NCAA Gridiron Gab

10 Observations/Thoughts:

BREAKING News: The Match-up between LSU-Troy In Baton Rouge, Louisiana This Saturday Nite has been Postponed. Tiger Stadium has been damaged by Hurricane Gustav.

Rescheduled Date: Saturday November 15th (LSU’s Bye Week). LSU Will have an extra week to prepare for North Texas this Saturady Nite – September 13.

1. ‘BAMA Is BACK – Bear Bryant would’ve been proud! The Crimson Tide (jumps from #24 to #13) rolled all over a team that was hyped up way too much by the preseason poll committee/voters (Clemson, falls from #9 to out of Top 25) because of their dynamic duo at RB. Little did the pollsters know – Tigers’ OL was a major question mark, and as it still is and always will stand to be – to be a rushing team you need a solid offensive line to run behind (unless you are Barry Sanders). Also to go along with that idea/theme – the rave reviews on Clemson QB Cullen Harper and how he’s being projected as a top pick in the ‘09 Draft and possibly the best QB in Nation, could be stretching it a bit too far – don’t you think?

2. Alabama’s domination was more surprising than Clemson’s colossal letdown. I was shocked as can be – Alabama’s goal line defense was the worst in CFB History, last season in 17 goal-to-goal situations they gave up an astounding 17 touchdowns! I was not as shocked as can be: All of Alabama’s games last season were decided by 7 points or less! The headlines should be about Alabama as a legitimate SEC contender. They were the most impressive team in Week 1by far, with East Carolina and Florida following ‘em. I rather hear the experts talk about Bama as a threat in the SEC than how bad the ACC is and how Clemson was clearly outplayed and humiliated.

3. Think about it – the 1-2 punch of C.J. Spiller (Speed) and James Davis (Power) were held in check for just 20 yards combined on only 8 carries! Net Rushing Totals: BAMA – 239 Clemson – 0. Don’t compare the combo to the Auburn tandem of Cadillac Williams and Ronnie Brown just yet. The ‘Tide also ran 32 more plays (80-48) and controlled the T.O.P. battle 41:12 to 15:09! It’ll be interesting to see how these teams do from here on out – I believe it’ll be a tougher road for Bama to keep it going, especially in the SEC. Let’ sure hope All-SEC Jacobs Award winning left tackle Andre Smith is alright. Smith left the game in the 3rd quarter with a knee injury which appears to be minor and not serious, according to Coach Nick Saban.

4. I love the idea of ranked teams playing in neutral locations to kickoff the season. It prepares the teams for the Bowl games. You find out who the real teams are when you see who can win away from home and who cannot. Another thing I liked over the extended Labor Day weekend: having a chance to hear the best fight song (Tennessee) played at the best stadium (Rose Bowl).

5. Jim Harbaugh’s Stanford Cardinal has an exciting bunch to watch. But while watching the end of that game (Stan/Oregon St) I found out how much I dislike the call when a fumble goes into the end zone and out of bounds – they should obviously get rid of it or modify the rule. Maybe have the team who coughed up the rock be penalized and go back to the opponent’s 20-yard line. I want to see a change, the offensive team needs to keep the ball in this situation. Off Topic: Fresno State looks like a team that can make some noise – I expect ‘em to beat Wisconsin at home in two weeks.

6. Georgia Tech and new head coach Paul Johnson’s (Navy) triple-option is a great offense to run and watch. I just wonder how the Yellow Jackets will fare when they run the triple-option down the road against the likes of: Georgia, Miami, Florida State, and Virginia Tech – think: faster defenses. If it works, expect more teams to give it a test run or at least use an installed trial version against weaker competition.

7. I did not see Bowling Green traveling to Pittsburgh to upset the ranked Panthers and Hesiman hopeful RB LeSean McCoy. Though I did call East Carolina over V-Tech! Reverse “Beamer Ball” – what a thing of beauty! Can they go for 2 in a row over ranked teams at home, against the 8th ranked West Virginia Mountaineers? If so, Skip Holtz’s Pirates have a shot to go into Charlottesville October 11th to complete the “Virginia Triangle”!

