Official College Football Thread - Week 13

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

What may be the final Border War (for a couple years) this week along with the UT-A&M hate fest. I think this open letter on Tigerboard summed up the thoughts on this week pretty well for Tiger fans. I'm sure the UT-A&M matchup will contain similar hatred........

Dear Kansas fans, students and citizens:

Let's cut to the chase...I don't like you.

I've never liked you. I have friends who are ku fans, and I don't really like them either. Chances are, my parents didn't like your parents, and chances are also that a great-grandparent of mine shot at a great grandparent of yours. For generations, this "rivalry" has existed away from the spotlight, behind the seedy, dingy curtain of humanity..away from the Iron Bowls and glares of ESPN lights.

Many people say that the Mizzou vs. kansas rivalry isn't that powerful because the two never really played for anything meaningful. I say, this is what made it MORE of a rivalry. ANYBODY can "hate" on their opponent or insert a bad word into their fight song about them or poison their bushes/trees/shrubs or whatever "big name" rivalries do. But it takes a special kind of hate and dislike to detest the very ground you walk on...all the way to the very air your web-footed, inbred children breathe...when absolutely nothing but pride is on the line. If Duke and North Carolina were both 10-23 in basketball, would it be "heated"? If Ohio St. and Michigan were both 1-10 going into their final game, would the rivalry burn as hot?

No. And the reason why is because they don't know hate like we do. We've hated each other for 170 years. Our relatives shot hot lead at each other. Your slack-jawed, "union" relatives pillaged and plundered innocent civilians behind the justification of a flag, while we retaliated by burning your rat-infested sh8thole town to the ground. In other words: I don't need Dick Vitale or Kirk Herbstreit to tell me how much I hate your guts. Real rivals dont' have to ask at all.

Which brings me to this week...this final week of weeks, where we part ways, and leave you to fend for yourself in a pigpen of burnt orange slop. "Good riddance" you say. "Enjoy being the b*tch of the SEC" you cry. And my personal favorite from your very athletic department "we win".

Even at the end...you never did get it. It's painfully obvious you'll never get it. You may scoff at us, and claim to everyone you can find that Mizzou's departure doesn't bother you. But nothing could be further from the truth. It most certainly will bother you in the next six years or fewer..and most certainly when you find your sorry selves fighting for your very existence as a (semi) relevant sporting entity.

Nothing says, "We don't care" more than screaming out "we don't care".

I saw ESPN's special on the "fierce" rivalry between Auburn and Alabama..and how even the most staunch of enemies put everything on hold to help their neighbors in the wake of a devastating Tuscaloosa tornado. This is where the talking heads get it wrong, and the outside world simply doesn't get it.

I woulnd't help rebuild one of your sh*thole towns if it were raining gold coins. I wouldn't help your fans if parts of their home blew all the way to my front yard. "If you want this sh*tty old Lay-Z-Boy...then you can drive up here and get it." I wouldn't give 2 cents to a relief fund in your honor just as I wouldn't give a second thought to all your pain and suffering in the world.

The outside world doesn't know the hate between us and couldn't possibly begin to grasp it. That's why they don't understand how this whole SEC thing is killing you on the inside. It's eating away your soul and chewing out your heart, bit by bit from the inside out. This is the final chapter...this is the end game. As Mizzou trots to their 7th bowl game in a row, your hapless band of defense-deficient misfits (coming off another 600 point loss), simply look to save face in the wake of a new coaching staff making their way to Lawrence next year.

In conclusion, this will be the last week...pretty much ever, that myself or many of my comrades will even think about your sorry ass for a long long time. Perhaps you will be a part of a trivia question? Perhaps SportsCenter will highlight your latest coaching change? On the other hand, we will be breaking in new rivalries, trotting across the landscape of the most big time, well respected and powerful football conference on earth..where you are sitting literally years (or less) away from your complete extinction.

I thought I would be more giddy about your doomed future. I thought I would giggle with delight thinking about your athletic department sending "pick me!" letters to every conference in America.

But I don't.

I don't claim victory. I don't wish to rub your faces in the dirt, as you most certainly would do if the tables were turned. Truth be told...I barely even pity you. I pity your predicament, just as I pity your existence. When Mizzou is done pounding your sh*t team for 60 minutes on Saturday in Kansas City, my mind will give a fleeting thought to your demise...a quick smirk will cross my face...seconds before my thoughts will move on to bigger and better things.

And you my friends...who shall be left beaten, bruised and butthurt, will simply fade away in the rear view mirror...your sobs gently oozing into a soft murmur and eventually into deafening silence.

From bloody Civil War battles to bitter rival to finally silenced and beaten....You can claim "victory" every day until the end of time, but we won't be around to hear it.

If that how you wanted the war to end...if that is how you measure "ultimate victory" then who are we to question your delusions? Congratulations on your "victory" and please be sure to think of us often as we play under brighter lights and bigger stages.

Oh, and enjoy your colon-throbbing assbeating on Saturday

Not sincerely,

AJ - Missouri native

[tarcone]

Speaking of new rivalries, Friday night in Lincoln. Iowa travels too play Nebraska. The University where the "N" on the helmet stands for Knowledge. Because of this "state", the trees in Iowa lean West. You know why, Nebraska sucks. Where the cheerleaders wear long skirts to hide the fly strips. Where the field surface had to me made field turf to keep the cheerleaders from grazing.
Go Hawks!

[JonInMiddleGA]

Where the field surface had to me made field turf to keep the cheerleaders from grazing.

They stole that idea from Athens, GA

[mauchow]

Penn St travels to Wisconsin where as of right now they're 18.5 point underdogs.

[k0ruptr]

lets see here, how about this week lets have #1, #2, and #4 get upset.

[Swaggs]

Probably the last Backyard Brawl for awhile on Friday, as Pitt and WVU likely won't have OOC room for at least a few seasons as they transition to their new conferences. Hate to lose it.

[Dr. Sak]

Penn St travels to Wisconsin where as of right now they're 18.5 point underdogs.

I am not saying Penn State will win, but that spread is a bit much given that only 2 teams have scored more than 20 on PSU this year.

[Young Drachma]

Though it's unlikely and they screwed the pooch by failing to win games they should've won, I hope Rutgers can back into the Big East title over the next two weeks with a bit of help.

Wyoming is bowl eligible for the 2nd time in 3 years, which is no small feat. So I'm glad that Dave Christensen was able to turn the ship around, especially after losing his starting quarterback to transfer before the year even started (he's sitting out a year at Vandy now) and when they were picked to be second to last in the MWC.

[k0ruptr]

I think Montee Ball and Russell Wilson might have something to do with that Wisconsin line.

[Logan]

Sorry Swaggs, gotta pull for Pitt this week...

[Dr. Sak]

Sorry Swaggs, gotta pull for Pitt this week...

I just threw up in my mouth

[Logan]

This hurts me more than it hurts you.

[RedKingGold]

I am not saying Penn State will win, but that spread is a bit much given that only 2 teams have scored more than 20 on PSU this year.

This.

PSU has a good chance stopping R.Wilson, their defense has played pretty well against mobile quarterbacks the last two weeks.

[k0ruptr]

No, I also believe it's pretty big line. Scary though. I wouldn't touch either side.

[Matthean]

OSU @ Michigan. 'Bama @ Auburn. Everything else is irrelevant. This weekend is such a love/hate relationship. It's also the final time I really care about college football until certain bowl games. I only have a mild interest in conference title games at this point.

Side note that I think I brought up in the recruiting thread. Michigan is hosting a bunch of top recruits this weekend and should include the #2 WR in the nation. If Michigan is to win, The Big House will be absolutely nuts. I find it hard to believe somebody would go there, experience that, and then say no to wanting to play there. Michigan has already met and really exceeded expectations in a throw away year. At this point, they are playing with house money and that's a fun thing to be able to do.

[digamma]

That Mizzou thing may be the douchiest message board "statement" I've read and that's saying something.

[Matthean]

That Mizzou thing may be the douchiest message board "statement" I've read and that's saying something.

I think it's cute how so many rivalries think theirs is the biggest. Trying to say the KU/Mizzouri rivalry is bigger than some of the other bigger rivalries is like listening to a non-stop barking chiwawa thinking it's important. Oh, but we live next to each other. Yeah, that makes it unique.

[Matthean]

Forgot to add the newest bowl projections. Not sure if I should be happy they assume Michigan beats OSU, or not and how manageable Houston would be for Michigan.

College Bowl Games - 2011 College Bowl Projections and Schedules - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/college-football/bowls)

[Scoobz0202]

That Mizzou thing may be the douchiest message board "statement" I've read and that's saying something.

My favorite part was the guy talking about how he wouldn't help them if their lives were destroyed.

Was that your favorite part to?

:banghead:

[jbergey22]

The person writing that message doesnt grasp reality all that well.

He is right about two things though. Kansas does suck and most of the nation wont care about that game.

[k0ruptr]

I'm not gonna lie the rest of this season doesn't mean much to me. After Hawaii losing to Fresno St this weekend there season is pretty much worthless. They won't win the remaining two games vs Tulane and BYU. No bowl game after being predicted to win the Depleted WAC. We move on to the MWC now and we are rebuilding. The only good that should come from this season is Coach Mac has to be fired. And probably at least half the staff as well. I love Nick Rolovich as OC but I'm being to personal about it. He was an amazing QB years ago with us. He picked up the run and shoot faster then any other QB we've had. But his play calling has been horrendous. No creativity, it's like bare bones R&S. I'm not sure which direction UH will go from here but don't be surprised if these next 2 games are the last time we see the Hawaii Run and Shoot. It's a special thing to see a team go from winless and worst in the country to playing in the Sugar Bowl in 8 years. The Run and shoot and June Jones. We havent been even close to the same since June left. And it's probably going to be similar without the system.

