Offical 2009 NCAA Football Thread

[Dreamscape]

Figure it's time to get this off the ground.

The preseason AP Poll came out and Florida was the big number one squad. But it's meaningless. After all, my Irish were ranked 23rd.

Twenty-friggin-third, baby! Actually, my Irish may have a good year because of a weak schedule. The offense should be great in South Bend...if the defense and special teams perform, the Irish might not suck.

[luvdembravos]

The Hokies are rated #7 and I suspect that's as high as they'll be rated all season. LOL. We'll see how good they are when they play Bama in two weeks. VT's running game is very questionable right now.

At any rate, I'm ready for September and the arrival of college football and the NFL. Hopefully, the Braves will still be in the playoff hunt.

BTW Dream, how did you ever become a ND fan?

[Wahoo]

The Hokies are rated #7 and I suspect that's as high as they'll be rated all season. LOL. We'll see how good they are when they play Bama in two weeks. VT's running game is very questionable right now.

At any rate, I'm ready for September and the arrival of college football and the NFL. Hopefully, the Braves will still be in the playoff hunt.

BTW Dream, how did you ever become a ND fan?

I expect the Roll Tide to beat the Hokies, because Beamer just isn't able to beat the top notch competition. VT will be the class of the ACC as usual.

Personally, I'm hoping for a 4 or 5 win season from my Hoos so that we can finally end the Al Groh experience. Our program has gone from being so consistent under George Welsh to feast or famine under Groh.

[Dreamscape]

BTW Dream, how did you ever become a ND fan?
http://ladiesdotdotdot.files.wordpress.com/2008/09/rudy1.jpg
I was 11 and they had shiny helmets.

[hoosjon]

I expect the Roll Tide to beat the Hokies, because Beamer just isn't able to beat the top notch competition. VT will be the class of the ACC as usual.

Personally, I'm hoping for a 4 or 5 win season from my Hoos so that we can finally end the Al Groh experience. Our program has gone from being so consistent under George Welsh to feast or famine under Groh.

Mostly famine here recently ...

[Freddy_Ballgame]

I'm ready for some football! I believe Florida should be number one until they prove they aren't. Of course, I think the reigning number one should start out the following season as number one. They earned it. Why should a bunch of biased key-peckers put their team over the defending champs before they've been bested? That's part of what's wrong with the BCS system.
I'm ready to watch Bama and see if they can match or hopefully better last year's efforts! ROLL TIDE!

[Dreamscape]

I know, I know...it's Nevada. Notre Dame was supposed to win.

But I am impressed with how they won. They limited one of last year's best running attacks to a complete non-factor and pitched a shutout for the first time since 2002. I had no doubt the offense would be productive, but the defense playing well is a great sight. There is a lot of youth in South Bend and they may be a little dangerous this year to USC. At the very least, it's the first time since Brady Quinn busted on the scene that I felt the Irish could at least run with some of the better teams in the country.

Michael Floyd...is a beast.

[Chris_Moderato]

I don't give a damn about college football, but I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the victory of my alma mater, Old Dominion University, in their first football game since 1940. Go Monarchs, or something!

[Dreamscape]

Funny thing about ODU is because they are going to be in the CAA, they have a leg up on a lot of other I-AA teams. The CAA is the SEC of I-AA ball and just being in it helps you with recruiting.

But until 2011, they should stay as far as possible away from James Madison and Richmond and all of the beasts of the CAA. In 2011, they will be introduced painfully.

[Chris_Moderato]

Funny thing about ODU is because they are going to be in the CAA, they have a leg up on a lot of other I-AA teams. The CAA is the SEC of I-AA ball and just being in it helps you with recruiting.

But until 2011, they should stay as far as possible away from James Madison and Richmond and all of the beasts of the CAA. In 2011, they will be introduced painfully.

Yeah, my brother kept joking that the team they played tonight was a high school in Norfolk. Of course, he was a Hokie for a bit, so I guess he can say what he wants or whatever.

[Wahoo]

Speaking of epic fails, the Hoos drop a HOME game to William & Mary (I-AA). The good news? Surely Al Groh is gone at the end of the season. He's damn near killed our football program.

[luvdembravos]

William & Mary ain't that bad but you're right, there's no excuse for UVA losing to them.

If a Division I school is going to play a FCS team, it makes no sense to schedule games against ranked schools like Richmond, JMU, Northern Iowa, App State etc. It's a no-win situation because those teams are just as good or perhaps better than the bottom 25% of Div I schools ... when you lose to a FCS team, it makes your bad program look even worse. If you're going to play down, schedule a game like Florida did last night i.e., a real cupcake --- not a team that has a legitimate chance to beat you.

[Wahoo]

William & Mary ain't that bad but you're right, there's no excuse for UVA losing to them.

If a Division I school is going to play a FCS team, it makes no sense to schedule games against ranked schools like Richmond, JMU, Northern Iowa, App State etc. It's a no-win situation because those teams are just as good or perhaps better than the bottom 25% of Div I schools ... when you lose to a FCS team, it makes your bad program look even worse. If you're going to play down, schedule a game like Florida did last night i.e., a real cupcake --- not a team that has a legitimate chance to beat you.

You're absolutely right Luv. In fact, Duke made the same mistake and lost to Richmond. Groh has been so bad we are essentially the equivalent of Duke right now. If our admin can't see that, then I'll gladly drive an hour just to punch them in the face.

[Dreamscape]

I love it when the CAA beats DI-A schools. Hopefully, JMU follows suits and defeats a dejected Maryland squad next week. But yeah, if you want a cupcake, try to avoid the actually good teams. Maybe go beat up on Liberty.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Enjoyed the game between Bama and Va. Tech! Especially the outcome. Big win for a Tide team with several new starters in key positions.

ROLL TIDE!

[Dreamscape]

One more reason tOSU should just shut up. Here is their star quarterback Terrelle Pryor on the fact he had Michael Vick's last name in his eyeblack during last weekend's rout--err--close win against Navy.

"Not everybody's the perfect person in the world. I mean everyone kills people, murders people, steals from you, steals from me, whatever. I think that people need a second chance, and I've always looked up to Mike Vick, and I always will."

I didn't believe it when they told me society is really self-destructing, but apparently, everyone is killing people. I really am getting left behind.

[luvdembravos]

One more reason tOSU should just shut up. Here is their star quarterback Terrelle Pryor on the fact he had Michael Vick's last name in his eyeblack during last weekend's rout--err--close win against Navy.

"Not everybody's the perfect person in the world. I mean everyone kills people, murders people, steals from you, steals from me, whatever. I think that people need a second chance, and I've always looked up to Mike Vick, and I always will."

I didn't believe it when they told me society is really self-destructing, but apparently, everyone is killing people. I really am getting left behind.

I think Terrelle is going to get killed this weekend, figuratively by USC.

[Dreamscape]

Sadly, the Irish fall to the Wolverines. If the Irish had played their best game, they probably come away with a victory, but the Irish clearly aren't ready for prime time just yet.

Dukes giving Maryland a run. You have to win, James Madison. Can't let William and Mary and Richmond win and not add a victory against a DI-A team, too.

[Wahoo]

Well, I believe Mr. Groh's fate is officially sealed after another lackluster performance against a game, TCU opponent.

Side note: I love watching Notre Dame lose. If only this year, so that they didn't bump out a squad like BYU from the BCS talk. That team is stout.

[Dreamscape]

Both of my teams could have won last night.

But...they didn't. How sad.

And TCU is better than BYU, though I swear it sounds like a religious war.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Bama came back after a sluggish start and did what they were supposed to do. Saban played a load of players and that'll help down the road. You can't have enough depth in the SEC!
ROLL TIDE!!

[luvdembravos]

USC just lost to a team that didn't win a game last year and Virginia Tech pulls out a miracle. Thanks for the "gift," Nebraska. :thumbsup:

[Dreamscape]

Notre Dame with a late interception keeps their season hopes alive. Terrible defense again as they rarely got any pressure on the Spartens' QB, though they got enough on that last play.

[JanShan12]

I caught the end of the Virginia Tech game and got to see their quarterback hold onto the ball until a receiver got open to make that touchdown throw. Great play!

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Bama rolled as expected against an overmatched foe in North Texas. They played well from start to finish and played a ton of guys. Next week, things get tougher!
ROLL TIDE!!!

[Dreamscape]

Looks like the BCS busters is down to Boise State and TCU as BYU gets humbled by Florida State and Utah falls to Oregon. The good news for BYU and Utah, they get a chance to take down TCU later this year.

And go JMU. Wait to make VMI feel really bad. Poor Keydets.

[Hillbilly]

Next week, things get tougher!
ROLL TIDE!!!


I'll be perfectly honest with you. I don't know anything about Alabama this year, but I can tell you this: If y'all have any kind of passing game whatsoever, you will be able to score at will against us Saturday.

The Hogs' defense wasted an incredible display by our QB, Ryan Mallett (408 yards passing with 5 TDs and 0 INTs) and the receiving corp in this weekend's game against Georgia. It was horrible, particularly the secondary. The Tide should have their way with us.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

I saw a good bit of the game and was incredulous at the absence of anything resembling an SEC-type defense. Bama has been very good passing so far, but one has to question the quality of our opponents. Va. Tech is good and plays sound "D" but that was in game one. Bama does have a helluva pass rush and it better get it done Saturday. Mallette will be throwing opposite of Javy Arenas against our "other" corner, Toast. Everyone else does! Saban is pretty steamed at the poor performance on that side so he may push frosh CB Dre Kirkpatrick into the fray. He was a HS All-America. I hope they get it fixed in practice! Besides, something screwy always happens against us in the Arkansas game....

