I know Rick Reilly generally doesn't need anyone to drive traffice to his site on espn.com, but here's a great column I read this morning.
Happy New Year to everyone.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Rose Bowl Game Presented by Citi Haiku
Feds bail out Penn State.
Carroll undefeated when
playing Big 10 foes.
Carroll undefeated when
playing Big 10 foes.
Shanahan Fired
Former Oklahoma assistant coach Mike Shanahan, who learned enough under Switzer in one year to carry him into a 30+ year coaching career with multiple Super Bowl rings, was fired by the Broncos today.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Pacific Life Holiday Bowl Haiku
No D in Ducks-Pokes
Coach Hair Gel calls his own plays
In Bowl victory
Coach Hair Gel calls his own plays
In Bowl victory
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Mike Stoops lands record deal
Earlier this week, Arizona officials announced occasionally embattled head football coach Mike Stoops would receive a contract extension through 2013. subject to approval by the U of A Board of Regents. This has eliminated a lot of negative recruiting noise.
However, in an unprecedented move, Stoops has also signed on to the be Co-Defensive Coordinator Designate at the University of Oklahoma, where he will go immediately upon his firing from Arizona, whenever that is. Said Stoops the Younger, "There is no federal bailout plan for coaches. $1,025,000 doesn't go as far as it used to, especially if Obama raises taxes like everyone thinks he will. I make a little extra change, and I don't have to worry about where my next meal comes from if I can't replace Willie Tuitama".
Innovative Sooner Athletic Director Joe Castiglione said, "We wish Mike the best at Arizona, but we really see this as a 'first option' on Mike should the Wildcats turn on him. The best case situation for us is for Arizona to keep making lower tier bowls and playing in mid-late December, which frees him up to help us out in the week before our bowl game. Wait, is that thing on? Gimme that-"
However, in an unprecedented move, Stoops has also signed on to the be Co-Defensive Coordinator Designate at the University of Oklahoma, where he will go immediately upon his firing from Arizona, whenever that is. Said Stoops the Younger, "There is no federal bailout plan for coaches. $1,025,000 doesn't go as far as it used to, especially if Obama raises taxes like everyone thinks he will. I make a little extra change, and I don't have to worry about where my next meal comes from if I can't replace Willie Tuitama".
Innovative Sooner Athletic Director Joe Castiglione said, "We wish Mike the best at Arizona, but we really see this as a 'first option' on Mike should the Wildcats turn on him. The best case situation for us is for Arizona to keep making lower tier bowls and playing in mid-late December, which frees him up to help us out in the week before our bowl game. Wait, is that thing on? Gimme that-"
Friday, December 26, 2008
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Merry Christmas
Wishing both my readers a Merry Christmas, here's a new Christmas Classic by the Longhorn Singers, to the tune of "All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth"
All I want for Christmas is two hundredths points.
Two hundredths points, see two hundredths points.
Gee, if I could only have two hundredths points,
Then I could see you in Miami.
It seems so long since I could say,"We lost thirty-nine to thirty-three"
Gosh, oh gee, how happy I'd be If I could tackle Crabtree.
All I want for Christmas is two hundredths points.
Two hundredths points, see two hundredths points.
Gee, if I could only have two hundredths points,
Then I could see you in Miami.
All I want for Christmas is two hundredths points.
Two hundredths points, see two hundredths points.
Gee, if I could only have two hundredths points,
Then I could see you in Miami.
It seems so long since I could say,"We lost thirty-nine to thirty-three"
Gosh, oh gee, how happy I'd be If I could tackle Crabtree.
All I want for Christmas is two hundredths points.
Two hundredths points, see two hundredths points.
Gee, if I could only have two hundredths points,
Then I could see you in Miami.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Grades
Much speculation 'bout grades in Norman these days. Here the Head Visor squashes it all. Also, we find out that Phil Loadholt obtained his degree in multidisciplinary studies.
I decided to see if I could figure out what a degree in mutidiscipinary studes means. I am old, and could not figure it out from looking at http://ou.edu. It's good to know that he's disciplined in multiple things, but I don't think eating normal portions is one of his strong points at this time.
I decided to see if I could figure out what a degree in mutidiscipinary studes means. I am old, and could not figure it out from looking at http://ou.edu. It's good to know that he's disciplined in multiple things, but I don't think eating normal portions is one of his strong points at this time.
Sheraton Hawaii Bowl Haiku
FishEaters hit beach.
Coach Weis pushed into water.
Natives save beached whale.
Coach Weis pushed into water.
Natives save beached whale.
San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl Preview Haiku
TCU goes West.
Trick plays won’t help the Bronchos
Past the Killer Frogs.
Trick plays won’t help the Bronchos
Past the Killer Frogs.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Thursday, December 18, 2008
RL Carriers New Orleans Bowl Haiku
You’re not mid-major
A trucking firm sponsors bowl
Let’s move on now.
A trucking firm sponsors bowl
Let’s move on now.
Bowl Haiku Series
This year we'll be doing Haiku previews for the bowl games. I know you can't wait.
First, we've got the Eagle Bank Bowl, where Wake Forest plays Navy.
Open an account,
Get two free tickets to game.
Baptists top Middies.
First, we've got the Eagle Bank Bowl, where Wake Forest plays Navy.
Open an account,
Get two free tickets to game.
Baptists top Middies.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Murray, Granger out for BCSNCG
Well, that's a bummer. DeMarco Murray is out with a ruptured hamstring, now this.
With the travel industry already ailing, the chances of Granger riding a bus back from Miami, FL to Norman just got a little smaller after DeMarcus had back surgery.
A quick review of the Sooner roster indicated there are no more Demarci on the roster to be ruled out tomorrow, so it should be a quite news day.
With the travel industry already ailing, the chances of Granger riding a bus back from Miami, FL to Norman just got a little smaller after DeMarcus had back surgery.
A quick review of the Sooner roster indicated there are no more Demarci on the roster to be ruled out tomorrow, so it should be a quite news day.
Monday, December 15, 2008
LandThieves College Bowl Mania
Join the LandThieves college bowl mania contest. Winner gets...the feeling of satisfaction that comes with victory.
http://games.espn.go.com/bowlmania/group?groupID=18808
http://games.espn.go.com/bowlmania/frontpage
Group: LandThieves
http://games.espn.go.com/bowlmania/group?groupID=18808
http://games.espn.go.com/bowlmania/frontpage
Group: LandThieves
Saturday, December 13, 2008
An Interesting Analysis
Ed over at National Championship Issue has a great analysis of relative strength of the team in relation to how other teams fared. In the analysis, it shows that Florida and Oklahoma were the two best teams in CFB this year.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Stolen Thoughts 12-12-08
- Matt Hinton at Dr Saturday provides some great perspective on the seasons of Tebow-Bradford-McCoy in relation to other hardware winners.
- Michigan RB Sam McGuffie is transferring closer to his native state of Texas, though final destination yet to be known. Allegedly Cash Machine U is in the running.
- If you want to read a really long article by Malcolm Gladwell, this involves his readiness for the pro game.
- Luke DeCock writes about teams that are not fans of the BCS. I have no idea if it's a good article or not, but wanted to point out there's a sportswriter with the name Luke DeCock.
- The Heisman Pundit predicts Bradford is your Heisman winner.
- Our second favorite college hoops team, Bucknell, has a player blogging for the NY Times. Apparently he's not savvy enough to start his own blog, so the old gray lady is helping him out.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Heisman Finalists
As expected, Sam Bradford was selected as a Heisman finalist, along with McCoy and Tebow. TT QB Graham Harrell was not invited to NY, and Coach Leach is less than happy. I don't blame him. Harrell had a great year, coming up big in the Texas and Okie State games. I would imagine his performance in the OU game hurt him in the eyes of the electorate.
As for how the final Heisman voting plays out, I expect it to be 1) Tebow; 2) McCoy; 3) Bradford. I believe this because: a) Bradford, McCoy and Harrell split the Big 12 vote; b) I think nationally many discount the Big 12's perceived lack of defense (at least Tebow does); c) there' s a part of the electorate that will vote for Tebow because he's had decent numbers, and he won it last year, much like Archie Griffin's back-to-back Heisman trophies in the mid 70s.
As for how the final Heisman voting plays out, I expect it to be 1) Tebow; 2) McCoy; 3) Bradford. I believe this because: a) Bradford, McCoy and Harrell split the Big 12 vote; b) I think nationally many discount the Big 12's perceived lack of defense (at least Tebow does); c) there' s a part of the electorate that will vote for Tebow because he's had decent numbers, and he won it last year, much like Archie Griffin's back-to-back Heisman trophies in the mid 70s.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
LandThieves CFB Awards
It's time again for the LandThieves CFB awards, 2008 version:
- Bad Idea jeans award: Buck Burnette, UT
- Most open receiver the entire freaking stadium knew was getting the ball: Jordan Shipley, Texas, 2nd half, Oct 11.
- Best whining performance by a fan base: Texas
- Mack Brown Award for sucking up to voters: Mack Brown, Texas
- Best performance in a video taunting your rivals: AggieReport.com
- Brent Parker award for catching excellence: Blake Gideon, UT
- Thurman Thomas award for not being ready at the start of the game: Nebraska Cornhuskers
- Best fourth place finish ever: Oklahoma State University
- So, Mrs. Lincoln, How was the play award, non-Illinois governor division: Brandon Crow, OU LB, Oct 11
- Jimmy the Greek award for excellence in prognostication: HeadThief
Stolen Thoughts 12-9-08
Chuck Long is bitter about getting fired from San Diego State. I'm curious to see how Chuck's next job plays out. I wouldn't think there's a lot of market for a head coach with a 9-27 record. I thought he was a decent enough QB coach.
