Lying in the Bushes

Since I've followed College Football, one team has always been an enigma to me because of their underachieving performances year in and year out. This school has a national title, a rich history, and a stadium that is a College Football icon. While this stadium holds little over 77,000, it exceeds this mark on a regular basis and boasts a top 20 ranking in attendance for the last 22 years. Coupled with its tradition, much of which has nothing to do with wins, it is a fertile recruiting base. This school has hauled in recruiting classes in the top twenty year in and year out. In 2008 they landed the number two class in the country. But despite all these riches, this team is consistently mediocre. What team is this? The Clemson Tigers, who for years have been lying dormant in the bushes.

Every year the Tigers seem to fall short of becoming one of the top echelon teams. In the last ten years Clemson has resembled Tigger more than an elite football program. These not-so-fierce Tigers haven't won an ACC title since 1991. (They played in the title game in 2009, but were defeated by Georgia Tech, who since had to vacate the title due to NCAA infractions). Twenty years is a long drought for a team this rich in talent, fan support, and facilities. Did I mention they also play in the perennially soft, often embarrassing ACC? If the Tigers played in the SEC, this absence of a conference title might be excusable.

Despite the lackluster performances, Clemson still has some of the greatest fan support in the nation, and a formidable icon in Death Valley stadium. But these loyal fans should expect more. In the last ten years Clemson has posted a 77-50 record. If the overall record doesn't seem poor enough for a team this talented, maybe their bowl trips the last ten years will give some indication: The Music City Bowl, Champ Sports Bowl, Meineke Car Care Bowl, and the ever popular Humanitarian Bowl in lovely Idaho during the holiday season. I know the Tiger faithful will remind me that they went to the Gator Bowl in 2008, but let's be honest; the Gator Bowl today isn't like the one your dad remembers. What I see missing are conference titles and BCS bowl bids.

Last year was dreadful for the loyal fan base as they had to endure a 6-7 record that included a humiliating loss to in-state rival South Carolina. The Tiger fans were finally put out of their misery with a 31-26 loss to South Florida in the Meineke Car Care Bowl. After last year's less than spectacular finish, the fiery Dabo Swinney was on a hot seat if ever there was one. Swinney, who has always been viewed as a recruiting guru prior to his ascension to head coach, is often criticized for not being able to manage and run a program of Clemson's caliber. Since he took the reins after Tommy Bowden's ugly exit in 2008, the Tigers have been wildly inconsistent - going from 10-4 in 2009 to 6-7 last year.

After last season's disappointment, Swinney made some drastic changes. He added offensive innovator Chad Morris from Tulsa to the staff as offensive coordinator, which was critical considering the Tigers were in the bottom half of every offensive category in the nation last year.

So far, the changes made by Swinney may have paid huge dividends. The Tigers are off to a 4-0 start which included ending Auburns 17 game winning streak and defeating conference rival Florida State. Many observers were shocked by these two victories seeing as how the Tigers struggled in their first two games, including a narrow win against the all-powerful Wofford Terriers! The early struggles by Clemson are understandable considering the 8 returners on offense had to adjust to a new system. But now offensive coordinator Morris is looking like a genius, having helped Clemson to 4-0 and a number 8 ranking in total offense in the nation. Not bad considering last season the offense was ranked 88th with pretty much the same starters.

In addition to a new offensive coordinator, Clemson has some dynamic play makers. Signal caller Tajh Boyd has been impressive. This once controversial starter has quieted the critics by completing 65% of his passes for 1255 yards and connecting for 13 touchdowns. What has helped Boyd is the freak freshman wide out Sammy Watkins, who has 433 yards and 6 touchdowns. In the last two games Watkins looked unstoppable with almost 300 yards receiving and 4 touchdown grabs. A compliment to the potent passing game is the stable running game with Andre Ellington and freshman phenom Mike Bellamy.

The Clemson offense is firing on all cylinders, but hinges on how poised and sound Boyd's decision making is down the stretch. At times this has been questionable. The defense is even more of a question mark, as it only returned 6 starters and has to replace Da'Quan Bowers and Jarvis Jenkins up front. These two linemen helped anchor a defense that was one of the top units in the nation last year. As the season wears on, the Tigers will have to depend heavily on a recruiting class loaded with talent to fill the holes. Currently the D is ranked 66th, and at times has had much difficulty stopping offenses. If Clemson hopes to have continued success, they will have to rely on an improved defense, or hope that the offense can win shootouts.

