College Football

[CMJ]

Season started this weekend. So what are your early impressions?

[Jedi Master Carr]

Notre Dame barely survived. They did look much better in the second half, especially the defense. Although Georgia Tech has a better defense than I thought they did. California is no title contender, getting killed by Tennessee. Other than that it is hard to tell. Next week I think will be a better judge with Ohio State playing Texas.

[Ryan Pode]

I know it was probably just on local TV here, but Hampton U and Grambling St. played into OT where Hampton won on a blocked extra point kick. Too bad my school blew it.

[Sanis Prent]

Bama did about as well as I expected. I expected us to win against Hawaii, but by a small margin, because that's what we do :\ We never soundly beat anybody, nor are we soundly beaten.

Then again, our team is young, and I expect us to have a hard-knocks season in order to battle harden our crew. Our O-line is young and small. We need to improve here.

John Parker Wilson did well, and I'm glad for him. Still not tested against an aggressive defense and secondary, but if he builds on this he could be solid.

Best statistic though is that the Warriors net rushing for the game was 2.1 yards. Yes I know this is Hawaii we're talking about, but that is still pretty cool.

All in all, I'm satisfied with the performance. We need to shore up our game plan and learn to play four quarters of football, but if we do that we can win ball games.

The flipside? Everybody in the SEC looks like a brick house with few exceptions. It's going to be one hell of a crucible this year.

[CMJ]

My alma mater got blown out, but I did see some glimmers of hope. I think we'll have much better season than last year's 2-9 travesty.

[Nathanial K'cansce]

I watched the Oklahoma/UAB game last night, and if it hadn't been for a wrong call and too many stupid penelties, UAB should have at least sent that game into OT. UAB had some sparks of good football play, but in the second half they just couldn't convert on third down.

Ok's running back is a flippin' monster.

[Jedieb]

USF wins! USF wins! :crack
Texas obviously cheated. They're a disgrace to all that's good and pure about college football. They should be ashamed of themselves.

[Sanis Prent]

I watched the Oklahoma/UAB game last night, and if it hadn't been for a wrong call and too many stupid penelties, UAB should have at least sent that game into OT. UAB had some sparks of good football play, but in the second half they just couldn't convert on third down.

Ok's running back is a flippin' monster.

UAB's grand strategy is to play teams that are at least 3 times as good as they are on paper, in an attempt to lose valiantly against them.

They embarassed LSU one year, and they've played a lot of good teams close. I figure in another few years they'll actually field a squad that can play the big teams consistently.

[CMJ]

USF wins! USF wins! :crack
Texas obviously cheated. They're a disgrace to all that's good and pure about college football. They should be ashamed of themselves.

UT is a disgrace period, and should be beaten in everything. Screw the Horns.

[Jedi Master Carr]

UT is a disgrace period, and should be beaten in everything. Screw the Horns.
Now tell us how you really feel :p
Seriously, that UT, OSU game should be great.

[Zem Vymes]

I'm not sure how I feel about Cal getting annihilated by Tennessee.

On one hand, I like seeing overrated PAC-10 teams get their comeuppance. On the other, I really really really hate Tennessee.

As for the Notre Dame / Georgia Tech thing, ugh. I hate them both about equally. Was pulling for al Qaeda on that one.

[Terran Starek]

My KSU Wildcats pulled out a wicked (1 point) victory against the might powerhouse Illinois St. (Division AA) so I'm happy. :P I hope my Cats do anything this year, but they probably won't.

I'm watching Miami and FSU right now. Always a good game, even though I hate Florida teams - I've been raised on Big 12. Though, I'm not an OU or Texas fan.

Texas-OSU will be one of the best games of the year. Period. Until teams start peaking and we get into Bowl season, you won't see much better of a game. I'm looking forward to it even though I'm not partial to either team. :)

[Figrin D'an]

There's probably about 20 different teams that have a legit shot at the national title this year. Everyone seems to have a significant weakness or flaw this year. Will makes things very interesting from week to week.

Ohio State/Texas will be a great game next Saturday. I expect it to be tight, and I'll go with the Buckeyes experience on offense to make enough plays to pull it out.

Mark my words... Notre Dame will lose at least twice this season, and there's a good chance they'll go down three or more times. They'll lose to one of their Big Ten opponents, and they'll lose to USC at the end of the year.

Really need to watch out for West Virginia now. With Louisville's star RB out for the season now, the Mountaineers should be the dominant team in the Big East. There's no reason they can't go 13-0 now. In a year when most of the other contenders will likely have a lose on their resumes, a perfect season could overcome their weak schedule strength.

[CMJ]

I agree, WVU is my pick to win the title.

[Terran Starek]

The FSU/Miami (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/columns/story?columnist=maisel_ivan&id=2573725) game was really good. Granted, if you enjoy defensive battles. I saw more hard hits than I can remember seeing in one game for some time.

I agree about WVU. They've chased it for years now and have always just come up short. But, they've got a real good chance at it this year. This guy (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=262450277) will probably be the biggest reason.

[CMJ]

Ohio State defeats Texas, Notre Dame and Auburn look impressive and a few schools(Tennessee, FSU) escape upsets.

And NT beats SMU soundly. :D

[Jedi Master Carr]

Ohio State defeats Texas, Notre Dame and Auburn look impressive and a few schools(Tennessee, FSU) escape upsets.

And NT beats SMU soundly. :D

ND looked a lot better. Auburn is going to be tough too. Right now I say its between those two schools and Ohio State. Although throw LSU into that mix too. I was mad at Clemson, they blew that game with Boston College.

[CMJ]

WVU is gonna be tough. I wouldn't count out SC yet either. It's early and alot of teams can still be heard from that we haven't thought much of yet -especially in the power leagues

[Jedi Master Carr]

WVU is gonna be tough. I wouldn't count out SC yet either. It's early and alot of teams can still be heard from that we haven't thought much of yet -especially in the power leagues

I am not convinved of WVU yet, mainly because they play in such a weak conference. USC I am not sure about, but right now they are below 3 of the teams I mentioned.