So anyone know any Coaches that might be interested in a nice house over looking Waikiki? The rest of the gig is pretty crappy though. Lol

[Swaggs]

Someone pointed out that Boise State, even though they are ranked ahead of Houston, isn't guaranteed a BCS bid because TCU will win the MWC and non-AQ teams have to win their conference in order to meet the guarantee.

[jbergey22]

You must mean Tulsa and not Tulane. Hawaii would own Tulane.

They lost their QB for the last game didnt they? Probably cost them the game.

[k0ruptr]

Yea Moniz is done. And I really thought it was Tulsa too but for some reason on Yahoo Hawaii page it has it listed as Tulane.

Well Shit. Tulsa and BYU. We are seriously fucked now. Lol.

[jbergey22]

Yea Moniz is done. And I really thought it was Tulsa too but for some reason on Yahoo Hawaii page it has it listed as Tulane.

Well Shit. Tulsa and BYU. We are seriously fucked now. Lol.

I looked, its Tulane. You arent going to lose to them. They are pathetic.

[k0ruptr]

It's odd rooting for a team so far away from all the universities. I'll never make excuses obviously they get an amazing home field advantage but I know it hurts our recruiting budget every year. Our recruiting has been not so good these last couple years. Im a fan but I think we are going to get our asses kicked in the MWC the next few years at least.

[jbergey22]

It's odd rooting for a team so far away from all the universities. I'll never make excuses obviously they get an amazing home field advantage but I know it hurts our recruiting budget every year. Our recruiting has been not so good these last couple years. Im a fan but I think we are going to get our asses kicked in the MWC the next few years at least.


June Jones was great at selling that location to the unhappy "Pac-10" type players. You probably need another big name coach like him back to even things out. Plus that system(run and shoot) had to be great for selling kids offense and big numbers in a fun environment.

[k0ruptr]

It's sad that that game will make no difference. We gotta go 2 for 2 to get back to the Hawaii bowl. But hell we don't deserve it. BYU is most definitely the best team we are playing this season. Even at home. We lost to Fresno and Fresno is bad this year and pretty decimated with injuries. Hell we lost to unlv by like 20 something. Lol I dont even know how we won 5 games. Haha. The college football fan late season depression is kicking in.

[k0ruptr]

We need a bigger name coach that doesnt need the money and wants the challenge. Were screwed or fml hello Norv Turner. Lmao

[RainMaker]

Someone pointed out that Boise State, even though they are ranked ahead of Houston, isn't guaranteed a BCS bid because TCU will win the MWC and non-AQ teams have to win their conference in order to meet the guarantee.
Probably for the best. This Boise team isn't on par with previous ones. Still think they were maybe the best team in the nation last year.

[jbergey22]

Probably for the best. This Boise team isn't on par with previous ones. Still think they were maybe the best team in the nation last year.

What makes this years team so much different than last years team? They both lost one of their last games of the season. They had many of the same players/key players and they pretty much dominated every game other than the 1 they lost.

Im just not sure how you can say last years was "maybe the best team in the nation" while this years "isnt on par with the previous ones" when they returned 15 starters.

Im thinking you either are overrating last years team or underrating this years team.

[digamma]

A story line for Clean Old Fashioned Hate...

These are the Total Offense national ranks of the FBS teams on Georgia's schedule:

14 Boise State (L 35-21)
45 New Mexico State (W 63-16)
80 South Carolina (L 45-42)
87 Mississippi State (W 24-10)
91 Florida (W 24-20)
93 Auburn (W 45-7)
98 Tennessee (W 20-12)
102 Vanderbilt (W 33-28)
114 Ole Miss (W 27-13)
118 Kentucky (W 19-10)

Ga Tech currently is #16 in total offense.

[k0ruptr]

One thing I find interesting is Houston is definitely a good team. But they have there toughest game of the season next week an you never know Tulsa could absolutely win. Then Boise is more then likely @ 6 or 7 in the BCS, maybe 8 and they can't get a BCS game. It's there own fault for that loss but it would be heartbreaking to be a mid major and finish that high in the BCS without any thing real to show for it.

[k0ruptr]

It probably won't even come close to happening but how would Boise feel if Georgia somehow pulls that upset in the Sec championship. I dont know how you convince yourself to feel better knowing you beat them. That would be rough.

[k0ruptr]

Dola I realize they can still get invited. But the BCS isn't going to invite a 1 loss mid major (if they win out). It just wont happen.

Mid majors know they have to go undefeated. But I guess I didnt expect them to still be this high in the BCS with 1 loss. I really hope the computers drop them a couple places for some reason if they win out. At least it won't look as bad if they end up at 9 or 10.

[MJ4H]

the westboro idiots say they are going to protest the arkansas football player's funeral. that wont go well, i can assure you.

[RainMaker]

What makes this years team so much different than last years team? They both lost one of their last games of the season. They had many of the same players/key players and they pretty much dominated every game other than the 1 they lost.

Im just not sure how you can say last years was "maybe the best team in the nation" while this years "isnt on par with the previous ones" when they returned 15 starters.

Im thinking you either are overrating last years team or underrating this years team.

Two of their starting wide receivers now play in the NFL. That was a pretty deadly offense they had. They're still good this year, but just don't have the offensive weapons they did last year.

[MrBug708]

Nothing defines the crosstown rivalry more than this picture. It sums up the fan bases pretty well too as all of the USC flags are out in full force again

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/690126/BN.DarbyMarionvich.082011.jpg

[MacroGuru]

It's sad that that game will make no difference. We gotta go 2 for 2 to get back to the Hawaii bowl. But hell we don't deserve it. BYU is most definitely the best team we are playing this season. Even at home. We lost to Fresno and Fresno is bad this year and pretty decimated with injuries. Hell we lost to unlv by like 20 something. Lol I dont even know how we won 5 games. Haha. The college football fan late season depression is kicking in.

Yeah, but I am worried about this game for BYU...Riley won't travel due to the collapsed lung leaving Jake Heaps and James Lark as our QB's and it will be your guys bowl game plus it is a heated rivalry....I expect a close game, I expect it to come down to the wire with BYU barely pulling it off. If Hawaii wins, it will be a blowout.....

[RomaGoth]

What makes this years team so much different than last years team? They both lost one of their last games of the season. They had many of the same players/key players and they pretty much dominated every game other than the 1 they lost.

Im just not sure how you can say last years was "maybe the best team in the nation" while this years "isnt on par with the previous ones" when they returned 15 starters.

Im thinking you either are overrating last years team or underrating this years team.

Two of their starting wide receivers now play in the NFL. That was a pretty deadly offense they had. They're still good this year, but just don't have the offensive weapons they did last year.

It is true they lost both Austin Pettis and Titus Young (who caught a TD pass yesterday for the Lions), but the offense isn't the problem this year with the Broncos. The real difference between this team and last year's team is the defense. BSU has an inexperienced secondary (and several injuries) and they aren't putting enough pressure on opposing QB's. No way does TCU's QB put up over 400 passing yards against last year's BSU defense. They aren't shutting down other teams and dominating games like they did last year. Perhaps this will change next year, but then....they won't have Kellen Moore anymore either.

[cartman]

Yeah, if you have to write an open letter to your rival to try and explain why the rivalry is a big deal, that is pretty weak. You don't see anything like that for Texas-OU or Texas-Texas A&M. The only written form of the venom in the rivalry are Aggie jokes.

[panerd]

Yeah, if you have to write an open letter to your rival to try and explain why the rivalry is a big deal, that is pretty weak. You don't see anything like that for Texas-OU or Texas-Texas A&M. The only written form of the venom in the rivalry are Aggie jokes.

Its just a message board post much like the ones Oranglebloods and other Texas message boards have had the past two weeks giving excuses on why they lost to Mizzou and K-State (again). Turf, officiating, never outplayed.

[Logan]

And now it's a message board post here thanks to MBBF.

[Chief Rum]

Nothing defines the crosstown rivalry more than this picture. It sums up the fan bases pretty well too as all of the USC flags are out in full force again

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/690126/BN.DarbyMarionvich.082011.jpg

Heh...to EF27, Dangarion, bhlloy... F Y'all this week. No offense (well, not too much offense). :D

I hope to high Heaven that Rick Neuheisel is booted from his job next week. But I hope it's with at least one USC feather in his cap.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Huh.

I just realized that all of the traditional January 1st bowl games are going to played on Monday, January 2nd this year. I understand that the conflict with the NFL, but I doubt too many people have January 2nd off (I know I don't).

I don't like this.

[Logan]

Huh.

I just realized that all of the traditional January 1st bowl games are going to played on Monday, January 2nd this year. I understand that the conflict with the NFL, but I doubt too many people have January 2nd off (I know I don't).

I don't like this.

You're going to be even more disappointed when you notice the date of the Winter Classic.

[Chief Rum]

Huh.

I just realized that all of the traditional January 1st bowl games are going to played on Monday, January 2nd this year. I understand that the conflict with the NFL, but I doubt too many people have January 2nd off (I know I don't).

I don't like this.

Actually, I believe most people will indeed have Monday, January 2nd off. As a rule, pretty much all government, school and bank employers go with giving the actual holiday day off on Monday following a Sunday holiday. I know most conventional corporate office employers use similar rules, so corporate America will largely be off that Monday as well.

I don't know what business you're in, though, so that sucks if you have to work. My second job is in the service industry, so I pretty much expect to be working that day myself.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Actually, I believe most people will indeed have Monday, January 2nd off. As a rule, pretty much all government, school and bank employers go with giving the actual holiday day off on Monday following a Sunday holiday. I know most conventional corporate office employers use similar rules, so corporate America will largely be off that Monday as well.

