The life of a broadcaster is sometimes exciting. You meet great people, travel to great places and get to see the country in ways some envy.
Sometimes though, there are days which really stink. Take for instance today for me.
I drop my daughter off this morning and knowing I will not see her except for my computer background for five days left me tearing up as I left our Aunt’s house. My older son is college is calling me for an opinion on a school paper, meanwhile I’m desperately waiting for Al my tire technician to finish putting tires on since I have to be at the Naval Academy by 4pm. Al comes through in the clutch. I’m out the door by 3:30. By the way I killed time walking around the mall which is always exciting, and found out JC Penney is open at 3am the day after Thanksgiving and send that information to my wife via text. %:22, my middle son texts and says who is picking me up? I replay Mom, and before I can say anything else he hangs up!
The best part of the day is sitting across from Navy Head Basketball Coach Billy Lange and taking in knowledge that I can use and some I can’t on the air as The Mids are set to play three games in three days in Irvine, California. Yes I get to see the Anteaters!
Good news, the flight to Denver arrives on time, and after a purchase of Chocolate Chex Mix, its on to the connector to Orange County, California and John Wayne Airport. We’re early the pilots says with glee as if they have done us a favor! Well it has been a good flight.
While people say “Wow that’s a great job” and don’t get me wrong it beats making a living in much tougher and less rewarding ways, it’s times like this where some of us who have taken family for granted at times while collecting our experience through this career, get a reality check.
No matter how fun, how exciting, when all is said and done, all you have when the game is over, is your family. Right now, I miss mine.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
Take Duke lightly, no way say Mids.
It would be easy for Navy to take Duke lightly on paper. Afterall, the Blue Devils are 1-6. They played Miami tough two weeks ago, put up 48 against Wake Forest and threatened late at Maryland before losing by five.
They are also the same Duke team that gives up over 200 yards a game on the ground and this is the same Navy offense that just ran for 367 on Notre Dame. I did have that capped except Notre Dame is only 4-4.
"They do have some athletes and they have played better than the record,'' Navy Defensive Cooridinator Buddy Green said.
Nose guard Chase Burge and Jordan Marks have done a great job filling in for the injured Shane Bothel and Burge knows this team can't take anyone lightly.
"We know that we have to be focused. we have to put last week behind us and concentrate on our assignments this week,'' Burge said.
Last week's 35-17 win over the Fighting Irish was a sight to behold.
75,000 people saw it in person, a ntional TV audience, and Notre Dame fans watching outside the interview rooms and cheering Navy Coach Ken Niamatalolo and his players as they stepped down from the podium.
No, this wasn't Dr. Lou's 1988 National Title team, but, its still Notre Dame. People noticed.
"We had lots of messages and e-mails, and kids requesting to come visit so it was was very big day from that perspective,'' Niamatalolo said.
Navy's recruiting during the triple-option era has been off the chart for Navy Football. Never, could Navy have withstood losing six senior starters during the course of the season and still managed to not only compete but still WIN against Notre Dame. Navy now has 18 wins against BCS teams since 2002, the most by any non-BCS school.
WHY? Navy started Sophmore Devon Richardson in place of Emmett Merchant, Alexander Teich in place of Vince Murray, Burge for Bothel, Doug Furman/Brandon Turner/Matt Aiken for Mike Shupp, Ryan Bassford for Matt Malloy and kicker Jon Teague for Joe Buckley. Keep in mind too Marks was in on the goal-line stand on Notre Dame's first drive also. Hello?
The Mids have gone into places like Texas, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina and convinced kids this is a great place to play football and set yourself up for life. Coaches have truly coached them up and just when you thought this program may fade to black after the loss to Air Force, think again. Just ask Notre Dame.
They are also the same Duke team that gives up over 200 yards a game on the ground and this is the same Navy offense that just ran for 367 on Notre Dame. I did have that capped except Notre Dame is only 4-4.
"They do have some athletes and they have played better than the record,'' Navy Defensive Cooridinator Buddy Green said.
Nose guard Chase Burge and Jordan Marks have done a great job filling in for the injured Shane Bothel and Burge knows this team can't take anyone lightly.
"We know that we have to be focused. we have to put last week behind us and concentrate on our assignments this week,'' Burge said.
Last week's 35-17 win over the Fighting Irish was a sight to behold.
75,000 people saw it in person, a ntional TV audience, and Notre Dame fans watching outside the interview rooms and cheering Navy Coach Ken Niamatalolo and his players as they stepped down from the podium.