This weekend Clemson faces a tough road test in Blacksburg, Virginia. The Hokies have dominated the ACC as of late, and a victory in Blacksburg against a third-straight top opponent would certainly make a statement in the ACC. But regardless of what happens at VA Tech, with this high powered offense under Morris and the recruiting of Swinney (Currently ranked 7th with 5 ESPN 150 signed for 2012) the Tigers are on the right track. In fact, based on the talent they have stock piled, Clemson is on the cusp of becoming an elite team. Tiger fans should be excited for the future. Their Tigers are done lying in the bushes, and are ready to leap up to the potential that has been dormant for too long.

Week 4 - Week in Review

Clemson Takes Charge

Clemson shocked a lot of people in week 3 by knocking off defending-champ Auburn.  This week they faced the downtrodden Florida State Seminoles in what was supposed to be an important matchup only for the ACC.  That was because Clemson and FSU were both strong ACC title contenders.  But after the Tigers put away the highly-ranked Seminoles, this matchup became important for the National Title race as well.  This Clemson team is starting to feel like Auburn did last year.  They have a tough test at Virginia Tech this week, but if they come away with a win, all the title talk could turn their way towards the end of the season.  This could be the team that comes out of nowhere and reaches the title game, but this time they're from the ACC!

All Three Options Look Good at GA Tech

Hand it off to the fullback?  Run the QB?  Pitch to the running back?  It doesn't matter which option the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets choose, this super-productive offense is rolling its way onto the national stage one 8-yard play at a time.  With fast backs and a lethal option attack, Georgia Tech is 4-0 after beating UNC at home this week.  Tech is a team that received a lot of national attention a very short time ago in 2009, reaching the Orange Bowl where they lost to Iowa.  (Tech's only losses that year were to teams that had more than a week to prepare for the defensive coordinator-stumping option attack).  But the Yellow Jackets had a forgettable 6-7 year in 2010, and consequently they were forgotten.  But in 2011 through week 4, this is the number one offense in the country - and if it can keep rolling, Tech could be looking at another BCS appearance.  Watch out for Clemson October 29th, and for VA Tech two weeks after.  Both those games are at home for the Yellow Jackets, and could secure their BCS spot. 

I mentioned how Clemson could make a title run.  If they get past VA Tech next week, they won't be in the clear since they have to face the Yellow Jackets in Atlanta.   

LSU Rolls On

LSU won in Morgantown, West Virginia 47-21.  Can the doubts about this team be laid to rest?  The defense proved they are as vicious as advertised, and the scary part is the offense is coming on.  QB Lee finished the day with 180 passing yards, 3 touchdown tosses, and 0 interceptions.  The team rushed for 182 yards.  West Virginia was held to 70 rushing yards and forced to turn to the air, where they did find success - they finished the day with 463 passing yards.  About all you can do against a defense like LSU's is try to attack the secondary, but they were still too tough.  WVU's 533 yards only led to 3 scores. 

The Tigers play at Bama, but may even still be favored if they keep on rolling.  A National Title is a very real possibility for the Bayou Bengals.     

Cowboys Outgun Aggies Late

In our prestigious pick 'em pool, I picked Oklahoma State over Texas A&M.  And for the longest time, I wondered why.  A&M jumped out to the lead and didn't look back.  They led 20 to 3 at the half, and OSU's offense looked so out of sync that a victory seemed out of reach.  But I should have learned by now, it's a long game.  OSU scored 27 unanswered points.  They would have scored more if star wide-out Justin Blackmon hadn't gotten cocky and dropped a walk-in-the-end-zone touchdown catch, resulting in a touchback.  But the Cowboys didn't need more.  The Aggies rallied to pull within 3, but OSU held them off, taking a safety to secure a one point victory as the clock ran out.  That's good football!

Weeden put up 438 passing yards and 2 TD passes, furthering his Heisman hopes.

Quick Hits:

Arizona State puts Trojans Away

ASU handled the Trojans at home this week.  Did they just bounce back, or should Illinois (who beat ASU in week 3) be feared?  Or is USC just that bad?  They were able to beat Utah, who demolished BYU at BYU in week 3.  Is BYU that terrible?  They beat Ole Miss.  What does that say about the Rebels?  Well, we already knew they were pretty bad….  Ok, this can go on forever, and now you know what we have to go through when making picks.  Whatever it means, things are looking up for the Sun Devils, who picked up their first win over USC in the last 11 tries.

Bama Bashes Razorbacks

Arkansas has one of the best wide receiver groups in the nation, but without Ryan Mallet slinging the ball around, that wasn't enough to best the ridiculously stout Alabama D.  Bama rolled to a victory 38 14 behind a couple of defensive and special teams scores. 

Boise State beat Tulsa

No surprises, I'm just happy for Kellen Moore!     