[Freddy_Ballgame]

I watched quite a bit of the Auburn - West Virginia game. I don't think I've seen one quite like it in some time. WV started off gangbusters, then just disappeared! Their QB looked like freakin' Vince Young for 20 minutes, then like Loretta Young the rest of the way. He screwed up on so many plays I wondered if it was the same guy! In games like those, when my team ekes out a win like that one, I'm thankful to escape with a win. Around here you'd swear Auburn had just beaten the crap outta the Steelers! I saw a game that WV lost as much or as more than Auburn won. Neither team looked ready for prime time!

[luvdembravos]

Wow, VT really put in on the Hurricanes in the first half. Only 2 first downs and 51 yds of ofense for Miami ... and VT isn't that good. It looks like Miami was over-hyped.

[Dreamscape]

As always, the Dukes beating Liberty is a sweet thing. It was 24-10, but the only reason it was that close was because of the weather, which played a role in three turnovers by the Dukes. Everyone at Liberty was pumped up for this game. Nice to see them put back in their place as an also-ran in Virginia.

[Wahoo]

Wow, VT really put in on the Hurricanes in the first half. Only 2 first downs and 51 yds of ofense for Miami ... and VT isn't that good. It looks like Miami was over-hyped.

Oh yeah, I knew that the ESPN hype machine was balogny. Miami beats two ACC teams, and we're supposed to believe they are the 9th best team in the country. And now, in an attempt to cover its tracks, we'll have to listen to the talking heads saying the same thing about VT. Any analyst that suggests any ACC team is a national title contender needs to be fired on the spot.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Va. Tech isn't a national title contender but they are a good team. Miami joins Florida State in a crashing return to reality.
On the homefront, Bama waxed the #1 passing attck of Arkansas, 35-7. Mallett and friends were kept in check, save for a lone TD early in the 3rd quarter. Bama's QB play, which was questioned in the pre-season by the media foofs is emerging as a real strength. Greg McElroy is a special player. He looks like the best QB we've had in eons. He can be a game changer instead of just minding the store trying not to lose the game.
ROLL TIDE!!!!

[Wahoo]

God Notre Dame got lucky, and if I have to heard Lou Holtz talk about how good Notre Dame is, I am gonna vomit. But why the hell did Purdue call a timeout there?

[Dreamscape]

God Notre Dame got lucky, and if I have to heard Lou Holtz talk about how good Notre Dame is, I am gonna vomit. But why the hell did Purdue call a timeout there?
Touchdown Jesus called for it.

But yeah...it was pretty lucky. Fun game, albeit ulcer-worthy.

[Wahoo]

This is just another reason why I'll never understand the preference of college over the NFL. Notre Dame will likely get a BCS berth largely based on beating just one ranked team (assuming Washington remains ranked). It's all so subjective and political. Yeah, I prefer the league with the legitimate ending to the season.

Having said that there have been some pretty entertaining games this year.

[Dreamscape]

I prefer DI-AA ball to the BCS. That said, I doubt Notre Dame will get a birth in the BCS. They would have to beat USC to get into the discussion and if they do that, in addition to going 11-1, they probably do deserve a nice cushy bowl bid. But I doubt voters will push them high enough up without a victory against USC.

But that is a long way from now. Washington and USC are next and while Boston College, Pittsburgh, and Stanford aren't worldbeaters, they are still tough teams the Irish will have to beat and their track record is hardly too impressive against also non-world beaters Michigan State and Purdue, but I'll take wins whenever the Irish can get them.

[luvdembravos]

Right now, I'd have to say that Florida and Alabama are clearly the two best teams in the country...but it's only late September.

[luvdembravos]

Best FCS team right now: Northern Iowa

[ScooterBrave]

This just in......Tim Tebow is human after all!

Thankfully, it looks (right now) like he will be okay.

Thinking like a player, when he finally got to the sideline, all he asked the coach was "did I hold onto the ball?"

[Dreamscape]

Best FCS team right now: Northern Iowa
Bring them to the CAA. That is the true in-season barometer.

[Middle Man]

Best FCS team right now: Northern Iowa

Bring them to the CAA. That is the true in-season barometer.

Yeah, get them out of that weird dome thing and bring them to Virginia for some real competition.

Bold = CAA

FCS Coaches Poll (I-AA) (last week)

Richmond (25)
Villanova (1)
Montana
Northern Iowa
William & Mary
James Madison
New Hampshire
Southern Ill.
McNeese St.
Appalachian St.

[Dreamscape]

Irish...please...please...stop doing this to me.

My heart cannot take it.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Bama made it 5 in a row with a nice SEC road win in Lexington. Kentucky put up a good fight but couldn't answer Bama's back-to-back TDs in less than a minute. Bama drove from about 2 inches off their own goal for a TD, then caused a fumble that was caught and returned for a TD to pretty much crush the Wildcats.
ROLL TIDE!!!!!

[bravos4evr]

and Auburn continues to surprise me by winning again!!!! I think they have a real chance at going 9-3 and going to a decent bowl this year!

[luvdembravos]

ESPN is currently "hyping" Auburn so taking Arkansas (+3) over them this weekend looks like a good bet to me.

[Wahoo]

Son of a B...UVA won. Al Groh is never gonna get canned if we win more than 4 games. Crossing my fingers that this past week was a fluke.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

It's really difficult getting a read on Auburn. They do have an exciting offense but their defense is really fading in the fourth quarter of games. It may fade much quicker against Petrino's air force Saturday. I'd hesitate to bet on the game primarily because it's in Arkansas, isn't it? Some very wierd things happen when Bama and Auburn play those guys out there. Phantom TD passes, strange penalties, something happens in almost all those games that turns the game around. I hope they added extra digits to the scoreboard....this should be a wild one!

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Just out of curiosity, is "The Tim Tebow question" really stirring up a national controversy? That's how his situation was described today by the local sports talk guy, Paul Finebaum.
It seems like a non-topic to me. I see it like this, if Tebow is cleared to play by his doctor and the school's medical team, he plays, right? Any questions, he sits. Finebaum, an accomplished table-setter for his radio sports soap opera, is setting the stage for the crucifying of Urban Meyer, if he plays Tebow and Tebow somehow gets injured. The real shame is Finebaum's core listeners aren't savvy enough to realize he plays them like a fiddle! His every waking moment seems tied into feeding his talk show. I am somewhat amazed by his ability to sucker in a few of those who sound like otherwise intelligent folks.
Is this a national controversy?

[Dreamscape]

Son of a B...UVA won. Al Groh is never gonna get canned if we win more than 4 games. Crossing my fingers that this past week was a fluke.
The local sports memorabilia store as "Groh Must Go" shirts, which I thought was rather funny.

[Middle Man]

The local sports memorabilia store as "Groh Must Go" shirts, which I thought was rather funny.

The sooner the better. Getting London out of Richmond will be good for JMU.

I'm heading up to JMU Fri and Sat, Dream. I'm not too hopeful about the UR game, needless to say. Damn, things blew up for the Dukes in a snap of the fingers. Concussions, rotating QBs, switching guys from D to O, starting freshmen. Geez.

[Dreamscape]

I don't get the rotating QB's. Justin Thorpe is a one-dimensional player right now.

[luvdembravos]

CFB observations from today:

Auburn's defense can't be taken seriously.

Texas is way overrated at #2.

Penn State should be ashamed of themselves for scheduling so many cup cakes. 4 of their 5 wins have been against Akron, Syracuse, Temple and E. Illinois...it's the middle of October and you're playing E. Illinois :rolleyes:

[Wahoo]

CFB observations from today:

Auburn's defense can't be taken seriously.

Texas is way overrated at #2.

Penn State should be ashamed of themselves for scheduling so many cup cakes. 4 of their 5 wins have been against Akron, Syracuse, Temple and E. Illinois...it's the middle of October and you're playing E. Illinois :rolleyes:

Agree with everything. Penn State = Notre Dame of the Big 10. They play no one and still get the press.

Side note: Ugh, UVA won again. Dammit, same thing happened last year. Groh does just enough to keep his job and I'm getting sick of it.

[Dreamscape]

Agree with everything. Penn State = Notre Dame of the Big 10. They play no one and still get the press.
Penn State doesn't get the press the Irish does and their schedule is much easier. So...ha!

[Wahoo]

Penn State doesn't get the press the Irish does and their schedule is much easier. So...ha!

I could probably like Notre Dame a lot more if it weren't for Charlie Weis. In fact, I never hated them until he took over. He's an asshat. I'd probably say Clausen may deserve some Heisman recognition, but he just hasn't beaten anyone (not entirely his fault).

[Dreamscape]

I have been very impressed with Clausen, though I think he fell in love with the idea that he could just chuck the ball down the field and Michael Floyd would jump over a defensive back and grab it. The guy has a great arm and superb pocket presence. Within time, he should be able to make quicker decisions.

This is the first time since Brady Quinn I have felt the Irish might be able to run with the Trojans. Defensively, there is a lot of speed and potential. I'm not sure the coaches are doing a good enough job with the players they have, but the talent is there. Offensively, if Armando Allen is healthy and Robert Hughes can be the bruiser, they can try to take some of the pressure off Clausen.

Not saying the Irish will win, but right now, I think they can play with the Trojans. The thing about the schedule and all these close games is last year's squad never won those games anyway.

