Congrats to Mount Union, which won another D3 championship today over UW-Whitewater in Stagg Bowl XXXVI. They win so much, they ought to be in their own division, as it's just not fair, winning 31-26. This was their 10th championship in their 12th appearance, all occurring in the last 16 seasons. (1993 was their first title.)

This was the fourth straight year the two schools met in the D3 championship game, Whitewater finally broke through last year and won it and it's the 5th time in six years that Mt. Union has made it to the title game.

In other action today:

Wake Forest beat Navy in the EagleBank Bowl, 29-19

Colorado State notched a W for the Mountain West in a win over Fresno State 40-35

And South Florida is showing the difference between the Big East and Conference USA in their drubbing of Memphis in the St. Petersburg Bowl, being played at the Trop, home to the AL champion Tampa Bay Rays. Tropicana Field looks a lot better as a football stadium than it does a baseball stadium. Just sayin'....

It's postseason football. Love it or hate it, it's here!

Kudos again to the Richmond Spiders claiming the first national title in school history in any sport last night, beating Montana in the Division I/FCS national championship game, 24-7. Just an all-out dominant effort by the Spiders in that victory.

Go Bulls.

BYU is currently embarrassing the Mountain West, down 31-21 to Arizona. I'm guessing the Cougs were pissed to be here, while Arizona is happy to be playing postseason football. BYU recovered the on-side kick and with about 3 minutes to go, are trying to score and narrow Arizona's lead.

Even with another score, they're gonna be down, but at least they look like they have a shot to win.

Missed field goal. Choke city and that ought about seal the deal for Arizona. Arizona is just murdering the BYU quarterback tonight.

Good for Arizona, winning a bowl game. Its nice to see teams break through like that.

Good for Arizona, winning a bowl game. Its nice to see teams break through like that.

That was one hard hitting game. BYU and Arizona were bringing the lumber for all 4 quarters.

Vic, did you go to the game?

I did not go to the Albuquerque Bowl this year, but I may go to the Sun Bowl.

Vic, did you go to the game?


I didn't go, but I watched it on TV. I thought about going, but I didn't feel like sitting in freezing weather for four hours.

Southern Mississippi forfeits a time out for wearing yellow jerseys as the visiting team in the New Orleans bowl.

Southern Mississippi forfeits a time out for wearing yellow jerseys as the visiting team in the New Orleans bowl.

Any reason why the decided to wear the yellow jerseys?

That was one hard hitting game. BYU and Arizona were bringing the lumber for all 4 quarters.

BYU is always real physical, lack of athleticism on D killed them this year against teams with lots of speed on Offense. It is amazing the difference between 4.6 - 4.7 guys who have straight ahead speed and 4.5 - 4.6 guys that have great agility too. BYU has a real good incoming recruiting class, that will be great if they can land Manti Teo, but they need to hit the JC's for one or two great athletic corners.

BYU also had problems with smaller, athletic Defenses like U of A as they do not have backs that can run laterally and for whatever reason they have been unable to blow teams off the ball, even with the big, talented line they have.

I have a theory here that they suffer from trying to run two distinct Offensive styles. Their run game is smash mouth and their passing game is spread finesse. To me you can't excel at either style if you have to plsit practice time working the other. Either hang your hat on a smash mouth, Pro style offense or recruit shiftier backs that fit into the spread philosophy better.

Their run game is smash mouth and their passing game is spread finesse. To me you can't excel at either style if you have to plsit practice time working the other. Either hang your hat on a smash mouth, Pro style offense or recruit shiftier backs that fit into the spread philosophy better.

That's been generally true of most teams, with the notable exception of Oklahoma this year.

Wow that injury to USM WR Deandre Brown was disgusting.

Anyone watching the Boise State/TCU game?

Yeah, I have it on, but I'm not watching attentively yet.

ditto

I'd like to see Boise State win it, though. I'm all about the undefeated season.

The commentating isn't that great. But the game is a grind-it-out affair.

I'm pulling for TCU here.

Just got home in time for the final 2 minutes of TCU/Boise.

Not a good throw for the Boise St qb. Throw it away!

It's been a good game, but the pundits will just use it as a chance to slam Boise.

TCU gets the win. The only thing that could make it better will be if Ian Johnson grabs the stadium microphone after the game to announce that he's divorcing his wife.

It's been a good game, but the pundits will just use it as a chance to slam Boise.

They shouldn't because TCU has lost to two teams with a combined 1 loss.

They shouldn't because TCU has lost to two teams with a combined 1 loss.

We know that. But they'll just say "OMGZ they're not SEC?! They suck. Play better teamz!?"

It's been a good game, but the pundits will just use it as a chance to slam Boise.

I'll gladly avoid any slam ... as long as we don't hear anymore whining about how Boise ought to be in the big show.

These two teams got pretty much the level bowl they're entitled to, and produced an entertaining game in it. No more than that is needed for them nor should more than that be asked of them.

Yeah, I'm guessing we don't hear anymore of the "Boise got robbed" stuff anymore.

Yeah, I'm guessing we don't hear anymore of the "Boise got robbed" stuff anymore.

On the other hand, I guess we'll hear it replaced by "well, they were just flat for a meaningless bowl & would have been completely different if they had been force fed to a larger audience".

I'll gladly avoid any slam ... as long as we don't hear anymore whining about how Boise ought to be in the big show.

These two teams got pretty much the level bowl they're entitled to, and produced an entertaining game in it. No more than that is needed for them nor should more than that be asked of them.

+100000

Just found out I scored tickets to the Insight Bowl in Arizona. Kansas vs. Minnesota. Should be fun, even though I don't root for either team.

Edit: Also my first college football game, so I'm really excited.

Just found out I scored tickets to the Insight Bowl in Arizona. Kansas vs. Minnesota. Should be fun, even though I don't root for either team.

Edit: Also my first college football game, so I'm really excited.

Have a blast. It's good stuff, so long as it's a good game. The TV timeouts will annoy you, tho.

Have a blast. It's good stuff, so long as it's a good game. The TV timeouts will annoy you, tho.

I've been to dozens of NFL games, so I know the feeling. They definitely are annoying as hell.

Notre Dame up on Hawaii 21-7 in the 2nd quarter. If this holds up, it should secure a top 15 spot for the Irish in the final AP poll.

If this holds up, it should secure a top 15 spot for the Irish in the final AP poll.

Eh, probably doesn't help them that much. It's not even as good a win as the one they already have over Navy.

Notre Dame up on Hawaii 21-7 in the 2nd quarter. If this holds up, it should secure a top 15 spot for the Irish in the final AP poll.