No, this wasn't Dr. Lou's 1988 National Title team, but, its still Notre Dame. People noticed.
"We had lots of messages and e-mails, and kids requesting to come visit so it was was very big day from that perspective,'' Niamatalolo said.
Navy's recruiting during the triple-option era has been off the chart for Navy Football. Never, could Navy have withstood losing six senior starters during the course of the season and still managed to not only compete but still WIN against Notre Dame. Navy now has 18 wins against BCS teams since 2002, the most by any non-BCS school.
WHY? Navy started Sophmore Devon Richardson in place of Emmett Merchant, Alexander Teich in place of Vince Murray, Burge for Bothel, Doug Furman/Brandon Turner/Matt Aiken for Mike Shupp, Ryan Bassford for Matt Malloy and kicker Jon Teague for Joe Buckley. Keep in mind too Marks was in on the goal-line stand on Notre Dame's first drive also. Hello?
The Mids have gone into places like Texas, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina and convinced kids this is a great place to play football and set yourself up for life. Coaches have truly coached them up and just when you thought this program may fade to black after the loss to Air Force, think again. Just ask Notre Dame.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Not afraid to show you my Harris Poll voting
As a voter in the Harris Poll which helps determine the National Championship Game teams, I, for one, am not afraid to show you my poll and why.
I wrestled with the last couple of spots. I think Butch Davis is doing the best job in college football this season, I just gave a slight edge to the SEC and Mississippi State right now. Virginia Tech was top-five early this season and his rounding into form.
Here's how I voted and why..
1. Oregon- I voted them there last week and they didn't play this week, so no need to move them.
2. Boise State- The beat everyone they play to a bloddy pulp. No fooling around.
3. TCU- I wavered here since Oklahoma is looking good and so is Auburn, but why penalize the Horned Frogs for killing people too.
4. Oklahoma- No Bradford, No problem and a seriously good running game too.
5. Auburn- Please welcome Cam Newton to the Heisman conversation.
6. Alabama- I still think they are the best team in the country on a neutral field.
7. LSU- Unbeaten, but better than Bama?
8. Michigan State- Wicked circumstances with their coach, yet still impressive each week.
9. Ohio State- You can be crtical of Pryor and the O but none of them play D.
10. Iowa- A couple of goofy things at Arizona away from being possible top-five team.
11. Nebraska- ? unexplainable. Youth can be good and bad.
12. Wisconsin- Only loss is to #8. Powerful performance against Buckeyes.
13 Oklahoma State- Not even the best in their state...for now.
14. Utah- Still the biggest question mark overall in top-15 to me, but when I see them they dominate their opponents and program has earned its place.
15. Stanford- IMHO they would beat a couple of the teams ahead of them on a neutral field.
16. Missouri- I saw the beatdown by Navy in person. Their coaching staff has learned its lesson and Blaine Gabbert keeps getting better and better.
17. Florida State- Loss to Oklahoma doesn't look so bad now and neither do the Noles.
18. South Carolina- They tried to win the game, isn't that what Herm Edwards once told us?
19. Arizona- Thought about putting Texas here, who do you like on a neutral field?
20. Arkansas- Was that an EA Sports simulation yesterday against Auburn?
21. Texas- Mack Brown and crew too good to keep losing, but I don't think anyone expected that yesterday.
22. Virginia Tech- I don't know what Tyrod Taylor will play in the pros, but in college he's growing on me.
23 West Virginia- BIG East? This is the lone team that can hang with many outsiders they have ridiculous speed.
24. Michigan- Their only losses are to #8 and #10. A must win at Penn State next week to hang around.
25. Mississippi State- Edge out Carolina for my final vote because the ACC is better than SEC and Dan Mullen has done a great job getting Bulldogs competitive again.
I wrestled with the last couple of spots. I think Butch Davis is doing the best job in college football this season, I just gave a slight edge to the SEC and Mississippi State right now. Virginia Tech was top-five early this season and his rounding into form.
Here's how I voted and why..
1. Oregon- I voted them there last week and they didn't play this week, so no need to move them.
2. Boise State- The beat everyone they play to a bloddy pulp. No fooling around.
3. TCU- I wavered here since Oklahoma is looking good and so is Auburn, but why penalize the Horned Frogs for killing people too.
