As Dr. Bellows put it on I Dream of Jeannie: "He's (Major Anthony Nelson) done it to me again." Well, ESPN has done it again. Once again, ESPN has decided to invade someone's property, and for the life of me, I just can't figure out why. To improve the Nielsen ratings? To make a quick buck or two?
ESPN felt it was their place to air Shelley Meyer's, Florida head coach Urban Meyer's wife, phone call to paramedics after he collapsed. Why force their family to relive something of this magnitude. His wife sounded terrified, and rightfully so. I understand ESPN has a job to do in terms of reporting and getting news out. It's their job to report Meyer had been admitted to the hospital. However, they were completely out of line airing the 9-1-1 call, and providing a transcript with it.
You'd think ESPN would be more sensitive to invasion of privacy after ESPN reporter Erin Andrews had her privacy violated when some jerk videotaped her without her consent. They're no better than those crazy tabloid reporters or Kevin Scarbinsky and the other biased Birmingham sports writers for that matter. Anything that gets ratings or a profit.
Believe me, I know this isn't the first time this has happened. ESPN has a track record of this. They did the same thing when Elin Nordegren called paramedics after her mother collasped. They aired her taped phone to paramedics and provided a transcript in case viewers couldn't hear a particular word or sentence. This is only one of many reasons I'm disguisted with ESPN, the alleged "Worldwide leader in sports".
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Sweet Home Alabama...Where the Skies are so Gray
A few years ago, I remember watching the WWF/WWE and listening to "Good 'Ol J.R." Jim Ross and others constantly refer to Kane (a wrestler in the WWE) as sick, twisted, and demented. Well, these terms now describes someone else or should I say a group of people...Alabama Crimson Tide football fans.
Never in my life have I heard as much classless rhetoric from a bunch of yokels in all of my life. I'm referring to their comments concerning Urban Meyer's resignation as the University of Florida football coach yesterday. Their shots are simply cruel and uncalled for. Meyer has a wife and three kids to think about. I wanted him to be the coach as much as the next fan, but I can certainly understand quitting and putting family first. It seems like no one around these parts (in the state of Alabama) has a concept of family first. Now, I know for a fact football in the state of Alabama is a religion and God takes a back seat to Alabama football (sad, but true).
The sportswriters such as Kevin Scarbinsky riling the fans up looks awfully familar. I'm talking about former Alabama governor George Corley Wallace making his infamous "Segregation now, tomorow, and forever" speech at the University of Alabama in 1963 to a roar of thunderous cheers and applauses. Granted, the context and timeframe are different, but the coldness and bitterness remains. Back in 1963, Alabama fans could've cared less about integration. They had "Bear" Bryant whipping teams every Saturday and adding to his folklore in the state. Fast forward to 2009, Alabama fans don't give a damn about a coach resigning due to health concerns. My point is Alabama fans simply don't give a damn about anything, but football. If they didn't care about integration, why in the world would they care about a man's life. It's so sad that football is the only thing that they care about. They don't care about Meyer's life being in danger if he continued on. They wouldnt've cared if the stress had gotten to him and killled him. They wouldnt've cared if his wife, two daughters, and son would've been left without a husband, father, and provider. These psychotic fans don't even care about the economy being in the worst shape since the Great Depression. Hearing sad things like this will put things in perspective. That's why I agreed with Tim Tebow after the team's loss in the SEC Championship game. He said as much as the loss hurt, football was not the most important thing. Try telling that to this group, Tebow.
The same classless fans who mocked Tebow for crying after losing, are now mocking Meyer for resigning. People seem to think Florida will be this terrible 4-8 team next year with the talent they're losing. These fans have said he's leaving because Tebow and Co. will be gone, and his fear of Nick Saban. That's absolutely ridiculous.
I should thank you Alabama fans for something, though. I seriously underestimated your coldness and thoughtlessness. I remember my mother talking about how bad Alabama fans were. I never believed her. I even defended the Alabama fans. I thought she somehow misinterpreted their behavior. I felt bad when the NCAA posed sanctions in 1993, and again from 2002-2003. I really felt bad for the program. I had no problem pulling for Alabama because my brother and father are die hard fans. But now, I see the true colors of these Alabama fans. I will never, ever pull for Alabama ever again. My disdain for Alabama now exceeds any disdain I have for Florida's rivals: Florida State, Tennessee, Georgia, and Miami. Yes, Georgia did the "Gator Stomp" two years ago. Yes, Florida State has danced on Florida's "F" at the 50 yard line at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Yes, Tennessee has been given games over Florida thanks to poor officiating (2004). Yes, Miami talks a ton of trash whenver they play the Gators. While I may not speak on behalf of these teams often, I've never heard their fan bases show the lack of class by ridiculing a coach who resigns due to an illness. I suppose these same Bama fans mocked the late Terry Hoeppner (former head coach at Indiana) as he courageously battled his brain cancer or (former walk-on quarterback at Florida) Michael Guilford for tragically dying in a motorcycle accident. I don't have an issue with the players or coaches, but I despise what Alabama football means to these fans.
By the way, I know and understand that all Alabama fans are not so arrogant and hideous. To those who are honorable, decent human beings, please disregard yourselves from this little diatribe. It's those deplorable, vile, pathetic freeloading bumpkins that I am referring to. I will laugh when (not if) Alabama gets caught cheating. This time the NCAA won't be so generous. Knock, knock. Who's there? Death penalty. Death penalty who? Death penalty on Alabama's program.
Never in my life have I heard as much classless rhetoric from a bunch of yokels in all of my life. I'm referring to their comments concerning Urban Meyer's resignation as the University of Florida football coach yesterday. Their shots are simply cruel and uncalled for. Meyer has a wife and three kids to think about. I wanted him to be the coach as much as the next fan, but I can certainly understand quitting and putting family first. It seems like no one around these parts (in the state of Alabama) has a concept of family first. Now, I know for a fact football in the state of Alabama is a religion and God takes a back seat to Alabama football (sad, but true).
The sportswriters such as Kevin Scarbinsky riling the fans up looks awfully familar. I'm talking about former Alabama governor George Corley Wallace making his infamous "Segregation now, tomorow, and forever" speech at the University of Alabama in 1963 to a roar of thunderous cheers and applauses. Granted, the context and timeframe are different, but the coldness and bitterness remains. Back in 1963, Alabama fans could've cared less about integration. They had "Bear" Bryant whipping teams every Saturday and adding to his folklore in the state. Fast forward to 2009, Alabama fans don't give a damn about a coach resigning due to health concerns. My point is Alabama fans simply don't give a damn about anything, but football. If they didn't care about integration, why in the world would they care about a man's life. It's so sad that football is the only thing that they care about. They don't care about Meyer's life being in danger if he continued on. They wouldnt've cared if the stress had gotten to him and killled him. They wouldnt've cared if his wife, two daughters, and son would've been left without a husband, father, and provider. These psychotic fans don't even care about the economy being in the worst shape since the Great Depression. Hearing sad things like this will put things in perspective. That's why I agreed with Tim Tebow after the team's loss in the SEC Championship game. He said as much as the loss hurt, football was not the most important thing. Try telling that to this group, Tebow.
The same classless fans who mocked Tebow for crying after losing, are now mocking Meyer for resigning. People seem to think Florida will be this terrible 4-8 team next year with the talent they're losing. These fans have said he's leaving because Tebow and Co. will be gone, and his fear of Nick Saban. That's absolutely ridiculous.