[CMJ]

WVU beat Georgia convincingly last year if you recall.

[Jedieb]

USF goes to 2-0, WE'RE COMING BIATCHES, RUN FOR YOUR LIVES! :crack

And everything in Court's universe is in order, NT wins and UT gets spanked by Ohio State. I bet CMJ even pleasured women all over LA this weekend. :thumbup

[CMJ]

And everything in Court's universe is in order, NT wins and UT gets spanked by Ohio State. I bet CMJ even pleasured women all over LA this weekend. :thumbup

Pretty much on all counts. ;)

[Jedi Master Carr]

WVU beat Georgia convincingly last year if you recall.

That was last year, but still I think if they go unbeaten and some combination of OSU, USC, Notre Dame, LSU, Auburn go unbeaten they will be left out. They are hurt by their conference. Of course this is why I favor a playoff system :p

[CMJ]

I think it's likely they will be the only unbeaten school.

[Jedi Master Carr]

I think it's likely they will be the only unbeaten school.

We will see, I really think OSU is going to go unbeaten I think they are that good.

[JMK]

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=2588347

So I wonder who the recipient of USC 1 1/2 national champioships will be? And I wonder who would be declared the Heisman winner if Bush is found guilty?

[CMJ]

SC would keep their shared title. They'd lose the outright one....most likely to Auburn.

[JMK]

Why would they keep their shared title? I figured it would be easiest to knock their name off that list and give it to the other team.

[CMJ]

These allegations start in '04. The shared title was in 2003.

[JMK]

That would be a good reason.

[Jedi Master Carr]

They would have to prove that USC had knowledge of this, if they can't they keep there titles. Now the Heisman is a different matter. I would guess that Vince Young would get it since he came in second.

[CMJ]

You know, the AP might not give their half of the title to another school, since they aren't affiliated with the Coaches Poll or BCS. So SC might stay their National Champions even if all of their games are forfeited. Oklahoma could actually win the '04 title since they played SC in the title game and got whacked. Auburn could get jobbed out of the title twice in the same season.

Yikes!

[Jedi Master Carr]

You know, the AP might not give their half of the title to another school, since they aren't affiliated with the Coaches Poll or BCS. So SC might stay their National Champions even if all of their games are forfeited. Oklahoma could actually win the '04 title since they played SC in the title game and got whacked. Auburn could get jobbed out of the title twice in the same season.

Yikes!

Wouldn't they though have to prove USC knew about this? If Bush did this on his own and the school didn't know they really couldn't be held accountable. Or an they?

[CMJ]

Alot of interesting games so far today.

Michigan pounds Notre Dame.

Auburn outlasts LSU is a slugfest(awesome game).

Louisville whips Miami.

Oregon wins a barn burner against the Sooners(fantastic finish)

[Jedi Master Carr]

And then we have the biggest upset of the day with Clemson beating #9 Florida State in Florida State. They haven't won there in like 15 years. I am very pleased :)

[CMJ]

To finish out the day....

Florida just owns Tennessee.

USC will be scary good by the end of the season.

[Figrin D'an]

Was glad the see the Irish get exposed. They're defense is terrible. Michigan may be improved this season, but still. Notre Dame has followed the trend of overachieving in the first season under a new head coach, then falling flat on their faces in the following seasons. It happened under Bob Davie, it happened with Tyrone Willingham, and it's going to begin to happen to Charlie Weiss. They may still win 9 games this season, but they will fall well short of the national title contender hype that surrounded them in the preseason.

And I have to agree with CMJ... USC could be in the title game again this season with they're remaining schedule giving them time to develop the offense back to what we are used to seeing.

Ohio State is still, though, slightly above everyone else at this point.

[CMJ]

So thoughts from yesterday anyone?

Down to 19 undefeateds. So one loss schools still have alot of hoping to do. ;)

ACC 4-0 Virginia Tech
ACC 4-0 Wake Forest

B10 4-0 Iowa
B10 4-0 Michigan
B10 4-0 Ohio State
B10 4-0 Purdue

B12 4-0 Missouri
B12 4-0 Texas A&M

BEA 4-0 Louisville
BEA 4-0 Rutgers
BEA 4-0 West Virginia

PAC 3-0 Oregon
PAC 3-0 Southern Cailfornia

SEC 4-0 Auburn
SEC 4-0 Florida
SEC 4-0 Georgia

MWC 3-0 TCU
USA 4-0 Houston
WAC 4-0 Boise state

[Figrin D'an]

Top 10 really doesn't change at all, IMO. No huge upsets to shake things up in that regard.

Clemson looks like they could be the best team in the ACC.

Michigan State finds more ways to lose games via late game collapses than any other team.

Georgia should be worried if Colorado can make them look that inept on offense.

[CMJ]

NC State has a huge win, but I still think the Head Coach is on his way out. Alabama needs to work on the kicking game.

Those are the only 2 upsets I can even think of. There were acouple of close calls, but Fig's right - very little changed at the top.

[Jedi Master Carr]

So thoughts from yesterday anyone?

Down to 19 undefeateds. So one loss schools still have alot of hoping to do. ;)

ACC 4-0 Virginia Tech
ACC 4-0 Wake Forest

B10 4-0 Iowa
B10 4-0 Michigan
B10 4-0 Ohio State
B10 4-0 Purdue

B12 4-0 Missouri
B12 4-0 Texas A&M

BEA 4-0 Louisville
BEA 4-0 Rutgers
BEA 4-0 West Virginia

PAC 3-0 Oregon
PAC 3-0 Southern Cailfornia

SEC 4-0 Auburn
SEC 4-0 Florida
SEC 4-0 Georgia

MWC 3-0 TCU
USA 4-0 Houston
WAC 4-0 Boise state

Wake Forest though won't stay unbeaten for long. Clemson will end there unbeaten streak in two weeks. Heck with there second half schedule they willl probably finish 6-5.

