team (Texas Tech), so they weren't really good.

Looks like a case where a kid has one over his head game (re: Texas) and then returns to his actual level. This is like watching Jaybo Shaw except with INT's instead of fumbles.

[BishopMVP]

Looks like a case where a kid has one over his head game (re: Texas) and then returns to his actual level. This is like watching Jaybo Shaw except with INT's instead of fumbles.Overall I agree on his competency except he seemed to be pretty good at avoiding INT's - only threw 6 all year coming in. His good games outside Texas were vs. non-BCS teams or iowa st/baylor, and he had some terrible games in blowouts vs. Arkansas, Kansas State and Oklahoma (12-33 115 yds 7 rush 0 yards :eek:). Then again, given A&M's defense and terrible special teams tonight he hasn't been their biggest problem.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Overall I agree on his competency except he seemed to be pretty good at avoiding INT's - only threw 6 all year coming in. His good games outside Texas were vs. non-BCS teams or iowa st/baylor, and he had some terrible games in blowouts vs. Arkansas, Kansas State and Oklahoma (12-33 115 yds 7 rush 0 yards :eek:). Then again, given A&M's defense and terrible special teams tonight he hasn't been their biggest problem.

Granted, the Aggies came apart on special teams & the defense has just been abused for the last half hour or so but honestly this just strikes me as another case that illustrates the example of the difference between conferences. A&M looks like a three-win team if they played in the SEC, maybe better than Vandy but that's about it.

[BishopMVP]

Dec. 31 - Sun Bowl
Stanford (+8) over Oklahoma

I actually think Stanford is the better team at this time and might be a fair bet outright. Getting 8 is a true gift.
I was hoping more people would think that way, but after opening at 7/8 it's up to Oklahoma -10 in most places.

Other games that have shifted - AF (+7, down to +4.5) vs. Houston, Auburn (-4.5, up to -9) vs. Northwestern, West Virginia (from +1 to -2.5) vs. FSU, Florida up from 10.5 to 13 vs. Cincy, South Florida from -7 to -10 vs. Northern Illinois, Arkansas from -10 to -7.5 vs. ECU and TCU going from 4 to 7.5 point favorites vs. Boise. (plus Georgia had gone from -4 to -6.5 tonight, which looks good so far)

[JonInMiddleGA]

Well at least A&M manages to score against the second string defense

[JonInMiddleGA]

Even if I don't like the smarmy SOB, Richt was funny trying make sure he avoided the Gatorade bath and the players were kind of funny getting the OC Bobo by surprise instead.

[Honolulu Blue]

Originally Posted by Honolulu Blue
Dec. 31 - Sun Bowl
Stanford (+8) over Oklahoma

I actually think Stanford is the better team at this time and might be a fair bet outright. Getting 8 is a true gift.

I was hoping more people would think that way, but after opening at 7/8 it's up to Oklahoma -10 in most places.

I still say there's something I must be missing, but we shall see. As a 10 point dog, the outright odds on Stanford should be something like +300 (or 3-1 in more conventional form; bet $100, win $400). That's mighty tempting, IMO.

Other games that have shifted - AF (+7, down to +4.5) vs. Houston, Auburn (-4.5, up to -9) vs. Northwestern, West Virginia (from +1 to -2.5) vs. FSU, Florida up from 10.5 to 13 vs. Cincy, South Florida from -7 to -10 vs. Northern Illinois, Arkansas from -10 to -7.5 vs. ECU and TCU going from 4 to 7.5 point favorites vs. Boise. (plus Georgia had gone from -4 to -6.5 tonight, which looks good so far)

Thank you for the research. It's interesting the way the lines have moved. Florida-Cincy I kind of expected with the Meyer saga. I still like Cincy, even though it's a temp coach vs. two saints.

One line not mentioned that I expect to move a bit is TT-MSU. Leach is being keelhauled and I have no public opinion on what may have happened there. They picked the D.Coord to coach, which is interesting. I think he'd be a lot happier with a 7-point win than Leach would, and may work toward that end. But fundamentally Tech is still a red hot passing team, and MSU still has those problems against the pass, in addition to the suspensions.

[Dr. Sak]

I think Mike Leach put the wrong James in the closet. He should've put Craig James in the closet, locked the door, and threw away the key.

[Logan]

I think Mike Leach put the wrong James in the closet. He should've put Craig James in the closet, locked the door, and threw away the key.

It being Craig James' kid makes the story even stranger. Wonder what ESPN thinks about it. I did see that James was supposed to do the TT bowl game, but they've pulled him from that already.

[bronconick]

I still say there's something I must be missing, but we shall see. As a 10 point dog, the outright odds on Stanford should be something like +300 (or 3-1 in more conventional form; bet $100, win $400). That's mighty tempting, IMO.



Hasn't Vegas had something of a love affair with Oklahoma in general this year? I thought I saw somewhere that if Vegas odds were used as a ranking system, Oklahoma would have been a top 10 4-loss team late into the season.

Edit: Stanford's starting their backup QB since Luck had finger surgery. Backup's a 5th year senior that has thrown 3 passes this season.

[MrBug708]

Prichard isn't a slouch

[MrBug708]

That was surprising start. Who would have thought Temple would have passed?

[Chief Rum]

That was surprising start. Who would have thought Temple would have passed?

I can tell who didn't think they would pass (UCLA's defensive coaching staff).

Oh, another note to the staff: if Prince isn't interested in showing up today, please get someone in there who is.

[MrBug708]

It's time to bring in Craft. BRO wants to see Brehaut, but this game isn't about the future, it's about not being embarrassed.

Field Goal U

[Young Drachma]

Temple back to the Big East, but this time as an all-sport member. UMass upgrades and maybe Villanova, too? Add Memphis as an all-sport member, kick out DePaul and there you have your 16 basketball schools and football goes to 12.

You know, for when Rutgers/Pitt/Syracuse leaves...

[MrBug708]

Akeem Ayers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Young Drachma]

It wasn't so much if they'd blow it, just how they'd figure out which way to do it.

[MrBug708]

Feels good to finish on a high note

[Eaglesfan27]

Feels good to finish on a high note

That was a high note? :p

[MrBug708]

That was a high note? :p

Baby steps

Brian Price declares

[mauchow]

Great start to the Badger game... *sigh*

Miami opens up with a kickoff return for a touchdown only to be called back ono a stupid play by one of the Canes to block in the back on the 10 yard line when his runner is 5 yards ahead of him. Not that it mattered much as it took two plays to score.

The Badgers pin the Canes and force a 3 and out and are threatening now goal to go. Badgers also lost one of their better lineman to a knee injury but he might come back..

[Chief Rum]

That was a high note? :p

Heh...that bowl visit just supplied more cash to the conference than a certain recent visit to a bowl in the Bay Area. ;)

[Eaglesfan27]

Heh...that bowl visit just supplied more cash to the conference than a certain recent visit to a bowl in the Bay Area. ;)

And I'm sure 17 year old recruits care about that, rather than the fact that the team was almost embarrassed by Temple, a team with one of the worst reputations in the FBS. Don't get me wrong, it would have been even worse to have lost that game, but I'd hardly call it a high note for the Bruins.

[mauchow]

Badgers dominating this game so far in the trenches. A turnover has kept this game semi-close. Hopefully this can carry over into the second half(unlike most of their games this year. The Badgers were really good in one half and bad in the second half a lot).