I'll put it like this...if Golden Tate has a big game...the Irish have a great shot of winning.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Big road win for the Crimson Tide at Ole Miss! The Rebels played a great game but weren't a match for the Bama "D." Coach Saban actually mixed in some new looks and a couple of trick plays to give everyone more to work on as the season progresses. Ole Miss did a great job of pressuring QB McElroy, but he maintained control of the team and got the ball to the right people enough to win.
Looks like the pollsters agreed with the assessment of Texas....Bama's #2 behind the Gators!
ROLL TIDE!!!!!!

[Hillbilly]

Who are these guys and what did they do with the real Razorbacks defense? Holding the highly touted Auburn offense to 23 points is a victory in itself for this bunch.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Arkansas did what others didn't....they controlled the ball enough to keep their defense fresh and they flat wore out Auburn's. Arkansas isn't that far from being a really solid team. Auburn? I'm not an expert but frankly, they look on the smallish side to me. They almost looked like little kids on the field with some of the hosses Arkansas has. I don't see that getting better as the SEC season rolls on for Auburn. They have some great athletes, just not enough. Being small and lacking depth doesn't add up to many wins in the league. If Chizik can hold them together through a tough year or two, they may be right back in the thick of things. Petrino and his staff made adjustments and his team came out looking for blood and took the day.

[luvdembravos]

Hey, Army beat a SEC team last weekend. :)

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Hey, it's a wartime victory, man! Army's supposed to be better when the nation's at war!

[Dreamscape]

Well, the Irish had their chances. I still wonder what the game would have looked like had Weis not wussed out and instead, put the ball in Clausen's hands on 3rd and 4th and short's early in the third quarter. The Irish were charging and then, he put the first down on a suspect running attack. I was calling playaction both times, but Weis didn't hear me. Sadly.

On a side note, there is not a QB in the country I'd rather have than Clausen. Even hobbled, he played an incredible game against the USC defense.

The Irish probably fall right out of the poll, but they proved that for once, they could play with the big boys. Now, they have to take care of business and finish strong.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Bama whipped South Carolina, once again relying upon a smothering defense and Mark Ingram. Bama's QB play was weak. McElroy played as if he had a hangover from the Ole Miss game. Some of that was due to a strong defensive attack from SC but dude was off the mark even when he wasn't pressured. McElroy has to get his sheiss together if this team is to reach it's goal. SC played a great game but they too, were limited by QB play. Still, it was a good win!
ROLL TIDE!!!!!!!

[Wahoo]

Well, the Irish had their chances. I still wonder what the game would have looked like had Weis not wussed out and instead, put the ball in Clausen's hands on 3rd and 4th and short's early in the third quarter. The Irish were charging and then, he put the first down on a suspect running attack. I was calling playaction both times, but Weis didn't hear me. Sadly.

On a side note, there is not a QB in the country I'd rather have than Clausen. Even hobbled, he played an incredible game against the USC defense.

The Irish probably fall right out of the poll, but they proved that for once, they could play with the big boys. Now, they have to take care of business and finish strong.

In any other year, I think you'd have a point, but this year's USC team isn't a top caliber team, IMO. Did they provide a valiant effort? Yes. Have they proven they can play with the "big boys"? Not really, considering that USC isn't one of the big boys this year. Of course, it's hard to ascertain who the true big boys are this year.

[Dreamscape]

Maybe the Trojans' offense isn't what it once was, at least not right now, but I think their defense is still one of the fastest, strongest, and best defenses in the country. The Irish did pretty well against that defense. I'll concede that maybe USC isn't a national title favorite at this point, but I don't really feel any team has proven itself to be heads and shoulders above the rest. Maybe Alabama, though I'm not ready to put them up there either. But then, they were the only team in the discussion that didn't have to struggle this past week to get by the competition.

[Wahoo]

Maybe the Trojans' offense isn't what it once was, at least not right now, but I think their defense is still one of the fastest, strongest, and best defenses in the country. The Irish did pretty well against that defense. I'll concede that maybe USC isn't a national title favorite at this point, but I don't really feel any team has proven itself to be heads and shoulders above the rest. Maybe Alabama, though I'm not ready to put them up there either. But then, they were the only team in the discussion that didn't have to struggle this past week to get by the competition.

It's just a shame, because unfortunately we'll never really know how good Notre Dame is until bowl season. They have some talent, but the lack of competition is really hurting the team. Having said that, those refs were making some questionable calls late in that game that was giving ND multiple opportunities to tie that game. It's really hard to like ND with Weis as head coach though.

[Dreamscape]

I'd say the late hit was questionable, but the rest were mental mistakes by the Trojans. I'm becoming much less of a fan of Weis. He recruits very well, but I'm not too happy with the way he coaches. Again, I go back to the first drive of the second half. I felt the Irish could have done some positive things, but he took the ball out of his best player's hands. You can't do that in that type of a game. He seems to clam up, especially in crunch time. That said, the Irish have won a lot of close games this year that they lost last year.

Clearly, the Irish aren't a player for the top ten or even really the top 15, but they are a bubble team that nobody wants to face. Jimmy Clausen just makes them a dangerous squad.

[Dreamscape]

Oklahoma is still ranked at 3-3 in the AP poll.

Seriously, just because you ranked them as a top five team in August doesn't mean you have to keep putting them up in the rankings. Yes, they have three very close loses, but very close doesn't matter unless you win.

[The Rap]

Well the BCC standings just came out today and its Florida at 1, Alabama at 2 with USC at 7. Texas was 3rd.

[Hillbilly]

The Hogs almost pulled off a huge upset in Gainesville. A missed field goal with a little over 4 minutes left proved costly and the Gators squeaked by 23-20 on a FG of their own with 8 seconds left. :thumbsdown: The defense is playing better week by week.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

If you wanted to see some bad calls, you should've been watching Arkansas-Florida, late 4th quarter. The Hogs got jobbed big time on a terrible pass interference call on a ball that wasn't even catchable, then on an unsportsmanlike call just a bit later. The refs should've just placed the ball on the Hogs 1 inch line and ordered Arkansas off the field. The SEC "apologized" for bad calls, Monday. Big Woooo! It had already cost the Hogs, just like it did Georgia last week. They need to get some quality in there and cut ties with the guys who make so many "mistakes." League said some of the calls were "judgement calls" and couldn't be questioned. They are all judgement calls!

[Hillbilly]

If you wanted to see some bad calls, you should've been watching Arkansas-Florida, late 4th quarter. The Hogs got jobbed big time on a terrible pass interference call on a ball that wasn't even catchable, then on an unsportsmanlike call just a bit later. The refs should've just placed the ball on the Hogs 1 inch line and ordered Arkansas off the field. The SEC "apologized" for bad calls, Monday. Big Woooo! It had already cost the Hogs, just like it did Georgia last week. They need to get some quality in there and cut ties with the guys who make so many "mistakes." League said some of the calls were "judgement calls" and couldn't be questioned. They are all judgement calls!


I went hunting at halftime, so I didn't see the end of the game. I haven't seen the pass interference play, but I saw replays of the unsportsmanlike call and it was ri-damned-diculous.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

The Arkansas defender was covering the guy like a second skin, had his head turned to see the ball and got flagged when the ball fell uncatchable 5 or 6 yards away. It was a crock! I heard the crew got suspended for three or four games.....gee....that really helps, huh? Almost as much as it helped when the NCAA admitted their were some personal vendettas involved with the troubles Bama got into.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Bama remained undefeated today despite a terrific effort by Tennessee. UT brought it all to T-Town and left it all on the field in what had to be an agonizing loss. Bama looked like a team just a beat slow and UT was a step quicker after taking last week off in preparation for Bama. Bama rode the leg of Leigh Tiffin to four field goals and the tenacity and never-say-die approach of inspirational Terrance Cody and his two blocked field goals to a 12-10 win. This was a classic defensive battle!
ROLL TIDE!!!!!!!!

[Hobbes]

Sorry we pounded your guys Wahoo. ;)

[Middle Man]

Sorry we pounded your guys Wahoo. ;)

No you're not. :D

And I'm not sure Wahoo is sorry either since he wants Groh out of there yesterday.

[Dreamscape]

Irish get another win, improving to 5-2. Again, it was close and again, the Irish needed late heroics to secure the victory, but after the last couple of years, I will take that with a smile.

They had a debate about what player means the most to his team on ESPN Radio and they seem convinced it was Tim Tebow. I'll contend it's Jimmy Clausen.

[Wahoo]

No you're not. :D

And I'm not sure Wahoo is sorry either since he wants Groh out of there yesterday.


Indeed. Sorry, for the late response, just got in from Cancun last night. Pretty good week, saw my Wahoos lose twice, falling to 3-5 on the season. Groh now needs to win out just to secure a winning season, otherwise he's in jeopardy of putting up a 3rd losing season in the last 4.

Side note: We lost to Duke for the 2nd year in a row. Couple that with a loss to Bill & Mary, and Al Groh has hit the trifecta of losses that HAS to get his ass canned (doesn't it?). Unfortunately, it will probably take another loss to VPI (that would be 8 out of 9) and a losing record before they will even consider it at the end of the year, and even then my money is on him "resigning."

[Middle Man]

Welcome home, Wahoo! You didn't miss much. I've got to think Groh is finally gone after this season. They may be the underdog in all four of their remaining games. I predict a painful end to the season with a loss to the Hokies and no bowl.

Hear any rumors on the next coach? I've assumed that London from UR would be on any short list but someone posted the other day on another sports board that their "source" had said UVa would definitely only consider a "name" coach.

