College Football 2020 Part Two: Will They Finish the Season?

[WVRed]

Old one is at 1000+

[Assembly Hall]

Go Hoosiers!!!!!

[MWM]

This Rich Rod got undercut by the establishment narrative has always been a bunch of baloney. As a Michigan alumn, I said as soon as he was hired that it was going to be disastrous. He was a bad cultural fit in Ann Arbor, but more importantly, he's a system guy that requires his type of athletes to make work. It was going to require a complete overhaul of the roster, which is darn near impossible at the college level without dropping dramatically in the short term. And getting those kinds of athletes to want to go to Michigan was also going to be a challenge, and I don't the RR was so appealing to recruits that they'd take much of a risk.

Plus, RR didn't have the record of a homerun like some thought he did. He had one group of players that made a good team over a few years. And beyond that, he hadn't done anything special, and had a knack for losing big games they should win. And it's not like he's proven to be a great coach since either. He's just not a great coach. He was a disastrous hire, who wasn't likely to succeed at Michigan regardless of this supposed "support" that he never had.

It was clear last year that Michigan was a poorly coached team. My Michigan friends got tired of me saying they need to get rid of Harbaugh and hire Joe Brady. Been saying it for a year now, and I still think that would be best case scenario. Brady's now an OC in the NFL, so I'm not sure he'd be interested, but I could see taking over a program like Michigan after what he did at LSU being incredibly tempting.

[Assembly Hall]

This Rich Rod got undercut by the establishment narrative has always been a bunch of baloney. As a Michigan alumn, I said as soon as he was hired that it was going to be disastrous. He was a bad cultural fit in Ann Arbor, but more importantly, he's a system guy that requires his type of athletes to make work. It was going to require a complete overhaul of the roster, which is darn near impossible at the college level without dropping dramatically in the short term. And getting those kinds of athletes to want to go to Michigan was also going to be a challenge, and I don't the RR was so appealing to recruits that they'd take much of a risk.

Plus, RR didn't have the record of a homerun like some thought he did. He had one group of players that made a good team over a few years. And beyond that, he hadn't done anything special, and had a knack for losing big games they should win. And it's not like he's proven to be a great coach since either. He's just not a great coach. He was a disastrous hire, who wasn't likely to succeed at Michigan regardless of this supposed "support" that he never had.

It was clear last year that Michigan was a poorly coached team. My Michigan friends got tired of me saying they need to get rid of Harbaugh and hire Joe Brady. Been saying it for a year now, and I still think that would be best case scenario. Brady's now an OC in the NFL, so I'm not sure he'd be interested, but I could see taking over a program like Michigan after what he did at LSU being incredibly tempting.

Looking forward to seeing you guys next year. Don't give a damn about your school's coaching issues.

[adkindo]

This Rich Rod got undercut by the establishment narrative has always been a bunch of baloney. As a Michigan alumn, I said as soon as he was hired that it was going to be disastrous. He was a bad cultural fit in Ann Arbor, but more importantly, he's a system guy that requires his type of athletes to make work. It was going to require a complete overhaul of the roster, which is darn near impossible at the college level without dropping dramatically in the short term. And getting those kinds of athletes to want to go to Michigan was also going to be a challenge, and I don't the RR was so appealing to recruits that they'd take much of a risk.

Plus, RR didn't have the record of a homerun like some thought he did. He had one group of players that made a good team over a few years. And beyond that, he hadn't done anything special, and had a knack for losing big games they should win. And it's not like he's proven to be a great coach since either. He's just not a great coach. He was a disastrous hire, who wasn't likely to succeed at Michigan regardless of this supposed "support" that he never had.

It was clear last year that Michigan was a poorly coached team. My Michigan friends got tired of me saying they need to get rid of Harbaugh and hire Joe Brady. Been saying it for a year now, and I still think that would be best case scenario. Brady's now an OC in the NFL, so I'm not sure he'd be interested, but I could see taking over a program like Michigan after what he did at LSU being incredibly tempting.

Typical Michigan fan altered reality. If you are still claiming that RichRod was not undercut by many within the Michigan program and boosters, then you are claiming that the many long form articles and book excerpts from people that cover Michigan Football and give detailed accounts of actions taken is all imaginary. Also, the roster that Carr left behind was garbage for any system...it had very little talent as Henne, Hart and most of the other solid players left after the previous season. RichRod was rebuilding that thing from the ground up...just like he did @ WVU. He was 3-9, 5-7, and 7-6 when he was terminated. He was on the doorstep to having the thing rolling, and they fired him.....then Hoke came in with RichRod's guys and goes 11-2, 8-5, 7-6 and 5-7. A pretty strong case could be made that Hoke got all of the rewards of RichRod's work, and the less RichRod the program became, the worst their record got.


Plus, RR didn't have the record of a homerun like some thought he did. He had one group of players that made a good team over a few years.

This line is silly. RichRod came to WVU with a bare cabinet...just like Michigan. He rebuilt the thing from the ground up going....3-8, 9-4, 8-5, 8-4, 11-1, 11-2, 11-2...those last three years resulting in Gator Bowl, Sugar Bowl and Fiesta Bowl wins. That is not a few good players.....that is rebuilding a program and having it rolling. RichRod was one of the best offensive minds in college football....given credit for introducing the spread option run to college football and helped create some pretty good college QB's in Shaun King, Woody Dantzler, Rasheed Marshall, and Pat White.

Suggesting RichRod was a bad football coach is all about your "feelings" and has nothing to do with what he has accomplished on the field.

[RedTeamGo!]

This Rich Rod got undercut by the establishment narrative has always been a bunch of baloney. As a Michigan alumn, I said as soon as he was hired that it was going to be disastrous.

I think it’s kind of funny how you say Rich Rod was not undercut by Michigan Men or whatever and then with the very next sentence say you are a Michigan man and you literally never gave him a chance. Not even for a second.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Go Hoosiers!!!!!

Looking forward to Saturday. Indiana has occasionally got frisky with OSU the past few years anyway. I'm not sure Indiana can slow down OSUs offense even a little bit, but they should be able to score some and if they can get a turnover or two it could end up being close.

[Reds Freak]

Looking forward to Saturday. Indiana has occasionally got frisky with OSU the past few years anyway. I'm not sure Indiana can slow down OSUs offense even a little bit, but they should be able to score some and if they can get a turnover or two it could end up being close.

I don't think it's all that close. It's been fun seeing Indiana have some success but they've beaten teams that are a combined 3-13 (Penn State, Rutgers, Michigan, and Michigan State). But of course now that I look at it, Ohio State hasn't played anyone either. Their opponents are a combined 2-9. But I still think it's something like 42-24, OSU.

[BuckeyeRed27]

I don't think it's all that close close. It's been fun seeing Indiana have some success but they've beaten teams that are a combined 3-13 (Penn State, Rutgers, Michigan, and Michigan State). But of course now that I look at it, Ohio State hasn't played anyone either. Their opponents are a combined 2-9. But I still think it's something like 42-24, OSU.

Yeah I think it'll probably be more like 59-28 or something. Weather looks pretty nice so shouldn't be a factor. I like Penix though, he's pretty fun to watch.

[bucksfan2]

Yeah I think it'll probably be more like 59-28 or something. Weather looks pretty nice so shouldn't be a factor. I like Penix though, he's pretty fun to watch.

I get some of these wrong, and I only watched a little bit of the IU MSU game, but I just don't think this will be close. I don't think IU can drive the ball against OSU, and think IU has done a good job of creating turnovers and turning them into points. Penix, in what I have seen, is rather inconsistent. I saw some very bad throws against MSU and think he will need his A+ game to keep it close.

I do find this interesting, had Penix been ruled down short against PSU, what does this season look like? I think PSU is 3-1 and is IU 3-1 or does their record look different now? IU broke PSU (followed by an OSU loss the next week) and IU used that to jumpstart their season. Inches matter!

[MWM]

I think it’s kind of funny how you say Rich Rod was not undercut by Michigan Men or whatever and then with the very next sentence say you are a Michigan man and you literally never gave him a chance. Not even for a second.

That doesn't make any sense. I'm just some guy who went to school there 15 years ago. Surely I couldn't prevent him from being able to coach better than he did. Or could I? That seems to be the prevailing wisdom. All I did was predict it wouldn't end well. I'm not aware of any influence my prediction may have had on his lack of success. But who knows.

[RedTeamGo!]

That doesn't make any sense. I'm just some guy who went to school there 15 years ago. Surely I couldn't prevent him from being able to coach better than he did. Or could I? That seems to be the prevailing wisdom. All I did was predict it wouldn't end well. I'm not aware of any influence my prediction may have had on his lack of success. But who knows.

I think it just kind of represents the UM boosters.

[Assembly Hall]

I don't think it's all that close. It's been fun seeing Indiana have some success but they've beaten teams that are a combined 3-13 (Penn State, Rutgers, Michigan, and Michigan State). But of course now that I look at it, Ohio State hasn't played anyone either. Their opponents are a combined 2-9. But I still think it's something like 42-24, OSU.

Your killing me smalls.

[Revering4Blue]

If you are still claiming that RichRod was not undercut by many within the Michigan program and boosters, then you are claiming that the many long form articles and book excerpts from people that cover Michigan Football and give detailed accounts of actions taken is all imaginary. Also, the roster that Carr left behind was garbage for any system...it had very little talent as Henne, Hart and most of the other solid players left after the previous season. RichRod was rebuilding that thing from the ground up...just like he did @ WVU. He was 3-9, 5-7, and 7-6 when he was terminated. He was on the doorstep to having the thing rolling, and they fired him.....then Hoke came in with RichRod's guys and goes 11-2, 8-5, 7-6 and 5-7. A pretty strong case could be made that Hoke got all of the rewards of RichRod's work, and the less RichRod the program became, the worst their record got.

RichRod came to WVU with a bare cabinet...just like Michigan. He rebuilt the thing from the ground up going....3-8, 9-4, 8-5, 8-4, 11-1, 11-2, 11-2...those last three years resulting in Gator Bowl, Sugar Bowl and Fiesta Bowl wins. That is not a few good players.....that is rebuilding a program and having it rolling. RichRod was one of the best offensive minds in college football....given credit for introducing the spread option run to college football and helped create some pretty good college QB's in Shaun King, Woody Dantzler, Rasheed Marshall, and Pat White.

Suggesting RichRod was a bad football coach is all about your "feelings" and has nothing to do with what he has accomplished on the field.

Exactly!

[Revering4Blue]

It was clear last year that Michigan was a poorly coached team. My Michigan friends got tired of me saying they need to get rid of Harbaugh and hire Joe Brady. Been saying it for a year now, and I still think that would be best case scenario. Brady's now an OC in the NFL, so I'm not sure he'd be interested, but I could see taking over a program like Michigan after what he did at LSU being incredibly tempting.

Michigan still remains one of the top football jobs - Pro or College. As such, they are currently in a position akin to Alabama circa '07 - They are simply lacking the right coach to return the program to elite status.

At this season's conclusion, were Harbaugh to decide to leave on his own accord and head back to the NFL before the what seems to be inevitable occurs, it goes without saying that there'd be no shortage of quality coaches (including Brady) who would likely walk over broken glass to reach Ann Arbor.

[BuckeyeRed27]

How did we get a Rich Rod rant going today? Dude got fired a decade ago.

[Revering4Blue]

How did we get a Rich Rod rant going today? Dude got fired a decade ago.

It began in the previous incarnation of the thread once the question of whether or not Michigan would ever go outside of the family for another HC after RichRod's tenure was posed.

The correct answer, which I'm sure that we ALL can agree upon:

Yes, they should.

And yes, they will.

[BuckeyeRed27]

It began in the previous incarnation of the thread once the question of whether or not Michigan would ever go outside of the family for another HC after RichRod's tenure was posed.

The correct answer, which I'm sure that we ALL can agree upon:

Yes, they should.

And yes, they will.

Ahh ok. It was just such a well thought out post to be out of the blue, but without context it made me laugh.

Anyway...I'm not sure I fully agree that Michigan is a top tier job. It's similar to Texas, where there is a lot of resources and on the surface seems great, but the underlying stuff is crippling. I'm honestly surprised that Harbaugh hasn't really succeed there. They don't develop recruits. His QBs have been mediocre to terrible.

Michigan can't really afford to miss on another coach, but they probably should take a chance on a younger coach with midwest ties. They need to be landing all the 4 stars they can and develop them. More or less abandoning Ohio to go grab 3 stars in New England is just bizarre.

[WVRed]

Ahh ok. It was just such a well thought out post to be out of the blue, but without context it made me laugh.

Anyway...I'm not sure I fully agree that Michigan is a top tier job. It's similar to Texas, where there is a lot of resources and on the surface seems great, but the underlying stuff is crippling. I'm honestly surprised that Harbaugh hasn't really succeed there. They don't develop recruits. His QBs have been mediocre to terrible.

Michigan can't really afford to miss on another coach, but they probably should take a chance on a younger coach with midwest ties. They need to be landing all the 4 stars they can and develop them. More or less abandoning Ohio to go grab 3 stars in New England is just bizarre.

When Kentucky, let me repeat, KENTUCKY has recruited Michigan and landed four to five star recruits, something is really wrong.

Marquan McCall and Justin Rogers have been huge gets for us. You’d think Michigan or Michigan State would have worked to lock down the top level talent in their state.

[adkindo]

Ahh ok. It was just such a well thought out post to be out of the blue, but without context it made me laugh.

Anyway...I'm not sure I fully agree that Michigan is a top tier job. It's similar to Texas, where there is a lot of resources and on the surface seems great, but the underlying stuff is crippling. I'm honestly surprised that Harbaugh hasn't really succeed there. They don't develop recruits. His QBs have been mediocre to terrible.

Michigan can't really afford to miss on another coach, but they probably should take a chance on a younger coach with midwest ties. They need to be landing all the 4 stars they can and develop them. More or less abandoning Ohio to go grab 3 stars in New England is just bizarre.

I think Michigan and Texas both are right there in that top tier of college football coaching jobs. I do not want to start listing them....but there are probably more than 5 and less than 10 jobs that are elite. It is not that they can always get their guy, but they can always get him to pick up the phone. For example, Lincoln Riley would not likely leave Oklahoma (and I do not consider Oklahoma a elite tier position) for Michigan, but he would take their call and listen to a degree. Riley is not taking the call from WVU, Indiana or Virginia Tech....at least not in a formal manner where he would have a discussion with them.