4. Oklahoma- No Bradford, No problem and a seriously good running game too.
5. Auburn- Please welcome Cam Newton to the Heisman conversation.
6. Alabama- I still think they are the best team in the country on a neutral field.
7. LSU- Unbeaten, but better than Bama?
8. Michigan State- Wicked circumstances with their coach, yet still impressive each week.
9. Ohio State- You can be crtical of Pryor and the O but none of them play D.
10. Iowa- A couple of goofy things at Arizona away from being possible top-five team.
11. Nebraska- ? unexplainable. Youth can be good and bad.
12. Wisconsin- Only loss is to #8. Powerful performance against Buckeyes.
13 Oklahoma State- Not even the best in their state...for now.
14. Utah- Still the biggest question mark overall in top-15 to me, but when I see them they dominate their opponents and program has earned its place.
15. Stanford- IMHO they would beat a couple of the teams ahead of them on a neutral field.
16. Missouri- I saw the beatdown by Navy in person. Their coaching staff has learned its lesson and Blaine Gabbert keeps getting better and better.
17. Florida State- Loss to Oklahoma doesn't look so bad now and neither do the Noles.
18. South Carolina- They tried to win the game, isn't that what Herm Edwards once told us?
19. Arizona- Thought about putting Texas here, who do you like on a neutral field?
20. Arkansas- Was that an EA Sports simulation yesterday against Auburn?
21. Texas- Mack Brown and crew too good to keep losing, but I don't think anyone expected that yesterday.
22. Virginia Tech- I don't know what Tyrod Taylor will play in the pros, but in college he's growing on me.
23 West Virginia- BIG East? This is the lone team that can hang with many outsiders they have ridiculous speed.
24. Michigan- Their only losses are to #8 and #10. A must win at Penn State next week to hang around.
25. Mississippi State- Edge out Carolina for my final vote because the ACC is better than SEC and Dan Mullen has done a great job getting Bulldogs competitive again.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Greetings From Monroe...
(RUSTON, LA)- It is hot and humid and the Mids have come to Ruston hoping to improve to 2-1. Last week, Navy had trouble getting the vaunted triple-option going against Georgia Southern, coached by former Navy assistant, Jeff Monken.
This week, they take on Louisiana Tech, coached by 40-year old Sonny Dykes, who actually thinks the triple-option could come back as a regualr staple of offense for college football teams.
"I think it makes perfect sense for the service acadamies to run it, but also look at what Paul Johnson has done at Georgia Tech,'' Dykes said. "Things are cyclical and I wouldn't be surprised to see a few more teams go to it.''
Dykes employs the spread and has been trying to settle on a quarterback as Colby Cameron, a freshmen, gets the nod this week. Tech struggled on defense last week as Texas A&M pulled away in the second half and ran for 216 yards against the Bulldogs.
Navy is number-five in the country in total defense and tops in pass efficiency defense. One question for Navy will be the health of saftey Emment Merchant. The senior left last week's game with a concussion, but did make the trip to Ruston. Starting tackle Matt malloy did not, also suffering from a concussion occuring in week one.
Offensive coordinator Ivin Jasper hasn't lost confidence in the offense at all. In fact, he knows what needs correcting and those errors that have happened are easy fixes.
"It's about execution. It's easy to see on film where some plays have been breaking down so we feel confident that we can make those corrections and execute better. Last week, we simply wanted to make sure didn't do something to lose the game because our defense was playing outstanding football. Sometimes as a coordinator, you have to keep that in mind too, you may not be playing well, but you can do something to put your defense in a bad spot too,'' Jasper said this week.
Navy has been strong in both games on defense. This week will be a test of tackling for Navy against the short posession passing game of Tech.
"We have to tackle people and get them to the ground on first contact. Its a fundamental part of every game but if you don't tackle well this week, small short gains become big plays,'' Navy defensive coordinator Buddy Green said.
Linebacker Jerry Hauburger agrees and thinks there could be some plays there for the defense to make.
"If you follow your assignment and the guys up front keep playing the way they have you know there will a tipped ball or two and a chance to make a big play, Im hopeing to make one,'' Hauburger said.
KEY MATCHUPLouisiana Tech defensive end Matt Broha against Navy offensive tackle Ryan Bassford. Broha has 3.5 sacks through two games, and the best way to slow down ana ggressive defensive end is by running at him. If the Mids control Broha they should be able to make some plays on the edge.
REMEMBER HIM?Phillip Livas, an all-WAC performer from last year is back again. Last year he returned a punt 85-yards for a touchdown against the Mids in Annapolis. His entire career at Tech is filled with highlight film plays.