[Wahoo]

Welcome home, Wahoo! You didn't miss much. I've got to think Groh is finally gone after this season. They may be the underdog in all four of their remaining games. I predict a painful end to the season with a loss to the Hokies and no bowl.

Hear any rumors on the next coach? I've assumed that London from UR would be on any short list but someone posted the other day on another sports board that their "source" had said UVa would definitely only consider a "name" coach.

London would be a great candidate, but given that UR is his alma mater and that he's building something good there, I can't see him coming back to us.

Any speculation about a "name" coach is just that: speculation. We want a name coach, but if we weren't willing to buy out Groh until it got this bad, I can't imagine that we are ready fork out the dough needed to get a big name guy. I imagine the next guy will be of the Tony Bennett (our new bball coach) mold as our admin will likely use the desire for the "any change is better" attitude and use that to get a cheaper option and still the ticket revenues revitalized. I don't have a lot of confidence that the next hire will be any better.

[luvdembravos]

What? No Notre Dame update this weekend?

[The Rap]

Maybe because it was too embarrasing?

[Dreamscape]

What? No Notre Dame update this weekend?
That hurt in my heart of hearts.

Well, bye bye Charlie.

[Chris_Moderato]

Go ODU. We won, I think. I don't know.

[Middle Man]

Go ODU. We won, I think. I don't know.

Come on, man. Show some school spirit. You guys are 8-2 after knocking off mighty NC Central.

[Wahoo]

Come on, man. Show some school spirit. You guys are 8-2 after knocking off mighty NC Central.


Wahoos took it on the chin again, but our fanbase is pretty happy it about. Groh is as good as gone. The least he could do is beat VPI on the way out.

[Hobbes]

My Yellow Jackets are having a great season and are even sniffing around BCS territory. I'm quite pleased, even if they are flying a bit too close to the sun.

[luvdembravos]

My Yellow Jackets are having a great season and are even sniffing around BCS territory. I'm quite pleased, even if they are flying a bit too close to the sun.

I said it once and I'll say it again, Paul Johnson is a tremendous football coach and proven winner. He won back-to-back Div I-AA championships at Georgia Southern and he completely turned around Navy's program. :furious: As long as he's with Ga Tech, they'll be good every year. IMO, PJ doesn't get the credit and national notoriety that he deserves. Maybe it's because his system isn't sexy and is too run oriented...but you can't argue with the results.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

LSU gave it their best but it wasn't enough. Bama wins another hard fought SEC match-up and the SEC West as well. Big games from Mark Ingram, the Tide defense and Julio Jones (finally!). Next up the Bulldogs of Mississippi State!

ROLL TIDE!!!!!!!!!

[Dreamscape]

Irish probably were going to lose anyway...but man, the refs killed any hope they had on 4th and Long by overturning the incomplete pass and turning it into a fumble. How can you conclusively overturn a call when the replays show at best Claussen threw the ball forward?

Oh, well.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Bama rolls up State to improve to 10-0. They played like a team challenging for a title. Next up is UT-Chattanooga. No offense, but what are those guys doing on the schedule?
ROLL TIDE!!!!!!!!!!

[The Rap]

Congrats Freddie. I think your boys have a good chance at winning the whole thing.

[FrankEC]

I took my son and oldest daughter to the Purdue/Michigan State game yesterday. We had a great time, and Purdue played really for 3 1/3 quarters. After going up 34 - 23 with 11 mins left, they apparently decided they didn't need to play defense any more. They ended up losing 40 - 37 to go to 4-7 on the season. Thank goodness they're already playing basketball.

[Wahoo]

One word: Money.

[Dreamscape]

Irish fall for the third straight game and a once promising season has been destroyed. While I do feel good UConn finally got a big win after all of they have gone through this year, it's the final nail in the coffin of Weis's career with the Irish. Todd McShay put it best. Charlie's a good recruiter and a good offensive mind, but he is not a leader of men, especially college-age men. The Irish have a wealth of talent, but nothing to show for it.

[The Rap]

Charley will be an Offensive Coordinator for someone in the pros next year IMHO.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Bama rolled up the badly out-manned Mocs from UT-C, 45-0. In what amounted to less than a scrimmage in practice, the Tide ran the ball almost at will and passed the ball just as easily. Javy Arenas established a new SEC mark for career punts returned for TDs with his 7th. It was a 60 yarder and I'm not sure if anyone even touched him. Mark Ingram went for 100 yards, all in the first half and scored a couple of TDs. On his first, he ran through six tacklers then dragged two men into the end zone with him. On the second, he darted through the defense like they were so many traffic cones. Next up is Auburn.
ROLL TIDE!!!!!!!!!!!

[bravos4evr]

hmmmm.....just noticed the Iron Bowl falls on a friday this year..... that just seems like blasphemy to me..... We should be playing Alabama on a saturday night in primetime, not on a friday afternoon!!!!

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Alabama and Auburn have played on Friday before, as well as on Thanksgiving Day. It's all about the money. They play on Friday next season as well.
A fiesty Auburn gave a rather uninspired Bama all it wanted on Friday before losing 26 - 21. While Auburn succeeded in stuffing Mark Ingram's rushing, they didn't stop Greg McElroy. Bama got caught in a whirlwind early in the first quarter, allowing a couple of quick TDs, before settling down to stuff the Auburn offense most of the rest of the way. Florida and the SEC Championship game is next!
ROLL TIDE!!!!!!!!!!!!

[The Rap]

Bama's team is the best they've had in years.

[JanShan12]

Not sure if anyone was watching, or if you care, but my Mizzou Tigers beat Kansas on a last second field goal.

Kansas had the ball with just over 2 minutes and could have ran out the clock with a few running plays and a first down, but the elected to throw the ball incomplete instead, so the clock never moved. Thank you, Kansas!

[The Rap]

I saw the replay of that and you can thank them over and over. What idiots!

[Wahoo]

Well that didn't last long. After an embarassing effort against the Douchies of Virginia Tech, UVA has officially kicked Al Groh to the curb. Groh finished off his tenure with a 3-9 season, and losing seasons in 3 out of his last 4 years. Can't get any worse, right?

[Dreamscape]

Well that didn't last long. After an embarassing effort against the Douchies of Virginia Tech, UVA has officially kicked Al Groh to the curb. Groh finished off his tenure with a 3-9 season, and losing seasons in 3 out of his last 4 years. Can't get any worse, right?
UVA has to climb themselves out of a pretty bad hole. They are losing badly on the bulk of good Virginia prospects. They are headed to Tech, North Carolina, and Maryland. They are also losing out on some good depth players because they are going to JMU, Richmond, Hampton, and William and Mary to be starters. Oh...and VCU.

[Middle Man]

... Oh...and VCU.

ODU? I think Chris is very insulted.

[FrankEC]

According to the front page of ESPN.com, Charlie Weiss has been fired as Notre Dame's head coach.

[Dreamscape]

ODU? I think Chris is very insulted.
True story...I get the two mixed up so often it's ridiculous.

[Dreamscape]

According to the front page of ESPN.com, Charlie Weiss has been fired as Notre Dame's head coach.
A move that had to be made. My thoughts on Weis are as such. He will make a great offensive coordinator in the NFL next year, but he's not a college head coach. He may actually be a head coach in the NFL some day and win some playoff games, but at the college game, he was not a good fit. In college, you need a guy who can wear many hats to be head coach. He has to be a counselor, a motivational speaker/leader, and an X's and O's guy. To put it simply, he needs to be a complete leader of men. In the NFL, guys don't need you to motivate them. The money should do that for them. In college, they need their head coach to lead them. Weis was just not capable of that.

Weis was, unlike Willingham, a good recruiter. Willingham was a good leader. If you could combine the two, you'd have a head coach that could have willed the defense into maybe a few stops. I think if the Irish are to compete next year (which if Clausen and/or Tate leaves, will be complicated), they do need to go out and get a head coach with a proven track record. Brian Kelly is a good target.

[Wahoo]

True. Groh's focus was primarily in the Northeast (thanks to Matt schaub) to the point where in-state prospects have become a second though, which is why many folks are wanting us to take a look at Mike London.

[Wahoo]

True. Groh's focus was primarily in the Northeast (thanks to Matt schaub) to the point where in-state prospects have become a second though, which is why many folks are wanting us to take a look at Mike London.

[Lauren T.]

(I just realized this thread title is misspelled!)

[Dreamscape]

(I just realized this thread title is misspelled!)
Ya know, everyone else had the decency not to mention that.

...meanie.

[Lauren T.]

I assumed it was a typo, not that you're an idiot. :)

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Not sure if anyone was watching, or if you care, but my Mizzou Tigers beat Kansas on a last second field goal.

Kansas had the ball with just over 2 minutes and could have ran out the clock with a few running plays and a first down, but the elected to throw the ball incomplete instead, so the clock never moved. Thank you, Kansas!
I saw a bit of that game. It took me quite a while to figure out it was Missouri. Where'd they get those gawd-awful uniforms? An Oregon yard sale? What's happened to tradition?

[The Rap]

I assumed it was a typo, not that you're an idiot. :)

Yea but he can still be an idiot even if it is a typo. LOL

[luvdembravos]

Wow...Alabama really kicked butt tonight and their offensive line was awesome. Congrats Freddy.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

The Tide played a little "payback is a mutha..." tonight with the Gators. Bama stomped Florida and left "Superman" crying in their wake. Greg McElroy owned those chumps...he showed the world how you win the SEC playing quarterback. He should be a lot of fun to watch as a Senior. Texas is next, but I wouldn't count on them having a lot of extra time thrown their way in the title game. Bama is definitely back!
ROLL TIDE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks to my friends for the congratulations!

