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Bowl games reveal true identity

2009-01-05T17:39:00Z

The College Football bowl games have, as expected, provided much excitement. However, the lack of a playoff has left me with more questions than answers. What if Utah got to keep playing? Could anyone beat USC today? Are Florida and Oklahoma really the two best teams? While I cannot answer these questions, I can dispel some myths about this year in College Football.

Myth 1: Utah cannot play with the heavyweights
I feel bad for the Utes. They ended the regular season as the only undefeated team, and they will end the bowls as the only undefeated team. This marks the second time in five years that Utah has finished undefeated. They deserve better than an “atta boy.” They deserve a shot at a national title.

Myth 2: The Pac-10 Conference had a down year
Count me as one of the people who thought the Pac-10 was weak this year. I am sure that the Pac-10 teams were aware of this sentiment, as they made a decisive statement during these bowl games. The Pac-10 finished 5-0 in the bowls, with some impressive victories. An unranked Arizona squad beat No. 16 BYU. California beat Miami. Oregon, without its starting running back and best receiver, beat Pittsburgh. Oregon outscored the Big 12’s Oklahoma State 42-31 and USC embarrassing Penn State in the Rose Bowl. It was their play on the field, not prognosticators projections, which confirmed just how good the Pac-10 was this year.

Myth 3: The Big 12 Conference can outscore anyone
In fairness, the Big 12’s best teams, Oklahoma and Texas, have yet to play. However, we were led to believe that the Big 12’s offenses were so great that they could not be stopped. Bowl game data shows that this is not true. For starters, the Big 12’s three, four and five teams have not performed to the hype. Missouri won the Big 12 North Division, but needed overtime to beat the Big Ten’s fourth best team, Northwestern. Texas Tech finished the regular season 11-1, but was beaten soundly by an Ole Miss squad that went 5-3 in the SEC. Oklahoma State went 5-3 in the “terrific” Big 12 South, but they lost to Oregon.

The Big 12 was supposedly filled with great offenses, but we may need to rethink this idea. Perhaps the conference just consists of bad defenses. In the five bowl games that the Big 12 has currently played, Big 12 teams are averaging 32.6 points per game. This sounds impressive, until you realize that these five Big 12 teams averaged 40 points during the regular season. Also, in these five bowl games, oppositions are averaging 30.8 points per game, above their season average.

The Big 12 contains only one team (Texas) than ranks in the top 50 in points allowed per game. It certainly seems like the huge offensive numbers put up by the Big 12 Conference are due as much to the poor defenses as they are to great offenses.

Games you should know about:
International Bowl
Connecticut 38
Buffalo 20
UConn turned the ball over five times in the first half before pulling it together in the second. Connecticut only attempted six passes in the game, choosing to impose their will on the ground. UConn ran for 358 yards, averaging over seven yards per carry.

Even though Buffalo lost, they had a great season. Buffalo coach Turner Gill proved that he deserves a chance to coach at a BCS conference school.

Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl
Boston College 14
Vanderbilt 16
The Eagles were one win away from playing in a BCS game. Instead, they had their eight-game bowl winning streak snapped by a 6-6 Vanderbilt team. BC’s season would have had a different ending if not for the injury to starting quarterback Chris Crane.

Rose Bowl Game Presented by Citi
No. 5 USC 38
No. 6 Penn State 24
USC absolutely dominated this game. Quarterback Mark Sanchez was terrific, throwing for 413 yards and four touchdowns. USC has now won nine straight games against Big Ten opponents, all by double figures. Meanwhile, this loss makes it five consecutive BCS defeats for the Big Ten. Up next, Ohio State plays Texas in the Fiesta Bowl.

FedEx Orange Bowl
No. 12 Cincinnati 7
No. 21 Virginia Tech 20
The score was close throughout, but Virginia Tech owned this game. The Hokies held a 40-20 minute advantage in time of possession. Cincinnati could not handle Tech’s defense. Bearcats quarterback Tony Pike looked completely out of synch all game, completing only 50% of his passes and throwing four interceptions. With this win Tech has now won at least 10 games five straight seasons.

AT&T Cotton Bowl
No. 8 Texas Tech 34
No. 20 Mississippi 47
First, a note about the announcing of this game: Pat Summerall was a terrific play-by-play man for college football and the NFL. He officially retired after he and John Madden announced the Patriots first Super Bowl victory. Since retiring, Summerall has only announced a few games, including the three previous Cotton Bowls. With that said, this game may have been Summerall’s worst ever. I feel bad saying this, but poor Pat needs to retire for good. During this game he sounded like a man who had never even seen a football game.

As for the game, Mississippi played great defense and even better offense to pull off the major upset. I thought that Texas Tech would run away with this one, but Ole Miss was better in every facet of the game. The Big 12 has really disappointed so far in these bowls.

Allstate Sugar Bowl
No. 4 Alabama 17
No. 7 Utah 31
Wow, now this is an upset. Utah dominated Alabama. The Utes looked like they were playing at a different speed. On offense, Alabama could not handle Utah’s quick wide receivers. The Utes shredded Alabama’s top ten defense, throwing for 336 yards. On defense, Utah’s fast front seven pressured ‘Bama all night, forcing an incredible eight sacks.

Utah entered the bowl games as the only undefeated team. Now, for the second time in five years, they will end the season undefeated. I just wish they could get to keep playing.

Donny is simply the best

2009-01-04T21:52:00Z

Huge win. HUGE WIN. Where to start?

How about a career day for a future NFL running back?

Or the Jekyll/Hyde dynamic of the first and second half?

Or that fat white guy conducting the band in the post victory celebration?

I have never been in a locker room with as much excitement and adrenaline as I was in the Rogers Centre prior to taking the field for the start of the 2009 International Bowl. As a player, there have been big games (WVU 2007, Big East Championship on the line) and not so big games (Sorry Hofstra). But the feeling before game was something different.

We knew we had something to prove. A combination of living up to the expectations we had set for ourselves and putting a stop to the second half a season that found us going 2 -5 through the last seven. I hate to say it, but Buffalo never had a shot. They could have lined up the New England Patriots out there -- there was no way we were going to lose this game.

Alright, so I was a little nervous after five turnovers in the first half (you'd have to be an emotional cripple not to be). But it was a classic example of a team that wills itself to victory. Fans of UConn football might find some similarities between this team and the 2004 Motor City Bowl champion huskies. Not in talent (Tyler Lorenzen is not Dan Orlovsky, but just like Toledo in '04, Buffalo in '09 was certain to meet the same fate.)

And meet that fate they did. Yes, even after five turnovers.

How do you make up for five turnovers that result in scores? Apparently the answer is to hand off to your NFL-bound (yes, its official now) running back. What more can we say about Donny Brown? I'm going to go in a different direction that Coach Edsall, the whole "riding Donny the stallion"-thing is a little off putting. I will say that as a teammate, football player, and friend Donny is simply the best.

Also, our defensive game plan was perfect. We knew what sets they were running and what plays were coming. Coach Orlando is quickly becoming a hot commodity. Seriously, giving him four weeks to prepare for one game is almost not fair. He's that good. He's the "Rainman" of college football (I'm an excellent driver). He lives on a strict regimen of Diet Soda and Skoal, and he is absolutely excellent at what he does.

When the dust (confetti) had settled, we had put an explanation point on a truly amazing season. I hold a lot of fond memories from the last five seasons (conducting the band is in the top five). It was an amazing game and an amazing way to go out.

Time to go exchange all this Canadian monopoly money.

-FWG-

Northern exposure

2009-01-02T20:54:00Z

Rob Lunn, the blogging lineman known as the Fat White Guy, is in Toronto as his UConn Huskies prepare for Saturday’s International Bowl. Saturday’s matchup marks the third playing of the bowl. It is also UConn’s third trip to a bowl game in the last five seasons.

I’ve learned a few things since arriving in Canada. Mayonnaise is their condiment of choice. Big Papi has been naked here – don’t worry an explanation will follow. And they really like their hockey.

If I get one more hamburger with mayonnaise on it, I am going to write a very strongly worded letter to their President (excuse me, Prime Minister).

Not much by way of exciting events, everyone is keeping their focus on the game as a priority. However, I did discover that the player hospitality suite has Guitar Hero, which puts an end to my "social experiences" here in Toronto.

However, the day took a turn for awesome when we arrived at the Rogers Centre, formerly known as the Sky Dome. First, I am a huge fan of all dome shaped objects – ice cream scoops, meatballs, Dippin' Dots. Second, I love major league baseball – specifically the Boston Red Sox. It just so happens that we are staying in the MLB visitors' locker room, so my first question was, "Where does Big Papi change?"

Some might be asking why my first question was where a 290 lb Dominican gets naked. These people aren't part of The Nation. The operations manager for the Rogers Centre pointed me to his locker and I thoroughly enjoyed soaking in the "Papi-ness."

On our way to the field, we ran into the players from Buffalo. Looks were exchanged, but no words. Our practice went off without a hitch, mostly guys getting used to a new – and faster – playing surface.

I've discovered that Canada really is the "first nation of hockey." Every time you turn on the TV is like 31 different varieties of hockey. Hockey at night. Hockey during the day. Hockey with the lights off. Senior hockey. Junior hockey. Infant hockey. Spanish hockey. It’s pretty incredible.

The headline in today's paper on how the Canadians schooled the US Junior Nationals went something like this: "Canadians Take Down Hot Dogging Americans, Teach Them a Thing Or Two About Canada. Eh."

Check back later. We are about to take a tour of the CN Tower. It’s the largest tower in the world…or so I'm told.

Committed to the cause

2009-01-01T17:32:00Z

Bowl game preparation is underway. Bittersweet for many reasons, but then again, too few to mention. Here is an early look at Buffalo:

"This isn't your grandmother's Buffalo team." - Joe D'Ambrosio

Dynamite quote Joe (Dy-no-mite). Actually, he's right.

