Two weeks from today (Feb. 6) is National Signing Day for college football. It’s a day when high school football players declare their love for a particular school and college coaches hope potential turns into results.
Some say recruiting is more important than the actual games in the fall. Recruiting sets up results in those games. That’s why football recruiting services try to sell fans their information and that’s why ESPNU has a day-long special on recruiting come Feb. 6.
The big boys like LSU, Alabama, Michigan, Florida State etc. will do well. These are established programs and players want to play for the top teams. The rest of the schools normally pick what’s left over. The real fear, however, is of the big boys coming in the last minute and taking a special player from a lower-tier-talent school.
Players can and will change their minds in these next two weeks. Until a player signs a commitment letter, they are free to go anywhere. So they are some nervous coaches still trying to hold on to players.
The game inside the game is generally fun, unless you are a coach on signing day left without a player who changes his mind near the end.
Showing posts with label Florida State. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Florida State. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Monday, August 27, 2012
College Football 2012 Style
The college football season officially starts this weekend. You have your usual one or two monster matchups (try Michigan-Alabama) and your usual cupcake games complete with the frosting.
Here’s hoping your favorite team doesn’t put you asleep with its opening opponent.
I have mixed emotions about the college football season starting up again. Some years I’m ready, set and charge. But this year, the St. Louis Cardinals are again in the playoff chase so I have my eyes firmly placed yet on baseball. It’s difficult when the seasons overlap.
But I figure I will be in the football spirit by the time Iowa State and Iowa play Sept. 8. That’s always a big game in this state and this year’s edition should be competitive.
Of course, one of the big stories of the season will be Penn State. How will the Lions respond to all the turmoil in the last several months?
USC begins the season as the team to defeat. Florida State is also receiving some love.
It all shapes up to promise another exciting year of college football.
Bring on the tailgating, the bands and the cheerleaders.
Here’s hoping your favorite team doesn’t put you asleep with its opening opponent.
I have mixed emotions about the college football season starting up again. Some years I’m ready, set and charge. But this year, the St. Louis Cardinals are again in the playoff chase so I have my eyes firmly placed yet on baseball. It’s difficult when the seasons overlap.
But I figure I will be in the football spirit by the time Iowa State and Iowa play Sept. 8. That’s always a big game in this state and this year’s edition should be competitive.
Of course, one of the big stories of the season will be Penn State. How will the Lions respond to all the turmoil in the last several months?
USC begins the season as the team to defeat. Florida State is also receiving some love.
It all shapes up to promise another exciting year of college football.
Bring on the tailgating, the bands and the cheerleaders.
Monday, July 30, 2012
Talking College Championship Football
Phil Steele’s college football magazine is loaded with lists. He starts off on page 3 predicting every major bowl game opponents and the national championship participants.
For the national championship game (drum roll, please), he matches Oklahoma against Florida State.
Some predicted the Sooners to be the national champions last season. But a few key injuries derailed that pursuit and Oklahoma finished a “disappointing” 10-3.
The Sooners are usually a safe pick for the championship, playing their most recent final game in 2008 losing to Florida 24-14. They return eight starters on offense and seven on defense. Oklahoma should contend but must outlast a rugged Big 12 Conference slate where all 10 teams play each other.
Florida State is an interesting pick. The Seminoles were a respectable 9-4 last season and return eight starters on the offense and nine on the defense this year. Florida State advantage is a favorable schedule and membership is the traditionally so-so Atlantic Coast Conference. Two of the three challenging games are at home against Clemson and Florida. The one possible real trap is at Virginia Tech. Coach Jimbo Fisher is trying to carve out his own niche at Florida State, but he has a long road to match former coach Bobby Bowden’s success.
I’m fine with Steele’s Oklahoma pick, but not warm-and-cuddily regarding Florida State. The Seminoles need to win some big games AND avoid the upsets. I don’t see that happening.
Who is your national championship game pick?
For the national championship game (drum roll, please), he matches Oklahoma against Florida State.
Some predicted the Sooners to be the national champions last season. But a few key injuries derailed that pursuit and Oklahoma finished a “disappointing” 10-3.
The Sooners are usually a safe pick for the championship, playing their most recent final game in 2008 losing to Florida 24-14. They return eight starters on offense and seven on defense. Oklahoma should contend but must outlast a rugged Big 12 Conference slate where all 10 teams play each other.
