There are plenty of problems, most notably those already written about and discussed ad naseum this week regarding leadership, with the 2009/10 spartans. Coaches need to take a look in the mirror as well. I have to question coaches Stephens and Montgomery. Things I learned in 7th and 8th grade -- albeit from a over qualified coach for the position -- seem to be lost on this team.
Why does Chris Allen insist on pasing through the paint? If you plan to pass through the paint it had better be from big to big or from the high post to the low post. Directly across, which Allen has tried all season and at least three times tonight, is just stupid. You don't do it.
Why doesn't anyone ask Lucious a simple question: great, you got the impossible pass to your teammate. Now what? What does he do with it? You passed him the ball on a dead sprint, behind the backboard, in a triple team. You proved you could ge tthe ball in to a tight spot. Now what? Set your teammates up to succeed. Did he get the ball in a position to score? Then why did he get it.
Lucas or anyone else running the point on a break. Why do you over penetrate? If you pass the free throw line you need to be ready to score. If you don't plan to go to the basket stop at the free throw line. Wings. Are two of you running the same lane, making it easy for one defender or bringing a second defender to the space? Think.
Roe. Seriously. Box out. If you don't, don't bother going up. You are over the back about 75% of the time. I have no idea how you haven't fouled out of every game.
Morgan. Please, with the faces. Some coach please tell him to stop with the faces and start with not have female body parts. Has there been a softer senior ever? No aggression. No emotion (other than sadness and confusion) and no sense of urgency. Your career is pretty much over. What are you going to be remembered for?
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
So its been a while
I've gotten a little behind in my posts. This is partly because I don't have quite as much flexibility at work and partly because there isn't much to write about. I'll try to catch up on the last few weeks all at once.
The Fight:
We all know that fraternities are full of charitable, PBS watching, honorable gentlemen. That's why it was so disturbing, so shocking, so...CRIMINAL to find that a number of MSU football (defensive) players, known for their hard hitting and aggressive ways* were involved in a fight with otherwise innocent fraternity boys. It seems as though the trouble started the night before, when an MSU running back was knocked to the floor while dancing with a young woman at a local club. The knocker-downer is presumed or rumored to be a member of the fraternity in question. No doubt he was helping an old woman across the street** and got lost.
The fight resumed the next day at a student dorm. The fraternity was holding a potluck dinner -- likely giving all of the food to the homeless and less fortunate -- when in stormed the football players. Punches were thrown and the accusations and exaggerations began almost immediately.
We also now know, thank all that is good in this world, what everyone across the country feels did and should happen. Fortunately MSU alums from all over have come out of the woodwork to weigh in. To which the rest of us say who the hell are you and why do I care what you think? Not to be outdone, the national president of the frat told us exactly what occurred, from his unobstructed view from Louisville, KY. Additionally, the "injured" member, if you will, had a sore jaw until he saw dollar signs and hired an attorney. This is where it gets good.
1. He wants to get paid. Unfortunately, his claims are probably only against the person that hit him. That could, maybe, include a kid from Detroit public schools and a kid already in trouble for a previous home invasion. Good luck getting paid. Also, the statements that were made that he "had a sore jaw" turned into debilitating, life threatening complications at some point. That's not gonna hurt your case.
2. His attorney isn't sure what the status of her clients intent to "press charges" is. Well, apparently someone attacked an undercover prosecutor. Last I checked citizens only pressed charges on television, which is apparently where the attorney got her mail order license; law and order university of law. The frat member is also looking into possible violations of international treaties and Microsoft's compliance with antitrust rulings.
The fight is serious, but its not that serious. Neither was it one sided. If it happened down the way, in smellyville, I would be giving them holy hell. It would be justified; 50% based on who they are and 50% based on who they think they are. It happened here instead and I will defend actions in part and question them in part.
Winston may have been worth bringing back to the team. He had little to no history. He is a Detroit kid that needs some help. Football is, maybe, his best chance of helping himself and family out of Detroit. Dantonio did the right thing in giving him a second chance. However, I question playing him at all this year.
Jenrette is another story. A hell of a player and much needed in the secondary. However, that can't cloud the ultimate decision. If Dantonio knew about the multiple breaking and enterings -- not a college fight but felonies -- he should have been gone.
A lot of these other guys seem like good kids trying to support a friend/teammate. They should have known better but they screwed up. They should not be kicked off the team. They should be talking to kids about this stuff. They should be talking, as soon as this criminal and civil business comes to a conclusion, on espn. They should be doing events with this fraternity.
MSU Basketball:
Last year I knew, prior to and after playing UNC, we did not want to see them in the tourney. The prior year I knew that Memphis was that good. Now, Memphis lost the championship game in the last minute to Kansas, and no one ever said Memphis was the smartest*** or best free throw shooting team, but they were the most talented.
Texas is good, but Texas isn't that good. I have no problem seeing Texas again in the tournament. UNC isn't that good either. We made both look much better than they really are. Summers and Allen have regressed and gave us basically nothing. Assuming Roe gets better, the freshmen improve, and Lucas and Morgan get their heads right, we can beat anyone.
This team could be really, really, really good. They have to 1. cut down turnovers off stupid passes, 2. learn that they are simply not going to get fouls called in the backcourt, and 3. be tough.
1. The turnovers are getting ridiculous. Lucious and Lucas lost the game the other night in about 45 seconds. Roe, Summers, Allen, and Green had a dozen bad passes combined against Texas where two questions should be asked; what the hell was the guy going to do with it if he caught it? and do you think you are playing stevie wonder?
2. We get hacked a lot bringing the ball up and running sets from the top of the key. Against Texas it was called "good pressure defense." I call it Duke/Old Kentucky defense. Training begins at age 6 in jockey school where you learn to ride a horse and the skills are transferred to basketball once you break 100 lbs. That said, Lucious should NEVER get picked by a big man. It happened on back to back plays last game.
3. This team is playing weak. Roe doesn't box out about 50% of the time and goes over the back. Morgan got fouled on a sure dunk but went up weak and missed a 3 point opportunity. He has no aggression. Roe shows spurts of aggressiveness. Green is the only player that looks for contact and expects contact. Allen is rarely close enough to anyone from the opposite team to consider contact, especially on defense. He has improved though.
I still like this team and think they could win the bigten, the bigten tournament, and make a final four run. They could also lose 10 games. The shooting needs to improve and the communication needs to, I don't know, exist. Hopefully an established starting lineup will help that.
* this is called sarcasm, a skill which is amplified after watching the MSU "defense," as they insist they should still be called, give up buttloads of offense to bad, bad teams
** no word on what the elderly woman was doing at an overcrowded night club after midnight, why the entire fraternity was needed to assist this person, or how the entire fraternity managed to get lost. Christmas idea for said frat: GPS.
***the actual academic abilities of the players is not known as none ever took their own entrance exam or attended a class at Memphis. If that statement turns out to be false we can simply have it vacated and I can go about my business as usual with no consequences.
The Fight:
We all know that fraternities are full of charitable, PBS watching, honorable gentlemen. That's why it was so disturbing, so shocking, so...CRIMINAL to find that a number of MSU football (defensive) players, known for their hard hitting and aggressive ways* were involved in a fight with otherwise innocent fraternity boys. It seems as though the trouble started the night before, when an MSU running back was knocked to the floor while dancing with a young woman at a local club. The knocker-downer is presumed or rumored to be a member of the fraternity in question. No doubt he was helping an old woman across the street** and got lost.
The fight resumed the next day at a student dorm. The fraternity was holding a potluck dinner -- likely giving all of the food to the homeless and less fortunate -- when in stormed the football players. Punches were thrown and the accusations and exaggerations began almost immediately.
We also now know, thank all that is good in this world, what everyone across the country feels did and should happen. Fortunately MSU alums from all over have come out of the woodwork to weigh in. To which the rest of us say who the hell are you and why do I care what you think? Not to be outdone, the national president of the frat told us exactly what occurred, from his unobstructed view from Louisville, KY. Additionally, the "injured" member, if you will, had a sore jaw until he saw dollar signs and hired an attorney. This is where it gets good.
1. He wants to get paid. Unfortunately, his claims are probably only against the person that hit him. That could, maybe, include a kid from Detroit public schools and a kid already in trouble for a previous home invasion. Good luck getting paid. Also, the statements that were made that he "had a sore jaw" turned into debilitating, life threatening complications at some point. That's not gonna hurt your case.
2. His attorney isn't sure what the status of her clients intent to "press charges" is. Well, apparently someone attacked an undercover prosecutor. Last I checked citizens only pressed charges on television, which is apparently where the attorney got her mail order license; law and order university of law. The frat member is also looking into possible violations of international treaties and Microsoft's compliance with antitrust rulings.
The fight is serious, but its not that serious. Neither was it one sided. If it happened down the way, in smellyville, I would be giving them holy hell. It would be justified; 50% based on who they are and 50% based on who they think they are. It happened here instead and I will defend actions in part and question them in part.
Winston may have been worth bringing back to the team. He had little to no history. He is a Detroit kid that needs some help. Football is, maybe, his best chance of helping himself and family out of Detroit. Dantonio did the right thing in giving him a second chance. However, I question playing him at all this year.
Jenrette is another story. A hell of a player and much needed in the secondary. However, that can't cloud the ultimate decision. If Dantonio knew about the multiple breaking and enterings -- not a college fight but felonies -- he should have been gone.
A lot of these other guys seem like good kids trying to support a friend/teammate. They should have known better but they screwed up. They should not be kicked off the team. They should be talking to kids about this stuff. They should be talking, as soon as this criminal and civil business comes to a conclusion, on espn. They should be doing events with this fraternity.
MSU Basketball:
Last year I knew, prior to and after playing UNC, we did not want to see them in the tourney. The prior year I knew that Memphis was that good. Now, Memphis lost the championship game in the last minute to Kansas, and no one ever said Memphis was the smartest*** or best free throw shooting team, but they were the most talented.
Texas is good, but Texas isn't that good. I have no problem seeing Texas again in the tournament. UNC isn't that good either. We made both look much better than they really are. Summers and Allen have regressed and gave us basically nothing. Assuming Roe gets better, the freshmen improve, and Lucas and Morgan get their heads right, we can beat anyone.
This team could be really, really, really good. They have to 1. cut down turnovers off stupid passes, 2. learn that they are simply not going to get fouls called in the backcourt, and 3. be tough.
1. The turnovers are getting ridiculous. Lucious and Lucas lost the game the other night in about 45 seconds. Roe, Summers, Allen, and Green had a dozen bad passes combined against Texas where two questions should be asked; what the hell was the guy going to do with it if he caught it? and do you think you are playing stevie wonder?
2. We get hacked a lot bringing the ball up and running sets from the top of the key. Against Texas it was called "good pressure defense." I call it Duke/Old Kentucky defense. Training begins at age 6 in jockey school where you learn to ride a horse and the skills are transferred to basketball once you break 100 lbs. That said, Lucious should NEVER get picked by a big man. It happened on back to back plays last game.
3. This team is playing weak. Roe doesn't box out about 50% of the time and goes over the back. Morgan got fouled on a sure dunk but went up weak and missed a 3 point opportunity. He has no aggression. Roe shows spurts of aggressiveness. Green is the only player that looks for contact and expects contact. Allen is rarely close enough to anyone from the opposite team to consider contact, especially on defense. He has improved though.
I still like this team and think they could win the bigten, the bigten tournament, and make a final four run. They could also lose 10 games. The shooting needs to improve and the communication needs to, I don't know, exist. Hopefully an established starting lineup will help that.
* this is called sarcasm, a skill which is amplified after watching the MSU "defense," as they insist they should still be called, give up buttloads of offense to bad, bad teams
** no word on what the elderly woman was doing at an overcrowded night club after midnight, why the entire fraternity was needed to assist this person, or how the entire fraternity managed to get lost. Christmas idea for said frat: GPS.
***the actual academic abilities of the players is not known as none ever took their own entrance exam or attended a class at Memphis. If that statement turns out to be false we can simply have it vacated and I can go about my business as usual with no consequences.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Tiger Tiger Woods Ya'll
There are few things I care less about than Tiger Woods personal life. I didn't like him more when he married a model, or when he had a child, or when he drove a Buick. I like his golf game. I appreciate his talent. He could have sex with women, men, or no one at all, and so long as it doesn't happen while he is golfing, I don't care.
A good barometer: If Nancy Grace is talking about it I likely don't care.
I am mildly amused with Phil Mickelson's personal life to the extent that he is married to an attractive woman. I'm almost past being astonished. Annnnd I don't care about his personal life.
Did Tiger kill someone? Did he rape someone? Hell, did he lie under oath about taking steroids or hide earnings offshore to avoid taxes? No. He is an adult that did adult things with other consenting adults. He made bad decisions and looks foolish. Welcome to being human.
This isn't a Larry Craig situation. This is a weekend news story at best. It's a shame but beyond 48 hours it's a non story.
A good barometer: If Nancy Grace is talking about it I likely don't care.
I am mildly amused with Phil Mickelson's personal life to the extent that he is married to an attractive woman. I'm almost past being astonished. Annnnd I don't care about his personal life.
Did Tiger kill someone? Did he rape someone? Hell, did he lie under oath about taking steroids or hide earnings offshore to avoid taxes? No. He is an adult that did adult things with other consenting adults. He made bad decisions and looks foolish. Welcome to being human.
This isn't a Larry Craig situation. This is a weekend news story at best. It's a shame but beyond 48 hours it's a non story.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Reffing
I don't know if I am simply paying more attention this year or if the calls are actually getting worse. Across all sports, college and pro, I can't recall more bad, bad calls in one year. Despite the implementation of replay systems in most major sports the calls have somehow gotten worse.
The MSU Purdue game was bad. Every week in the Big10 I see at least one terrible call that is not only contrary to what obviously happened, but at times contrary to the rules. Indiana got hosed weekly. MSU was on both sides of at least a dozen horrendous calls this season. Hopefully basketball is better.