NOTES: Kickoff is set for 7pm eastern time and will be available on ESPN3.com and the Navy Radio Network. For a list of stations and internet options go to Navysports.com. The Mids are actually staying in Monroe, the home of Louisiana-Monroe which is coached by former Army Coach Todd Berry who took over from former Navy coach Charlie Weatherbie. Navy is 32-20 in the road in the past eight seasons. Wyatt Middleton will make his 38th straight start for the Mids. Navy coach Ken Niumatalolo will be seeking his 20th career win saturday night. This is the first time the Mids have visited Louisiana without the game being in New Orleans. Navy has won only twice in the Pelican State, one of the wins a 1955 Sugar Bowl win against Mississippi.
This week, they take on Louisiana Tech, coached by 40-year old Sonny Dykes, who actually thinks the triple-option could come back as a regualr staple of offense for college football teams.
"I think it makes perfect sense for the service acadamies to run it, but also look at what Paul Johnson has done at Georgia Tech,'' Dykes said. "Things are cyclical and I wouldn't be surprised to see a few more teams go to it.''
Dykes employs the spread and has been trying to settle on a quarterback as Colby Cameron, a freshmen, gets the nod this week. Tech struggled on defense last week as Texas A&M pulled away in the second half and ran for 216 yards against the Bulldogs.
Navy is number-five in the country in total defense and tops in pass efficiency defense. One question for Navy will be the health of saftey Emment Merchant. The senior left last week's game with a concussion, but did make the trip to Ruston. Starting tackle Matt malloy did not, also suffering from a concussion occuring in week one.
Offensive coordinator Ivin Jasper hasn't lost confidence in the offense at all. In fact, he knows what needs correcting and those errors that have happened are easy fixes.
"It's about execution. It's easy to see on film where some plays have been breaking down so we feel confident that we can make those corrections and execute better. Last week, we simply wanted to make sure didn't do something to lose the game because our defense was playing outstanding football. Sometimes as a coordinator, you have to keep that in mind too, you may not be playing well, but you can do something to put your defense in a bad spot too,'' Jasper said this week.
Navy has been strong in both games on defense. This week will be a test of tackling for Navy against the short posession passing game of Tech.
"We have to tackle people and get them to the ground on first contact. Its a fundamental part of every game but if you don't tackle well this week, small short gains become big plays,'' Navy defensive coordinator Buddy Green said.
Linebacker Jerry Hauburger agrees and thinks there could be some plays there for the defense to make.
"If you follow your assignment and the guys up front keep playing the way they have you know there will a tipped ball or two and a chance to make a big play, Im hopeing to make one,'' Hauburger said.
KEY MATCHUPLouisiana Tech defensive end Matt Broha against Navy offensive tackle Ryan Bassford. Broha has 3.5 sacks through two games, and the best way to slow down ana ggressive defensive end is by running at him. If the Mids control Broha they should be able to make some plays on the edge.
REMEMBER HIM?Phillip Livas, an all-WAC performer from last year is back again. Last year he returned a punt 85-yards for a touchdown against the Mids in Annapolis. His entire career at Tech is filled with highlight film plays.
NOTES: Kickoff is set for 7pm eastern time and will be available on ESPN3.com and the Navy Radio Network. For a list of stations and internet options go to Navysports.com. The Mids are actually staying in Monroe, the home of Louisiana-Monroe which is coached by former Army Coach Todd Berry who took over from former Navy coach Charlie Weatherbie. Navy is 32-20 in the road in the past eight seasons. Wyatt Middleton will make his 38th straight start for the Mids. Navy coach Ken Niumatalolo will be seeking his 20th career win saturday night. This is the first time the Mids have visited Louisiana without the game being in New Orleans. Navy has won only twice in the Pelican State, one of the wins a 1955 Sugar Bowl win against Mississippi.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
NFL PICKS 2010
There is nothing scientific about making predictions. It's glorified guessing. I struggled with wild cards, but the division winners were easy for me to come by. Here goes nothing.
NFC EAST
Dallas- Hard for me to pick the worst coached team in this division, but talented.
Washington- This could be a 3-way tie at 8-8.
Philadelphia- If Kolb steals one here and there they better this rating.
N.Y. Giants- O is decent, D-suspect. Not the division to be suspect on D.
NFC North
Green Bay- Rodgers invigorates cheese heads. Defense just needs to be average.
Minnesota- Yes they have Favre, Peterson, but will Brett be content to handoff?
