2009 NCAA Football Thread: Revenge of the Computer Polls

[Mister J]

Good for Ingram. I figured they'd sham a way for Colt McCoy to get it.

Surprised by Gerhart finishing 2nd. Very respectable showing and turnout by the voters.

[BlackLantern]

The U is very good so far

[Marx]

What else can the guy do?

Notre Dame offered him a whole lot more money, a much better college and a much better opportunity. Loyalty is important, but this is the man's livelihood - the man's career. There is no way you can agree to be Notre Dame's coach and then spend a month coaching at Cincinnati while also taking care of Notre Dame. You can't do it.

Notre Dame couldn't hire Brian Kelly if he wasn't going to be able to work for the school until after the Sugar Bowl. You can't afford to put in place a coaching staff after January first while still trying to recruit and find coaches and all of that. Can't do it.

You also can't coach Cincinnati while coaching Notre Dame. You can't sit in Cincinnati, while calling up coaches and players to recruit for Notre Dame and asking the responsibilities of two colleges to be placed upon his shoulders isn't fair either.

Does it suck for Cincinnati's players? Of course.

Does it suck for Brian Kelly? Yea. It's requires you to assume Brian Kelly is inhuman to believe that Brian Kelly ISN'T disappointed that he won't be able to coach HIS kids in the bowl game.

But you can't ask a man to give up a better career, a better life, a better paycheck all in the name of a month in a game that doesn't matter.

You can call him an *******, but it's unfair to do so. This is a man doing the best he can in a complex situation.

As a Bearcat fan...I can call him whatever I like. :oldrazz:

Mark Ingram wins the Heisman.

Congrats to Ingram! :up:

[El_Citrus]

Congrats to Ingram on winning the Heisman. The voters definitely showed they have some sensibility by not giving it to McCoy, who wasn't even close to winning it over Gerhart and Ingram. Suh should have won, but I'm not disappointed that Ingram got the trophy; great kid and great player for Alabama.

[Immortalfire]

Ingram could be favored for the 2010 Heisman..http://msn.foxsports.com/cfb/story/10517608/Ingram-should-be-favored-to-win-Heisman-in-2010

Ryan Mallet needs to be on the list..And I'd love to hear the reasons that these people have to think Julio Jones is better than AJ Green.

[Darthphere]

His name is Julio Jones for one thing.

[Immortalfire]

And he plays for Bama...guess that's all he needs.

[Mister J]

Locker to Return For Senior Season (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=4741959)

Surprising. He easily could have been the first QB off the board.

[Excel]

What the hell is he thinking.

[BlackLantern]

he probably doesn't want to go to some ****** NFL team

[Darthphere]

The only way he doesn't get picked for a **** team any year he comes out is if he starts sucking a little bit.

[Excel]

Yup, but now hell go to a **** team with a rookie salary cap.

[BlackLantern]

Rookie salary cap is long, long overdue

[Mister J]

Preach on!

Maybe Locker really wants to go to the Rose Bowl ...without buying a ticket. *shrugs*

[RAMORE]

Big Ten exploring the idea of adding a school.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/news/story?id=4745381

So will it be someone close or unconventional.

I think UCF should made a bid for it they're an up and comer who need to be in a BCS conference to get better IMO.

[Immortalfire]

Interesting. But how will they still be the Big 10? They already have eleven schools :huh:

Maybe they can be "The Other Big 12 That's Up North"..lol

[Mister J]

Top targets I've heard are Missouri and Notre Dame.

I'd prefer the former, simply because it'd set off another series of conference scrambling and team swiping. Maybe TCU would get a Big 12 slot of this.

[BlackLantern]

Notre Dame is too snotty to join a conference....to even suggest it is sacrilege...how dare anyone suggest they mingle with the common folk?

[Immortalfire]

Notre Dame will never join anyone. Which is weird, given that virtually all of their other sports are in the Big East.

[BlackLantern]

Notre Dame will never join anyone. Which is weird, given that virtually all of their other sports are in the Big East.

that's because in those sports, you HAVE to join a conference

[Immortalfire]

Football is above the law :eek:

[BlackLantern]

unlike field hockey

[RAMORE]

I would prefer it be an up anc coming school as well. Well where would yall see UCF should make a push to get in a better conference?

[El_Citrus]

The Big 10 + 2? Someone in their front office has to realize the stupidity of their name with the number of teams they have (or will have). Then again, those same front office people did sign an extension to keep the Rose Bowl a Pac-10/Big 10 "tradition".

[BlackLantern]

so Erin Andrews faced her peeper in court and hopes that "he never sees the light of day again"

[Arc-Light]

The Big 10 + 2? Someone in their front office has to realize the stupidity of their name with the number of teams they have (or will have). Then again, those same front office people did sign an extension to keep the Rose Bowl a Pac-10/Big 10 "tradition".

Whats wrong with that?.....it is tradition.

[BlackLantern]

some traditions are stupid

[El_Citrus]

Whats wrong with that?.....it is tradition.

Signing that extension was a big middle finger to all of the playoff supporters out there, because the Rose Bowl isn't going to be excluded from a playoff system, but wouldn't be able to have their "traditional" Pac10-Big 10 game under a playoff system. Barring Congressional force, the BCS is going to have to yield their power in order for a playoff system to be in place, and the Rose Bowl added another excuse as to why they won't give up on the BCS.

[Immortalfire]

2 years back, fans of both teams and non-fans around the country all wanted USC/Georgia in the Rose Bowl following the 07 season. Instead, Southern Cal slaughtered Illinois, and we walloped Hawaii.

The BCS people have got their heads so far up their rears, they'd rather stick with "tradition" than give viewers a good game.

[Arc-Light]

I don't see anyone else *****ing about SEC always goes sugar etc. Until their is a play-off, ill stick with traditional tie ins with the bowls.

[StorminNorman]

2 years back, fans of both teams and non-fans around the country all wanted USC/Georgia in the Rose Bowl following the 07 season. Instead, Southern Cal slaughtered Illinois, and we walloped Hawaii.

The BCS people have got their heads so far up their rears, they'd rather stick with "tradition" than give viewers a good game.

Not only did they put Illinois against USC, they CHANGED THE RULES MID SEASON to do it.

I don't see anyone else *****ing about SEC always goes sugar etc. Until their is a play-off, ill stick with traditional tie ins with the bowls.

Best game matchups > tradition.

If we are going to make the Citrus Bowl the CapitalOne Bowl and the Peach Bowl the Chik-Fil-A Bowl, the excuse of "maintaining the honored tradition of Bowl Games" becomes even more BS to add to the already impressive pile the BCS has earned.

I heard the Big 12 commish (or one of his peons) today argue that the only reason it SEEMS like more people want a playoff system is that only the people that want to change the status quo is heard. :dry: The level of arrogance demonstrated by the BCS and her saviors is mind boggling.

[TMC1982]

http://www.fangsbites.com/2009/12/3rd-annual-fangs-bites-college-football.html

The College Gameday Best Pregame Show Award - College Gameday, ESPN.

The Keith Jackson Award for Best Play-by-Play - Verne Lundquist, CBS.

Honorable mentions - Ron Franklin - ESPN/ABC, Sean McDonough - ABC and Brad Nessler - ESPN

The Frank Broyles Award for Best Color Analyst - Todd Blacklege, ESPN.

Honorable mentions - Gary Danielson - CBS, Pat Haden - NBC, Chris Spielman - ESPN

Best Overall Announcing Team - Verne Lundquist and Gary Danielson, CBS.

Honorable mentions - Brad Nessler/Todd Blackledge, ESPN; Mike Patrick/Craig James, ESPN/ABC; Tom Hammond/Pat Haden, NBC

The Jim Lampley Award for Best Studio Host - Tim Brando, CBS, in an upset over previous two-time winner Rece Davis.

Honorable mentions - Rece Davis - ESPN, John Saunders - ABC, Jimmy Roberts - NBC

Best Studio Analyst - Jesse Palmer, ABC.

Honorable mentions - Spencer Tillman - CBS, Kirk Herbstreit - ESPN

The Jack Arute Award for Best Sideline Reporter - No one.

Most Valuable Network - CBS.

Best Overall Coverage - CBS.

The Phil Stone Award for Worst Play-by-Play - Pam Ward, ESPN.

Dishonorable mentions - Terry Gannon - ESPN/ABC; Joe Tessitore - ESPN

Worst Analyst (Studio or Game) - Ray Bentley, ESPN.

Worst Sideline Reporter - Tracy Wolfson, CBS.

Dishonorable mention - Rob Stone - ESPN

Most Bizarre Moment - Bob Griese - ESPN for his "out having a taco" comment regarding NASCAR driver Juan Pablo Montoya during the Minnesota-Ohio State game.

Worst Studio Show - College Football Live, ESPN, only when hosted by the arrogant Erik Kuselias.

Worst Treatment of a Legend - Ron Franklin by ESPN.

[BlackLantern]

there's a lot of CBS love in there, not so sure about that

[BlackLantern]

someone going to the BCS title game is a bit lonely and is looking for a friend

http://austin.craigslist.org/tix/1512120466.html

[Immortalfire]

:lmao:

[BlackLantern]

I'm sure his girlfriend really regrets breaking up with him now

[Immortalfire]

I was just given my first Christmas gift tonight...