The early indicators aren't good. The MSU Gonzaga game was one of the worst officiated games in years. It is pretty easy to slow down the MSU break when you 1. are over the back (with no calls) on every rebound, 2. hack the hell out of the rebounder if he does somehow get the rebound, 3. hack the outlet guard, 4. hand check the guard all the way down the floor.
I would estimate that about 1/3 of the refs I've seen this year are veterans. There are a lot of new faces. Perhaps the regular season will see a return to the not so good but at least consistent zebras of years past.
The MSU Purdue game was bad. Every week in the Big10 I see at least one terrible call that is not only contrary to what obviously happened, but at times contrary to the rules. Indiana got hosed weekly. MSU was on both sides of at least a dozen horrendous calls this season. Hopefully basketball is better.
The early indicators aren't good. The MSU Gonzaga game was one of the worst officiated games in years. It is pretty easy to slow down the MSU break when you 1. are over the back (with no calls) on every rebound, 2. hack the hell out of the rebounder if he does somehow get the rebound, 3. hack the outlet guard, 4. hand check the guard all the way down the floor.
I would estimate that about 1/3 of the refs I've seen this year are veterans. There are a lot of new faces. Perhaps the regular season will see a return to the not so good but at least consistent zebras of years past.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
MSU v Purdue
I'm really excited to tell you about Purdue football, today's matchups, and what to expect from the Purdue offense. I would be even more excited if I could name a single player on Purdue's team.
It isn't that they don't have some talent, because Purdue has won some games (at OSU, at ummm), but I have not watched an entire game this year. I had the umm/purdue game on in the background when MSU was not televised but I had the radio on. I've done some research.
Purdue Pete is the mascot. He carries a hammer. Pete is not short for Purdue Peter. No word on whether or not Pete Seeger (If I had a hammer) was an inspiration.
Purdue's football team, and players, are known as Boilermakers. The nickname was shortened Boilers after a student vote. Boilermakers was too long, the alternative, Boils, too short. Boilers was preceded by grangers, pumpkin-shuckers, railsplitters, cornfield sailors, blacksmiths, and foundry hands. So sayeth the mighty wiki.
Purdue football is under new leadership in first year head coach Danny Hope. I don't know about you, but he gives me a good feeling about the future.
With a new coach came more offensive balance. The team averages 135 rushing yards per game and 248 through the air. More telling are the 318 rushing attempts versus 365 passing attempts to date. Also scary is the 80% scoring efficiency in the red zone, 70% being td's. That is well above the league average and an important reason to keep the special teams under control. If you give this team a short field they will score. That score will likely be a TD.
Running back Ralph Bolden has the most carries by far. I wouldn't be at all surprised, however, to see Jaycen Taylor make a play or two today. He is a senior on his way out the door and has shown some bursts in the past.
Joey Elliot is apparently the QB for purdue. He has pretty good numbers. I have to think I haven't heard much about him because of the rough start Purdue had, at 1-5. He does throw interceptions, with 13 ints to 16 tds, and the team has lost 14 fumbles. The turnovers are a big reason for the slow start. Someone needs to warn this kid what keeping that 'y' on the end of your name can do for a career.
MSU has 338 rushing attempts for 138 yards per game and 335 passing attempts for 280 yards per game. MSU scores more points and gains more yardage than Purdue. MSU is 81% in red zone scoring but only 54% of those scores are td's. MSU has lost 7 fumbles and thrown a combined 8 int's. These numbers look good but MSU's defense has not created enough takeaways.
As we know -- followed closesly by the newspapers -- MSU plays multiple running backs and, for some inexplicable reason, still plays two qb's on occassion. Leggett could be the new Caulcrick. Baker and Caper are the shiftier two. I like Caper. There was a great write up (because I agreed with it = great) in last week's freep.
I like MSU getting healthy in the secondary once again. I like the balanced attack overall and the balanced attack within the running game if Leggett (5'11" 230lbs) continues to get carries alongside the smaller backs. I also like bacon and IPA's but I'm not sure how that figures into the equation.
The pizza!pizza! bowl is on the line. A rematch with CMU no doubt. Sounds like a win!win! scenario for someone, just not the spartans.
MSU - 33
Purdue - 24
Purdue - 24
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Basketball Time, Kiddies
It is probably about time to give my quick take on the upcoming season and give my early nominations for conference player, coach, and defensive player of the year.
I'll start by evaluating where I think the teams rank in terms of talent and where I think the teams will finish.
Talent:
1. MSU
2. Purdue
3. Ohio State
4. Michigan
5. Minnesota
6. Northwestern
7. Illinois
8 Penn State
9. Indiana
10. Wisconsin
11. Iowa
Finish:
1. Purdue
2. MSU
3. Ohio State
4. UM
5. Minnesota
6. Wisconsin
7. Illinois
8. Northwestern
9. Indiana
10. Penn State
11.
12. Iowa
Iowa is going to be really, really, painfully bad. They seriously could lose every game in conference unless some kid comes out of nowhere to provide about 35 points per game.
Wisconsin will overachieve with senior guards. Indiana will be much improved. Tubby will have Minny ready to play and there is plenty of guard leadership. Illinois, I don't know what will happen there. Ohio State will be a tough, versatile team. I don't see much consistency but I see spurts of frustratingly hot offense and stingy defense.
As the 3 pt ball goes, so go Northwestern and Michigan. Although, Michigan will have some experienced go to players and could decide the B10 with a few upsets. Northwestern adds a talented true freshman from Chi in Drew Crawford to help Coble (who appears to have injured his foot in practice, no indication of how badly). If healthy, NW will be an older than average team with a few decent pieces.
Player of the year: Evan Turner, OSU
Coach of the year: Painter, Purdue (for winning the conference)
Defensive player of the year: Kramer, Purdue or Johnson, Purdue
Jerk of the year: Bo diddly Ryan
Breakout POY: Roe, MSU
Freshman of the year: DJ Richardson, Ill
I see Purdue coming in with a chip on their shoulder and, more importantly, healthy. Purdue will take advantage of an injury riddled MSU team, inconsistent but talented UM and OSU teams, and hold off the upset teams of MN and NW. Purdue will be really good if JuJuan Johnson decides to be a complete player. He is a beast. If he decides to be a defensive stopper Purdue is legit. They lose a few in conference, 4 maybe, with likely losses against UM, Wisc, MSU, and perhaps a shocker to a pesky NW or PSU.
I see 5 legitimate sweet sixteen teams in the B10, including MSU, Purdue, OSU, MN, and UM. At least one more will likely get in, with Illinois or Northwestern being the most likely candidate. By seasons end, despite struggles and frustration due to injuries and a lack of chemistry early, MSU will still be the best, deepest, most experienced team. Plus the Izzo factor.
I'll start by evaluating where I think the teams rank in terms of talent and where I think the teams will finish.
Talent:
1. MSU
2. Purdue
3. Ohio State
4. Michigan
5. Minnesota
6. Northwestern
7. Illinois
8 Penn State
9. Indiana
10. Wisconsin
11. Iowa
Finish:
1. Purdue
2. MSU
3. Ohio State
4. UM
5. Minnesota
6. Wisconsin
7. Illinois
8. Northwestern
9. Indiana
10. Penn State
11.
12. Iowa
Iowa is going to be really, really, painfully bad. They seriously could lose every game in conference unless some kid comes out of nowhere to provide about 35 points per game.
Wisconsin will overachieve with senior guards. Indiana will be much improved. Tubby will have Minny ready to play and there is plenty of guard leadership. Illinois, I don't know what will happen there. Ohio State will be a tough, versatile team. I don't see much consistency but I see spurts of frustratingly hot offense and stingy defense.
As the 3 pt ball goes, so go Northwestern and Michigan. Although, Michigan will have some experienced go to players and could decide the B10 with a few upsets. Northwestern adds a talented true freshman from Chi in Drew Crawford to help Coble (who appears to have injured his foot in practice, no indication of how badly). If healthy, NW will be an older than average team with a few decent pieces.
Player of the year: Evan Turner, OSU
Coach of the year: Painter, Purdue (for winning the conference)
Defensive player of the year: Kramer, Purdue or Johnson, Purdue
Jerk of the year: Bo diddly Ryan
Breakout POY: Roe, MSU
Freshman of the year: DJ Richardson, Ill
I see Purdue coming in with a chip on their shoulder and, more importantly, healthy. Purdue will take advantage of an injury riddled MSU team, inconsistent but talented UM and OSU teams, and hold off the upset teams of MN and NW. Purdue will be really good if JuJuan Johnson decides to be a complete player. He is a beast. If he decides to be a defensive stopper Purdue is legit. They lose a few in conference, 4 maybe, with likely losses against UM, Wisc, MSU, and perhaps a shocker to a pesky NW or PSU.
I see 5 legitimate sweet sixteen teams in the B10, including MSU, Purdue, OSU, MN, and UM. At least one more will likely get in, with Illinois or Northwestern being the most likely candidate. By seasons end, despite struggles and frustration due to injuries and a lack of chemistry early, MSU will still be the best, deepest, most experienced team. Plus the Izzo factor.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
MSU v WMU
The highlight of the day today may be the tailgate. Check that, it definitely will be the tailgate.
MSU is reeling. The losses this year have been heartbreaking, last second, and at times unbelievable. With the exception of the WI game -- a thorough whooping that looked closer than it really was by the end -- all of the losses were either bad bounces or stupid mistakes.
Today provides a real chance for, well, nothing. You HAVE to beat WMU. I mean hell, ummm beat WMU. Winning is expected, a loss would be a huge blow, a close game would be like a loss.
I would like to make jokes about Western but I have no idea who plays there, what students do, or what famous alum has made an ass of him/herself. They have a rival from what I understand. It is also a directional school. But here is the funny part, oh man are you gonna love this, it is not eastern michigan. No. This wacky and unpredictable school has a rivalry with central michigan, a team with no natural predators/rivals, with the exception of little known Periphery Michigan University. Rivalries require competitive teams. PMU is always on the outside looking...terrible.
Greg Jennings was good. He is in Green Bay. I can't name another player. Fine, Tim Hiller.
The mascot is buster bronco. Doesn't he coach BYU?
An alum was a founder of the Food Network. Congrats. 10% of your work is watchable.
Luther Vandross. You know what? Good job on that one. Truly.*
However, offset by having 2 (two) American Idol Finalists.**
I think MSU can pass the ball, with relative ease, against western linebacker u. MSU has too many weapons capable of dropping passes to cover everyone.
MSU - 33
* [relative] Win
** lose
** double balloon lose
MSU is reeling. The losses this year have been heartbreaking, last second, and at times unbelievable. With the exception of the WI game -- a thorough whooping that looked closer than it really was by the end -- all of the losses were either bad bounces or stupid mistakes.
Today provides a real chance for, well, nothing. You HAVE to beat WMU. I mean hell, ummm beat WMU. Winning is expected, a loss would be a huge blow, a close game would be like a loss.
I would like to make jokes about Western but I have no idea who plays there, what students do, or what famous alum has made an ass of him/herself. They have a rival from what I understand. It is also a directional school. But here is the funny part, oh man are you gonna love this, it is not eastern michigan. No. This wacky and unpredictable school has a rivalry with central michigan, a team with no natural predators/rivals, with the exception of little known Periphery Michigan University. Rivalries require competitive teams. PMU is always on the outside looking...terrible.
Greg Jennings was good. He is in Green Bay. I can't name another player. Fine, Tim Hiller.
The mascot is buster bronco. Doesn't he coach BYU?
The WMU wiki page has 2 sentences under "Student Life." Seems about right. Under "Health Services" it just says "Penicillin."
An alum was a founder of the Food Network. Congrats. 10% of your work is watchable.
Luther Vandross. You know what? Good job on that one. Truly.*
However, offset by having 2 (two) American Idol Finalists.**
I think MSU can run the ball, with ease, against the smaller bronco dline. I don't see a player on the roster over 275lbs. Strangely they seem to have a linebacker obsession. The roster lists 12 Linebackers. Maybe LB is the default setting on the media guide.
I think MSU can pass the ball, with relative ease, against western linebacker u. MSU has too many weapons capable of dropping passes to cover everyone.
After last week I am concerned with watching another QB chuck the ball up for grabs on every down. Hiller has a good arm. If WMU watched any film they will throw the ball deep on first down, no matter where they are on the field, and hope that we continue to play our zero pass break up defense. If that fails do the same thing on 2nd, 3rd, and --yes -- 4th downs.
MSU - 33
WMU - 17
* [relative] Win
** lose
** double balloon loseFriday, November 6, 2009
Putting MN Away
I thought it would be best to give the loss a few days, let the emotions fade, let reason fill the void.
Finally, and the last of my rants, the announcement was made multiple times that the game was "a sellout." I guess they were referencing the actual fans and use of IN THE BANK for TCF Bank Stadium rather than ticket sales. There were more than patches of empty space. The place only holds 50,800 but there were at least 5,000 empty seats in large blocks with remaining empty seats scattered throughout the sections.
Turns out I still feel pretty much the same as immediately after the loss.
Minnesota is the worst team MSU has lost to, or will lose to, this year. This is a bad, bad loss. This is likely Dantonio's first bad loss as head coach at MSU. MN is not a good football team. While you are busy trying to name one player not named Weber or Decker I'll quickly point out that it doesn't matter.
Of course had I described the loss immediately after the game I would have used (fine, did use) different wording. The idea is the same. There is one notable player on the MN team and he did not play last weekend.
Watching the game live the calls looked suspect. Watching them on replay they didn't look much better. Again, for at least the second time this season, you shouldn't be in a close game with a team like this. CMU is the same scenario and to some degree MSU had the ND game handed to them. CMU and MN had terrible calls and terrible reviews but calls shouldn't make the difference when you play these two teams.
The new TCF Bank Stadium is nice, the location is closer to campus, and the weather was clear. However, tailgating occurs at the State Fairgrounds and tailgaters are bussed in 8-10 minutes to the stadium. It would be like MSU offering tailgating only in commuter lot.