I don't know what business you're in, though, so that sucks if you have to work. My second job is in the service industry, so I pretty much expect to be working that day myself.

I don't have it off, but it doesn't mean I can't take it off. I might do that.

It's possible we do get it off, but I just don't know it yet.

[MJ4H]

I will be teaching school on Jan 2nd.

[Matthean]

Michigan Wolverines discuss big rivalry - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/colleges/michigan/football/story/_/id/7266077/michigan-wolverines-discuss-big-rivalry)

Hoke on calling OSU Ohio.

[Logan]

The implications of Friday for the Big East title are causing me to lose sleep.

[cartman]

Athlon Sports ranks the Top 25 college football rivalries.

College Football's Top 25 Rivalries | AthlonSports.com (http://www.athlonsports.com/college-football/college-footballs-top-25-rivalries)

[Logan]

Athlon Sports ranks the Top 25 college football rivalries.

College Football's Top 25 Rivalries | AthlonSports.com (http://www.athlonsports.com/college-football/college-footballs-top-25-rivalries)

Where's the rest of the list?

[digamma]

Athlon Sports ranks the Top 25 college football rivalries.

College Football's Top 25 Rivalries | AthlonSports.com (http://www.athlonsports.com/college-football/college-footballs-top-25-rivalries)

Tigerboard doesn't need Athlon to tell it about its rivalry with Kansas.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Tigerboard doesn't need Athlon to tell it about its rivalry with Kansas.

Agreed. I'm not going to claim that MU-KU should be anywhere near the top, but it's a pretty heavy oversight to not put one of the longest (and most bitter) rivalries in college athletics on that list.

[MacroGuru]

Athlon Sports ranks the Top 25 college football rivalries.

College Football's Top 25 Rivalries | AthlonSports.com (http://www.athlonsports.com/college-football/college-footballs-top-25-rivalries)

I like to see the Holy War sitting in the top 25, but honestly with the PAC kicking the game out of November to Sept/Oct it sucks and looses it's luster. Hell, I couldn't even get excited for it this season. (Granted we got our asses handed to us)

[Lathum]

Athlon Sports ranks the Top 25 college football rivalries.

College Football's Top 25 Rivalries | AthlonSports.com (http://www.athlonsports.com/college-football/college-footballs-top-25-rivalries)

dissapointed not to see the apple cup on there.

[RomaGoth]

Uh oh.

UH Football Faces HPD Point Shaving Probe - Honolulu News Story - KITV Honolulu (http://www.kitv.com/r/29836568/detail.html)

[dawgfan]

dissapointed not to see the apple cup on there.
Well, the sad fact is neither program has been great for close to a decade now. When that changes, all the other things that make it such a great rivalry should help propel it back onto the radar of college football fans. I doubt there are many rivalries that so perfectly encapsulate the differences within a state - geographically, politically and socially.

[k0ruptr]

Holy fuck

[k0ruptr]

The sad thing is UH football is fairly scandalous. They just get away with a whole lot. Underground gambling is really fucking big out there and there is no doubt in my mind something like this could be going on. Police investigating. Now I'm sure the NCAA will get involved. Craziness

[k0ruptr]

I'll just throw the one name that if this is true I fully expect to be involved or even the leader of it. QB Bryant Moniz.

[k0ruptr]

LOL. Only 3 teams in the nation have won fewer against the spread this year. Record is 3-7-1 ATS. 11-3 last year. Obviously it proves nothing. But if anything suspicious now.

[Young Drachma]

Rutgers and The BCS: Seven Scenarios You Should Know For This Weekend | NJ.com (http://www.nj.com/rutgers-fans/index.ssf/2011/11/rutgers_and_the_bcs_seven_scen.html)

[Dr. Sak]

Athlon Sports ranks the Top 25 college football rivalries.

College Football's Top 25 Rivalries | AthlonSports.com (http://www.athlonsports.com/college-football/college-footballs-top-25-rivalries)

I am going to Army/Navy for the first time this year. I can't wait!

[k0ruptr]

LOL. They announce it a few hours ago and now they announce no investigation not enough info. Yes it was anonymous but damn that seems way to quick to shut it down.

[knolysis]

Ah, ?"Hate Week" - aka the Best Time of the Year.

Florida State has surely disappointed. Time to get rid of Rick Trickett and go on a different philosophy for the O-Line.

I know we are going to lose this game, but I just dread watching a game that features two highly incompetent offenses against each other. The final score very well could be 3-0 or 6-3.

[Izulde]

I think in terms of pure hatred and culture divide, UNLV/UNR belongs on that list. But in terms of football quality noteworthiness or length, it doesn't, which is why I can understand why it's not.

[cartman]

Whatever the final score of the game tomorrow, UT can claim the ultimate win. The first lines of the University of Texas fight song are:

Texas Fight!
Texas Fight!
And it's goodbye to A&M

[CU Tiger]

Nothing defines the crosstown rivalry more than this picture. It sums up the fan bases pretty well too as all of the USC flags are out in full force again

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/690126/BN.DarbyMarionvich.082011.jpg


That's great...reminds me of this one, which is still in rotation for my desktop wallpaper

3605

[bbgunn]

It seems that everybody's siggies have something to do with Pumpy Tudors. I'm gonna have to get me one of those.

[cuervo72]

Who again is the girl in the orange face paint that they keep showing in the Texas/A&M game?

[cartman]

HOOK 'EM!!!!!!!!

[cartman]

That was a hell of a football game!

[cartman]

Here's what the Texas Longhorn band did for their halftime show:

http://a.espncdn.com/photo/2011/1124/ncf_a_thanks_am_b1_576.jpg

and played "Thanks For The Memories".

The A&M band followed, made a longhorn formation, and sawed the horns off.

[jbergey22]

Trying to think of the Texas D1 schools and how tough of a conference that would be. Am I missing any?

1. Texas
2. Texas A&M
3. Texas Tech
4. Houston
5. TCU
6. SMU
7. Baylor
8. UTEP
9. North Texas

[cartman]

Texas State and UT-San Antonio will move up from the FCS to the WAC next season. Plus Rice is in Houston. Those teams pretty much made up the Southwest Conference.

[jbergey22]

Thanks

Figured I would miss atleast one and I didnt realize the other two were getting a bump next year.

It is amazing all of the talent Texas kicks out of their system each year. They are feeding all of these schools and many others that try to tap into their state.

[MJ4H]

So I'm kind of nervous.

[tarcone]

I am so excited. Time to start a new tradition.
30 years ago this season, Iowa was coming off 19 staright losing seasons. In the previous season we traveled to Lincoln and Nebraska waxed us 57-0. Nebraska was on tap for our home opener in 1981. Iowa had 9 defensive starters that were seniors or 5th year seniors, including Andre Tippett and Bob Stoops. Our punter was Reggie Roby.
Iowa stayed together as a team over the summer, which at the time was rare. Not like today. They worked and prepared.
Nebraska came into the game ranked 7th and 16 point favorites.
Iowa came into the game with a chip on their shoulders.
It was time to end the losing.
It was hard-hitting defensive battle. Iowa led at half time 10-0. We were shutting out one of the best offensive teams in the nation. Roger Craig was their running back. Dave Rimington was at center.
Imagine seeing that score. It would be like kansas leading LSU at half 10-0 today.
But Iowa had led big names in seasons past, including a #1 ranked Oklahoma team the previous season (If memory serves).
Nebraska scored a TD in the 3rd. 10-7. Missed a FG. Iowa could do nothing on offense. Late in the 4th Nebraska recovered a fumble on our 41. But did nothing.
Iowa won the game 10-7. A huge upset.
This game is considered the game that turned the program around. We finished 8-4 that season, but beat Michigan as well. We went tot he Rose Bowl that year. But UCLA waxed us.
This game still gives me goose bumps. I grew up in Coralville, which borders Iowa City. I suffered through all most of the losing seasons. I was a Freshman in HS when we beat Nebraska that year. Still a great memory.

Go Hawks!

[tarcone]

Louisville looks completely out of sorts. And they have a chance to win the BigEast and be a BCS rep. At 7-5.

[ISiddiqui]

They said something interesting at ESPN - apparently ALL 8 teams in the Big East can possibly be Bowl Eligible. The record of the worst teams in the BE is 5-5.

[Swaggs]

It's going to be sweet having Louisville represent the Big East in the BCS.

I guess on the bright side, WVU could possibly win out play in a crappy bowl and get to 10 wins, which would probably get us a nice ranking to begin with next season.

[tarcone]

Iowa getting dominated.. Though the score is only 13-0.

[B & B]

Taylor Martinez is horrible as a passing QB. Its not news, but his mechanics are middle school grade.


That being said, hes playing better than Opie, whos being shutout by one of the poorest excuses for a Blackshirt Defense in years.

This game is BRUTAL to watch, and Im turning it off before the 4Q even starts.

[Jon]

It's going to be sweet having Louisville represent the Big East in the BCS.

I guess on the bright side, WVU could possibly win out play in a crappy bowl and get to 10 wins, which would probably get us a nice ranking to begin with next season.

However, IF (and this is a HUGE if), Pitt and Cincinnati win out and assuming Rutgers beats UConn, then Louisville loses the tiebreaker.

[Swaggs]

However, IF (and this is a HUGE if), Pitt and Cincinnati win out and assuming Rutgers beats UConn, then Louisville loses the tiebreaker.

If WVU and Cincy win out, WVU likely gets the BCS bid, as well.

[digamma]

Arkansas is the only team in the SEC whose total offense national rank is better than its total defense national rank.