....I got a damn authentic AJ Green jersey. OMG :eek:

[Mister J]

Bowl Season Pick 'Em. Come and get it!

http://forums.superherohype.com/showthread.php?t=332558

[BlackLantern]

if anyone cares, the New Mexico Bowl and St. Petersburg Bowl are on ESPN tonight

[StorminNorman]

St. Peterburg Bowl is HUGE for UCF.

The UCF fanbase has bought a lot of tickets for the game, and the school is still looking for it's first bowl win.

If UCF is able to beat Rutgers and impress the Big East suits by our fandom, it's our first real step towards joining that conference. Add in the fact that the Big East may lose a school to the Big 10 and it's even better.

UCF is worth watching for average fans simply because there is a lot of pro-level talent and UCF is a very goo Pro school.

[Cmill216]

Brandon Marshall
Asante Samuel
Mike Sims-Walker
Kevin Smith

All within the past few years.

[FaT_tONle]

That's your alma mater ain't it? As far as Big East expansion, I don't see it. I think they want to stay small for now. UCF hasn't done nearly enough as of yet.

[StorminNorman]

That's your alma mater ain't it? As far as Big East expansion, I don't see it. I think they want to stay small for now. UCF hasn't done nearly enough as of yet.

Yes.

How does the Big East benefit from staying small? Especially when you throw in the fact they may lose a team. Conference Championship Games = More $$$ and more publicity. They are going to have to replace whoever they lose with another team, and while they add one, they might as well add two (something that has been discussed for a long time now).

UCF hasn't done anything spectacular...but neither have most of the schools in the Big East. UCF has far better facilities than USF, and they have a much better football alumni list than USF.

UCF makes more sense than any team in the country. Orlando is a major market, adding another Florida school means everyone in the Big East plays more Florida games (which is huge for recruiting), UCF already has BCS-school level facilities and UCF is the third largest school in the country. Plus there is already a rivalry in place with USF (and rivalries are good for a conference).

Since conferences exist outside of simply football, UCF helps in other sports (which is something to keep in mind), including our basketball team that now has headlines with Marcus Jordan.

When (not if) the Big East expands, the two teams that make the most sense are UCF and Memphis.

[FaT_tONle]

Who is going to leave? Big 10 would have added a team years ago if they wanted a Championship game. ACC already has its. Pac 10 won't recruit out of the Big East. Why would anyone move? It's more likely the Big East will expand as opposed to teams defecting, but I just question if its the right time. You don't want to dilute the conference. Conference USA can afford to dump a team as they have like 13 or 14 schools, but I don't know if they want 9 teams. They will probably add two schools at or around the same time if and when they go to 10. I'd just prefer these other programs to consistently be good, like Pitt, USF, Rutgers, before they start adding schools. You will lose credibility if you have too many bad programs.

[StorminNorman]

Who is going to leave? Big 10 would have added a team years ago if they wanted a Championship game. ACC already has its. Pac 10 won't recruit out of the Big East. Why would anyone move? It's more likely the Big East will expand as opposed to teams defecting, but I just question if its the right time. You don't want to dilute the conference. Conference USA can afford to dump a team as they have like 13 or 14 schools, but I don't know if they want 9 teams. They will probably add two schools at or around the same time if and when they go to 10. I'd just prefer these other programs to consistently be good, like Pitt, USF, Rutgers, before they start adding schools. You will lose credibility if you have too many bad programs.

You haven't been keeping up with the news, have you? The Big 10 has announced they are looking at expansion.

The Big 10 is a clearly supperior conference to the Big East, teams like Rutgers, Pittsburgh, Cincinatti and Louisville will be appealing to the Big 10. If I had to guess, I would say Rutgers looks the most like a Big 10 team (for reasons that go beyond simply their football program. Academically, which does play a big factor in the Big 10, Rutgers is supperior to the others).

UCF is not a bad program, it's a developing program. A developing program with tremendous potential due to it's location, student body and alumni. If UCF carried the BCS banner, it would instantly improve recruiting, further improving the program. UCF is badly in need for a new coaching regime, but that will be taken care of by 2011 (O'Leary's contract ends in 2010). 2011 is the year the Big 10 plans for the expansion to occur (with the plan in place by next year).

You want to improve the conference, then you increase it's ability to recruit, it's ability to get on TV and it's ability to make money. UCF, more than any other school, delivers on every level.

[BlackLantern]

UConn just went Div 1 in 2002 and look how far they've come along...the Big East has the potential to be an awesome conference

[StorminNorman]

UCF needs a visionary like Edsall. George O'Leary may be the worst positioned coach in the country do to the fact he is dull. O'Leary know's his X's and O's, but he doesn't know how to build a program from scratch (which is what is needed). He lacks charisma that is necessary to sell a program without pedigree and has shown a bad habit of hiring awful supporting staff.

[BlackLantern]

ya Coach Edsall was instrumental in both the jump to Div 1 and the Rentschler Field proposal

[StorminNorman]

Teams need to understand that in today's age, charisma is vital in a head coach. Your head coach is the icon of the program. You want to sell your school to players, you sell your coach.

O'Leary is old, pink and talks with a Boston accent. He's as exciting as Wyoming.

My dream coach for UCF last year was Lane Kiffin, Kiffin has done exactly what I expected from him at Tennessee.

[FaT_tONle]

You haven't been keeping up with the news, have you? The Big 10 has announced they are looking at expansion.

The Big 10 is a clearly supperior conference to the Big East, teams like Rutgers, Pittsburgh, Cincinatti and Louisville will be appealing to the Big 10. If I had to guess, I would say Rutgers looks the most like a Big 10 team (for reasons that go beyond simply their football program. Academically, which does play a big factor in the Big 10, Rutgers is supperior to the others).

UCF is not a bad program, it's a developing program. A developing program with tremendous potential due to it's location, student body and alumni. If UCF carried the BCS banner, it would instantly improve recruiting, further improving the program. UCF is badly in need for a new coaching regime, but that will be taken care of by 2011 (O'Leary's contract ends in 2010). 2011 is the year the Big 10 plans for the expansion to occur (with the plan in place by next year).

You want to improve the conference, then you increase it's ability to recruit, it's ability to get on TV and it's ability to make money. UCF, more than any other school, delivers on every level.

I went to Rutgers. The new AD likes to talk like he has big plans for the athletics program. It's all talk. Nothing will come of it. If all of a sudden the Big 10 is going to add a team, why did they wait this long? ND was never coming I get that. But they could have bought out a school from the MAC if they needed a 12th team, maybe a Miami(OH), Bowling Green, whatever. I am sure one of those schools meets their academic requirements. I am sure the Big East will expand eventually, but again, expanding too fast will just augment the negative stigma surrounding the conference. And what about their basketball? Are they going to 18 or 20 teams there as well? Kicking ND out and making them go independent in everything would be a start. But you can't keep adding programs without accounting for the fact that they have 16 schools as it is.

[Immortalfire]

Kiffin has done exactly what I expected from him at Tennessee.

Putting them on the verge of probation? :hehe:

[StorminNorman]

Putting them on the verge of probation? :hehe:

Making them relevant. Tennessee is talked about as much as Florida or USC these days. Sure, a lot of it was for silly things, but that's irrelevant. So far none of Kiffin's actions have been damaging.

I went to Rutgers. The new AD likes to talk like he has big plans for the athletics program. It's all talk. Nothing will come of it. If all of a sudden the Big 10 is going to add a team, why did they wait this long? ND was never coming I get that. But they could have bought out a school from the MAC if they needed a 12th team, maybe a Miami(OH), Bowling Green, whatever. I am sure one of those schools meets their academic requirements. I am sure the Big East will expand eventually, but again, expanding too fast will just augment the negative stigma surrounding the conference. And what about their basketball? Are they going to 18 or 20 teams there as well? Kicking ND out and making them go independent in everything would be a start. But you can't keep adding programs without accounting for the fact that they have 16 schools as it is.

Who knows why they waited so long. Why did the ACC wait? Using that logic we shouldn't expect any conference to add a team again. They are expanding though.

Why would the Big 10 add a Miami or Bowling Green when they could get a supperior program from the Big East? The Big East can't compete with the Big 10, so it's not as if they Big 10 would be overreaching.

[FaT_tONle]

Who knows why they waited so long. Why did the ACC wait? Using that logic we shouldn't expect any conference to add a team again. They are expanding though.

Why would the Big 10 add a Miami or Bowling Green when they could get a supperior program from the Big East? The Big East can't compete with the Big 10, so it's not as if they Big 10 would be overreaching.

Well, tradition first and foremost. It's the same every year. Ohio St/Michigan weekend before Thanksgiving. Where would they schedule the Championship game? Can they even schedule a 13th game before Thanksgiving without dropping bye weeks, and Heaven forbid it don't feature OSU/Michi? That conference doesn't particularly like change. If they want to improve their basketball then they should try to lure Pitt/WVU. Academically, I don't keep up with the rankings, but I can't imagine Rutgers improves you a great deal footballwise or academically considering what the Big 10 already has.

[rdh007]

As a Meeeeeeeeeechigan and (by extension) Big 10 fan, I'm hoping for Pittsburgh. Missouri is probably better, but less likely.