[WVRed]

I think Michigan and Texas both are right there in that top tier of college football coaching jobs. I do not want to start listing them....but there are probably more than 5 and less than 10 jobs that are elite. It is not that they can always get their guy, but they can always get him to pick up the phone. For example, Lincoln Riley would not likely leave Oklahoma (and I do not consider Oklahoma a elite tier position) for Michigan, but he would take their call and listen to a degree. Riley is not taking the call from WVU, Indiana or Virginia Tech....at least not in a formal manner where he would have a discussion with them.

Your WVU bias is showing if you don’t think Oklahoma is elite tier.

[adkindo]

Your WVU bias is showing if you don’t think Oklahoma is elite tier.

I LOVE Oklahoma compared to what I think of Texas....and I am no fan of Michigan or Ohio State. I consider Oklahoma a very good job, just not on the same level as the handful of elite jobs where you have both the historical legacy and generations of boosters that will ensure the program remains on top in regards to facilities....and have remained steady for generations. Take a school like OK State who had one of the best boosters in the country...and many other deep pocket supporters from the oil industry....but there is an ebb and flow to that support and it does not go back generations to the point that it guarantees generations of deep pocket boosters in the future. Texas has wealthy families that will send their offspring to Austin over Harvard or Yale....it is a built in right of passage without options, and those offspring will do the same.....and that wealth will continue to support the athletics programs. Ohio State, Michigan, Notre Dame and a few others have that level of commitment....it is an almost impossible place to get to because it takes generations. I fully recognize Oklahoma is a more prestigious job than WVU.....but I do not put it on the highest tier because many wealthy families that reside in Oklahoma still send their kids to Austin. :)

I will give you an example....throughout the 90's and early 2000's, Florida and Florida State was two of the best college football programs in the country. Their annual game often had National Championship ramifications....and most people would conclude overall, FSU had more success. Still, the FSU job was never considered on the same level as the UF job for similar reasons. UF has old money boosters whose families have been giving for generations....kids and grandkids are almost assigned to attend UF because that is what this wealthy citrus family has did since the early 20th century. Beyond what is taking place on the field today, there is deep tradition and wealth behinds the truly elite jobs.

[Assembly Hall]

I LOVE Oklahoma compared to what I think of Texas....and I am no fan of Michigan or Ohio State. I consider Oklahoma a very good job, just not on the same level as the handful of elite jobs where you have both the historical legacy and generations of boosters that will ensure the program remains on top in regards to facilities....and have remained steady for generations. Take a school like OK State who had one of the best boosters in the country...and many other deep pocket supporters from the oil industry....but there is an ebb and flow to that support and it does not go back generations to the point that it guarantees generations of deep pocket boosters in the future. Texas has wealthy families that will send their offspring to Austin over Harvard or Yale....it is a built in right of passage without options, and those offspring will do the same.....and that wealth will continue to support the athletics programs. Ohio State, Michigan, Notre Dame and a few others have that level of commitment....it is an almost impossible place to get to because it takes generations. I fully recognize Oklahoma is a more prestigious job than WVU.....but I do not put it on the highest tier because many wealthy families that reside in Oklahoma still send their kids to Austin. :)

I will give you an example....throughout the 90's and early 2000's, Florida and Florida State was two of the best college football programs in the country. Their annual game often had National Championship ramifications....and most people would conclude overall, FSU had more success. Still, the FSU job was never considered on the same level as the UF job for similar reasons. UF has old money boosters whose families have been giving for generations....kids and grandkids are almost assigned to attend UF because that is what this wealthy citrus family has did since the early 20th century. Beyond what is taking place on the field today, there is deep tradition and wealth behinds the truly elite jobs.

Now run that by me again.

[bucksfan2]

I think Michigan and Texas both are right there in that top tier of college football coaching jobs. I do not want to start listing them....but there are probably more than 5 and less than 10 jobs that are elite. It is not that they can always get their guy, but they can always get him to pick up the phone. For example, Lincoln Riley would not likely leave Oklahoma (and I do not consider Oklahoma a elite tier position) for Michigan, but he would take their call and listen to a degree. Riley is not taking the call from WVU, Indiana or Virginia Tech....at least not in a formal manner where he would have a discussion with them.

Texas is a better job than Michigan. Texas can close the boardes of Texas and have top 5 classes easily. Herman hasn't done that, and things are getting strange down there.

Michigan is a great job, I would put it behind OSU, Bama, Texas, and USC. I think its on par with ND, PSU, Oklahoma, Georgia, etc. Where Michigan has struggled is the state isn't a talent hot bed that it once was, its not as talented as Ohio (their main rival) and they are fighting with MSU for in state recruits. Michigan needs to expand their footprint, and instead of going south into Ohio they have chosen the football hot bed of Connecticut.

The right coach can get Michigan rolling, but I wonder what that look like. Colin Cowherd brings this up about Michigan quite a bit, but they have one 12 win season in 100 years whereas OSU has 7 in the past decade. I think they need to come up with an identity as to what they want to become and attack it from there. They need to start with top 10 recruiting classes year in year out with a top 5 thrown in there every so often. They need to get that QB who can take them to the next level. One of the podcast I listen to talk about how they don't need their Urban Meyer, they need their Jim Tressel.

[MWM]

Anyway...I'm not sure I fully agree that Michigan is a top tier job. It's similar to Texas, where there is a lot of resources and on the surface seems great, but the underlying stuff is crippling.

Michigan can't really afford to miss on another coach, but they probably should take a chance on a younger coach with midwest ties. They need to be landing all the 4 stars they can and develop them. More or less abandoning Ohio to go grab 3 stars in New England is just bizarre.

A lot of people have been saying the same thing about Michigan just not being a top tier program anymore. It's true for now, but I don't believe it's not capable of it. What was Clemson before Swinney? Alabama hadn't been relevant for at least a decade before Saban got there. Same for USC before Carroll.

Like you said, this next coach hire better hit or they could be headed for Nebraska territory.

[RedTeamGo!]

What happens if Harbaugh beats OSU this year?

[BuckeyeRed27]

A lot of people have been saying the same thing about Michigan just not being a top tier program anymore. It's true for now, but I don't believe it's not capable of it. What was Clemson before Swinney? Alabama hadn't been relevant for at least a decade before Saban got there. Same for USC before Carroll.

Like you said, this next coach hire better hit or they could be headed for Nebraska territory.

Michigan has enough of the ingredients to be a top program. There is some institutional stability issues there, which is why I brought up Texas, because they have the same thing.

The obvious sign of weakness was the Brady Hoke hire. That isn't a hire that a program that Michigan thinks they are makes. The Harbaugh hire seemingly fixed it, but really it was just a bandaid and bandaids don't cure cancer.

[BuckeyeRed27]

What happens if Harbaugh beats OSU this year?

Honestly that's probably the worst thing that could happen to Michigan. Instead of moving on they'd probably give him an extension based on false hope.

[Revering4Blue]

Texas is a better job than Michigan. Texas can close the boardes of Texas and have top 5 classes easily. Herman hasn't done that, and things are getting strange down there.

Excellent points. There's no legitimate excuse for Texas to have been underachieving for the past decade or so. If the Longhorns fail to win out this regular season, it could get ugly for Herman.


Michigan is a great job, I would put it behind OSU, Bama, Texas, and USC. I think its on par with ND, PSU, Oklahoma, Georgia, etc. Where Michigan has struggled is the state isn't a talent hot bed that it once was, its not as talented as Ohio (their main rival) and they are fighting with MSU for in state recruits. Michigan needs to expand their footprint, and instead of going south into Ohio they have chosen the football hot bed of Connecticut.

The right coach can get Michigan rolling, but I wonder what that look like. Colin Cowherd brings this up about Michigan quite a bit, but they have one 12 win season in 100 years whereas OSU has 7 in the past decade. I think they need to come up with an identity as to what they want to become and attack it from there. They need to start with top 10 recruiting classes year in year out with a top 5 thrown in there every so often. They need to get that QB who can take them to the next level. One of the podcast I listen to talk about how they don't need their Urban Meyer, they need their Jim Tressel.

While I generally agree with this, I'll pose this question: Is the USC job a significantly better job - if not a better job at all - than the UCLA job in this day and age? It seems to me that given obvious equal proximity to talent, facilities etc., both CFB and CBB jobs seem equals anymore. The only differences lie with one carrying a stronger football tradition, while the other carrying a stronger basketball tradition. But that and a dollar will buy you a cup of coffee.

It just seems to me that the UCLA Bruins are the proverbial poster child for a higher profile CFB program which has drastically underachieved the past 30 years or so.

[Revering4Blue]

A lot of people have been saying the same thing about Michigan just not being a top tier program anymore. It's true for now, but I don't believe it's not capable of it. What was Clemson before Swinney? Alabama hadn't been relevant for at least a decade before Saban got there. Same for USC before Carroll.

Like you said, this next coach hire better hit or they could be headed for Nebraska territory.

If the Michigan Brass whiffs on the next coaching hire, then, yes, they could be heading for Nebraska territory from the standpoint of National program relevance. But Nebraska has a double whammy working against them: They are no longer obviously a top tier program AND the Nebraska job itself is no longer considered a top-tier job.

Clemson, Alabama, USC and Michigan have no need to be concerned about the latter becoming an issue.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Excellent points. There's no legitimate excuse for Texas to have been underachieving for the past decade or so. If the Longhorns fail to win out this regular season, it could get ugly for Herman.



While I generally agree with this, I'll pose this question: Is the USC job a significantly better job - if not a better job at all - than the UCLA job in this day and age? It seems to me that given obvious equal proximity to talent, facilities etc., both CFB and CBB jobs seem equals anymore. The only differences lie with one carrying a stronger football tradition, while the other carrying a stronger basketball tradition. But that and a dollar will buy you a cup of coffee.

It just seems to me that the UCLA Bruins are the proverbial poster child for a higher profile CFB program which has drastically underachieved the past 30 years or so.

UCLA has the benefits of being a good school in a great location. That's it. When it comes to football they have a TON of headwinds. The school and more specifically the UC system does not prioritize football and while they have pretty good resources/facilities when compared to the top 15-20 programs they are lacking. Also the Rose Bowl is a fantastic place to play a game on New Years Day in front of 100k fans. It is not a great place to play a game on a Saturday afternoon in October in front of 60k fans. It's almost 30 miles from UCLAs campus and most students have to take a bus to get there. It's in the middle of a golf course in an upscale neighborhood with no good way to get in and out.

The USC job is WAY better. Donors care a lot more about football, much better facilities, on campus (more or less) stadium, etc.

[Assembly Hall]

I don't know how many on here know this, but former Michigan RB Mike Hart is the Associate Head Coach for IU.

[MWM]

I don't know how many on here know this, but former Michigan RB Mike Hart is the Associate Head Coach for IU.

Thanks for making me feel old. He was there when I was.

[bucksfan2]

Excellent points. There's no legitimate excuse for Texas to have been underachieving for the past decade or so. If the Longhorns fail to win out this regular season, it could get ugly for Herman.



While I generally agree with this, I'll pose this question: Is the USC job a significantly better job - if not a better job at all - than the UCLA job in this day and age? It seems to me that given obvious equal proximity to talent, facilities etc., both CFB and CBB jobs seem equals anymore. The only differences lie with one carrying a stronger football tradition, while the other carrying a stronger basketball tradition. But that and a dollar will buy you a cup of coffee.

It just seems to me that the UCLA Bruins are the proverbial poster child for a higher profile CFB program which has drastically underachieved the past 30 years or so.

Just for fun I looked at the 2021 247 rankings. The state of California has a total of 32 4* or better players, Michigan has 11. In 2020 California has another 32 and the state of Michigan had 10.

USC is the school in California, and if they get the right coach in there, he can lock down the state of California and all of a sudden you have top 5 classes without a doubt. Michigan doesn't have that fertile recruiting grounds, and over the past few years have been fighting off OSU and MSU for the state of Michigan guys.

[Assembly Hall]

Just for fun I looked at the 2021 247 rankings. The state of California has a total of 32 4* or better players, Michigan has 11. In 2020 California has another 32 and the state of Michigan had 10.

USC is the school in California, and if they get the right coach in there, he can lock down the state of California and all of a sudden you have top 5 classes without a doubt. Michigan doesn't have that fertile recruiting grounds, and over the past few years have been fighting off OSU and MSU for the state of Michigan guys.

Did you check the state of Connecticutt? New York? LOL

Don Fishcher, radio voice of the Hoosiers, mentioned Michigan's "make-up" during the pre-game of the UM/IU game.

[WVRed]

Texas is a better job than Michigan. Texas can close the boardes of Texas and have top 5 classes easily. Herman hasn't done that, and things are getting strange down there.

Michigan is a great job, I would put it behind OSU, Bama, Texas, and USC. I think its on par with ND, PSU, Oklahoma, Georgia, etc. Where Michigan has struggled is the state isn't a talent hot bed that it once was, its not as talented as Ohio (their main rival) and they are fighting with MSU for in state recruits. Michigan needs to expand their footprint, and instead of going south into Ohio they have chosen the football hot bed of Connecticut.

The right coach can get Michigan rolling, but I wonder what that look like. Colin Cowherd brings this up about Michigan quite a bit, but they have one 12 win season in 100 years whereas OSU has 7 in the past decade. I think they need to come up with an identity as to what they want to become and attack it from there. They need to start with top 10 recruiting classes year in year out with a top 5 thrown in there every so often. They need to get that QB who can take them to the next level. One of the podcast I listen to talk about how they don't need their Urban Meyer, they need their Jim Tressel.

In theory I would agree on Texas but that is where recruiting has changed nationally. The fact that Ohio State can get five star recruits in Texas and never play a game in the state.

Alabama recruiting in California is the same way.

[Revering4Blue]

UCLA has the benefits of being a good school in a great location. That's it. When it comes to football they have a TON of headwinds. The school and more specifically the UC system does not prioritize football and while they have pretty good resources/facilities when compared to the top 15-20 programs they are lacking. Also the Rose Bowl is a fantastic place to play a game on New Years Day in front of 100k fans. It is not a great place to play a game on a Saturday afternoon in October in front of 60k fans. It's almost 30 miles from UCLAs campus and most students have to take a bus to get there. It's in the middle of a golf course in an upscale neighborhood with no good way to get in and out.

The USC job is WAY better. Donors care a lot more about football, much better facilities, on campus (more or less) stadium, etc.

I visited Pasadena for the first time this past February and I was absolutely blown away by the area surrounding the Rose Bowl - Some awesome views of the Rose Bowl from the top floor of the Gamble Hose, which I toured - but I can certainly understand why the logistical issues (traffic and otherwise) of filling the stadium with UCLA students and fans.