Finally, some folks are preaching sanity about OU "running up the score". Dr Saturday and Jerome Solomon at the Houston Chronicle provide some unemotional fact thingies about the game.
Finally, some folks are preaching sanity about OU "running up the score". Dr Saturday and Jerome Solomon at the Houston Chronicle provide some unemotional fact thingies about the game.
Monday, December 8, 2008
The Last Time OU played each SEC team
I thought it was odd that OU had never played Florida.
You could also say that we're undefeated.
info researched at http://www.cfbdatawarehouse.com
The Last Time OU played each SEC team
School | Reg Season | Bowl |
| Florida | never | never |
| Tennessee | never | 1968 |
Georgia | never | never |
| South Carolina | never | never |
| Vanderbilt | 1977 | never |
| Kentucky | 1982 | 1951 |
| Auburn | never | 1972 |
| Arkansas | 1926 | 2002 |
| Mississippi State | never | never |
| Ole Miss | never | 1999 |
| Alabama | 2003 | 1970 |
| LSU | never | 2004 |
The last time Florida Played each Big XII school
| School | Reg Season | Bowl |
| Baylor | never | 1960 |
| Kansas State | 1973 | never |
| Missouri | never | 1966 |
| Nebraska | never | 1996 |
| Oklahoma State | 1990 | never |
| Texas | 1940 | never |
| Texas A&M | 1962 | 1977 |
| Kansas | never | never |
| Colorado | never | never |
| Iowa State | never | never |
| Florida | never | never |
the last time the Gators played a regular season game in a hostile environment of a school presently inthe Big 12...
1939 in Austin, Texas.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Heisman Comparison
From the LandThieves Research dept:
The following data is presented courtesy of data at cfbstats.com. Each of the players below quarterbacks a one-loss, top 10 team:
Player A's passing stats: 168-244-2450 with 27 TDs and 4 interceptions
Player B's passing stats: 160-246-2299 with 25 TDs and 2 interceptions
Player C's passing stats: 186-232-2142 with 19 TDs and 3 interceptions
Player D's passing stats: 228-327-2567 with 25 TDs and 5 interceptions
Which would you vote for?
Which would I vote for if I told you that Player B is Tim Tebow's regular season statistics for the entire year, and that A, C, and D are the FIRST HALF statistics for Sam Bradford, Colt McCoy and Graham Harrell respectively?
The following data is presented courtesy of data at cfbstats.com. Each of the players below quarterbacks a one-loss, top 10 team:
Player A's passing stats: 168-244-2450 with 27 TDs and 4 interceptions
Player B's passing stats: 160-246-2299 with 25 TDs and 2 interceptions
Player C's passing stats: 186-232-2142 with 19 TDs and 3 interceptions
Player D's passing stats: 228-327-2567 with 25 TDs and 5 interceptions
Which would you vote for?
Which would I vote for if I told you that Player B is Tim Tebow's regular season statistics for the entire year, and that A, C, and D are the FIRST HALF statistics for Sam Bradford, Colt McCoy and Graham Harrell respectively?
A Proposal
While watching the Tiger beating last night, an idea came to me. What if there were a tie breaker provision that provided for two intra-divisional foes to settle the battle on the field.
For example, if three top 10 teams are tied in the South division and the North division's leader has a) a losing record against the South; and b) the ranking of the North leader is lower than 15, then the Big 12 championship is a rematch of the two South Division teams with the highest BCS ranking. Or something like that.
That way there's a minor proviso that keeps us from having the routs like we've had in a few games lately. On the other hand, it would rule out some classic upset opportunities.
For example, if three top 10 teams are tied in the South division and the North division's leader has a) a losing record against the South; and b) the ranking of the North leader is lower than 15, then the Big 12 championship is a rematch of the two South Division teams with the highest BCS ranking. Or something like that.
That way there's a minor proviso that keeps us from having the routs like we've had in a few games lately. On the other hand, it would rule out some classic upset opportunities.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Big 12 Champions
The Sooners 28 point second quarter launched the Sooners toward their third consecutive Big 12 championship. The Sooners took advantage of great field position on three of the drives, and went 89 yards for the other score.
Venables did a fabulous job with the defense again. Frank Alexander had a fabulous game. I'm starting to think he was stabbed at that bar by a Longhorn fan. Quentin Carter lit up Daniel and Maclin on separate occasions taking advantage of extra time on the field due to the Reynolds/Box injuries and the Tiger spread offense. Brian Jackson had a nice pick to setup a score.
Demarco apparently has a knee bruise. I thought he had compressed vertabrae after the tackle on the kickoff. Chris Brown had his usual solid game, and Mossis Madu showed he can play at this level when given the opportunity.
Manny Johnson and Jermaine Gresham apparently traded hands prior to the start of the game.
Barring some bizarre voting tomorrow, the Sooners will take on the Florida Gators for the national championship. Amazingly enough, the Sooners have never played the Gators.
We'll see what happens tomorrow.
Venables did a fabulous job with the defense again. Frank Alexander had a fabulous game. I'm starting to think he was stabbed at that bar by a Longhorn fan. Quentin Carter lit up Daniel and Maclin on separate occasions taking advantage of extra time on the field due to the Reynolds/Box injuries and the Tiger spread offense. Brian Jackson had a nice pick to setup a score.
Demarco apparently has a knee bruise. I thought he had compressed vertabrae after the tackle on the kickoff. Chris Brown had his usual solid game, and Mossis Madu showed he can play at this level when given the opportunity.
Manny Johnson and Jermaine Gresham apparently traded hands prior to the start of the game.
Barring some bizarre voting tomorrow, the Sooners will take on the Florida Gators for the national championship. Amazingly enough, the Sooners have never played the Gators.
We'll see what happens tomorrow.
Your Predictions for Today
I know you wish I would have analyzed the Ball State -Buffalo matchup, but I missed that one yesterday. Your MAC Champions are coached by former Husker great Turner Gill, who will probably make some serious coin this year in the transition from Buffalo to Syracuse/Washington/Auburn or replacing whichever coach jumps to those jobs.
On to the previews:
Conf USA Championship - Tulsa plays East Carolina. Skip Holtz's Pirates - which are really terrorists at sea so why are we glorifying them? You don't hear of a school calling themselves the UC-Irvine Suicide Bombers. Anyway, back to the preview. ECU started the year off by beating Virginia Tech and West Virginia. Later we realized those teams weren't any good. Tulsa started off 8-0, then lost to SEC doormat Arkansas and were sestroyed by Kevin Sumlin's Houstan Cougar team. Tulsa has better passing stats than OU. I look for Tulsa to win this game, for Todd Graham to renegotiate his contract on Monday and take a new job on Wednesday. Actual results may vary. Prediction: Tulsa
ACC Championship - Va Tech plays BC. Can't you can just feel the excitement? Nope, me either. Tickets for this game are selling like hotcakes - you can get a stack of four for about $5, with eggs and your choice of toast, english muffin or biscuit. Prediction: Loss of consciousness, and a BC victory.
SEC Champsionship - This game means a lot. Not only is it likely for a spot in the BCS NCG, it's also a duel that has Cristin Duren's soul in torment. Ms. Duren was Miss Florida, but a Bama cheerleader. Florida is a double digit favorite in this game. While we were unable to get Ms. Duren to preview the matchup, we did obtain this quote from spokeperson Lauren Caitlin Upton, "Cristin is just broken up. She can't decide who to root for. Her mascara won't stop running. Mark Gottfried has his New Improved Tide team playing at pre-1993 probation levels, and Gator coach Rural Meyer is just so dreamy. And that Todd Tebow has such big muscles! He can play doctor with me any time." Thanks for the insight. Prediction: Alabama.
OU-Mizzou - here are links to two articles that tell you how Missouri might upsets the Sooners, but go on to predict 20+ point victories. I didn't know John Kerry did sportswriting. Prediction: Oklahama
USC-UCLA - OJ's got a better chance on appeal than UCLA does in this game. Prediction: USC.
On to the previews:
Conf USA Championship - Tulsa plays East Carolina. Skip Holtz's Pirates - which are really terrorists at sea so why are we glorifying them? You don't hear of a school calling themselves the UC-Irvine Suicide Bombers. Anyway, back to the preview. ECU started the year off by beating Virginia Tech and West Virginia. Later we realized those teams weren't any good. Tulsa started off 8-0, then lost to SEC doormat Arkansas and were sestroyed by Kevin Sumlin's Houstan Cougar team. Tulsa has better passing stats than OU. I look for Tulsa to win this game, for Todd Graham to renegotiate his contract on Monday and take a new job on Wednesday. Actual results may vary. Prediction: Tulsa
ACC Championship - Va Tech plays BC. Can't you can just feel the excitement? Nope, me either. Tickets for this game are selling like hotcakes - you can get a stack of four for about $5, with eggs and your choice of toast, english muffin or biscuit. Prediction: Loss of consciousness, and a BC victory.