I should thank you Alabama fans for something, though. I seriously underestimated your coldness and thoughtlessness. I remember my mother talking about how bad Alabama fans were. I never believed her. I even defended the Alabama fans. I thought she somehow misinterpreted their behavior. I felt bad when the NCAA posed sanctions in 1993, and again from 2002-2003. I really felt bad for the program. I had no problem pulling for Alabama because my brother and father are die hard fans. But now, I see the true colors of these Alabama fans. I will never, ever pull for Alabama ever again. My disdain for Alabama now exceeds any disdain I have for Florida's rivals: Florida State, Tennessee, Georgia, and Miami. Yes, Georgia did the "Gator Stomp" two years ago. Yes, Florida State has danced on Florida's "F" at the 50 yard line at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Yes, Tennessee has been given games over Florida thanks to poor officiating (2004). Yes, Miami talks a ton of trash whenver they play the Gators. While I may not speak on behalf of these teams often, I've never heard their fan bases show the lack of class by ridiculing a coach who resigns due to an illness. I suppose these same Bama fans mocked the late Terry Hoeppner (former head coach at Indiana) as he courageously battled his brain cancer or (former walk-on quarterback at Florida) Michael Guilford for tragically dying in a motorcycle accident. I don't have an issue with the players or coaches, but I despise what Alabama football means to these fans.
By the way, I know and understand that all Alabama fans are not so arrogant and hideous. To those who are honorable, decent human beings, please disregard yourselves from this little diatribe. It's those deplorable, vile, pathetic freeloading bumpkins that I am referring to. I will laugh when (not if) Alabama gets caught cheating. This time the NCAA won't be so generous. Knock, knock. Who's there? Death penalty. Death penalty who? Death penalty on Alabama's program.
The Shock Heard 'Round The World
Yesterday, I learned that Urban Meyer, the head coach of my beloved Florida Gators, is retiring due to health concerns. First of all, let me thank Coach Meyer for everything is has done for the Gator program. He took a terrible program and turned it into gold with two national championships in five years.
As far as his decision is concerned, I agree with it 100 %. I'm not like some of these crazy Alabama fans (read the post on this later on today) who have nothing else better to do than to cheer for my team and poke fun at others. Meyer is a young guy (45) who has a wife and three kids. His health is top priority. He needs to make sure he is around to give his daughters away at their weddings and watch them grow up as adults. Tim Tebow said it best after the loss to Alabama a few weeks ago that despite the pain, football isn't everything. I've read that stress has played a great deal into his health. I would love for him to take as much time as he needs to recouperate.
Now, as far as his replacement is concerned. The guys I would love for the Gators to target as the new head coach are Steve Spurrier (South Carolina), Dan Mullen (Mississippi State), Charlie Strong (Louisville), and Kyle Whittingham (Utah).
Steve Spurrier's name is on the list for all the obvious reasons. He coached the Gators from 1990-2001, led them to six SEC Championships, a national championship, and coached a Heisman trophy winner. He might be a nice fit to coach at his alma mater a few years while Urban Meyer rests for a few years. Spurrier could retire with his family in Gainesville after retiring. He's already on record for saying he wants to coach maybe five more years. Plus, I think he'd welcome the opportunity to get back to Atlanta to contend for SEC championships and get another national championship to go with his 1996 national championship ring.
Dan Mullen is a strong possibillity because of his ties with Florida and Meyer. He was the offensive coordinator at Florida from 2005-2008, he won a pair of national championships with the team, coached a Heisman trophy winner, and coached a lot of the players on the roster. Also, he was Meyer's quarterbacks coach at Utah from 2002-2004 and at Bowling Green from 2001-2002.
Charlie Strong is a guy I'm not so sure about. Don't get me wrong. He has the stuff to succeed and pick up where Meyer left off. However, would he want to renege on a Louisville program that gave him his first coach opportunity just three weeks ago? Like Mullen, Strong's hire would ease the pain of losing Meyer due to his familiarty with the players. And also like Mullen, Strong has coached two national championship teams at Florida. His recruiting ties would remain strong as he's recruited several kids in Florida's 2010 class. In addition, Strong might have stronger ties to Florida than any other candidate, except Steve Spurrier. He served as a grad assistant at UF from 1983-1984, outside linebackers coach from 1988-1989, assistant head coach/defensive tackles coach from 1991-1994, and defensive coordinator from 2002-2009.
Kyle Whittingham could be seen as a curveball. Florida has already gone the Utah route to find a head coach once (with Meyer) and could catch ligtning in a bottle twice with the hiring of Whittingham. Whittingham served as the defensive coordinator under Meyer at Utah from 2002-2004. His team runs the same spread-style offense Florida runs. He coached an undefeated team last year that upset heavily favored Alabama in the 2009 Allstate Sugar Bowl. He's got the credentials, but would Florida Athletic Director Jeremy Foley pull the trigger?
Foley struck out with Zook as he made a quick decision following Spurrier's abrupt departure from UF in January 2002. Obviously, things are different this time around, but who will be the right man for the job. I feel the aforementioned candidates are strong candidates for the job. A couple of dark horse candidates for the job could be Oklahoma's Bob Stoops and Boise State's Chris Petersen.
Stoops was beaten by Meyer in last year's national championship game, and has seen Florida's program skyrocket with Meyer at the helm. With mounting displeasure about his team flopping in big games (2004 National Championship, 2005 National Championship, 2007 Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, 2008 Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, and 2009 BCS National Championship Game), would a change of scenery to the Sunshine State sway the former Florida defensive coordinator to return to the school he once coached at?
Chris Petersen is another interesting choice. Like Meyer, Petersen is a big fish in a small pond at Boise State. Petersen says he's committed to Boise State, but if Foley came a calling, would the allure of national championships and millions of dollars be too much to pass up? Stay tuned.
Lastly, I would like to reiterate my gratitude for what Meyer has done for Florida's program. He's turned Florida into a national powerhouse in a great conference like the SEC. (Note to the sadistic Bama fans: Meyer wins championships in the 21st century. Your "Bear" Bryant took advantage of hatred and racism to dominate a restricted conference 40 years ago. The "Bear" is dead...deal with it.) I would also like to thank the other assistants, Meyer's family, and the assistants' familes as well for allowing them to spend countless hours with the team instead of being at home. Meyer sacrificed so much to this program. He certainly shouldn't have been expected to sacrifice his life for the team. Coach Meyer and his family will remain in my prayers. Godspeed Coach Meyer and a job well done.
As far as his decision is concerned, I agree with it 100 %. I'm not like some of these crazy Alabama fans (read the post on this later on today) who have nothing else better to do than to cheer for my team and poke fun at others. Meyer is a young guy (45) who has a wife and three kids. His health is top priority. He needs to make sure he is around to give his daughters away at their weddings and watch them grow up as adults. Tim Tebow said it best after the loss to Alabama a few weeks ago that despite the pain, football isn't everything. I've read that stress has played a great deal into his health. I would love for him to take as much time as he needs to recouperate.
Now, as far as his replacement is concerned. The guys I would love for the Gators to target as the new head coach are Steve Spurrier (South Carolina), Dan Mullen (Mississippi State), Charlie Strong (Louisville), and Kyle Whittingham (Utah).
Steve Spurrier's name is on the list for all the obvious reasons. He coached the Gators from 1990-2001, led them to six SEC Championships, a national championship, and coached a Heisman trophy winner. He might be a nice fit to coach at his alma mater a few years while Urban Meyer rests for a few years. Spurrier could retire with his family in Gainesville after retiring. He's already on record for saying he wants to coach maybe five more years. Plus, I think he'd welcome the opportunity to get back to Atlanta to contend for SEC championships and get another national championship to go with his 1996 national championship ring.
