Does Adding Nebraska Make Vibrato Legit?

The following article was written by guest writer Travis Cearley.  A long-time teacher and college football fan, Cearley weighs in on the Big Ten's supposed omnipotence.  

Does Adding Nebraska Make Vibrato Legit?

So the joke begins like this:

            An Iowa Hawkeye  fan, an  Arkansas Razorback  fan, and a Missouri Tiger fan walk into an East Lansing bar…

And ends like this:

            …and the Hawkeye fan shouts "’cause every year in the Big 10, we jus’ beat up on each other!” and high-fives all the Spartans in the room.  Looking down into their neatly pressed bourbons, the Tiger fan and the Razorback fan just shake their heads in dismay.

Three times at least in recent memory, a similar scenario has played out in my life.  Of course, it is not always the same bar and it is not always the same fans, but it always leaves this Missouri Tiger feeling nothing but disdain for everything “Big Ten (11 or 12) Country.” 

Being a music lover, I find myself traveling to many college towns and do spend an odd amount of my summer in college bars.  Unfortunately, as a college football fan, it is towns like Champagne-Urbana, Columbus, and East Lansing that I dread the most.  Don’t get me wrong, the towns are beautiful and the music venues are elite (especially Columbus), but the Big Ten (11 or 12) football fans need to recognize that it is no longer 1934 and the Golden Gophers are not “making things interesting” for Michigan.  Furthermore, even with the addition of the Nebraska Cornhuskers this season, “beating up on each other” is not (and has never been) a legit excuse for mediocrity.

I would like to address a Big Ten fan’s air of superiority on a number of levels:

1.      Big Ten (11 or 12) schools, despite what you may have been told by ESPN analysts and Eddie George, are not perennial super contenders for the National Title.  Here is how the National Championship numbers break down.  (THERE IS A STATISTICAL DISCLAIMER BELOW, READ IT BEFORE YOUR CHEST GETS PUFFY!)  Big Ten schools have won 7; Big 12 schools have won 12; Schools named Miami, Notre Dame, and USC have won 13; and SEC schools have won 14.  By my count, that’s fourth place…respectable, yes.  However, a Big Ten school has not won a national title since 2002 and prior to that, 1986.  Even with the addition of Nebraska, the Big Ten’s claim of national superiority only adds two more recent titles…as recent as my high school years.  The fact remains, other than one school (Ohio State…yes, Iowa, I know you won last year, I will deal with you in a second), the Big Ten is somewhat irrelevant (outside of being a spoiler) in the later weeks of the season.

2.      Big Ten schools have not reigned supreme in head-to-head competitions against non-conference opponents.  Yes, the Ohio State/Texas games of recent years past, have been enjoyable to watch; however,  December and January of 2009-10 brought the first winning bowl record for the Big 10 since OSU’s 2002 Championship.  They eked out a 4-3 record after going a dismal 1-6 the year before.  Outside of the bowl games, they were only 5-9 against other BCS Conferences.  This is not superiority. 

To further this argument, I would like to draw attention to the last two weeks of Big Ten play…

I start with the Iowa Hawkeyes and their outing with the Cyclones of ISU…they lost.  Yes, I realize it was an OT win by the Cyclones, but give me a break.  What kind of Big Ten defense allows ISU to rack up 475 yards of offense and go 2 for 2 in 4^th down conversions?  An Iowa team that has a corral full of returning starters, that’s what kind. 

The Michigan Wolverines are 2-0.  Excellent!  Really?  In a lightning-shortened game, the Broncos of Western Michigan were only outgained by 9 yards, and were able to go better than 50% on 3^rd down conversions.  With one man, Jordan White, averaging nearly 10 yards per catch, the Broncos weren’t exactly presenting a balanced attack.  If it weren’t for Carder’s turnovers, this could have been another opening week scare for the Wolverines.  (On a side note:  Kudos to the A.D. of Michigan for calling the game.  Lightning vs. Helmet, lightning wins each time.)

The Ohio State Buckeyes are also 2-0.  But are they really dancing in the streets in Columbus?  When a mid-major school travels to a monstrous structure like “The Shoe” they are expected to commit 14 penalties.  They are not expected to successfully complete 3 fourth down conversions, 16 first downs and 338 yards of total offense.  Is this really the performance of a top 25 team?  I understand that ESPN.com made a point to profess the fact that “For 90 years, Ohio State has stayed unbeaten against every in-state opponent it's played,” unfortunately for those of us not wearing sweater vests, that is not a bragging point.