Hold the Canes to no more points this half and I'll take that.

[DaddyTorgo]

my brother just pointed out...the "illegal shift" motion by the ref looks like ummm...something else

[MrBug708]

Sua-Filo is going on his mission

Crap

[Chief Rum]

And I'm sure 17 year old recruits care about that, rather than the fact that the team was almost embarrassed by Temple, a team with one of the worst reputations in the FBS. Don't get me wrong, it would have been even worse to have lost that game, but I'd hardly call it a high note for the Bruins.

Well, I wasn't the one who called it a high note. I would just argue glass houses and all that...

Let's just say, UCLA probably got a lot more positive momentum out of this postseason than the Trojans did, since they're supposed to be in a BCS bowl, and UCLA just wanted any bowl.

[Chief Rum]

Sua-Filo is going on his mission

Crap

That one hurts, but I'll support the kid, if that's what he wants to do. He'll come back bigger and stronger and even more mentally prepared.

This gives Abele his chance and some of our other young players.

[MrBug708]

And I'm sure 17 year old recruits care about that, rather than the fact that the team was almost embarrassed by Temple, a team with one of the worst reputations in the FBS. Don't get me wrong, it would have been even worse to have lost that game, but I'd hardly call it a high note for the Bruins.

You're stretching pretty badly here. No 17 year old kid knows about or cares about Temple. Pete Carroll can show the box score for the first half, Rick can show the box score of the second half.

4 wins to 7 wins is a high note no matter what you might try to spin

[mauchow]

Badgers have given Miami all the chances in the world to stay in the game.. and the refs too while you're at it. I thought the defense had given up less than 100 yards in the game until I remembered Miami's two big offensive plays(one came at the end of the first half and the other at the start of the second half, both of which amounted to nothing for the Canes).

Rock on, Badgers! They return LOTS of players next year. LOTS.

[mauchow]

As I speak, the Badgers pin Miami on the 1 yard line and then give up a 25 yard run with a 15 yard penalty on top of that. Ugh. Helping Miami stay in it... and then the Badgers pick up their first defensive turnover of the game. That should about do it for the Miami Hurricanes. Woohoo!

[larrymcg421]

Looks like another late season collapse for the Canes, which has become an annual tradition under Randy Shannon. He's done some great things for this program, but I sure hope he buys a fucking clue and learns how to coach by next season.

[tarcone]

Go Wisconsin! Go Big Ten!.

Its nice to see a ranked opponent beaten. And from the ACC. Awesome.

[tarcone]

Almost spoke to soon.

[BishopMVP]

honestly this just strikes me as another case that illustrates the example of the difference between conferences. A&M looks like a three-win team if they played in the SEC, maybe better than Vandy but that's about it.Can't really argue with this. The B12 South is about equal to the SEC East but the SEC West is head and shoulders above the B12 North.Hasn't Vegas had something of a love affair with Oklahoma in general this year? I thought I saw somewhere that if Vegas odds were used as a ranking system, Oklahoma would have been a top 10 4-loss team late into the season.It's not just Vegas it's pretty much every computer-based system. Other than the Texas Tech aberration that I can't explain (tA&M beats Tech by 22, OU beats tA&M by 55, Tech beats OU by 28 in consecutive weeks?) they lost by 12 points combined to BYU, Miami, Texas and Nebraska, all out of state (even if BYU was essentially a home game.) Stanford got hype for beating Oregon and USC back to back, but then lost to Cal (minus Jahvid Best) and beat ND in the last minute to close the season. They've also given up at least 34 points 5 of their last 7 games ans are starting a backup QB who, MrBug's assertion aside, has a 15-22 td/int ratio and slightly over 6ypa in a season and a half of starting, and pretty much singlehandedly gave away games vs. ND in 2007 and 2008 from the little I've seen of him. Weird things happen in bowl games if one team cares and the other doesn't, and Oklahoma has a history of playing poorly out of state, but I'd be careful there with laying too much on Stanford to cover (-110) - but (cutting across the entire preceding paragraph) if you can actually get a money line in the 300 to 400 range that's pretty good value.

[Butter]

Worst use of a recovered onside kick ever, Canes.

[Honolulu Blue]

Updated lines on the relevant games:

* Stanford is still +10 vs. Oklahoma, with the money line at +300
* West Virginia is now favored by 2.5 vs. Florida State
* Cinicinnati is now +13 vs. some other team
* To my surprise, the Texas Tech-MSU line hasn't moved - TT is still favored by 8, with the over/under at 60.5
* Boise State remains +7 vs. TCU
* Central Michigan is still -3.5 vs. Troy

I still like the Cardinal to cover, and I also like the odds to win outright. I like the UNDER in the Alamo Bowl better than I like the spread, though that should be OK (I hope).

P.S. I'm alternating between being sick of "I Am The Champion" and being inspired by it.

[B & B]

It takes a competent QB to beat Oklahoma's defense. They will stack the box and force the pass.

P.S. That song sucks, and was possibly written by a 5 year old.

[MacroGuru]

Sua-Filo is going on his mission

Crap

It's a positive now...unless he has a change of heart while out there and decides to become a Cougar....But I know Norm as long as he is there will know how to get the missionaries in shape when they get back...

Just hope he doesn't get sent to Central or South America where he will potentially lose a ton of weight and muscle mass.

[Eaglesfan27]

I'll be very surprised if Norm is still at UCLA in 2 years. There are more rumors out there that he won't even be back next year.

Edit: Not to mention even the LA times is picking up on it:

http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-simers-ucla30-2009dec30,0,6133904.column

[MacroGuru]

I'll be very surprised if Norm is still at UCLA in 2 years. There are more rumors out there that he won't even be back next year.

Edit: Not to mention even the LA times is picking up on it:

For Rick Neuheisel to rule at UCLA, he'll need Prince -- latimes.com (http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-simers-ucla30-2009dec30,0,6133904.column)

If thats the case I would say the Xavier becomes a Cougar or Ute after his mission.

[Karlifornia]

It takes a competent QB to beat Oklahoma's defense. They will stack the box and force the pass.

P.S. That song sucks, and was possibly written by a 5 year old.

Stacking the box doesn't really work against Stanford. Their offensive live + FB Owen Marecic + Heisman runner up Toby don't care if you put 9 in the box. If they want to run, they will. They still need some passing to win this game, but stacking the box is an empty threat that Stanford has heard all season.

[Chief Rum]

I'll be very surprised if Norm is still at UCLA in 2 years. There are more rumors out there that he won't even be back next year.

Edit: Not to mention even the LA times is picking up on it:

For Rick Neuheisel to rule at UCLA, he'll need Prince -- latimes.com (http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-simers-ucla30-2009dec30,0,6133904.column)

Chow will be back next year for sure. The Times has been trying to send him out for a month or two now, to San Jose State, back to USC, to the NFL, to retirement. They really need to just stop; their track record is very poor.

ESPN's Ted Miller is reporting him as coming back, too.

The X man actually says he'll be back to UCLA "if Coach Neuheisel is still here." So I'm not sure even Chow leaving would keep him from coming back, although certainly it won't help if Chow is not here when he returns.