[Dreamscape]

Texas tried real hard to lose that game. Colt McCoy nearly screwed his team out of the BCS championship. I would have liked that quite a lot to be honest.

[GeneGarberForPrez]

The thing that was running through my mind during the entire Big 12 Championship Game was, all the TCU kids are probably in a big room right now watching the game together. No doubt cheering wildly for Nebraska, knowing their only chance to compete for a national title is a Texas loss. I can't imagine how they all felt when that kick sneaked inside the left upright. It's a cryin' shame they, as well as Cincinnati and Boise State will be left out of the mix through no fault of their own.

[Wahoo]

The good: Overzealous Tim Teabag isn't going to make the title game or win the Heisman.

The bad: Good teams like TCU and Cincy (and Boise I suppose) don't even get a chance at a title after going undefeated. I hope they pit TCU and Cincy, but they won't do that, because the winner of that game could conceivably have a legit claim at national champion.

[Hobbes]

Well after a late-season hiccup against in-state rival Georgia, my Jackets beat Clemson to win the ACC and finish 11-2, earning a trip to the Orange Bowl. That's a great season from Georgia Tech. :thumbsup:

[Lauren T.]

Georgia was playing nasty, Hobbes. I'm glad Tech is going to the Orange Bowl -- my brother's in his last year at GT and is talking about roadtripping to the game!

[Hobbes]

my brother's in his last year at GT and is talking about roadtripping to the game!
He should. A bunch of us road-tripped down to the Citrus Bowl in 1990 when we won our national title. It was a blast. We had great seats and poured onto the field after the game. I still have a piece of the turf.

[JanShan12]

The good: Overzealous Tim Teabag isn't going to make the title game or win the Heisman.

The bad: Good teams like TCU and Cincy (and Boise I suppose) don't even get a chance at a title after going undefeated. I hope they pit TCU and Cincy, but they won't do that, because the winner of that game could conceivably have a legit claim at national champion.

I couldn't agree more about either statement, Wahoo.

It was so nice to see Tebow crying after the game. He annoys me more than anyone in college football.

Congrats to Alabama. They deserved the SEC after the way their defense played on Saturday.

[Wahoo]

I couldn't agree more about either statement, Wahoo.

It was so nice to see Tebow crying after the game. He annoys me more than anyone in college football.

Congrats to Alabama. They deserved the SEC after the way their defense played on Saturday.


I feel bad, and I blame it on the media, but I can only take so much of one player, and my threshold for Tebow coverage expired back in October.


Note: UVa hired a new coach. Mike London, from U of R. He coached their national title team, and prior to that was the d-coordinator in Hooville. I like him. He's an ex-cop that is a native Virginian and has great ties to the Tidewater region (he grew up in the area). Very likable fellow, which is a tremendous improvement over the prior coach. Finally, I have something to be excited about for our football program.

[Dreamscape]

Well, Jimmy Clausen and Golden Tate announced they were leaving Notre Dame. I expected the first because he will be a high first-rounder, but I figured Tate would try to increase his value. He's going to have a lot of people to convince, but he can carve out a niche as a Steve Smith-like player.

Notre Dame could be a running program next year, though Dayne Crist was the top pro-style QB in his recruiting class and will likely be able to take over in the spring. If the Irish can find a coach who can bring all the talent on defense together, this team may not be explosive, but a good squad who can compete without having to score 35 points to win.

[ScooterBrave]

The good: Overzealous Tim Teabag isn't going to make the title game or win the Heisman.

The bad: Good teams like TCU and Cincy (and Boise I suppose) don't even get a chance at a title after going undefeated. I hope they pit TCU and Cincy, but they won't do that, because the winner of that game could conceivably have a legit claim at national champion.

Well, Cincy is about to face a real defense and you will see why they shouldn't get a chance at the NC. Bama played a GREAT game against Florida and Tebow played well, but other Florida players didn't step up like they should have. I take nothing away from Alabama, despite my deep dislike of Nick Saban.

[Wahoo]

Well, Cincy is about to face a real defense and you will see why they shouldn't get a chance at the NC. Bama played a GREAT game against Florida and Tebow played well, but other Florida players didn't step up like they should have. I take nothing away from Alabama, despite my deep dislike of Nick Saban.


And what about TCU? I think TCU would win that game and I know they will beat Boise. I honestly think you can make the case that TCU is just as good as Texas, if not better.

[The Rap]

Dream, which Steve Smith are you referring to?

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Hey Scooter! Why the deep dislike for Saban?

[Wahoo]

I can see it. He's a douche, but a great football coach.


Edit: Not unlike Urban Meyer.

[luvdembravos]

There was a nice, informative article on the CAA in this morning's Washington Post. Link (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/12/10/AR2009121003871.html)

Looks like JMU is very serious about the future of their football program.

[ScooterBrave]

Hey Scooter! Why the deep dislike for Saban?

I think he is typical of a growing trend of sports figures who have thrown their honesty and veracity out the window for "the next big thing". He screwed LSU to go to Miami and then screwed Miami big time to go to Alabama.

[Middle Man]

There was a nice, informative article on the CAA in this morning's Washington Post. Link (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/12/10/AR2009121003871.html)

Looks like JMU is very serious about the future of their football program.

Yep, just a matter of time before they move on to something else. They're expanding the stadium from about 15,000 to 25,000 right now and have long range plans to go to around 40,000, I think.

JMU Stadium expansion (http://www.jmusports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=365149&SPID=45221&DB_OEM_ID=14400&ATCLID=204784379)

[Dreamscape]

Yep, just a matter of time before they move on to something else. They're expanding the stadium from about 15,000 to 25,000 right now and have long range plans to go to around 40,000, I think.

JMU Stadium expansion (http://www.jmusports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=365149&SPID=45221&DB_OEM_ID=14400&ATCLID=204784379)
Holy crap, I haven't paid attention to the expansion in awhile. Pretty amazing what that stadium is coming to. I was there when they added the new Athletic Performance Center, which is a great building and you got to love the huge Duke Dog in front of it.

The program is definitely on the rise and could follow UConn's rise from Atlantic Ten (now CAA) to I-A football. I could see JMU slot into a minor conference because their natural conference would be the ACC and I don't know if the ACC would want a transitioning program.

[The Rap]

Right now the Army-Navy game is the fouc of many. I used to watch it all the time when I was younger. Maybe I will take a gander once again.

[luvdembravos]

Right now the Army-Navy game is the fouc of many. I used to watch it all the time when I was younger. Maybe I will take a gander once again.

Oh well, we lost again. This was a good rivalry until Paul Johnson showed up at Navy and turned that program around. Hopefully, Army will improve and I think they will with their new head coach who needs a few years to get the type of players he needs to run the triple option. Ellerson knows what he is doing and he's the right man for West Point.

But I appreciate all of the kids on the Army, AF and Navy football teams. They entered the academies while the nation was at war. They have guts and I respect that... and it's great when a team with future military officers with no chance to enter the NFL beat teams like Notre Dame.

[The Rap]

So true and that is why it always drew me to watch them. True courage on display. Do you remember Joe Bellino of yesteryear?

[The Rap]

This is who I was talking about. In the '60 season I doubt there has been a more exciting white running back. LOL Anyway hats off to a true patriot and hero!

Joe Bellino, at 5'9" and 181 pounds, in Navy's 1960 season (9-1), gained 834 yards, over half his team's total of 1,650 yards. He competed five of 14 passes, two for touchdowns, caught 15 passes for 264 yards and three touchdowns. His quick-kicks averaged 47.1 yards and he returned 5 punts for 97 yards and 11 kickoffs for 240 yards. He was Navy's chief scorer in 1960 with 18 touchdowns. He was drafted by the AFL's Boston Patriots and played for three seasons. In 1968, he was drafted by the NFL's Cincinnati Bengals, but preferred to retire from football rather than move his family. For the past thirty years, Joe has worked in the automobile industry, specializing in the wholesale auto auction and consumer leasing business. Presently Joe is Director of National Accounts for ADESA Boston, a subsidiary of Allete Corporation (formerly Minnesota Power). Joe is also Director of the Northern Bank and Trust Company and is active in many charities in the New England area. Bellino served over 28 years in the U.S. Navy and the Naval Reserve and holds the rank of Captain, USNR (Ret.). Joe and his wife Ann have two children, Therese and John.

Joe was elected to the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame in 1977.

[luvdembravos]

So true and that is why it always drew me to watch them. True courage on display. Do you remember Joe Bellino of yesteryear?

LOL, you make me feel young. I was 3 years old when Bellino won the Heisman. :)

[Freddy_Ballgame]

I think he is typical of a growing trend of sports figures who have thrown their honesty and veracity out the window for "the next big thing". He screwed LSU to go to Miami and then screwed Miami big time to go to Alabama.

Actually, he didn't screw Miami at all. He was given permission to leave the Dolphins by Wayne Huizenga, their owner. Both felt that Saban's approach wasn't as successful on the pro level, and they agreed he'd be happier back on the college scene. It helps when the owner is your friend, huh? Contrary to the media storm following Saban, he actually did take a pay cut to go to Alabama. I offer no defense for his dishonesty or the appearance of dishonesty in his dealings with the press. I'd still like to see a legitimate timeline on some of those press conferences to see if Saban's defense of some of his statements was accurate. At any rate, it has worked out great for the Sabans and Bama. I guess including a coach in the arena of liars we all share is something I can learn to deal with. Perhaps if he had included a bit of ethics in his "process" he would've handled those difficult questions better. I would've loved to have seen him run out a "No Comment," blast!