SEC Champsionship - This game means a lot. Not only is it likely for a spot in the BCS NCG, it's also a duel that has Cristin Duren's soul in torment. Ms. Duren was Miss Florida, but a Bama cheerleader. Florida is a double digit favorite in this game. While we were unable to get Ms. Duren to preview the matchup, we did obtain this quote from spokeperson Lauren Caitlin Upton, "Cristin is just broken up. She can't decide who to root for. Her mascara won't stop running. Mark Gottfried has his New Improved Tide team playing at pre-1993 probation levels, and Gator coach Rural Meyer is just so dreamy. And that Todd Tebow has such big muscles! He can play doctor with me any time." Thanks for the insight. Prediction: Alabama.
OU-Mizzou - here are links to two articles that tell you how Missouri might upsets the Sooners, but go on to predict 20+ point victories. I didn't know John Kerry did sportswriting. Prediction: Oklahama
USC-UCLA - OJ's got a better chance on appeal than UCLA does in this game. Prediction: USC.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
My Favorite New Site
http://www.39-33.com/
Also, a plane flew over Austin and the UT campus stating, "Hey Mack, quit whining, U knew the rules".
The beauty of this is it appears to have been UT fans that funded this.
And finally, an article from Gil LeBreton in the Startlegram from Monday says this best.
Also, a plane flew over Austin and the UT campus stating, "Hey Mack, quit whining, U knew the rules".
The beauty of this is it appears to have been UT fans that funded this.
And finally, an article from Gil LeBreton in the Startlegram from Monday says this best.
Sooner - Tiger Preview
It's not that often that a team goes 9-3, wins their division, and is considered to have a disappointing season, but that's probably waht one woudl say about Missouri at this point. Prior to the beginning of the year, most assumed the Tigers would be the same offensive threat if not better (correct) and would be better defensively (not so much). Chase Daniel has had a solid year, throwing for 34 Tds and 3,880 yards. On the downside, the 13 picks are more than desirable. The defensive showed up suspect from the beginning of the season, with the Tigers allowing Juice Williams of Illinois a career day of 451 yards passing. The Tigers set as the 92nd ranked team in yards allowed, and are 117th in passing yards allowed. This does not bode well for the Missouri D.
The Sooners are coming in on a roll, having scored 60+ poionts in the last four games. They have the third best passing attack in the country, and the running game has come on with authority the past few games. Chris Brown and DeMarco Murray should finish teh game with over 1000 yards for the season. That'll be the first time that's happened since 1973, when Joe Washington and Waymon Clark (who?) both broke the 1000 yard barrier. To contrast, in that year, the Sooners threw for 1,011 yards for the entire year.
I just don't see how the Tigers are going to stop the Sooners. I'm more than a little concerned that Mike Balogun, third string LB, will fare in his first start against the tiger D.
I think the difference here is the Sooners ability to create turnovers and make third down stops. Missouri may resort to allowing the Sooners to score just so Jeremy Maclin can return the kick.
The Sooners are coming in on a roll, having scored 60+ poionts in the last four games. They have the third best passing attack in the country, and the running game has come on with authority the past few games. Chris Brown and DeMarco Murray should finish teh game with over 1000 yards for the season. That'll be the first time that's happened since 1973, when Joe Washington and Waymon Clark (who?) both broke the 1000 yard barrier. To contrast, in that year, the Sooners threw for 1,011 yards for the entire year.
I just don't see how the Tigers are going to stop the Sooners. I'm more than a little concerned that Mike Balogun, third string LB, will fare in his first start against the tiger D.
I think the difference here is the Sooners ability to create turnovers and make third down stops. Missouri may resort to allowing the Sooners to score just so Jeremy Maclin can return the kick.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Bonus SEC Championship Coverage
Some folks have been saying SEC title game is really a semi-final to the national championship (which is really a croc, because they Florida might not overtake Texas if they won, and Missouri is NOT going to play for the national championship no matter what the margin of victory). Nonetheless, I contacted a Crimson Tide student this week and here's our report from Tuscaloosa. I also contacted the only Florida alum I knew, and was slapped with a temporary restraining order. Erin Andrews has NO sense of humor. Without further ado, I submit the Miller High Life report:
- How has the loss of Jimmy Johns effected this team?The biggest contribution JJ made to the team was allowing the student population to laugh at him as he ran out on the field with his arms outstretched like a child mimicking an airplane.
- Florida has been on an offensive roll after losing at home to Ole Miss. Saban is a well respected defensive mind. How do you see Nick stopping Tebow, Harvin and Co? The truth is that Alabama has not played a team with a dual threat QB like Tim Tebow. Some readers may think that Kodi Burns was a dual threat, but he lacks the appropriate amount of brain waves needed to be considered a threat thowing the ball (move over Dan Marino and Vince Young!). So we will see if we can contain someone like Tim Tebow. Also, our friends in Tallahassee took care of Mr. Harvin and even if he plays, he will not be 100%. All that being said, that still leaves Demps, Rainey, and Jacobs, not to mention Coppell native Emmanuel Moody. In this case, the best defense is a good offense. JP and the offense need to keep them off the field. When they are on the field however, we need to put them in third and long situations and force Tebow to use his arm. As explosive as Florida is, everyone forgets that they are a running offense. I do not think they will be able to run the ball up the middle due to Terrence "Mount" Cody, our 365 (down from 420 at the beginning of the summer) Nose Tackle who demands a double team and sometimes even requests triple teams. This frees up blockers from our other linemen and linebackers who make a lot of plays. With that in mind, Florida will have to run outside because although we are big, we are slower than Florida (but who isn't). Note that Florida's only loss came from an Ole Miss team with two very big lines.
- Do you think Coppell native Emmanuel Moody will see any playing time? Maybe after someone gets rocked after trying to go across the middle on Rolando McClain. But historically, his problem has been holding on to the football, which a rough hit'em in the mouth Alabama defense will surely exploit. If Percy Harvin can't play, he might get more touches than usual.
- The SEC West - aside from the Tide - is not as strong as it usually is. Do you think playing a softer schedule - albeit not by design - puts the Tide at a disadvantage this week? I think it puts us at an advantage because we are a lot healthier than Florida, plus remember that we whooped Georgia in a blacked out Athens that nobody gave us a chance at winning. Besides Percy Harvin, Florida will be without two reserve defensive lineman. Although that doesn't sound like much, Florida's weakness is their defensive line. Look for our offensive line to wear them down very quickly and without that extra depth, Florida will have to bring their linebackers and safeties up closer to the line of scrimmage, which screams play action. That is, if necessary. There have been many times this season where a team will put eight in the box and Coffee will still fall forward for 4 or 5 yards, especially in the second half.
- Alabama has been average on offense this year, but certainly done enough to win 12 games. How do you see the offense faring against the Florida D? We're going to physically dominate their defensive line and run the ball behind Andre Smith (the top NFL draft prospect in the nation) and the left side of the offensive line. We may toss a couple to diaper dandy Julio (soft J) Jones (hard J) to keep them honest. With such a fast defense, we will run it right at them until they stop us. Pretty simple. What's your prediction for the game? As Lee Corso says, it will be closer than the experts think. If we can hang with them in the first half, look for Florida's defense to have a rough second half. On the other side of the ball, Alabama's nasty defensive line will have to generate a big push, clog holes, and force Tim Tebow to throw it to be successful. In Alabama's last National Championship year (1992), they played against a heavily favored, exciting Florida Gator team in the SEC championship and won. Their gritty defense, coached by Paris, Texas native Gene Stallings and led by a young George Teague was able to contain the Gators and later on, defeat the Miami Hurricanes in the National Championship. Also, Alabama won the NC the last time a democrat was elected into office for his first term, so we also have that going for us. There are several other meaningful statistics like that which unavoidably point to a Tide win in my opinion.
- Are you making the trip? As the SEC correspondent for LandThieves, I thought that I was going to be provided a media pass to be on the field and record my thoughts but I have not received it in the mail yet. It will probably show up tomorrow though. I will be in Atlanta for the game but not inside the stadium unfortunately. Only 361 graduate students got tickets for the game.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
LandThieves All Big 12 FB team
Last year I just poked fun at the Big 12 selections, like Brody Eldridge as an all conference FB when the Sooners list him as a TE. This year, I decided to do my own team. For the official one from the Big 12, click here.
For my Sooner all big 12 team, I’m going with a 4 receiver, one back set. Finally we’re going with a a 3-4 defense to combat the pass heavy league.
For my Sooner all big 12 team, I’m going with a 4 receiver, one back set. Finally we’re going with a a 3-4 defense to combat the pass heavy league.
- QB – Colt McCoy – many thought he had lost a little bit off the fastball and was perhaps a one year fluke as a frosh. McCoy proved them wrong, leading the Horns in rushing and passing. At the beginning of the year, Brown planned on alternating McCoy with Chiles, but Mack was smart enough to go with McCoy for the year. He put up some impressive numbers without a TE or a running game of consequence. Aside from Jordan Shipley and Quan Cosby, name a receiver. If you did, you’re a Texas fan and probably shouldn't be reading this site anyway.
- RB – Kendall Hunter, Okie State. Hunter led the Big 12 in rushing with 1518 yards and 9 games over the 100 yard mark. This wasn’t a big 10 type of 1500 yards (350 carries), it was on 228 carries, an average of almost 7 yards per game.