So far this season, Nebraska seems to fit perfectly in line with the rest of their Big 10/11/12 brethren.  Fresno State put more points on the board against the Black Shirts in Lincoln than they did the week previous against the Golden Bears.  Nebraska was beaten in nearly all facets of the game:  total yards, first downs, time of possession, turnovers, and conversion percentage.  A gutsy return by Ameer Abdullah (who did set a school record for return yards in one game: 211) in the 4^th Quarter was the Huskers only saving grace.

3.      Big Ten schools playing Big Ten schools does not guarantee an elite level of schedule strength.  According to the Saragin Ratings produced at the conclusion of last season, not one single Big 10 school broke the top 25 in regards to the most difficult schedules.  All other BCS “power” conferences were represented by at least one team.  Minnesota came the closest, ranking #26; Big Ten Champs, OSU came in at #50, and the rest of the pack was placed anywhere between 41^st and 80^th.  When Nebraska is thrown into the mix, they again fit nicely…taking on their share of cupcakes and leading the second century of the Saragin Ratings at #52.

So here is my conclusion: NO.  No, adding Nebraska does not make vibrato legit.  The vibrato in the first place is not legit.  The Big 10/11/12 Conference is not the dominate force in college football.  Big Ten teams are not ALWAYS banging on the championship door, and they do not schedule “all comers.”  History and tradition are important, and I would never take anything away from College Station or Ann Arbor or Madison (as a Mizzou fan, I am jealous of the fact that the Missouri Waltz is not a nationally recognized bleacher tune); furthermore, I do respect the pro talent that comes out of the Big Ten (I watch another Rolle, a rookie linebacker from OSU, dominate the Rams this weekend).  But, enough is enough.  Love your schools and love your conference, but when you wake up in the morning, you should know the girl you took to bed.

CHAMPIONSHIP DISCLAIMER:  I did not count any titles that were “shared.”  Only championships that were won without multiple votes or opinions made the cut (don’t worry, Big Ten fans, that wouldn’t have helped).  I did not count any teams whose only claim to a title came in the form of the Grantland Rice Trophy (sorry Iowa, we all know who really won in 1958).  And, I did not count any national titles prior to 1945.  If you are 70 years or older, then you can complain and I will bow to your college football supremacy because you are still going crazy for your team…otherwise, forget about it!

Week 3 Preview - Top 25

Jordan Kuehne

Week 3 College Football Picks

– After a somewhat surprising undefeated run (even to myself) through the 17 game gauntlet last weekend, I return eager and ready for what promises to be an exciting – and important -- week three of college football. As I did last week and will continue to do moving forward, the first three games that are listed consist of the marquee matchups on this weekend’s slate. A new addition will be a brief break down of a key matchup that could decide the outcome. After last week’s unblemished record, I’ve decided to challenge myself and tackle a few non-top 25 matchups as well this week. Enjoy the games everybody!

Last week: 17-0

Season: 17-0

#1 Oklahoma @ #5 Florida State -- #1 Oklahoma: 27, #5 Florida State: 23

Seminoles fans have been awaiting this moment for a while – College Gameday is visiting campus and so are the top-ranked Sooners led by Heisman candidate QB Landry Jones. Behind Jones’ arm and dynamic WR Ryan Broyles, the Sooners’ firepower will prove too much for a Florida State defense that has bared its teeth thus far against inferior competition. FSU CB Greg Reid will score a TD on some sort of return but it wont be enough as the ‘Noles fall short on another big stage.

KEY MATCHUP: WR Ryan Broyles vs. CB Greg Reid – two first round prospects for next April’s NFL draft, the winner of this matchup will likely play for the victor of the game. Reid’s speed is well documented but Broyles is as crafty as they come at WR.

UPSET SPECIAL: #3 LSU @ #25 Mississippi State -- #25 Mississippi State: 21, #3 LSU: 17

Offense has been up over the opening two weeks of the season; while the Tigers have shown what they’ve got (a top 5 defense/special teams), the Bulldogs have been thwarted in a close call against the other big cat in the SEC, defending champion Auburn. If Mississippi State’s going to get over that hump, this will be the week – a national stage for a Thursday night special, look for Chris Relf to relish the chance and come out firing while MSU manages to shake things up and disrupt Jarrett Lee and co. as the national title picture gets another early shakeup.

KEY MATCHUP: QB Chris Relf vs. LSU defense – Relf has come into his own over the last 12 months, developing himself into a strong gunner under center as a solid nucleus of weapons has surrounded him. He’ll face his toughest challenge yet when the Bayou Tigers come calling tomorrow night.