Top 10 really doesn't change at all, IMO. No huge upsets to shake things up in that regard.

Clemson looks like they could be the best team in the ACC.

Michigan State finds more ways to lose games via late game collapses than any other team.

Georgia should be worried if Colorado can make them look that inept on offense.
I agree with you, Clemson looks like the best team in the ACC right now. I am not sure if they can win in Blacksburg on a Thursday night though. Still if they can the rest of there games should finish 10-2 and get to the title game. Although I better not get ahead of myself.

[CMJ]

TCU goes down tonight and Auburn just scrapes by.

[Jedi Master Carr]

I know I was shocked to see that. SC isn't that good, I thought for sure Auburn would beat them by at least 14 points.

[Byl Laprovik]

I didn't. I knew it would be a close game and everybody's sold SC short for way too long.

[Jedi Master Carr]

Well it was the fact that they barely beat 1AA Wofford at home. Plus there offense has looked horrible every game but the one against Florida Atlantic. I think Auburn just played down. I just don't Carolina is that good. The best team in SC is Clemson and has been for years, Carolina is a distant second.

[CMJ]

South Carolina did beat Florida and Tennesse last year. They are no easy out.

[Jedi Master Carr]

South Carolina did beat Florida and Tennesse last year. They are no easy out.

Yeah but that was last year. They lost a lot of players from that team. They are the same team, IMO. I actually don't think they have much chance at Clemson this year either. But that is more because they haven't won there in like over 10 years.

[Figrin D'an]

Yeah but that was last year. They lost a lot of players from that team. They are the same team, IMO. I actually don't think they have much chance at Clemson this year either. But that is more because they haven't won there in like over 10 years.


I wouldn't underestimate Steve Spurrier and his ability to playcall a team to victory. He'll ruin someones season yet. He nearly beat one of the best defenses in the nation last night by keeping them off-balance late in the game.

[CMJ]

I think Carr is just letting his alma mater's irrational hatred of their rival get the better of him. ;)

And we're down to 18 undefeateds. I figure I'll count'm down till we get a clearer picture of the Championship contenders.

[Jedi Master Carr]

I think Carr is just letting his alma mater's irrational hatred of their rival get the better of him. ;)

And we're down to 18 undefeateds. I figure I'll count'm down till we get a clearer picture of the Championship contenders.

heh Well that is true, plus I get tired of hearing the local Carolina fans talk about them around here. Still don't think can win in Clemson. Last time Carolina won in Death Valley Clemson only won 4 games.

[CMJ]

Jedieb's South Florida Bulls gave the #23 team in the nation all they could handle tonight. Terrific game.

[Jedi Master Carr]

Only one big upset and that is Georgia Tech beating Va Tech. I am not sure if Va Tech was overrated or if Ga Tech is better than I though, or it could be some combination of the two. Ohio State is going to win. They are going to be tough to beat right now.

[CMJ]

Down to 13 undefeateds. USC had a scare. Florida was pushed for most of the game before putting away bama late. Mizzou looks like the class of the Big XII North. Boise State looks like they may crash the BCS party.

ACC 5-0 Wake Forest

B10 5-0 Michigan
B10 5-0 Ohio State

B12 5-0 Missouri

BEA 4-0 Louisville
BEA 4-0 Rutgers
BEA 4-0 West Virginia

PAC 4-0 Oregon
PAC 4-0 Southern Cailfornia

SEC 5-0 Auburn
SEC 5-0 Florida
SEC 5-0 Georgia

WAC 4-0 Boise State

[Jedi Master Carr]

Wake Forest undefeated season ends next week :) Oh and Georgia is having a lot of trouble with Ole Miss right now.

[CMJ]

There's a few huge games on tap for next Saturday. We'll definitely get some questions answered.

[Jedi Master Carr]

NC State upset Florida State. It looks like Florida State is going to have a bad year.

[CMJ]

Auburn goes down today pretty convincingly to Arkansas. Wake Forest also loses early....

[CMJ]

There were many great games today....

But NORTH TEXAS wins in 7OT for Homecoming. I wish I had been there...or maybe I don't. I almost had a stroke listening online.

[Jedi Master Carr]

First I almost had a fit with Clemson. I was thinking are they going to lose three straight times in Wake Forest. But they had a great comeback. Georgia is another unbeaten going down and Oregon will follow.

[CMJ]

B10 6-0 Michigan
B10 6-0 Ohio State

B12 6-0 Missouri

BEA 5-0 Louisville
BEA 4-0 Rutgers
BEA 5-0 West Virginia

PAC 5-0 Southern Cailfornia

SEC 5-0 Florida

WAC 4-0 Boise State

And then there were nine....

[Jedi Master Carr]

Who would have thought 3 of the nine would come from the Big East?

[CMJ]

Not many people....

[CMJ]

Iowa and Georgia both upset in early games. I'm about to head to the USC game(a SC alumni friend of mine has an extra ticket) so I'll be back with a report later. Let's see if upsets continue thru the day!

[Figrin D'an]

Auburn beats Florida, so the #2 ranking continues to be revolving door.

Adrian Peterson is out for the rest of the regular season, broken collar bone on 4th quarter TD run.

USC hung on against Arizona State, but they sure weren't impressive (yet again). If Cal is ever gonna win the Pac-10, they need to do it this year.

Hard to believe, but the two best teams in the nation right now might be from the same conference (Ohio State and Michigan).

[Jedi Master Carr]

Michigan though barely beat Penn State. I say USC is the unaminous #2 for now, unless they lose. Obviously, somebody will have to lose that OSU-Michagan game so they only other team that could take the 2 spot if USC falls is West Virgina.