Florida State is an interesting pick. The Seminoles were a respectable 9-4 last season and return eight starters on the offense and nine on the defense this year. Florida State advantage is a favorable schedule and membership is the traditionally so-so Atlantic Coast Conference. Two of the three challenging games are at home against Clemson and Florida. The one possible real trap is at Virginia Tech. Coach Jimbo Fisher is trying to carve out his own niche at Florida State, but he has a long road to match former coach Bobby Bowden’s success.
I’m fine with Steele’s Oklahoma pick, but not warm-and-cuddily regarding Florida State. The Seminoles need to win some big games AND avoid the upsets. I don’t see that happening.
Who is your national championship game pick?
Monday, May 21, 2012
Florida State and the Big 12 Conference
If we have learned one thing over the years about collegiate sports, it is this: forget about conference loyalty.
Last week, Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) member Florida State made quite a stir. Is Florida State really satisfied in the ACC or does it have eyes for the Big 12 Conference?
This controversy all started when a Florida State Board of Trustee member said that he was unhappy with the ACC’s television contract. That sparked rumors of the Seminoles’ possible interest in the Big 12. Florida State officials denied any interest in moving to the league that features football powers Texas and Oklahoma.
So this rumor is either simply Internet-generated material or possible Florida State positioning. Could the Seminoles be playing this rumor to increase their power and possible revenue in the ACC? Or behind closed doors, is Florida State secretly interested in the Big 12 and hopes the affection is mutual.
Some say Florida State is upset with the ACC’s basketball focus. The Seminoles are mainly a football school and are working on getting back to national relevancy under coach Jimbo Fisher. But their men’s basketball program is quite competitive too. Just ask Duke and North Carolina.
So will this rumor die or continue to sprout? From the outside, I think Florida State is a good ACC fit. The Seminoles are geographically close to other conference members and they compete well athletically.
But really what do I know? I’m still trying to sort out why West Virginia decided to join the Big 12 Conference. I guess I just don’t understand geography.
Last week, Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) member Florida State made quite a stir. Is Florida State really satisfied in the ACC or does it have eyes for the Big 12 Conference?
This controversy all started when a Florida State Board of Trustee member said that he was unhappy with the ACC’s television contract. That sparked rumors of the Seminoles’ possible interest in the Big 12. Florida State officials denied any interest in moving to the league that features football powers Texas and Oklahoma.
So this rumor is either simply Internet-generated material or possible Florida State positioning. Could the Seminoles be playing this rumor to increase their power and possible revenue in the ACC? Or behind closed doors, is Florida State secretly interested in the Big 12 and hopes the affection is mutual.
Some say Florida State is upset with the ACC’s basketball focus. The Seminoles are mainly a football school and are working on getting back to national relevancy under coach Jimbo Fisher. But their men’s basketball program is quite competitive too. Just ask Duke and North Carolina.
So will this rumor die or continue to sprout? From the outside, I think Florida State is a good ACC fit. The Seminoles are geographically close to other conference members and they compete well athletically.
But really what do I know? I’m still trying to sort out why West Virginia decided to join the Big 12 Conference. I guess I just don’t understand geography.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Be Careful What You Say or Don't Say
Longtime college basketball referee Karl Hess tossed a couple fans from the Florida State-North Carolina State game last Saturday but these were not your average fans. Former Wolfpack standouts Chris Corchiani and Tom Gugliotta departed the scene in the second half when Hess ordered a policeman to remove him.
Those are the facts but after that it’s a case of “He said…you said…” Corchiani claims the pair didn’t use any vulgar language but was just telling Hess he was having a bad day calling the game. Hess apparently was tired of the catcalls and took action. It was also reported that NC State students were on Hess’ target list.
Fans do get ejected in college basketball games but it is rare. What’s more rare is two former high profile college stars leaving early not on their own accord.
If there is blame in this incident, I give it to Hess. He needed to just suck it up and call the game. Officials will make controversial calls. They will also make some fans extremely unhappy. Officials recognize that as part of the territory. But officials need thick skin and apart from physical abuse should take the catcalls or leave officiating.
I bet Hess wishes he could redo his decision to toss Corchiani and Gugliotta. He added fuel to a fire that will burn for a while.
It will be interesting whether Hess referees any more NC State games this season. My guess is no. This flame requires some water and that water is Hess remaining on the sidelines for future Wolfpack games
Those are the facts but after that it’s a case of “He said…you said…” Corchiani claims the pair didn’t use any vulgar language but was just telling Hess he was having a bad day calling the game. Hess apparently was tired of the catcalls and took action. It was also reported that NC State students were on Hess’ target list.
Fans do get ejected in college basketball games but it is rare. What’s more rare is two former high profile college stars leaving early not on their own accord.