The fans were less than courteous...we were in the more alum less student area and saw dozens of people booing, laughing, and yelling through injury timeouts. Students will be students, but these were 30+ year olds. Minnesota nice my ass. Stay classy.
Also, every facet of the game is a financial transaction. Touchdowns are "6 more point IN THE BANK." A rough estimate for use of the word BANK!!! (not to be confused with bank) would require scientific notation. IN THE BANK!!!! 1. Clever, 2. Not at all annoying, 3. Corporate Whoring say what?
Finally, and the last of my rants, the announcement was made multiple times that the game was "a sellout." I guess they were referencing the actual fans and use of IN THE BANK for TCF Bank Stadium rather than ticket sales. There were more than patches of empty space. The place only holds 50,800 but there were at least 5,000 empty seats in large blocks with remaining empty seats scattered throughout the sections.The biggest problem MSU had was defending the pass, if you can call them passes. At the game it looked too easy. Watching replays it was the same scenario every score. Lobs to WR's. Live it looked like there was too much air under each throw. It worked out brilliantly, at least against Marcus Hyde, who was picked on 90% of the time in his backup role. Every long pass was a jump ball, with the exception of a catch-fall-fumble-or-did-he-?-no-was-not-down-IN THE BANK!! Every result the same, TD MN.
I still have no idea why people are obsessed with K.Nichol. It seems more like the Lions fan* mentality than logic based. The guy behind us wanted Nichol to come in when Cousins didn't stretch during pregame to his liking. He of course did not reference any stretching stats or historical stretching trends, he is just a Nichol guy.
The highlight of the weekend was post game. As the reveling students/fans of MN gophered around the stadium after a rare win, with Halloween in the air, they got a little aggressive. Believe it or not -- scouts honor -- we did not say a word, did not taunt or harass anyone, and headed for our bus back to the ultimate tailgate parking lot somewhere east of Howell, MI. MN kids weren't having it and starting to yell, circle around, and become excessively gophery. Then it happened. The least likely candidate of our group took his foamy, fluffy, MSU labeled seat cushion and played whack a gopher.
I missed it. I probably would have died laughing had I seen it, but by the time I knew what was going on it had escalated. I was a peace maker. Things settled and we were on our way. Only later did I learn of the seat-cushion-upside-the-head move that was employed.
Think hard. Is there anything more degrading? Seriously. It is like being hit with licorice only on some level worse.**From what I was told it was placed upside the back of said gopher's head and wasn't really all that hard. It sounded as if it would best be described as a corrective smack upside the head. With a fluffy seat cushion. Sort of like the 10 years later version of holding a smaller person back with a palm to the forehead.
The added humor is that this kid was probably 21, 22 and had a whole group of friends. We were not exactly rolling in big numbers. The guy was big enough to do something, or at least try to, and instead takes his seat cushion warning and backpedals yelling. Son, you were just hit in the head in a manner that was not physically injurious but without question was extremely embarrassing. Perhaps in context, considering this may have been the least embarrassing thing to happen to you that day, I should give you a pass. However, I hope your friends make you relive that moment for years. You need to have some self respect. Instead you were put in timeout and said "mm, mohkay." The loss faded away and I laughed as hard and long as I have in a long, long time.
*see: the backup QB is the most popular player on the team
** worse than licorice because it was still warm and only recently retrieved from below his backside
Friday, October 30, 2009
Minny-
We are off to newly built, open air, Minnesota-Nice stadium despite logic and weather reports. This trip will not involve a stay at the Monte Carlo, but we'll get by.For those of you that aren't familiar with my last MSU sports related trip to Minneapolis I'll briefly fill you in. In 2001 the MSU men's basketball team made yet another final four run (3rd year in a row) and my friend and I won the lottery for tickets. We left with about $80 in cash each and our charm.
Of course we had no accommodations lined up, but we were confident we would run into someone we knew and would crash on their floor. We ended up staying at the luxurious 4 star* Monte Carlo. Think leather recliners, individual climate control** and in wall sound system. It was newly built in 1996.
To be exact it was a 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, red, w/ black leather interior. We, of course, did not have blankets, sleeping bags, or feeling in our extremeties.
The 2009 trip will not involve sleeping in a car if I can help it. I am looking forward to seeing the new stadium but also planning to stay out of the weather as long as possible. The forecast: cloudy with a chance of arctic.
The Minn football team has a problem. Decker, the all american and B10 leading receiver, is out. For the year. The offense will have to find new weapons as Decker was the offense. Think Ringer x 2.
I am a little concerned about what comes next. If the game plan and schemes change significantly this week it will obviously be tough to scout and may take the first half to adjust to. It is a tough draw either way because a week from now there will be tape on the new Minn offense. With Decker healthy he is a very, very tough matchup but you know what you are getting. This is almost worse.
I still like MSU, setting aside any weather related fumbles or flukes, to win the game. The defense has looked better in recent weeks and the offense has done just enough to stay in each game. I like the linebackers to wrap up and contain the sideline to sideline running attack and the db's to limit the stretch passing game. Special teams kick returns could be the best shot for Minn to hit quickly.
I like:
MSU - 23
MN -- 14
*crash rating
**dual climate control while running. single out of control climate while not running.
Monday, October 26, 2009
ALSO
In the latest installment of "Why we suck as a Network: The BTN story" we were treated to a nice conversation about how the commentator has a short tie and his preference for sweater vests over regular vests, as well as the bickering brother antics of those two favorite rascals, Gerry DiNardo and Glen Mason. Boy do I love self promotion of terribly overplayed contrived rivalries. For those of you familiar with John Clayton and Sean Salisbury on Four Downs or Skip Bayless and anyone who sits across the table on First and Ten you understand. I totally buy that they hate each other and disagree on everything.
This nice bit of information was provided during the injury timeout, sometime between the actual hit and 45 seconds later when the flag came in. The only reason we didn't go to commercial, one must presume, is because BTN ran out of things to mix with Rotel. Be careful kids, 32 commercials about Rotel in one game can lead to such antics. We can also presume that they ran out of "look how awesome and edgy the BTN is" commercials, too.
I think we should put together a bracket, NCAA basketball syle, for all the promotions and networks on television [worth noting]. I'm pretty sure that the Snuggie would eliminate BTN in the first round. Sadly I don't think it would be close.
The good news? The Spartans are on the BTN yet again this week. Look out XFL fans and Gopher historians. Gerry DiNardo and Glen Mason are BACK. And this time, its personal.*
*Personal does not mean watchable and may in fact come off as kitschy. Void where prohibited including Guam, Quebec, and Puerto Rico. The program and network cannot be redeemed for any cash value and may in fact require payment for any attempted redemption.
This nice bit of information was provided during the injury timeout, sometime between the actual hit and 45 seconds later when the flag came in. The only reason we didn't go to commercial, one must presume, is because BTN ran out of things to mix with Rotel. Be careful kids, 32 commercials about Rotel in one game can lead to such antics. We can also presume that they ran out of "look how awesome and edgy the BTN is" commercials, too.
I think we should put together a bracket, NCAA basketball syle, for all the promotions and networks on television [worth noting]. I'm pretty sure that the Snuggie would eliminate BTN in the first round. Sadly I don't think it would be close.
The good news? The Spartans are on the BTN yet again this week. Look out XFL fans and Gopher historians. Gerry DiNardo and Glen Mason are BACK. And this time, its personal.*
*Personal does not mean watchable and may in fact come off as kitschy. Void where prohibited including Guam, Quebec, and Puerto Rico. The program and network cannot be redeemed for any cash value and may in fact require payment for any attempted redemption.
Iowa is a four letter word
There are so many things worth discussing about this game that I simply cannot get to all of them, but I'll hit what I feel are the high points.
1. This game will go down as a great battle, which it was, but I don't know that it was a great game. I enjoy a pitcher's duel, a defensive battle if you will, but this was partly defensive dominance and partly offensive ineptitude. I believe that it will be remembered as a great game because of the old boxing truism; win the last 30 seconds and you win the judges. The fans were excited for the last four minutes and will remember it as a classic.
2. The personal foul call did not lose the game -- although the two offside penalties may have -- but it surely didn't help. Iowa was pinned deep and would have been looking at a 3rd and long had the flag not been thrown. After the ref watched the replay. After a legal hit. The receiver turned up field, dropped his head, and the defender blasted him in the upper shoulder. The hit may have rolled up into the helmet, but it was the offensive player that made that possible. He was not defenseless. Twice this year we've been hit by bad, bad personal foul calls.
3. There are all sorts of clever sayings for the prevent defense. It only prevents you from winning being the most common. I tend to disagree. However, Iowa does not have a deep threat. Don't worry about changing things up. Do what you have been doing.
4. I am upset that the final pass play did not have safety help and that the corner did not take away the slant, making the QB throw the much tougher fade or out and giving the blitz more time to apply pressure. I'm not mad about the result so much. How many plays from inside the 6 can we truly hope to stop in one game? I mean, we held strong on at least two goal line possessions.
5. I will call it the Hook and Ladder. I know that the hook and lateral makes more sense. I like to think of a ladder fire truck, reaching out a certain distance initially before providing a platform for the extended second portion of the ladder. Plus the yard markers make nice rungs. In any event, the play hardly ever works because you know it is coming. 99.99% of the time it is the last play of a game. BUT, if you run it with 2+ minutes left on a 3rd down (rather than another obvious trickeration down) it is brilliant. It was executed almost perfectly. I'll say almost because, as I've discussed with a few people since the game, Caper was trailing White and could have taken a block from White to score sooner. Who knows if it makes any difference.
What is most upsetting about the game is that Iowa is not that good. The lines are far superior to MSU's lines, and the starting TE is better than any of MSU's TE's, but other than that MSU is better at nearly every skill position. MSU is deeper and better at QB, RB, LB, and deeper at least at TE. This team is not as good as Penn State overall and not as good on defense as OSU. The MSU defense looked stout against the terrible Iowa offense with the exception of one bad series, where Iowa was wide open for 11 yard pass after 11 yard pass somewhat by design.
Bad calls were a factor. A much greater factor was jumping offsides twice on hard counts (one on a 3rd and 5) and DROPPED PASSES primarily at tight end. Sims dropped two that hit his hands. One would have kept a drive alive and killed the clock. The other would have set up a 3rd and very short, opening up a shot down field to Cunningham or White. The drops were, in my mind, the biggest reason Iowa was even in the game.
1. This game will go down as a great battle, which it was, but I don't know that it was a great game. I enjoy a pitcher's duel, a defensive battle if you will, but this was partly defensive dominance and partly offensive ineptitude. I believe that it will be remembered as a great game because of the old boxing truism; win the last 30 seconds and you win the judges. The fans were excited for the last four minutes and will remember it as a classic.
2. The personal foul call did not lose the game -- although the two offside penalties may have -- but it surely didn't help. Iowa was pinned deep and would have been looking at a 3rd and long had the flag not been thrown. After the ref watched the replay. After a legal hit. The receiver turned up field, dropped his head, and the defender blasted him in the upper shoulder. The hit may have rolled up into the helmet, but it was the offensive player that made that possible. He was not defenseless. Twice this year we've been hit by bad, bad personal foul calls.
3. There are all sorts of clever sayings for the prevent defense. It only prevents you from winning being the most common. I tend to disagree. However, Iowa does not have a deep threat. Don't worry about changing things up. Do what you have been doing.
4. I am upset that the final pass play did not have safety help and that the corner did not take away the slant, making the QB throw the much tougher fade or out and giving the blitz more time to apply pressure. I'm not mad about the result so much. How many plays from inside the 6 can we truly hope to stop in one game? I mean, we held strong on at least two goal line possessions.
5. I will call it the Hook and Ladder. I know that the hook and lateral makes more sense. I like to think of a ladder fire truck, reaching out a certain distance initially before providing a platform for the extended second portion of the ladder. Plus the yard markers make nice rungs. In any event, the play hardly ever works because you know it is coming. 99.99% of the time it is the last play of a game. BUT, if you run it with 2+ minutes left on a 3rd down (rather than another obvious trickeration down) it is brilliant. It was executed almost perfectly. I'll say almost because, as I've discussed with a few people since the game, Caper was trailing White and could have taken a block from White to score sooner. Who knows if it makes any difference.
What is most upsetting about the game is that Iowa is not that good. The lines are far superior to MSU's lines, and the starting TE is better than any of MSU's TE's, but other than that MSU is better at nearly every skill position. MSU is deeper and better at QB, RB, LB, and deeper at least at TE. This team is not as good as Penn State overall and not as good on defense as OSU. The MSU defense looked stout against the terrible Iowa offense with the exception of one bad series, where Iowa was wide open for 11 yard pass after 11 yard pass somewhat by design.
Bad calls were a factor. A much greater factor was jumping offsides twice on hard counts (one on a 3rd and 5) and DROPPED PASSES primarily at tight end. Sims dropped two that hit his hands. One would have kept a drive alive and killed the clock. The other would have set up a 3rd and very short, opening up a shot down field to Cunningham or White. The drops were, in my mind, the biggest reason Iowa was even in the game.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
MSU Iowa
At the beginning of the season I thought Iowa had the best lines on both sides of the ball. I wasn't sure how they would answer the running back question and what sort of pressure the defensive line would get on the qb, but it terms of getting pushed around, these boys are big and strong.
That said, Iowa is not a great or explosive team. Stanzi is pretty solid at QB and getting better with experience. I really think this is a chance for MSU's safeties and corners to pump up the interception numbers. While they have been solid against the various spread offenses the last few weeks there haven't been many opportunities to pick off passes. When you throw the ball 8 yards or less on 80% of your passes there aren't many chances. Add in the fact that you can't gamble and jump a route because everyone is so compact on defense (miss one tackle and there is no help deep) and the Northwestern style spread makes you play on your heels. I like MSU to get two interceptions Saturday night.
In terms of the night game talk, I'm not sure what to think. The fans love it. The running backs love it. I'm not sure how Cousins will react. I do like that Nichol appears to be out for this game. His footwork would be nice against this Iowa line but I don't like his tendency to just make a throw to make a throw. You can't take risks against Iowa because they are disciplined on defense and wait for you to beat yourself.