- WR – Kerry Meier, Jordan Shipley, Michael Crabtree, Dez Bryant
- KR (tie) – Perrish Cox, whoever’s returning kicks against OU this week
- OL – pick any five man combination from Texas Tech and Oklahoma
- FB - (jumbo package) – Chase Coffman, Missouri
Now for the defense...
- DL – Gerald McCoy
- DE – Bryan Orapko, UT, Brandon Williams, TT
- LB – Travis Lewis, OU; Joe Pawelek, Baylor; Sean Weatherspoon, Mizzou; Sergio Kindle, UT
- DB – None; have you seen the passing stats for the conference?
- K – Jeff Woffert, Mizzou. Made all 67 XPs and was 17-22 on Fgs.
- P - Justin Brantley, TAMU. Not only did he lead the league in yards per punt, he got lots of practice, too.
- Coach of the Year – Art Briles – seriously, did you think Baylor would be competitive this year? They led TT in the fourth, took Mizzou to the wire and led Nebraska in the second half. They nearly beat Connecticut in Storrs. We all expected TT, Texas and OU to be top ten teams this year.
- Freshman of the year – Robert Griffin, Baylor
- Sophomore of the year – Sam Bradford, Oklahoma
- Junior of the year – Colt McCoy, Texas
- Senior of the year – Brian Orapko. Texas
Monday, December 1, 2008
ESPN Gameday sign
Last week, the whiners at 45-35.com made up signs in an effort to sway the polls in the Horns favor. So, if you're travelling to Gameday in Atlanta this week, be sure and help a Sooner.
Top 10 Things Mack can say to his players
I heard / read somewhere that Mack wasn't sure what he'd tell his players if they watched two teams they'd beaten play in the Big 12 championship game. Mack spent so much time Fri and Saturday politicking I'm sure he's out of breath and ideas now that his fears have been realized. As a courtesy to the former OU assistant, I present to you the top 10 things Mack can say to his football team.
- I'm sorry I scheduled Florida Atlantic.
- I'm sorry I scheduled Rice.
- I'm sorry I scheduled UTEP. We were trying to schedule Temple and complete the Owl trifecta, but they were already committed to play Connecticutt.
- I can start my at home teeth whitening earlier. I should be done by the Christmas party now.
- When playing double coverage, one of our defenders should be between the end zone and the offensive player. I'm just sayin...
- This is all Blake Gideon's fault. All he has to do is catch one little measly batted ball, and this isn't an issue.
- Saturday night, we can watch Smoking Gun Presents: World's Dumbest Criminals instead of the Big 12 championship game. Everytime you see someone wearing a Texas athlete, you have to do a shot.
- Our 45-35 sign campaign allowed the FedEx/Kinko's franchise I own to have it's best month ever!
- On the other hand, the Greenpeace organization on campus has informed us the campaign was not carbon neutral. We will be planting trees Thursday afternoon to offset the harm to the environment.
- The Vince Young "How to Handle Adversity" talk has been postponed indefinitely.
Prediction Review
Back in July, I predicted the following for the Big 12 South;
OU; Texas; TT; TAMU; OSU; Baylor. Basically, I underestimated the dearth of talent inherited by Sherman, and underestimated Briles' impact on the Bears. I also think it's fair to say I didn't imagine OSU would be such a strong #4 either.
In the Big 12 North, I predicted:
Mizzou; Kansas; Nebraska; Colorado; Kansas State; Iowa State. The only thing I missed here was Nebraska - Kansas. Two factors I probably underestimated here: NU-KU game was in Lincoln; Huskers big 12 South foes were Baylor-Ou-Tech and KU got OU-UT-TT.
OU; Texas; TT; TAMU; OSU; Baylor. Basically, I underestimated the dearth of talent inherited by Sherman, and underestimated Briles' impact on the Bears. I also think it's fair to say I didn't imagine OSU would be such a strong #4 either.
In the Big 12 North, I predicted:
Mizzou; Kansas; Nebraska; Colorado; Kansas State; Iowa State. The only thing I missed here was Nebraska - Kansas. Two factors I probably underestimated here: NU-KU game was in Lincoln; Huskers big 12 South foes were Baylor-Ou-Tech and KU got OU-UT-TT.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Common Foes
Going into the OU-Boone State game, the Horns and Sooners have played 5 common foes: TAMU, KU, Baylor, TT and one another. Texas is 4-1, with a scoring margin of 207-111. OU is 4-1 with a scoring margin of 260-142.
This will all shake itself out in the next 72 hours in one of the following scenarios: a) OU will beat OSU decisively, maintain a lead in the human polls and jump Texas enough in the computer polls to edge the Horns in the BCS; b) OU will edge OSU, will lose ground in the human polls and that will offset the gain in the computers and the Horns will take the Big 12 South; c) OSU will win, and Texas Tech makes the Big 12 South championship; d) Baylor upsets Texas Tech and hands the crown to Texas.
Texas Tech is a 21 point favorite, so d) is highly unlikely. OU is a 7 point favorite against the Pokes, so b) and c) are more likely than a). I'm still going with a Sooner blowout.
This will all shake itself out in the next 72 hours in one of the following scenarios: a) OU will beat OSU decisively, maintain a lead in the human polls and jump Texas enough in the computer polls to edge the Horns in the BCS; b) OU will edge OSU, will lose ground in the human polls and that will offset the gain in the computers and the Horns will take the Big 12 South; c) OSU will win, and Texas Tech makes the Big 12 South championship; d) Baylor upsets Texas Tech and hands the crown to Texas.
Texas Tech is a 21 point favorite, so d) is highly unlikely. OU is a 7 point favorite against the Pokes, so b) and c) are more likely than a). I'm still going with a Sooner blowout.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Style Points
While watching the UT rout of Cash Machine U today, and the guys in the booth (Fowler, Palmer, James) kept talking about how Mack doesn't run the score up, and that he's not seeking style points. The Longhorns then proceed to score 21 points in the fourth quarter.
I did a little research today to see how the teams fared in scoring by quarter. I ignored the UT-TT game, the UT-OU game to only get games that were victories by both of the teams. So here are the figures:
4th quarter points:
UT - 86 - 44
OU - 41 - 48
2nd Half Scoring:
UT - 198 - 86
OU - 168 - 102
So, in spite of outscoring opponents 251-53 in the first half, UT still needed to outscore their opponents by 112 points in the second half. Maybe talk is cheap, and actions speak louder than words. Oklahoma's "style points" have been obtained in the first half. Don't know of anyone pulling starters in the first half.
I did a little research today to see how the teams fared in scoring by quarter. I ignored the UT-TT game, the UT-OU game to only get games that were victories by both of the teams. So here are the figures:
4th quarter points:
UT - 86 - 44
OU - 41 - 48
2nd Half Scoring:
UT - 198 - 86
OU - 168 - 102
So, in spite of outscoring opponents 251-53 in the first half, UT still needed to outscore their opponents by 112 points in the second half. Maybe talk is cheap, and actions speak louder than words. Oklahoma's "style points" have been obtained in the first half. Don't know of anyone pulling starters in the first half.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Hypocrisy in the media
Austin American Statesman writer Kirk Bohls makes the brilliant argument that Texas should be ahead of OU because they beat them on the field, and that it shouldn't matter that it was several weeks ago. He's being quite hypocritical. Courtesy of the analysis at www.pollspeak.com one can analyze his votes. With this logic, I point out the following discrepancies.
- Oregon State defeated USC on Sep 25. Kirk voted the Beavers 17th and the Trojans 5th.
- Oregon State lost to Stanford to open the season. Stanford received no votes from Mr. Bohls.
- Ole Miss beat Florida 31-30 in Gainesville on Sep 27th. Florida was voted 4th by Mr. Bohls, and the Rebels did not receive a vote. Kirk even mentions this game in his pitch for Texas over the Sooners. To expand further on Ole Miss, they've lost by 2 at Wake Forest, by 4 at Tuscaloosa, by 6 at home to Vanderbilt and by 7 at home to South Carolina. That's a pretty solid 7-4 team he's ignoring.
- Georgia Tech was voted 19th, yet none of the three teams that beat the Yellowjackets are rated ahead of them.
- Boston College is ranked 20th per Kirk, but he gave no votes to North Carolina or Clemson, who both beat the Eagles.
- Cincinnati, who lost to Connecticut, was voted 15th, while the Huskies did not receive a vote.
- Penn State lost to Iowa two weeks ago, yet Penn State is voted 9th and Mr. Bohls did not cast a vote for the Hawkeyes.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Stolen Thoughts 11-23-28
While hanging out here in non-snowy Steamboat Colorado, here are a couple of links for you...
The Aggie Report has their Longhorn preview video up. It gives some great insight as to Mack's recruiting prowess. For family viewers, stop watching at about 7:30 mark.
While driving up here yesterday, basking in the glow of the Sooners dominating performance, I was contemplating researching something like this. As usual, Matt Hinton at Dr Saturday beat me to it. Hinton does a great job of demonstrating the Sooners quick KO's this year.
Jay Christenson takes issue with the SEC this year.
Stewart Mandel's coverage of the Red Raider OU game gives an interesting point...someone in the UT camp was sending text messages to sports media folks reminding them about the Sooner loss to UT back in October. The other interesting point is that none of the big 3 in the South have won a big game in a hostile enviroment this year. OU's turn will be this weekend at Stillwater.