UPSET SPECIAL 2: #17 Ohio State @ Miami (FL) – Miami (FL): 31, #17 Ohio State: 20

Somewhere, Jim Tressel and Nevin Shapiro will be watching this scandal-marred matchup between former ACC and Big Ten powers. On the field, both teams haven’t been at their best as OSU was outgained and outplayed by a tough-as-nails Toledo squad last weekend. Al Golden’s team fought hard but came up short in College Park two weeks ago and will be looking to get off the hook on another national stage. This game’s outcome boils down to one player: Jacory Harris. If the ‘Canes QB is on point, it’s lights out for the Buckeyes; if turnover-prone Jacory shows up however, OSU will probably come out on top.

KEY MATCHUP: QB Jacory Harris vs. himself – suspended for the season-opening loss to the Terps, Harris needs to come out of the gate strong and establish a rhythm if he hopes to be successful Saturday night. Miami will go as Jacory goes.

#4 Boise State @ Toledo -- #4 Boise State: 52, Toledo: 24

Speaking of Toledo, the Rockets will play host to the distracted Boise State Broncos Friday night. Boise was slapped with three years of probation this week as they officially arrived on the big stage of college football after receiving their first NCAA sanctions in program history. That won't stop Kellen Moore from threading needles through a haystack as the improved Rockets hang around early before the rout begins in earnest in the third quarter.

North Texas @ #2 Alabama -- #2 Alabama: 62, North Texas: 3

I’m being awfully generous even giving the not-so-Mean Green a field goal. The top ranked Alabama defense should go to town against the overmatched Sun Belt opponent, notching a couple of touchdowns while RB Trent Richardson puts up another big game as the Tide roll in Tuscaloosa.

#6 Stanford @ Arizona -- #6 Stanford: 38, Arizona: 27

A bunch of wounded Wildcats come home to Tucson for a late, late night (9:45 CST) matchup against Pac-12 conference foe Stanford and Heisman favorite Andrew Luck. Fresh off a beatdown at the hands of Oklahoma State, Arizona’s QB Nick Foles has to be hoping his offensive line can offer him some semblance of protection in the pocket this week. Unfortunately for the Arizona signal caller, top wideout Juron Criner is expected to be out after having his appendix removed a week ago. Andrew Luck will burn a hapless Wildcats’ secondary and a late Arizona rally will fall short as the Cardinal move new coach David Shaw’s record to 3-0.

#7 Wisconsin vs. Northern Illinois -- #7 Wisconsin: 34, Northern Illinois: 28

Played at Soldier Field, this game will be a lot more exciting than the average fan might expect. While Badgers QB Russell Wilson will ultimately win the game behind his dynamic scrambling ability, NIU is capable of collapsing the pocket and will be the stiffest test ‘Sconnie has play thus far. The Huskies have a duel threat of their own, veteran QB Chandler Harnish, as well as a host of weapons on offense that will test a pliable Badgers’ D. A late Wilson TD will put the game out of reach but not before NIU sends a scare through fans sporting red and white everywhere.

#8 Oklahoma State @ Tulsa -- #8 Oklahoma State: 45, Tulsa: 24

This Sooner State showdown had the potential for upset to be written all over it when the schedule was originally set. A host of factors have changed that since then, including a combination of the Cowboys being great (crushing Arizona in Stillwater last week, 37-14) and Tulsa’s inability to keep up with the #1 Sooners in the opening week (a 47-14 lambasting). With all-everything star Damaris Johnson still suspended, Tulsa will watch with envy as Heisman candidate WR Justin Blackmon puts up another 100+ yard game en route to an Oklahoma State victory.

Idaho @ #9 Texas A&M -- #9 Texas A&M: 45, Idaho: 10

While Texas A&M’s admission to the SEC is still in question due to potential legal ramifications, this game against the Vandals is not. The 12th Man will be raucous as the Aggies roll to victory.

Navy @ #10 South Carolina -- #10 South Carolina: 37, Navy: 14

Finally, a breather for South Carolina. While Navy is no joke on or off the playing field, their triple option attack will only cause a swarming Gamecocks’ D so much trouble before the game is put out of reach by a resurgent Stephen Garcia and Marcus Lattimore.

Washington @ #11 Nebraska -- #11 Nebraska: 27, Washington: 13

Unfortunately for the Huskies, Jake Locker is now wearing a Tennessee Titans’ uniform. A third matchup between these programs in the last 12 months hinges on whether a somewhat disappointing ‘Huskers team can turn it around after trailing Fresno State deep into the second half last weekend. I think they will as duel threat QB (I’m sensing a theme in 2011 with quarterbacks) Taylor Martinez looks to improve upon his ridiculous 8.9 yard-per-carry average.

