Courtesy of the members of the Atlantic Coast Sports Media Association, the winners are.....
Player of the Year: Calvin Johnson, WR, Georgia Tech. No one can deny the man's physical skills, but when a league's top player is a wideout with just 899 receiving yards on 59 catches (an average of just 4.92 per game!), then that league has severe problems on the offensive side of the ball.
Coach of the Year: Jim Grobe, Wake Forest. Unanimous decision. I should friggin think so.
Rookie of the Year: Riley Skinner, QB, Wake Forest. Hmm, the big 3 awards involve players or coaches from the two schools competing in this weekend's ACC title game. At least something makes sense this year.
And the All-ACC team....
FIRST TEAM
Offense
QB--Matt Ryan, Boston College
RB--James Davis, Clemson
RB--Branden Ore, Virginia Tech
WR--Calvin Johnson, Georgia Tech
WR--Chansi Stuckey, Clemson
TE--Greg Olsen, Miami
OT--Steve Vallos, Wake Forest
OT--Barry Richardson, Clemson
OG--Josh Beekman, Boston College
OG--Nathan Bennett, Clemson
C--Steve Justice, Wake Forest
Defense
DE--Gaines Adams, Clemson
DE--Calais Campbell, Miami
DT--Joe Anoai, Georgia Tech
DT--Tank Tyler, N.C. State
LB--Vince Hall, Virginia Tech
LB--Buster Davis, Florida State
LB--Jon Abbate, Wake Forest
CB--John Talley, Duke
CB--Brandon Flowers, Virginia Tech
S--Josh Gattis, Wake Forest
S--Jamal Lewis, Georgia Tech
Special Teams
K--Sam Swank, Wake Forest
P--Durant Brooks, Georgia Tech
Specialist--Darrell Blackman, N.C. State
SECOND TEAM
Offense
QB--Riley Skinner, Wake Forest
RB--Tashard Choice, Georgia Tech
RB--C.J. Spiller, Clemson
WR--Darrius Heyward-Bey, Maryland
WR--Greg Carr, Florida State
TE--Anthony Hill, N.C. State
OT--Duane Brown, Virginia Tech
OT--Jim Marten, Boston College
OG--Leroy Harris, N.C. State
OG--Andrew Crummey, Maryland
C--Dustin Fry, Clemson
Defense
DE--Chris Long, Virginia
DE--Adamm Oliver, Georgia Tech
DT--Kareem Brown, Miami
DT--Andre Fluellen, Florida State
DT--B.J. Raji, Boston College
LB--Phillip Wheeler, Georgia Tech
LB--Erin Henderson, Maryland
LB--Xavier Adibi, Virginia Tech
CB--Marcus Hamilton, Virginia
CB--DeJuan Tribble, Boston College
S--Kenny Phillips, Miami
S--Brandon Meriweather, Miami
Special Teams
K--Brandon Pace, Virginia Tech
P--Adam Podlesh, Maryland
Specialist--Eddie Royal, Virginia Tech
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Monday, November 27, 2006
My Lackluster Blog Poll Ballot
| Rank | Team | Delta |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ohio State | -- |
| 2 | Southern Cal | -- |
| 3 | Michigan | -- |
| 4 | Florida | -- |
| 5 | Wisconsin |  2 |
| 6 | Louisville | 3 |
| 7 | Boise State | 1 |
| 8 | Oklahoma | 4 |
| 9 | LSU | 6 |
| 10 | Arkansas |  5 |
| 11 | Notre Dame | 5 |
| 12 | Rutgers | 2 |
| 13 | Virginia Tech | 4 |
| 14 | West Virginia | 4 |
| 15 | Texas | 4 |
| 16 | Wake Forest | 2 |
| 17 | Nebraska | 2 |
| 18 | California | 4 |
| 19 | Auburn | 1 |
| 20 | Tennessee | 1 |
| 21 | Georgia Tech | 5 |
| 22 | Brigham Young | 2 |
| 23 | Texas A&M | 3 |
| 24 | Hawaii | 1 |
| 25 | Boston College | 12 |
Dropped Out: Clemson (#23)
Games Watched: Miami-Boston College, LSU-Arkansas, Georgia-Georgia Tech, Wake Forest-Maryland, USC-Notre Dame (bits and pieces)
Notes:
--This has been a sucky year for college football. After placing Louisville at #6 this week, I looked at the remaining list of teams and felt.......incredibly underwhelmed. Has nationwide parity finally struck? Is this some weird year in the zodiac? Who knows. There just hasn't been a lot of good football played in '06. That's all.
Grounded Chuck
Amato fired at N.C. State.
While doing an admirable job in raising the profile and expectations for Wolfpack football, Chuck Amato never was quite able to deliver on the field for NC State: a 25-31 record in the ACC in his 7 seasons, never better than a 4th place finish, 3 straight defeats to UNC, setting offensive football back a few decades the past couple of years, and then the killer- a 7-game losing streak to close out the '06 season.
The 4-3 record against Florida State during his tenure would seem to be the brightest spot in his 7-year stay. So while the rest of the ACC may have loved to have Amato stick around, I imagine that folks in Tallahassee are quite pleased that The Chest will no longer be in Raleigh.
For additional and certainly more knowledgeable commentary on the situation, peruse the NC State blogs State Fans Nation and Section Six.
Can I keep my red shoes?
While doing an admirable job in raising the profile and expectations for Wolfpack football, Chuck Amato never was quite able to deliver on the field for NC State: a 25-31 record in the ACC in his 7 seasons, never better than a 4th place finish, 3 straight defeats to UNC, setting offensive football back a few decades the past couple of years, and then the killer- a 7-game losing streak to close out the '06 season.
The 4-3 record against Florida State during his tenure would seem to be the brightest spot in his 7-year stay. So while the rest of the ACC may have loved to have Amato stick around, I imagine that folks in Tallahassee are quite pleased that The Chest will no longer be in Raleigh.
For additional and certainly more knowledgeable commentary on the situation, peruse the NC State blogs State Fans Nation and Section Six.
