A Win's A Win

Since the preseason's over now, Georgia will probably get their own Sunday recap tomorrow. More to come.



But I will say this: It's October in Athens, Georgia and the Dawgs are undefeated. Enjoy it.

Check out this shiznit

http://www.break.com/football/pop_warner_knock_out.html

ouch!!

*Reminder: Week 5 picks are due*

More of The Ogre-ron

If you don't buy a Hummer, Coach O will kick your ass.



"Tell 'em 'bout it, JoJo."

BC(0-3) vs. Butler(0-4)

Once a rival of Benedictine, the Cadets and Bulldogs have not met since the late '60s. Both teams enter this matchup winless and each realize this is a great chance to pick up a win. Butler has been outscored this year 144-32 and did not score until last week against Hephzibah. That just happened to be Hephzibah's first win of the year. Butler who once had a proud tradition is battleing with Richmond Academy for the title of worst program in the Greater Augusta area. The program has produced outstanding players such as Carlos Rogers(Auburn) and Ben Troupe(Florida) in the not so distant past but find themselves 2-13 in their last 15 games. The offense runs a wing system similar in ways to that of Camden with a lot of deception and misdirection. Obviously they don't have the athletes ideal for this system indicated by the 3 shutouts to begin this year. The defense is vulnerable to giving up the big play but is not as big of a concern this week playing a methodical wishbone attack such as BC's. Caleb Collins has been one of the few bright spots for the Cadets offense and will need to have a big night. Stephen Swinson is seemingly making every other tackle on the defensive side of the ball and hopefully his good play will continue. This game will be played fairly quickly with both teams likeing to keep the ball on the ground. I expect a close game for a majority of the night and Special teams is huge in a close contest. BC cannot afford to make the mistakes in the kicking game as they did last week. I see both teams as being pretty equal and could go either way. Keep in mind this is the Cadets' first real road game of the year and that can always be a factor. This is a MUST win for BC given this type of opportunity will only come around a few times this year. I believe better coaching will be the difference and the Cadets find a way.

BENEDICTINE 21- Butler 20

Tribute to Coach O

In lieu of the Georgia football team's traveling to Oxford today, I thought it was fitting that I found this musical tribute to Mississippi's cro-magnon head coach, Ed Orgeron. Click here. You have to listen to this. Seriously.

EDIT: The song has been taken off of that site, but you can download it here.

http://www.sendspace.com/file/zomrca



I just want to take this opportunity to remind Georgia fans making the trip that, no matter how lightly you may take the Rebels' players, please heed all warnings you hear about The Orgeron. He can be described only as a force of nature we mere mortals have no business messing with.

(Hat Tip: the guys at EDSBS.)

By the way, for those of you not doing anything tomorrow night: go to the BC game if you aren't already. Unfortunately, unforeseen circumstances will keep me from going, but I hope nothing will stop you from seeing one of the Cadets' best shots at a W this season.

What's the word of the week?

Beat Butler.

BtAB Week 5, cont.

#24 Georgia Tech (+9) at #11 Virginia Tech

A scheduling quirk has the Jackets returning to Blacksburg after last year’s 51-7 beating at Lane Stadium. They’re coming off a solid Thursday night win over Virginia, while the Hokies are trying to get it together after escaping from the Cincinnati Bearcats in the fourth quarter last weekend. We’ve got a pretty good idea about Georgia Tech, but the jury’s still out on just how good the Hokies actually are.

However, and I know I harp on this every week now, but I have a hard time seeing Chan and Reggie winning a big ball game on the road (there was nothing on the line in the Miami game last year). I think the Virginia Tech defense will do what Notre Dame and Virginia could not: pressure Reggie Ball into mistakes and control the line of scrimmage. The Hokies have the better defense, so they win in a fashion much less impressive than they did last year.

Virginia Tech - 17, Georgia Tech - 10


Am I the only one who thinks they should break these out more often?

Mississippi State (+32) at #9 Louisiana State

Wow. This must really be a dog of a week if we’re left to decide just how big LSU is going to win this game. LSU has to really, and I mean REALLY, be looking ahead to their trip to Gainesville next week for this to even be close at halftime. They beat Louisiana-Lafayette and Arizona by identical 45-3 scores to start the home schedule, so I guess they do it again here.

LSU - 45, Bizarro Bulldogs - 3


The lonely life of one Sylvester Croom.

#14 Oregon (-1.5) at Arizona State

At first glance, this looks like Oregon all the way. The Ducks are coming off two weeks of hearing about how they were handed the Oklahoma game, and the Sun Devils are fresh off of getting blown out by California. Quarterback Rudy Carpenter has already thrown 8 picks this year, 6 in the last two games. I can’t see Arizona State slowing down Oregon’s Stewart and Dixon by any means, so their only hope is to win the turnover battle, which frankly, I don’t think happens.

Oregon - 38, Arizona State - 24


Oregon's away uni's are a lot less interesting.

Beat the Anglin Book, Week 5

Alabama (+13) at #5 Florida

A revenge game if there ever was one, the mighty Gators welcome to the Swamp an Alabama team that absolutely worked them in Tuscaloosa this time last year, 31-3. The Tide might be a little better on offense than they were last year, because they seem to have some semblance of a passing game. But in order to hang with Florida, they’re going to need Kenneth Darby and the rushing attack to finally hit their stride.

The Gators, meanwhile, have rushed the football better than expected, with a rebuilt offensive line that has given Chris Leak enough time to put up some decent numbers. But things won’t be so easy against a Tide defense that’s almost as good as it was in 2005. Florida has everything going for them: better coaching, the home field, even the revenge factor, but Alabama’s defense does enough to keep them in it.

Florida - 21, Alabama - 13


Tim Tebow has come up short in Alabama before.

#1 Ohio State (-7) at #13 Iowa

The national game of the week features a match up for top-ranked Ohio State that many people before the season, myself included, saw as a major stumbling block on their drive for a national title. With remaining road dates scheduled at Michigan State, Illinois, and Northwestern, this is probably the last chance anyone has of taking down the Buckeyes in a hostile environment.

The Iowa offense hasn’t done anything spectacular in their first four games, which is not a good sign as they face a stout and improving OSU defense on the other side of the line. But they should still have a better showing against the Buckeyes than Penn State did, and the outcome of that game was still in doubt late in the fourth quarter. Drew Tate won’t give it away like Anthony Morelli did last week, but Troy Smith will do just enough for his team to escape with the #1 ranking.

Ohio State - 24, Iowa - 20


You can rest assured Kirk Ferentz won't need run for the toilet in the first half.

#10 Georgia (-17) at Mississippi

People seem to be making a big deal about the late kickoff time, and how it could affect Georgia. But the way I see it, the 9:00 start won’t have much of an impact on what happens against Ole Miss, but it could cause problems as far as the preparation for Tennessee goes. I’m getting ahead of myself.

Motivation won’t be a problem, as it was against Colorado, in a raucous SEC environment like the team will see in Oxford. The bigger problem could be Ole Miss quarterback Brent Schaeffer, a mobile guy who has had some trouble picking up the offense. Sound familiar? Well, go back and take a look at Colorado QB Bernard Jackson’s performance between the hedges last Saturday.

The Rebels will try to get him outside the pocket on bootlegs and sprint outs, hoping to use the Bulldog defense’s aggressiveness against them. Though defensive coordinator Willie Martinez will likely have a solid scheme in place, Schaeffer’s athleticism will be difficult to simulate in practice. So don’t be surprised if Ole Miss is able to move the ball well on the first few drives before Georgia begins to adjust to the speed of the game.

When Georgia has the ball, they should be able to do whatever they want. The Rebels aren’t particularly strong against the run or the pass, and the Bulldogs certainly have the talent to do both very well. The question lies in Georgia’s execution. If the receivers can hold on to the football and the O-line does what it’s supposed to do, it doesn’t matter who’s lining up under center.

Georgia - 27, Ole Miss - 13


Hopefully, Shackleford never has to jump this high again.

My Take

Special Teams has been more of a factor in 2006 than any season I can remember. This past weekend was no different. Arguably the 2 best kickers in the country both missed crucial kicks in a one point game. Georgia Southern lost its game because of its place kicker. Alabama, who won a number of games last year because of clutch kicks, experienced a devestating loss due to what seemed to be like 10 missed kicks. Clemson's special teams has been phenomnally bad. They should be undefeated and would have cruised past FSU if they would have just had below average special teams instead of horrific ones. So much of college games, especially close contests, are decided in the 3rd phase of the game. Kickers are continuously looked at as the barometer for good or bad special teams. However, kick and punt coverage as well as kick and punt returning are key variables in games that are low scoring and defensive minded such as those in the SEC. Keep an eye on special teams for the rest of the year and how many close games are decided by not only missed kicks but by the punters and coverage teams as well. Georgia sure has a fine duo and will defiantly be key when they play better opponents.