8. Why are Florida & USC the best teams in the Country? They have the most talent, speed, and depth, to along with the most skill, quality and versatility at the skill positions. And oh yeah, I forgot to mention another reason why – the head coaches – Urban Meyer and Pete Carroll. USC’s QB Mark Sanchez looks good after hurting his knee. Good distribution of the ball with 7 different players getting into the end zone. Tebow & friends put up 56 points in less than two quarters without Percy Harvin! Who do I like more – Gators because of the unstoppable Tebow/Harvin duo.

9. If Kellen Lewis played at a major BCS school he would be a household name and a Hesiman candidate. He might even be better than the Fighting Illini’s Isaiah “Juice” Williams, who by the way, looked excellent throwing the football – that makes him a much better, well-rounded QB – so watch out. Lewis or Williams? I’d have to go with Lewis. Speaking of the Illini, they gave up 52 points to one of the elite offenses in the nation. Regardless, I still like their chances to be the biggest challengers to Ohio State in the Big-Ten. As for Mizzou, Jeremy Maclin has my vote for the player I would pay to see the most. He’s a mix between Ted Ginn/Devin Hester. Also, Chase Daniel looked good as usual – how can stop the 5 WR spread?

10. In case you missed the Louisville/Kentucky game and are waiting to watch it on TIVO – don’t bother! Especially if you are a fan of the ‘Ville. Which loss was more enjoyable and laughable to watch: Texas A & M losing at home to Arkansas State or Michigan losing to Utah? I’d have to go with Michigan because the Aggies are expected to be mediocre every year it seem like, while Rich Rodriguez’s Wolverines on the hand, have a higher level of expectations – or at least they used to. Plus, this is the second year in a row UM has lost in the Big House. Which loss was more humiliating? Texas A & M. Which team is going to have the worst year? Texas A & M. On the flip side, who had the bigger win for their program – ECU or BG? East Carolina.

10 Questions/Comments:

1. How did Tennessee lose to UCLA?!? Why did standout senior RB Arian Foster only get the ball 13 times?!? I mean, he had a ypc avg. of 7.4 and though he fumbled in the red zone, a play which proved to be the turning point, he still is the best playmaker on offense for ‘em. If Foster gets the ball more, Tennessee wins. Why did the Volunteers elect to pass on going the route of controlling the clock (running the football) to instead go the route of passing the ball 41 times with inexperienced QB Jonathan Crompton under center? Phillip Fulmer was clearly outcoached by Rick Neuheisel. Why didn’t the Vols’ defense go after UCLA’s freshman QB Kevin Craft in the 2nd half after he threw for 4 picks in the 1st? If I am a Tennessee fan, I would be extremely frustrated, upset, and steaming from the ears disappointed. That Foster fumble changed the complexity of the entire game – I’m thinking if Tennessee scores they’ll win the game by at least 2-3 scores. UT did not represent the SEC well at all.

2. Why did Arkansas let go of Houston Nutt for the quitter Bobby Petrino? The “Wild Rebel” was in full effect for Ole Miss against Memphis! Circle October 25th on your calendars for Mississippi at Arkansas.

3. How about having Michigan State and Wisconsin combine teams, forming one squad together – how would that work out? I’m sick of MSU every year putting out a team that plays no defense. Then you have same-old boring Wisconsin, playing the old-fashioned run the ball (passed a total of 10 times), stop the run game. Wisconsin Spartans? Michigan State Badgers?

4. Is it just me or does LSU have a better team than last year? Besides the inexperience at QB, it could be an improved squad overall. A repeat chance for the National Title is not out of this world like some thought it would be. 2 Freshmen names you will be hearing soon or during big games in October/November: QB Jordan Jefferson/WR Tim Molton. If LSU gets those two incorporated into the game plan – Florida and Georgia could have themselves a big-time contender on their hands. LSU also has to find RB Keiland Williams (#5) some time in the backfield with Charles Scott.