If there is blame in this incident, I give it to Hess. He needed to just suck it up and call the game. Officials will make controversial calls. They will also make some fans extremely unhappy. Officials recognize that as part of the territory. But officials need thick skin and apart from physical abuse should take the catcalls or leave officiating.
I bet Hess wishes he could redo his decision to toss Corchiani and Gugliotta. He added fuel to a fire that will burn for a while.
It will be interesting whether Hess referees any more NC State games this season. My guess is no. This flame requires some water and that water is Hess remaining on the sidelines for future Wolfpack games
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Must-See College Football This Weekend
If you can only watch one football game this weekend, don’t miss Oklahoma-Florida State.
Congratulations to these two programs for the guts to schedule a game between two top rating programs. In this age of let’s schedule guaranteed wins for the non conference season, it’s refreshing. The big risk of this game is the loser will fade from the national title picture.
The No. 1 Sooners travel to a hostile place to oppose a tough fifth-ranked team. Jimbo Fisher has replaced Florida State legend Bobby Bowden in fine style. The Seminoles have left the mediocrity of the late Bowden years and have returned to the national stage. Florida State is again Florida State.
Oklahoma has plenty of weapons to survive the Seminoles including quarterback Landry Jones.
The Sooners have big news off the field. They are the latest team to become dissatisfied with the Big 12 Conference and apparently are flirting with the Pac-12. And I thought we could receive a break from this realignment talk once the season started.
But thankful the football talk will return to the field Saturday. This matchup is definitely worth the hype.
Enjoy.
Congratulations to these two programs for the guts to schedule a game between two top rating programs. In this age of let’s schedule guaranteed wins for the non conference season, it’s refreshing. The big risk of this game is the loser will fade from the national title picture.
The No. 1 Sooners travel to a hostile place to oppose a tough fifth-ranked team. Jimbo Fisher has replaced Florida State legend Bobby Bowden in fine style. The Seminoles have left the mediocrity of the late Bowden years and have returned to the national stage. Florida State is again Florida State.
Oklahoma has plenty of weapons to survive the Seminoles including quarterback Landry Jones.
The Sooners have big news off the field. They are the latest team to become dissatisfied with the Big 12 Conference and apparently are flirting with the Pac-12. And I thought we could receive a break from this realignment talk once the season started.
But thankful the football talk will return to the field Saturday. This matchup is definitely worth the hype.
Enjoy.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Money in America
Despite what you have heard or read out of Washington, DC, money is available in America.
Apparently, a good number of Division I college football teams have plenty of green. For example, have you checked out the paychecks some lower Division I teams will receive this season from road games against higher Division I schools? This isn’t anything new, but in this economy it should raise some eyebrows
My old school, the University of Louisiana-Monroe, is one example. Out of four non conference games, the Warhawks will play “money” games against Florida State and back-to-back games against TCU and Iowa. Monroe will receive 1.3 million from Florida State and 1 million from Iowa. Although I couldn’t find a figure for the TCU contest, I doubt if the amount is less than $750,000. This is serious money.
The Warhawks have one of the smallest budgets in Division I. Obviously, it helps pay the bills. The chances of defeating any of these teams are slim (although they did shock Alabama a few years ago), but if Monroe can get out of town reasonably healthy, the pros definitely outweigh the cons of the arrangement.
The big schools often complain they have difficulty scheduling so they must sweeten the check to lure the smaller schools. Louisiana-Monroe and other smaller schools have definitely taken the bait.
At least in one phase of the economy, supply-and-demand is working quite well. Maybe Washington should take a look,
Apparently, a good number of Division I college football teams have plenty of green. For example, have you checked out the paychecks some lower Division I teams will receive this season from road games against higher Division I schools? This isn’t anything new, but in this economy it should raise some eyebrows
My old school, the University of Louisiana-Monroe, is one example. Out of four non conference games, the Warhawks will play “money” games against Florida State and back-to-back games against TCU and Iowa. Monroe will receive 1.3 million from Florida State and 1 million from Iowa. Although I couldn’t find a figure for the TCU contest, I doubt if the amount is less than $750,000. This is serious money.
The Warhawks have one of the smallest budgets in Division I. Obviously, it helps pay the bills. The chances of defeating any of these teams are slim (although they did shock Alabama a few years ago), but if Monroe can get out of town reasonably healthy, the pros definitely outweigh the cons of the arrangement.
The big schools often complain they have difficulty scheduling so they must sweeten the check to lure the smaller schools. Louisiana-Monroe and other smaller schools have definitely taken the bait.
