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.
Monday, September 28, 2009
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
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