Dan Mullen is a strong possibillity because of his ties with Florida and Meyer. He was the offensive coordinator at Florida from 2005-2008, he won a pair of national championships with the team, coached a Heisman trophy winner, and coached a lot of the players on the roster. Also, he was Meyer's quarterbacks coach at Utah from 2002-2004 and at Bowling Green from 2001-2002.
Charlie Strong is a guy I'm not so sure about. Don't get me wrong. He has the stuff to succeed and pick up where Meyer left off. However, would he want to renege on a Louisville program that gave him his first coach opportunity just three weeks ago? Like Mullen, Strong's hire would ease the pain of losing Meyer due to his familiarty with the players. And also like Mullen, Strong has coached two national championship teams at Florida. His recruiting ties would remain strong as he's recruited several kids in Florida's 2010 class. In addition, Strong might have stronger ties to Florida than any other candidate, except Steve Spurrier. He served as a grad assistant at UF from 1983-1984, outside linebackers coach from 1988-1989, assistant head coach/defensive tackles coach from 1991-1994, and defensive coordinator from 2002-2009.
Kyle Whittingham could be seen as a curveball. Florida has already gone the Utah route to find a head coach once (with Meyer) and could catch ligtning in a bottle twice with the hiring of Whittingham. Whittingham served as the defensive coordinator under Meyer at Utah from 2002-2004. His team runs the same spread-style offense Florida runs. He coached an undefeated team last year that upset heavily favored Alabama in the 2009 Allstate Sugar Bowl. He's got the credentials, but would Florida Athletic Director Jeremy Foley pull the trigger?
Foley struck out with Zook as he made a quick decision following Spurrier's abrupt departure from UF in January 2002. Obviously, things are different this time around, but who will be the right man for the job. I feel the aforementioned candidates are strong candidates for the job. A couple of dark horse candidates for the job could be Oklahoma's Bob Stoops and Boise State's Chris Petersen.
Stoops was beaten by Meyer in last year's national championship game, and has seen Florida's program skyrocket with Meyer at the helm. With mounting displeasure about his team flopping in big games (2004 National Championship, 2005 National Championship, 2007 Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, 2008 Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, and 2009 BCS National Championship Game), would a change of scenery to the Sunshine State sway the former Florida defensive coordinator to return to the school he once coached at?
Chris Petersen is another interesting choice. Like Meyer, Petersen is a big fish in a small pond at Boise State. Petersen says he's committed to Boise State, but if Foley came a calling, would the allure of national championships and millions of dollars be too much to pass up? Stay tuned.
Lastly, I would like to reiterate my gratitude for what Meyer has done for Florida's program. He's turned Florida into a national powerhouse in a great conference like the SEC. (Note to the sadistic Bama fans: Meyer wins championships in the 21st century. Your "Bear" Bryant took advantage of hatred and racism to dominate a restricted conference 40 years ago. The "Bear" is dead...deal with it.) I would also like to thank the other assistants, Meyer's family, and the assistants' familes as well for allowing them to spend countless hours with the team instead of being at home. Meyer sacrificed so much to this program. He certainly shouldn't have been expected to sacrifice his life for the team. Coach Meyer and his family will remain in my prayers. Godspeed Coach Meyer and a job well done.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
College Football Bowl Predictions
It's been a rough few weeks for my favorite teams. The Gators lose in the SEC Championship Game, the Cleveland Indians have not and (from what I've read) will not sign any key free agents to help the team, and the Gators basketball team is currently on a 3 game losing skid. Now, I can't predict a win in a bowl game to save my life. Every team I've picked so far has lost. I've gotten off to an 0-5 start, but could possibly change that. Here are my predictions for the remaining bowl games:
Hawai'i Bowl: Nevada over SMU
Little Caesar's Bowl: Ohio over Marshall
Meineke Car Care Bowl: Pittsburgh over North Carolina
Emerald Bowl: USC over Boston College
Music City Bowl: Kentucky over Clemson
Independence Bowl: Georgia over Texas A&M
EagleBank Bowl: Temple over UCLA
Humanitarian Bowl: Bowling Green over Idaho
Holiday Bowl: 23 Arizona over 19 Nebraska
Texas Bowl: Missouri over Navy
Armed Forces Bowl: Houston over Air Force
Sun Bowl: 21 Stanford over Oklahoma
Insight Bowl: Iowa State over Minnesota
Chick-fil-A Bowl: 12 Virginia Tech over Tennessee
Outback Bowl: Auburn over Northwestern
Gator Bowl: 17 West Virginia over Florida State
Capital One Bowl: 9 Penn State over 13 LSU
International Bowl: South Florida over Northern Illinois
Cotton Bowl: Mississippi over 18 Oklahoma State
Papajohns.com Bowl: South Carolina over UConn
Liberty Bowl: Arkansas over East Carolina
Alamo Bowl: Texas Tech over Michigan State
GMAC Bowl: Central Michigan over Troy
BCS Bowls
Orange Bowl: 11 Iowa over 10 Georgia Tech
Fiesta Bowl:3 TCU over 6 Boise State
Sugar Bowl:4 Cincinnati over 5 Florida
Rose Bowl: 7 Oregon over 8 Ohio State
BCS National Championship: 1 Alabama over 2 Texas
Hawai'i Bowl: Nevada over SMU
Little Caesar's Bowl: Ohio over Marshall
Meineke Car Care Bowl: Pittsburgh over North Carolina
Emerald Bowl: USC over Boston College
Music City Bowl: Kentucky over Clemson
Independence Bowl: Georgia over Texas A&M
EagleBank Bowl: Temple over UCLA
Humanitarian Bowl: Bowling Green over Idaho
Holiday Bowl: 23 Arizona over 19 Nebraska
Texas Bowl: Missouri over Navy
Armed Forces Bowl: Houston over Air Force
Sun Bowl: 21 Stanford over Oklahoma
Insight Bowl: Iowa State over Minnesota
Chick-fil-A Bowl: 12 Virginia Tech over Tennessee
Outback Bowl: Auburn over Northwestern
Gator Bowl: 17 West Virginia over Florida State
Capital One Bowl: 9 Penn State over 13 LSU
International Bowl: South Florida over Northern Illinois
Cotton Bowl: Mississippi over 18 Oklahoma State
Papajohns.com Bowl: South Carolina over UConn
Liberty Bowl: Arkansas over East Carolina
Alamo Bowl: Texas Tech over Michigan State
GMAC Bowl: Central Michigan over Troy
BCS Bowls
Orange Bowl: 11 Iowa over 10 Georgia Tech
Fiesta Bowl:3 TCU over 6 Boise State
Sugar Bowl:4 Cincinnati over 5 Florida
Rose Bowl: 7 Oregon over 8 Ohio State
BCS National Championship: 1 Alabama over 2 Texas
Friday, December 4, 2009
2009 SEC Championship Game Prediction
First off, I'd like to thank every single senior on their team for their contribution these past four to five years (two to three for JuCo transfers). They've transformed Florida from a good program to an elite program. Hopefully the trend will continue on Saturday.
With that being said, let's get to the prediction. Both team's have strong running games. The Tide has Ingram and Richardson. Florida has Demps, Rainey, and Tebow. I feel Florida could win by three touchdowns if they keep Mark Ingram under wraps. However, Glen Coffee had a big day last year in Florida's 31-20 win. Facing big time backs is nothing new to this team. They've faced Darren McFadden, Felix Jones, and Glen Coffee in the previous SEC Championships. I feel they'll do fine in terms of stopping him. However, I feel Ingram will be the best back (with all do respect to Anthony Dixon of Mississippi State).