Not sure if I missed the update this week but it appears Nichol might have given us the first true diagnosis since the arm injury. It looked like a dislocation after watching the replay but Dantonio gave no information. Nichol gave no information at first but the LSJ recently wrote:
MSU's trainers have told him "I'm healing faster than they've ever seen a dislocation heal."
I like MSU to get the upset, surprise people with a pretty good running game, and hold the Iowa passing game in check. Iowa will get some yardage on the ground but MSU wins the turnover battle and the game.
MSU - 27
Iowa - 13
That said, Iowa is not a great or explosive team. Stanzi is pretty solid at QB and getting better with experience. I really think this is a chance for MSU's safeties and corners to pump up the interception numbers. While they have been solid against the various spread offenses the last few weeks there haven't been many opportunities to pick off passes. When you throw the ball 8 yards or less on 80% of your passes there aren't many chances. Add in the fact that you can't gamble and jump a route because everyone is so compact on defense (miss one tackle and there is no help deep) and the Northwestern style spread makes you play on your heels. I like MSU to get two interceptions Saturday night.
In terms of the night game talk, I'm not sure what to think. The fans love it. The running backs love it. I'm not sure how Cousins will react. I do like that Nichol appears to be out for this game. His footwork would be nice against this Iowa line but I don't like his tendency to just make a throw to make a throw. You can't take risks against Iowa because they are disciplined on defense and wait for you to beat yourself.
Not sure if I missed the update this week but it appears Nichol might have given us the first true diagnosis since the arm injury. It looked like a dislocation after watching the replay but Dantonio gave no information. Nichol gave no information at first but the LSJ recently wrote:
MSU's trainers have told him "I'm healing faster than they've ever seen a dislocation heal."
I like MSU to get the upset, surprise people with a pretty good running game, and hold the Iowa passing game in check. Iowa will get some yardage on the ground but MSU wins the turnover battle and the game.
MSU - 27
Iowa - 13
Friday, October 16, 2009
Northwestern MSU
The Northwestern Wildcats come to town for MSU homecoming with an upset in mind. Northwestern used the spread offense to keep defenses on their heals in the mid '90's. Now they use the clock. Northwestern averages almost twice as many plays from scrimmage as their opponents. Its a race to get to the line, snap, run the play, and get back to the line.
This scheme comes natural to NU players. They've been doing it since, what, 3rd grade chess club.
Think about it. Make a decision, make the move, punch the clock. It's like speed chess. This would explain why Pat Fitzgerald has been seen recruiting the North Avenue Beach and Chess Pavilion. Sure, some of these kids won't work out 11 years down the road, what with being 128 lbs in their senior year, but some will work out.
Take Shane Pluto Wilmet, a 6th grader from Schaumburg, IL, who has been watched by NU since 2nd grade. He has great clock times, has a 96% winning percentage since turning park pro, and obviously has the potential to be, well, "husky." This is his latest recruiting shot:
There are some questions as to how Shane will do in a standing position or how a helmet will change his speed and accuracy. But the writing on the wall is becoming more clear. Wildcat offense?! I don't think so. Think Giuoco Piano with a side of King's Gambit. WildChessCat Offense.
MSU - 34
NU -- 20
Thursday, October 15, 2009
I am the Best Attorney Ever Recorded
Or at least the best in the last 25 years.
I would like to point out that no one keeps these records so that was based on an estimate. I did, somewhat verifiably, set my own personal best.
And this only supports my first instinct. RRod is a lying, cheating, do whatever you have to do and say whatever you have to say jerkface. He is driven, probably good at what he does, but doesn't seem to know boundaries. As one former B10 coach described him:
"a wizard hat wearing snake oil salesman."
Tell us how you really feel.
If you missed the latest RRod factoid to be filed in the "he's a dbag" file it was this. While under fire for breaking NCAA practice rules he cried, lied, and denied. One lie among many was with regard to his team GPA. Something to the effect of "the best GPA in 25 years" and "the best ever recorded" at ummm. Not once, but multiple times he touted the recent acomplishments of his team in the classroom.
Turns out he lied to the wrong people. Turns out when you are under fire from the press you shouldn't make things up. Turns out FOIA allows you to request documents from public offices, like a public university athletic department, that might just get you called out later on.
When that damned media made a FOIA request to find out, oh I don't know, the actual GPA data RRod would have needed to make such a claim, it didn't exist. At least that is what the response was. To which RRod stated "it was an estimate." Ballsy estimate fella.
Don't let facts get in the way. Don't let the truth, rules, or ethics get in the way.
I would like to point out that no one keeps these records so that was based on an estimate. I did, somewhat verifiably, set my own personal best.
And this only supports my first instinct. RRod is a lying, cheating, do whatever you have to do and say whatever you have to say jerkface. He is driven, probably good at what he does, but doesn't seem to know boundaries. As one former B10 coach described him:
"a wizard hat wearing snake oil salesman."
Tell us how you really feel.
If you missed the latest RRod factoid to be filed in the "he's a dbag" file it was this. While under fire for breaking NCAA practice rules he cried, lied, and denied. One lie among many was with regard to his team GPA. Something to the effect of "the best GPA in 25 years" and "the best ever recorded" at ummm. Not once, but multiple times he touted the recent acomplishments of his team in the classroom.
Turns out he lied to the wrong people. Turns out when you are under fire from the press you shouldn't make things up. Turns out FOIA allows you to request documents from public offices, like a public university athletic department, that might just get you called out later on.
When that damned media made a FOIA request to find out, oh I don't know, the actual GPA data RRod would have needed to make such a claim, it didn't exist. At least that is what the response was. To which RRod stated "it was an estimate." Ballsy estimate fella.
Don't let facts get in the way. Don't let the truth, rules, or ethics get in the way.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Um Wrap up
Someday, theoretically, my attitude Sunday -- Wednesday won't depend on the result of a college football game. Basketball is more intense but games are played more frequently, so there are chances for redemption. Football is longer lasting.
What a beautiful week eh? Dreary outside, rain off and on, cold and blowing. The leaves haven't really changed yet and work is, well, work. Beautiful.
If you haven't heard there is a bit of a to do regarding a Dantonio radio interview with WJR AM radio in Detroit. To provide some context MSU signed a radio contract with WJR to carry MSU sports after about 1.4 jillion years of covering ummm sports. WJR's staff includes about 94% ummm junkies and apologists.
Dantonio was on the radio and had answered about the 3rd question in a row about what Michigan did and what Michigan didn't do and finally threw it back in the [admitted umm fan] DJ's face:
“I must tell you, the look on State fans’ faces when we were going into overtime was almost that resigned look of ‘oh, no, here we go again. I cannot believe, we dominated this game … ’”
“Well, Paul, hold on a second,” Dantonio said. “Because the look I saw on Michigan’s faces were ‘oh, no, the Spartans beat us again.’ That’s the look I saw.”
He also downplayed the comeback by recalling stating "Forcier...did play good for about 5 minutes..." but added that MSU dominated for the rest of the game.
Exactly. Exactly what I was thinking all Saturday night, Sunday morning, and through yesterday as the talk was about Forcier this and Forcier that. Yes he's a frosh qb. Yes he has done some great things. They lost. He threw the interception. Ummm got the benefit of every call, every miscue, and some freshman heroics and still lost.
The biggest story of the year so far, in my mind, is the loss of Jenrette. I think this defense was missing two things: a pass rush and a big hitter at safety. Jenrette provided the latter and he will be missed. If a corner can't cover a receiver at the very least he should be thinking about the enormous hit he is going to take from the safety. It only takes one good knock early to have the receivers looking downfield before they catch the ball. Hopefully he returns before the Penn State game.
**************************
uhh, Go Tigers?? (5:04 pm on TBS and ESPN radio)
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The Ill-noise team that MSU faces this week is no joke. Starting qb juice williams has been benched but the team remains dangerous. I like MSU to run, run, run the ball to keep the big Ill wide receivers off the field. I like the MSU tight ends to finally show up this week, and I like the MSU linebackers to continue to play big against a scrambling, athletic, desperate group of fighting...orange things.
This Ill team is a perfect example of RonZook as a coach. Look at Florida. He recruited about 75% of the kids that won the national championship soon after he was booted. He came to Illinois and got some kids, some big recruits with a good deal of talent and potential, and proceeded to make them worse. He is not a coach. He is a recruiter. Juice Williams is a senior and is now worse than he was as a Sophomore. There is no running game and the athletes are being out athleted. The real question is: Can Illinois find a decent x+o coach in the next year or so before the talent runs out?
MSU -- 30
Ill ----- 17
What a beautiful week eh? Dreary outside, rain off and on, cold and blowing. The leaves haven't really changed yet and work is, well, work. Beautiful.
If you haven't heard there is a bit of a to do regarding a Dantonio radio interview with WJR AM radio in Detroit. To provide some context MSU signed a radio contract with WJR to carry MSU sports after about 1.4 jillion years of covering ummm sports. WJR's staff includes about 94% ummm junkies and apologists.
Dantonio was on the radio and had answered about the 3rd question in a row about what Michigan did and what Michigan didn't do and finally threw it back in the [admitted umm fan] DJ's face:
“I must tell you, the look on State fans’ faces when we were going into overtime was almost that resigned look of ‘oh, no, here we go again. I cannot believe, we dominated this game … ’”
“Well, Paul, hold on a second,” Dantonio said. “Because the look I saw on Michigan’s faces were ‘oh, no, the Spartans beat us again.’ That’s the look I saw.”
He also downplayed the comeback by recalling stating "Forcier...did play good for about 5 minutes..." but added that MSU dominated for the rest of the game.
Exactly. Exactly what I was thinking all Saturday night, Sunday morning, and through yesterday as the talk was about Forcier this and Forcier that. Yes he's a frosh qb. Yes he has done some great things. They lost. He threw the interception. Ummm got the benefit of every call, every miscue, and some freshman heroics and still lost.
The biggest story of the year so far, in my mind, is the loss of Jenrette. I think this defense was missing two things: a pass rush and a big hitter at safety. Jenrette provided the latter and he will be missed. If a corner can't cover a receiver at the very least he should be thinking about the enormous hit he is going to take from the safety. It only takes one good knock early to have the receivers looking downfield before they catch the ball. Hopefully he returns before the Penn State game.
**************************
uhh, Go Tigers?? (5:04 pm on TBS and ESPN radio)
**************************
The Ill-noise team that MSU faces this week is no joke. Starting qb juice williams has been benched but the team remains dangerous. I like MSU to run, run, run the ball to keep the big Ill wide receivers off the field. I like the MSU tight ends to finally show up this week, and I like the MSU linebackers to continue to play big against a scrambling, athletic, desperate group of fighting...orange things.
This Ill team is a perfect example of RonZook as a coach. Look at Florida. He recruited about 75% of the kids that won the national championship soon after he was booted. He came to Illinois and got some kids, some big recruits with a good deal of talent and potential, and proceeded to make them worse. He is not a coach. He is a recruiter. Juice Williams is a senior and is now worse than he was as a Sophomore. There is no running game and the athletes are being out athleted. The real question is: Can Illinois find a decent x+o coach in the next year or so before the talent runs out?
MSU -- 30
Ill ----- 17
Saturday, October 3, 2009
That call is terrible: part 2
The "hit to the head" on little man taint was NOT a hit to the head. Not even close. Terrible.
THAT CALL IS TERRIBLE
That late hit call, from this POS ref that has called a TON of bad calls. Fumble gets it back but What the Hell? This guy has money on the game.
Also, I was growing rather tired of the "just settle on a qb" and "pick a guy...rythm...blah blah" talk this last week. But watching this fiasco of playing Nichol pisses me off. Just play Cousins. If he isn't in the rest of the game we had better find out he broke his ankle on that scramble. Otherwise this is a joke.
Also, I was growing rather tired of the "just settle on a qb" and "pick a guy...rythm...blah blah" talk this last week. But watching this fiasco of playing Nichol pisses me off. Just play Cousins. If he isn't in the rest of the game we had better find out he broke his ankle on that scramble. Otherwise this is a joke.
btn
Thank you, again, BTN, for helping me miss the long pass from Nichol coming off commercial. Again I was able to add to the list of products I will never again consider buying.
Also, the Nichol throw to Gannt that did not connect showed Nichol getting nailed in the head after the play, like a punch, which isn't surprising for a ummmm player.
No matter, Winston down the sideline for a TD. I don't think anyone wanted to get in the way.
My two cents:
umm is trying to run the ball because Forcier's shoulder is worse than we think. There is no way you don't throw the ball on us. Short throws to the wide side and runs aren't ideal against the Spartans. ummm knows that. They can't throw the ball from where I sit.
Also, the Nichol throw to Gannt that did not connect showed Nichol getting nailed in the head after the play, like a punch, which isn't surprising for a ummmm player.
No matter, Winston down the sideline for a TD. I don't think anyone wanted to get in the way.
My two cents:
umm is trying to run the ball because Forcier's shoulder is worse than we think. There is no way you don't throw the ball on us. Short throws to the wide side and runs aren't ideal against the Spartans. ummm knows that. They can't throw the ball from where I sit.
Shootout Schmootout
Thank you BigTen network, for helping us miss 2 full plays. That commercial was important. Otherwise I wouldn't know what product to hate for being associated with your network.
And as I suspected the "first team to score 80 wins" logic falls to the side. How often have we seen it? Previously MIA defenses appear for the first time and we have a 10-6 halftime score.
I don't like a few things about this game but the score is not one of them.
Cousins looks good. Cunningham and White look good. Winston is bound to break one, and I like Caper in there to mix things up. Time of possession looks great. Defense held up after a tipped ball interception inside the 30.
DB's are giving up the 3-5 yard pass play too easily. Not hitting the qb enough. Too many penalties, and penalties that could have been called. Michigan bounces a kick off the upright. Michigan helmets are ugly.
And as I suspected the "first team to score 80 wins" logic falls to the side. How often have we seen it? Previously MIA defenses appear for the first time and we have a 10-6 halftime score.