The Aggie Report has their Longhorn preview video up. It gives some great insight as to Mack's recruiting prowess. For family viewers, stop watching at about 7:30 mark.
While driving up here yesterday, basking in the glow of the Sooners dominating performance, I was contemplating researching something like this. As usual, Matt Hinton at Dr Saturday beat me to it. Hinton does a great job of demonstrating the Sooners quick KO's this year.
Jay Christenson takes issue with the SEC this year.
Stewart Mandel's coverage of the Red Raider OU game gives an interesting point...someone in the UT camp was sending text messages to sports media folks reminding them about the Sooner loss to UT back in October. The other interesting point is that none of the big 3 in the South have won a big game in a hostile enviroment this year. OU's turn will be this weekend at Stillwater.
Holy Cow that was impressive
From my personal perspective, that W had to be the most impressive victory for the Sooners since the 2000 domination of the #11 Texas Longhorns, 63-14. A couple of thoughts:
The 3rd down D was the difference defensively. The Red Raiders converted one third down all day.
Leach's tendency to go for it on fourth down also hurt, in my opinion. He could've used the three when down 14-0 and in the Sooner red zone, and the fourth down down attempt at mid-field set the Sooners up for a short field. Not that it would have eliminated the 44 point gap, but it coulda narrowed it.
Iglesias' juke of defenders and score midway through the second quarter was a thing of beauty, as was Manuel Johnson's one handed grab of a Bradford bomb late in the third. DeMarco and Chris both ran well all day, courtesy of a powerful performance by the offensive line.
The 3rd down D was the difference defensively. The Red Raiders converted one third down all day.
Leach's tendency to go for it on fourth down also hurt, in my opinion. He could've used the three when down 14-0 and in the Sooner red zone, and the fourth down down attempt at mid-field set the Sooners up for a short field. Not that it would have eliminated the 44 point gap, but it coulda narrowed it.
Iglesias' juke of defenders and score midway through the second quarter was a thing of beauty, as was Manuel Johnson's one handed grab of a Bradford bomb late in the third. DeMarco and Chris both ran well all day, courtesy of a powerful performance by the offensive line.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Vacation
This clan of thieves will be doing some much needed vacationing immediately after the Dust Pirate contest, so we may be silent for awhile.
With a win against Texas Tech, the contest at Boone State has everything at stake. The path for the national championship would lead through Stillwater. When have you heard that and not been talking about wrestling? Lose against TT, and you're looking at the 9-3 season a I predicted in the aftermath of last year's Fiesta Fiasco.
Regardless, we'll know a lot more when I get back to civilization in on December 1.
Until then, Happy Thanksgiving.
With a win against Texas Tech, the contest at Boone State has everything at stake. The path for the national championship would lead through Stillwater. When have you heard that and not been talking about wrestling? Lose against TT, and you're looking at the 9-3 season a I predicted in the aftermath of last year's Fiesta Fiasco.
Regardless, we'll know a lot more when I get back to civilization in on December 1.
Until then, Happy Thanksgiving.
Bonus Mountain West Coverage
Big game in Utah this weekend as the Utes host the Fightin' Mormons. Utah has proclaimed the event a white-out*, and encourages all fans to be or act white. Of course, with 89.1% white population, that won't be difficult. I don't believe the white-out is sponsored by Nike.
*actual results may vary
*actual results may vary
Thursday, November 20, 2008
TT vs OU preview
Okay, here's my treatise on OU vs the Dust Pirates. The Sooners are a 6.5 points favorite, which seems a bit high to me. The over under on the game is 56 I believe, which seems low to me.
Coach Switzer has indicated that OU shoudl win, because they have better players. What Switzer is missing is that the game is a collection of players as a team, not individual players. He's also missing that TT is not just a scrappy bunch of ragtag rejects, but has some serious players. It's also about how the coaches play their strengths against the other teams weakness(es).
Anyway, here are some statisics that I submit for your review, which exclude the 1-aa games.
TT averages almost 47 points a game, while their foes have averaged surrendering 30.4 ppg and a standard deviation of 15.3. They typically exceed their foes average pts surrendered by 1 standard deviation. Since the Sooners average giving up 26 ppg with a standard deviation of 11.9, that would pt the predicted points given up as 38 points.
OU averages almost 51 points per game, while their foes have averaged surrendering 27.8 with a standard deviation of 14.6. The Sooners have typically exceeded their foes average points surrendered by 1.75 standard deviation. Since the Red Raiders average giving up 23 points per games with a standard deviation of 12, one could expect the Sooners to score around 44 points.
Isolating the games to be against 5 common foes, the Sooners averaged 53 points against defenses giving up 30. Their defense gave up 33 points to teams averaging 34 points.
The Dust Pirates average scoring 48 points versus the 30 surrendered. The Red Raider defense gave up 28 points per game.
So, in a nutshell, the Red Raider defense is better than the Sooner defense. The Sooner offense is better than the Red Raider O. The Sooners are at home.
So, with that analysis, I'll predict the score to be 45-38 Sooners.
Coach Switzer has indicated that OU shoudl win, because they have better players. What Switzer is missing is that the game is a collection of players as a team, not individual players. He's also missing that TT is not just a scrappy bunch of ragtag rejects, but has some serious players. It's also about how the coaches play their strengths against the other teams weakness(es).
Anyway, here are some statisics that I submit for your review, which exclude the 1-aa games.
TT averages almost 47 points a game, while their foes have averaged surrendering 30.4 ppg and a standard deviation of 15.3. They typically exceed their foes average pts surrendered by 1 standard deviation. Since the Sooners average giving up 26 ppg with a standard deviation of 11.9, that would pt the predicted points given up as 38 points.
OU averages almost 51 points per game, while their foes have averaged surrendering 27.8 with a standard deviation of 14.6. The Sooners have typically exceeded their foes average points surrendered by 1.75 standard deviation. Since the Red Raiders average giving up 23 points per games with a standard deviation of 12, one could expect the Sooners to score around 44 points.
Isolating the games to be against 5 common foes, the Sooners averaged 53 points against defenses giving up 30. Their defense gave up 33 points to teams averaging 34 points.
The Dust Pirates average scoring 48 points versus the 30 surrendered. The Red Raider defense gave up 28 points per game.
So, in a nutshell, the Red Raider defense is better than the Sooner defense. The Sooner offense is better than the Red Raider O. The Sooners are at home.
So, with that analysis, I'll predict the score to be 45-38 Sooners.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Beating Texas and OU in the same year
From the LandThieves Research Department
One of the stats I've heard this week is "Texas Tech has never beaten Texas and OU in the same year." Since historically, one or both teams ahve been "pretty good", I decided to see how often that's happened.
First of all, it's happened twice in the history of the Big 12. That was in 1997, when Texas A&M and Oklahoma State both defeated the Horns and Sooners. Texas prevented that from happening again by firing Mackovic and hiring Mack Brown, and we followed suit in 98 with firing Blake and hiring that inexperienced Stoops fella.
There have been 164 teams that have played both squads in a season. Here is a breakdown of the 14 teams that have vanquished both foes:
One of the stats I've heard this week is "Texas Tech has never beaten Texas and OU in the same year." Since historically, one or both teams ahve been "pretty good", I decided to see how often that's happened.
First of all, it's happened twice in the history of the Big 12. That was in 1997, when Texas A&M and Oklahoma State both defeated the Horns and Sooners. Texas prevented that from happening again by firing Mackovic and hiring Mack Brown, and we followed suit in 98 with firing Blake and hiring that inexperienced Stoops fella.
There have been 164 teams that have played both squads in a season. Here is a breakdown of the 14 teams that have vanquished both foes:
- Colorado (1989, 1990, 1993, 1994)
- Kansas State (1926)
- Missouri (1916)
- Nebraska (1933, 1960)
- Notre Dame (1952)
- Oklahoma State (1944, 1997)
- Texas A&M (1951, 1994, 1997)
Data pulled from James Howell's most excellent college football score site.
Testigate Solved
The criminal charges against Allen Beckett, the gent accused of tearing Brian Thomas scrotum, have been dropped.
A few semi-stolen thoughts re Tech
Berry Tramel's article does a good job of describing where Leach ranks in OU history.
On Monday, I read where Leach talks to Switzer regularly. Those have to be some interesting discussions. Anyway, today on ESPN103.3 FM in Dallas, Switzer was on Michael Irvin's radio show. During the course of his discussion (you must listen to Switzer sometime on the radio, it's good stuff), Switzer confirmed he talked to Leach about once a week, and also said Leach would "be at Clemson or Washington or Tennessee next year". I tried to find this snippet on the ESPN radio website but had no luck.
Anyway, I'd be disappointed if Leach leaves Lubbock. I think Leach may be a bit too quirky for many of the larger schools, but there's no doubt in my mind he would succeed at a larger school in terms of success on the field and having kids graduate.
On Monday, I read where Leach talks to Switzer regularly. Those have to be some interesting discussions. Anyway, today on ESPN103.3 FM in Dallas, Switzer was on Michael Irvin's radio show. During the course of his discussion (you must listen to Switzer sometime on the radio, it's good stuff), Switzer confirmed he talked to Leach about once a week, and also said Leach would "be at Clemson or Washington or Tennessee next year". I tried to find this snippet on the ESPN radio website but had no luck.
Anyway, I'd be disappointed if Leach leaves Lubbock. I think Leach may be a bit too quirky for many of the larger schools, but there's no doubt in my mind he would succeed at a larger school in terms of success on the field and having kids graduate.