Missouri State @ #12 Oregon -- #12 Oregon: 70, Missouri State: 0

Poor Missouri State struggles against fellow FCS programs. Imagine how they’re going to feel after three hours in Autzen Stadium on Saturday.

Arkansas State @ #13 Virginia Tech -- #13 Virginia Tech: 52, Arkansas State: 17

While Arkansas State did destroy Memphis last week, the level of competition rises this week (Memphis is ranked an FBS-worst 170^th in the Sagarin rankings) as they visit Blacksburg and Lane Stadium. The Hokies survived their annual non-conference scare last weekend and should run all over the Red Wolves.

Troy @ #14 Arkansas -- #14 Arkansas: 34, Troy: 17

As the best the Sun Belt Conference has to offer, Troy will do their best to hang tight with the Razorbacks. That effort will prove futile however as Arkansas will utilize the best receiving corps in the nation en route to a comfortable victory.

#15 Michigan State @ Notre Dame – Notre Dame: 28, #15 Michigan State: 24

Notre Dame has to be tiring of schools from Michigan. After a stunning loss at the hands of the Wolverines last weekend, the Irish turnaround and play the other state school, the Spartans of East Lansing. Tommy Rees showed what he’s made of as he composed what was thought to be the game-winning drive against the Wolverines. His growing moxie and favored target, superstar WR Michael Floyd, will overcome Spartans’ star RB Edwin Baker’s two rushing touchdowns in what promises to be another nail biter in South Bend.

Tennessee @ #16 Florida -- #16 Florida: 34, Tennessee: 31

Ten years ago, this game would have likely played a role in the national title picture. Fast forward to today, Florida is picking itself off the ground as first year coach Will Muschamp guides them back to national prominence while the Volunteers ride the electric arm of Tyler Bray to the endzone. Bray will get his to the tune of 300+ yards passing and three touchdowns threw the air but Florida has enough weapons to counter their rivals from Knoxville as they notch a tight win in the Swamp.

#18 West Virginia @ Maryland -- #18 West Virginia: 21, Maryland: 20

West Virginia trailed at halftime to Norfolk State last weekend. Think about that for a second; that being said, it means nothing when another big matchup in an ACC stadium (one of four on the weekend involving ranked teams visiting ACC territory) goes the way of the visitor. While Maryland can certainly move the ball (they were in the redzone on 66% of their possessions against Miami), they make too many mistakes to win a game like this just yet. The ‘Eers squeak out a win, capitalizing on turnovers and riding Geno Smith to a 3-0 mark.

Stephen F. Austin @ #19 Baylor -- #19 Baylor: 62, Stephen F. Austin: 7

RG3 is going to have a field day against SFA. I’ll say that the rejuvenated Heisman candidate adds insult to injury with over 450 yards of total offense, accumulating six scores in the process as the Bears maul their in-state visitors.

Florida A&M @ #20 South Florida -- #20 South Florida: 52, FAMU: 6

BJ Daniels has to be enjoying the cupcakes that USF has been devouring upon of late – after blowing out Ball State last weekend, the Bulls QB should run over the Rattlers on the way to a dominant triumph.

#21 Auburn @ Clemson -- #21 Auburn: 34, Clemson: 20

If Clemson hadn’t squeaked by Wofford, I might make them my third upset special of the week. Auburn, who has been making a habit out of skating to narrow wins and proving critics wrong in the process, should grab a hard fought win in Death Valley as RB Michael Dyer and WR Emory Blake power a high-flying Tigers’ offense.

#22 Arizona State @ Illinois – #22 Arizona State: 41, Illinois: 38

This game has shootout written all over it. With the Sun Devils hot off a titillating win over Mizzou last Friday, Brock Osweiler and co. will look to keep momentum going as they invade Memorial Stadium and take on Nathan Scheelhaase’s Illini. A battle of passing acumen will go Arizona State’s way as Osweiler’s mobility and emerging weapons at wideout help the Pac-12 score another key non-conference win.

Louisiana Monroe @ #23 TCU – #23 TCU: 49, Louisiana Monroe: 7

SuperFrog will be doing a lot of pushups as TCU rolls in a romp.

#23 Texas @ UCLA – #23 Texas: 24, UCLA: 23

The McCoy to Shipley connection lives on. No, not Colt to Jordan but rather younger siblings Case to Jaxon. Case McCoy, the new Longhorns’ starting QB after Garrett Gilbert’s struggles finally got him the boot, will look to Shipley on numerous occasions as a stout UCLA defense tries to secure a big home win. Zone-read QB David Ash could be the difference for Texas as they move the chains late and hold on for a narrow win in Pasadena.

