The Lake Report

The ACC should reshuffle conference with Pitt, Syracuse addition

2011-09-18T10:49:00.000-07:00

It was recently announced that the Atlantic Coast Conference has added Pittsburgh and Syracuse.
The ACC has also expressed interest in Connecticut and Rutgers. That move would make the ACC the first to go to a 16-team super conference.

Personally, I like this move by the ACC.
It is no secret money is the big reason behind conference expansion, most notably, acquiring new television markets.
This move moves the ACC into Pitt, a good sized market, and into upstate New York, truly making it the Atlantic Coast Conference (Florida to Massachusetts).

Now, the ACC cane make its conferences actually make since.
Ditch the "Atlantic" and "Coastal" division and make this conference make sense.
Instead, make it the ACC-NORTH and ACC-SOUTH.

In the South, put Miami, Florida State, Georgia Tech, Clemson, North Carolina, NC State and Duke.
For the North, put Wake Forest, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Maryland, Pitt, Syracuse and Boston College.

Of course if they end up adding UConn and Rutgers move them into the North and put Wake Forest and Virginia Tech into the South (to complete the North Carolina rivalries, and keep VT and Miami in the same division)

Now the question is this...what does the SEC, Big 10 and Pac 12 do to respond?
Does the SEC go after Missouri and another east coast team? Does the Pac 12 try to get Oklahoma and Oklahoma State? Does the Big 10 finishing the raid of the Big East while continuing to get Notre Dame?
Or, does the Big 12 grab TCU from the Big East, and grab teams such as Houston, Tulsa, SMU, etc and try to rebuild the Southwest Conference?

2011 NFL predictions

2011-09-07T10:02:00.000-07:00

The lockout is over, we got the preseason out of the way, and Thursday starts off the much-anticipated NFL season.
It is easy to pick the Packers to repeat with Aaron Rodgers, but who is going to win the divisions this year.

AFC
East
1-New England Patriots
2- New York Jets (wildcard)
3- Buffalo Bills
4-Miami Dolphins

North
1- Baltimore Ravens
2- Pittsburgh Steelers (wildcard)
3- Cleveland Browns
4-Cincinatti Bengals

South
1- Houston Texans
2- Indianapolis Colts
3- Jacksonville Jaguars
4- Tennessee Titans

West
1- San Diego Chargers
2- Kansas City Chiefs
3- Oakland Raiders
4- Denver Broncos

NFC
East
1- Philadelphia Eagles
2- Dallas Cowboys
3- New York Giants
4- Washington Redskins

North
1- Green Bay Packers
2- Detroit Lions
3- Chicago Bears
4- Minnesota Vikings

South
1- Atlanta Falcons
2-New Orleans Saints (wildcard)
3- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (wildcard)
4- Carolina Panthers

West
1- St. Louis Rams
2- Arizona Cardinals
3- Seattle Seahawks
4- San Francisco 49ers

For the playoffs:
In the AFC give me Steelers over the Chargers and Texans over the Jets in the wildcard round. In round two, give me Ravens over the Steelers and Patriots over the Texans. Give me the Ravens to win the AFC championship.

In the NFC give me the Saints over the Rams and Bucs over the Eagles in wildcard round. In round two, I'l take the Packers over the Bucs and Falcons over the Saints. I'll go with the Falcons to win the NFC championship.

I'll take Ravens over the Falcons in Super Bowl XLVI.

2011 Football Week 1 Predictions

2011-08-30T15:12:00.000-07:00

No eloquent openings, no whitty quips, I'm just gonna dive right in.

Since I'm still working on a method to breakdown big games, I'll just give my picks of the SEC, ACC, Top 25 selections, and D1AA teams in South Carolina

Remember to keep your tally and play along.

Next week will be much more in-depth.

Clemson over Troy
South Carolina over E. Carolina
Miss. State over Memphis
Kentucky over W. Kentucky
Auburn over Utah State
Alabama over Kent State
BYU over Ole Miss.
Tenn. over Montana
Arkansas over Mizzou. State
Florida over FAU
Vanderbilt over Elon
Oregon over LSU
Boise St. over Georgia
Georgia Tech over W. Carolina
Syracuse over Wake Forest
Northwestern over BC
Virginia Tech over App. State
FSU over UL-Monroe
UNC over James Madison
Virginia over William and Mary
NC St. over Liberty
Duke over Richmond
Maryland over Miami (FL)
Wofford over Presbyterian
Coastal Carolina over Furman
UCF over Charleston Sou.
Citadel over Jacksonville

If Texas A&M joins the SEC, who will follow?

2011-08-12T11:59:00.000-07:00

It has been reported in the last few days by AggieYell.com, along with multiple sites, that the Aggies will leave the Big 12 (10) after the 2011 season and join the SEC in the 2012 season.

This deal still has a long way to go, because it has to pass the Texas legislature and the Texas A&M board of regents. The legislature which is a muddled mess where football and politics are blended together (I guess the saying is true...football is a close second to God in Texas).

Also, SEC presidents have to agree for this to happen.

It is also rumored that A&M would have to pay back 80 percent of the past two years revenue to the Big 12. Safe to say they would make that back pretty quickly with the SEC's revenue-sharing system.

All-in-all, a good move for both sides: The Aggies get out of a conference dominated and ran by big brother Texas, and the SEC moves into the Texas TV market. And both sides will get the cash rewards.

But if the Aggies move goes through, and let's be clear that nothing is a done deal, that leaves the SEC with a 13-team league. That left me thinking: Who would the SEC pick to even out a 14-team league?

There are a few teams:
Virginia Tech - They could leave the ACC. It would help the SEC extend TV markets into the Virginia/DC area, and they would get a quality team. The question for VT is if they want to leave a conference where they have dominated since arriving. I give this move a 50-50 shot of happening.

Clemson - The fanbase is SEC-style nutty, and they could leave a conference they haven't won in a very long time. The problem: South Carolina. I don't think USC wants Clemson in their conference, and it wouldn't really lock down a new TV market. I give this move a 10 percent chance.

Louisville - Head coach Charlie Strong has SEC experience, and is trying to build a strong program. It would lock down the Louisville market, and lockdown the state of Kentucky, and would give the SEC a good basketball team, and rivalry. Still, the SEC can probably get a better football team...5 percent chance of happening.

Now, what the SEC would love is for Oklahoma, Oklahoma State and Missouri to follow A&M to the SEC, and create a powerhouse SEC West with LSU, Arkansas, Ole Miss and Mississippi State.

That would then move Alabama and Auburn to the current SEC East of Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, Vanderbilt, Kentucky and South Carolina.

This would also kill the Big 12, make Texas go independent, and the rest of the teams go into other conferences.

As far-fetched as this sounds, I give this a 60 percent chance of happening.

As long as A&M joins the SEC, which is not a done deal.

Pre Season ALL ACC selections and predictions

2011-07-07T11:09:00.000-07:00

The ACC just hasn't had it.

The after thought of expansion was the ACC was going to match with the SEC. But that hasn't happened. No national titles, only Virginia Tech has been what was expected with Miami falling off, and Boston College also fell down.

But this year could mean the rebirth of an old power: Florida State.

Atlantic
1-Florida State (10-2, 7-1)
2-NC State (9-2, 6-2)
3-Clemson (8-4, 5-3)
4-Boston College (6-6, 3-5)
5-Maryland (3-9, 1-7)
6-Wake Forest (2-10, 0-8)

Coastal
1-Miami (10-2, 6-2)
2-North Carolina (9-3, 4-4)
3-Virginia Tech (8-4, 4-4)
4-Georgia Tech (6-6, 3-5)
5-Duke (4-8, 2-6)
6-Virginia (4-8, 1-7)

FIRST TEAM
Offense
QB-E.J. Manuel (Florida State)
RB-Andre Ellington (Clemson)
RB-Montel Harris (Boston College)
WR-Laron Byrd (Miami)
WR-Donovan Varner (Duke)
WR-Stephen Hill (Georgia Tech)
TE-Dwayne Allen (Clemson)
OL-Zebrie Sanders (Florida State)
OL-Blake DeChrisopher (Virginia Tech)
OL-Antoine McClain (Clemson)
OL-Brandon Washington (Miami)
OL-Seantrel Henderson (Miami)
K-Dustin Hopkins (Florida State)

Defense
DL-Brandon Jenkins (Miami)
DL-Tydreke Powell (North Carolina)
DL-Jacobbi McDaniel (Florida State)
DL-Jason Peters (Georgia Tech)
LB-Kevin Reddick (North Carolina)
LB-Bruce Taylor (Virginia Tech)
LB-Steven Sylvester (Georgia Tech)
DB-Greg Reid (Florida State)
DB-Vaughn Telemague (Miami)
DB-Jayron Holsey (Virginia Tech)
DB-Chase Minnifield (Virginia)
P-Dawson Zimmerman (Clemson)

SECOND TEAM
Offense
QB-Mike Glennon (NC State)
RB-Roddy Jones (Georgia Tech)
RB-Mustafa Greene (NC State)
WR-Travis Benjamin (Miami)
WR-Dwight Jones (North Carolina)
WR-DeAndre Hopkins (Clemson)
TE-George Bryan (NC State)
OL-Omoregie Uzzi (Georgia Tech)
OL-Cam Holland (North Carolina)
OL-Landon Walker (Clemson)
OL-James Brooks (Virginia Tech)
OL-Andrew Datko (Florida State)
K-Casey Barth (North Carolina)

Defense
DL-Joe Vellano (Maryland)
DL-Brandon Thompson (Clemson)
DL-Donte Paige-Moss (North Carolina)
DL-Quinton Coples (North Carolina)
LB-Sean Spence (Miami)
LB-Luke Kuechly (Boston College)
LB-Audie Cole (NC State)
DB-Kenny Tate (Maryland)
DB-C.J. Wilson (NC State)
DB-Ray Ray Armstrong (Miami)
DB-Xavier Rhodes (Florida State)
P-Shawn Powell (Florida State)

Pre-Season All SEC selection and preseason picks

2011-07-07T10:21:00.000-07:00

It is the dead period known as July.

Right around the corner are Media Days, then we are slap in the middle of fall practice.

But the fun things now are making predictions of who will be make 1st Team all conference, and who is going to win conferences.

So I won't dilly-dally. Here is the Lake Report's Third Annual ALL-SEC 1st and 2nd Teams and projected divisional outlook.

EAST
1-South Carolina (11-1, 7-1)
2-Florida (9-3, 5-3)
3-Georgia (8-4, 5-3)
4-Tennessee (7-5, 3-5)
5-Kentucky (6-6, 2-6)
6-Vanderbilt (3-9, 1-7)

WEST
1-Alabama (11-1, 7-1)
2-Arkansas (9-3, 6-2)
3-LSU (9-3, 5-3)
4-Mississippi State (7-5, 3-5)
5-Auburn (4-8, 1-7)
6-Ole Miss (3-9, 0-8)

FIRST TEAM
Offense
QB-Tyler Wilson (Arkansas)
RB-Marcus Lattimore (South Carolina)
RB-Trent Richardson (Alabama)
WR-Alshon Jeffrey (South Carolina)
WR-Da'Rick Rodgers (Tennessee)
WR-Greg Childs (Arkansas)
TE-Orson Charles (Georgia)
OL-Barrett Jones (Alabama)
OL-Josh Dworaczyk (LSU)
OL-Cordy Glenn (Georgia)
OL-D.J. Fluker (Alabama)
OL-Bobby Massie (Ole Miss)
K-Blair Walsh (Georgia)

Defense
DL-DeAngelo Tyson (Georgia)
DL-Sharriff Floyd (Florida)
DL-Damion Square (Alabama)
DL-Devin Taylor (South Carolina)
LB-Courtney Upshaw (Alabama)
LB-Dont'a Hightower (Alabama)
LB-Jarvis Jones (Georgia)
DB-Dre Kirkpatrick (Alabama)
DB-Stephon Gilmore (South Carolina)
DB-Mark Barron (Alabama)
DB-Matt Elam (Florida)
P-Drew Butler (Georgia)

SECOND TEAM
Offense
QB-Stephen Garcia (South Carolina)
RB-Isaiah Crowell (Georgia)
RB-Michael Dyer (Auburn)
WR-Jarius Wright (Arkansas)
WR-Terrance Tolliver (LSU)
WR-Joe Adams (Arkansas)
TE-Phillip Lutzenkirchen (Auburn)
OL-Chance Warmack (Alabama)
OL-Bradley Sowell (Ole Miss)
OL-T.J. Johnson (South Carolina)
OL-Rokevius Watkins (South Carolina)
OL-Larry Warford (Kentucky)
K-Caleb Sturgis (Florida)

Defense
DL-Jake Bequette (Arkansas)
DL-Nosa Eguae (Auburn)
DL-Jadeveon Clowney (South Carolina)
DL-Ronald Powell (Florida)
LB-Jon Bostic (Florida)
LB-Jerry Franklin (Arkansas)
LB-Danny Trevathan (Kentucky)
DB-Tyrann Mathieu (LSU)
DB-Antonio Allen (South Carolina)
DB-Darius Winston (Arkansas)
DB-D.J. Swearinger (South Carolina)
P-Chas Henry (Florida)

Is Tornoto Blue Jays' Juan Bautista on steroids?

2011-05-22T17:26:00.000-07:00

Toronto Blue Jays right fielder Jose Bautista is what we call a power hitter.

What else would you call a guy who currently has 72 homeruns over two season up to this point.
In 2010 he hit 54 moonshots, and this year currently has 18 homeruns in 38 games.

But before the 2010 season, dating back to 2006 when he was in Pittsburgh, Bautista had homerun totals of 0 (2005), 16 (2006), 15 (2007) and 13 (2009).

The question is: How does a player who hits homeruns in the mid teens, balloon his total in the 50s.

The obvious speculation is performance enhancing drugs. But Bautista has passed all his drug tests up to this point.

Maybe he has found a very good masking agent.

Could it be though, that Bautista did it the right way: Got in the weight room, worked on his swing technique and mechanics, and has just hit his "prime" at the plate?

Looking at pictures, Bautista hasn't bulked up as much as players that have used steroids (Alex Rodgriguez, Barry Bonds).

For now, we will have to take the tests word for, and that Bautista is just in a good part of his career.

One thing is for sure, it is a sad day when every accomplishment or strong performance in baseball is in question because of the dark cloud steroids cast over America's game.

ESPN signs a lemon contract with the Pac-12

2011-05-09T09:07:00.000-07:00

Sports-entertainment mega power ESPN has a lock on the sports market.

Deals with the Southeastern Conference, NBA, NFL, MLB have helped make the company billions of dollars. Now, ESPN has added the newly formed PAC-12.

ESPN/PAC-12 signed a 12-year contract that begins in 2012-2013.

This is all great news for the PAC-12...but for ESPN, this could turn out to be a lemon deal.

Besides the money, the PAC-12 will get the chance for more publicity off the deal.

And while this pretty much locks down the LA market, and will add viewers in Utah and Colorado, I'm not sure ESPN made the smartest deal.

The question is, how are they going to get the east coast ratings. PAC-12 games typically don't air on the East Coast until 10 or 11 at night, if not later.

ESPN signing may move up a few game times, but I don't expect people in the South and Northeast to come clamoring to the TV to watch the Arizona/Colorado football game.

This will be great for basketball, but football, which is king and the main reason for the deal, will not work out for ESPN.

The PAC-12 has a reputation for being a soft, arena league style conference with lots of points and zero defense. This deal could improve the midweek game scheduling..no more MAC or C-USA games, but a PAC-12 game on Wednesday...I'd probably watch it.

But for a Saturday, I don't see a PAC-12 game competing with people wanting to go to bed.

The PAC-12 just made themselves very rich, and looks like they performed a perfect highway robbery of ESPN.

The Death of Usama bin Ladin, and the perception of America

2011-05-02T18:45:00.000-07:00

Mark it down as a date in American history.

On May 1, 2011 President Barack Obama announced to the world that a team of Navy Seals went into Pakistan and killed FBI Most Wanted Usama bin Ladin. This was later proven by reported facial recognitions, multiple DNA tests and eye witnesses.

Many media outlets, American mostly, declared this a triumphant day for America and its "War on Terror."

Indeed, they are right. For 10 years, the American government has been looking for bin Ladin, and when the intelligence came in that he was open for an attack, President Obama took the risk and sent in the Seals.

But here is where my patriotism turned to cynicism.
"The world is a safer place now that bin Ladin is dead"

In the long run, I'm not so sure, but I'm leaning to yes. More people will rise to take his place.
They probably won't be as "influential" as bin Ladin.

But in the short term, I disagree. Here is my example: When police take in leaders of street gangs, or when that leader is killed, the gang doesn't get weaker. It typically runs wild with member jockeying for power.

That is what I see happening in the coming months. Attack attempts will probably step up in American and Pakistan.

But number two, and I know this won't be popular to say, but the reactions of Americans on television.

What was seen by the country was a jubilant display of pent up joy.

But what did the world see? Did they see the same?

Or did they see what Americans saw 10 years ago when pockets in the Middle East celebrated 9/11?

In the barest of forms, Americans celebrated the death of a human being.

And I get it: bin Ladin took from us our security, or family members and our friends, and it is natural to want revenge. And I'll be the first to admit, I was happy to hear he had been killed by our solders hands.

But I was also glad to hear we were respectful enough of the teachings of Islam, and buried his body 24 hours after death.

But back to the dancing and almost frat like atmosphere. To me, we are better than that. We acted just like the radicals did on 9/11: As they danced in the streets while we watched the towers crumble, we danced in the streets to the news of a man dying.

And the media coverage, well that is another post.

But Fox News almost couldn't help but show their giddiness, yet time and time again, their talking heads call for us to be a Christian nation.

And let me be clear: There was no one happier than me that bin Ladin had been killed; That was for the Towers, the Pentagon, Flight 93 and the thousands of solders who have given their lives in wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

But we are better than the display that was shown.

Recruiting breakdown for Tigers and Gamecocks, and a peak at 2012

2011-02-14T16:56:00.000-08:00

Signing day, and the long awaited Jadeveon Clowney announcement, has finally arrived and it officially ends this signing period...finally.

South Carolina
The Gamecocks signed a monster-sized class, with 32 players in all. Clowney is the gem of this class, with some solid players joining him.

On offense, the Gamecocks signed New Jersey QB Tanner McEvoy, along with RBs Brandon Wilds of Blythewood and Shon Carson of Lake City. Joining them are a trio of WRs: Jersey speedster Damiere Byrd, possession receiver K.J. Brent, and Shameir Jeffrey, the younger brother of current Gamecock Alshon Jeffrey.

Tight end was an area of need, and Carolina signed three: Rory Anderson, Jerrell Adams and Drew Owens.

Six players make up the offensive line class. Junior-College transfer Kaleb Broome, who projects as a tackle, is joined by tackles Brandon Shell, Mike Matulis and Will Sport, and guards Kyle Harris and Quincy McKinney.

But the defensive side of the ball was a major area for the Gamecocks, and they did well.

On the line, Carolina signed brothers Gerald Dixon, and end, of South Point and Gerald Dixon Jr., a tackle, of Northwestern, along with tackles Phillip Dukes, Kelcy Quarles and Deon Green.

Linebacker was another area of concern, and the Gamecocks filled that need as well. Angelo Watley, Mason Harris, Cedrick Cooper, Edward Muldrow and Marcquis Roberts make up a class of guys that could grow into linebackers, safeties, or defensive ends.

The backfield was lacking depth last year, especially at safety. Carolina signed a third player from New Jersey in safety Sheldon Royster, along with Georgia native Kadtrix Marcus, Brison Williams, and corners Ahmad Christian, Ronnie Martin and Martay Mattox.

Overall, Carolina did a good job filling their needs with quality guys they can redshirt and build around. A few from this class may play right away, but with a majority of their team returning, expect most of this class to redshirt.

I expect one of the TEs signed to play this year, and possible one of the new safeties. But outside of those guys, and Clowney (and maybe Dukes and Byrd) it will be hard for these guys to crack meaningful playingtime with so many 2-deep players returning).
Link: USC Signing-Day page

Clemson
The Tigers closed their 2011 class very strong. Getting to late commitments from linebackers Tony Steward and Stephone Anthony, as well as mammoth offensive linemen Spencer Region, topped off a top-heavy group.

The other two big commitments for the class were speedy RB Mike Bellamy and WR Sammy Watkins, both out of Florida.

The rest of the offense is loaded with the potential of major playmakers, something Clemson lacked in 2010. Receivers Charone Peake from Dorman in Spartanburg is joined by Martavis Bryant, who spent a semester in prep school, and TE Eric MacClain. WR Stanton Seckinger, who will probably redshirt, also committed to the Tigers.

Region, who projects as a guard, is joined on the line by center Ryan Norton and tackles Shaq Anthony and Isaiah Battle.

But what the Tigers needed was a QB. And they signed two and placed a third for a grey shirt in Morgan Roberts. He is joined by Tony McNeal of Chester and Ohioan Cole Stoudt. Who redshirts and who will backup Tajh Boyd won't be known until the fall, but both bring strengths to the table. McNeal is probably the better athlete, while Stoudt is probably a more pocket-style guy.

Defensively is where the class fades. After the two star backers and LB Lateek Townsend, DE Corey Crawford and safety Cortez Davis, the class is full of guys who will need a redshirt.

Defensive tackles Jerome Maybank, Kevin Dodd, Grady Jarrett and DeShaun Williams are joined by defensive end Roderick Byers.

Linebackers B.J. Goodson and Colton Walls also signed, but will likely redshirt in their first season.

Two athletes were signed in Adam Humphries and Robert Smith. Both will probably redshirt, along with kicker signee Ammon Lakip.

Overall, a good class.

Clemson filled needs in this class, but I would've liked to see them sign another defensive back or two. Other than that, I think they filled their needs, and have guys they can redshirt and groom in their program. A few of the stellar signees should play right away, especially on offense.

The only thing is, they may not finish their career under coach Dabo Swinney, who after a losing record and two straight losses to South Carolina, is on a hot seat.

LINK: Clemson signing-day page

Wrap Up
It is important to note that the recruiting game is basically a lottery. These players were all great in high school, and while we can judge their height, weight, speed and technique, it is impossible to know their work-ethic, mental maturity and judgement.

What these young men do when they leave home and set foot on campus is up in the air. Ninety-nine percent will probably be fine student-athletes, but there is always that 1% that just don't have their heads on straight, and one look no farther than Lane Kiffin's highly touted Tennessee class.

Some players will live up to the hype, while others struggle, and some will over achieve: That is just part of the game.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Top 2012 S.C. players
Name Position High School
1-Shaq Roland, defensive back, Lexington
2-Patrick DeStefano, offensive line, Dorman
3-Ronald Geohagan, defensive back, Alendale-Fairfax
4-Shakeem Wharton, runningback, Byrnes
5-Jaquan Wilson, defensive back, Myrtle Beach
6-Kwinton Smith, wide receiver, Dillion
7-Tay Hicklin, athlete, South Pointe
8-Quinshad Davis, wide receiver, Gaffney
9-Gimel President, defensive line, Wando
10-Oliver Jones, offensive line, Ninety-Six

Tucson shooting reveals America's polarity

2011-01-16T07:32:00.000-08:00

The tragedy in Arizona when Jared Laughner gunned down multiple people, including the attempted assassination of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, left more than just blood stains in the parking lot of a grocery store.

He left not just physical scars, but also emotional and psychological ones too. He also opened old wounds in the American political spectrum.

Not even a day went by with people attempted to politicize the event. Many blamed former Alaska governor and Tea Party star Sarah Palin for her map using alleged crosshairs over Congressional districts.

Others blamed the books Laughner read, or the powerful, violent political rhetoric our politicians have been using lately.

I'm no Palin defender, but even I'll come to her defense saying I don't think she would want someone to shoot and kill someone. The map at the time was a powerful message at the time, but in hindsight, it was probably in poor taste to be targets on districts.

Others wanted to blame the Tea Party, the "liberal media," etc, etc, etc.

What Laughner was able to do was simple: He was able to show that we are so polarized in this country that it is nearly impossible for us to even grieve together without political ideology getting in the way.

Even the memorial service was politicized because some thought the crowd was to jovial, even when the news of Mrs. Giffords steady improvement was announced by Pres. Obama.

There comes a time when politics need to be put aside, and this is that time. Sometimes you have to say an event has no rhyme, reason or political motive.

This tragedy was not the fault of Palin, the Tea Party, politics or some book that was misinterpreted. The only person to blame her is Laughner.

Laughner was not a political idealist: He was a deeply disturbed individual who needed help, but sadly didn't get it, or he refused the help he might have received.

The only debate this tragedy should've raised was how do we make sure this never happens again: Do we now toughen gun laws? Do we examine the state of mental healthcare in this country? Do we rethink our political rhetoric?

It doesn't matter if you are liberal or conservative, Republican or Democrat. We are human beings first, and Americans second. We should at least be able to grieve and see that something needs to be done to make sure nothing of this magnitude happens again.

A return and Carolina/Clemson season wrap up

2011-01-06T10:33:00.000-08:00

Whew. I'm back ladies and gents.

After a long, hard semester of school and a holiday season, I finally have time and energy to get back.

So, with the cordiality out of the way, let's get down to season wrap ups for football.

Clemson
The Tigers had a rough year, but are you really surprised?

A year after making it to the ACC title game, Clemson followed it up with a 6-7 record, and going .500 in conference. The losses of RB C.J. Spiller and WR Jacoby Ford really hurt the offense.

RB Andre Ellington looked to be heading to an All ACC selection, until an injury sidelined him for the rest of the season, leaving Jaimie Harper to carry the load. The lack of the big-play WR also hurt.

WR DeAndre Hopkins showed potential, but he couldn't carry a passing attack led by the subpar QB Kyle Parker.

Defensively, the Tigers were strong. Led by DE DaQuan Bowers and DB DeAndre McDaniel, the defense kept Clemson in every game.

Clemson had strong line play on both sides of the ball, but Clemson needs quarterback and playmakers. Also, when the Tigers went with an old-fashioned, run-heavy offense, they did well between the 20's. I don't believe going to a more spread-offense is what they need, but to stick with a power, run-heavy offense may help curb the offensive performance.

They also need to improve finishing drives.

In hindsight, Clemson probably should've went with QB Tajh Boyd this year, and taken their lumps together. But instead, they will take their lumps at QB next year.

Also, they will have to replace Bowers and McDaniel. Don't expect it. Just like on offense this year, players like McDaniel and Bowers don't come along every recruiting class.

They are putting together an impressive class on offense with RB Mike Bellamy, WRs Martavis Bryant, Charone Peake and Sammy Watkins, and TE Eric McClain. The question is, can they hold onto these guys with the firings of coaches Billy Napier and Powell and departure of Chris Rumph.

If they land these players, I see an improved year. I see them winning 8 games next year.

Also, Coach Swinney made a smart decision to shake-up his staff. A more experienced offensive coordinator is needed to help guide the young coach.

Next year is crucial for Swinney. He is taking a high-risk, high-reward chance on the new coaches. If things improve, all will be well in Tigerland...but, if the team finishes sub-.500 a second year in a row, the murmurs of a new coach will be raised to screams.

Carolina
The Gamecocks have taken a step forward this past year winning the SEC East. The season ended on down notes with losses to eventual national champ Auburn and ACC title game loser Florida State.

QB Stephen Garcia made improvements this year, and will be the elder statesmen for QBs in the SEC next year. Also, WR Alshon Jeffrey had another strong year, and has placed himself to be the top WR in the SEC next year.

But you can't talk about success without mentioning freshman RB Marcus Lattimore. The young man gave Steve Spurrier his first true workhorse runningback since coming to USC.

The Gamecock offense could very well be a top in the conference next year with these three guys and a host of supporting players such as WRs Lamar Scruggs, Ace Sanders and DL Moore.

Tight end and fullback will be a question mark, and the offensive line will be replacing LG Garrett Chisolm and RT Hutch Eckerson.

Defensively, the Gamecocks were up and down. There were times, such as the Alabama and Florida games, where the defense looked liked world beaters. There were other times, such as the SEC title game and Arkansas games, where the D looked lost.

The loss of LB Shaq Wilson to injury hurt the defense a lot. Now, they will have to find a way to replace DE Cliff Matthews, DT Ladi Ajiboye, LBs Tony Straughter and Josh Dickerson, CB Chris Culliver and K/P Spencer Lanning.

The Gamecocks are in position to take another step forward in 2011. Georgia is still rebuilding and will have to replace WR AJ Green; Tennessee is still another year away, and Florida has question marks on both sides of the ball and a new coaching staff. Kentucky should be down, and Vanderbilt will be Vanderbilt.

Also, Alabama, Arkansas and Auburn should be down in the West with a weak Ole Miss and a rising Mississippi State, while LSU looks to be the early front-runner for the West crown.

It has been a fun, but controversial, season.

I have no idea how 2011 can top it.

Gamecock football 2010 outlook

2010-07-28T06:57:00.001-07:00

The South Carolina Gamecocks are just days away from opening up fall camp in preparation of the 2010 season...well, they've been preparing all summer with workouts just like other teams, but that is beside the point.

So, today I'll do my best to navigate the schedule and give you an idea of how I think this Gamecock season will fair.

vs. Southern Miss
Carolina will kickoff the season with their game against Southern Miss. The Eagles aren't an easy opponent. They are historically strong on defense, and they have installed a spread offense. Southern Miss is coming off a 7-5 season, but they could easily have gone 10-3, losing three games by less than a touchdown.

The Gamecocks should win. But it won't be a cakewalk.
Gamecocks 27 Southern Miss 14

vs Georgia
Carolina then opens SEC play with border-rival Georgia. The Bulldogs are in a little bit of a flux. Head coach Mark Richt is on the hot seat, they are installing a 3-4 defense and they are bringing in an inexperienced QB in Aaron Murray. The 'Dogs don't yet have the personnel to run the 3-4, so there will be growing pains there, and for Murray. The game will still be close like always, but Carolina should walk away with a victory.
Gamecocks 17 Georgia 10

vs Furman
This should be one of Carolina's two cakewalk games this year. Furman is a a traditionally good team in the Southern Conference, but they just don't have the athletes or depth to hang with Carolina past halftime. Carolina pulls away in the second half.
Gamecocks 35 Furman 13

@ Auburn
The Gamecocks travel to the Plains to take on the Tigers/War Eagles/Plainsmen. Auburn's offense vs Carolina's defense will be the matchup to watch. The Gamecock D was built to handle spread teams. It will also be a good chance to see Auburn QB Cam Newton (former Florida Gator). Tough game to pick, since we haven't seen Newton.
Gamecocks 23 Auburn 24

vs Alabama
Carolina wraps up their competition against the state of Alabama, hosting the Crimson Tide.
Mark Ingram launched himself into the Hesiman race last year after the Carolina game. It will be close game, but I think the Tide are just too physical, and 'Bama steals one late.
Gamecocks 14 Alabama 24

@ Kentucky
Steve Spurrier puts his undefeated streak against Kentucky on the line again. The last time the game was in the Blue Grass state, it was a wacky game with turnovers and special teams play. Kentucky has a nice group of players on offense with QBs Mike Hartline and Morgan Newton, RB Derrick Locke and WRs Chris Matthews and Randall Cobb. The problem is on defense though.
Gamecocks 27 Kentucky 17

@ Vanderbilt
The Commodores are in an absolute mess. They lost their best players on defense to the draft, head coach Bobby Johnson retired, and they return an anemic offense. For some reason, they always find a way to play Carolina close, and RB Warren Norman always has his biggest game against the Gamecocks.
Gamecocks 14 Vanderbilt 10

vs Tennessee
The Vandy is in a little bit of a mess, their rival Vols are a preverbial junkyard. Lane Kiffin left them high and dry, and now head coach Derek Dooley has inherited a program gone wild, culminating in a bar fight that has eight, yes EIGHT, players under investigation. Dooley already dismissed one player, suspended two, and will wait and see what to do with the others. Did I mention they are replacing their offensive line and bringing in a new QB. It will be a long year and Knoxville.
Gamecocks 27 Tennessee 13

vs Arkansas
What else can you say about QB Ryan Mallett? He is the unquestioned best QB in the conference as he motors coach Bobby Petrino's offense. The question for the Razorbacks won't be offense, but defense. They have pieces in place to maybe win the West, and I think they steal one in Columbia as the Gamecocks have their one flat performance of the year.
Arkansas 27 Gamecocks 14

@ Florida
This is the game of the season for Carolina. At this point, I believe this game will be for a trip to Atlanta. The Gators will have had time to bring in their new defense and new players on that defense. Also, QB John Brantley will have virtually a year under his belt as the starter. It will be in The Swamp. Carolina came close in 2006, but got their doors blown off in 2008. But I think Carolina gets it done this year.
Gamecocks 17 Florida 14

vs Troy
This is a trap game if Carolina beats Florida. Coming off that high of a win, Troy is sandwiched between Florida and Clemson. It is highly possible Carolina overlooks Troy to rival Clemson to close out the year and Troy pulls a 1984 Navy. I don't think that happens, but Carolina fans have a closer-than-wanted game.
Gamecocks 10 Troy 7

@ Clemson
The Battle of the Palmetto State. Throw out the records as usual. Carolina won the game last year in Columbia pretty easily, and though The Tigers have QB Kyle Parker, their best offensive weapons in C.J. Spiller, Jacoby Ford and Michael Palmer are gone. Should be a close game, but Carolina wins back-to-back for the first time in a LOOOONG time.
Gamecocks 31 Clemson 28

Final: Carolina goes 9-3, 5-3 in the SEC. The Gamecocks head to Atlanta as they rematch against Alabama. But, I think the Crimson Tide beat them again, but, since Alabama probably goes to the National Title, Carolina would find themselves in the Sugar Bowl.