I don't like a few things about this game but the score is not one of them.
Cousins looks good. Cunningham and White look good. Winston is bound to break one, and I like Caper in there to mix things up. Time of possession looks great. Defense held up after a tipped ball interception inside the 30.
DB's are giving up the 3-5 yard pass play too easily. Not hitting the qb enough. Too many penalties, and penalties that could have been called. Michigan bounces a kick off the upright. Michigan helmets are ugly.
Gameday
It is 5:50 am.
Davey has been up for 3.5 hours, despite the fact that the commute today will be about 16 minutes rather than an hour.
Sam, yes Sam, is up and already out the door. Muscle memory has obviously been taken to a new level as we all know she is still sleeping, mentally.
My dog is awake. "See I'm here, I'm up! Where are we going? What are we doing? Do you need some help? Unless you aren't staying up, then I'm not up either. In that case I'm going back to sleep. Are we going back to sleep? I'm fine with going back sleep. No? Staying up, good, that's what I wanted."
Somewhere my hat is lonely and cold.
*********************************
I don't know what to think about the game today. This Spartan team can score enough points to win. If the kicking game (coverage and returns) can make a big play or two, the turnovers are kept under control, and the defense can make ONE BIG PLAY -- just one fumble recovery for a score or a timely interception -- and the safeties hit hard and the defensive ends bring pressure and pain this game could honestly be an MSU walkaway. But it won't be.
I am still not sold that MSU can run the ball when it wants to. Winston had a nice week but isn't the shifty kind of back that keeps plays alive. He gets what he is supposed to, maybe 10% more on the end of a run.
Ringer got extra at the beginning, middle, and end of runs. He was strong and agile. Winston is more Duckett like. Good after he gets a head of steam and a punishing finisher. That doesn't work when the offensive line is banged up and the ball carrier gets hit in the backfield. I like the Caper/Winston duo. I also like whatever running back holds on to the ball in this rainy weather.
Ummm has a knack for sucking the linebackers and safeties up to the line, making a crease, and then the running back is gone. They basically make you spy TaintForcy-eh?, make you focus on the edges, and run short enough routes 90% of the time that your corners and safeties end up pressing at the line. When your defense is a total of 10' deep it doesn't take much to break one.
No matter what the "facts" and "statistics" and "reality" might tell us about this Spartan team I cannot pick against them. Can't do it.
MSU - 28
umm - 25
Davey has been up for 3.5 hours, despite the fact that the commute today will be about 16 minutes rather than an hour.
Sam, yes Sam, is up and already out the door. Muscle memory has obviously been taken to a new level as we all know she is still sleeping, mentally.
My dog is awake. "See I'm here, I'm up! Where are we going? What are we doing? Do you need some help? Unless you aren't staying up, then I'm not up either. In that case I'm going back to sleep. Are we going back to sleep? I'm fine with going back sleep. No? Staying up, good, that's what I wanted."
Somewhere my hat is lonely and cold.
*********************************
I don't know what to think about the game today. This Spartan team can score enough points to win. If the kicking game (coverage and returns) can make a big play or two, the turnovers are kept under control, and the defense can make ONE BIG PLAY -- just one fumble recovery for a score or a timely interception -- and the safeties hit hard and the defensive ends bring pressure and pain this game could honestly be an MSU walkaway. But it won't be.
I am still not sold that MSU can run the ball when it wants to. Winston had a nice week but isn't the shifty kind of back that keeps plays alive. He gets what he is supposed to, maybe 10% more on the end of a run.
Ringer got extra at the beginning, middle, and end of runs. He was strong and agile. Winston is more Duckett like. Good after he gets a head of steam and a punishing finisher. That doesn't work when the offensive line is banged up and the ball carrier gets hit in the backfield. I like the Caper/Winston duo. I also like whatever running back holds on to the ball in this rainy weather.
Ummm has a knack for sucking the linebackers and safeties up to the line, making a crease, and then the running back is gone. They basically make you spy TaintForcy-eh?, make you focus on the edges, and run short enough routes 90% of the time that your corners and safeties end up pressing at the line. When your defense is a total of 10' deep it doesn't take much to break one.
No matter what the "facts" and "statistics" and "reality" might tell us about this Spartan team I cannot pick against them. Can't do it.
MSU - 28
umm - 25
Friday, October 2, 2009
AA tailgates = cheese and whine
Ok. "Spartan Bob" stopped the clock prematurly, after about 8 terrible umm penalties kept the game alive, and no one covered TJ Ducket. MSU won. And all these years later we are still talking about it. Frank Beckman and Jim Brandfatter cried that day and wake up crying everyday, not just about that situation, but about every call that results in an ummm loss.
Why does no one bring up the fact that ummm is the Duke basketball of Division I football? Lloyd would cry, whine, and pout -- like all coaches do -- but then the call would actually change for ummm. Then, when a call doesn't get changed "michigan has been wronged."
And what about the calls that they just get, without needing to cry? Do you hear them complaining? No, you just hear Brandfatter mouth breathing and inhaling a donut.
Take last week at Indiana. Gift wrapped calls, especially an obvious one (tie goes to the offensive player), are the norm for ummm. Its pretty sad that it takes a terrible, horrible call in a home game against a freakishly bad team to squeak out a last minute win.
MSU had a TD taken away last year on a bad call against umm. No crying there.
ummm player punches ND player in face. No call, no ejection, no recognition for snake-oil-salesman of the month. Replay in same game overturns ND TD. Wrong call.
Just sayin, shut up already about the clock.
Why does no one bring up the fact that ummm is the Duke basketball of Division I football? Lloyd would cry, whine, and pout -- like all coaches do -- but then the call would actually change for ummm. Then, when a call doesn't get changed "michigan has been wronged."
And what about the calls that they just get, without needing to cry? Do you hear them complaining? No, you just hear Brandfatter mouth breathing and inhaling a donut.
Take last week at Indiana. Gift wrapped calls, especially an obvious one (tie goes to the offensive player), are the norm for ummm. Its pretty sad that it takes a terrible, horrible call in a home game against a freakishly bad team to squeak out a last minute win.
MSU had a TD taken away last year on a bad call against umm. No crying there.
ummm player punches ND player in face. No call, no ejection, no recognition for snake-oil-salesman of the month. Replay in same game overturns ND TD. Wrong call.
Just sayin, shut up already about the clock.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
ummm week
I want more than anything to talk all sorts of trash, and working off the assumptions of one month ago, I had plenty of material ready. However, it is hard to say too much with a defense this bad.
Potential Problems:
1. the other team running the ball
2. the other team passing the ball
3. the other team playing offense
Potential Bright Spots:
1. hitting a scambling QB so hard he needs smelling salts, now called TimTebowing the QB
2. hitting any wide receiver that runs an end around or slant so hard he leaves not only the game, but the conference
3. knowing their coach is still a weasely weiner*
4. making signs w/ Little Man Tate and Taint written on them
5. picking this week to come out of a funk and help fight UWWA**
6. being one week closer to basketball season
Here are two of my favorite WVU signs:
*Will he wins games? yes
Will he ever be a winner? please
**Unfounded Walmart Wolverine Arrogance
Potential Problems:
1. the other team running the ball
2. the other team passing the ball
3. the other team playing offense
Potential Bright Spots:
1. hitting a scambling QB so hard he needs smelling salts, now called TimTebowing the QB
2. hitting any wide receiver that runs an end around or slant so hard he leaves not only the game, but the conference
3. knowing their coach is still a weasely weiner*
4. making signs w/ Little Man Tate and Taint written on them
5. picking this week to come out of a funk and help fight UWWA**
6. being one week closer to basketball season
Here are two of my favorite WVU signs:
*Will he wins games? yes
Will he ever be a winner? please
**Unfounded Walmart Wolverine Arrogance
My Missing Hat: Day 147
I have decided to turn the status of my hat from misplaced to stolen. I have also decided that I will write about this hat everyday until the masses unite to complete the world's first hat search party.
The hat is green with white script "State" across the front and a white Spartan helmet across the fitted back.
A very expensive and high tech program* was used to render an updated image of the hat. It has been aged to represent what it would look like today.
If you have infomation about the location of this hat please contact the Francis Gazette. The high end retailer that originally offered this item, Lids, no longer sells this item. Most new options are "so girl who wears a skirt as a shirt."
*Microsoft Paint 1.0 (is there another version?)
The hat is green with white script "State" across the front and a white Spartan helmet across the fitted back.
A very expensive and high tech program* was used to render an updated image of the hat. It has been aged to represent what it would look like today.
If you have infomation about the location of this hat please contact the Francis Gazette. The high end retailer that originally offered this item, Lids, no longer sells this item. Most new options are "so girl who wears a skirt as a shirt."
*Microsoft Paint 1.0 (is there another version?)
Monday, September 28, 2009
Wisconsin wrap up
Let the Nichol for Governor talk begin. After coming in late Keith Nichol scored two td's to pull the Spartans within 8. I'm sure that we will hear in this week how Nichol can, and should be the starter. I like Nichol and think he could be good with some additional instruction, but I don't think the qb position is the reason we are losing.
Think about this:
- MSU leads the BigTen in passing yards per game at 320 per
- Cousins is third in the BigTen in passer rating, at 147.6 (among those w/ the minimum number of attempts)
- Blair White is fourth in the BigTen in receiving yards per game
And all of this despite:
- MSU 10th in Rushing Yards per game
- MSU 8th in points allowed per game
- MSU is 7th in yards allowed per game
- MSU is LAST in passing yards allowed per game
Cousins and Nichol provide good material for an academic discussion. It is fairly clear that making a change at qb does not change the outcome of any game played so far. Cousins has 2 int's on 104 attempts. Nichol has 2 int's on 42 attempts. Unless Nichol is going to play safety (which, along with no pass rush, is my take on the terrible pass defense) nothing will change.
If Nichol does get a start, or even the starting job, I won't be upset. I guess my point is, no matter who is playing under center, 30 points is enough to win games. Nichol can score 30+. Cousins can score 30+. The defense has to come up with turnovers, sacks, and stops or it won't matter.
Think about this:
- MSU leads the BigTen in passing yards per game at 320 per
- Cousins is third in the BigTen in passer rating, at 147.6 (among those w/ the minimum number of attempts)
- Blair White is fourth in the BigTen in receiving yards per game
And all of this despite:
- MSU 10th in Rushing Yards per game
- MSU 8th in points allowed per game
- MSU is 7th in yards allowed per game
- MSU is LAST in passing yards allowed per game
Cousins and Nichol provide good material for an academic discussion. It is fairly clear that making a change at qb does not change the outcome of any game played so far. Cousins has 2 int's on 104 attempts. Nichol has 2 int's on 42 attempts. Unless Nichol is going to play safety (which, along with no pass rush, is my take on the terrible pass defense) nothing will change.
If Nichol does get a start, or even the starting job, I won't be upset. I guess my point is, no matter who is playing under center, 30 points is enough to win games. Nichol can score 30+. Cousins can score 30+. The defense has to come up with turnovers, sacks, and stops or it won't matter.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
ND Thoughts
To the critics of Cousins, I couldn't agree with Dantonio more. He played a very solid game. Dropped passes, dropped interceptions, and lack of a solid running game were the biggest problems, and until the last two throws (the overthrow and the interception on the goal line) he drove right down the field. My guess is ND fans were not terribly comfortable during the last 3 minutes, watching Cousins move the ball downfield with ease.
I'll also add what Dantonio won't say. If you score 30 points you should win. The defense made just as many if not more mistakes than the offense, and with one stop or one interception could have closed out the game. I know that ND puts up points, or has thus far, but 30 is enough to win if you play defense.
With Floyd out for the year and Clausen with turf toe this will look like a bad loss later in the year. The chances of a high ranking at season's end are not good. OSU is off the schedule and the team enters big ten play 1-2. The only thing that matters now is running the big ten schedule and hoping to have a convincing win against PSU to end the season (in East Lansing).
I'll also add what Dantonio won't say. If you score 30 points you should win. The defense made just as many if not more mistakes than the offense, and with one stop or one interception could have closed out the game. I know that ND puts up points, or has thus far, but 30 is enough to win if you play defense.
With Floyd out for the year and Clausen with turf toe this will look like a bad loss later in the year. The chances of a high ranking at season's end are not good. OSU is off the schedule and the team enters big ten play 1-2. The only thing that matters now is running the big ten schedule and hoping to have a convincing win against PSU to end the season (in East Lansing).
Sunday, September 20, 2009
MSU ND wrapup
It is a tough pill to swallow (and I'm glad I didn't watch it live) to see a winning drive snuffed out so close to a season turning win. But after this last weekend I am confident this team can turn it around anyways, with a LOT of work on two things.
1. pressure from the d-line
2. better deep coverage at the corners
Seeing the replay of missing a WIDE OPEN Caper in the endzone is heartbreaking. Knowing that, had you not been blocked on an extra point, you win the game with a field goal. Too many close calls and one really, really big mistake (throwing an interception on 2nd down with plenty of time and inside the 20) were the difference.
The Caper replay just ran again on the news. It looked like one of those moments where, as a basketball player, you're wide open for the game winner and you almost can't believe how open you are. You start thinking, "am I really this open?" and "is this real...something isn't right." Meanwhile you get caught between doing what you've been practicing since you were 6 -- just shoot the damn thing and win the game -- and second guessing what in the hell is going on. Then you chuck up an air ball on some awkward, off balance, halfway between a jumpshot and a 22' skyhook mess of a shot. Although Cousins throw wasn't that ugly that was the scenario. Big eyes, disbelief, overthrow.
His eyes got big. No one can blame him. The interception was bad, but again, he looked like a veteran QB all day long. I can't blame the kid for a couple things when, to be honest, he looked really good. Nichol should be done.
The defense was up and down. Some good run stops and the first sack on Clausen this year (1 sack: 1 injury ratio not looking good for emu resiliency) were good. The coverage at the corners (including the real game clincher -- the dropped, gift wrapped interception) was weak at best. I will say the "game of inches" thing applies because at least the corners were in the highlights. Each time it was a matter of inches between batting the ball and a ND receiver jumping into our band. Which, by the way, is ohhh sooo classsy.