5. Florida/Miami Speedfest 2008! Gators play the Hurricanes in the ‘Swamp Saturday Nite! Fla gets back Harvin and Spikes – will the “U” be ready? Will this be a close contest? When will it turn in to a blowout?

6. A Steve Spurrier-led team that’s known for its defense? When will the aerial attack show up? South Carolina plays Georgia in two weeks, we’ll find out if they are for real. Don’t sleep on Vandy game though – on the road.

7. Why does it seem like Auburn is always the least-talked about SEC powerhouse? Every year they get unappreciated. When will they get the respect? Hosed in ‘04 after going undefeated not playing in the NC game, now being ranked behind WVU at #9 in the AP – they are going to keep getting unnoticed and will keep winning.

8. Who says Nebraska can’t play D? They only gave up 24 to the Broncos of Western Michigan.

9. Why do I have this feeling that OU will look like the best team in the land and then lay another egg against a team they should beat by 20 or at Oklahoma State in the final game? Talent-wise they are right there with Fla & USC.

10. I wonder if South Florida is going to be the next small school to keep an eye on as a consistent perennial BCS bowl contender team like their arch rival Big East foes in Morgantown?

My Top 10:

1. Florida Gators (AP: 5) Next Big Game: @ Tennessee – Sept 20

2. USC Trojans (AP: 1) Next Big Game vs. Ohio State – Sept 13

3. LSU Tigers (AP: 7) Next Big Game @ Auburn – Sept 20

4. Alabama Crimson Tide (AP: 13) Next Big Game @ Georgia – Sept 27

5. Mizzou Tigers (AP: 6) Next Big Game @ Texas – Oct 18

6. Georgia Bulldogs (AP: 2) Next Big Game @ South Carolina – Sept 13

7. Ohio State Buckeyes (AP: 3) Next Big Game @ USC – Sept 13

8. Oklahoma Sooners (AP: 4) Next Big Game vs. Texas – Oct 11

9. Auburn Tigers (AP: 9) Next Big Game vs. LSU – Sept 20

10. West Virigina Mountaineers (AP: Eighth) Next Big Game @ ECU Sept 6

Keep an Eye on: 1. Fresno State 2. East Carolina 3. Cal

Best 0-1 teams: 1. Tennessee 2. Pittsburgh 3. Illini

Heisman Fave 5 List:

1. Tim Tebow, QB Florida – Make no bones about it, he is the frontrunner because he won it last season and he’s the best dual-threat at QB.

2. Chase Daniel, QB Mizzou – Having all-world speedster Jeremy Maclin helps. 5-WR Spread is a great offense to play in.

3. Mark Sanchez, QB USC – Surrounded by talent, played with a swagger against Va. Looks very mobile and has a strong cannon for an arm.

4. Pat White, QB WVA – Loaded with opportunites to put up points on a weekly basis in such an excellent offensive system. Getting to be better passer and still has the legs factor.

5. Knowshon Moreno, RB GA – 8 rushes for 3 TD’s – enough said. Touchdown-making machine who will live in the end zone because he has the breakaway speed and necessary strength to find his way through.

Darkhorses: 1. Jeremy Maclin, WR Mizzou 2. Kellen Lewis, QB Indiana 3. Joe McKnight, RB USC

Fresh Injury Updates:

1. Chris Wells: Did not practice, still has on protective boot – foot injury. Brand NEW: Wells is officially OUT for Ohio this Saturday.