Remember those UConn v. Buffalo games of past? Ahh the good ol' days. Yes, remember back to a time when NCAA 2004 listed Buffalo as our "rivalry" game. We had a good chuckle (I laughed about it again later that night). Rivalry? Those games were blowouts.

That simply isn't the case anymore. Last year my good friend on the University of Buffalo team, Chris Callahan, (Big Tom Callahan's son) told me that the guys were coming together. He said that they were literally one or two big plays or big moments away from turning the corner. I talked to him briefly this past summer, and he said they were committed to the cause. Their commitment shows. First bowl game in school history.

OFFENSE:
They have an athletic (and ruthless) offensive line. Guys were made offers by UConn, but went to Buffalo (sacrilegious, I know). They also are numbers guys. I've never been one to rely on simple stats, but when you have a couple of 300+lb guys running sub five second 40s. They are doing something right. Behind the big uglies is Drew Willy (insert Free Willy joke here) who was 19-of-28 passes for 206 yards and three touchdowns against Ball State (Well done, Willy).

When not throwing touchdowns (and enjoying walks on the beach), Drew likes to spend his time handing off to prolific runner (and all around good-guy) James Starks. Starks is hard-nosed and can break tackles (and hearts! Watch out ladies!).

DEFENSE:
Their defense is built around capitalizing on turnovers (Ball State must have missed the memo). In order for us to win this game, we will have to minimize our turnovers on offense, and create opportunities on defense.

I would say this to all fans of UConn football (or college football in general) who are thinking of dismissing this game - it was not so long ago that a little team from Storrs made its way to Detroit during the winter of '04. UConn has turned the corner from "maybe-program" to "Big East title contender." Take note: Buffalo is NOT far behind.

Some Final Thoughts:
I can't find the remote to my TV. It's driving me nuts. Imagine having to get up and change the channel every time I want to watch something new. I'm practically living Amish.

It’s official. FWG will be doing some writing for NESN and then in March I will be playing overseas in Austria. I've already ordered my lederhosen and brushed up on my "Sound of Music" trivia...you know...to fit in with the locals.

What to watch

2008-12-29T03:20:00Z

New Year’s Day used to be the Mecca of College Football Bowl games. All of the big Bowls used to be played on this one day. I know several people who miss this, but I am not one of them. During the regular season, I spend every Saturday watching dozens of games. It’s fun, but also exhausting. Now that the major college bowls are spread out, you can watch all of the big games and enjoy each of them. You do not have to worry about flipping between several games.

Games you should know about:
San Diego County Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl
(9) Boise State 16
(11) TCU 17
This is the only big bowl that has been played so far. Don’t be fooled by this bowl’s name, TCU and Boise State are two very good teams. Boise State entered the game undefeated, and led for three plus quarters before TCU took the lead in the fourth. TCU’s outstanding defense was the difference, as they held Boise to only 250 yards and 16 points. This is a great feat since the Boise offense entered the game averaging over 37 points and 440 yards per game. This win cements TCU are the second best mid major team, behind only Utah.

What to watch for in the upcoming bowls:
Pacific Life Holiday Bowl - December 30
(13) Oklahoma State vs. (15) Oregon
It was believed that the Pac-10 was weak and the Big 12 was strong this year. This game will go a long way in determining how true those opinions are. Oregon finished second in the Pac-10, while Oklahoma State finished fourth in the Big 12 South. Oregon needs to win this game for the respect of the Pac-10. Expect a lot of points in this one, as both teams rank in the top eight in points per game.

Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl – December 31
Boston College vs. Vanderbilt
The Eagles have the longest active bowl win streak, at eight. It could be difficult to keep this streak alive, as the game will be played in Nashville, Tennessee; down the street from Vanderbilt’s campus. This game also marks Vanderbilt’s first playoff appearance in 26 years.

Rose Bowl Game Presented by Citi – January 1
(5) USC vs. (6) Penn State
If you love defense, you won’t want to miss this one. USC and Penn State rank first and third in the country in scoring defense, allowing 7.8 and 12.4 points per game, respectively. Both teams enter this game with identical 11-1 records. USC won the Pac-10 and Penn State won the Big Ten. The Trojans and Nittany Lions both have national championship caliber teams, but the BCS computers favored other conferences ahead of theirs. Expect a good, close game, as coaches Pete Carroll and Joe Paterno will both want bragging rights in this one.

FedEx Orange Bowl – January 1
(12) Cincinnati vs. (21) Virginia Tech
Cincinnati overcame multiple quarterback injuries to win the Big East. Virginia Tech won the ACC, a conference it seemed no team wanted to win. This is a game that Cincinnati should absolutely win, as Virginia Tech is only an above average team.

AT&T Cotton Bowl – January 2
(8) Texas Tech vs. (20) Mississippi
Texas Tech had an amazing season, finishing 11-1. Their reward? Playing the surprise team of the year, Ole Miss. The Rebels finished fourth in the SEC, an amazing feat for a team that went winless in SEC play last year. Texas Tech has a high powered offense, averaging over 44 points per game. For Ole Miss to even have a chance, they will need to control the ball with their offense. Personally, I expect Texas Tech to run away with this one.

Allstate Sugar Bowl – January 2
(4) Alabama vs. (7) Utah
Alabama was one win away from a trip to the national title game. Instead, a SEC Championship Game loss to Florida dropped the Crimson Tide to the Sugar Bowl. Utah finished the regular season a perfect 12-0 and gets the honor of trying to be this year’s lion killer. Alabama has a very good all around team and I expect they will win this one. With that said, I am excited to see what Utah will throw at them. It is always fun to root for the underdog.

Tostitos Fiesta Bowl – January 5
(3) Texas vs. (10) Ohio State
An opportunity to play in the BCS Championship Game was taken away from Texas by the computer polls. It will be interesting to see how they respond in this one. Longhorns quarterback Colt McCoy set multiple schools passing records this year, as well as a NCAA record for completion percentage in a season (77.6). After Ohio State promoted freshman quarterback Terrelle Pryor to starter, the team had a different feel. Look for Pryor and a healthy Beanie Wells (running back) to be the focal point of the Buckeye offense. The game may be close, but I would be surprised if Ohio State actually wins this one. I think Texas has too much talent on both sides of the ball.

FedEx BCS National Championship Game – January 8
(1) Florida vs. (2) Oklahoma
This is the big one. Whether or not you believe these are the two most deserving teams to play in the championship game, there is no doubt that both Florida and Oklahoma have outstanding squads. Florida is third in the country in points per game (45.2) and fifth in points allowed per game (12.9). Meanwhile, Oklahoma is the highest scoring team in the country, averaging 54 points per game. The Sooners have scored over 60 points in their previous four games.

These are probably the two fastest rosters in the country. The overall team speed will be apparent to you very quickly. Florida is led by quarterback Tim Tebow, last year’s Heisman Trophy winner. They have several offensive weapons and run many different specialty plays. Oklahoma’s offense is easier to understand. Quarterback Sam Bradford, this year’s Heisman winner, is going to throw out of the shotgun, with the Sooners’ boasting a myriad of great wide receivers and a terrific tight end.

Expect a high scoring shootout in this matchup of dynamic offenses. In the end, I believe that Oklahoma will come out victorious. Even though Florida’s defense put up better numbers this year, I believe that the Sooners actually have a better defense.

A rad year in college football

2008-12-22T19:12:00Z

College Football’s awards, specifically the Heisman Trophy, are nothing more than popularity contests. With that in mind, I decided to offer up my awards with a twist -- a 1980’s twist. That’s right, I’m bringing it back like trapper keepers and My Little Pony.

So pop your Thriller cassette tape into your Sony Walkman, or blast it through your boom box. Tease your hair and put on a pair of stone washed jeans or parachute pants, with legwarmers and jelly shoes. Step away from the Nintendo, throw on your favorite Swatch Watch, and get ready for a retro ride through the forgotten decade. Or maybe it was the decade I wish I could forget. Either way, these awards are, like, totally awesome.

Individual awards:
Honor: Mr. Miyagi Award
Description: Best coach
Winner: Alabama coach Nick Saban. “Mercy is for the weak... When man confronts you, he is enemy.”

Honor: Zack Morris Award
Description: Best player
Winner: Time out. Remember when we used to rock Member’s Only jackets? We were so cool. Time In. I called Florida’s Tim Tebow on my cell to let him know he won this prestigious award. Congratulations, preppy.

Honor: Optimus Prime Award
Description: Best quarterback
Winner: One shall stand, and that one is Oklahoma’s Sam Bradford.

Honor: Big Wheel Award
Description: Best running rack
Winner: With several injuries at quarterback, opposing defenses committed to trying to stop Connecticut’s Donald Brown, but they were not successful.

Honor: Pac-Man Award
Description: Best wide receiver
Winner: No one gobbles up passes quite like Texas Tech’s Michael Crabtree.

Honor: Where’s the Beef Award
Description: Best offensive lineman
Winner: Mmmmmm, Wendy’s. In addition to leveling defenders, Mississippi’s Michael Oher has probably eaten a few Triples in his life.

Honor: “Welcome to the Jungle” Award
Description: Best linebacker
Winner: I wonder what would happen if you played this song at an insane asylum - just wondering. I’m sure Boston College’s Mark Herzlich doesn’t have a problem getting pumped for games. His John Randle face paint speaks for itself.

Honor: He-Man Award
Description: Best defensive lineman
Winner: By the power of Grayskull, Texas’s Brian Orakpo has the power!

Honor: The KGB
Description: Best defensive secondary player
Winner: In the 80’s, “KGB” was heard everywhere, similar to Al-Qaeda today. In that same vein, USC safety Taylor Mays seems to be everywhere on Saturdays.

Honor: Webster Award
Description: Best freshman
Winner: Alabama WR Julio Jones sure doesn’t play like a youngster.