Florida has a big edge over Greg McElroy in the quarterback department. McElroy has done a good job of taking care of the football. Tebow's numbers may not be as high as usual, but he's still the best player in college football. I feel Tebow's numbers are so low due to the conservative play calling. Most people rip Tebow for his arm strength and accuracy, but fail to realize he's completed just over 64 percent of his passes in his career.
The receiving corps is a toss-up. Florida has dependable targets in Aaron Hernandez and Riley Cooper, but have relative unknowns behind them. Alabama's Julio Jones hasn't played on the same level as he did as a freshman, but is still a threat nonetheless. Bama also has guys like Colin Peek and Marquis Maze. I think Florida's receivers will need to step up like last year when David Nelson, Carl Moore, and Riley Cooper stepped up last year.
Defensively, I think both teams are nearly dead even. I do think Florida's experience in playing in their third SEC championship in four years will be of an advantage. Losing Dunlap hurts Florida, but I have confidence in Justin Trattou to get the job done. If the defensive line stops Ingram, they will force Alabama to pass. This could work to Florida's advantage. However, if Alabama controls the game with the run the way they did in last year's meeting. We'll have another tough game on our hands.
I would love for Florida to come out and throw the ball their first six or seven plays. This will wear Mount Cody out, and make him less effective in stopping the run. The game plan against Georgia should be used in this game. Florida came out throwing often early and jumped out to a 14-0 lead. Jumping out on Bama will be important, but they will not abandon the run so easily.
As for special teams, Leigh Tiffin has the advantage over Caleb Sturgis. Chas Henry of the Gators has the edge over P.J. Fitzgerald. Javier Arenas has been more effective returning kicks this year than Brandon James. Florida is more dangerous blocking kicks and keeping tabs on big returns. I think special teams is dead even.
So, my final score will be a Florida 24-13 win. It'll be hard fought, but I like the Gators in this one. Anyone who knows me knows I stink at making predictions. Maybe I'm wrong, but maybe, just maybe I'll be right on this one. Go Gators. Beat Bama.
With that being said, let's get to the prediction. Both team's have strong running games. The Tide has Ingram and Richardson. Florida has Demps, Rainey, and Tebow. I feel Florida could win by three touchdowns if they keep Mark Ingram under wraps. However, Glen Coffee had a big day last year in Florida's 31-20 win. Facing big time backs is nothing new to this team. They've faced Darren McFadden, Felix Jones, and Glen Coffee in the previous SEC Championships. I feel they'll do fine in terms of stopping him. However, I feel Ingram will be the best back (with all do respect to Anthony Dixon of Mississippi State).
Florida has a big edge over Greg McElroy in the quarterback department. McElroy has done a good job of taking care of the football. Tebow's numbers may not be as high as usual, but he's still the best player in college football. I feel Tebow's numbers are so low due to the conservative play calling. Most people rip Tebow for his arm strength and accuracy, but fail to realize he's completed just over 64 percent of his passes in his career.
The receiving corps is a toss-up. Florida has dependable targets in Aaron Hernandez and Riley Cooper, but have relative unknowns behind them. Alabama's Julio Jones hasn't played on the same level as he did as a freshman, but is still a threat nonetheless. Bama also has guys like Colin Peek and Marquis Maze. I think Florida's receivers will need to step up like last year when David Nelson, Carl Moore, and Riley Cooper stepped up last year.
Defensively, I think both teams are nearly dead even. I do think Florida's experience in playing in their third SEC championship in four years will be of an advantage. Losing Dunlap hurts Florida, but I have confidence in Justin Trattou to get the job done. If the defensive line stops Ingram, they will force Alabama to pass. This could work to Florida's advantage. However, if Alabama controls the game with the run the way they did in last year's meeting. We'll have another tough game on our hands.
I would love for Florida to come out and throw the ball their first six or seven plays. This will wear Mount Cody out, and make him less effective in stopping the run. The game plan against Georgia should be used in this game. Florida came out throwing often early and jumped out to a 14-0 lead. Jumping out on Bama will be important, but they will not abandon the run so easily.
As for special teams, Leigh Tiffin has the advantage over Caleb Sturgis. Chas Henry of the Gators has the edge over P.J. Fitzgerald. Javier Arenas has been more effective returning kicks this year than Brandon James. Florida is more dangerous blocking kicks and keeping tabs on big returns. I think special teams is dead even.
So, my final score will be a Florida 24-13 win. It'll be hard fought, but I like the Gators in this one. Anyone who knows me knows I stink at making predictions. Maybe I'm wrong, but maybe, just maybe I'll be right on this one. Go Gators. Beat Bama.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
A gator fans' response to Paul Finebaum
Surprise, surprise. Paul Finebaum is trying to put down a successful Florida Gator football program. The latest assault from the "journalist" is his opinion that Urban Meyer will never be Paul "Bear" Bryant. But quite frankly, why would anyone want to be like Bear Bryant? Don't get me wrong, Bryant was an excellent coach in HIS era. An era that allowed coaches to sign as many players as his heart's desire (or at least as many the school could afford). An era that banned minorities from playing in several conferences (one being the SEC) because of segregation laws. An era that during Bryant's tenure in the league went from 12 teams to 10. Of course, Arkansas and South Carolina joined the league in 1992 to expand the league to 12 teams and two divisions. Bryant's teams never had to play (usually) a top 10 team in a SEC Championship game on a neutral field. In fact, in Bryant's era Alabama's 1994 and 2008 teams would've played for national championships (or perhaps a share of a national championship in 1994). Both teams were undefeated before falling in the conference championship. Case in point, the 2001 LSU Tigers upsetting Tennesee in the 2001 SEC Championship to knock the Vols out of national championship game. Not to mention the parity that exists in the SEC today as Vanderbilt is no longer content to be the laughingstock of the league. Florida has emerged from mediocrity to cream of the crop thanks to the biggest Gator of them all, Steve Spurrier.
Bryant in all his glory never had to coach against the amazing athletes the SEC has nowadays. Lee Roy Jordan may have once recorded 40 tackles in a game, but let him try to tackle guys like Darren McFadden, Percy Harvin, or Knowshon Moreno 40 times in a game. Good luck. In fact, a majority of players from Florida's 2008 National Championship team like Harvin, Spikes, Rainey, Demps, Hernandez, Black, Haden, Jenkins, and the Pounceys would not have been allowed to play in the SEC during Bryant's tenure (except for his last 10 years at Bama). Not to mention talented players from other teams in the SEC such as McFadden, Eric Berry, Trevard Lindley, Patrick Willis, Glenn Dorsey, LaRon Landry, Carnell Williams, and Andre Woodson wouldn't have played in the SEC. Of course the list is just to name a few, but the players aforementioned were all game breakers for schools throughout the league. That's why I laugh when ESPN has one of those stupid polls asking could this team from this era beat this team from this era. Such as the case of the 2001 Miami Hurricanes squeaking by one of Bama's teams from the 1960's. As a Gator fan, I hate to give Miami credit, but they would've stomped a mudhole in Bryant's teams. The only championship team that would've held their own against that 2001 Miami squad was Bama's 1992 championship team loaded with solid big-time athletes. I'd like to think Florida's 2008 team could drop 100 on the Bear's teams, but running the football as much as they did would be impossible. So, I'd like to predict a 70-0 thrashing with Percy Harvin getting over 400 all-purpose yards and five touchdowns and Tim Tebow totaling over 400 all-purpose yards and four touchdowns.