Can I keep my red shoes?
Saturday, November 25, 2006
BREAKING NEWS: ACC Football relegated to NAIA status
After careful consideration of a large collection of evidence, some of which is outlined below, the NCAA voted to expel Atlantic Coast Conference football from their entire collegiate affiliation this evening. The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) agreed to add the conference to it's membership on the condition that "none of that bullcrap displayed in 2006 is repeated next year", as stated in the NAIA press release picked up off the wires just 30 minutes ago.
EVIDENTIARY HIGHLIGHTS, RE: NCAA's DECISION TO EXPEL ACC FOOTBALL
Exhibit 06-001
The ACC's 2006 overall out-of-conference record vs. 1-A competition: 21-18
Exhibit 06-002
The ACC's 2006 out-of-conference record vs. BCS conference teams: 4-12
*Addendum: 3 of the 4 wins were by Wake Forest
Exhibit 06-019
Number of teams in the BCS Top 10 as of 11/26/06: 0
Exhibit 06-020
Number of teams in the BCS Top 20 as of 11/26/06: 2
*Addendum: That's out of 12 league teams, folks
Exhibit 06-024
For providing aid, comfort, and evidence to that certain motley group of SEC fanatics who neither attended the campus of their team of choice, nor could actually find said campus on a map. That collective, when previously presented with actual hard evidence that the ACC was quite competitive with the SEC, usually closed their somewhat intoxicated arguments with a confounded "You can stick your 'facts' up your ass, you pansy son of a bitch". Now, they are able to retort smugly with "ACC 2006", and ACC defenders are mandated to shut the hell up.
Exhibit 06-044
The sociopathic aversion to anything resembling "offense" in the league. Eight of the conference's 12 teams are ranked lower than 85th in total offense. Just two ACC clubs are currently ranked in the top 60. Only one is ranked in the Top 40.
*Addendum: Before you even ask, half of the ACC teams ranked lower than 40th in total defense, so yes, offense in the ACC in '06 was an abomination any way you look at it
Exhibit 06-067
The Georgia Tech program - the Coastal Division winner - for their criminal mishandling of Calvin Johnson, and for the slow death spiral that is Reggie Ball's career.
Exhibit 06-072
The Clemson program, for their evolution from early-season choke artists to their new and improved reputation as late-season gaggers.
Exhibit 06-073
The Florida State program, for all the soap opera horsecrap with the otherwise unemployable boss's kid.
Exhibit 06-079
Miami.
Exhibit 06-080
Duke.
Exhibit 06-084
The obvious extortion and blackmail on the part of John Bunting against the athletic department at UNC. Only hard evidence of the foulest, most perverse, and horrific misdeeds performed inside that department could have warranted such an incompetent boob returning as head coach for this '06 season. The fact that the UNC security force was apparently able to locate said evidence and destroy it, thereby resulting in Johnny Cakes' termination in October, does not mitigate the gravity of this scandal.
Exhibit 06-087
Chuck Amato.
Exhibit 06-092
The collective shrug that accompanies any mention of Maryland, Boston College or Virginia football.
Exhibit 06-099
Karma's a bitch, suckers.
*Addendum: exhibit submitted by Big East commish Mike Tranghese
EVIDENTIARY HIGHLIGHTS, RE: NCAA's DECISION TO EXPEL ACC FOOTBALL
Exhibit 06-001
The ACC's 2006 overall out-of-conference record vs. 1-A competition: 21-18
Exhibit 06-002
The ACC's 2006 out-of-conference record vs. BCS conference teams: 4-12
*Addendum: 3 of the 4 wins were by Wake Forest
Exhibit 06-019
Number of teams in the BCS Top 10 as of 11/26/06: 0
Exhibit 06-020
Number of teams in the BCS Top 20 as of 11/26/06: 2
*Addendum: That's out of 12 league teams, folks
Exhibit 06-024
For providing aid, comfort, and evidence to that certain motley group of SEC fanatics who neither attended the campus of their team of choice, nor could actually find said campus on a map. That collective, when previously presented with actual hard evidence that the ACC was quite competitive with the SEC, usually closed their somewhat intoxicated arguments with a confounded "You can stick your 'facts' up your ass, you pansy son of a bitch". Now, they are able to retort smugly with "ACC 2006", and ACC defenders are mandated to shut the hell up.
Exhibit 06-044
The sociopathic aversion to anything resembling "offense" in the league. Eight of the conference's 12 teams are ranked lower than 85th in total offense. Just two ACC clubs are currently ranked in the top 60. Only one is ranked in the Top 40.
*Addendum: Before you even ask, half of the ACC teams ranked lower than 40th in total defense, so yes, offense in the ACC in '06 was an abomination any way you look at it
Exhibit 06-067
The Georgia Tech program - the Coastal Division winner - for their criminal mishandling of Calvin Johnson, and for the slow death spiral that is Reggie Ball's career.
Exhibit 06-072
The Clemson program, for their evolution from early-season choke artists to their new and improved reputation as late-season gaggers.
Exhibit 06-073
The Florida State program, for all the soap opera horsecrap with the otherwise unemployable boss's kid.
Exhibit 06-079
Miami.
Exhibit 06-080
Duke.
Exhibit 06-084
The obvious extortion and blackmail on the part of John Bunting against the athletic department at UNC. Only hard evidence of the foulest, most perverse, and horrific misdeeds performed inside that department could have warranted such an incompetent boob returning as head coach for this '06 season. The fact that the UNC security force was apparently able to locate said evidence and destroy it, thereby resulting in Johnny Cakes' termination in October, does not mitigate the gravity of this scandal.
Exhibit 06-087
Chuck Amato.
Exhibit 06-092
The collective shrug that accompanies any mention of Maryland, Boston College or Virginia football.
Exhibit 06-099
Karma's a bitch, suckers.
*Addendum: exhibit submitted by Big East commish Mike Tranghese
Friday, November 24, 2006
Canes can Larry Coker
Paging Mr. Schiano, Paging Mr. Schiano...