Detroit- They will be much better.
Chicago- Martz, Cutler could spell end of Lovie in Chi-town.
NFC South
New Orleans- Clear class of the division.
Atlanta- Ryan could be good enough to help Falcons contend for wild card.
Carolina- Unproven QB play complimenting good run game and a questionable D.\
Tampa Bay- Much more bad than good.
NFC West
San Francisco- In Singletary we trust. Alex Smith key to SF's fortune.
Arizona- Might Max Hall be playing by week eight?
St.Louis- Steven Jackson is worth a few wins, and Bradford gives reason for hope.
Seattle- Pete Carroll, yeah.
Wild Cards Minnesota, Atlanta
Champ- Green Bay
AFC East
New England- As long as they have Brady and Moss and Belichick, my choice.
N.Y. Jets- Revis returns, but will Sanchez get better?
Miami Dolphins- Chad Henne to Brandon Marshall good enough to vault past NY?
Buffalo- C.J. Spiller yes, Trent Edwards, no.
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens- Offensive weapons, but is D good enough for 16 games+?
Cincinnati Bengals- Does Palmer have enough left to use tremendous weapons?
Pittsburgh Steelers- If they are close when Big Ben returns, could win division.
Cleveland Browns- Jake Delhomme and Josh Cribbs, a chance to improve.
AFC South
Indianapolis Colts- Until Houston beats them, they win it.
Houston Texans- I love this team, but is Kubiak the coach to get them over the top?
Tennessee Titans- Decent team, tough division.
Jacksonville Jaguars- If they get all eight home games on TV thats a plus.
AFC West
San Diego Chargers- Default winner?
Oakland Raiders- Most improved team in AFC this year.
Denver Broncos- Who will Kyle Orton throw to now?
Kansas City- Some good young players, but will they grow up fast enough?
Wild Cards- Houston Bengals
Champion Ravens.....
Super Bowl
Green Bay over Baltimore
NFC EAST
Dallas- Hard for me to pick the worst coached team in this division, but talented.
Washington- This could be a 3-way tie at 8-8.
Philadelphia- If Kolb steals one here and there they better this rating.
N.Y. Giants- O is decent, D-suspect. Not the division to be suspect on D.
NFC North
Green Bay- Rodgers invigorates cheese heads. Defense just needs to be average.
Minnesota- Yes they have Favre, Peterson, but will Brett be content to handoff?
Detroit- They will be much better.
Chicago- Martz, Cutler could spell end of Lovie in Chi-town.
NFC South
New Orleans- Clear class of the division.
Atlanta- Ryan could be good enough to help Falcons contend for wild card.
Carolina- Unproven QB play complimenting good run game and a questionable D.\
Tampa Bay- Much more bad than good.
NFC West
San Francisco- In Singletary we trust. Alex Smith key to SF's fortune.
Arizona- Might Max Hall be playing by week eight?
St.Louis- Steven Jackson is worth a few wins, and Bradford gives reason for hope.
Seattle- Pete Carroll, yeah.
Wild Cards Minnesota, Atlanta
Champ- Green Bay
AFC East
New England- As long as they have Brady and Moss and Belichick, my choice.
N.Y. Jets- Revis returns, but will Sanchez get better?
Miami Dolphins- Chad Henne to Brandon Marshall good enough to vault past NY?
Buffalo- C.J. Spiller yes, Trent Edwards, no.
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens- Offensive weapons, but is D good enough for 16 games+?
Cincinnati Bengals- Does Palmer have enough left to use tremendous weapons?
Pittsburgh Steelers- If they are close when Big Ben returns, could win division.
Cleveland Browns- Jake Delhomme and Josh Cribbs, a chance to improve.
AFC South
Indianapolis Colts- Until Houston beats them, they win it.
Houston Texans- I love this team, but is Kubiak the coach to get them over the top?
Tennessee Titans- Decent team, tough division.
Jacksonville Jaguars- If they get all eight home games on TV thats a plus.
AFC West
San Diego Chargers- Default winner?
Oakland Raiders- Most improved team in AFC this year.
Denver Broncos- Who will Kyle Orton throw to now?
Kansas City- Some good young players, but will they grow up fast enough?
Wild Cards- Houston Bengals
Champion Ravens.....
Super Bowl
Green Bay over Baltimore
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
WEEK TWO COULD BE BEST OF COLLEGE FOOTBALL SEASON
You name the game, it has meaning, intrigue, great storylines, and most important high entertainment value for the college football fan this week.