*This week we will truly see how bad BC is when Camden visits Garden City.

*Georgia Southern fans are not going to be happy all year. The defense is not playing up to expectations and the offense just doesn't have the personel needed for the new system. Van Gorder is the right man for the job but its going to take at least another year with all the changes he made. The playoffs are defiantly out of the question and a .500 record is very possible.

*Once again Georgia Tech has a chance to make a statement in a meaningful game. Everyone on the Flats will point out the win down in Miami last year but Tech wasn't playing with anything on the line. If the Jackets can win in Blacksburg then someone might take them serious for the first time in a long time and could make a run for Jacksonville. If not, I guess playing on Blue Turf isn't all that bad.

*Notre Dame is not very good. Without Charlie Weis the Irish are probaly 1-3. The defense is just sad. Brady Quinn looks like Joe Montana at times but like A.J. Suggs at others. All the hype Notre Dame got before the year was the media doing their thing again. Their games are fun to watch with all the points though. Just don't bet on them!

* Two winless teams face eachother in Augusta Friday. Can't think of a better way to spend a Friday night.

*Clemson, how could you lose to Boston College. I know you couldn't cover a kick and Larry Kelly was the O-coordinator in Overtime, but still. Clemson will regret that loss for a long time. It might keep them out of the ACC championship and maybe even the National Chapionship picture.

* Why couldn't you do it with the big boys Natureboy? You bitch.

*Congratulations to Mississippi St. for their win over UAB. Georgia's wins keep looking less and less impressive.

* Kentucky and Vanderbilt are leaps and bounds ahead of the Mississippi schools. Eventhough I believe LSU and Auburn are the 2 best teams in the league, the SEC east is more superior top to botttom than the west.

* Louisville is the real deal. That win at Kansas State is a lot more impressive than it looked.

*Broad Street Bar and Grill is the best drinking spot in Athens. Georgia stuff everywhere and quality music. If your lucky you can cap off your Georgia Football weekend with a live performance by P. Holland. E'Casanova aint got nothin.

*Fall practice for baseball started this past weekend. Might be a rebuiling year but I love College baseball. These guys are normal acting and normal looking and thats hard to find with athletes these days. If you get a chance, stop by and check out a scrimmage. It's Wyatt's last year.-- With the 7:45 game against the Vols I hope everyone can pitch in a little extra to the tailgate.
Go Dawgs, BC, and 171 days.

Thursday Night Spotlight, Week 5

#2 Auburn (-14) at South Carolina

We still have no idea how good or bad the Gamecocks are now that we’re a third of the way through the season, mainly because we don’t know a whole lot about their opponents: Mississippi State and Florida Atlantic are bad, Georgia is as big a question mark as anyone in the country, and they had trouble with the Wofford option game. We do know, however, that Auburn is a pretty darn good football team. After hammering the Bizarro Bulldogs and Washington State, they got past LSU and beat Buffalo without their star tailback.

That tailback, Kenny Irons, will be the key to this interdivision battle under the lights in Columbia. Irons, a Dacula High product, began his college career at South Carolina under Lou Holtz, where he went on to rush for 252 yards and a score in two years with the Gamecocks. In 2004, he joined his brother David, a juco transfer, on the Plains and had a breakout year in his first season of eligibility in ’05.

Irons may be poised to have a huge game against a suspect South Carolina run defense for a couple of reasons. Though he did face the Gamecocks (and score a pair of touchdowns) in the 48-7 thrashing in Auburn a year ago, he only carried 11 times for 27 yards. At Arkansas a week later, he started a six game streak of hundred yard games (against the likes of LSU, Georgia, and Alabama). Revenge might still be on Irons’ mind. He’ll also be looking to bounce back from a pair of sub par efforts against MSU and LSU and the injury that kept him out of last week’s game.

The Tigers’ backup, Parkview’s Brad Lester, also leads the conference in scoring, adding to the nightmares USC defensive coordinator Tyrone Nix has surely been having all week. Judging by the way Georgia was able to move the ball on the ground in Columbia, Auburn should have no problem doing the same with their stable of capable backs. The Gamecocks’ only hope is to create some turnovers early on and then hang on for dear life.

Auburn - 27, South Carolina - 10


The jury's still out.

Week 5 Picks

LSU(-32) vs. Mississippi St.
VIRGINIA TECH(-9) vs. Georgia Tech
FLORIDA(-13) vs. Alabama
Oregon(-1.5) vs. ARIZONA ST.
Ohio St.(-7) vs. IOWA

Southwest Dekalb vs. Tucker
Greater Atlanta Christian vs. Buford(GA)
Houston Co. vs. Warner Robins
*Not one single quality matchup in the Coastal Empire.

UGA-UT Update

Haven't seen it posted yet on espn or cbs website but:
This is from CBS affiliate in Fayetteville, Arkansas

KFSM 5 Sports - KFSM-TV will carry the Arkansas vs. Auburn game on Saturday, October 7th.

The game will start at 11 a.m. our time (12 noon eastern) and will be in Auburn.

Follow the Arkansas vs. Auburn game, KFSM will air the LSU vs. Florida game in a SEC double header.

I think you all know what this means. UGA/UT will be 7:45

Week 4 Results

Ohio St. , Alabama , California , Kentucky , Michigan St. ; Brunswick , Effingham , St. Pius

Shane: 6-2(11-21)

Rick: 4-4(17-15)
Jack: 4-4(16-16)
Pat H.: 4-4(16-16)
Patrick M.: 4-4(14-18)

Larry: 3-5(17-15)
Will: 3-5(16-16)

Donnie: 2-6(10-22)
Bryan: 2-6(9-23)

UGA-UT GAMETIME

This is an article from the "Chattanooga Times" from Sunday September 24, 2006.

"The Bulldogs will play Ole Miss on ESPN2 this Saturday night at 9 Eastern, and it appears the Oct. 7 game between Georgia and Tennessee will be at night as well. CBS has a noon-3:30 doubleheader that afternoon, but ESPN actually has first pick of the UT-UGA, LSU-Florida and Auburn-Arkansas matchups.

Georgia media relations director Claude Felton said Saturday that ESPN "protected" the Tennessee game before the season and does not expect the cable network to change course. ESPN primetime telecasts kick off at 7:45. Official announcements for the league’s Oct. 7 games will be made Monday."

The decision comes tomorrow. Should Claude Felton's remarks hold up, get ready for the biggest day in the history of tailgating, only being rivaled by Auburn '05. At worst this will be a 3:30 game and you can still expect a hell of a day. Some notable guests include: Ric Flair, Vince McMahon, Paul Bearer, Big Boss Man, Damon, and more (cannot think of all of them right now-I'm sure you guys can help me out with the guest list). Food provided by Emeril- lemon pepper burgers and uncooked chickens- BAMMM! Refreshments provided by Miller Lite, Southern Comfort, Maker's Mark, Cherry Coca-Cola,Rockstar, and the often imitated but never duplicated "Holland's Pink God Almighties." Tailgate music also provided from Holland's extensive and ever expanding tailgate cd collection. Expert game analysis by our very own football picks leader and Red and black columnist Larry Conneff. This game would also provide Donnie the time to sleep in and still get to the parking lot 6 hours early. Beer can crushing is completely optional but definitely encouraged. Should be a hell of a time. Dare I say it because it's a major statement, but Stegman Coliseum parking lot may never be the same again.

The Retrospective, Week 4

Week 4 Record
Straight Up: 7-0
Against the Spread: 4-3

Well, it seems I’ve come crashing back to Earth, at least as far as picking against the spread is concerned. And picking all seven favorites to win (six of them at home), doesn’t exactly make me…all together now…Nostra-fucking-domas, as my record this week in the “competition” would indicate. But I’ll happily take an unbeaten record any day of the week.

Some quick thoughts:

Virginia (+13.5) at Georgia Tech
My Prediction: GT - 28, UVA - 14
Actual Result: GT - 24, UVA - 7

I was right in that Virginia was unable to get anything going offensively with a first-time starter at quarterback. The Yellow Jackets, meanwhile, impressed me by jumping all over them in the first half. However, Tech had a bit of a problem putting the Cavs away. That’s something they’ll need to work on if they hope to finish off a team that possesses a little more firepower on offense.