[Figrin D'an]

Michigan won on the road, in a hostile environment, against a Penn State team that has played a brutal schedule thus far, yet was really only completely out of one game (Notre Dame). If you watched the game, it wasn't as close as the 17-10 final would indicate... Michigan's defense was dominant, knocking 2 of Penn State's QBs out of the game. The Wolverines also completely dismantled Notre Dame and Wisconsin, both of whom are looking like Top 15 calibur teams.

USC has solid wins over Arkansas and Nebraska. Since then, though, they've struggled against some lower level teams in the Pac-10 (Washington State, Arizona State) and barely beat Washington.

USC may be ranked #2 next week, but that doesn't mean they're the 2nd best team in the nation. Right now, based on what I've observed, Michigan is playing better than USC. Yes, either Ohio State or Michigan will end up with a loss, but right now, they're the best two teams in nation IMO.

[Jedi Master Carr]

Michigan won on the road, in a hostile environment, against a Penn State team that has played a brutal schedule thus far, yet was really only completely out of one game (Notre Dame). If you watched the game, it wasn't as close as the 17-10 final would indicate... Michigan's defense was dominant, knocking 2 of Penn State's QBs out of the game. The Wolverines also completely dismantled Notre Dame and Wisconsin, both of whom are looking like Top 15 calibur teams.

USC has solid wins over Arkansas and Nebraska. Since then, though, they've struggled against some lower level teams in the Pac-10 (Washington State, Arizona State) and barely beat Washington.

USC may be ranked #2 next week, but that doesn't mean they're the 2nd best team in the nation. Right now, based on what I've observed, Michigan is playing better than USC. Yes, either Ohio State or Michigan will end up with a loss, but right now, they're the best two teams in nation IMO.

I understand what you mean. I didn't see the game and didn't understand the situation with Penn State. I figured they had a bad team this year.

[Figrin D'an]

I guess the way I see things unfolding, there will be 2 or 3 undefeated teams at the end of the season... the Ohio State/Michigan winner, the West Virginia/Louisville winner, and (possibly) Boise State. Either the Buckeyes or Wolverines will be #1, but it could get ugly for the #2 spot in the BCS, especially if a team like Texas (which has been playing great since the loss to Ohio State) wins out and were to get a big win in the Big 12 title game against, say, Nebraska. Same could be said for Cal if they run the table, or say if Tenessee, Florida or Auburn were to win out from this point and win the SEC title. Is a one loss team from the SEC, Big 12 or Pac-10 more impressive than an undefeated team from the Big East? Hard to say. Strength of schedule isn't a direct part of the BCS formula anymore, but it does have an affect on the human pollsters, and it could end up being the deciding factor on who gets play in the title game.

[CMJ]

Southern California doesn't look particularly impressive in the style points factor, but this team is impressing me in th ways they find to win. The last few years SC teams played only 2 or 3 close games, and I honestly feel that may be one of the major reasons Texas beat them in the Rose Bowl - they weren't battle hardened. This team - if they continue to come thru like this, will be battle hardened come the National Title game.

It does look like OSU/Michigan will be a playoff game of sorts at this point. I doubt both lose before the season ends. If they do I would have to put the WVU/Lousville winner in the National title game.

Unless Rutgers beats both of'em!

B10 7-0 Michigan
B10 7-0 Ohio State

BEA 6-0 Louisville
BEA 6-0 Rutgers
BEA 6-0 West Virginia

PAC 6-0 Southern Cailfornia

WAC 6-0 Boise State

The magnificent seven.

[Jedi Master Carr]

The BCS is out and here is the top 5
1 OSU
2 USC
3 Michigan
4 Auburn
5 West Virginia
Personally WV is playing an uphill battle. If Auburn wins out they have no chance honestly. And I think either Texas or Florida could sneak back into it if Auburn loses. The polls will be what hurts WV if they don't get in. It is fine with me because it would help spur more talk of a playoff system.

[CMJ]

If West Virginia wins out, they'll leap Auburn as long as Louisville is also undefeated. The winner of that game will get alot of respect from the computers. If Rutgers/Louisville/West Virgina all win out other than playing each other - the team that comes thru will benefit greatly.

Bank it.

[Jedi Master Carr]

I am too cynical I say they won't because of the SEC championship game. I think the BCS is too messed up to get it right as well :p

[CMJ]

I am too cynical I say they won't because of the SEC championship game. I think the BCS is too messed up to get it right as well :p


It depends on who is IN the SEC Title game. If Auburn plays Florida and AU wins...they'll be hurt, because their SOS would go down. If Florida wins they'd benefit. And so on with all the other combos.

[CMJ]

None of the unbeatens lose today. No gigantic upsets either, though Oregon lost. A ton of close calls for highly ranked teams. Oh, I think Rutgers is for real. They should be top 15 now.

[Jedi Master Carr]

Clemson better be top 10 now. That was a dominating pefromance by them. The defense was incredible and Davis and Spiller played amazing. I think Davis could be a future Heisman candidate if he plays like this next year. It sucks they blew that BC game because they could be unbeaten right now.

[CMJ]

I'd like to put Clemson in the top 10. If I was a voter my ballot would probably be...

1. Ohio State
2. USC
3. Michigan
4. West Virginia
5. Auburn
6. Louisville
7. Florida
8. Clemson
9. Texas
10. Arkansas

[Jedi Master Carr]

I think Clemson will pass California at worst. Cal barely beat a mediocre Washington team. They could pass Notre Dame and Tennessee as well, since all of them barely won their games. Clemson was just very impressive.

[CMJ]

Well USC barely beat the same Washington team. Washington is a year away from making noise in the Pac-10.

[Jedi Master Carr]

Well USC barely beat the same Washington team. Washington is a year away from making noise in the Pac-10.

True, but it is enough to let Clemson pass them one spot.