Anyway, according to National Media talking-heads, it's been no secret that UCLA's athletic department has gained a reputation of (relatively speaking) failing to pay enough to attract high-profile quality coaches in both hoops and football, and several Redzoners, myself included, touched upon this during their last search for a basketball coach. But apparently, they've really upped their game in regards to upgraded facilities (and/or the promise of such), otherwise, they wouldn't have landed Chip Kelly - underwhelming as his tenure has been so far - without resources in the ballpark of USC's.

Lastly, for the sake of clarification, my intent of posing the question about the USC and UCLA jobs was not to imply that we should expect less from USC and/or that USC is not a top-tier CFB job - it clearly is. Rather, to point out that we should expect more from UCLA as a football program, basketball history first or not.

[Revering4Blue]

Just for fun I looked at the 2021 247 rankings. The state of California has a total of 32 4* or better players, Michigan has 11. In 2020 California has another 32 and the state of Michigan had 10.

Thanks for posting this. I'm not surprised at all that the state of California produces significantly more 4 star players than the state of Michigan, but I certainly did not expect a 3-to-1 ratio.

Regardless - and I may be wrong here - it is my understanding that Harbaugh's main issue hasn't really been recruiting, as he has recruited some highly rated classes. It's that he simply hasn't coached them up. Or is it a combination of both factors?

[BuckeyeRed27]

I visited Pasadena for the first time this past February and I was absolutely blown away by the area surrounding the Rose Bowl - Some awesome views of the Rose Bowl from the top floor of the Gamble Hose, which I toured - but I can certainly understand why the logistical issues (traffic and otherwise) of filling the stadium with UCLA students and fans.

Anyway, according to National Media talking-heads, it's been no secret that UCLA's athletic department has gained a reputation of (relatively speaking) failing to pay enough to attract high-profile quality coaches in both hoops and football, and several Redzoners, myself included, touched upon this during their last search for a basketball coach. But apparently, they've really upped their game in regards to upgraded facilities (and/or the promise of such), otherwise, they wouldn't have landed Chip Kelly - underwhelming as his tenure has been so far - without resources in the ballpark of USC's.

Lastly, for the sake of clarification, my intent of posing the question about the USC and UCLA jobs was not to imply that we should expect less from USC and/or that USC is not a top-tier CFB job - it clearly is. Rather, to point out that we should expect more from UCLA as a football program, basketball history first or not.

Oh yeah I think UCLA is without question the biggest underachieving program in probably the last 50 years at least.

[adkindo]

A lot of people have been saying the same thing about Michigan just not being a top tier program anymore. It's true for now, but I don't believe it's not capable of it. What was Clemson before Swinney? Alabama hadn't been relevant for at least a decade before Saban got there. Same for USC before Carroll.

Like you said, this next coach hire better hit or they could be headed for Nebraska territory.

I am just no buying it...sure they could head in that direction in the wins/losses category....but the infrastructure and support of the program is on a different level. There are people/families in place that will never allow Michigan football to not have the resources to compete with anyone in the country. Just grab the donor list for the last 3 decades and notice how many of the same names show up year after year...then with large donations every few years...then notice how many Jr.'s, II's and III's will show up on the list years after a patriarch/matriarch ceased donations. We saw Notre Dame struggle for years....barely above mediocrity, but the shine on the head coaching job never really faded.....it will not fade at Michigan either because of a decade of missing expectations on the field.

[bucksfan2]

To discuss the Texas recruiting, what OSU has done recently is gone to places where "the" program is down. They have made inroads in Texas and California because Texas and USC have been dumpster fires. The first thing a new coach at those programs needs to do is close the boarders and start winning battles. There were 3 5* QB's this past cycle out of California (considering Stroud one because he was borderline) and they went to Alabama, Clemson, and OSU. OSU has made a killing in Texas recently because Texas has been down. Now a lot of guys they get have Ohio connections, but there is no way Garrett Wilson, Jackson Smith-Njigba, JK Dobbins, Okuda all should have gone to OSU.


Thanks for posting this. I'm not surprised at all that the state of California produces significantly more 4 star players than the state of Michigan, but I certainly did not expect a 3-to-1 ratio.

Regardless - and I may be wrong here - it is my understanding that Harbaugh's main issue hasn't really been recruiting, as he has recruited some highly rated classes. It's that he simply hasn't coached them up. Or is it a combination of both factors?

Starting with 2021 here is where Michigan ranks 9, 14, 8, 22, and 5. I don't know the ins and outs of Michigan's recruiting like I do OSU, but OSU's worst class in that span has been ranked 14th, a result of it being a small class but was 3rd in average rating. Michigan's issues start with recruiting, they aren't recruiting to be at the elite level. They are recruiting to be a fringe top 10 team, is that where they want to be?

Harbaugh has worn out his welcome, and there are some glaring coaching and development issues. I do think Harbaugh's career may look different had he beaten OSU in 2016. But since then, the games haven't been close, the talent on the field hasn't been close, and Michigan looks lost.

They are a good program, they have cool uniforms (I admit), they have the Jordan brand on all their swag, they are recognizable all over the place. I don't think that is what the fans want, and I don't think Harbaugh is the guy to take them to the next level.

[adkindo]

There are definitely advantages for schools in states that have many blue chip (4/5 Star) recruits, but I am not sure it is significant as we often think. For example, most years 4 states produce about half of the blue chip football recruits in the country (Florida, Texas, California, and Georgia), but those 4 states are feeding grounds for every other major program in the country, and many of those outside schools have long and deep relationships in the state. Also, the first three of those states are feeding multiple major programs within their state border. Tom Herman can do a better job in Texas recruiting, but he is never locking down the state because Riley, Gundy, Fisher, Orgeron and several others are going to be there making strong pitches to those same players. In contrast, a state that produces a material amount of blue chip players, but far less than the big 4 such as Ohio can pretty much be put on lockdown by Ohio State. The external competition is less and their brand within the state borders places a shadow over any competition. So who really is in the better position to recruit.....Texas or Ohio State? Btw, the California schools have it rough trying to keep blue chippers in state because California literally feeds the entire West Coast and schools like Oregon have deep roots in some regions in California....and so much of it is about the relationship of the high school coach with the college coach.

[bucksfan2]

There are definitely advantages for schools in states that have many blue chip (4/5 Star) recruits, but I am not sure it is significant as we often think. For example, most years 4 states produce about half of the blue chip football recruits in the country (Florida, Texas, California, and Georgia), but those 4 states are feeding grounds for every other major program in the country, and many of those outside schools have long and deep relationships in the state. Also, the first three of those states are feeding multiple major programs within their state border. Tom Herman can do a better job in Texas recruiting, but he is never locking down the state because Riley, Gundy, Fisher, Orgeron and several others are going to be there making strong pitches to those same players. In contrast, a state that produces a material amount of blue chip players, but far less than the big 4 such as Ohio can pretty much be put on lockdown by Ohio State. The external competition is less and their brand within the state borders places a shadow over any competition. So who really is in the better position to recruit.....Texas or Ohio State? Btw, the California schools have it rough trying to keep blue chippers in state because California literally feeds the entire West Coast and schools like Oregon have deep roots in some regions in California....and so much of it is about the relationship of the high school coach with the college coach.

Here is where I disagree. California and Texas are being raided by other programs because USC and Texas aren't winning recruiting battles in that state. In the 2021 class, Texas has one commit of the top 20 players in Texas. They are a toss up for one other kid, and that is it. That is unacceptable and that is why programs fail and coaches get fired. Sure OSU is in the area, and sure Bama, A&M, Oklahoma, etc are all recruiting the heck out of Texas, but part of that reason is Texas is not doing their job.

Texas and California are feeding the top programs nationwide because USC and Texas aren't doing their job. It should be far easier for Texas to recruit the state than OSU, Bama, Clemson, etc. Sure there are going to be some misses in there, it happens with every program. But if LSU started losing players in Louisiana alarm bells would be raised. Kirby Smart came in and recruited Georgia better and all of a sudden started turning out top 5 classes year in year out. Although his biggest mistake will forever haunt him!

There are several schools in the country where they have a massive advantage because of local talent. Texas and USC should be able to lock down half of the top 10 or 20 players in state and then build the class from there. They aren't doing that and its showing.

[adkindo]

Here is where I disagree. California and Texas are being raided by other programs because USC and Texas aren't winning recruiting battles in that state. In the 2021 class, Texas has one commit of the top 20 players in Texas. They are a toss up for one other kid, and that is it. That is unacceptable and that is why programs fail and coaches get fired. Sure OSU is in the area, and sure Bama, A&M, Oklahoma, etc are all recruiting the heck out of Texas, but part of that reason is Texas is not doing their job.

Texas and California are feeding the top programs nationwide because USC and Texas aren't doing their job. It should be far easier for Texas to recruit the state than OSU, Bama, Clemson, etc. Sure there are going to be some misses in there, it happens with every program. But if LSU started losing players in Louisiana alarm bells would be raised. Kirby Smart came in and recruited Georgia better and all of a sudden started turning out top 5 classes year in year out. Although his biggest mistake will forever haunt him!

There are several schools in the country where they have a massive advantage because of local talent. Texas and USC should be able to lock down half of the top 10 or 20 players in state and then build the class from there. They aren't doing that and its showing.

We agree Texas should do better in Texas, but I just think it is a very unique state from at least what I have been told. It is my understanding that Houston is and has been LSU territory for a long time....the LSU connections are as strong as or even stronger in some cases than with UT and TA&M. Then there is major pressure from Dallas on up to the border from Oklahoma and Oklahoma State to a lesser degree. West Texas is far less rich in talent, but it is Texas Tech country or at least a region that Tech can compete with both UT and TA&M. On top of that, TCU and Baylor offer a very unique and different pitch to kids....and some ratio (1 of 20?) is actually going to prefer the smaller private school that plays big time football. Then your elite programs that recruit nationally (Ohio State, Clemson, Bama, Notre Dame, etc.) are always going to be tough competition anywhere they stick their nose. Finally, it is 2020 and these 18 year olds are exposed to an exponential amount of information compared to just 20 years ago which opens up the world to them with less fear about getting away from home.

One more issue that is big in Florida, which I assume is an issue in Texas also.....many of these kids were not actually born in the state. They may have moved there with their parents as a 10 year old because the migration to these states has been constant for decades....therefore there may not be that indoctrinated loyalty many of us have for our teams. I graduated high school in Florida in the late 90's, but I always bled Gold and Blue....and on my high school football team there was only 1 kid that was actually born in the state of Florida.

In the end, we do agree that Herman has to do much better in Texas to get Texas back in the national conversation.

[bucksfan2]

We agree Texas should do better in Texas, but I just think it is a very unique state from at least what I have been told. It is my understanding that Houston is and has been LSU territory for a long time....the LSU connections are as strong as or even stronger in some cases than with UT and TA&M. Then there is major pressure from Dallas on up to the border from Oklahoma and Oklahoma State to a lesser degree. West Texas is far less rich in talent, but it is Texas Tech country or at least a region that Tech can compete with both UT and TA&M. On top of that, TCU and Baylor offer a very unique and different pitch to kids....and some ratio (1 of 20?) is actually going to prefer the smaller private school that plays big time football. Then your elite programs that recruit nationally (Ohio State, Clemson, Bama, Notre Dame, etc.) are always going to be tough competition anywhere they stick their nose. Finally, it is 2020 and these 18 year olds are exposed to an exponential amount of information compared to just 20 years ago which opens up the world to them with less fear about getting away from home.

One more issue that is big in Florida, which I assume is an issue in Texas also.....many of these kids were not actually born in the state. They may have moved there with their parents as a 10 year old because the migration to these states has been constant for decades....therefore there may not be that indoctrinated loyalty many of us have for our teams. I graduated high school in Florida in the late 90's, but I always bled Gold and Blue....and on my high school football team there was only 1 kid that was actually born in the state of Florida.

In the end, we do agree that Herman has to do much better in Texas to get Texas back in the national conversation.

In the end, I find recruiting fascinating and nauseating at the same time. There is something about caring where a 17 year old kid goes to school that makes me icky, but its the lifeblood of college football. The reality is I can only really follow what goes on at OSU and things that affect OSU's recruiting. There philosophy has long been lock down the guys in state you want, and then go to where a major program is down and recruit that area hard. They did it in Georgia when they were down, they did it in Florida with Urban's ties and the big schools down there being down, and they are doing it in Texas and Southern California because the two major schools there are down.

I think if USC and Texas get things rolling again, and I realize the dynamics are different in those states, the other major programs won't be as big of players in that state. They will still recruit the state, but they probably don't want to get in dog fights with the local powerhouse because you lose those more often than not. Texas should be a national power, and if they want a guy, they should be able to beat Baylor, TCU and TTU, and also fend off A&M in most cases.

The next growing battle ground state is Arizona, both universities there are underperformers and the talent is all over the place.

[Assembly Hall]

FYI...I don't have the numbers in front of me, but I was informed that 20% of the Indiana team are Florida kids.

[adkindo]

OMG....Tulsa throws a hail mary TD to tie the game up as time expires against Tulane!!

[adkindo]

Very solid article about the downfall of FSU on ESPN....a lot of finger pointing, but still informative.

Inside the 6-year unraveling of Florida State football (https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/30331494/deep-deep-hole-6-year-unraveling-florida-state-football)

[adkindo]

OMG....Tulsa throws a hail mary TD to tie the game up as time expires against Tulane!!

Tulsa entered the 4thQ down 14-0.....and scores 21 in the Quarter to force OT. Tulsa was on their 3rd QB of the game. This Tulsa team has as much heart as any team I have watched this season....they never give up.

[Stray]

We're at the point now where the Bearcats are gonna just have to embarrass a team like UCF on the road to even catch a glance from the committee. Lets go ahead and shut their passing game down and beat em by 30+ to be safe. Lot to ask on the road, but it's doable.

[adkindo]

Tulsa entered the 4thQ down 14-0.....and scores 21 in the Quarter to force OT. Tulsa was on their 3rd QB of the game. This Tulsa team has as much heart as any team I have watched this season....they never give up.

Tulsa wins in 2OT on a Pick 6. Tulsa was down 23-5 to UCF and came back to win. Tulsa was does 20-10 to ECU and came back to win. Tulsa was down 21-0 to SMU and came back to win....and again was down 14-0 tonight before coming back to beat Tulane. I know Cincy has them in a couple weeks...just remember no reasonable lead is safe with this group.

[adkindo]

Quinn Ewers, top-ranked football recruit in 2022, commits to Ohio State

I know one of you guys called this weeks ago when he decommitted from Texas. Congrats, he appears to be a good one.