Colorado (+24) at #9 Georgia
MP: UGA - 17, CU - 10
AR: UGA - 14, CU - 13

Right in the outcome, not in the execution. As expected, a couple of good defenses kept this game close, though I thought the Bulldogs would be the ones setting the tempo and trying to salt it away in the fourth quarter. Georgia always seems to sleepwalk through the first halves of 12:30 games, and this one was no exception. Credit goes to the Colorado staff for putting together a good offensive game plan. The boot plays they ran in the first half kept Georgia’s aggressive pass rushers off balance. A lot of bad things will be pointed out on the tape, but it’s hard to discredit the momentum and character that a tough win like this can bring to a team.

#24 Penn State (+16.5) at #1 Ohio State
MP: OSU - 27, PSU - 13
AR: OSU - 28, PSU - 6

You know a game is boring when the biggest story coming from it is Joe Paterno going to take a shit before halftime. Anyway, the Penn State defense really showed me something in giving up just two touchdowns. It’s just too bad Anthony Morelli had to have a total meltdown in the last couple of minutes. A solid win for the Buckeyes, but I just don’t buy into the whole idea ESPN has of penciling them into the national title game right now.

#20 Arizona State (+7.5) at #22 California
MP: UCB - 31, ASU - 21
AR: UCB - 49, ASU - 21

Dirk Koetter once again shows his team is not quite ready for primetime after a quick 3-0 start. They got absolutely blitzed in a second quarter where Nate Longshore tossed three touchdown passes and Rudy Carpenter threw a pick six. Either Cal has finally got things going, or these are just the same old Sun Devils. Maybe we’ll see a real mutiny after all.

Alabama (+1.5) at Arkansas
MP: AK - 17, AL - 13
AR: AK - 24, AL - 23

I just want to know how Mike Shula refused to send kicker Jamie Christiansen out there for the extra point after Leigh Tiffin missed three field goals in regulation. He claims the injured kicker (who won three games last season) hadn’t gotten enough reps after an injury. So, you’re going to tell me that Christiansen can’t go out and convert an EXTRA POINT with the game on the line because he hasn’t gotten enough reps? Personally, I’d have more faith in Kenneth Darby putting one through the uprights than the kid who’d already MISSED THREE FIELD GOALS!!! I can’t say anything else about this game.

#12 Notre Dame (-3.5) at Michigan State
MP: ND - 34, MSU - 27
AR: ND - 40, MSU - 37

Looks like there’s a fourth personality of this schizophrenic Notre Dame team that I failed to account for. The “we’re-down-16-after-the-third?-No-big-deal-Michigan-State- will- melt- down-for us-like-they-always-do” personality. Anyway, the Notre Dame defense is just flat out bad. Luckily, the Spartans went more conservative in the second half than Chan Gailey with an 8 point lead against Virginia Tech on a Thursday night.

Kentucky (+23.5) at #5 Florida
MP: UF - 38, UK - 17
AR: UF - 26, UK - 7

A bit of a letdown, as expected, between playing at Tennessee and the Armageddon of a schedule they have the next three weeks. The Gators ran for a lot of yards and threw for even more against an awful Kentucky defense, but the scoreboard didn’t really reflect that. I’d say that’s more of a reflection on how lethargic Florida was in the early going than anything else.

GLENNDALE

JC is a DGD. CMR + MS= BS I'm LMAO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

VOTE!

This is your chance to vote for CMR because he's a DGD!


http://www.coachoftheyear.com/index.aspx

Cadets(0-2) vs. Knights(1-2)

BC enters with an 0-2 record and once again will be an underdog to a Savannah high school. I don't know exactly how long but I know it hasn't been recent since the Cadets have lost 3 straight games to Savannah schools. To no ones surprise Windsor will come in with more size, speed, and talent. They opened the season getting drilled by a very good Houston County team from region 1-AAAAA. Last week they handled a weak Claxton team 47-14. After a stint as being one of the worst programs in the state about 5 years ago, Windsor has had two straight successful seasons including a state playoff birth in 2004 in which they were defeated by eventual state champion Lowndes in the first round. Windsor will bring a similar team to Memorial Stadium that the Cadets saw from Groves. Windsor likes to rely on the run game but defiantly does not have the capability in the air that Groves did. The defense is a little better than average but nothing special. The Cadets will continue to run the Herndon offense and should only be getting better. How quickly Windsor is able to adapt to BC's offense will go a long way in determining the outcome. Look for BC to go straight at the Knights using less of the option than normal. BC's defense made great strideds last week and return some injured players who might not help but surely can't hurt.

This game use to be a platform for the JV team to get significant playing time. This year its one of BC's most important games and would do wonders if they could pull the upset. The key to the game is Windsor's rushing attack against BC's run defense. If the Cadets have as much success stopping the run as they did last week, Windsor might struggle having to throw it. You almost know what to expect from BC's offense and weather they can break the big play or not will determine if BC has a chance. Its not the same BC we are use to but the Knight players and fans see it no differently today than yesterday, we are still "BC". I like BC a lot better this week than last and could be ready to win. However, this is a huge game for Windsor's program and the desire and passion the Knights will play with will be the deciding factor. Closer than most expect. Windsor 23 - BC 16

Beat the Anglin Book: Week 4

Colorado (+24) at #9 Georgia

We all know how dismal the Buffaloes have been on offense up to this point: 10 points against Montana State and Colorado State, 3 points against an always stout Arizona State defense. So it will take no great leap of faith to predict that Dan Hawkins’ team won’t be able to muster much in the way of scoring versus a Bulldogs team giving up exactly 4 points a game.

But one thing people need to look at is, the Buffs have actually been a pretty good defensive team so far. They’ve surrendered point totals of 19, 14, and 21 (against an always very good ASU group…I’m being serious this time) in their three losses. The Bulldogs, on the other hand, scored only 18 points at South Carolina and led UAB just 10-0 at the half. Don’t call them world beaters just yet.

And let’s face it, chances are, Matthew Stafford is going to have a freshman meltdown at some point this season. I’m not going to say it happens here, but I will say that I hope it comes at home, against a team with a lousy offense, and not against one of the big three SEC opponents.

This game will probably be close all the way through, which is a testament to a couple of good defenses, a terrible offense, and another offense being engineered by a true freshman quarterback. I would expect a game very similar to the one played in Columbia two weeks ago, where the Bulldogs are in control throughout, but, for one reason or another, can’t seem to put their opponents away.

Georgia - 17, Colorado - 10


At least Ralphie won't disappoint.

#24 Penn State (+16.5) at #1 Ohio State

Both of these teams looked decent enough in their first and last games, beating the likes of Akron, Northern Illinois, Youngstown State, and Cincinnati. But it was each team’s second game that put them where they are in the rankings. The Buckeyes went on the road and dominated the defending national champs, while the Nittany Lions got hammered at Notre Dame.

Penn State will try to get their first road win of the season this weekend, as they try to win at the Horseshoe for the first time since 1978. The key to this game will probably be the Penn State secondary, the only such unit to make Brady Quinn look like a Heisman candidate so far this year.

Troy Smith’s mobility will not help matters. I see the Nittany Lion front seven having an even more difficult time getting pressure on the Ohio State QB than they did in South Bend. That does not bode well for a young secondary that made more than its fair share of mistakes in that game.

The good news for Penn State is that the beating they took at the hand of the Irish could have the Buckeyes looking ahead to a highly anticipated showdown with Iowa next week. If PSU avoids most of the egregious errors (getting beat deep, dropping potential interceptions), they should be able to avoid another embarrassment.

Ohio State - 27, Penn State - 13


"But wit Morelli comin' in..."

#20 Arizona State (+7.5) at #22 California

Since that opening debacle at Rocky Top, the Golden Bears have looked solid in wins over Minnesota and Portland State, while the Sun Devils have yet to receive a true test (although the Northern Arizona and Colorado games were in relative doubt into the second half).

Nate Longshore appears to have righted the ship (see what I did there?), at least when playing teams with suspect defenses, and ASU looks to be one of those teams. Granted, the Sun Devils have done a respectable job thus far, but that was against a I-AA opponent, a WAC opponent, and Colorado (see above).

They have yet to see an offense that features weapons such as Marshawn Lynch, DeSean Jackson, and Justin Forsett, so I refuse to believe in them until they finally stop somebody decent. Arizona State, meanwhile, features quite a bit of firepower of its own, with Rudy Carpenter, Rudy Burgess, Keegan Herring, and Zach Miller.

All signs point toward a good old-fashioned Pac-10 shootout, but as much as I’ve railed on ASU’s defense, I do feel like each team’s D is a little underrated. So the offenses will move the football pretty well, but don’t expect to see either team score in the 40s.

California - 31, Arizona State - 21


You want a real mutiny? Head to Tempe.

Beat the Anglin Book: Week 4, Cont.