Honor: Al Bundy Award
Description: Player whose best years are behind him
Winner: Arizona State’s senior quarterback Rudy Carpenter had improved each of his first three years, but he completely fell off the map this season. If football doesn’t work, he can always have a career selling women’s’ shoes.

Honor: Head of the Class Award
Description: Best player you may never have heard of.
Winner: I always felt this was an underrated show. Iowa RB Shonn Greene is definitely not a household name, but he should be after rushing for over 100 yards in each game this year.

Honor: Perfect Strangers Award
Description: Teammates that worked unexpectedly well together.
Winner: Larrry Appleton and Balki Bartokomous worked surprising well together. Siminarly, Penn State’s QB Daryll Clark and RB Evan Royster ran the Nittany Lions “Spread HD” offense much better than anyone expected.

Honor: MacGyver Award
Description: Best “jack of all trades” player
Winner: Sure, Florida’s Percy Harvin is a good runner, receiver, and return man. The question is: can he defuse a bomb with a paperclip, piece of string, stick of gun and one AA-battery?

Team awards
Honor: A-Team Award
Description: Best team
Winner: Oklahoma. I pity any team that has to play the Sooners.

Honor: Mogwai Award
Description: Team that looked great on paper.
Winner: Gizmo looked like a cute, innocent pet. Just don’t get him wet, feed him after midnight, or expose him to sunlight. Similarly, Georgia had more weaknesses than their roster would suggest.

Honor: Death Star Award
Description: Supposedly great team that faltered.
Winner: Clemson started the year ranked in the Top 10, but fell far short of expectations.

Honor: Jack Tripper Award
Description: Team that could not capitalize on a great opportunity.
Winner: In a very weak Big Ten conference, Wisconsin should have challenged for the conference title. Instead, they finished sixth.

Honor: Brat Pack Award
Description: Not quite as good as the original (or the previous season).
Winner: In the same way that the Brat Pack was a cheap imitation of the Rat Pack, LSU’s 2008 squad was an inferior version of the team that won the BCS Championship last year.

Honor: Popped Collar / Back to the Future Award
Description: Team that best ran an “old school” system.
Winner: Sports, like life, are cyclical. Old systems are never old for too long and new styles often fade. This award goes to the team that best ran a “conventional” (see: old) system. No team ran a classic system better than Alabama.

Also, for those of you kids rocking a popped collar, I am hear to tell you this is not a new fad, but rather a rebirth of a 1980’s style. Don’t say we never gave you anything.

Rice on point for Eagles

2008-12-16T16:01:00Z

In his four years at Boston College, Tyrese Rice has scored over 1,600 points and dished almost 500 assists. He’s been the Eagles’ floor general in two trips to the NCAA tourney, and when his legacy at Chestnut Hill is complete, the Richmond, Va., native will be regarded as one of the finest point guards in school histoy.

The 6-foot-1 senior captain took a break from studying for his end-of-the-semester exams to field a few questions from NESN.com.

Jeb Fisher: An 8-2 start isn't a bad way to jump into the season, but the ACC is tough as always. How do you feel about your squad (strengths/weaknesses) heading into conference play?

Tyrese Rice: I like the early start that we have had. We definitely had a setback
early in the schedule (BC lost its first game of the season Nov. 22 against St. Louis) that we should have avoided, but I would rather that have happened when it did rather than happening later. I think our team is improving every day in practice, and it shows in some games, but for us to be where we want to be, it is going to have to be more consistent.

JF: It seems like yesterday that you were a freshman phenom. When you reflect on your four years as an Eagle, what strikes you?

TR: My freshman year, I look at that great tournament run we had and how close
we were to really doing something major in school history. Then, my sophmore year, we had another great tournament run. We were so close to making the "Sweet 16" in back-to-back years, which would have been another milestone in school history. Last season, being able to go through some tough times and know that it did not break our team was valuable. Everybody kept the faith and kept believing and kept working hard so that we could achieve a goal at some point.

JF: Former BC teammates Craig Smith (Minnesota Timberwolves) and Jared Dudley (Phoenix Suns) grew into legitimate NBA prospects in their final seasons at BC. Did you learn a lot from them?

TR: Having three pro teammates helped a lot (Sean Williams currently plays for the New Jersey Nets). They taught me how to play the game smart, and they also showed me how hard work pays off. Neither Craig nor Jared was a big recruit (very much like me), but both felt like they had something to prove -- and had a chip on their shoulder.

JF: What about coach Skinner? How has your relationship with him changed over the years?

TR: My relationship with coach Skinner has grown better every year. I think a level of trust has developed every year, and even though we collided sometimes about some things, he always stayed on me, and I always listened. I just thank him for everything he has done for me as a player and as a person.

JF: The numbers (15.2 ppg, 5.6 apg, 41 3-pt pct.) suggest you may be the ACC's best point guard. Are you?

TR: I mean, if you ask me, I definitely think I am the best point guard in the
ACC (ha ha!). The conference is filled with great point guards, and just my
being mentioned in the same sentence with the others is a big deal to me.

Tyrese and the Eagles will tangle with New England rival Providence (6-3) this Saturday (Dec. 20t at 4 p.m. ET on NESNHD.

True achievers and deceivers

2008-12-15T21:33:00Z

At the beginning of each college football season, we like to pretend that we know everything about each team. The Associated Press and USA Today, among other media outlets, release preseason Top 25 polls based on nothing more than conjecture.

The truth is, we don’t know how good any team really is until the games count. With that in mind, I have compiled a list of the biggest overachieving and underachieving teams from each of the six major conferences. This list is based on preseason expectations, so I suppose it is a little unfair of me to say whether or not a team over- or underachieved. Instead, let’s say that these are the teams who either over- or underperformed their expectations.

ACC
Overperformed: Georgia Tech did not receive a single Top 25 vote in the preseason. Under first year coach Paul Johnson, the Yellow Jackets installed the triple-option offense and finished with an impressive 9-3 record. In the final AP Poll, they were the highest-ranked ACC team.

Underperformed: Clemson started the season ranked ninth in the AP Poll, but finished a disappointing 7-5. Keep in mind that two of those wins were against sub-Division I-A teams. In retrospect, it looks like the Tigers' running attack, specifically their offensive line, was overrated. Clemson was supposed to feature a dominant running game, but ended the season ranked 94th in the nation in rushing yards per game.

Big 12
Overperformed: This was a no-brainer, since Oklahoma State started the season with no expectations. This was mainly due to the fact that the Cowboys returned only 13 starters from last season’s 7-6 squad. However, their offense, featuring wide receiver Dez Bryant and running back Kendall Hunter, averaged over 40 points per game and led the team to a 9-3 record.

Underperformed: In 2007, Kansas finished the season 12-1. This record was deceiving, since the Jayhawks only played two teams that ended the season ranked in the Top 25. They entered this season with dreams of a Big 12 championship, but finished at 7-5. More importantly, they were a disappointing seventh in the Big 12.

Big East
Overperformed: Cincinnati was supposed to be good, but not this good. The Bearcats were clearly the best team in the Big East this season, winning the conference by two games. This is an amazing accomplishment for a team that, due to injuries, was forced to start three different quarterbacks over the course of the season.

Underperformed: South Florida had a terrible season, but I feel that the biggest underperformer in the Big East is West Virginia. Last year, coach Rich Rodriguez left Morgantown to take the job at Michigan, but he left behind a lot of talent. Plus, both the offense and defense ran the same systems this year as under Rodriguez. Unfortunately, the team played inconsistently all year en route to a mediocre 8-4 season. I expected much, much more from West Virginia this year.

Big Ten
Overperformed: In 2007, Minnesota finished 1-11 (0-8 in Big Ten) and was horrible. This year, a terrific turnaround resulted in a respectable 7-5 record. The Golden Gophers were not a great team, but they were miles ahead of last year’s squad. The key to their success was turnovers, as the Gophers led the Big Ten with 30 takeaways.

Underperformed: Last year, Illinois was the story of the year in college football. The Fighting Illini finished second in the Big Ten and played in the Rose Bowl. This year, big things were expected in Champaign, with junior quarterback Juice Williams driving a dynamic offense. Instead, the Illini reverted back to their losing ways, finishing the season 5-7 and not even earning a bowl berth.

Pac-10
Overperformed: No team drastically overachieved in the Pac-10, but I am going to give this honor to Oregon State. The Beavers started the season 0-2, before winning 10 of their last 12 games. In the process, they beat USC, ending the Trojans' hopes of a BCS championship. Oregon State entered its final game with a chance to win the Pac-10 title. That achievement did not happen, but Oregon State still had a terrific season.

Underperformed: Arizona State was supposed to have a very good season. Some experts predicted the Sun Devils would finish second or third in the Pac-10. They began the year ranked 15th in the AP poll. So, it was a complete surprise that their season blew up. At one point, the Sun Devils lost six consecutive games. They ultimately finished the season sixth in the Pac-10. Their nightmare of a season was put to bed in the final game of the regular season, when they were trounced by rival Arizona, knocking them out of bowl contention.

SEC
Overperformed: I have to point out two teams here: Alabama and Mississippi. Alabama was an average SEC team last year. The Crimson Tide entered this season ranked 24th. They surprised everyone by going undefeated in the regular season and having one of the best teams in college football.

Over the four previous years, Ole Miss won a total of six SEC games. This season, the Rebels were again picked to be a cellar dweller. Instead, first-year coach Houston Nutt led Ole Miss to a 5-3 record in the SEC. The Rebels lost four games by a total of only 19 points.They are also the only team to beat Florida this year. Ole Miss was rewarded for its great season with an invitation to the prestigious Cotton Bowl.

Underperformed: Auburn began the season ranked 10th in the country. In the offseason, the Tigers brought in a self-described expert of the spread offense, Tony Franklin. That, along with Auburn’s usually strong defense, was supposed to translate into an outstanding season. Unfortunately, everything went wrong. The offense played poorly and was one of the worst in college football. The defense was good, but not great. In the end, Auburn finished 2-6 in the SEC and ended up firing their entire coaching staff.