[adkindo]

We're at the point now where the Bearcats are gonna just have to embarrass a team like UCF on the road to even catch a glance from the committee. Lets go ahead and shut their passing game down and beat em by 30+ to be safe. Lot to ask on the road, but it's doable.

30+....last team to beat UCF by that margin was Michigan in 2016 in the Big House against #5 Michigan. It was Scott Frost's 2nd game as a head coach. That was good Michigan team....the one time I recall Harbaugh should have beat Ohio State. Michigan scored a TD with a minute left in the game to take a 17-14 lead only to allow OSU to drive and kick a FG at the end of regulation to tie the game....and Ohio State won in 2OT.

I am not sure 2020 Cincy is 2016 Michigan....but I am sure 2020 UCF is not 2016 UCF. Cincy can win this game, but they probably will need to pack a lunch.

[Stray]

30+....last team to beat UCF by that margin was Michigan in 2016 in the Big House against #5 Michigan. It was Scott Frost's 2nd game as a head coach. That was good Michigan team....the one time I recall Harbaugh should have beat Ohio State. Michigan scored a TD with a minute left in the game to take a 17-14 lead only to allow OSU to drive and kick a FG at the end of regulation to tie the game....and Ohio State won in 2OT.

I am not sure 2020 Cincy is 2016 Michigan....but I am sure 2020 UCF is not 2016 UCF. Cincy can win this game, but they probably will need to pack a lunch.

I like the numbers you're dropping here.

I'm rooting for a shellacking, will take a win, and will most likely drink away a depressing killer loss. But hey, 56-17 sounds nice to me.

[texasdave]

Ohio State has landed 5-star quarterback Quinn Ewers. The Buckeyes have a cornucopia of talented signal-callers.

https://www.daytondailynews.com/sports/ohio-state-buckeyes-quinn-ewers-commitment-adds-to-impressive-string-of-qb-recruits/5DNMVKDHHBAH7JZBOMKTIV3HZI/

[GAC]

Ohio State has landed 5-star quarterback Quinn Ewers. The Buckeyes have a cornucopia of talented signal-callers.

https://www.daytondailynews.com/sports/ohio-state-buckeyes-quinn-ewers-commitment-adds-to-impressive-string-of-qb-recruits/5DNMVKDHHBAH7JZBOMKTIV3HZI/

And yet the Wolverines can't even seem to land one! Why is that? LOL

[adkindo]

all eyes in the country will be on the big noon game.....App State @ Coastal Carolina ;)

[adkindo]

Indiana does not look ready for the task so far today...

[Reds Freak]

Indiana does not look ready for the task so far today...

The gap between Ohio State and the rest of the B10 right now is massive.

[adkindo]

Indiana showing signs of getting their feet under them

[Reds Freak]

Indiana showing signs of getting their feet under them

I just don't think an offense strategy of floating jump balls is gonna beat Ohio State.

[kaldaniels]

Indiana showing signs of getting their feet under them

Sweep the leg!

[adkindo]

I just don't think an offense strategy of floating jump balls is gonna beat Ohio State.

yeah, Indiana had chances to keep it close, but just did not take advantage of the situations. I also do not know how the IU QB completes his passes....the delivery is kind of slow and the ball has so much air under it...even on just an out route. I would think Ohio State could play a little more aggressive and try to jump more of those balls.

[adkindo]

wow....Indiana is beating Indiana as much as Ohio State is beating Indiana

[Reds Freak]

I don't think it's all that close. It's been fun seeing Indiana have some success but they've beaten teams that are a combined 3-13 (Penn State, Rutgers, Michigan, and Michigan State). But of course now that I look at it, Ohio State hasn't played anyone either. Their opponents are a combined 2-9. But I still think it's something like 42-24, OSU.

Go down and kick a FG Indiana and then no more scoring in the 4th, please.

[kaldaniels]

“Fryfogle” is just one of those college athlete names that you just know is gonna have a big game against you when you play his team.

[kaldaniels]

“Fryfogle” is just one of those college athlete names that you just know is gonna have a big game against you when you play his team.

See.

[Reds Freak]

I just don't think an offense strategy of floating jump balls is gonna beat Ohio State.

Maybe I thought wrong.

[RedTeamGo!]

Maybe I thought wrong.

OSU’s secondary is absolute garbage

[adkindo]

Indiana made it to the 4thQ within striking distance.....this is exactly the best case scenario for Hoosier fans. It is like being down 1 run in the bottom of the 9th, with a runner on 1st and 1 out.....odds are not in your favor per se, but one play can alter the outcome of the game at this point.

[Boston Red]

Going for it on 4th down was hilariously stupid.

[adkindo]

Oh wow....Ohio State turns it over on downs with 4:32 left in the game with IU down 7. It is right there for you Indiana....

- - - Updated - - -


Going for it in 4th down was hilariously stupid.

they do not trust their kicker....I did not like the play call

[Boston Red]

The kicker has made 6 extra points. That's all it was to clinch the game.

[adkindo]

The kicker has made 6 extra points. That's all it was to clinch the game.

physically....but not mentally....but I do not disagree with you in that I would have kicked it

[adkindo]

Sucks for Indiana fans, but if you believe in moral victories, this was definitely that. Your program gained respect today....and you put a huge chink in the invincibility of Ohio State that will benefit every opponent they face for the rest of the season. They will not be feared to the same degree when they take the field in Illinois next week.

[WVRed]

Sucks for Indiana fans, but if you believe in moral victories, this was definitely that. Your program gained respect today....and you put a huge chink in the invincibility of Ohio State that will benefit every opponent they face for the rest of the season. They will not be feared to the same degree when they take the field in Illinois next week.

If Penix can throw for almost 500 yards against that defense, imagine what Trevor Lawrence or Mac Jones will do in the CFP (if there is one)

[Boston Red]

UC is doing a nice job of self destructing and digging themselves a hole in Orlando.

Man, there's a lot of fans in the stands at UCF.

[adkindo]

UC is doing a nice job of self destructing and digging themselves a hole in Orlando.

Man, there's a lot of fans in the stands at UCF.

think it is sold out @ 25%

[adkindo]

Cincy can't catch a punt.....they got lucky to get that one back.

[adkindo]

UCF has had a bad habit this year of getting up early and taking their foot off the gas. UCF's defense is not great, but it is still very fast and athletic....probably more so than most of the teams Cincy has played this season.

[Boston Red]

UC has certainly righted the ship.

Enjoyed both teams trading kinda weak 15 yard penalties on the last drive. Glad they evened out.

[Boston Red]

UC should have had a pick 2 on that 2 point conversion play. Instead UCF gets the 2. I guess those hands are why guys are on defense.

[Boston Red]

That block on the UC screen for a TD was amazing.

[Reds Freak]

Oklahoma stadium looks about 75% full. It actually made me uncomfortable to watched and I turned it off.

[Boston Red]

Sorry to any of you who had Cincinnati -4. Right decision to run out the clock, but that's a tough beat.

[WVRed]

Oklahoma stadium looks about 75% full. It actually made me uncomfortable to watched and I turned it off.

Supposed to be 25% full.

Math ain’t mathing.

[Boston Red]

Well, if nothing else, it seems like you could have an outstanding bizarro college football playoff with Cincinnati, BYU, Coastal Carolina and Liberty.

[Roy Tucker]

Michigan and Rutgers going to OT at 35-35.

[kaldaniels]

Michigan and Rutgers going to OT at 35-35.

Harbaugh...just wow. Never thought it could get this bad.

[Roy Tucker]

Harbaugh...just wow. Never thought it could get this bad.

And Michigan misses a FG at the start of OT.

[KronoRed]

Is there a reason Rutgers is running the play clock down to zero before calling time out? the game clock isn't on..it's like they want to waste everyone's time.

[RedTeamGo!]

This Michigan/Rutgers game is some terrible football.

[KronoRed]

TD Rutgers in OT2

[RedTeamGo!]

Is there a reason Rutgers is running the play clock down to zero before calling time out? the game clock isn't on..it's like they want to waste everyone's time.

Give them a break, they haven’t been in this position in like 20 years.

[KronoRed]

Going to OT3

Harbaugh looks ridiculous with 2 masks on.

[Stray]

Bearcats got away with a sloppy game today. I thought they played well at times, but were fortunate to get the win. Ridder was fantastic and man Whyle looks like he's gonna be really good on Sundays too.

[Danny Serafini]

Well, if nothing else, it seems like you could have an outstanding bizarro college football playoff with Cincinnati, BYU, Coastal Carolina and Liberty.

Coastal Carolina and Liberty actually play each other in two weeks, which may be the most epic confrontation of all time

[adkindo]

Coastal Carolina and Liberty actually play each other in two weeks, which may be the most epic confrontation of all time

Coastal Carolina will pound Liberty. The game I hope happens is Coastal Carolina plays Marshall in a bowl game. There is one of the bowls that it is possible as I have seen it in some of the projections. I actually think it would be a heck of a game if both are undefeated.

[GAC]

Supposed to be 25% full.

Math ain’t mathing.

It's Oklahoma! ... you guys aren't counting their horses are you? :mooner:

[adkindo]

Some thoughts on a crazy day of football....

- Indiana is legit good. Ohio State did not play well today...but given that they caught Ohio State on a day they did not perform their best, Indiana probably wins that game if they had any ability to run the ball and did not make so many big mistakes like intercepting the ball and fumbling on the return. One play that stuck out in my head and made me laugh was early in the game...maybe on the first drive, the IU QB hits the receiver in stride on a deep ball and it goes right through his hands. The camera is showing his face as he is running back to the huddle and he has this look on his face like "why is everyone looking at me"? It was priceless...no anger or disgust about dropping what could have been a huge play. I guess you had to see it.

- I do not think the close game against UCF will hurt Cincy...just think they missed an opportunity to help themselves. Gabriel was not on, but his receivers dropped too many balls. This UCF team is just as talented as the teams from 2017 and 2018....they just do not have the character as those teams. UCF's defense has no heart....no pride...it has got pushed around late in so many games this season. In 2017 and 2018, McKenzie Milton would literally put the team on his back in close games and will them to win...they just do not have that type of game changer this season.

Finally, I have no idea what Fickell was trying to do at the end of the game with the clock....well, I do know what he was trying to do, but I do not know why. I get it is you are up by a point or something, but the TD would have put them up by 2 scores with less than 2 minutes remaining. The odds of UCF scoring twice in little over a minute with no timeouts are less than your QB fumbling a snap and UCF getting the ball back or even worse a scoop and score....which came close to happening. Also, this is a beauty contest, and it would not have hurt your playoff chances to win by 10 points instead of 3.

- Alabama is rolling.

- Georgia had 8 net rushing yards today. The last team I thought would not be able to run the ball as it has been a RB factory for the last decade.

- Iowa State looks like a totally different team late in the season compared to early on.....just every other Campbell team has did at Iowa State. Oklahoma has really improved during the season on both sides of the ball....Oklahoma State has not.

- There is no playoff worthy team in the PAC12.

- Northwestern may go undefeated until the B10 Championship.....but Indiana would beat them by 2 TD's Still, it will not stop the national sports media from hyping Northwestern over the next few weeks like they do anytime Northwestern has some level of success. A third of the most popular people in sports media attended Northwestern or at least it seems that way.

- Coastal Carolina's win over App State is kind of a big deal.

- Penn State is 0-5 and it took 3 OT's for Michigan to beat Rutgers....wonder what the odds of either would have been before the season?

- Watched the end of the San Diego State / Nevada game today. SDSU was down by 5....on Nevada's 5 yard line, 1st and Goal with a couple minutes left. I will never know or understand how the SDSU QB got a scholarship to play QB with a FBS team. He had receivers wide open on a couple plays and made terrible throws that went incomplete. Then on 4th and Goal from the 5 he was getting some pressure....so you throw it in the endzone and give your guys a chance to make a play. Dude chucks it 12 yards out of bounds through the side of the endzone! I have never seen a high school QB look so bad.

- Next weekends schedule looks like a dud at first glance....

[Assembly Hall]

Some thoughts on a crazy day of football....

- Indiana is legit good. Ohio State did not play well today...but given that they caught Ohio State on a day they did not perform their best, Indiana probably wins that game if they had any ability to run the ball and did not make so many big mistakes like intercepting the ball and fumbling on the return. One play that stuck out in my head and made me laugh was early in the game...maybe on the first drive, the IU QB hits the receiver in stride on a deep ball and it goes right through his hands. The camera is showing his face as he is running back to the huddle and he has this look on his face like "why is everyone looking at me"? It was priceless...no anger or disgust about dropping what could have been a huge play. I guess you had to see it.

- I do not think the close game against UCF will hurt Cincy...just think they missed an opportunity to help themselves. Gabriel was not on, but his receivers dropped too many balls. This UCF team is just as talented as the teams from 2017 and 2018....they just do not have the character as those teams. UCF's defense has no heart....no pride...it has got pushed around late in so many games this season. In 2017 and 2018, McKenzie Milton would literally put the team on his back in close games and will them to win...they just do not have that type of game changer this season.

Finally, I have no idea what Fickell was trying to do at the end of the game with the clock....well, I do know what he was trying to do, but I do not know why. I get it is you are up by a point or something, but the TD would have put them up by 2 scores with less than 2 minutes remaining. The odds of UCF scoring twice in little over a minute with no timeouts are less than your QB fumbling a snap and UCF getting the ball back or even worse a scoop and score....which came close to happening. Also, this is a beauty contest, and it would not have hurt your playoff chances to win by 10 points instead of 3.

- Alabama is rolling.

- Georgia had 8 net rushing yards today. The last team I thought would not be able to run the ball as it has been a RB factory for the last decade.

- Iowa State looks like a totally different team late in the season compared to early on.....just every other Campbell team has did at Iowa State. Oklahoma has really improved during the season on both sides of the ball....Oklahoma State has not.

- There is no playoff worthy team in the PAC12.

- Northwestern may go undefeated until the B10 Championship.....but Indiana would beat them by 2 TD's Still, it will not stop the national sports media from hyping Northwestern over the next few weeks like they do anytime Northwestern has some level of success. A third of the most popular people in sports media attended Northwestern or at least it seems that way.

- Coastal Carolina's win over App State is kind of a big deal.

- Penn State is 0-5 and it took 3 OT's for Michigan to beat Rutgers....wonder what the odds of either would have been before the season?

- Watched the end of the San Diego State / Nevada game today. SDSU was down by 5....on Nevada's 5 yard line, 1st and Goal with a couple minutes left. I will never know or understand how the SDSU QB got a scholarship to play QB with a FBS team. He had receivers wide open on a couple plays and made terrible throws that went incomplete. Then on 4th and Goal from the 5 he was getting some pressure....so you throw it in the endzone and give your guys a chance to make a play. Dude chucks it 12 yards out of bounds through the side of the endzone! I have never seen a high school QB look so bad.