Missouri Stands Strong in Defeat

The Tigers fell to 2-2 this week, but shouldn't lose any of their pride.  If anything they should be chomping at the bit to face the Sooners next year. 

The Tigers came out and shocked the nation by taking the lead 7-0, the first lead to be held by an opponent in Norman since 2007 (when the Tigers visited, then under Chase Daniel).  Missouri played extremely well, and with passion.  Perhaps our guest writer Tyson Hunt was right about one thing - these Tigers don't know anything about how you "have to lose in Norman."  The Tigers quickly scored again and held a 14 to 3 lead late in the first quarter.  That lead was enough to wake up the startled Sooners. 

Jones led his team to four straight unanswered touchdowns to take a 31 to 14 lead.  Despite Jones' two interceptions, he finished the day with 448 passing yards and 3 TD's.  Mizzou played much better than most in the nation expected, it's just extremely difficult to stop a team like Oklahoma.  Very few offenses of a similar style can hang with the Sooners, and it would take a defense like that of LSU or Alabama to shut it down.  (SEC beatdown in the National Title, anyone?)

But the Tigers weren't ready to quit after trailing by three scores.  Running back Josey took an option pitch 48 yards into the end zone, showcasing his exceptional speed and acceleration.  Josey, an instrumental part of Mizzou's near-comeback in the desert two weeks ago, finished the day with 133 yards.  It will be exciting for Tiger fans to watch this explosive player develop.  Franklin looked remarkably poised and led his team well considering the hostility of the environment, especially on Mizzou's first scoring drive.  However he finished the day with just 16 completions in 33 attempts, but for a respectable 291 yards.  He did put up an impressive 103 rushing yards and 2 TD's on the ground, but it was not enough to earn a W.  After Josey's TD burst, the Sooners marched down the field and scored again.  The Tigers showed heart, coming up with another TD late in the fourth, but it was too little too late.  The Sooners prevailed 38-28.    

An interesting factor to consider in this game, one that will undoubtedly leave a sour taste in the mouths of Tiger fans, is two missed field goals by Grant Ressel.  Ressel missed a 40+ yarder two weeks ago that would have edged Missouri past the Sun Devils, and missed two 40+ yarders against Oklahoma.  This is very uncharacteristic of Ressel, a very talented kicker who obviously needs to regain his confidence.  Two field goals would have cut this 10 point game to 4, and could have led to very inspired play by the Tiger D following Josey's score.  A 4 point game also would have put Missouri into position for an on-side kick following the late score.  It's unlikely, but not impossible.  Those extra 6 points could have made this a different game.

But the loss can't be blamed on the kicker.  While Missouri did play exceptionally well, there are a few factors that need to be addressed if they hope for success in the future, factors that directly contributed to their loss in Norman:

1. Add Wrinkles - The offensive minds of Missouri needed to get a little more creative to score on this Sooners defense.  The commentators on FX said it perfectly after one easily snuffed out run by Franklin: "They went to the well one too many times with that play."  Unfortunately Mizzou kept going back to the well, and were turned away again and again.  Franklin may have put up 103 yards on the ground, but he was stopped just as many times, as the Sooners could easily see it coming.  The zone read and QB sneak were entirely too popular.  As Franklin develops as a passer, hopefully Pinkel can throw in more offensive wrinkles to keep defenses on their heels. 

2. Franklin (Understandably) Needs More Experience - Franklin was very impressive as far as his poise and leadership.  But a basic element of his play needs improvement for additional Tiger success: making plays when rolling out of the pocket.  Maybe it was the exceptional ability of OU defensive backs to cover receivers, but every time Franklin rolled out of the pocket or was flushed out by the pass rush, he looked lost, and ended up throwing the ball away.  Tiger fans, don't jump my case, this is an improvement.  Franklin had zero turnovers, and is being smart with the football.  In game one he would have looked to run when forced out of the pocket, and he has already learned to keep his eyes downfield instead.  He has already learned to throw the ball away instead of forcing passes.  But in order to beat a team like the Sooners, he needs to be able to make plays happen on the move. 

3. Involve Egnew - For some reason, pre-season all-American tight end Michael Egnew didn't have a touch until the fourth quarter last Saturday.  During the reign of Chase Daniel, Martin Rucker and Chase Coffman, exceptional 6' 6" tight ends, were frequently used weapons that contributed to many wins.  If the Tigers expect to win against talented teams like Oklahoma, they need to employ their own talent much more effectively.

The Tigers are a lot tougher than their 2-2 record would suggest, but still have a ways to go before they can win once every, say, 10 years against OU instead of every 20.    