[BishopMVP]

Stacking the box doesn't really work against Stanford. Their offensive live + FB Owen Marecic + Heisman runner up Toby don't care if you put 9 in the box. If they want to run, they will. They still need some passing to win this game, but stacking the box is an empty threat that Stanford has heard all season.Except this isn't vs. a PAC-10 defense anymore. Oklahoma is 4th in ypc against, 7th rush defense, (also 7th in overall yards against per game and 7th in scoring defense). Stanford's best opponent in terms of run defense was Arizona St - 24th in ypc against and 18th in rush yards against and Gerhart put up 125 on 27 carries (4.6ypc) against the Sun Devils. I wish I wasn't working tomorrow so I could watch Gerhart vs. a real defense.

[Karlifornia]

Except this isn't vs. a PAC-10 defense anymore. Oklahoma is 4th in ypc against, 7th rush defense, (also 7th in overall yards against per game and 7th in scoring defense). Stanford's best opponent in terms of run defense was Arizona St - 24th in ypc against and 18th in rush yards against and Gerhart put up 125 on 27 carries (4.6ypc) against the Sun Devils. I wish I wasn't working tomorrow so I could watch Gerhart vs. a real defense.

Oklahoma's defense is vaunted enough to be considered impressive for any conference. Gerhart is going to get his. He always does. Can Oklahoma keep the 4 and 5 yard gains at that? They need to wrap him up, and prevent the runs into the secondary. If they can force 3rd and 7-10's, then Pritchard will have to play like he did against USC in order for Stanford to win, which I wouldn't bet on.

Gerhart will get his. I would bet on that.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Y'know, I can usually find something remotely interesting about nearly any bowl matchup but is there a less interesting pairing than Bowling Green vs Idaho? That's not even a good I-AA regular season game.

[SirFozzie]

35-35.. it's a pretty good game!

Make that 42-35. Wow.

Edit: ESPN breathes a huge sigh of relief that this will not run too much longer and run into the next game

[SirFozzie]

Are YOU KIDDING ME?

And ESPN360.com just cut out

[JonInMiddleGA]

Edit: ESPN breathes a huge sigh of relief that this will not run too much longer and run into the next game

Speak too soon? :D

[SirFozzie]

Hahahaha.

Big bomb, caught with pass interference on the defense.. and it looks like via the ESPN Game tracker that they scored the TD on the next play with :04 to play..

but ESPN360 doesn't have it on the live feed (the alloted time ran out, and no one extended it)

and they went for two, and got it. What a crazy finish. (betcha some ESPN guy called down to the coach and said "If you send this to OT, we will bury you forever! END THIS GAME ONE WAY OR ANOTHER!)

[SirFozzie]

Zona getting destroyed early

[BishopMVP]

Oklahoma's defense is vaunted enough to be considered impressive for any conference. Gerhart is going to get his. He always does. Can Oklahoma keep the 4 and 5 yard gains at that? They need to wrap him up, and prevent the runs into the secondary. If they can force 3rd and 7-10's, then Pritchard will have to play like he did against USC in order for Stanford to win, which I wouldn't bet on.

Gerhart will get his. I would bet on that.If 125 yards on 25-30 carries in a double digit loss is "getting his" then sure, but then why was he a Heisman candidate? If you think he's getting close to 200 or averaging 6+ a carry, I highly doubt it. Time will tell though. (and the early Pac-10/B12 returns here aren't promising)

[Karlifornia]

If 125 yards on 25-30 carries in a double digit loss is "getting his" then sure, but then why was he a Heisman candidate? If you think he's getting close to 200 or averaging 6+ a carry, I highly doubt it. Time will tell though. (and the early Pac-10/B12 returns here aren't promising)

Why was he a Heisman Candidate? Consistency. Every game he could be counted on for at least the numbers you mentioned, and in the biggest games Stanford played, he had his best games. Why should I assume he's not gonna do what he's done in just about every game for 3 years in his final collegiate game? Because Oklahoma has a good defense, including a great DT? I guess I could assume things will be different. I wouldn't bet on it, though. You apparently would

[Karlifornia]

Meanwhile, Arizona is getting their asses kicked. Foles had better find some rhythm with his receivers. Nebraska is just dominating both sides of the ball.

[SirFozzie]

20-0. So much for the second game of the Bowl Doubleheader having a tenth of the excitement of the first.

[BishopMVP]

Why was he a Heisman Candidate? Consistency. Every game he could be counted on for at least the numbers you mentioned, and in the biggest games Stanford played, he had his best games. Why should I assume he's not gonna do what he's done in just about every game for 3 years in his final collegiate game? Because Oklahoma has a good defense, including a great DT? I guess I could assume things will be different. I wouldn't bet on it, though. You apparently wouldI said he'd probably put up 125 or so and his team would lose. Since he's gone over 150 times exactly 4 times in his career (compared to under 100 19 times) and the team is 15-22 when he plays, I'd say that's exactly what he's done for 3+ years. He's a smarter Ron Dayne.

[Karlifornia]

I said he'd probably put up 125 or so and his team would lose. Since he's gone over 150 times exactly 4 times in his career (compared to under 100 19 times) and the team is 15-22 when he plays, I'd say that's exactly what he's done for 3+ years. He's a smarter Ron Dayne.

Wait..are you arguing with yourself?

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

All ready for the Mizzou game today! Should be a great matchup with Navy. Both teams are 8-4 and the style of offenses contrast about as much as you'll ever see. I expect Navy to have 40 minutes of possession time due to the style of play by these two teams.

[Karlifornia]

Oklahoma came to play. Tavita Pritchard needs to wake the hell up. The Oklahoma fight song or whatever that is is absolutely dreadful. Hopefully I don't have to hear it all day.

[Karlifornia]

UH/AFA has been a pretty crazy game. Back to back kick return TD's. Fun!

[Eaglesfan27]

Gerhart doing a decent job against the Oklahoma run defense. That TD run was a nice display of his ability.

[Karlifornia]

Paging the Stanford defense....Paging the Stanford defense...Would someone like to get a body on #85?

[MJ4H]

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y257/Gorgonian14/motivator1208063.jpg

[k0ruptr]

how bout them Cardinal?!? good game so far, but they had a good (great for them) season. Jim Harbaugh turning into a decent coach!

[k0ruptr]

I said he'd probably put up 125 or so and his team would lose. Since he's gone over 150 times exactly 4 times in his career (compared to under 100 19 times) and the team is 15-22 when he plays, I'd say that's exactly what he's done for 3+ years. He's a smarter Ron Dayne.

on pace for 158 yards and 4 touchdowns

79 yards and 2 tds at the half, 4.6 ypc. pretty much killin the sooner d so far.

[Galaril]

UH/AFA has been a pretty crazy game. Back to back kick return TD's. Fun!

One of the greatest victories in AF history at least since the 12-1 number 6 ranking finish in 1985. I was really impressed by the AF defense they held Case Keenum the top passer in the nation with just 6000 yards to 22o yards passing 1 TD and 6 interceptions! So, they sure did prove they really are the number defense in the nation against the pass for real in this one and not just a stat. The Mountain West is sure showing their case for a BCS bid. I am pissed I had three tickets near the 50 yard line for this bowl but due to my company moving our Data Center across the country during the Christmas weekend and thus was working I had to sell them argghhh!

[cartman]

Jim Harbaugh turning into a decent coach!

PING: RainMaker

[k0ruptr]

lawlz.