Alabama (+1.5) at Arkansas

This match up of the top two teams in the league features…What? They’re only at the top alphabetically, not literally?…Hold on…AND they combined to beat Vanderbilt by just five points?…Come on. Now I’ve got to scrap my whole…

Arkansas - 17, Alabama - 13


Hey Hog fans, at least he's not Mike Shula.

#12 Notre Dame (-3.5) at Michigan State

So now it seems we have three different Irish teams. It’s just a matter of which one is going to show up. Will it be the steady, Darius Walker-led Irish we saw in Atlanta? Could it be the world beaters who pounded Penn State in every facet of the game? Or will it be the team with the same shaky secondary we’ve come to know and love, not to mention a QB going through a sophomore slump in his senior year?

It’s a good thing Notre Dame has that whole revenge thing going for them, because I can see Drew Stanton going absolutely wild on Saturday night in East Lansing. A year ago, he threw for over 300 yards and 2 touchdowns, while running for another, in South Bend, and I don’t see any reason why he can’t do the same this weekend.

However, I can’t see this MSU defense holding Notre Dame down for long anyway, let alone coming off an embarrassing performance last week. Drew Stanton outplays Brady Quinn in this game, but he just doesn’t have enough weapons to get it done in the end. Walker is the difference as Notre Dame covers on the road.

Notre Dame - 34, Michigan State - 27


The Irish would have no chance of stopping Charles Rogers. Unfortunately, I think he's getting paid not to play football these days.

Kentucky (+23.5) at #5 Florida

You could look at this as a trap game for the might Gators, coming home following a huge win in Knoxville to play a fired-up division rival. But that’s when you come to your senses and realize that Kentucky is, as someone said, “dog vomit.”

The Wildcat offense has looked surprisingly decent after a pitiful performance in the first half at Louisville. And then you realize that they’ve played against the Cardinals’ scrubs, Texas State, and Mississippi State since then.

This looks like a Gator blowout, of course, but I think 23.5 is a lot of points to be giving up, especially in this series. Florida will win this going away, but they might take their starters out earlier than usual, what with that murderer’s row on the schedule beginning next week.

Florida - 38, Kentucky - 17


If Hal Mumme couldn't beat the Gators, what do you expect out of this guy?

Thursday Night Spotlight: Week 4

Virginia (+13.5) at Georgia Tech

At first glance, this one looks to be a no-brainer. The Cavaliers have been blown out at Pittsburgh, beat Wyoming by one, and lost at home to Western Michigan. Meanwhile, the Yellow Jackets took Notre Dame to the limit before dispatching Samford and Troy (even if they looked fairly pedestrian in doing so).

Virginia is also embroiled in a quarterback controversy. But theirs is more a result of incompetence than a surplus of talent, as three different QBs were used in the Western Michigan loss. Not to mention the fact that they averaged a cool 2.22 yards a carry against that intimidating trio they’ve faced.

However, Georgia Tech is still Georgia Tech. With Reggie Ball under center and Chan Gailey at the helm, there are always going to be questions about the Yellow Jackets‘ consistency and focus. Will Virginia be this year’s Wake Forest (24-21 loss in 2002), Duke (41-17, 2003), North Carolina (34-13, 2004), or NC State (17-14, 2005)?

My answer is no. Virginia’s offense will probably be nonexistent, while Georgia Tech should be able to have their way on the ground. The Jackets cover the 13.5 more easily than those familiar with the program think, and with less ease than the so-called experts think.

Georgia Tech - 28, Virginia - 14

My Take

Just my opinion of the week that was and a general opinion of the going ons in football.

*A topic on many of our minds has been the crappy times for home kickoffs this year. It makes it worse to see both of Georgia's road games to this point be at night. Looking back at the recent past, this is nothing new. Prior to last year, there was not a night game in Sanford stadium since Eli Manning came to town in 2002. The tech game has been at night in Atlanta two of the past three times we have played there. Almost always 3:30 over here. We played at Arkansas at night two years ago but came back and played them between the hedges at 12:30. Colorado was a shoe in for an early evening or night game but the Buffaloes just happen to have the worst start to any season in program history. Miss. St. and Vandy were both night games last year. What do you think the chances are for that this year? The point is, Georgia's either cathing some bad luck with scheduling or Mr. Adams has more pull than he should. It hurts us but more importantly it hurts national recruiting. However, we can't controll it and I choose not to think or worry about it anymore than I already have so that I can try to fully enjoy my college football season. Because it takes so long to get here, yet goes by so fast.

*The struggles of the ACC continue. Boston College beats BYU in OT. North Carolina storms back in the 4th Quarter to defeat Furman. Miami gets obused by Louisville. Maryland had a better chance of Friegen not eating for a week. The Wolfpack got drilled by Southern Miss and Virginia lost to Western Michigan. Its officially a lacrosse and soccer conference.

*Valdosta Highschool is not the Valdosta of old. The winningest program in the country has some of the nicest facilities and is the closest thing to a college program that I've ever seen in highschool. They will continue to be strong and win but will never get back to the point of being"Valdosta". The main reason: they are the 2nd best team in their city. Lowndes is the new "Valdosta".

*Miami and Florida St. are just not good teams right now. Coker is gone and the sooner Bowden is done the sooner Florida St. has a chance to return to the dominant level they once played at.

* Who is scheduling games for Beach Hich(@Brantley Co., @Charlton Co., @Warner Robins)?

* Southern Miss and UAB need to take the place of Ole Miss and Mississippi St. as members of the SEC.

*Mississippi St., Duke, Illinios, and Temple need to drop football and form a pretty nice basketball playing conference.

* No matter what their records may be(especially with Brohm being hurt), the West Virginia vs. Louisville matchup will be by far the most exciting football game of the year.

Finally-- The Oklahoma/Oregon onside-kick ruling was one of the worst in all of sports history. If Oklahoma goes on to win every game or even miss out on a BCS bowl because of this call, it will go right along side the 1990 5-down game involving Colorado the year they won the National Championship. Not many people share this opinion with me but I don't like Video review in college football. I think it takes the naturalness out of the game and have yet to see a successful system at any level. College football was fine before it, I think it would be just fine after it.

Week 4 Picks

OHIO ST.(-16.5) vs. Penn St.
ARKANSAS(-1.5) vs. Alabama
CALIFORNIA(-7.5) vs. Arizona St.
FLORIDA(-23.5) vs. Kentucky
Notre Dame(-3.5) vs. MICHIGAN ST. -- [sorry McCarthy]

Brunswick vs. Glynn
Effingham Co. vs. Ware Co.
Tucker vs. St. Pius X

Even Worse Than We Thought

This video shows that Oregon shouldn't have gotten possession of the football, even if they did touch it after the ball went ten yards.



So much for replay.

Will the Grove Ever Be the Same?

The September 30th SEC match up between Georgia and Ole Miss is set for a 9 p.m. kickoff, according to georgiadogs.com. So I guess every home game will be 1:oo or earlier, while every away game will be 7:00 or later. Funny how that works out.

The Retrospective, Week 3

Week 3 Record (unofficial)
Straight Up: 7-3
Against the Spread: 8-2

I think I’m gonna start posting the spread I’m using during the week in the posts themselves. That’s a whole lot easier than trying to find the lines after the games have all ended. So my ATS record may be wrong, but I figured it out as best I could.

I lucked out in a major way this weekend. I mean, how often is your ATS record better than your record picking winners? Now, I’m not as versed in the gambling world as some people around here, but my guess is that it’s not very often.

On to the games:

Maryland (+ 16.5) @ West Virginia
My Prediction: WVU - 31, UM-14
Actual Result: WVU - 45, UM -24

Steve Slaton propelled himself into the Heisman race by rushing for 195 yards (167 in the first half) and two touchdowns in a game where Maryland never had a chance. About what I anticipated, but Slaton seems to get better every time I see him play.

Alabama- Birmingham (+17) @ Georgia
MP: UGA - 30, UAB - 10
AR: UGA - 34, UAB - 0

Not an easy win for Georgia by any means, but an easier than expected win over an always game UAB program. The defense continues to impress, even if they haven’t faced a decent offense yet. Also, a Greene-esque performance from a certain freshman quarterback was nice to see. An impressive showing, when the Bulldogs brought nothing resembling their A game.

Michigan (+7) @ Notre Dame
MP: ND - 28, UM - 24
AR: UM - 47, ND - 21

I didn’t think the Irish could get up for a big time opponent for a third week in a row, but I just didn’t know how right I was. Michigan is the first team with a decent offense and defense Notre Dame has faced, which doesn’t bode well for the Irish. But it’s a good thing they don’t really play anybody until USC.

Louisiana State (+3) @ Auburn
MP: AU - 17, LSU - 13
AR: AU - 7, LSU - 3

Either these defenses are a little better than I initially thought, or the offenses are a little worse. But as most people expected, the home field probably provided just enough of an advantage to give Auburn a huge edge in the West race.