[StorminNorman]

Well, tradition first and foremost. It's the same every year. Ohio St/Michigan weekend before Thanksgiving. Where would they schedule the Championship game? Can they even schedule a 13 game before Thanksgiving without dropping bye weeks, and Heaven forbid it don't feature OSU/Michi? That conference doesn't particularly like change. If they wanted to improve their basketball then they should try to lure Pitt/WVU. Academically, I don't keep up with the rankings, but I can't imagine Rutgers improves you a great deal footballwise or academically considering what the Big 10 already has.

Rutgers brings in larger television markets, which is a big reason for any such expansion. Again, the fears about ruining tradition are apparently not shared by the Big 10 as they continue to consider expansion.

[Immortalfire]

Making them relevant. Tennessee is talked about as much as Florida or USC these days. Sure, a lot of it was for silly things, but that's irrelevant. So far none of Kiffin's actions have been damaging.


Tennessee can be as relevant as Baylor, for all I care.

[BlackLantern]

this New Mexico Bowl has been surprisingly competitive its tied at 28 with :20 to go

[Mister J]

While I certainly expected Pat Hill to go for it, I did not expect Fresno to have the door shut on them there.

edit: New life for the Bulldogs with the miss.

[Immortalfire]

Dang, that makes me 0-1 in the bowl pick em :cmad:

[StorminNorman]

Tennessee can be as relevant as Baylor, for all I care.

See, I love Tennessee and Florida being elite. Forces Georgia to be better. That's why I never want Meyer to leave UF.

[Immortalfire]

Most days Norm, you make 0 sense to me.

Merry Christmas.

[Byrd Man]

See, I love Tennessee and Florida being elite. Forces Georgia to be better. That's why I never want Meyer to leave UF.

I have a dream that involves South Carolina winning the SEC East.

And that dream is a freak accident where a plane carrying all the players from UGA crashes into a plane with all the players from UF, and the firey wreckage lands on a bus carrying all the players from Tennessee.

You take your wins how you can get 'em. :up:

[Immortalfire]

We can still be good even when FL and TN are, but I'm certainly not hoping they'll be good so that we'll somehow be better.

[StorminNorman]

I have a dream that involves South Carolina winning the SEC East.

And that dream is a freak accident where a plane carrying all the players from UGA crashes into a plane with all the players from UF, and the firey wreckage lands on a bus carrying all the players from Tennessee.

You take your wins how you can get 'em. :up:

At least you know your place :D :up:

We can still be good even when FL and TN are, but I'm certainly not hoping they'll be good so that we'll somehow be better.

Competing against the best makes you better. I don't simply want Georgia to be the best SEC team, I want them to be the best team in the country. I want success to be the result of our own skill, not the lack of it from others.

Georgia is one of the elite programs in the country, we bring in elite talent, we should be able to play against elite teams.

Beating Tennessee when they are down is fun, beating Tennessee when they are great is better.

[StorminNorman]

**** ucf.

[Cmill216]

:csad:

[Nell2ThaIzzay]

I know this isn't the biggest bowl game in existence, but is anyone watching?

My school MTSU is beating Southern Miss right now, late in the 3rd. Dwight Dasher making some pretty good plays with his arms and his legs.

[Dr. Evil]

http://forums.superherohype.com/showthread.php?t=318183

Should be posted there.

[VampElvis]

**** ucf.
and smu - two games in and I'm already toast in the pick 'em

[StorminNorman]

StorminNorman's decade in review:

Team of the Decade: Boise State

I see USC mentioned almost unanimously, but that's a rather dull and lackluster pick. USC, for all it's hype, has one BCS title and the fact they didn't win more is a product of underproduction.

I believe when people look back at this decade, it will be seen as the "rise of the mid-majors" as teams like TCU, Boise State and Utah have risen to the ranks of the Michigan's, Notre Dame's and Oklahoma's (and own more BCS bowl games than those three schools combined). The playoff system is a reality due to performance of the mid major schools and no program represents that better than Boise State.

They have been a model of consistency, replacing coaches and star players while remaining consistently in the top 25.

Giving us the best game of college football ever doesn't hurt either.

Boise State: Team of the Decade.

Coach of the Year: June Jones/Urban Meyer

It's possible for a good coach to look great by being in a great situation (Les Miles, anyone?) but it takes a truly special coach to bring a tradition of winning to multiple programs. Both of these men have done that.

Urban Meyer has won everywhere he has gone: Bowling Green, Utah and Florida. In Florida he has built, arguably, the best dynasty of the decade around Tim Tebow and was the only coach to win two BCS titles.

June Jones's performance simply cannot be ignored either. The combined record of Hawaii and SMU the year before he arrived? 1-23. In Hawaii, without any recruiting budget, with horrible facilities, relying upon nothing but coaching scheme, he went to a BCS Bowl. Under Jones tutelage, it seems passing records are broken every other year.

Last night's domination over Nevada (SMU's first bowl victory in 25 years) is simply further proof of the brilliance of Jones. No historical football power is in worse shape than SMU, nor has any historical football power ever been in worse shape than SMU. If any man can turn them around, it's June Jones.

Best Bowl Game: Oklahoma and Boise State

The best example of the game of college football ever witnessed. It had every story point you could ever want: David v. Goliath, the All Star (Adrian Peterson), the comeback (Oklahoma), the last second comeback (Boise State), overtime, the double overtime, the trick play, the player proposing to his girl friend. Best game ever.

Best Regular Season Game: Georgia at Auburn 2002

College football is all about loyalty, so this is a homer pick. That game put Georgia in it's first ever SEC Championship and established the program as a winner. Georgia has, ever since, been a constant factor in the SEC title race, been a top 10 recruiting school and a perennial top 10 finisher.

College Player of the Decade: Tim Tebow

He's mother****in' Tim Tebow. No other reason needed.

If you do need one, though, the man made an impact nationally from his rookie year one. A tremendous person, an amazing player, Tebow has justified every Tim Tebow joke made about him. The fact people are reduced to mocking his passion for the game (ala his crying) shows just how few flaws there are to him. He may or may not have a future throwing the ball in the NFL, but it's impossible to ignore his dominance.

Worst Part of the Decade: The BCS

A vile, corrupt, ridiculous system controlled by stuffy old guys that care more about the status quo than the good of the game. This year they have gone to all new lows with their insult to TCU and Boise in the Fiesta Bowl and their amazing incompetence in defending their system via Twitter and ridiculous websites.

The BCS, and everyone single person who defends it, hurt the game of college football.

[Immortalfire]

Urban Meyer to step down as Florida's coach (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=4772952)

Urban Meyer is stepping down as coach of the Florida football team, athletics director Jeremy Foley announced Saturday afternoon in a release.

"I have given my heart and soul to coaching college football and mentoring young men for the last 24-plus years and I have dedicated most of my waking moments the last five years to the Gator football program," Meyer said in statement. "I have ignored my health for years, but recent developments have forced me to re-evaluate my priorities of faith and family.

"After consulting with my family, Dr. Machen, Jeremy Foley and my doctors, I believe it is in my best interest to step aside and focus on my health and family.

"I'm proud to be a part of the Gainesville community and the Gator Nation and I plan to remain in Gainesville and involved with the University of Florida.

"I'm very appreciative for the opportunity I've had to be a part of a tremendous institution - from Dr. Machen to Jeremy Foley and the entire administrative staff at UF. I'm also very thankful for the chance to work with some of the best assistants in college football and coach some of the best college football players and watch them grow both on and off the field as people. I will cherish the relationships with them the most."

Meyer will coach his last game for Florida against Cincinnati on Jan. 1 at the Sugar Bowl. Whoa. Got no love a'tall for the Gators, but I hate for anyone to be sick in such a manner. Hope he feels better soon.

[Excel]

Damn.

[Dr. Evil]

That's craziness.

Also, isn't there a certain former NFL Head coach who has ties to the Gators?

[BlackLantern]

damn...damn...my best to Coach Meyer and his family

[Dr. Evil]

I did not think he would be the one to have health issues. Oh well, best of luck to him.

[Byrd Man]

Wow. Talk about an announcement coming outta left field.

[Mister J]

Damn. Hope Meyer's situation improves. That's a hell of a blow to come around this time of year.

[Excel]

His health issues must be pretty damn serious too.

[Mister J]

True. I don't like how abrupt it is. It reads really badly.

[Dr. Evil]

It was only a matter of time before the name "Bobby Petrino" surfaced as a possible candidate somewhere else:

http://espn.go.com/blog/sec/post/_/id/7585/stoops-petrino-mullen-all-worth-watching

[RachelDawes]

When the commentators during the Pitt game said they had an announcement that would shake the college football world, I thought Joe Paterno had died. Then, when they mentioned Meyers's name, I thought he had died. I was rather relieved to hear that he was just stepping down.