[k0ruptr]

Dola, that also came out wrong, I know he has been a decent coach for a bit, and he is. I guess I just meant hes coming along, and imo he is probably one of the more underrated coaches in the country.

[MizzouRah]

Mizzou needs to get their @%*&@% together!

[tarcone]

Harbaugh called some bad plays in that last drive.

[CU Tiger]

Is it too much to ask to have an announcer that knows there is no 2 minute warning in college football calling a bowl game.

[Karlifornia]

Good game Sooners. The refs were pretty terrible. Oklahoma played better and deserved it. I'm a bit sad that I won't get to see Toby play for Stanford again, but at least he finished with a gutty performance in a bowl game.

[EagleFan]

Navy just put a beat down on Missouri, wow.

[Eaglesfan27]

Is it too much to ask to have an announcer that knows there is no 2 minute warning in college football calling a bowl game.

Agreed. That annoyed me. Guys getting paid that much money should at least know the basic rules of the game they are covering. Good effort from Stanford and I suspect they would have won if Luck was available.

[bhlloy]

Harbaugh called some bad plays in that last drive.

This was my thought as well. On a 4th and 2 they basically gambled the entire game on Pritchard rolling out and trying to hit one of 2 receivers in the flat, who were predictably well covered. They didn't even put Gerhardt on that side as a safety valve or put any extra blockers out there in case he had to scramble. Very poor play call IMO.

[JonInMiddleGA]

snip Guys getting paid that much money

Who was working the game? I ask because you'd be surprised (shocked most likely) how relatively little some of the announcers are getting paid these days.
I know I was when I heard what the games doing the E360 games were making (less than $500 per)

[Eaglesfan27]

snip

Who was working the game? I ask because you'd be surprised (shocked most likely) how relatively little some of the announcers are getting paid these days.
I know I was when I heard what the games doing the E360 games were making (less than $500 per)

Less than 500 dollars per game? per hour? Either way, I'm surprised they aren't making more, but even if they aren't making more, no excuse not to know the rules. I believe it was Steve Beurelein and Craig Bolerjack calling the game, but I'm not positive that is who it was.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Less than 500 dollars per game?

Per game. Now remember, that's the E360 crews, not the bigger guys so they aren't all that bad by any means. Just saying that most of the announcers you hear aren't making Musberger money.

I believe it was Steve Beurelein and Craig Bolerjack calling the game, but I'm not positive that is who it was.

Too many guys trying to work multiple sports (I heard Jon Sciambi doing college basketball today), too many guys doing too many games period really, it has to take a toll. In Beurelein's case I imagine that's a hard habit to break mentally, Bolerjack has less of an excuse in my book though.

[JonInMiddleGA]

{rubs eyes}

Did the VaTech ass't coach just do Cena's "you can't see me" thing after that blindside sack?

[MJ4H]

{rubs eyes}

Did the VaTech ass't coach just do Cena's "you can't see me" thing after that blindside sack?

lol for real

[JonInMiddleGA]

Sean McDonough & Matt Millen border on painful to listen to. McDonough's comment, something to the effect that "Tennessee fans don't even know who Taurean Poole is" illustrates how little he understands about college football Southern style. Fans in these parts can tell you about redshirts who haven't even taken a snap in practice much less guys who are on the depth chart.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Does anyone maintain official "dropped pass" stats for college (I'm guessing no).
And if so, I wonder if any team in the country has a higher percentage of drops than Tennessee.

[Toddzilla]

Hokie Hokie Hokie Hi
Tech Tech VPI

[Cuckoo]

Good game Sooners. The refs were pretty terrible. Oklahoma played better and deserved it. I'm a bit sad that I won't get to see Toby play for Stanford again, but at least he finished with a gutty performance in a bowl game.

Man, he's a beast. OU bottled him up time and time again, but he never falls backwards and he keeps coming back, before eventually breaking a couple of longer runs.

I was worried right up until the very end. Even though the Sooners had a big lead in the yardage, Stanford forced mistakes and stayed in it. Luckily, our defense really stepped up in the 2nd half and it's nice to get a bowl win again. Depending on who leaves for the NFL, it gives me some optimism for 2010.

[MizzouRah]

Navy just put a beat down on Missouri, wow.

You can say that again... totally got our butts kicked.

[Eaglesfan27]

Love the creativity by the Wildcats on that 2 point conversion to tie the game.

[RainMaker]

Auburn fumbles the kickoff return. Amazing game and comeback for NU.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Unfuckingbelievable the lengths Auburn is going to give this one away.

[RainMaker]

Thought NU should have played for the first down there with this weather and distance.

[DaddyTorgo]

oh shit...he hooked it. overtime

[RainMaker]

What's the record for passes in a game? Kafka has 74 right now.

[JonInMiddleGA]

What's the record for passes in a game? Kafka has 74 right now.

NCAA record is 85 by a guy from Stephen F. Austin. I haven't found the D1 record yet

[JonInMiddleGA]

I think the record may still belong to Drew Brees, 83 vs Wisconsin in 1998.

[RainMaker]

NCAA record is 85 by a guy from Stephen F. Austin. I haven't found the D1 record yet
I think FBS is 83 by Brees.

[JonInMiddleGA]

It's turning into the Instant Replay Bowl for auburn & Northwestern.

[Eaglesfan27]

Wow. A roughing the kicker on the missed field goal.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Unfuckingbelievable. Missed field goal & they call roughing the kicker, giving Northwestern yet another life. Already (correctly) overturned a fumble ruling that would have ended the game.

[RainMaker]

Auburn has basically done everything in their power to give Northwestern this game. Looks like the kicker's leg might be broken.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Backup kicker on to tie it, they fake the FG, Auburn stops 'em at the 3.

[RainMaker]

Probably would have just kept the offense out there considering they've put up 600 yards on them.

[JonInMiddleGA]

F'n refs just jobbed FSU, damned WVU RB throws a stiff arm punch and drags a defender by his face mask, they only call the later retaliation shove on FSU (to go with an earlier face mask way back up field), so it's a 30 yd gift to WVU.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Karmic revenge as WVU missed the ensuing FGA.

[rowech]

Probably would have just kept the offense out there considering they've put up 600 yards on them.

No kidding...if you're going to go for it, go for it with your best offensive guys.

[rowech]

I usually bamouth officials because I think the vast majority of them are horrible but I must say that the officials at the end of the Auburn-Northwestern game had four extremely tough calls to make and made each and every one of them correctly. Not sure how it was officiated throughout as I only really turned it on in the 4th quarter.

[DaddyTorgo]

No kidding...if you're going to go for it, go for it with your best offensive guys.

yeah - that was what puzzled me most.

[JonInMiddleGA]

the officials at the end of the Auburn-Northwestern game had four extremely tough calls to make and made each and every one of them correctly.

Well, the credit really goes to the replay officials though, the original calls on the field were reversed on 2 of those tough calls.

[rowech]

Well, the credit really goes to the replay officials though, the original calls on the field were reversed on 2 of those tough calls.

True.

[Radii]

Dear lord, look at the field in the Capital One bowl, its a complete wreck, huge divots/chunks of turf coming up all over the place.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Fare thee well Coach Bowden, well done.

[tarcone]

Good job Penn State. Now on to the Rose Bowl.