The new Big 10, Pac 10 and Big 12

2010-06-16T09:57:00.000-07:00

Expansion.

We nearly had it. Colorado knocked over the first domino, which looked like it would set off a chain reaction and change the landscape of football.

Then we get to Texas and expansion was stopped...for now at least.

The new Pac 10 (currently with 11 teams) is a program away from having a championship game...and it looks like Utah will be the final piece of that puzzle.

If Utah joins, I'd say the best way to split em up would be a pseudo North-South alignment.
In one division, have Washington, Washington State, Oregon, Oregon State, Stanford and Cal.
In the other, place USC, UCLA, Arizona, Arizona State, Utah and Colorado.

And where will the title game be played??? LA of course.

Now, to the Big 10 (which now has 12 teams) acquired Nebraska, and will have a 12 team league in 2011.

For this conference, I see an East-West schism. In one division, I see Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Illinois and Northwestern. In the other, I see Ohio State, Michigan, Michigan State, Penn State, Indiana and Perdue.

The championship game....why not Indianapolis?

Now, for the final math conundrum, the Big 12 (with 10 teams). The Big 12 has lost its title game under NCAA rules. So, for now, no divisions after 2010...but I could see the Big 12 going after two teams and get their title game back.

I see a number of teams.
-Arkansas: renew old Southwest Conference rivalries.
-TCU
-SMU: same as Arkansas
-Colorado State
-Tulsa
-Houston

I see all this as a far off pipe dream though.

In reality, I see the Big 12 schools getting sick of Texas and its bullying, and folding the Big 12...which will be the next catalyst for expansion, and there will be no stopping that domino effect.

College football predictions 2010 (Automatic BCS qualifiers)

2010-05-25T20:52:00.000-07:00

Now that the ACC and SEC have been predicted, we move on to an overview of the rest of the NCAA Division I-A (FBS).

Big East
It will again be an interesting year in the Big East (and could be one of the last years for the Big East barring expansion). Louisville, Cincinnati and South Florida are bringing in new coaches while West Virginia and Pittsburgh will be lead by stellar runningbacks.

Really, the only team that doesn't look as if it will be the least bit competitive is Syracuse (wait for basketball season Orangemen). I still have a lot of questions for Louisville, UConn, Cincy, South Florida and West Virginia.

Rutgers will be an interesting team to watch with QB Tom Savage and WR Mohammed Sanu. They will be a tough D, but I'm not sure if they have the best D in the Big East.

The top team in my opinion, is Pittsburgh. They have an All-American caliber RB in Dion Lewis, a decent passing game, and a hard-nosed defense. Questions are at QB, but Lewis can compensate for that.
Prediction: Pittsburgh

Big Ten
In short, this is still Ohio State's conference to lose. The experiment with Rich Rod at Michigan hasn't worked out, and this is a gut-check year for the Wolverines.

Schools such as Indiana, Minnesota, Perdue and Michigan State I don't see competing with the Buckeyes.

It looks like Penn State, Wisconsin and Iowa will be the Bucks main line of competition, though it will be interesting to see if Northwestern can build off its 5-3, 8-5 record last year.

I wish there was more to write, but the Big 10 has been painted Scarlet the last few years, and I don't see the trend changing. The most interesting story in the Big 10 will be how QB Terrelle Pryor progresses and if he fills out his Heisman caliber hype.
Prediction: Ohio State

Big 12
The Big 12. The only conference that can lay claim to being an equal conference with the SEC.

Start in the North. This has become the forgotten division in college football, with the South having powerhouses Texas and Oklahoma, and the rising of Texas Tech and Oklahoma State.

But the North looks to have some decent teams, but we can rule out Iowas State and Colorado in this discussion.

Kansas is bringing in new coach Turner Gil, so I expect this to be another rough year for the Jayhawks, and I expect Kansas State to also have a rough year...again.

This will be a two team division with Nebraska and Missouri. The Tigers will have the offense, while Nebraska will bring the defense. So that game October 30 could decide the division winner.

The South on the other hand is seeing a change of the guard. No more Sam Bradford or Colt McCoy. Open the door for..Robert Griffin?

Yep, Baylor's Robert Griffin. If he can stay healthy, Baylor could have a decent year.

But they won't win the division. They simply don't have the horses to hang with Texas, Oklahoma and Texas Tech.

We already have a taste of what Texas will do this year from the National Title game, but keep an eye out for Texas Tech, which is now coached by Tommy Tuberville. They are still going to run the all-out passing game of Mike Leach, but now will mix some Tuberville style defense with it.

Even with all that, I think Texas lost too much on offense, and it has opened the door for Oklahoma.

For the Big 12 title game, give me Oklahoma over Missouri.
Prediction: Oklahoma

Mountain West
Even though they aren't technically an automatic BCS school, I think the MWC's top teams could compete in the big conferences week in and week out.

BYU I don't think has the athletes, but they will be a physical, disciplined football team.

TCU lost Jerry Hughes, as well as most of their defense. Not helping is that they also lost most of their starting offense. The Frogs will be a young team this year, and it will take a year or two before TCU is having national relevance.

Utah is returning a bringing tough defense, and they will need it to bring along a freshman QB led offense. Still, the Utes have the athletes to help out the young QB Jordan Wynn.

Don't be surprised if Air Force spoils one of these teams seasons.
Prediction: Utah

Pac-10
This conference will be a dogfight. Four teams--Oregon, Oregon State, Stanford and Southern Cal--can say they have a shot to win this conference.

The Ducks should be the favorite, and will have the most explosive offense. Nate Costa takes over at QB for the suspended Jeremiah Masoli. They should have a strong running game, and a rough defense.

Oregon State brings in RS freshman Ryan Katz at QB, but he is surrounded by athletes, notably the Rodgers brothers (James and Jaquizz). The defense should be servicable.

Stanford will be led by who I believe is the best QB in the conference...Andrew Luck. Though they must replace Toby Gehardt, most of the starting rotation on defense and offense return.

Southern Cal is under Lane Kiffin now, and he looks to bring a more intense, physical mentality to the Trojans. They will have the most heralded players, and true freshmen Dillion Baxter (RB) and Kyle Prater (WR) will look to lead the Trojans on a trip back to the top of the Pac 10 with QB Matt Barkley.

From a prediction, I could see this conference going to either USC or Oregon. Keep an eye out for Washington to make some noise this year, and heavily influence the turnout of this conference. Also, the Civil War between the Ducks and Beavers will go a long way in deciding who wins this conference.
Prediction: Southern California

For the National Championship, I believe Alabama is going to play an undefeated Ohio State.
In the game, the Buckeyes will again be dominated by a superior SEC school, as Alabama walks to a second straight national title.

Pre-season SEC football 2010

2010-05-22T18:18:00.000-07:00

Last time we focused on the ACC, picking how the season might play out, as well as All Conference first and second team.

Today, we shift our focus to the SEC.

West
Will start off with the easy division to pick. No surprise, I'm going with Alabama.

The Crimson Tide look to have a dominant offense headed by a huge, athletic offensive line and a 1-2 punch at runningback with Heisman winner Mark Ingram and sophomore Trent Richardson.

They also have Julio Jones at receiver, just in case you were wondering if they had any other weapons, along with consistent play from their tightends.

The only question for Alabama is defense, were they lost a few key guys, such as Terrance Cody, Javier Arenas, and Rolando McClain, but they do get LB Dont'a Hightower back.

Everyone else will be playing for second, and I think that honor goes to either Auburn or Arkansas. I would throw LSU in the mix, but their QB situation and questions on defense are too big for me to overlook.

Ole Miss lost almost everyone on offense, as well as on defense. Miss. State has improved on defense, but they are still looking for a QB and athletes to run coach Dan Mullen's "Florida Spread."

Projection
1-Alabama
2-Auburn
3-Arkansas
4-LSU
5-Mississippi State
6-Ole Miss

East
Now for the division that will be more of a tossup. The reason, every team is facing major questions.

The Gators of Florida should have the best talent and depth, but it is very young, and on offense, QB John Brantley has to fill the shoes of Tim Tebow, and the receiving corps is relatively untested. Offensively, I expect the Gators to be more of a running team with their experienced line and stable of runningbacks with Emmanuel Moody, Jeff Demps and Mike Gillislee

Defensively, they are basically bringing in a new unit, and a new defensive coordinator. Still talented, but I'm not sure how quickly they will pick up the schemes, and how well the young players will perform.

The Georgia Bulldogs are also bringing in a new defense, but they are switching to a 3-4, but don't have all the personnel to run it yet. On offense, they are bringing in RS freshman QB Aaron Murray, and though the line should improve with OT Trinton Sturdivant, they have yet to find a proven runningback, and the receiving corps is pretty thin outside of A.J. Green. Look for TE Orson Charles to have a big year.

I think Georgia is a year away from competing for a trip to Atlanta.

The Vols and Wildcats are bringing in new coaches. UT is bringing in Derek Dooley after the failed Lane Kiffin experiment, while Kentucky has promoted Joker Phillips to the head job. The 'Cats actually seem to be in a better position with a QB in Morgan Newton, a RB in Derrick Locke, and WR in Greg Mathews and WR/RB/QB Randall Cobb. Defense will be their biggest question.

UT is the opposite. Their D should do well, even without S Eric Berry. The question is offense. They bring in a brand new, young offensive line, a new runningback after losing Bryce Brown, and a new, JUCO QB. Their one positive is that their receivers are experienced.

Vanderbilt I'm not expecting much out of. A subpar QB, okay offensive line, decent runningbacks, no big receiving threat, and a defense that doesn't look to formidable. It will be a long year in Commodore country.

The biggest question is what is South Carolina going to do. They can say, outside of Florida, that they have an established group of guys returning from last year. QB Stephen Garcia is back, as is WR Alshoun Jeffery, TE Weslye Saunders, and their stable of running backs, along with signee Marcus Lattimore. Their defense looks to be strong, returning nearly everyone except LB Eric Norwood, S Darian Stewart, and DT Nathan Pepper.

The question is, what is the Oline going to do? Coach Shawn Elliott is the third coach in 3 years to teach the one unit that has honestly held back the Gamecocks offense. If the line comes around, Carolina will have a shot to punch their first ticket to Atlanta. If not, it will be Florida division to lose.

Projection
1-Florida
2-South Carolina
3-Kentucky
4-Georgia
5-Tennessee
6-Vanderbilt

I'll make it quick. Give me Alabama over Florida in Atlanta, and give me Alabama to win the National title.

1st Team
Offense
QB-Ryan Mallett (Arkansas)
RB-Mark Ingram (Alabama)
RB-Washaun Ealey (Georgia)
WR-Julio Jones (Alabama)
OT-Lee Ziemba (Auburn)
OG-Barret Jones (Alabama)
OC-Mike Pouncey (Florida)
OG-Cordy Glenn (Georgia)
OT-Xavier Nixon (Florida)
TE-D.J. Williams (Arkansas)
WR-A.J. Green (Georgia)
WR-Greg Childs (Arkansas)
K-Caleb Sturgis (Florida)

Defense
DL-Marcell Dareus (Alabama)
DL-Omar Hunter (Florida)
DL-Montori Hughes (Tennessee)
DL-Cliff Matthews (USC)
LB-Dont'a Hightower (Alabama)
LB-Jerry Franklin (Arkansas)
LB-Chris Marve (Vanderbilt)
CB-Janoris Jenkins (Florida)
CB-Dre Kirkpatrick (Alabama)
S-Mark Barron (Alabama)
S-Janzen Jackson (Tennessee)
P-Spencer Lanning (USC)

2nd team
Offense
QB-Stephen Garcia (USC)
RB-Derrick Locke (Kentucky)
RB-Mario Fanin (Auburn)
WR-Randall Cobb (Kentucky)
WR-Alshoun Jeffery (USC)
OT-Joseph Barksdale (LSU)
OG-Stuart Hines (Kentucky)
OC-William Vlachos (Alabama)
OG-Carl Johnson (Florida)
OT-James Carpenter (Alabama)
TE-Weslye Saunders (USC)
WR-Joe Adams (Arkansas)
K-Blair Walsh (Georgia)

Defense
DL-Pernell McPhee (MSU)
DL-Drake Nevis (LSU)
DL-Marlon Walls (Tennessee)
DL-Jake Bequette (Arkansas)
LB-Justin Houston (Georgia)
LB-Courtney Upshaw (Alabama)
LB-Kelvin Sheppard (LSU)
CB-Patrick Peterson (LSU)
CB-Stephon Gilmore (USC)
S-Devonte Holloman (USC)
S-Ahmad Black (Florida)
P-Chas Henry (Florida)

Pre-season ACC football 2010

2010-05-22T11:24:00.000-07:00

With Phil Steele's pre-season All Conference selections coming out, we here at the Report believe it is time we unveiled our pre-season teams, as well as how we think the league will pan out.

Today, the ACC is on display.

First, look at the divisional races.

Atlantic
Looking at the Atlantic division that saw Clemson win its first divisional title, and make its first appearance in the title game, the Tigers are hoping for a repeat.

Much of that hinges on the return of QB Kyle Parker, who will have to decide between the baseball or football depending on where he is selected in the MLB draft. If Parker comes back, Clemson will have a good shot, if he doesn't, it could be a rougher year.

Personally, I think Parker is like a baseball after being struck by an aluminum bat...gone.

QB Tajh Boyd is more talented, but Clemson will be a year away from returning to the ACC title game, but they will finish no lower than third this year.

Personally, I think Florida State will win the division this year under new coach Jimbo Fisher. He has full control, and is starting to get the athletes FSU has been lacking the past few years.

Don't sleep on the Eagles of Boston College, but they are unproven at QB, but should have a solid offensive line and running back play from Montel Harris.

Projected finish
1-Florida State
2-Clemson
3-Boston College
4-NC State
5-Wake Forest
6-Maryland

Coastal
This will be an interesting division to watch. Four of the six teams can lay a legitimate claim to winning this division.

North Carolina is the odds on favorite, and they are going to be lead by what could be the ACC's best defense, especially the front seven. Offensive consistency will be the key, and can QB T.J. Yates raise his game to a championship caliber level. And, can Greg Little be the superstar he was brought in to be?

Georgia Tech, the returning ACC champion, is in the thick of it, minus RB Jonathan Dwyer. They are also installing the 3-4 defense, but don't quite have the personnel to run it...yet. Their ball-control offense will go a long way, but I'm not sure if it will be enough to carry the team to the title game again.

Miami also can lay claim to the divisional crown. The Hurricanes started off hot last year, but I believe youth played a factor, and Miami struggled the second half of the season. They look to again have a high-powered offense armed with QB Jacory Harris, but defense will be the question.

Finally, Virginia Tech. The Hokies were a game away from the division last year, and will be right in it again this year. They will have two top caliber RBs in Ryan Williams and Darren Evans. They lost a good bit on defense, so it will depend on DC Bud Foster if this team will be in the title game.

Duke and Virginia, enough said.

Projected finish
1-North Carolina
2-Georgia Tech
3-Miami
4-Virginia Tech
5-Virginia
6-Duke

So, it looks like North Carolina and Florida State will meet for the title. If I had to bet the house right now, I'd put my money on North Carolina.

Defense wins championships, and they will have a better defense than Florida State.

Projected ALL-ACC
1st Team
Offense
QB-Christian Ponder (FSU)
RB-Ryan Williams (VT)
RB-Montel Harris (BC)
WR-Jarrett Boykin (VT)
OT-Anothony Castanzo (BC)
OG-Thomas Claiborne (BC)
OC-Sean Bedford (GT)
OG-Antoine McClain (Clemson)
OT-Blake DeChristopher (VT)
TE-Andrew Parker (Wake Forest)
WR-Travis Benjamin (Miami)
K-Richard Jackson (Clemson)

Defense
DL-DaQuaun Bowers (Clemson)
DL-Marvin Austin (UNC)
DL-Jarvis Jenkins (Clemson)
DL-Robert Quinn (UNC)
LB-Bruce Carter (UNC)
LB-Alex Wujciak (Maryland)
LB-Mark Herzlich (BC)
CB-Rashad Carmichael (Virginia Tech)
CB-Ras-I Dowling (Virginia)
S-Deunta Williams (UNC)
S-DeAndre McDaniel (Clemson)
P-Ryan Quigley (BC)

2nd Team
Offense
QB-Jacory Harris (Miami)
RB-Josh Adams (Wake Forest)
WR-Donovan Varner (Duke)
WR-Marquan Jones (Clemson)
OT-Chris Hairston (Clemson)
OG-Joel Figuroa (Miami)
OC-Ryan McMahon (FSU)
OG-David Spurlock (FSU)
OT-Orlando Franklin (Miami)
TE-Dwayne Allen (Clemson)
WR-Owen Spencer (NC State)
K-Casey Barth (UNC)

Defense
DL-Allen Bailey (Miami)
DL-Jacobbi McDaniel (FSU)
DL-Brandon Thompson (Clemson)
DL-Alex Albright (BC)
LB-Quan Sturdivant (UNC)
LB-Bruce Taylor (VT)
LB-Brandon Maye (Clemson)
CB-Greg Reid (FSU)
CB-Brandon Harris (Miami)
S-Antwine Perez (Maryland)
S-Ray Ray Armstrong (Miami)
P-Dawson Zimmerman (Clemson)

College football expansion could work

2010-05-01T11:21:00.000-07:00

A college football shakeup has been a hot button issue recently, and a column by The State's (SC) Ron Morris has brought the firestorm to South Carolina. In his piece, Morris makes note of a giant college football conference realignment that, among other things, would put South Carolina back in the ACC, a conference it left in the late 1960s.

Though I don't agree with Mr. Morris' (no relation to me) idea that USC would go back to the ACC, I do agree there is a big conference shift that will, eventually, give us a college football playoff.

After a long, and scientifically inexact process, I was able to come up with seven "Superconferences," based loosely on region.

One important thing to note: These changes only effect football, while leaving all these conferences I did away with, intact for basketball, baseball and other sports.

Conferences such as the SEC, ACC, MAC, and Mountain West would remain, while the Big 12 has a schism and splits, remaking the Southwest Conference (SWC), and the Big 10 becomes the Big 16 and PAC-10 becomes the Pacific Coast Conference (PCC). These moves also move the Sunbelt down to Division I-AA.

Start with the SEC. To start off, they lose Arkansas to the Southwest, but gain Georgia Tech, South Florida, Central Florida, Tulane and Memphis, keeping with the East and West divisions.

East
--Georgia
--Georgia Tech
--Florida
--Tennesee
--South Carolina
--Vanderbilt
--UCF
--USF

West
--Alabama
--Auburn
--Ole Miss
--Miss. State
--LSU
--Tulane
--Kentucky
--Memphis

The ACC goes through its second major expansion. With the loss of Georgia Tech, the ACC scrambles and grabs West Virginia from the Big East, along with Rutgers, Louisville, East Carolina and Marshall. The divisions are kept.

Atlantic
--Clemson
--Boston College
--Florida State
--Wake Forest
--NC State
--Maryland
--East Carolina
--Rutgers

Coastal
--North Carolina
--Duke
--Miami
--Marshall
--Louisville
--Virginia
--Virginia Tech
--West Virginia

Next, the Big 12. As mentioned, the conference has a schism between the South and North. The South splits, renames itself the Southwest Conference and picks up Arkansas to renew old SWC rivalries. Next, it grabs what is left of C-USA's Western division, along with New Mexico, New Mexico State, Southern Miss., UAB and Louisiana Tech.

West
--Texas
--Texas Tech
--Texas A&M
--Oklahoma
--Oklahoma State
--Baylor
--New Mexico
--New Mexico State

East
--Arkansas
--Southern Miss
--UAB
--Houston
--Rice
--SMU
--Tulsa
--UTEP
--Louisiana Tech

Next, the Big 10. All but Iowa stays, who joins up with the former Big 12-North teams. The biggest piece of this puzzle is that Notre Dame is forced to join the Big 10. The next step is that the Big East is dealt the death blow, and loses Pittsburgh, UConn, Syracuse, Cincinnati and Temple out of the MAC. Now, it is the Big 16.

West
--Minnesota
--Wisconsin
--Michigan
--Michigan State
--Ohio State
--Illinois
--Notre Dame
--Northwestern

East
--Purdue
--Indiana
--Pittsburgh
--Penn State
--UConn
--Temple
--Syracuse
--Cincinnati

Now, the MAC. As it looks extinction in the mouth, Iowa, along with the Big 12 North join together, and decide to join the MAC.

Midwest
--Iowa
--Iowa State
--Kansas
--Kansas State
--Missouri
--Nebraska
--Bowling Green
--Kent State
--Northern Illinois

Great Lakes
--Buffalo
--Ball State
--Akron
--Eastern Michigan
--Central Michigan
--Western Michigan
--Toledo
--Miami (Oh)
--Ohio

Next, the MWC. Colorado is picked up by the conference to really add some joice to their rivalry with Colorado State. Boise State, Idaho, Nevada and Utah State. The conference did lose New Mexico, New Mexico State and San Diego State.

North
--Wyoming
--Boise State
--Idaho
-- Utah
--Utah State
--BYU

South
--TCU
--Air Force
--Colorado
--Colorado State
--Nevade
--UNLV

Finally, the PCC. This conference picks up Fresno State, San Jose State, San Diego State and Hawaii. Though this is the smallest conference, the growth of California schools is so high that spots will be given to future schools.

North
--Oregon
--Oregon State
--Washington
--Washington State
--Stanford
--California
--San Jose State

South
--Southern Cal
--UCLA
--Fresno State
--San Diego State
--Arizona
--Arizona State
--Hawaii

I realize it isn't perfect, and that the Great Lakes division in the MAC is a little...weak.

You may be asking now, "How the playoff works?"

I'll let you know as soon as I think of it.

MLB Predictions for 2010

2010-04-11T08:27:00.000-07:00

I've gotten to watch a week of games and highlights, and now I'm ready to make predictions on who will win divisions, the wildcard, and who will be playing in the World Series.

National League
East
1-Phillies
2-Braves
3-Marlins
4-Mets
5-Nationals

*The Phillies are still the team to beat. The additions of P Roy Halladay and C Placido Palanco make their rotation the best in the National League, and give them another strong bat in the lineup. And you can't forget about the trifecta of SS Jimmy Rollins, 2B Chase Utley and 1B Ryan Howard (who will hit close to 50 HRs this year). Braves will win the wildcard.

Central
1-Cardinals
2-Brewers
3-Reds
4-Cubs
5-Astros
6-Pirates

*The Cardinals have the best pitching rotation in the division with Adam Wainwright, Chris Carpenter and Brad Penny. Don't forget the two dangerous bats of OF Matt Holliday and 1B Albert Pujols.

West
1-Giants
2-Rockies
3-Dodgers
4-Diamondbacks
5-Padres

*The Rockies are the favorite, but I think the Giants pitching staff with Tim Lincecum, Barry Zito and Matt Cain will be enough to pull out a very competitive NL-West division race.

American League
East
1-Yankees
2-Rays
3-Red Sox
4-Orioles
5-Blue Jays

*Money is key in baseball, and the Yankees have too much money invested in too much talent not to do well. They have a powerful offense, and probably have the best 5-man pitching rotation
in baseball with C.C. Sabathia, A.J. Burnett, Andy Pettitte, Javier Vasquez and Phil Hughes. The Rays will keep it close, but will have to settle for the wildcard. This division will come down to the last week of the season.

Central
1-Twins
2-Tigers
3-White Sox
4-Indians
5-Royals

*Minnesota went out and spent money on C Joe Mauer, and went out and got 2B Orlando Hudson, and still have 1B Justin Morneau. The lineup is littered with tough-out hitters, such as leadoff man CF Denard Span, LF Delmon Young and SS J.J. Hardy. The pitching staff doesn't have the big name, but they are well coached and should manage. The Tigers have the best pitchers, and this will be a close race, but the Tigers are a year away.

West
1-Mariners
2-Rangers
3-Angels
4-Athletics

*Seattle went out and spent money and brought in some talent to work with OF Ichiro Suzuki. This should be the most competitve division in baseball, because there isn't one team that is highly better than the rest.

Playoffs
Divisional

Phillies over Giants
Cardinals over Braves
Yankees over Mariners
Rays over Twins

League

Phillies over Cardinals
Rays over Yankees

World Series

Rays over Phillies in 6 games

Tournament expansion close to a done deal

2010-04-02T10:38:00.001-07:00

It was announced by the NCAA that the men's basketball tournament will expand to 96 teams. Here is a link to the Indianapolis Business Journal for more details.

The actual vote for this is still three weeks away, but all signs point that this will go through.

Though I am not a fan of this, it does have merit.

More teams equals more games
The overall product won't be watered down, just the first round.
Missed class time won't be a problem. They will miss a maximum of one extra day.
The extra revenue will help fund non-revenue sports, such as track and field, tennis, etc.

As I have stated in an earlier post, I was not a fan of expansion, for the simple reason I think the tournament lasts long enough, and by April, I'm ready for baseball and Opening Day (which should be a National holiday).

This has a good chance of taking effect in the 2011 tournament. This won't diminish the importance of the regular season, it will enhance it. Now, the regular season conference champ and tournament conference champ can make the tournament.

A plus is that this will all than likely shut down the NIT, or at least the CBI. More bubble teams will get in, such as this year's Virginia Tech team (who I think got snubbed) would be in next year.

You will still have Duke, UNC, UConn, Syracuse, Illinois, UCLA, Kentucky, Kansas, and other mainstays in the tournament to make ratings; you will still get the mid-majors we have come to love in Gonzaga, St. Mary's, Xavier, Butler; and you will still get the Cinderellas.

The tournament mentality won't change, just the number of participants, and maybe the number of people watching that glorious first pitch of the MLB baseball season.

My bracket is busted, and this tournament proves we don't need an expansion

2010-03-21T19:39:00.000-07:00

How many of you picked Kansas to win it all?
I did, and now my bracket is busted...thanks a lot Northern Iowa.

Also, I made the foolish choice of picking Texas to beat Wake Forest, and then top Kentucky on their way to the Final Four...thanks to the Deacs, that won't happen either.

And I couldn't be happier.

These upsets prove that the tournament doesn't need an expansion with would give the top seeds a bye week, and let the lower ranked teams play the UNI's and St. Mary's and Temple's and Cornell's of the world.

What makes the tournament exciting are those first round, seemingly insurmountable games that feature an all-world one or two seed, against some mid-major school that no one has heard of (I didn't even know there was a school in northern Iowa, much less that they played basketball out there).

There is the argument that more teams means more upsets, but that isn't true. As stated, the top teams would get a bye, and the lower seeds would just beat up on each other to soften up the winners for the top seeds in the next round. Plus, I think it would make the tournament too long, and it already bothers me that it won't get done until April, which in my opinion, is baseball season.

So enjoy your brackets getting busted sports fans, because even though you look like a complete bafoon (like I do when you look at my bracket) it still doesn't mean that we aren't in store for some more good basketball.

Now if we can just get March Madness to actually finish in March.

Texas School Board Rewriting History for the Worse

2010-03-17T17:34:00.000-07:00

I love history. It is one of my favorite subjects in school.

I just find it interesting to look back in the past and draw parallels to today. Of course to do this, the history text must be accurate, and give all sides of an issue.

But I guess the Texas school board has decided that giving all sides isn't needed anymore.

According to the New York Times story published March 12, the Texas School board, which is an elected body, decided it would be a good idea to inject a more "conservative" view of American history, science and economics textbooks.

Why does this matter to you? Texas is one of the largest buyers of textbooks, and what they decide is appropriate in a book is what is used by schools across the country.

Here are some of the amendments the board made that was deemed appropriate:

Teaching how the Venona papers "legitimized" McCarthy's claim of communist infiltration.
The "unintended consequences" of Title IX, affirmative action and the Great Society.
Cutting out Thomas Jefferson (you know, the guy who penned the Declaration of Independence) and replacing him with St. Thomas Aquinas, John Calvin and William Blackstone
To show that some Republicans voted for the civil rights acts and to mention the violent protests of the Black Panthers with the non-violent style of Dr. King.

But that isn't the scary part, what some of the "expert" board members are quoted saying is where the creep show begins.

“I reject the notion by the left of a constitutional separation of church and state,” said David Bradley, a real estate man.
“History has already been skewed. Academia is skewed too far to the left," said Dr. Don McLeroy

There were more, but my skin is already crawling.
And it isn't that they are wrong, as one of them said, they are attempting to balance history, which is how history should be presented.

But that isn't what is happening. What is happening is that a conservative, white-washed view of history is being given. Amendments describing the actions of Latino Americans were struck down, prompting another member, Mary Helen Beranga, to say that the board was going overboard, and that “they can just pretend this is a white America and Hispanics don’t exist.”

Mavis Knight added that "the social conservatives have perverted accurate history to fulfill their own agenda.”

Sadly, both of these women are correct.

But here is my question: Why weren't expert historians, sociologists, scientists and economists (from both the left and right) consulted by the board to create a text that gives a balanced view of the subjects?

I've already stated before my idea on the teaching of evolution in a science class here, and I feel the same way in other subjects.

In economics, instead of teaching the concepts and "superiority" of a "free-enterprise system" (capitalism) teach the concept of the system, and let the student decide how they feel about it.

In regard to history, teach the Venona papers, but also teach how McCarthy went overboard and drummed up support using fear by invading personal rights. They didn't call it the Red Scare for nothing. Also, teach that the Founding Fathers did put in the Constitution a "separation of church and state," but that the phrase doesn't mean there is a "separation from religion" and that the concept is a complicated issue.

But, they did get the basic idea of the civil rights movement right, so these amendments weren't all bad, just most of them.

To stay in history, and cross over into political science, students should learn about the conservative resurgence in the 1980s and 1990s headed by Ronald Reagan and powered by the Moral Majority and the NRA...it is apart of history. But they should also learn about the New Deal and LBJ's "Great Society," as well as other political ideological movements in the course of the nation.

Think of it in this regard: What good would it be learning about the Federalist papers if you didn't learn about the Anti-federalist papers?

The major point is this: School subjects, be it history, economics, sociology, science, psychology, math, shouldn't have a political agenda behind them. All sides should be represented, and the facts should be verified by experts and presented to students.

Students should be given the hard facts of a subject, and then encouraged to form their own opinions on the matter and defend them using the facts.

These school board people mean well, but they are failing the students, and not necessarily with the material.

They are depriving the students the right, and challenge, of forming their own opinions and thinking for themselves, and that is what our eduction system is really missing.

Major League Baseball needs a realignment

2010-03-10T10:02:00.000-08:00

I love baseball. In my opinion, it is the greatest game played here in the states, and is slowly become the worlds number two game, behind soccer of course.

But just because I love the sport doesn't mean I think it is perfect. In fact, I think MLB could use a few changes to make things more interesting. I'll skip how the TV deals favor the Yankees and Red Sox, and get to the main point of this piece.

I think that MLB needs to do a realignment to not only make the divisions more geographically friendly for travel, but to also level the playing field. The best example of this unfairness is the NL Central and the AL West. In the current NL Central there are six teams, compared to the four in the AL West. To me, all divisions should have the same amount of teams, giving each team the same chance of making the playoffs.

In my realigned MLB, there will still be six divisions. and we can keep the American League-National League rivalry, though I would like for the designated hitter argument to be settled, but that is another column.

In this realignment, some teams switch divisions, while some switch leagues. It won't be perfect, but I believe my realignment is better than what is currently out there.

National League
East
-Tampa Bay Rays
-Florida Marlins
-Atlanta Braves
-Philadelphia Phillies
-Washington Nationals

Central
-Chicago Cubs
-Chicago White Sox
-Milwaukee Brewers
-Detroit Tigers
-Pittsburgh Pirates

Southwest
-Colorado Rockies
-Arizona Diamondbacks
-Texas Rangers
-San Diego Padres
-Houston Astros

American League
North
-New York Yankees
-New York Mets
-Boston Red Sox
-Toronto Blue Jays
-Baltimore Orioles

Central
-Kansas City Royals
-St. Louis Cardinals
-Cincinnati Reds
-Cleveland Indians
-Minnesota Twins

West
-Seattle Mariners
-Oakland A's
-San Francisco Giants
-LA Angels
-LA Dodgers

Spring practice outlook for Clemson & South Carolina

2010-03-01T08:56:00.000-08:00

It seems just like yesterday we were watching the Alabama Crimson Tide and Texas Longhorns play for the National Title in the Rose Bowl.

Or maybe it was like yesterday National Signing Day and top prospects gave new light into a programs future.