- Next weekends schedule looks like a dud at first glance....

You left out Nebraska's titanic loss....

[WVRed]

Regarding Alabama/Kentucky:

Kentucky had 10 players out including their best offensive and defensive players. This was going to be a bloodbath either way but that didn’t help.

Bryce Young looked more impressive than Mac Jones and is going to be a Heisman candidate as early as next year.

[paintmered]

I think UC was trying to score on that fourth down play to both make the win look bigger and to expire the clock, but the bad snap ruined it all. They clearly were trying to not score before that play.

I have no issues with their clock management leading up to that point. They iced the last 4:30 of the game with that last drive. The last thing you want to do is leave any chance for UCF's hyper-fast offense, even if scoring sooner meant a two score lead and 1:30 left.

Also, what a bad break for those who had UC at -4...

[Bob Sheed]

Watching the 1st Quarter of that UC game will all the fumbles, miscues, and penalties, I had to double-check that it wasn't Sunday and the color on my TV was off a couple of shades.

[Stray]

- I do not think the close game against UCF will hurt Cincy...just think they missed an opportunity to help themselves.

Agreed. In our situation every game needs to be a statement. It was a good win and all, but the way the game went down doesn't help our situation at all.

[adkindo]

Agreed. In our situation every game needs to be a statement. It was a good win and all, but the way the game went down doesn't help our situation at all.

Tulsa is not as talented as Cincy, but they appear to have similar chemistry/character as Cincy (and they do have talent).....so Cincy should not sleep on them. At times their defense has looked great this season.

[adkindo]

Dabo on FSU claiming the game was cancelled because of COVID...


"This game was not canceled because of COVID," Swinney said. "COVID was just an excuse to cancel the game. I have no doubt their players wanted to play and would have played. And same with the coaches. To me, the Florida State administration forfeited the game."

honestly, that was my read on it also....there was no reason to cancel that game except FSU did not want to take a beatdown @ Home after recent losses.

[adkindo]

Oklahoma @ WVU got slotted into the ABC primetime game this weekend @ 7:30PM ET. Oklahoma opened up as a 10.5 point favorite, and now the line is up to 11 and 11.5 Points as books list it. Honestly, I assumed it would be at least 2 touchdowns the way Oklahoma beat Oklahoma State this weekend. I think if WVU plays at their best, they have a realistic shot at winning this game. Oklahoma has the #1 Offense in the Big12 as it relates to points per game and yards per game....while WVU has the #1 Defense in the Big12 as it relates to points per game and yards per game. Oklahoma is #2 in the Big12 in Defensive yards allowed per game, while WVU is #2 in the Big12 in Offensive yards per game.

The biggest difference is net points....Oklahoma scores an average of 45.5 PPG and only gives up an average of 23 PPG for a net of 22.5 PPG, while WVU only scores an average of 29.4 PPG and gives up 17.8 PPG for a smaller net of 11.6 PPG. Clearly the game will come down to WVU keeping them below their average PPG, while also putting a few more points on the board than normal. Limiting their scoring will come down to their ability to pass the ball...they average 344 YPG in the air, while WVU only gives up 161 YPG in the air.

WVU is 5-0 @ Home and Oklahoma is 2-1 on the Road (wins @ TCU and Texas Tech). This is WVU's chance to get their first signature win in the Neal Brown era.

[GAC]

WV is undefeated at home, and a different team in Morgantown. I'm taking WV and the points. ;)

[adkindo]

Dabo on FSU claiming the game was cancelled because of COVID...



honestly, that was my read on it also....there was no reason to cancel that game except FSU did not want to take a beatdown @ Home after recent losses.

just to follow up, I learned a few more pieces to this story that does alter my opinion a little....Dabo probably should have kept quiet. I do not think the FSU Admin was upset to delay the game, and they probably hope it is cancelled because the natives are beginning to get restless again this year. To be clear, "natives" as in the core FSU fans.

[adkindo]

WV is undefeated at home, and a different team in Morgantown. I'm taking WV and the points. ;)

me too, but I couldn't advise anyone to put real money on the game. There is a chance that WVU being a youngish team is not ready for the moment of playing one of the biggest brands in the country in front of the entire country on a Saturday night while much of the country is semi locked down. It will not be a normal Saturday night game with a packed stadium, but it also is not the same as a noon game on ESPN2....it just isn't. Those players know that the game will be called by ABC's #1 crew, and they will have a chance to shine or fold in front of exponentially more eyes. Never really know how a guy will mentally respond to that situation until the ball is kicked off.

[adkindo]

CFP Rankings are going to be released @ 7:00PM ET. I expect the Top 6 to be...

1. Alabama
2. Notre Dame
3. Ohio State
4. Clemson
5. Texas A&M
6. Florida

[adkindo]

CFP - Week 1

1. Alabama
2. Notre Dame
3. Clemson
4. Ohio State
5. Texas A&M
6. Florida
7. Cincinnati
8. Northwestern
9. Georgia
10. Miami
11. Oklahoma
12. Indiana
13. Iowa State
14. BYU
15. Oregon

Cincy is in a solid spot, but BYU & the Big12 are out. It would appear the PAC12 has a tough road, but I think they still have an outside shot as they play games. 'Bama will likely play UF in SEC championship, and Clemson will likely play Notre Dame in ACC Championship. Cincy likely needs 'Bama and Notre Dame to win those games, and Texas A&M to take a loss, but I think there is a chance UC could jump TA&M with some impressive wins, and it helps that Tulsa made it in @ #25. Probably the worst thing that could happen for UC's chances would be a UF and/or Clemson win in those championship games.

[WVRed]

Scott Sattetfield interviewed for the USCe opening.

Didn’t think about it earlier but there is an option down the road right near Myrtle Beach (Jamey Chadwell)

Edit: Nevermind, didn’t realize the baggage Chadwell had. Might as well stick with Freeze or Sarkisian.

[adkindo]

Scott Sattetfield interviewed for the USCe opening.

Didn’t think about it earlier but there is an option down the road right near Myrtle Beach (Jamey Chadwell)

Edit: Nevermind, didn’t realize the baggage Chadwell had. Might as well stick with Freeze or Sarkisian.

I do not think Chadwell's baggage is the type of baggage that will exclude him from a better job if he keeps winning. Also, why would Satterfield be interested in the South Carolina job? I would think his chances to compete for a conference championship and playoff berth are better at Louisville.

[WVRed]

I do not think Chadwell's baggage is the type of baggage that will exclude him from a better job if he keeps winning. Also, why would Satterfield be interested in the South Carolina job? I would think his chances to compete for a conference championship and playoff berth are better at Louisville.

Louisville sources including the AD are saying it’s not true.

[adkindo]

Louisville sources including the AD are saying it’s not true.

Oh, I believed you....I was just questioning what would make him bounce so quickly.

[Boston Red]

Louisville sources including the AD are saying it’s not true.

So do you think Satt interviewed there or not?

[Betterread]

Minnesota -Wisconsin game cancelled. They had played 113 years in a row - 1907-2019. They have played 129 times total. The winner gets Paul Bunyan’s Axe. I know it’s not Ohio State - Michigan, and Wisconsin is a lot better team usually (killed us in 2019). But it’s a part of the fall season and this year it’s missing. 2020 has been a tough year.

[WVRed]

So do you think Satt interviewed there or not?

He came out and said he wasn’t going to. Should have cited my source but it said they were interviewing Shane Beamer and Scott Satterfield this weekend not that they already interviewed.

Would have looked bad after he threw a player under the bus for opting out and saying he wanted his players to be 100% in while he’s looking for another job.

[KronoRed]

Is South Carolina really a better job then Louisville? sure the talent base is better but there is an 800-pound gorilla in state to deal with.

[WVRed]

Is South Carolina really a better job then Louisville? sure the talent base is better but there is an 800-pound gorilla in state to deal with.

I don’t know if Satterfield is serious or if he is trying to leverage Louisville for a raise. Good luck with the year they have had.

[Boston Red]

No college coach should get a raise this year.

[adkindo]

Is South Carolina really a better job then Louisville? sure the talent base is better but there is an 800-pound gorilla in state to deal with.

that was my thoughts.....Louisville can get to the playoffs much easier than South Carolina can in my opinion. I am not saying this year...just at some point Clemson will have a down year.

[adkindo]

No college coach should get a raise this year.

the world has not quit turning....I am sure big programs that end up needing a coach will have an interest in guys like Tom Allen, Luke Fickell and Kalani Sitake. Then their teams will be in a position to try to keep them if they are interested....hence a raise becomes necessary.

[adkindo]

SEC is becoming a "girls" league?

Vanderbilt soccer's Sarah Fuller 'an option' to kick for football team, coach says (https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/30386218/vanderbilt-soccer-sarah-fuller-option-kick-football-team-coach-says)

Guessing the odds in June that a female would play in a SEC football game in 2020 were not high.

[Boston Red]

Will Vandy go ahead and fire Derrick Mason this year, or do they not really care enough about football to be bothered to do that?

[Assembly Hall]

Is South Carolina really a better job then Louisville? sure the talent base is better but there is an 800-pound gorilla in state to deal with.

I would say every job in the SEC, minus Vandy and Mizzou, is better than Louisville.

[Boston Red]

I'm not really sure why you'd think Kentucky is a better job than Louisville. To add a bit of context to that, in my lifetime I've watched Louisville win a Fiesta Bowl, an Orange Bowl and a Sugar Bowl with three different coaches. And if you decide you want to get a raise, the next job those three coaches got were Oklahoma, Texas and the Atlanta Falcons.

Looks like Saban has Covid for real this time.

[Assembly Hall]

I'm not really sure why you'd think Kentucky is a better job than Louisville. To add a bit of context to that, in my lifetime I've watched Louisville win a Fiesta Bowl, an Orange Bowl and a Sugar Bowl with three different coaches. And if you decide you want to get a raise, the next job those three coaches got were Oklahoma, Texas and the Atlanta Falcons.

Looks like Saban has Covid for real this time.

How many of those were while the Cards were in the ACC?

[Boston Red]

How many of those were while the Cards were in the ACC?

So being in the ACC makes Louisville a worse job than it used to be? I don't think that's right, but it's an interesting thought. Surely Clemson won't be like this forever, but FSU clearly won't be like this forever, either. Obviously Louisville is thrilled to be included in the ACC given the other choice was the AAC, but it IS some godawful boring football most weekends. If the Big East was going to stay together and remain a BCS or whatever they call it now auto-qualifier and stay in the club, that definitely would have been preferable for Louisville to joining the ACC (at least for football and probably basketball, too; baseball is a different story, but most don't care that much about that).

[BuckeyeRed27]

Oklahoma @ WVU got slotted into the ABC primetime game this weekend @ 7:30PM ET. Oklahoma opened up as a 10.5 point favorite, and now the line is up to 11 and 11.5 Points as books list it. Honestly, I assumed it would be at least 2 touchdowns the way Oklahoma beat Oklahoma State this weekend. I think if WVU plays at their best, they have a realistic shot at winning this game. Oklahoma has the #1 Offense in the Big12 as it relates to points per game and yards per game....while WVU has the #1 Defense in the Big12 as it relates to points per game and yards per game. Oklahoma is #2 in the Big12 in Defensive yards allowed per game, while WVU is #2 in the Big12 in Offensive yards per game.

The biggest difference is net points....Oklahoma scores an average of 45.5 PPG and only gives up an average of 23 PPG for a net of 22.5 PPG, while WVU only scores an average of 29.4 PPG and gives up 17.8 PPG for a smaller net of 11.6 PPG. Clearly the game will come down to WVU keeping them below their average PPG, while also putting a few more points on the board than normal. Limiting their scoring will come down to their ability to pass the ball...they average 344 YPG in the air, while WVU only gives up 161 YPG in the air.

WVU is 5-0 @ Home and Oklahoma is 2-1 on the Road (wins @ TCU and Texas Tech). This is WVU's chance to get their first signature win in the Neal Brown era.

This one just got postponed.

[WVRed]

I'm not really sure why you'd think Kentucky is a better job than Louisville. To add a bit of context to that, in my lifetime I've watched Louisville win a Fiesta Bowl, an Orange Bowl and a Sugar Bowl with three different coaches. And if you decide you want to get a raise, the next job those three coaches got were Oklahoma, Texas and the Atlanta Falcons.

Looks like Saban has Covid for real this time.

Right now I would take Kentucky. And that’s just in the last three years. Petrino losing the team and Lamar Jackson hiding the deficiencies all came to light and Louisville hasn’t been the same since.

I think Louisville going to the ACC has had the same
effect that WVU had in going to the Big 12. The difference in Louisville’s move was that it was more beneficial for basketball. I don’t know if Florida State will ever rebound but Clemson is the 800 lb gorilla of the conference and to a lesser extent Notre Dame regardless of independent status. I made the WVU comparison because both schools hailed from the Big East, went to different conferences, and are now shells of their former selves at least in football.

Where Kentucky has taken over in being a better job right now is recruiting. They are still riding momentum from the 2018 team which was recruited mostly out of Ohio by Vince Marrow. Stoops had Marrow put more emphasis on locking down in state products and Kentucky has made inroads in Louisville as well as the rest of the commonwealth. They’ve upgraded Commonwealth Stadium (refuse to call it the other name) improved the practice facilities and have spent more money on football and it has paid off for the most part.

In our lifetimes yes I would agree Louisville is the better program. I think Kentucky is better right now but will it stay that way? Time will tell.

Edit: on a side note there’s a bowl game possible where Kentucky and Louisville could play each other same day and same time as the basketball game:

https://kentuckysportsradio.com/basketball-2/kentucky-vs-louisville-in-basketball-and-football-on-the-same-day-at-the-same-time-one-bowl-predictor-believes-so/

The other popular matchup for UK is WVU in the Liberty Bowl.

[adkindo]

This one just got postponed.

yeah...not happy. I have said from day 1 that the team should have to forfeit....if it is both teams, then there should be a no contest for each and move on. We do not have time this season to be making up games....and I think we all kind of accepted this season may not be "fair". I say that knowing a forfeit win does nothing for WVU. Losing this game on the field does not hurt WVU and a win could be a big boost to the program....so a forfeit would suck for WVU also. I do think the delay is more negative for WVU....we have been preparing for them for 2 weeks because we are coming off a bye week. Now we will be off the field for 2 weeks, and will have to face them coming off a tough game against Iowa State on the road, while they will be coming off a light home game against Baylor. Finally, there is a good chance we will lose the ABC primetime slot on national television which our program likely needs more than they need it. Oh well, 2020.