And if we had a playoffs, they would had to have been included among the 8 teams, definitely the 16.

WAC looking good in the post-season.

Notre Dame up on Hawaii 21-7 in the 2nd quarter. If this holds up, it should secure a top 15 spot for the Irish in the final AP poll.

LOL

Screw you guys, :) we finally got ourselves a bowl win (over a terrible team.) Hawaii may have been FCS-caliber, but we just lost to Syracuse, so its nice to see the team playing to its talent level and blowing out a bad team. 6/7 FR/SO's getting sacks and 6 of the 7 TD's scored by FR/SO's, plus another called back. Golden Tate had yet another breakout game tonight - that called back PR was his best of the 4 TD's.

2 for 2 in betting so far (TCU to win outright, ND to win - how was Hawaii favored again? Watching the ND press conferences showed they were taking this game very seriously, and they clearly had the talent edge.) Other picks I'm thinking of going with for now

UNC EV to win vs. WVU
Miami +8.5 vs. Cal
Oregon/OK St under 76 (I feel like one team won't show up - don't know which, and if I'm wrong I get an exciting shootout)
Iowa -3.5 vs. S.Carolina
Clemson -2.5 vs. Nebraska
Georgia -7.5 vs. MSU
VaTech +115 vs. Cincy
Utah +305 vs. Alabama
Texas -8 vs. Ohio St.
OU +130 vs. Florida

Anyone else want to throw out some predictions?

Anyone else want to throw out some predictions?

So far, I took the under (46.5) in the TCU-Boise State game, and I've got Florida Atlantic +7 against Central Michigan in the Motor City Bowl, although I'm starting to think that I didn't compensate enough for CMU's close proximity to Detroit. Hopefully, Howard Smellsofbourbon will have his boys ready to play.

Dola (from yesterday),

Howie had his boys ready to play tonight, and he moves to 6-0 all-time in bowl games. All of the so-called "smart money" was on Central Michigan, but my numbers made the game about even, so I'm happy with the win.

Greetings from Alabama, as Rutgers prepares for the prestigious Papa John's Bowl. For all the bowls I have worked, the fans here in Alabama have been the best and actually know who we are and that we are actually here to play football. That being said, we are looking forward to pounding NC State on Monday.

Miami +8.5 vs. Cal

One of my bigger plays for today is Cal -8.5 over Miami (although the line has jumped up to -10 now). Miami is starting a freshman QB, and has five starters out due to suspension. I think Cal rolls to a big win in this one.

One of my bigger plays for today is Cal -8.5 over Miami (although the line has jumped up to -10 now). Miami is starting a freshman QB, and has five starters out due to suspension. I think Cal rolls to a big win in this one.

I'm with you on this. I don't bet many games, but I put some money on Cal. Miami has too many guys out and Pac-10 Teams are going to have a good bowl showing overall.

I have no strong opinion on the side, but I'm going against the public again with under 48 in the WVU-UNC game.

I'm with you on this. I don't bet many games, but I put some money on Cal. Miami has too many guys out and Pac-10 Teams are going to have a good bowl showing overall.

Except for the Rose Bowl ;)

I have no strong opinion on the side, but I'm going against the public again with under 48 in the WVU-UNC game.

This one already looks like a loss. Three cheap TD's in the first quarter, defenses look like they're playing two hand touch.

I have not seen the Heels play this year but my son knows I want them to beat WVU. He told me that WR Hicks will be an impact player and sho'nuf. However, I got turned off on that first TD reception where he celebrated too early and almost lost the TD. I hate when players have to show off like that.

Fantastic game between WVU and UNC. Eers hold on at the end with a nice interception on UNC's last-gasp drive to win the game.

Sad to see Pat White's career at WVU end, but what a way to go out. 332 yards passing and 3tds in his 4th bowl win as a starting QB. He came a long way this year considering he was never really asked to make more than 1 read as passer prior to this season.

After my first loss of the bowl season, I'll try to rebound with Wisconsin +6.5 over FSU.

Sad to see Pat White's career at WVU end, but what a way to go out. 332 yards passing and 3tds in his 4th bowl win as a starting QB. He came a long way this year considering he was never really asked to make more than 1 read as passer prior to this season.

Great win and great careers for these seniors.

All-time winningest class in WVU history. Pat White is such a great college quarterback--we are going to miss him badly, no matter how well his replacement does.

And Pat White becomes the first player in college football history to win 4 bowl games as the starting QB.

This Champs Sports Bowl has to be one of the worst refereed games I have ever seen.

After my first loss of the bowl season, I'll try to rebound with Wisconsin +6.5 over FSU.

This may be a trend, eh?

This Champs Sports Bowl has to be one of the worst refereed games I have ever seen.


Agreed...that blunder fest around the no catch/take away/catch situation in the first half may have been the 2nd worst call in fooball history (the Colorado 5th down will always take the cake for me). How a team can go from 1st and 10 complete a forward pass and some how end up with 2nd and 19 4 yards in front of the previous line of scrimmage will always be a mystery to me.....

You just aren't looking at the game abstractly enough ;).

Great game by Florida State. I definitely didn't see that coming.

Miami is just being blown away right now on both sides of the ball.

Miami is just being blown away right now on both sides of the ball.

That has certainly changed...Miami has it tied at 17..and then they just now fumbled and Cal recovered inside the Miami 5.

Miami's clock management at the end of the game was as hideous as I've ever seen. They wasted 35 seconds getting a play called, threw an incomplete pass (which stopped the clock), then they call a timeout with 12 seconds left in the game.

Miami's clock management at the end of the game was as hideous as I've ever seen. They wasted 35 seconds getting a play called, threw an incomplete pass (which stopped the clock), then they call a timeout with 12 seconds left in the game.

Yeah, my jaw dropped.

Jeremy Christmas that Champs Sports Bowl was hideous.

N. C. State takes a 7-6 lead on Rutgers with a long TD pass from Wilson to Spencer. Rutgers scored earlier on a fake FG, but missed the XP.

Posted this in the draft thread but Alabama OT Andre Smith has been suspended for the Sugar Bowl for apparently signing with an agent.

Wonder if that helps his draft stock...

Not as big of a loss as Andre Smith, but it looks likely that the Trojans will be without FB Stanley Havili who is an important part of their offense. He is a bit banged up and also has issues with academic eligibility. Damien Williams and Kevin Ellison are also banged up a bit.

Looks like the Rutgers of the first few weeks.

N.C. State goes up on Rutgers 17-6 late in the 2nd quarter.

Looks like the Rutgers of the first few weeks.

Seems the month off really sapped the momentum from the offense.

Mark May just spews venom...asshole.