[CMJ]

West Virginia leaps Auburn in the BCS. What'd I tell ya? They haven't even reached the hardest part of their schedule. They're sitting pretty if USC loses to California-Berkely.

[Jedi Master Carr]

Of course I am not sure if it matters Ohio State is probably too good to lose to anybody.

[CMJ]

We've said that in past years about supposed unbeatables.

[CMJ]

VA Tech beats Clemson handily...

[Jedi Master Carr]

Blacksburg is just a tough place to play on a Thursday night. I had a friend tell me this a few weeks ago and it got me worried about this game then. I think Clemson will win out and finish 9-2, but they need BC to lose two games now which will be tough. Clemson might be looking at the Gator Bowl at the moment.

[CMJ]

National title chase became a whole lot more interesting with USC getting upset by Oregon State. WVU/Louisville winner has the inside track, but each of them still has to play Rutgers!

[Jedi Master Carr]

And they have to play Pittsburgh too. WV could beat Louisville and lose to Pitt, since they play the game at Pitt. I wouldn't be shocked to see only one unbeaten left. It could be like the year Tennessee won the National title.

[CMJ]

Well, we still have 6 unbeatens...5 of which are from the BCS conferences.

Michigan
Ohio State
Louisville
Rutgers
West Virginia
Boise State

Rutgers plays Connecticut tommorrow night, so I suppose they could still lose this week. West Virginia/Louisville is on Thursday, the winner of which has to be the favorite to play the OSU/Michigan winner in the National Championship game.

Who says there isn't a playoff? :lol

[Ryan Pode]

USC almost had that comeback. That would have been impressive.

[CMJ]

Oh it definitely would have been. The Trojans are really quite young this year, they could be scary good next season. This was their "rebuilding" season according to their fanbase.

[Jedi Master Carr]

Rutgers and Boise State though have no chance at the NT. If WV and Louisville both lose, then its Ohio State/Michigan and the winner of SEC, IMO.

[CMJ]

Well, if Rutgers wins out they'd jump big time in the polls. I don't think anyone thinks BSU can move up that high. They're just trying to make one of the BCS games, and right now they're projected into the Fiesta.

[Jedi Master Carr]

I think it be tough for Rutgers to jump over the SEC winner. They would need a lot of help to get into the title game.

[CMJ]

Rutgers wins tonight. Now let's say Louiville does win on Thursday(it is at home afterall, so that's gotta be worth something). The very next week they'll travel to New Jersey, which would be an absolute hornets nest.

Granted I think WVU will win on Thursday. But I can't wait for that game. It's like the warm up act for the Michigan/OSU game in a few weeks.

[Jedi Master Carr]

Louisville beats West Virginia. I say Louisville will be #3 now. They do have a tough game vs Rutgers next though.

[CMJ]

Louisville was VERY impressive. I too believe they will be #3. Quite frankly after tonight, they deserve it. But Rutgers is lying in wait. Two titanic Thursday night struggles in back to back weeks. ;)

[Jedi Master Carr]

Yeah it will be. I still think even if Rutgers wins they have no shot at the BCS game. If Louisville wins I think they they put themselves in a great position.

[CMJ]

Rutgers probably has no shot, you're right. Louisville would probably wrap up their spot if they won out, since their remaining schedule is so much stronger and the computers will appreciate that. After Rutgers, they have Pittsburgh. Those 2 games are their season.

Rutgers would probably jump about 5-6 spots if they win next Thursday. So let's say they're #8. They'd probably play a 1 loss, top 12 West Virginia the last week of the season which will also help them. I could see them conceivably getting into the top 5...but not any higher.

[Figrin D'an]

Louisville played a much more physical, hard-hitting game than West Virginia was expecting, and it showed... Slaton and White were both on the sidelines at various points in the game looking like they were beat up.

It's kind of scary to think how good Louisville would be if Michael Bush hadn't gotten hurt.

These next couple of weeks will be a playoff for Louisville. If they win out, I agree that they'll be in the title game, playing the winner of Ohio State/Michigan.

[CMJ]

Alot of great games, mostly close calls though. The only team to lose in the top 10 was Tennesee, and going down to LSU is hardly an upset.

Michigan, Ohio State, and Florida all had pretty stiff tests.

Some pretty good games between ranked teams. Wake is for real...hell they could be undefeated right now. Oklanhoma and Texas A&M played another battle....don't they usually seem to? Other than the one 77-0 blowout in 2003, I think since 2000 practically every game has been a TD or less.

[Ryan Pode]

Maryland is going to be ranked. 7-2, 4-1 in ACC. Although, they play Miami. at BC, and Wake to finish the season.

[CMJ]

Maryland has been a nice surprise this season, no doubt. Tough upcoming schedule though

[Ryan Pode]

Surprise? I knew it was going to happen the whole time.

...

Honest.

[CMJ]

Maybe because you are a homer....:)

But the rest of the country didn't. But the ACC all around has been confounding this season, so you fit in.

[Jedi Master Carr]

The ACC is a mess right now. I don't think they will have a top 15 team in the BCS title game. Clemson's problems is that their QB sucks and teams are realizing that and putting 8-9 in the box.

[CMJ]

If the ACC champ finishes below Boise, they get an automatic bid into the BCS provided they win out.

[Jedi Master Carr]

If the ACC champ finishes below Boise, they get an automatic bid into the BCS provided they win out.

I think there is a great chance of that happening. Unless Georgia Tech wins every game the rest of the way. They are the only team right now that get up that far.

[Ryan Pode]

If Maryland wins out, including beating Georgia Tech in the ACC Championship, they could very well be top 10. Considering they play Miami, 22 BC, and 18 Wake. While Georgia Tech plays UNC, Duke, and Georgia.

[JMK]

Sorry to break up the BCS talk, but what is happening in Miami? What is with the players in that program?

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=2653361


The 22-year-old senior who grew up in Miami was pronounced dead in the parking lot outside his apartment. His death was ruled a homicide, Miami-Dade police spokesman Roy Rutland said.