Western Illinois @ Missouri – Missouri: 45, Western Illinois: 10

James Franklin gets another week to ease into the offense after creating some fireworks last weekend in Tempe. Mizzou rolls to an easy victory on Family Weekend in Columbia.

Virginia @ North Carolina – UNC: 24, Virginia: 13

Ole Miss @ Vanderbilt – Vandy: 17, Ole Miss: 14

Kansas @ Georgia Tech – Georgia Tech: 31, Kansas: 26

Pittsburgh @ Iowa – Pittsburgh: 27, Iowa: 20

Penn State @ Temple – Penn State: 24, Temple: 21

Quack Attack on Course

This week the Oregon Ducks crushed Nevada 69-20, but a week ago Oregon was easily defeated by LSU at Dallas stadium, 27-40. These two games have left many Duck fans wondering where their team stands after coming off of a spectacular season that ended in a loss to Auburn in the BCS Championship game. Preseason polls placed Oregon at #3, due in large part to the return of signal caller Darren Thomas and the do-it-all back LaMichael James. It makes sense at first glance to place Oregon high in the polls, since Thomas and James were the primary weapons of an explosive offense that  led the nation in scoring and total offense last year.  The Ducks will be extremely strong this season, but it will take time and development as the year goes on for them to win a third straight conference title. 

 
One of the most important factors to consider when evaluating the potential repeat success of a team is not just the signal caller, but the number of bodies returning on both the offensive and defensive lines.  Football fans know that if you don't control the line of scrimmage on offense, it doesn't matter who's calling the plays or running the ball (Unless your name is Sanders). Equally, if you lack any push on the defensive side, you can't stop anyone.  Unfortunately for the Ducks, they lost a lot on both lines. On offense they had to replace three linemen, including the most important position at center.  The spot was filled by Karrington Armstrong, a less than experienced Sophomore. The Ducks defensive line may not be as a big of a concern, because Defensive Coordinator Nick Aliotti likes to rotate defensive lineman, but they still lost three starters, and won't be as deep as they were last year. Last season Aliotti's defense dominated in the second half of games due to this depth.  A lack of fresh bodies could mean a different outcome in tight games like last year's match up with Cal.  Another major concern is the loss of two starting wide outs.  That leaves this Duck offense thin at this position, and Thomas may have to rely on standout tight end David Paulson.
 

The o-line is inexperienced now, but as the season wears on the unit will gel, and the experience of Thomas and James in the backfield will only help to speed up that development.  The defense won't be as strong up front, but will be solid in a secondary that returns three starters, including CB Cliff Harris, who might be one of the most dynamic players in the nation.  Despite the setbacks, the Ducks are still an elite team.  Their schedule is extremely favorable, and the only game that I see as a potential problem is at Stanford (November 12).  This game will most likely determine who represents the North in the Pac-12 championship game.

 
Many of you may be questioning my optimistic outlook for Oregon, considering their debacle against the Tigers in week one. This first game of the season was just that: a first game.  Only this one happened to be against one of the best teams in the nation.  Oregon may have been a bit overrated coming into the season, but Duck fans shouldn't be worried. If you examine the LSU game more closely, you'll see that the Ducks gave the game away by committing 4 turnovers leading to 20 points. You aren't going to beat very many teams turning the ball over that many times (just ask Notre Dame).  At halftime, the score was only 13-16, with 7 of the Tigers' points due to a Duck turnover (Their fill-in punt returner chose to field a ball at the 5 yard line, and was stripped, resulting in an LSU touchdown).  Late in the third quarter, the highly touted freshman Duck D'Anthony Thomas fumbled the ball on two successive touches, leading to two Tiger scores which sealed the game. These turnovers demonstrate a lack of experience and discipline - something that will be fixed by Chip Kelly and his coaching staff.  We also can't forget that Cliff Harris was suspended for the game - his replacement allowed one of the few offensive touchdowns by the Tigers. No disrespect to LSU, but this game was an aberration, not the norm for the Ducks. Lack of experience coupled with a vicious opponent was a recipe for disaster. Duck fans, remember in 2009 you got beat up by Boise State in the opener, and still went on to play in the Rose Bowl.

 
In week 2 Oregon looked like their old self, beating up on the Nevada Wolf Pack.  Thomas led the way with 6 touchdowns as the Ducks of old posted 600 yards.  (However the Oregon D did allow 500 yards.)  Yes, they beat a depleted Wolf Pack, but I think this is a sign of the Ducks returning to the old team we've grown accustomed to in the last couple of years. The Oregon quack attack is on course, and don't be surprised if the Ducks find themselves landing in a BCS game this coming January.

Whoa, Nellie!