Lets start with say, Miami at Ohio State.
Two potential Heisman candidates collide here as Miami's Jacory Harris and Ohio State Terell Pryor square off on the national stage. High profile wins are a premium for Miami with the ACC still in the rears looking up at its BCS colleagues. The Canes are on the verge of getting back to college football's top level. Randy Shannon had a tough task when he took over, and while he was a player on those renegade Miami teams, he has them playing first class football. If Harris plays within himself and doesn't try to be a hero, Miami has enough speed on defense to contain Pryor, but tackling will be a premium for Miami.
For Ohio State, will Brandon Saine be as good as he was last week against Marshall? They don't need him to be Beanie Wells, but if they get that kind of ground production, they will be in business and takes some of the load of Pryor.
I think this is the game of the week. I think Miami wins in a close one, 27-24.
Other great contests this week include:
Penn State at Alabama. We can never forget the Barry Krause stop on the cover of Sports Illustrated from the Sugar Bowl, but this one will be higher scoring that that 14-7 classic. Likely no Ingram for Alabama, no problem. Penn State will be very good...in November. Saban and the Tide at home..26-13.
Florida State at Oklahoma Christian Ponder kicked off the Jimbo Fisher era in style and will do well again in week two. I know this isn't Samford, but Oklahoma better be more interested than they looked last week against Utah State. Seminoles 27 Oklahoma 14..
QUICK SLANTS:As a Harris Poll voter, which determines a percentage of the BCS, Im glad we don't vote until a couple of weeks have gone by. You get an idea of what a team will be like and thus a realistic ranking to start with.
Right now, two non-bcs teams, Boise State and TCU, are in the top-five in the polls already out. Oregon State had chances in Arlington against TCU. Boise also gets the Beavers. Give Mike Riley credit for taking his Beavers where few will fear to tred.
SEC Fans watched in horror as Florida and LSU played two of the poorest halves of football in those programs history on Saturday. With so many good head-to-head matchups in the SEC this year, its very possible no SEC will go unbeaten. Of course Florida fans may say last week should be an incomplete grade since they couldn't get the snap to the QB on a consistent basis. I liked what I saw from South Carolina and Georgia and even Tennessee showed a pulse against inferior competition. However, what Ole Miss did in the second half against Jacksonville State can only be described as Twilight Zone.
Stock Rising. The soon to be departed Mountain West teams, UTAH and BYU. Fresno State, a future MWC member, Michigan, LSU super man Patrick Peterson, and new ECU Coach Ruffin McNeil.
Stock Declining: Tim Tebow haters, THE BIG EAST, Reggie Bush Heisman memorabilia, College Football in Washington State.
PUT A CLOCK ON IT.CBS College Sports better get Adam Zucker and Brian Jones ready for some filler time. Navy welcomes former assistant coach Jeff Monken and Georgia Southern to Annapolis Saturday. Both teams run the triple-option. While many first week games nearly took four hours of TV time, this one will likley be over in under 3. The over-under on total passes in the game is 10. I like the under.
Last week my colleague Joe Miller was 7-1-1 in his college football picks. We will have his picks and mine against the spread coming up Friday.
Listen to Miller and Medhurst Wednesday night at 10pm on 105.7 THE FAN in Baltimore and at www.1057thefan.com. Boise State play-by-play voice Bob Behler will join us at 11pm eastern time tonight.
Lets start with say, Miami at Ohio State.
Two potential Heisman candidates collide here as Miami's Jacory Harris and Ohio State Terell Pryor square off on the national stage. High profile wins are a premium for Miami with the ACC still in the rears looking up at its BCS colleagues. The Canes are on the verge of getting back to college football's top level. Randy Shannon had a tough task when he took over, and while he was a player on those renegade Miami teams, he has them playing first class football. If Harris plays within himself and doesn't try to be a hero, Miami has enough speed on defense to contain Pryor, but tackling will be a premium for Miami.
For Ohio State, will Brandon Saine be as good as he was last week against Marshall? They don't need him to be Beanie Wells, but if they get that kind of ground production, they will be in business and takes some of the load of Pryor.
I think this is the game of the week. I think Miami wins in a close one, 27-24.
Other great contests this week include:
Penn State at Alabama. We can never forget the Barry Krause stop on the cover of Sports Illustrated from the Sugar Bowl, but this one will be higher scoring that that 14-7 classic. Likely no Ingram for Alabama, no problem. Penn State will be very good...in November. Saban and the Tide at home..26-13.