Week 4 Preview - Top 25

Jordan Kuehne

Week 4 College Football Picks

September 23rd, 2011 – My undefeated reign came crashing back to earth last weekend after I missed out on a pair of upset picks and saw Pittsburgh somehow blow a 17 point fourth quarter advantage against Iowa (thinking ACC much?). After a week full of controversy and conference realignment chatter, I’m ready to get back into action with another batch of picks. This weekend once again brings us another slate chock full of exciting matchups led off by an SEC power against a possible future SEC power in Morgantown, WV. Enjoy the games everybody!

Last Week: 25-4

Season: 42-4

#2 LSU @ #16 West Virginia -- #2 LSU: 20, #16 West Virginia: 17

LSU’s got a dynamic defense. West Virginia features a mobile dual threat QB and a rugged environment that welcomes College Gameday. This battle of two powers may come down to who can hold onto the ball longest. Look for the Tigers to win there and grab the W.

KEY MATCHUP: LSU Defensive Line vs. QB Geno Smith – This matchup centers around LSU’s beastly D-Line against Geno Smith’s mobility. If the Tigers can stop Smith’s legs, they’ll stop his game.

#14 Arkansas @ #3 Alabama -- #3 Alabama: 31, #14 Arkansas: 20

A classic SEC showdown in Tuscaloosa, this will be a huge test for Arkansas QB Tyler Wilson. While he has one of the best WR corp. in the nation, Wilson goes against the top D in the nation in their own backyard. Behind Trent Richardson and solid ball control, the Tide should roll to a big conference win.

KEY MATCHUP: Alabama Defense vs. QB Tyler Wilson – A swarming D with serious speed will look to knock down Wilson on every play. Whether or not he can handle the pressure will determine what slim chances the ‘Hogs have to win this matchup.

#7 Oklahoma State @ #8 Texas A&M -- #7 Oklahoma State: 38, #8 Texas A&M: 35

This game has all the fixings to be a shootout. Whether it’s the top pass offense in the nation (Cowboys) or a duel threat rushing attack (Aggies), both teams have little regard for defense. Oklahoma State Heisman candidate Justin Blackmon will open up the field for the visitors and grab a late touchdown to snag the final Big 12 victory for Oklahoma State in College Station.

KEY MATCHUP: Oklahoma State WR Justin Blackmon vs. Anybody – Can anyone stop Blackmon? Highly unlikely. While his streak of 14 straight games with over 100 yards receiving came to a halt last weekend, look for the dynamic future top-5 pick to start a new one in style today.

#11 Florida State @ #21 Clemson -- #11 Florida State: 21, #21 Clemson: 20

Florida State’s got a strong defense, as evidenced in limiting Oklahoma’s potent offense to just 23 points last weekend. Clemson is coming off a huge win for Dabo Swinney against Auburn, ending the Tigers’ losing streak to their SEC foes. Quite simply, this matchup likely comes down to who plays QB for the Seminoles – EJ Manuel is hurting and may not go. If that’s the case, look for Clemson to bring the heat and hurry the visitor’s signal caller. 

KEY MATCHUP: Florida State QB vs. Clemson D – With the question of who plays the role of starting QB for the ‘Noles in the air, it will be crucial that the eventual starter avoids turnovers and controls possession in Death Valley. The swarming Clemson D ate up Auburn last weekend after a slow start and will look to do the same in a big ACC matchup.