We want to highlight some of the most remarkable finishes we've seen thus far.  And it's only been two weeks!  This is why we love College Football:

TCU at Baylor - Week 1

From the outrageous passing attack of RGIII, to his clutch reception on a trick play that kept alive a Baylor scoring drive to reclaim the lead, to the outstanding leadership of TCU quarterback Pachall - leading his team in an epic 24-point comeback, only to fall short - this game was a thriller.  It's games like this that make us appreciate the sport.  Baylor gets a huge win over ranked TCU, and first-time starter Pachall shines in a bitter defeat.  TCU erased a 24 point lead to go up by one point, with three TD's, two 2-point conversions, then a field goal.  Baylor moved the ball down the field to reclaim the lead by 2, and a TCU interception in the last minute of the game sealed this 50-48 shocker.

Utah State at Auburn - Week 1

What would life be like for Auburn without Cam Newton?  For a good 58 minutes of play, the Utah State Aggies had a very dark answer to that question.  The Aggies held a 38 to 28 lead with 2:08 remaining in the fourth quarter when Auburn punched in a 15 yard TD pass to inch within 3 of the lead.  Auburn fans bowed their heads and folded their hands and then… the Tigers recovered the onside kick, and drove the ball down the field to take the lead.  They held on to win 42-38, but the method of victory was too dangerous for most Tiger fans, who hope for a more solid performance the rest of the year.              

Missouri at Arizona State - Week 2

It looked like the Sun Devils had put this one away when they went up 30-16 in the fourth quarter.  They had moved the ball on the Tigers all night, and it didn't look like things were about to change.  But sophomore quarterback James Franklin of Missouri stepped up.  His exceptional play, combined with over 100 penalty yards given up by the Sun Devils, led to two scoring drives to tie the game at 30.  With 3 minutes left to play, Franklin moved the ball yet again and put the Tigers within 48 yards of putting 3 points on the board to take the lead for the first time in the game.  But questionable coaching decisions by Gary Pinkel led a nervous Grant Ressel to miss the potential game-winner after being iced twice.  This forced overtime, and the Sun Devils took charge, winning 37-30. 

Mississippi State at Auburn - Week 2

The Tigers were in for a close one again, but at least they were up the whole way this time.  The upstart Bulldogs kept it close, responding every time Auburn put more points on the board.  The Tigers had finally stretched the lead to 41-27 in the fourth quarter, and it looked like the Dogs were done.  But quarterback Chris Relf kept fighting, leading his team down the field in the last 5 minutes of play.  Running back Ballard punched in the TD, cutting the lead to 7.  The Bulldogs defense held, and Relf and company got another chance.  They marched the ball down the field, inching closer to the Auburn end zone.  Out of timeouts, and with only a few seconds left on the clock, Relf carried the ball on an option and dived towards the end zone to force overtime… but was stopped short!  The ball hit the ground just outside the plane, and time expired.  It can't get any closer than that and not be a touchdown, ladies and gentlemen!  The Tigers survive yet again.

Notre Dame at Michigan - Week 2

Numerous turnovers led to a Notre Dame loss in week one.  They looked to bounce back with a different starting QB in Rees, but in the hostile environment of Ann Arbor, Michigan.  At the end of the first half, it looked like they had done it.  The Irish held a 17-7 lead at the half, and then extended it to 24-7 in the third quarter.  It was still 24-7 at the start of the fourth when it all began.  Denard Robinson and the Michigan offense went off, scoring three unanswered touchdowns to take a 28-24 lead.  But with 1:12 left, Rees led the Irish down the field and hooked up on a 29 yard pass for the score.  The Irish were up 31-28, and with only 30 seconds left, all the Michigan offense could hope for was to get in field goal range and force overtime.  But new Michigan coach Brady Hoke had something else in mind.  With 8 seconds left and a time out, it looked like the Wolverines would run the ball, center it up, and kick the field goal.  But Robinson pulled back and heaved one to the corner of the end zone!  Roy Roundtree hauled in an athletic catch (his first of the game) for the Michigan win!  The excitement increased (if at all possible) in the final 2 seconds of the game when Notre Dame muffed the kickoff, and it took a desperate effort by the Irish to knock the ball out of the back of the end zone to avoid another Michigan TD.   