A little over 12 hours after defeating #18 Boston College to become bowl-eligible, Larry Coker was fired as head coach by the University of Miami, effective after any potential bowl game. Coker's firing caps a hellish season for the Hurricanes both on and off the field.
Would I like to be the next Florida State offensive coordinator? Hell yeaaaaahhh!
A little over 12 hours after defeating #18 Boston College to become bowl-eligible, Larry Coker was fired as head coach by the University of Miami, effective after any potential bowl game. Coker's firing caps a hellish season for the Hurricanes both on and off the field.
Would I like to be the next Florida State offensive coordinator? Hell yeaaaaahhh!
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
The Bitter End of My 2006 Weekly Previews...
...yet another thing to be grateful for during this Thanksgiving holiday.
And something else to thank your lucky charms for....'tis Rivalry Weekend!
Thursday, Nov. 23, 2006
BOSTON COLLEGE (9-2) at MIAMI (5-6)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - BOSTON COLLEGE (6.1 penalties, 45.1yds, #69); MIAMI (7.0 penalties, 62.9yds, #99)
Series Record: Miami leads 22-3; last meeting- Miami 33, Boston College 14 (2003)
In Summary: I've said it plenty of times throughout the season, but allow me to remind everyone again that this game takes place 22 years to the day of the Doug Flutie Hail Mary on this same Orange Bowl field. And, coincidentally or not, that year was the last time a BC team won 10 games. The 2006 Eagles would pick up their tenth win with a victory over the psychologically spent Hurricanes. Given that this is Larry Coker's last home game with Miami (and likely his last game, period), on a Thursday night, in that craptacular Orange Bowl stadium, on the 22nd anniversary of Flutie-to-Phelan, with Boston College looking to stay in the ACC-Atlantic race, I can't imagine this not being a close one.
The Pick: Boston College 24, Miami 20
Saturday, Nov. 25, 2006
FLORIDA (10-1) at FLORIDA STATE (6-5)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - FLORIDA (8.6 penalties, 64.2yds, #118); FLORIDA STATE (7.3 penalties, 56.9yds, #106)
Series Record: Florida leads 29-20-2; last meeting- Florida 34, Florida State 7 (2005)
In Summary: The day that nearly all Seminole fans have awaited for the last several years has arrived......Jeff Bowden will call his last game as FSU offensive coordinator. Unfortunately for Nole fans, he calls that last game against the #11 total defense in the nation, and against a team looking for beauty points in the BCS poll. Look for the Seminoles to be the looser team in this game, at least early on, as they've already clinched a bowl bid, and look for UF's penalty and kicking woes to bite them in the rump early on. But, barring a total Gator meltdown (4+ turnovers, the Seminole defense actually being prepared for Tim Tebow to run the damn ball when he's in the game, and Urbie Meyer suddenly realizing that 7 days later he has to play that same Arkansas team he crapped on in his bitchfest conference call this week regarding the BCS), Florida will pull away in the second half.
The Pick: Florida 28, Florida State 16
VIRGINIA (5-6) at VIRGINIA TECH (9-2)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - VIRGINIA (4.4 penalties, 31.5yds, #11); VIRGINIA TECH (6.0 penalties, 46.7yds, #65)
Series Record: Virginia Tech leads 45-32-5; last meeting- Virginia Tech 52, Virginia 14 (2005)
In Summary: Am I crazy to think that Al Groh - whom I don't hold in very high regard - may have actually performed one of his best coaching jobs this year? Going into this season, UVA had to break in new offensive and defensive coordinators, practically an entirely new starting offensive and defensive lineup, and yet they are going bowling if they pull off this huge upset. Florida State, Miami, UNC and NC State all had more talent on the field this year than the Cavs, yet Big Al's Hoos have a better league record than all of them. However, across the state from the chessmaster, Frank Beamer has turned in one of the quietest 9-2 campaigns of any major conference coach in recent memory. And with this kid Sean Glennon at QB, no less. Having one of the better defenses of the decade no doubt helps things in that regard, but the Hokie offense has finally appeared to have settled in place, the Brandon Ore injury notwithstanding. Groh's overachieving performance this season ends in a rather unpleasant fashion.
The Pick: Virginia Tech 31, Virginia 13
NORTH CAROLINA (2-9) at DUKE (0-11)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - NORTH CAROLINA (6.1 penalties, 50.7yds, #69); DUKE (6.3 penalties, 49.5yds, #74)
Series Record: North Carolina leads 50-31-4; last meeting- North Carolina 24, Duke 21 (2005)
In Summary: Look, these are two bad football teams, both with skippers coaching their last game. Still, Duke is very young and they've showed a lot more promise throughout the season than UNC has. Bunting had his feel-good moment last week against NC State. Roof will get his this Saturday.
The Pick: Duke 17, North Carolina 14
SOUTH CAROLINA (6-5) at CLEMSON (8-3)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - SOUTH CAROLINA (6.6 penalties, 50.0yds, #87); CLEMSON (4.2 penalties, 35.6yds, #5)
Series Record: Clemson leads 59-35-4; last meeting- Clemson 13, South Carolina 9 (2005)
In Summary: The Tigers haven't looked the same since their obliteration of Georgia Tech last month; in their three games since (losses to Va Tech and Maryland, and a win over NC State), Clemson has looked like a lethargic and (after the VT loss) an unmotivated ballclub. Those problems should be solved - two weeks to prepare for their biggest rival at home should result in a jacked up Tiger team looking to roar into the bowl season.
The Pick: Clemson 27, South Carolina 14
GEORGIA TECH (9-2) at GEORGIA (7-4)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - GEORGIA TECH (6.6 penalties, 56.0yds, #87); GEORGIA (6.3 penalties, 47.3yds, #74)
Series Record: Georgia leads 53-37-5; last meeting- Georgia 14, Georgia Tech 7 (2005)
In Summary: It's rivalry weekend, and I haven't picked anything too crazy yet. Chan Gailey is 0-4 against UGA as the Yellow Jacket boss, and he has a new wrinkle to worry about, the ACC Championship Game next week. The Bulldogs, given up for dead after the their 4th loss in late October, shocked the bejesus out of the football universe by obliterating Auburn at Auburn two weeks ago. All the stats and even starting talent point to Tech, but it's rivalry week, this one's in Athens, and GT has a more important game after this one.