Filling the stands

2008-12-08T15:59:00Z

The ACC championship game has been around for four seasons (since Boston College joined the conference). Unfortunately, the fan turnout for these championship games has been terrible. The main reason is the location, which is currently Florida. The ACC championship game must be moved out of Florida immediately.

From 2005-2007, the game was held in Jacksonville, Fla. The attendance was so bad that the ACC decided to move the venue. Just how bad was it? Check out this photo from the fourth quarter of last year’s game.

However, the ACC made the questionable decision to move the game to Tampa Bay, Fla., where it is scheduled to be played this year and next. Ticket sales for this year’s game were decent, but I imagine that most of these were corporations that have deals with the stadium or the ACC. As for the actual attendance, it is estimated that less than 20,000 fans were actually at the game. Even worse, the two competing colleges, Boston College and Virginia Tech, combined to sell just 5,000 tickets.

This embarrassing turnout reflects poorly on the conference. I watched the game on Saturday in shock at the meager attendance -- 20,000 fans for a BCS conference championship game is a joke. Now, I realize that neither VT nor BC are national title contenders, but a bigger reason for the poor turnout is the location.

In my opinion, the game should be played higher up the East Coast. This is something the ACC will try in the future, as the 2010 and 2011 games are scheduled to be played in Charlotte, N.C., in the Carolina Panthers’ stadium. I say: Why wait? The ACC needs to get out of the Tampa deal now, because broadcasting a conference title game with a stadium that is only 25 percent full is bad business. Some of the AP and Harris Poll voters only watch a few games a year, and they are sure to remember an empty stadium for a conference championship game.

Playing the ACC championship game in Charlotte, N.C. seems like such an obvious idea. I am not sure why the ACC did not do this to begin with. For one, this location puts you out of SEC country. Second, exactly half of the ACC schools are located in either North Carolina or Virginia. These two concepts seem to point to the average local resident being more likely to be an ACC fan.

If I were running the ACC, I would do whatever was necessary to get out of the Tampa deal immediately, and move next year’s game to Charlotte, N.C. Because of the lack of a national title contender, the conference is already taking a hit in the minds of the average pollster. It cannot afford another black eye brought on by another paltry crowd at the conference championship game.

This week in college football
As much as I would love to see a playoff in big-time college football, I do love the bowl system. The fact that the teams know there is only one game remaining makes for some terrific action. In addition to the players being energized, coaches feel free to pull out all the tricks. It is an exciting time in sports.

As of Sunday, the bowl schedule is set.

The BCS championship game between Oklahoma and Florida is a battle of the two best quarterbacks in college football. Over the last two seasons, Oklahoma’s Sam Bradford and Florida’s Tim Tebow have accounted for 89 and 95 touchdowns, respectively. During the second half of this season, these two offenses have been completely unstoppable. It will be interesting to see if either defense has any special wrinkles to try and slow down the opposing team.

I am very happy with the major BSC bowl matchups. I am particularly excited for the Alabama-Utah game. In their previous BCS appearance, Utah destroyed an average Pittsburgh team. In this game, they get a legitimate test against an incredibly good Alabama team. As if that isn’t enough, the game will be played in New Orleans -- SEC country. I personally don’t think that Utah has a chance in this game, but I am eager to see how they do.

Games of the week
SEC championship game
No. 1 Alabama 20
No. 2 Florida 31
Alabama used a great defense and a ball-control offense to try and reduce the overall number of possessions in this game. That strategy worked, as the Crimson Tide led 20-17 after three quarters. But Florida’s talent took over in the fourth, as it scored 14 points and stopped Bama on both of its fourth-quarter drives.

Big 12 championship game
No. 19 Missouri 21
No. 4 Oklahoma 62
As expected, Missouri got blown out by Oklahoma. Oklahoma set an NCAA record by scoring over 60 points in five consecutive games. This is an amazing stat -- considering the combined overall record of those five teams was 41-20 and only one of them had a losing record.

MAC championship game
No. 12 Ball State 24
Buffalo 42
Even though Ball State racked up over 500 yards of offense, it committed five turnovers to even the playing field. Buffalo scored 28 points off those turnovers to upset what was an undefeated Ball State team.

ACC championship game
No. 18 Boston College 12
Virginia Tech 30
For the second consecutive season, Boston College beat Virginia Tech during the regular season, only to lose to them in the ACC championship game. The Hokies have now won the ACC three of the five years they have been in the conference. The Eagles' defense played its usual great game, but the offense just could not get anything going. It is unfortunate that BC quarterback Chris Crane was injured for the season two weeks ago, because without him, the Eagles really did not have a chance.

Play of the week
With four minutes, 12 seconds remaining in the third quarter of the Ball State-Buffalo game, the Cardinals led 17-14. Ball State faced a third and goal at the Buffalo eight-yard line. Quarterback Nate Davis dropped back to pass, but didn’t see anyone open, so he decided to run. At the three-yard line, Davis leapt into the air, trying to jump over three Buffalo defenders for a touchdown. It was the kind of superman-esque, crash-test dummy effort that would have made Jim Harbaugh proud. Unfortunately, Davis was hit in midair by Buffalo’s Josh Thomas. As Davis helicoptered through the air, he lost the football. Buffalo’s Mike Newton picked it up and ran the length of the field for a go-ahead score.

Things we learned this week
• The computations are now over, and Oklahoma and Florida will play for the BCS title.
• The Big 12 championship game wrapped up a season dominated by the Big 12 South Division, which went 15-3 against the North Division.
• USC won its seventh straight Pac-10 title.
• The best non-BCS bowl is definitely Boise State vs. TCU. Don’t miss that one.

Breaking the ties

2008-12-01T14:54:00Z

Notre Dame has to fire Charlie Weis.

All right, let me explain. Personally, if I were the Notre Dame athletic director, I would not fire Weis. I would allow coaches enough time to work through some growing pains. However, that is not how most schools, including Notre Dame, conduct business nowadays. Instead, coaches are given a few years, at most, to succeed. Why should Weis be the exception?

It hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing for Notre Dame since the great Lou Holtz retired. In the 12 seasons AH (After Holtz), the Fighting Irish have one Top 10 finish and are 0-7 in bowl games, losing those seven bowl games by an average of 20 points.

After Holtz retired, Bob Davie had first crack at coaching the golden domers. Davie had a 58 percent winning percentage in five seasons, losing six games by at least 20 points.

Tyrone Willingham then took over, leading Notre Dame to an identical 58 percent winning percentage in three seasons, while losing eight games by at least 20 points.

So far, Charlie Weis has coached for four seasons, has a 57 percent winning percentage, and has lost eight games by at least 20 points. If this winning percentage and number of 20-plus point losses wasn’t good enough for Davie or Willingham, why would it be good enough for Weis?

Don’t get me wrong. I am all for allowing coaches to mature and find the coaching and recruiting style that works best for them. However, schools like Notre Dame have proven, with their actions, that the only way to keep a job is to win. Losing close games doesn’t matter, and mentoring young men into responsible adults certainly doesn’t count for anything. Either you win, or you are shown the door.

This is a statistic that Charlie Weis has not lived up to. Allowing Weis to keep his job, while firing Davie and Willingham for similar results, would open Notre Dame up to legitimate questions -- questions that they do not want to answer.

The week in college football
Since the Big 12 South ended in a three-team tie, the tiebreaker was BCS rank. Oklahoma took the honor by leapfrogging Texas in this week’s BCS standings.

So let me get this straight. The BCS helped decide the Big 12 South champion, which in turn will probably make up one of the teams in the BCS championship game.Basically, the Big 12 and other conferences want to position the team with the best chance of reaching the BCS championship game into their conference championship game.

This makes sense for the Big 12, but I don’t like it. Conference champions should be decided by some on-the-field stat. I would rather a three-way tie be decided by total forced fumbles than by BCS rank.

The winner of next week’s SEC championship game between Alabama and Florida will almost certainly play for the national championship. (I love how I had to qualify my previous sentence with "almost certainly.")

This should be a terrific game. Florida enters with a high-powered offense and many big-name players, kind of like the Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI. Because of these big names and big offensive numbers, the Gators are also the favorite. The general consensus is that Florida will win because Alabama will not be able to score with them.

I agree with this idea, but only because I have zero confidence in Alabama quarterback John Parker Wilson in big games. I think that Florida will win because Alabama will have difficulty scoring more than 20 points, not because I think Florida will pour it on.

I love the way Alabama plays as a team (sound familiar). Every aspect of its game is solid. However, lack of great quarterback play has hindered the Tide all year, and I think it will finally catch up with them in this one.

Games of the week
No. 3 Oklahoma 61
No. 11 Oklahoma State 41
Oklahoma State simply could not stop Oklahoma’s offense, as the Sooners scored on their final eight possessions. Oklahoma now plays Missouri for a chance to play in the BCS championship game.

No. 2 Florida 45
No. 23 Florida State 15
As expected, Florida dominated this interstate rivalry. Florida is definitely ready for its big showdown next week against Alabama in the SEC championship game.

Fresno State 10
No. 9 Boise State 61
With this win, Boise State completed an undefeated regular season. The question is: Will the Broncos get one of the 10 invites to a BCS bowl? Including Utah, there are seven automatic BCS bids this year. That means only three additional teams will get invited. I am very doubtful that Boise will be one of these teams, since the Broncos will be competing with the likes of Alabama/Florida, Texas/Oklahoma/Texas Tech and Ohio State. I hope Boise gets an invite over Ohio State, but I would not bet on it.

Kansas 40
No. 12 Missouri 37
This game was over once Missouri stepped out of the locker room looking like this. They looked look a swarm of bumblebees. I sure hope coach Gary Pinkel leaves these unis at home for the Big 12 championship game against Oklahoma.