Now you see why Russell Wilson was named starter even with no prior experience at the start of the season. *sigh*

With Wilson out, this game might be over. Rutgers blocks a punt and cuts the lead to 17-16.

N. C. State's 3rd string QB, Daniel Evans, leads a scoring drive to put the Wolfpack up 23-19 midway through the 4th quarter.

Rutgers gets the win, 29-23. In the end, losing Wilson was too much for the Wolfpack to overcome.

Northwestern is up on Missouri 7-0 midway through the 1st quarter, and Chase Daniel is already pouting and sulking on the sidelines.

Mark May just spews venom...asshole.

Yep. His head is so far up USC's ass it's absurd.

I had an NC State alum co-worker who I had a small wager with. As soon as Wilson was knocked out, I offered him a deal: give me $50 and we'll forgo the rest of the bet.

He didn't take it. Poor guy.

WOOOT, Rutgers!

Way to comeback :D.

Rutgers gets the win, 29-23. In the end, losing Wilson was too much for the Wolfpack to overcome.

I'm really enjoying this "go to bowl games and win" bit by the Scarlet Knights. So awesome.

Northwestern takes a 23-20 lead over Missouri after Chase Daniel throws his third pick of the night.

I'm really impressed by Northwestern. I was thinking Mizzou would kill them!

I'm really impressed by Northwestern. I was thinking Mizzou would kill them!

Maybe this is a sign of things to come for the Big 12.

I watched a lot of Big Ten games this year, so here's who I think is the most overrated/underrated from that conference:

Overrated:

1. Wisconsin - Obviously a no-brainer after Saturday, but the Badgers were to most lopsided offense of any team in the Big Ten (which means plenty considering the Big Ten's plodding perception).

2. Michigan State - I think they'll get throttled in the Capital One Bowl.

3. Minnesota - Faded down the stretch for good reason.

Underrated:

1. Iowa - There defense is right up there with PSU and Ohio State. I think they'll win the Capital One Bowl.

2. Northwestern - Have a little bit of a defensive identity to go with that high-flying offense.

3. Ohio State - Perhaps do not belong here, but no one is giving them a chance against Texas. Ohio State still has a crap-load of talent on both sides of the ball.

Maybe this is a sign of things to come for the Big 12.

It may mean my impression of the Big XII was a bit inflated, I'll admit it.

Maybe this is a sign of things to come for the Big 12.

Please do not co-mingle teams from the Big XII North and South in regard to performance. Missouri played four teams from the Big XII South. They beat Baylor 31-28 and lost to Oklahoma, Texas and Oklahoma State by a combined score of 146-75.

FWIW, I think that Kansas is overrated also, and I took the 10 points in their upcoming game against Minnesota.

Helluva game in San Antonio. It moved me.

Like.. uh.. down there?

Northwestern is up on Missouri 7-0 midway through the 1st quarter, and Chase Daniel is already pouting and sulking on the sidelines.

Good to see your inherent dislike of Daniel carrying through to the bowl game thread. I'd like to see how many other players would admit in the post game interview that their team won in spite of their performance. All he did was lead Mizzou to back-to-back double digit win seasons for the first time in school history and manage to win a bowl game all 4 years he was on the roster. Most schools would beg for a failure of that magnitude.

manage to win a bowl game all 4 years he was on the roster.

He wasn't on the team when they lost to Oregon State in the 2006 Sun Bowl???

He wasn't on the team when they lost to Oregon State in the 2006 Sun Bowl???

LOL....I stand corrected. I forgot that we lost that one in the last second. Probably blocked that out of my mind. That was horrific. Tony Temple had a ridiculously good game in that one.

Well Florida State give Wisconsin and their big mouth coach an ass whooping. Next time fellas save the smack and play football.

The Roady's Humanitarian Bowl has actually been pretty entertaining so far. We've had:

-A long Maryland TD pass
-Missed EP
-A long Nevada TD pass
-A Maryland KO return TD
-Botched Maryland kickoff, which Nevada took inside the Maryland 10
-Nevada throwing an INT in the end zone

Halfway through the 1st Q, 13-7 Maryland.

The Roady's Humanitarian Bowl has actually been pretty entertaining so far. We've had:

-A long Maryland TD pass
-Missed EP
-A long Nevada TD pass
-A Maryland KO return TD
-Botched Maryland kickoff, which Nevada took inside the Maryland 10
-Nevada throwing an INT in the end zone

Halfway through the 1st Q, 13-7 Maryland.

I was at the gym on the elliptical while all this was going on. I found it funny to look at my heart rate monitor and see my heart rate while these things were going on. Peaked out at 170.

/tk

Dola,
I really do not like how the Terps feel a need to create drama in these games. Do they not realize that it's OK to win comfortably? And even better not to blow it?

/tk

As a Boise resident, it's kind of hilarious that 7 Maryland players were punished for curfew violations. I mean, of all the bowl venues....

As a Boise resident, it's kind of hilarious that 7 Maryland players were punished for curfew violations. I mean, of all the bowl venues....

They missed the last shuttle from Bogus Basin?

Maryland up 35-28 early in the 4th. I'd suggest tuning in. It's been a pretty fun one.

Oklahoma State looking sharp early, up 10-0 over Oregon in the 1st quarter.

Oregon has just dominated the Cowboys in the second half

Don't look now..but the much-maligned (by myself, even) PAC-10 is 3-0 in bowl season so far!

Go PAC!

Pac-10 Power!

Don't look now..but the much-maligned (by myself, even) PAC-10 is 3-0 in bowl season so far!

Go PAC!

I don't know why that is so surprising. Arizona was favored over Brigham Young, Cal was a huge favorite over Miami, and Oregon (Pac Ten #2) kicked off as a 1 point favorite over Oklahoma State (Big XII South #4).

I don't know why that is so surprising. Arizona was favored over Brigham Young, Cal was a huge favorite over Miami, and Oregon (Pac Ten #2) kicked off as a 1 point favorite over Oklahoma State (Big XII South #4).

The way that the PAC-10 performed OOC this season would not have lead me to believe the conference would win over half its bowl games.

And the way people had been talking up the Big XII, it seemed Oklahoma State should have kicked the tar out of Oregon. After all, Oklahoma State played Texas tough.

The Sun Bowl got what it wanted. An overrated team that got shutout in a snoozer 3-0 game. Simply dreadful to watch, but hey, Pitt has a history there or some BS.

The Sun Bowl got what it wanted. An overrated team that got shutout in a snoozer 3-0 game. Simply dreadful to watch, but hey, Pitt has a history there or some BS.

Sure, ugly game, but it was close

Now onto KU and Minnesota, which should have some offense. Naturally, it's on... the NFL Network?