Miami (+4.5) @ Louisville
MP: UL - 35, UM - 34
AR: UL - 31, UM - 7

I think some of my questions were answered here: “Is Miami’s offense terrible?” Yep.
“Did Florida State make their defense look much, much better than they really are?” Sure did. “Does Louisville have enough defense to beat a big-time program?” That seems to be the case. “Will they be able to run the ball effectively without Michael Bush?” Probably. It’s also worth noting that Kansas State will be the Cardinals’ toughest test before WVU. Expect a match up of unbeatens there.

Oklahoma (+4.5) @ Oregon
MP: OK - 20, OR - 17
AR: OR - 34, OK - 33

Well, Adrian Peterson did, indeed, have a field day. And, I think I just missed on my uniform combination pick. But I, like the Sooners, came up a little short. I just want to say that Bob Stoops can complain about those two calls not being overturned, but they may have deserved to lose that game based purely on the decision to run the ball with 10 seconds left (not mention that DB letting a receiver run right past him on the go-ahead touchdown).

Texas Tech (-1.5) @ Texas Christian
MP: TCU - 45, TTU - 42
AR: TCU - 12, TTU - 3

A little off-base on this one, but at least I predicted the winner. Not much else to say on this game, because I haven’t even seen a highlight from it. I guess it’s a tribute to how rare a day like Saturday is, where a top 25 non-conference game gets zero publicity.

Clemson (+4.5) @ Florida State
MP: FSU - 17, CU - 15
AR: CU - 27, FSU - 20

On a night where the Seminoles finally get something going on the ground, they throw for just 102 yards. And if not for words-can’t-describe-how-awful special teams on Clemson’s part, this game wouldn’t have even been close. I see this more as a testament to Florida State’s utter mediocrity than to Clemson’s having turned some kind of corner.

Nebraska (+ 17.5) @ Southern California
MP: USC - 38, NU - 17
AR: USC - 28, NU - 10

Like Patrick said, this game gave people pretty much what they expected to see. Maybe USC didn’t put up as many points as you would hope, but I think Dwayne Jarrett did enough (11 rec., 136 yards, 2 TDs) to shut Andre Jones up. John David Booty’s line was impressive as well (25/36, 257 yards, 3 TDs).

Florida (-4.5) @ Tennessee
MP: UF - 27, UT - 20
AR: UF - 21, UT - 20

The Gators had a little more trouble dispatching Tennessee than I originally thought. It took a touchdown with 6:30 left to give them the lead for good, while I anticipated a win that would be much easier than the score indicated. This game was very similar to the one these teams played a year ago. The Vols completely abandoned the run (2 yards), a mistake Randy Sanders made that I thought Cutcliffe would be sure not to emulate. And I’m not so sure about Ainge’s “resurgence” just yet. He’s better, but there’s still a a long way to go.

Week 3 Results

Auburn , Louisville , Michigan , Clemson , Nebraska , Tennessee ; Brookwood , The High

Larry : 4-4(14-10)
Jack : 4-4(12-12)
Patrick H. : 4-4(12-12)
Donnie : 4-4(8-16)
Bryan : 4-4(7-15)

Rick : 3-5(13-11)

Will : 2-6(13-11)
Patrick M. : 2-6(10-14)

We're Number Seven!

One of the many great things about going to school here is being able to enjoy that initial month-long period in the season where we slowly climb the top 10 while the other good teams kill each other off. This period almost always comes to an end in mid-to late October, so let's enjoy it while we can.

Anyway, as a tribute to Erk Russell, check out this clip from the late 70s of James Brown's halftime performance at the Gator Bowl with the Redcoat Band.

My Review of Saturday

According to ESPN it was called "Separation Saturday." Yesterday we saw certain programs make a name for themselves, and then we saw perennial powers start the slide downwards. I think after this week we are assured of a great college football season. Anyways I know some of you will give your own review of yesterday(and I hope you do), but I wanted to share some of my opinions as well. Also, I'm not reviewing the USC-Nebraska game because the result ended in what was supposed to happen. I don't really understand what all the hype was about, and I certainly don't understand why in the hell College GameDay went out there in the first place. Enough about that.

Michigan 47 - ND 21
I cannot tell you how happy I am to see this go down! I have been sick and tired of hearing about Brady Quinn, Charlie Weis, that psycho safety of theirs, and the rest of the pageantry that surrounds that football program. I'm sure some of you don't like this, but that's fine. You all know I have never liked Notre Dame. Plus, for the 3rd week in a row I have been screwed over by them in my picks on this site. I'm hoping they won't be a choice for the next few weeks since they play nobody until USC.

Looks like Lloyd Carr can keep his ass off the hot seat for a little while longer!

Auburn 7 - LSU 3
I think everyone expected a low scoring game here. It was just a pure defensive battle between two very good teams. My only problem here comes on LSU's last drive. Last play with a few seconds on the clock and you don't throw to the endzone? Now I'm sure Auburn had quite a few guys sitting on that goal line waiting for that pass, but come on. LSU should have given it a shot in my eyes. Please correct me if I'm wrong on this. My other thought on this is that Auburn deserves to be number 2 and I'm not looking forward to seeing Georgia play them right now.

I'd be like this too if I hadn't been thrown the ball to while in the endzone.


West Virginia 45 - Maryland 24
I thought I was in a dream Thursday night when I saw the score 28-0 after the first quarter in this game. All I have to say is that West Virginia's offense is very very good. The defense might be a little suspect, but they should get it down in time for Louisville. I believe I have them winning the National Championship when Larry asked for predictions about a month ago. The only problem with that I think is going to be their schedule.

This kid is a badass.

Georgia 34 - UAB 0
Personally, I thought this was going to be more of a game. I think Stafford did an excellent job in doing everything he was asked to do. There wasn't really anything spectacular to say about this game other than our defense posting its second straight shutout. We should be 5-0 rolling into that Tennessee game in a few weeks. On a side note, Kregg Lumpkin should be the new starting running back. Thomas Brown just hasn't done anything worth noting for the last 3 weeks, and until he does he needs to be sit down.

Clemson 27 - FSU 20
FSU has some huge problems. Ever since Mark Richt left the program, that offense has been just terrible. There's not really too much else to say about this game. I will say this though. As bad as FSU is, I guarantee some of these top recruits hardly give a shit and will still commit there. Same goes for Miami. It's just not fair.

Florida 21 - Tenn 20
I really wish there was a way for two teams to lose. This game would have been a prime example, but since I know this can't happen I just pulled for everyone to get hurt. I know it's harsh, but when Georgia has both of these teams remaining on the schedule we are going to need all the help we can get. Decent game, nothing else to say. I hate both of them.

Louisville 31 - Miami 7
I really wasn't expecting this one at all. I thought it would be close, but this was a complete embarrassment. I wouldn't be surprised if I saw that Coker has been fired within the next few weeks. Miami has some issues they need to deal with and I'll go ahead and say that they might be struggling to make a bowl game. As far as Louisville, they are a very good team. They have great potential to be in a BCS game, but to do that they are really going to need Brohm back for that West Virginia game.

Dawgs vs. Blazers

UAB is a solid squad and will probaly be the 3rd best team Georgia plays 'tween the hedges this year. The Blazers have shown in the past and this year that they can play with the big boys. The QB situation is still very questionable for UAB and that is good news for Georgia. I see the Dawgs defense dominating this game and in no way looking past UAB. This game has become what everyone thought Colorado would be and the Colorado game has now become the UAB game. Expect Richt to let Stafford let loose and get more comfortable with the system. UAB's pass defense is suspect and it could be a big day for Stafford. UAB will keep it close for a good bit of the 1st half. The Dawgs should pull away in the 2nd half because of the constant pressure of the defense and good field position. UAB is no joke and this time Georgia won't treat them like it. Good test for this point in the schedule. Georgia 27- UAB 10

BC(0-1) vs. Groves(2-0)

*ATTN: for all bloggers who make unneeded posts, they will be dealt with. Thank You*

BC returns to action tonight after an overwhelming experience last week. Being promoted as "BC Spirit Night", I can not think of a better game to bust that out.