I don't want to say that he was killed by someone who wanted him dead because we just don't know yet, but the black cloud of violence just won't leave this team alone.

What gives?

[Ryan Pode]

A lot of Miami players are taken from low-income places, bad neighborhoods. If you hear a lot of Ex-Cannes talk, they always speak about how if it weren't for football at Miami, they'd be out on the streets. And for some people, they stay friends with those who they grew up next door to and sadly they become unsavory people (See Ray Lewis).

[JMK]

A lot of Miami players are taken from low-income places, bad neighborhoods. If you hear a lot of Ex-Cannes talk, they always speak about how if it weren't for football at Miami, they'd be out on the streets. And for some people, they stay friends with those who they grew up next door to and sadly they become unsavory people (See Ray Lewis).

Then isn't it up to the coaches to see that the players are straightened out? I mean, isn't that why the kids are *supposed* to go to college? To grow up, and become 'men'? To learn how to be leaders and gain some higher learning?

Or is it a case of a major program just going after the best athletes available in order to field the best team, in order to generate the most revenue via big bowl games?

I'd like to think that there are some still existing ideals in college ball, but it seems like that just isn't the case when millions of dollars in at stake.

Again, I don't want to pass judgement because this poor kid sounds like he was just in the wrong place at the wrong time, but I don't think I'm the only one that thinks 'here we go again' when the U of Miami is involved.

[Ryan Pode]

Miami seems to be recuiting more on talent than on character these days so thats part of the problem. If all the apples are bad..

[JMK]

Great blog on the topic:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15612674/

[CMJ]

Rutgers/Louisville tonight. Yet another undefeated meeting of Big East Schools.

[CMJ]

Rutgers.

Wow.

They better be top 10.

[Figrin D'an]

Rutgers should be in the Top 10 now, I agree. Their defense is incredible. They completely shut down Louisville in the second half. They have Cincinnati, Syracuse and West Virginia left on the schedule. If they can win the next two, that game to close the season in Morgantown will be huge, and will pretty much decide the Big East title, a BCS bowl spot, and could still factor into the national title race.


The question now is... who will move into that coveted #3 spot in the BCS after this weekend? Looks like controversy is in the cards again, because at this point, it's shaping up to be the Michigan/Ohio State winner vs. a 1-loss team from the SEC, Big 12 or Pac-10.

[Jedi Master Carr]

It will be Texas for the moment. The thing is Texas has a very weak schedule the rest of the way and could secure it. I guess Florida could leap frog them if they win the SEC title game, but that is a big if.

[CMJ]

I could see Texas being #3 in the polls, but the computers don't like them much, so I actually see Florida moving up to #3.

[Jedi Master Carr]

When I said that, I didn't realize that Florida was #4 in the BCS. Still, I have a feeling Arkansas is going to win out and beat Florida in the SEC Championship game. I think they have been playing great lately. This does still leave the door open for USC though. I could see them jumping Texas, considering their schedule the last month.

[CMJ]

What a day...

Texas loses...

Auburn gets blasted...

California loses...

Florida BARELY survives...

So....why not Rutgers??

[Jedi Master Carr]

Well Florida should be #3 I think. I guess USC could move up to #3. I think Arkansas belongs in the top 5 myself, but I am not sure if they will rise that far. Man after 1 and 2 its a mess. I think its entirely possible that Michigan/Ohio State loser could remain #2, especially if it is Ohio State. I still don't see Rutgers going to #3. Best case for them is #5. If I had to vote thiis how I see the top 7
1 Ohio State
2 Michigan
3 USC
4 Arkansas
5 Florida
6 Rutgers
7 Notre Dame

[CMJ]

Even in your poll....if Rutgers is 6, they could conceivably move to 4, just by the Florida/Arkansas loser and OSU/Michigan following beneath them.

[Jedi Master Carr]

I don't see the Michigan/OSU dropping that far. I think they will go down to 4th at worse. You know ND is still in this. Not sure if they deserve to be though. Of course they will need Florida to lose. I guess it will depend on how much of a jump Arkansas gets. I think they won't jump that far. Probably how the voters will vote will be like this
1 OSU
2 Michigan
3 Florida
4 USC
5 Notre Dame
6 Arkansas
7 Rutgers

[CMJ]

Who really knows honestly? This weekend was insane, I'm really interested for all the polls and the computers to spew out the new rankings tommorrow.

[Jedi Master Carr]

Yeah, I don't know what the computer rankings will be like. I was more trying to guess the Human polls based on past experience. It could be interesting tomorrow. Still, USC needs to win tonight or that would make it more of a mess.

[CMJ]

I actually think the polls will be more like this based on the Trojans dominating perfomance tonight(so far)....

1. Ohio State
2. Michigan
3. USC
4. Florida
5. Notre Dame
6. Arkansas
7. West Virginia
8. Rutgers
9. Louisville
10. LSU

But the computers and bonus points, plus deductions for no losses will no doubt make Florida #3, Arkansas ahead of ND, Rutgers ahead of WVU and all sorts of other stuff I can't imagine. :lol

[CMJ]

New BCS poll


1. Ohio State
2. Michigan
3. USC
4. Florida
5. Notre Dame
6. Rutgers
7. Arkansas
8. West Virginia
9. Wisconsin
10. Louisville
11. LSU
12. Boise State
13. Texas
14. Auburn
15. California

[Jedi Master Carr]

I think Arkansas isn't as high as it should be though they could jump up if they beat Florida. That USC-Notre Dame game look like it could be huge right now.

[CMJ]

Apparently Rutgers is the second ranked team according to the computers, which is probably why they're 6th right now.

[Jedi Master Carr]

I wonder how the computers determine that. I can't see how Michigan can't be #2.

[CMJ]

Because Ohio State is #3 in the computers. Michigan is #1.