Western Michigan 22
No. 15 Ball State 45
Ball State scored 24 straight points in the second and third quarters to put the game away. This victory completed an amazing 12-0 regular season for Ball State. They will now play Buffalo in the MAC championship game.

Syracuse 10
No. 16 Cincinnati 30
With this win, Cincinnati is now the Big East champions. That is absolutely amazing for a team that was forced to start three different quarterbacks because of injuries.

Remember, Cincinnati did not even become a member of the Big East until 2005, when BC, Miami and Virginia Tech left for the ACC. At that time, Cincinnati was not a very good team, and their addition was thought to be solely basketball related. However, in only his second season, coach Brian Kelly has turned this team around and delivered a Big East championship.

No. 18 Georgia Tech 45
No. 13 Georgia 42
Last week, I told you that Georgia was a suspect football team. The Bulldogs have all the pieces to the puzzle, but they can’t seem to put them together. This week was a perfect example.

Georgia Tech's win certainly helps the ACC's stock. It is a crazy year in the ACC. The Yellow Jackets are the conference's highest-ranked team, but they won’t even be playing in the conference championship game.

No. 19 Oregon 65
No. 17 Oregon State 38
Not a lot of defense in this game, as these two teams racked up over 1,150 total yards and 100 points. With this loss, Oregon State falls from first to third in the Pac-10.

Maryland 21
No. 20 Boston College 28
Playing without injured starting quarterback Chris Crane, Boston College used a trick play to put some extra points on the board. Third-string quarterback Billy Flutie (Doug’s nephew) threw his first collegiate touchdown pass on a fake field goal. On defense, BC’s Mark Herzlich was a beast, with nine tackles and two interceptions. This win secures the ACC Atlantic Division title for the Eagles, and sets up a rematch of last year’s ACC championship game between them and Virginia Tech.

Play of the week
Sometimes it is better to be lucky than good. Or, as Louis Pasteur said, “Fortune favors the prepared mind.”

Oklahoma was most certainly prepared against Oklahoma State, scoring over 60 points. However, at the beginning of the third quarter, Oklahoma State scored a touchdown to cut the Sooners' lead to four. Oklahoma got the ball back, but faced a third and eight from its 27-yard line.

On the ensuing play, Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford dropped back to pass. He threw over the middle to wide receiver Manuel Johnson. Johnson reached out, but couldn’t catch the ball. Instead, the football tipped off of his fingers and went about 10 yards past him, landing directly into the hands of Oklahoma tight end Jermaine Gresham. Gresham caught the ball and ran 50 yards for what ended up being a 73-yard touchdown pass.

Had this tipped pass fallen to the turf, Oklahoma would have punted, only leading by four points. Since Oklahoma State scored a touchdown on their next drive, this play ended up being extremely important. Sometimes, it pays to be lucky.

Things we learned this week
• Three mid-majors (Utah, Boise State, and Ball State) finished the regular season undefeated.
• Three teams deserved to represent the Big 12 South in the conference title game, but in the end, the computers liked Oklahoma best.
• Cincinnati racked up a Big East title in coach Brian Kelly’s second season.
• One year after he was fired from Arkansas, coach Houston Nutt took Mississippi State from zero SEC wins to five. That’s remarkable.
• With a win next week against a bad UCLA team, USC will win its record seventh consecutive Pac-10 title.

Sorting out the BCS

2008-11-24T17:15:00Z

A confusing BCS system is starting to clear up, as it looks like the Big 12 and SEC champs will play for the national title. This is certainly the way it should be. Alabama and Florida will play in the SEC championship game, and the winner is almost certain to play in the BCS championship game. Also, if Texas, Oklahoma, or Texas Tech wins the Big 12 championship, as expected, then they will play in the BCS championship game.

The only real question right now is: Who will represent the Big 12 South in the conference championship game? Assuming Texas, Oklahoma, and Texas Tech all win next week, then each team will have only one loss in the Big 12, and each team will be 1-1 against the others.

If this is the case, then the tiebreaker comes down to BCS rank. As of right now, Texas holds a slight advantage over Oklahoma in the BCS standings, but that could change depending on how each team does next week. While it's true that "a win is a win," there are style points in college football. I wish it weren't that way, but it is.

Personally, I believe that Texas should be ranked ahead of Oklahoma. This is because, of the three best Big 12 teams, Texas is the team that has a win away from home. (Texas beat Oklahoma on a neutral field.) It is much more difficult to win on the road, and I believe Texas should be rewarded for winning their neutral field matchup against Oklahoma.

However, the Sooners are playing inspired football, and they absolutely deserve a chance to play for a national title. I just believe that Texas deserves it a little more. Man, it’s a good thing college football doesn’t have a boring playoff system to sort out these trivial arguments.

Games of the week:
No. 2 Texas Tech 21
No. 3 Oklahoma 65
The stage was most certainly set on Saturday night in Norman, Okla. Texas Tech entered the game averaging 566 yards and 48 points per game. Meanwhile, the Sooners were averaging 550 yards and 51 points per game. I expected a terrific battle, possibly even the game of the year. Instead, what I watched was the definition of a "Junk Show."

Oklahoma dominated and embarrassed Texas Tech. Oklahoma completely overwhelmed Tech in every facet of the game. On defense, the Sooners held Tech to their lowest single-game totals in yardage and points. By halftime, the Red Raiders had managed only 174 yards and seven points. Remember, Tech averages over 560 yards per game. On the other side of the ball, Tech had absolutely no answer for Oklahoma’s offense, as the Sooners marched up and down the field like it was a practice.

For Texas Tech, this loss is huge, but not necessarily season ending. As embarrassing as this loss was, Tech still has a shot to win the Big 12 South. If Oklahoma loses to Oklahoma State next week in the Bedlam Battle, Texas Tech will win the Big 12 South. This is unlikely, but not impossible. Oklahoma State is a very good team, currently No. 11 in the AP Poll, and it would love nothing more than to smash Oklahoma’s dreams of playing for a national championship.

Oklahoma just seems to be getting better each week. Besides the loss to Texas, the Sooners have won every game by double digits, and have destroyed every team except Kansas. Next week, they play a well-respected Oklahoma State team. If the Sooners can pull off another blowout victory, then I would not be surprised to see them jump Texas in the BCS standings. As I said before, I would not personally rank Oklahoma above Texas, but unfortunately, I do not have a vote in any poll that matters.

No. 14 Ball State 31
Central Michigan 24
Ball State is still undefeated after beating Central Michigan in a showdown of the two best MAC teams. It was a tight game throughout, but Ball State quarterback Nate Davis threw two fourth-quarter touchdowns to win the game. There was one very curious fake punt call by Central Michigan in the fourth quarter, which helped Ball State escape with the win.

Ball State has a tough game next week against Western Michigan, which beat Illinois recently. Ball State is not in the same league as big-time teams, but going undefeated is an amazing accomplishment for any team. On the flip side, if the Cardinals lose next week, it is possible they could fall out of the MAC championship game, depending on several variables.

No. 16 BYU 24
No. 8 Utah 48
This game was much closer than the final score indicates. BYU pulled to within three points with four minutes to play in the third quarter. Then, the Utah defense stepped up, forcing BYU into turnovers on its final five possessions. Yes, five consecutive BYU possessions ended in a turnover. The Utes also played terrific on offense in the final quarter, scoring touchdowns on all three of their drives.

With this win, Utah captured the Mountain West title and an undefeated (12-0) regular season. They are now almost certain to play in a BCS bowl. Since the inception of the BCS, this would mark the second time that Utah played in a BCS bowl. In 2004, an Urban Meyer-led Utah team finished the season 12-0 after destroying Pitt 35-7 in the Fiesta Bowl. The Mountain West is a tough conference this season, and Utah absolutely deserves to play in a BCS game. I am excited to see who the Utes will play.

No. 17 Michigan State 18
No. 7 Penn State 49
The numbers don’t lie. Penn State crushed Michigan State in this one. The Nittany Lions racked up over 550 yards of offense and actually had to call the dogs off in the third quarter. The Penn State defense looked great, harassing Spartans quarterback Brian Hoyer all night. Penn State also dominated the line of scrimmage, holding Javon Ringer to only 42 yards rushing on 17 carries.

It was all roses in Happy Valley, as Penn State is now the Big Ten champ and headed for the Rose Bowl. In all likelihood, the Nittany Lions will play the winner of the Pac-10. After the game, the main concern of the reporters wasn’t on this accomplishment, but whether or not Penn State coach Joe Paterno would be back next season.

There was some thought that he might retire on top, if Penn State reached the Rose Bowl. Joe Pa quickly put those doubts to bed in his postgame press conference. “I’m planning on coming back,” he said. “Everyone’s making a big deal that I don’t have a contract signed. I’ve never even asked to do that.” It sure sounds like Paterno will be back for his 44th season as head coach.

Mississippi 31
No. 18 LSU 13
Ole Miss led throughout, outgaining LSU 409-215 in yardage and holding a time of possession advantage of almost 10 minutes. The Rebels completely shut down LSU’s running attack, allowing only 37 yards on 29 carries. They also knocked starting quarterback Jarrett Lee out of the game in the second quarter. However, this may have been good for LSU, since its offense looked better with freshman Jordan Jefferson running the show.

This was a great win for Mississippi. They will finish the season in second place in the SEC West and, with a win next week, could go 5-3 in the SEC. That may not sound very exciting, but you have to realize that Ole Miss has won a total of six SEC games in the previous four seasons.

One of the main reasons for this turnaround is the play of sophomore quarterback Jevan Snead. His stats do not jump off the page, but he has given this offense better leadership and more confidence. In his first season as the starter, he is improving every week. Over the last three games, he has seven touchdown passes and zero interceptions.