Yet another example of ESSSS EEEEE SEEEEEE speed on defense just overwhelming everyone. Or sec offenses underwhelming. You make the call.

[B & B]

Arkansas is the only team in the SEC whose total offense national rank is better than its total defense national rank.

Yet another example of ESSSS EEEEE SEEEEEE speed on defense just overwhelming everyone. Or sec offenses underwhelming. You make the call.

Haters gonna hate.

[BishopMVP]

Arkansas is the only team in the SEC whose total offense national rank is better than its total defense national rank.

Yet another example of ESSSS EEEEE SEEEEEE speed on defense just overwhelming everyone. Or sec offenses underwhelming. You make the call.Well, Missouri and aTm are 7th and 11th right now in total offense, and I'll guess both of those drop precipitously next year (or 2013).

[RainMaker]

Trying to think of the Texas D1 schools and how tough of a conference that would be. Am I missing any?

1. Texas
2. Texas A&M
3. Texas Tech
4. Houston
5. TCU
6. SMU
7. Baylor
8. UTEP
9. North Texas

Division 2 has an almost all-Texas conference called the Lone Star Conference.

[Grover]

LSU is in some early trouble.

[Karlifornia]

Reading the score board thread on tigerdroppings is HILARIOUS right now.

[StLee]

Honey Badger takes what he wants!

[k0ruptr]

Holy shit. if even 10% of what I'm hearing from a decent source is true, Hawaii or at least the players involved are completely fucked.

stay tuned people, it's going to be a disaster.

[whomario]

Houston wins the supposedly "toughest game" 48-16 on the road.
Case Keenum with 457 yards and 5 TDs. I don´t know much about college football, but has a similar player ever won the Heisman ? (ridiculous numbers on unbeaten team outside the big conferences and with a very weak schedule)
Also, has he got any chance to be successfull in the NFL ?

[MJ4H]

Please shit the bed more. Please.

[BillJasper]

Wow, Arkansas has completely collapsed. Someone should've told them the game wasn't over when they went up 14-0. :lol:

[BillJasper]

Arkansas needs to go and get at least a FG before the half to rebuild some confidence.

[MJ4H]

Please shit the bed more. Please.

Theeeerrrre you go now wallow around in a bit. Yeah that's the way.

[k0ruptr]

lol damn

[BillJasper]

Nice return by Arkansas!

[RainMaker]

Houston wins the supposedly "toughest game" 48-16 on the road.
Case Keenum with 457 yards and 5 TDs. I don´t know much about college football, but has a similar player ever won the Heisman ? (ridiculous numbers on unbeaten team outside the big conferences and with a very weak schedule)
Also, has he got any chance to be successfull in the NFL ?

Tough to say. It's really difficult to predict how a QB will transfer to the NFL after coming from a spread offense. Despite how much he has played, that system doesn't require a strong grasp of reading the defense or progressing down. He's also not very big which will come into play much more in an NFL system.

My guess would be no. Someone will take a flyer on him later in the draft and see if he can transform into an NFL QB. But I don't think the odds are in his favor. I know Kellen Moore gets thrown into the same conversation as him a lot, but Moore has faced and excelled against better competition and is really good at reading a defense.

[k0ruptr]

is that 3 TDs in 4 minutes?

[MJ4H]

Nice return by Arkansas!

It's as predictable as the sun rise. Told my wife he'd run it out from 5 yds deep and get tackled inside the ten. Oh looky.

Just rub that shit all over your faces while you're down there boys. Try to find a way to make it even worse. Quick!

[BillJasper]

is that 3 TDs in 4 minutes?

Yep. I went to take a quick shower when Arkansas went up by fourteen then it was tied when I got back.

[Tigercat]

Reading the score board thread on tigerdroppings is HILARIOUS right now.

Tigerdroppings is both awesome and pathetic at the same time. It has given and spread the great terms like "the hat" and "the honey badger." It gave us LSUFreek, and can have some of the best on and off the field college football commentary in the message boardverse.

Buttt, because it is so popular, it has more than its share of backwoods rednecks and cajuns that post some seriously stupid crap. Gamedays are the worst.

[MJ4H]

Nice to see Petrino set Wolfson straight there. I can't stand her.

[General Mike]

Time for WVU to shit the bed

[Pumpy Tudors]

Nice to see Petrino set Wolfson straight there. I can't stand her.
stop being emotional and fragile

[MJ4H]

Just went back and watched the "fumble" again. Interesting how last year the forearm and wrist was enough for DJ Williams to be down and denied a touchdown against OSU in the Sugar Bowl, but this year the wrist and forearm isn't enough to be down on that play.

[cartman]

Case Keenum with 457 yards and 5 TDs. I don´t know much about college football, but has a similar player ever won the Heisman ? (ridiculous numbers on unbeaten team outside the big conferences and with a very weak schedule)

The last player like that who comes to mind is Ty Detmer from BYU back in '90.

[lungs]

The last player like that who comes to mind is Ty Detmer from BYU back in '90.

How about David Klingler?

[DeToxRox]

The last player like that who comes to mind is Ty Detmer from BYU back in '90.

Heh, I was going to go with Andre Ware in 89.

[cartman]

The SWC was considered one of the major conferences.

[DeToxRox]

The SWC was considered one of the major conferences.

Didn't even think of that. In my defense, I was 4 in 1989. So take that.

[Pumpy Tudors]

love the sexy pre-kickoff music in baton rouge

[k0ruptr]

I always wonder if Colt Brennan had gone undefeated during his 2006 season if he would of had a shot. 2007 wasn't a great year statistically for him but the undefeated season got him to NY. 2006 was fucking amazing statistically. What Keenum is doing is pretty awesome.

[MJ4H]

OK Gary Danielson is being an idiot. Apparently you suddenly need to get a knee down in bounds to make a catch and not just your foot.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Why is Gary Danielson wondering if the guy intercepting the pass has his knee down? The guy caught the ball cleanly and his foot was down in bounds. Does Danielson think the rules are different for a receiver than for a defender? Possession, one foot down, it's a catch. I want to kill stupid people now.

[cuervo72]

Derp, it doesn't matter if the right knee is down if the right FOOT is down, Danielson.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I love how Danielson even referenced the guy's foot. "His foot is in the way of where I'm trying to look!"

[RainMaker]

Some great blocks on that play.

[RainMaker]

Do the refs think Tyler Wilson is Aaron Rodgers?

[StLee]

Tigerdroppings is both awesome and pathetic at the same time. It has given and spread the great terms like "the hat" and "the honey badger." It gave us LSUFreek, and can have some of the best on and off the field college football commentary in the message boardverse.

Buttt, because it is so popular, it has more than its share of backwoods rednecks and cajuns that post some seriously stupid crap. Gamedays are the worst.

I used to go to Tigerdroppings, but left when I realized there were too many people there who didn't give one shit about CFB history. Now I hang my hat in Tigalaya and TigerFan where the overall feel is a bit more . . . civilized.

Congratulations to the Tigers! 12-0 for the first time ever. The last decade has been good! :D

[MJ4H]

Congrats to the Razorbacks. Back to back 10 win seasons is certainly a good sign for the Petrino era. Tough to be in the same division with the far and away best 2 teams in the country and left out of a BCS bowl, but definitely encouraged for the future. Hope for a good bowl match-up and look forward to next season.

Also, gl who the fuck ever gets to play LSU. Jesus.

[MJ4H]

LOL nice shot of the fan giving the double bird to the officials in the Miami-BC game on ABC.

[RainMaker]

LSU is unreal.

[Atocep]

Really sick of Big East officiating.

[Atocep]

When was the last time anyone saw low block on the defense called on a field goal attempt?

[MJ4H]

Seriously these guys on the cameras need to get better at learning when to cut away from the fans.

[RainMaker]

So 6-6 UCLA gets to play for a bid in a BCS Bowl game. Will wait to hear how college football's regular season is like a playoff every week.

[mauchow]

Picked up tickets for the Badgers/PSU game tomorrow under face-value. WOOT! My first ever game at Camp Randall. Now to hope my little 1 year old's fever doesn't pick up by tomorrow morning.

[tarcone]

Camp Randall is a fun place to watch a game. Enjoy it.

Hey, Britrock, Boise going to be your #1 team next week? Jeez, what a team. They would smack the Colts around this season.

[Pumpy Tudors]

So 6-6 UCLA gets to play for a bid in a BCS Bowl game. Will wait to hear how college football's regular season is like a playoff every week.
So since you're already saying that UCLA will lose to USC, I guess UCLA would also lose the Pac-12 championship game (since Stanford and Oregon are at least on the same level as USC), so ultimately, it doesn't matter.

[B & B]

What matters is what USC team shows up.


The talented, high powered best team in the conference, or the mail it in, woe is us, crybaby kiffins who have no postseason to play for and just shot their bowl 'wad' against Oregon.


By 10pm EST Sat, the only other competition on TV is the leftover remainder of the Domers/Tree festival and the drivel combo of SDSU/REBS + WAVE/RAINBOW PT SHAVERS


Pass.

[RainMaker]

So since you're already saying that UCLA will lose to USC, I guess UCLA would also lose the Pac-12 championship game (since Stanford and Oregon are at least on the same level as USC), so ultimately, it doesn't matter.
You're right, they could beat USC and go in at 7-5. In which case, absolutely nothing will change. Remember though, a playoff would lead to meaningless games at the end of the regular season.

[Buccaneer]

So 6-6 UCLA gets to play for a bid in a BCS Bowl game. Will wait to hear how college football's regular season is like a playoff every week.

Conference championships are quite unnecessary and contrived, typically meaningless compared to the big games and rival games the week before.