The Pick: Georgia 17, Georgia Tech 16
EAST CAROLINA (6-5) at N.C. STATE (3-8)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - EAST CAROLINA (4.6 penalties, 42.0yds, #13); N.C. STATE (7.1 penalties, 57.9yds, #101)
Series Record: N.C. State leads 14-9; last meeting- N.C. State 52, East Carolina 14 (2004)
In Summary: It would have been very wise for State AD Lee Fowler to announce the firing of Chuck Amato this week, so that the Pack would at least have a key rallying point heading into their final game of the season. But no. After losing their sixth straight game this season, to archrival and up-until-then-looking-for-their-first-1A-win UNC, all's mum with Amato's status. Think losing to the Tar Heels was rock bottom? Try getting drilled at home by that school in Greenville.
The Pick: East Carolina 24, N.C. State 10
WAKE FOREST (9-2) at MARYLAND (8-3)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - WAKE FOREST (4.8 penalties, 42.7yds, #21); MARYLAND (4.2 penalties, 38.4yds, #5)
Series Record: Maryland leads 40-13-1; last meeting- Maryland 22, Wake Forest 12 (2005)
In Summary: The Terps and Deacons were both brought crashing to earth last week after, a remarkable five week stretch that vaulted both to the top of the ACC-Atlantic and well in the Top 25. Maryland had relied on capitalizing on opponent's mistakes while Wake Forest out-schemed and (yes) outmuscled their opposition. After having the tables turned on them last week, look for both schools to go back to the drawing board a bit. Given that, and given that this one is in College Park, I'll go with the home team. But Wake, what a run!
The Pick: Maryland 23, Wake Forest 21
And something else to thank your lucky charms for....'tis Rivalry Weekend!
Thursday, Nov. 23, 2006
BOSTON COLLEGE (9-2) at MIAMI (5-6)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - BOSTON COLLEGE (6.1 penalties, 45.1yds, #69); MIAMI (7.0 penalties, 62.9yds, #99)
Series Record: Miami leads 22-3; last meeting- Miami 33, Boston College 14 (2003)
In Summary: I've said it plenty of times throughout the season, but allow me to remind everyone again that this game takes place 22 years to the day of the Doug Flutie Hail Mary on this same Orange Bowl field. And, coincidentally or not, that year was the last time a BC team won 10 games. The 2006 Eagles would pick up their tenth win with a victory over the psychologically spent Hurricanes. Given that this is Larry Coker's last home game with Miami (and likely his last game, period), on a Thursday night, in that craptacular Orange Bowl stadium, on the 22nd anniversary of Flutie-to-Phelan, with Boston College looking to stay in the ACC-Atlantic race, I can't imagine this not being a close one.
The Pick: Boston College 24, Miami 20
Saturday, Nov. 25, 2006
FLORIDA (10-1) at FLORIDA STATE (6-5)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - FLORIDA (8.6 penalties, 64.2yds, #118); FLORIDA STATE (7.3 penalties, 56.9yds, #106)
Series Record: Florida leads 29-20-2; last meeting- Florida 34, Florida State 7 (2005)
In Summary: The day that nearly all Seminole fans have awaited for the last several years has arrived......Jeff Bowden will call his last game as FSU offensive coordinator. Unfortunately for Nole fans, he calls that last game against the #11 total defense in the nation, and against a team looking for beauty points in the BCS poll. Look for the Seminoles to be the looser team in this game, at least early on, as they've already clinched a bowl bid, and look for UF's penalty and kicking woes to bite them in the rump early on. But, barring a total Gator meltdown (4+ turnovers, the Seminole defense actually being prepared for Tim Tebow to run the damn ball when he's in the game, and Urbie Meyer suddenly realizing that 7 days later he has to play that same Arkansas team he crapped on in his bitchfest conference call this week regarding the BCS), Florida will pull away in the second half.
The Pick: Florida 28, Florida State 16
VIRGINIA (5-6) at VIRGINIA TECH (9-2)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - VIRGINIA (4.4 penalties, 31.5yds, #11); VIRGINIA TECH (6.0 penalties, 46.7yds, #65)
Series Record: Virginia Tech leads 45-32-5; last meeting- Virginia Tech 52, Virginia 14 (2005)
In Summary: Am I crazy to think that Al Groh - whom I don't hold in very high regard - may have actually performed one of his best coaching jobs this year? Going into this season, UVA had to break in new offensive and defensive coordinators, practically an entirely new starting offensive and defensive lineup, and yet they are going bowling if they pull off this huge upset. Florida State, Miami, UNC and NC State all had more talent on the field this year than the Cavs, yet Big Al's Hoos have a better league record than all of them. However, across the state from the chessmaster, Frank Beamer has turned in one of the quietest 9-2 campaigns of any major conference coach in recent memory. And with this kid Sean Glennon at QB, no less. Having one of the better defenses of the decade no doubt helps things in that regard, but the Hokie offense has finally appeared to have settled in place, the Brandon Ore injury notwithstanding. Groh's overachieving performance this season ends in a rather unpleasant fashion.
The Pick: Virginia Tech 31, Virginia 13
NORTH CAROLINA (2-9) at DUKE (0-11)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - NORTH CAROLINA (6.1 penalties, 50.7yds, #69); DUKE (6.3 penalties, 49.5yds, #74)
Series Record: North Carolina leads 50-31-4; last meeting- North Carolina 24, Duke 21 (2005)
In Summary: Look, these are two bad football teams, both with skippers coaching their last game. Still, Duke is very young and they've showed a lot more promise throughout the season than UNC has. Bunting had his feel-good moment last week against NC State. Roof will get his this Saturday.