[Figrin D'an]

Here's the real question...

Let's say the following happens (which is entirely conceivable)... Cal beats USC, USC beats Notre Dame, Arkansas loses to LSU, then beats Florida in the SEC title game, Rutgers loses to West Virginia...

Does the national title game then become a rematch of Ohio State/Michigan?

[CMJ]

More than likely. Though in that scenario, I'd be tempted to give West Virginia a crack at it.

Or Boise State. :lol

[CMJ]

Or, perhaps Wake Forest. Talk about a disrespected school....their only loss should've been a victory. Sure Clemson had more talent, but the Deacons outplayed them.

[Ryan Pode]

Wake won't win the ACC.

[CMJ]

Bo Schembechler passes away at 77....

[Figrin D'an]

Bo Schembechler passes away at 77....


And this on the day before Michigan and Ohio State play perhaps their biggest game ever...

[CMJ]

As if Michigan needed more motivation.

[Figrin D'an]

A few minutes from kickoff now of 'The Game'.

I know this game has been hyped to death for weeks now, but, this has feeling of an NFL conference championship game, but with the pageantry of a college football rivalry.

Time to park myself on the couch and enjoy the biggest game of the season.

[Figrin D'an]

I think the game lived up the hype. Don't be fooled by the amount of points scored, I'd still take either one of these defenses against any other opponent.

Ohio State moves on the the BCS title game, Michigan will have to wait to see it's fate, but they are likely headed to the Rose Bowl. However... given that it was a close game, if certain other teams lose before the end of the season, there is chance that Michigan could end up back at #2.

[Jedi Master Carr]

It was a great game. Michigan needs a lot of help at this point for a rematch. I guess we will have to wait and see what happens.

[CMJ]

Indeed, great game.

[Ryan Pode]

It's a shame the voters will knock them out of the top 5, considering they lost to the #1 by 3 points and have beaten #5 ND.

[CMJ]

I doubt Michigan drops below Notre Dame.

[Jedi Master Carr]

It will be close. I doubt the voters would but the computers could for all we know. I think 4 and 5 will be seperated by a few points. ND has to beat USC though to have a chance and they really need USC to win tonight to help any cause they might have.

[CMJ]

And Rutgers goes down to Cincy. The Big East really canabalized each other.

[Jedi Master Carr]

Yeah they did. USC winning makes their ND game huge. If USC wins and then beats UCLA they will defintely be playing OSU. Right now it is there spot to lose. Not sure what happens if ND wins, I guess it will depend then on the SEC championship game.

[CMJ]

I don't think Michigan will drop below 4 tommorrow. I'm expecting the standings to look something like....

1. Ohio State
2. USC
3. Florida
4. Michigan
5. Notre Dame

With Arkansas right there too. I would really like to avoid a rematch if at all possible.

[Figrin D'an]

The computers favor Michigan in this whole mess. They were actually #1 in the computer rankings headed into today. It will come down to how the human polls place them after today. I can't see them dropping below #4 though. If the right teams lose over the next two weeks, they'll be right back at #2.

Despite that... it's clear to me that the the Buckeyes and Wolverines are the best two teams in the country. I'm certainly not going to complain if we get an Ohio State vs. USC or Ohio State vs. Florida/Arkansas matchup in the title game, but I'm honestly hoping for a rematch. Maybe this is my Big Ten bias showing, but if a game deciding the mythical national title is about matching up the best two teams, it has to be Michigan and Ohio State.

[CMJ]

I honestly think USC can play with either Michigan or Ohio State. And the SEC is probably the strongest conference in America, so their Champion would be a worthy #2 as well.

USC has 2 tough games remaining. If they can beat both of their biggest rivals, they deserve to play for the National Championship.

[CMJ]

Michigan #3 in the Coaches poll and #2 in the AP.

[Figrin D'an]

I think the AP is sending a message about their continued disdain for the BCS system.

This is gonna make things really interesting... since the computers are likely to put Michigan no lower than #2, they could end up remaining #2 in the BCS.

[CMJ]

If USC wins out and Arkansas wins out, I think the Trojans would leap frog Michigan because they would have beaten the SEC Champions(and a top 5 school) so convincingly earlier in the season. And they also would have beaten Notre Dame - Michigan's most impressive victory of the season.

Let's say Nebraska wins the Big XII title game. If that happens SC would've beaten the Big XII & SEC Champion - one of those which was on the road. Plus a top 10 Notre Dame.

[CMJ]

USC #2 in the Harris Poll.

[CMJ]

The new BCS has Michigan #2 by .007 - but their season is finished. I still maintain the Trojans will jump them provided they win out.

[Figrin D'an]

More than likely, yes, USC would pass Michigan if they win out.

However, should USC lose... I think the rematch will be on. Florida or Arkansas would have to dominate their final two games to vault either of them to #2.

[CMJ]

More than likely, yes, USC would pass Michigan if they win out.

However, should USC lose... I think the rematch will be on. Florida or Arkansas would have to dominate their final two games to vault either of them to #2.

That is more than likely the case.

[Jedi Master Carr]

I'd Rather not have a rematch, so hopefully, USC wins out.

[CMJ]

I think Troy will pound Notre Dame. The danger game is UCLA. The Bruins are playing better lately, haven't beaten USC in like 7 years, and it's at the Rose Bowl.

[CMJ]

As a native Texan, you may have other schools you go to or follow more. But for A&M vs Texas, you pick one or the other like it's your own alma mater. I hate that school in Austin, so guess who I pick every year?

Varsity's Horns are sawed off.

Short!

A&M 12-7

Gig'm Aggies. :D

[Jedieb]

HOW DO YOU LIKE THE SOUTH FLORIDA BULLS NOW AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :crack

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=263290277

Eat it West Virginia!

[CMJ]

That was a terrific win for USF!

SC beat Notre Dame pretty handily. Arkansas also lost on Friday to LSU, so the potential 1 loss contenders keep dropping like flies.