College football has become a year-long sport, and the next big event is the start of spring practice, followed by teams annual spring games.

This is the time of year when teams get a chance to look at younger, unproven guys and see what they can do, to implement new schemes, or help settle position battles.

This goes the same for both the South Carolina Gamecocks and Clemson Tigers.

This edition of the Lake Report, we will focus on objectives for the spring, and a projected post-Spring ball roster. Keep in mind, this report will only include players enrolled for the spring semester. Another report will come out in the fall including all incoming players.

Clemson
The Tigers will have an interesting spring to say the least. They will have to pretty much replace the entire offense, as well as some key cogs on defense. Here are the main areas to look for during the Clemson spring drills.

1-Who will replace C.J. Spiller?
Spiller did everything for Clemson: He ran it, caught it, returned kicks/punts, and threw a touchdown pass. So who is going to replace that?

Truth be told, no one. It will take a cast of characters to replace the production of Spiller. In the running game, look for a three-way battle among Andre Ellington, Jaimie Harper and RS-Fr. Roderick McDowell. Ellington is the one who can match Spiller's speed, and should be the guy that also does kick/punt return duty. Harper could be the power back, assuming he gets his fumbles under control. McDowell is the smallest of the backs, but he is listed as a 4.45 40-yard dash guy.

2-Who will step up in the receiving game?
WR Jacoby Ford and TE Michael Palmer were the offense in the passing game. Outside of those guys, no one really stepped up. With those two gone, who will be the offense outside the running game?

Looking at it, RS-Fr. WR Bryce McNeal would be a safe bet to pick. Also look for TE Dwayne Allen, who showed flashes last year. As for a possession guy, WR Brandon Ford could be what the Tigers have lacked since Aaron Kelly. For a pure speed WR, look for Marquan Jones, who saw limited action last year behind J. Ford. Behind that though, it is pretty shaky.

3-Who is going to play cornerback?
Crezdon Butler and Chris Chancellor are gone. That leaves two gaping holes up for grabs. Though Clemson will probably have to wait for their complete rotation to come in, they do have some guys on campus now. Coty Sensabaugh, Xavier Brewer, Byron Maxwell and Marcus Gilchrist. Brewer is probably the most athletic guy out of the group, and Sensabaugh is the biggest. Gilchrist is the wildcard: He played safety last year, but was recruited as a corner.

4-What to do with Kyle Parker?
Parker will again be splitting time between the baseball and football team. But the real question is, how many reps do you give RS-Fr Tajh Boyd? Parker's future is in the air, depending on where he is drafted in the MLB draft. This will be the most difficult part of spring for coach Swinney. It is pretty much a given that Michael Wade won't be the starter either way.

Projected post-Spring Depth Chart
QB-Kyle Parker, Tajh Boyd, Michael Wade
RB-Andre Ellington, Jaimie Harper, McDowell
*FB-Chad Diehl
WR-Brandon Ford, Xavier Dye, Brandon Clear
LT: Chris Hairston, Matt Sanders, Tyler Fowler
LG: Mason Cloy, Kenneth Page, Tyler Felt
C: Dalton Freeman, Mason Cloy, Ben Ramsey
RG: Antoine McClain, Wilson Norris, Matt Sanders
RT: Landon Walker, David Smith, Phillip Price
TE-Dwayne Allen, Darrel Smith, Kasey Nobles
WR-Marquan Jones, Terrance Ashe
WR-Bryce McNeal, Jaron Brown

DE: Mallicah Goodman, Andre Branch, Rennie Mooore
DT: Brandon Thompson, Jaime Cumbie, Tyler Shatley
DT: Jarvis Jenkins, Miguel Chavis
DE: DaQuan Bowers, Kourtnei Brown, Byron Clear
LB: Jonathan Williard, Quandon Christian
LB: Brandon Maye, Spencer Shuey
LB: Corico Hawkins, Tarik Rollins
CB: Xavier Brewer, Coty Sensabaugh
S: Rashard Hall, Spencer Adams
S: Deandre McDaniel, Jonathan Meeks, Carlton Lewis
CB: Byron Maxwell, Marcus Gilchrist

K: Spencer Benton
P: Dawson Zimmerman
KR: Andre Ellington, Marquan Jones
PR: Andre Ellington

South Carolina
The Gamecocks can't wait to get started. After their dismal showing at the Papajohns.com Bowl against UConn, the fans probably can't wait either. Some early news before we get into things: FB Pat Dimarco will be tested at tight end, as the Gamecocks attempt to turn him into a true H-Back, and add another wrinkle to the offense. Also, WRs Alshon Jeffery and Tori Gurley are going to be on the field at the same time. But, into the things to look for this spring.

1-Who is going to play offensive line?
This question has plagued Steve Spurrier since his arrival. Last year marked the third year in a row the run game has been in the bottom of the SEC. Not to mention QB Stephen Garcia was sacked 37 times this year, and hit many, many more. The Gamecocks signed a large class of Olinemen this year, but there are a few guys returning that could give hope for new Oline coach Shawn Elliott.
Watch this spring for guards T.J. Johnson, Steve Singleton and RS-Fr. Nick Allison. Also, OT Rokevious Watkins will make a very competitve Oline group this year. Returners include OTs Kyle Nunn and Hutch Eckerson, guards Garrett Chisolm and Terrance Campbell.

2-Who is going to replace Eric Norwood?
Mr. Energy for the South Carolina defense last year, LB Eric Norwood is gone to the NFL, and USC has a gaping hole in the D to fill. LB Rodney Paulk returns for another year of eligibility, so that leaves the other LB spot open. All signs point to Shaq Wilson, but also keep an eye out for Josh Dickerson and JUCO transfer Qua Gilchrist.

3-When will USC see Jarvis Giles?
Heralded runningback Jarvis Giles came in last year hot, but after the SC State game, he was benched for the remainder of the year, to get stronger and more knowledgeable of the offense. Giles is the best thing USC has to an explosive threat in the running game. With a stacked backfield of Kenny Miles, Brian Maddox and Eric Baker, where will Giles fit in?

4-Will we see more of the 'Wildcock'?
It took a whole year, but the Gamecocks version of the 'Wildcat' was unveiled against rival Clemson with great success. Headed by cornerback Stephon Gilmore, one would hope this formation could be a cure for USC's running game woes, especially with speedsters Giles and the diminutive Bryce Sherman.

5-Who is going to be the backup QB?
With Reid McCollum transferring, that leaves a hole at the number two spot for QB. Aramis Hillary looks to be the heir, but he will have to hold off RS-Fr. Andrew Clifford and early enrollee Connor Shaw. Garcia has a lock on the starting job, but USC will need a number two guy ready to go in case Garcia goes down. Should be an interesting battle to watch, as I don't expect Garcia to see too many reps in the spring game.

Projected post-Spring Depth Chart
QB: Stephen Garcia, Andrew Clifford, Aramis Hillary, Connor Shaw
RB: Kenny Miles, Jarvis Giles, Brian Maddox, Bryce Sherman
*FB: Pat Dimarco, Matt Coffee, Brian Maddox
WR: Alshon Jeffery, Demario Bennett, Stephen Flint
LT: Kyle Nunn, Jarriel King
LG: Nick Allison, Steve Singleton
C: TJ Johnson, Ryan Broadhead
RG: Rokevious Watkins, Terrence Campbell
RT: Hutch Eckerson, Quintin Richardson
TE: Wesley Saunders, Pat Dimarco, Justice Cunningham, Mike Triglia
WR: Dion Lecorn, Lamar Scruggs, DeAngelo Smith
WR: Tori Gurley, Jason Barnes, DL Moore

DE: Devin Taylor, Byron McKnight
DT: Ladi Ajiboye, Melvin Ingram,
DT: Travian Robertson, Ronald Byrd, Kenny Davis
DE: Cliff Matthews, Chaz Sutton, Aldrick Fordham
LB: Rodney Paulk, Josh Dickerson, Quin Smith, Chaun Gresham
LB: Shaq Wilson, Qua Gilchrist, Tony Straughter, Reggie Bowens
Spur: Damario Jeffery, Antonio Allen, Jarrett Burns
CB: Stephon Gilmore, Jay Spearman, Brandan Davis
SS: Devonte Holloman, Corey Addison
FS: Akeem Auguste, DJ Swearinger, Alonzo Winfield
CB: Chris Culliver, CC Whitlock Jimmy Legree

Breaking Down 2010 Recruiting

2010-02-08T10:28:00.000-08:00

Signing Day has come and gone, only to mark the next recruiting cycle that will take place for 2011.

But before we get ahead of ourselves and look at the next class of high school seniors, I want to take a look at the signed guys for both Clemson and South Carolina, give a grade to each school and give a projection for the state of South Carolina's top 15 prospects for 2011. Also, I'll give my rating of where the two SC schools rank in their conferences.

Clemson
The Tigers signed a very small class in 2009, which led many to believe they would sign a monster-sized class for 2010. And the Tigers made good on that expectation, signing 23 players, and this class addresses some needs and and has some pretty highly rated guys.

But the one word I'd use to describe this class is fast. According to Rivals, Clemson signed seven guys that ran the 40-yard dash in 4.45 seconds or faster. They also addressed what I believe is the biggest need in defensive backs with the losses of many seniors in the backfield. CBs Garry Peters and Darius Robinson, both steals out of Georgia, fit the mold of big, fast corners that should be physical guys, as well as being fast. S Desmond Brown looks to be a hard-hitting, physical DB that could fit the mold of a DeAndre McDaniel.

The Dline seems to have added depth and talent with the signing of prep-schooler Josh Watson (DT), and high-schoolers Tra Thomas and Tavaris Barnes. Corey Crawford is the lone DE of the class, and he is tall and has room to fill out. LB was also addressed with the signing of Ricky Chaney.

Another LB prospect, Jake Nicolopulos, will not be joining the team due to a severe stroke he suffered, and has appeared to end his playing career. We here at the Report wish Jake the best in full recovery.

But at the final hour, Clemson iced the recruiting cake by signing LB Justin Parker to round out the class, and give them a MLB to build around.

On offense, WR Martavis Bryant may be the top player in the class. He has size, speed and good hands. The only question is his academics. Sources from T.L. Hanna High School inform that he is borderline with his grades, and may have to go to prep school or a JUCO before he can join the Tigers. RB Demont Buice is a big, physical running back that looks to fit into the scheme of having a power runner, and a speed guy in the Clemson backfield. They also signed a TE in Sam Cooper, who has a good frame to grow into.

Offensive line was also addressed, with the signing of Kalon Davis (OG), David Beasley (OG), Gifford Timothy (OT) and Reid Webster (OT).

The only area I wish Clemson didn't touch on was QB, and I really think they should've gone after a one with the transfer of Will Korn, and the uncertainty of Kyle Parker. Now, Clemson has put all their eggs in the Tajh Boyd basket (assuming Parker goes pro in MLB) for next season, which could come back to bite them.

One area to note are the athletes they signed: Victor Beasley, Bashaud Breeland, Deandre Hopkins, D.J. Howard and Joe Craig. All these guys run at least a 4.5 in the 40. Craig projects as a WR, and with some scouting agencies clocking him at a 4.3, he could be the next big play threat for the Clemson offense. Both Breeland and Hopkins project as DBs, which will only help depth in the depleted corp. Hopkins played both S and CB while at D.W. Daniel and could play either position, while Breeland projects as a pure S. Howard is a guy that could play either RB or safety. I think with the current group of backs, and how wide open the safety position will be, he will probably be a safety at Clemson, and probably be a candidate on special teams.

The enigma is Victor Beasley. His 6'4, 220 lbs frame, and his speed, could place him at a number of positions. He could play WR, TE, or be an oversized S. Most project him as a LB or a TE, but I think he may be the most versatile player Clemson signed this year.

Overall, I'd give this class a B+. It addressed most needs except at QB, and it appears they have a good group of guys for Dabo to start building the program the way he likes it. If Clemson signed a QB in this class, I'd be hard not to give them an A.

A few guys could crack the two-deep, especially in a wide-open defensive backfield and wide receiving corps. Look for Hopkins, Robinson, and Peters to make the most noise in that area. Crawford and Watson could come in and provide depth on the Dline, and Bryant could be the possession WR Clemson hasn't had since Aaron Kelly. Craig could be the guy that fills the other WR spot, but most of this class, I see redshirting.

South Carolina
The Gamecocks recently boosted their 2010 class with the signing of RB Marcus Lattimore to round out their 25-man class. If fast describes Clemson's class, then the word beef would describe USC's.

After deplorable offensive line play the past few seasons, the Gamecocks made an effort to sign a large line class. The class, while losing OG Erick Mack, still looks pretty good. It is headlined by C/OG A.J. Cann, who may be on the two-deep come this fall, depending on how much weight he can put on. Other linemen will probably be redshirted: OTs Corey Robinson and Cody Gibson, OGs Duvon Millsap and Ronald Patrick, and OG/C Tramell Williams. This group addresses the numbers needs for linemen, the final verdict will have to be reserved. Remember in 2006 the Gamecocks signed a large Oline class, and that group never fulfilled its potential.

Along with the line and Lattimore, the 'Cocks signed QB Connor Shaw, WRs Nick Jones, Ace Sanders and Javon Bell, and QB/ATH Dylan Thompson. The three wide-outs filled the need for speed receivers that Carolina has lacked, and Shaw and Thompson fill the need for another QB.

On defense, the headliners are CB Victor Hampton and DT Kelcy Quarles. The rest of that side of the ball was made up of DE Corey Simmons, DT J.T. Suarratt and JUCO DL Byron Jerideau. They also signed two linebackers: OLB Brandon Golson and JUCO Toquavius "Qua" Gilchrist. Accompanying Hampton in the backfield are CBs Brison Williams and Cadarius Sanders, and safeties Sharrod Golightly and Chris Payne.

The Gamecocks also signed kicker Patrick Fish, who is rated the number 23 kicker in the country (Rivals.com).

A concern for Carlina is grades for a few players. Bell is reported to be iffy at the moment, as is Payne, who will probably have to go to a JUCO before he can have another shot at joining the Gamecocks.

Overall, I'd give this class a B. Before Lattimore, this class was a B- at best (I'd almost give it a C+ with the last-second loss of WR Sean Tapley). It feels needs, but Carolina missed on a lot of highly rated prospects. The only area I thought Carolina could've done better was in the area of TE. The Gamecocks really needed a TE in this class, and are now in a must-sign scenario for 2011. The question is Thompson: If he doesn't stay at QB, he is projected as a TE, and that could fill an issue. Still, I'd like to see USC sign a pure TE in 2011.

Guys such as Lattimore, Quarles, Gilchrist, Hampton, Cann, Jerdeau and one of the three receivers I see cracking the depth chart this year. The rest of this class I expect be redshirted.

ACC Rankings
1-Florida State
2-Clemson
3-Virginia Tech
4-NC State
5-Miami (Fl)
6-North Carolina
7-Boston College
8-Georgia Tech
9-Maryland
10-Wake Forest
11-Virginia
12-Duke

SEC Rankings
1-Florida
2-Alabama
3-Auburn
4-LSU
5-Tennessee
6-Ole Miss
7-Georgia
8-South Carolina
9-Miss. State
10-Kentucky
11-Arkansas
12-Vanderbilt

South Carolina's Top 15 Prospects-2011
1-Jadeveon Clowney 6'5, 225 lbs. (DE-South Pointe)
2-Everett Golson 6'0, 170 lbs. (QB/ATH-Myrtle Beach) UNC verbal
3-Shon Carson 5'9, 185 lbs. (HB-Lake City)
4-Charone Peake 6'3, 185 lbs. (WR-Dorman)
5-Phillip Dukes 6'3, 295 lbs. (DT-Manning)
6-Tony McNeal 6'1, 180 lbs. (QB/ATH-Chester) Clemson verbal
7-Julius Pendergrass 5'10, 185 lbs. (RB-Chester)
8-Lateek Townsend 6'2, 211 lbs. (LB-Marlboro County)
9-Shaq Anthony 6'5, 265 lbs. (OL-Wren) Clemson verbal
10-Jeremiah McKie 6'0, 170 lbs. (ATH-Mauldin)
11-Brandon Shell 6'7, 290 lbs. (OL-Goose Creek)
12-Dexter Staley 6'2, 215 lbs. (LB-Williston-Elko)
13-Shamir Jeffery 6'2, 195 lbs. (ATH-Calhoun County)
14-Jerome Maybank 6'4, 310 lbs. (OL-Waccamaw)
15-Sam Merriman 6'1, 190 lbs. (LB/S-Cheraw)

Season Wrap-Up: Clemson and South Carolina

2010-01-07T11:27:00.000-08:00

We can put a wrap on the 2009-2010 season for both teams from South Carolina.
Both teams showed signs of improvement, and showed areas for improvement.
I'll take a look at both schools, give a grade to their seasons, areas of improvement, and outlook for 2010-11.

Clemson Tigers
The Tigers did well under first year coach Dabo Swinney. They did something they never did under Bowden, punch a ticket for the ACC Title game. They also featured an electric duo in CJ Spiller and Jacoby Ford.

Looking at the season, they beat almost all the teams they were suppose to, but the loss to Maryland is a glaring black mark on the record. The two losses to Georgia Tech also hurt, because one cost them the ACC title and a shot at the Orange Bowl.

In fact, if Clemson could've beat South Carolina, this might have been considered one of the best seasons in Clemson history.

Also, QB Kyle Parker improved throughout the year using the weapons he had. The defense was good as well, led by DE Ricky Sapp, LB Kavell Connor, CB Chris Chancellor and S Deandre McDaniel.

But, the lack of a play threat outside of Spiller and Ford hurt the Tigers. TE Michael Palmer played well, but the Tigers never really had a possession deep threat at WR.

Overall, good season, but it still could've been better.
Grade: B

Outlook
Clemson looks to be the perennial team to beat in their division. Florida State is still adjusting to Jimbo Fisher, building programs such as NC State and Maryland, and recovering programs in Wake Forest and Boston College.

But a lot of Clemson's success next year depends on if Kyle Parker, and that depends on the MLB draft. If not, it will be on R-Fr. Tajh Boyd. Also, the offense is losing the bulk of their offensive production with Spiller, Ford and Palmer. The Tigers will need guys such as RBs Andre Ellington and Jaime Harper, WRs Xavier Dye and Marquan Jones, and TE Dwayne Allen to step up. They also need the Oline to continue to improve.

Defensively, they will be replacing Sapp, Connor, LB Kevin Alexander, CBs Chancellor and Crezdon Butler, and S Sadat Chambers. Their small recruiting class from a year ago may hurt them, but they are signing a much larger class for 2010, and a few of those players may start as freshman, especially at cornerback.

Overall though, I like Clemson's chances next year. They start the season with Troy, which should be a tune-up before the season really gets going. They will play Auburn, another decent ACC schedule, and end the season with South Carolina. Squashed in there will be a gimme game with an in-state school.

I'd say Clemson can repeat as ACC Champs, if they can find some offensive weapons, and keep the defense strong. If it is a down year, I see no worse than a 3rd place finish in the division.

South Carolina
Has there been a more up-and-down season in college football. A team that started out scoring 7 points against NC State, exploding in a loss to Georgia, beating the number 4 team in the country (Ole Miss), not showing up for games against Kentucky, Vanderbilt, Arkansas and Tennessee, pushing the Florida Gators to the limit, beating their in-state rivals soundly, and then laying an absolute egg against UConn in a bowl game.

QB Stephen Garcia showed vast improvement from last year, and will look to become the leader of the offense next year. Also, the offensive line showed signs of improvment before flopping in Birmingham, and some young specialists were found in WRs Alshoun Jeffery, Tori Gurley, DL Moore, and RB Kenny Miles. Still the Oline is a sore spot that new Oline coach Shawn Elliott (App State) will look to continue to shore up.

The defense was the backbone, led by All-American LB Eric Norwood, and returns playmakers such as DEs Cliff Matthews and Clifton Geathers, LB Rodney Paulk, CB Stephon Gilmore and S Chris Culliver.

Overall, it was a season that met expectations from the preseason, but the way the team came out and talent it has, and the lack of consistency makes this season a sour pill to swallow for Gamecock faithful.

Grade: C

Outlook

The "Fun n Gun" still hasn't arrived in Columbia, but the defense has. Spurrier has managed to find his QB, WRs, and RBs (and hope to add RB Marcus Lattimore) but still haven't found an Oline, and that has been the biggest problem for Spurrier in his 5 seasons at USC.

But he has brought a defense together that can keep his offense in games, but the Gamecocks need points, and next year will have to show vast offensive improvement.

Outlook actually looks good for USC next season. Georgia is rebuilding, as is Tennessee, Kentucky is still a step below USC, and Vanderbilt is still Vanderbilt. Also, Florida is losing a lot of talent to graduation and early departure, which means USC will have its best shot to make a name for itself, but they have to show up every game and give 100% effort.

If USC can sure up the lines, their offense will click, and their D will be ok, but will need multiple guys to step up for Norwood and S Darian Stewart. Also, they need to use the Wildcat on offense with Gilmore more.

Overall, I'm stumped. If the Oline can improve, USC should have a breakout season next year, but until the line gets right, USC can expect another 7 win season. Never before have 5 guys held the key to a season like the 5 spots on the Gamecock Oline will next season.

Bowl Picks 2009-2010

2009-12-07T12:22:00.000-08:00

It is that time. Time for the bowl season to kick into gear. Though I would love nothing more than a playoff like D1AA, D2, and D3 college football, the BCS is the system we are stuck with. So, let's make the best of things and pick some games. For the final week, I'll look at the National Title game, the Papajohn's.com Bowl and the Music City Bowl.

National Title Game (Jan. 7 @ 8 pm)
1 Alabama (13-0) vs 2 Texas (13-0)
For the first time, we may have a legit number 1 vs number 2 for the national title. Alabama made a statement last week when they dethroned the defending national champion Florida Gators in the SEC title game 32-13.

Texas didn't have quite of an easy road last week in the Big 12 title game against Nebraska. Whether you think the Cornhuskers got robbed (which they did) Texas won the game on a last second field goal 13-12.

But none of what happens matters. All that matters is what they bring to the table that day.

Three to Watch
Longhorns
Colt McCoy (Quarterback, Sr.)
McCoy is coming off a rough Big 12 game where he was thrown around by Nebraska's Ndemekong Suh, which probably cost him the Heisman. Now, McCoy gets one last chance to show how good of a QB he is. The Texas offense will go as he goes. If he does well, Texas has a shot, if he struggles, Alabama will take over.

Jordan Shipley (Wide receiver, Sr.)
The favorite target of McCoy, he is the big play threat. He leads the team in receptions and yards, and will be counted on big time. His ability to draw double teams will hopefully free up the other wideouts. His return skills will be called upon as well.

Blake Gideon (Safety, Soph.)
Sadly, Gideon is known as the guy that missed Texas Tech's Michael Crabtree last year that probably cost Texas a shot at the title last season. Gideon will see another top flight receiver in Julio Jones. Gideon hopes history won't repeat itself.

Crimson Tide
Mark Ingram (Runningback, So)
The Heisman winner will look to show that he is legit, as if the past weeks haven't already shown that. If Ingram gets churning, combined with Trent Richardson, and Alabama will be able to keep McCoy and the Longhorn offense off the field.

Terrance Cody (Defensive tackle, Sr.)
The big man in the middle of the defense will be crucial. The Longhorn O-line showed that they are susecptible to a team with a dominate defensive tackle. Cody is no Suh, but if he can control the line, it will be a long day for McCoy.

Javier Arenas (Cornerback, Sr.)
Arenas will be charged with guarding Shipley. If he can take away, or limit, McCoy's favorite target, it will really hamper the Longhorn offense. Also, Arenas in the return game could be a big swing for the Tide.

Pick:
Alabama 34
Texas 17

Music City Bowl (Dec. 27 @ 8:30)
Clemson (8-5) vs Kentucky (7-5)
It is a rematch of the 2006 Music City Bowl where Kentucky won 28-20: The Wildcats are hoping history repeast itself, while the Tigers are looking to relegitimize themselves after their late season slum to South Carolina and Georgia Tech.

As mentioned, Clemson is coming into this game limping after a loss to in-state rival Carolina, and then Georgia Tech eeked out a 39-34 victory over the Tigers in the ACC Title game. But that doesn't mean the Wildcats of Kentucky are guaranteed a victory. RB/KR/PR CJ Spiller may be the most electrifying player on the field, and WR Jacoby Ford may be even faster than Spiller, and dependable TE Michael Palmer has turned into a favorite target of QB Kyle Parker. The defense is also a tough unit, with the best defensive line and secondary in the ACC.

Kentucky finished up the month of November hot, going 3-1, and were a play away from beating rival Tennessee and going 4-0. Freshman QB Morgan Newton has come in and been servicable, RB Derrick Locke has shown to be a workhorse, and WR Randall Cobb has been the "do everything" guy for the 'Cats. The D isn't too shabby either, led by DE Taylor Windham, LB Micah Johnson, and CB Trevard Lindley.

Three To Watch
Tigers
CJ Spiller (Runningback, Sr.)
Clemson goes as Spiller goes. If he has a big game, then Clemson will have a shot to win. If Kentucky can shut him down, then Clemson will have next to no shot at winning the bowl game.

DeAndre McDaniel (Safety, Jr.)
McDaniel leads the team in interceptions, and is also a hard-hitting threat to any receiver crossing the middle. He will be key in shutting down Cobb and fellow WR Chris Matthews.

Kyle Parker (Quarterback, R-Fr.)
This could very well be Parker's last football game. He is projected to be a high draft pick in the MLB draft, and it appears his future is in baseball. No one wants to go out a loser, and that is a big motiviation for not only Parker, but Spiller and the other seniors on the Clemson roster.

Wildcats
Randall Cobb (Receiver, Sr.)
Cobb does it all for Kentucky. He catches, he runs the ball, and he runs the WildCat. He is the only "answer" to Spiller. Cobb's leadership will be called on with an offense led by a freshman QB.

Trevard Lindley (Cornerback, Sr.)
Lindley will be called upon to guard Ford. Ford is the second option in the Clemson offense, and if Lindley can control him and force Clemson to put everything on Spiller, then the Wildcats will have a good shot to win their third Music City Bowl in the past 4 years.

Derrick Locke (Runningack, Jr.)
Locke has come in and become a good back. His toughness and ability to get tough yards could give the Wildcats the best weapon against Spiller: Keeping him off the field. A good RB will also help calm down a freshman QB in Newton.

Pick:
Kentucky 31
Clemson 30

Papajohn's.com Bowl (Jan. 2 @ 2 pm)
South Carolina vs Connecticut
Papajohn's Bowl is entering its fourth year, and the past two years have seen competitive bowl games with Rutgers/NC State and Cincinnati/Southern Miss. Now, Carolina and UConn get a chance to add a chapter the the Papajohn's Bowl.

South Carolina has ended their season on a good note, beating rival Clemson, and now look to close the season on a two-game win streak. QB Stephen Garcia has improved a good bit, and will be in consideration as top QB in the SEC next year. RBs Kenny Miles and Brian Maddox have created a servicable run game, and WR Alshon Jeffery has given USC a go-to receiver. The key to this game will be All SEC LB Eric Norwood, who always seems to play big when the cameras turn on.

UConn has had the roughest season imaginable with the loss of Jasper "Jazz" Howard. The team could've called it a year, but instead rallied and were able to beat Notre Dame to give their season a high note. The Huskies have a huge offensive line and are anchored by a power running game and RBs Jordan Todman and Andre Dixon. The passing game is servicable, but the Huskies would love to run the ball all game, and hit deep passes to WR Marcus Easley.

Three to Watch
Huskies
Andre Dixon (Runningback, Sr.)
Dixon is the powerback of the duo. His ability to ge the tough yards and find the endzone will be key to UConn controlling the clock and keeping the Carolina offense off the field. He will also be depended on the give blocking help on Norwood.

Jordan Todman (Runningback, So.)
Todman is the speed back of the two. He will be responsible to gash the defense of Carolina. He will also need to catch balls out of the backfield.

Lindsey Witten (Defensive end, Sr.)
Witten is the sack and tackles-for-loss leader. If he is able to get in the backfield and disrupt the running game and force them to depend on Garcia, UConn will have a chance to win.

Gamecocks
Eric Norwood (Linebacker, Sr.)
The guy does everything for USC on defense. He tackles, he gets sacks, he gets in the backfield, recovers fumbles, intercepts passes, and he leads the D. UConn will have to account for Norwood every down if they want to get their offense running.

Kenny Miles (Runningback, R-Fr.)
Miles has come on this year as a primary rusher. After a big Clemson game, Miles work horse ability and hard-nosed running will be key to controlling the clock and wearing down the UConn D.

Ladi Ajiboye (Defensive Tackle, Jr.)
Ajiboye will have to get in the backfield, as well as keep the big UConn linemen from getting to the next level and blocking LBs Norwood and Shaq Wilson. If he can disrupt the running game, it will go a long way to helping Carolina get the win.

Pick:
South Carolina 38
Connecticut 17

The rest of the bowls
New Mexico Bowl: Fresno State over Wyoming
St. Petersburg Bowl: Rutgers over Central Florida
New Orleans Bowl: Southern Miss. over Mid. Tenn. State
Las Vegas Bowl: Oregon State over BYU
Poinsettia Bowl: Utah over California
Hawaii Bowl: SMU over Nevada
Little Cesaer's Bowl: Ohio over Marshall
Meineke Bowl: Pittsburgh over North Carolina
Emerald Bowl: Southern Cal over Boston College
Independence Bowl: Texas A&M over Georgia
Champs Sports Bowl: Miami (FL) over Wisconsin
Humanitarian Bowl: Bowling Green over Idaho
Holiday Bowl: Nebraska over Arizona
Sun Bowl: Stanford over Oklahoma
Armed Forces Bowl: Houston over Air Force
Texas Bowl: Navy over Missouri
Insight Bowl: Minnesota over Iowa State
Chick-fil-a Bowl: Tennessee over Virginia Tech
Outback Bowl: Auburn over Northwestern
Gator Bowl: Florida State over West Virginia
Capital 1 Bowl: LSU over Penn. State
Rose Bowl: Oregon over Ohio State
Sugar Bowl: Florida over Cincinnati
International Bowl: South Florida over Northern Illinois
Cotton Bowl: Oklahoma State over Ole Miss.
Liberty Bowl: Arkansas over East Carolina
Alamo Bowl: Texas Tech over Michigan State
Fiesta Bowl: TCU over Boise State
Orange Bowl: Georgia Tech over Iowa
GMAC Bowl: Central Michigan over Troy

College Playoffs for 2009-2010

2009-12-07T09:16:00.000-08:00

Here come the bowls. And before I give my bowl picks in the next blog, I'd like to examine a playoff for this year in D1A college football.
We had 5 undefeated teams close out the year, so wouldn't this have been the perfect year for a playoff.

Heck, if Texas would've lost to Nebraska (the Cornhuskers were robbed in the last second) we would've had a big ole mess that only a playoff could've solved.

So here we go.
First, take all the conference champs in D1A.
ACC: Georgia Tech
Big 10: Ohio State
Big 12: Texas
Big East: Cincinnati
C-USA: East Carolina
MAC: Central Michigan
Mountain West: TCU
Pac-10: Oregon
SEC: Alabama
Sun Belt: Troy
WAC: Boise State

Now for the hard part, making it a 16-team field.
So, we need 5 at-large teams. This is the only part of the selection process that is flawed. The best way to do this is use the final rankings.

So, after looking at the 5 slots, here are the teams that round out the field.
1-Florida
2-Iowa
3-Virginia Tech
4-Nebraska
5-Stanford

Now the field is picked, and it is time to seed.
Obviously, Alabama is the 1 seed.
1-Alabama
2-Texas
3-Oregon
4-Ohio State
5-Georgia Tech
6-Cincinnati
7-TCU
8-Boise State
9-East Carolina
10-Central Michigan
11-Troy
12-Florida
13-Iowa
14-Virginia Tech
15-Nebraska
16-Stanford

So, here we go in Round 1:
Alabama over Stanford
Nebraska over Texas (rematch)
Oregon over Virginia Tech
Iowa over Ohio State (rematch)
Florida over Georgia Tech
Cincinnati over Troy
TCU over Central Michigan
East Carolina over Boise State

Round 2
Alabama over Oregon
Florida over ECU
TCU over Cincinnati
Nebraska over Iowa

Round 3
Bama over Florida (rematch)
TCU over Nebraska

Title game
Bama over TCU

Now, the site for the first round is home of the higher seed. Round 2, goes to site of a bowl game.
Round 3 alternates with two of the BCS Bowls (Fiesta, Rose, Sugar, Orange)
The final game is a neutral site, like it is now.

You still have the other bowls for teams that didn't make the tournament. So the money revenue isn't lost for the big schools and conferences.

Besides, who wouldn't want to see those rematches, and a title game with a real David vs Goliath?

Next up, I pick the bowl winners...stay connected.

Championship Week

2009-12-04T16:29:00.000-08:00

Well, I've been off a while, and after a sickness and other circumstances, I'm back just in time for Championship Weekend.
This week's games started early when Oregon beat rival Oregon State in the Civil War, and punched their ticket to the Rose Bowl and a Pac-10 title. The Ducks will be facing off against Ohio State, the Big 10 Champs.