The Pick: Duke 17, North Carolina 14
SOUTH CAROLINA (6-5) at CLEMSON (8-3)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - SOUTH CAROLINA (6.6 penalties, 50.0yds, #87); CLEMSON (4.2 penalties, 35.6yds, #5)
Series Record: Clemson leads 59-35-4; last meeting- Clemson 13, South Carolina 9 (2005)
In Summary: The Tigers haven't looked the same since their obliteration of Georgia Tech last month; in their three games since (losses to Va Tech and Maryland, and a win over NC State), Clemson has looked like a lethargic and (after the VT loss) an unmotivated ballclub. Those problems should be solved - two weeks to prepare for their biggest rival at home should result in a jacked up Tiger team looking to roar into the bowl season.
The Pick: Clemson 27, South Carolina 14
GEORGIA TECH (9-2) at GEORGIA (7-4)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - GEORGIA TECH (6.6 penalties, 56.0yds, #87); GEORGIA (6.3 penalties, 47.3yds, #74)
Series Record: Georgia leads 53-37-5; last meeting- Georgia 14, Georgia Tech 7 (2005)
In Summary: It's rivalry weekend, and I haven't picked anything too crazy yet. Chan Gailey is 0-4 against UGA as the Yellow Jacket boss, and he has a new wrinkle to worry about, the ACC Championship Game next week. The Bulldogs, given up for dead after the their 4th loss in late October, shocked the bejesus out of the football universe by obliterating Auburn at Auburn two weeks ago. All the stats and even starting talent point to Tech, but it's rivalry week, this one's in Athens, and GT has a more important game after this one.
The Pick: Georgia 17, Georgia Tech 16
EAST CAROLINA (6-5) at N.C. STATE (3-8)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - EAST CAROLINA (4.6 penalties, 42.0yds, #13); N.C. STATE (7.1 penalties, 57.9yds, #101)
Series Record: N.C. State leads 14-9; last meeting- N.C. State 52, East Carolina 14 (2004)
In Summary: It would have been very wise for State AD Lee Fowler to announce the firing of Chuck Amato this week, so that the Pack would at least have a key rallying point heading into their final game of the season. But no. After losing their sixth straight game this season, to archrival and up-until-then-looking-for-their-first-1A-win UNC, all's mum with Amato's status. Think losing to the Tar Heels was rock bottom? Try getting drilled at home by that school in Greenville.
The Pick: East Carolina 24, N.C. State 10
WAKE FOREST (9-2) at MARYLAND (8-3)
Super-Fun Stats: Penalties & Penalty Yards Per Game - WAKE FOREST (4.8 penalties, 42.7yds, #21); MARYLAND (4.2 penalties, 38.4yds, #5)
Series Record: Maryland leads 40-13-1; last meeting- Maryland 22, Wake Forest 12 (2005)
In Summary: The Terps and Deacons were both brought crashing to earth last week after, a remarkable five week stretch that vaulted both to the top of the ACC-Atlantic and well in the Top 25. Maryland had relied on capitalizing on opponent's mistakes while Wake Forest out-schemed and (yes) outmuscled their opposition. After having the tables turned on them last week, look for both schools to go back to the drawing board a bit. Given that, and given that this one is in College Park, I'll go with the home team. But Wake, what a run!
The Pick: Maryland 23, Wake Forest 21
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Blog Poll Ballot Especiale
| Rank | Team | Delta |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ohio State | -- |
| 2 | Southern Cal | 1 |
| 3 | Michigan | 1 |
| 4 | Florida | -- |
| 5 | Arkansas | -- |
| 6 | Notre Dame | 1 |
| 7 | Wisconsin | 4 |
| 8 | Boise State | -- |
| 9 | Louisville | -- |
| 10 | West Virginia | 2 |
| 11 | Texas | 2 |
| 12 | Oklahoma | 3 |
| 13 | Boston College | 3 |
| 14 | Rutgers | 8 |
| 15 | LSU | 1 |
| 16 | Georgia Tech | 5 |
| 17 | Virginia Tech | 5 |
| 18 | Wake Forest | 8 |
| 19 | Nebraska | 4 |
| 20 | Auburn | 2 |
| 21 | Tennessee | 1 |
| 22 | California | 5 |
| 23 | Clemson | 3 |
| 24 | Brigham Young | -- |
| 25 | Hawaii | -- |
Dropped Out: Maryland (#19)
Games Watched: Boston College-Maryland, Ohio State-Michigan, Auburn-Alabama (bits and pieces), Virginia Tech-Wake Forest
Notes:
--If I was allowed to have USC and Michigan tied for 2nd, I would. But I can't. So, Michigan drops to 3 based on losing yesterday. USC would be the only team more deserving than Blue of the remaining spot in the Title Game should they win out.
--I got fooled by Rutgers hook-line-and-sinker. In hindsight, that win over Louisville was just one of those kooky Thursday night things.
--On the cusp of this week's poll: Penn State, Oregon State, Oregon, Texas A&M, Maryland. No one else looks remotely worthy.
Sunday Morning Round-Up
....Ohio State's opponent in the BCS Title Game should be USC or Michigan. That's it. Teams that lose by 36 at home (Arkansas), by 26 at home (Notre Dame), and already have a loss and are still scraping by every week against average competition - when not roughing up horrible 1-AA teams (Florida) - do not belong in the equation.
....Amidst all the "ACC blows" chatter around the college football universe this season, it's interesting to note that only one league has 6 teams with 8 or more wins. Just look to the right-side portion of this blog under that neat little "ACC Standings" table.
....That said, the Coastal Division is one big pile of dung after the Techs. When the Virginia "We can't beat Western Michigan, East Carolina, or Pitt, and get taken to OT by Wyoming" Cavaliers are 4-3 in the league and in 3rd place in the division, that's an embarassment on a grand scale for the ACC.
....The Wolfpack need to fold the tent on the Chuck Amato circus, and quickly, if they want to have any chance whatsoever in this offseason's coaching carousel. The Pack couldn't botch two huge coaching searches in the same year...could they?
....Boston College can send Miami to just their 2nd losing season in 27 years if they beat the Canes this coming Thursday on the 22nd anniversary of Flutie to Phelan.