[GAC]

OSU players test positive. While the game is still scheduled, OSU said they'd make an announcement today as to the status of the Illinois game. I say they end up cancelling.

https://www.10tv.com/article/sports/football/ohio-state-football/reports-ohio-state-football-tests-illinois-game-still-scheduled/530-c902122f-63a5-4afb-a51d-365a72ca9919

[gonelong]

OSU players test positive. While the game is still scheduled, OSU said they'd make an announcement today as to the status of the Illinois game. I say they end up cancelling.

https://www.10tv.com/article/sports/football/ohio-state-football/reports-ohio-state-football-tests-illinois-game-still-scheduled/530-c902122f-63a5-4afb-a51d-365a72ca9919

Rumor mill says 8 players affected. Teams have played with as many as 14 players out. Odds are the game gets played.

[RedTeamGo!]

Rumor mill says 8 players affected. Teams have played with as many as 14 players out. Odds are the game gets played.

Is it weird, as an OSU fan, I kinda want Fields to be out to see the future at QB?

[adkindo]

OSU players test positive. While the game is still scheduled, OSU said they'd make an announcement today as to the status of the Illinois game. I say they end up cancelling.

https://www.10tv.com/article/sports/football/ohio-state-football/reports-ohio-state-football-tests-illinois-game-still-scheduled/530-c902122f-63a5-4afb-a51d-365a72ca9919

does the Big10 have specific numbers to cancel? I do not recall the Big12's but I know it is based on a specific number of scholarship players at each position.

[Assembly Hall]

does the Big10 have specific numbers to cancel? I do not recall the Big12's but I know it is based on a specific number of scholarship players at each position.

Didn't Minnesota have like 20+ players out when they played Purdue?

[BuckeyeRed27]

Is it weird, as an OSU fan, I kinda want Fields to be out to see the future at QB?

That is weird yes haha

Unless they have more positive tests today they are playing Saturday. They need the game even if it’s with a bunch of back ups and walk ons.

[GAC]

Rumor mill says 8 players affected. Teams have played with as many as 14 players out. Odds are the game gets played.

Thanks gl. I'm not keen on the particulars in the protocols. I figured if you have that many players test positive, and looking at who they came in contact with (lockerroom, practice field, etc), common sense would say they have to be quarantined too. This is a contact sport (lol).

But it's good to go. https://thespun.com/college-football/ohio-state-illinois-game-good-to-go

[adkindo]

The Big 12 thresholds are a team must have 53 roster players able to play, and at least 7 scholarship Offensive Lineman, 4 Scholarship Interior Defensive Lineman and 1 Scholarship QB. If it goes below any of these thresholds, the team can request the game be postponed or cancelled.

[adkindo]

Oregon @ Oregon State has been a surprisingly entertaining game. It was so foggy in the game at one time, the only reason it could still be watched was the Oregon lime green highlighter uniforms and Oregon State's orange uniforms.

[Revering4Blue]

Ohio State at Illinois has been cancelled due to Covid-19 concerns.

[adkindo]

Ohio State at Illinois has been cancelled due to Covid-19 concerns.

I say we get the COVID vaccinations to the most vulnerable, Seniors and front line workers first....then college and pro athletes next so we can at least watch sports without worrying about season disruptions while we are in our homes waiting our turn. :)

[RedTeamGo!]

Gotta figure OSU’s game next week will be cancelled as well and I’ll frankly be shocked if they get the UM game in. Columbus is a hot spot and it’s not getting better.

[gonelong]

Ouch. Not sure they have the chops to compete for a NC but not getting a chance to play every game they can doesn't help them figure out how to shore up that secondary. Hope they all get well soon.

[adkindo]

Oregon @ Oregon State has been a surprisingly entertaining game. It was so foggy in the game at one time, the only reason it could still be watched was the Oregon lime green highlighter uniforms and Oregon State's orange uniforms.

the Beavers with the upset....beating #15 Oregon 41-38.

[Stray]

The best possible ranking for the Bearcats this week. We always knew we'd need some help, but 7 is doable. Also, BYU at 14 should put that potential game talk to rest. There's no upside there for us.

Hope Bama and ND win out and we finish strong.

[RedTeamGo!]

The big ten leadership is a clown show.

[WVRed]

Gotta figure OSU’s game next week will be cancelled as well and I’ll frankly be shocked if they get the UM game in. Columbus is a hot spot and it’s not getting better.

Plus if one more game gets canceled they are ineligible for the Big 10 championship game (assuming there is one)

[Assembly Hall]

Plus if one more game gets canceled they are ineligible for the Big 10 championship game (assuming there is one)

Go Hoosiers!

[BuckeyeRed27]

Plus if one more game gets canceled they are ineligible for the Big 10 championship game (assuming there is one)

Not sure how much that matters. They’d still play a game, likely against Wisconsin.

They just had a press conference with Day, Smith and the team doctor and basically if cases stop going up and they can practice Thursday they’ll play Michigan State. But that’s a couple big if’s and playing even a bad team with basically no practice seems like a questionable idea.

[RedTeamGo!]

Go Hoosiers!

Well, you know what they say: to be the best you have to....rely on a global pandemic to wipe out the remaining games of the best making it so they are ineligible to play in the conference championship game!

[WVRed]

Well, you know what they say: to be the best you have to....rely on a global pandemic to wipe out the remaining games of the best making it so they are ineligible to play in the conference championship game!

I’m happy for programs like Indiana and Kansas who get to enjoy basketball success every once in awhile for obvious reasons. But rooting for Ohio State or any school to be ineligible for its conference tournament and likely robbing them of a playoff spot which hurts your own conference I don’t understand.

[RedTeamGo!]

I’m happy for programs like Indiana and Kansas who get to enjoy basketball success every once in awhile for obvious reasons. But rooting for Ohio State or any school to be ineligible for its conference tournament and likely robbing them of a playoff spot which hurts your own conference I don’t understand.

I was joking around, if I were an Indiana fan I’d be happy with this result haha. I totally get where AH is coming from on this.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Penix just got hurt. Looks like it could be his Achilles.

[Revering4Blue]

Penix just got hurt. Looks like it could be his Achilles.

I’m fearing the worst.

This is so 2020.

[KoryMac5]

Michigan goes down to winless PSU...the end of the Harbaugh era in Ann Arbor.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Michigan goes down to winless PSU...the end of the Harbaugh era in Ann Arbor.

Is it?

[Assembly Hall]

Penix just got hurt. Looks like it could be his Achilles.

Allen calling it a lower leg injury.

[Assembly Hall]

I’m happy for programs like Indiana and Kansas who get to enjoy basketball success every once in awhile for obvious reasons. But rooting for Ohio State or any school to be ineligible for its conference tournament and likely robbing them of a playoff spot which hurts your own conference I don’t understand.

And you aren't an IU fan either. 53 years of futility for those of us that are.

[WVRed]

And you aren't an IU fan either. 53 years of futility for those of us that are.

No but I am a UK fan and we’ve had our fair share. That’s why I said “for obvious reasons” earlier. We’ve started to kick our streaks (Spurrier, Tennessee, Florida). That’s why I like seeing schools like Indiana and Kansas (even though theirs was vacated) do well in football.

[Assembly Hall]

https://www.thedailyhoosier.com/iu-footballs-backdoor-path-to-the-big-ten-championship-game/

[adkindo]

Probably an unpopular position, but I think the sports media are being a little ridiculous with the hype around the young lady kicker (Sarah Fuller) playing today for Vanderbilt. It feels patronizing. I was actually interested in seeing if the young lady would get a chance to play, but I assumed she might be put in to kick an extra point or even a 25-35 yard Field Goal. We have seen female soccer players in the past be very good at kicking intermediate and short field goals, but to do it in an SEC game would have been a real accomplishment for a female. Instead, they have her kick off, and it was a squib kick that anyone of us on this board could have did, and most of our mothers could have pulled off when they were younger. Still, the clip I watched, the guys in the booth were acting as if they should stop the game and allow her to address the females around the globe because of the magnitude of the "accomplishment".

In regards to the reaction, or overreaction in my opinion, none of that diminishes the athletic ability of the female as she is very accomplished in Soccer....but on this day, I do not consider what she did to be a step in any direction for females in sports. To be clear, my opinion has nothing to do with the young lady, her coach or Vanderbilt....it is the media trying to create a historic moment. One article stated "Still, this is a huge moment for women in sports."! I have seen females dunk a basketball, shatter records on the track and in the pool that was beyond what males could do in past decades. It really just feels a little gross to me....a bunch of men in sports media patting her on the head.

[WVRed]

Probably an unpopular position, but I think the sports media are being a little ridiculous with the hype around the young lady kicker (Sarah Fuller) playing today for Vanderbilt. It feels patronizing. I was actually interested in seeing if the young lady would get a chance to play, but I assumed she might be put in to kick an extra point or even a 25-35 yard Field Goal. We have seen female soccer players in the past be very good at kicking intermediate and short field goals, but to do it in an SEC game would have been a real accomplishment for a female. Instead, they have her kick off, and it was a squib kick that anyone of us on this board could have did, and most of our mothers could have pulled off when they were younger. Still, the clip I watched, the guys in the booth were acting as if they should stop the game and allow her to address the females around the globe because of the magnitude of the "accomplishment".

In regards to the reaction, or overreaction in my opinion, none of that diminishes the athletic ability of the female as she is very accomplished in Soccer....but on this day, I do not consider what she did to be a step in any direction for females in sports. To be clear, my opinion has nothing to do with the young lady, her coach or Vanderbilt....it is the media trying to create a historic moment. One article stated "Still, this is a huge moment for women in sports."! I have seen females dunk a basketball, shatter records on the track and in the pool that was beyond what males could do in past decades. It really just feels a little gross to me....a bunch of men in sports media patting her on the head.

I understand why but I agree, the media coverage was a bit much with it.

Kinda feel bad for Missouri. They won 41-0 yet this story has dominated the headlines. Hopefully she gets to attempt a FG next week.

[Boston Red]

Also, Derrick Mason has been terrible at Vandy and should be fired.

[KronoRed]

Also, Derrick Mason has been terrible at Vandy and should be fired.

Sounds good, looks like Florida will need a good DC

[Reds Freak]

I understand why but I agree, the media coverage was a bit much with it.

Kinda feel bad for Missouri. They won 41-0 yet this story has dominated the headlines. Hopefully she gets to attempt a FG next week.

Stealing this alternative headline from the Vandy game from someone on Twitter: Competent Female Denied Opportunity to Show Talents Today Due to Inept Male Colleagues.

:laugh:

[Stray]

At full strength Alabama and Clemson just look like they're on a whole 'nother level. Never know what'll happen going forward, but that's my eyeball analysis.

[Stray]

A&M is at Auburn next week. Coming off an Iron Bowl beatdown, I'm hoping Auburn are fired up and give the Aggies another loss.

[RedTeamGo!]

Probably an unpopular position, but I think the sports media are being a little ridiculous with the hype around the young lady kicker (Sarah Fuller) playing today for Vanderbilt. It feels patronizing. I was actually interested in seeing if the young lady would get a chance to play, but I assumed she might be put in to kick an extra point or even a 25-35 yard Field Goal. We have seen female soccer players in the past be very good at kicking intermediate and short field goals, but to do it in an SEC game would have been a real accomplishment for a female. Instead, they have her kick off, and it was a squib kick that anyone of us on this board could have did, and most of our mothers could have pulled off when they were younger. Still, the clip I watched, the guys in the booth were acting as if they should stop the game and allow her to address the females around the globe because of the magnitude of the "accomplishment".

In regards to the reaction, or overreaction in my opinion, none of that diminishes the athletic ability of the female as she is very accomplished in Soccer....but on this day, I do not consider what she did to be a step in any direction for females in sports. To be clear, my opinion has nothing to do with the young lady, her coach or Vanderbilt....it is the media trying to create a historic moment. One article stated "Still, this is a huge moment for women in sports."! I have seen females dunk a basketball, shatter records on the track and in the pool that was beyond what males could do in past decades. It really just feels a little gross to me....a bunch of men in sports media patting her on the head.

She probably would have gotten a chance to kick a field goal if Vandy wasn’t completely awful.

Side point: now that Rutgers seems to be able to compete with other teams the battle of the worst team in college football seems to be down to Vanderbilt and Kansas.

[RedTeamGo!]

A&M is at Auburn next week. Coming off an Iron Bowl beatdown, I'm hoping Auburn are fired up and give the Aggies another loss.

Does anyone know why Auburn was ranked going into the game against Bama?

Oh yeah, they were playing Bama. I feel like Auburn could be 2-5 going into the iron bowl and they would somehow be ranked 24.

[adkindo]

She probably would have gotten a chance to kick a field goal if Vandy wasn’t completely awful.

Side point: now that Rutgers seems to be able to compete with other teams the battle of the worst team in college football seems to be down to Vanderbilt and Kansas.

I vote for Kansas...and like I said, my response is not related to her or anyone on the field. The responses in the media just felt over the top and fake. Calling it a huge moment for women in sports is silly. We have all seen Jackie Joyner Kersee, Serena Williams, Mia Hamm, Lisa Leslie and Simone Biles among many others amaze us in sports and raise the bar for all that came after. I have even seen Danika Patrick strap herself into a 750 HP machine and win the pole in an otherwise all male field....and go hundreds of laps against those men and finish in the Top 10. American women have had great moments in sports that have clearly moved the needle....yesterday, not so much.

I hope the young lady gets a chance to kick a FG...I have little doubt that she has a good chance at hitting one with her leg strength. I also know as someone that has helped a kicker train for a period, and who would take a few wacks in downtime myself.....very few guys on a P5 roster can nail a 25 yard FG on a consistent basis. It looks so much longer in real life compared to on tv.

[RedTeamGo!]

I vote for Kansas...and like I said, my response is not related to her or anyone on the field. The responses in the media just felt over the top and fake. Calling it a huge moment for women in sports is silly. We have all seen Jackie Joyner Kersee, Serena Williams, Mia Hamm, Lisa Leslie and Simone Biles among many others amaze us in sports and raise the bar for all that came after. I have even seen Danika Patrick strap herself into a 750 HP machine and win the pole in an otherwise all male field....and go hundreds of laps against those men and finish in the Top 10. American women have had great moments in sports that have clearly moved the needle....yesterday, not so much.

I hope the young lady gets a chance to kick a FG...I have little doubt that she has a good chance at hitting one with her leg strength. I also know as someone that has helped a kicker train for a period, and who would take a few wacks in downtime myself.....very few guys on a P5 roster can nail a 25 yard FG on a consistent basis. It looks so much longer in real life compared to on tv.