Missouri @ #1 Oklahoma -- #1 Oklahoma: 42, Missouri: 24

Tulsa @ #4 Boise State -- #4 Boise State: 52, Tulsa: 21

South Dakota @ #6 Wisconsin -- #6 Wisconsin: 70, South Dakota: 0

#9 Nebraska @ Wyoming -- #9 Nebraska: 45, Wyoming: 27

#10 Oregon @ Arizona -- #10 Oregon: 38, Arizona: 21

Vanderbilt @ #12 South Carolina -- #12 South Carolina: 34, Vanderbilt: 16

#13 Virginia Tech @ Marshall -- #13 Virginia Tech: 33, Marshall: 20

#15 Florida @ Kentucky -- #15 Florida: 31, Kentucky: 10

Rice @ #17 Baylor -- #17 Baylor: 49, Rice: 7

UTEP @ #18 South Florida -- #18 South Florida: 45, UTEP: 13

Portland State @ #20 TCU -- #20 TCU: 59, Portland State: 3

San Diego State @ #22 Michigan -- #22 Michigan: 37, San Diego State: 28

UPSET SPECIAL: #23 USC @ Arizona State – Arizona State: 34, #23 USC: 30

Western Michigan @ #24 Illinois -- #24 Illinois: 45, Western Michigan: 17

North Carolina @ #25 Georgia Tech -- #25 Georgia Tech: 42, UNC: 27

Notre Dame @ Pittsburgh – Notre Dame: 31, Pittsburgh: 23

Georgia @ Ole Miss – Georgia: 34, Ole Miss: 17

Temple @ Maryland – Maryland: 24, Temple: 23

Colorado @ Ohio State – Ohio State: 27, Colorado: 13

Southern Miss @ Virginia – Southern Miss: 35, Virginia: 31

Cal @ Washington – Cal: 28, Washington: 20

Kansas State @ Miami (FL) – Miami (FL): 34, Kansas State: 21

Missourian Optimism

The following article was written by guest writer Tyson Hunt.  Hunt is a long-time Mizzou fan, and his take on the upcoming game with Oklahoma comes from an extremely optimistic point of view.  This guy is about the most optimistic MU fan you will ever meet.  I'm sure he has money on Mizzou winning this weekend.  The views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of the author of the blog... hell, I think the 21 point spread is just about right.  But, it does make you think... Here it is:

The unranked “conference wreckers,” our beloved Mizzou Tigers, get ready to take on the egotistical, “we can enter any conference we wish (hahahaha)” Goliath’s, #1 ranked Oklahoma Sooners in Norman this Saturday.

Now, for the outside observer who only pays attention to what ESPN tells him/her, Mizzou shouldn’t even show up to try to compete against the Sooners this Saturday.  I mean after all, Bobby Stoops has a career record of 72-2 at home, and is 38-6 vs. the Big 12 North.  One of those 6 losses happened to come at the hands of our Missouri Tigers when Oklahoma was ranked #1 in the country and strolled into the Zou on homecoming last year, having already won the game according to the “experts.”  I won’t recap that amazing moment, because quite frankly it really doesn’t matter.  

We are starting a new quarterback who will be playing in the biggest game of his career, but who also knows nothing about “always” losing to Oklahoma.  Remember, we didn’t play the Sooners in 2009, and a lot of our players only have a memory of beating the Sooners, and so therefore should have a mental edge going into this game.  Should.

Winning in Norman is not easy, hell it’s damn near impossible.  I mean 72-2 at home!!!  That’s impressive.  Mizzou cannot afford to lose many, if any, of the in-game battles for the duration of the game.  Mizzou has to have dominating offensive, defensive, and special teams performances.  Slack in one of those areas, and OU will win their 73^rd game at home under the Stooper.   

The Tigers go into this game as somewhere around 21 point underdogs, and if I was a betting man I wouldn’t touch that bet.  But, this Tiger team has shown flashes of brilliance, and they continue to get better.  In order to win this Saturday, besides playing almost perfect, several things MUST happen:

1. Establish the running game early, and don't abandon it even if it doesn't seem to be working.  We MUST keep the Oklahoma defense on their heels and guessing all night long.

2. PRESSURE LANDRY JONES!!!  Against FSU last weekend, when the ‘Noles brought pressure, Landry crapped up his back.  He looked very uncertain under pressure and threw a couple terrible picks.  Mizzou MUST bring the heat and bring it often.  I want to see Andrew Wilson in the backfield quite a bit Saturday night.  I want to see our d-line wrecking shop on the front 4 of the Sooners.  I want to see Tigers chew up land grabbers.  I want to see PRESSURE DEFENSE!!!!! 

3. We have to win the turnover battle.  No if’s, and’s, or but’s.  We can’t tie in this category either.  We must force more turnovers than they do.  Period.

 

4. Mizzou's SEC speed!

5. Special Teams.  Again, Mizzou cannot afford to lose many battles to OU and expect to win in Norman.  We have to win the field position battle and our All-American kicker has to hit 47-yarders before halftime and at the end of regulation.  I think Grant Ressel will hit them Saturday.  Trey Barrow just has to keep doin’ what he’s been doin’.  And that is punting the ever-loving hell out of the football.  With OU’s starting WR and punt returner out (Trey Franks), a special teams fumble by OU would be nice.  Don’t be surprised to see a fake punt involving Barrow, either.  If you remember, Stoops beat Pinkel and Brad Smith at Faurot in 2002 on a fake field goal.  Mizzou led OU 24-23 with six and a half minutes to play and on 4^th down Stoops called for the fake and it went for six.  OU went for two and got that to take a seven point lead.  Remember here if you'd like:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQoLJXCYIEw  That took the wind out of Mizzou's sails and they couldn't muster another score.  Don't think Coach Pinkel wouldn't love an opportunity for payback.