[Buccaneer]

Also, if UCLA wins the "conference championship", they will make it to the playoffs, if there were one. Along with other stellar teams like BE, CUSA and Sun Belt champions. Then we would have a whole week of first round matchups similar to some of the mismatched conference championships. Both are unnecessary.

[dawgfan]

Also, if UCLA wins the "conference championship", they will make it to the playoffs, if there were one. Along with other stellar teams like BE, CUSA and Sun Belt champions. Then we would have a whole week of first round matchups similar to some of the mismatched conference championships. Both are unnecessary.
Bingo. I love how RainMaker is making the case against playoffs for us...;)

[Lathum]

Tino Sunsieri (sp?) has the worst internal clock of any QB I have ever seen

[yacovfb]

I'm confused...why did I have to pay to go to Pitt but Tino Sunseri gets to go for free?

[yacovfb]

Why can't West Virginia fans throw quarters at Tino? I think even Pitt fans would appreciate that

[Atocep]

Tino Sunsieri (sp?) has the worst internal clock of any QB I have ever seen

Incredible timing on this post. It was followed up by Tino being Tino to end the game.

Really ugly game. I hope it's not the last time we see Pitt.

[cartman]

I don't think the Big 12 will be too shocked or surprised by couches burning in Morgantown. They will just have to think of them as a bunch of mini A&M bonfires.

[Buccaneer]

My son came down and told me he had just seen the worst QB performance (Pitt) he had ever seen. The kid have watched an incredible amount of college football over the past several years, so that's saying a lot.

[Atocep]

Wannstedt was a pretty solid recruiter at Pitt. It's one of the few things he did well while he was there, but his failures at the QB position are incredible. Tino Sunseri is the best QB on that roster. I watched Trey Anderson play against Utah and I don't think he could make as a D2 QB. I don't know how you fail that badly at that position.

[Logan]

That was so ridiculously pitiful. I've never seen a lower QB IQ. I legitimately think Sunseri was on the take, his effort on that 4th down sneak was atrocious. He didn't even try to push, just fell over. That was a generous spot and he still managed to piss it away.

[Chief Rum]

So 6-6 UCLA gets to play for a bid in a BCS Bowl game. Will wait to hear how college football's regular season is like a playoff every week.

To be fair, they're actually 6-5, and need to lose tomorrow to USC to be 6-6.

If course, that's pretty likely to happen, but still...

[Chief Rum]

BTW, ucla could beat usc tomorrow, Oregon next week and Michigan State in the rose bowl--and i would still be 100% behind firing neuheisel.

[MrBug708]

Agreed. And UCLA hasnt won the South yet, but Carroll kinda ruined it for USC this year so the angst should be towards him

[jbergey22]

So 6-6 UCLA gets to play for a bid in a BCS Bowl game. Will wait to hear how college football's regular season is like a playoff every week.

I thought the purpose behind your playoff idea was to determine a Nat'l Champion through a playoff system???

UCLA wouldnt qualify in any system, except a playoff system, for the National Championship.

It sounds like you agree that the playoff is a bad idea?

[bhlloy]

Why are the announcers in the ASU game saying the Sun Devils have nothing to play for? Did I miss something between this morning and this evening?

[jbergey22]

And a playoff would allow enough other teams that it would keep someone like Oregon or Stanford from being excluded because of UCLA.

You must be looking at a playoff with atleast 16 teams.

Im really not sure what that would accomplish other then hurt the regular season.

At this point I think we pretty much all have it figured out that LSU is the best team. I suppose you could make a case for 3 others (Alabama, Oklahoma State, and Houston) to play them in the BCS championship. I cant really think of another deserving team that even deserves consideration.

I could handle a 4 team playoff but a 16 would be too many.

The crappy part of this year is LSU is going to be in a position that they will deserve the Natl Championship whether they win or lose the BCS game.

[dawgfan]

Why are the announcers in the ASU game saying the Sun Devils have nothing to play for? Did I miss something between this morning and this evening?
Utah losing to Colorado clinched the South Division for UCLA.

[MrBug708]

Why are the announcers in the ASU game saying the Sun Devils have nothing to play for? Did I miss something between this morning and this evening?

An Arizona State win only ties them with UCLA in wins. UCLA owns the tiebreaker so ASU cannot represent the South. ASU is already bowl eligible and the PAC-12 won't have enough bowl eligible teams. It's going to be like last year where an average UW team was in the Holiday bowl, the PAC-12's second best bowl tie in

[bronconick]

I'm convinced the Green Bay Packers are the best team in the NFL. Should we just say "fuck it" to the playoffs and just pick someone from a random/flawed ranking system and skip straight to the Super Bowl with other good teams going to other postseason bowl games?

No, that would be idiotic and the champ wouldn't be forced to prove it on the field.

Imagine taking the undefeated Patriots and randomly assigning them a Super Bowl opponent. Most likely would have been the Cowboys or Packers. The Giants would never have had the chance to win it.

The college football bowl system is the dumbest system in sports. There has never been a legitimate DI-A/FBS champion. Just people who got voted for or were chosen by a monstrously convoluted system.

It's a manly version of the Olympic figure skating judging rules.

Watching people defend it based on "tradition" is pretty funny while schools are gleefully tearing apart century long rivalries in the chase for a few more television dollars. Not quite as funny as the "A playoff wouldn't be fair to our student athlete's academic careers" presidents would use, while DIII schools play a month long playoff, but pretty close.

Before that, it was the "We can't have a couple teams playing 14 game seasons. 11 games and a bowl is plenty." Now a dozen schools play 14 games a year, and when the Big Ten, SEC, and ACC go to 9 game conference schedules in 2015-17, the next thing will be a push for a 13th regular season game to play in late August so those big universities can get their 8th home game in the years where they have a 4 home/5 road game split in conference play. That'll happen within a decade of the 9 game schedule. Then there will be 15 game seasons.

[jbergey22]

The college football bowl system is the dumbest system in sports. There has never been a legitimate DI-A/FBS champion. Just people who got voted for or were chosen by a monstrously convoluted system.

Yeah certainly not as good of a system as one that allows a team with numerous losses having the chance to claim championship over a team with one failure on the season.(NFL playoffs)

If they ever do decide on a 16 team playoff you will be bitching about that as well because how will they decide on the 16 teams???

Just people who got voted for or were chosen by a monstrously convoluted system.

[Swaggs]

Enjoyed myself at the Backyard Brawl. I really hope the schools can figure out a way to continue the series -- it is always a big game, regardless of records.

Hard to believe Tino is the best QB on that roster. Limited physical skills and he doesn't seem to have any mental or leadership intangibles either.

[RainMaker]

I thought the purpose behind your playoff idea was to determine a Nat'l Champion through a playoff system???

UCLA wouldnt qualify in any system, except a playoff system, for the National Championship.

It sounds like you agree that the playoff is a bad idea?

One of the biggest arguments BCS supporters make is that a playoff would result in teams being able to sandbag games late in the year if they had already assured themselves a birth. Claiming things would be like the NFL in the final weeks. That the games would lose meaning.

Playoff supporters have stated that's ludicrous and college teams would never do that regardless of their future position. We now have two examples this season to prove it. UCLA can theoretically rest their starters and still play for a chance at the Rose Bowl. LSU can theoretically lose the SECCG and still play for a NC. I guarantee you both teams will play their ass off and the games will still carry meaning. Something many BCS supporters claim isn't possible.

I don't care if UCLA plays in the Rose Bowl if they win the Pac-10. The conference sets up how they want to crown a champion. Just as I wouldn't care if they got an automatic bid to a playoff for doing so. But I'm not the one claiming how important the regular season is while potentially putting a 7-6 team in the most prestiguous non-NC bowl game.

[jbergey22]

One of the biggest arguments BCS supporters make is that a playoff would result in teams being able to sandbag games late in the year if they had already assured themselves a birth. Claiming things would be like the NFL in the final weeks. That the games would lose meaning.


Ive never actually heard this as an argument. Id love to see that argument because anyone that really thinks college kids should/would be sandbagging games needs their head examined.

They would lose meaning because the Alabama/LSU, Stanford/Oregon, LSU/Arkansas games wouldnt severely hurt a teams chances at a NAt'l title because each team would be safely assured a spot in the top 16. It was very unusual that bama got back in the picture this year. Normally, losing that game would have ended their championship hopes.

If you look at the college schedule there is usually a game each week that is similar to what you would see in the playoffs.

[RainMaker]

Ive never actually heard this as an argument.

They would lose meaning because the Alabama/LSU, Stanford/Oregon, LSU/Arkansas games wouldnt severely hurt a teams chances at a NAt'l title because each team would be safely assured a spot in the top 16. It was very unusual that bama got back in the picture this year. Normally, losing that game would have ended their championship hopes.

You made the argument just a few posts up. And if you feel those games above lose meaning, you must feel that UCLA/USC, Michigan State/Northwestern, and LSU/Georgia lose meaning now.

You must be looking at a playoff with atleast 16 teams.

Im really not sure what that would accomplish other then hurt the regular season.

At this point I think we pretty much all have it figured out that LSU is the best team. I suppose you could make a case for 3 others (Alabama, Oklahoma State, and Houston) to play them in the BCS championship. I cant really think of another deserving team that even deserves consideration.

I could handle a 4 team playoff but a 16 would be too many.

The crappy part of this year is LSU is going to be in a position that they will deserve the Natl Championship whether they win or lose the BCS game.

[Atocep]

I'd be interested to see a study done on exactly why a playoff makes people feel more comfortable with things in general.

I always find the "prove it on the field" claims and statements somewhat humorous since the only thing really proven on the field in a playoff is that over that game or series that you were better than the teams you beat.