Totally agree about the difficulties of field goals. I have always felt they should show a side angle to show how far it is. They show that angle from either behind the kicker or behind the FG and it makes everything look like a chip shot. They actually showed a side angle during one of the games yesterday and it’s pretty crazy it’s even possible to hit a 50 yard field goal somewhat consistently.

[adkindo]

At full strength Alabama and Clemson just look like they're on a whole 'nother level. Never know what'll happen going forward, but that's my eyeball analysis.

I think Ohio State has the talent to get there, but I think they may need to scheme a little different on defense. It seems like they are still playing as if they have Chase Young rushing the passer and a veteran secondary. In the past that has allowed them to be very aggressive in man coverage underneath with 3 DB's and 1 Safety over the top. This season, the pass rush is not as dominant and the DB's are having to cover for longer periods....on top of that I think Wade is the only full time returning starter? All of this has led to their coverage breaking down often. It would seem without some changes, guys like Trevor Lawrence and Mac Jones would have a field day. I am not sure of the answer, but I would think it would either bring more pressure from the second level to improve the pass rush, or have the DB's play less aggressive in a bend but don't break style.

[WVRed]

Doesn’t look like it did anything to save Masons job.

https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/30415830/vanderbilt-parts-derek-mason-coach-0-8-campaign

[Boston Red]

Doesn’t look like it did anything to save Masons job.

https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/30415830/vanderbilt-parts-derek-mason-coach-0-8-campaign

He's the sixth winningest coach in program history at 27-55. Lol

[dabvu2498]

He's the sixth winningest coach in program history at 27-55. Lol

And he only needed 2 more wins to move into a tie for 4th.

I can remember my freshman year at VU, walking through Vanderbilt Stadium on my way to class as Gerry DiNardo was giving some recruits a tour. He was telling them about this upgrade and that upgrade and the stadium would look totally different by their senior year and 26 years later, there’s a new scoreboard and the seating capacity is actually smaller. Some of the indoor and supplemental facilities have improved, but they’re still third rate by D1 standards and third world compared to the rest of the SEC.

[WVRed]

And he only needed 2 more wins to move into a tie for 4th.

I can remember my freshman year at VU, walking through Vanderbilt Stadium on my way to class as Gerry DiNardo was giving some recruits a tour. He was telling them about this upgrade and that upgrade and the stadium would look totally different by their senior year and 26 years later, there’s a new scoreboard and the seating capacity is actually smaller. Some of the indoor and supplemental facilities have improved, but they’re still third rate by D1 standards and third world compared to the rest of the SEC.

Any coach that has any success will bolt for the next best job. Best thing to hope for is that they can get another James Franklin and then once the coach leaves promote a coordinator or keep hiring someone outside and hope you bat a thousand.

That said I expect Vanderbilt to go outside the box. Trent Dilfer wouldn’t be a reach IMO.

[KronoRed]

I remember the joke was every conference had a Vandy, Baylor, Northwestern, Stanford...but those guy spend on their programs, what does Vandy do with their SEC network money?

They should have left with Tulane 50 years ago.

[WVRed]

I remember the joke was every conference had a Vandy, Baylor, Northwestern, Stanford...but those guy spend on their programs, what does Vandy do with their SEC network money?

They should have left with Tulane 50 years ago.

They do win in baseball though. [emoji846]

[Assembly Hall]

They do win in baseball though. [emoji846]

Evidently the baseball team gets all the money?

[KronoRed]

Evidently the baseball team gets all the money?

Don't forget what goes to the bowling team.

[adkindo]

Starting to be some noise out there about South Carolina being interested in WVU Head Coach Neal Brown. Does not seem logical to me...if you hope to exit WVU, you stay and win enough to get interest from a better program. Even is someone goes to Columbia and does a great job, it will take more than a few years to get that program in position to contend in the SEC East. I think the odds are much higher being terminated than finding success @ South Carolina in the shadow of Clemson.

[WVRed]

Starting to be some noise out there about South Carolina being interested in WVU Head Coach Neal Brown. Does not seem logical to me...if you hope to exit WVU, you stay and win enough to get interest from a better program. Even is someone goes to Columbia and does a great job, it will take more than a few years to get that program in position to contend in the SEC East. I think the odds are much higher being terminated than finding success @ South Carolina in the shadow of Clemson.

Only jobs that makes sense for Brown is Kentucky or Louisville and those are debatable.

That said, is it easier to compete in the SEC East or the entire Big 12? I wouldn’t even count Clemson right now with Covid going on. It’s basically Florida, Georgia, and Texas A&M (crossover game) vs Oklahoma, Okie Jr, and Texas.

I’d say Brown is angling for a raise and nothing else.

[Assembly Hall]

Take comfort Bucknut fans...

https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2920271-bowl-predictions-2020-cfp-projections-heading-into-week-14

[Chip R]

Probably an unpopular position, but I think the sports media are being a little ridiculous with the hype around the young lady kicker (Sarah Fuller) playing today for Vanderbilt.

I'm not crazy about all the hype but for a different reason. They are making a big deal about her being the first woman to play for a P5 school and while that's true it diminishes the other women that have played for non P5 schools. Otherwise I have no problem with it.

[RedTeamGo!]

Take comfort Bucknut fans...

https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2920271-bowl-predictions-2020-cfp-projections-heading-into-week-14

If OSU only plays 5 games I don’t think they should get in. Sucks for the buckeyes, but the big ten is to blame for horrible decision making.

[BuckeyeRed27]

I’m fearing the worst.

This is so 2020.

https://247sports.com/Article/indiana-quarterback-michael-penix-out-for-season-leg-injury-big-ten-football--155698494/

Unfortunately Penix will miss the rest of the season. Big blow to Indiana.

[BuckeyeRed27]

If OSU only plays 5 games I don’t think they should get in. Sucks for the buckeyes, but the big ten is to blame for horrible decision making.

I'm mixed on it. OSU should get to at least 6 games anyway, but still it's not a lot.

But if you assume Alabama is in and ND and Clemson are in assuming Clemson wins the ACC Title, than it's between OSU, Florida, Texas A&M and Cincinnati. Feel like the eye test even with 6 games will benefit OSU a lot there.

[WVRed]

Penix is out for the rest of the season with a torn ACL.

Sorry Hoosier fans.

[adkindo]

If OSU only plays 5 games I don’t think they should get in. Sucks for the buckeyes, but the big ten is to blame for horrible decision making.

I think part of our brain had to accept a lot of things may not be "fair" this season. Sure, we can still complain and try if possible to make things fair....but like I said, we all kind of accepted everything may not be. If Ohio State only gets 6 games in and the committee thinks they clearly are a Top 4 team, then probably should include them....if it is super close in their minds, maybe they miss out. It appears that by next fall things will return to normal, and this year will just be a season good for stories to tell our grandchildren about....

[RedTeamGo!]

I think part of our brain had to accept a lot of things may not be "fair" this season. Sure, we can still complain and try if possible to make things fair....but like I said, we all kind of accepted everything may not be. If Ohio State only gets 6 games in and the committee thinks they clearly are a Top 4 team, then probably should include them....if it is super close in their minds, maybe they miss out. It appears that by next fall things will return to normal, and this year will just be a season good for stories to tell our grandchildren about....

I am an OSU fan, but if this were to happen and UC is undefeated with like 10 games played and OSU gets in over them what is the point for non P5 teams? Honestly, I get it, it’s about money. However, that would prove they have no shot whatsoever at making the CFP.

[BuckeyeRed27]

I think part of our brain had to accept a lot of things may not be "fair" this season. Sure, we can still complain and try if possible to make things fair....but like I said, we all kind of accepted everything may not be. If Ohio State only gets 6 games in and the committee thinks they clearly are a Top 4 team, then probably should include them....if it is super close in their minds, maybe they miss out. It appears that by next fall things will return to normal, and this year will just be a season good for stories to tell our grandchildren about....

This was also the best reason to have an 8 team playoff this season. Don't have to worry about a team playing 5 or 6 games, or having very few nonconference games and all that. Oh well.

- - - Updated - - -


I am an OSU fan, but if this were to happen and UC is undefeated with like 10 games played and OSU gets in over them what is the point for non P5 teams? Honestly, I get it, it’s about money. However, that would prove they have no shot whatsoever at making the CFP.

UC would be like -21 against Alabama

[adkindo]

I am an OSU fan, but if this were to happen and UC is undefeated with like 10 games played and OSU gets in over them what is the point for non P5 teams? Honestly, I get it, it’s about money. However, that would prove they have no shot whatsoever at making the CFP.

the path is simple....schedule a legit Top 10 P5 team in the non conference, beat them as well as go undefeated in your G6 conference. Easy. The issue is games are scheduled 5+ years in advance, so you never are sure who will be ranked what then...and also, there a high probability that UC will have a hard time getting a blue blood to add them to their schedule after a season like this year. UCF use to get big names on their schedule every year....Clemson, Va. Tech, Penn State, Alabama, Miami, Florida, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Arizona State, Ohio State, Texas and many others...but once they began to get ranked, most of those schools had no interest in playing them because there is nothing to gain for them, and everything to lose.

[Boston Red]

the path is simple....schedule a legit Top 10 P5 team in the non conference, beat them as well as go undefeated in your G6 conference.

UC's chance on that path was last year, and OSU beat them by 40. I don't think the difference between the two is/was quite that pronounced, but a terrible time for UC to throw in a clunker.

[Chip R]

I am an OSU fan, but if this were to happen and UC is undefeated with like 10 games played and OSU gets in over them what is the point for non P5 teams? Honestly, I get it, it’s about money. However, that would prove they have no shot whatsoever at making the CFP.

I hate to say it but there is no point to them. The playoff is set up for 4 P5 teams or Notre Dame. The powers that be believe that those schools get the best ratings.

[bucksfan2]

UC's chance on that path was last year, and OSU beat them by 40. I don't think the difference between the two is/was quite that pronounced, but a terrible time for UC to throw in a clunker.

I think the difference is massive. But I also think the difference between the top 3 programs in the country to everyone else is pretty big as well.

UC gets a shot at OSU every once in a while and they need to take full advantage of it.

I think what UC needs to do is get lucky more than anything else. They need a good schedule but also need to take advantage of a P5 program in the midst of a transition year.

If you look at the 247 talent composite, they are in the same ballpark as ISU. I think its a good comparison, they can build a solid program, play with the big boys on occasion, but just don't have the depth to do it over a normal 12 game schedule.

[Boston Red]

I think the difference is massive.

It's big, but Cincinnati was capable of putting up a competitive showing if they played their best and got some breaks. Not too different from Indiana couple of weeks ago. But they clearly did not take advantage of the chance.

Granted, I think UC is better this year than they were last year. It's a shame they don't get any sort of out of conference test this year to prove their worth prior to bowl season (not that their scheduled matchup in Lincoln against the Huskers would have meant anything as it turns out).

[bucksfan2]

It's big, but Cincinnati was capable of putting up a competitive showing if they played their best and got some breaks. Not too different from Indiana couple of weeks ago. But they clearly did not take advantage of the chance.

Granted, I think UC is better this year than they were last year. It's a shame they don't get any sort of out of conference test this year to prove their worth prior to bowl season (not that their scheduled matchup in Lincoln against the Huskers would have meant anything as it turns out).

Indiana is an interesting comparison. I will admit, I didn't realize IU talent wise was the same as UC. And I haven't followed UC all that closely this season. The biggest key for a team like IU is to find some overlooked recruits and develop them into NFL talent. I doubt Penix will be a NFL QB, but he has the talent to be a good college QB. Their WR's and TE are NFL caliber players, does UC have that?

I think for a team like UC to have a punchers chance against a top tier program is for them to get a bunch of young guys in, develop them, have everything come together, and then get your chance at a team like OSU. NW and IU (lately) have been doing that pretty successfully. But they get that opportunity year in year out, not so much with UC.

I think 2020 is the ideal season for UC to play with OSU. Especially this season where they are in midseason form while OSU has fewer games under their belt. Just for fun, OSU has 66 4 and 5 stars on their roster, UC has 7, that talent is tough to make up.

[Boston Red]

Probably an unpopular position, but I think the sports media are being a little ridiculous with the hype around the young lady kicker (Sarah Fuller) playing today for Vanderbilt. It feels patronizing.


The SEC took patronizing to a new level and named her SEC Special Teams player of the week.

[adkindo]

The SEC took patronizing to a new level and named her SEC Special Teams player of the week.

I saw that, but thought if I mentioned again, some would begin to assume I was misogynistic. The truth is I would be as excited to see her nail a FG or something as anyone, but this is just peeing on my leg, and trying to convince me it is raining.

[Reds Freak]

The SEC took patronizing to a new level and named her SEC Special Teams player of the week.

Was there an SEC kicker, punter, snapper, or holder who had a more impactful weekend?

[Boston Red]

Was there an SEC kicker, punter, snapper, or holder who had a more impactful weekend?

Pretty much all of them.

[adkindo]

Was there an SEC kicker, punter, snapper, or holder who had a more impactful weekend?

can't tell if you are serious....any kicker who kicked an extra point or FG would have had more impact. Kadarius Toney returned a punt for a TD for Florida....I am sure there are other big plays, but that is the only one I clearly recall.

[Reds Freak]

Pretty much all of them.

By making a few extra points? Every SEC game was a blow out last weekend and would have had the same results if every kicker made the same number of kicks as Sarah Fuller did.

I think it's all worth it to see the Twitter goons get bent out of shape about a conference specialty weekly award that no one knew existed before this week.

- - - Updated - - -


can't tell if you are serious....any kicker who kicked an extra point or FG would have had more impact. Kadarius Toney returned a punt for a TD for Florida....I am sure there are other big plays, but that is the only one I clearly recall.

When I said impact, I was referring to something bigger than on-field performances in blow out games.

[adkindo]

By making a few extra points? Every SEC game was a blow out last weekend and would have had the same results if every kicker made the same number of kicks as Sarah Fuller did.

I think it's all worth it to see the Twitter goons get bent out of shape about a conference specialty weekly award that no one knew existed before this week.

- - - Updated - - -



When I said impact, I was referring to something bigger than on-field performances in blow out games.

I have not read anything about the SEC weekly acknowledgements, but I assume they are like the Big12's which are merit awards. I would be interested to see if the weekly awards had ever been given to someone in the past based on some form of social impact. I think we should keep the merit based recognition as objective as possible.