Things don't get any easier going to Wisconsin, home for ummm, and on the road to Illinois. I still think MSU can win the BigTen. I mean that. We play Michigan at home, Penn State at home, and OSU is off the schedule. OSU doesn't look that good anyways. If we win at Wisconsin, control CT Lil Man Tate*, and keep Juice in the pocket MSU can be 3-0 before the schedule eases up for a while.
Then again the opposite could be true. Wisconsin could run the ball and chew up clock, punting and throwing to the tight ends 11 times per quarter and kicking a 3ft field goal on every possession, winning 18-14 or something. Followed by ummm and iLL scrambling and rambling to wins. In the sophisticated words of our peers: it could continue to suck.
I see a big win against Wisconsin, by two + scores.
1. pressure from the d-line
2. better deep coverage at the corners
Seeing the replay of missing a WIDE OPEN Caper in the endzone is heartbreaking. Knowing that, had you not been blocked on an extra point, you win the game with a field goal. Too many close calls and one really, really big mistake (throwing an interception on 2nd down with plenty of time and inside the 20) were the difference.
The Caper replay just ran again on the news. It looked like one of those moments where, as a basketball player, you're wide open for the game winner and you almost can't believe how open you are. You start thinking, "am I really this open?" and "is this real...something isn't right." Meanwhile you get caught between doing what you've been practicing since you were 6 -- just shoot the damn thing and win the game -- and second guessing what in the hell is going on. Then you chuck up an air ball on some awkward, off balance, halfway between a jumpshot and a 22' skyhook mess of a shot. Although Cousins throw wasn't that ugly that was the scenario. Big eyes, disbelief, overthrow.
His eyes got big. No one can blame him. The interception was bad, but again, he looked like a veteran QB all day long. I can't blame the kid for a couple things when, to be honest, he looked really good. Nichol should be done.
The defense was up and down. Some good run stops and the first sack on Clausen this year (1 sack: 1 injury ratio not looking good for emu resiliency) were good. The coverage at the corners (including the real game clincher -- the dropped, gift wrapped interception) was weak at best. I will say the "game of inches" thing applies because at least the corners were in the highlights. Each time it was a matter of inches between batting the ball and a ND receiver jumping into our band. Which, by the way, is ohhh sooo classsy.
Things don't get any easier going to Wisconsin, home for ummm, and on the road to Illinois. I still think MSU can win the BigTen. I mean that. We play Michigan at home, Penn State at home, and OSU is off the schedule. OSU doesn't look that good anyways. If we win at Wisconsin, control CT Lil Man Tate*, and keep Juice in the pocket MSU can be 3-0 before the schedule eases up for a while.
Then again the opposite could be true. Wisconsin could run the ball and chew up clock, punting and throwing to the tight ends 11 times per quarter and kicking a 3ft field goal on every possession, winning 18-14 or something. Followed by ummm and iLL scrambling and rambling to wins. In the sophisticated words of our peers: it could continue to suck.
I see a big win against Wisconsin, by two + scores.
State Budget
Before I address the game -- I missed the whole 4th quarter and was kept up to date by texts -- I have to talk about this budget mess in Michigan.
Everyone wants cuts. No one wants to pay taxes. We'll begin with that premise. But ask "what do you want to cut?" and no one really knows. "Uh, taxes...I pay too many taxes."
Do you want State Police/Firemen laid off? "No."
Do you want less snow removal from our roads? "No."
Do you want schools to have less money? "No."
Do you want Secretary of State offices to be open less? "No."
What about Family Independence money? "Can't cut that."
What about mental health services? "No, already underfunded."
So...
The latest article reads:
"The GOP Senate majority already has passed bills cutting $1.2 billion out of the $20 million general fund and school aid budgets, eliminating a popular college scholarship program and early childhood education programs and cutting monthly payments to the needy and mental health services."
Ok. To the extent there are things to cut, fat to trim, etc, it does NOT include early childhood education or mental health. I'm sorry, but if anything we could save millions of dollars, billions in short order, by treating mental health problems rather than putting people in prison for 30 years. Crime, unemployment, and emergency care costs would decrease if we treated mental health correctly.
Cutting early childhood programs? Really? College scholarships, ok. It really doesn't amount to much anyways, I mean, in the scheme of things. What is it $4000 max? Finance that over 20 years with the rest of your $60,000 education and I'm sure your payment will go up about $19. You cannot cut early childhood programs. One of the best programs I've listened to in quite some time should be mandatory listening, at least to the extent it applies to this discussion.
So where should we go? I'm not paid to know exactly what should be cut and how we should pay for what we keep. We can't start with the premise that taxes are a bad thing unless we are ready to give up basic services. To the extent people are comfortable with no police or fire protection and no basic infrastruture or public services, ok. You've thought it through and feel comfortable doing it on your own. To the extent you just "hate taxes" but want all the benefits, you are a moron.
______________________________________________
Everyone wants cuts. No one wants to pay taxes. We'll begin with that premise. But ask "what do you want to cut?" and no one really knows. "Uh, taxes...I pay too many taxes."
Do you want State Police/Firemen laid off? "No."
Do you want less snow removal from our roads? "No."
Do you want schools to have less money? "No."
Do you want Secretary of State offices to be open less? "No."
What about Family Independence money? "Can't cut that."
What about mental health services? "No, already underfunded."
So...
The latest article reads:
"The GOP Senate majority already has passed bills cutting $1.2 billion out of the $20 million general fund and school aid budgets, eliminating a popular college scholarship program and early childhood education programs and cutting monthly payments to the needy and mental health services."
Ok. To the extent there are things to cut, fat to trim, etc, it does NOT include early childhood education or mental health. I'm sorry, but if anything we could save millions of dollars, billions in short order, by treating mental health problems rather than putting people in prison for 30 years. Crime, unemployment, and emergency care costs would decrease if we treated mental health correctly.
Cutting early childhood programs? Really? College scholarships, ok. It really doesn't amount to much anyways, I mean, in the scheme of things. What is it $4000 max? Finance that over 20 years with the rest of your $60,000 education and I'm sure your payment will go up about $19. You cannot cut early childhood programs. One of the best programs I've listened to in quite some time should be mandatory listening, at least to the extent it applies to this discussion.
So where should we go? I'm not paid to know exactly what should be cut and how we should pay for what we keep. We can't start with the premise that taxes are a bad thing unless we are ready to give up basic services. To the extent people are comfortable with no police or fire protection and no basic infrastruture or public services, ok. You've thought it through and feel comfortable doing it on your own. To the extent you just "hate taxes" but want all the benefits, you are a moron.
______________________________________________
Friday, September 18, 2009
Integrity
RichRod has none. Supporting evidence item number 3,238:
1. Act like it didn't happen.
2. Act like it was "two players tangled up" rather than a cheap shot.
3. Let the BigTen suspend him rather than handling it in house.
Win or lose I am pretty sure we know what would happen around here should something similar happen.
http://freep.com/article/20090918/SPORTS06/90918063/1319/U-M-LB-suspended-over-punch
1. Act like it didn't happen.
2. Act like it was "two players tangled up" rather than a cheap shot.
3. Let the BigTen suspend him rather than handling it in house.
Win or lose I am pretty sure we know what would happen around here should something similar happen.
http://freep.com/article/20090918/SPORTS06/90918063/1319/U-M-LB-suspended-over-punch
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
CMU Wrap Up, ND "Hate Week"
So I decided to do a running blog last week. Great timing, as you might have noticed. I did just the first and fourth quarters mostly. I've edited out some harshness but left about 99% of it.
Cousins VERY solid on first pass. Tight throw in a tight slot. Caper is solid, but Caulton Ray reads blocks solidly. CMU too small. Tight Ends too big for the CMU line. MSU can RUN ALL DAY.
COUSINS can throw the ball. Blair White is one hell of a hard working QB. No kidding he is about to be in the NFL. Late round sleeper pick or a practice squad signee. Hard worker. No wasted motion. Speed. Best hands at MSU since Charles Rogers . Clean drug tests.
Bad challenge. Hands under the ball. TD MSU (in Blaha voice).
Bad call on the review. He had possession AS HE HIT THE ENDZONE. It was not a catch at the 1 and down, but a bobble and catch IN the endzone.
No matter. CMU line weak. TD C.Ray. Boaters everywhere rejoice.
7-0 MSU
Sidebar: MSU needs to not only win week to week, but needs to make statements. This is off year for the Rose Bowl. We still need to show our excitement and skill level to sell ourselves for bowl games.
Back to the game. Nice little flop throw to the TE for tHE fEVER. My gay uncle throws harder (does not exist). Nice comeback throw by LeFevour. Good cover by Rucker. Played perfectly on both sides.
Screen works. What did I say? Don’t over pursue. Watch the screen and draws…
Tipped ball might have been a lateral and a fumble. No one says a word. I wonder.
Good fight from the CMU TE to break 3 tackles and get the first down.
This is a matter of time. CMU is undersized and throw happy. Stuffed on the first run in 9 plays.
Nice throw on the run for LFVR. Big hit to knock it free. Advice to LFVRRRR: Do not let Jones hit you.
7-3 MSU
Winston breaks a little runback. He has a lot to prove. I won’t really get into the specifics.
1. Bad throw by Cousins. 2. Blair White catches it. 3. W/Blair White I would look like Marino.
I look for Nichol soon, although, Cousins is sharp. I just look to shake it up if I’m a coach and make things more difficult on the DE’s. Different cadence, voice, and count plus a little more hesitation on the QB scramble threat. This dual threat is a good thing so long is there is no controversy.
Perfect throw to White and THICK DOUBLE coverage finally makes a last second stop. White stripped on the way down. Still solid.
Wally Pipp reference in re CMU running back. Dedicated to DP.
tHEfEVER throw is sidearm. Re-evaluating NFL material status.
Good play and even better tackle by CMU on the immediate end around. End in motion and direct handoff snuffed out. Caulton Ray short run. I really see BIG runs later in the game from the early pounding. CMU too small.
Perfect throw. Not sure if a catch and fumble (tie to receiver) or incomplete. If they challenge it is probably a TD. TBD.
On review, from my angle, either a TD (or no possession/control) or incomplete (no one has possession in bounds). Percent chance of a TD: 0.00%
Swenson money. Hanson replacement? Hopefully.
10-3 MSULeFevour is fast and has pretty good feet. He turns the corner and gets just inside the market. 1st down CMU. End of 1st quarter.
END OF FIRST
I was going to skip the 2nd and 3rd quarters. Nichol just threw the ball from his hips and missed a wide open receiver for a TD. Wide open. Would have been 60+ yards. WHY throw from your hip, and, there was virtually no pressure. Why?
That said: Nichol is both quick and fast. That doesn’t happen often.
Hmm. And strong. 9 yard complete bs scramble.
Again, don’t want to spend too much time between the 1st and 4th, but that CMU field goal was close. In terms of atomic bomb range, close. Close for Helen keller. Close as in “I almost went to Harvard Law” close.
Also. Complete effing horsehockey on the personal foul call. He’s a football player not a cheerleader.
Wow. “late shot” my ass. That said nice drive and nice toss. TD CMU.
START OF FOURTH
Nice run by Ray to start the 4th. I agree with the commentators, for once, and think Cousins has more control Nichol is more of a “wild card” on offense.
You have to dominate CMU on the O line. There is no question. Too much time on the field for the CMU offense and not enough time grinding the CMU defense. I’ll go back to disagreeing with the commentators who said “don’t think he got it” to say “he got it, clearly, moron.”
Gantt gets hung up on a false start because he knew he had an advantage. But Cunningham (my favorite receiver last year) goes wide and caps a clock killing drive. Now the D needs a 3 and out to show why the MAC is the MAC.
Commentator: “people like to question LeFevour’s arm strength.” I don’t. I question whether he molests children. Seriously, look at him.
Woah woah woah. One ref is 6 inches past the first down marker and one is 2 feet behind it. Third ref determines no measurement. First down. Uh, ok.
Nice call for a screen, unless the other team has “I’m GREG JONES.”
Rucker gets runs again. The spot is sketchy. Short of a first down. Challenge?
Measurement says first down. Probably a good call either way.
How about a pick six…
Wow. How about if the guy keeps his feet in it’s a TD? Good toss to a wide open man, but no dice.
TD CMU. Not sure how you don’t get more pressure on such a small team, but nice toss. Under review.
TD CMU.
Wow. CMU kicks a perfect onside kickoff, and with this kickers leg, look out. 21 seconds to go.
Pick…six...??
16 seconds to go. Don’t expect an Iowa situation. Iowa’s defensive line is impressive. MSU…is ok. At best.
Still need a big play.
Wow. 47-49 yard field goal on tap. This guy is certainly good enough to hit this, and as we’ve seen , good enough to keep it within 30 yards of a goal post.
For the record you shouldn’t have to “ice” a MAC kicker. Ever. That is uMichesque. RichRodBaggery, if you will.
Penalty pushes the ball 5 yards closer and makes this, in my mind, game.
Double icing a MAC kicker, because you have a Dlineman that can’t stay onside against a MAC team.
42 yard attempt. A high school kicker could make this, which means CMU has a chance. He did. Just lost to a shit team.CMU is pretty much the worst team MSU has lost to since, well, CMU.
________________________
The sad thing is that I like Dantonio's ability to adjust in game. When no real defensive adjustments or increased ball carrying occured, I started to wonder if that was the best we could expect. CMU is pretty ok but not that good. I wonder if all the hype of the specialty positions helped us ignore the fact that the lines are not so good, on either side of the ball.
We'll find out this week -- known as Hate Week to some, Hate Weak to others -- as ND rolls into town after losing the ummm.
I think both of these teams, MSU and ND, are unsure of what they want to be. Are we a passing team? Do we play defense and special teams and just not turn the ball over? God knows that we don't run the ball.