But now, we have some big time title games in the SEC, Big 12, MAC, C-USA and ACC.

First, the Big 12 Title game.

The Big 12 Title game this year features 3 Texas facing 21 Nebraska. The Longhorns are led by Colt McCoy, and the Hiesman hopeful who is doing next to everything on offense. Not only is he completing over 70% of his passes, but he has surpassed 3,000 yards passing with 27 TDs to 9 INTs (a 9:1 ratio). He also is the second leading rusher on the team.

The Cornhuskers are a tough, hard-nosed team led by their defense. The leader of that particular unit is a dark-horse Heisman hopeful in defensive lineman Ndamukong Suh. Suh is a gamechanger in every since of the word. The QB must know where he is at all times, he attrachs double, and sometimes triple, teams, and is a sack machine that also shuts down running lanes.

The only chance Nebraska has in this game is their defense. If they can keep it a low scoring ball game, they will have a chance to win. The Cornhuskers do not have the firepower on offense to get into a shootout with Texas. If McCoy is able to run wild and pass it all around, it will be a long day for Husker nation.

Final score
Texas 34
Nebraska 20

*McCoy has an impressive game and solidifies his name as the Heisman winner.

Now for the MAC title game:
The MAC title game should be a fun one to watch between Central Michigan and Ohio...fun if you are a Chippewa fan. CMU is led by QB Dan LeFevour, who is completing 70% of his passes and has thrown 25 TDs to 5 INTs (5:1 ratio), and is also the leading rusher for the team. Needless to say, the Chippewas go as LeFevour goes, and so far, they have gone far as they look to notch another MAC championship in their belt buckles.

QB Theo Scott leads the Bobcats. He has thrown 19 TDs to 10 INTs while completing just under 60% of his passes. Ohio has a decent running game, but they also spread the ball between Taylor Price and Lavon Brazil.

Last time these two teams met in 2008, Ohio walked away with a 31-28 victory.
I don't look for history to repeat itself. CMU seems too good this year with LeFevour. It will be a close game, and I wouldn't be surprised if it turned into a shootout.

Final Score:
CMU 42
Ohio 37

Now, for the ACC.
Both Clemson and Georgia Tech come into this game realing. Both lost to in-state rivals South Carolina and Georgia (says a lot about the ACC this year). Last time these two teams met earlier this year, Tech pulled out early and the Tigers clawed their way back into it, but couldn't quite pull off the comeback as Tech won 31-17.

Clemson will depend on RB C.J. Spiller, TE Michael Palmer and WR Jacoby Ford, along with a tough D that all but shut down the option attack of the Yellow Jackets earlier this year. DT Jarvis Jenkins will have to have a big game if Clemson has any shot of stopping the dive-option of Tech.

Tech will be appearing in the title game again, and are led by Josh Nesbit and Jonathan Dwyer. The Tech D will have to account for Spiller in the backfield, in the slot, and on punt and kick returns.

Spiller will get his return in for a TD, the key is to limit him in rushing and receiving, and to let Palmer and Ford be the keys for Clemson to win. For Tech, if they can control the ball and wear down the Clemson D, and keep Spiller off the field, like they did the 1st of the game earlier this year, they will win.

Final Score:
Clemson 17
Georgia Tech 24

For C-USA:
It will be Skip Holtz's fighting Pirates of East Carolina against 18 Houston Cougars. RB Dominique Lindsey has filled in nicely after Chris Johnson was drafted by the Tennessee Titans last year. His 954 yards rushing leads the team while Dwayne Harris leads the team in receiving, with 791 yards and 5 TDs.

The high-powered Cougar offense is overpowering. One-time Heisman hopeful QB Case Keenum has nearly 5,000 yards passing with 38 TDs and 6 INTs. Receivers Patrick Edwards, James Cleveland and Tyron Carrier could all surpass the 1,000 yard mark after this game, and they have caught 22 TDs between the three of them.

I just think that Houston's offense is too powerful for ECU to stop. This game may be close for a half, but I think Houston pulls away late. Keenum I expect to have a 300+ yard passing day, and two of this three receivers go over the 1,000 yard mark.

Final Score:
Houston 56
ECU 30

And now...the SEC Title game.
It is a rematch of last year's game that saw 1 Florida Gators outpace 2 Alabama Crimson Tide by a score of 31-20. This year, expect another close one.

Florida, as you all know, is led by QB Tim Tebow. He essientially does everything for the team. If throwing motion may be sloppy, and he may not be a typical QB, but he isn't in a typical system, and he wins and sets SEC records. No doubt, he will go down as one of the most famous, and to some the most infamous, college player of recent memory. One thing to note, DE Carlos Dunlap will not be playing after the 20-year-old was arrested on drunk driving, and I imagine underage drinking, charges. This could play a role in depth for the Gators.

Alabama is looking to avenge last year's heartbreak by doing something not even Florida did last year, go undefeated and win a national title. RB Mark Ingram is hurt, so true freshman Trent Richardson will get the start, but watch for Roy Upchurch to play a big role. Also, WR Julio Jones is expected to have a big game.

This will be a defensive ball game. The Gators will trot out a slew of stars in LB Brandon Spikes, DE Jermaine Cunningham, CBs Janoris Jenkins and Joe Haden, and safeties Ahmad Black, Will Hill and Major Wright. The Crimson Tide will bring out DT Terrance "Mount" Cody, DE Brandon Deadrick, LBs Rolando McClain and Cory Reamer, CB Javier Arenas to slow down Tebow and the Gators option offense. I see 'Bama getting it done this year to play Texas in the National Title game.

Alabama 17
Florida 14

Other Games this week:
West Virginia over Rutgers
Pitt over Cincinatti
Boise State over New Mexico State
UConn over South Florida
Southern Illinois over Williams & Mary
Montana over Stephen F. Austin
New Hampshire over Villanova
Southern over Texas Southern
App State over Richmond

All-SEC and All-ACC selections

2009-12-01T17:33:00.000-08:00

The season is done, and now it is time for the bowls.
This also brings up the All-Conference selections for the ACC and SEC.

Both conferences will have a first and second team, and without further ado...here they are.

SEC (1st Team)
QB-Ryan Mallett (Ark)
RB-Mark Ingram (Bama)
WR-Julio Jones (Bama)
WR-Greg Childs (Ark)
OL-Mike Johnson (Bama)
OL-Ciron Black (LSU)
OL-Mike Pouncey (UF)
OL-Markice Pouncey (UF)
OL-Lyle Hitt (LSU)
TE-D.J. Williams (Ark)
WR-A.J. Green (UGA)
K-Drew Butler (UGA)
Specialist-Tim Tebow (UF)

DL-Carlos Dunlap (UF)
DL-Terrance Cody (Bama)
DL-Malcolm Sheppard (Ark)
DL-Kentrell Lockett (Miss)
LB-Eric Norwood (USC)
LB-Brandon Spikes (UF)
LB-Rolando McClain (Bama)
CB-Javier Arenas (Bama)
S-Chad Jones (LSU)
S-Eric Berry (UT)
CB-Joe Haden (UF)
P-Drew Butler (UGA)

(2nd Team)
QB-Stephen Garcia (USC)
RB-Ben Tate (Auburn)
RB-Anthony Dixon (Miss State)
WR-Riley Cooper (UF)
OL-John Jerry (Miss)
OL-Drew Davis (Bama)
OL-Jacques McClendon (UT)
OL-Mitch Petrus (Ark)
OL-Lemuel Jeanpierre (USC)
TE-Aaron Hernandez (UF)
WR-Randall Cobb (UK)
K-Spencer Lanning (USC)
Specialist-Dexter McCluster (Miss)

DL-Cliff Matthews (USC)
DL-Jermaine Cunningham (UF)
DL-Rahim Alem (LSU)
DL-Wes Brown (UT)
LB-Rico McCoy (UT)
LB-Rennie Curran (UGA)
LB-Micah Johnson (UK)
CB-Myron Lewis (Vandy)
S-Kendrick Lewis (Miss)
S-Reshad Jones (UGA)
CB-Trevard Lindley (UK)
P-P.J. Fitzgerald (Bama)

ACC (1st Team)
QB-Thaddeus Lewis (Duke)
RB-Ryan Williams (VT)
RB-DaRel Scott (Maryland)
WR-Owen Spencer (NC St)
OL-Jason Fox (Miami)
OL-Jake Vermiglio (NC St)
OL-Ed Wang (VT)
OL-Will Barker (UVA)
OL-Chris DeGeare (WF)
TE-Dan Gronkowski (Maryland)
WR-Damaryius Thomas (GT)
K-Steve Aponavicius (BC)
Specialist-CJ Spiller (Clem)

DL-Derrick Morgan (GT)
DL-Jason Worilds (VT)
DL-Ricky Sapp (Clem)
DL-Eric Ogohobasse (Duke)
LB-Alex Wujicak (Mary)
LB-Quan Sturdivant (UNC)
LB-Audie Cole (NC St)
CB-Brandon Ghee (WF)
S-Kam Chancellor (VT)
S-DeAnde McDaniel (Clem)
CB-Chris Chancellor (Clem)
P-Dawson Zimmerman (Clem)

(2nd Team)
QB-Russell Wilson (NC St)
RB-Jonathan Dwyer (GT)
WR-Laron Byrd (Miami)
WR-Jarvis Williams (NC St)
OL-Kyle Jolley (UNC)
OL-Thomas Clairborne (BC)
OL-Thomas Austin (Clem)
OL-Dan Voss (GT)
OL-Sergio Render (VT)
TE-Michael Palmer (Clem)
WR-Jarret Boykin (VT)
K-Casey Barth (UNC)
Specialist-Jacoby Ford (Clem)

DL-Shea McKeen (NC St)
DL-Markus White (FSU)
DL-Jarvis Jenkins (Clem)
DL-Robert Quinn (UNC)
LB-Brandon Maye (Clem)
LB-Dekoda Watson (FSU)
LB-Daryl Sharpton (Miami)
CB-Ras-I Dowling (UVA)
S-Randy Phillips (Miami)
S-Morgan Burnett (GT)
CB-Crezdon Butler (Clem)
P-Matt Bosher (Miami)

I'm sick of Tim Tebow Part 2

2009-09-29T11:27:00.001-07:00

Here we are again: Throw the 4 letter network into a turmoil, the Golden Boy has got a concussion.

The story is on Tim Tebow (again) and his injury he sustained in the Gators past game when Taylor Windham sacked Tebow.

Now, I'm not one to jump up and down because he got injured....I actually hope he makes a full recovery and plays in two weeks against LSU.

But come on ESPN! Tebow got a concussion and will be fine in a few days with rest. The hit wasn't malicious, just a good, hard, clean hit on the QB.

The shot of him being carted away in an ambulance was almost comical. It made me think a head of state getting hurt, but is was just a college football player.

What's worse is that ESPN is paying very little to no attention to two serious injuries. Southern Cal's Staphon Johnson got his throat crushed in a weight-lifting accident where he was performing a bench press, lost his grip, and had the bar fall onto his neck. Did I mention that his injury called for a reported 6 HOURS in surgery.

Or, how about the SEASON ENDING injury to Baylor QB Robert Griffin?

Yet we hear next to nothing about these guys, and to me, their injuries are much more serious.

So now I'll add ESPN to the Tebow loving-fest of networks with CBS and ABC.

To Tim, get well soon.
To ESPN, get off your knees.

Week 5 Predictions (2009)

2009-09-27T14:42:00.000-07:00

Didn't have that great a week of picks for Week 4...but the games were entertaining. How 'bout that Ole Miss/South Carolina game to kick off the week? And how about the Texas Tech/Houston ball game to close the week? Sure, there were some let downs like the Miami/VT game.

But I think it is pretty sad how a whole week of games to a backseat to a player getting injured, and yes, I'm talking about Tim Tebow.

But anyway, we got another slate of games to pick from, and let's see if I can pick em better.
But this week's Report is going to be a little shorter than usual. I'm feeling a little under the weather this week, and I'm really having trouble finding the initiative.

I apologize to my readers, and promise a better Report for Week 6.

ACC Game of the Week
8 Oklahoma (2-1, 0-0) vs 17 Miami (FL) (2-1, 2-1)

Prediction
Miami didn't look good at all last week against VT. The 'Canes looked slow, and really appeared to be the 'Canes of last year. If that team shows up, this will be a short game.

The key for Oklahoma is QB Sam Bradford. If he is back, this game is over by half-time. If he is out, expect an old-fashioned ball game with the Sooners running it.

I just think last week, VT showed holes in the Canes, and I think Oklahoma exploits them again.

Miami 14
Oklahoma 27

SEC Game of the Week
18 Georgia (3-1, 2-0) vs 4 LSU (4-0, 2-0)
Prediction
Georgia is coming off a big win over Arizona State, where WR AJ Green finally looked like the All-American freshman we saw last year. They will have a much tougher challenge this week with the Tigers.

LSU is coming off a close win over Miss. State (yep, Dan Mullen's Bulldogs looked good). This isn't the caliber of player that was on the National title team a few years ago, but they are still rough and tough. The Tigers need QB Jordan Jefferson to play better, and they need their defense to step up this week. The only question for the Tigers is, are they overlooking the Dawgs for a possible shot at a Tim Tebow-less Florida Gators squad?

Georgia
LSU 29
Georgia 15

Other Games this Week
3 Alabama over Kentucky
21 Ole Miss over Vanderbilt
South Carolina over SC State
Auburn over Tennessee
Arkansas over Texas A&M
25 Georgia Tech over Mississippi State
6 Virginia Tech over Duke
North Carolina over Virginia
Clemson over Maryland
Wake Forest over NC State
Boston College over Florida State
West Virginia over Colorado
10 Cincinnati over Miami (OH)
22 Michigan over Michigan State
11 TCU over SMU
South Florida over Syracuse
21 Houston over UTEP
Notre Dame over Washington
7 Southern Cal over 24 California
5 Boise State over UC-Davis
App State over The Citadel
Furman over Elon
Stony Brook over Presbyterian College
Wofford over Georgia Southern

Record
Week 1: 23-3
Week 2: 21-5
Week 3: 21-5
Week 4: 18-8
Total: 83-21

Week 4 Predictions (2009)

2009-09-21T06:20:00.001-07:00

Who saw what was coming last week? So Cal upset by Washington? Although a lot of "experts" saw it coming, I still didn't believe it. I also didn't see FSU beating BYU. But, the week started off great with a great Miami (Fl) victory, and closed out with a competitive Texas v Texas Tech game.

I again went 21-5, so let's see if I can do a little better.

SEC Game of the Week
South Carolina (2-1, 0-1) v 4 Ole Miss (2-0, 0-0)
The Gamecocks are coming off a home opener where they took care of Florida Atlantic. The offense has been improving from week-to-week, but the defense seems to be taking steps backward; of course that has a lot to do with the losses of MLB Rodney Paulk, the now ended suspension of DT Ladi Ajiboye, the injury to DT Nate Pepper, along with the health of SS Darian Stewart. QB Stephen Garcis looks to have a very good grasp of the offense, and his receivers seem to be catching the ball now. Still, the running game is still a question mark.

The Rebels must have revenge on their minds after the loss to Carolina in Oxford last year. Ole Miss has had two tune-up games against Memphis (45-14) and SE Louisiana (52-6) to get any kinks worked out. QB Jevan Snead is a viable NFL Draft pick, but one area to watch is the run game. The Rebs have 3 power backs in Brandon Bolden (5'11, 220 lbs), Cordera Eason (5'10, 224 lbs) and Enrique Davis (6'0, 220 lbs). Also, they have the speedy WR Dexter McCluster. I do have questions about the defense though, mostly because of the caliber of teams they have played.

Three to Watch
Gamecocks
QB Stephen Garcia (6'2, 219 lbs, So)
Can the sophomore keep it up. After a weak NC State performance, he followed with a near perfect performance at Georgia, and then took care of business vs FAU. This will be most hyped team Garcia has faced in his time at USC, and his leadership will be key on the offense. Garcia needs to take care of the ball, give it to the athletes, and take what the D gives him, and a running game.

DT Ladi Ajiboye (6'1, 285 lbs, Jr)
Ajiboye is back from his 3 game suspension, and it couldn't be at a better time. The middle of the Gameock D is razor thin, and if Nate Pepper can't go, it will put more pressure on Ajiboye. His ability to control the middle and force Rebel runners to the outside so USC can use its speed will be key.

RB Jarvis Giles (5'11, 183 lbs, Fr)
The SEC freshman of the week looks to build on his 100-yard game against FAU. His ability to change field position with one run will be big for the USC offense. If the line can give him a seam to run through, it will go a long way in helping the offense against the Rebel D.

Rebels
LT Bradley Sowell (6'7, 310 lbs, So)
Sowell is replacing NFL draft pick Michael Oher. Though he has played well in his first two games, this will be his first test at protecting Snead's blindside. How well he blocks speed rushers like DE Cliff Matthews and LB Eric Norwood will be key to the Rebel offense.

DT Lawon Scott (6'2, 310 lbs, Jr)
It is time to see how good this defense is. Scott has been charged with replacing former Rebel star Peria Jerry (now in the NFL). Jerry was a key to shutting down opposing run games while at Ole Miss, and it is now Scott's job to fill that void. The question is, can he do it against equally talented competition? If not, expect a lot of runs right up the gut of that Rebel Defense.

QB Jevan Snead (6'3, 220 lbs, Jr)
Snead had a forgetable game last year against Carolina. He is now looking to rebound and show that it was a fluke, and that he is the real deal. The offense goes as Snead goes, and it is his job to get the ball to McCluster and fellow receiver Shay Hodge. Also, the power running game will be a big aid to him if it gets going.

Prediction
This is an interesting matchup. South Carolina has had two legitimate games to knock the rust off, and a gimme to work on some things, while Ole Miss has had two gimmes to work on things. But the Rebels really don't know how good they are, and neither do we.

Is Ole Miss the 4th best team in the country? Maybe. They certainly have what it takes on paper, but the loss of Jerry is glaring to me in run defense, and I think it will hurt more than the Rebels think. Also, the loss of LT Michael Oher to the NFL may also hurt the Rebs a lot.

For South Carolina, they need a crowd to feed off of, and will need to play top-notch ball, and forget about what happened last year.

Even though on paper Ole Miss looks better, I look at the depth chart and I see the same team minus Jerry and Oher. Of course, this is a new Defense for Carolina from last year as well.
Still, I think Carolina has what it takes to pull the upset.

Carolina 17
Ole Miss 14

ACC Game of the Week
9 Miami (2-0, 2-0) v 11 Virginia Tech (2-1, 0-0)
The Hurricanes of Miami look to be back to their old ways...well, maybe not the thug old ways. QB Jacory Harris has been solid in two games, chopping up defenses with short, intermediate, and deep passes, and his receivers have been making (what seems like) all the catches. Even the defense is looking better, and is starting to use their athleticism to really disrupt and shut down opposing teams.

The Hokies are coming off a big 16-15 win over Nebraska. The Hokies still play tough D and special teams, but the offense is still sporadic at best. QB Tyrod Taylor has looked good at points, especially the poise it took to throw the game winning TD against Nebraska, but other times has looked lost. Also, the Hokies need to get a running game going more consistently.

Three to Watch
Hokies
QB Tyrod Taylor (6'1, 216 lbs, Jr)
The Hokies need the Taylor that showed up against Nebraska to play in this game, and not the one who showed up against Alabama. He will have to play a lights out game, and take care of the ball.

TE Greg Boone (6'3, 287 lbs, Sr)
Taylor needs his security blanket, and Boone is it. They will also need his run blocking ability, as well as his ability to run the "Wild Cat."

DE Jason Worilds (6'2, 262 lbs, Jr)
The Hokies will have to get pressure on Harris to disrupt the Cane passing attack. Worilds will have to play lights out, and put continuous pressure. Also, his performance can draw a double team, freeing up another lineman in one-on-one situations, to hopefully create more pressure.

'Canes
QB Jacory Harris (6'4, 190 lbs, So)
Harris has been on fire this year so far. Under the direction of offensive coordinator Mark Whipple, Harris is blossoming into what looks like, and solid QB. If he has time to sit back and read the defense, it will be a long day for the Hokies.

DE Eric Moncur (6'2, 250 lbs, Sr)
Moncur is the leader of the defense. He is also a force to be reckon with. Taylor will have to know where he is on every play, or he will make it a long day for the Hokie QB and RBs.

WR Leondard Hankerson (6'3, 215 lbs, Jr)
He is called the "old man" of the receiving corps. Hankerson is a solid target for Harris, and his leadership will be key. If he can set a good, fundamental tempo, the other wideouts will follow.

Prediction
This is what the ACC envisioned when the added these two teams. It is essientially a rematch of the old Big East title. If Miami wins this game and goes 3-0 in the conference, they will be in prime condition to run the table and unseat Tech as champs of the ACC.

For Tech, this game is crucial, because it is a division game. A loss here puts VT in catch up mode the rest of the year.

I think in this game, poise will be the key in such a stressful situation, and the nod has to go to Harris, who has looked like an early Heisman candidate. Don't expect a blowout here though.

This game will be rough, competitive, and we may even see some trick plays, and expect Beamer ball to rear its head.

In the end, I think Miami's offense is just too explosive, and Tech's too anemic.

Miami (Fl) 21
Virginia Tech 18

Other Games this Week
LSU over Miss. State
Alabama over Arkansas
Florida over Kentucky
Tennessee over Ohio
Georgia over Arizona State
Auburn over Ball State
Vandy over Rice
Georgia Tech over North Carolina
Florida State over South Florida
TCU over Clemson
Wake Forest over Boston College
Maryland over Rutgers
Pittsburgh over NC State
Duke over North Carolina Central
Penn State over Iowa
So. Cal over Washington State
Texas Tech over Houston
Texas over UTEP
Coastal Carolina over NC A&T
Charleston Southern over N. Greenville
Citadel over Presbyterian
App State over Samford
Furman over W. Carolina
Wofford over Chattanooga

Record
Week 1: 23-3
Week 2: 21-5
Week 3: 21-5

Week 3 Predictions (2009)

2009-09-14T06:33:00.000-07:00

It was a rough week in college football for predicting games. Florida State got a scare from Jacksonville State, as did Utah in their game against San Jose State. But we also had some fantastic ball games. Georgia/South Carolina, Clemson/Georgia Tech, So Cal/Ohio State and Michigan/Notre Dame all were games that went down to the wire.

Didn't have as good week predicting game, going 1-1 in featured games, and 21-5 for the week.
Let's kick off Week 3!

ACC Game of the Week
15 Georgia Tech (2-0, 1-0) v 20 Miami (1-0, 1-0)
The Hurricanes are coming off a big win over Florida State two weeks ago. QB Jacory Harris had a very good game, completing 63% of his passes for over 300 yards, and spreading the ball around to Miami's athletes. The receivers of Aldarius Johnson, Laron Byrd, Travis Benjamin, and Leonard Hankerson were solid, and that performance will have to carry over for this game. The D will have to do better, and they can't allow 34 points again. Although the stat book says they only gave up 110 yards rushing, the total allowed was 140 (20 were lost due to sacks, not something you get against GT). That will have to improve.

The Jackets are coming off a close win over Clemson. Though they had a sizable lead at half, they allowed the Tigers to get back in it and nearly win the game. The rushing game will have to improve, and QB Josh Nesbitt has to make better decisions, especially in the passing game.

Also, the Defense will have to find another play maker outside of Derrick Morgan. Morgan was visibly tired mid-way through the third, so another player will have to step up and help him.

Three To Watch
Yellow Jackets
RB Jonathan Dwyer (6'0, 235 lbs, Jr.)
Dwyer had a fair game against Clemson, but he didn't put up gawdy numbers like he usually does. He will have to have a big game. His style of running can wear down the Hurricane defense, and open it up for the other runners-Roddy Jones and Anthony Allen.

DE Robert Hall (6'3, 254 lbs, Jr.)
We all know what Derrick Morgan can do to disrupt an offense. But one man can only do so much, and Miami will probably double team Morgan. That means Hall will be in one-on-one's, and he will have to create pressure to eliminate the lateral speed of Miami's offense.

CB Jerrard Tarrant (6'0, 189 lbs, So)
Tarrant is arguably one of Tech's best athletes, and he will get charged with the task of guarding Aldarius Johnson. Johnson is Harris' favorite target (they hooked up a lot in high school while at Northwestern) and if Tarrant can take away that security blanket, it will cause turnovers.

Hurricanes
LB Darryl Sharpton (6'0, 235 lbs, Sr)
The man in the middle. He is responsible for watching pulling guards, playing back-up to the dive, as well as flowing outside to stop the pitch in the option. Sharpton will be a big key to stopping the option.

CB Brandon Harris (5'11, 195 lbs, So)
Harris will get charged the duty to guard Demariyus Thomas. Though he only gets 5 balls a game, they are usually game changing, deep balls. If he can knockdown the pass, it will take away the deep pass, and force Nesbitt to look for the short pass, something he struggles with.

QB Jarcory Harris (6'4, 190 lbs, So)
The lanky signal caller will have a tall order in front of him. Not only will he have to keep on constant high on where Derrick Morgan is, he will also need to keep an eye out for the ball hawking Morgan Burnett. Harris will have to take what the D gives him, and find his athletes in Hankerson, Johnson, Travis Benjamin and Laron Byrd, as well as use the stable of backs.

Prediction
It will be an interesting competition: One team with a wide open passing game, the other the triple option.

If Miami can get the ball to their athletes and really go up and down the field, it will be a blowout, because the Tech offense simply isn't designed to keep up with that.

If Tech can run their offense, it will eat away at the clock, keeping Miami's athletes off the field.

The game is in Miami, so that gives the Cane's a huge advantage. Tech was visibly exhausted last game, and I can expect the weather will be much more humid.
That may be the biggest decider in this contest.

Miami (FL)- 24
Georgia Tech- 20

SEC Game of the Week
1 Florida (2-0, 0-0) v Tennessee (1-1, 0-0)
The Gators are coming off two blowout, tune up games over Troy and Charleston Southern. During those games, the Florida offense looked explosive, Tim Tebow looked his usual great, and guys like WRs Riley Cooper, Deonte Thompson, RBs Jeff Demps and Chris Rainey, and TE Aaron Hernandez looked to be viable threats...be it against far inferior talent. The defense also looked good, allowing a total of 9 points in two games, led by MLB Brandon Spikes. Pretty much, the D, which returns it's entire two-deep from last year on defense, looked even better than last year's.

The Vols come limping into this game, so to speak. After blowing out Western Kentucky in Week1, the Vols lost a heartbreaking 19-15 game to UCLA. But the improves play of QB Jonathan Crompton is encouraging, and the play of freshmen like RB Bryce Brown and WRs Nu'Keese Richardson and Marsalis Teague, have things looking up in Rocky Top. The Defense, now under Monte Kiffin, hasn't been too bad either, only giving up 19 points to UCLA and keeping their team in the game. LB Rico McCoy and S Eric Berry are the heart of that defense, and will have to play flawless.

Three To Watch
Gators
RBs Jeff Demps and Chris Rainey
The two speedy, diminutive backs of the offense (Demps at 5'8, 183 lbs; Rainey at 5'9, 175 lbs). Both have game breaking speed once in the open field. If these two run wild, it will be a long day for the Vols. If the team can keep the two to a combined 100 yards, it should be considered a good day.

CB Wondy Pierre-Louis
Pierre-Louis will get charged with guarding Teague. Teague is one of Crompton's favorite targets down in the endzone, and if Pierre-Louis can take that away (like UCLA did) it could force more turnovers and an easy win for the Gators.

WR Deonte Thompson
The young wideout is waiting for a coming out party. Now he has his chance. Thompson has big play written all over him, and could be the replacement for the departed Percy Harvin. Of course, all Florida needs is another playmaker.

Vols
QB Jonathan Crompton (6'4, 228 lbs, Sr)
Crompton has started off white hot this year in the new "West Coast" style offense....against Western Kentucky. He suffered a major setback against UCLA, completing only 50% of his passes, no TDs, and 3 INTs. The Vols need the Crompton that showed up against WKU. He needs to use his highly touted backs-Brown and David Oku-as well as his athletes like Richardson, Quinton Hancock, and Teague.

DE Gerald Williams (6'4, 248 lbs, Jr)
Stopping Florida's offense is all about containment and lane assignment. Williams will have to keep outside containment on the read draws, and not get sucked in on plays for UT to even have a shot at stopping Florida.

LB Rico McCoy (6'1, 220 lbs, Sr)
McCoy will get charged with the duty of being the primary tackler of Tebow, as well as watching for pulling guards to "see the play," as well as keeping Demps and Rainey in check. He may even have to guard Hernandez. That is a lot on one player's plate.

Prediction
I would like to say this game will be competitive. I'd like to say if Tennessee does everything write and play their style of hard nosed running, they will have a chance.

But I can't. Florida just has too many playmakers on their offense to go along with Tim Tebow. And I just think Florida's defense is too fast, and too deep for Tennessee to hold back. If Tennessee had that much trouble with UCLA, then I don't see how they will do better against Florida.

I give this game 2-and-a-half quarters till the third teamers start playing.

Florida 49
Tennessee 17

Other Games this Week
Clemson over Boston College
North Carolina over East Carolina
24 Kansas over Duke
Maryland over Mid. Tenn. State
14 Virginia Tech over 19 Nebraska
Southern Miss. over Virginia
NC State over Gardner-Webb
Wake Forest over Elon
9 BYU over Florida State
Kentucky over Louisville
4 Alabama over North Texas
11 LSU over UL-Lafayette
South Carolina over Florida Atlantic
6 Mississippi over SE Louisiana
21 Georgia over Arkansas
Auburn over West Virginia
Vanderbilt over Miss. State
2 Texas over Texas Tech
12 Boise State over Fresno State
3 Southern Cal over Washington
Coastal Carolina over Towson
Chattanooga over Presbyterian
Wisconsin over Wofford
Citadel over Princeton

Record
Week 1: 23-3
Week 2: 21-5

Week 2 Predictions (2009)

2009-09-08T10:39:00.000-07:00

College football returned last week, and it did not disappoint. From the thriller in Iowa as the Hawkeyes squeaked by Northern Iowa, to BYU's upset of Oklahoma, and the slugfest that was Alabama v Virginia Tech. Even had our first controversy with LeGarrette Blount.

And of course, we had the blowouts, like the ones Texas, Southern Cal and Florida respectively administered.

But without further ado...let's get week 2 started, and see if I can improve on my 23-2 record from last week.

So let's kick it off.

SEC Game of the Week
South Carolina (1-0, 0-0) v 21 Georgia (0-1, 0-0)
Last week didn't go exactly as planned for either team. Georgia looked slow and uncooridnated on offense in its 24-10 loss to Oklahoma State, while South Carolina couldn't capitalize on at least three redzone opportunities, and squeaked by NC State 7-3.

USC's QB Stephen Garcia had a managerial day against NC State. He only threw one INT, but no TDs. The offensive line looked much improved from a year ago, but still has room for improvment. WR Tori Gurley and TE Wes Saunders looked to have the makings of the go-to guys this year, and that momentum needs to carry over into Athens. As for defense, look no further than LB Eric Norwood and DE Cliff Matthews. The Gamecock D looked fast and physical against a much slower NC State team.

As for Georgia, Joe Cox had only a 50-percent completion percentage, with a 1-1 TD-INT ratio. One bright spot was Richard Samuel, who nearly had 100 yards rushing. But the passing game was slow to take off, as WR AJ Green only had 4 catches. The defense needs to improve clutch performance, as well as playing disciplined.

Three to Watch
Gamecocks

CB Akeem Auguste (5'10, 180 lbs. So)
The hard-hitting corner will get the job of guarding AJ Green. If he can contain him the same way the Cowboys did last week, USC will have a shot to win. Also watch for Stephon Gilmore.

DE Clifton Geathers (6'8, 281 lbs. Jr)
Geathers returns after missing last weeks game under suspension. He is now back, as the backup to Devin Taylor, who blocked a punt, forced a fumble, and had three tackles for loss. His size will be key to USC controlling the outside of the line.

LB Shaq Wilson (5'11, 210 lbs. So)
Wilson had a strong showing against NC State with 8 tackles, tying for the team lead. Now, he steps into the middle linebacker spot vacated by the injured Rodney Paulk, who injured his knee and is projected to miss the rest of the season. His play will be crucial to stopping the Georgia run game.

Bulldogs

QB Logan Gray (6'2, 192 lbs. So)
No, he isn't the starter. But if Cox doesn't show improvement, we may see Gray get his shot. He is more athletic than Cox, which may be what Georgia needs to notch one in the win column.

LT Vince Vance (6'8, 325 lbs, Sr)
Vance takes over for the injured Trinton Sturdivant. His play will be big for Georgia. Not only will he be protecting the blindside against Cliff Matthews, but he will have to do a better job of helping open up the run game with Richard Samuel and the return of Caleb King.

K Blair Walsh (5'10, 189 lbs, So)
Walsh could be the key to victory. The game has been close the past few years, and his ability to hit kicks could win or lose the game for the 'Dogs.