[omid17]

Worst names for college bowls (http://m.www.yahoo.com/_ylt=AtG5mTyUecNOD74pQ.fp24abvZx4;_ylu=X3oDMTNxMW4 5MmxwBGEDMDkxMjI1IGZpbmFuY2UgYm93bCBzcG9uc29ycyB0B GNjb2RlA3B6YnUEY3BvcwM0BGcDaWQtMTc2MTgEaW50bAN1cwR wa2d2AzE0BHBvcwMyBHNlYwN0ZC1mZWF0BHNsawN0aXRsZQRzb HBvcwNGBHRlc3QDODMy/SIG=12sdt3hd6/**http%3A//finance.yahoo.com/news/The-Worst-College-Bowl-usnews-510637145.html%3Fx=0%26.v=1)

[Immortalfire]

Good Grief..looks like Meyer is taking his cues from Brett Favre

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/news?slug=ap-t25-florida-meyer&prov=ap&type=lgns

NEW ORLEANS (AP)—Less than 24 hours after he resigned, Florida coach Urban Meyer is instead taking an indefinite leave of absence and opening the door for a return to the Gators.

A person familiar with decision told The Associated Press on Sunday that Meyer had changed his mind. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because no announcement had been made by the school.

Meyer is to speak at a news conference in New Orleans on Sunday afternoon.

On Saturday night, Meyer said he was stepping down after five seasons as Gators coach because of health concerns.

The University of Florida student newspaper, The New York Times and ESPN.com first reported Meyer’s change of plans.

[RachelDawes]

Worst names for college bowls (http://m.www.yahoo.com/_ylt=AtG5mTyUecNOD74pQ.fp24abvZx4;_ylu=X3oDMTNxMW4 5MmxwBGEDMDkxMjI1IGZpbmFuY2UgYm93bCBzcG9uc29ycyB0B GNjb2RlA3B6YnUEY3BvcwM0BGcDaWQtMTc2MTgEaW50bAN1cwR wa2d2AzE0BHBvcwMyBHNlYwN0ZC1mZWF0BHNsawN0aXRsZQRzb HBvcwNGBHRlc3QDODMy/SIG=12sdt3hd6/**http%3A//finance.yahoo.com/news/The-Worst-College-Bowl-usnews-510637145.html%3Fx=0%26.v=1)

The Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl dropped the Peach from its name? :huh: How hard is it for the bowl organizers to come up with a cool name for the bowl and then attach the sponsor's name to it?

[VampElvis]

.................................................. ...... and he's back!

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a78/nursetpd/Florida/Urban_Returns.gif

[StorminNorman]

Considering Urban Meyer is arguably the greatest College Football coach of all time, he has certainly earned the right to Brett Favre it.

[BlackLantern]

Mike Leach is being suspended for Texas Techs bowl game due to his treatment of a player injury

ESPN.com

[Arc-Light]

Considering Urban Meyer is arguably the greatest College Football coach of all time, he has certainly earned the right to Brett Favre it.

This was TIC right if not then ahhh false....

[Immortalfire]

Considering Urban Meyer is arguably the greatest College Football coach of all time,

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:



You've lost it Norm, I'm calling Arkham.

[StorminNorman]

This was TIC right if not then ahhh false....

No. Urban Meyer is arguably the best coach in NCAA history.

[StorminNorman]

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:



You've lost it Norm, I'm calling Arkham.

I'm sorry, but I enjoy and understand football far too much to undervalue the ability of Urban Meyer. What he has done during his career is simply outstanding.

Coaching, in the modern era, is so much more difficult than any era before it. It's a year round job and the competition is so fierce. Look at how indisputable coaching legends, like Bobby Bowden and Joe Paterno, have struggled in today's game.

Urban Meyer has found success at all levels of college football. He won at Bowling Green, taking a 2-9 team to an 8 win season. He did it at Utah, where he won a BCS bowl game and had an undefeated season (only coach to win 2 BCS bowls with two different teams). He did it in Florida where he created the best program of the decade with two BCS titles.

Meyer has won in an era where competition is the highest it has EVER been in College Football. He has shut down the state of Florida for recruiting and built programs wherever he has gone. Utah would not have had the year they had last year without Meyer.

Now is Urban Meyer the most SUCCESSFUL coach in NCAA history? Of course not, a 9 year career doesn't allow for that.

Is he the BEST coach? For my money he sure is.

[Immortalfire]

Meyer is a great coach for sure..but unless Bear Bryant has been erased from time, Urban is certainly NOT the greatest in history.

[StorminNorman]

Bear Bryant wouldn't survive in today's football world.

Urban Meyer would survive in his.

Give Urban Meyer the length of Bryant's career and there would be no room for debate.

[Immortalfire]

Bryant would quit because of the BCS.

First half was pretty pathetic, but in the second Dawgs whoop up on A & M. :up:

[Immortalfire]

What the puck is up with Mike Leach...he imprisoned a player? Wtf..

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/news?slug=ap-t25-texastech-leachsuspended&prov=ap&type=lgns

[Franklin Richards]

This from the guy who thinks Detroit is the perfect model for the NFL.


:thing: :doom: :thing:

[StorminNorman]

Sounds to me like Mike Leach is being guilty of having a player with a REALLY annoying dad.

His kid had a concussion... so he put him in a dark, secluded, air conditioned room. THE HORROR!

[Immortalfire]

Yeah..I did some additional reading, and the Dad is being a pain. Evidently being in a dark room is helpful after a concussion.

[StorminNorman]

Craig James has always been a bit of a *****.

[VampElvis]

Bear Bryant wouldn't survive in today's football world.

Urban Meyer would survive in his.

Give Urban Meyer the length of Bryant's career and there would be no room for debate.
:doh:

You're right there wouldn't. Meyer would fall to the wayside.

Bryant coached through a couple of different eras of college football adjusting his philosophy to match the times and the players. Meyer has not shown such flexibility. Bryant also (re)built and maintained a dynasty at a single school that lasted longer than 1.5 recruiting classes. Meyer might be able to pull that off given time, but he hasn't yet.

Don't get me wrong, I think Meyer is an excellent coach, but I don't think I've heard anyone say of Meyer, he can beat you with his, then take yours and beat his with them. And I don't think anyone would say that unless the other team ran the exact offensive and defensive systems as Meyer's did.

[BlackLantern]

so now there are rumors floating around that Mike Leach may be fired in the next 2-3 days

[StorminNorman]

In my perfect world, UCF would fire George O'Leary and hire Mike Leach the second that happened.

If Texas Tech is stupid enough to fire Leach, they deserve the mediocrity that will follow.

[NotFadeAway]

So I finally finished watching the 30 for 30 documentary about the Miami Hurricanes and wow, it was great. I loved the part when Miami was playing Oklahoma and at midfield, the Miami player looks at Brian Bosworth and says, "I ain't scared of you *****".

This is the attitude I would like to see the Bearcats come into the Sugar Bowl with, although it's not happening. But imagine Mardy Gilyard at midfield, looking at Brandon Spikes and saying, "I ain't scared of you *****, what are going to do, eye gauge me".

[StorminNorman]

:doh:

You're right there wouldn't. Meyer would fall to the wayside.

Bryant coached through a couple of different eras of college football adjusting his philosophy to match the times and the players. Meyer has not shown such flexibility. Bryant also (re)built and maintained a dynasty at a single school that lasted longer than 1.5 recruiting classes. Meyer might be able to pull that off given time, but he hasn't yet.

Don't get me wrong, I think Meyer is an excellent coach, but I don't think I've heard anyone say of Meyer, he can beat you with his, then take yours and beat his with them. And I don't think anyone would say that unless the other team ran the exact offensive and defensive systems as Meyer's did.

Since any response would be based on what-ifs, I will simply say that I understand the case for Bear Bryant. I simply believe, however, that the game has become far more difficult the last decade than it was before hand. For that reason I put the success Meyer on the highest level. I am simply floored by the consistency he has brought to every team he has coached and he has consistently proven me wrong whenever I have doubted him.

[Mister J]

Disgusting, Miami. Just disgusting. They couldn't have put up a ****tier effort if there was a prize for it.

[StorminNorman]

Miami couldn't handle the frigid conditions...

...of Orlando.

They need to oust Shannan as a Head Coach. The dude is over his head. The Head Coach of Miami needs a presence and personality - it's what separates the Shannan and Cokers from the Davis/Johnson/Schnellenbergers.

[Dr. Evil]

so now there are rumors floating around that Mike Leach may be fired in the next 2-3 days

And if Tech defensive coordinator Ruffin McNeil does not replace Leach, there will be the usual suspects of Tommy Tuberville and Phillip Fulmer. Also probably Tubbo Mangino.

And did anyone hear that Charlie Weis is rumored for the Buffalo Bills?

[NewYorkSpider]

I don't know if I like Weis to the Bills. I think the Bills should look at Brian Billick.

[StorminNorman]

And if Tech defensive coordinator Ruffin McNeil does not replace Leach, there will be the usual suspects of Tommy Tuberville and Phillip Fulmer. Also probably Tubbo Mangino.

And did anyone hear that Charlie Weis is rumored for the Buffalo Bills?

You can't can Leach and then hire a coach just fired for mistreatment of a player.

Weis should be a better NFL Head Coach than a College one.