I look for a close game and a much improved MSU secondary. ND is different than CMU in that the QB won't be running around and the receivers are big, not shifty.
However, it might still come down to the fact that MSU hasn't been able to establish the running game against a good team. Or, for that matter, shut down the run and force the pass.
If MSU can:
1. Protect Cousins,
2. Run for 100+ yards before the 4th quarter, and
3. Come out even or +1 on turnovers I see an MSU squeaker.
If not: Ugly.
ND isn't that impressive on the ground or defensively, but I don't know that it takes much against our O-Line. The MSU secondary is better suited against this type of traditional passing attack, although the talent of the players lining up wide for ND is significantly better than CMU showed up. I really think it was a little bit matchup a little bit bad day, a little bit maybe this defense isn't so great [without Wiley at safety and a solid pass rush].
MSU - 28
ND --- 27
Cousins VERY solid on first pass. Tight throw in a tight slot. Caper is solid, but Caulton Ray reads blocks solidly. CMU too small. Tight Ends too big for the CMU line. MSU can RUN ALL DAY.
COUSINS can throw the ball. Blair White is one hell of a hard working QB. No kidding he is about to be in the NFL. Late round sleeper pick or a practice squad signee. Hard worker. No wasted motion. Speed. Best hands at MSU since Charles Rogers . Clean drug tests.
Bad challenge. Hands under the ball. TD MSU (in Blaha voice).
Bad call on the review. He had possession AS HE HIT THE ENDZONE. It was not a catch at the 1 and down, but a bobble and catch IN the endzone.
No matter. CMU line weak. TD C.Ray. Boaters everywhere rejoice.
7-0 MSU
Sidebar: MSU needs to not only win week to week, but needs to make statements. This is off year for the Rose Bowl. We still need to show our excitement and skill level to sell ourselves for bowl games.
Back to the game. Nice little flop throw to the TE for tHE fEVER. My gay uncle throws harder (does not exist). Nice comeback throw by LeFevour. Good cover by Rucker. Played perfectly on both sides.
Screen works. What did I say? Don’t over pursue. Watch the screen and draws…
Tipped ball might have been a lateral and a fumble. No one says a word. I wonder.
Good fight from the CMU TE to break 3 tackles and get the first down.
This is a matter of time. CMU is undersized and throw happy. Stuffed on the first run in 9 plays.
Nice throw on the run for LFVR. Big hit to knock it free. Advice to LFVRRRR: Do not let Jones hit you.
7-3 MSU
Winston breaks a little runback. He has a lot to prove. I won’t really get into the specifics.
1. Bad throw by Cousins. 2. Blair White catches it. 3. W/Blair White I would look like Marino.
I look for Nichol soon, although, Cousins is sharp. I just look to shake it up if I’m a coach and make things more difficult on the DE’s. Different cadence, voice, and count plus a little more hesitation on the QB scramble threat. This dual threat is a good thing so long is there is no controversy.
Perfect throw to White and THICK DOUBLE coverage finally makes a last second stop. White stripped on the way down. Still solid.
Wally Pipp reference in re CMU running back. Dedicated to DP.
tHEfEVER throw is sidearm. Re-evaluating NFL material status.
Good play and even better tackle by CMU on the immediate end around. End in motion and direct handoff snuffed out. Caulton Ray short run. I really see BIG runs later in the game from the early pounding. CMU too small.
Perfect throw. Not sure if a catch and fumble (tie to receiver) or incomplete. If they challenge it is probably a TD. TBD.
On review, from my angle, either a TD (or no possession/control) or incomplete (no one has possession in bounds). Percent chance of a TD: 0.00%
Swenson money. Hanson replacement? Hopefully.
10-3 MSULeFevour is fast and has pretty good feet. He turns the corner and gets just inside the market. 1st down CMU. End of 1st quarter.
END OF FIRST
I was going to skip the 2nd and 3rd quarters. Nichol just threw the ball from his hips and missed a wide open receiver for a TD. Wide open. Would have been 60+ yards. WHY throw from your hip, and, there was virtually no pressure. Why?
That said: Nichol is both quick and fast. That doesn’t happen often.
Hmm. And strong. 9 yard complete bs scramble.
Again, don’t want to spend too much time between the 1st and 4th, but that CMU field goal was close. In terms of atomic bomb range, close. Close for Helen keller. Close as in “I almost went to Harvard Law” close.
Also. Complete effing horsehockey on the personal foul call. He’s a football player not a cheerleader.
Wow. “late shot” my ass. That said nice drive and nice toss. TD CMU.
START OF FOURTH
Nice run by Ray to start the 4th. I agree with the commentators, for once, and think Cousins has more control Nichol is more of a “wild card” on offense.
You have to dominate CMU on the O line. There is no question. Too much time on the field for the CMU offense and not enough time grinding the CMU defense. I’ll go back to disagreeing with the commentators who said “don’t think he got it” to say “he got it, clearly, moron.”
Gantt gets hung up on a false start because he knew he had an advantage. But Cunningham (my favorite receiver last year) goes wide and caps a clock killing drive. Now the D needs a 3 and out to show why the MAC is the MAC.
Commentator: “people like to question LeFevour’s arm strength.” I don’t. I question whether he molests children. Seriously, look at him.
Woah woah woah. One ref is 6 inches past the first down marker and one is 2 feet behind it. Third ref determines no measurement. First down. Uh, ok.
Nice call for a screen, unless the other team has “I’m GREG JONES.”
Rucker gets runs again. The spot is sketchy. Short of a first down. Challenge?
Measurement says first down. Probably a good call either way.
How about a pick six…
Wow. How about if the guy keeps his feet in it’s a TD? Good toss to a wide open man, but no dice.
TD CMU. Not sure how you don’t get more pressure on such a small team, but nice toss. Under review.
TD CMU.
Wow. CMU kicks a perfect onside kickoff, and with this kickers leg, look out. 21 seconds to go.
Pick…six...??
16 seconds to go. Don’t expect an Iowa situation. Iowa’s defensive line is impressive. MSU…is ok. At best.
Still need a big play.
Wow. 47-49 yard field goal on tap. This guy is certainly good enough to hit this, and as we’ve seen , good enough to keep it within 30 yards of a goal post.
For the record you shouldn’t have to “ice” a MAC kicker. Ever. That is uMichesque. RichRodBaggery, if you will.
Penalty pushes the ball 5 yards closer and makes this, in my mind, game.
Double icing a MAC kicker, because you have a Dlineman that can’t stay onside against a MAC team.
42 yard attempt. A high school kicker could make this, which means CMU has a chance. He did. Just lost to a shit team.CMU is pretty much the worst team MSU has lost to since, well, CMU.
________________________
The sad thing is that I like Dantonio's ability to adjust in game. When no real defensive adjustments or increased ball carrying occured, I started to wonder if that was the best we could expect. CMU is pretty ok but not that good. I wonder if all the hype of the specialty positions helped us ignore the fact that the lines are not so good, on either side of the ball.
We'll find out this week -- known as Hate Week to some, Hate Weak to others -- as ND rolls into town after losing the ummm.
I think both of these teams, MSU and ND, are unsure of what they want to be. Are we a passing team? Do we play defense and special teams and just not turn the ball over? God knows that we don't run the ball.
I look for a close game and a much improved MSU secondary. ND is different than CMU in that the QB won't be running around and the receivers are big, not shifty.
However, it might still come down to the fact that MSU hasn't been able to establish the running game against a good team. Or, for that matter, shut down the run and force the pass.
If MSU can:
1. Protect Cousins,
2. Run for 100+ yards before the 4th quarter, and
3. Come out even or +1 on turnovers I see an MSU squeaker.
If not: Ugly.
ND isn't that impressive on the ground or defensively, but I don't know that it takes much against our O-Line. The MSU secondary is better suited against this type of traditional passing attack, although the talent of the players lining up wide for ND is significantly better than CMU showed up. I really think it was a little bit matchup a little bit bad day, a little bit maybe this defense isn't so great [without Wiley at safety and a solid pass rush].
MSU - 28
ND --- 27
Friday, September 11, 2009
3 things
1. Put JayZ, Common, and Kanye with Elton, Stevie, P.Floyd, and the like as the works of genius. Stop hating and listen. Don't hear. Listen.
2. If the Tiger bats can wake up it doesn't really matter what the 3 and 4 pitchers do. Verlander and Jackson are good enough, when the bats put up 4+ runs, to win any game. We can win any series against any team when the 1 and 2 do ok to good, and the 3 and 4 do just average.
3a. MSU is poised to make Michigan one of the top college football states in the country. Forget the resurgence of UCLA, Cal and the everpresent USC. Forget Miami, Florida State, and the powerhouse Gators. The Spartans and, well, that other team, could both be good to very great over the next 5 years. Of course depending on NCAA findings and the resulting penalties.
3b. Please, someone, no matter if you agree or disagree with the message, give some love for a US President that speaks English.
2. If the Tiger bats can wake up it doesn't really matter what the 3 and 4 pitchers do. Verlander and Jackson are good enough, when the bats put up 4+ runs, to win any game. We can win any series against any team when the 1 and 2 do ok to good, and the 3 and 4 do just average.
3a. MSU is poised to make Michigan one of the top college football states in the country. Forget the resurgence of UCLA, Cal and the everpresent USC. Forget Miami, Florida State, and the powerhouse Gators. The Spartans and, well, that other team, could both be good to very great over the next 5 years. Of course depending on NCAA findings and the resulting penalties.
3b. Please, someone, no matter if you agree or disagree with the message, give some love for a US President that speaks English.
Week Two
To wrap up last week's game versus Montana State University I'll say this. We don't really know much more than we did the friday before the game. Things we knew before the game that are still true:
1. The QB's are both pretty good (against a bad opponent at least).
2. The running backs are a work in progress, but there are plenty of horses in the stable.
3. The O-Line is a work in progress.
4. The defense could be really, really good this year with some fine tuning.
5. We need to get more interior pressure on the QB.
The only thing that was somewhat troubling was the play of Rucker at corner. I hope he just lost focus on his two pass interference calls and wasn't simply beat. I thought he would be really, really solid this year. If Montana State receivers can simply run by you deep...look out. It could be a long year on that side of the field, or it could be bench time for Rucker.
For my money you have to stick with Cousins. I agree tie goes to the guy who has been around longer. Also, in the event of a tie, I like the guy the players elected a captain. They see and listen to him daily, which has to be worth something.
Also, Cousins seems more poised. His footwork from under center looks quite awkward when compared to Nichol but his arm mechanics and accuracy seemed as good or better. I like the way Nichol can move in the pocket without giving up on the pass too soon (Stanton at times did that) and his ability to throw while moving without stopping to square up. That could lead to bad habits ie gunslinging/over-confidence in the future, but against teams where there is a great deal of pressure but solid linebacking to snuff out QB runs, it would be nice to be able to stay in the pocket but still avoid the sack.
I like the ability to run three or more backs per game. No one gets tired, everyone gets reps, keeps the defense guessing. It will come down to picking up in pass protection, a place where I see Ray and Baker excelling.
CMU 9/12/09
Although this would normally be a game to fear, I think MSU can handle this chip team. Dan THE FEVER is no doubt a solid QB, probably the best chance to be taken at a skill position in the first round of the draft in CMU history. However, MSU is strongest, on paper at least, at Linebacker and Defensive Back. That should keep his guessing and looking over his shoulder for corner blitzes and a stalking Greg Jones. You don't want to get hit by Jenrette or Jones, and I see some opportunity for Piano Man Misch to get some time this weekend at LB. If the defense contains and avoids big screen plays (by not overpursuing into the backfield agains the smaller defensive line) there is a good chance CMU scores less than 20 points. If the screens and draws break big plays look out. That would open up the field for LeFevour to throw the ball around, and in turn, tuck and run later in the game.
I would mention the CMU special teams success of the past against MSU but that was primarily under Bobby Williams and John L Smith. They aree currently...I don't know. Doing something else somewhere else, dugumit. Dantonio will not allow 4 blocked punts this season, let alone in one game. I also see a big game out of someone in the MSU return game, someone looking to make a name, see the field more, and crack the lineup at Running Back or Receiver.
MSU - 32
CMU - 13
1. The QB's are both pretty good (against a bad opponent at least).
2. The running backs are a work in progress, but there are plenty of horses in the stable.
3. The O-Line is a work in progress.
4. The defense could be really, really good this year with some fine tuning.
5. We need to get more interior pressure on the QB.
The only thing that was somewhat troubling was the play of Rucker at corner. I hope he just lost focus on his two pass interference calls and wasn't simply beat. I thought he would be really, really solid this year. If Montana State receivers can simply run by you deep...look out. It could be a long year on that side of the field, or it could be bench time for Rucker.
For my money you have to stick with Cousins. I agree tie goes to the guy who has been around longer. Also, in the event of a tie, I like the guy the players elected a captain. They see and listen to him daily, which has to be worth something.
Also, Cousins seems more poised. His footwork from under center looks quite awkward when compared to Nichol but his arm mechanics and accuracy seemed as good or better. I like the way Nichol can move in the pocket without giving up on the pass too soon (Stanton at times did that) and his ability to throw while moving without stopping to square up. That could lead to bad habits ie gunslinging/over-confidence in the future, but against teams where there is a great deal of pressure but solid linebacking to snuff out QB runs, it would be nice to be able to stay in the pocket but still avoid the sack.
I like the ability to run three or more backs per game. No one gets tired, everyone gets reps, keeps the defense guessing. It will come down to picking up in pass protection, a place where I see Ray and Baker excelling.
CMU 9/12/09
Although this would normally be a game to fear, I think MSU can handle this chip team. Dan THE FEVER is no doubt a solid QB, probably the best chance to be taken at a skill position in the first round of the draft in CMU history. However, MSU is strongest, on paper at least, at Linebacker and Defensive Back. That should keep his guessing and looking over his shoulder for corner blitzes and a stalking Greg Jones. You don't want to get hit by Jenrette or Jones, and I see some opportunity for Piano Man Misch to get some time this weekend at LB. If the defense contains and avoids big screen plays (by not overpursuing into the backfield agains the smaller defensive line) there is a good chance CMU scores less than 20 points. If the screens and draws break big plays look out. That would open up the field for LeFevour to throw the ball around, and in turn, tuck and run later in the game.