Prediction
I expect another close ball game like last year's. Both teams will have lightning quick defenses, but also a struggling offense. Georgia will be looking to show that their loss was a fluke and try to take that out on SC.

South Carolina is looking to start 1-0 in the conference, and will also look to open the playbook a little more.

In the end, I think SC pulls this one out by another slim margin.

South Carolina 17
Georgia 13

ACC Game of the Week
Clemson (1-0, 0-0) v Georgia Tech (1-0, 0-0)
Both the Tigers and Jackets are coming off convincing wins over, what I consider, light weight opponents. Clemson is coming off a special teams beatdown over Middle Tennessee State (37-14), while the Jackets plowed over Jacksonville State 37-17.

Clemson's CJ Spiller and Jacoby Ford were the big play guys, as they were monsters in the return game, and showed just how explosive Clemson can be this year. QB Kyle Parker wasn't the most accurate (9-of-20) but he thew TDs and took care of the ball. It also appears the Tigers have three viable running threats in Spiller, Jaimie Harper, and Andre Ellington. The passing game may still be a work in progress. The defense looked fast and physical, led by DE DaQuan Bowers, LB Brandon Maye, and CB Chris Chancellor.

Tech's RB Jonathan Dwyer, and QB Josh Nesbitt, both rushed for nearly 100 yards. Nesbitt looked okay passing the ball to Demariyus Thomas, who had over 100 yards a TD, and Nesbitt also took care of the football. The defense looked strong, but I still have concerns over how good the front 4 is.

Three to Watch

Tigers

QB Kyle Parker (6'0, 210 lbs. RS-Fr)
Parker had an okay first outing for his first start. Completing less that 50% won't be good enough, but he also doesn't need to do too much. If Parker takes care of the ball, improves his completions, and feeds the ball to Spiller and Ford, and gets a few other guys involved, it could mean a Clemson victory.

DT Jarvis Jenkins (6'4, 305 lbs. Jr)
Jenkins will be the first line of defense to stop the Yellow Jacket option. If he can clog the middle, that will take Dwyer out of most triple option plays, and force Nesbitt into either keeping the ball, or pitching it.

RB C.J. Spiller (5'11, 190 lbs. Sr)
The most electric player on the field. Spiller can effect a game not only from the backfield, but in the return game. He has the ability to change the momentum of a game in an instant. If he has a big game, Clemson will have a good shot at winning.

Yellow Jackets

Offensive Tackles
A big question is how will the Jackets undersized offensive tackles fair against Sapp and Bowers. Brad Sellers (left) (6'2, 252 lbs) and Austin Barrick (right) (6'3, 284 lbs) will get much stiffer competition this week, and their play will be big for runs to bounce to the outside.

S Morgan Burnett (6'1, 210 lbs. Jr)
The hard hitting safety will get a lot more tests this week, as he will have to help in coverage with Ford. Also, his ability to deliver the bone-crushing hit over the middle will be crucial in shrinking the field. His open-field tackling will get tested when Spiller and Ford get in one-on-one's.

QB Josh Nesbitt (6'1, 217 lbs. Jr)
Nesbitt's decision making is the key to GT's success. If he makes the smart reads and takes care of the ball, the Jackets will win. If he makes bad reads and ill-advised pitches, GT will have a hard time beating the Tigers.

Prediction
This is a hard game to pick, because neither played a true competition last week. Clemson showed it had explosive offense in Spiller and Ford, but outside of those two, there are questions.

For GT, their undersized line could be a problem that a big Clemson Dline can take advantage of.
The Jacket defense is fast, but a question still remains: Can they keep up with Spiller and Ford?

But I'm looking at a battle between the ACC's top two backs in Dwyer and Spiller, both of which have NFL written all over them.

I think, with the short week, Clemson will have trouble defending the option. Even though Clemson has two of the best playmakers in the ACC, it means nothing if GT can establish their offense and eat away at the clock.

I think that will get GT over the hump in a close ball game. That and the fact the game is in Atlanta.

Clemson 20
Georgia Tech 27

Other games this week
Army over Duke
Wake Forest over Stanford
UCLA over Tennessee
North Carolina over UConn.
Virginia Tech over Marshall
TCU over Virginia
Boston College over Kent State
NC State over Murray State
Maryland over James Madison
Florida State over Jacksonville State
Florida over Troy
LSU over Vanderbilt
Alabama over Florida International
So. Cal over Ohio State
Notre Dame over Michigan
BYU over Tulane
Iowa over Iowa State
Penn State over Syracuse
Wofford over Charleston Southern
Coastal Carolina over Monmouth
App State over McNeese State
Furman over Chattanooga
PC over Elon

Record
Week 1: 23-3

Week 1 Predictions (2009)

2009-08-22T10:07:00.000-07:00

It is finally that time of year. Get your pigskins, strap on the pads, and go hit someone.
It is time for football.

So let's forget the introductions, and let's get down to business.

SEC Game of the Week
Georgia vs Oklahoma State
This may not be a true SEC match-up, but this is a big-time, week 1 game. Georgia will be looking to see if they can replace QB Matt Stafford and RB Knowshon Moreno, both of which were 1st round draft picks. QB Joe Cox and a stable of runningbacks including Richard Samuel and Caleb King, will get the first shot. One thing that will help the Bulldogs is the return of the entire Oline, as well as skill postion players, like WR A.J. Green, who enters his sophomore year looking to improve on a 56 catch, 963 yard and 8 touchdown freshman campaign. The defense though should be a strengh for the Dawgs, as they return virtually everyone, including DTs Kade Weston, Geno Atkins, and Jeff Owens.

The Cowboys on the other hand, are coming off a hot season, and returning their major offensive pieces. QB Zac Robinson, RB Kendall Hunter, and WR Dez Bryant all could be 1st team ALL BIG 12 by seasons end, and are aided by an offensive line with 4 seniors and a sophomore. The defense is also very experienced, with 15 seniors and juniors littering the two-deep. And, all are battle tested.

Three to Watch
Bulldogs
LT Trinton Sturdivant (6'5, 305 lbs, Soph.)
The big left tackle returns after an injury held him out of last season. The line was not the same last year without him, and now Sturdivant will be counted on heavily to give Cox time to throw the ball.

LB Rennie Curran (5'11 , 226 lbs, Jr.)
The leader of the Bulldog defense will be key to stopping Hunter. Not only is it his job to call audibles on the defense, but he will have the primary job of tackling Hunter. If Curran has a big game, it could really hinder the explosive Cowboy offense.

WR Israel Troupe (6'1, 209 lbs, Soph.)
Troupe has waited his time, and Bulldog nation is ready for him to prove his Rivals #15 wide receiver ranking from a few years ago. With all the focus on Green, look for Troupe to possibly have a big day out of the slot.

Cowboys
RB Kendall Hunter (5'8, 197 lbs, Jr.)
The little man may have the biggest impact on the field. His ability to find lanes, aided by the Oline, will be big to beating Georgia. If Hunter gets going, it will open the play action pass for Robinson to find Bryant in the seam for scores.

OG Jonathan Rush (6'4, 314 lbs, Soph.)
Formerly on the practice squad, Rush is the only non-senior on the line. His play at left guard will be big on pitch plays where he has to pull block. If he has a good day, it will add another dimension to the running game, and again, aid in the playaction pass.

CB Parrish Cosh (6'0, 198 lbs, Sr.)
Cosh gets the job of guarding Green. If he can contain the big wideout, it will really hurt Georgia's passing game, and force Cox to find other targets who he may not be as comfortable throwing to. If he gets pushed around, it could be a long day for the Cowboy secodary.

Prediction
The real question in this game is this: Can the Georgia defense slow down the high powered Cowboy offense? If this game turns into a high-scoring affair, Georgia is in trouble. A new QB and no proven RB doesn't bode well for having to put up a lot of scores.

For State, they just need to score a lot of points and run Georgia out of Stillwater. The Cowboys need to hop on Georgia early with either a big run by Hunter, or a deep ball to Bryant, and set the tone for the day.

But I don't see OK State running all over Georgia, the Bulldog defense is better than that.

With that said, I don't see a Bulldog win. I just think the loss of Stafford and Moreno is too much for this opening season game.

Georgia 17
Oklahoma State 27

ACC Game of the Week
Virginia Tech vs Alabama
Alabama comes into this game with a few new linemen and a new QB. Greg McElroy takes over for John Parker Wilson. Lucky for him, he still has WR Julio Jones to throw to, and a stable of runningbacks with Mark Ingram, Ray Upchurch, Terry Grant, and true freshman Trent Richardson. A question for the Tide is how do they do with the loss of LT Andre Smith to the draft? On defense, the Tide return an all senior front 3, and all have experienced backups. The linebacker corp also returns a lot of experience, and is led by Dont'a Hightower. The defensive backups follow suite with experience, and led by All-SEC corner, Javier Arenas.

Virginia Tech is now the Tyrod Taylor show, officially. But, the Hokies have lost RB Darren Evans for the year to injury, so the running game will be up to Josh Oglesby and Ryan Williams. The passing game looks good in paper with guys like Xavier Boyce (6'4, 223 lbs), Marcus Davis (6'4, 231 lbs), and DJ Coles (6'3, 215 lbs) it is very inexperienced. TE Greg Boone is the best option in the offense outside of Taylor, as he passes, blocks, and runs the "Wild Turkey." The defense returns a lot from last year, and the line could be one of the best. LB will still be a strenght, but a question mark is cornerback. Victor "Macho" Harris is gone, and it is up to Stephan Virgil to lock down the CB spot opposite Rashad Carmichael. They still have safety Kam Chancellor.

Three to Watch
Hokies

QB Tyrod Taylor (6'1, 216 lbs, Jr.)
As mentioned, it is now Taylor's show. His ability to run brings up multiple matchup issues, but the key will be if his throwing has improved. If Taylor does well, Virginia Tech does well, if he struggles, VT will be average.

TE Greg Boone (6'3, 287 lbs, Sr.)
Next to Taylor, the most versatile player on the offense. His running of the "Wild Turkey," along with his size brings a special weapon to the Hokie offense. The question for Boone is, can the wideouts clear out the middle of the field where Boone dominates on short routes?

S Kam Chancellor (6'4, 226 lbs, Sr.)
With the departure of Harris, Chancellor is now the leader of the secondary. With the size of a linebacker, but the speed of a corner, he can easily give support in covering Julio Jones. Also, from his position, his calls on defense will be helpful.

Crimson Tide
TE Brad Smelley (6'3, 233 lbs, So.)
Smelley is a solid TE for the Tide. He makes the 1st down catches when Jones is covered, and the other wideouts aren't the smartest pass. His ability to make the short catches and prolonge drives will be key, even if he only catches 3 balls.

LT James Carpenter (6'5, 300 lbs, Jr.)
Carpenter takes over for the departed Andre Smith. He doesn't have the mass of Smith, but all reports give way to a smooth transition. Carpenter's play will be detrimental to the passing game, as he will guard McElroy's blindside. If he has a good day, Bama's passing game could take over.

DT Terrance Cody (6'5, 354 lbs, Sr.)
Cody is a key to the defense. If he controls the middle, it will all but shut down the inexperienced running backs of VT. The question is, how in shape is Cody? At his weight, it is hard to judge just how good of shape he is in.

Prediction
Last year, Alabama came out and dominated the ACC representative in Clemson, and hope to do the same. VT has the edge in QB play, simply because we know what Taylor brings, and not McElroy. But running game, Oline, and WRs all go to Bama, with an edge at TE to the Hokies.

For VT to win, their defense has to contain the Bama offense, and hope for a special teams swing.

Even with all that, Bama should win. But it won't be a blowout like last year.

Alabama 27
Virginia Tech 20

Other Games in the Region
South Carolina over NC State
Georgia Tech over Jacksonville State
Boston College of Northeastern
Baylor over Wake Forest
North Carolina over The Citadel
Clemson over Mid. Tenn. State
Virginia over William and Mary
Duke over Richmond
Maryland over California
Miami (Fl) over Florida State
Kentucky over Miami (Oh)
Tennessee over W. Kentucky
Miss. State over Jackson State
Arkansas over Mizzou State
Florida over Charleston Southern
Auburn over La. Tech
Vanderbilt over W. Carolina
LSU over Washington
Mississippi over Memphis
Kent State over Coastal Carolina
Furman over Presbyterian
South Florida over Wofford
East Carolina over App. State

Michael Vick is Back!

2009-08-14T20:29:00.000-07:00

The 2009 NFL campaign could be seen as one of returns.

The Patriots Tom Brady is coming after a serious injury, as is the Bengals Carson Palmer, and now you can add one more to that list, and it isn't Brett Favre.

Former Falcons QB Michael Vick is back in the league, and the NFL is better for it, and surprisingly, the team taking him isn't the Cowboys or the Raiders. The Philadelphia Eagles are the ones who will be taking a chance on the legally embattled QB.

Vick, if he comes back in form, makes the Eagles a better team. Of course Donovan McNabb is the QB for the Eagles, and Vick knows that. But the Eagles don't have a proven backup guy in case McNabb goes down with an injury, and Vick can give them that, but at most Week 6.

Also, Vick gives the Eagles a big game threat. With his speed, he can return punts and kicks, and run the "Wildcat" for them.

Best for the Eagles, the locker shouldn't split with the addition of Vick. McNabb is the unquestioned leader of the flock, and Andy Reid is a coach that can handle the personality of Vick. He did keep Terrell Owens, or better yet T.O, happy for at least 1 season.

And the best for the Eagles, Vick's contract money isn't guaranteed, so if it turns out he is a bust, the Eagles don't lose too much.

Regardless of the fact if you even like Vick, and I personally am not a big fan being a dog owner myself, but in the eyes of the law, he arguably makes the Eagles a contender to win the division.

As far as the P.R. "nightmare" from animal rights groups like PETA, he did his time and paid his debt, so in my eyes and the law, things are squared even.

There are players in the NFL right now playing with a much longer and hainous rapsheet than Vick's (just look at the Bengals), so the Eagles aren't bad guys in this situation.

Does Vick's additon mean the Eagles will win the Super Bowl?
No. There are still questions on Oline; if they have a legitimate deep threat at WR with DeSean Jackson, Reggie Brown, and Jeremy Maclin; if they have depth at RB behind Brian Westbrook with LeSean McCoy; and how will the defense be without Brian Dawkins.

But Vick's addition does mean they are contenders for the NFC East with the Giants, with a weak Redskins team, and a Cowboys team that seems to be a meltdown waiting to happen.

The ACC needs a new expansion

2009-08-11T19:34:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, the Atlantic Coast Conference looked for a way to become a "super conference," one that would be on par with the SEC and Big 12.

Well, the conference-then comprised of Florida State, Clemson, Duke, North Carolina, NC State, Wake Forest, Duke, Georgia Tech and Virginia-went shopping for three teams.

They went to raid the Big East of what was arguably its best three teams at the time-Boston College, Miami, and Virginia Tech.

Since that expansion, the league has failed to live up to the hype, with only VT and BC holding up their ends of the bargain. Of course, how could league officials foresee the tough times schools like Miami and FSU would fall on, or the rise of Wake Forest and Georgia Tech.

Still, the conference has yet to win a BCS Bowl game (Rose, Sugar, Orange, Fiesta), nor a National Champion-of course the title draught exceeds the expansion, as the last championship was a Chris Wienke led FSU team.

Luckily for the ACC, Miami and FSU seem to be back on the rise, as do NC State and North Carolina. Still, the conference lacks a "super power," or two. Something the SEC and Big 12 both have, The Big 12 with Texas and Oklahoma, while the SEC has Florida and Alabama.

So, what is the ACC to do? My best advice is to first downsize, and then expand again.

Even though Boston College has played well in the their time in ACC, the proximity is a factor, especially in these tough economic times. There have also been talks of Maryland, one of the original founders of the ACC, leaving.

I don't see Maryland leaving, but BC I think should, and will pull out.

When considering another team, the ACC needs to look at its strength first, basketball. Then from that pool, find a team that can play football, and maybe be ok in baseball. Most importantly, find a team that shares a geographic proximity.

Two teams that are of interest would be West Virginia and Louisville. Both have had successful basketball programs, and each have decent football. Other schools like South Florida, Central Florida, and East Carolina have decent football programs, .500 to sub-.500 basketball, but it is in question whether ECU could hold up in a 12 game super conference schedule, while USF and UCF have been up and down, and really wouldn't help.

Even though Louisville would be the best bet for basketball with not only a big name coach, but a possible cross-conference rivalry with the SEC's Kentucky also, their football really wouldn't help, and that is where the conference needs help.

West Virginia would probably be their best bet. They have had success in football, as well as basketball. Also, they are geographically close to the rest of the ACC schools, not to mention the rivalries with Virginia and Virginia Tech.

Now, if West Virginia joined the ACC, I'm not sure if they would become the super power that they want...they honor would have to be risen to by either Virginia Tech, FSU, Miami, Georgia Tech, or Clemson.

Until the ACC does something though, they will still be seen as one of the many redheaded stepchildren-like the Big 10 and Pac 10- of the big boys like the Big 12 and the SEC.

College Football Predictions Pt. 2

2009-08-02T10:28:00.000-07:00

As promised, here is the ACC predictions, as well as the Big South Prediction.

Atlantic Coast Conference
Boston College
The Eagles are back; back at looking to who will play QB. Chris Crane has graduated, and Sophomore Dominick Davis looked inconsistent last season. The running game Josh Haden, and expect to see Jeff Smith as well. But the Eagles may be hurting most in trying to replace TE Ryan Purvis. Lars Anderson will get the first shot. WR Justin Jarvis returns, giving the Eagles a possession threat, standing at 6'5. Other than that, the corps has questions. One guy to watch is junior Ifeanyl Momah, who is a giant at 6'6, as well as the diminutive speedster Ryan Lindsey (5'8).

The defense returns both ends, but will be replacing their entire interior, including B.J. Raji (1st Round Draft pick of Green Bay Packers). The Eagles also lose LB/H-B Brian Toal, but do keep Mark Herzlich. Will Thompson will get the first shot to replace Toal. The backfield only loses safety Paul Anderson, and he will probably be replaced by Marty Bowman.

Not helping BC was an average recruting class, that looks to only field 6'6 295 lbs. DT Dillion Quinn, who will get every shot to replace Raji. Two guys to watch in the QB battle with Davis are Chris Johnson and, son of former Atlanta Falcons LB, Justin Tuggle.

Truly, I'm not expecting much from BC this year. It will be a very down year that will feature a QB controversy for most of the year.

Clemson
The Dabo Swinney era is officially here. A new coaching staff, a new philosophy, and a tougher attitude is why Swinney was hired. Now he has to win a conference championship. This team has had the talent to win it, but lacked coaching. It isn't certain if Swinney brings that, but Clemson will take the chance.

But he will have some replacing to do. QB Cullen Harper, RB James Davis, WRs Aaron Kelly and Tyler Grisham, and safeties Michael Hamlin and Chris Clemons are all gone. This means a new QB, a new possession WR, and essientally a brand new safety corp, may be too much for the first year coach to overcome. But, he did keep RB CJ Spiller around for one more year, and he has a young Oline that got experience last year.

Look for high school standout QBs Willy Korn or Kyle Parker to run the offense, but WR could be missing. The staff is waiting on JR. WR Xavier Dye, So. Brandon Clear, and FR Brandon Ford will be the top candidates. Keep an eye out for signee Bryce McNeal, who could come in and be a starter from day one across from Jacoby Ford. One guy to watch is TE Dwayne Allen. After a Rs year, it is said he could revolutionize the position at Clemson. The runningbacks look very good. Spiller returns, as does Jaimie Harper and RS Freshman Andre Ellington. Don't forget about H-Backs Rendrick Taylor and Chad Deihl.

The defense, which will be focused more on pressure and blitzing this year according to coordinator Kevin Steele, will depend heavily on the play of the line. The Dline looks monstrous, with ends Ricky Sapp and DaQuan Bowers, and interior guys Jarvis Jenkins and Brandon Thompson. The linebackers have talent, but are razor thin on depth. Scotty Cooper, Brandon Maye, and Kavell Connor are very servicable, and Maye could be an ALL-ACC selection if he keeps his focus, and intensity, under control. After that, it is anyone's guess if an injury were to occur. Keep eyes out for Jonathon Willard and Tarik Rollins. The Tigers may return the best corner duo in Chris Chancelor and Crezdon Butler, but safety is iffy. DeAndre McDaniel will probably get one spot, while the other will be up for grabs. Keep an eye out for Spencer Matthews.

Also, some new players could make their names known, especially OT JK Jay, DE Mallicah Goodman, and S Jonathan Meeks.

I expect Clemson to do their usual this year, 8-9 wins. They will be in contention, the only question is can they shake the stigma of inconsistency they had under Tommy Bowden, and reach their potential.

Duke
David Cutcliffe enters his second year at Duke, and he brought in a pretty good recruting class for Blue Devil standards, headlined by RB Rodney Scott and DT John Drew. QB Thadeus Lewis returns, as does WR Sheldon Bell. The entire Oline returns as well. Look for Scott to contribure immediately, and possibly WR Connor Vernon.

On defense, the Devils are going to replace 6 starters-3 on the line, 2 LBs, and a safety. DE Eriks Rekks, Sam Poggi, and Patrick Eggbo will compete for the spot across from Wes Oglesby. The entire interior is new, with Brandon Harper and Ifreke Okpokowuruk looking to be the starters. Keep an eye out for Charlie Hatcher. The LBs are hurting with the loss of Michael Tauiliili and Marcus Jones. Now Vincet Rey is the leader of the group, which look to have two young guys in Trent Mackey and Adam Banks. The defensive backfield only has to replace S Glenn Williams.

The Devils could have two freshman contribute right off the bat; RB Rodney Scott and DT John Drew. Outside of that, Duke looks to still be Duke. Cutcliffe has taken on a large task, and Duke may only win 5 games this year.

Florida State
It can now be said that Bobby Bowden is out of the race for winningest coach, after being stripped of 14 wins by the NCAA. Still, the 'Noles face the same question they have had since Chris Wienke graduated; 'Who will play QB?' It wasn't Drew Weahterford, and he has been the most successful. Christian Ponder looks to reverse the luck at QB, but the starter could be E.J. Manuel. Runningback looks servicable with Jermaine Thomas and Tavares Pressley. Another strength should be the Oline, which took its lumps last year. Guys like LT Andrew Datko, RT Zebrie Sanders, and RG David Spurlock got roughed up as freshman, and look to rebound their sophomore campaign. WR could be a problem, with no proven guy. Watch for Bert Reed and Jarmon Fortson to hopefully step up, along with JUCO Corey Surrency.

The D will be fast and athletic...how disciplined, is left to be said. The line is undersized, especially in the interior with both tackles under 290 lbs. The LBs are young, but talented, and are anchored the redshirt freshman duo of Nigel Bradham and Nigel Carr. Depth is also young. The DBs are unknown as well, but are led by S Korey Mangum.

A few newcomers should expect to get some playing time, and RB Lonnie Pryor is a guy that could see some major carries this year. At WR, look for Willie Haulstead. The Defense could see as many as 5 freshman on the two deep, including DT Jacobbi McDaniel, DE Demonte McAllister, LB CJ Mizell, S Jajuan Harley, and the No. 4 CB in the country, according to Rivals, Greg Reid.

It really is sad to see how far FSU has fallen. The Noles will improve, but won't get back to being competitive until Jimbo Fisher has complete control of the program, and Bowden is gone. They will compete for the divisional crown again, but I'm not sure they will be able to close on it.

Georgia Tech
The first year triple-option by Paul Johnson was a success. The Jackets were in the hunt for the ACC title, and nearly had it. Now, the Jackets have a feel for it, but they are replacing 4-of-5 offensive line starters, notably center Dan Voss. OG Joseph Gilbert is the lone returner to what will be a line made up of mostly juniors and seniors. They still have QB Josh Nesbitt, RB Jonathon Dwyer, and WR Damaryius Thomas. Add in RBs Roddy Jones and Lucas Cox, and you have a strong group of specialists. The offense shouldn't have many new guys outside the Oline, so expect more of the same from last year.

The Defense may be in a little rougher spot, having to replace their entire Dline, two linebackers, and a corner. They do return CB Mario Butler, S Morgan Burnett, and LB Kyle Jackson. Keep an eye out for LB Steven Sylvester, DE Jason Peters, and true freshman DT J.C. Lanier.

Look for the Jackets to again compete for the ACC title.

Maryland
The Terrapins had an enigma season last year. How else do you describe squeaking by Delaware, losing to Middle Tennessee State, and getting shut out by Virginia? Head Coach Ralph Fridgen opens this season on a little bit of a hot seat. His teams have been inconsistent the past few seasons, and havent' really been a contender for the ACC crown. One big reason is because of a lack of a consistent QB.

Fridgen will have to develop an offense now without the help of 'do-everything' wideout Darius Heyward-Bey. He does have a returning QB in senior Chris Turner. One good thing the Terps have is the return of RB Da'Rel Scott. But at WR, their best bet may be Jr. Emani Lee-Odai, but if he doesn't step up, keep an eye out for RS. Freshmenn Kerry Boykins, Kevin Dorsey, and RS Freshman TE Devonte Campbell (all three were highly rated in the 2008 class).

On D, it is a "Who's Who" of players. The inconsistent play was really on D, so that will be the area they need the most improvment.

Unfortunately, I don't see the 'Terps doing much better this year. They will continue to struggle, but will get an upset here and there, but will also be upset a few times. They will be one of the teams you don't want to play, because you don't know which Maryland team you will get.

Miami
The Canes are still trying to get back to prominence after a lackluster 7-6 season with a 4th place finish in the division. Coach Randy Shannon now has a team that he likes, and one could almost call it the Northwestern High School alums, since a large amount of the team has come from the Northwestern program in Miami.

QB Jacory Harris is the bonifide starter, and looks to build on a foundation setting freshman season. RBs Graig Cooper and Javarris James are servicable, but the Canes needs one to have a breakout year. The WR are young, and Aldarius Johnson and Travis Benjamin look to build off freshman years that showed flashes of what they could be. Keep an eye out for 6'5 Tommie Streeter, who was a favorite target of Harris in high school, as was Johnson. The Oline is experienced with Seniors and Juniors, and should help the young specialists grow.

The defense will be similiar to Florida State, athletic, but discipline will still be up in the air. DE Eric Moncur returns to lead the line, and the experienced LB corp, with the exception of Sean Spence, should be improved. The secondary is also very experienced, loaded with seniors.

Miami signed a good class, though small. Look for ATH Ray Ray Armstrong to make an impact somewhere, as well as RB Lamar Miller. CB Brandon McGee may make the two-deep, as may DE Dyron Dye.

I look for a much improved Miami team under Shannon, and I expect them to be much more disciplined. How many wins they may get, is unsure. The team will be better, I'm just not sure if the record will reflect that in such a tough division with Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech, and a surging North Carolina.

North Carolina
Speaking of the Tar Heels, Butch Davis is starting to get it going. The Heels are coming off an 8-5 season that saw a heartbreaking, one point loss to West Virginia in the bowl game. Cam Sexton returns at QB, and will be backed up by TJ Yates. Expect both to play some this year. Shaun Droughn leads the RB corps. The WR have been depleted with the departure of Hakeem Nicks and Brooks Foster. Greg Little and Kenton Thorton will get first shot to step up. The TE will also be new, as Christian Wilson will look to step in. The Oline should be good, only having to replace two guys.

The defense returns the entire line, anchord by DE Robert Quinn and DT Marvin Austin. Quan Sturdivant anchors the LB, and Bruce Carter is a solid ACC LB. Watch for Ebele Okakpu, who is replacing Mark Paschal at the other LB spot. Only S Trimane Goddard is gone from the secondary, and it will be anchored by S Deunta Williams. Kendric Burney and Jordan Hemby at servicable CBs.

DE Donta Moss could come in and play immediately for the Heels, as could DT Jared McAdoo, LBs Kevin Reddick and Hawatha Bell, and DBs Terry Shankle and Josh Hunter. On offense, keep an eye out for WRs Jheranie Boyd and Josh Adams, and ATH Donovan Tate and AJ Blue.

Expect the Heels to improve, but I'm not sure if the record will show it. I just think that they lost too much at WR to win the division this year. The defense I think should be good, and Butch Davis will have a core group to build around. I think the Heels have the ability to win 9 games this year, and probably a second place finish in the division.

NC State
Tom O'Brien enters his second year at the helm, and the team looks to improve greatly from last year. QB Russell Wilson returns, and he will get some heat from RS Fr. Mike Glennon. Still, as a freshman, Wilson won ALL ACC honors, and he, and the team, improved noticably through the season. The 'Pack also returns a powerful running game with Seniors Jamelle Eugene, Toney Baker, and Junior Curtis Underwood Jr., all of which combined for 2,641 yards and 21 TDs. The offensive line not only returns, but has gotten bigger and more disciplined under O'Brien. The passing game should also improve with giants like Owen Spencer (6'3) and Jarvis Williams (6'4). Expect Spencer to have a breakout year. Stephen Howard or Jay Smith could become a solid #3 guy for the 'Pack.

The defense also returns a bulk of their starters. DE Shea McKeen anchors a senior heavy line, while Nate Irving is the leader of the LBs and the defense. Three young guys to watch at LB are Sterling Lucas, Terrell Manning, and Dwayne Maddox. CB DeAndre Morgan anchors the secondary at CB, and Koyal George looks to have a strong senior season. Clem Johnson and Justin Byars are the safeties. The only question I have for the defense is this: Will Nate Irving be back from his injury?

Don't expect many true freshman to contribute, but CB Jarvis Byrd could squeeze into a nickleback, or a starting CB role.

I expect NC State to be greatly improved from last year. Wilson is a strong QB in the conference, and he will have a great running game and 2 big guys to pass to. The defense should also be better, but the secondary is a question mark. But NC State may have some of the best depth at LB in the conference. Probably won't win the division, but the 'Pack will play a role in who does win the division.

Virginia
Poor Virginia. They just can't seem to get ahead. QB Marc Verica passed for over 2,000 yards last year, but his TD-Int ratio was bad (1-2). RB Cedric Peerman is a brightspot on the offense, and has been, after tallying 774 yards and 7 TDs. JR. Mikell Simpson will be spelling Peerman. WR Kevin Ogletree looks to build off an okay year, tallying 723 yards and 5 TDs, while Maurice Covington also looks to improve. The Oline is experienced, but they haven't been the strongest front.

The defense was porous last year. The line is undersized to run the 3-4, but are full of heart, and is anchored by DT Nick Jenkins. The LBs are senior laden, but lack talent. The secondary also is experienced, but have the same problem the LBs do.

Two true freshman to watch are WR Tim Smith and ATH Quintin Hunter. Another guy to watch is RB Dominique Wallace.

Really, I'm not expecting much from Virginia. They lack in talent in regards to the conference, but they are a disciplined team, so they will sneak up and beat somebody in an upset this year. If the Cavs can pull out 5 wins this year, it will be a good year. The Cavs can at least still be thankful for Duke.

Virginia Tech
What can you say that already hasn't been stated about the Hokies? They play great defense, great special teams, and win. Coming off a 10-4 ACC Title year in 2008, and arguably one of Beamer's best coaching jobs, the Hokies look to repeat and continue their dominance of the ACC.

QB Tyrod Taylor is the guy know in Blacksburg. He has shown flashes of what he is capable of, but his passing has left much to be desired. Coaches are obviously hoping the summer has been a catalyst for improvment. One area the Hokies should be strong in is the running game. They return Sophomore Darren Evans, who had over 1,200 yards a 11 TDs as a freshman last year. He will be joined in the backfield by Josh Oglesby, who is looking to build on a freshman year where he saw limited action. The passing game may still leave much to be desired, as there isn't a true "big name" guy in the corps yet. Jarrett Boykin and Danny Coale are servicable, but neither are gamebreakers. The true wild card, or in this case wild turkey, for the offense is TE Greg Boone. Boone showed last year that he can block, catch, and run the formation known as the "Wild Turkey," a version of the formation used by many teams, along with the Miami Dolphins. The line returns all its starters from last year.

The defense, while virtually depleted of its stars, will still be a VT defense. DE Jason Worilds anchors the Dline, while big DT Cordarrow Thompson will try to clog the middle. The LBs will be new and inexperienced. Junior Cody Grimm is the elder of the group, but Barquell Rivers and Jake Johnson will be ones to watch to see if they can carry on the legacy of linebackers that have come through Tech of late. Also, watch for redshirt freshman Bruce Taylor. The DBs are new, but the corps will be anchored by S Kam Chancellor. Stephan Virgial and Rashad Carmichael look to take over at CB while Dorian Porch looks to hold down the other safety spot.

Don't be surprised if a few true freshman make some contributions this year. On offense, both TE Logan Thomas and WR DJ Cole could add some firepower in the passing game that the Hokies lacked last season. On defense, CB Jayron Hosley could find his way as a nickel or dime back, as could CB Jerrodd Williams. Also, with Williams' size and speed, he is a perfect candidate to play some Beamer ball.