SI

The Sun Bowl got what it wanted. An overrated team that got shutout in a snoozer 3-0 game. Simply dreadful to watch, but hey, Pitt has a history there or some BS.

Agreed -- I was bummed that WVU didn't get the Sun Bowl, but was trying to be a good BE fan and root for Pitt, but I just couldn't do it. I know Pitt will be the in-vogue pick for the BE next season, but as long as they have no QB and Wanny as the head coach, it is hard to take them seriously. They are playing in a stadium with terrible, with an inept QB, in a defensive battle, and they only gave the ball to McCoy 15 times before the 4th quarter. Pretty amazing.

What was the deal with Oregon State wearing their home jerseys (in which they got charged a TO)? Any reason behind it?

TD Kansas! Kickoff goes out of bounds, next play, Reesing rolls out of pressure, 7-0!

SI

And now, 2 plays later, Minnesota is less than 10 yards from their own TD

SI

7-7 now, less than 2 minutes gone

SI

What channel is the KU-Minnesota game on?

NFL Network, since all the ESPNs are busy with a cheerleading competition or something :rolleyes:

SI

NFL Network, since all the ESPNs are busy with a cheerleading competition or something :rolleyes:

SI

Damn.

Kansas gets stopped but then Minnesota scores and Kansas answers: 14-14 with a few seconds left in the 1st quarter

SI

I know during Big XII season, we can't get close to Texas money for the refs. However, apparently, we can outbid Minnesota for them ;)

Close late hit penalty on the kickoff. Then a questionable "delay of game" penalty against Minnesota's bench. And a drive extending pass interference that looked a little touchy. However, they never showed a replay so I can't tell for sure.

SI

TD Kansas, 28-14. Desmond Briscoe, our leading WR this year with over 1200 yards (tho I'd argue Kerry Meier is our "clutch" WR), has 10 catches for 147 yards and 2 TDs in the first half, including 4 for 9, 9, 12, and 11 this last drive.

SI

Big Ten could be looking at 0-3 with very few games where you go, "Yeah, they will win that one" left.

Reesing throws a pick on a hail mary to end the half, but that's the only black mark on his evening as he's 19 of 22 for 221 and 4 TDs. 28-14, Kansas over Minnesota.

SI

LSU needs just 3:01 to take a 7-0 lead. Tech was getting blown off the ball, making the running all downhill for Scott. And it all started with a crappy kickoff OOB.

Fuck me

Would really be nice if we would cut down on the number of first downs we're giving away.

Fumble, Minnesota. Ensuing play: double pass, Reesing out to Meier down to Briscoe for a TD, 35-14.

SI

Would really be nice if we would cut down on the number of first downs we're giving away.

yes please. this is a pretty embarrassing display so far.

yes please. this is a pretty embarrassing display so far.

Extremely embarrassing. I am having a hard time comprehending exactly how poorly Georgia Tech is playing right now.

I may go along with the firing of Les Miles if he kept this kid on the bench all year on purpose.

EDIT: The frosh QB is who I speak of.

That whole "I want players to enjoy the bowl game", lighter practice, etc. business has had me worried since I read it. This team is too young to respond well to that sort of thing & it looks to be biting them in the ass big time tonight.

speechless.

Who in the blue fucking hell puts a defensive end at the up man to take the snap on a fake punt inside their own 30? Please God tell me that was some sort of uncalled blown play. Otherwise I'm seriously concerned that CPJ has suffered some sort of traumatic head injury that no one is aware of.

Calling that play, with that personnel, might very well be followed by a halftime wardrobe change in to a chicken suit or an evening gown or a giant squid costume from Halloween. None of which would be more disturbing/surprising than the decision making on that fake punt, nor the utter & complete lack of preparation displayed in the first two quarters.

yeah, I was unable to find words for what I was seeing on that fake punt. That does sound about right jon. Seriously I have no idea what the hell is happening this half.

It's not looking good for the ACC. They have three teams ranked in the top 25.

Their #24 ranked team, Boston College, lost to unranked Vanderbilt, and their #14 ranked team, Georgia Tech, is losing to unranked LSU 35-3 at halftime. Their only other ranked team, #19 Virginia Tech, plays #12 Cincinnati tomorrow night in the Orange Bowl.

yeah, I was unable to find words for what I was seeing on that fake punt. That does sound about right jon. Seriously I have no idea what the hell is happening this half.

As a Notre Dame and Georgia Tech fan, I was having flashbacks to Charlie Weis trying a fake punt against LSU a few years ago at about the same field position in the '07 Sugar Bowl. As I remember it, that failed fake punt was the nail in the coffin for ND, just like this one might be for Tech.

KU punches a TD in with a couple minutes to go to make it 42-21. Briscoe ends with 14 catches for 201 yards and 3 TDs. Meier adds 10 for 113 and joins Briscoe, giving Kansas their first ever pair of 1000 yard receivers for a season. This will get us to 8-5, a pretty good follow up to 12-1.

The offense is pretty much back for next year- Reesing, Sharp, all but one of the major WRs (Fields). We lose all 3 of our really good linebackers but that's about it, for major players. And we just got a couple extra weeks of practice for a fairly young team. Things are looking pretty well for next year :)

SI

Seriously I have no idea what the hell is happening this half.

I'd be willing to hazard a pretty good guess what happened

1) CPJ took it easier on the team than he should have, and grossly overestimated the maturity level of the players he inherited. The lighter approach might work with Midshipmen but you can't do that with a bunch of young players.

2) The aforementioned players, and perhaps some coaches as well, spent too much time basking in the afterglow of the regular season finale. Those f'n score rings? Sounded dumb as hell when I heard about it, seems to be even more incredibly stupid now.

3) We spent too much time worrying about coming up with ways to surprise LSU while they were preparing. In doing so we didn't spend enough time worrying about what brung us. Unless our receivers grew significantly during the bowl prep, they aren't going to pull in much that Josh throws right now other than downfield rainbows (which he throws pretty well) because he's remarkably consistent at throwing high and outside on the intermediate stuff.

Defensively, I can't even begin to explain the specific ineptitude. They look tonight like the OL looked against Gardner-Webb, although God only knows
the offense has given them no help, neither has the play selection.

Could it be that LSU is simply better?

Could it be that LSU is simply better?

Did you see them play this year? Or Tech for that matter (I'm pretty sure you watched them at least some)?

A TD better? Eh, I don't think so but possible. 10 points, 14 points. But 35 to fucking 3? At this level that happens when one team doesn't show up and the other one does.

Why does it appear that there's a Muppet museum in Georgia? Jim Henson went to UMD and got his first show on the local NBC affiliate...