....Speaking of Miami - Spurrier to Coral Gables? What the hell?
....Amidst all the "ACC blows" chatter around the college football universe this season, it's interesting to note that only one league has 6 teams with 8 or more wins. Just look to the right-side portion of this blog under that neat little "ACC Standings" table.
....That said, the Coastal Division is one big pile of dung after the Techs. When the Virginia "We can't beat Western Michigan, East Carolina, or Pitt, and get taken to OT by Wyoming" Cavaliers are 4-3 in the league and in 3rd place in the division, that's an embarassment on a grand scale for the ACC.
....The Wolfpack need to fold the tent on the Chuck Amato circus, and quickly, if they want to have any chance whatsoever in this offseason's coaching carousel. The Pack couldn't botch two huge coaching searches in the same year...could they?
....Boston College can send Miami to just their 2nd losing season in 27 years if they beat the Canes this coming Thursday on the 22nd anniversary of Flutie to Phelan.
....Speaking of Miami - Spurrier to Coral Gables? What the hell?
Friday, November 17, 2006
Allow Me To Chime In -- #1 Ohio State vs. #2 Michigan
There are plenty of in-depth Buckeye-Wolverine previews out there on the blogosphere and in the "real" media, so I won't attempt to add yet another one to the national dialogue. All I will say is that I find these stats very interesting (courtesy of this compilation by VegasInsider.com):
Stats be damned. This game has had an odd feel and a weird vibe for awhile. That vibe got even kookier today with the sudden passing of Bo Schembechler.
Michigan 23, Ohio State 20
Now they get to watch the biggest one of all, together
-The top-ranked team is 22-13-2 in all No. 1-No. 2 games.Ohio State is #1 and has been all season. They've already played in a 1-2 game this year, on the road, and won handily. And this game is in Columbus. Everything on paper points to this being a Buckeye victory.
-In regular-season games, the No. 1 team is 13-6-2.
-The No. 1 team is 6-0 when hosting the 1-2 regular-season matchup.
- Ohio State has won all three 1-2 games it has participated in. The Buckeyes beat No. 2 Southern California 27-16 in the 1969 Rose Bowl, beat No. 1 Miami 31-24 in 2OT in the 2003 Fiesta Bowl, and beat No. 2 Texas 24-7 on Sept. 9.
- Michigan also has played in three 1-2 matchups, losing all as the No. 2 team, in regular-season matchups. The Wolverines lost to Notre Dame 35-12 in the first such matchup in 1943, lost at Iowa 12-10 in 1985 and again to Notre Dame 24-19 in 1989.
Stats be damned. This game has had an odd feel and a weird vibe for awhile. That vibe got even kookier today with the sudden passing of Bo Schembechler.
Michigan 23, Ohio State 20
Now they get to watch the biggest one of all, together
Thursday, November 16, 2006
The Interminable Weekly Preview
Miami (5-5) at Virginia (4-6)
Super-Fun Stats: MIAMI- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (37.0%, #72)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (29.6%, #11); VIRGINIA- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (29.0%, #114)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (30.3%, #14)
Series Record: Miami leads 3-0; last meeting- Miami 25, Virginia 17 (2005)
In Summary: It's hard to imagine this game being anything but a defensvie battle. Both offenses have been so inept all year, while both defenses have performed quite admirably given the circumstances. I wouldn't discount the possibility of an outright UVA upset, given Miami QB Kirby Freeman's lack of experience, but the Canes are fighting for a bowl bid while the Cavaliers are just looking to close out their dismal 2006.
The Pick: Miami 16, Virginia 10
N.C. State (3-7) at North Carolina (1-9)
Super-Fun Stats: NC STATE- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (33.8%, #93)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (30.7%, #17); NORTH CAROLINA- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (32.6%, #104)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (46.1%, #106)
Series Record: North Carolina leads 54-27-5; last meeting- North Carolina 31, N.C. State 24 (2005)
In Summary: Good Lord, I truly have no idea how this game's going to turn out. The Wolfpack are on a 5-game skid, however each loss has been by 6pts or less. UNC is still looking for their first win over a 1-A school this season. Bunting's already out, while Amato's status is uncertain. Whatever happens in this game probably tips the scales on Chesty's continued employment in Raleigh. That said, UNC will get their chance for that first 1-A win next week against Duke. I'm going to guess that State's close calls in the past month finally pay off this Saturday.
The Pick: N.C. State 20, North Carolina 10
Maryland (8-2) at Boston College (8-2)
Super-Fun Stats: MARYLAND- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (33.6%, #94)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (42.1%, #89); BOSTON COLLEGE- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (40.1%, #50)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (35.4%, #43)
Series Record: Boston College leads 2-1; last meeting- Boston College 31, Maryland 16 (2005)
In Summary: Of note- in Maryland's impressive 5-game winning streak, they have prevailed in those matchups by a combined 13 points. This is a team that knows how to, and expects to, win the close ones. That said, I don't think this will be a close one. Outside of beating a reeling Clemson team, the Terps have eked out those wins against four squads that have yet to qualify for a bowl (Virginia, NC State, Florida State, Miami). Boston College is a club that is healthy, coming off a win, and much less prone to the self-destructive patterns of the Cavaliers, Wolfpack, Noles and Canes.
The Pick: Boston College 27, Maryland 17
Duke (0-10) at Georgia Tech (8-2)
Super-Fun Stats: DUKE- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (29.5%, #112)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (44.2%, #100); GEORGIA TECH- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (38.6%, #62)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (29.5%, #10)
Series Record: Georgia Tech leads 42-30-1; last meeting- Georgia Tech 35, Duke 10 (2005)
In Summary: Now that the Jackets have kicked in the teeth of the cursed Chan Gailey Equilibrium, and clinched a spot in the ACC Championship Game, the sky's the limit. Literally so in fact, since Saturday's competition is winless Duke. If Calvin Johnson can't grab 10 catches and at least 2 scores, even against a great corner like the Devils' John Talley, Reggie Ball and offensive coordinator Patrick Nix should be brought before the World Court on charges of Gross Mistreatment Of Uber-Talent.