First inclination was a foot problem – now it’s believed to be a toe injury (not turf toe).  Though I keep hearing it being considered a foot injury, then described as a toe, and more back and forth talk.  Wells’ mother and Tressel both expect him to play vs. USC (Columbus Dispatch Reports). Status: Tressel has played it coy so far. I say Wells sits out vs. Ohio so he can rest and heal for USC game- without a doubt he will more than likely suit up for the L.A. showdown in the Coliseum.  If they want to beat USC they need him to be as close to full strength as possible. If he played just a quarter against the Bobcats – how it would benefit him? Though, it would be an encouraging sign.

OSU needs the Heisman candidate and potential Top-5 NFL pick to stay healthy in order to get back to the NC, as he’s been banged up throughout his collegiate career with foot/ankle injuries. I believe this injury will plague him for entire ‘08 campaign.

2. Jeremy Maclin/Will Moore: Maclin is probable, while Moore is doubtful for next game vs. SE Mis St. Which means injury to Maclin is not as serious as it looked because this would be the game to rest him. Why not sit Maclin out? Status: Maclin – sprained left ankle, Moore – sprained foot. Other news: WR Danario Alexander expected to make debut next weekfromfoot injury.

3. Percy Harvin/Brandon Spikes: Both Harvin (recovering from heel surgery) and Spikes (right foot) are getting ready to put on the gear for Miami. WR Harvin/LB Spikes are leaders who are almost 100 % locks to suit up Saturday nite in the ‘Swamp. Status: Harvin – Should play up until midway 3rd quarter at the very most. Spikes – Should play the 1st half and that’s it. Florida has enough players prepared to replace ‘em – no risks here.

4. Jeff Owens: Georgia loses second linemen for the year. Owens’ loss is big, though his replacement filled in admirably (Sr. Corvey Irvin). Status: The 6-foot 3, 300 pound senior is out for the year with a torn ACL.

5. Andre Smith: All-SEC left tackle Andre Smith went down with a sprained knee in the 3rd quarter of Alabama’s 34-10 triumph over Clemson. Status: Smith’s injury is not considered serious, expect him to play it safe and sit out game vs. Tulane.

Week 2 Preview/Picks:

1. QB’s Run Crazy, Close Defensive Battle: EAST CAROLINA Over West Virgina – Must-See game with lots of intrigue, defensive speed, and scrambling from the QB’s. Could be an instant ESPN Classic. Holtz vs. Stewart. Pinkney vs. White. Defense vs. Offense. Underdog vs. Underdog Turned-Powerhouse. What a match-up!

2. LOCK of the Week – Offensive Firepower, Mismatch, Shootout: FLORIDA Over Miami (FL) – Gators will have there way with ‘Canes in the Swamp with all those track-star speedsters at the skilled positions. Look for Florida to allow the “U” to stay close early up into the 2nd quarter, then they will erupt for close to 60 points for a second consecutive week. WR Percy Harvin and LB Brandon Spikes will give the team a major boost. Over/Under plays over 40+ yards? It’s 7 – take the over!

3. Upset of the Week – Overtime game with 100+ points: NEVADA Over Texas Tech: Red Raiders are on the road against a potent Wolfpack offense led by QB Colin Kaepernick. Harrell and Crabtree will have to go score for score against a tough Nevada squad that ran for 426 yards on the ground to go with 7 touchdowns. This game could go on forever.

4. Don’t Look Ahead, Prove your Legitimacy & Ranking – SOUTH CAROLINA Over Vanderbilt: Classic situation where Spurrier’s gang may overlook the Commodores to big showdown at home against the Bulldogs of Georgia. I believe South Carolina will overwhelm Vandy defensively and win by 15+. Gamecocks will learn from last year’s collapse during 2nd half of season to put game away early, as they come out strong, clicking on all cylinders.

5. SEC Takes Care of ACC: OLE MISS Over Wake Forest: I look for Houston Nutt’s Wild Rebels to run their way to a victory over the Deacs. WF is not a Top 25 team and Ole Miss should get some AP votes after this win. I expect Mississippi to win despite having to go on the road – this could be a statement game in turning around the program at Oxford.