At least in one phase of the economy, supply-and-demand is working quite well. Maybe Washington should take a look,
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Watch Out for the Oklahoma Sooners
As we gear up for the 2011 college football season, I will on occasion highlight particular teams.
There is no better team to begin with than the Oklahoma Sooners.
Folks in Norman, Oklahoma could be preparing for a championship season. The roster looks good, the schedule is favorable and there is no Big 12 Conference Championship game to play as a possible trap.
Quarterback Landry Jones leads the explosive Oklahoma offense. He is a two-year starter and has solid leadership qualities. The running game will need to replace 1,200 yard rusher DeMarco Murray, but Oklahoma always seems to find running backs. The passing game will become a major factor in the offense with star receiver Ryan Broyles at the top of the list. All this guy did last year was catch 131 balls to leave him 50 away from the NCAA all-time record of 316.
Linebacker Travis Lewis will lead the defense. The senior has paced the Sooners in tackles for the last three years. Oklahoma will need to replace some players on the defense from last season, but with the pipeline the Sooners always seem to possess, they should be strong enough.
The kicking game should be solid with both kicker (Jimmy Stevens) and punter (Tress Way) returning.
I see two difficult games on Oklahoma’s schedule both on the road. The Sooners must return a game to Florida State (the Sooners destroyed Florida State last season 47-17) on Sept. 17 and then finish the regular season, Dec. 3, against Oklahoma State. The Sooners only lost two games last season and one of them was to the Cowboys.
Oklahoma normally positions itself for a title run. So the combination of that experience, talented players and head coach Bob Stoops could cause a special season.
There is no better team to begin with than the Oklahoma Sooners.
Folks in Norman, Oklahoma could be preparing for a championship season. The roster looks good, the schedule is favorable and there is no Big 12 Conference Championship game to play as a possible trap.
Quarterback Landry Jones leads the explosive Oklahoma offense. He is a two-year starter and has solid leadership qualities. The running game will need to replace 1,200 yard rusher DeMarco Murray, but Oklahoma always seems to find running backs. The passing game will become a major factor in the offense with star receiver Ryan Broyles at the top of the list. All this guy did last year was catch 131 balls to leave him 50 away from the NCAA all-time record of 316.
Linebacker Travis Lewis will lead the defense. The senior has paced the Sooners in tackles for the last three years. Oklahoma will need to replace some players on the defense from last season, but with the pipeline the Sooners always seem to possess, they should be strong enough.
The kicking game should be solid with both kicker (Jimmy Stevens) and punter (Tress Way) returning.
I see two difficult games on Oklahoma’s schedule both on the road. The Sooners must return a game to Florida State (the Sooners destroyed Florida State last season 47-17) on Sept. 17 and then finish the regular season, Dec. 3, against Oklahoma State. The Sooners only lost two games last season and one of them was to the Cowboys.
Oklahoma normally positions itself for a title run. So the combination of that experience, talented players and head coach Bob Stoops could cause a special season.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
The Darling of the NCAA Tournament
Virginia Commonwealth (VCU) receives my vote as the darling of the 2011 NCAA Tournament.
The Rams will play their first ever Sweet Sixteen game Friday night against Florida State.
VCU has been traveling a special road this tournament. First, the Rams knock off Southern Cal in the play-in game. Second, Georgetown is the victim. Last Sunday, Purdue goes home. VCU won three games in five days. You think the Rams were tired, not a chance? They are living on momentum.
Most people don’t know much about this school, me included. VCU plays in the Colonial Athletic Association—the same conference as George Mason another NCAA favorite. The school is located in Richmond and has an enrollment of 32,000 students on two campuses. It also features a medical center.
The Rams never won more than one NCAA game in a season before this year. Coach Shaka Smart leads the 26-11 club. I imagine bigger schools will want to talk to Smart about their vacancy when VCU’s season is finished. Mid-major coaches receive much exposure when their teams make strong tournament runs.
But Smart’s focus is on the Florida State Seminoles now. This should be an entertaining contest between two teams not figured to advance this far. The Seminoles have defeated Texas A&M and Notre Dame.
VCU hopes to continue its darling status. As the Rams march forward, the love grows.
The Rams will play their first ever Sweet Sixteen game Friday night against Florida State.
VCU has been traveling a special road this tournament. First, the Rams knock off Southern Cal in the play-in game. Second, Georgetown is the victim. Last Sunday, Purdue goes home. VCU won three games in five days. You think the Rams were tired, not a chance? They are living on momentum.