The Hokies have been the toast of the ACC since they joined, and I wouldn't expect the trend to change. The only thing that worries me about the Hokies is the passing game on offense, and how will the recover from the loses on defense? Also, how has Kodi Burns improved? Though the Hokies play tough defense, I'm not sure if they have the firepower to win the division this year...but I never count out Beamer ball.

Wake Forest
The Demon Deacons have enjoyed new found success that past few seasons, but the question is, 'Is the joy ride over?' On offense, Wake will be almost idenitical to last year, returning QB Riley Skinner, RBs Josh Adams and Brandon Pendergrass, TE Ben Wooster, FB Mike Rinfrette, and WR Jordan Williams. They also return their entire Oline from last year. The only loss is WR Chip Brinkman, who statistically, wasn't a major contributor, but was a solid player. One guy to watch may be WR Devon Brown, as well as Marshall Williams.

On defense, the 'Deacs will be hurting, as they lost 8 starters, including LB Aaron Curry and CB Alphonso Smith. The line returns the interior with Boo Williams and John Russell, and Michael Carter and Dennis Godfrey add size (both are over 300 lbs). FR. Kyle Wilbur will get the first shot to win one of the starting ends jobs, while the other will be a toss up. Look for either Will Wright, Kevin Smith, Derricus Ellis, or Tristan Dorty (I'm leaning to Ellis) to win the other in a shootout. The LBs will all be replaced, but replacing Aaron Curry is nearly an impossible order. Look for the backer corp to struggle. The secondary will miss Smith, as well as both safeties. Alex Frye and Mike Williams look to take over at safety, while Josh Bush will get first crack at Smith's old spot.

I wouldn't look for many impact freshman for Wake, they typically redshirt all their freshman, and really, they are no rated game changing players in their 2009 class.

Wake I think will be okay on offense this year, defense is what 'Dore fans should be worryied about. A D replacing that much talent is going to take a hit, and I think Wake's D will get beaten up on, and their first opponent, Baylor, is no cake walk (but Wake should win their first 3 games). If Wake can pull out 6 games this year, 'Deac fans should be pleased.

League Outlook
For once, I don't see VT going to the title game. I just think they don't have enough in the passing game. I think it is GTs year to bring the triple option back. Too bad for North Carolina and Miami. Really, I could see any of those four teams winning the division, but GT looks to make the strongest case. Clearly, the Coastal division will be the more competitive of the two.

For the Atlantic, I see FSU returning to prominence, with Clemson coming up short again under their first year coach. The rest of the division is full of teams either rebuilding, or recovering. NC State poses the best shot to upset things, as Wake and BC will be down. Maryland is the wildcard of the group, and has been up and down the past few years.

This early in the season, I'd have to say Tech would beat FSU. I think that the triple option would use the 'Noles athleticism and aggression against itself.

Tech would then go on to the Orange Bowl to play what may be an at large team, my guess is a team from the Big East.

ACC Pre-Season Prediction Standings
Atlantic
1-Florida State
2-Clemson
3-NC State
4-Maryland
5-Boston College
6-Wake Forest

Coastal
1-Georgia Tech
2-Virginia Tech
3-North Carolina
4-Miami
5-Virginia
6-Duke

All ACC Preseason Team
QB-Jacory Harris (Miami)
RB-Jonathan Dwyer (GT)
RB-Darren Evans (VT)
WR-Damaryius Thomas (GT)
WR-Aldarius Johnson (Miami)
WR-Owen Spencer (NC St.)
OL-Austin Barrick (GT)
OL-Justin Fox (Miami)
OL-Thomas Austin (Clem)
OL-David Spurlock (FSU)
OL-Kyle Jolly (UNC)
OL-Matt Tenant (BC)
TE-Greg Boone (VT)
Spec.-CJ Spiller (Clem)
K-Spencer Benton (Clem)

DL-Derrick Morgan (GT)
DL-Marvin Austin (UNC)
DL-Daquan Bowers (Clem)
DL-Eric Moncur (Miami)
LB-Nate Irving (NC St.)
LB-Brandon Maye (Clem)
LB-Mark Herzlich (BC)
DB-Chris Chancellor (Clem)
DB-Kam Chancellor (VT)
DB-Morgan Burnett (GT)
DB-Deuta Williams (UNC)
DB-Brandon Ghee (WF)
P-Jeff Bowden (VT)

BIG SOUTH
1-Coastal Carolina
2-Liberty
3-Gardner-Webb
4-Stony Brook
5-Charleston Southern
6-VMI
7-Presbyterian College

College Football Predictions Pt: 1

2009-08-01T17:14:00.000-07:00

You feel it?
It is that time again.
Spring is gone, and summer is in its peak, and that means one thing, college football is near.

Now, the South's king will return, and it will be better than ever.
This year, will be a year of expansion for the Report. This year, substance will be put above style, hence the simpler redesign.

This year, I'll be expanding coverage to not just the SEC and ACC. This year, Big South and the Southern Conference. To make the transition easier, a larger conference will be coupled with a D1-AA conference.

We'll be looking at the ACC and the Big South in the next piece, but this piece will focus on the SEC and SoCon.

First, the SEC.
We'll take a quick overview of each team, to give you, the reader, a more in-depth look at the teams in the conference.

Alabama
The Crimson Tide lose John Parker Wilson at QB, and this will hurt more than Tide fans think. Greg McElroy is the incumbent, but I expect Redshirt Freshman Star Jackson to be the guy by season's end. Whoever the QB is, he will be surrounded by playmakers like WRs Julio Jones and Mike McCoy and RBs Mark Ingram, Ray Upchurch, and Terry Grant. The offensive line is being rebuilt though, and that is one thing that will hold them back this year.

The defense should still be strong, but may be a step slower than last year.

But the future for the Tide is looking full of championship potential. Did I mention they had a very good recruiting class headlined by RB Trent Richardson, a host of WRs, OT DJ Fluker, LB Niko Johnson and CB Dre Kirkpatrick, along with a host of other highly touted players.

Too bad the QB situation will hurt them a lot this year. Watch out for the Tide next year to steam role the West.

Arkansas
The Ryan Mallett era begins at Arkansas. In fact, the Hogs could be led by two transfers. The Michigan transfer has sat out a year, and Bobby Petrion has his QB for his system. Helping is the diminutive RB Michael Smith (5'7), who will be aided this year by a stable of runningbacks, namely Brandon Barnett (JR), DeAnthony Curtis (RS FR), and Dennis Johnson (FR). Keep an eye out for Knile Davis. WR is a key for Petrino, and he now as some guys Mallett can throw to. Joe Adams and Jarius Wright are two viable targets. Keep an eye out for Neal Barlow and Cobi Hamilton, both true freshman, and the senior Reggie Fish. The Oline is still like Arkansas: BIG. The big catch those is transfer RB Broderick Green from So. Cal. Green was able to wave his year to sit out due to having to move back to Arkansas for family health reasons, so look for him to be the power back for the Hogs this year.

The Defense should be improved, but is still a year or two off from being what it used to be. Keep an eye out for true freshman like CB Darius Winston and Rudell Crum, DT DeQuinta Jones, LB Austin Moss, and S Anthony Leon.

Auburn
The Tigers go under a new head coach, former Iowa State headman Gene Chizik. Though his record was bad, he was at Iowa State, but the hire is still a head scratcher. But, Chizik does have talent to build around, and it starts with Jr. QB Kodi Burns.

He also has a stable of RBs in Sr. Ben Tate, Jr. Mario Fanin, and Fr. Onterio McCalebb. WR is the biggest question. There are a lot of highly rated guys from high school, but they are going to need them to produce, especially Montez Billings, Tim Hawthorne, and Terrell Zachary. But Burns, or Sr. Chris Todd, will have a safety blancket in TE Tommy Trott. One guy to watch is the diminuitive WR Philip Pierre-Louis (5'8) who is listed as a 4.4 40-yard guy. If those WRs can't get it done, watch for true freshmen DeAngelo Benton and Emory Blake.

The defense will be tough, led by DE Antonio Coleman and CB Walter McFadden. Keep an eye out for JUCO transfer Taikwon Paige and true freshman DT Jamar Travis.

Sadly for the Tiger faithful, they are a year or two away from competing with Alabama and LSU, though they will log an upset or two, plus there are just too many variables around Chizik.

Florida
I'll say it right now. Percy Harvin won't be missed by Florida. They still have their catalyst in Tim Tebow, who basically won the National Title last year, along with speedsters Jeff Demps and Chris Rainey, and super athlete Deonte Thompson at WR. And the defense returns all 24 guys on the 2-deep, plus some added talent in DT Gary Brown and LB Janoris Jenkins.

A question I have for the Gators is how will they do without former offensive coordinator Dan Mullen?

The Gators should be able to go through the SEC pretty handily, but may face their toughest resistance from Georgia, LSU, and South Carolina. Look for the Gators to have a tough SEC title game contest, and blow by anyone in a National Title game, unless they play Southern Cal.

Georgia
The Bulldogs are losing a lot of offense. QB Matthew Stafford and RB Knowshon Moreno are gone to the NFL. Now, it will be the Joe Cox show at QB, and Caleb King will be the workhorse this year at RB. Still, they have freshman phenom WR AJ Green. The offensive line returns, and may have OT Trinton Sturdivant back. I expect the Georgia defense to be stout, as they only lost a few players. Keep an eye out for CB signee Branden Smith to contribute, and maybe TE Arthur Lynch.

Georgia will still be good, but they will be fighting for 2nd place, and the South Carolina game could decide their fate.

My only complaint is that the Dogs and Tide won't play this year, and we won't get to see Green and Jones go head-to-head. Oh well.

Kentucky
The Wildcats had a down year last year after the losses of Andre Woodson and the rest of that strong offense two years ago. Now, it looks to be sophomore Mike Hartline's team at QB, but he may be feeling some heat from true freshman Ryan Mossakowski. RB Alfonso Smith brings a solid presence in the background. WR is still a question mark, and Kyrus Lanxter looks to be the best bet. Keep an eye out for Aaron Boyd and incoming freshman Chris Matthews. The offensive line is a question mark, and is undersized at both guard positions

The defense should be good and make up for any questions on offense. The D will be centered around DE Jeremy Jarmon, LB Micah Johnson, and CB Trevard Lindley. True freshman DeQuin Evans may make some noise on the two deep.

I don't see Kentucky competing for the East, but they will probably finish fourth.

LSU
Les Miles is in a state of flux at the moment. The defense has lost a lot of its firepower, on the line especially, while the offense is looking for a QB. Jordan Jefferson and Jarrett Lee are the best bets to take the spot, but I expect a QB battle over much of the season. All the skill positions look good for LSU, with RB Charles Scott and Keiland Williams anchoring the backfield, and WRs Brandon LaFell and Terrence Tolliver headlining the receiving corp. The line returns both tackles, but is replacing their center and a guard.

The defense is looking very spotty. The line has lost a lot of its guys, like Tyson Jackson and Ricky Jean-Francois. DE Rahim Allen looks to be the leader, but a key could by DT Al Woods, who at 6'4 323 lbs, is a lane clogger. Keep an eye out for true freshman DT Chris Davenport. The linebackers are very inexperienced, but keep an eye out for Shomari Clemons, along with Kelvin Sheppard and Perry Riley. If not them, look for Freshmen Kevin Minter and Barkevious Mingo.

Also, look for S Craig Loston in the defensive backfield as well.

Miss. State
Speaking of Mullen, he is now the coach of the 'Dawgs. All signs point to him bringing the same spread triple option attack that lead Utah to a major bowl berth in 2004, and two National Titles for the Gators.

I expect a lot of young guys to play, especially WR signees Ricco Sanders and Chad Bumphis, RB Ladarius Perkins, and DB Dennis Thames, DEs Pernell McPhee and Fletcher Cox, and DT Josh Boyd.

They don't really return a QB that screams starter, which means signee Tyler Russell may be their best bet. They do return a bulk of their defense, and have have a strong running combo in RBs Anthony Dixon and Christian Ducre. Still at least 2 years away from competing in the West. It will be a long year for the 'Dawgs, this year.

Ole Miss
Houston Nutt enters year two with the Rebels. Jevan Snead enters his second year under Nutt, and Nutt now has a team to contend for the West. RBs Cordera Eason and Enrique Davis are big and powerful, and fit the bill for Nutt. Dexter McCluster is the catalyst, and the runner of the 'Wild Rebel.' True freshman WR Patrick Patterson could also play a role in the passing game. The O-line is in need of some rebuilding after losing LT Michael Oher and both guards. Bradley Sowell looks to take over for Oher, but don't be surprised if it is former prep schooler Bobby Massie. The guards look to go to anyone.

The defense will be tough as usual, and is led by DE Kentrell Lockett and Marcus Tillman. Look for LB Allen Walker to have a strong year. One safety spot is left wide open, but could go to Kendrick Lewis, or incomer Jamar Hornsby.

Look for Ole Miss to have a good shot at the SEC West title.

South Carolina
The Spurrier era has sputtered so far. Each season, except the first one, has seen a late season meltdown, recently blowouts to Florida, Clemson, and Iowa. Spurrier has revamped his staff, and it should lead to improvement.

QB Stephen Garcia is now the guy, but he has to live up to it. The O line should improve under new coach Eric Wolford, and QB Coach G.A. Mangus will be helping Garcia develope. The offense will look completely different with RB Mike Davis, WR Kenny McKinley, and TE Jared Cook all gone. The playmakers will be younger, and we will be seeing some spread from the Ole' Ball Coach.

The D should be good, but its corner position is razor thin. A strong, DB heaving recruiting class should help, and LB Eric Norwood won't let his D fall behind. Look for an improved Gamecock squad, but they are still miles behind Florida. The loss of Emmanuel Cook will hurt, but Darian Stewart is more than capable to fill the void, and LB Rodney Paulk brings a little more mobility to the table than Jasper Brinkley did last year.

This is their year to make a statement with Georgia, Tennessee, Vanderbilt, and Kentucky all in down years. If it doesn't get done this year, then it may never be able to get done.

Tennessee
Another team in a coaching change, welcome Lane Kiffin to the SEC...okay, so he already welcomed himself by calling out Nick Saban and Urban Meyer. Kiffin has a pretty big job ahead of him, but he has the talent to get it done. The question is QB, and the Vols haven't had a real game changer since Tee Martin (Arik Ainge was over rated in my personal opinion). Sr. Johnathan Crompton is the guy right now, but watch for RS Soph. BJ Coleman. RB should be fine, even though they just lost Lennon Creer to transfer, they still have Monterrio Hardesty and the young guy in Tauren Poole. WR is the place they are hurting, with no true threat outside of Ahmad Paige, who is in need of a breakout year, but they still have Jeff Cottam at TE, who is reliable. Look for signees RB Bryce Brown and WRs NuKeese Richardson and James Green to see early playing time.

I look for Kiffin to put some more spark in the Defense, and he has recruited some players to build around for the future. I don't expect them to be much better, but I expect them to play with more heart and toughness. I expect DBs Janzen Jackson and Eric Gordon to help out in the secondary.

For Vols fans, this will be a weak year, but they will upset a few teams, and to expect a 7-5 season would be a good mark. If the Vols win 8, Volnation should be happy.

Vanderbilt
The 'Dores are one of those teams that may not have the best talent, but they are very well coached and can beat teams now in the SEC. QBs Mackenzie Adams and Larry Smith will be in competition. RB Jared Hawkins is a tough runner, and Kennard Reeves is a burner. Keep an eye out for RS Frosh. Jermaine Doster. WR is a weak position, with no clear go-to guy. The Oline is a bunch of blue collar guys, but will be outweighed in most games this year.

The Defense took a hit after last year, with their best player being Myron Lewis. I see their Defense being down this year.

The 'Dores will have a down year this year, and will struggle to have a winning record.

League Outlook
I see this being a down year for the SEC offensively. Defense will still be the name of the game, and the only true offensive team will probably be Florida. Tennessee, Miss. State and Auburn are bring in new offenses, while other teams like Georgia, LSU, Kentucky, Alabama, and Arkansas are still looking for QBs to run their offenses, with the only "established" teams being Vanderbilt, Ole Miss and South Carolina.

It is easy, and safe, to pick Florida to win the East and Conference again, and looking at their roster, they will. A down East will make it even easier, while the West is up for grabs. Tim Tebow will probably win player of the year for the SEC, and all eyes look for them to have a good shot to repeat, because I don't think they will miss Harvin much, if at all.

Best bet to win the West is Alabama, but keep an eye out for the Rebels with Jevan Snead at QB, and LSU is always a contender. Another big question is Arkansas, and how improved will they be under Michigan transfer Ryan Mallett?

East
1-Florida
2-South Carolina
3-Georgia
4-Kentucky
5-Tennessee
6-Vanderbilt

West
1-Mississippi
2-Alabama
3-LSU
4-Arkansas
5-Mississippi State
6-Auburn

SEC Title Game: Florida over Mississippi

All SEC Preseason Team
QB-Jevan Snead (Ole Miss)
RB-Charles Scott (LSU)
RB-Anthony Dixon (Miss. State)
WR-Julio Jones (Bama)
WR-AJ Green (UGA)
WR-Brandon LaFell (LSU)
OL-Mike Johnson (Bama)
OL-Ciron Black (LSU)
OL-Mike Pouncy (UF)
OL-Markice Pouncey (UF)
OL-Chris Scott (UT)
OL-Garrett Anderson (USC)
TE-DJ Williams (Ark.)
Spec.-Tim Tebow (UF)
K-Liegh Tiffin (Bama)

DL-Carlos Dunlap (UF)
DL-Kade Weston (UGA)
DL-Terrence Cody (Bama)
DL-Cliff Matthews (USC)
LB-Eric Norwood (USC)
LB-Brandon Spikes (UF)
LB-Rennie Curran (UGA)
DB-Javier Arenas (Bama)
DB-Trevard Lindley (UK)
DB-Eric Berry (UT)
DB-Ahmad Black (UF)
DB-Janoris Jenkins (UF)
P- Brett Upson (Vandy)

And now, the Southern Conference.

SoCon
1-Appalachian State
2-Wofford
3-Furman
4-Elon
5-Georgia Southern
6-Citadel
7-Chatanooga
8-Samford
9-W. Carolina

Gates v Cambridge PD is Just One Big Misunderstanding

2009-07-30T18:13:00.000-07:00

I'm sure everyone is aware now of the controversy that occurred in Cambridge, Mass. involving Harvard professor Henry Louis Gates and the Cambridge Police.

From reports, Gates was locked out of his house, and "broke in" to his own home. This is when a neighbor phoned the police and reported a possible break in. The police then arrived to Gates' house, went in, and after a "war of words" arrested Gates.

Then, the controversy gets even bigger when President Obama says he believed the Cambridge police acted "stupidly."

Now, many in the national media are taking sides, either with the police or Gates, or with against Obama.

Today (July 30), Obama, Gates, and the arresting officer are having a beer summit at the Whitehouse to talk this out. Hopefully, after tonight, it will be the end of this whole three ring circus.

To me though, the most comical part of all this, besides the media's over coverage of such a miniscule event, is that this whole event could've been avoided.

Many in the media want to point out a "good guy" and a "bad guy" in this type of instance. Really, that is overly simplistic. This isn't a Hollywood movie.

Now, the neighbor did the right thing in calling the police on what probably appeared to be suspicous activity. Once the police got there, it went all wrong.

According to reports, the police bumrushed into Gates' home, and arrested him after Gates had some choice words for them.

Here, the police could've avoided this situation by simply knocking on the door and asking Gates a few questions, kinda like this.

"Hello. We had received a phone call from a neighbor saying she thought someone was breaking into this house. We just wanted to come by and make sure everything was okay. If we could just see your ID so we can know that you are Prof. Gates, we will be on our way."

There, situation diffused.

But Gates is just in the wrong here as well. Instead of getting all angry, he could've calmed them down by simply saying, "This is my home. I'm Prof. Gates!"

Clearly, cooler heads would've prevailed in this situation, but the police neglected their duty of being controllers of a situation instead of instigators, and Gates instigated the situation further with his rhetoric.

But you know what they say...there isn't a problem beer won't fix.

Let's hope the President's "Beer Summit" clears up this instance where there is clearly a failure to communicate.

Where Should Michael Vick play in 2009?

2009-07-29T10:35:00.000-07:00

Recently, former Atlanta Falcons QB Mike Vick finished up his prison sentence for organized dog fighting. In the past days, NFL Commisioner Roger Goodell lifted Vick's suspension, and gave Vick permission to sign with a team, as long as he sat out the first 6 weeks of the season.

Regardless if you think the 6 weeks suspension is fair (I personally do) the question arises, what team will sign Vick, and will Vick even be a QB?

To answer the latter question first, I'm not sure. Two years out of the league is a long time. The league changes every year, and if you are not even playing, you are behind. Add in the fact that Vick wasn't the most accurate QB, completing a little over 50% of his passes, but Vick got stuff done and won games.

Vick is arguably the most athletic QB to ever play in the NFL, but two years out of the league, I'm not sure how good his best assest is: His speed. I'm also not sure how good a shape he is in.

Personally, I see Vick playing the "Wildcat" offense, since he is a decent passer, it could add a new wrinkle, or a WR/special teams guy. I don't think his speed will fall off much once he gets back into the groove.

So, since I think Vick will be playing a specialist role on teams, that limits the teams that will take him. First, look at the AFC East.

Buffalo already has one big distraction in Terrell Owens, so I don't think they are going to take on Vick, nor do I see the Jets taking him either with Sanchez the pegged guy of the future. I also don't see Miami taking him either.

The Patriots are an interesting situation. They already have an established guy in Tom Brady, and they have a history of taking guys with peppered pasts, as well as high profile athletes who haven't won the big one yet.

In the North, I don't see the Ravens, Bengals, or Browns taking Vick. Baltimore has Joe Flacco at QB and don't need the distraction, the Bengals have had enough criminals, and the Browns have a young QB as well in Brady Quinn.

The Steelers could take in Vick. Coach Mike Tomlin is a protege of former Colts coach Tony Dungy, and Dungy is mentoring Vick. But, the Steelers have a reputation of not taking players with criminal convictions, and I don't think they want to start with Vick. So, the Steelers, I think, are going to let others mess with Vick.

The South has been the Colts division, and they could take Vick, and he could play WR if he can catch, but I don't see Manning hooking up with Vick for touchdowns. The Texans could use the QB, but like I said earlier, I don't think Vick will be an every down QB, and that also takes out the Jaguars and Titans.

In the West, the Chargers, Broncos, and Chiefs really don't need him, as they have needs elsewhere. The Raiders could take him. Vick can throw the deep pass, and that is something that Oakland seems to have a fetish for.

So, in the AFC, it is down to the Patriots and Raiders...but what about the NFC?

In the East, the Cowboys and Giants don't need the hassle. Dallas just went through getting rid of their distractions of TO, Pacman Jones, and Tank Johnson, they don't need the drama. The Giants are in the same boat dealing with Plaxico Burriss.

I just don't see Vick fitting in with the Eagles, just doesn't strike me, but the Redskins could use Vick. Again, not sure if Vick will be an every down QB, but GM Dan Schnieder is known to shell out big bucks on risky investments, and Vick at QB would be a risky purchase.

In the North, the Bears have Jay Cutler at QB, and Devin Hester as a specialist, so Vick's service won't be needed. The Lions don't need the distraction, they just need to win a ball game with their new QB, Matthew Stafford. Green Bay just got done with the Favre soap, so they will probably be wanting a break from the mainstream.

The Vikings could use Vick. Again, if Vick can play QB, he could get them over the hump.

In the South, it is safe to say the Falcons won't resign Vick. New Orleans already has a specialist in Reggie Bush, and the Buccaneers don't need Vick either. The Panthers are an interesting look. Jake Delhomme is an aging QB, and the Panthers could use a younger QB.

In the West, I don't see a team that would use Vick.

So, out of the NFC, we have the Vikings, Panthers, and Redskins added with the Patriots and Raiders.

The Panthers and Vikings are pretty similar teams. Both have strong defenses and look to field top notch running games-the Panthers with Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams and the Vikings with Adrian Peterson. Both running games mean Vick wouldn't have to pass much.

Still, I don't think the Panthers want that extra motivation from the Falcons when they tie up, but the Vikings I could see getting Vick, now that Favre is staying retired.

The Redskins could take him as well. QB Jason Campbell hasn't panned out yet, and Vick would have Clinton Portis to run the ball, but I just don't see Vick in a 'Skins jersey.

The Patriots, though have taken players, don't seem like they need Vick. They have a loaded offense and a tough defense. Also, not sure how the locker room would work with Vick and Randy Moss in the same locker room.

The Raiders I think would take Vick. Owner Al Davis loves QBs with big arms, and Vick has a big one. A team that runs the ball, and pulls the playaction pass is right up Vick's alley, so the Raiders I think would be a great fit for Vick.

Between the Raiders and Vikings, I can't decide.

So, expect to see Vick on Week 7...and he will either be in a purple and yellow, or the black and silver.

Should the Pac-10 Expand?

2009-07-14T13:36:00.000-07:00

Back around November of last year, I wrote a post about the Big-10, and how they could become relevant again.

I basically said that they should go through expansion, and add another team, which I believe should be Notre Dame, both geographically and historically.

Well, I was posed a question a few weeks ago: 'You said the Big 10 should expand, what about the Pac-10?'

At first, the question kind of through me. Why would the Pac-10 need to expand for football, they already have Southern Cal? Then I got to thinking harder.

A few years ago, Oregon, who with Joey Harrington was ranked #2, was held out of the National title game due to a "weak schedule." The same was done to SC a few years later, as they were ranked #1.

And I thought harder, and the Pac-10 and Big-10 are similiar. Forget the fact that the people running the Pac-10 can actually count to 10, unlike the Big 10 (11), and the Pac-10 is much more exciting to watch (it isn't known for its defense).

But both conferences are top heavy (the Big 10 has Michigan and Ohio State, with Wisconsin coming up every now and then) with the Pac-10 being carried on the coattails of SC with usually Oregon or Oregon State popping up.

And with that top heaviness, comes an infant weak bottom, the current Pac-10 being brougth down by the entire state of Washington, whose both major Universities tallied two wins total between them last year.

So, after doing some thinking, and I have to say that yes, the Pac-10, like the Big 10 (11), should expand and become the Pac-12.

The only question is, what two teams could they get?

The answer lyes in the smaller conferences, namely the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) and Mountain West (MWC).

In the MWC there are a few teams one can already eliminate based on geographic reasons, as well as the fact that some of them just aren't very good, namely San Diego State, Wyoming, New Mexico, UNLV, TCU, and Colorado State.

In the WAC, using that same logic, a few teams could also be eliminated, namely Idaho, San Jose State, New Mexico State, Utah State, Nevada, and Louisianat Tech.

So, out of the MWC, that leaves BYU, Utah, and Air Force, while out of the WAC it leaves Boise State, Hawaii, and Fresno State.

Even though Hawaii would be a fun team to watch in the Pac-10, they really would fall into the line of great offense, no defense, and I really think the conference needs to try to get away from that stereotype, so the Warriors are out. I also feel that Fresno State wouldn't want to leave their conference, just because I think they enjoy where they are in the scheme of things.

So that leaves BYU, Utah, Air Force and Boise State. Utah I think would be a lock, since they have been the team to beat in the MWC posting no less than 8 wins a season, and coming off a Sugar Bowl beatdown where they sped past SEC power Alabama. I believe the Utes would fit in very well in the Pac-10. I don't think they'd unseat SC, but they would be in the thick of things.

So, that makes it the Pac-11, one more team to go.

I don't think it would be in Air Forces' best interest to leave. They are a millitary first school, and really aren't in the business of putting up huge numbers. Plus, I don't think their teams could hold up in a 12 games season in the Pac-10, no matter how light the defenses are, I just don't think they would have the firepower needed.

It would be great if the Pac-10, now with Utah, could pull in BYU. That not only would give them a presitigous program, but a rivalry to add to the conference.

I do feel that the Pac-10's best chance at a 12th school would be Boise State. It is a pretty well known program now with their big Fiesta Bowl miracle win over Oklahoma a few seasons back. Not to mention, it sets up well geographically.

Still, for the sake of argument and the fact that I love rivalries, I'll say that the Pac-10 lures Utah and BYU.

Now, how to set up the 12 teams?

I'd say keep it simple, and do divisions by geography. Call it North and South.

In the North, you could have Washington, Washington State, Oregon, Oregon State, BYU, and Utah. In the South, you would have Southern Cal, Cal, UCLA, Arizona, Arizona State, and Stanford.

Heck, if the Pac-10 wanted to get cute, and judging from the overal unifrom selections they probably would, they could call the divisions the North Pacific and the South Pacific.

With the teams organized, the winners of the divisions would need a place to meet, and I say their should be no set place. If the game is anywhere in California, specifically LA, then the North teams would call fowl on bias.

So I say move the championship game around by using the bevy of pro-stadiums they have. One year the game could be in Oakland, the next in Arizona, the next in Seatle.

The same could work in basketball as well with all the pro-arenas in the region.

Clearly, the Pac-10, while more relevant than the Big 10 (11), could go for expansion. I think it would better the conference, improve the competition, as well as bring a championship game that would make their case for the National Title, just as the Big 12 and SEC's have.

Is the Supreme Court Overruling Sotomayor's Lower Court Decison the End of Affirmative Action?

2009-06-29T08:47:00.000-07:00

Mark it down. June 29, 2009 marked the end of affirmative action in America.

On that day, as reported by the Washington Post, The United States Supreme Court ruled on the lower court decision of racial preference in the New Haven, Connecticut Fire Department case, a case that was heard by Sonia Sotomayor, who Pres. Obama nominated to the Supreme Court and is awaiting confirmation hearings in the Senate.

The case involved believed racial preference in promotion at the fire department. Sotomayor and the other lower courts found against the white fire fighters, saying their practices were unconstituional.

The Supreme Court reversed those decisions 5-4, with Justices Alito, Scalia, Thomas, Kennedy, and Chief Justice Roberts in the majority.

The main arguement that found against the lower rulings was that "fear of litigation alone cannot justify an employer's reliance on race to the detriment of individuals who passed the examinations and qualified for promotions."

I have to say I agree with this. It shouldn't matter what race, sex, creed, or sexual preference you have. The best man, or woman, should get the job.

Coincidently, the woman Sotomayor is hoping to replace, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, wrote the dissent of the court, joined by Justices Breyer, Souter, and Stevens.

I could not be happier about this decision. It is time this Nation move past affirmative action, especially in regards to race.The country is built whoever can do the job the best, not about if they fit a quota.

For more evidence to no longer need affirmative action, one need look no further than the White House. We now have our first black President, the highest job holding in all the land.

If a black man can win the Whitehouse, then that means so can a woman, as well as those from other races. The racial door on the Whitehouse is finally broken down, and it truly is an office that anyone can win now.

So, if anyone can win the Presidency, regardless of race and sex, why don't we hold this mantra for other jobs? If you ask me, that is racist.

I truly hope this decisons marks the beginning of the end for affirmative action.
That way, the best man, or woman, can start getting jobs that others got simply because they were born "different."

Michael Jackson and Elvis Presley are Eerily Similar

2009-06-27T18:37:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm diverting slightly from hard news to look at the recent death of Michael Jackson.

It was a rough week for Hollywood. Not only did Transformers bomb out at the box office, but Ed McMahon, Farrah Faucet, and Michael Jackson all died in the same week.

For the past few days, there have been vigils across the nation and the world.
I don't think there is an entertainer-past, present, future-who will be so well loved for his talent than Michael Jackson...except for maybe Elvis Presley.

Which brings me to the point. Both Presley and Jackson shared similar lives.
Both were loved by fans all over, both created some of the best music of their generation, both revolutionized the music industry and sound of it, and both were superb entertainers.

Elvis, the King of Rock n Roll, revolutionized the music world by being a white boy that played "black music," and mixing that with rock, country, folk, gospel, R&B, and stamping his signature on "rockabilly."

Jackson, the King of Pop, again changed everything by playing music that transcended race, combining R&B, soul, funk, disco, rock and making his own sound (originally helped by Quincy Jones).

Both were showman, wowing audiences with their dancing and stage presence, and were also seen as "risque" for their time (Elvis' gyration and Jackson's crouch grab).

Both also were known for their off the stage antics as well, both being huge estates (Presley's Graceland and Jackson's Neverland Ranch). Presley was also seen as a "danger to National Security" as hard as that is to believe, while Jackson's previous 10 years were marred with accusations and payouts for child molestation charges.

Both also went through massive physical changes. Presley had an obscene weight gain which killed him, and Jackson had a multitude of plastic surgery, and also changed races. Both were almost unrecognizable at their ends as compared to when they began.

It goes without saying both were Kings.

Both also died young. Presley was 42, Jackson was 50...robbing the world of what would've been at least 20 years of musical genius each.

Presley's career spanned from 1956-1977, and Jackson started in 1968, but really didn't take off until 1982 to 2009, which created a lineage of music royalty if you will.

It isn't a question of who is better. Both were the tops in their business, and both played different styles of music.