Iowa at Iowa State - Week 2

The Hawkeyes struggled the whole way in this one, but finally managed a 24-17 lead with 5:50 left in regulation.  But in the final two minutes of the game, Iowa State put together a scoring drive to tie the game, and their defense held to force (the first) overtime.  Iowa had the ball first, and scored from 4 yards out with the run to go up 31-24.  Iowa State responded by scoring from 4 yards out through the air to tie the game at 31 and force a second overtime.  The Cyclones reached the end zone again and went up 38-31, but the Hawkeyes answered on the ensuing possession, hooking up on a 23 yard pass to tie the game at 38.  The third overtime commenced, and the Cyclone defense came up big, holding Iowa to a field goal and a 41-38 lead.  The Cyclones could win the game by reaching the end zone.  They did just that on a run from 4 yards out, and stunned the Hawkeyes with a 44-41 win.   

That wraps up our highlights from the first two weeks.  This is why we watch the Louisville / FIU game on a Thursday night, or the Purdue / Rice game (which came down to a blocked field goal)!  You never know when you might miss a thriller.

By the Numbers

We put together some interesting statistics from the first two weeks of the season. 

2            - The number of times Gary Pinkel iced his own kicker.

3            - The number of total TD's scored in the last 1:12 of the Micigan/Notre Dame game.

5            - The number of Big East losses in Week 2, after the conference started 8-0 in week 1.

10            - The number of Notre Dame turnovers in their first two games.

17          - The number of consecutive wins for Auburn (including bowl games).   

22          - The number of consecutive August/September games Mizzou had won prior to Friday.                                          

27          - The number of times Mizzou QB James Franklin ran the ball against ASU.

73          - The number of yards Mizzou punter booted the ball on a single punt against ASU. 

153        - The number of yards Louisville outgained FIU in Louisville's 17-24 loss.

201        - The number of receiving yards by T.Y. Hilton of FIU as he torched the Louisville D. 

272        - Justin Blackmon's receiving yards in the first two games. 

768        - Case Keenum's passing yards in the first two games.

114,804      - The number of fans in attendance in Michigan's first ever night game.

Despite Loss, Tigers' Future is Bright

Well, it was close.

 

This was the kind of back-and-forth game that causes heartbreak for both sides throughout, but in the end it was the hearts of Tiger fans that were torn to pieces as Franklin's last pass in overtime fell into the corner of the end zone.  The Sun Devils endured with a 37-30 edge.  At the start of the 4th quarter, Arizona State held a 30-16 lead.  Franklin led the Mizzou offense down the field and scored twice to tie the game, and moved the ball again to set up a potential game-winning field goal from 48 yards out.  Pinkel's questionable decision to seemingly ice his own kicker, twice, (calling two timeouts just before the kick) undoubtedly outraged Mizzou fans.  But in the end the kick hooked left, and the captains headed onto the field for the overtime coin toss.  ASU went on offense first and hooked up for the score, and their defense held.  The Sun Devils won a heartbreaker in the desert.

- Questionable coaching leads to a missed FG that forced OT, ending what would have been a remarkable Tiger comeback.  The Sun Devils hang on 37-30.

Tiger fans are hurt.  They're confused.  Missouri's 22-game non-conference win streak is finally snapped.  But the outlook is not all bad.  Missouri recovers at home this week with what should be an easy victory over FCS opponent Western Illinois, and with the vastly improved play of QB Franklin, the offensive numbers should be more like what Tiger fans are used to.  Though the "1" in the loss column is a number Tiger fans haven't seen in the first four weeks of the season for a very long time.

- The Tiger's 22-game non-conference win streak is snapped.

The numbers were almost completely even, down the final score.  The Tigers had 24 first downs to ASU's 25, and outgained the Sun Devils just 501 to 492.  Both teams looked unimpressive on third down, each converting only 3 - though the Tigers faced 3rd down 15 times to ASU's 9.  Both teams also put up outrageous numbers in another category - penalty yards.  Missouri had 11 penalties for 114 yards, and ASU had 12 for 110.  With both teams giving up the length of the football field in penalties, flags undeniably contributed to the outcome of the game.  The Sun Devils have struggled with penalties and lost many close games because of it, but the same behavior is uncharacteristic of Missouri.  It allowed the Sun Devils to stay in the game despite their own foolish mistakes.  It was one such mistake - a muffed punt recovered by MU (right after ASU took a 14 point lead) - that led to Missouri's comeback.            

- After a muffed punt, ASU penalties kept a Mizzou touchdown drive alive, then stalled ASU's offense, leading to another MU score to tie the game.