In 2007 the New York Giants for 16 games were clearly the 2nd best team in their division. That was proven on the field. They lost to Dallas twice, split their series with Washington, and only outscored their opponents by 22 points that year. Then in the playoffs they beat a Tampa team they were better than, managed to pull off an upset against Green Bay, and then beat Dallas despite being outgained by more than 100 yards and losing TOP by 13 minutes. In the Super Bowl they beat a team they lost to at home to close out the regular season.

Great story? Yes, of course. What was proven on the field though? To me the only thing that was really proven was they were able to play well for a stretch at the end of the season and take advantage of the breaks that were given to them. Great story, a great super bowl, but not a great team.

In 2006 the St. Louis Cardinals were an 83 win team in a division that, as a whole, was outscored by its opponents by 344 runs. It's unlikely they make the playoffs playing in any other division in baseball. They played well in the postseason, but avoided playing the team that was the best in baseball that year (the Yankees). What was proven on the field?

The NCAA tournament each year is given as an example of a great playoff. It's fun, it's exciting, it has great drama, and everyone gets a chance to cheer for the underdogs. The reality is that not much is really proven on the court. In order to win this tournament you have beat 6 out of 64 teams 1 time. What in the world could possibly be proven on the court in this case?

The BCS system spreads the importance of games out over the course of a season and attempts to match up the 2 most deserving teams. A playoff pushes the importance of games into the later part of the season and crowns a playoff champion with little regard to who is most deserving.

Every system outside of a long, drawn out round robin is going to have its flaws. The BCS, the NFL playoffs, the NCAA tournament, the MLB playoffs. All of these have their problems. Very little is actually proven on the field or on the court in any of these systems. I've hit the point where I really believe it comes down to people just missing the drama, the stories, and the underdogs people love to cheer for when they complain about the BCS. That's fine, but the "prove it on the field" talk has always been something that I can't help but laugh at.

[jbergey22]

You made the argument just a few posts up. And if you feel those games above lose meaning, you must feel that UCLA/USC, Michigan State/Northwestern, and LSU/Georgia lose meaning now.

I never said every game had to have Natl championship meaning. BTW while LSU can mostly likely lose and still get in the Nat'l championship its certainly not a lock. They are going to still have to show up.

Just give me my 1 or 2 games each week that have a big influence on who in the Natl Championship and I am happy. I dont think I am being unreasonable that I enjoy LSU/Alabama or Stanford/Oregon more than any NFL regular season game I will watch in 10 years.

[jbergey22]

I'd be interested to see a study done on exactly why a playoff makes people feel more comfortable with things in general.

I always find the "prove it on the field" claims and statements somewhat humorous since the only thing really proven on the field in a playoff is that over that game or series that you were better than the teams you beat.

In 2007 the New York Giants for 16 games were clearly the 2nd best team in their division. That was proven on the field. They lost to Dallas twice, split their series with Washington, and only outscored their opponents by 22 points that year. Then in the playoffs they beat a Tampa team they were better than, managed to pull off an upset against Green Bay, and then beat Dallas despite being outgained by more than 100 yards and losing TOP by 13 minutes. In the Super Bowl they beat a team they lost to at home to close out the regular season.

Great story? Yes, of course. What was proven on the field though? To me the only thing that was really proven was they were able to play well for a stretch at the end of the season and take advantage of the breaks that were given to them. Great story, a great super bowl, but not a great team.

In 2006 the St. Louis Cardinals were an 83 win team in a division that, as a whole, was outscored by its opponents by 344 runs. It's unlikely they make the playoffs playing in any other division in baseball. They played well in the postseason, but avoided playing the team that was the best in baseball that year (the Yankees). What was proven on the field?

The NCAA tournament each year is given as an example of a great playoff. It's fun, it's exciting, it has great drama, and everyone gets a chance to cheer for the underdogs. The reality is that not much is really proven on the court. In order to win this tournament you have beat 6 out of 64 teams 1 time. What in the world could possibly be proven on the court in this case?

The BCS system spreads the importance of games out over the course of a season and attempts to match up the 2 most deserving teams. A playoff pushes the importance of games into the later part of the season and crowns a playoff champion with little regard to who is most deserving.

Every system outside of a long, drawn out round robin is going to have its flaws. The BCS, the NFL playoffs, the NCAA tournament, the MLB playoffs. All of these have their problems. Very little is actually proven on the field or on the court in any of these systems. I've hit the point where I really believe it comes down to people just missing the drama, the stories, and the underdogs people love to cheer for when they complain about the BCS. That's fine, but the "prove it on the field" talk has always been something that I can't help but laugh at.

This is very well said. I thought about getting into this(07 Pats) on one of my posts and thought better of it.

[RainMaker]

Also, if UCLA wins the "conference championship", they will make it to the playoffs, if there were one. Along with other stellar teams like BE, CUSA and Sun Belt champions. Then we would have a whole week of first round matchups similar to some of the mismatched conference championships. Both are unnecessary.
I don't understand why all those teams would have to make a playoff. Division 2 has something called "Earned Access". You get an automatic bid to the playoffs as long as you fall within a certain regional ranking.

So you could set an 8, 12, or 16 team playoff and give automatic bids to teams that fall within a certain BCS ranking. Then fill the rest in with at-large. That way you avoid putting in inferior Sun Belt, C-USA, BE, or P-12 championships teams in years where they are not that good.

[Solecismic]

Isn't it a flawed system if a team would be better off if it could forfeit its conference championship game?

I would like to see an 11-team playoff where the winners of the five major conferences are awarded byes into the quarterfinals.

[jbergey22]

I missed how unbelievable this comment was the first time around. Why would they DESERVE the National Championship if the LOSE the so-called National Championship Game?

If you lose the championship game, you do not deserve to be the champion. How is that a difficult concept to understand?

Its beyond your level of thinking. You only care about 1 game.

To answer the question. LSU will have beaten bama on the road, played a tougher schedule, and an extra game. Why should this one game mean more than all the others? I look at the overall picture and use a bigger sample size.

[bronconick]

I'd argue that the more connectivity you have in your schedule, the less necessary playoffs become except as money grabs. In my opinion, college football and basketball are the most in need of a tournament of some variety. MLB could pull out a balanced league schedule and go back to 1960's pennants and I wouldn't bat an eye. 160 games is more than enough time to figure out who's better if things are even.

On the other hand, the college football Sagarin ratings have the Big XII as the best conference in America by far based on their 27-3 non-conference record, while the voters have the SEC as elite partially based on their past 5 championships. How do we compare them objectively? The one matchup was a 10-2 Arkansas storming back from multiple scores down to beat a 6-6 A&M team.

The answer is you can't, so we're stuck using woefully inadequate information (less than 10% of Round Robin connnectivity even possible) to select the bare minimum of teams. The worst of both worlds.

[RainMaker]

I always find the "prove it on the field" claims and statements somewhat humorous since the only thing really proven on the field in a playoff is that over that game or series that you were better than the teams you beat.

That is the entire essence of sports. To prove that on the field for X amount of time, you were better than the other team. It's why we don't just look at a sheet of paper and crown a champion based on who has the best recruiting classes.

In 2007 the New York Giants for 16 games were clearly the 2nd best team in their division. That was proven on the field. They lost to Dallas twice, split their series with Washington, and only outscored their opponents by 22 points that year. Then in the playoffs they beat a Tampa team they were better than, managed to pull off an upset against Green Bay, and then beat Dallas despite being outgained by more than 100 yards and losing TOP by 13 minutes. In the Super Bowl they beat a team they lost to at home to close out the regular season.

And there is a good chance we could see a team that LSU beat beat them in the NCG. We see undefeated teams play 1-loss teams or teams with inferior schedules. The only way you get a perfect system is if everyone played the same opponents in the same venues and whoever finished best got it.

Every system outside of a long, drawn out round robin is going to have its flaws. The BCS, the NFL playoffs, the NCAA tournament, the MLB playoffs. All of these have their problems. Very little is actually proven on the field or on the court in any of these systems. I've hit the point where I really believe it comes down to people just missing the drama, the stories, and the underdogs people love to cheer for when they complain about the BCS. That's fine, but the "prove it on the field" talk has always been something that I can't help but laugh at.

But out of all the sports, college football proves the least in their regular season. Everyone has completely different schedules to varying degrees of difficulty. The difference in the top teams and the bottom teams is more dramatic than any professional sport. Yet it's the sport that feels the least amount of need to determine who is best on the field.

You can make a great case for all the major professional sports for reducing their playoff pool. They all play relatively equal schedules, splitting their home/away games, and without huge gaps in talent. You can make better determinations with that. But in college football, you're trying to determine whether OK-State or Alabama deserves to play LSU when neither team played a common opponent all year. How the hell can you tell which team is more deserving?

Playoffs aren't perfect, but at least a team has to get on the field and beat their competition. The Packers last year still had to beat 4 quality teams and prove the are the best team in football. Alabama and OK State have to convince coaches, writers, and computers that they are better than one another.

[RainMaker]

I missed how unbelievable this comment was the first time around. Why would they DESERVE the National Championship if the LOSE the so-called National Championship Game?

If you lose the championship game, you do not deserve to be the champion. How is that a difficult concept to understand?

Because to many, what happens on the field shouldn't matter. Computers, writers, and coaches who don't watch all the games should do it.

[jbergey22]

No, it's fucking idiotic. You lose and you deserve to be champion? That's the kind of bullshit that leads to everybody gets a trophy in little league.

Because you only care about 1 game. And what you are saying is exactly what you are after by allowing all of these 2 loss teams in your playoffs.

In what world does a 1 unit sample size outweigh a 13-14 unit sample size? In your world.

LSU will have beat Bama on the road and played a more difficult schedule and played an extra game. How that hell will Alabama have a convincing argument they were better? Because they won the game in January while LSU won the game in November?