The Pick: Georgia Tech 34, Duke 10
Western Michigan (7-3) at Florida State (5-5)
Super-Fun Stats: W. MICHIGAN- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (38.2%, #63)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (32.8%, #29); FLORIDA STATE- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (37.2%, #68)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (30.0%, #13)
Series Record: Florida State leads 1-0; last meeting- Florida State 58, Western Michigan 0 (1991)
In Summary: That matchup headline above is enough to make one's head spin. It's mid-November and the Broncos have qualified for a bowl bid yet the Noles have not. Strange times indeed. FSU is coming off one of their more eventful weeks in years - the rock-bottom loss to Wake Forest followed up by the most lucrative "resignation" in sports history of Jeff Bowden. All that aside, Jeffrey is still in the booth, but you have to figure that we'll see a different Fredo one way or the other...he can totally go for broke in his playcalling now, or he can just mail it in. As for Western Michigan, they haven't beaten anyone with a winning record, got clobbered last week by Central Michigan and squeaked by 1-9 Eastern Michigan and 2-9 Miami (OH) prior to that. The Noles are vulnerable, but the Broncos just ain't the team to take advantage of it.
The Pick: Florida State 31, Western Michigan 9
Virginia Tech (8-2) at Wake Forest (9-1)
Super-Fun Stats: VIRGINIA TECH- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (35.4%, #83)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (28.9%, #8); WAKE FOREST- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (37.1%, #71)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (33.8%, #37)
Series Record: Virginia Tech leads 21-11-1; last meeting- Virginia Tech 17, Wake Forest 10(2004)
In Summary: The nation's least regarded major 1-loss team hosts the nation's least-regarded major 2-loss team in what should be a classic matchup. While the Hokies boast the nation's top overall defense, their key to that is stopping the pass, something that is not a major part of the Demon Deacon offense. On the flipside, the Deacs' sport a spectacular run-stopping defense, which then squarely puts the game in the hands of Tech QB Sean Glennon. That won't cut it against such a solid team as Wake Forest; but it will be close......very close. The Jim Grobe Masterpiece Of 2006 adds another chapter.
The Pick: Wake Forest 24, Virginia Tech 23
Super-Fun Stats: MIAMI- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (37.0%, #72)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (29.6%, #11); VIRGINIA- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (29.0%, #114)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (30.3%, #14)
Series Record: Miami leads 3-0; last meeting- Miami 25, Virginia 17 (2005)
In Summary: It's hard to imagine this game being anything but a defensvie battle. Both offenses have been so inept all year, while both defenses have performed quite admirably given the circumstances. I wouldn't discount the possibility of an outright UVA upset, given Miami QB Kirby Freeman's lack of experience, but the Canes are fighting for a bowl bid while the Cavaliers are just looking to close out their dismal 2006.
The Pick: Miami 16, Virginia 10
N.C. State (3-7) at North Carolina (1-9)
Super-Fun Stats: NC STATE- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (33.8%, #93)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (30.7%, #17); NORTH CAROLINA- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (32.6%, #104)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (46.1%, #106)
Series Record: North Carolina leads 54-27-5; last meeting- North Carolina 31, N.C. State 24 (2005)
In Summary: Good Lord, I truly have no idea how this game's going to turn out. The Wolfpack are on a 5-game skid, however each loss has been by 6pts or less. UNC is still looking for their first win over a 1-A school this season. Bunting's already out, while Amato's status is uncertain. Whatever happens in this game probably tips the scales on Chesty's continued employment in Raleigh. That said, UNC will get their chance for that first 1-A win next week against Duke. I'm going to guess that State's close calls in the past month finally pay off this Saturday.
The Pick: N.C. State 20, North Carolina 10
Maryland (8-2) at Boston College (8-2)
Super-Fun Stats: MARYLAND- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (33.6%, #94)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (42.1%, #89); BOSTON COLLEGE- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (40.1%, #50)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (35.4%, #43)
Series Record: Boston College leads 2-1; last meeting- Boston College 31, Maryland 16 (2005)
In Summary: Of note- in Maryland's impressive 5-game winning streak, they have prevailed in those matchups by a combined 13 points. This is a team that knows how to, and expects to, win the close ones. That said, I don't think this will be a close one. Outside of beating a reeling Clemson team, the Terps have eked out those wins against four squads that have yet to qualify for a bowl (Virginia, NC State, Florida State, Miami). Boston College is a club that is healthy, coming off a win, and much less prone to the self-destructive patterns of the Cavaliers, Wolfpack, Noles and Canes.
The Pick: Boston College 27, Maryland 17
Duke (0-10) at Georgia Tech (8-2)
Super-Fun Stats: DUKE- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (29.5%, #112)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (44.2%, #100); GEORGIA TECH- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (38.6%, #62)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (29.5%, #10)
Series Record: Georgia Tech leads 42-30-1; last meeting- Georgia Tech 35, Duke 10 (2005)
In Summary: Now that the Jackets have kicked in the teeth of the cursed Chan Gailey Equilibrium, and clinched a spot in the ACC Championship Game, the sky's the limit. Literally so in fact, since Saturday's competition is winless Duke. If Calvin Johnson can't grab 10 catches and at least 2 scores, even against a great corner like the Devils' John Talley, Reggie Ball and offensive coordinator Patrick Nix should be brought before the World Court on charges of Gross Mistreatment Of Uber-Talent.
The Pick: Georgia Tech 34, Duke 10
Western Michigan (7-3) at Florida State (5-5)
Super-Fun Stats: W. MICHIGAN- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (38.2%, #63)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (32.8%, #29); FLORIDA STATE- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (37.2%, #68)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (30.0%, #13)
Series Record: Florida State leads 1-0; last meeting- Florida State 58, Western Michigan 0 (1991)
In Summary: That matchup headline above is enough to make one's head spin. It's mid-November and the Broncos have qualified for a bowl bid yet the Noles have not. Strange times indeed. FSU is coming off one of their more eventful weeks in years - the rock-bottom loss to Wake Forest followed up by the most lucrative "resignation" in sports history of Jeff Bowden. All that aside, Jeffrey is still in the booth, but you have to figure that we'll see a different Fredo one way or the other...he can totally go for broke in his playcalling now, or he can just mail it in. As for Western Michigan, they haven't beaten anyone with a winning record, got clobbered last week by Central Michigan and squeaked by 1-9 Eastern Michigan and 2-9 Miami (OH) prior to that. The Noles are vulnerable, but the Broncos just ain't the team to take advantage of it.