Florida State at Oklahoma Christian Ponder kicked off the Jimbo Fisher era in style and will do well again in week two. I know this isn't Samford, but Oklahoma better be more interested than they looked last week against Utah State. Seminoles 27 Oklahoma 14..
QUICK SLANTS:As a Harris Poll voter, which determines a percentage of the BCS, Im glad we don't vote until a couple of weeks have gone by. You get an idea of what a team will be like and thus a realistic ranking to start with.
Right now, two non-bcs teams, Boise State and TCU, are in the top-five in the polls already out. Oregon State had chances in Arlington against TCU. Boise also gets the Beavers. Give Mike Riley credit for taking his Beavers where few will fear to tred.
SEC Fans watched in horror as Florida and LSU played two of the poorest halves of football in those programs history on Saturday. With so many good head-to-head matchups in the SEC this year, its very possible no SEC will go unbeaten. Of course Florida fans may say last week should be an incomplete grade since they couldn't get the snap to the QB on a consistent basis. I liked what I saw from South Carolina and Georgia and even Tennessee showed a pulse against inferior competition. However, what Ole Miss did in the second half against Jacksonville State can only be described as Twilight Zone.
Stock Rising. The soon to be departed Mountain West teams, UTAH and BYU. Fresno State, a future MWC member, Michigan, LSU super man Patrick Peterson, and new ECU Coach Ruffin McNeil.
Stock Declining: Tim Tebow haters, THE BIG EAST, Reggie Bush Heisman memorabilia, College Football in Washington State.
PUT A CLOCK ON IT.CBS College Sports better get Adam Zucker and Brian Jones ready for some filler time. Navy welcomes former assistant coach Jeff Monken and Georgia Southern to Annapolis Saturday. Both teams run the triple-option. While many first week games nearly took four hours of TV time, this one will likley be over in under 3. The over-under on total passes in the game is 10. I like the under.
Last week my colleague Joe Miller was 7-1-1 in his college football picks. We will have his picks and mine against the spread coming up Friday.
Listen to Miller and Medhurst Wednesday night at 10pm on 105.7 THE FAN in Baltimore and at www.1057thefan.com. Boise State play-by-play voice Bob Behler will join us at 11pm eastern time tonight.
Monday, August 30, 2010
This is an exciting time of year as football gets going.
This is an exciting time of year as football gets going. In the Baltimore-Washington area, here are my top-five guys who will likely make headlines in 2010.
#5. Darius Jennings. The super athlete from the Gilman School in Baltimore put on a show in his teams opener against Archbishop Spalding. Four touchdowns in the first half, and for University of Maryland fans be glad your on his list, if he were two inches taller the entire SEC would be watching each Friday. He’s listed at 6-0 180, which means he’s probably closer to 5-10, 5-11 but he’s a quality kid and he will likely be a mean return man for someone in 2011.
#4 Ricky Dobbs- The Naval Academy quarterback has been a show since he had a 42-carry performance in his first major appearance in the Navy lineup in a monsoon against SMU. What strikes you about Dobbs is yes he’s a good football player, but he’s also a great kid. Vice-President of the senior class, respectful of his teammates, coaches, and his God. In an era where arrogance tends to pervade with many athletes, Dobbs thankfully sets a perfect example that many young men can follow. National media are even taking note and mentioning him in a candidacy for the Heisman Trophy. If there was a ever a model for college football’s top award, it is this young man from Georgia.
#3 Ralph Friedgen. The Head Coach at the University of Maryland as brought Maryland’s football profile back in his tenure at Maryland. Some will be critical of a lack of local star power on the roster as some have gone south, north, and west, though I’m not sure if Maryland has lost many players to Salisbury or Wesley College so I won’t see East. Though how did BYRON Westbrook end up on the shore. The problem on top of it for Friedgen is the fact that there is no Athletic Director, and oh yeah, the previous one made a deal that if the offensive coordinator James Franklin isn’t the coach after 2011, he gets a million dollars. There is a lot of inexperience on this team and the schedule has a stretch that is brutal with four on the road in a five game run. The opener is against Navy who some Maryland fans can’t believe is a 6 ½ point favorite. If they start off poorly, it will make for a long year and many empty seats on in College Park. I can see Ralph being a guy that backed into a corner will rally the troops.