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Oh yeah, in the closest balloting ever, Bama's Mark Ingram won the 2009 Heisman Trophy. The sophomore running back put up some great stats and carried the team for stretches. He gets more yardage after initial contact than anyone I recall. Ingram is Alabama's first Heisman winner. Congrats, and ROLL TIDE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[The Rap]

LOL, you make me feel young. I was 3 years old when Bellino won the Heisman. :)

That makes me have a decade on you buddy.

[ScooterBrave]

Oh yeah, in the closest balloting ever, Bama's Mark Ingram won the 2009 Heisman Trophy. The sophomore running back put up some great stats and carried the team for stretches. He gets more yardage after initial contact than anyone I recall. Ingram is Alabama's first Heisman winner. Congrats, and ROLL TIDE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And Ingram DESERVED that Heisman.

[Dreamscape]

Actually, Suh deserved the Heisman, but a group largely consisting of offensive players won't vote for a defensive player.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Suh didn't deserve it any more than any of the others. His big game against Texas is what really put him in the top five. The guy's a force on defense but so was Rolando McClain. The truth is as long as they do their damage without the ball in their mitts, they won't be getting a lot of run for the Heisman.

[Dreamscape]

I disagree. Suh was the most dominating player in football. Granted, it was hardly a big year for individual performance, but Ingram easily was not in the top two. He won because nobody watched Stanford and people don't want to vote for defensive players.

[luvdembravos]

I neither care that Ingram won the Heisman nor do I think that this year’s crop of Heisman candidates were anything special. But I do think they need to collect all votes prior to Thanksgiving so that one big game in front a national audience during championship week doesn’t unduly influence the voters. That's not a level playing field.

[The Rap]

I think Suh is going to be the biggest catch of this year's upcoming draft. Problem is that the lowest teams is St. Louis which needs a QB really badly.

[Wahoo]

Sadly, the 'Skins could really use him. Too bad they forked out that massive contract to Haynesworth. I mean they could have really saved the money, and still been in position to get the pick necessary to take him.

[The Rap]

My bad because it is TB that is already getting ready to roll out the red carpet for him. Lot of talk already going around asking if it is all hype. They criticize his over use of the top half of his body. Well I think if you have it then use it.:banghead:

[bravos4evr]

I disagree. Suh was the most dominating player in football. Granted, it was hardly a big year for individual performance, but Ingram easily was not in the top two. He won because nobody watched Stanford and people don't want to vote for defensive players.

exactly!!!!! Gerhart led every running back category in ncaa and lost to another running back! It makes absolutely no sense to me AT ALL! Oh and Suh is a beast, he's gonna win the most important award anyway, number on overall draft pick and the payday that comes with it.

[JanShan12]

The Rams currently would have the #1 pick and lots of talk on the radio today about how they should and probably would go after Suh. They could save their 2nd round pick for a quarterback since there will be so many available or trade up for another 1st round pick to grab a quarterback. I don't think you pass on a guy like Suh when this year's quarterbacks might be plentiful, but none really stand out as a sure thing.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

I guess those picking the Heisman saw Ingram carry the Tide for a large portion of the year, while sharing carries with other backs. They said a guy doing that for an undefeated team carries more weight than a guy amassing stats against weaker defenses and staying in games padding his numbers for a team with losses. I heard this explanation from a few Heisman voters today on the radio. Most said they felt Colt McCoy deserved to finish second behind Ingram.
As for Suh, he is a monster. Where do your pundits project McClain, should he come out this year? Most teams can use a 6'5" 250 lb. Backer who can cover the field sideline to sideline!

[The Rap]

Scary thought; Some teams are considering Suh as a middle linebacker who roams the field.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Middle linebacker requires a lot more than size and speed. He's essentially the signal caller on defense, calling the play and alignment for the defense. McClain's been doing this for 2 or 3 years.
The night of the big game is here! I'm getting fired up waiting for the kickoff. I like Bama and their physical style of play on both lines and their ability to run the ball and prevent Texas from running it. I'm thinking it's Bama 27 and Texas 13.
ROLL TIDE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[luvdembravos]

I just hope it's a good game tonight ..most of the bowl games I've watched so far have been disappointing. So boring.

If the Tide wins tonight, I bet there will be many folks in Alabama calling in sick tomorrow.

[Dreamscape]

As if Texas needed any more going against them. Refs let Alabama get away with two pass interference calls in three plays and then give them a borderline call going against Texas.

Grabbing the face mask won't help.

[Dreamscape]

Whoa, what a second half this freshman is having.

[Dreamscape]

Whoa, what a second half this freshman is having.
Probably shouldn't have said anything, Dreamscape.

[The Rap]

A special congratulations to Fred who must be overcome with joy as his home team just won the National Championship. After watching the game I would love to have numerous guys on Alabama's Defense to play for the Jets or Giants. One can dream right?

[Freddy_Ballgame]

I'm elated! Whatever any Texas fans may be feeling about any calls, GET OVER IT! I've been waiting all my life to win against Texas, no matter how many times we did it! This win helps. "Made it Ma! top o' the world!"
ROLL TIDE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 14-0, Undisputed National Champs!

[luvdembravos]

Congratulations Freddy...Alabama had a great season.

[Dreamscape]

Undisputed National Champs!
Well...about that...

[luvdembravos]

After seeing the bowl game performances of Cincinnati, Boise State and TCU, I'd have to say the BCS got it right this year by having Alabama and Texas play for the national championship. Those other undefeated teams weren't very impressive and none could've defeated Alabama IMO.

[Dreamscape]

Maybe, maybe not. But until we actually know, all that was decided yesterday was the BCS Championship, not a National Championship. Until the system is fixed, that's unfortunate. Not to take away from Alabama, who had a great year, but as long as there a system in place where more than one team can end the year undefeated, it's majorly flawed.

[The Rap]

Flawed or not it is the system presently used to determine who is number 1 and it is obviously Alabama this year.

[Dreamscape]

Flawed or not it is the system presently used to determine who is number 1 in the BCS rankings and it is obviously Alabama this year.
Fixed.

[The Rap]

Fixed in your mind but go ask the man on the street who follows college football.

[bravos4evr]

I stll dont see why they don't have an 8 team playoff usingthe bcs bowl games asvenues. You could have a rotating final round between them all and it wouldonly be 7 games total..... never happen though

[Freddy_Ballgame]

As Michael stated, it is the system we have now. Bama had to make their way back from years of decline and they did it. I'm not a huge fan of the present set-up primarily because of the way teams are regarded at the start of the season. When the first BCS poll comes out, it is almost impossible for teams to scale to the top without scads of teams having to lose. The top five as well as the rest of the teams, are selected by people who are proven wrong every year, many times from one week to the next. Getting past any unbeaten team ahead of you is nearly impossible for many teams, and that isn't fair. I admit my biases, but given our present system and the number of polls that awarded Bama their top spot and trophies today, I figure we're pretty much undisputed national champs and deservedly so!
I do like the systems used to rank teams considering their schedule toughness, same for their opponents and the big games they play in and out of conference. The weakest piece seems to be allowing so many biased fellows to put their faves in choice positions. I have no real idea on how to overcome that.

[Dreamscape]

It's unfortunate that Colt went down. Before that injury, it may be tough to remember that Bama looked tight and playing a football game full of mental blunders.

But as Freddy pointed toward, if you aren't ranked high to start the year, you are up the preverbal creek. It remains a big problem. I think they should do away with rankings for the first month anyway. How can you actually know how a team will play before they actually have?

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Bama did start slow, but they've done that before. It was too bad McCoy got injured, maybe things would've gone differently. It's also too bad that Mark Ingram suffered through cramps and missed a great deal of action. Sometimes games just go that way.

[The Rap]

Well said. Another way of looking at it is let a supporter of another team try to make a better case for being number 1 as opposed to Alabama. Any fair judge would award the Bama boys the champiuonship.

[Dreamscape]

You realize that by that argument, you are basically saying that anyone who disagrees with you is not a fair judge?

I fully admit Alabama is number one in the BCS. Number one in college football, on the other hand, they will not have a chance to prove. The way the system is currently laid out is like a great taco. Sure, it's delicious, but it leaves you unfulfilled. Alabama isn't the undisputed champion. They are the BCS Champion. A great accomplishment and worthy of being proudful and boastful, but in my mind, a playoff is needed before anybody is labeled an undisputed champion.

[Hobbes]

Fair enough, but by that measure there has never been a national champion ever.

[Dreamscape]

Fair enough, but by that measure there has never been a national champion ever.
Has there? Used to be decided by voters. I guess the BCS is better than that, but still, not all the way there.

[The Rap]

I donlt agree because the system is definitely imperfect but it is the only system we have so until there is a change Alabama is the best.

[bravos4evr]

Has there? Used to be decided by voters. I guess the BCS is better than that, but still, not all the way there.

i know that there used to be like 6 polls so many times there were two or three teams claiming to be natl champs... Up until the mid 60's I think....