[VampElvis]

1. @#^&*()$#^(*@&) Wisconsin, you always foul the works!
2. Agreed, no way Mangino goes to TT (but if he did could he see it?)
3. Don't know if I'm ready to close the book on Shannon. His teams have improved on the field every year during his tenure, even if the off field status seems bad. He's still finding his feet as the BMOC. I say give him a couple more years.
4. Re: Tubberville, more rumors have been floating around down here about him perhaps going to A&M - even though I haven't heard anything about Sherman's job being in jeopardy.
5. Would "Fat" Phil Fulmer stand a chance in a wing eating contest with Mangino?
I say maybe, but only because Mangino could stroke out or keel over from a heart attack without notice at any time.

[El_Citrus]

TEXAS TECH FIRES MIKE LEACH


Didn't think it would happen this quickly, but I expect him to find a new coaching position fairly easily.

[BlackLantern]

damn...so I guess Craig James and his son feel pretty good about themselves now....I hate when entitled little ****s get their way

[Parker Wayne]

Miami couldn't handle the frigid conditions...

...of Orlando.

They need to oust Shannan as a Head Coach. The dude is over his head. The Head Coach of Miami needs a presence and personality - it's what separates the Shannan and Cokers from the Davis/Johnson/Schnellenbergers.

I'm surprised with how little personality Shannon has when he was player for The U in the 80s. Did anyone catch that part in "The U" when they said Randy Shannon used to make bets with other players in the locker room over various actions in games.

I am still incredibly disappointed in Miami. I was looking forward to them being a National Championship contender next year. They look they'll probably play the Chick-Fil-A bowl next season.

What was with Jacory Harris? Mr. Cool and Comfortable didn't throw any interception but overthrew touchdown passes several times in the game and held on the ball too long also. I hope Harris becomes a better decision maker. That game was tough to watch (on offense, at least).

[Mister J]

Wow. Leach is out? Yoinks!

[El_Citrus]

Some are reporting that this was just the tiniest excuse the administration needed to get rid of him, since allegedly they weren't very fond of Leach, but didn't have a reason to fire him until now.

[Immortalfire]

Man, they canned him quick. I knew there was some bad blood between him and the admins..guess this latest thing was the "reason" they needed to get rid of him.

[Dr. Evil]

Watch Texas Tech pass on DC Ruffin McNeil for Tommy Tuberville.

[BlackLantern]

Ruffin? Ruffin? he should be passed over for that name alone

[StorminNorman]

Texas Tech should hire June Jones.

[El_Citrus]

Texas Tech should hire June Jones.

Would Jones leave after just one season at SMU?

[BlackLantern]

what Leach should do is sue Craig and Adam James for being ****bags

[Mister J]

I rather see Jones stay at SMU. Hopefully, he can bring that program an air of relevance again. Him leaving would muck up the works for another 5 years

...unless Leach took the SMU job after Jones left. :awesome:

[StorminNorman]

Would Jones leave after just one season at SMU?

SMU is a Conference USA team. Texas Tech is a BCS team.

Yes. (Plus he has been there two years).

I rather see Jones stay at SMU. Hopefully, he can bring that program an air of relevance again. Him leaving would muck up the works for another 5 years

...unless Leach took the SMU job after Jones left. :awesome:

Perfect.

[El_Citrus]

SMU is a Conference USA team. Texas Tech is a BCS team.

Yes. (Plus he has been there two years).

I forgot he'd been there two years. Could he have gotten a BCS team after Hawaii? It seems like he enjoys taking irrelevant teams and turning them completely around.


I think Leach will end up at another BCS school.

[VampElvis]

damn...so I guess Craig James and his son feel pretty good about themselves now....I hate when entitled little ****s get their way

Quite a track record for Craig James. I guess helping get SMU the death penalty just wasn't enough on his resume.

[BlackLantern]

Quite a track record for Craig James. I guess helping get SMU the death penalty just wasn't enough on his resume.

He is now the epitome of the ******* field father...was a sorry ass NFL player now trying to live through his kid

[Immortalfire]

Craig is acting like the classic little league parent..who tries to tell the coach how to do his job, or actually IS the coach who plays his no-talent kid just because he's his kid.

Only he's acting ten times dumber.

[Dr. Evil]

June Jones has said that SMU will be his last job.

Besides, I suspect that the names Tommy Tuberville, Tommy Bowden, Phil Fulmer and Kevin Sumlin will be brought up, as will names like Art Briles and Guy Morriss.

[VampElvis]

Here's the closet....

http://www.kcbd.com/global/Category.asp?C=151146&clipId=&topVideoCatNo=108431&topVideoCatNoB=108535&topVideoCatNoC=111448&topVideoCatNoD=108536&topVideoCatNoE=111449&autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=4421239&flvUri=&partnerclipid

[Arc-Light]

There is more to the Leach situation than his treatment of the James kid....he really must of burned a lot of bridges at TTU...to get fired.

[BlackLantern]

its because he doesn't play the game and kiss booster and administration ass

[StorminNorman]

While it seems as if the vast majority of people connected to the Texas Tech football program have blasted the school's decision (http://www.redraiders.com/2009/12/30/stoops-former-raiders-stunned-by-leachs-dismissal/) to fire Mike Leach as their head coach, at least two players are shedding no tears over the dismissal.

In fact, they heavily intimated that it was a well-deserved end to a prolific, relatively speaking, career.


One player in particular was especially pleased over the developments.


"I have no complaints about this decision. [Leach] put Adam [James] in a shed like an animal. Like an animal in a cage. That was bull (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/bowls09/news/story?id=4781981)," defensive lineman Chris Perry was quoted as saying. "You call other players. I think it was a good decision. We have our pep back now. We practice hard this week. We had less stress this week. You know why? Because he's gone."


Perry wasn't the only player who felt the punishment fit the crime.


"The players make this team, not one coach," cornerback Taylor Charbonnet (no relation) said. "As Adam's friend, I didn't like it at all what [Leach] did. He was my brother and I didn't agree with it. I don't know why [Leach] did that. But I know we are fully behind [interim] coach Ruffin [McNeill]. We love him and support him."


CollegeFootballTalk.com

[Darthphere]

"The players make this team, not one coach"

Yeah, players he recruited, like you, because you wanted to play for him.

[StorminNorman]

That Humanitarian Bowl was epic. More coaches should go for two at the end of the game.

Think about it, don't most coaches want the option of being three yards away from victory?

[VampElvis]

It was an awesome finish. And then ESPN had to ruin my college football evening as they circled the wagons at half time of the Holiday Bowl, which Craig James is calling, and went after Leach. Thankfully the game was out of hand so I didn't feel bad about switching it off rather than take in more of that garbage. I'm considering going to work dressed as a pirate tomorrow in protest.

[StorminNorman]

NEVER FORGET!

Fk7tXx1ZP7g

[Dr. Evil]

I'm going to predict Leach's replacement:

- Baylor coach Art Briles

[Dr. Evil]

edit.

[StorminNorman]

I'll give the edge to the coach from Houston, though he may want to wait another year with Keenum staying.

[redfirebird2008]

As a 2008 graduate of Texas Tech, all I will say is this:

F**k you Jim Sowell, Kent Hance, Gerald Myers, Guy Bailey, and the rest of the good ol' boys that ran Mike Leach out of town. I am not ashamed to say that I hope my school gets taken to the cleaners over this in a court of law. If it helps cause a house cleaning in Texas Tech's administration, I am all for it.

This situation reeks of premeditation similar to Tuberville's ouster from Auburn. Sowell is our version of Bobby Lowder. This situation sucks. One of the local TV stations did a poll over the last few days and 90% of respondents support Leach. And when you move to the student fanbase, the numbers are off the charts (darn near 100%). The administration timed this for a number of reasons, two of which are trying to avoid paying him his $800,000 bonus and avoiding riots on campus since kids are on Christmas holiday (riots definitely would have happened if this was during the semester). This snakepit administration is on an egotrip and they don't give a damn about the program. It's more about stroking their egos rather than what is best for Red Raider Nation. :(

[Trainwreck2100]

The alamo bowl is going to be so bad this year. At least they pick up the #2 PAC 10 team next year

[Immortalfire]

Word on the street is that Tommy Tuberville is interested in the TX Tech job. Though I recall he had trouble with the Auburn administration and boosters...wonder how Tech would be.

[VampElvis]

They don't really have the personnel to run the type of offense he likes.....

[VampElvis]

What a terrible call in the OU/Stanford game. Blocked into that punt returner? My big ole butt!

[Kelly]

Yep, I'm watching that game....VERY BAD CALL...

Now OU is pissed, and giving away yardage on penalties...

[Immortalfire]

What a terrible call in the OU/Stanford game. Blocked into that punt returner? My big ole butt!

I'm not at home to see, but that description sounds ridiculous.

[redfirebird2008]

Word on the street is that Tommy Tuberville is interested in the TX Tech job. Though I recall he had trouble with the Auburn administration and boosters...wonder how Tech would be.

Auburn's booster situation is even more troublesome than Tech's. Tuberville would definitely fit in with the Lubbock "good old boys" more than Leach ever did. Leach was a complete outsider.

[VampElvis]

If they are into BBQ and duck hunting Tubs'll fit right in.

and are you the one that posted The James Gang cell #s red?:cwink:

[Kelly]

There is more to the Leach situation than his treatment of the James kid....he really must of burned a lot of bridges at TTU...to get fired.