Most people don’t know much about this school, me included. VCU plays in the Colonial Athletic Association—the same conference as George Mason another NCAA favorite. The school is located in Richmond and has an enrollment of 32,000 students on two campuses. It also features a medical center.
The Rams never won more than one NCAA game in a season before this year. Coach Shaka Smart leads the 26-11 club. I imagine bigger schools will want to talk to Smart about their vacancy when VCU’s season is finished. Mid-major coaches receive much exposure when their teams make strong tournament runs.
But Smart’s focus is on the Florida State Seminoles now. This should be an entertaining contest between two teams not figured to advance this far. The Seminoles have defeated Texas A&M and Notre Dame.
VCU hopes to continue its darling status. As the Rams march forward, the love grows.
Friday, January 21, 2011
ACC is Down This Season
The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) is far from a mighty league this season.
I follow the ACC because of my interest in North Carolina State. Tuning into the Duke-NC State contest the other night, I was shocked to see the overall records of each conference team.
Yes, the ACC has a number of young players this year. But we aren’t that far removal from the first of the year in which many teams support glossy records despite the competition. Duke is the only team with a glossy record at 17-1.
Three traditional top-tier teams are really struggling. Maryland is just 11-7, while Georgia Tech is barely over .500 at 8-7. Wake Forest is 7-12.
Florida State and Boston College (each 14-5) lead a group of five teams with five overall losses. These two teams should make the NCAA tournament. Boston College’s Reggie Jackson (not the baseball player, ha) is a dynamite talent.
The ACC will need some serious marketing to receive more than four bids this year. The league should definitely sell its rich tradition. But right now, the only real selling point is the potential in the future years.
What do you think of the ACC?
I follow the ACC because of my interest in North Carolina State. Tuning into the Duke-NC State contest the other night, I was shocked to see the overall records of each conference team.
Yes, the ACC has a number of young players this year. But we aren’t that far removal from the first of the year in which many teams support glossy records despite the competition. Duke is the only team with a glossy record at 17-1.
Three traditional top-tier teams are really struggling. Maryland is just 11-7, while Georgia Tech is barely over .500 at 8-7. Wake Forest is 7-12.
Florida State and Boston College (each 14-5) lead a group of five teams with five overall losses. These two teams should make the NCAA tournament. Boston College’s Reggie Jackson (not the baseball player, ha) is a dynamite talent.
The ACC will need some serious marketing to receive more than four bids this year. The league should definitely sell its rich tradition. But right now, the only real selling point is the potential in the future years.
What do you think of the ACC?
Thursday, October 28, 2010
The Wolfpack and Seminoles Battle Tonight
North Carolina State and Florida State have developed a nice little rivalry in football. The two ACC foes renew that rivalry tonight in Raleigh on ESPN.
The Seminoles have won five out of the last nine meetings including three straight. But the Wolfpack made this a rivalry early in the decade.
Former NC State player Chuck Amato began his coaching in Raleigh after serving as an assistant under Bobby Bowden with the Florida State.
The two had some spirited battles and the pupil beat the teacher too. But Amato didn’t win enough games and the Wolfpack fired him. Bowden took Amato back.
That situation seemed to fuel the rivalry in a different way. But now Bowden and Amato are no longer with Florida State.
But the rivalry lives on and ESPN likes it too especially on a Thursday night.
New Florida State Coach Jimbo Fisher has the Seminoles playing well. They are 6-1 overall, 4-0 in league play and ranked 16th this week in the AP poll.
North Carolina State has surprised people. The Wolfpack hope to surprised their visitors too and improve on 5-2 and 2-1 records.
This has the making of an interesting contest.
So if you want to take a break from the World Series, you might want to check this ACC fight out.
The Seminoles have won five out of the last nine meetings including three straight. But the Wolfpack made this a rivalry early in the decade.
Former NC State player Chuck Amato began his coaching in Raleigh after serving as an assistant under Bobby Bowden with the Florida State.
The two had some spirited battles and the pupil beat the teacher too. But Amato didn’t win enough games and the Wolfpack fired him. Bowden took Amato back.
That situation seemed to fuel the rivalry in a different way. But now Bowden and Amato are no longer with Florida State.
But the rivalry lives on and ESPN likes it too especially on a Thursday night.
New Florida State Coach Jimbo Fisher has the Seminoles playing well. They are 6-1 overall, 4-0 in league play and ranked 16th this week in the AP poll.
North Carolina State has surprised people. The Wolfpack hope to surprised their visitors too and improve on 5-2 and 2-1 records.
This has the making of an interesting contest.