#2 Joe Flacco- The 3rd-year NFL quarterback from Delaware via the University of Pittsburgh, has multiple weapons for the first time in his Ravens career. Anquan Boldin looks the part. He seems like he still has what made him a solid receiver in Arizona. Ray Rice is a game-breaking running back which would lead you to believe that the Ravens should score more points. They will have to. This is not your 2000 Ravens defense, but its not awful either. Flacco should make incremental improvements this year if given the chance by offensive coordinator Cam Cameron/ One wonders, if Flacco struggles, how long the leash would be. I don’t think it will come to that.
#1 Donovan McNabb-The quarterback of the Washington Redskins no matter who it is, is always the center of attention in the Nations Capital. He comes a division rival, he’s been to a Super Bowl, He’s won a lot of games. He’s somewhat inconsistent. He’s 33, He’s has an injured ankle, and he’s got questionable wide receivers. His play should be better than that of Jason Campbell, who led the Skins to four great wins a year ago. Will Clinton Portis revive his career with former Head Coach Mike Shanahan here? Will Anthony Armstrong play in the regular season like he has in pre-season and will Chris Cooley and Fred Davis look like Eagles tight ends with McNabb? The last 5 burgundy and gold regular season quarterback was a first round pick and turned out no too good. Here’s hoping this number five turns out better, because if it doesn’t, it will be a long season Washington.
#5. Darius Jennings. The super athlete from the Gilman School in Baltimore put on a show in his teams opener against Archbishop Spalding. Four touchdowns in the first half, and for University of Maryland fans be glad your on his list, if he were two inches taller the entire SEC would be watching each Friday. He’s listed at 6-0 180, which means he’s probably closer to 5-10, 5-11 but he’s a quality kid and he will likely be a mean return man for someone in 2011.
#4 Ricky Dobbs- The Naval Academy quarterback has been a show since he had a 42-carry performance in his first major appearance in the Navy lineup in a monsoon against SMU. What strikes you about Dobbs is yes he’s a good football player, but he’s also a great kid. Vice-President of the senior class, respectful of his teammates, coaches, and his God. In an era where arrogance tends to pervade with many athletes, Dobbs thankfully sets a perfect example that many young men can follow. National media are even taking note and mentioning him in a candidacy for the Heisman Trophy. If there was a ever a model for college football’s top award, it is this young man from Georgia.
#3 Ralph Friedgen. The Head Coach at the University of Maryland as brought Maryland’s football profile back in his tenure at Maryland. Some will be critical of a lack of local star power on the roster as some have gone south, north, and west, though I’m not sure if Maryland has lost many players to Salisbury or Wesley College so I won’t see East. Though how did BYRON Westbrook end up on the shore. The problem on top of it for Friedgen is the fact that there is no Athletic Director, and oh yeah, the previous one made a deal that if the offensive coordinator James Franklin isn’t the coach after 2011, he gets a million dollars. There is a lot of inexperience on this team and the schedule has a stretch that is brutal with four on the road in a five game run. The opener is against Navy who some Maryland fans can’t believe is a 6 ½ point favorite. If they start off poorly, it will make for a long year and many empty seats on in College Park. I can see Ralph being a guy that backed into a corner will rally the troops.
#2 Joe Flacco- The 3rd-year NFL quarterback from Delaware via the University of Pittsburgh, has multiple weapons for the first time in his Ravens career. Anquan Boldin looks the part. He seems like he still has what made him a solid receiver in Arizona. Ray Rice is a game-breaking running back which would lead you to believe that the Ravens should score more points. They will have to. This is not your 2000 Ravens defense, but its not awful either. Flacco should make incremental improvements this year if given the chance by offensive coordinator Cam Cameron/ One wonders, if Flacco struggles, how long the leash would be. I don’t think it will come to that.
#1 Donovan McNabb-The quarterback of the Washington Redskins no matter who it is, is always the center of attention in the Nations Capital. He comes a division rival, he’s been to a Super Bowl, He’s won a lot of games. He’s somewhat inconsistent. He’s 33, He’s has an injured ankle, and he’s got questionable wide receivers. His play should be better than that of Jason Campbell, who led the Skins to four great wins a year ago. Will Clinton Portis revive his career with former Head Coach Mike Shanahan here? Will Anthony Armstrong play in the regular season like he has in pre-season and will Chris Cooley and Fred Davis look like Eagles tight ends with McNabb? The last 5 burgundy and gold regular season quarterback was a first round pick and turned out no too good. Here’s hoping this number five turns out better, because if it doesn’t, it will be a long season Washington.
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