It is because of the contract negotiations...the James kid has a reputation with many college coaches, and they are writing letters to Tech on Leach's behalf to say the same thing that the Tech coaches are saying. James is lazy, bullheaded, and disrespectful.

This will get very interesting before its over...


Anyone that is a respected friend of Donald Trump is definitely an outsider in Lubbock...lmao.

[NotFadeAway]

It's nice to see that Nebraska might be on there way back up to prominence. I've missed them, and while I wish Paul Johnson would have gotten the coaching job there and installed the triple otion, I'm still happy for the Cornhuskers. There the only Big 12 North team that actually has a shot at beating a Big 12 South power like Texas and Oklahoma, and buy default they can also beat Texas Tech and Oklahoma State, teams that usually win against the Big 12 North.

Also, I've decided that everytime Tim Tebow runs over a Bearcat defender one on one, I'm drinking a shot. The Bearcats are my team, but I'm scared for them.

[StorminNorman]

I actually picked Cincinnati before the whole Meyer thing went down (along the lines that Florida wouldnt' be inspired to play in the Sugar Bowl). I am now regretting that decision - though I still think there is a chance Cinci comes out inspired.

[redfirebird2008]

The Mike Leach story is starting to turn in Leach's favor, even on ESPN. Tonight they interviewed him and he was able to tell a bit of his side of the story. It appears that Craig James will be fired from ESPN in the near future once Leach releases the smoking gun voicemail(s) of him badgering the coaching staff to give his son more playing time because his dad works for ESPN. ESPN apparently already questioned James on this matter before Leach ever made the allegations. James denied it. So either Leach is lying or James is.

Leach has a signed statement from the doctor who diagnosed Adam James' concussion. This doctor said that Leach's actions did not place Adam at risk for further injury. And on top of this, the head trainer of the team has released a statement that jives with Leach's side of the story in direct contradiction with Adam James' story. Even ESPN released this statement on their website. The tide is definitely turning after ESPN sensationalized the bullcrap rumors initially reported by anonymous sources (aka Craig James, their buddy).

In ESPN's interview with Leach, they didn't even bother mentioning the booster emails to the Chancellor during the contract negotiations earlier this year. It is obvious Jim Sowell (big time Tech booster and former Chairman of the Board of Regents) hates Leach's guts. The emails mentioned that they wanted to fire Leach after the 2009 season. To make this situation worse, there is a rumor that one of the Lubbock TV networks is currently investigating an alleged partnership in a wind farm business between Chancellor Kent Hance and Craig James. I think this Jim Sowell fellow needs to be investigated as well. I think there has been a conspiracy here. The question is just how bad is the conspiracy? How deep is the rabbit hole? Craig James is wanting to run for the U.S. Senate. Given Sowell's hatred for Leach and Adam James' lack of credibility, I would be very interested to know where Craig James gets his funding if and when he does try to run for the Senate. If Leach has the smoking gun voicemails, however, Craig James' political career will be over before it ever gets started.

Here are the emails. Note that Jim Sowell was not a member of the Board of Regents at the time he sent these emails to the Chancellor. This means he wasn't an employee of the school while being involved in these negotiations. Also of note is that there is one email that supports Leach. The name is blacked out on this email. I've heard rumors that it is from Ed Whitacre (current CEO of General Motors and former CEO of AT&T):

http://everythinglubbock.com/media/pdf/leach2009-12-31-1262281289.pdf


Here's the stuff about the voicemails as well as the doctor and trainer:

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/01/sports/ncaafootball/01leach.html?ref=sports


Here is ESPN's report on the trainer as well as the video interview with Leach:

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=4787194


I hope he takes them to the cleaners. They could have easily fired him "without cause" and simply paid his $1.6 million buyout. But they chose to take James' word for it in an effort to pull a character assassination move on Leach to get out of paying him a single cent by firing him "with cause." When this is all said and done I think it's going to cost them around $20 million to Leach, and who knows how much in legal fees.

[Addendum]

Even college football is going the TMZ route. Glad I dropped the sport in '08

[Dr. Evil]

Navy defeats Mizzou 35-13 at the Texas Bowl. The Midshipmen run for 385 yards, 166 of them from QB Ricky Dobbs. Unreal.....Air Force also runs for 402 yards as they crush Houston 47-20 at the Armed Forces Bowl. I have got to feel the love for those guys though because soon after their football careers end, they will be headed off to Iraq or Afghanistan to fight to defend our country.

[Immortalfire]

What the puck...Northwestern's QB already has 240 passing yards, but Auburn is up 21-7.

[Trainwreck2100]

What the puck...Northwestern's QB already has 240 passing yards, but Auburn is up 21-7.

he got picked off in the end zone..............twice

and 1 was a pick6

[Immortalfire]

I saw the pick six, then had to step out, so I didn't know what's been happening.

[El_Citrus]

Let's go, Mountaineers! Show Bowden that he should have retired years ago.

[VampElvis]

I saw the pick six, then had to step out, so I didn't know what's been happening.

Too bad you missed the 100+ yard INT return. It was something.
Of course just before the half they left Cody Burns throw a pass. Result? You guessed it - INT!

[SuperJediHero]

Bobby Bowden's Final game!

http://img34.imageshack.us/img34/5650/floridastateseminoles.png

GO FSU Seminoles!!!

66EGupRNDYU

[Immortalfire]

Oh my...Auburn/NW is now tied :wow:

[SuperJediHero]

Here comes the Seminoles!!!

[Kelly]

Go Seminoles......Help the old man go out with a win, he deserves it.


And damn the Penn St./LSU game is just one big mud hole...its terrible.

[Immortalfire]

NW's quarterback has 413 yards....and 5 interceptions. lol

[NotFadeAway]

I actually picked Cincinnati before the whole Meyer thing went down (along the lines that Florida wouldnt' be inspired to play in the Sugar Bowl). I am now regretting that decision - though I still think there is a chance Cinci comes out inspired.

That was my thinking as well, that Florida wouldn't care. But with the Meyer situation, and the fact that Cincy's NT isn't that much bigger than Tebow, I think there in trouble, and there without Brian Kelley.

I wish Cincy hadn't hired Butch Jones so quickly, they could have gotten Mike Leach.

[SuperJediHero]

A good punt by WV, these sacks put them 30+ yards loss

[StorminNorman]

Go Seminoles......Help the old man go out with a win, he deserves it.


And damn the Penn St./LSU game is just one big mud hole...its terrible.

I really don't want to see them shove the mic in Bobby's face after the game. That poor man is going to be a wreck.

Every member of the FSU administration who approved their treatment of a man whose importance to that University is far greater than their own (or any other single individual) can go to hell. Seminole hell. Which is probably Jacksonville.

[Kelly]

That was my thinking as well, that Florida wouldn't care. But with the Meyer situation, and the fact that Cincy's NT isn't that much bigger than Tebow, I think there in trouble, and there without Brian Kelley.

I wish Cincy hadn't hired Butch Jones so quickly, they could have gotten Mike Leach.

Send Leach to Dallas to coach the Cowboys....he's just the kind of ******* Jones likes.....lmao.

[Kelly]

The Mike Leach story is starting to turn in Leach's favor, even on ESPN. Tonight they interviewed him and he was able to tell a bit of his side of the story. It appears that Craig James will be fired from ESPN in the near future once Leach releases the smoking gun voicemail(s) of him badgering the coaching staff to give his son more playing time because his dad works for ESPN. ESPN apparently already questioned James on this matter before Leach ever made the allegations. James denied it. So either Leach is lying or James is.

Leach has a signed statement from the doctor who diagnosed Adam James' concussion. This doctor said that Leach's actions did not place Adam at risk for further injury. And on top of this, the head trainer of the team has released a statement that jives with Leach's side of the story in direct contradiction with Adam James' story. Even ESPN released this statement on their website. The tide is definitely turning after ESPN sensationalized the bullcrap rumors initially reported by anonymous sources (aka Craig James, their buddy).

In ESPN's interview with Leach, they didn't even bother mentioning the booster emails to the Chancellor during the contract negotiations earlier this year. It is obvious Jim Sowell (big time Tech booster and former Chairman of the Board of Regents) hates Leach's guts. The emails mentioned that they wanted to fire Leach after the 2009 season. To make this situation worse, there is a rumor that one of the Lubbock TV networks is currently investigating an alleged partnership in a wind farm business between Chancellor Kent Hance and Craig James. I think this Jim Sowell fellow needs to be investigated as well. I think there has been a conspiracy here. The question is just how bad is the conspiracy? How deep is the rabbit hole? Craig James is wanting to run for the U.S. Senate. Given Sowell's hatred for Leach and Adam James' lack of credibility, I would be very interested to know where Craig James gets his funding if and when he does try to run for the Senate. If Leach has the smoking gun voicemails, however, Craig James' political career will be over before it ever gets started.

Here are the emails. Note that Jim Sowell was not a member of the Board of Regents at the time he sent these emails to the Chancellor. This means he wasn't an employee of the school while being involved in these negotiations. Also of note is that there is one email that supports Leach. The name is blacked out on this email. I've heard rumors that it is from Ed Whitacre (current CEO of General Motors and former CEO of AT&T):

http://everythinglubbock.com/media/pdf/leach2009-12-31-1262281289.pdf


Here's the stuff about the voicemails as well as the doctor and trainer:

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/01/sports/ncaafootball/01leach.html?ref=sports


Here is ESPN's report on the trainer as well as the video interview with Leach:

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=4787194


I hope he takes them to the cleaners. They could have easily fired him "without cause" and simply paid his $1.6 million buyout. But they chose to take James' word for it in an effort to pull a character assassination move on Leach to get out of paying him a single cent by firing him "with cause." When this is all said and done I think it's going to cost them around $20 million to Leach, and who knows how much in legal fees.