Without Elvis, there probably wouldn't have been the popularity of Jackson, and without music like blues (America's true form of music along with jazz) there probably wouldn't have been an Elvis.

The saddest part is, both died well before their times, leaving us wondering what other boundary each could've broken in their later years.

What may be equally depressing is how Jackson's career ended in controversy.The allegations of child molestation overshadowed his talent, pure and simple, and called many detractors (and rightfully so), but it couldn't take away the fact that his music touched so many people around the world

Regardless of one's stance on Jackson's legal issues though, I can't help but feel sorry for the late singer.

As a child, he was beaten and abused by an overbearing stage parent, and that played a major role in his development and thought process. He was also told he was ugly, which contributed to the massive plastic surgery work.

Truly, the world lost a music giant for the second time. The only question is, who now takes the throne as "King" in the music industry?

If you ask me, there is no one.

Mark Sanford is now officially a scumbag

2009-06-24T21:41:00.000-07:00

South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford has made his biggest, and last, snaffu of his political career.

The State (Columbia) newspaper, WIS-TV (Columbia), and just about every national media outlet (CNN, MSNBC, FOX News) are all reporting, and clarifying, that Sanford has admitted to having an affair on his wife.

The State released emails that thye have had since December, but needed 100% verification to issue them to the public. Turns out, Sanford has an exotic taste in women.

The scene is set that Sanford said he was going to the Appalachian Mountains to clear his head. A valid reason, Governor is a tough job.
The strange part is, it was over Father's Day, and he was seen at the Atlanta Airport. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't think you need a plane ride to get from Atlanta to the start of the Appalachian Trail.

Turns out, he was heading to Argentina to see his mistress...over Father's Day!

It gets better. It is reported that his wife, Jenny, issued a statement in which she had asked him to leave two weeks ago. This was in hopes to repair their marriage. Turns out, he went to Argentina on Father's Day.

To make things worse, it is looking like he used taxpayer money to fund his expeditions. Now, that is off assumption and connecting the dots, but I guessed a few days ago that he was having an affair, so I'll go off my hunches.

If this is true, that means he won't use taxpayer money from a stimulus package, but he will use taxpayer money to stimulate his package. That is about as dirty as it gets.

I don't care what you think about Sanford's policy. It does not matter in this case.
What Sanford did was inexcusable. Instead of taking time to look at how to fix his marriage, he goes to Argentina for a booty call over Father's Day weekend. And, if he spent taxpayer money, he may need to face some type of felony.

But now what to do?

Sanford has no reason to resign. His term is nearly up, so just let him finish it out.
Nothing will get done now anyway with this new information coming out.

I do hope that he and his wife can work this out, and I hope it is through a divorce. I just don't see how they can reconcile this.

I truly feel bad for Jenny Sanford and her four sons who have to go through this, but I have no sympathy for Sanford. He had everything go for him-a lovely wife, 4 wonderful children, a promising National political career (he was one of the 2012 front runners), and now, he has thrown it all away.

To make it worse, Mark did this over Father's Day, a day he should've spent with his four boys, he decided to spend with a mistress.He brought this onto himself, and that is the saddest part of the whole story.

What a scumbag.

We Need Gun Control in this Country

2009-06-15T19:45:00.000-07:00

Picture this: You're out in the brisk, cool autumn morning. You see the sun rise, cutting through the morning mist. Sitting there, you see a beautiful 8-point buck cross your path, so what do you do?

If you said pull out your fully automatic assault rifle with a super scope and a bullet that explodes on impact, this post is for you.

That scenario above, is one of the reasons I feel we need gun control laws in this country. Now I'm no tree hugger. I believe people should have the right to choose to go out and hunt animals for food. It can be a major bonding experience for father and son (or daughter), but to use a semi-automatic rifle to hunt a deer? Are you afraid it is going to shoot back?

Whatever happened to using the standard 12-gauge and actually showing some marksmanship?

But it isn't just hunting, but the violent crime today. Take this into instance.
In the Anderson-Independent Mail, there was a story about a shooting in Anderson County that killed a man. What was right next to it? An add for a gun show, that specifically advertised semi-automatic and automatic rifles.

For those that say, "it is my Constitutional right to own a gun," you are right.

According the the Constitution's Second Amendment that was passed in 1791 (the date is crucial), "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed."

Now, that may be what the law says, but that isn't what it means.
Look at this way: there are 4 ways to understanding a law that will prove that gun control is not only needed, but it is constitutional.

1-What it says?
2-Is there precedent?
3-What were the legislatures thinking at that time?
4-What was going on back then in history?

Using this, it is simple to say gun laws are needed.
One, it says a well regulated militia being necessary to the security of the free state. Well, we haven't used a militia sense we started having an army (the US Army to be exact), which also answers question 4 partially. There was no army in 1791.

Two, since this is the 2nd Amendment to the Constitution, there is no exact legal precedent.
Three, it is impossible to know what the legislators were thinking, since they didn't leave much record behind as a reference, except for the Constitution.

Back to four. What had just occurred? The American Revolution where we scrambled together some farmers and such to defeat Great Britain, because there was no established army.

Fast forward to today. Not only do we have an army, we have a navy, air force, marines, coast guard, national guard, and peace corps. We have no need for a militia anymore, which, in turn, voids the right to own a gun.

But like I said, I'm a realist and realize we can't take away guns, but we can make strict gun laws that make it very difficult to own a gun.

To start off, if you are a convicted criminal, it is impossible for you to ever buy a firearm of any kind. Second, psychology tests have to be administered and past to check on the state of the one interested in buying the gun. Third, you gun shows are regulated as to what they can show and sell: no more automatic weapons.

Finally, the type of gun sold in stores is regulated. Gone are the automatic rifles, semi-automatic rifles, and other weapons that aren't needed in society. What they can sell are shotguns and semi-automatic handguns.

There is no sense in owning an automatic rifle. If you need one of those to hunt, you need a new hobby, and you certainly don't need one of those to defend yourself-if someone invades your home, you are at the advantage because you know the layout of your home, the assailants probably don't.

So next time, when you're out hunting that buck, just remember, we only need to hear one boom of a rifle, not a continuous burst of bullets.

Kobe Bryant like Mike?

2009-06-12T20:03:00.001-07:00

What makes greatness?

Well, in basketball, it means winning titles, and the retired Michael Jordan won 6 in his wake of being the undisputed greatest player to ever play in the NBA....ever. And can you blame the honor?

6 Titles, 5 MVP awards, 14 All-Star honors, 10 scoring titles, 9 All-Defense Awards, and a Gold Medal in the Olympics with the original Dream Team. Needless to say, no player has that grouping of honors.

But "His Airness" may have to move over in the slow lane, because there is a big purple and gold locomotive baring down on his legacy.

The Lakers Kobe Bryant is chiseling out his own legacy of greatness. Bryant just won his 4th title as his LA squad beat the Orlando Magic three games to one. He also has multiple All-Star honors (11), an MVP award, 9 All-Defense selections, two scoring titles, and a Gold Medal with the "Redeem Team" in the past Olympics.

Now, Bryant still needs a few more rings, at least 2 more, to even be put in the same breathe as Michael. But the resemblences can't go unnoticed.

Both played for Phil Jackson, both had a number change (Bryant from 9 to 24; Jordan from 23 to 45, and back to 23), both played the same position, and both even look similar.

Also, both were the unquestioned leaders of their teams, and both hit shot after shot, some of which make you say, "There is no way he can make that," and then they make it.

I'm by no means saying that Bryant is Michael Jordan reincarnate, even though the similarities are uncanny. But, at Bryant's age, if he keeps up this pace, he will surpass Jordan in rings, MVP titles, and he may win another gold medal in the next Olympics if the Redeem Team makes another run at it.

Judging by his last finals, and his leadership he has grown into, I expect a few more Defensive awards, but I'm not sure if he will catch Jordan in scoring titles with Lebron James scoring as much as he has to for the Cleveland Cavs. As far as titles, if that Laker team shows up next year, and that is a big if (both Lamar Odom and Trevor Ariza are free agents, and both command pricey contracts) the Lakers stand a good shot to repeat.

So, greatness is determined by titles and performance, and if Bryant stays at his pace, he will qualify as one of the greatest to ever play the game of basketball. Will that be enough to surpass Jordan?

In terms of performance, we will never know who truly is, "the greatest in their prime."

Though that would be an amazing 1-on-1 to watch.

News of a new Lake Report

2009-05-24T18:49:00.000-07:00

Hello to all my readers.
First, let me thank all who read The Lake Report, and give me a reason to continue writing my opinions on the world around me.

I'd like to take this opportunity to say that in the coming weeks to a month, the Report will be getting an overhaul.

The format will be changing.
Movie and music reviews will be done away with (unless they are begged for) and the Report will be going into much harder material.

The focus will be on sports and politics, but new features will be coming.

Actual photography taken by me will soon be available, as soon as I finish working a deal out for a good digital camera. Also, video may soon be incorporated at a later date.

All these new bells and whistles will not mean a change in the content.
I will still write my opinions, and soon, with reporting.

All these changes are taking place for a chance to be looked at seriously by employers, since my time in college is coming to a close in another year and-a-half.

It has been a pleasure writing for you all, and I hope you continue to read my work through the coming years.

This will be the last post for the summer, as the site will go under some style changes, but will be back in August to get you ready for some college football.

Until then.

NBA Playoffs 2009

2009-04-09T16:02:00.000-07:00

The NBA season is nearing a close, and now it is almost time for the irrelevant playoffs.

Okay, so this year they actually look like good games in the first round.
The West has been settled, and the East just wrapped up as well.

They are so many good players now to watch: Kobe Bryant, The Big 3 in Boston, LeBron James, Chris Paul, Tim Duncan, Dwight Howard, Chauncy Billups.

This years playoffs actually look as if they could be competitive in every round.

I have my prediction of who will be in the Finals, and then I'll have another post with who I think wins the Finals.

I'll start off my saying that I think the Thunder and Bulls take the 8 and 7 spots respectively in the East, and that the Magic beat out the Celtics for the 2nd spot. And yes, it is because Garnett is out till the playoffs.

Now, for the first round in the West:
1 Lakers vs 8 Jazz
-I see this series going 7 games. Lakers have home court, but I think when LA has to go to Utah for 3 games, they will get their fill of the Jazz. Still, LA has steamrolled their competition this year, and will make quick work of the Jazz at home. Give me the Lakers.

2 Nuggests vs 7 Mavericks
-I think Denver holds onto the #2 spot, and will play Dallas. I can see this series going 7 games. An interesting match-up will be the point guards, as Jason Kidd takes on Chauncey Billups. The key to this series though, will be Dirk Nowiski. If he is physical and puts up his points, the Mavs have a good shot to upset, but if he gets beat up by Kenyon Martin, it will be a long series for Dallas. Plus, I don't think the Mavs have an answer for Carmello Anthony. Give me Nuggest in 6.

3 Spurs vs 6 Hornets
-San Antonio is in trouble. Manu Ginobli is out, and they have an aging roster with Tony Parker, Tim Duncan, and Michael Finley. The Hornets though, are much younger, and have the best point guard in the league in Chris Paul. Add in youth like Tyson Chandler and David West, and this should be an "upset" series. Look for the Hornets to take it in 5.

4 Rockets vs 5 Blazers
-The Rockets have been an up-and-down team. They have strong players in guys like Shane Battier and Ron Artest. The Blazers are one of the young and up-and coming teams in the league, led by Brandon Roy, Rudy Fernandez, and LaMarcus Aldridge. The key for Houston is Yao Ming. If he is dominant, the Blazers don't have a guy to hold him, but Yao is very inconsistent. Give me the Blazers in the upset, in 6 games.

In the East we have:
1 Cavaliers vs 8 Pistons
-On paper, it looks like the Cavs should roll no problem. They have better overall shooters, are rougher, and they have LeBron James. For the Pistons to win, they need Rip Hamilton to come up big, and Rasheed Wallace to stay out of tech. foul trouble. Also, they need Allen Iverson. Give me Cleveland in 4 for the sweep.

2 Celtics vs 7 Bulls
-Boston has had a slip this year. The defending champs haven't looked as unbeatable this year, mostly due to Kevin Garnett being hurt. But he should be well rested for the playoffs. The Bulls are still another year or two away from really being competitive, but this will help them grow. Also, the Celtics have some nice support coming from Mike Moore and :gasp: Stephon Marbury I see coming. Give me Boston in 5.

3 Magic vs 6 76ers
-The Magic are another one of those young teams that are still rising. The 76ers have a young team, but don't have that headline guy to lead them. They have nice supporters in Andre Miller, Willie Green, and Andre Igudola. But they have no one that can hang with the Magic's Dwight Howard, and that is the difference. Give my Orlando in 5.

4 Hawks vs 5 Heat
-Probably the best matchup in the East 1st Round. Both teams are average at best, but the Hawks soared onto the scene with a 7 game series with the Celtics last year. They are one of those young teams, as is the Heat, they are still learning. The Hawks have some good players, but they don't have a guy that can play with Dwayne Wade. Give me Heat in the upset, in 7 games.

So for the 2nd Round, we have:
Cavaliers vs Celtics & Heat vs Magic (East)
Lakers vs Hornets & Blazers vs Nuggests (West)

I think the Cavs will beat the Celtics this year. It will go 7 games, and will be a monster series. But LeBron James is just too good, and is the best player on the floor in that series. He almost beat the Celtics last year (he was a shot away) and this year, he sinks that shot. Give me Cavs in 7.
And the Magic will beat the Heat. Wade can only carry that team so far, and he needs help, but he won't get it. Dwight Howard will be too much in the low post, and the Magic blow by the heat in 5.

In the West, the Lakers and Hornets will have hype, but will be over quick. Derek Fisher will control CP3, and there is no one on the floor that will control Kobe. Lamar Odom will be a key in this series, as he and David West will be key. Plus, the Lakers have Andrew Bynam and Pau Gasol down low. 2 low post guys beat in in Chandler. Give me Lakers in 5.

Blazers and Nuggets, I feel a stunner coming. The young Blazers, I predict, will beat the Nuggets in 7. They will do just enough to control Anthony, and their young guards will run circles around Billups.

So for conference Finals, we have the Cavs vs the Magic, and the Lakers vs Blazers.

Here, I see the Cavs steamrolling the Magic. Orlando is a year away from being ready for this stage and level, while LeBron and the Cavs are prepared. Give me Cleveland in 6.

In the West, the Blazers run out of magic, and will get swept by the far superior Lakers.

So, I have LA vs Cleveland in the finals.
Let's see how I do in the playoffs, then I'll predict the Finals when we get close to that time.

Until then, take care.

Ghost Sounds: The Search for USC String Majors

2009-04-01T12:28:00.000-07:00

You hear them at the Koger Center stage, and get a close glimpse of them in the University of South Carolina School of Music recital hall. You know there names, their instrument, and their tastes in music. In a way, you know their soul. But outside of the concert halls, they are seldom seen.

Just where in the world are they?

“We are practicing or working on theory,” Hunter Harris, a sophomore viola player, said. Harris, 20, is a music education major from Greer, SC.

USC string players are a hard breed of Gamecocks to track down, and it is because they have one of the most, if not the most, demanding course loads in the University.

“Music majors have to complete the most credit hours, next to Pre-Med,” second year violinist Haley Dreis said. “We're not necessarily loaded with heavy textbook courses, but we pursue a lot of our time and energy differently.”

Dreis, 19, of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is actually a double major in music “specialized in violin performance,” and journalism. Dreis said that while although being a double major in music and journalism is tough, she is “working on it” with the help of her iCal, a calendar program on her Mac laptop.

“I've discovered many links between music and journalism, including writing in the arts entertainment section for the Daily Gamecock. Knowing this has helped me arrange my schedule to enhance my specific career goals,” she said.

Dreis also praised her “collegiate environment” in high school in helping prepare her for the load she would take on in college.

Harris said that he has “never experience a semester with less than 18 credit hours.”

“I’ve heard 18 hours are nice. I usually take about 20-23 credit hours a semester.”

Both Dreis and Harris noted the time outside of class in practice rooms as the major keeper of their time. Dreis is currently in three, as is Harris.

“Currently I'm in a string quartet, an orchestra, and a small chamber group that is voluntarily meeting to assist a junior violinist in her recital,” said Harris.

“The thing about ensembles is that they take up a ton of time with rehearsing, and most only offer 1 credit hour. It would be nice if we had less rehearsal time, more practice time, and were offered more credit hours,” Dreis said. She has been involved in USC Symphony, USC Chamber Symphony, and a string quartet since she arrived at USC.

“It's easy to get sucked into lots of ensembles and participate in every organization, but you learn how to manage your time wisely,” said Dreis.

For Brad Abromatis, 21, from Columbia, SC, the extra time strings would’ve taken him to graduate wasn’t worth it. “School's just too expensive. Paying for 4 years is hard enough already!”

Now solely a history major, Abromatis was once a double major. “I was double majoring in music and history, but I stopped majoring in music because I needed to graduate on time, because I would have been here an extra year.”

Abromatis is not fully out of strings though. He can still be seen playing viola in a string quartet. “Strings have a connection with me because my grandmother played violin and I love classical music.”

“I do not miss double majoring because I feel like I have time to excel in the major I chose: history. I'm still taking viola lessons and playing in a string quartet, so I'm still getting my music fix,” he said.

According to Dreis, the semester can be going smoothly, and you have time for other avenues, then it close to the end, and it “gets hectic.”

“Things get hectic because everyone is performing, preparing for 'juries', and final exams.” A jury is like an audition where students play for faculty members of their respective instruments, Dreis explained.

Harris added how he feels general education courses “get in the way.”

“They (gen.-eds.) can get in the way of my ‘musical education.’ I'd rather be practicing than memorizing CSS code for a computer science class.”

Dries has advice for those thinking about being majors in music here at USC, or at other music institutions.

“Being a music major isn't for everyone. But if you're passionate about music, love practicing, performing, and/or teaching, you'll get the most out of a music degree from USC,” she said.

Harris said while although it is an arduous road, it is worth it in the end.

“We have the best professors in the Southeast at a low cost. Most of our professors went to conservatories and studied with the best of the best.”

Abromatis said that the best advice he has for prospective music majors, whether they single or double major is to “budget their time.”

“Free time is few and far between."

College Jamborees? : The new spring football

2009-03-22T14:24:00.001-07:00

What comes to mind when one thinks of spring?

Flowers blooming, pollen pollinating, temperature rising, and football?

Yep, spring practice has begun for many schools. This is a time for teams to coach, and really work on basics, and to get younger players some more attention for development. This is the case with South Carolina. For Clemson, it is all that plus learning new schemes with the coaching change. I guess USC falls under that category too.

And I know we are in football country, where college ball is king, but I am just not that into spring, and more precisely, the spring games.

I don't get how so many people could get into a glorified scrimmage. You really have no idea how good your team is by watching and analyzing a spring game. What good does it do for your guys to play your same guys, who schemes they all know? Did I mention there is that added risk of players getting hurt?

Sure, you can have excitement with trick plays and learn some new faces, but it really isn't worth it.

Now, what I am a fan of is high school jamborees. This is where different teams from an area (or county) play each other for a quarter, then two other teams take the field for a quarter, then those four teams swap and play another quarter.

This is fun to watch in high school, and I believe the NCAA should implement jamborees for teams, and it doesn't even have to be against conference rivals. Say you have South Carolina and Clemson hosting jamborees...we can call them the Carolina Classic and the Tiger Cup. USC would obviously host at Williams-Brice, and Clemson would host at Death Valley.

Then, each school would invite small colleges from D1-AA from the surrounding states of the Carolinas and Georgia. Let's say Carolina invites Coastal Carolina and Georgia Southern, while Clemson invites Furman and Appalachian State.

What would happen next is that both USC and Clemson would play four quarters, facing a team per half. They would do this because the smaller schools don't have as many players to burn.
This would give bigger schools an idea of where they are fundamentally, while the smaller schools not only pocket some nice cash, but also get a chance to see where their players are.

And to make it interesting, the host school would decide after the game who gets a trophy on they feel who played them the best, adding some extra bragging rights to the small schools.

This seems much more exciting to me instead of watching a scrimmage game.

World Baseball Classic

2009-03-08T18:21:00.000-07:00

You know what? Sure, you already know I love baseball. I believe it is the greatest game, a thinking man's game, ever devised by the human mind.

But you know something? I really like the World Baseball Classic.

There is just something about it that draws me to it. Maybe it is because I haven't even heard the crack of a bat since November and I'm dying to hear a ball smack some leather.

We already have the drama. The Netherlands already had a stunning upset over the highly favored team from the Dominican Republic, and USA and Canada went toe-to-toe in a close and hard fought ball game.

But I think the real attraction for me with the WBC is because it gives us, Americans, a chance to see how our game sticks up to the world, and how the world has embraced our game.

In a world today where so much violence and death are fought over, mostly due to misunderstandings and breaks in communication, sports speaks a common language. Though many of the participants in these games don't speak English, it is good to see people of different walks of life and Nationalities come together peacefully, and enjoy America's game.

Though USA lost the WBC (how we lose our own game I don't know) in 2006, I think it is a telling sign of the world in general. It has caught up to us, it has learned from us, and it has improved on our ideas.

Now, this year's squad is looking to learn from that past WBC, and redeem our country in our game. The same can be said in life. We need to learn from those that learned from us, improve our their ideas, and go back to being number one in the world again.

The USA basketball team already did this, and I'm encouraged by our current WBC team. It is time we take our game, and our standing in the world, back.

Spring Football Preview 2009

2009-03-03T11:04:00.001-08:00

Here in the South there are three sports seasons: Football, spring football, baseball.

Well, it is time to strap on the pads, which means the real season is less than 6 months away.
Here in the coverage area of the Report (Georgia, South Carolina, Clemson) we will be looking at what to expect from spring ball, what to watch for position battle wise, and 5 things I think will happen to each team.

I'll start in alphabetical order.

Clemson
The Dabo Swinney era has officially begun at Clemson. This will mark the first spring under Swinney for the Tigers, and I expect some big changes for the orange clad bunch. New defensive coordinator Kevin Steele will look to bring some of that Alabama toughness to the Tiger D, while Billy Napier was promoted to offensive coordinator.

This breeds the two biggest questions for the Tigers: What kind of defense will they run? What type of offense?

If they run the Alabama 3-4-4, it will take away their lack of depth at defensive tackle, but it may expose the youthful, though plentiful, linebacker corp. On offense, will they run the same offense that was brought from Toledo a few years ago by Rob Spence, will they add some wrinkles, or start from scratch.

If I were the coaches, and thank God I'm not, I'd keep the same offense because it appeared to work under Swinney. As far as defense, well, both work, and with Clemson's D-line, I think they can hide their young linebackers regardless what formation they take.

Keep in mind, no mid-year enrolless means that a few spots will be up for grabs, especially the WR and safety position. And keep an eye on QB Tajh Boyd in the fall.

Position Battles
#1 Quarterback: The Tigers will look a little different on offense regardless. Seniors Cullen Harper, James Davis, Tyler Grisham, and Aaron Kelly are gone. Watch one key to be, big surprise here, the quarterback. Willy Korn has been in the program longer, so he has a slight edge over Kyle Parker. Add in baseball season, where Parker can be seen in the outfield of Doug Kingsmore, and it should be Korn pencilled into the #1 spot heading into the fall.

Prediction: Barring a massive meltdown, Korn should win this battle, but will have to fight for it in the fall.

#2 Wide Receiver: Only Jacoby Ford returns as a starter, which opens it up for Xavier Dye, Brandon Clear, Marquan Jones, Brandon Jones, and Jaron Brown to fight for the other two spots.
The Tigers could have one the of the tallest corps, especially if Dye (6'5), Clear (6'5), B. Ford (6'4) or Brown (6'3) take the two other spots. The wildcard could be senior Rendrick Taylor.

Prediction: Look for Jacoby to be the feature guy, Dye should win the possession spot, and Marquan Jones should take the slot.

#3 Backup Runningback: CJ Spiller returning was a huge boost to this squad, but who will be his backup. The Tigers have historically liked using a two back system, and they have two good ones to pick from in Jamie Harper and Andre Ellington. Harper saw the field limited last season, while Ellington redshirted. Harper possess more power, which would complement Spiller, while Ellington has the speed.
Prediction: I see Harper as the number 2 guy. His bulk and limited experience makes him a better suite. Ellington is too good to ride the bench the whole year, and he will see action in blowouts, but looke for Spiller and Harper to be the 1-2 punch.

#4 Defensive backfield: This unit got decimated in the offseason due to graduation. All four 2-deep safeties are gone, as is cornerback Chris Clemons. The Tigers have the bodies, but hardly any experience. Redshirt safeties Spencer Matthews, Rashard Hall, Carlton Lewis, Daniel Andrews, and DeAndre McDaniel will be fighting it out. Corner appears a little more stable with Crezdon Butler, Marcus Gilchrist, Coty Sensabaugh, and Byron Maxwell returning. Keep an eye out for RS Fr. Xavier Brewer as well.

Prediction: At safety, Spencer Matthews should get one spot. He has size, athleticism, and probably could've played last year had the depth not been where it was. The other safety is up in the air, and depends on where they put McDaniel. He should win the spot, but if he switches to linebacker, it could be a platoon job until Fall camp. Butler should hold the one corner spot, and I think Byron Maxwell can get the other.

5 Things that Will Happen
1-Quarterback will be settled going into the fall.
2-The offensive line will improve.
3-The defensive line will be the bedrock of the defense this year.
4-Incoming freshman will challenge in the spring. Especially at wide receiver and safety.
5-The D will be under a 3-4-4 under Steele.

Predicted Post Spring 2 Deep
QB: Willy Korn, Kyle Parker
RB: C.J. Spiller, Jamie Harper
WR: Xavier Dye, Brandon Clear (keep an eye on Bryce McNeal in the fall)
LT: Chris Hairson, Dalton Freeman
LG: Mason Cloy, Wilson Norris
C: Thomas Austin, Ben Ramsey
RG: David Smith, Antoine McClain
RT: Landon Walker, Cory Lambert
TE: Dwayne Allen, Michael Palmer
WR: Marquan Jones, Rendrick Taylor
WR: Jacoby Ford, Brandon Ford
*FB-Chad Diehl

DE: Ricky Sapp, Andre Branch
NG: Jarvis Jenkins, Miguel Chavis
DT: Brandon Thompson, Rennie Moore
DE: DaQuan Bowers, Kevin Alexander
LB: Stanley Hunter, Jeremy Campbell
LB: Brandon Maye, Scotty Cooper
LB: Kavell Connor, Jonathon Williard
CB: Crezdon Butler, Xavier Brewer
S: Spencer Matthews, Carlton Lewis
S: DeAndre McDaniel, Rashard Hall
CB: Byron Maxwell, Marcus Gilchrist

Georgia
Mark Richt has quite the rebuilding job to do. Not only did he lose his three year starter at QB in Matthew Stafford, but also his number one running back in Knowshon Moreno. Richt and offensive coordinator Mike Bobo have quite the job to do.

Luckily, they return their offensive line, and receiver A.J. Green to build around, as well as most of their defense.

Their biggest question is, who will play quarterback? Senior Joe Cox and sophomore Logan Gray have been in the program, but mid-year enrollees Aaron Murray and Zach Mettenberger look to make a stake for the title of starting QB.

Running back may be a little easier to settle.

Position Battles
#1 Quarterback: As stated above, the guys going for QB all bring different strengths to the table for the Dawgs. Cox brings senority, but doesn't have a lot of game experience. Gray brings athleticism, but also little QB experience. Murray and Mettenberger bring potential from the high school ranks. One thing is for sure, they will have a good Oline to protect them, and a strong safety blanket in Green to throw to.

Prediction: Richt likes to give his seniors a chance. He did it with D.J. Shockley and Joe Tereshinski, which had mixed results. Look for Cox to be the man coming out of spring, but he will be challenged all year.

#2 Runningback: With Moreno gone, it is wide open. Caleb King seems to have an inside edge with game experience, but Dontavius Jackson, Carlton Thomas, and Richard Samuel all will push for the starting job. Jackson is a lot like King in size and speed, while Thomas is the small, pinball style back, and Samuel is the bigger, stronger back. Again, a good Oline makes any RB look good. The question for Georgia is who will look the best?

Prediction: King should win this spot, but I look for Jackson to make a strong run, and don't count out the little guy in Thomas.

#3 WR oppostie Green: Mohammed Massaquoi gave Georgia a second option to take the pressure off Green. Now he is gone, and I think his precense will be missed more than most think. Guys like Mike Moore, Kris Durham, Tavarress King, and Israel Troupe will look to take the job, but don't count out Tony Wilson.

Prediction: I think this is the year Troupe makes the noise he was recruited for back in 2007. King will see action, as will the rest of the Dawg wideouts, but he will be opposite Green most of the time.

Most of the Georgia two-deep is set until next season when they lose some key guys. A big help on D is the return of Geno Atkins and Kade Weston to plug up the middle.

5 Things that Will Happen
1-Defense will dominate this spring for Georgia.
2-One of the two freshman QBs will be on the two deep, while the other redshirts and eventually transfers.
3-Trinton Sturdivant will improve the O-line play.
4-Two Kings will be on the field for some sets. Caleb and Tavarres, will it be a royal flush?
5-Aron White will be the #1 TE will the fall camp starts.

Predicted Post Spring 2 Deep
QB: Joe Cox, Aaron Murray
RB: Caleb King, Dontavius Jackson
FB: Shaun Chapas, Fred Munzenmaier
WR: A.J. Green, Mike Moore
LT: Clint Boling, Kiante Tripp
LG: Cordy Glenn, A.J. Harmon
C: Ben Jones, Kevin Perex
RG: Chris Davis, Dallas Lee
RT: Trinton Sturdivant, Justin Anderson
TE: Aron White, Bryce Ross
WR: Israel Troupe, Tavarress King

DE: Damarcus Dobbs, Justin Houston
DT: Kade Weston, DeAngelo Tyson
DT: Geno Atkins, Jeff Owens
DE: Roderick Battle, Jeremy Longo
LB: Akeem Dent, Christian Robinson
LB: Rennie Curran, Marcus Dowtin
LB: Darryl Gamble, Charles White
CB: Prince Miller, Sanders Commings
S: Reshad Jones, Bacarri Rambo
S: Bryan Evans, John Knox
CB: Brandon Boykin, Vance Cuff

South Carolina
Well, the last two seasons haven't ended the way SC wanted. A true QB has yet to be developed, but this looks to be the season Stephen Garcia finally gets it together. But, the Cocks face a lot of questions on the offensive side of the ball, as well as defensive back. On a good note, Spurrier has revamped his coaching staff and brought in six new coaches (Quarterbacks-G.A. Mangus, Defense and corners-Lorenzo Ward, Runningbacks-Jay Graham, Tight ends-Jeep Hunter, O-line and "Running Game Coordinator"-Eric Wolford).

Position Battles
#1-Offensive Line: Consider it wide open this year, again. Go ahead and pencil Garrett Anderson in at starting center, but after that, all bets are off. LT should go to Jarriel King, but you can never tell with a new coach. The guards are wide open, LG should go between Lemuel Jeanpierre, Pierre Andrews, and Kevin Young, while RG is between Terrence Campbell and TJ Johnson. RT could go to a number of players, Kyle Nunn, Hutch Eckerson, or Quinton Richardson could get it. Also, RG Heath Batchelor may return after the spring, and signees Kevious Watkins and Steven Singleton come in this fall. This group may not be settled until week 1 of the season.

Prediction: Look for King, Jeanpierre, Anderson, Johnson, and Richardson to leave the spring, but I expect Watkins and Singleton to see some action, and if Batchelor comes back, he will win the right guard spot.

#2 Defensive back: This group got decimated to attrition. Starting corners Capt. Munnerlyn, Carlos Thomas, and Stoney Woodson are gone, as is safety Emmanuel Cook. It is assumed that Darian Stewart will fill the hole Cook left, but corner is a big question, as is depth. Stephon Gilmore, Addison Williams, CC Whitlock, Akeem Auguste, and Jay Spearman will all be fighting for the two spots. The spur will also change, either Alonzo Winfield, Reggie Bowens, or new guy Tony Straughter. This group may also change with guys like Damario Jeffery, Chris Payne, and Cory Addison coming in this fall. This group probably won't be settled until fall.

Prediction: I see Whitlock and Auguste winning the CB spots. Culliver will hold onto the FS, and Stewart will keep SS with Holloman close behind. Spur will be unanswered until the fall, which could end up being Damario Jeffrey, but Winfield, with his alleged 4.3 speed, should keep it leaving spring.

#3 Running back: Gone is Mike Davis after a four year career, and the door is wide open for anyone. Eric Baker and Brian Maddox have had very little carries in their short careers, but watch out for RS Freshman Kenny Miles, and true freshman Jarvis Giles. I think Miles and Maddox get the top spot, but don't count out Baker, and Giles will play a good bit.

Prediction: I see Miles winning the starting spot, with Maddox being the backup. Baker is going to play, but he will be more situational. Giles will be slowed by an injury, and won't show out until fall camp.