While last week's game was a discouraging win for the Tigers, this game should be very encouraging despite the loss.  Franklin has matured as a player and a decision maker by leaps and bounds in the past 6 days.  He finished the day with 2 passing TD's, a rushing TD, and zero interceptions.  His leadership was impressive as he led the Tigers towards victory late in the 4th.  The field goal and the coaching decisions surrounding it were not under Franklin's control.  I was most impressed with how good Franklin looked good throwing the ball, missing his targets outright on very rare occasions.  More impressive still than his accuracy was his confidence.  He looked comfortable throwing the ball, and when scrambling kept his eyes down-field instead of immediately tucking and running.  The MU coaching staff had more faith in their sophomore QB as well, putting the game on his arm more often than his legs.  It will be interesting to see how this Missouri team fares in conference play under the leadership of this talented young man. 

- Franklin finished the night with 2 passing TD's, a rushing TD, and no interceptions.  His confidence throwing the ball was encouraging for Tiger fans.

After Mizzou's win over Miami Ohio, I criticized the Missouri defense when most praised them.  Arizona State's excellent quarterback play exposed the MU secondary yet again.  It is difficult to defend a successful passing attack led by a talented QB, but a little tighter coverage wouldn't hurt.  On ASU's first 3 drives they moved the ball very successfully through the air, resulting in 10 points (1 TD, 1 FG, 1 missed FG).  On their fourth drive of the game, they went over the top on the very first play and hooked up for a 60 yard TD pass.  Missouri's defense tightened up in the second half, but it was the superior speed of ASU's receivers, their ability to make plays in space, and the play of ASU's talented quarterback that allowed them to continue scoring points. ASU QB Osweiler finished the day with 353 passing yards and 3 touchdowns.  (ASU receiver Jamal Miles even finished the day with a passing TD on a trick play).  

- Early in the game ASU shredded the MU secondary with ease, but the MU defense tightened up after the half.  Still, much improvement will be needed to stop Big 12 offenses. 

Missouri fans may be heartbroken, but they have to be looking forward to the future.  Franklin has answered the question mark that hovered over his head this preseason.  Ultimately the loss to non-conference ASU doesn't impact the Tigers too much.  They will look to rebound strong in conference play, and with Franklin continuing to develop, there's always next year to look forward to.     

ASU 37 - Mizzou 30 (First Take)

The Tigers lose a close one in the desert.  Please let us know your reaction to the game, Tiger fans!

Josh's take:

Currently the adrenaline that is coursing through my veins has me so charged up I may not sleep tonight. The game was an emotional bomb that has me excited, angry, and emotionally drained.  I’m excited that Franklin and the offense looked much improved from last week.  I have to admit after last week I had some doubts about Franklin’s ability to step up and make clutch passes, but he did it repeatedly tonight, and I think this kid has a bright future.  I think a lot of concern has to be focused on our secondary that seemed exposed throughout the game and the penalties by both teams was exhausting and needless.  The 73 yard punt was maybe one of the most impressive plays I’ve seen so far this year!  I’m also excited that the Tigers didn’t give up.   

However, all that being said I am speechless and genuinely angry by Pinkel’s decision to call two successive timeouts prior to MU’s attempt to kick the winning field goal.  I have no idea what he was thinking and I can’t wait to hear his explanation.  I feel he didn’t help put us in a position to win and why were the Tigers passing prior to the field goal on 3^rd down – It was almost disaster!  I picked Arizona State, but my heart was pulling for Mizzou.  I am crushed by this defeat because I thought the Tigers really had it.  I think the Tigers, despite this loss, will have another solid year - but for now this game really hurt!  Please let us know your thoughts on the game.   

Zach's take: 

This game ended up too close for comfort for either team.  In a game marred by a tremendous amount of penalty yards on both sides, sophomore QB Franklin shines despite the loss.  Franklin looked confident and poised throughout, only breaking down and exiting the pocket prematurely on rare occasions.  The Mizzou coaches showed more confidence in their leader as well, dialing up a lot more passing plays.  Admittedly there were a few errant throws, but Franklin is improving much faster than expected.  Despite the fact that the Tigers lost, their future is bright.  It looks like Franklin will become the type of successful quarterback MU fans are used to.  

Arizona State looked good, particularly on offense.  They moved the ball down the field all night.  The Sun Devils finally picked up a big win over a ranked team, but if they want to stay on the national stage they need to fix the self-sabotaging behavior that led to well over 100 penalty yards.  It was a muffed punt recovered by MU that led to the Mizzou comeback - the Sun Devils blew a 14 point lead and a chance to add to it.  Penalties kept a long Mizzou touchdown drive alive, and also stalled an ASU offensive drive while the Tigers were in full swing.  They are lucky to come away with the win, such lack of discipline cannot be tolerated.   

Franklin offers a bright future, but for the moment all Tiger fans can focus on is two timeouts called by their head coach, and a field goal missed wide left.  

Look for the full article by Z. Lynn tomorrow.  Leave comments on your reaction to this over-time thriller.