Schedule for Thursday

S,  Schedule of Games.

Thursday.
LSUS plays at 7p against Wiley  (I will be in Natchitoches Tuesday to watch NSU and LSUS)
Airline plays at 830 against Fair Park

LSUS will play again Saturday at 4pm against Southwest.    
If they win the two home games they should be No 1 in the nation in the next Poll. 
If you like pressure all over the court and unselfish play, you will love this team.
NSU is going to be in for a little more perimeter pressure than they are used to. 

It appears we will have multiple games on Friday and Saturday night for Bossier Tournament games.
 The Saturday games are usually two games per teams to set the finals.
I want you to see some of the players at Huntington, Zwolle, Parkway, and Minden and will definitely watch Airline and Bossier.   Airline surprised all of the experts by winning the Doc Edwards Tourney this weekend.

The best player in the area, is a Jr. at Minden, 6'5 with a wing span and explosion named Walker, but the coach seems to have a grudge or point to make and is not playing him but a little more than half the game.
 Zwolle has a 6'8 kid with great hands, (Sr.Frazier-NSU signee.) 
Huntington has a 6'5 athlete that is just different in quickness for his size, (Jr-Qualls.) 
Bossier is missing Francis ( I hate that you will miss him), when people that look at points they miss what he does, he could score 20plus points anytime he wanted.  He takes games over without touching the ball on offense, only about 5'10 but so much quicker than the others it is obvious.  He seems to only take over the game when it gets close.  But, Bossier will still be tough with 4A all state guard West (NSU signee) and quick 3pt shooting James.
Aaron  at NCHS will also be there, (I love the kid,) but he is probably going to play D1 football next year.
I am unsure if North Desoto and Barnes are in the tourney, he was a 3 star with Walker coming into the year.
We will have athletes everywhere.

Of course Friday Night is Cotton Bowl also. 

j

Ineligible Players for Academics.

I hear Bill King on Rivals ripping these kids for academic problems.
Hear is the problem. 
These football players only have to pass 6 hours in the fall session to be eligible to play in these bowl games. 

SIX hours!!..  2 classes.  Ridiculous.
J

Indy Bowl

Air Force - Ga Tech
Two Option Teams, that run the offense in different styles.

Ga Tech has lost 6 bowls in a row with this offense and lack of imagination.  They had way too much talent to lose to Air Force.( Ga Tech did have 4 starters ruled out for academic reasons. )
Air Force has made the adjustments and run multiple spreads out of the offense, I can respect that type of offense.

The strangest thing in the game, was when during the pre-game the Mascot for the Air Force flew out of the stadium after what appeared to be pigeons.   Luckily they found him Downtown in Shreveport. 
J

Chad Morris- Lake Travis, Tulsa ---next up Texas?

While listening to the Tulsa-Hawaii game, I really got a lesson in the recent changes in College football thru Texas High School.

1.  Graham from Allen will have Tulsa in final top 25.
2.  Chad Morris followed Briles at Stephenville, then he went to Lake Travis and won 2 titles in a row 32-0.
 Morris studied his offense under Malzhan while he was still in Springdale, Ark.

Maybe Mack Brown, should forget his power football ego, hire Morris and go win a ton of games like Auburn did.

J

Mississippi State Players fighting in the Stands.

Before a tournament game in Hawaii, two thugs on the Bulldog basketball team had a fist fight in the stands.
Sidney and Bailey, 6'10 and 6'8 respectively, were throwing punches and rolling in the bleachers with fans and kids around.  

Sickening! 
Sidney in his second year, has only played 1 game.  He missed all last year with NCAA amateur status investigations and this year he missed 9 more games for conduct issues. 
Now Coach Stansbury is wavering on permanently kicking this McDonald's All American off his team. 
Some of the Dog teammates say this guy wasn't at fault.   HA,,kick them off also.

The fight was because Bailey would not move his legs so the over weight Sidney could go to the concessions stands.

http://ncaabasketball.fanhouse.com/2010/12/24/elgin-bailey-renardo-sidney-mississippi-state-teammates-fight/
J

Blake Griffin- and some other stuff.

Rookie Of The Year seems a moot point, Griffin is a shoe in at age 21.

S, you are right about his jumping ability, it is insane.  I saw where last night he had his 17th Double Double game.

Impressive!
Speaking of Young Superstars.

What happened to super freak Michael Beasley in the NBA as compared to Kevin Durant and Blake is a testament to a lack of HEART.  Did I mention that Beasley is still only 21 years old, turns 22 in January. He is at 21pt and 6rebs this year.