#4 Wide Receiver/Tight end: Kenny McKinley and Jared Cook are gone. Who is going to catch the ball now. Jason Barnes and Moe Brown have shown they can catch, but not on a consistent basis. RS Freshman DL Moore and Tori Gurley (formerly Tori Childers) look to make a statement, as does Matt Clements and Joe Hills. One bright spot is that Dion Lecorn is back. Also, TE Wes Saunders says he is ready to be a main guy. The true playmaker may not be on campus until fall, Alshoun Jeffery.

Prediction: I see Barnes, Lecorn, and Brown being the starting three. Saunders will be the starting TE. I see Joe Hills moving to TE for this year.

#5 Kicker/Punter: Ryan Succop is gone, and that leaves a huge void for the Gamecocks to fill. Spencer Lanning, who punted last year, is the prime candidate, but I think he sticks to punting. The kicker position will come down to two guys, Adam Yates and Eric Davis, both walk-ons.

Prediction: I'm at no liberty to pick the kicker because I haven't seen either of them play.

5 Things that will Happen
1-Garcia will finish the spring.
2-The Defense will be better than last year
3-Kenny Miles will be the starting running back
4-The offense will not be settled going into fall
5-The new coaches will bring more toughness into the program

Post-Spring Depth Chart
QB: Stephen Garcia, Reid McCollom
RB: Kenny Miles, Brian Maddox
WR: Jason Barnes, Tori Gurley
LT: Jarriel King, Hutch Eckerson
LG: Lemuel Jeanpierre, Kevin Young
C: Garrett Anderson, Seaver Brown
RG: TJ Johnson, Terrence Campbell
RT: Quinton Richardson, Kyle Nunn
TE: Wes Saunders, Mike Triglia
WR: Moe Brown, Matt Clements
WR: Dion Lecorn, D.L. Moore
FB: Pat Dimarco, Dustin McElroy

DE: Cliff Matthews, Devin Taylor
DT: Ladi Ajiboye, Melvin Ingram
DT: Nate Pepper, Travian Robertson
DE: Clifton Geathers, Chaz Sutton
LB: Eric Norwood, Josh Dickerson
LB: Rodney Paulk, Shaq Wilson
Spur: Alonzo Winfield, Reggie Bowens
CB: Akeem Auguste, Jay Spearman
S: Darian Stewart, Devonte Holloman
S: Chris Culliver, Antonio Allen
CB: CC Whitlock, Stephon Gilmore

Major League Baseball Predictions

2009-02-16T07:52:00.000-08:00

It is that time of year again. Time to dust off the old mit, tar the bat, and clean off the cleats.

Yep, it is baseball season once again.

In an off-season that better resembled a bi-polar adolescent with the induction of players like Rickey Henderson and Jim Rice into the Hall of Fame and the admission of steroid use by A-Rod (which is another story altogether), it is about time we start hearing the crack of a bat.

This offseason teams have been busy jockeying for players. The New York Yankees don't seem to be in a recession, as they acquired pitchers C.C. Sabathia and A.J. Burnett, and first baseman Mark Texiera for very hefty sums of cash.

The other cash cow in baseball, the Boston Red Sox, also were a little busy. They signed pitchers Brad Penny and John Smoltz, while the other New York team, the Mets, sured up their suspect bullpen with closer Fransico Rodriguez aka K-Rod.

Other players have new homes, like Jason Giambi-who went back to Oakland, first basemen Adam Dunn (Washington Nationals) and pitcher Derek Lowe (Atlanta Braves).

But enough with the moves, because we all know what really counts, how they play out and where the teams finish.

It is pretty much a given that the Pirates, Royals, and Orioles are going to be near the bottom of the division. But a bigger question is, who is going to be this years Tampa Bay Rays? A few years ago, it was the Colorado Rockies that were the surprise team of the majors, and even farther back, the Arizona Diamondbacks.

I'll go division by division, and try to guess who makes the playoffs, who goes to the World Series, and who wins the Fall Classic.

American League
East
1-Red Sox
2-Yankees
3-Rays
4-Orioles
5-Blue Jays

It is hard to not pick the Yankees. They seem to have made the best acquisitions, and really do have the best team money can buy. With stars like A-Rod, Derek Jeter, Johnny Damon, Sabathia, Mariano Rivera, Texiera, and Jorge Posada, they seem they should breeze through the division.
But I question how manager Joe Girardi can control this team and the egos that go along with it.
I'm going with the Red Sox to win the division. I think they are just too good, but I wouldn't count the Rays out to make it interesting.

Central
1-White Sox
2-Twins
3-Tigers
4-Indians
5-Royals

This is the White Sox division to lose. The Twins don't wow me with their starting rotation, and neither do any of the teams for that matter. If the Tigers can get Justin Verlander and Dontrell Willis going, they could have the best rotation in the division. The Sox have one of the better hitting lineups with A.J. Pierzenski, Paul Konerko, and Jermaine Dye, but they are aging and are losing some of their spark.

West
1-Angels
2-Athletics
3-Rangers
4-Mariners

Does anyone want to beat the Angels anytime? Seems they've had a stranglehold on this division for a good while. I look for the A's to give them a little fit this year. They will have their typical young pitchers, and have bats now in Eric Chavez and Giambi. The Rangers I don't see doing much, and the Mariners are pretty much a dead franchise outside of Ichiro.
The only question for the Angels, outside of the age question, is how will they fair with K-Rod? But with the signing of Bobby Abreu in left, they have one of the best hitting outfields in the majors. The starting rotation is pretty good.

Nationa League
East
1-Phillies
2-Mets
3-Braves
4-Nationals
5-Marlins

Anyone remember that the Phillies won the World Series last year? The quiet champions return their whole team, have a strong pitching staff, and a proven closer in Brad Lidge. The Mets will continue to have their meltdowns. One team to watch though, is the Braves. They've been down the past few seasons, but they have gone young, and added some new arms with Lowe

Central
1-Cardinals
2-Cubs
3-Astros
4-Brewers
5-Reds
6-Pirates

The most competitive division in baseball. There are four teams that can win this division, while the only teams out are the Red and Pirates. The Chicago Cubs have the star power with Alphonso Soriano, Derrek Lee, and Aramis Ramirez, and have an ace in Carlos Zambrano. They did lose their closer in Kerry Wood. The only issue is that their starting rotation is pretty weak, with the only other decent pitcher being Ted Lilly.

The Astros are an aging team with Lance Berkman, Aaron Boone. They also have a pretty weak rotation outside of Roy Oswalt and Wandy Rodgriguez. They "have" Miguel Tejada, but I'm not sure how much he will actually play.

The Cardinals may have the best starting rotation in the division with Chris Carpenter, Adam Wainwright, Kyle Lohse (acquired from the Reds), and Todd Wellenmeyer. They also have Albert Pujols. My only question is how will the rest of their starters do.

The Brewers got hit the hardest, losing Sabbathia and Ben Sheets (still unsigned). They have a pretty strong lineup hitting wise, but their pitching will be way down.

West
1-Dodgers
2-Diamondbacks
3-Padres
4-Giants
5-Rockies

The second weakest conference in baseball behind the AL-West. The Dodgers should win this division, but the Diamondbacks could give them a close fight. The 'Backs have a pretty good looking pitching rotation, but they lack a true power hitter (Mark Reynolds did have 28 HRs and 97 RBIs, and Chris Young had 22 HRs and 85 RBIs).
Outside of that, the Giants and Rockies are pretty much out of it.

Now for the playoffs:
In the AL, you have Red Sox, White Sox, and Angels get in. The last spot will be between the Yankees and Twins, and I see the Yankees pulling into the fourth spot.

Let's say the Red Sox take on the Angels, and the White Sox vs the Yankees. Give me Sox over the Angels, and Yankees over the White Sox. Yankees vs Sox in the ALCS.

In the NL, you have the Phillies, Cardinals, and Dodgers and give me the Cubs in the wildcard.
Let's say the Dodgers take down the Cardinals, and Phillies beat the Cubs. The Dodgers will take on the Phillies in the NLCS.

I think the Red Sox beat out the Yankees in seven games, and the Phillies take down the Dodgers.

Give me the Red Sox over the Phillies.

Just the Facts Man: One Man's Plea to the Media

2009-02-12T16:33:00.000-08:00

The scene of an emptying courtroom paints the 6-inch screen of the television. The picture gets

fuzzy, and a young boy gets up to adjust the rabbit ears so the message can come through

clearly. It was 1954, and the Supreme Court of the United States has just ruled on the Brown vs.

Topeka Board of Education case, and overturned the ruling of Plessy vs. Ferguson.

That was Bob Prince’s first experience with the media. “I just remember how matter-a-fact the journalists were. They were commentators in journalistic mode and their purpose was to inform the public so the public could make their own decisions.” He doesn’t see it that way anymore though.

Prince, 54 of Anderson, SC., pointed to the late 1960s, after the Kennedy assassination, as a time when journalism started down its slope to the mess the media know finds itself in.

“When Kennedy was assassinated, it was kept as fact. His private life was kept separate from his public life,” Prince said. “Then the Vietnam Conflict happened, and I think that changed media as we know it.”

Prince points to the war footage, shown for the first time, and how the media created a double standard for the military. “They started showing footage, and that painted a negative picture of the military. Journalists started holding our soldiers to the ‘rules of war’ but didn’t hold our enemies to the same standard.”

Prince also said that the line between fact and opinion began to blur, and an ultra-liberal point of view began to take foot, though it wasn’t near as bad as it is today. “Dan Rather I’d have to say was the first broadcast guy. He was the first liberal minded journalist on camera. At the same time, Tom Brokaw was more of a ‘just the facts’ kind of guy.”

Watergate was another key event in Prince’s opinion. “To me, Watergate changed the way media as a whole looked at the news.” Prince believes that even though Nixon was right to resign, he was convicted in the media. “Not all the accusations were verified. It was done mostly on assumptions and anonymous sources. It was a lot like the 1930s muckrakers.”

Prince thinks that the practice of muckraking and Watergate, along with the Vietnam Conflict, and the revolutionary environment of the time as a whole, led to the mushrooming mistrust of the media that permeated into the ‘90s and today.

Another event that led to the public mistrust and devalue in the media was the rise of 24-hour news in the 1980s. “Not only did the rise of CNN and FoxNews have a negative effect on paper circulation, but it also added to the dilution of information. It turned away from information and more towards to infotainment.”

“While all this is going on, more and more agenda was seeping into the media to where it became what it is today.”

One momentary saving grace was the early ‘90s and the internet, according to Prince. “Internet was full of truth in the beginning. It was used by scholars to exchange truthful information.”

Now, Prince says, “it is useless unless you know the sites.”

“Now, the web has become as cluttered as TV. You still have the political slant and agenda driven media. You just have to sort through both sides and come to your own conclusion.”

Upon reflection of the changes in the media throughout his memory, Prince would like to see a return to the old days, while utilizing the new media.

“I was a fan of Walter Cronkite, and I’d like to see news get back to ‘just the facts man’. I’d like to see it public driven again, instead of agenda driven.”

The three things he wants most from the media, and its journalists, are “humility, honesty, and integrity.”

“It really bugs me when journalists think they know what I should think of the news. Just tell me the facts and let me come to my own conclusions,” Prince said.

The changes and “de-evolutions” the media have made over the past 50 years, while groundbreaking, leave Prince with just one word.

“Horror.”

Breaking Down Recruiting: 2009

2009-02-03T20:42:00.000-08:00

Bring 'em in!

Time to break down the recruiting classes for Clemson, Georgia and South Carolina.
I will be looking to see if they addressed the main needs, replaced personnel wise, and if they picked up any bonuses.

Starting with the Tigers.

Clemson
The Tigers have a small class coming in due to the firing of now ex-coach Tommy Bowden. But, what they lacked in quantity, they signed in star quality. Their biggest signings may be QB Tajh Boyd and DE Mallicah Goodman. Boyd gives coach Dabo Swinney his first QB to fit his system and that he can develope how he sees fit. Goodman gives him a man to build his future defense around, and continue the tradition of signing high quality defensive ends (like Ricky Sapp and DaQuaun Bowers).

Along with Boyd, the Tigers signed a guy to run the ball, and to catch Boyd's passes in the future. RB Rod McDowell of Sumter, and WR Bryce McNeal give the Tigers an offensive group to build around.

Safety Jonathan Meeks may be the steal of the class, and gives the Tigers another safety to hopefully put in with a wide open competition at both safety spots.

With a class this small, it is hard to say if the Tigers addressed their needs. Of course the QB is big, along with the RB and WR. Along the Oline, they signed two from in-state: JK Jay and Brandon Thomas. On defense with Goodman and Meeks were all 3 star guys (according to Rivals). The signing of DT Tyler Shatley did address a depth need, but he will probably need a redshirt year. One need was linebacker, and the Tigers signed three: Corico Hawkins, Quandon Christian, and Spencer Shuey. One late pick up was DE Darryl Smith out of Alabama. He will probably redshirt. This gives the Tigers a future to build a front 7 for the future.

The only area the Tigers didn't address was corner. I think it would've went a long way if the Tigers could have signed one or two guys. Other than that, maybe one more Olinemen, and more Dlinemen, and maybe another WR would've closed out a good class.

The one plus to signing a class this small is that the Tigers are set up to sign a monster sized class for 2010, and with a strong season, it could be a monster rated class.

The only players I see contributing immediately is Meeks because of the open depth chart at safety. Look for him to play alongside RS freshman Spencer Matthews. Goodman may get in some spot duty, but I don't see him unseating Sapp or Bowers. McNeal may see some action if WRs Xavier Dye or Brandon Clear don't pan out, and the Tigers will need a possession receiver after losing Aaron Kelly.

Don't expect Boyd to play this year. He has talent, but he will have to beat out Will Korn and Kyle Parker, who were also highly rated recruits and have been in the system.

Projected Depth Chart for the Tigers
QB: Willy Korn or Kyle Parker, Jon Richt, Michael Wade, Tajh Boyd (RS)
RB: CJ Spiller, Jamie Haper, Andre Ellington, Rod McDowell (RS)
WR: Xavier Dye, Brandon Ford, Brandon Clear
LT: Chris Hairson, Jamal Medlin, JK Jay (RS)
LG: Mason Cloy, Wilson Norris, Brandon Thomas (RS)
C: Thomas Austin, Ben Ramsey, Matt Sanders,
RG: Antoine McClain, David Smith, Kenneth Page
RT: Landon Walker, Dalton Freeman
TE: Michael Palmer, Dwayne Allen, Rendrick Taylor, Durrell Berry, Phillip Price
WR: Marquan Jones, Terrence Ashe,
WR: Jacoby Ford, Bryce McNeal, Jaron Brown
*FB: Chad Deihl, Jamie Harper

DE: Ricky Sapp, Kourtnei Brown or Mallicah Goodman, Drew Taylor
DT: Jarvis Jenkins, Miguel Chavis, Jaime Cumbie
DT: Brandon Thompson, Rennie Moore
DE: DaQuan Bowers, Andre Branch, Byron Clear
LB: Scotty Cooper, Tarik Rollins, Quandon Christian
LB: Brandon Maye, Jeremy Campbell, Spencer Shuey
LB: Stanley Hunter, Jonathan Williard, Corico Hawkins
CB: Crezdon Butler, Coty Sensabaugh, Byron Maxwell
S: Spencer Matthews, Rashard Hall, Daniel Andrews
S: DeAndre McDaniel, Jonathan Meeks, Carlton Lewis
CB: Marcus Gilchrist, Xavier Brewer

K: Spencer Benton P: Dawson Zimmerman

South Carolina
The Gamecocks pulled in a monster sized class, almost 30 guys, and it also had some high quality players in it, as well as some guys that could develope. The main cogs to this group are already in school though. RB Jarvis Giles, DB/LB Devonte Holloman, and ATH Stephon Gilmore were the headliners to the class, while JUCO transfer LBs Tony Straughter and Josh Dickerson look to add to the defense with prep school enrollee DE Chaz Sutton. The biggest steal though could be WR Alshoun Jeffrey.

On offense, to go along with Giles, was RB Ben Axon, WRs DeMario Bennet, Charles Holmes, Jeffrey, Lamar Scruggs, DeAngelo Smith, TE/DE Justice Cunningham, and OL Nick Allison. JUCO offensive linemen Kevious Watkins and Steven Singleton and prep schooler OL/DL Ronald Byrd rounded out the offense. Spurrier also got a commitment from little known QB Andrew Clifford.

On defense, the Gamecocks added another prep schooler in DE Leon Mackey, along with high school grads DEs Aldrick Fordham, DT Duane Chisolm, LBs Dickerson, Chaun Gresham, Quin Smith, and Straughter, and DBs Corey Addison, Chris Payne, and D.J. Swearinger.

USC also signed a few athletes like Gilmore, adding Matt Coffee (LB/RB), Damario Jeffrey (S/LB/WR), and Jimmy Legree (DB/WR).

This class really hit all over the board. USC lost Chris Smelley and replaced him with Clifford. Also, a need for a game breaker at RB, and they have that potential. Also, WR was addressed. The defense was also well addressed.

The only area USC could've used a little more of is maybe one extra offensive linemen (they missed on Quinton Washington) and maybe a true corner. Also, USC could've used a kicker for the departure of Ryan Succop.

Look for a good bit of this class to redshirt, but don't expect Gilmore, Holloman, Giles, Straughter, or Dickerson to get the same treatment.The only question is, where will Gilmore play? DB, RB, WR, QB? Also, Watkins and Singleton are going to be expected to pick up the offense when they get in school. Also, Chaz Sutton will be expected to add depth along the D-line. Only other two that may play are Scruggs and Alshoun Jeffrey, depending on the WR situation, and maybe Damario at back up safety/spur/LB.

Another question is who will make it in. Players like Chisolm, Holmes, and Axon are borderline players. Holmes has said he is going prep, bu Axon and Chisolm are still up in the air.

Projected Depth Chart for South Carolina
QB: Stephen Garcia, Reid McCollum, Aramis Hillary, Zac Brandise, Andrew Clifford (RS)
RB: Kenny Miles, Jarvis Giles, Brian Maddox, Eric Baker, Ben Axon (RS)
WR: Jason Barnes, Alshoun Jeffrey, Tori Childers
LT: Jarriel King, Steven Singleton, Kyle Nunn
LG: Seaver Brown, T.J. Johnson, Lemuel Jeanpierre, Nick Allison (RS)
C: Garrett Anderson, , Ryan Broadhead, Pierre Andrews
RG: Terrence Campbell, Kevious Watkins, Kevin Young
RT: Quinton Richardson, Hutch Eckerson, Ronald Byrd (RS)
TE: Wes Saunders, Mike Triglia, Byron McKnight, Nick Prochack, Andrew Power
WR: Moe Brown, Joe Hills, Matt Clements, DeAngleo Smith (RS)
WR: Dion Lecorn, D.L. Moore, Lamar Scruggs, Stephen Flint, Demario Bennett (RS)
*FB: Pat Dimarco, Brian Maddox, Justice Cunningham (RS)

DE: Cliff Matthews, Leon Mackey, Devin Taylor
DT: Ladi Ajiboye, Travian Robertson, Duane Chisolm
DT: Nate Pepper, Kenny Davis, Melvin Ingram
DE: Clifton Geathers, Chaz Sutton, Darantzy Brunson, Aldrick Fordham (RS)
LB: Eric Norwood, Tony Straughter, Shaq Wilson, Chaun Gresham (RS)
LB: Rodney Paulk, Josh Dickerson, Reggie Bowens, Quin Smith (RS)
Spur: Darian Stewart, Devonte Holloman, Alonzo Winfield, Matt Coffee (RS)
CB: Akeem Auguste, Jay Spearman, Jimmy Legree
S: Antonio Allen, Damario Jeffrey, Jarrett Burns
S: Chris Culliver, Chris Payne, Corey Addison
CB: CC Whitlock, Stephon Gilmore, Addison Williams

K: Adam Yates or Eric Davis
P: Spencer Lanning

Georgia
The Bulldogs pulled in a good size class of 18 players. The class is made up of solid players, some that will play immediately, while others will redshirt. The big signee was CB Branden Smith, and OL Chris Burnette and QB Aaron Murray are the co-headliners. The biggest Signing Day pickup though, is WR Marlon Brown (6'5, 205).

Along with Murray, Brown, and Burnette on offense, Georgia signed QB Zach Mettenberger, RB Washaun Ealey, WR Rantvious Wooten, TE Arthur Lynch, OL Dallas Lee and Austin Long.

On defense, the Dawgs brought in, with Smith (some of whom rank the top corner in the country), DE Montez Robinson, DTs Derrick Lott and Abry Jones, LBs Michael Gilliard, Dexter Moody and Chase Vasser, and DBs Jordan Love and Shawn Williams.

I really like this Bulldog class. It hit all over the board, and addressed some key issues.

Georgia wasn't losing much personnel wise, and the players they were losing they replaced numbers wise.

Don't be surprised if one of the QBs is starting, or if one transfers eventually. I expect Ealey and Wooten to RS, but Brown I expect to play. I expect the rest of the offensive signees to RS.
On defense, Smith has the best chance to start, and maybe Michael Gilliard in relief, but expect most of these guys to also RS.

Projected Depth Chart for Georgia
QB: Joe Cox, Aaron Murray, Logan Gray, Jonathan DeLaureal, Zach Mettenberger (RS)
RB: Caleb King, Dontavious Jackson, Carlton Thomas, Richard Samuel, Washaun Ealey (RS)
FB: Chaun Chapas, Fred Munzenmeier, Justin Fields
WR: A.J. Green, Marlon Brown, Mike Moore, Tony Wilson
LT: Clint Boling, Josh Davis, Austin Long (RS)
LG: Cordy Glenn, A.J. Harmon, Chris Burnette (RS)
C: Ben Jones, Chris Davis, Ben Harden
RG: Tanner Strickland, Kevin Perez, Dallas Lee (RS)
RT: Trinton Sturdivant, Justin Anderson
TE: Aron White, Bruce Figgins, Bryce Ross, Casey Nickles, Arthur Lynch (RS)
WR: Tavaress King, Israel Troupe, Kris Durham, Rantavious Wooten (RS)

DE: Damarcus Dobbs, Justin Houston, Jeremy Longo
DT: Geno Atkins, DeAngelo Tyson, Abry Jones
DT: Kade Weston, Ricardo Crawford, Derrick Lott
DE: Kiante Tripp, Cornelius Washington, Neland Ball, Montez Robinson (RS)
LB: Akeem Dent, Marcus Dowtin, Nick Williams, Dexter Moody (RS)
LB: Rennie Curran, Akeem Hebron, Charles White, Chase Vasser (RS)
LB: Darryl Gamble, Christian Robinson, Michael Gilliard
CB: Brandon Boykin, Sanders Cummings, Chad Gloer
S: Reshad Jones, Makiri Pugh, Quintin Banks
S: Bacarri Rambo, John Knox, Bryan Evans, Shawn Williams (RS)
CB: Prince Miller, Branden Smith, Vance Cuff, Jordan Love (RS)
K: Blair Walsh P: Drew Butler

Conference Rankings
SEC
1-Alabama
2-LSU
3-Florida
4-Georgia
5-South Carolina
6-Arkansas
7-Auburn
8-Tennessee
9-Ole Miss
10-Kentucky
11-Miss. State
12-Vanderbilt

ACC
1-Florida State
2-North Carolina
3-Miami
4-Clemson
5-Virginia
6-Virginia Tech
7-Maryland
8-Georgia Tech
9-Duke
10-Boston College
11-Wake Forest
12-N.C. State

Early Look Top 10 at 2010 in SC
1-Marcus Lattimore (RB)
2-Martavis Bryant (WR)
3-Brandon Willis (DE)
4-DeAndre Hopkins (DB)
5-Corey Miller (DE)
6-AJ Cann (OL/DL)
7-Justin Parker (LB)
8-Eric Mack (OL)
9-Joe Craig (ATH)
10-Clayton Geathers (DB)

I Don't Care if Michal Phelps Smokes Mary Jane!

2009-02-03T16:46:00.001-08:00

So Michael Phelps got high in Columbia (allegedly). Big deal.

It isn’t as if he committed a major felony like some other high profile athletes in the past-here is looking at you Michael Vick and DeAndre McDaniel.

Now those guys needed to make some apologies. But for Phelps, I think it would have gone a long way if he had said something to the tune of, ‘Yes, I did it, and I’ve done it before, and I liked it, but didn’t do it during competition.’

The argument if he had done that is that he probably would have lost a large deal of sponsorship and ad revenue that he garnered thanks to his 6-foot, 4-inch inch frame, and his 14 career gold medals.

But why would Mazda, a China owned company, care? And what about Speedo, a company based in England? Sure, he may lose the Wheaties deal, but who eats Wheaties?

But unlike the prior named athletes, the only person Phelps hurt in this instance was himself. He didn’t hurt any fans with his drunk driving in November 2004, so why would this, a less serious offense, be any different? He also didn’t hurt Americans reputation, more than our leaders already have at least, because most of the world has legalized marijuana and don’t view it as that big a deal.

The worst part is, the offense wasn’t even caught by the paparazzi, but a regular joe who mailed it cross seas to our old nemesis, the British, and more precisely, there slumdog press. You would think the person that snapped the photo would at least try to go American.

This photo wasn’t taken in the public, and Phelps obviously thought he would have a moment of peace to enjoy himself. Low and behold to him when someone takes a snap shot of him hitting a bong. And who is to say it wasn’t for hookah?

Is Phelps a high profile guy? Yes, Phelps is a celebrity and a role model, and should be held accountable if he did it. But we need to ask ourselves why we hold celebrities to a higher standard? They are normal people, like you and I. Well, normal if we were all 6’4 and could swim like a barracuda.

Phelps made a mistake in judgment, and he knows that. But we are blowing this whole thing out of proportion. This doesn’t, and shouldn’t, take away from his accomplishments in the pool and in life. He is a role model and celebrity, but he is also a regular guy, despite the fact he can swim very fast.

Any other person and this is a slap on the wrist. But since it was Phelps, we want to come down harder on him. Phelps is not exempt from the law, but he shouldn’t be made an example of for such a petty offense.

Why is it that when a celebrity, such as Phelps, commits a gaffe, we insist that an extra-sized hammer come down on them? Shouldn’t we nail non-celebrity people with the same hammer?

South Carolina Should Become a Basketball School

2009-01-29T17:20:00.000-08:00

The University of South Carolina should become a basketball school.
Plain and simple.

Why you ask? Well, through a systematic go-around, I'll explain.

We all know that The Gamecocks are a football crazy fanbase. That is visible with sellout crowds almost every game, even when they went 0-21. Even historically, the fans have come, even with the fielded teams weren't very good.

But why? What drives Carolina, South type, to be football crazy? They have only won one conference title, and that was in 1969 when they were still in the ACC. They have no national titles, no current SEC titles. All that the football program to hang its hat on in the last 30 years is a Heisman winner (1984 George Rogers) and decent era of football (the 80s) and a few, and I mean a few, bowl appearances and wins. All this with some Hall of Fame coaches in Paul Dietzel, Jim Carlen, Lou Holtz, and now Steve Spurrier (Would've said Joe Morrison, but his life and career was tragically cut short. Although he did engineer their best season in history).

I'm sorry, but that isn't the mark of a football school, not like Penn State, Texas, Oklahoma, Ohio State, Southern Cal; you know, teams that HAVE won.

That is why USC should turn its sights to its basketball team. The program in the last 30 years has been good. Go back to the Frank McGuire era, where they had a team that could have won a national title, but with the small tournament field and restrictions of the ACC, they couldn't get in. They had players from New York that could play ball, like John Roche, Bobby Cremins, Tom Owens, Mike Dunleavy Sr., Kevin Joyce, along with other historical players like Alex English, BJ McKie, and current pro players Tarance Kinsey, Renaldo Baulkman, and Tre Kelley . In the 80s, a slight lull, and in the 90s they played well until the end of the Eddie Fogler era.

They have also won tournaments, be it back-to-back NIT titles under former coach Dave Odom. Now, they have the program pointed in the right direction with their new, young coach, Darrin Horn. Yet, with the success, they can't sell out their arena because the fans are so football crazy.

Which is why I ask this question: Why continue to support an athletic team that really hasn't proven anything? Why not support a team that has actually accomplished things in their history?

The USC basketball team does not get the support it deserves...and the same could be said of the baseball team, who also accomplished things (conference titles, Regional wins, Super Regional appearances, appearances in Omaha, coming close to winning the National title).

Just think USC. If you gave more support and money to the basketball and baseball teams, I'm convinced they would've won a national title.

And I know the football team plays in the power conference, the SEC. Doesn't matter. You beat who you play, and the Gamecock football team simply hasn't done it on a consistent basis.

Has the USC football team improved in the past few years under Holtz and Spurrier? You bet they have. But they haven't really achieved anything, except to improve their talent while still being stuck in 4th place in the Eastern division.

Who knows. Maybe is South Carolina focused more on basketball instead of its football, maybe they could have landed great ball players like Kevin Garnett and Ray Allan, both of which hail from South Carolina.

Obama Speech Good; More the Same

2009-01-21T10:19:00.000-08:00

I’ve had time to digest the inauguration of our now 44^th President, Barack Obama. I must say, I was thoroughly entertained and enjoyed it. Aretha Franklin singing “My Country Tiss of Thee,” was a treat for the ears, and the great instrumental piece written by John Williams made me feel rather upper class.

Even Obama’s speech was something to send chills and the spines of the listeners, while it so vividly reminded us of the mess we are in. The way Obama referenced and tried to link himself to American heroes and former Presidents George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and John F. Kennedy was not only a brilliant speech move, but a relevant one.

Washington was thrust into the mess we call the American Revolution as he had to hold the colonies together, while Lincoln had to hold the Union together. All this while displayed a youthful energy and vigor that was reminiscent of Kennedy. Now, Obama has to hold this Union together. A Union that faces multi-trillion dollar debt, dual war fronts, and failed economy on top of a very long to-do list.

It was a brilliant speech, and yet it is all things we have heard from the last 43 Presidents. Every President that has preceded Obama has promised to do good things in his Inauguration speech, and left the nation believing that ‘maybe, he can do it.’

I’m no way saying that Obama will be a bad President, nor am I insinuating that he will be a great one. All I am saying is that we don’t need to coronate him King in his first official day of office.

The next 100 days are key. That is the time he will really get to move his policy, get his people in, and really get a feel of the Presidency.

What Obama needs to answer are these questions: How is he going to deal with the economic downturn and curb the debt? Is he going to continue the bailout which is in essence, spending money to get out of debt?

What is he going to do in Iraq and Afghanistan? Is he going to keep his word and pull out of Iraq and refocus our efforts on the original warfront? How is he going to deal with the failing health care and school systems? Is he going to end No Child Left Behind and not be controlled by the insurance lobbyists? All of these issues were addressed in his speech, but no clear answer of how.

I want Obama to succeed. If he succeeds, we succeed as a country. My issue is that he may be in too big a hole to climb out of in one term.

I, and the rest of America, should hold Obama accountable and be critical of his decisions when we see fit. We also need to keep in mind that he has to make decisions that none of us would dream of wanting to make.

AFC and NFC Champ picks

2009-01-16T11:35:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all.

I'm going to try something new here. Although my area of focus is college, I'm going to try my hand at the NFL for the Super Bowl.

I'll start off with the game I'm least interested in: the NFC title game.
Here we have the surprising Arizona Cardinals and the Philadelphia Eagles.

I'm not going to lie, I'm a big Donovan McNabb fan. I think that not only is he the best black quarterback, but also one of the best QBs today.

Not to take away from the Cardinals. I think Larry Fitzgerald is the best wide receiver today.

I look at this game, and I see one thing: The Eagles defense against the Cardinal offense. Here, I give the Eagles an edge, mostly because of safety Brian Dawkins. I don't the Cardinals defense has what it takes to stop Eagles offense, but I think they will contain them. I see runningback Brian Westbrook using the screen pass as a difference maker in this game, and I think that will be the play of the game.

Give me Eagles over the Cardinals 17-10.

Now for the game I've been waiting for, the Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

I'm a big fan of defensive ball games, and this is what any old fashioned football fan could ask for in my opinion.

The defenses will take care of their own, and I predict each will score a touchdown.

But looking at the offenses, I give the Steelers the advantage with runningback Willie Parker and receiver Hines Ward. Don't get me wrong, Willis McGhahee and Derrick Mason are capable skill guys, I just think Parke and Ward are just better.

And I have to go back to the quarterbacks. Ben Roethlisberger has been here before, and won a Super Bowl. The Ravens Joe Flacco is a green rookie, and though the offense has done a good job of protecting him, I think he may have to win the game for them in the end.

I will say that it is comical how the Ravens mirror the Steelers when they won their Super Bowl. Pittsburgh had a young QB in Roethlisberger that was protected by a strong running game and a defense. Flacco, who was compared to "Big Ben" while at Delaware, is protected by the running game and the typical Ravens defense.

Still, I see the Steelers squeaking by in another close, rough, and violent Pitt-Baltimore game. Steelers go 3-0 against their division rivals by a score of 14-12.

In two weeks, I'll have a Super Bowl pick that will hopefully involve the Eagles and Steelers.