This just isn’t LSU’s year. Before the preseason, they were forced to kick would-be starting quarterback Ryan Perrilloux off the team for a myriad of off-the-field incidents. This forced them to start different quarterbacks who just are not ready to play. In addition, its defense is not as good as in previous seasons. The LSU defense ranks 66th in the country in terms of points allowed.

Part of the problem is also due to its offensive woes, but certainly not all of it. Coach Les Miles is going to have to go back to the drawing board for next season. There is simply too much talent on LSU for the team to be performing this poorly.

No. 20 Pittsburgh 21
No. 19 Cincinnati 28
The Cincinnati defense was the story of this game, as it held Pittsburgh to 264 yards on offense. The Bearcats controlled the line of scrimmage, holding the Panthers to 35 yards rushing on 26 carries. The Pitt tried to orchestrate a fourth-quarter comeback, but it ran out of time. Driven by Cincinnati junior quarterback Tony Pike’s best game as a starter, the Bearcats' no-huddle spread offense looked marvelous. Pike threw for over 300 yards and three touchdowns, and rushed for another 33 yards.

Cincinnati is now one win away from a Big East championship. A victory at home over lowly Syracuse next weekend will seal the conference title. This would simply be an amazing accomplishment for a team that, due to injuries, was forced to start three different quarterbacks over the course of the season. Although Cincinnati doesn’t get a lot of publicity, it has quietly put together a very good season. The Bearcats are currently 9-2, with the two losses coming at Oklahoma and at UConn. They are certainly deserving of a BCS berth, and should give whoever they play a great game.

No. 21 Oregon State 19
Arizona 17
The Beavers began the game without starting quarterback Lyle Moevao. Then, on their second possession, they lost all-world, mighty-mite running back Jacquizz Rodgers to a shoulder injury. At this point, things looked bleak for Oregon State, but it played inspired ball to keep the game close. With four minutes to play, the Beavers seemingly scored a tying touchdown. However, kicker Justin Kahut missed the extra point, leaving Arizona ahead by one.

Oregon State kicked off, and did force Arizona to punt. When the Beavers finally got the ball back, they were standing on their own 20-yard line with only one minute and 19 seconds to play, certainly not a good position to be in with a backup quarterback and without your starting running back. But right on cue, they were able to drive the length of the field and kick a game-winning field goal -- sweet redemption for kicker Kahut.

It certainly was not dominating, but it was yet another win for Oregon State. The Beavers have one final regular-season game remaining, against Oregon in the Civil War. If Oregon State wins, it will steal the Pac-10 crown from USC and go on to the Rose Bowl. If the Beavers lose, the Trojans will keep their tiara. No pressure.

ACC rundown
The ACC picture is finally starting to clear up. The ACC has two divisions, Atlantic and Coastal. In the Atlantic Division, the key game next week is Boston College against Maryland at The Heights. If BC wins, they will win the Atlantic Division. If Maryland wins, Florida State wins the division.

In the Coastal Division, the deciding game next week is Virginia at Virginia Tech. If Tech wins, it will take the Coastal crown. If Virginia Tech loses, Georgia Tech will win the Coastal title. The winner of these two divisions will play in the ACC championship game for a chance to go to a BCS game.

Boston College and Virginia Tech have to love the positions they are in. After a crazy season, they both need to win just one more game to go to the ACC championship. Since both teams play at home, they will probably be favored. Virginia Tech should have no problem with Virginia, but BC is a different story.

The Eagles will need to play well to beat a solid Maryland team. The challenge became more difficult on Sunday, when it was reported that BC quarterback Chris Crane will miss the game with the injury he sustained against Wake Forest.

Play of the week
There was one awful coaching decision in the Ball State-Central Michigan game. Let me set the table: With four minutes to play, Ball State is up by seven points, and Central Michigan faces a fourth-and-18 from the Ball State 40. At this point, Central Michigan has two options.

Option one is the safest bet -- punt the ball and play defense. With all three timeouts in hand, this is what I would have done. Option two is more risky -- you go for it. Personally, if I was going for it in this situation, I would seriously consider throwing a Hail Mary, since the defense needs to commit people to stopping a 20-yard gain, not just a touchdown. What would you have called …

Central Michigan made the brilliant decision to call a fake punt. What? While it was on the Ball State side of the field, the likelihood of converting a fake punt on fourth-and-18 is very small. A fake punt should be used to pick up a few yards. Calling a fake punt on fourth-and-18 is laughable.

So, Central Michigan lined up in standard punt formation. Meanwhile, Ball State, suspecting that the Chippewas might try something stupid, lined up in a base defense. That’s right, a base defense. Central Michigan snaps the ball to the punter, then runs an end-around.

Since they were in punt formation, the end-around took way too long to happen. As expected, the play got stopped for no gain. (Central Michigan did end up getting the ball back, but there was only one minute to play, and the Chippewas were at their 10-yard line. Had they punted, they would have had the ball in much better field position.)

Things we learned this week
• Cincinnati has all but locked up the Big East.
• Utah has crashed the BCS party for the second time in five seasons.
• Oklahoma is a team on a mission, and just might stomp on Texas' hopes of a national championship.
• Charlie Weis is not earning his salary as the second-highest paid coach in college football.

Closing thoughts
Why do so many coaches vehemently deny interest in another job, only to take that same job a month later? This questionable practice exists in all sports, but seems to be most prevalent in college football. In the process of leaving, they have to quit their current job, leaving the team and university to pick up the pieces. “No, I have absolutely zero interest in State U. I repeat, none!”

Fast forward one week later: “Psych! I had my fingers crossed the whole time. I’m outta here.”

This year, there have been several coaches fired, and a lot of names have been tossed around as possible replacements. In reference to the Tennessee vacancy, Buccaneers coach Jon Gruden said, “I've got a lot of respect for Tennessee. I grew up down there a little bit. My wife is from there. But this is where I want to be, and I can only make myself that clear."

When asked about the open Syracuse job, UConn coach Randy Edsall said, “With all due respect to my alma mater and the people at Syracuse, I am not interested in being a candidate.”

These statements sound strong, and I am certainly not calling either Gruden or Edsall a liar. However, in the coming offseason, I can almost guarantee that at least one coach will state their unequivocal intention to stay where they are, and then pull a fast one and leave shortly thereafter.

This raises several questions. First, does this happen any more frequently in sports than it does in the average workplace? The answer is yes. This is because good sports coaches are always being contacted about new jobs. This does not happen in the normal business world. Imagine if you were contacted by several different companies in regard to their job openings. I am sure you would want to explore these opportunities, and rightfully so.

However, there is a right way and a wrong way to do this. The wrong way includes lying to everyone in sight. You may disagree, but you would be wrong. By lying to everyone, you are showing (if only to yourself) your true character, and potentially damaging your reputation. As Warren Buffett once said, "It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you will do things differently.”

Another question is: Why do coaches publicly state their intention to stay at a school, even as they are flirting with other jobs? When asked by the media about a new job, they could just say, “No comment,” or “I will only discuss questions about my team.” The answer to this question is pretty simple -- the coaches are covering their backs. This way, if they do not get offered the new job, or if the offer is not for enough money, they can stay where they are, and everyone is happy.

On the other hand, if they end up leaving, who cares? They are not planning on going back, so why not burn the bridge. Obviously, someone with a high moral character would care, but that wouldn’t concern these coaches.

Another question you may be asking yourself is: Why does this matter? Who cares if coaches lie about job interviews? The answer is that these are the exact same coaches who demand hard work, trust, loyalty and commitment from their players. By players, I mean college kids. Coaches are supposed to be teachers, not just teaching sports lessons, but also life lessons. What kind of example does it set when a coach demands the most of his players, only to lie to their face and quit on them?

The funny thing is that bad coaches do not have the same number of opportunities, so it is usually the good coaches who end up leaving schools high and dry. So, without further ado, I have composed a list of some of the coaches who have lied through the years. This
list is in no particular order. I am sure there are many more than this, but these are the ones I could think of.

1. While at Miami, Butch Davis said, "If I leave now, that makes me a deadbeat dad, because this is my family.” One month later, he quit to coach the Cleveland Browns.

2. In 1999, Gary Barnett was the coach of Northwestern, where he insisted he would never leave. However, while there, he interviewed with UCLA, Texas, Notre Dame and Georgia, among others. At one point he e-mailed his players and told them, "I will be back to take us to Pasadena,” where the Wildcats were going to play in the Rose Bowl. Instead, Barnett left a few days later for Colorado.

3. Oddly enough, when Barnett took the Colorado job he was replacing Rick Neuheisel, another of college football’s coaching liars. While at Colorado, after the Aloha Bowl, Neuheisel said, "I'm anxious to be on board for the long ride. … I truly love working at Colorado." About two weeks later, he was supposed to meet with incoming Colorado recruits. Instead, he announced that he was taking the job at Washington -- leaving players, administration and recruits literally waiting for him.

After he left Colorado, the NCAA discovered 51 violations committed under his “watch,” and placed the school under probation for two years. During one interview, Neuheisel said his treatment of NCAA rules was "creative." You probably wonder what Neuheisel’s punishment was for all of this. The answer: While coaching at Washington, the NCAA barred him from off-campus recruiting for about six months. Wow, that’s almost serious.

4. In 2002, while at Alabama, coach Dennis Franchione said he had no interest in the Texas A&M opening. “This is where I want to be,” he said. “Don't you worry, Tide fans, I'll sign that contract extension soon enough." He even criticized Texas reporters who said he was interested in the A&M vacancy. As expected, Franchione ended up taking the A&M job. After he accepted, he never even returned to Alabama. He actually told his Alabama team of his decision to accept the job at Texas A&M over a video conference.

5. In 2006, Boston College coach Tom O’Brien was questioned about openings around the country, especially at Arizona State and Stanford. At a press conference, O’Brien said, “I’m not a candidate for any job.” The very next day, word leaked that he had accepted the top coaching position at North Carolina State.