My worst nightmare bowl game was Iowa State-Minnesota. I really dislike both those teams and was hoping they both lost. Couldnt watch it because of that.

[miami_fan]

Fare thee well Coach Bowden, well done.

I guess he in on his way to his condo in my neck of the woods. I have to say as I looked at him on the sidelines today, the memories of Bear Bryant did pop into my head. Hopefully he will have a much longer life in retirement.

[Tigercat]

Penn State got handed the finish to that win by the refs. A Penn State guy would not get off the downed LSU player as LSU was trying to lineup for a spike. So a LSU player lining up over the ball pulls off the Penn State defender. PSU called for a defensive delay of game? No, they call LSU with a personal foul. Horrible call that kept LSU from spiking the ball at that spot (ran off time as the whole offense had to regroup) and took LSU away from field goal range. Despicable call for a number of reasons.

[DaddyTorgo]

Penn State got handed the finish to that win by the refs. A Penn State guy would not get off the downed LSU player as LSU was trying to lineup for a spike. So a LSU player lining up over the ball pulls off the Penn State defender. PSU called for a defensive delay of game? No, they call LSU with a personal foul. Horrible call that kept LSU from spiking the ball at that spot (ran off time as the whole offense had to regroup) and took LSU away from field goal range. Despicable call for a number of reasons.

wahhhhhh

[DaddyTorgo]

f-you OSU...GOO OREGON!!!

[Tigercat]

wahhhhhh

Try to defend it, I dare you. I am the guy that watches a game with fellow homers and tell them to shut up when they complain against the refs on every call. But to not only allow the defenders to delay the game by scrapping on the ground, but call a personal foul when the offensive player tries to separate that action so he can do his job? That is so far beyond unacceptable refereeing of the game. Add in to it that it quite possibly costs the outcome of the game because it is under 30 seconds...

[DaddyTorgo]

Try to defend it, I dare you. I am the guy that watches a game with fellow homers and tell them to shut up when they complain against the refs on every call. But to not only allow the defenders to delay the game by scrapping on the ground, but call a personal foul when the offensive player tries to separate that action so he can do his job? That is so far beyond unacceptable refereeing of the game. Add in to it that it quite possibly costs the outcome of the game because it is under 30 seconds...

eh - the field was a mess...it's a questionable call for sure, i agree with that, but throwing a pass over the middle with no timeouts into a mudpit is asking for trouble IMO

[Comey]

Penn State got handed the finish to that win by the refs. A Penn State guy would not get off the downed LSU player as LSU was trying to lineup for a spike. So a LSU player lining up over the ball pulls off the Penn State defender. PSU called for a defensive delay of game? No, they call LSU with a personal foul. Horrible call that kept LSU from spiking the ball at that spot (ran off time as the whole offense had to regroup) and took LSU away from field goal range. Despicable call for a number of reasons.

I'm sure it didn't help that LSU let tons of time run off the clock after that. But, you decided to omit that fact, since it lets you cast blame elsewhere than bad clock management/playcalling late by LSU (once again).

Defensive game by both teams...mistakes by PSU mounted up, and LSU couldn't capitalize. And LSU was simply inept (though the PSU defense played more than a part in that). Still a fun game to watch, and I'm thrilled that Darryl Clark went out a winner.

[Butter]

Try to defend it, I dare you. I am the guy that watches a game with fellow homers and tell them to shut up when they complain against the refs on every call. But to not only allow the defenders to delay the game by scrapping on the ground, but call a personal foul when the offensive player tries to separate that action so he can do his job? That is so far beyond unacceptable refereeing of the game. Add in to it that it quite possibly costs the outcome of the game because it is under 30 seconds...

It is not the LSU's player's job to pull the players off the pile. If the PSU player continues to lay on top of the LSU player, then it is the referee's job to call delay of game and stop the clock.

Defended. Waaahhhh, indeed. Still doesn't explain why LSU let nearly 20 seconds run off after the penalty to get set up for the next-to-last play.

[tarcone]

I guess the LSU player should have left him alone and allowed the refs to call the game. Then there is no doubt. And LSU would have needed to get to at least the 20 to kick a FG in that slop.

AND DT--- GO OHIO STATE.

[JonInMiddleGA]

So how much of LSU's offensive woes are on Crowton & how much simply lies with a lack of offensive talent?

[DeToxRox]

Penn State got handed the finish to that win by the refs. A Penn State guy would not get off the downed LSU player as LSU was trying to lineup for a spike. So a LSU player lining up over the ball pulls off the Penn State defender. PSU called for a defensive delay of game? No, they call LSU with a personal foul. Horrible call that kept LSU from spiking the ball at that spot (ran off time as the whole offense had to regroup) and took LSU away from field goal range. Despicable call for a number of reasons.

Can't just pick a guy up and slam him down.

I'd be more pissed at Les Miles for calling a slip screen with no TO's.

THE RIVERBOAT GAMBLAH!

[Eaglesfan27]

Can't just pick a guy up and slam him down.

I'd be more pissed at Les Miles for calling a slip screen with no TO's.

THE RIVERBOAT GAMBLAH!

Exactly. Terrible play calling/clock management by Miles cost LSU the game (yet again.)

[DaddyTorgo]

I guess the LSU player should have left him alone and allowed the refs to call the game. Then there is no doubt. And LSU would have needed to get to at least the 20 to kick a FG in that slop.

AND DT--- GO OHIO STATE.

i'm just obligated to hate OSU - both parents went to grad school @ michigan an then there's that whole "other" reason

[Tigercat]

I'm sure it didn't help that LSU let tons of time run off the clock after that. But, you decided to omit that fact, since it lets you cast blame elsewhere than bad clock management/playcalling late by LSU (once again).

Defensive game by both teams...mistakes by PSU mounted up, and LSU couldn't capitalize. And LSU was simply inept (though the PSU defense played more than a part in that). Still a fun game to watch, and I'm thrilled that Darryl Clark went out a winner.

Everything you say doesn't change the fact that it was a HORRIBLE call in almost the worst of ways. Did I say we would have won if not for the call? Of course not, but the call killed the chance. Was it a bad play call? Yes. But that refereeing decision was 10x worse than the play call. And that is saying something considering it was a bad play call.

With the bad play call, but correct officiating, LSU has 20 seconds to get 5-10 more yards for a decent FG attempt. You are acting like I am the homer, but I know LSU has bad playcalling, wither you randomly think I realize that fact or not. You are the one that refuses to admit the legit impact that call had on the game.

[rowech]

Someone might want to teach Les Miles clock management skills. I assumed they taught those in coaching 101. It's good to have a penalty called on a play to stop the clock and not have a play called and immediately going to it once the ball was spotted.

[DeToxRox]

Exactly. Terrible play calling/clock management by Miles cost LSU the game (yet again.)

I saw this elsewhere but it was too good to not share.

"Les Miles couldn't manage an Alarm clock"

So sad, yet so true.

[rowech]

Everything you say doesn't change the fact that it was a HORRIBLE call in almost the worst of ways. Did I say we would have won if not for the call? Of course not, but the call killed the chance. Was it a bad play call? Yes. But that refereeing decision was 10x worse than the play call. And that is saying something considering it was a bad play call.