Edit: Figured it out, there is "The Center for Puppetry Arts (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Center_for_Puppetry_Arts) in Atlanta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atlanta), Georgia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Georgia_%28U.S._state%29) has acquired more than 700 puppets created by Henson and his studio, including some of the earliest Muppets (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muppets). Many of these are displayed in the museum exhibit Jim Henson: Puppeteer. In September 2008, the Center for Puppetry Arts opened Jim Henson: Wonders From His Workshop, highlighting creations from Fraggle Rock (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fraggle_Rock), Labyrinth (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labyrinth), and other later works." (from Wikipedia).

Back to your regularly scheduled football discussion.

/tk

Actually I have watched GT play a few times as well as LSU, I would say LSU lost to better competition except maybe UGA and Arkansas. While I am surprised by the blow out I didn't expect GT to win.

Could it be that LSU is simply better?

It's a combination of LSU being well prepared for the game, combined with the fact that the ACC is absolutely horrible this year.

Why does it appear that there's a Muppet museum in Georgia? Jim Henson went to UMD and got his first show on the local NBC affiliate.../tk

That's part of a traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian.

The complete Jim Henson archive, including hundreds of figures, will have a permanent home in Atlanta by 2012 however. The Center For Puppetry Arts reached agreement with Henson's estate last year (http://www.muppetcentral.com/news/2007/072407.shtml)and is constructing a wing just for the museum.

Also LSU finally figuring out who their QB is and having time to practice with him. Plus Tech laying a total egg.

It's a combination of LSU being well prepared for the game, combined with the fact that Georgia Tech doesn't seem to have prepared for the game at all.

Fixed that for you ;)

Seriously though, can't blame the rest of the conference for this debacle. Tech couldn't have beaten a good high school team tonight.

Seriously though, can't blame the rest of the conference for this debacle. Tech couldn't have beaten a good high school team tonight.

I agree I was also going to note that all of the games the ACC lost have been close, save for this one. (Sorry Jon and Radii :()

How long has Colt David been at LSU, like 9 years? Seems like he's been kicking for them forever.

Now that I say that, it seems like I've had that feeling about a number of kickers through the years. Van Tiffin at Alabama is one that comes to mind

Fixed that for you ;)

Seriously though, can't blame the rest of the conference for this debacle. Tech couldn't have beaten a good high school team tonight.

How could tech not be prepared? When was their last game? I think they're getting outclassed, with some poor decision making thrown in.

I agree I was also going to note that all of the games the ACC lost have been close, save for this one. (Sorry Jon and Radii :()

To be honest though, I'm not sure that BC should feel much better about their loss than we do.

I agree I was also going to note that all of the games the ACC lost have been close, save for this one. (Sorry Jon and Radii :()

The ACC has 3 ranked teams. Two of them (if you include this game) have lost to unranked teams. You can spin it however you want to, but the ACC is terrible in football this year. I don't buy the "parity" argument, and the performance of the ranked teams (Boston College and Georgia Tech) tends to support my position.

How could tech not be prepared?

Tech takes different approach to bowl practices | ajc.com (http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/gatech/stories/2008/12/20/georgia_tech_football.html)


Before the start of bowl practice, Georgia Tech coach Paul Johnson said that he treats bowls as rewards. That included the way he ran practices — as normal game-week practices, not as a precursor to the heavy-duty work of spring practice.

As the Jackets closed up their pre-Christmas practices Saturday in advance of the Dec. 31 Chick-fil-A Bowl, his players had noticed.

“Bowl practices here used to be hell,” defensive tackle Darryl Richard said. “It was like going to camp again.”

Players said that under then-coach Chan Gailey, there was more scrimmaging and practicing the first-string offense against the first-team defense during bowl practices. Gailey also devoted time to work with players who either were redshirts or did not get much playing time.

“We were doing some things that you might see football factories doing, but we just never had the bodies,” Richard said.

Johnson also shortened practice to about 90 minutes, where typical practices during the season ran about two hours. Further, while there is no limit to the number of practices that can be run to prepare for a bowl, the Jackets took two weeks off for final exams and will practice nine times.

During practice, players have worn full pads and the workouts have been typically intense.

“It’s a little easier on the body, but it’s still football,” guard A.J. Smith said. “We’re still going full speed in full pads, so it’s still tough.”

Camp-style workouts may serve a benefit in preparing younger players, but players said they feel fresher, which could be beneficial against LSU.

“Sometimes, the fresher, the better,” guard Cord Howard said. “It makes you more explosive.”

Johnson ended practice after about an hour Saturday. Some players, clearly giddy to end six days in a row of practice, swapped jerseys. Howard wore B-back Quincy Kelly’s No. 38, he said, in hopes that he might get some snaps in the backfield.

At one point, Johnson put Howard at B-back and wide receiver Willie White at guard. According to Smith, White cut-blocked scout team defensive tackle T.J. Barnes.

“He got him on the ground,” Smith said. “It was pretty funny.”

The ACC has 3 ranked teams. Two of them (if you include this game) have lost to unranked teams. You can spin it however you want to, but the ACC is terrible in football this year. I don't buy the "parity" argument, and the performance of the ranked teams (Boston College and Georgia Tech) tends to support my position.

And the Big 12 continues to reign supreme I got it.

LSU probably has more talent, but this is a Georgia Tech team that ran for 475 yards vs Miami and over 400 vs UGA in the final two weeks of the regular season. The display they put on tonight is simply deplorable.

And the Big 12 continues to reign supreme I got it.

This has nothing to do with the Big 12. The facts suggest that the ACC is extremely weak in football this year.

This has nothing to do with the Big 12. The facts suggest that the ACC is extremely weak in football this year.


I don't disagree with this at all, but to suggest that a 35-3 first half shouldn't be a surprise is a bit much.

This has nothing to do with the Big 12. The facts suggest that the ACC is extremely weak in football this year.

ACC Football Report: Out of Conference Report '08 - At Regular Season's End (http://accfootballreport.blogspot.com/2008/12/out-of-conference-report-08-at-regular_10.html)

Go ahead and give that a quick peep.

Me: "That's it, I can't take anymore. Play your 360 or something"

Son: "{jaw drops} That's the first time you've ever told me to start playing a game of any kind."

Me: "I don't care if you throw a rock through the TV, I just can't take watching any more of this crap"

For some reason I enjoy Florida State and Miami losing games because the entertainment from reading the message boards is second to none imo.

ACC Football Report: Out of Conference Report '08 - At Regular Season's End (http://accfootballreport.blogspot.com/2008/12/out-of-conference-report-08-at-regular_10.html)

Go ahead and give that a quick peep.