Some might be surprised to learn that there are a multitude of reasons why Mizzou will win that have nothing to do with the actual game. 

Exhibit A:  Their fans.  These people don’t deserve to win.  And we all know how much “deserving” has to do with the outcome of a sporting event.

How do you put this on, leave the house, and go any-damn-where?  Just sad. 

Seriously? He can’t feel the breeze up his ass?  Really?

So, to recap…in order for Mizzou to walk out of Norman with a victory, they have to play perfect, especially in the areas we listed above.

Mizzou 31

OU 27

And even if we don’t win, at least we can be happy knowing we are heading to the SEC, and OU will be left milking the bulls of Texas.

M – I – Z !

Fading Glory: The Fall of Notre Dame

Editor's Note: The following article was written by guest writer Tyler Greever, and can be found on his blog: http://greevespot.blogspot.com.  Written after week 2, this article may seem outdated since the Irish picked up a win over (in my opinion, extremely overrated) Michigan State, but the points in this article are still extremely relevant.  All the preseason hype still looks a little silly when the Irish are 1-2, with or without a win over the Spartans.  Here's the article:

Touchdown Jesus. The Golden Domes. Rudy. Play Like a Champion Today. Knute Rockne. All of these college football icons are associated with the pride and tradition that defines Notre Dame football, the program that is tied for most national championships with eleven. They've produced more Hesiman trophy winners and All-Americans than any other school as well. The Fighting Irish have been one of the most prestigious programs in college football history; but not today.

The Notre Dame that was is no more. Gone are the days when teams feared entering South Bend. Coaches like Lou Holtz and Ara Parseghian no longer grace the sidelines to strike pride and motivation in their players. Instead, there have been four different head coaches since Holtz and teams that are simply overrated and overmatched. This Irish fall has now taken a ten year period, and it really has no signs of stopping.

Since 1997, the year Bob Davie took over the program, Notre Dame's overall record is 99-75. They have been to nine bowl games during this tenure, only winning two of them, both not being BCS games. In fact, the last BCS bowl win for Notre Dame was in 1992 against Florida. The average margin of loss in the bowl games that Notre Dame failed in? 23 points. Needless to say, they have been irrelevant in terms of postseason success during this time.

Somehow, through all of this, Notre Dame has continued to bring in top recruiting classes. They are continuously in the top 25 in this, including a number one ranking by Rivals and Scout in 2008. With such top talent, one would think these players turn into top players in the country. Some have, but many simply have not. From 1992 to 2004, the Irish had no players finish in the top ten of Heisman voting. Their last Heisman winner in general was in 1987 with Tim Brown. The last Irish player to be an All-American at the end of the season was Jeff Samardzija in 2005, and there has only been one other All-American with Samardzija since 1997, that being Shane Walton in 2002. 

This trend has carried on to the NFL as well, with only seven players during this tenure making multiple Pro Bowl appearances. Only one of those players was selected as an All Pro multiple times, that being Jerome Bettis. They have produced no MVP, Offensive Player of the Year, or Defensive Player of the Year award winners in this period. In reality, the Irish only have one current NFL player that a majority of fans and average football fans may know: Justin Tuck of the New York Giants. Since Joe Montana, there has not even been a Notre Dame quarterback who has had a great deal of success; hell, not even a little bit. Players like Brady Quinn and Jimmy Clausen have failed to live up to lofty expectations, as they have now become backups on their respective teams. 

Another one of Notre Dame's classic stalwarts are their major rivalries against USC, Michigan, Michigan State, and Navy. Recently, these have not been going in the Irish's favor, some being a bit lopsided. Since 2000, they have only beaten their most bitter rival, the USC Trojans, once in 2010. They have lost to Navy three times in the past five years (2007, 2009, 2010) and Michigan State seven times in the past ten years. Which brings me to the Michigan rivalry...

Since 1997, the two teams have played thirteen times, with Notre Dame only winning five times. It could have been six if they had not blown a four point lead in the last 30 seconds of the game. They were even leading the Wolverines by two touchdowns at one point, really controlling the game. But momentum swung to Michigan, which in my opinion, was the worst thing that could've happened to the Fighting Irish. This was a game that they needed to win, one that would've actually been quite impressive. To come and play Michigan in the first night game at the Big House, with the largest college football crowd in history, and win would've been a energetic shot of life for the program. To blow the game, like they have too frequently lately, proved that nothing has changed. Many think that Notre Dame is a perennial disappointment.