6. While at West Virginia, coach Rich Rodriguez renegotiated his contract for more money. About a week later, he actually called into a radio show that was talking about his potential candidacy at Alabama to say that he had no interest in the job. A few days later, he did indeed interview at Alabama. Not only that, but he also interviewed at Michigan. He ended up accepting the job at Michigan, about four months after his reworked contract. He then initially told West Virginia players that he would coach them in the Fiesta Bowl. Two days later, he changed his mind and informed the school that his resignation was effective immediately.

After his resignation, the fireworks really started. West Virginia sued Rodriguez for breach of contract (a case the school ended up winning). Then, files containing information on players, including workout charts and class records, went missing. Coach Rod was accused of taking and/or destroying these records, which were never found.

7. Bobby Petrino may be the worst of the bunch. He is a coach who is always looking for the next job. If he interviewed but did not get the job he wanted, he would use his interview as leverage to get more money out of his current employer. Since 1990, Petrino has changed jobs nine different times. Of course, he always stated his public intention to stay wherever he was. During his three seasons at Louisville, he interviewed with LSU, Notre Dame, Auburn, the Oakland Raiders, and the Atlanta Falcons, to name a few. He eventually quit his job at Louisville to coach the Falcons, after telling people he had no interest in being a professional coach. Of course, he lasted less than one season before quitting on the Falcons, midseason, to take the coaching position at Arkansas. I’m sure he will be there a long, long time.

8. Nick Saban left LSU to coach the Miami Dolphins. Two years later, when the Alabama job became available, the media asked Saban if he was interested and he said no. The media did not believe him, so they kept asking Saban about it. After more questioning, Saban flipped out at a press conference and said he was no longer going to talk about it. He said, “I’d appreciate the courtesy of not being asked. … I don’t know how else I can say it, guys. I’ve said it three different occasions. … I am not going to be the Alabama coach.” Saban took the Alabama job about a week later.

9. My favorite liar of all time is Tommy Tuberville. In 1998, Tuberville was coaching Mississippi, located in Oxford, Miss. At the time, the Auburn job became available. The media had asked coach Tuberville several times if he was interested and he said no. Finally, while talking with an alumni group, he snapped and spoke his most famous words. The line has been quoted different ways, but I believe his exact words were, “The only way I am leaving Oxford [Ole Miss] is in a pine box.” He took the Auburn job about a week later.

Offensive talent to watch

2008-11-21T21:33:00Z

Things you probably won't overhear in New England’s fall sports season:

"Hey, how about that Colonial Athletic Conference? Man, UNH and Maine sure are taking it down to the wire! I wonder if either has a legitimate shot at a Football Champion Subdivision playoff berth."

Or …

"Jeez, if only Darius Butler didn't hurt himself. UConn’s secondary lost a big playmaker. That’s for sure!"

And I haven't heard anyone on local talk radio say …

"All everyone talks about is B.J. Raji. It's B.J. Raji this, and B.J. Raji that. What about Ron Brace? That guy is the heart and soul of the Eagles' defense, not to mention Brian Toal. And don’t even get me started on Kevin Akins."

The truth is that college football doesn't just take a backseat in New England. It's more of a moped on the region's busy athletic road.

That said, there is some serious talent playing cold-weather football in the college ranks in frosty New England this season. With the regular season(s) winding down -- some are already complete -- let's take a well-deserved look at the region's top talent on the college gridiron. Part one will focus on the offense. I'll follow up with my defensive picks, and my special teams players in the coming days.

Best quarterback
Chris Pizzotti, Harvard, senior
In nine games this season, Pizzotti has completed 63 percent of his passes for 2,381 yards and thrown 17 touchdowns to just four interceptions. He leads the Ivy League and ranks high nationally as well. The quarterback is 11th in the nation with a 149.51 passer efficiency rating, ninth in total offense, 13th in passing yards per game (265), 23rd in completions per game (20) and 24th in total passing yards.

The Reading, Mass., native was also named to the list of Walter Payton Award finalists, as one of the top 16 players in Div. I-AA, er … the Football Championship Subdivision. Pizzotti (6-foot-5, 225 pounds) is fast becoming a top NFL prospect after his brilliant season. Can he make it at the next level despite being an Ivy Leaguer with only one full season as a starter under his belt? (He did pass for 2,134 yards last season, throwing 14 touchdowns in nine games.)

Former Crimson quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick and Joe Flacco of Delaware are currently starting in the NFL. Fitzpatrick is leading the Cincinnati Bengals, while Flacco has been solid as the Ravens' signal-caller in his rookie season.

Honorable mention
Liam Coen, UMass, senior
Coen is the finest quarterback in Minuteman history and owns 30 school records.

Chris Crane, Boston College, senior
Crane stepped into Matt Ryan's huge shoes and has been solid, if not spectacular, in the tough ACC. He threw for 428 yards and two touchdowns in the Oct. 4 win at N.C. State, but has tossed 13 picks against 10 touchdowns this season.

Best running back
Donald Brown, UConn, junior
This isn’t even close. Brown is the best running back to play at a New England college/university since William Green broke records at BC from 1998 to 2000. Brown's 1,500-plus rushing yards and 16 touchdowns have made the 5-foot-10, 210-pounder a Maxwell Award finalist (nation’s top offensive player). But even he realizes the unlikelihood that a kid from UConn could wrestle one of the sport’s major awards from the Tim Tebows of the world.

"I think, eventually, down the line, the chances of that happening will increase as we start getting more respect around the country," Brown said. "Right now, we don't get much respect outside of this building."

With remaining games against South Florida and Pittsburgh, Brown is expected to eclipse 1,800 yards on the ground and will likely become the Huskies' all-time leading rusher this weekend. Going into these games, Brown leads the nation with 153.7 rushing yards per game.

Honorable mention
Tony Nelson, UMass, junior
He’s the CAA’s only 1,000 yard rusher this season and has 10 touchdowns with one more game to play. The UMass ground game hardly misses the legendary Steve Baylark, who recently worked out for Mike Shanahan's Broncos.

Deron Brown, MIT, junior
Yes, they have a football team. Yes, this guy makes my list over other notables like Northeastern bulldozer Alex Broomfield. I don’t care who he played against. Brown rushed for 1,816 yards and 22 touchdownss for the Engineers this season. I’m willing to wager he’s the only player with a double major in electrical engineering and computer sciences on this list.

Best wide receiver
Victor Cruz, UMass, junior
This is a thin crop. I’m going with Cruz, the only player in the CAA with 1,000 receiving yards. He also has 16 touchdowns, which is a gaudy number in this conference, even if you are catching passes from Liam Coen. Cruz is a nice player, but like all other receivers in New England, probably won’t be paid to play at the next level, especially at 5-foot-11.

Honorable mentions: Did I mention this was a thin crop?
Bobby Sewall, Brown, senior
Sewall has hauled in 63 catches for the Bears this season. His 72 points leads the league. He’s a native of Portsmouth, R.I. He's no Sean Morey, but few are.

David Benoit, Westfield State, junior
A Division-III player. I know nothing about this guy, but he deserves props for a season in which he posted 65 receptions, 1,046 yards and 16 touchdowns. A 16-touchdown season is an accomplishment at any level.

Best tight end
Ryan Purvis, BC, senior
Nobody felt the effects of Matt Ryan’s departure like Purvis. Last year, the 6-foot-4, 260-pounder caught 54 passes for 553 yards and four touchdowns, and was subsequently named to the 2008 John Mackey Award watch list.

This season, he has spent more time protecting Chris Crane than catching passes from him -- his 19 grabs are the lowest output since his freshman year. While he hasn’t caught a touchdown this season, he’s still considered a top talent. Count on him catching on as a rookie free agent with an NFL team in 2009 if he isn’t scooped up late in the draft.

Best offensive lineman
William Beatty, UConn, junior, left tackle
At 6-foot-6 and listed at 310 pounds (he may be bigger), the monstrous, yet athletic Beatty (pronounced Bee-Tee) is drawing NFL interest. After springing Donald Brown all season, Beatty looks to be a late-round draft pick this April with a solid combine showing. Along with BC's solid senior guard Cliff Ramsey, Beatty is one of the few offensive linemen prospects playing in New England who have an NFL chance.

As mentioned, two other installments of New England’s top college players will follow (defense, special teams). Feel free to leave comments and opinions.

ACC title game within reach

2008-11-17T15:51:00Z

As I watched the games Saturday, I really thought there would be a big upset. Several teams struggled, but they all pulled it out in the end.

Alabama led Mississippi State at halftime based solely on its special teams. The Crimson Tide pulled away in the second half. USC was tied with Stanford at the half as the Cardinals ran all over USC’s defense. The Trojans also put the game away in the second half. For the second week in a row, Georgia had to come from behind in the fourth quarter against an average SEC foe, but they also were able to secure a victory.

Finally, we have LSU, which trailed Troy 31-3 in the third quarter. Nevertheless, on the wings of a 30 point fourth quarter, even the Tigers were able to avoid the upset.

So, since all the top teams managed to win this week, my main story is the ACC. It is true that the conference does not boast a national title contender. However, what the conference lacks in top-heavy power, they make up for in overall competitive play. This makes the ACC very exciting to watch. While only three teams (Maryland and Boston College in the Atlantic Division and Miami in the Coastal Division) control their destiny, I would not bet that any of those three will be in the ACC title game.

Want numbers? Check these out. With two weeks to play, 11 of the 12 teams in the ACC are separated by two games or less, with Duke the one exception. Nine of the 12 teams are still mathematically alive to play in the ACC championship game. Six of the 12 teams are ranked between 23 and 29 in the latest USA Today poll. Nine of the 12 teams average between 300-350 yards per game and another nine of the 12 teams average between 20-28 points per game.