This is the first time in my life that BC is expected to lose to a City of Savannah School. The lack of depth, speed, and numbers does not come close to explaining why BC's football team is where they are today. However, the season continues and it might be one of the more entertaining in recent memory. This is only due to the offensive explosions that will be present on the field from the opposing teams. BC's defense does not have one playmaker. I feel great for Jenkins because they have something to feel good about and had a genuinly good crowd with tremendous student support. Something not seen in Savannah puplic schools in a very long time. Still, Jenkins is a poor football team and play Calvary this weekend in a game that BC supporters will defiantly keep an eye on. -- Other than the obvious appeal of "Spirit Night" there is one very intriguing storyline to follow going into this game. Groves Head Coach Karl DeMasi was interested in the Benedictine football job this past off-season. Being Catholic and having a sparkling record while rebuilding Groves, many thought he would have a decent shot at the job. Sources reported that he was hardly even considered. This leads to tonights game in which Groves will have the better team. How much better is to be determined. I have a strong feeling that DeMasi wants to be ALOT better. If given the chance, DeMasi is highly unlikely to call off the horses and would love nothing better than to blowout BC and at the same time make a point. Groves offensive attack is designed to where they are capable of putting up a big number. If BC's defence plays as they did against the Warriors, people will read the Saturday Newspaper and get a true understanding of where BC stands. -- For BC to stay close, (this is sad to say) and possibly pick up a huge upset, the Cadets will have to controll the clock and use some magic on special teams. Turnovers are the only reason BC held Jenkins under 50 and will need a bundle from the Rebels as well. Groves is a lot better coached and have superior athletes to Jenkins. Groves first 2 wins came via last minute heroics over South Effingham and Brunswick. They won't need those heroes this week and I'm afraid this game will only reassure what we saw last week. Rebels 48- BC 14

The Pride of Mayfair

This college football weekend is unlike anything we have seen in over 10 years. I am glad that Georgia plays early so I can view these games but am some what disappointed by the fact that the overlapping of the games will prevent me from seeing most of them. As fun and entertaining as Saturday will be, we will not be able to see any of the most important game of the week. As irrelevant as South Carolina(1-1) vs. Wofford(1-1) may be, it is something very special for a particular individual and should be realized by all of us as well as many others. Williams-Brice statium is one of the most unique and exciting settings in all of college football. Some of us have experienced this first-hand. Eventhough the gamecock nation will not bring the same intensity or anxiety that they did this past weekend, the stadium is still soldout, the field still painted, the broadcasters in the booth, the cockabooses still vibrant, Cocky still in the cage, and 2001 will be blaring. Christopher Collins is not only a St. James and Benedictine graduate, which would make this occasion important enough, but he is a close friend for most of us. As much as we love college football, we more than others should realize how unique and special this is and how he will be experienceing something that will be uncomparable to anything we do the rest of our lives. Congratulations to our friend Chris and I can only imagine the joy that this will bring to one who will be looking down. Cocks 41 - Terriers 10

This is BULLSHIT!!

This is CBS's college football lineup for October 7th. On this day Georgia plays Tennessee and LSU plays Florida. This probably means Georgia will play at noon that day. This is BULLSHIT. This means we probably won't have a home game kickoff after 12:30 until Tech. This is BULLSHIT. How are we suppose to have a decent tailgate (like Auburn) when we cannot even get a G** Damn (censored for Holland) 3:30 kickoff time for our biggest home game of the season. However, there is a glimmer of hope. If Tennessee can beat Florida and Auburn can beat LSU, our game will be the 3:30 game. We could also get the 3:30 game if Tennessee beats Florida and LSU beats Auburn because Georgia and Tennessee would be undefeated. Unfortunately, if Florida wins and LSU loses we will still be the noon game because both matchups will show an undefeated team against a 1-loss team but Florida would have the higher ranking of the teams- therefore they would get the 3:30 game. There are all the scenarios. Any way you look at it it's still fucked up and I'm not happy about it. So as much as I hope both teams die in firey car crashes, we need to pull for UT and AU, even if you didn't pick them in our weekly picks. Yes Donnie that means we will play Rocky Top as many times neccessary and WAR DAMN EAGLE!


CBS Sports 2006 NCAA Football Schedule (taken from CBS Sportsline website)
Date 10/7

Program The Home Depot SEC on CBS:
My Predictions
Time (ET) 12:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m. TBD - SEC Game of the Week (probably UGA vs UT)

3:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m. TBD - SEC Game of the Week (probably UF vs LSU)

Let the Smelley Era Begin

Steve Spurrier has suspended his starting quarterback, LaGrange's own Blake Mitchell, indefinitely following a fight with a bouncer in Columbia's Five Points.

Freshman Chris Smelley should start the Wofford game on Saturday.

Week 3 Predictions

Is this the biggest weekend of regular season college football ever? It very well may be. If nothing else, it’s certainly the most anticipated September Saturday we’ve ever seen. Get this. Seven top 25 matchups. Ten of the top 20 teams in the country face each other, including two ridiculous top 15 games in the SEC.

We start on Thursday:

Maryland @ West Virginia
On cruise control for the first two weeks, this is where we begin to find out if the Mountaineers are for real. Unless Mississippi State can find a way to move the football, this could actually end up being their stiffest test before the highly anticipated showdown in Louisville on November 2. The Terps, however, have been less than impressive in wins over William & Mary and Middle Tennessee State.

I haven’t seen Maryland at all yet, while West Virginia looked like a PlayStation team in the Marshall game. Based on that, and the home field, there should be some couches ignited tonight.

West Virginia - 31, Maryland - 14


How has Statesboro not adopted this again?

Alabama-Birmingham @ Georgia
We know UAB is no pushover. Having led Oklahoma in the second half, you would even be tempted to think they’ll be a tougher opponent than Colorado next week. The Georgia staff knows this. They will also remind their players of the nail biter these two teams played in Athens in 2003.

The Bulldogs will take this opponent seriously, and they should roll. The offense will get off to a slow start, but the defense will dominate once again.

Georgia - 30, UAB - 10


Georgia-UAB in basketball would probably have a different result.

Michigan @ Notre Dame
Sure, Michigan has been awful in road openers, but I think the bigger question here is, Can Notre Dame get up for a third week in a row? You pretty much know what you’re getting with Michigan, but the jury’s still out as to whether Georgia Tech-ND or Penn State-ND was the real Notre Dame.

Personally, I think it’s a little of both, which means the Irish win, but “closer than the experts think.”

Notre Dame - 28, Michigan - 24


Not so fast, my friend.


Louisiana State @ Auburn
Over/under on number of columnists who start their analysis of this with, “I’ll take the Tigers”? Anyway, both of these teams have been fairly impressive, posting blowout wins over middling Pac-10 teams at home.

Both defenses are good, both quarterbacks are good, and both running games are really good. The only thing I can say for certain is that both offenses will be held below the 41 points they’ve collectively averaged over the first two weekends. I guess home field and the revenge factor (plus, Kenny Irons should be the best player on the field) will be enough to give Auburn the victory.

Auburn - 17, LSU - 13



He'd "take the Tigers."

Miami @ Louisville
This is the toughest pick of the weekend. By far. Is Miami’s offense terrible? Did Florida State make their defense look much, much better than they really are? Does Louisville have enough defense to beat a big-time program? Will they be able to run the ball effectively without Michael Bush?

I’ll be honest. I don’t have the slightest idea how to answer any of those questions. Spending more time on this will probably give me a migraine, so I’ll just say that the Cardinals have a better coach and a better quarterback, so Louisville wins, but does not cover.

Louisville - 35, Miami - 34


Nobody just walks into Papa John's Louisville Cardinals Stadium and comes out with a win. Nobody.

Week 3 Predictions, Cont.

Oklahoma @ Oregon
In the early going, Oregon looks like the second best team in the Pac-10. Oklahoma, meanwhile, hasn’t gotten off to the start I had anticipated. But judging by the Fresno State game, look for Adrian Peterson to have a field day.

While Paul Thompson may have no business beating a ranked opponent in an environment as hostile as Eugene, I think the defense carries him to one, as the Peterson Heisman train picks up a head of steam. Honestly, I'm more concerned with finding out which of the 48 uniform combinations the Ducks decide on.

Oklahoma - 20, Oregon - 17


I'm partial to #37.

Texas Tech @ Texas Christian
Both teams have had trouble with in-state rivals (Baylor and UTEP) in early going. And Texas Tech head coach Mike Leach is unbeaten against non-conference opponents from the Lone Star State.

That all changes on Saturday, when the Horned Frogs, who have been looking ahead to this game for a year, avenge the 70-35 pasting they suffered at the hands of the Red Raiders in 2004.

TCU - 45, Texas Tech - 42


No, not those Red Raiders.

Clemson @ Florida State
The Tigers try to rebound after completely blowing one at Boston College, while the Seminoles try to prove that they do, indeed, have an offense.

I don’t think either of these teams is capable of pulling away from the other (coaching may have something to do with it), so it should stay close all the way through. When in doubt, I’ll take the better defense, so Florida State wins, but they fail to cover.

Florida State - 17, Clemson - 15


Terry thinks "Diddy" beats Tommy.