Finebaum isn't the only person to put the Gators down. He's simply trying to get a rise out of UF fans and fire up fans in Alabama. Several members of the media in Alabama clearly hates it and is jealous of any successful coach in the league. The media loved calling him names such as "Darth Visor" and "Steve Superior" because of his success. Nick Saban was known as Nick Satan at LSU, but hasn't heard that name since being named coach at Georgia. Mark Richt would receive more jabs if his team won the big game more often and won national championships. A sports writer (who shall remain nameless) with the Birmingham News called Meyer classless. He continued to remind the Alabamians that although Meyer won two national championships, he was 0-2 against Auburn. For the record, the fact that they lost to Auburn two years in a row is absolutely embarrassing.
The media in Alabama, who constantly criticized Spurrier for running up the score, kept their traps shut in the case of Tyrone Prothro's tragic career-ending injury. Up 31-3 with eight minutes remaining in the game, Brodie Croyle chucks a deep pass to Prothro towards the end zone. However, Prothro lands on a defensive players foot and suffers a greusome injury that ultimately ruins his career. In my opinion, Prothro had a very bright future ahead of him on the gridiron. So, let me pose this question? Why was Alabama throwing passes up by four touchdowns with only eight minutes or so remaining in the game? The answer's simple...to run up the score. They were reveling in the fact UF was being humiliated in Tuscaloosa. Of course, we know that Alabama lost to Prothro was sorely missed in losses to LSU and Auburn. That costly decision, in essence, possibly cost Alabama a chance to blow up the BCS. That year USC and Texas played an epic in the Rose Bowl. However, after an undefeated Auburn team was left out of the championship game in 2004, and given Alabama's strong history of 12 national championships, one would think the BCS would've been blown to pieces if Alabama (the second SEC school in as many years) had been left out. They would've had to gone through 8 LSU, 12 Georgia (in the SEC Championship), 16 Auburn, and 19 Florida. Of course, the media looked completely sanctimous by crying afoul Spurrier's decision to run up the score and ignoring Shula running the score up. That one bad decision cost them a great season. Of all the things Shula was criticized for, this was not among them. Go figure.
I'd like to thank Mike Bianchi (Orlando Sentinel) and Bob Redman (fightingators.com insider) for defending the Gators. Bianchi knew exactly how to fire up Finebaum when he said Meyer was the second coming to Bryant. By comparing Meyer to Bryant, he knew he violated the biggest sacrilege in the state of Alabama---thou shall not take the name of Bear Bryant in vein. Finebaum said Bianchi told him that he made the disparaging remarks about Florida because Alabama fans are afraid of Florida and Meyer. All I know is that the last time, the Alabama media took shots at Florida, you-know-who (Spurrier) was dominating the conference. Maybe this will be a sign Meyer will dominate the SEC like the old ball coach.
I do know that Finebaum and his associates are in fact jealous of Florida's success. That's not arrogance, that's a fact. I know LSU isn't liked in state because of the two national championships this decade. From the looks of things, LSU, much like Florida, doesn't appear to be finished winning championships either. Finebaum is making comments suggesting Meyer's departure for South Bend after the season are unprofounded. He's merely hoping he leaves because Florida has faired well with a 4-2 record in SEC Championship games against Alabama.
As for the comments made about Meyer putting down Shane Matthews are concerned. Well, that's none of Finebaum's business. Matthews is a Gator alum, not Alabama or Auburn alum. Had Matthews put together a game winning drive that beat Bama in the 1992 SEC Championship game instead of throwing the costly game winning interception, he wouldn't bother remarking on the exchange of words between Matthews and Meyer.
Lastly, Finebaum criticizes Florida's record of arrests. Florida's record of arrests were just as high if not higher under Zook, but Florida was only 8-5, 8-5, 7-5 during those three years.
For the record, not all of the sports writers in Alabama are negative, jealous, whining, crybabies who cry about the good ole' glory days back in the 1950's and 1960's. It's just wise guys and "journalists" like Finebaum that make me want to cringe when reading their sleezy rhetoric.
Bryant in all his glory never had to coach against the amazing athletes the SEC has nowadays. Lee Roy Jordan may have once recorded 40 tackles in a game, but let him try to tackle guys like Darren McFadden, Percy Harvin, or Knowshon Moreno 40 times in a game. Good luck. In fact, a majority of players from Florida's 2008 National Championship team like Harvin, Spikes, Rainey, Demps, Hernandez, Black, Haden, Jenkins, and the Pounceys would not have been allowed to play in the SEC during Bryant's tenure (except for his last 10 years at Bama). Not to mention talented players from other teams in the SEC such as McFadden, Eric Berry, Trevard Lindley, Patrick Willis, Glenn Dorsey, LaRon Landry, Carnell Williams, and Andre Woodson wouldn't have played in the SEC. Of course the list is just to name a few, but the players aforementioned were all game breakers for schools throughout the league. That's why I laugh when ESPN has one of those stupid polls asking could this team from this era beat this team from this era. Such as the case of the 2001 Miami Hurricanes squeaking by one of Bama's teams from the 1960's. As a Gator fan, I hate to give Miami credit, but they would've stomped a mudhole in Bryant's teams. The only championship team that would've held their own against that 2001 Miami squad was Bama's 1992 championship team loaded with solid big-time athletes. I'd like to think Florida's 2008 team could drop 100 on the Bear's teams, but running the football as much as they did would be impossible. So, I'd like to predict a 70-0 thrashing with Percy Harvin getting over 400 all-purpose yards and five touchdowns and Tim Tebow totaling over 400 all-purpose yards and four touchdowns.
Finebaum isn't the only person to put the Gators down. He's simply trying to get a rise out of UF fans and fire up fans in Alabama. Several members of the media in Alabama clearly hates it and is jealous of any successful coach in the league. The media loved calling him names such as "Darth Visor" and "Steve Superior" because of his success. Nick Saban was known as Nick Satan at LSU, but hasn't heard that name since being named coach at Georgia. Mark Richt would receive more jabs if his team won the big game more often and won national championships. A sports writer (who shall remain nameless) with the Birmingham News called Meyer classless. He continued to remind the Alabamians that although Meyer won two national championships, he was 0-2 against Auburn. For the record, the fact that they lost to Auburn two years in a row is absolutely embarrassing.
The media in Alabama, who constantly criticized Spurrier for running up the score, kept their traps shut in the case of Tyrone Prothro's tragic career-ending injury. Up 31-3 with eight minutes remaining in the game, Brodie Croyle chucks a deep pass to Prothro towards the end zone. However, Prothro lands on a defensive players foot and suffers a greusome injury that ultimately ruins his career. In my opinion, Prothro had a very bright future ahead of him on the gridiron. So, let me pose this question? Why was Alabama throwing passes up by four touchdowns with only eight minutes or so remaining in the game? The answer's simple...to run up the score. They were reveling in the fact UF was being humiliated in Tuscaloosa. Of course, we know that Alabama lost to Prothro was sorely missed in losses to LSU and Auburn. That costly decision, in essence, possibly cost Alabama a chance to blow up the BCS. That year USC and Texas played an epic in the Rose Bowl. However, after an undefeated Auburn team was left out of the championship game in 2004, and given Alabama's strong history of 12 national championships, one would think the BCS would've been blown to pieces if Alabama (the second SEC school in as many years) had been left out. They would've had to gone through 8 LSU, 12 Georgia (in the SEC Championship), 16 Auburn, and 19 Florida. Of course, the media looked completely sanctimous by crying afoul Spurrier's decision to run up the score and ignoring Shula running the score up. That one bad decision cost them a great season. Of all the things Shula was criticized for, this was not among them. Go figure.