To me that is idiotic.

[jbergey22]

Because to many, what happens on the field shouldn't matter. Computers, writers, and coaches who don't watch all the games should do it.

Do you two realize there are over 125 D1 teams?

Whether it is bowls, Natl Championships, or playoffs the computers, writers, and coaches will HAVE to determine who plays in these. I am sure everyone wishes they could have a balanced schedule and come up with some super system but it cant/wont happen. Too many teams and not enough time. The conferences cant even have a balanced schedule.

I guess your choices are a 125+ team 7 week tournament that lasts the entire season or we just have to go on some assumptions/projections/computers to decide on which teams are better.

[Atocep]

That is the entire essence of sports. To prove that on the field for X amount of time, you were better than the other team. It's why we don't just look at a sheet of paper and crown a champion based on who has the best recruiting classes.

What is X amount of time? In the example I gave above the Cowboys were better than the Giants over the course of a 16 game schedule.

The Cardinals weren't one of the 10 best teams in all of baseball over 162 games.


The only way you get a perfect system is if everyone played the same opponents in the same venues and whoever finished best got it.

Isn't this more or less the point I made above? You're trying to spin my statements into a BCS is superior to a playoff and at no point did make that claim or even infer it. I fact, I made it pretty damn clear that both both the BCS system and a playoff system have their flaws. They aim to accomplish different things.

I pointed out the ridiculousness of the "prove it on the field" statements people make in support of a playoff.

Playoffs aren't perfect, but at least a team has to get on the field and beat their competition.

No, they don't. They beat a portion of the competition and other teams take care of the rest.

[RainMaker]

Much less margin of error putting in 8, 12, or 16 teams than putting in 2.

[jbergey22]

Much less margin of error putting in 8, 12, or 16 teams than putting in 2.

I guess that depends on what you are looking for.

If you want a NFL/March Madness like tourny where odd results can happen based on this 1 game type of format knowing you have a decent shot of not finding the best team but is entertaining this is for you.

If you are looking for the two best best teams to play in the championship the computers do a great job IMO. People want to be skeptical of them but Vegas cashes in year in and year out using these computers so I tend to believe they know what they are doing.

Yeah play the game on the field I get it. But I think its safe to say computers can gather enough data over 13-14 games to get their shit pretty accurate.

All of this is what Atocep has done a nice job of selling. Both of these systems have flaws.

I dont claim the non playoff system is the best way to decide a champion I do claim it is the best way to keep the regular season as interesting as it is now.

This is all kind of pointless anyway. In a one game scenario where the ball can bounce so many ways there is always going to be some sort of luck factor involved. I know in the one game they played in November I thought Alabama was probably the better team(didnt catch the breaks) and now I am trying to say even if Alabama wins they dont deserve the Nat'l Championship. I'll just stay out of this conversation from now on because Im not even sure myself what system I want. Probably something not even remotely possible.

[RainMaker]

But computers can't do a good job predicting this. There isn't enough data to go by, not enough common opponents, and no way to differentiate the home field advantages.

You have 6 computer rankings. 4 of the 6 list Kansas State ahead of Oklahoma. An Oklahoma team that beat them by 42 in Manhattan. These same computer rankings also don't have to give the BCS their formula or even verify them. This was brought to life when a couple teams switched after the fact because an Appalachian State-Western Illinois game wasn't added to it. Yes, an Appalachian State-Western Illinois caused shakeups in the BCS standings. That is the system that they go by.

And one of the others is coaches and a random sampling of people connected to college football who couldn't possibly watch all these teams play. Are you telling me that these people watch all these games and see all these teams they vote on? Don't worry though, they only count for 2/3rds of the whole thing.

[RainMaker]

And my knocking of the formula isn't just a playoff complaint. I think if you keep a system like the BCS, go to a committee format and select individuals who can use all the data to make their determination and who would dedicate themselves to watching as many of these teams as possible.

[jbergey22]

Rainmaker, Its not possible for any human being to watch every game. Well possibly if that person didnt sleep and fast forwarded through the commercials.

[jbergey22]

You have 6 computer rankings. 4 of the 6 list Kansas State ahead of Oklahoma. An Oklahoma team that beat them by 42 in Manhattan.


I am not saying I agree or disagree with that ranking. These computers base it off of the entire years worth of data. I dont think we can say they all suck simply for this reason.

I am sure 95 percent of the human population would have predicted the Ravens to hand it to the Jags on Monday night a few weeks ago. It doesnt mean the Jags are better it just means that for whatever reason the Ravens didnt win that game.

Oklahoma State lost to Iowa St and the Saints lost to the Rams. Few humans could have predicted that just like no computer could have predicted Oklahomas thrashing of Kansas St or their loss to Texas Tech. If I had a choice I would take the computer every time. People tend to base their opinions off of more recent play and have bias tendacies. Computers use all of their information as a whole and doesnt decide they like Oklahoma States cheerleaders better than Stanfords so Oklahoma State gets a better ranking.

[RainMaker]

Computers aren't a huge problem if there is enough data. There just isn't enough with college football.

[jbergey22]

Computers aren't a huge problem if there is enough data. There just isn't enough with college football.

Agree but nothing can be done about this.

[BishopMVP]

That is the entire essence of sports. To prove that on the field for X amount of time, you were better than the other team. It's why we don't just look at a sheet of paper and crown a champion based on who has the best recruiting classes.I'm fine with saying you want to see a champion settled on the field, or you think a playoff would be more exciting, or more profitable, but the idea that one game "proves" a team is better than another is the flaw your argument is based on (this time).

I'm sure those computers also say that OU is better than a Texas Tech team they lost to, Michigan is better than Iowa, Boise State is better than TCU, etc - and they're probably right. Upsets happen. The 2007 Giants deserve to be called champions, but they weren't the best NFL team that year. UConn last year and Syracuse with Carmelo deserve to be called national champions, but neither was the best college basketball team in their year.

IMO, the perfect playoff system is to have a committee decide the number of teams who deserve to be in the playoff after the season ends - some years it would be 3 or 4 (a.k.a a plus-1), some 7, this year maybe we could skip it and just give it to LSU if they beat Georgia convincingly. And I know you'll argue for a playoff, or a larger playoff regardless, but the idea that anything can be proven in a one game sample is ridiculous.

[Edward64]

For the LSU fans - you whupped us, I'm glad we got you worried for a quarter and half. I'll root for the SEC but would pick you over AL if it came to it.

[JonInMiddleGA]

What's the good word?

[BillJasper]

I think they either need to got to a playoff format or go back to the way things use to be prior to the BCS. The bowl games now feel like an afterthought.

[molson]

Where exactly is the cutoff to where if a team beats another head to head, they MUST be ranked ahead of them. I love how that point's always made as if it proves itself - "team x beat team y and y is ranked ahead of team x...case closed!"....I don't think anybody has Oklahoma ranked behind Texas Tech at this point. Is that just because Oklahoma is say, ranked 30+ spots ahead of Texas Tech if we don't consider that head-to-head result? If the difference is less than what, 10 spots, then head-to-head is determinative?

[rowech]

Equal record. Two teams have one loss, team A beat team B, team A should be ranked ahead of team B.

While I tend to agree, that also means that team A has a worse loss than team B in most cases.

[bob]

What's the good word?

To hell with Georgia!

[Buccaneer]

There has never been a legitimate DI-A/FBS champion.

And the problem with that is what? It is one of the few non-professional (on paper) leagues where the journey is the reward. I would guess that many fans of Ohio State, Alabama or Texas can tell you about the games with Michigan, Auburn or Oklahoma (respectively) before they can recall who won the "championship" that year.

[B & B]

Its offically not a shock when GT beats UGA today because Corso AND Herbstriet picked it.

This was after Corso called Desmond Howard, Dennis.

[Buccaneer]

And a playoff would have absolutely no negative effect on OSU/Michigan, Alabama/Auburn, and Texas/Oklahoma while resolving the problem of having no champion.

Except when they meet again in the playoffs and it would be like the outcry of this year's LSU/Alabama potential rematch.

The winner of the SEC gets a trip to the Sugar Bowl. The 2nd best SEC team gets a trip to the Gator Bowl, for instance. In the end, you pick the best team among the apples and oranges.

[Buccaneer]

Go Georgia.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Hard to stop anybody when you're giving 'em that much time to throw :(

[miked]

Rutgers doing what they do best...choking in the clutch. Only 2 turnovers and 4 sacks allowed in the 1st quarter. Down 21-3 to a not-yet-blow-eligible UConn.

[JonInMiddleGA]

A little sign of life in Atlanta, now to avoid giving up anything in the final 1:12 of the half.

[Lathum]

Coaches really need to give up on the ninja timeout

[bob]

I hate this icing crap. I think they are less prepared on the first kick at this point b/c they are just waiting for the timeout. Surprise them by not calling it.

[flounder]

I'm a big CPJ fan, but that timeout was idiocy.

[JonInMiddleGA]

{shrug} Shit happens. Ideally though you actually, you know, call the f'n timeout before the ball is snapped.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Here's a thought: GT could fire their defensive coordinator & hire a special teams coach. Might improve both units.

[JonInMiddleGA]

WTF Tevin?

[Swaggs]

UConn is up by 27 on Rutgers early in the third.

If UConn wins, all Big East teams will have a shot at becoming bowl eligible next week.

[bob]

That was a weird interception that Tevin threw.

Good stop by Tech but man, they need to score a TD on this drive.

[terpkristin]

I know Maryland is completely irrelevant this year, but I'm still happy to see their performance in this game.