I hope Leach takes Tech for all they are worth...

I hate Texas Tech with a passion. The University I graduated from was Midwestern State University, it is under the A&M umbrella, and A&M allows it to keep its name. Tech wanted to buy it, but cried like a baby when the MSU Alumni said sure but you can't call it Texas Tech University At Wichita Falls....they pulled out like a little baby. Too bad for them, MSU is ranked #15 of the top 50 colleges of its size nationwide, and #1 in its region. They screwed up big time, but hey...no sweat off of this graduate. :cwink: Take them to the cleaners Leach...I can't wait when Leach shows up in court with Donald's Trumps lawyers...lmao.

[BlackLantern]

Craig James is lying like a sum*****...he was a mediocre NFL player who is now a field father, hoping his kid can excel where he didn't....he's had a nice cushy tv job and thinks he can lord it over people....**** Craig James and his offspring....

ESPN is going to cut him loose to save face and hopefully Mike Leach gets some closure out of this

[StorminNorman]

Both Bud Foster and Jon Chevis have decided to return to their teams (VT and LSU) at a higher pay rate than become Georgia's defensive coordinator.

Personally, this is good news. If Georgia doesn't sign a guy before the National Championship game, Kirby Smart should be the guy.

[Immortalfire]

Holy cow..Auburn got lucky today.

FSU and WV is tight

[Kelly]

Congrats to FSU and Bobby, a hell of a career in college football.

[VampElvis]

And once again a Les Miles LSU team blows it in the 4th and has a last minute meltdown. When are people going to realize this guy is the most overrated coach in the SEC? (I don't want to think about how many points that cost me in the pick 'em)

[El_Citrus]

I knew it was a bad day when WVU got FSU for the Gator Bowl. We didn't change our offense one bit when FSU dialed up the blitzes after being down 14-3. Stewart says he'll have a national title contender in 2011. He better make good on that.

[StorminNorman]

And once again a Les Miles LSU team blows it in the 4th and has a last minute meltdown. When are people going to realize this guy is the most overrated coach in the SEC? (I don't want to think about how many points that cost me in the pick 'em)

LSU needs Tommy Tubberville. Les Miles is the dumbest coach in College Football.

I knew it was a bad day when WVU got FSU for the Gator Bowl. We didn't change our offense one bit when FSU dialed up the blitzes after being down 14-3. Stewart says he'll have a national title contender in 2011. He better make good on that.

Stewart is the second.

WVU is the only team that would hire him to head coach a BCS team.

[Immortalfire]

And once again a Les Miles LSU team blows it in the 4th and has a last minute meltdown. When are people going to realize this guy is the most overrated coach in the SEC?

They probably would have by now, he hadn't lucked into the BCS title win over the Buckeyes.

LSU needs Tommy Tubberville. Les Miles is the dumbest coach in College Football.


And the most quotable. "Have a great day."

[El_Citrus]

Stewart is the second.

WVU is the only team that would hire him to head coach a BCS team.

I partially agree. He was hired on an emotional win and "won" himself a job, but the honeymoon is starting to wear off now that the last remnants of Rodriguez's recruiting is graduating. If Stewart doesn't produce next year and doesn't make good on his 2011 hopes, then I'll want him gone, especially if WVU doesn't produce quality conference wins next year.

[Dr. Evil]

NW's quarterback has 413 yards....and 5 interceptions. lol

Those are "Jay Cutler Type" Numbers. And they even play in the same city! Okay, NW is in Evanston, but it's a suburb of Chicago.

[SuperJediHero]

FSU Baby!!!

[The Game]

What the hell OSU finally got it done, yep 2010 is going to be a weird year

[StorminNorman]

I picked OSU :up:

First place in my Bowl pick 'em. Would love to take home that 180 dollar check :up:

[Immortalfire]

Ohio State won a BCS game? I am in a state of shock :eek:

[BlackLantern]

don't doubt the sweater vest

[Immortalfire]

I actually have a Georgia sweater vest..chicks dig it :up:

[BlackLantern]

I was hoping Oregon would have put up more of a fight....maybe they should have rocked the all black uniforms and bright yellow helmets

[El_Citrus]

They should have broken out the CARBON helmets...

http://i881.photobucket.com/albums/ac19/El_Citrus/new-oregon-ducks-football-uniforms-.jpg

Eh? Ehhhh????

[Immortalfire]

:facepalm:

[BlackLantern]

its for speed

[Darthphere]

Stop hating Fire, those things are awesome.

[BlackLantern]

'Fire can't handle the awesome of Oregons fashion sense

[El_Citrus]

I'm waiting for an all yellow outfit next year, with a yellow helmet, yellow jersey, and yellow pants, and for them to call it the "Rubber Duck" (As opposed to the all black "Ninja Duck").

[BlackLantern]

Carbon Helmet, Black Jerseys, Carbon Pants = Turbo Duck

[Immortalfire]

BL, you better copyright Turbo Duck right now. It could be the next big hero franchise.

[BlackLantern]

did it 3 years ago

[Immortalfire]

:eek:

[Addendum]

BL, you better copyright Turbo Duck right now. It could be the next big hero franchise.

http://wireless.ign.com/articles/962/962864p1.html

[BlackLantern]

damn Brits...my royalty chick better be in the mail

[Immortalfire]

*goes to app store*

[Kelly]

damn Brits...my royalty chick better be in the mail


They are sending you a chick through the mail? Hope there's holes in the box...

[BlackLantern]

check...I meant check...

[El_Citrus]

They are sending you a chick through the mail? Hope there's holes in the box...

I don't think those are the holes he's most concerned about...

[Kelly]

good grief...

[Immortalfire]

BL has a mail order bride coming? I love weddings!

Florida vs. Cincy is rolling on...I mean, Tim Tebow's last game vs. Cincy is rolling on. That's what ESPN has been calling it.

[StorminNorman]

Can we take the Big East out of the BCS?

The Mountain West is a far superior conference.

[BlackLantern]

No...the Big East earned that spot, so Cincy slipped up, it happens...

[Boom]

Well. I turned off the CIN/FL game for two reasons.

1) Cincinnati is getting SPANKED, and deservedly so. They are getting outplayed on both sides of the ball.
2) I'm getting really sick of the announcers' collective blowjob for Tebow.

[StorminNorman]

No...the Big East earned that spot, so Cincy slipped up, it happens...

How did the Big East earn that spot? It's a second rate conference that has gotten exceedingly worse with the loss of coaching talent like Bobby Petrino and Rich Rodriguez.

The Big East is inferior to the WAC and the Mountain West currently.

[Trainwreck2100]

This is why TCU should have played Fla. And Boise should have played Cincy. But those BCS jerks didn't have the stones to do it.

[Darthphere]

How did the Big East earn that spot? It's a second rate conference that has gotten exceedingly worse with the loss of coaching talent like Bobby Petrino and Rich Rodriguez.

The Big East is inferior to the WAC and the Mountain West currently.

The Big East has been made dramatically irrelevant ever since teams like The U and BC left. There's a few bright spots, I think Pitt might be a team to reckon with in coming years.

[BlackLantern]

Petrino is a coward and Rich Rod wanted a high profile job....Im a UConn fan and maybe one day they'll make it to a BCS bowl...that's why

plus, the Big East has a better tv market than the Mountain West and the BCS cares about money and ratings, not who has the best teams

[StorminNorman]

The Big East has been made dramatically irrelevant ever since teams like The U and BC left. There's a few bright spots, I think Pitt might be a team to reckon with in coming years.

The irony, of course, is that since Miami, VT and BC left the Big East - the ACC has actually become a worse conference than even the Big East.

Petrino is a coward and Rich Rod wanted a high profile job....Im a UConn fan and maybe one day they'll make it to a BCS bowl...that's why

plus, the Big East has a better tv market than the Mountain West and the BCS cares about money and ratings, not who has the best teams

I understand loyalty making you want the Big East remain a BCS team (I want UCF to join the conference for a taste of the BCS) but the play on the field isn't up to snuff.

Of course the proper thing to do would be to eliminate Automatic Qualifiers and simply allow Bowls to pick based on merit and not conference.

[Marx]

Cincinnati is getting destroyed. :csad:

[VampElvis]

Well. I turned off the CIN/FL game for two reasons.

1) Cincinnati is getting SPANKED, and deservedly so. They are getting outplayed on both sides of the ball.
2) I'm getting really sick of the announcers' collective blowjob for Tebow.

Say what you want, but I'm gonna miss looking up the scriptures he uses.
Did anyone else notice the scripture on the Cincy offensive player's arm? If there are any Bearcat fans in here I'd love to know if this is something new or if he's been doing this all year.

I'm also rooting for Tebow to grab the BCS single game all purpose yards record. Probably won't happen, but I think it'd be a fitting end to the Trail of Tears.