I'd like to thank Mike Bianchi (Orlando Sentinel) and Bob Redman (fightingators.com insider) for defending the Gators. Bianchi knew exactly how to fire up Finebaum when he said Meyer was the second coming to Bryant. By comparing Meyer to Bryant, he knew he violated the biggest sacrilege in the state of Alabama---thou shall not take the name of Bear Bryant in vein. Finebaum said Bianchi told him that he made the disparaging remarks about Florida because Alabama fans are afraid of Florida and Meyer. All I know is that the last time, the Alabama media took shots at Florida, you-know-who (Spurrier) was dominating the conference. Maybe this will be a sign Meyer will dominate the SEC like the old ball coach.
I do know that Finebaum and his associates are in fact jealous of Florida's success. That's not arrogance, that's a fact. I know LSU isn't liked in state because of the two national championships this decade. From the looks of things, LSU, much like Florida, doesn't appear to be finished winning championships either. Finebaum is making comments suggesting Meyer's departure for South Bend after the season are unprofounded. He's merely hoping he leaves because Florida has faired well with a 4-2 record in SEC Championship games against Alabama.
As for the comments made about Meyer putting down Shane Matthews are concerned. Well, that's none of Finebaum's business. Matthews is a Gator alum, not Alabama or Auburn alum. Had Matthews put together a game winning drive that beat Bama in the 1992 SEC Championship game instead of throwing the costly game winning interception, he wouldn't bother remarking on the exchange of words between Matthews and Meyer.
Lastly, Finebaum criticizes Florida's record of arrests. Florida's record of arrests were just as high if not higher under Zook, but Florida was only 8-5, 8-5, 7-5 during those three years.
For the record, not all of the sports writers in Alabama are negative, jealous, whining, crybabies who cry about the good ole' glory days back in the 1950's and 1960's. It's just wise guys and "journalists" like Finebaum that make me want to cringe when reading their sleezy rhetoric.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
2009-2010 College Football Bowl Predictions
My copy of Sporting News preseason college football magazine arrived last Thursday. So, far the following are my predictions. However, I've been known to change my predictions.
New Mexico Bowl
12/19
Colorado State vs. Ohio
magicJack St. Petersburg Bowl
12/19
Florida Atlantic vs. Wisconsin
Both teams will be at-large teams after the Big East and C-USA failed to have enough representitives bowl eligible.
R&L Carriers New Orleans Bowl
12/20
Troy vs. UAB
This will be a rematch from the Sept. 19 matchup in Troy.
MAACO Bowl Las Vegas
12/22
Air Force vs. Northwestern
Northwestern will earn the at-large bid because the Pac-10 will not have enough bowl eligible teams.
San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl
Arizona State vs. Utah
Sheraton Hawaii Bowl
Hawaii vs. UCLA
Motor City Bowl
12/26
Minnesota vs. Western Michigan
Meineke Car Care Bowl
12/26
Rutgers vs. Miami
Emerald Bowl
12/26
Oregon State vs. Clemson
Music City Bowl
12/27
Vanderbilt vs. Florida State
Independence Bowl
12/28
Colorado vs. Georgia
I'm predicting a down year for Georgia in 09. I'm predicting they'll go 6-6 entering this bowl. However, this season could mirror that of the 06 season. That year, Georgia went 9-4 after beating Virginia Tech in the Peach Bowl. If you recall, Georiga started Matt Stafford as a true freshman. He struggled heavily, and was benched for Joe Cox and Joe Tereshinski. This year, Cox could be benched for either Logan Gray, or true freshmen Aaron Murray and Zach Mettenberger.
EagleBank Bowl
12/29
Navy vs. NC State
Champs Sports Bowl
12/29
Michigan vs. North Carolina
I'm predicting both teams will go 8-4 this year entering this bowl game. I feel the addition of Tate Forcier and the growth of younger players will pay off this year.
Roady's Humanitarian Bowl
12/30
Nevada vs. BYU
Pacific Life Holiday Bowl
12/30
USC vs. Kansas
I'm probably way off base with half of this prediction. However, I'm willing to give the Pac-10 the benefit of the doubt as a legitimate power conference. USC should not win the conference after losing 8 starters on defense, the starting qb, starting receiver, the kicker, and punter. It's true they have an experience backfield, O-line, and a couple of receivers, but I'm predicting Oregon wins the conference. Cal will finish second. I will say that if USC wins the Pac-10 this year, they will keep winning the conference at least for the next decade.
Texas Bowl
12/30
Baylor vs. Southern Miss
With super soph Robert Griffin and experienced starters on offense and defense returning, how can anyone not pick Baylor (yes BAYLOR) to not go to a bowl game. Art Briles made the Golden Bears competitive for the first time in years in his first year. Although they went 4-8 last year, Baylor took UConn, Missouri, and Texas Tech to the wire last year. With each team losing key players, Baylor will probably be favored in each game.
Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl
12/31
TCU vs. Tulsa
I'm predicting this game could be similar to the Alabama-Utah game last year because I think TCU could very well go 12-0 this year. Unfortunately, they'll probably be passed over for BCS busters Boise State and Notre Dame (read BCS predictions below). Alabama wasn't the same squad after losing to Florida in the SEC Championship. They simply weren't up to the "consolation game". TCU, who has been knocking on the BCS door for the past decade, could have a let down if they're passed over for a BCS spot. Nontheless, I think they will go 12-0 and further fuel the argument for a playoff (read more below).
Brut Sun Bowl
12/31
California vs. Texas Tech
I think Cal will lose only one game this year, but it won't be to USC. I think Oregon will take them down in Eugene in a battle of the best two running backs in the league. This is a tough prediction to make because the Sun Bowl, like several others, could take a team from two conferences. I like a rematch from the 2004 Holiday Bowl. That year, Cal lost once to USC, but was passed over in a BCS bowl. The result? A 45-31 blowout which saw Sonny Cumbie go 40-60 for 520 yards, three touchdowns, and zero picks. Could history repeat itself this year?
Insight Bowl
12/31
Michigan State vs. Nebraska
This bowl is typically a coach's worst dream because this bowl is usually one of two games aired on the NFL Network. How the NFL can air a college bowl game is still beyond me. That's like ESPN classic airing episodes of Leave it to Beaver (one of my favorite shows by the way). This could possibly hurt recruiting because most people will not see games of teams from different time zones. With each bowl game airing on television, a potential prospect could fall in love with a team and decide the coach's offense/defense is to his liking.
Chick-fil-A Bowl
12/31
Wake Forest vs. Tennessee
Yes, Wake Forest lost Alphonso Smith, Aaron Curry, and Sam Swank, but on paper, the Coastal Division appears to be awful. Wake Forest will survive a roller coaster ride that will be similar to the one last year. However, they'll fall to Virginia Tech in the ACC championship game. Tennessee, on the other hand, will go 8-4 in the regular season, and will at least show promise in Lane Kiffin's first year in Knoxville. This will be due to question marks to UCLA, South Carolina, and Georgia. If each team proves me wrong and exceeds my expectations, then the Vols will go 5-7.
Outback Bowl
1/1
Arkansas vs. Illinois
Most people would think I'm nuts for this prediction. Arkansas and Illinois? That's right. The Baby Razorbacks will grow up this year. With Ryan Mallet or Tyler Wilson at the helm, and Michael Smith, who overcame the shadow of Darren McFadden and Felix Jones, at running back. This year looks pretty good for the Hogs. I think they could win as many as 10 games this year. I feel they'll go 8-3 going into their annual contest with LSU. That game could go either way. Illinois, on the other hand, will go 9-3 in the regular season, and erase the dismal 5-7 campaign from a year ago.
Konica Minolta Gator Bowl
1/1
Georgia Tech vs. West Virginia
This will be a rematch of the 2007 Gator Bowl game which saw West Virginia edge the Yellow Jackets 38-35. This will also mark West Virginia's first bowl without Pat White. This game looks mighty interesting with running backs Jonathan Dwyer, Roddy Jones, and Noel Devine going head-to-head.