[Figrin D'an]

It really all comes down to USC/UCLA next weekend. If USC wins, they'll head to Glendale to play Ohio State for the title. If UCLA pulls off the upset, we'll get Michigan/Ohio State Part 2.

[Jedi Master Carr]

Yeah that is how it is shaping up.

[CMJ]

USC soldily #2 in this weeks BCS.

[Figrin D'an]

And USC goes down.

Florida is winning pretty impressively at the moment in the SEC title game. We'll have to see if it's enough to convince the voters to give them a shot at Ohio State, or if Michigan gets it's rematch.

[Rutabaga]

<---- UCLA fan, hates USC with a passion

<---- now doing happy happy joy joy dance

:crack :crack :crack

[CMJ]

I think Troy will pound Notre Dame. The danger game is UCLA. The Bruins are playing better lately, haven't beaten USC in like 7 years, and it's at the Rose Bowl.


Didn't I call it?

I was torn who to root for in the game. I can't say I'm a fan of either LA school, but I have friends who are alums, or follow both. I really didn't wanna see a rematch of OSU/Michigan, but I felt bad for UCLA losing 7 straight in the series.

Great game though!

[Figrin D'an]

Arkansas has come back now, and is starting to take control of the game. Florida once again looks like it's going to fizzle on offense in the second half.


USC couldn't stop the UCLA pass rush at all. They got pressure on Booty all game, and it allowed them to prevent big plays.

[CMJ]

Florida found a way to win again. Now the debate really starts. Michigan will probably get the nod, but the broadcasters sure were stumping for the Gators.

[Jedi Master Carr]

ESPN seems to be pushing for them too, if you go by their page. I think if the two polls pick Florida 2nd they will be there.

[Figrin D'an]

Florida won, but not without a lot of bad mistakes from the Arkansas down the stretch.

One can argue that, overall, Florida had a tougher schedule than Michigan, but Florida also struggled to put teams away in the second half all season, including several games they should have won in blowouts.

I don't think Florida did enough to win over enough voters for them to leap over Michigan. Had Arkansas come into the game with only one loss (ie. had they beaten LSU), the Gators win might have been more impressive.


Here's my predictions:

Fiesta Bowl: Oklahoma vs. Boise State
Orange Bowl: Louisville vs. Wake Forest
Sugar Bowl: Florida vs. Notre Dame
Rose Bowl: USC vs. LSU
National Title Game: Michigan vs. Ohio State

[Jedi Master Carr]

I am hoping that Michigan doesn't get to #2. I really don't want a rematch. If there was a playoff system (which there should be but that is another argument) that would be one thing but in this system, I would rather not see one.

[Figrin D'an]

This is the type of thing that could make the push for a playoff even stronger though.

Imagine, for instance, if my matchup scenario plays out, that Michigan wins the rematch with the Buckeyes (quite possible), and Florida just destroys Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl (very likely). Michigan would be the BCS champ, but what's to stop the AP from giving their title to Florida? Could have a split title, just like USC and LSU had a few years ago.

[jediSamson]

It should be Boise State/ohio st, but..........

[Jedi Master Carr]

This is the type of thing that could make the push for a playoff even stronger though.

Imagine, for instance, if my matchup scenario plays out, that Michigan wins the rematch with the Buckeyes (quite possible), and Florida just destroys Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl (very likely). Michigan would be the BCS champ, but what's to stop the AP from giving their title to Florida? Could have a split title, just like USC and LSU had a few years ago.

That is true, I hadn't thought about that. The opposite is true too if Florida won out. I keep hoping that eventually we get some kind of playoff system. If we get enough split national champs maybe then people will wake up.

[CMJ]

It should be Boise State/ohio st, but..........

You provide an interesting thought. I love to champion the little guy, as most know.

What happens if say....Florida beats OSU in an ugly game marred by an Oregon vs Oklahoma type of bad call while BSU BLOWS out the Sooners.

Do they get the AP title?

****

BTW - much congrats goto Wake Forest. That's the story of the year to me...even over Rutgers.

[JMK]

You provide an interesting thought. I love to champion the little guy, as most know.

That's the one thing that drives me nuts about college football and college basketball. Football always gives the little guy the crap end of the stick, while basketball is ALL about the underdog. I wonder why college football is so anti-underdog and hoops is so for it?

[CMJ]

It's a variety of factors, which would take awhile to type out. But basically, the Bowl system which was established about....what....80-90 years ago is so entrenched in CFB it's nearly impossible to think of the sport without it.

BTW, Florida is #2 in the Coaches poll. Let's see how the rest shakes out.

[Jedi Master Carr]

Florida should be #2 in the BCS poll then.

[CMJ]

Not necessarily. The first week after Michigan/OSU - USC was #2 in the Harris and the Coaches poll and was #3 in the BCS standings.

BTW...if Florida somehow goes and wins the championship...they own the college sports landscape. Basketball AND football Champions

[Ryan Pode]

BTW...if Florida somehow goes and wins the championship...they own the college sports landscape. Basketball AND football Champions

They won't. OSU is completely dominant. The only team that might be able to beat them is Michigan because they've played once this year and are rivals.

[CMJ]

Wasn't USC awarded the title last year before the Rose Bowl. Or Miami over Ohio State. There are other examples ya know.

[Jedi Master Carr]

Well I was going by what I read on ESPN that a source out of the BCS said Florida would be #2. I guess we will see later tonight.

[Figrin D'an]

This joke called the "BCS Selection Show" sure isn't doing much to maintain any suspense about the title game matchup. The way they keep referring to Florida and have said nothing about Michigan makes it pretty obvious that it's going to be Ohio State vs. Florida.

[CMJ]

Bowl pick'm this year?

[Jedi Master Carr]

Sure I am in.

[CMJ]

Troy Smith crushes the competition for the Heisman.