Stolen thoughts 11-19-08
- I find it annoying that Texas has gone out and solved their defensive coordinator churn problem. I had been hoping for Muschamp to bail.
- The sooners W against Davidson last night was must see TV. Willie Warren is the real deal, if the Sooners can keep him out of foul trouble. The Sooners played at a faster pace when Warren was in, and as a Tubbs disciple, I'm all for that.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Stay off my lawn
Much ado in the blogger world about Obama's plan for a eight team playoff. Being that I haven't found much to agree with him on, this is most concerning. I might rather have him fixing college football than fixing my income taxes. I'm probably most concerned that I might agree with him on something.
However, as usual, the plan is long on ideas and short on a detailed plan of how it would work. But it would be change! For example, the six BCS conferences doesn't do justice to the Mountain West, which is 6-1 this year against the Pac 10. If you use the BCS standings, you - mercifully - ignore the ACC and the Big East. That's a lot of electoral votes you're turning away from. Do you eliminate the conference championships? Here's the LandThieves plan, even though I still like the EPL format I proposed last year.
However, as usual, the plan is long on ideas and short on a detailed plan of how it would work. But it would be change! For example, the six BCS conferences doesn't do justice to the Mountain West, which is 6-1 this year against the Pac 10. If you use the BCS standings, you - mercifully - ignore the ACC and the Big East. That's a lot of electoral votes you're turning away from. Do you eliminate the conference championships? Here's the LandThieves plan, even though I still like the EPL format I proposed last year.
- You have to eliminate some games to make this work, so eliminate the first game against the Southern Conference/SunBelt/WAC/MAC bottom dweller that you used as an exhibition.
- Eliminate the conference championships. this leaves everyone with 11 regular season games. Only four teams would plan more than 12 games.
- Eliminate the Coaches poll from the competition. There's an ethical dilemma presented every year. The Harris poll was voters out of touch with what's going on. Tulsa lost to the worst team in the SEC and then by 40 to a conference rival. And they got votes. Nebraska - with 4 losses, but three to teams in the top 12 - gets no votes.
- Use the six computer polls presently eligible for the BCS. Allow the computers to consider margin of victory, but cap the MOV at 21 points.
- Throw in the Blogpoll as a seventh, just to make it interesting.
- Take out the high and low rankings, and you get an average of five rankings. Pick the top eight teams.
Is my plan flawed. Sure. Got a better recommendation? Put it in the comments.
A New Hebrew Temple in Norman
The newest Hebrew temple in Norman has a new sign drawing attention across the community.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
the Sixth Seal: Cosmic Disturbances
Baylor wins 41-21. They let up on the Aggies. This game is historical for the Bears. It's only the 6th time in 105 contests that the Bears have won by 20 or more. It's the first time for a 20+ margin of victory in Waco since November 28, 1901. According to the internets, that day is also marked by the date that the Alabama constitution was modified to require literacy tests to vote. This was viewed as a way to disenfranchise African Americans. Fortunately for all, the Alabama constitution does not require literacy to play football for the Tide, nor is it required to be a Tide fan.
Barring an epic upset by the Aggies over the Longhorns in two weeks, the Bears will be 5th in the Big 12 at the end of the season. It will mark only the second time in the history of the Big 12 that Baylor has finished 5th in the big 12. The other instance was in 2005, when GuyMo's Bears finished ahead of Boone State in Coach Hair Gel's first season as head coach.
Barring an epic upset by the Aggies over the Longhorns in two weeks, the Bears will be 5th in the Big 12 at the end of the season. It will mark only the second time in the history of the Big 12 that Baylor has finished 5th in the big 12. The other instance was in 2005, when GuyMo's Bears finished ahead of Boone State in Coach Hair Gel's first season as head coach.
The Cash Machine is broken
Baylor scores again to take a 41-7 lead over TAMU. For you historians, this is the second time in 105 games that Baylor has exceeded 40 points. The other times were Nov 28, 1901, when the Bears won 46-0, and Oct 18, 1980, when the Bears won 46-7.
Aggies Grief
We didn't have an OU game to analyze, other than the Sooner hoops victory against Patriot League defending champion American, so we do the next best thing pick on our rivals. As a result...
Reveille Penned the Five Stages of Grief of an Aggie Fan.
Reveille Penned the Five Stages of Grief of an Aggie Fan.
Stolen Thoughts 11-15-08
Most of these I found on the most excellent site The Wiz of Odds; it really is a phenomenal site for finding good stuff around the country.
Here's your argument that the MAC is better than the Big Televen.
In an absolutely shocking development, we find that TCU isn't in favor of playing Thurs night road games after Saturday night road games. The MWC is looking into it. I'm sure it's tough to get good time slots on the CBS College Network.
There are a couple more videos of our favorite rival coach, the Great Pirate.
Also, here's the scoop on the Mangino rant I mentioned earlier this week from the 2004 game. I love the internet.
Sam Chi does a grat job aver at the BCSguru of breaking down the BCS contenders and pretenders. For example, who's played a tougher schedule, Alabama or Utah? You may be surprised. Of course, I don't think Utah will be playing Florida in a conf championship game.
Here's your argument that the MAC is better than the Big Televen.
In an absolutely shocking development, we find that TCU isn't in favor of playing Thurs night road games after Saturday night road games. The MWC is looking into it. I'm sure it's tough to get good time slots on the CBS College Network.
There are a couple more videos of our favorite rival coach, the Great Pirate.
Also, here's the scoop on the Mangino rant I mentioned earlier this week from the 2004 game. I love the internet.
Sam Chi does a grat job aver at the BCSguru of breaking down the BCS contenders and pretenders. For example, who's played a tougher schedule, Alabama or Utah? You may be surprised. Of course, I don't think Utah will be playing Florida in a conf championship game.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Weekend Previews - Nov 15
This week is a bit of a downer after three weeks of top 10 teams playing one another. Let’s get to the previews:
Texas at Kansas – the Longhorns last visit to Lawrence was highlighted by two TDs in the last 4:11 by the Horns and Mangino claims of a conspiracy to get the Longhorns into the BCS. The Jayhawks are reeling from recent losses to OU, TT and NU, with the only salve being the victory against Kansas State. Texas is looking for “style points” a politically correct term to say, “hoping to mercilessly run up the score to woo voters” as the most difficult potion of their schedule is behind them and the Red Raiders and Sooners are playing more high profile games in the next two weeks. The Longhorns will be playing with their third string center, courtesy of injuries combined with Burk Burnett’s dismissal due to racial slurs on a facebook site. Kansas D isn’t even up to Big 12 standards. Prediction: Texas
Nebraska at Kansas State – these games were something to behold in the early days of the Big 12 North. Now, not so much. The first ten games in this series after the Big 12 started in 96 went 5-5, with Nebaska outscoring KSU 295-291. Nebraska outscored KSU 94-34 the last two years, and were so enamored with their coach they fired him. Kansas State hasn’t beaten a team with a winning record this year, and the Bugeaters are 6-4. Prediction: Nebraska
TAMU at Baylor – if Baylor beats TAMU, there’s one voter in the Big 12 that had it correct in the preseason, and the Bears would likely finish fifth in the South division. The Right Revered Robert had his worst game of the season last week against Texas. He’s likely to rebound against a Wrecking Crew defense that is only wrecking the alumni base. Against common foes (OU, OSU, ISU), Baylor has a scoring deficit of 61-93, while TAMU’s scoring deficit against those common foes is 105-157. Prediction: Baylor
Missouri at Iowa State – with a Tiger W and a Jayhawk loss to Texas, Missouri could clinch the Big 12 North prior to the Border War contest later this month. The Cyclones have lost their last eight. This one will be nine. Prediction: Mizzou
Boone State at Colorado – in one of the most misleading stats I’ve found so far, Colorado is 5-1 in home games this year, with the only loss being to Texas. Their last four victories at home have been by a combined margin of 15 points. Those Ws have been against juggernauts Eastern Washington, West Virginia, Kansas State and Iowa State. I’m sure the pundits at ESPN are calling this a trap game for OSU, as it lies between the Texas Tech loss last week and their Bedlam rivalry game the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Plus, they want you to tune in and watch. I still see the Pokes winning this one. Prediction: Boone State
Texas at Kansas – the Longhorns last visit to Lawrence was highlighted by two TDs in the last 4:11 by the Horns and Mangino claims of a conspiracy to get the Longhorns into the BCS. The Jayhawks are reeling from recent losses to OU, TT and NU, with the only salve being the victory against Kansas State. Texas is looking for “style points” a politically correct term to say, “hoping to mercilessly run up the score to woo voters” as the most difficult potion of their schedule is behind them and the Red Raiders and Sooners are playing more high profile games in the next two weeks. The Longhorns will be playing with their third string center, courtesy of injuries combined with Burk Burnett’s dismissal due to racial slurs on a facebook site. Kansas D isn’t even up to Big 12 standards. Prediction: Texas
Nebraska at Kansas State – these games were something to behold in the early days of the Big 12 North. Now, not so much. The first ten games in this series after the Big 12 started in 96 went 5-5, with Nebaska outscoring KSU 295-291. Nebraska outscored KSU 94-34 the last two years, and were so enamored with their coach they fired him. Kansas State hasn’t beaten a team with a winning record this year, and the Bugeaters are 6-4. Prediction: Nebraska
TAMU at Baylor – if Baylor beats TAMU, there’s one voter in the Big 12 that had it correct in the preseason, and the Bears would likely finish fifth in the South division. The Right Revered Robert had his worst game of the season last week against Texas. He’s likely to rebound against a Wrecking Crew defense that is only wrecking the alumni base. Against common foes (OU, OSU, ISU), Baylor has a scoring deficit of 61-93, while TAMU’s scoring deficit against those common foes is 105-157. Prediction: Baylor
Missouri at Iowa State – with a Tiger W and a Jayhawk loss to Texas, Missouri could clinch the Big 12 North prior to the Border War contest later this month. The Cyclones have lost their last eight. This one will be nine. Prediction: Mizzou
Boone State at Colorado – in one of the most misleading stats I’ve found so far, Colorado is 5-1 in home games this year, with the only loss being to Texas. Their last four victories at home have been by a combined margin of 15 points. Those Ws have been against juggernauts Eastern Washington, West Virginia, Kansas State and Iowa State. I’m sure the pundits at ESPN are calling this a trap game for OSU, as it lies between the Texas Tech loss last week and their Bedlam rivalry game the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Plus, they want you to tune in and watch. I still see the Pokes winning this one. Prediction: Boone State
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Wow, I'd have never thought of that
Catching up on google reader tonight. Seems Matt Hinton at Dr Saturday on Yahoo! and Tim Griffin at espn.com have both figured out that if OU beats two top 1 teams in the next three Saturdays, they might be ranked ahead of the Longhorns at season's end. Well, I thought that a week ago, I just have fewer readers. I mean a lot fewer.