So if you want to take a break from the World Series, you might want to check this ACC fight out.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Bye-Bye Baseball at Cal
University of California (Cal) announced this week that it was cutting five sports including baseball.
Back in the day, sports were almost sacred. Sports were hardly ever slashed, they actually grew. But this is a new era and with tight money, everything is on the potential hit list.
However, I find it interesting that every time baseball is finished at a major university, there is a tremendous outcry. I love professional baseball, but apparently the sport of baseball it isn’t popular on most college campuses. Sure you have your USC, Florida State, Miami programs, but can you tell me the four finalists in last season’s College World Series?
College baseball is considered a “minor” sport because it doesn’t generate enough money to finance itself. So sports like baseball must depend on the cash cows such as football and men’s basketball or other athletic monies.
I wonder why college baseball isn’t more popular. Is it because of the lack of major scholarship money? Is it because the media doesn’t provide college baseball much attention?
We have three state universities in Iowa and only the University of Iowa still offers baseball. The University of Northern Iowa dropped its program early this year. Iowa State dropped its team a while back.
Look for more college baseball fields to grow silent unless some multi-million dollar pro stars come to the rescue.
Back in the day, sports were almost sacred. Sports were hardly ever slashed, they actually grew. But this is a new era and with tight money, everything is on the potential hit list.
However, I find it interesting that every time baseball is finished at a major university, there is a tremendous outcry. I love professional baseball, but apparently the sport of baseball it isn’t popular on most college campuses. Sure you have your USC, Florida State, Miami programs, but can you tell me the four finalists in last season’s College World Series?
College baseball is considered a “minor” sport because it doesn’t generate enough money to finance itself. So sports like baseball must depend on the cash cows such as football and men’s basketball or other athletic monies.
I wonder why college baseball isn’t more popular. Is it because of the lack of major scholarship money? Is it because the media doesn’t provide college baseball much attention?
We have three state universities in Iowa and only the University of Iowa still offers baseball. The University of Northern Iowa dropped its program early this year. Iowa State dropped its team a while back.
Look for more college baseball fields to grow silent unless some multi-million dollar pro stars come to the rescue.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Today's College Football Menu Offers a Feast
If you cannot become excited about one or more of today's college football matchups, then you are either not trying hard enough or you are not a real college football fan.
Wow, what a week two. The cupcake schedule must be taking a breather and so early in the year too. You got to love it.
Other than the Iowa-Iowa State game, my personal favorite is Penn State-Alabama. Can Joe Pa win with a young quarterback? Will the lost of Mark Ingram and a young secondary for Alabama make this game close?
But if those games don't draw you attention, how about Miami-Ohio State, Florida State-Oklahoma, Michigan-Notre Dame, Stanford-UCLA (an early conference game) or Arkansas-UL-Monroe. On the last one, I was just checking if you were paying attention.
So start flexing those fingers and hands. With so much action on the remote today, you don't want to get carpal tunnel so early in the season.
What game are you particularly interested in and why?
Enjoy the action.
Wow, what a week two. The cupcake schedule must be taking a breather and so early in the year too. You got to love it.
Other than the Iowa-Iowa State game, my personal favorite is Penn State-Alabama. Can Joe Pa win with a young quarterback? Will the lost of Mark Ingram and a young secondary for Alabama make this game close?
But if those games don't draw you attention, how about Miami-Ohio State, Florida State-Oklahoma, Michigan-Notre Dame, Stanford-UCLA (an early conference game) or Arkansas-UL-Monroe. On the last one, I was just checking if you were paying attention.
So start flexing those fingers and hands. With so much action on the remote today, you don't want to get carpal tunnel so early in the season.
What game are you particularly interested in and why?
Enjoy the action.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Leave Joe Paterno Alone
Joe Paterno, better known as Joe Pa, is in his 45th year as coach at Penn State. Yes, he is old, but he is not dead. Questions continually dog him about possible retirement.
Joe Pa is a tough guy. He appears crusty with the media folks. I often wonder what it would be like to cover him and his program.
But regardless of your thoughts and feelings on Paterno, he is a coaching survivor and he deserves to retire when he see necessary. I think Joe Pa might want to die on the football field, however.
He admits he doesn't do the actually coaching he once did. That is not a surprise. But the buck still stops with him. Besides being the football coach at Penn State, he IS Penn State. The guy means a lot to his university, college football and higher education in general.
I, too, thought a few years back he should retire. The Lions were slipping and the cries for Joe Pa's retirement were loud.
But I have changed my mind. I think Bobby Bowden's situation at Florida State helped change my view. Joe Pa is still winning and still having a major impact on Penn State. He will know when the fire or health tells him to depart.