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Mostly the polls were done by a panel of "experts" for various sponsors. I believe the ones generally considered most reputable were the old UPI poll, which was supposedly voted on by football coaches, but most likely by someone on the staff who had time to look at other games, usually the sports info director (aka Coaches Poll), and the Associated Press Poll, compiled by sportswriters. These were active probably from the late 50's through the 70's, I believe, when the coaches poll went away with UPI. (United Press International) Several seasons ended with split polls because some years UPI voted before the bowls and AP after, sometimes they just disagreed! Both of these polls, while often complained about, were generally accepted as legitimate championships.

[The Rap]

Very sad. For Dream mostly.

ND top recruit Matt James, A 6-foot-6, 291-pound offensive tackle, fell from a hotel balcony and died in Fla. James was named USA Today first-team All-American after leading Cincinnati's St. Xavier to a No. 4 ranking in the final state poll. The father of fellow Notre Dame recruit and St. Xavier quarterback Luke Massa told the Cincinnati Enquirer that the teammates were on vacation together. "Luke is devastated," Gary Massa told the newspaper. "He lost one of his best friends." James chose Notre Dame over Ohio State, committing on Feb. 3 during national signing day.

[JaTide]

Very sad. For Dream mostly.

ND top recruit Matt James, A 6-foot-6, 291-pound offensive tackle, fell from a hotel balcony and died in Fla. James was named USA Today first-team All-American after leading Cincinnati's St. Xavier to a No. 4 ranking in the final state poll. The father of fellow Notre Dame recruit and St. Xavier quarterback Luke Massa told the Cincinnati Enquirer that the teammates were on vacation together. "Luke is devastated," Gary Massa told the newspaper. "He lost one of his best friends." James chose Notre Dame over Ohio State, committing on Feb. 3 during national signing day.


Very sad.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Seems like this happens every year now. Some kid gets plastered and figures he's so cool he can slip around outside of the balcony railings instead of using doors or elevators. These are needless tragedies....less booze and more brains would curb most of this stuff. I partied for years at the beach and never had the urge to go balcony hoppin'. Dmn shame for his family.

[bravos4evr]

I'm excited as hell for Jan 10th!!!! Let's hope Cam can lead Auburn (and the SEC) for their first Nat'l championship in the BCS era and the 5th in a row for the SEC!!!!

[The Rap]

I like Cam a lot but is he the best QB for next year's NFL Draft?

[bravos4evr]

I don't expect Cam to be in the top 20 honestly.... maybe a good QB coach can focus his obvious talent to become an NFL pocket passer.... but I'm not so sure... he's an athlete, and athlete QB's don't really have the best record in the NFL.... If I was a coach,I'd draft him in the first round and make him a bad ass tight end....

IMO, the highest draft value players on the team are Nick Fairley and the Auburn O line..... those guys are gooooood.

[The Rap]

True but I think the performance of Michael Vick will lend itself to place Cam much higher in teams' eyes.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

I would look for Cam to go PDQ. All the nay-sayers on the national scene haven't been watching enough. They describe some cross between Vince Young and Tebow, simply based on his stature. Trust me, Newton is easily better than either. He's not a big guy who just runs when things close in, he's a big guy, a hell of an athlete and a QB who can think on his feet and make plays out of nothing. He also is a much better passer than either Tebow or Young. He has a cannon arm and smarts. He's no QB wanna-be. I look for some smart GM to grab this guy very early in the first round and get busy establishing his franchise QB. He is that good. The people doubting it just haven't been watching. He's the next NFL QB prototype.
Yes. I am a Bama fan. I'm also a realist.
(Hear this Cleveland? Miami?)

[bravos4evr]

I'm just not sold on his ability to read defenses because he faced teams focused on stopping him running first. In the NFL he will see schemes designed to stop the passing game and I'm not 100% that he's got the skillset of the Manning's,Brees's and brady's of the world to do that... Those guys check down to the 4th option in like less than 3 seconds! Thats what it takes to be a long term franchise QB in the league...

But maybe he does, guess we will find out!

[The Rap]

Well in that case you have to make a judgement now about Cam's ability to grow and learn. Fred what is PDQ?

[The Rap]

Pretty Damn Quick?

[Freddy_Ballgame]

That's it, Michael.
Nick, few guys with one season of major college ball are great at reading defenses. Heck, few established QBs are in Peyton Manning's class! I believe, based on watching how much Newton has learned in such a complex offense, having worked under 3 different OCs that he will be able to grasp the nuances of the NFL game. He'll still have that great running ability to fall back on! Besides, on the rare occasions I saw defenses appear to stymie him, they weren't able to bring him down before he broke out for a nice run, dumped the ball to an open man or simply tossed one into the bench to avoid a possible (but unlikely) sack! I believe he's the real deal.
Of course, I could be wrong....

[Andy G.]

That's it, Michael.
Nick, few guys with one season of major college ball are great at reading defenses. Heck, few established QBs are in Peyton Manning's class! I believe, based on watching how much Newton has learned in such a complex offense, having worked under 3 different OCs that he will be able to grasp the nuances of the NFL game. He'll still have that great running ability to fall back on! Besides, on the rare occasions I saw defenses appear to stymie him, they weren't able to bring him down before he broke out for a nice run, dumped the ball to an open man or simply tossed one into the bench to avoid a possible (but unlikely) sack! I believe he's the real deal.
Of course, I could be wrong....
Well, that offense isn't complex, and it's nowhere near pro-style, which is why bravos doubts his ability to play QB in the NFL.

None of us have any idea how well he'll be able to lead an offense in the NFL, reading defenses, going through progressions, etc.... But that's the entire point. I can't see a team drafting him in the first half of round #1 unless he absolutely blows them away in the interview portion of the Scouting Combine. Honestly, I don't think he'll do that, either. He's not exactly the most stand up guy in the world, as we've seen with his off-field issues and honestly just by the way he carries himself. He acts like a thug. Some GM might take him early, but in my opinion that would be a huge mistake, just like the Titans taking Vince Young was a mistake and the Broncos taking Tebow last year will prove to be a massive mistake as well. I would like to think that NFL general managers know better than to waste a great pick on him, but I won't be surprised if some sucker does just that.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Ahhh, but who will be the sucker if Cam turns out to be an elite QB? Look, I'm not even a fan of his and don't care where it goes. He's not a dick like that Russell bust at Oakland and he has much better skills than Tebow or Young. Whether you consider Malzahn's offense to be complex or not doesn't matter. There was an awful lot for him to learn and he picked it up pretty quickly. As for his less-than-sparkling character, some of the greatest QBs of all time were hell-raisers, whore-hoppers and drunks. That shouldn't be an issue. Heck, he's pretty much a pro QB now, to hear things around the state of Alabama!

[The Rap]

I think Cam will eventually be an All-Pro while Tebow will be carrying the charts understudying someone else.

[Hillbilly]

A wild Sugar Bowl leaves the Razorbacks limping home, from too many self-inflicted shots to the foot. Wow, did we ever beat ourselves. Not the refs. Not the NCAA. Not the coaching. It was poor tackling and pathetic recieving. We're so much better than that, it's not even funny. I wasn't so sure before the game, but today I'm convinced that the Hogs are better than OSU. If only I didn't have to look at the scoreboard. :banghead:

[Wahoo]

A wild Sugar Bowl leaves the Razorbacks limping home, from too many self-inflicted shots to the foot. Wow, did we ever beat ourselves. Not the refs. Not the NCAA. Not the coaching. It was poor tackling and pathetic recieving. We're so much better than that, it's not even funny. I wasn't so sure before the game, but today I'm convinced that the Hogs are better than OSU. If only I didn't have to look at the scoreboard. :banghead:

I watched the second half of that game and I was pulling for the razorbacks but man Mallet looked awful on the run. Good in the pocket, but horrible on the run. And as good as Prior played last night there is no way will be an NFL QB.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

I think I know what those Buckeyes did with the dough they made selling their stuff.....they bought off the Razorback receivers!

[bravos4evr]

Andrew Luck has foolishly decided to return to Stanford rather than play for the Panthers..... All kidding aside, this is a dumb move. With the upcoming labor agreement the major talk is a rookie pay scale limiting the bonuses and cash given to players who have yet to play an NFL down.... He's may cost himself $50million bucks by not going into the NFL this year..... Whomever is advising him should be ****canned....

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Since his coach decided to bolt for the bucks the Niners offered, Luck may reconsider. On one hand, the very unlikely shot at the BCS title, on the other, being the number one pick in the NFL draft. Hmm, dung shoveller or lottery winner, how is that a hard decision? :headscratch:
:D

[Agent-X-]

E A S T E R N

Eastern Eagles Go Fight Win

NATIONAL CHAMPIONS!!

[bravos4evr]

Well it's 15 hrs til the Natl Champ game and I'm already nervous...... Finally getting the chance to watch Auburn play in the big game.....

I damn sure hope we win, Oregon fans are friggin annoying....

[Agent-X-]

Well it's 15 hrs til the Natl Champ game and I'm already nervous...... Finally getting the chance to watch Auburn play in the big game.....

I damn sure hope we win, Oregon fans are friggin annoying....

Try living next to them...

Although, I will be rooting for Oregon. It's been a very good past few days for the Northwest. :D

[bravos4evr]

I think oregon is going to have a hard time stopping our defensive line and also have trouble with our Offensive line (who outweighs their D-Line by an avg of 45 lbs a man!!)

Plus we have Cam !

[The Rap]

Auburn 35 Oregon 21 my prediction (and real hope)

[bravos4evr]

We did it!!!! I can't believe it!!! War Damn Eagle!!! What a game............... Maybe the best of all time ????? It's gotta be close!