Stolen Thoughts 11-12-08
Ya know how Boone State has the big ol' cards for defensive plays? Someone over on a TT board came up with a great version. If only OSU would have tried it.
Best. Leach story. Ever.
Best. Leach story. Ever.
This is one of the plays of the year, courtesy of Todd Reesing.
Next week is a busy week for us here at LandThieves...you've got the week before the biggest game in the history of mid-November 2008, leaving for vacation after the Dust Pirate game, extra special blogging coverage of said game, and now you've got this.
Venables to Clemson? Perhaps. Does this concern me? Sure. On the other hand, no one's interviewing Washington assistants for jobs this year.
Harold's Stores are closing. It's a sad day. I got to know Harold Powell while working at the Trails Golf Club during my collegiate years. He was a good dude.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
BCS Analysis
The BCS Guru has broken out the different scenarios for the Big 12 South. In the interest of efficiency, here's the link.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Big 12 POWs
From the LandThieves research department, while reviewing the Big 12 weekly press release.
- Oklahoma has had one Big 12 offensive player of the week: Manual Johnson. We believe he's related to the Sooner player Manuel Johnson.
- OU has had three defensive POWs, Lendy Holmes, Keenan Clayton and Travis Lewis.
- Only two teams have had Special Teams POWs against OU: Jordan Shipley and Cyrus Gray.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Obama fixes College Football
We read earlier this week that Obama has proposed an eight team playoff to determine the national champion. Since the idea was long on brevity and short on details, Joe Huff commissioned LandThieves political correspondent Julius Ceasar Watts to get the details from President elect Obama:
JCW: You mentioned in earlier speeches that you were in favor of reparations for Blacks. How do you see that playing out in your plan to change college football?
BO: the Historically Black Universities have been long denied a chance to compete on the highest levels of college sport. At the end of the regular season, the champions of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and the Southwest Athletic Conference will play for one of the eight slots in the playoffs.
JCW: President-elect Obama, you have indicated that America is in need of redistribution, and that this would be "chump change" to the college football elite. Do you also see that translating into your playoff?
BO: I certainly do. Many schools don't have the same opportunities to advance as the elite. As a result, I've formulated a 5 point plan to level the playing field.
JCW: You mentioned in earlier speeches that you were in favor of reparations for Blacks. How do you see that playing out in your plan to change college football?
BO: the Historically Black Universities have been long denied a chance to compete on the highest levels of college sport. At the end of the regular season, the champions of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and the Southwest Athletic Conference will play for one of the eight slots in the playoffs.
JCW: President-elect Obama, you have indicated that America is in need of redistribution, and that this would be "chump change" to the college football elite. Do you also see that translating into your playoff?
BO: I certainly do. Many schools don't have the same opportunities to advance as the elite. As a result, I've formulated a 5 point plan to level the playing field.
- Coaches that work long hours game planning and recruiting, come up with innovative ideas and climb the ladder of success will be allowed the opportunity to share their earnings with coaches that lack imagination and motivation to succeed. It's just unfair to expect all coaches to have the same level of work ethic.
- At the end of the season, teams that have experienced successful seasons will have their skill position players redistributed to other schools that are less fortunate.
- Players that have been gifted with exceptional speed and quickness will be required to wear weighted ankle bracelets, so that their brethren who weren't born with the same muscle twitch fibers can complete on the same playing field.
- Players possessing remarkable strength will be required to tie one had behind their back, so that their physical advantage won't impair the progress of an individual who's hasn't worked as hard in the weight room.
- The Big 10 network will be the only sports channel on the basic cable and dish packages. the MTN will be available to premium subscribers, and ESPN, ABC and CBS will only be available to federal workers and their families at no charge.
JCW: That seems a little concerning to me. By levelling the playing field like that, you're going to disincent achievement, and end up with an inferior product.
BO: My election was a mandate for change. This change to a level playing field may not be welcome to some. But make no mistake, it is change. Sacrifices must be made for the greater good. No one should have to watch Iowa State play Colorado in their present state.
Early Thoughts on TT
Man, they looked really good again on Saturday night. Tech's ability to run the ball and pass block effectively is impressive. You need to get pressure on Harrell, but between the safety routes, the pass blocking and the other short timing routes, you're very unlikely to get there.
The defense is the most impressive thing. For yours I've figured if Tech ever figured out how to play defense they would be awesome. Tech has held the Longhorns and Cowboys to their lowest scoring totals of the season. If they duplicate that feat against the Sooners, do you think the Sooners can hold them to below 35? Especially with two only two defensive ends and Austin Box as your middle lineback?
The defense is the most impressive thing. For yours I've figured if Tech ever figured out how to play defense they would be awesome. Tech has held the Longhorns and Cowboys to their lowest scoring totals of the season. If they duplicate that feat against the Sooners, do you think the Sooners can hold them to below 35? Especially with two only two defensive ends and Austin Box as your middle lineback?
A potential chaotic scenario
Do you all remember last year's chaos, where Ohio State and LSU both lost their last home games, but went on to the BCS Championship game courtesy of several other folks losing? Well, here's a doozy for you...
Texas Tech loses to Oklahoma on Nov 22
Oklahoma loses to Oklahoma State on Nov 29
Florida loses to Florida State in Tallahassee on Nov 29
Alabama loses to Florida in the SEC Championship game
Texas is upset by Missouri in the Big 12 Championship game
Penn State runs the table
USC and Oregon state win the remainder of their games in the Pac 10.
A verly likely result in this scenario:
Penn State plays USC for the national championship game. Oregon State goes to the Rose Bowl as the Pac 10 champion (presently with no BCS ranking whatsoever), and USC is the Pac 10 runner up. In spite of the season long dominance of the top 10 by SEC and Big 12 teams, no reps from those conferences make the Championship game.
Texas Tech loses to Oklahoma on Nov 22
Oklahoma loses to Oklahoma State on Nov 29
Florida loses to Florida State in Tallahassee on Nov 29
Alabama loses to Florida in the SEC Championship game
Texas is upset by Missouri in the Big 12 Championship game
Penn State runs the table
USC and Oregon state win the remainder of their games in the Pac 10.
A verly likely result in this scenario:
Penn State plays USC for the national championship game. Oregon State goes to the Rose Bowl as the Pac 10 champion (presently with no BCS ranking whatsoever), and USC is the Pac 10 runner up. In spite of the season long dominance of the top 10 by SEC and Big 12 teams, no reps from those conferences make the Championship game.
TAMU Report
The Sooners exploded early on the Aggies, scoring 21 points before Cash Machine U could manage a first down.
The Sooners passing game today was hampered by the Aggie defense. Aggie D coordinator Joe Kines, long considered a genius in the game, appeared to allow the Sooners to run at will in an effort to dissuade the Sooners from passing. It worked. Sam Bradford was held below his average of 340 yards passing per game, but the Sooners did rush for 328 yards on 38 carries. Murray and Brown both ran for over 100 yards. Murray was ineffective on his last four carries, netting zero yards on those. However, since he had 123 yards on his first three carries, it all turned out alright.
The defense played well today. Jerrod Johnson was under duress during most of his time in the game. His favorite receiver appeared to be Johnny "Zits" McFarland, a third-year tuba player for the Aggie band. Johnny is best known for his precision route running, but today Johnson kept throwing passes deep into the stands in an effort to connect with McFarland on a longer play.
Hats off to Sr Aggie signal-caller Stephen McGee, who played quite a bit in the second half of his final game at Kyle Field. McGee was a warrior during his 4-year tenure with the Aggies, and all the editors here at LandThieves wish him well.
Aggie Kick returner Cyrus Gray had a big game today, returning 7 kicks for 261 yards, including one 98 yarder. The Sooners have now yielded three TDs and over 1800 yards on kick returns.