Besides where would college football be without his demeanor and old style looks?
Joe Pa is a tough guy. He appears crusty with the media folks. I often wonder what it would be like to cover him and his program.
But regardless of your thoughts and feelings on Paterno, he is a coaching survivor and he deserves to retire when he see necessary. I think Joe Pa might want to die on the football field, however.
He admits he doesn't do the actually coaching he once did. That is not a surprise. But the buck still stops with him. Besides being the football coach at Penn State, he IS Penn State. The guy means a lot to his university, college football and higher education in general.
I, too, thought a few years back he should retire. The Lions were slipping and the cries for Joe Pa's retirement were loud.
But I have changed my mind. I think Bobby Bowden's situation at Florida State helped change my view. Joe Pa is still winning and still having a major impact on Penn State. He will know when the fire or health tells him to depart.
Besides where would college football be without his demeanor and old style looks?
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
This is RAGBRAI Week in Iowa
The last week in July, bike riders from Iowa, the rest of the country and some foreign counties invade Iowa with their bicycles. This ride begins at the Missouri River in western Iowa and concludes at the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa.
From Sunday to Saturday, upwards of 20,000 bikers take part in the event that begin in 1972 when you two Des Moines Register writers rode their bikes across the state. RAGBRAI (Register's Annual Great Bicycle Race Across Iowa) was born.
The route changes each year and covers more than 400 miles. Designated cities(they apply for the opportunity) across Iowa host riders every night. Even though it isn't a race, you better be in shape. This isn't like going out with your grandma and leisurely viewing the country side. You best be ready to grind out approximately 60-80 miles per day.
Riders are traveling the northern route this year so there is more interest in the event for people in my part of the state. Yesterday, there were a short 11 miles north of my town.
It is quite the site to see the sea of bikes and bikers. I talked to one biker yesterday with a Texas outfit. I asked him what his favorite college sports team was. Much to my surprise he said that he cheered for Iowa State. This Dallas, Texas guy grew up in Iowa.
I have friends from southern Missouri on the ride. So I went to see them Monday night. I saw a biker with a Florida State outfit and my friend saw an Auburn outfit.
Of course, there are plenty of Iowa Hawkeye gear too.
So college sports even show up in a biking event. I could have almost guessed that Texas guy was going to declare his love for the Texas Longhorns, ha. I guess I was wide right on that prediction.
From Sunday to Saturday, upwards of 20,000 bikers take part in the event that begin in 1972 when you two Des Moines Register writers rode their bikes across the state. RAGBRAI (Register's Annual Great Bicycle Race Across Iowa) was born.
The route changes each year and covers more than 400 miles. Designated cities(they apply for the opportunity) across Iowa host riders every night. Even though it isn't a race, you better be in shape. This isn't like going out with your grandma and leisurely viewing the country side. You best be ready to grind out approximately 60-80 miles per day.
Riders are traveling the northern route this year so there is more interest in the event for people in my part of the state. Yesterday, there were a short 11 miles north of my town.
It is quite the site to see the sea of bikes and bikers. I talked to one biker yesterday with a Texas outfit. I asked him what his favorite college sports team was. Much to my surprise he said that he cheered for Iowa State. This Dallas, Texas guy grew up in Iowa.
I have friends from southern Missouri on the ride. So I went to see them Monday night. I saw a biker with a Florida State outfit and my friend saw an Auburn outfit.
Of course, there are plenty of Iowa Hawkeye gear too.
So college sports even show up in a biking event. I could have almost guessed that Texas guy was going to declare his love for the Texas Longhorns, ha. I guess I was wide right on that prediction.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Who has the Most Risk in the Iowa State Coaching Situation?
Now that the freshness of the Fred Hoiberg coaching hire is over, we can now analyze who carries the most risk: Hoiberg or Iowa State. Or is there really that much risk?
This would not be an issue if "The Mayor" had some head coaching experience. But the negative people seem to make issue with Hoiberg's blank resume.
Iowa State has little risk. The athletic department just endured four straight losing seasons. The program was pretty low. At times, Cyclone hoops were about as exciting as watching cars travel down Main Street on a Saturday night. Translation: it couldn't become much worse. Athletic Director Jamie Pollard hired a Cyclone hero in Hoiberg. Fans will probably flock back to Hilton Coliseum and give Iowa boy Hoiberg lots of rope in the rebuilding process. If Hoiberg flops, Iowa State just brings in another coach
Hoiberg has more risk but not that much. Could his glory boy status become tarnished if he cannot lead his alma mater to prosperity? I doubt it. Plus, if it doesn't work out, he could probably return to a NBA front office. Hoiberg's people skills will not have him lacking for gainful employment.