Capital One Bowl
1/1
LSU vs. Ohio State
Another rematch. This one will be a rematch of the 2008 BCS National Championship game. Both teams lost a lot of talent, but still have a few veterans left over from the title game.
International Bowl
1/2
Cincinnati vs. Central Michigan
AT&T Cotton Bowl
1/2
Alabama vs. Oklahoma State
I'm predicting Bama will end the season 10-2. Oklahoma State will end the year 11-1 (more on this in the BCS Championship Game description).
Papajohns.com Bowl
1/2
Pittsburgh vs. Maryland
Maryland gets this game because SEC will not have enough to fill its' allotment.
Autozone Liberty Bowl
1/2
Houston vs. Kentucky
Valero Alamo Bowl
1/2
Kansas State vs. Minnesota
Kansas State will go 7-5 upon Bill Sndyer's return to Manhattan. Win number seven will be a victory at home over a rebuiling Missouri squad.
GMAC Bowl
1/6
Buffalo vs. East Carolina
BCS Bowls
Rose Bowl presented by Citi
1/1
Oregon vs. Penn State
Penn State wins the Big 10 by default. Oregon finally dethrones USC. (read comments on the Holiday Bowl)
Allstate Sugar Bowl
1/1
Ole Miss vs. Boise State
Ole Miss will be 12-1 entering this contest. Boise State will be 13-0. This game will once again pit a little guy vs. the SEC to try to add fuel to the fire about a playoff. Of course, it'll be asking too much of the non-BCS schools to stack their non-conference schedule when they know fully well they're conference isn't up to par with other conferences. Take Boise's 2009 schedule for instance, they play Oregon, Miami-Ohio, Bowling Green, and Tulsa. Bowling Green hasn't played really well in about five years. Tulsa will not play at the same level they played last year. Miami-Ohio is going through transition. So, that leaves a home opener against potential Pac-10 champ Oregon. In my opinion, the toughest game on their schedule by far. Of course, they have decent conference teams such as Hawaii, Nevada, and Fresno State who could win seven to nine games.
This schedule, like Notre Dame's 2009 schedule, will not cut it this season. It's way, way, way, way, way, way, way, way, way, way too easy. After the massacre at Georgia a few years ago, I can understand why they'd be hesitant to play any tough teams on a consistant basis. It's a shame because I think Boise is a talented team, but we'll never know until they decide to stack the non-conference schedule.
Tostitos Fiesta Bowl
1/4
Notre Dame vs. Oklahoma
Both teams will enter this contest 11-1. Notre Dame will make it to the game because the BCS guarantees them a bid with a top eight finish in the BCS rankings and considered if they're in the top 12. Speaking of cupcake schedules, a home opener against a decent Nevada team will suffice. The next four are against Michigan, Michigan State, Purdue, and Washington. All four teams are currently in the process of rebuilding. USC is a very tough test. Boston College an Washington State are rebuilding. Navy is a decent game. Pittsburgh and UConn are question marks. Stanford is a lousy game to schedule.
FedEx Orange Bowl
1/5
Virginia Tech vs. South Florida
Virginia Tech will have talent, but USF will win because only West Virginia will pose as a legitimate threat this year.
BCS National Championship Game
1/7
Florida vs. Texas
I've been going back and forth between Texas and Oklahoma. My conclusion. Like last year, the Big 12 South will experience a three way tie. Oklahoma will lose to Texas, but beat Oklahoma State in the regular season finale. Texas will beat OU, but lose to Oklahoma State on Oct. 31. Oklahoma State will go 11-0 before losing to OU in the season finale. Given the BCS track record, Texas would not drop below Oklahoma after the loss to OSU. OSU would drop below Texas after the loss in the last game of the season. This would put Texas in the Big 12 Championship game against Kansas. A win would put Texas in the title game. I feel the BCS would not drop Texas behind OU because of Oklahoma's track record of choking in the BCS games, the potential repeat of the same two teams (assuming Florida takes care of business and does not overlook an opponent), and the record of not putting the right team in (see BCS controversy last year with OU going to championship game over Texas despite Texas beating OU, Nebraska beating out Oregon in 2001 despite not qualifying for the Big 12 championship game and losing their regular season finale by 26, and Florida State edging out Miami for a spot in the 2000 Championship game despite Miami beating the Noles earlier in the season).
I predicted Florida would run the table, and beat an undefeated Ole Miss squad in the 2009 SEC Championship game. Because I'm a Gator fan and believe in my team's dedication, I'll predict UF downs Texas in Los Angeles.
So there you have it. My complete list of predictions. As I stated earlier, they are bound to change, but I'll leave the list alone for right now.
New Mexico Bowl
12/19
Colorado State vs. Ohio
magicJack St. Petersburg Bowl
12/19
Florida Atlantic vs. Wisconsin
Both teams will be at-large teams after the Big East and C-USA failed to have enough representitives bowl eligible.
R&L Carriers New Orleans Bowl
12/20
Troy vs. UAB
This will be a rematch from the Sept. 19 matchup in Troy.
MAACO Bowl Las Vegas
12/22
Air Force vs. Northwestern
Northwestern will earn the at-large bid because the Pac-10 will not have enough bowl eligible teams.
San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl
Arizona State vs. Utah
Sheraton Hawaii Bowl
Hawaii vs. UCLA
Motor City Bowl
12/26
Minnesota vs. Western Michigan
Meineke Car Care Bowl
12/26
Rutgers vs. Miami
Emerald Bowl
12/26
Oregon State vs. Clemson
Music City Bowl
12/27
Vanderbilt vs. Florida State
Independence Bowl
12/28
Colorado vs. Georgia
I'm predicting a down year for Georgia in 09. I'm predicting they'll go 6-6 entering this bowl. However, this season could mirror that of the 06 season. That year, Georgia went 9-4 after beating Virginia Tech in the Peach Bowl. If you recall, Georiga started Matt Stafford as a true freshman. He struggled heavily, and was benched for Joe Cox and Joe Tereshinski. This year, Cox could be benched for either Logan Gray, or true freshmen Aaron Murray and Zach Mettenberger.
EagleBank Bowl
12/29
Navy vs. NC State
Champs Sports Bowl
12/29
Michigan vs. North Carolina
I'm predicting both teams will go 8-4 this year entering this bowl game. I feel the addition of Tate Forcier and the growth of younger players will pay off this year.
Roady's Humanitarian Bowl
12/30
Nevada vs. BYU
Pacific Life Holiday Bowl
12/30
USC vs. Kansas
I'm probably way off base with half of this prediction. However, I'm willing to give the Pac-10 the benefit of the doubt as a legitimate power conference. USC should not win the conference after losing 8 starters on defense, the starting qb, starting receiver, the kicker, and punter. It's true they have an experience backfield, O-line, and a couple of receivers, but I'm predicting Oregon wins the conference. Cal will finish second. I will say that if USC wins the Pac-10 this year, they will keep winning the conference at least for the next decade.
Texas Bowl
12/30
Baylor vs. Southern Miss
With super soph Robert Griffin and experienced starters on offense and defense returning, how can anyone not pick Baylor (yes BAYLOR) to not go to a bowl game. Art Briles made the Golden Bears competitive for the first time in years in his first year. Although they went 4-8 last year, Baylor took UConn, Missouri, and Texas Tech to the wire last year. With each team losing key players, Baylor will probably be favored in each game.
Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl
12/31
TCU vs. Tulsa
I'm predicting this game could be similar to the Alabama-Utah game last year because I think TCU could very well go 12-0 this year. Unfortunately, they'll probably be passed over for BCS busters Boise State and Notre Dame (read BCS predictions below). Alabama wasn't the same squad after losing to Florida in the SEC Championship. They simply weren't up to the "consolation game". TCU, who has been knocking on the BCS door for the past decade, could have a let down if they're passed over for a BCS spot. Nontheless, I think they will go 12-0 and further fuel the argument for a playoff (read more below).
Brut Sun Bowl
12/31
California vs. Texas Tech
I think Cal will lose only one game this year, but it won't be to USC. I think Oregon will take them down in Eugene in a battle of the best two running backs in the league. This is a tough prediction to make because the Sun Bowl, like several others, could take a team from two conferences. I like a rematch from the 2004 Holiday Bowl. That year, Cal lost once to USC, but was passed over in a BCS bowl. The result? A 45-31 blowout which saw Sonny Cumbie go 40-60 for 520 yards, three touchdowns, and zero picks. Could history repeat itself this year?
Insight Bowl
12/31
Michigan State vs. Nebraska
This bowl is typically a coach's worst dream because this bowl is usually one of two games aired on the NFL Network. How the NFL can air a college bowl game is still beyond me. That's like ESPN classic airing episodes of Leave it to Beaver (one of my favorite shows by the way). This could possibly hurt recruiting because most people will not see games of teams from different time zones. With each bowl game airing on television, a potential prospect could fall in love with a team and decide the coach's offense/defense is to his liking.
Chick-fil-A Bowl
12/31
Wake Forest vs. Tennessee
Yes, Wake Forest lost Alphonso Smith, Aaron Curry, and Sam Swank, but on paper, the Coastal Division appears to be awful. Wake Forest will survive a roller coaster ride that will be similar to the one last year. However, they'll fall to Virginia Tech in the ACC championship game. Tennessee, on the other hand, will go 8-4 in the regular season, and will at least show promise in Lane Kiffin's first year in Knoxville. This will be due to question marks to UCLA, South Carolina, and Georgia. If each team proves me wrong and exceeds my expectations, then the Vols will go 5-7.
Outback Bowl
1/1
Arkansas vs. Illinois
Most people would think I'm nuts for this prediction. Arkansas and Illinois? That's right. The Baby Razorbacks will grow up this year. With Ryan Mallet or Tyler Wilson at the helm, and Michael Smith, who overcame the shadow of Darren McFadden and Felix Jones, at running back. This year looks pretty good for the Hogs. I think they could win as many as 10 games this year. I feel they'll go 8-3 going into their annual contest with LSU. That game could go either way. Illinois, on the other hand, will go 9-3 in the regular season, and erase the dismal 5-7 campaign from a year ago.
Konica Minolta Gator Bowl
1/1
Georgia Tech vs. West Virginia
This will be a rematch of the 2007 Gator Bowl game which saw West Virginia edge the Yellow Jackets 38-35. This will also mark West Virginia's first bowl without Pat White. This game looks mighty interesting with running backs Jonathan Dwyer, Roddy Jones, and Noel Devine going head-to-head.
Capital One Bowl
1/1
LSU vs. Ohio State
Another rematch. This one will be a rematch of the 2008 BCS National Championship game. Both teams lost a lot of talent, but still have a few veterans left over from the title game.
International Bowl
1/2
Cincinnati vs. Central Michigan
AT&T Cotton Bowl
1/2
Alabama vs. Oklahoma State
I'm predicting Bama will end the season 10-2. Oklahoma State will end the year 11-1 (more on this in the BCS Championship Game description).
Papajohns.com Bowl
1/2
Pittsburgh vs. Maryland
Maryland gets this game because SEC will not have enough to fill its' allotment.
Autozone Liberty Bowl
1/2
Houston vs. Kentucky
Valero Alamo Bowl
1/2
Kansas State vs. Minnesota
Kansas State will go 7-5 upon Bill Sndyer's return to Manhattan. Win number seven will be a victory at home over a rebuiling Missouri squad.
GMAC Bowl
1/6
Buffalo vs. East Carolina
BCS Bowls
Rose Bowl presented by Citi
1/1
Oregon vs. Penn State
Penn State wins the Big 10 by default. Oregon finally dethrones USC. (read comments on the Holiday Bowl)
Allstate Sugar Bowl
1/1
Ole Miss vs. Boise State
Ole Miss will be 12-1 entering this contest. Boise State will be 13-0. This game will once again pit a little guy vs. the SEC to try to add fuel to the fire about a playoff. Of course, it'll be asking too much of the non-BCS schools to stack their non-conference schedule when they know fully well they're conference isn't up to par with other conferences. Take Boise's 2009 schedule for instance, they play Oregon, Miami-Ohio, Bowling Green, and Tulsa. Bowling Green hasn't played really well in about five years. Tulsa will not play at the same level they played last year. Miami-Ohio is going through transition. So, that leaves a home opener against potential Pac-10 champ Oregon. In my opinion, the toughest game on their schedule by far. Of course, they have decent conference teams such as Hawaii, Nevada, and Fresno State who could win seven to nine games.
This schedule, like Notre Dame's 2009 schedule, will not cut it this season. It's way, way, way, way, way, way, way, way, way, way too easy. After the massacre at Georgia a few years ago, I can understand why they'd be hesitant to play any tough teams on a consistant basis. It's a shame because I think Boise is a talented team, but we'll never know until they decide to stack the non-conference schedule.
Tostitos Fiesta Bowl
1/4
Notre Dame vs. Oklahoma
Both teams will enter this contest 11-1. Notre Dame will make it to the game because the BCS guarantees them a bid with a top eight finish in the BCS rankings and considered if they're in the top 12. Speaking of cupcake schedules, a home opener against a decent Nevada team will suffice. The next four are against Michigan, Michigan State, Purdue, and Washington. All four teams are currently in the process of rebuilding. USC is a very tough test. Boston College an Washington State are rebuilding. Navy is a decent game. Pittsburgh and UConn are question marks. Stanford is a lousy game to schedule.
FedEx Orange Bowl
1/5
Virginia Tech vs. South Florida
Virginia Tech will have talent, but USF will win because only West Virginia will pose as a legitimate threat this year.
BCS National Championship Game
1/7
Florida vs. Texas
I've been going back and forth between Texas and Oklahoma. My conclusion. Like last year, the Big 12 South will experience a three way tie. Oklahoma will lose to Texas, but beat Oklahoma State in the regular season finale. Texas will beat OU, but lose to Oklahoma State on Oct. 31. Oklahoma State will go 11-0 before losing to OU in the season finale. Given the BCS track record, Texas would not drop below Oklahoma after the loss to OSU. OSU would drop below Texas after the loss in the last game of the season. This would put Texas in the Big 12 Championship game against Kansas. A win would put Texas in the title game. I feel the BCS would not drop Texas behind OU because of Oklahoma's track record of choking in the BCS games, the potential repeat of the same two teams (assuming Florida takes care of business and does not overlook an opponent), and the record of not putting the right team in (see BCS controversy last year with OU going to championship game over Texas despite Texas beating OU, Nebraska beating out Oregon in 2001 despite not qualifying for the Big 12 championship game and losing their regular season finale by 26, and Florida State edging out Miami for a spot in the 2000 Championship game despite Miami beating the Noles earlier in the season).
I predicted Florida would run the table, and beat an undefeated Ole Miss squad in the 2009 SEC Championship game. Because I'm a Gator fan and believe in my team's dedication, I'll predict UF downs Texas in Los Angeles.
So there you have it. My complete list of predictions. As I stated earlier, they are bound to change, but I'll leave the list alone for right now.
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