The Pick: Florida State 31, Western Michigan 9
Virginia Tech (8-2) at Wake Forest (9-1)
Super-Fun Stats: VIRGINIA TECH- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (35.4%, #83)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (28.9%, #8); WAKE FOREST- 3rd Down Efficiency-Offense (37.1%, #71)....3rd Down Efficiency-Defense (33.8%, #37)
Series Record: Virginia Tech leads 21-11-1; last meeting- Virginia Tech 17, Wake Forest 10(2004)
In Summary: The nation's least regarded major 1-loss team hosts the nation's least-regarded major 2-loss team in what should be a classic matchup. While the Hokies boast the nation's top overall defense, their key to that is stopping the pass, something that is not a major part of the Demon Deacon offense. On the flipside, the Deacs' sport a spectacular run-stopping defense, which then squarely puts the game in the hands of Tech QB Sean Glennon. That won't cut it against such a solid team as Wake Forest; but it will be close......very close. The Jim Grobe Masterpiece Of 2006 adds another chapter.
The Pick: Wake Forest 24, Virginia Tech 23
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Jeff Bowden Resigns as FSU Offensive Coordinator
Well it's about damn time.
Today, the Human Lightning Rod of Seminole Nation took the honorable way out and tendered his resignation effective at the end of the season. For Seminole fans' sakes, let's hope this "resignation" is the first of many on Florida State's offensive staff (Paging Darryl Dickey, paging Darryl Dickey....Mark McHale, you're wanted in the Athletic Director's office.....).
Today, the Human Lightning Rod of Seminole Nation took the honorable way out and tendered his resignation effective at the end of the season. For Seminole fans' sakes, let's hope this "resignation" is the first of many on Florida State's offensive staff (Paging Darryl Dickey, paging Darryl Dickey....Mark McHale, you're wanted in the Athletic Director's office.....).
Monday, November 13, 2006
Butch Davis to UNC
From the "Liberace Preferred the Company of Men" Department*: Former Canes, Browns coach hired by the Heels.
The occasional baby-blue sweater vest, coming to a sideline near you
*a.k.a the "Britney, K-Fed Marriage Slightly Unstable" Squad....a.k.a the "Nancy Pelosi Spends The Equivalent Of A Small Country's GNP On Facelifts" Section....a.k.a the "Worst Kept Secrets" File
The occasional baby-blue sweater vest, coming to a sideline near you
*a.k.a the "Britney, K-Fed Marriage Slightly Unstable" Squad....a.k.a the "Nancy Pelosi Spends The Equivalent Of A Small Country's GNP On Facelifts" Section....a.k.a the "Worst Kept Secrets" File
Woo-Hoo! I'm Rich!!
So sayeth Technorati.com....
Four months of mindless drivel nets me almost $8k. I love this country!
Now.....who wants to buy? Anyone? Hello.....? Is this thing on.....? Bueller?
My blog is worth $7,903.56.
How much is your blog worth?
Four months of mindless drivel nets me almost $8k. I love this country!
Now.....who wants to buy? Anyone? Hello.....? Is this thing on.....? Bueller?
Uproarious Blog Poll Ballot
| Rank | Team | Delta |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ohio State | -- |
| 2 | Michigan | -- |
| 3 | Southern Cal | 4 |
| 4 | Florida | 2 |
| 5 | Arkansas | 8 |
| 6 | Rutgers | 4 |
| 7 | Notre Dame | 4 |
| 8 | Boise State | 6 |
| 9 | Louisville | 6 |
| 10 | Wake Forest | 7 |
| 11 | Wisconsin | 1 |
| 12 | West Virginia | 3 |
| 13 | Texas | 9 |
| 14 | LSU | 2 |
| 15 | Oklahoma | -- |
| 16 | Boston College | 2 |
| 17 | California | 9 |
| 18 | Auburn | 13 |
| 19 | Maryland | 4 |
| 20 | Tennessee | 1 |
| 21 | Georgia Tech | 1 |
| 22 | Virginia Tech | -- |
| 23 | Nebraska | 3 |
| 24 | Brigham Young | -- |
| 25 | Hawaii | 1 |
Dropped Out: Texas A&M (#21), Oregon (#25)
Games Watched: South Florida-Syracuse (don't ask), Maryland-Miami, Florida-South Carolina (4thQ), Arkansas-Tennessee (1stQ), Wake Forest-Florida State
Notes:
--For this ballot, I took a little of Saturday's games into consideration, but for the most part really looked at the season as whole when ranking teams. Thus, you see some of the wild drops and rises, since I didn't even look where I had ranked teams last week.
--Example: USC jumps Florida from last week into the third spot. My reasoning...USC has clobbered 3 very good teams (Arkansas, Nebraska, Oregon), while Florida's big wins are a decent victory over LSU and a 1-point win over Tennessee. Both schools have had close calls against mediocre opponents (Washington, Washington State, Georgia, Vanderbilt) and both have 1-loss, on the road. Florida's loss was to a better opponent, but USC's came down to the final play.
--Example: Wake vaults past several teams based on their season, not necessarily on their 30-0 destruction of FSU in Tallahassee. The rout of the Noles just put into clearer focus what Wake had been doing all year. There is something to be said for a BCS conference team that has made it through the minefield of this season with just 1-loss so far, while winning quality games in the process.
--I am also firmly in the camp that believes there should just be an Ohio State-Michigan rematch in the BCS title game if next week's Buckeyes-Wolverines clash ends in even a somewhat close game (10pts or less).
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