LandThieves awards Gas Cards to: the Offensive Line, DE Frank Alexander, LB Austin Box, and CB Dominique Franks. Alexander confused me several times. I'm used to seeing #84 as a receiver, Cheney, but Alexander was in the backfield all day for the Sooners. Box also played solidly yesterday, and survived a clean, violent block by Jorvorskie Lane to return to the game. Franks returned a fumble for a score, marking the second straight game he's scored for the defense.
The Sooners passing game today was hampered by the Aggie defense. Aggie D coordinator Joe Kines, long considered a genius in the game, appeared to allow the Sooners to run at will in an effort to dissuade the Sooners from passing. It worked. Sam Bradford was held below his average of 340 yards passing per game, but the Sooners did rush for 328 yards on 38 carries. Murray and Brown both ran for over 100 yards. Murray was ineffective on his last four carries, netting zero yards on those. However, since he had 123 yards on his first three carries, it all turned out alright.
The defense played well today. Jerrod Johnson was under duress during most of his time in the game. His favorite receiver appeared to be Johnny "Zits" McFarland, a third-year tuba player for the Aggie band. Johnny is best known for his precision route running, but today Johnson kept throwing passes deep into the stands in an effort to connect with McFarland on a longer play.
Hats off to Sr Aggie signal-caller Stephen McGee, who played quite a bit in the second half of his final game at Kyle Field. McGee was a warrior during his 4-year tenure with the Aggies, and all the editors here at LandThieves wish him well.
Aggie Kick returner Cyrus Gray had a big game today, returning 7 kicks for 261 yards, including one 98 yarder. The Sooners have now yielded three TDs and over 1800 yards on kick returns.
LandThieves awards Gas Cards to: the Offensive Line, DE Frank Alexander, LB Austin Box, and CB Dominique Franks. Alexander confused me several times. I'm used to seeing #84 as a receiver, Cheney, but Alexander was in the backfield all day for the Sooners. Box also played solidly yesterday, and survived a clean, violent block by Jorvorskie Lane to return to the game. Franks returned a fumble for a score, marking the second straight game he's scored for the defense.
LandThieves Stat of the Week - 1st Half Scoring
The Sooners have scored 355 points in the first half this year, an average of 35.5 points per game. Their first half scoring total alone would qualify them for 20th in scoring offense through yesterday's games.
There are only three games where the Sooners haven't scored enough points in the first half to win the game outright: Cincinnati, Texas and Kansas.
The Sooners have had at least one 20 point half in every game this year.
There are only three games where the Sooners haven't scored enough points in the first half to win the game outright: Cincinnati, Texas and Kansas.
The Sooners have had at least one 20 point half in every game this year.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Your BCS talking points
With the Harris poll and Coaches poll making up 2/3 of the BCS, the Sooners are likely going to have to overcome a) Texas Tech; b) the Joe Paterno lifetime achievement award; c) Oklahoma State; d) Harris and Coaches poll voters likely to vote Texas over Oklahoma b/c they beat them on the field. Alas, here are your talking points:
- Oregon State only received 5 votes in the Harris poll even though they beat USC , who is presently ranked 7th.
- Michigan State is ranked 18th and has lost to California, who is ranked 21st.
- Florida is ranked ahead of Ole Miss, who beat them. Ole Miss receives no votes in the polls.
- Penn State has the easiest schedule of the undefeated and one loss teams that are BCS automatic qualifiers.
- If OU is to defeat Texas Tech and Oklahoma State, the Sooners will have gone 3-1 against Oklahoma State, Texas Tech, TCU and Texas, who are all ranked above Penn State's most formidable foe, Ohio State.
- Assuming the two wins over OSU and TT, the voter's will like vote the Sooners ahead of Texas Tech, but behind UT, based upon head to head competition. I'm not sure how that makes sense with the 39-33 victory that TT had a week ago over UT.
Stolen Thoughts 11-08-08
Great video about look alike coaches, with a shout out to Disco Tech!
The Aggie Report looks into Bob Stoops with some political attack ads.
The Great Pirate's impact on the Big XII. And congratulations to the Red Raiders for not picking DickRod 8 years ago.
Another reason to root for the Sooners over Texas.
A pretty funny viewing guide for today's LSU-Bama game.
The Aggie Report looks into Bob Stoops with some political attack ads.
The Great Pirate's impact on the Big XII. And congratulations to the Red Raiders for not picking DickRod 8 years ago.
Another reason to root for the Sooners over Texas.
A pretty funny viewing guide for today's LSU-Bama game.
LSU Alabama Preview
Since Snoop Sogg is now and LSU fan, and the Bama-LSU game is one of the Sooners last few chances to have the Tide derailed, we asked Snoop to give us a game preview.
When Alabama has da ball: Alabama iz led - if I may use dat term - in da passing attack by John Peter Wilson. JPW iz passing stats would make him da 11th bomb qaruterback in da Big 12 in terms o' passing efficiency. John Peter Wilson'sfavorite throwing target iz Julio Jones, uh freshman sensation dat many delusional Sooner fans thought Bob would somehow be able ta pry from da grips o' da Alabama program. The Tide really ain't about passing, though, it'sabout running da ball an' defense. The Bama rushing attack iz 18th in da country an' ledy by by Glen Coffeee, who aveages almost 100 yards per game all by hizzelf. LSU actually has one o' da top (17th) rushing defenses in da country, so dis here will provide an interesting matchup between da squads. Scoring-wise, LSU has given up 50+ in two games dis here year (Florida an' Georgia), an' even allowed Auburn ta score over 20 tweny points. Advantage: Tide
When LSU has da ball: LSU relies heavily on da rushing o' Charles Scott, who iz 17th in da country averageing 111 yards per game. However, da Tide will be usin' da services o' mammoth lineman Terrence Cody ta clog da rushing lanes fo' da Tigers, so peep fo' Scott'saverage ta jet down in dis here game. The rushing attack overall iz 29th in da country. In da passing game, da Tigers iz led by Brenham, Texas native Jarrett Lee, who'sbeen uh bit turnover prone dis here year, throwing 10 picks versus only 12 TDs. Advantage: Tide
Special Teams: da Tiger return game iz led by Trinton Holliday, who's been much mo' effective on punt returns than smoke returns. The Bama smoke return defense iz only 80th (and da punt return defense iz 73rd) in da country, so Holliday may be able ta sneak one loose in kickoff returns as well. The LSU Ko return D iz bomb in da country, allowing an average o' only 16.4 yards per return. Being dat Alabama iz 103rd in KO returns dis here year. When LSU punts, da Bama return game looks ta thrive, bringing uh 31st ranked return unit in against da 109th reated return defense unit fo' LSU. Advantage: LSU
Overall: Alabama has da superior D, an' LSU has been impaired by losses ta da three Gs, graduation, grades an' greed. Oh, make dat 4, ganja. LSU had not taken care o' da football dis here year, an' I peep fo' Bama ta travel back ta Tuscaloosa wiff uh W as dey move on ta da SEC champsionship game all ye damn hood ratz.
When Alabama has da ball: Alabama iz led - if I may use dat term - in da passing attack by John Peter Wilson. JPW iz passing stats would make him da 11th bomb qaruterback in da Big 12 in terms o' passing efficiency. John Peter Wilson'sfavorite throwing target iz Julio Jones, uh freshman sensation dat many delusional Sooner fans thought Bob would somehow be able ta pry from da grips o' da Alabama program. The Tide really ain't about passing, though, it'sabout running da ball an' defense. The Bama rushing attack iz 18th in da country an' ledy by by Glen Coffeee, who aveages almost 100 yards per game all by hizzelf. LSU actually has one o' da top (17th) rushing defenses in da country, so dis here will provide an interesting matchup between da squads. Scoring-wise, LSU has given up 50+ in two games dis here year (Florida an' Georgia), an' even allowed Auburn ta score over 20 tweny points. Advantage: Tide
When LSU has da ball: LSU relies heavily on da rushing o' Charles Scott, who iz 17th in da country averageing 111 yards per game. However, da Tide will be usin' da services o' mammoth lineman Terrence Cody ta clog da rushing lanes fo' da Tigers, so peep fo' Scott'saverage ta jet down in dis here game. The rushing attack overall iz 29th in da country. In da passing game, da Tigers iz led by Brenham, Texas native Jarrett Lee, who'sbeen uh bit turnover prone dis here year, throwing 10 picks versus only 12 TDs. Advantage: Tide
Special Teams: da Tiger return game iz led by Trinton Holliday, who's been much mo' effective on punt returns than smoke returns. The Bama smoke return defense iz only 80th (and da punt return defense iz 73rd) in da country, so Holliday may be able ta sneak one loose in kickoff returns as well. The LSU Ko return D iz bomb in da country, allowing an average o' only 16.4 yards per return. Being dat Alabama iz 103rd in KO returns dis here year. When LSU punts, da Bama return game looks ta thrive, bringing uh 31st ranked return unit in against da 109th reated return defense unit fo' LSU. Advantage: LSU
Overall: Alabama has da superior D, an' LSU has been impaired by losses ta da three Gs, graduation, grades an' greed. Oh, make dat 4, ganja. LSU had not taken care o' da football dis here year, an' I peep fo' Bama ta travel back ta Tuscaloosa wiff uh W as dey move on ta da SEC champsionship game all ye damn hood ratz.
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