All right, you get the point. As you can imagine, these statistics have translated into some extremely competitive football on the field. I agree that the ACC does not have a dominant team, and they may not even deserve an automatic BCS bid. However, as I fan, I love it. Would you rather watch one team beat everyone into submission? Not me. I like to watch games that can truly go either way. That’s excitement.

Games of the week
No. 24 South Carolina 6
No. 3 Florida 56
Odd note: This game marked the first time a Heisman Trophy winner (Steve Spurrier) has ever been a head coach against another trophy recipient (Tim Tebow).

In the first quarter, South Carolina turned the ball over three times over the span of four plays. This led to a 21-0 deficit. From that point, the rout was on. Florida dominated this game, demonstrated by the fact that they had an impressive 519-173 advantage in total yards. When it was all said and done, the Gators handed Spurrier his worst loss ever. I’m pretty sure no one will be shedding a tear for the ol’ ball coach.

Florida has looked terrific lately. After clinching a spot in the SEC championship game last week, I wanted to see how it would come out against South Carolina. Boy, the Gators sure didn’t disappoint. Tebow is in Heisman form, and the defense is playing lights out. The Gators are fifth in the country in scoring offense (44.1 ppg) and fourth in scoring defense (11.3 ppg). I haven’t seen numbers that good since my Madden ’05 season with the Pats.

No. 17 North Carolina 15
Maryland 17
Since Miami beat Virginia Tech last Thursday, UNC entered this game in control of its own destiny in the ACC. Unfortunately for them, Maryland wasn’t about to give them anything, and the Tar Heels were not strong enough to take it. A first half played in severe rain resulted in a 15-14 North Carolina lead. The second-half weather was much better, but so where the defenses. Both teams combined for only 239 yards, with seven punts, two turnovers, and a measly three points in the second half. In the defining drive, a stagnant Maryland offense came alive and marched 73 yards before kicking a go-ahead field goal.

This season, Maryland is 6-0 at home and 1-3 on the road. They have beaten four ranked teams at home, but lost to Virginia and Middle Tennessee State on the road. The fact is, college teams often play considerably better at home. But no matter how the Terrapins got here, Maryland is in control of its destiny in terms of the ACC. If both Maryland and Boston College win next week, then Maryland and BC will play in the regular-season finale, with the winner going to the ACC championship game. Oh, and the game is at The Heights.

I told you that North Carolina is the best team in the ACC when quarterbacked by a healthy T.J. Yates. This was the first week in nearly two months that Yates was healthy, so I expected good things. Inexplicably, UNC coach Butch Davis stuck with junior Cameron Sexton as opposed to starting Yates. This is not like the Patriots, when Drew Bledsoe lost his starting job, while hurt, to Tom Brady. In this case, T.J. Yates is a much better quarterback than Sexton.

Boston College 27
No. 20 Florida State 17
The Eagles jumped out to a quick 14-0 lead and held on for the win. As usual, Boston College’s defense was stout, allowing only 285 yards and forcing three turnovers. BC put the game away with a fourth-quarter drive that resulted in a field goal. On the drive, the Eagles rushed 15 consecutive times and ate up almost nine minutes of clock. All of the runs were by either Montel Harris (121 yards) or quarterback Chris Crane. When Florida State finally got the ball back, there was just not enough time to do anything.

Florida State still has a chance to win the ACC Atlantic Division, but it now needs some help. Like so many of these ACC teams, the Seminoles are inconsistent. On paper, they are very good, with an average scoring margin of plus-14 points. They also rank fifth in the nation in total defense, allowing only 275 yards per game. The main problem is penalties, where they average eight penalties for over 75 yards per game. Some very talented teams, such as Florida and USC, can get away with committing a lot of penalties, but the Seminoles are not one of those teams. I really think that if Florida State committed fewer penalties, it would be a solid top 15 team.

Boston College’s defense has looked amazing the last two weeks. If the Eagles win their final two games, at Wake Forest and home against Maryland, they will be playing in the ACC championship game. That would be an amazing feat for a team no one expected to challenge in the ACC. Their fate rests on the arm of Crane, who has been sporadic at best this season. He really needs to put together two good games for the Eagles to have a chance to play for a BCS game.

California 21
No. 23 Oregon State 34
Oregon State led the majority of the game, but it was close throughout. The Beavers finally sealed the victory with a pick six in the fourth quarter. Oregon State’s defense was particularly solid in the game. Of Cal’s 15 possessions, only one of them lasted more than five plays. Oregon State also saw the return of starting quarterback Lyle Moevao. While Moevao didn’t have a good day passing, his return is important as the Beavers look to capture the Pac-10 title.

With their win over USC earlier this year, Oregon State is the only team in the Pac-10 who controls its own destiny and the Rose Bowl berth that accompanies it. The Beavers' final two games are on the road against Arizona and at home against Oregon. These are two tough games, but Oregon State should be favored in both of them. I would love it if the Beavers' Rose Bowl life was at stake the final week of the season against Oregon, where the in-state rivalry is referred to as the "Civil War."

Play of the week
In the Vanderbilt-Kentucky game, Vanderbilt held an incredible 39-21 minute advantage in time of possession. One of the main reasons for this was the play(s) of the week: Kentucky roughing the punter. The Wildcats committed three personal fouls for roughing the punter in this game.

I love when a team tries to block a punt, and obviously, if you constantly try to block punts, you will commit a few personal fouls -- this comes with the territory. But three roughing the punter fouls in one game is ridiculous. You are literally giving your opponent new life right after you stopped them. You cannot possibly expect to win games by sending a tired defense back onto the field to try and stop an offense they just stopped moments earlier.

Things we learned this week
• The ACC is still completely up for grabs.
• Cincinnati controls its own destiny in the Big East.
• Alabama is capable of winning in spite of its offensive deficiencies.
• Oregon State still has a chance to spoil USC’s Rose Bowl hopes.

Closing thoughts
One of the reasons why college football is so great are the rivalry games. In addition to the normal excitement that surrounds rivalry games, several college football games stoke the competitive fire by playing for a tangible trophy. The fans and teams go crazy for these games. How crazy you ask? Well, check out this bonfire before a Texas-Texas A&M game.

But wait, I haven’t even gotten to the best part, which is the actual trophy. Some of these trophies are ordinary, run-of-the mill types that you see all the time. But some are truly unique. Below is a list of my ten favorite college football rivalry trophies.

10. Oregon and Oregon State
Trophy: Platypus Trophy
History: This inter-state rivalry game is referred to as the “Civil War.” In 1959, Oregon created a trophy featuring a platypus to be held by the reigning champion. They chose a platypus because of the schools' mascots (Oregon Ducks and Oregon State Beavers). A platypus has the bill of a duck and the tail of a beaver. The actual trophy was missing between 1961 and 2004, but it was found and is once again presented to the winner.

9. Boise State and Fresno State
Trophy: A 10-gallon chrome Milk Can
History: California and Idaho are two of the nation’s top four states in terms of dairy production. In 2005, one dairy group from each state decided to put up money and a trophy for the victory of this game. This is the only traveling trophy among WAC schools.

8. Iowa State and Missouri
Trophy: Telephone Trophy
History: Before the 1959 game, it was discovered that the coaches’ field phones somehow had switched wires. While testing, they realized that each sideline could hear the other. The problem was fixed before the start of the game, but the Northwestern Bell Telephone Company created the trophy after the controversy.

7. Minnesota and Wisconsin
Trophy: Paul Bunyan’s Axe
History: Originally these two teams played for a wooden Slab of Bacon. It was created to symbolize the winning team "bringing home the bacon." When the wooden piece of meat went missing, they modified the tradition by playing for a large wooden axe, referred to as Paul Bunyan's Axe.

6. Michigan State and Penn State
Trophy: Land Grant Trophy
History: This trophy is given because these are two of the nation’s oldest land-grant colleges, where the government donated land to be used for higher learning. The trophy itself is pretty boring, but the idea of giving a Land Grant trophy just sounds cool.

5. Cincinnati and Louisville
Trophy: Keg of Nails
History: It is not known for sure exactly how this tradition started. However, it does have a long history, extending over three conferences, as Cincinnati and Louisville moved from the Missouri Valley Conference, to Conference USA, to the Big East. The current trophy is a replica of a keg used to transport nails. It signifies that the winning team is "tough as nails."

4. Indiana and Michigan State
Trophy: The Old Brass Spittoon
History: The trophy was initiated by the Michigan State student council in 1950. The spittoon came from one of Michigan's earliest trading posts and is believed to be nearly 190 years old. According to legend, this exact spittoon was around when both institutions were founded -- Indiana in 1820 and MSU in 1855.

3. Mississippi and Mississippi State
Trophy: Golden Egg
History: In 1926, after a Mississippi victory, its fans rushed the field to try and tear down the goalposts. Mississippi State (Mississippi A&M at the time) fans then ran onto the field to defend its goalposts. Fights broke out resulting in several injuries. From that point on, the schools decided to award a trophy to the victorious team as a way to help prevent on-field celebrations by fans. The trophy was designed to be a brass football on top of a wooden base. However, since footballs in the 1920s were more oval than round, the trophy resembles a golden-colored egg.

2. Illinois and Ohio State
Trophy: A wooden turtle, called an Illibuck
History: The tradition began in 1925 and used a live turtle. Yes, the schools actually passed a living animal back and forth. The turtle, a creature with a very long life expectancy, was meant to symbolize long life for the rivalry. When the turtle passed away, the teams began using wooden turtles, and they write the scores on the shell. They are currently on their ninth wooden turtle. During the second half of each game, the trophy is passed to the team that won the previous year’s game. The passing is done in a bizarre ritual among students, where the Illibuck is passed overhead and backward.

1. Iowa and Minnesota
Trophy: Floyd of Rosedale
History: The tradition started in 1935, as a bet between Iowa and Minnesota governors to try and relieve some of the postgame fighting between the fans. The first trophy was a live pig. After that game, a bronze trophy was created in its likeness.