By and large, they've looked like a different team than the one I watched all year. I kinda wish the team playing today had showed up for all the home games I was at. Would have made those a lot more fun...

/tk

[Young Drachma]

Rutgers is who they thought they were. Chocolate Chip Cookie Cereal Bowl here they come.

[MJ4H]

Chocolate Chip Cookie Cereal Bowl here they come.

Holy shit me too if I have any choice.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Maybe an OC is also in order at GT.

Completely f'n ridiculous to have a team, and a coaching staff, look this lost at this level. The defensive back 8 look like a mediocre high school team, it's rare to see players turned inside out as frequently as this group manages.

[Young Drachma]

Meanwhile, I hope Wyoming beats Boise State. I mean, since the blue turfers choked away their chance at the national title game that apparently waters down the meaning of the season, they might as well lose a game at home to the Pokes so they can solidify a shot at a less crappy bowl thanks to the MWC's awful slate of bowl tie-ins. Not bad for a team that started the year without a QB.

[bob]

Honestly, I'm through with Paul Johnson at Tech.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Honestly, I'm through with Paul Johnson at Tech.

+1

The arrogant SOB calls plays like he's high, has put together one of the least effective staffs in the history of college football and there's no more damning indictment than the almost complete lack of legitimate D1 talent that he's been able to recruit. The problem isn't the offensive system, it's the people running it. It's time for him to go & it can't be soon enough.

But given the financial situation & the extreme willingness for so many at GT to accept mediocrity, the dumb bastard ain't going anywhere any time soon.

[JonInMiddleGA]

That was just brilliant. Not sure what's worse today, CPJ's playcalling once they reached midfield on that drive or Tevin's accuracy.

What sort of fucking idiot throws on 3rd & 6 there, setting up a virtually impossible 4th & 6?

[bob]

I grew up a Notre Dame fan and went to Georgia Tech. The similarities between Paul Johnson and Charlie Weis are insane. Both arrogant, my-system-will-always-work, no adjustments coaches. Both completely ignored the defense and special teams side of things.

One difference is that Weis actually got legitimate D1 talent.

I guess its fine since we are selling out the stadium now at Tech though. At least when Clemson and UGA are in town.

[JonInMiddleGA]

I guess its fine since we are selling out the stadium now at Tech though. At least when Clemson and UGA are in town.

Hey, don't forget the occasional Thursday night game vs Va Tech.

[bob]

Hey, don't forget the occasional Thursday night game vs Va Tech.

I'm pretty sure that wasn't a sell out (at least not this year).

Edit - Just looked. 55,646 in attendance for the Clemson game, only 50,140 for VT.

[bob]

Why not try the onside kick there?

[JonInMiddleGA]

Why not try the onside kick there?

Don't question the f'n genius

[bob]

Fair enough.

Someone wake me when Paul Johnson is gone.

I think the big issue the next coach will have is the mess of no talent on the roster. Given that everyone gets about 3 years to build a program, who will want to inherit this mess?

[JonInMiddleGA]

I think the big issue the next coach will have is the mess of no talent on the roster. Given that everyone gets about 3 years to build a program, who will want to inherit this mess?

It's at least 2 years before I can see him going anywhere, the mess will be almost certainly be considerably worse.

You literally couldn't combine the rosters at GT & Tennessee and field a decent D1 team at this point. It'll take a complete genius to rebuild the sort of clusterfucks that exist in Knoxville or Atlanta.

Problem is, neither team has a genius in sight :(

[bob]

It's at least 2 years before I can see him going anywhere, the mess will be almost certainly be considerably worse.

Completely agree. With the basketball stadium expansion and Paul Hewitt's contract, we are stuck with him.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Completely agree. With the basketball stadium expansion and Paul Hewitt's contract, we are stuck with him.

The sad thing (for my cfb viewing at least) is that things are actually worse in Knoxville than they are in Atlanta.

Honestly, the Jackets don't know from FUBAR compared to that abomination.

[Radii]

Craziness for Michigan to just end up with a field goal there, wow.

[JonInMiddleGA]

And Tennessee hits their lowest point in nearly three decades, getting completely outplayed at Kentucky.

Derek F'n Doofus ought to be hung, in effigy at the very least.

[VPI97]

I think you guys have hit the nail on the head...I hear all the stuff about "high school offense" when it comes to GT and those people are all wrong. It's not the X's and O's that are the problem at GT, it's Paul Johnson himself. He would be much more successful at this level as someone's offensive coordinator, but as a head coach, he has zero of the necessary interpersonal skills to succeed in a BCS conference. He's never going to get the QB talent to run that offense at a high level because he can't sell it to the elite recruits. He's never going to build the GT fanbase with sidewalk fans, because he comes across as an ass and doesn't give a damn about what the fans think. The idiotic hire of Al Groh wasn't personality driven, but that was just a stupid hire in general. Facing a PJ team is always scary (from this VT fan's point of view), but they'll never challenge for anything significant with him in charge of the program.

Edit - In regards to the game today, though, it was nice to see the local boy (Synjyn Days) look good. Tevin Washington is a horrible quarterback...might be as bad as Sunseri at Pitt.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Hail to the Victors.

Suck it, tOSU. Suck. It.

[JonInMiddleGA]

... because he can't sell it to the elite recruits.

It'd be an upgrade if he even attempted to sell it to a few decent OL recruits.

The idiotic hire of Al Groh wasn't personality driven, but that was just a stupid hire in general.

Not nearly as stupid as the public declaration of a contract extension for Groh earlier this week.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Edit - In regards to the game today, though, it was nice to see the local boy (Synjyn Days) look good. Tevin Washington is a horrible quarterback...might be as bad as Sunseri at Pitt.

Don't be too enthused by Days beyond a few moments today. There are several reasons he saw less & less p.t. as the season wore on, among them problems holding onto the football & problems avoiding throwing to people wearing the wrong color jersey.

If you consistently look bad in practice against the GT defense, imagine how ugly it could get against a team that actually had talent or coaching.

[DeToxRox]

While it was way too close and some awful penalties almost did us in, Jon's comments about Paul Johnson make me appreciate Brady Hoke that much more. He's a guy who just gets it. I don't even know how else to describe him. Couldn't be happier to have him as the head man at Michigan.

[Honolulu_Blue]

While it was way too close and some awful penalties almost did us in, Jon's comments about Paul Johnson make me appreciate Brady Hoke that much more. He's a guy who just gets it. I don't even know how else to describe him. Couldn't be happier to have him as the head man at Michigan.

I couldn't agree more. While I find some of what he does, pun not intended, to be a little hokey at times, I think it works for college football and he just does the right thing.

[VPI97]

Don't be too enthused by Days beyond a few moments today. There are several reasons he saw less & less p.t. as the season wore on, among them problems holding onto the football & problems avoiding throwing to people wearing the wrong color jersey.

Don't get me wrong, I don't think he'll be a great QB at GT...I saw him play at Hillgrove and he was erratic as a passer, but even then, he may be an upgrade from Washington...but not by much. I just like to see the Powder Springs kids do well.

[DeToxRox]

So now that Michigan did its part today, it'll be interesting to see if they end up as an At Large like many are predicting.

[VPI97]

VT running over UVA to start the game. Hopefully we'll keep it up...I want to beat those guys by 60 this year.

[whomario]

wow, that propably "game" allready in the Alabama-Auburn game, 2 way too easy TDs early for Alabama.

[JonInMiddleGA]

THWCPJ

[Atocep]

This has to be one of the best gifs ever

http://gif.mocksession.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/THE-MORTIFIED-PUNTER1.gif

[DeToxRox]

This has to be one of the best gifs ever

http://gif.mocksession.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/THE-MORTIFIED-PUNTER1.gif

I was almost close to disagreeing to you. Thank god I can now in fact find humor.

[B & B]

Misery / KU game futility setting football back decades.

[mckerney]

Minnesota up 20-0 on Illinois at half, Illinois has 18 yards and 1 first down at half. End of the end for Zook?

[DeToxRox]

Misery / KU game futility setting football back decades.

Not sure if Gill is going to be fired or not, but obviously a win here can't hurt.

[jbergey22]

Not sure if Gill is going to be fired or not, but obviously a win here can't hurt.

Was this Gill's first year? I cant remember when the fatman got fired.

[mckerney]

Was this Gill's first year? I cant remember when the fatman got fired.

Second year.

[DeToxRox]

Minnesota is up 20-0 on Illinois at the half. The Zookers are going to drop their last six if the score holds up and that should be a wrap on Zook's tenure there.

Very impressed by the turnaround from the Gophers. Jerry Kill is an easy guy to root for and that team should be much better next year.

[Big Fo]

One of the commentators just said Auburn has one first down and 14 points. That's pretty impressive.

I'd like this to become competitive in the second half but don't really expect it.

[flounder]

Honestly, I'm through with Paul Johnson at Tech.

Well, bye.

[Mustang]

Not that there was any doubt, but Penn State just quit

[JonInMiddleGA]

Candid comments (http://blogs.knoxnews.com/gribble/2011/11/parting-words-senior-tauren-poole-candidly-sums-up-what-went-wrong.html#.TtFtwRP3noM.facebook) from UT RB Tauren Poole
"The whole game, no one wanted to be out there."

[flounder]

Facing a PJ team is always scary (from this VT fan's point of view), but they'll never challenge for anything significant with him in charge of the program.

I think we should give him a few more years before we declare him the next Frank Beamer.

[MizzouRah]

Not a great game by any means, but we beat KU so that makes it a GREAT game, imo.

:)

[VPI97]

I think we should give him a few more years before we declare him the next Frank Beamer.
Scoreboard

[flounder]

Scoreboard

Ok. 4-0.

http://virginiatechnationalchampionships.com/trophycase.jpg