I would mention the CMU special teams success of the past against MSU but that was primarily under Bobby Williams and John L Smith. They aree currently...I don't know. Doing something else somewhere else, dugumit. Dantonio will not allow 4 blocked punts this season, let alone in one game. I also see a big game out of someone in the MSU return game, someone looking to make a name, see the field more, and crack the lineup at Running Back or Receiver.
MSU - 32
CMU - 13
Friday, September 4, 2009
Mixed Rants
First I had to spend an unhealthy amount of time at the dentist this Wednesday. That was bad enough. Second, while waiting, I had to listen to other patients in other rooms. What is it with dentists not having doors on their rooms? I know what you're thinking:
So the ancient lady in the room next to me who apparently is all around brilliant (as she proceeded to argue with the dentist about the cause of her snoring. turns out its not her toothpaste) starts blabbering about health care. I have always taken these talking heads from the left and the right for what they're worth: nothing. I often wonder why people with political advisors and huge followings would say such stupid things (see: sarah palin = death panels). I mean, what positive can come from looking and sounding so stupid? Then this woman confirmed my worst fears.
"Obama wants the government to take over health care so he can kill all the seniors...I heard it on the news."
At first I laughed. I mean come on. I wasn't the biggest fan of GWB but I NEVER thought he purposely made decisions based on a desire to see people die. Cheney maybe. Ok not really. But I actually laughed. Then I thought "God no, these people meet at McDonald's every day and have the highest voter turnout." These idiots like Palin, Rush, and that fat baby faced lunatic on Fox are taking advantage of american stupidity. The difference between the left and right is this: the left is appealing and convincing to young liberals/moderates more so than the senior population. Their untruths and rants are never carried through because young people don't vote. And they use multiple news sources. Meanwhile, even if 1 in 4 Fox News/Rush listeners believes it as gospel, there is about a 80% chance they are voting.
_____________________
Michigan State and Montana State square off this Saturday. It shouldn't be a game after 1 quarter. Its really going to look like an organized, very official, scrimmage. Not that Montana State is bad, but they are just overmatched. I expect to see a lot of new faces by the 3rd quarter.
MiState - 40
MoState - 17
_____________________
I have two very divergent contingency based predictions. If RichRod loses 2 of his first 3 this year (Western Michigan, Notre Dame, Eastern Michigan) he is cooked. Losses will be he nail in a coffin built over the last few months. Player transfers and dismissals (for recruiting questionable players and losing good kids because he's an ass) NCAA violations that no doubt occurred to some degree, and the recent investment fraud/loan default news that give um a bad name are no small thing. I've said since day one he was a risky hire for the above board reputation -- real or contrived -- associated with um football.* Somewhere the lloyd haters are wondering if lloyd would come back.
If they win the first 4 and split the next 8 RichRod lives to coach another year. A few assistants take the fall on the NCAA thing (meanwhile I hope it drags out and recruits bail on him not knowing if there will be a ban) and things chug along slowly. He coaches at um for the remainder of the contract and never makes a dime, taking his pay in legal representation from the law school for the next 3 scandals to come out. Honestly I hope he stays. I also liked Brian Ellerbe and Tommy Amaker. So did izzo.
_______________________
The Tigers are winning enough games, in exciting ways, and the competition just keep losing games. Roughly 30 games to go. Hopefully they can win 20 of them, including splits with the ChiSox and the Twinkies.
Ernie Harwell has cancer. He's decided not to do surgery/treatment. Its sad to think about such a steady, smart, perfect part of childhood summers not being around. Here's to a big Tigers run and Ernie in the booth a few more times this fall.
_______________________
* football only. as we know basketball is another story. see: the Fab we never existed Five
So the ancient lady in the room next to me who apparently is all around brilliant (as she proceeded to argue with the dentist about the cause of her snoring. turns out its not her toothpaste) starts blabbering about health care. I have always taken these talking heads from the left and the right for what they're worth: nothing. I often wonder why people with political advisors and huge followings would say such stupid things (see: sarah palin = death panels). I mean, what positive can come from looking and sounding so stupid? Then this woman confirmed my worst fears.
"Obama wants the government to take over health care so he can kill all the seniors...I heard it on the news."
At first I laughed. I mean come on. I wasn't the biggest fan of GWB but I NEVER thought he purposely made decisions based on a desire to see people die. Cheney maybe. Ok not really. But I actually laughed. Then I thought "God no, these people meet at McDonald's every day and have the highest voter turnout." These idiots like Palin, Rush, and that fat baby faced lunatic on Fox are taking advantage of american stupidity. The difference between the left and right is this: the left is appealing and convincing to young liberals/moderates more so than the senior population. Their untruths and rants are never carried through because young people don't vote. And they use multiple news sources. Meanwhile, even if 1 in 4 Fox News/Rush listeners believes it as gospel, there is about a 80% chance they are voting.
_____________________
Michigan State and Montana State square off this Saturday. It shouldn't be a game after 1 quarter. Its really going to look like an organized, very official, scrimmage. Not that Montana State is bad, but they are just overmatched. I expect to see a lot of new faces by the 3rd quarter.
MiState - 40
MoState - 17
_____________________
I have two very divergent contingency based predictions. If RichRod loses 2 of his first 3 this year (Western Michigan, Notre Dame, Eastern Michigan) he is cooked. Losses will be he nail in a coffin built over the last few months. Player transfers and dismissals (for recruiting questionable players and losing good kids because he's an ass) NCAA violations that no doubt occurred to some degree, and the recent investment fraud/loan default news that give um a bad name are no small thing. I've said since day one he was a risky hire for the above board reputation -- real or contrived -- associated with um football.* Somewhere the lloyd haters are wondering if lloyd would come back.
If they win the first 4 and split the next 8 RichRod lives to coach another year. A few assistants take the fall on the NCAA thing (meanwhile I hope it drags out and recruits bail on him not knowing if there will be a ban) and things chug along slowly. He coaches at um for the remainder of the contract and never makes a dime, taking his pay in legal representation from the law school for the next 3 scandals to come out. Honestly I hope he stays. I also liked Brian Ellerbe and Tommy Amaker. So did izzo.
_______________________
The Tigers are winning enough games, in exciting ways, and the competition just keep losing games. Roughly 30 games to go. Hopefully they can win 20 of them, including splits with the ChiSox and the Twinkies.
Ernie Harwell has cancer. He's decided not to do surgery/treatment. Its sad to think about such a steady, smart, perfect part of childhood summers not being around. Here's to a big Tigers run and Ernie in the booth a few more times this fall.
_______________________
* football only. as we know basketball is another story. see: the Fab we never existed Five
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Captains Selected
The football team selected 4 captains today. This isn't usually news. This isn't usual.
For the first time in years there is a QB competition and the coaches have yet to name a starter. In fact, the word is a sesaon long starter may not be named until as late as the week following the CMU game, or week three.
The players haven't waited to chime in. They selected Greg Jones, Blair White, Ross Weaver, and ...
Kirk Cousins.
So there is at least the intriguing storyline of Kirk Cousins the captain, of the bench. Keith Nichol leader of the team, sort of.
http://freep.com/article/20090827/SPORTS07/90827064/1055/MSU-names-four-football-captains
For the first time in years there is a QB competition and the coaches have yet to name a starter. In fact, the word is a sesaon long starter may not be named until as late as the week following the CMU game, or week three.
The players haven't waited to chime in. They selected Greg Jones, Blair White, Ross Weaver, and ...
Kirk Cousins.
So there is at least the intriguing storyline of Kirk Cousins the captain, of the bench. Keith Nichol leader of the team, sort of.
http://freep.com/article/20090827/SPORTS07/90827064/1055/MSU-names-four-football-captains
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Americans love Futbol
Or not. Because idiots like Skip Bayless wouldn't have a clue what athletic looked like if it hit them in the face. Actually he might. He was probably punched in the face, repeatedly, throughout his childhood by athletes. The point is guys like Skip Bayless try to curry favor with rednecks everywhere by making outdated and simple jokes about soccer. In about 10 years he is going to look like Strom Thurmond, both in ideology and skin folds.
Back to the point. Football is number 1. College football follows the script of college basketball. More drama, more heart, and more at stake week to week than the corresponding professional level. For all the problems with the Bowl system and the push back on a playoff system I can agree with one argument in favor of the current system; don't slip up. Most teams can't afford to lose a single game, especially late in the season. Every week every game is important, like a playoff. The playoff system would only require getting in the top 10 or so, making a loss here or there acceptable with a chance to enter a playoff later. The season finale would probably trump march madness (please never have a playoff for football!) but the regular season would be left to the truest of fans.
MSU - I am a Spartan fan. That means I am cautiously optimistic. I like the general direction of the team but I've seen it before. I like the coach and the long term trend but I can't get too high, lest I be let down again. The schedule sets up nicely for a big, BIG season. I'm cautiously optimistic. Let's just say I'm long msu football but I wouldn't take msu as a trade.
Lou Holtz (sorry DP) may have gone too far this time. He picked ND to be in the championship game this year with Florida. He did qualify his statement by saying that ND "is not the second best team in the country" but that ND's schedule sets up nicely (see: cake walk) and that "they have the best chance of being 12-0 of any team other than Florida*" in the country. Really?? Did you watch that team the last two years? "They are returning XX players." Ok. So are the detroit lions. Is that good or bad? I think ND will be much better than last year, based on the schedule and improvement of the feathered boa. They will NOT be in the national championship unless 3 team forfeit. I'll eat my hat with ketchup.
I am worried about:
1. MSU at Illinois. This is a team that lost a lot of close games last year and has a running QB. Things happen w/ running QB's, for instance, large losses to PSU and OSU last year.
2. MSU at ND. I don't think ND is that good but I question MSU's ability to run the ball. I like te way our db's and lb's match up against the irish receivers but I just wonder about holding a lead or grinding out a game this year. I also wonder what kind of pressure we'll get on the qb. The pass rush is yet unproven.
3. Iowa. The hawkeyes DOMINATED our lines last year. Both offensive and defensive domination. Although Greene is gone I don't think it matters who runs behind that line. Although King and Kroul (sp?) are gone the D line will be very good still. Stanzi was impressive last year (as a guy getting 10 seconds to make decisions should be) and will only be better this year. Iowa is going to be good.
4. Either: Minnesota, Wisconsin, or CMU. Yes that CMU. With scrambling QB see above. Same can be said for MN, potentially, and the fact that it is Halloween and the new stadium will be rocking. Wisconsin is so so, but at home, is pretty good and has a stable of running backs.
Don't forget PSU. I don't think they will be as good as last year. A lot of the defense was lost and the offense will take a while to get rolling. Unfortunately for MSU PSU has all season to get it right. Also, there are plenty of returning starters on the nittany offense, including 37th year senior Daryll (and his other brother Daryll) Clark.
*I decided " 's were best despite the fact that the entire passage is paraphrased. In fairness his esses were sloppy and he slurred like a champion that day.
Back to the point. Football is number 1. College football follows the script of college basketball. More drama, more heart, and more at stake week to week than the corresponding professional level. For all the problems with the Bowl system and the push back on a playoff system I can agree with one argument in favor of the current system; don't slip up. Most teams can't afford to lose a single game, especially late in the season. Every week every game is important, like a playoff. The playoff system would only require getting in the top 10 or so, making a loss here or there acceptable with a chance to enter a playoff later. The season finale would probably trump march madness (please never have a playoff for football!) but the regular season would be left to the truest of fans.
MSU - I am a Spartan fan. That means I am cautiously optimistic. I like the general direction of the team but I've seen it before. I like the coach and the long term trend but I can't get too high, lest I be let down again. The schedule sets up nicely for a big, BIG season. I'm cautiously optimistic. Let's just say I'm long msu football but I wouldn't take msu as a trade.
Lou Holtz (sorry DP) may have gone too far this time. He picked ND to be in the championship game this year with Florida. He did qualify his statement by saying that ND "is not the second best team in the country" but that ND's schedule sets up nicely (see: cake walk) and that "they have the best chance of being 12-0 of any team other than Florida*" in the country. Really?? Did you watch that team the last two years? "They are returning XX players." Ok. So are the detroit lions. Is that good or bad? I think ND will be much better than last year, based on the schedule and improvement of the feathered boa. They will NOT be in the national championship unless 3 team forfeit. I'll eat my hat with ketchup.
I am worried about:
1. MSU at Illinois. This is a team that lost a lot of close games last year and has a running QB. Things happen w/ running QB's, for instance, large losses to PSU and OSU last year.
2. MSU at ND. I don't think ND is that good but I question MSU's ability to run the ball. I like te way our db's and lb's match up against the irish receivers but I just wonder about holding a lead or grinding out a game this year. I also wonder what kind of pressure we'll get on the qb. The pass rush is yet unproven.
3. Iowa. The hawkeyes DOMINATED our lines last year. Both offensive and defensive domination. Although Greene is gone I don't think it matters who runs behind that line. Although King and Kroul (sp?) are gone the D line will be very good still. Stanzi was impressive last year (as a guy getting 10 seconds to make decisions should be) and will only be better this year. Iowa is going to be good.
4. Either: Minnesota, Wisconsin, or CMU. Yes that CMU. With scrambling QB see above. Same can be said for MN, potentially, and the fact that it is Halloween and the new stadium will be rocking. Wisconsin is so so, but at home, is pretty good and has a stable of running backs.
Don't forget PSU. I don't think they will be as good as last year. A lot of the defense was lost and the offense will take a while to get rolling. Unfortunately for MSU PSU has all season to get it right. Also, there are plenty of returning starters on the nittany offense, including 37th year senior Daryll (and his other brother Daryll) Clark.
*I decided " 's were best despite the fact that the entire passage is paraphrased. In fairness his esses were sloppy and he slurred like a champion that day.
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