Regular season records vs. out of conference opponents (most of whom are cupcakes) have very little significance, and they tend to inflate a team's statistics. For instance, Florida State played two FCS teams (formerly Division I-AA), and beat them by a combined score of 115-7. If you look at Florida State's games against Division 1 (FBS) competition, their average score was 28-24. That's hardly the stuff that legends are made of. They did beat unranked Wisconsin, so you have to give them credit for what so far is the ACC's "signature" bowl win this year.

ACC Football Report: Out of Conference Report '08 - At Regular Season's End (http://accfootballreport.blogspot.com/2008/12/out-of-conference-report-08-at-regular_10.html)

Go ahead and give that a quick peep.

Pretty good read. Confirmed what I kindof already suspected- ACC actually played decent out of conference, SEC ate the most cupcakes, and Big XII should have played a little harder competition in the non-con.

But, guess what, voters and fans eat it all up- the SEC and Big XII are the big dogs, mainly because they slaughtered crap in the non-con and looked good before beating each other up. The difference is that the Big XII can't get away with the "we play awful crap because we have such a hard regular season" excuse and get raked over the coals for a lot of our patsies.

I was kindof hoping the ACC would put up a better showing. So far, the Pac-10 has easily looked the best.

SI

Regular season records vs. out of conference opponents (most of whom are cupcakes) have very little significance, and they tend to inflate a team's statistics. For instance, Florida State played two FCS teams (formerly Division I-AA), and beat them by a combined score of 115-7. If you look at Florida State's games against Division 1 (FBS) competition, their average score was 28-24. That's hardly the stuff that legends are made of. They did beat unranked Wisconsin, so you have to give them credit for what so far is the ACC's "signature" bowl win this year.

LOL. Nevermind.

Looks like one Big 10 team has a good chance of winning a bowl game. 2 possessions, 2 scores. 14-0 Iowa.

The Hawkeyes will win this with ease. I would have prefered that Iowa play a team that's actually good. South Carolina was terrible all year and shouldn't even be in a bowl game.

Fumble, Iowa ball. South Carolina is a joke.

Sucks they moved the Cotton Bowl to tomorrow.

One telling comment from an LSU linebacker after the game:

"The game seemed a lot slower than the practices we had," Riley said. "Our scout team really prepared us well. They were faster than Georgia Tech."

LSU had a tremendous amount of talent but had a down year for several reasons, the QB problems being obvious, and defensive confusion due to the co-DCs never jelling being another. One could argue Jefferson should have played earlier, but other reports were that he just wasn't ready earlier. Now GT did not play its best game, but LSU was just physically superior to GT.

Next year LSU returns Jefferson and will apparently get the premier QB recruit in the country. Miles is also making major changes on the defensive side of the coaching staff. So it will be interesting to see how LSU rebounds from the down year.

One telling comment from an LSU linebacker after the game:

"The game seemed a lot slower than the practices we had," Riley said. "Our scout team really prepared us well. They were faster than Georgia Tech."

LSU had a tremendous amount of talent but had a down year for several reasons, the QB problems being obvious, and defensive confusion due to the co-DCs never jelling being another. One could argue Jefferson should have played earlier, but other reports were that he just wasn't ready earlier. Now GT did not play its best game, but LSU was just physically superior to GT.

Next year LSU returns Jefferson and will apparently get the premier QB recruit in the country. Miles is also making major changes on the defensive side of the coaching staff. So it will be interesting to see how LSU rebounds from the down year.


Well, there is more too. GT doesn't yet really have the players for their system, and giving a team weeks to prepare for it took away their main advantage. They'll only get better and tougher to play as they are able to build the team.

A lot of LSU people had a lot of confidence for the very reason you pointed out, just about a month to prepare for GT's offense. That indeed made a big difference. Meanwhile, LSU made great strides getting JJ ready for the game and was able to run a full offense with confidence. Likewise Miles has a great history of preparing teams for bowl games.

I've always liked GT and hope they have a lot of success in the future. Maybe we could relegate USC from the SEC and bring in GT. You for that?

Well, there is more too. GT doesn't yet really have the players for their system, and giving a team weeks to prepare for it took away their main advantage. They'll only get better and tougher to play as they are able to build the team.

Georgia could not place any worse if they tried, and they only trail 6-3.

But wow do they look uninterested.

A lot of LSU people had a lot of confidence for the very reason you pointed out, just about a month to prepare for GT's offense. That indeed made a big difference. Meanwhile, LSU made great strides getting JJ ready for the game and was able to run a full offense with confidence. Likewise Miles has a great history of preparing teams for bowl games.

I've always liked GT and hope they have a lot of success in the future. Maybe we could relegate USC from the SEC and bring in GT. You for that?


Oh yeah.

Georgia could not place any worse if they tried, and they only trail 6-3.

But wow do they look uninterested.


Yup.

Who in the blue fucking hell puts a defensive end at the up man to take the snap on a fake punt inside their own 30? Please God tell me that was some sort of uncalled blown play. Otherwise I'm seriously concerned that CPJ has suffered some sort of traumatic head injury that no one is aware of.

Late to the party, not only was it stupid for all of those reasons...but they snapped it to the guy who was on the near side of the field, and they had him run the sweep to the far side. You have a DE running and you want to also make him cover an extra 5 yards?

Wow. Stafford is really playing like a first overall pick. 3 for 11, and just not even trying.

You for that?

Not me, and I suspect it would be pretty unpopular with most of the GT folks, at least with those under 50. Right or wrong, fair or unfair, it would be perceived as a step in the wrong direction with regard to academics and would be strictly a football move (I can't think of any other sport GT participates in where the ACC isn't at worst equal to the SEC).

A better switch would be Clemson to the SEC with Vandy coming to the ACC.
Never happen, but I'd like to see it and have thought it made sense for years.

Yeah, good thing this game sucks so I don't have to watch THE CONSTANT FUCKING SCROLLING of what Thomas Jones said about Brett Favre in an interview with a rap station.

But wow do they look uninterested.

I was commenting on that here at home myself, some definite body language signals out there, I thought Stafford in particular looked like he'd rather be elsewhere.

I was commenting on that here at home myself, some definite body language signals out there, I thought Stafford in particular looked like he'd rather be elsewhere.

Plus how the fuck does a punter just MISS the ball?

Plus how the fuck does a punter just MISS the ball?

Well, that's easier to believe than thinking running the ball with a DE on a fake punt is a good idea ;)

Wow. Stafford is really playing like a first overall pick. 3 for 11, and just not even trying.

This is a "Detroit, draft that Bradford guy" performance.