Nebraska @ Southern California
I was all set to take Nebraska plus the 19, but then cornerback Andre Jones proceeded to give the Trojans a little bit of extra motivation.

“When we beat USC, this is going to slingshot our whole season,” said the junior college transfer from Naples, Fla. “We’re ready to go in there and show the world that Nebraska’s back on top - that the order is restored.”

So, needless to say, the most talented team in the nation will send the Huskers back to Lincoln with their collective tails between their legs.

USC - 38, Nebraska - 17


Things may be a lot less homoerotic in Troy these days, but they've still got some pretty good players.

Florida @ Tennessee

If I were a Vol fan, I wouldn’t be too concerned about the Air Force game. We all remember when Georgia Southern came into Athens two years ago and put up 28 points. Unless you spend a lot of time preparing for it, the option is really hard to stop. And with the Gators looming the following weekend, Tennessee no doubt felt like they could out-talent the Falcons, which they did. But just barely.

But if I were a Tennessee fan, I would be very worried about losing Justin Harrell and Inky Johnson just before Florida comes to town. And if the Vols struggled against Air Force because they have trouble keeping their assignments, it’ll be a long night facing Urban Meyer’s offensive scheme.

The Gators have had two virtual bye weeks leading up to this, and they should come away with a nice cover on the road in Knoxville.

Florida - 27, Tennessee 20



Meyer will point, stare his way to 2-0 against UT.

Mallard on Board with Falcons

As first reported on BC Gottum:
Due to a few injuries to their defensive line this past weekend, the Falcons have resigned Josh Mallard after cutting him only two weeks ago. The lack of depth on the DL means Mallard might see his first NFL action since 2002, his rookie season.

Week 3 Picks

* Extra College Game this week due to the amount of quality matchups and lack of good highschool games.

AUBURN(-3) vs. Lsu
LOUISVILLE(-4.5) vs. Miami
NOTRE DAME(-7) vs. Michigan
FLORIDA ST.(-4.5) vs. Clemson
USC(-18.5) vs. Nebraska
Florida(-4.5) vs. TENNESSEE

Brookwood vs. Valdosta
Who will lose by a wider margin: Beach or Savannh High?
Beach vs. Charlton Co. / Savannah High vs. Westside-Macon

Week 2 Revisited (me)

Larry, your picks were pretty accurate. Ive got a friend that runs a book if your interested.


Oregon St.@ Boise St. Dont play Boise on the "smurf turf." The results from Oregon States last two trips there should have resulted in a call from the Pac 10 commish stating:" Hey Beavers...... Yuur Fiiiirrrred!!!"

Auburn @ Miss St. Auburn is just fun to watch. Lester is just continuing the line of "great" backs over there. And Mr. Sly is done.

Ole Miss @Mizzou C'mon Ole Miss. Schaffer looked like a QB that Knoxville wont regret losing anytime soon. Patrick Willis is a man though.

Penn St. @ Notre Dame Weis sent a message and Penn St. is not the team they were last year. Notre Dame get by this week and I see them flying to Cali undefeated.

Clemson @ Boston College Larry is exactly right, same ole' Clemson. If Bowden does not make it to a January bowl, everyone this side of Howard's Rock will be calling for his head.

Texas St. @ Kentucky Countown to Tip-Off: 66 days

Arizona @ LSU I really thought this was going to be close. The Pac 10 at some point will have to play defense. LSU/Auburn is the best game this weekend.

Minnesota @ Cal Give Cal some time. When the QB settles in they will be the team everone thought theyd be. Defense has to get better to have a chance at USC. They are the only team in the Pac 10 with that chance.

Ohio St. @ Texas This one didnt live up to the hype. Ohio St. has a lot tougher road from here on compared to Texas. Texas could very well win out, but that invitation to the Holiday Bowl is halfway to Austin. Ohio St. needs to watch out for Iowa but other than that its hard to say they are not #1 at this current moment.

* The ACC wants to say its the best conference in the country. It might be...... in basketball. Duke lost to Richmond, Wake beat Duke by 1. Virginia gets drilled by Pitt but wakes up just in time to beat Wyoming in OT. NC State gets beat by Akron. Carolina would be better with Roy Williams coaching. Boston College escaped the Chippewas grasp to beat a so-called conference title contender. Troy was better than FSU and Miami had one yard rushing against that same Noles defense. Tech is the best team in the league and they only have one guy that plays offense. At least they had the most teams in the Final Four.

*CHARDON ST. 35 - Montana St. 24*

Week 2 Revisited

In order to establish some of the accountability that the so-called experts in the media rarely exhibit, I’ve decided to start analyzing my analysis, so to speak, following each Saturday’s action. The talking heads on ESPN frequently make unfounded claims on Saturday morning, only to act as if they’d never made them when they don’t come true. And when the 1% of their “shocking” predictions does actually happen, they would have you think they were, in Rick’s words, “Nostra-fucking-domas.”

So now, when I make my own uninformed predictions during the week, I will afford you people the opportunity to point and laugh on Monday after the Texas offense makes me look like a jackass.

Here we go:

Oregon State @ Boise State
My Prediction: BSU - 38, OSU - 35
Actual Result: BSU - 42, OSU - 14

At the end of the first quarter, I was feeling pretty good about this one. At halftime, I thought I had it pegged. I just knew the Beavers would mount a comeback, but fall a little short. I kept waiting…and waiting. But it never happened.

Not only did I underestimate Boise’s defense, which held OSU in check for three whole quarters, but their running game as well. Granted, the Beavers’ decent numbers against the run last year were probably more a result of complete ineptitude against the pass than anything else. But 302 yards rushing is impressive nonetheless.

Good win for Boise.

Auburn @ Mississippi State
MP: AU - 34, MSU - 7
AR: AU - 34, MSU - 0

Sly’s got some problems. Moving on…

Mississippi @ Missouri
MP: Ole Miss - 27, Mizzou - 24
AR: Mizzou - 34, Ole Miss - 7

I think I read too much into Ole Miss’ win over Memphis and not enough into new Missouri quarterback Chase Daniel’s performance in the season opener. He totally outplayed Brent Schaeffer, accounting for 322 total yards and two touchdowns, while Schaeffer threw three interceptions.

Daniel also had 92 yards rushing, while Ole Miss’ QB was held to 1 on 11 carries. It looks like the Rebels still have a long way to go on both sides of the ball.

Penn State @ Notre Dame
MP: ND - 31, PSU - 20
AR: ND - 41, PSU - 17

Notre Dame’s offense was not going to get shut down two weeks in a row, and they came through with a 40 point effort in the home opener. They got off to a slow start, but Penn State dropped two potential interceptions on the goal line that led to two Irish field goals.

Quinn was lights out after that, throwing two TD passes in the second quarter. As for the defense, they were helped out a ton of dropped balls, but you can’t discount the first team’s allowing just a field goal.

I don’t even think Lou Holtz saw this being so one-sided.

Clemson @ Boston College
MP: CU - 24, “BC” - 17
AR: “BC” - 34, CU - 33

I guess we all should have seen this coming. Same old Clemson. Couldn’t cover kicks, couldn’t find the end zone from inside the five in OT, couldn’t make an extra point.

"I would say special teams hurt us," Clemson coach Tommy Bowden said. "I don't think it takes a genius to figure out how we'd win the game."

But apparently, it does take a genius to coach his best team ever to a win over a middle of the pack ACC team.

Texas State @ Kentucky
MP: UK - 41, TSU - 20
AR: UK - 41, TSU - 7

Sinbad can only do so much.

Arizona @ LSU
MP: LSU - 27, UA - 10
AR: LSU - 45, UA - 3

Outside of Southern Cal, the Pac-10 has been embarrassing. This did manage to make the LSU-Auburn game even more compelling.

Minnesota @ California
MP: UCB - 30, UM - 21
AR: UCB - 42, UM - 17

This weekend’s results turn Cal and Tennessee into huge question marks. Either way, DeSean Jackson is good. I mean, really good.

Georgia @ South Carolina
MP: UGA - 13, USC - 10
AR: UGA - 18, USC - 0

Funny how the defense pitches a shutout the night after Erk Russell’s death (too bad the same can’t be said for Georgia Southern). It was a defensive battle, as expected, but who would’ve thought Georgia could post two terrific goal line stands in one night to blank a conference team on the road?

You’ve got to feel awful for Joe T., but Stafford really showed me something Saturday night. I knew he could make all the throws, but what really threw me was the fact that he only seemed to make one glaring freshman mistake all night (the first interception). It looked like he made some good checks at the line and even showed he can move around a little bit.

The late injuries on the line worry me a lot, but I’m definitely encouraged by this week’s performance.

I’d also like to see some more of the Lumpkin/Brown backfields we saw on the opening drive.