[Dreamscape]

Course, in five years, when they finally rule Newton inelligible, strip his Heisman and the national title, it'll make people wonder why they didn't do anything about it to begin with.

[luvdembravos]

Somewhere is a prison in the southeast, Radiowryn must be "squealing" with joy today ;)

[Hobbes]

Somewhere is a prison in the southeast, Radiowryn must be "squealing" with joy today ;)

:laugh:

[Lauren T.]

Nice. :D

[bravos4evr]

Course, in five years, when they finally rule Newton inelligible, strip his Heisman and the national title, it'll make people wonder why they didn't do anything about it to begin with.
wow

[Wahoo]

Somewhere is a prison in the southeast, Radiowryn must be "squealing" with joy today ;)

Indeed. Good pull.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Congrats to all you AU fans out there. Too bad Oregon....maybe next time!

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Sad, but when I think about Radiowryn being in stir instead of gleefully rolling Toomer's Corners with TP I pause......then I think of Radiowryn being rolled "Oz-style" and figure payback is a bitch! What a sad path that dude chose.....

[Wahoo]

Sorry Hobbes. Today was payback for 1990.

I'll say your coach is a pompous ass (no wonder Groh fits in so well there) and your quarterback sucks (not that our QB is worth anything either).

[luvdembravos]

I'll say your coach is a pompous ass (no wonder Groh fits in so well there) and your quarterback sucks (not that our QB is worth anything either).

Good for UVA! I dislike Paul Johnson with a passion but must admit the dude can coach and wins everywhere he goes. Pompous a$$ is too nice of a description for PJ.

[Wahoo]

Good for UVA! I dislike Paul Johnson with a passion but must admit the dude can coach and wins everywhere he goes. Pompous a$$ is too nice of a description for PJ.

And Mike London is the polar opposite. Nice guy. Very engaging. He actually told the students mid-week to storm the field if we won..and then got on TV afterwards and got a lil recruiting plug in. So much better than his predecessor.

[Dreamscape]

Does it bother anyone else that we are stuck with Boring SEC Defensive Struggle Part Two as the BCS Title Game? Or that douchey Saban can rank the Oklahoma State Cowboys fourth when at the very worst, they should be third (actually, should be second)? Hell, only 24 of 60 coaches ranked Clemson over Virginia Tech, a team they whipped soundly TWICE!

God, I am so sick of the BCS. And the idea that the college football regular season is so magical that it acts like a four month playoff is completely out the window now that Alabama is playing for the national title to a team it already lost to, at home. Who did Alabama beat? A Penn State team that beat no one? An Arkansas team who can't play any defense? But all you hear is how Albama's defense is so tough. When you're facing North Texas, Georgia Southern, Kent State, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Vanderbilt, you probably should look like you have a tough defense.

Oklahoma State had one bad game. And I'm not even saying Alabama might not be better than Oklahoma State, nor are the Cowboys better than LSU. But at least we could have a shot to find out.

I think one of the guys on ESPN Radio had it right...no sport needs a lockout MORE than college football. What a joke.

[bravos4evr]

I totally agree. OSU earned that spot with their trouncing of OK.... It's a travesty, a sham and its all about money.... The original LSU- bama game was like watching paint dry, with subtitles.... meh meh double meh

[The Rap]

I donlt really care because it is almost like the entire sport is fixed. The fact that they have not adopted a fair playoff structure to deteremine championships makes the whole thing more similar to professional wrestling

[Freddy_Ballgame]

OSU blew that shot by losing to Iowa State. Alabama played great defense all year, ask LSU. Most of those whining act like Alabama ranked themselves number 2, instead of those doing the ranking. Seems like those complaining the most have a true hatred of Alabama. I kinda believe if the situation were reversed, if Bama had beaten LSU and ended up in a rematch for the title, most would do everything possible to justify the rematch! Here's how it works, the BCS pits the number one and two teams in a game for the BCS national title. If Bama wins, they will be the 2011 BCS National Champs. I'm good with that! ROLL TIDE!

[Dreamscape]

OSU blew that shot by losing to Iowa State. Alabama played great defense all year, ask LSU. Most of those whining act like Alabama ranked themselves number 2, instead of those doing the ranking. Seems like those complaining the most have a true hatred of Alabama. I kinda believe if the situation were reversed, if Bama had beaten LSU and ended up in a rematch for the title, most would do everything possible to justify the rematch! Here's how it works, the BCS pits the number one and two teams in a game for the BCS national title. If Bama wins, they will be the 2011 BCS National Champs. I'm good with that! ROLL TIDE!
Why do fans of teams that typically are in the hunt for the national title year in and year out act like victims whenever their place in said title game is questioned? "True hatred of Alabama?" Try a true hatred of the BCS and this weak system to try to define the national champions.

[bravos4evr]

Why do fans of teams that typically are in the hunt for the national title year in and year out act like victims whenever their place in said title game is questioned? "True hatred of Alabama?" Try a true hatred of the BCS and this weak system to try to define the national champions.

The only time it works is when there are 2 undefeated teams. EVERY OTHER TIME it's just a big mess.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

So what if it is a mess? The way the world is today, if a team actually went through a season undefeated and won a playoff before being proclaimed national champs, there would still be those who have to argue about it. I think that's become more important than who claims the title! It would still be about comparing schedule toughness, conference strength and the same ol' same ol'. Fussin' about "the system" will always be bigger than the outcome the system produces. Our society has become just that negative!

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Why do fans of teams that typically are in the hunt for the national title year in and year out act like victims whenever their place in said title game is questioned? "True hatred of Alabama?" Try a true hatred of the BCS and this weak system to try to define the national champions.

Perhaps because the relentless whining from those who aren't fans victimizes those who are! Why do you have such a compulsion to name the national champions? If that's all you have to fret about, you have it made! Somehow, I've lasted this long without losing a whole lot of sleep over it. I love college football as much and more than most. I'm an Alabama fan. We've had our moments and we've had our moments dashed by incredibly stupid jumps in the standings and bias. (See 1966/ Notre Dame v. Michigan State) There are some titles we won that didn't stand the test of time and there are others we should have won but weren't awarded. That's life! I guess I just never understood the compulsion over something so insignificant in the big scheme of things.
:headscratch:

[Andy G.]

I hate the system, but if we're having it forced upon us, then the best case scenario is for them to at least put the two best teams in the National Championship game. They seem to have done that. It might be boring, it might not be cool to have to watch a rematch of a game we've already seen, but at least it's the two best teams. At least, in my opinion, it's the two best teams. But yeah, anyway, the system sucks.

By the way, Freddy, when I saw that this thread had new posts in it, my first thought was to come in here and give you kudos for being right about Cam Newton. I was one of those guys that said he'd stink in the NFL. You brought it up on the Braves Board before I could say something, though, so now I look like a weeny.

[Dreamscape]

Perhaps because the relentless whining from those who aren't fans victimizes those who are! Why do you have such a compulsion to name the national champions? If that's all you have to fret about, you have it made! Somehow, I've lasted this long without losing a whole lot of sleep over it. I love college football as much and more than most. I'm an Alabama fan. We've had our moments and we've had our moments dashed by incredibly stupid jumps in the standings and bias. (See 1966/ Notre Dame v. Michigan State) There are some titles we won that didn't stand the test of time and there are others we should have won but weren't awarded. That's life! I guess I just never understood the compulsion over something so insignificant in the big scheme of things.
:headscratch:
You act like this forces some sense of displeasure that keeps me from living my everyday life. The BCS title game as about as much impact on me as the fact that The Dark Knight wasn't even nominated for Best Picture.

The BCS is broke, though. I'd like a change. I'd like there to be a BCS Title game worth seeing. I've seen Bama/LSU...it was a boring contest of watching a kicker fail miserably over and over again. I'd like to see Oklahoma State's high-powered offense against LSU's shutdown defense. I'd also like to see that because both teams won their conferences.

It's not a big deal. But as it is, no national champs this year.

[Andy G.]

You act like this forces some sense of displeasure that keeps me from living my everyday life. The BCS title game as about as much impact on me as the fact that The Dark Knight wasn't even nominated for Best Picture.

The BCS is broke, though. I'd like a change. I'd like there to be a BCS Title game worth seeing. I've seen Bama/LSU...it was a boring contest of watching a kicker fail miserably over and over again. I'd like to see Oklahoma State's high-powered offense against LSU's shutdown defense. I'd also like to see that because both teams won their conferences.

It's not a big deal. But as it is, no national champs this year.
Did you see the trailer for The Dark Knight Rises? It's gonna be epic.

[bravos4evr]

Yep I saw it Andy , it does look great! But what I'm really interested in seeing is Ridley Scott's return to the Alien universe Prometheus.

[Andy G.]

Yep I saw it Andy , it does look great! But what I'm really interested in seeing is Ridley Scott's return to the Alien universe Prometheus.
Oh yes, absolutely. I was practically irritated the first time I saw the trailer for Prometheus. I just can't wait to see it.

[The Rap]

I am 64 years old and will be long gone before they change the system to a playoff that will ascertain the true champion in the country. If enough research was done you would probably find that the system in place now generates so much money that they refuse to change. I have believed that the NCAA has way too much power for decades already but no one seems to have the guts to stand up to them.

[Freddy_Ballgame]

Hey! There is a BCS National Champ this year! 2011 champs - ALABAMA! (Determined by the existing system) The AP named them National Champs as well. Apparently, the absolute beatdown Bama administered to #1 LSU convinced them, and most of the nation.
ROLL TIDE! (Got 14?)