With the bad play call, but correct officiating, LSU has 20 seconds to get 5-10 more yards for a decent FG attempt. You are acting like I am the homer, but I know LSU has bad playcalling, wither you randomly think I realize that fact or not. You are the one that refuses to admit the legit impact that call had on the game.

It was a penalty...plain and simple. Should the official have called delay of game earlier? Perhaps. Nevertheless, it's a personal foul and a stupid penalty.

[Tigercat]

Can't just pick a guy up and slam him down.

I'd be more pissed at Les Miles for calling a slip screen with no TO's.

THE RIVERBOAT GAMBLAH!

I don't think he slammed him, it was a hard pull though, but he really just didn't have a choice in the matter. He was over the ball trying to get the snap ready and the defender is trying to slap fight with his teammate on the ground.

No question it was a bad play call of course. I am not sure its Les Miles, but Crowton would be gone now in my dream world.

[tarcone]

i'm just obligated to hate OSU - both parents went to grad school @ michigan an then there's that whole "other" reason

:D

[DeToxRox]

I don't think he slammed him, it was a hard pull though, but he really just didn't have a choice in the matter. He was over the ball trying to get the snap ready and the defender is trying to slap fight with his teammate on the ground.

No question it was a bad play call of course. I am not sure its Les Miles, but Crowton would be gone now in my dream world.

I understand where you're coming from. PSU should have most likely gotten flagged but LSU's kid took it too far by the current way games are officiated.

The game is pussified the way it's called.

[tarcone]

Could you imagine a Lee Corso-Lou Holtz football talk show? Yikes. My ears would start to bleed.

[Comey]

Everything you say doesn't change the fact that it was a HORRIBLE call in almost the worst of ways. Did I say we would have won if not for the call? Of course not, but the call killed the chance. Was it a bad play call? Yes. But that refereeing decision was 10x worse than the play call. And that is saying something considering it was a bad play call.

With the bad play call, but correct officiating, LSU has 20 seconds to get 5-10 more yards for a decent FG attempt. You are acting like I am the homer, but I know LSU has bad playcalling, wither you randomly think I realize that fact or not. You are the one that refuses to admit the legit impact that call had on the game.

Tell me where I refuse to admit it. I offered no opinion on it either way. I did not even see it. But I saw the aftermath. And LSU screwed up bigtime. And I also know that the game was called pretty even, which leads me to believe the LSU player forced the officials' hand.

I'm sorry you suddenly find this personal. Your argument, in all honesty, holds no water. Others have refuted it. And you still haven't discussed the 20-plus seconds LSU let come off the clock after that whole mess. They had enough time to get back there...but they decided to let the clock run down to 11 seconds to run the next play, then heave a bomb to a receiver who was covered by four PSU players. Then came a hook-and-ladder where it was obvious nobody knew what their assignment was.

Regardless of whether or not the call was bad, it did not result in the outcome of the game. LSU having absolutely no idea what to do afterwards...that had much more to do with that failure of a final possession.

[Tigercat]

I understand where you're coming from. PSU should have most likely gotten flagged but LSU's kid took it too far by the current way games are officiated.

The game is pussified the way it's called.

Maybe,I think another part of my issue with this is that I see players pull opposing players off piles all the time in the NFL and college, in less dire situations. (Guys trying to get a part of fumble scrums mostly.) Which is a lot less of a reason to pull a guy off than when the defender is trying to delay the game by fighting with your teammate right on the spot where you are to snap the ball. I guess it also looks worse when it is a one on one thing and not a huge pile.

[Tigercat]

Tell me where I refuse to admit it. I offered no opinion on it either way. I did not even see it. But I saw the aftermath. And LSU screwed up bigtime. And I also know that the game was called pretty even, which leads me to believe the LSU player forced the officials' hand.

I'm sorry you suddenly find this personal.


I'm sure it didn't help that LSU let tons of time run off the clock after that. But, you decided to omit that fact, since it lets you cast blame elsewhere than bad clock management/playcalling late by LSU (once again).


You were the one that tried to tell me who I was trying to cast overall blame for on the entirety of the loss, and what I was purposefully trying to admit. I was only complaining about a bad call that impacted the game. Don't tell me my unnamed intentions for me, thanks. That is "personal."

[DaddyTorgo]

not sure they were fighting. think they were both slipping and trying to get up from the mud...

[Tigercat]

not sure they were fighting. think they were both slipping and trying to get up from the mud...

If that is what the ref thought, if it was the case or not, it would at least explain the flag. Even if it was a forcefull pull, one could then see Hitt's attempt as simply helpful then though. :)

[tarcone]

Why is Oregon wearing white?

[Comey]

You were the one that tried to tell me who I was trying to cast overall blame for on the entirety of the loss, and what I was purposefully trying to admit. I was only complaining about a bad call that impacted the game. Don't tell me my unnamed intentions for me, thanks. That is "personal."

......................what?

What you quoted, for the context provided, is absurd. You didn't even answer my question. I asked you to tell me where *I* refused to admit that the play had a legit impact on the game.. Not where YOU did. I never refused to admit anything.

However, I generally find the statement, "PSU got handed the finish to that win by the refs" something that cases the majority of the blame to refs. You didn't even address what LSU did afterwards, with more than enough time on the clock, until many others pointed that out.

I only read what you wrote, and what you wrote did lay your intentions as the refs screwing up and PSU getting the win as a result.

[RedKingGold]

Penn State wins, LSU loses. That's all that matters to me.

[Tigercat]

However, I generally find the statement, "PSU got handed the finish to that win by the refs" something that cases the majority of the blame to refs. You didn't even address what LSU did afterwards, with more than enough time on the clock, until many others pointed that out.

I only read what you wrote, and what you wrote did lay your intentions as the refs screwing up and PSU getting the win as a result.


Notice I said THE FINISH not the game/win. The biggest impact to the finish of that game was the penalty decision. I said finish deliberately, if I wanted to say the game/win I would have said such. It was you not reading what I wrote that started this whole absurd back and forth, so maybe we would be better off if you practice what you preach.

[MrBug708]

PAC-10 is bad this year

[Comey]

It's the same difference to me; there was more after that penalty where LSU made many mistakes. Yes, the play-calling changed because of the penalty; but the clock management that took place directly after the penalty is not a result of the penalty (good Lord, that sentence looks bad). I guess it's down to semantics.

LSU still should have not interjected; let their coach fight the refs for that. But, what's done is done.

[k0ruptr]

sitting here watching the Bobby Bowden presser, I'm gonna miss that man...Props coach .

[Comey]

Holy cow...there are a lot of passes that should have been interceptions today. Between the 40 passes that should have been intercepted in the PSU/LSU game, and already here in the Rose Bowl...lots of missed opportunities.

[k0ruptr]

Cmon DUCKS LETS GET IT TOGETHER SHIT!

[tarcone]

quack quack, choke, choke.

I know its early. But OSU is dominating.

[DaddyTorgo]

quack quack, choke, choke.

I know its early. But OSU is dominating.


please continue...;)

[tarcone]

LOL

Oregon woke up a bit there didnt they.

[digamma]

Herbstreit is totally objective.

[tarcone]

Happy Feet Prior at work again

[Radii]

You are acting like I am the homer, but I know LSU has bad playcalling, wither you randomly think I realize that fact or not. You are the one that refuses to admit the legit impact that call had on the game.