[Ironfan72]

Great win by Ohio State, nice to see them get a win after the last 3 bowl games. And what is that smell, is that Cincy stinking up the Sugar Bowl, thought they would play better than what they are.

[StorminNorman]

Picking Cinci over Florida and Tennessee over VT were my two really bad misreads. I made the pick before Meyer's whole ordeal, so I thought Florida would be lazy and Cinci's feeling disrespected.

I also picked Miami, Houston and Stanford to win. Wish I would have known Luck was not playing for Stanford :(

I still can take home my Bowl Pick Em with Iowa over GT, Boise over TCU and East Carolina over Arkansas.

[Marx]

Great win by Ohio State, nice to see them get a win after the last 3 bowl games. And what is that smell, is that Cincy stinking up the Sugar Bowl, thought they would play better than what they are.

The way they're playing is downright shameful. Brian Kelly or no Brian Kelly...they are better than this. :cmad:

[Ironfan72]

The way they're playing is downright shameful. Brian Kelly or no Brian Kelly...they are better than this. :cmad:

I agree, I live in Columbus and alot of people I've talked with really thought Cincy would come out a play hard to prove something to Kelly, but I guess not, plus we heard most of the about Cincy being better that OSU, not proving it right now, they haven't slowed Florida down at all.

[Arc-Light]

Ohio State won a BCS game? I am in a state of shock :eek:
We are 5-3 in BCS games.....yuppers.

[VampElvis]

Tebow HAS set the BCS single game all purpose yards mark!
Now, let's see if he can get to 500!

[The Game]

The Sugar Bowl has been horrible for the past couple of years, Cinnci seem to want Tebow to go out on a high

[Ironfan72]

We are 5-3 in BCS games.....yuppers.

People forget that OSU has actually been pretty good in BCS games under Tressel.
Winning games against Miami (National title), Kansas State, Notre Dame and Oklahoma State, lossing badly to LSU and Florida (which is what everyone remembers), and losing a tough game last year to Texas, a game OSU could have won.
Plus the Big Ten improved there standing this bowl season with nice wins and close loses.

[Immortalfire]

Good Grief..Cincy never had a chance.

[FaT_tONle]

How did the Big East earn that spot? It's a second rate conference that has gotten exceedingly worse with the loss of coaching talent like Bobby Petrino and Rich Rodriguez.

The Big East is inferior to the WAC and the Mountain West currently.

Uhh.... no.

[Dr. Evil]

Cincy gave up a lot of yards to a future NFL H-Back....not something those Cincy players will want to tell their kids in the future.

[StorminNorman]

Cincy gave up a lot of yards to a future NFL H-Back....not something those Cincy players will want to tell their kids in the future.
Actually all of those kids will love telling their kids they played against the best college football player of all time.

[Addendum]

Yeah, they're really going to like talking about a loss. Because then they'll finally have something to top it: the look of disappointment in their offspring's face

[Byrd Man]

USC playing UCONN in the Papajohns.com Bowl. WOO! We're winning that trophy of a pizza....inside of a computer monitor.....WOO!

[El_Citrus]

Tebow HAS set the BCS single game all purpose yards mark!
Now, let's see if he can get to 500!

He ended the day with 533 total yards. ESPN needs a new pair of pants right about now.

[Trainwreck2100]

This Cotton Bowl game is far-far-far away from being a "classic"

[StorminNorman]

Classic Fail?

Though McClester and Powe look great.

[Parker Wayne]

How did the Big East earn that spot? It's a second rate conference that has gotten exceedingly worse with the loss of coaching talent like Bobby Petrino and Rich Rodriguez.

The Big East is inferior to the WAC and the Mountain West currently.

:pal::lmao::pal:


Picking Cinci over Florida and Tennessee over VT were my two really bad misreads. I made the pick before Meyer's whole ordeal, so I thought Florida would be lazy and Cinci's feeling disrespected.

I also picked Miami, Houston and Stanford to win. Wish I would have known Luck was not playing for Stanford :(

I still can take home my Bowl Pick Em with Iowa over GT, Boise over TCU and East Carolina over Arkansas.

Oh, I wanna forget that game. They didn't get blown out, but it was one of the most disappointing games I've seen Miami play, including several this season. It also killed a few of my expectations for next season.


Well. I turned off the CIN/FL game for two reasons.

1) Cincinnati is getting SPANKED, and deservedly so. They are getting outplayed on both sides of the ball.
2) I'm getting really sick of the announcers' collective blowjob for Tebow.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=El_Citrus;17899762]He ended the day with 533 total yards. ESPN needs a new pair of pants right about now.

I will be honest. I'm a Miami Hurricanes fan and I like Tim Tebow. He seems like he's destined to do something great whether in football (which looks unlikely), or in something else, but I am tired of ESPN and other media's love of Tebow. All they do is talk about Tebow and blush over Tebow. It's gets so annoying that I turn off Sportscenter when they mention him.

[Immortalfire]

I am tired of ESPN and other media's love of Tebow. All they do is talk about Tebow and blush over Tebow. It's gets so annoying that I turn off Sportscenter when they mention him.

Every couple of years, they change their ONE guy. Reggie Bush, Beanie Wells, and Tebow is the latest. They stay on said guy all of their career, and the hell with everyone else...it's that lack of balance that I find annoying.

[Excel]

Beanie Wells??? Its been Tebow pretty much his entire career for ESPN with Mark Sanchez injected in a bit...before him it was Reggie. But Beanie Wells?

[Immortalfire]

By my observation, yes. They yakked about him quite a bit..when he got hurt, they practically became Beanie Watch '08.

[rdh007]

As I was watching Florida blow out Cinci, all I could think was "Are they going to have a pizza party to watch Alabama play in the national championship game?"

Also, I don't care much for Urb. This recent will he/won't he has not helped him in my eyes. I'm certain he's concerned about my opinion.

[StorminNorman]

By my observation, yes. They yakked about him quite a bit..when he got hurt, they practically became Beanie Watch '08.

Can you blame them?

Beanie Wells got hurt before the Ohio State/USC game - arguably the biggest non conference matchup of the regular season. You add in the fact that Beanie Wells was one of the best players in the country and considered a Heisman candidate before the season started...his injury was a HUGE NCAA Story. Just like Tom Brady's injury was a HUGE NFL story. Just like Michael Vick's injury was a HUGE NFL story.

Tim Tebow coverage has been non stop because Tebow has EARNED the attention. He has been a Heisman contender for 3 years. He has set all sorts of records. He has been the MVP of a team that has been in the race for the National Championship three of their four years.

Reggie Bush was drooled about for the same reasons.

How much more coverage does Peyton Manning get over Chad Henne? How much more coverage does LeBron get over Matt Barnes? How much more coverage does A-Rod get over (I don't know enough about baseball to place MLB equivalent here).

[Excel]

Pretty much. Lets be honest, saying Reggie Bush was "overhyped" is bs. He was that good in college

[VampElvis]

And it seems he was paid well for his performance (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3087571). Why isn't the NCAA looking into this crap? Get them out west and away from my beloved SEC!

[BlackLantern]

And it seems he was paid well for his performance (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3087571). Why isn't the NCAA looking into this crap? Get them out west and away from my beloved SEC!

the NCAA is looking into things like this...did you not just hear that USC is vacating all 21 of their wins and are imposing a post season ban on themselves....just because YOU don't hear about it, doesn't mean the NCAA isn't doing anything

[VampElvis]

No, I haven't heard that. When was it announced?

But still, this crap has been floating around for darn near 4 years and only now is it being taken with any seriousness.

[BlackLantern]

just last night....all that flap over OJ Mayo....USC is self imposing sanctions (mainly because the NCAA would probably do much worse)....it has been lax before, but over the past 3 years Id say, the NCAA is cracking down hard on recruting violations, gifts, boosters, all that crap

[VampElvis]

Wait a minute, I see where USC is forfeiting basketball wins and has self imposed a post season basketball ban, but how does this relate to the football program? Am I missing another story?

[BlackLantern]

yes...the NCAA does oversee all NCAA sports

[VampElvis]

And another post tangential to the point of the discussion. Let me make a simple statement to return to the original subject of my own tangential post. Reggie Bush was paid when he was in college. It's been pretty much established for 3-4 years now and nothing has been done about it by Southern Cal or the NCAA. And now there is a lawsuit that will force discovery and give them both a black eye. And hopefully send all their investigators to the Left Coast.

[BlackLantern]

ok...and Im pretty sure Reggie Bush isn't the only player to receive such benefits....I remember when Miami got hit in the face with all their financial fraud stuff back in the nineties

[Immortalfire]

Kentucky coach Rich Brooks is retiring, is the word on the street. Offensive co-ordinator Joker Phillips is set to take over as HC.

[VampElvis]

A Joker the head coach of Kentucky? It just kinda writes itsself doesn't it?

[El_Citrus]

Boise State vs TCU tonight. Who ya got? I personally think TCU has a chance to thoroughly establish their dominance this year and prove tonight that they should be playing in the National Championship game, not Texas.

[StorminNorman]

I love Boise State on a big stage.

http://i957.photobucket.com/albums/ae56/Poppajo8/College/Boise.jpg