I like the hire and view it as much more reward than risk. Hoiberg will surround himself with talented coaches whether on the bench or on the speed dial. If he happens to become more of a public relations/CEO coach, it wouldn't be the first time in college athletics. Remember that football coach at Florida State with the first name of Bobby?
But I think in due time, Hoiberg will return the Cyclones to respectability. I'm not predicting Final Four in the next few years, but how about a few winning records for starters?
This would not be an issue if "The Mayor" had some head coaching experience. But the negative people seem to make issue with Hoiberg's blank resume.
Iowa State has little risk. The athletic department just endured four straight losing seasons. The program was pretty low. At times, Cyclone hoops were about as exciting as watching cars travel down Main Street on a Saturday night. Translation: it couldn't become much worse. Athletic Director Jamie Pollard hired a Cyclone hero in Hoiberg. Fans will probably flock back to Hilton Coliseum and give Iowa boy Hoiberg lots of rope in the rebuilding process. If Hoiberg flops, Iowa State just brings in another coach
Hoiberg has more risk but not that much. Could his glory boy status become tarnished if he cannot lead his alma mater to prosperity? I doubt it. Plus, if it doesn't work out, he could probably return to a NBA front office. Hoiberg's people skills will not have him lacking for gainful employment.
I like the hire and view it as much more reward than risk. Hoiberg will surround himself with talented coaches whether on the bench or on the speed dial. If he happens to become more of a public relations/CEO coach, it wouldn't be the first time in college athletics. Remember that football coach at Florida State with the first name of Bobby?
But I think in due time, Hoiberg will return the Cyclones to respectability. I'm not predicting Final Four in the next few years, but how about a few winning records for starters?
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Wolfpack a Surprise in ACC Tournament
I hope North Carolina State basketball coach Sidney Lowe slept in that bright red blazer last night. Lowe brings out the blazer for special games and it would be great if he could wear that thing two more times during the ACC Tournament.
North Carolina State seeded No. 11 in the tourney is on a roll. The Wolfpack upset Clemson Thursday night and sidelined Florida State Friday night. This from a team that frankly looked passive in the regular season.
Now it's on to the semifinals this afternoon (Saturday) and a battle with Georgia Tech.
This NC State tournament run could save Lowe's job and put some future hope in the hearts of Wolfpack fans.
Wolfpack fans could use some hope. NC State finished near the bottom of the ACC standings this season but didn't end dead last as predicted. Still, Wolfpack fans were wondering about what was happening with this team and questioned Lowe's leadership.
Even when the Wolfpack win games, it isn't pretty. Last night was a good example. They battled like a heavyweight fighter giving some shots and taking some others.
But NC State prevailed 58-52.
Tracy Smith is normally the Wolfpack star, but this is Scott Wood's tournament. Last night again the three ball was falling for the freshman from Marion, Indiana. Wood connected on 6-of-10 three-point shots. He never attempted a two-point shot.
So besides taking care of Lowe's blazer, I hope Wood iced that right arm and is good-and-ready to fire in those three-pointers this afternoon.
Wolfpack fans hope Lowe's blazer and Wood's shooting continues to form a winning combination.
North Carolina State seeded No. 11 in the tourney is on a roll. The Wolfpack upset Clemson Thursday night and sidelined Florida State Friday night. This from a team that frankly looked passive in the regular season.
Now it's on to the semifinals this afternoon (Saturday) and a battle with Georgia Tech.
This NC State tournament run could save Lowe's job and put some future hope in the hearts of Wolfpack fans.
Wolfpack fans could use some hope. NC State finished near the bottom of the ACC standings this season but didn't end dead last as predicted. Still, Wolfpack fans were wondering about what was happening with this team and questioned Lowe's leadership.
Even when the Wolfpack win games, it isn't pretty. Last night was a good example. They battled like a heavyweight fighter giving some shots and taking some others.
But NC State prevailed 58-52.
Tracy Smith is normally the Wolfpack star, but this is Scott Wood's tournament. Last night again the three ball was falling for the freshman from Marion, Indiana. Wood connected on 6-of-10 three-point shots. He never attempted a two-point shot.
So besides taking care of Lowe's blazer, I hope Wood iced that right arm and is good-and-ready to fire in those three-pointers this afternoon.
Wolfpack fans hope Lowe's blazer and Wood's shooting continues to form a winning combination.
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