You may not realize it but you complain about the refs in every single LSU and Saints game you post about. Lots of people do it, its not a big deal or anything, but its absolutely there :P

[Logan]

You may not realize it but you complain about the refs in every single LSU and Saints game you post about. Lots of people do it, its not a big deal or anything, but its absolutely there :P

It's a tough realization...like when someone finally tells you that you're a chucker during pickup bball games.

[tarcone]

Big win by OSU. Go Big Ten.

[dawgfan]

93 years and counting Ducks. Couldn't happen to a more deserving fanbase... :lol:

[Bearcat729]

Way to Go Bucks!


Now all I need is for Mardy to come up big and make Tebow cry again.

[Eaglesfan27]

Way to Go Bucks!


Now all I need is for Mardy to come up big and make Tebow cry again.

I think you'll find a lot of us cheering for the Bearcats tonight. :)

[Big Fo]

Wow I never recognized that the Allstate guy was Pedro Cerrano in Major League.

[Eaglesfan27]

Did UM just say Tim has been great for the universe and the world?

[MacroGuru]

93 years and counting Ducks. Couldn't happen to a more deserving fanbase... :lol:

Bowl season hasn't been kind to the Pac-10

[k0ruptr]

Great great season Ducks!! woulda been nice to end on a win but hey 10-3 is an excellent year! I'm happy with that ! wOOO QUACK QUACK!

[Mantle2600]

ROSEBOWL BITCHES!!!!! :)

[Chief Rum]

Sheesh, thank God for USC and UCLA? Otherwise, Pac 10 shit the bed this bowl season.

[DaddyTorgo]

Chase Rettig (with an injured thumb) looking good so far in the ESPN skills challenge from the Skills challenge!

[JonInMiddleGA]

Nasty looking apparent broken arm for Demps early in the Florida game. Freak injury, just stumbled & tried to catch himself & boom.

[Bearcat729]

Nasty looking apparent broken arm for Demps early in the Florida game. Freak injury, just stumbled & tried to catch himself & boom.

He dislocated his elbow and is done for the game.

[JonInMiddleGA]

He dislocated his elbow and is done for the game.

Glad to hear the correction, the Fox crew said the preliminary result of the X-Ray was that it was broken.

[Matthean]

Cincinnati is looking pretty lifeless out there. Not exactly surprising considering even their intern coach is moving on. This being a team that would of could of been a second away from being in the title game.
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[BishopMVP]

Weak personal foul calls here on both sides.on pace for 158 yards and 4 touchdowns

79 yards and 2 tds at the half, 4.6 ypc. pretty much killin the sooner d so far.132 yards and 4.2 ypc. Credit to Stanford for keeping the scoreline close in a game they were outgained by over 200 yards and beating more than 2-1 in 1st downs, but this game did nothing but reinforce the thinking that Stanford was overrated, Oklahoma was underrated, and Toby Gerhart is a nice bruising RB who had no business being talked about as the best player in the country.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Well crap, there goes the shutout.

[Bearcat729]

Cincinnati is looking pretty lifeless out there. Not exactly surprising considering even their intern coach is moving on. This being a team that would of could of been a second away from being in the title game.
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I'm not sure if Kelly had been here this game would be any different.

[BishopMVP]

This being a team that would of could of been a second away from being in the title game.For what its worth, they weren't - TCU was. Polls went 2 Texas 3 TCU 4 Cincy and computers went 2 Cincy 3 Texas 4 TCU. Because Cincy was already ahead of Texas in the computers a Texas loss would have jumped TCU over Cincy in the BCS standings.

On the brightside for the Bearcats, that was an impressive FG.

[dawgfan]

Credit to Stanford for keeping the scoreline close in a game they were outgained by over 200 yards and beating more than 2-1 in 1st downs, but this game did nothing but reinforce the thinking that Stanford was overrated, Oklahoma was underrated, and Toby Gerhart is a nice bruising RB who had no business being talked about as the best player in the country.
Luck is a much, much better QB than Pritchard. That was a huge blow for Stanford to not have Luck available.

And I think a guy getting 132 yards and 4.2 ypc when he's the only real offensive threat for that team with Luck out is pretty good. Gerhart had a great season - never had a down game, unlike the Heisman winner - and absolutely deserved all of his accolades.

[DaddyTorgo]

Luck is a much, much better QB than Pritchard. That was a huge blow for Stanford to not have Luck available.

And I think a guy getting 132 yards and 4.2 ypc when he's the only read offensive threat for that team with Luck out is pretty good. Gerhart had a great season - never had a down game, unlike the Heisman winner - and absolutely deserved all of his accolades.

+1 on both

[dawgfan]

I'm not sure if Kelly had been here this game would be any different.
Florida certainly has superior athletes, but don't discount the emotional side of the game. Seems pretty clear that the heart got ripped out of Cincinnati with Kelly leaving. Not saying Cincinnati would win the game, but I doubt they'd be getting clown-stomped like this...

[Matthean]

I'm not sure if Kelly had been here this game would be any different.

You generally don't average nearly 40 a game and then go into a game and get 3 in a half. Yes, Florida's D is one of the best in the country, but 'Bama humbled it, so it's not like it can't be scored upon. Even the announcers talked about how much of an effect this is having on Cincinnati with their coach leaving.

I turned off the game and figure I'll do other stuff now. Nothing left to talk about, but the lovefest for Tebow and Meyer. Heck, they already talked about how people hate how much the media talks about Tebow.

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[dawgfan]

Sheesh, thank God for USC and UCLA? Otherwise, Pac 10 shit the bed this bowl season.
Yep. But I'll be dead before I root for Oregon...

[JonInMiddleGA]

I'm not sure if Kelly had been here this game would be any different.

I appreciate your candor.

I think the only chance Cincinnati had, with or without Kelly, ended with the Meyer-is-leaving/Is-Meyer-leaving deal.

[Eaglesfan27]

Sounds like Urban Meyer is going to run up the score.

[Bearcat729]

I know they just mentioned possibly giving Collaros a bit of playing time. I wonder if it couldn't do something to help the team some. At least his skill set would give the team some different options compared to Pike.

[RainMaker]

Sounds like Urban Meyer is going to run up the score.
I don't know what option you have in a bowl game. I mean you aren't going to rest players for the next weeks game. I'd pull the kids with a pro future but would let the other Seniors get their playing time and enjoy the bowl.

[superbama]

Thank you Gators for taking care of one of the pretenders. Roll Tide.

[Tigercat]

You may not realize it but you complain about the refs in every single LSU and Saints game you post about. Lots of people do it, its not a big deal or anything, but its absolutely there :P

I make a lot of ref posts in most games I talk about. I was talking about the refs in the Vikings game last week here. Officiating, positive or negative, can be interesting to talk about with other fans from other places because its judgement based, field performances are usually pretty obvious. I actually don't have much complaints about the overall referring in games LSU or the Saints play. Today was a bad call, but it didn't obviously decide the overall game outcome, up until that call the officiating today was actually pretty good. The last (and perhaps only?) game I felt as a fan that bad calls decided my team winning or losing was LSU Auburn in 2006.

[BishopMVP]

Luck is a much, much better QB than Pritchard. That was a huge blow for Stanford to not have Luck available.