Here is the harsh reality: Notre Dame is no longer a disappointment. Such failure and shortcomings have become the status quo for the Golden Domers. They have gotten top recruits, apparent "offensive masterminds" (Charlie Weis, Brian Kelly), and preseason top 25 rankings; but to no avail. Irish supporters can point to the tradition and the pageantry every minute of every day and we can all be in awe for a couple of minutes. This generation has not seen the Fighting Irish that your parents watched. Rather, they have seen a program continuously tumble from the peak of the collegiate football mountain. The luck is dying, the gold is rusting, and the glory is fading. And most of all, the Fighting has transformed into Feigning. 

Hee-Haw!!!!!!!!!!

Along with College Football, I love playing poker. In every poker game, there is always that one guy that is known as the donkey. The donkey is the donator; the guy who plays every hand and makes bets and calls that should never be made, and he consistently loses. But as everyone knows, the donkey can get lucky on any given hand or session. For the most part the other players like the donkey because of the financial value he brings to any game, plus they tend to be the most sociable and care free person at the table, which makes for good company.

That being said, I have felt like the donkey in our College Football pool the last three weeks - a big one at that, with big ears. Last week I came in dead last, picking only 6 games right out of 17. I can’t help myself from donating each week and looking like an all-star ass with my lousy picks. Hee Haw! I have been extremely humbled and slightly embarrassed by my performance thus far this year. I know no one cares how I do really, except for maybe Spence, who relishes my misery when picking terribly. But the days of my obnoxious trash talking and swagger are long gone…. Well, unless I can right the ship. My results this year make me wonder how I won twice last year. I keep telling myself that it’s early, and better weeks are to come - especially with the conference play kicking off here shortly. Yet like all my brothers in the pool, a sense of urgency is starting to build as each passing week makes it less likely that I can win a share of the prize pool. Many of you might be thinking, "quit thinking about it, loser, and just have fun," but as many of you know, I’m just slightly competitive. The only thing that drives me more than competition is greed. I hate when people say "I do it for fun," or, "it’s all good, there’s next week!" Well let me tell you, every single person in our pool enters to win not one week, but multiple weeks, so they can lay claim to the Benjamin’s. Like I tell my athletes, winning is fun!

The last couple of days I’ve had some deep conversations in my mind about how to pick these games because any other way has to be better than what I’ve done lately. I came up with a couple of options so here they are:

1. Have my wife pick – She knows nothing about the teams except for maybe MU, OU, and Boise because I talk about them non-stop as if they were a part of our family. If she screws up I can partially blame her for losing our precious money that covers our pool every year. But then again if I hadn’t spent the money on the pool she’d be telling me about how she got a great deal on some new Capri pants.

2. Randomly ask my students throughout the week – It’s clear my students would just pick the team that they’ve heard about the most or have some weird attachment to. Honestly they would probably enjoy picking for me. Might be a way to build positive student-teacher relationship and community in the classroom. But I don’t think the school would look too kindly in using students to help with my gambling.

3. Make picks but then do the opposite – I could just go down the sheet make my picks and then switch everything, I mean if I had done that last week I would have been one off from tying the great Coach Cearley.

If any of you have suggestions you should share them with me no matter how ridiculous they may be. But regardless I will be watching the games with great interest this week like I do every week because I have a great deal of pride and I would like to improve from my horrendous week. It is early and we have 11 weeks but time is running out. Regardless if I win this year I still love the excitement of picking games. Who knows like in poker maybe I’ll be the donkey that gets lucky this week.

Week 3 - Week In Review

We put together a few quick highlights from this past weekend:

LSU Tigers Topple Bulldogs in Starkville

LSU proved that they are for real, at least on one side of the ball.  The vicious Tiger's defense held Mississippi State to two field goals, and 193 total yards - with only 52 on the ground.  We all know it's hard to win in the SEC if you can't run the ball, and the Bulldogs found that out first hand last Thursday night.  Meanwhile LSU's offense put up 19 points and 361 yards.  Their performance was neither terrible nor outstanding, and will leave some still wondering if LSU can win a championship with a mediocre offense.  But QB Jarrett Lee and company continue to improve, and Thursday night the Tiger's D made a strong case for a title based on their exceptional play alone.  The Tigers travel to West Virginia this Saturday with plans to keep on rolling.  

Point of interest: A fired-up Mountaineer squad looks to gain more momentum after a big win at Maryland, and will do everything they can to protect their turf from the Bayou Tigers.