Ohio State @ Texas
MP: UT - 27, OSU - 24
AR: OSU - 24, UT - 7

I really got burned on this one. The thing I take away from this game, more than anything, is that Texas post-Vince Young looks a whole heck of a lot like Texas pre-Vince Young.

From what I was able to see, Colt McCoy (aside from the third quarter interception) played a pretty good game, at least good enough to give them a chance in the fourth quarter. But the offensive line wasn’t nearly as effective as I had anticipated and the receivers dropped a ton of passes.

They seemed to be playing “not to lose.” Sound familiar? That’s the phrase that haunted Mack Brown before #10 came to Austin and started making him look like a genius.

I don’t want to take anything away from Ohio State, though, because they came away with a convincing win on the road in the second week of the season. The questions I had (the running game, the secondary) have been answered for now, but I’m still not sure I’d rank them number one at this point.

Week 2 Results

Auburn , Boston College , Notre Dame , LSU , Ohio St. ; GAC , Northside , Effingham


Rick : 5-3 (10-6)

Will : 4-4 (11-5)
Larry : 4-4 (10-6)
Jack : 4-4 (8-8)
Patrick H. : 4-4 (8-8)
Patrick M. : 4-4 (8-8)

Donnie : 0-8 (4-12)

Level 1, Level 2....

I don't see us losing a game this year. The Stafford era has begun.

Live BC Updates

If you can't make it to the game, check into BC Gottum for live audio updates. I will post updates after each score and at the end of each quarter.

BC v. Jenkins

BC struggles early but gradullay wears down the Warrior defense. It won't be pretty just like most of the year won't be but BC finds a way in a game that is a MUST win. CADETS 20- Warriors 13

HUT 1 HUT2

The Weekend's Here

Again, courtesy of the Georgia Sports Blog, a great picture taken after Stafford's touchdown pass last Saturday.



If anyone can handle a quarterback controversy, it's Mark Richt.




Jack Jenkins!

It's Great to be a Georgia Bulldog

Danny Ware at the Campus Lodge pool party waving his "free phone" around. Hope NCAA doesn't get a hold of this video.

I'm Pretty Sure This is What Adams Had in Mind

This video from the Georgia Sports Blog has been making the rounds, everywhere from Deadspin to the Washington Post. For those of you who have yet to see it, it's a documentation of the "successful" family tailgate zones on the first gameday.

Enjoy.

#1 NFL Draft Pick?

I find it interesting that just a week ago I was posting on here and I was almost certain that Matthew Stafford was going to redshirt. Well not now, and I for one cannot be any happier! I'm sure many of you feel the same way. But I was looking at the AJC this morning and I came across this bit of information when reading about the demotion of our starting receivers for this weekend. Supposedly Mel Kiper Jr. was on ESPN radio talking about future NFL Draft prospects and happened to say this:

"Matthew Stafford eventually will be the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft. Write that down."

Well hot damn! So what do ya'll think about that? Are people getting a little over there heads, OR is Stafford that much of a Badass? Personally I'm going to go with a little of both.

BC FOOTBALL 2006

As many know, the 2006 BC football season is being approached as a rebuilding year. The past few years for the program have been very disappointing and in some ways underachieving. The 2003 squad had some talent and bodies that were capable of doing better than 4-6. 2004 saw one of the worst BC teams in a very long time squander some close games at the end. Last years team lacked the talent BC is accustomed to seeing but had numerous opportunities against average opponents to clinch a State Playoff berth. Not to mention the remarkable win in guyton that showed BC was very capable(BC had no business winning that game). But as we approach the seemingly long coming Bob Herndon era, there is once again a new excitement amongst Cadets new and old. At the time, I felt that this was probaly the best man for the job. The coverage in the paper, TV news, and message boards signaled the prestige of not only the job but the program itself. A graduate who has a tough mindset and has a history of turning programs around was perfect. Brackett accomlished a lot and for the most part the Benedictine family should be proud to have said he was our coach. It is time to move on though, and find our place atop the area where we should be.
The story of this squad will be the youth everywhere. With only 4 returning Senior staters, it is hard to remember a younger team. With that comes aches and pains in more abundance. At the same time, longer strides will be made as the season progresses. Some key losses will be evident throughout the year. Anthony Wallace was a plug in the middle of the defense. He shut down many teams inside running attach and almost single-handedly won the South Effingham game last year. Ashton Phillips was a solid played at both Running Back and Safety. Much of the time he was covering the mistakes of those around him. The most consistent player last year as well as a very good punter. Craig Thomas finally came into his own last year and was a stud on both sides of the ball. Losing him to injury practically ended BC's postseason hopes. Finnaly, the most glaring lost will be found in the kicking game. Even though he was seldomly used last year, William Boyd continued the line of above average kickers that BC always seems to come up with. Extra Points and field position can be key when trying to when any game you can.
Being a young team means you will be hearing some names for the first time. There seems to be a strong group of backs that are capable of moving the ball. Led by veteran T.J. Telfair, these backs will be the headliners of Herndon's wishbone attack. A new kid originally from Michigan is someone you might want to keep an eye on. Chisolm is a versitile athlete who will have to make plays if the Cadets want to move the ball on a consistent basis. A.J. DePhillips, akid from Savannah Christian gets the nod at QB. With little passing in the offense, his success is measured by correct reads and good pitches. Yet, the offense will all depend on a young and tiny line. Coach Herndon has said it is one of if not the smallest lines he has ever seen. In a wishbone offense, that statement can't be good. It will be run, run, run and more run if you are not familliar with Bob Herndon. I have faith that his success with this offense in the past will carry over to BC but it will take time.
The defense will shape this years team. Knowing the offense will not be able to score an abbundance of points, the defense will have to keep BC in games. Once again, the line is extremely small and stopping the run will probaly be left to the linebackers. Gabe Walls led the team in tackles last year but decided not to return due to lack of interest. Stephen Swinson will be the leader of this corps and will be counted on most of the year to make plays. Only a junior but the most experienced player on the field. The Secondary will be the youngest group for the Cadets, possibly starting 2 Freshman. The lurning curve for these kids will be sharp but they have no other choice.
The kicking game is wide open. Two soccer players are on the roster and have been competing for the kicking and punting roles. Don't expect the high calliber special teams play that you are use to seeing. Hopefully this won't cost us any close games and maybe someone can step forward and be"the man."

Verdict: There is no doubt that BC is in a disappointing state as a program. Herndon has the job of bringing it back to where it should be and handing the reigns over to another certain area coach who can take the program and run with it. Expect a lot of the mistakes that comes with a young team. The offense is going to struggle and the defense will be on the field a lot. As the year progresses, a significant improvement should be noticed and that can only spell good things for the future. Frankly there is no where but up from here as the road back to BCgottum football begins September 8th.

BC by 7 over Jenkins
Groves by 10 over BC
Windsor by 2 over BC
BC by 6 over Butler
Thompson by 37 over BC
BC by 1 over Hephzibah
South Effingham by 10 over BC
BC by 7 over Richmond Hill
Liberty Co. by 17 over BC
Burke Co. by 20 over BC

HUT 1 HUT 2

September 9th Predictions, Part 2

Texas State @ Kentucky - Honestly, I just wanted to post a picture from Necessary Roughness.
Kentucky - 41, Armadillos - 20



Arizona @ LSU - The Wildcats are coming off of an emotional, last second win over BYU, while the Tigers blew out UL-Lafayette at home last week. I think Arizona can overcome the humidity and the long road trip to keep the score reasonable, but they just don’t have the offense to spring the upset.
Louisiana State - 27, Arizona - 10



Minnesota @ California - The Golden Bears return home after getting embarrassed at Tennessee on Saturday. Minnesota shut out Kent State on the road, 44-0. But Cal is more talented, and should redeem themselves in front of a national television audience.
Cal - 30, Minnesota, 21


Commie pinko bastards.

Georgia @ South Carolina - Did you catch the Miami-Florida State game the other night? Well, look for much of the same in this one. Porous offensive lines and immobile quarterbacks will probably be the theme of this game. Field position will be at a premium in this defensive struggle, and Georgia’s special teams should be as good as anyone in the nation’s. Much like Monday’s game, I think the road team wins by a field goal.
Georgia - 13, South Carolina - 10


Hey Lou ... never mind.

Ohio State @ Texas - You’re going to see and hear more than enough about this game in the next few days, so I’ll keep this brief. Yes, the young Ohio State defense did a good job against Garrett Wolfe last week, but the Texas offensive line is a totally different animal. I think the Texas defense and Jamaal Charles’ legs will be enough to keep Texas in the game, with home field providing the difference.
Texas - 27, Ohio State - 24