And I think a guy getting 132 yards and 4.2 ypc when he's the only real offensive threat for that team with Luck out is pretty good. Gerhart had a great season - never had a down game, unlike the Heisman winner - and absolutely deserved all of his accolades.Agreed on the first part. As to not having down games, I'd said less than 100 yards in losses to Oregon St and Wake Forest would qualify, but YMMV.

[M GO BLUE!!!]

Where are the "Big Ten can't win big games" crowd?

[dawgfan]

Agreed on the first part. As to not having down games, I'd said less than 100 yards in losses to Oregon St and Wake Forest would qualify, but YMMV.
Yeah, my mileage does vary, because you're taking a very slanted view of those games:

vs. Wake Forest:
17-82, 4.8 avg

Hardly Gerhart's fault Harbaugh decided to emphasize the passing game in that one, with 34 passes attempted vs. 26 runs. Gerhart did well when called on.

vs. Oregon State:
20-96, 2 TD, 4.8 avg

Not Gerhart's fault Stanford's defense sucked ass in this game and forced Stanford to throw more than they wanted. Pretty good output by Gerhart even considering.

Compare that with Ingram's game vs. Auburn, a game Alabama struggled to win, where Ingram came up small with 16-30, 1.9 avg.

[Karlifornia]

Yeah, my mileage does vary, because you're taking a very slanted view of those games:

vs. Wake Forest:
17-82, 4.8 avg

Hardly Gerhart's fault Harbaugh decided to emphasize the passing game in that one, with 34 passes attempted vs. 26 runs. Gerhart did well when called on.

vs. Oregon State:
20-96, 2 TD, 4.8 avg

Not Gerhart's fault Stanford's defense sucked ass in this game and forced Stanford to throw more than they wanted. Pretty good output by Gerhart even considering.

Compare that with Ingram's game vs. Auburn, a game Alabama struggled to win, where Ingram came up small with 16-30, 1.9 avg.

Good lookin' out, my PAC-10 brother to the north. I knew there was a reason I always had a soft spot for the Dawgs. :)

[JPhillips]

Florida certainly has superior athletes, but don't discount the emotional side of the game. Seems pretty clear that the heart got ripped out of Cincinnati with Kelly leaving. Not saying Cincinnati would win the game, but I doubt they'd be getting clown-stomped like this...

The interim head coach also has a new job, although he coached last night. I doubt they could have beaten Florida with a full staff, but losing two head coaches in a couple of weeks has to cripple the team.

[tarcone]

Where are the "Big Ten can't win big games" crowd?

:lol:

[Dr. Sak]

Last night's Sugar Bowl makes me feel happier that Nebraska didn't win the Big 12 title game.

[jbergey22]

BCS dodged a bullet last night.

Whether or not Cincy could have played them close at any time this year is hard to know but this was set up for a route as soon as Kelly left. Adding to that being Tebows last game and the Urban Meyer story I dont think this result was too shocking.

[sterlingice]

I usually bamouth officials because I think the vast majority of them are horrible but I must say that the officials at the end of the Auburn-Northwestern game had four extremely tough calls to make and made each and every one of them correctly. Not sure how it was officiated throughout as I only really turned it on in the 4th quarter.

Well, the credit really goes to the replay officials though, the original calls on the field were reversed on 2 of those tough calls.

Agreed- they did an excellent job and that was a fun end of the game to watch. Wished Northwestern had won, tho- it would have made for a better story with the kicker out and all.

SI

[ISiddiqui]

Well, Kelly did call the plays for Cincy all season, so I'm sure it would have been much different if he hadn't left.

[Neuqua]

yay international bowl, woo

[Dr. Sak]

I usually bamouth officials because I think the vast majority of them are horrible but I must say that the officials at the end of the Auburn-Northwestern game had four extremely tough calls to make and made each and every one of them correctly. Not sure how it was officiated throughout as I only really turned it on in the 4th quarter.

I usually let comments like this go because for the most part fans are ignorant of the rules, mechanics, and what really is a foul. Don't fool yourself to think announcers know any more or less. Fans also think that officials have great views like we all do on tv and have tons of time to process the info because they never get bitched at for throwing a late flag.

I'm not saying all officials are perfect and never make the wrong cause but to call the vast majority of them horrible is just stupid.

[rowech]

I usually let comments like this go because for the most part fans are ignorant of the rules, mechanics, and what really is a foul. Don't fool yourself to think announcers know any more or less. Fans also think that officials have great views like we all do on tv and have tons of time to process the info because they never get bitched at for throwing a late flag.

I'm not saying all officials are perfect and never make the wrong cause but to call the vast majority of them horrible is just stupid.

In the past three to five years, I have seen more calls than ever totally blown. I'm not talking about calls that might have been judgement calls and were bang-bang. I'm talking calls that were just 100% wrong and preventable and there's no excuse for it.

I was a soccer official for many years and you want to know the thing that makes a good official? Being willing to put yourself in the best position to make the call and that's my biggest problem with sports officials anymore. They don't move to put themselves in the best position to see the call. Case in point...the play at 3b during the playoffs I believe it was. Unacceptable and it was all because the 3b umpire didn't move to put himself in a position to see what was happening. Now, on the plus side of this...if you watched the Rose Bowl last night on two plays OSU had right down the sideline (I believe Saine both times) you can see the linesman putting himself in a perfect position to see the player's feet along the sideline and he nailed it both times.

Now, in some instances, there is another problem...out of shape officials. Officials who aren't fast enough, or young enough, to keep up with the action. As the athletes get bigger, stronger, and faster, the officials have not. In fact in most cases, they get older and slower. Again...a major problem.

Officiating in every sport I watch has been worse the last 3-5 years. Period. Replay certainly makes it easier to second guess officials but again, I'm not talking about calls that are bang-bang, or calls that are just super close. I'm talking about missed calls. Now whether that's because of the issues I mentioned, the pay not being high enough to get the best, unions preventing the removal of bad officials, or games being fixed, who knows.

[dawgfan]

Good lookin' out, my PAC-10 brother to the north. I knew there was a reason I always had a soft spot for the Dawgs. :)
Yeah, I've forgiven Stanford for spawning Ty Willingham on the rest of us ;)

Seriously, I have tremendous respect for Stanford - great University, beautiful campus, big-time success in most sports. And seeing what Harbaugh is accomplishing there in football - it's awfully impressive.

[Izulde]

Arkansa's playing like complete shit. :banghead: :banghead: :banghead: :banghead: :banghead: :banghead:

[dawgfan]

Arkansa's playing like complete shit. :banghead: :banghead: :banghead: :banghead: :banghead: :banghead:
Who is Arkansa?

[Izulde]

Who is Arkansa?

Damn it, I'm so pissed off, I'm typoing.

Mallett can't get in sync with his receivers, the o-line is a damn sieve and our run game is going nowhere.

[Izulde]

10-10 tie thanks to two Hogs picks, including a terrific 58 yard return for the tying TD!

Now if the offense can just get untracked...

[Izulde]

Now a 17-17 tie. Our run defense is turning nonexistant, but Mallett's warming up on offense.

[Izulde]

Partially blocked punt puts us close to midfield... so let's convert and take the lead, Hogs!

[Izulde]

1:20 left, ECU's in FG range with all their timeouts. 3rd and 8.

Tejada blew a field goal and Breeding had a shitty punt, neither of which is shocking, because they both have sucked all damn season long.

Still a 17-17 tie, though. 4th and 2.