This is a "Detroit, draft that Bradford guy" performance.

I don't want a QB but if I had to pick, give me Stafford still.

Bradford throws passes that look like they're destined to be picked all the time. He's better suited for a west coast offense. I just don't buy that hype with him.

Look! It is a Matt Stafford sighting!

That is why I'd still go Stafford over Bradford. The potential is off the charts. Still have doubts he can reach it though.

Good to see uga finally wake up a little bit, as opposed to south carolina who never did.

Stafford certainly had a pretty flawless 2nd half, great passjust now that bascically puts the game away (and terrific body control on the catch, too)

I can't wait for this game to start. Enough talking, let's kickoff already.

God this Joe Pa stuff is annoying. Give it a rest, ABC..

btw...what exactly does Joe Pa do during games?

Haven´t been able to follow College Football much more than a weekend game here or there or had time to follow it online much, can someone explain to me what´s the deal with Penn State´s Coach ? Why is he having that attention he´s now fled from ? Assume that i´ve litterally no knowledge here.

SS Kevin Ellison is out today with a knee injury and that will hurt the defense a good bit as he has been a real leader. Damien Williams is also a bit banged up and maybe limited today.

Haven´t been able to follow College Football much more than a weekend game here or there or had time to follow it online much, can someone explain to me what´s the deal with Penn State´s Coach ? Why is he having that attention he´s now fled from ? Assume that i´ve litterally no knowledge here.

He's old. That's pretty much it.

Trojans strike first with a nice TD pass from Sanchez to Damien Williams! Great balance on this drive for them.

You know, I typically regard Big 10 teams as overrated(and they usually are) but Penn State despite that TD they just gave up can hang with anyone save Florida, Oklahoma, Texas and maybe Alabama.

For all the talent USC has accumulated over the years I don't recall them ever having an impact corner. Maybe Eaglesfan knows for sure... me and my roommate are discussing this now.

My son is so excited right now and that's saying a lot since he's normally very hyperactive.

Whoever is calling the plays for PSU is doing a great job on this drive. It seems everything USC has thrown at them has backfired.

For all the talent USC has accumulated over the years I don't recall them ever having an impact corner. Maybe Eaglesfan knows for sure... me and my roommate are discussing this now.

Terrell Thomas was very good, but they haven't had a truly elite corner in at least a decade that I can recall.

Wow, great drive by Penn State and Clark here.

Clark was very, very good there. Looks like this may be a run fun game :D.

Whoever is calling the plays for PSU is doing a great job on this drive. It seems everything USC has thrown at them has backfired.

:+1:

Eaglesfan, is that because Carroll I can't recruit them or is it because they can't be developed. My room said its because they usually take their athletes and put them on offense, I don't recall that.

He's old. That's pretty much it.

That and he's the winningest coach in Division 1 college football history. ;)

:+1:

Eaglesfan, is that because Carroll I can't recruit them or is it because they can't be developed. My room said its because they usually take their athletes and put them on offense, I don't recall that.

I think it is because most of the top athletes in CA want to play offense. Part of why USC is going to lose Randall Carroll is because he wants to play offense and he says the staff talked about him being a DB at one point.

Great response by USC on this drive. Moving the ball very easily (until that play.)

Dola -

I think one of our best corners in the past decade, once he develops, will be a player from the Southeast, T.J. Bryant.

Edit: Of course, it is rare to get kids like him away from all of the Florida schools.

That and he's the winningest coach in Division 1 college football history. ;)

That one is definitely in the backseat. I mean, my grandmother would be the winningest coach if she lived long enough.

:D

You know, I typically regard Big 10 teams as overrated(and they usually are) but Penn State despite that TD they just gave up can hang with anyone save Florida, Oklahoma, Texas and maybe Alabama.

I think Penn State (and USC) can compete with any team. However, that's just my opinion.

Good point about USC having an impact corner. I can only think of Brian Kelly, who was drafted back in the second round in 1998. USC must have had an impact corner since then.

Sanchez says to Clark "Yeah, so what?"

Of the teams I have watched this season I would rank them as such...

1. Florida
2. Texas
3. USC
4. Oklahoma
5. Alabama
6. Penn State

Although the teams 2-6 can easily make a case that they are better then the others.

Damien Williams doesn't look too hurt after all.. great move on his man twice there.

Of the teams I have watched this season I would rank them as such...

1. Florida
2. Texas
3. USC
4. Oklahoma
5. Alabama
6. Penn State

Although the teams 2-6 can easily make a case that they are better then the others.

You can really make a case for all of them (heck, Utah has proven that they deserve at least a shot). It's been a while since I remember that we have had such a large amount of extremely talented teams at the top. I guess we'll never know without a playoff.

This half is going just how I hoped it would. Other than the 1 drive, USC's defense has been brilliant and the passing offense is lighting it up now. 24-7.

Brent Musburger can suck my dick. This has nothing to do with how good USC is. I know how good they are. No need to debate that with me. But this ABC crew and Musburger are unbearable to listen to. Musburger is the biggest USC homer in the world. I had to turn the channel. What a bunch of crap.

And one more thing. While he was fellating Pete Carroll, Brent conveniently forgot to say who has more crystal footballs than USC. Fuck Brent and ABC.

Gable with a nice TD on the screen. 31-7 now. I think they need to be #2 on Noop's list.

Maybe its time USC turns down those Rose Bowl invites in favor of going to a bowl game where they will get competition.

Gable with a nice TD on the screen. 31-7 now. I think they need to be #2 on Noop's list.

Texas is one impressive team and if not for a tie breaker would likely be in the National Title game. However as I said earlier the case can be made for USC.

LOL...I kind of feel bad for Penn State now. This is getting horrible.

I've said this before the season, after the loss to OSU, and I'll say it now, USC is the best College Football Team out there.

My $$$ would have been on a SC/Florida National Title Game in a Tournament Format. Oh well.

Brent Musburger can suck my dick. This has nothing to do with how good USC is. I know how good they are. No need to debate that with me. But this ABC crew and Musburger are unbearable to listen to. Musburger is the biggest USC homer in the world. I had to turn the channel. What a bunch of crap.

And one more thing. While he was fellating Pete Carroll, Brent conveniently forgot to say who has more crystal footballs than USC. Fuck Brent and ABC.

LOL LSU fans are so damn sensitive. It never ceases to amuse me.

Just happened to see that last USC TD. What perfect execution. 5 blockers exactly where they were supposed to be. Go Troy!

I've said this before the season, after the loss to OSU, and I'll say it now, USC is the best College Football Team out there.

My $$$ would have been on a SC/Florida National Title Game in a Tournament Format. Oh well.