Boise Bests a Feisty Toledo Team

What started as an uneasy feeling in Bronco fan's stomachs - watching a Toledo Rocket squad hold Boise to 3-and-out, then easily put up 6, shredding this hyped up Bronco defense - turned into another career day for Boise QB Kellen Moore.  What can this kid not do?  With 455 passing yards and 5 touchdowns, Moore made a strong case that, with a football in his hand, he can do just about anything.  Except of course turn down-field, but senior tailback Doug Martin has that part covered.  Martin was responsible for one of those touchdown passes, taking a screen pass 71 yards to the end zone.  With this 40-15 victory, Moore puts up his 40th win.  He is only 6 more wins away from passing Colt McCoy for most all-time.  With a fairly soft schedule ahead, that won't be too much of a problem. 

Point of interest: On October 1st, Nevada comes to visit Boise, Idaho.  Look for the Broncos to get revenge after last year's upset. 

Auburn Goes Down!

After the Wofford Terriers put up one heck of a fight at Clemson, conventional wisdom, in fact, plain common sense, told us that the Auburn Tigers would roll into Clemson and continue their winning streak that includes last year's National Title.  In this instance, common sense was wrong.  When the Clemson Tigers pulled up alongside the Auburn Tigers at 21 points going into halftime, it looked like the Auburn faithful would have to sweat out another close one.  But hey, they've seen close wins 17 times now, there's no real reason to worry.  Auburn will take care of things late like they always do… right?  Clemson QB Tajh Boyd had something else on his mind: the first 3-0 start by Clemson since 2007.  It took the Clemson defense holding Auburn to just a field goal in the second half, two touchdown tosses by Boyd, and a nail-in-the-coffin field goal to do just that.  Auburn goes down, 38 - 24!

Point of interest: How will Auburn recover in conference play?  They have an easy game against Florida Atlantic next week, but then SEC play hits full stride with games at South Carolina and at Arkansas.  Also, how far can Clemson go?  They have a tough test at home against a downtrodden Florida State team.  Can Clemson take advantage of the Seminoles while they're down, and move ahead in the ACC race?

Quick-Hits:

Oklahoma Isn't Going Anywhere

After a 23-13 victory in Tallahassee, it's clear that Landry Jones and the Sooners are going to stay on the national stage this year.  Jones came through when needed, but it was the outstanding Sooner defense that won the game.  They held the 'Noles to 13 points, and came up with a total of 3 turnovers that ultimately kept Oklahoma in position to stay ahead.  Look for FSU to try to bounce back at Clemson next week.  Oklahoma looks to slaughter a Missouri team after their confidence building win against Western Illinois.

Has Mack Brown Righted the Ship?

The Longhorn faithful may have been a bit nervous to travel to UCLA after last year's loss at the hands of the Bruins, but are feeling much better after a dominant 49-20 win.  The Longhorns led in every statistical category, with more points, yards, first downs, time of possession, and fewer turnovers and penalties.  The always-risky quarterback switch paid off, with Case McCoy leading his team to victory with 168 passing yards and two TD's.  The Longhorns look legit again, but after a bye-week they travel to upstart Iowa State, then face Oklahoma and Oklahoma State in their next 3 games.  That stretch will tell us a lot about how far last year's 5-7 Longhorns have come.

Are the Cyclones Legit?

Iowa State is 3-0 after last week's big triple overtime victory over the Hawkeyes and this week's win at UCONN.  Quarterback Jantz leads a fast, dynamic offense that bested a tough Huskie's D.  We will find out if the Cyclones are for real when they face Texas at home after a bye-week.

Notre Dame No Longer Losing

This time it was the Fighting Irish that were outgained and out-possessed but came up with the win.  The Irish still turned the ball over 3 times, but with 31 points to Michigan State's 13, they picked up their first win of the year.  After last year's embarrassing loss to Alabama, I didn’t trust the credibility of this Michigan State team, or their number 15 ranking.  I think this game says more about the Spartans than the Irish, and because of this I wouldn't necessarily call it an "upset".  The Irish travel to Pitt this weekend to try to up another W.    

Tressel No More
The scandals and loss of head coach Jim Tressel have left the Buckeyes in a sad state.  They put up a measly 6 points in a loss at Miami.  And this is not the Miami team of the 1980's, this is a sorry-looking Hurricanes team that lost at Maryland and will have a lot of work to do to be respectable in the ACC.  It's going to be a long season in the Big 10 for Ohio State.         

Pinkel's Icing Only Part of the Plan

http://www.columbiatribune.com/news/2011/sep/13/enough-with-the-icing/?tigerextra

The link above is to a Columbia Tribune article in which Pinkel and some Mizzou players explain that the "icing" was all part of a plan cooked up at half time to get 5 extra yards.  MU kicker Ressel says he knew about it and simply missed the kick. 

Ok, Pinkel.  If you wanted 5 extra yards so bad, why did you call a pass on 3rd and 5 before the kick?