It is not a big deal, and my original issue was based on it felt like the media was jumping over each other to make sure they did not get in hot water with a certain crowd by not praising her enough. It felt fake, and I was honestly a little surprised to see her embrace the praise so much given that she is a very accomplished athlete in Soccer. If everything is a big deal and a great accomplishment, then nothing is a big deal and a great accomplishment which is the slippery slope we take when we pretend what she did advanced females in athletics.

[Reds Freak]

I have not read anything about the SEC weekly acknowledgements, but I assume they are like the Big12's which are merit awards. I would be interested to see if the weekly awards had ever been given to someone in the past based on some form of social impact. I think we should keep the merit based recognition as objective as possible.

It is not a big deal, and my original issue was based on it felt like the media was jumping over each other to make sure they did not get in hot water with a certain crowd by not praising her enough. It felt fake, and I was honestly a little surprised to see her embrace the praise so much given that she is a very accomplished athlete in Soccer. If everything is a big deal and a great accomplishment, then nothing is a big deal and a great accomplishment which is the slippery slope we take when we pretend what she did advanced females in athletics.

Last year, my Division III college football team went 2-8 but the head coach won the conference's Coach of the Year award because the team dealt with the death of a player mid-season. I think there are occasions where these awards are given for off-field considerations.

I agree with you. I don't think this is a big deal. The SEC probably prints certificates they found off a Powerpoint template and mails them to their weekly specialty award winners. The media coverage may be over the top, but I'm not sure why so many people have a hard time applauding Fuller and recognizing a cool story.

(Not saying this is you and BR, just lamenting the general vitriol about a woman being involved in the sport.)

[Boston Red]

I thought it was potentially a cool story that the rest of the Vandy team turned into a dud, and certain members of the media (and the SEC apparently) had already decided this was going to be a big story even though it really didn't materialize.

[adkindo]

Sun Bowl off for first time since 1935 inception (https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/30427611/sources-sun-bowl-first-1935)

[BuckeyeRed27]

Ohio State will practice today. Good sign for playing Saturday.

[kaldaniels]

Sun Bowl off for first time since 1935 inception (https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/30427611/sources-sun-bowl-first-1935)

Correction - The Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl.

[Assembly Hall]

Correction - The Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl.

You're GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRReat, for pointing that out. LOL

[Hillsdale87]

It's big, but Cincinnati was capable of putting up a competitive showing if they played their best and got some breaks. Not too different from Indiana couple of weeks ago. But they clearly did not take advantage of the chance.

Granted, I think UC is better this year than they were last year. It's a shame they don't get any sort of out of conference test this year to prove their worth prior to bowl season (not that their scheduled matchup in Lincoln against the Huskers would have meant anything as it turns out).

Indiana put up a competitive showing, but I don't think that game would have been competitive if it was a B10 Championship Game or playoff game. OSU was up 35-7 and took their foot off the gas. IU deserves credit for playing hard the whole game, but if they played again I think OSU would win by 20+.

If you're a UC fan, do you want to be in the playoff and go against Alabama? I remember in 2018 when OSU was close to a playoff spot, and I was glad we didn't make it because I knew we would have gotten embarrassed by Clemson again. UC has been awesome, Fickell has done an amazing job, and this is a great year that they can hopefully continue to build on. But the overall talent isn't there yet. They would be 21+ point underdogs against Bama, and all the money would be on Bama. Would it be better to go to the playoff and get crushed or play in a great New Year's Day bowl with a good chance at the best win in program history?

[Boston Red]

Playoffs against Bama. Not even a question.

[Boss-Hog]

Playoffs against Bama. Not even a question.No question. It'd be unbelievable exposure for the program in terms of potential recruits, as well as possible conference realignment down the line, and a huge payday even if they got blown out, as expected.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Yeah this isn’t even a question. You want to be in the playoffs. The results don’t matter, just get in the game.

No one remembers the other bowl games for the most part anyway unless something crazy happens.

[paintmered]

No question. It'd be unbelievable exposure for the program in terms of potential recruits, as well as possible conference realignment down the line, and a huge payday even if they got blown out, as expected.

Plus, UC would forever be known as the team that "broke through and made it". My Bearcats would lose, certainly. But, you can't say that the talent disparity is bigger between UC and Bama this year than the disparity that existed between UC and Florida in 2009. Florida was a top 2 team that year and there was a big drop-off to number three.

How is the Cincy media covering the Bearcats this year? When I lived in the area, it seemed like the local media generally ignored UC football except during the Brian Kelly era (and even then, only the second half of his time there). Is the team generating any buzz locally?

[Boss-Hog]

Plus, UC would forever be known as the team that "broke through and made it". My Bearcats would lose, certainly. But, you can't say that the talent disparity is bigger between UC and Bama this year than the disparity that existed between UC and Florida in 2009. Florida was a top 2 team that year and there was a big drop-off to number three.

How is the Cincy media covering the Bearcats this year? When I lived in the area, it seemed like the local media generally ignored UC football except during the Brian Kelly era (and even then, only the second half of his time there). Is the team generating any buzz locally?A little bit, but UC football is seemingly always going to lag behind the Reds, Bengals and high school football locally (in no particular order). You can add FCC to that mix, as well. I find the best coverage is from The Athletic (Justin Williams), but that's true for any sport. I'd say there's definitely some interest, but it's not night and day different than 2009.

[adkindo]

A little bit, but UC football is seemingly always going to lag behind the Reds, Bengals and high school football locally (in no particular order). You can add FCC to that mix, as well. I find the best coverage is from The Athletic (Justin Williams), but that's true for any sport. I'd say there's definitely some interest, but it's not night and day different than 2009.

I have heard Huggins speak about UC Basketball (which I assume is similar for UC Football) at it's peak (Kenyon Martin), it was always behind the Reds and Bengals in the city while having to compete with Xavier, UK, etc. I would assume Football is similar in that just exchange UK with Ohio State. He was comparing to WVU where even in a mediocre year, WVU is the biggest focus in the state....there is no real competition. The state, or most of it, lives and dies with each game.

[Boss-Hog]

I have heard Huggins speak about UC Basketball (which I assume is similar for UC Football) at it's peak (Kenyon Martin), it was always behind the Reds and Bengals in the city while having to compete with Xavier, UK, etc. I would assume Football is similar in that just exchange UK with Ohio State. He was comparing to WVU where even in a mediocre year, WVU is the biggest focus in the state....there is no real competition. The state, or most of it, lives and dies with each game.

UC basketball is bigger than football locally largely because of their histories, I assume. You raise a far point, though, and it's nice for one of them not to be anywhere near as crummy as the other options (Reds, Bengals, FCC).

[adkindo]

UC basketball is bigger than football locally largely because of their histories, I assume. You raise a far point, though, and it's nice for one of them not to be anywhere near as crummy as the other options (Reds, Bengals, FCC).

I would guess UCF has some similar issues....any school that does not have a deep blue blood history in a metro area will have a hard time dominating the interest of the community....there are just too many other options in sports and entertainment in a metro area.

[RedTeamGo!]

Michigan canceling their game Saturday against Maryland

[BuckeyeRed27]

Michigan canceling their game Saturday against Maryland

Ohio State is going to end up playing Nebraska again next weekend.

[RedTeamGo!]

Ohio State is going to end up playing Nebraska again next weekend.

That would be hilarious.

I can’t blame Michigan, they found a way out of getting crushed by OSU this year.

[BuckeyeRed27]

That would be hilarious.

I can’t blame Michigan, they found a way out of getting crushed by OSU this year.

Probably will get Jimmy and extention.

Assuming nothing else gets canceled (LOL) what would make the most sense is to have Nebraska play Wisconsin and have Iowa play Ohio State next weekend.

[kaldaniels]

Ohio State is going to end up playing Nebraska again next weekend.

Did I miss something? I keep hearing stuff like this but I thought Big 10 said no new games can be scheduled?

[bucksfan2]

Did I miss something? I keep hearing stuff like this but I thought Big 10 said no new games can be scheduled?

OSU making the playoff nets the B1G a lot of money. They need to cater to that.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Did I miss something? I keep hearing stuff like this but I thought Big 10 said no new games can be scheduled?

They did change it so you can play other teams in the Big Ten as long as the game is canceled by Wednesday before.

So assuming Minnesota and Michigan both can't play next weekend, there are options.

[Z-Fly]

This was also the best reason to have an 8 team playoff this season. Don't have to worry about a team playing 5 or 6 games, or having very few nonconference games and all that. Oh well.

- - - Updated - - -



UC would be like -21 against Alabama

I can't imagine Ohio State's looking much better. If it is, I'll go all in on Bama. Jones will torch that secondary. There is a top 3 this year, and non of them include the letters OSU.

[Boston Red]

UC would be like -21 against Alabama

I wish you were my bookie! LOL

[BuckeyeRed27]

I can't imagine Ohio State's looking much better. If it is, I'll go all in on Bama. Jones will torch that secondary. There is a top 3 this year, and non of them include the letters OSU.

OSU is probably +3 or 4 against Bama.
They are probably -2 or 3 against Clemson.
They are at least -7.5 against Notre Dame.

OSU just needs to play games. That's the disadvantage they have against those 3, but even then everyone has issues. Alabama gave up 49 to Ole Miss. Notre Dame won a game 12-7 against Louisville. Clemson spent a good chunk of the day losing to Boston College and lost to ND (albeit without Lawrence). They've all gotten better as the season has gone on and they played more.

[BuckeyeRed27]

I wish you were my bookie! LOL

I mean maybe its -17? There's no way the line is less than a 2 score game.

[Boston Red]

I mean maybe its -17? There's no way the line is less than a 2 score game.

I was just kidding with you. Cincinnati -21 would make Cincinnati a 21 point favorite. So you could see why I'd enjoy you as my bookie!

[kaldaniels]

Herbie gaffed with his UM/COVID remark (though I chuckled) but he's right about the playoff. That's all people care about anymore. If you aren't in it, who cares, and the problem is getting worse.

https://www.radio.com/971theticket/sports/university-of-michigan/kirk-herbstreit-has-major-concerns-about-college-football

This will lead to expanded playoffs, possibly quicker than planned.

[Boston Red]

OSU is probably +3 or 4 against Bama.
They are probably -2 or 3 against Clemson.
They are at least -7.5 against Notre Dame.


FWIW, here are the ACTUAL odds for the potential playoff matchups from Betonline.

Alabama -4 over Ohio State
Alabama -6.5 over Clemson
Alabama -10.5 over Notre Dame
Ohio State -1.5 over Clemson
Ohio State -6 over Notre Dame
Clemson -7 over Notre Dame

[BuckeyeRed27]

FWIW, here are the ACTUAL odds for the potential playoff matchups from Betonline.

Alabama -4 over Ohio State
Alabama -6.5 over Clemson
Alabama -10.5 over Notre Dame
Ohio State -1.5 over Clemson
Ohio State -6 over Notre Dame
Clemson -7 over Notre Dame

Pretty close! Only reason that ND line is under a TD is the Domer money.

[kaldaniels]

FWIW, here are the ACTUAL odds for the potential playoff matchups from Betonline.

Alabama -4 over Ohio State
Alabama -6.5 over Clemson
Alabama -10.5 over Notre Dame
Ohio State -1.5 over Clemson
Ohio State -6 over Notre Dame
Clemson -7 over Notre Dame

The "potential odds" are usually pretty close but it's not real odds till an event truly goes live and money really flows in. I think that OSU/Clemson line would flip pretty fast to Clemson being favored. But other than that, they look like fair odds.

[Boston Red]

The "potential odds" are usually pretty close but it's not real odds till an event truly goes live and money really flows in. I think that OSU/Clemson line would flip pretty fast to Clemson being favored. But other than that, they look like fair odds.

You'd think the truly "smart" money would be flowing in right now.

[kaldaniels]

You'd think the truly "smart" money would be flowing in right now.

Odd that they have OSU at +450 to win the title and Clemson at +200 yet Clemson is the underdog to OSU in a hypothetical matchup.

(betonline.ag)

[Boston Red]

Odd that they have OSU at +450 to win the title and Clemson at +200 yet Clemson is the underdog to OSU in a hypothetical matchup.

(betonline.ag)

Perhaps because there's still some uncertainty as to whether OSU will make the playoff due to circumstances outside their control?

[kaldaniels]

Perhaps because there's still some uncertainty as to whether OSU will make the playoff due to circumstances outside their control?

Good point. The single game odds are just for the Championship game as well, not semifinal...possibly some math involved there.

[Boston Red]

Ah, you're right. I thought they were for semifinals.

[Hillsdale87]

Odd that they have OSU at +450 to win the title and Clemson at +200 yet Clemson is the underdog to OSU in a hypothetical matchup.

(betonline.ag)

I guess they're hedging because they think there's a decent chance OSU wouldn't make it to the playoff because of COVID. I'm guessing OSU had better odds last Monday.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Boston Red]

One fun thing about 2020 (one of the few) is the flexibility in sports scheduling. Liberty is out, and BYU is in as Coastal Carolina's opponent this weekend. Maybe the winner should get UC next weekend in a top ten matchup that could push the winner closer to the playoffs.

[Roy Tucker]

Frankly, I’d be shocked if the Big 10 kept OSU out of their championship game because of a minimum game restriction. The Big 10 will figure out something.

Indiana is #2 in the B10 East at 5-1. They would go instead? I think the OSU school and fans would lose their collective minds.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Frankly, I’d be shocked if the Big 10 kept OSU out of their championship game because of a minimum game restriction. The Big 10 will figure out something.

Indiana is #2 in the B10 East at 5-1. They would go instead? I think the OSU school and fans would lose their collective minds.

https://www.elevenwarriors.com/ohio-state-football/2020/12/118757/barry-alvarez-on-ohio-state-our-league-cant-keep-them-from-having-the-opportunity

OSU will probably play someone next weekend, but even if they don’t the Big Ten is gonna change the rule so they can play either way.

Related that noise you hear is a Fox television executive screaming at the Big Ten to fix it.

[bucksfan2]

FWIW, here are the ACTUAL odds for the potential playoff matchups from Betonline.

Alabama -4 over Ohio State
Alabama -6.5 over Clemson
Alabama -10.5 over Notre Dame
Ohio State -1.5 over Clemson
Ohio State -6 over Notre Dame
Clemson -7 over Notre Dame

I would hammer the hell out of OSU, Bama, or Clemson -7 or less. We have see that too many times with ND. I don't think they stand a chance. They just don't have the athletes to match up, and that gets even mroe exploited on a fast track.

[adkindo]

this ref should definitely press charges, and the kid should be expelled from school for the remainder of the year....

Texas prep football player bowls over referee after ejection (https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/30446879/texas-prep-football-player-body-slams-referee-ejection)


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=httZCL1YUG4