Agreed. To me they are the 2 best teams and if there was a playoff, I think they likely would have met and it would have been a classic game.

Agreed. To me they are the 2 best teams and if there was a playoff, I think they likely would have met and it would have been a classic game.

Except if one of the teams gets too banged up or have key injuries from the previous rounds.

Except if one of the teams gets too banged up or have key injuries from the previous rounds.

True. Oh well, at least they are putting on a great show. Might solidify any recruits who are wavering.

Anything is possible Buccaneer, you're right on. But what may indeed be a fact is that the best team in the country is at Halftime of their final game of the season with the National Title Game still a week away.

LOL...I kind of feel bad for Penn State now. This is getting horrible.

Yeah, completely agree. Poor Penn State :(.

USC making its case for being the best team in college football, though it unfortunately won't matter.

Just think, we were a Iowa miss on a field goal (instead of a make) from seeing this Penn State team in the National Title Game against Florida/Oklahoma. Wow.

Judging by this performance Penn State would likely get blow out by those teams as well.

Florida would score 75 on this Penn St. team. USC still might, but there offense is not as potent as Florida, even on a day like today when almost everything is going right.

The game later on tonight should be a bit closer, so long as Cincinnati doesn't have any jitters playing in their first big time bowl game in program history. Their Biggest Name Bowl Game prior to tonight would probably be the Sun Bowl in 1947 & 1951.

And the Big Ten is looking at being 1-5 with OSU going against Texas. Yep, that's one way to make a statement on how far the Big Ten isn't a relevant conference right now. Joe Pa will be there until he dies, but let's be honest, PSU isn't going anywhere near credibility on a national level while he is still there. Too many good recruits fear going there and then Joe Pa not being there for fours years.

Nothing against USC, probably the best college football team on average over this decade, even if they have come up a little short here and there and here and there to keep from getting more crystal footballs. But gimme a break. I don't tune in to football games to hear a nonstop fellation. And Musburger doesn't need to be pulling for another mythical "split" championship. You either get the crystal or you don't.

And one more thought. I think this is the best game I've seen Sanchez play. He looks really great today. But then Penn St moves about a step slower on average than USC. Speed: USC/Texas/OU/Florida/LSU, a few others. Add everything else up and add speed.

LOL LSU fans are so damn sensitive. It never ceases to amuse me.

2 fun stats I just read on a USC message board:

Penn State's previous highest amount of points given up in an entire game was 24. USC beat that in the first half.

USC has been in 33 Rose Bowls. This was the most points ever scored by them in a 1st half at the Rose Bowl.

FWIW I think Musberger and Herbstreit are embarassing, and I'm a big USC fan. They don't deserve to play the winner of the Florida/Oklahoma game, that is the freaking national championship game. However, I would die to see a playoff given the number of quality teams in college football this year.

Anything is possible Buccaneer, you're right on. But what may indeed be a fact is that the best team in the country is at Halftime of their final game of the season with the National Title Game still a week away.

It was unfortunate then that the Pac 10 was so weak this year and that USC lost to Oregon State; otherwise, they would be in that game.

Musberger has been horrible for years. I try to actively avoid any of the games he calls unless impossible and even then I tend to mute it.

It was unfortunate then that the Pac 10 was so weak this year and that USC lost to Oregon State; otherwise, they would be in that game.

If you consider 5-0 in bowl games "weak."

That's a mercy penalty if I ever saw one. WTH does that even mean? The play clock ran down for quite a while before they snapped it... bizarre.

DOLA - the play clock is at 17 when they punt it. How the fck is that illegal?

JoePa didn't even go down to the locker room at halftime. He sent down a note?? "Play Penn State football."

Woudl this be even remotely true?

The perception of the Big 10 and the Pac 10 in the bowls has more to do with Oregon State not beating Oregon. Change that result and the conference bowl lineups probaly look like this:

Rose Bowl: Oregon State vs. Penn State
Fiesta Bowl: USC vs. Texas
Holiday Bowl: Oregon vs. Oklahoma State
Sun Bowl: California vs. Pittsburgh
Emerald Bowl: Arizona vs. Miami Florida

Capital One Bowl: Ohio State vs. Georgia
Outback Bowl: Michigan State vs. South Carolina
Champs Sports Bowl: Iowa vs. Florida State
Alamo Bowl: Northwestern vs. Missouri
Insight Bowl: Wisconsin vs. Kansas
Motor City Bowl: Minnesota vs. Central Michigan

This is not to say the Big Ten is all that good, but they did end up with some tough matchups because of the way the BCS works. My guess is if Oregon State wins the Civil War the Big Ten is looking at about a 4-3 bowl record.

If you consider 5-0 in bowl games "weak."

The BCS ranking is decided before the bowl game. And yes, only the Big East was weaker.

PSU shoulda gone for two

Too easy. Sanchez is looking great.

Ronald Johnson!!

One thing that I wonder about with today's game is how much input Carl Smith has had in the gameplan.

One thing that I wonder about with today's game is how much input Carl Smith has had in the gameplan.

Hahaha. Carl Smith. Gameplan. hahaha. I am pretty sure USC isn't just run, run, pass, punt today.

(OK, I am still bitter that he couldn't give the great Saints defenses of the 80s-90s more support beyond his playcalling ineptitude.)

The BCS ranking is decided before the bowl game. And yes, only the Big East was weaker.

I hope to see a day when people get over the myth that the Big East is the weakest of the BCS conferences.

27/34 Cm/Att
450 Yards
5 TDs (4 passing 1 rushing)

Mark Sanchez might have made himself a ton of money with this game as long as he continues to show this next year.

Dirty Sanchez should go pro, imo. He'd likely be a top ten pick this year.

Dirty Sanchez should go pro, imo. He'd likely be a top ten pick this year.

No question. If he gives the scouts an extra year to pick apart his game he could end up being another Brian Brohm.

I hope to see a day when people get over the myth that the Big East is the weakest of the BCS conferences.

And stop ignoring that the ACC is completely dreadful.

You forget about those guys Bucc?

No question. If he gives the scouts an extra year to pick apart his game he could end up being another Brian Brohm.

Or Booty - Booty likely would have been a late first rounder had he come out as a junior.

All the major conferences are basically equal, imo. The arguments are really inane and pointless.

All the major conferences are basically equal, imo. The arguments are really inane and pointless.

I pretty much agree with you. I think that bowls, in some ways, aren't the best measuring stick due to the politics of the selection process and long lay-offs.

All the major conferences are basically equal, imo. The arguments are really inane and pointless.

I agree.

That would be amazing if Penn State came back... and he gets sack. Nevermind.

Butler needs to run out of bounds.