The 22 year old Superstars
Durant with his career averages at 25.5 and 6reb and climbing.
Kevin Love is 22 and averaging 20pt and 15boards.
Derrick Rose 24 pts 8 assist
Michael Westbrook 24pt 8assist.
Eric Gordan 23 and 5
Stephen Curry 20 and 5.

Next up, 
Wall 17pt and 10 assist and Jennings 18pt and 6asst. Tyreke Evans 17pt 5asst and 5reb
I hope the NBA gets their act together so we can enjoy this group. Quit having different rules for different players and call traveling.

J

Jaworkski on Tebow.

I listened to him on PTI today,  he was complimentary of him. 

But, he was less than flattering when he said he does not think a team could be built around Tebow.

J.

Ohio State Players Suspensions

The NCAA suspends 5 players for next year infractions and will let them play in Sugar Bowl, Why??????

The players that were suspended for were found to have sold awards, gifts and university apparel, plus receive improper benefits in 2009. Terrell Pryor is one of these players that the NCAA is allowing to play in the Sugar Bowl.   We all know that Pryor is going to the NFL and will never serve a penalty. The other 4 are also Juniors.

Does anyone really believe that these guys did not do this again this year? 

I was a bit confused on the NCAA ruling on Cam Newton and allowing him to play when he father has evidently admitted to some charges, but this one is even worse. How can they be allowed to play in the Bowl game?

I wonder if the NCAA asked Georgia if AJ Green would prefer to sit out next year?

Dez Bryant summed it up best, “I guess I should have got into a lot of trouble in college...maybe I would have gotten less punishment? lol,” Bryant (Dez_88) tweeted.
“I lied and then came back and told the truth....I didn't take no money, was not communicating with no agents at all.. NCAA is crazy”

Dez lost 10 games and his Junior for a simply not telling the truth about visiting with Deon Sanders.  Wow.

Can someone find out if an Ohio State Graduate is a leading member of the NCAA decision making group.

J

Horns take down Izzo.

I admit complete surprise with the Horn's victory.

Led by a freshman and a sophomore they win a game in Lansing snapping a 52 game home winning streak dating back to 2003. 

J

LSU RB Ridley ruled ineligible for Cotton Bowl

"Stevan Ridley is currently in an academic issue and may not be eligible to play in this game," LSU coach Les Miles said after a practice Wednesday morning. "We are appealing as an NCAA issue, and we're very hopeful. He has been in no off the field issues in any way. Ridley has been compliant. We just need to make our case. Without being terribly revealing, it's a fundamental process that goes on at a great school, and it has run afoul of an NCAA issue. It's a one-time nothing."

Today, Ridley was ruled ineligible.
J

LSU Signee Zach Mettenberger

S, this is a summary of the new LSU QB.

Mettenberg was a Georgia signee coming out of high school. (No 11 in nation as a pro style QB.)
6'5  230 lbs. 

He has a bit of a checkered past with the law.  Two sexual assault charges that I have seen about, both with liqour involved.  Both cases are closed and he is enrolled at LSU.   He has 3 years of eligibility left at LSU.
He was kicked off the team at Ga after the arrest.  He was supposedly pushing for a starting job as a red shirt freshman.

He went to Butler Jr College and played in the championship game.  He finished the season with 177 completions in 299 attempts for 2,678 yards, 32 touchdowns and four interceptions.

S, I laughed at your quote from Brando on Miles.

J

New QB in Tigerland?

Listening to Tim Brando this afternoon he told an LSU caller that they signed a hotshot juco QB that Brando was certain would beat out Jefferson (but he did allow for the fact that Miles is an idiot and might not do the right thing).  I heard the name but forgot it when I got home.  Who has some info on this?

S

High School Football Number 1 Team.

After watching the 3 Texas Championship Games Saturday and the LA games from the previous Saturday, I have more confidence in my belief that a well balanced team is a requirement these days.
Pearland and Acadiana proved it in the Championship games. 

Rivals top spot goes to the University of South Panola.   USA Today also Rated this dynasty number 1.
My gut says that St. Thomas Aquinas is the best team I saw this year, strictly because of the advanced scheme they run on offense and defense.

The author of the article said that Trinity was by far the best one loss team in his summary.  I disagree with the by far part.  Coppell and Stony Point both proved that the difference is very small.

j

Top QB in NFL this year.

Take your pick on who is having the best year.
Brady is putting on a show again this year.
Vick has only played in 11 games and is up to 613 yds rushing.

j

Brees and Manning

This post is simple, Brees is getting too many accolades and Manning is getting killed.

I have been told stories by reliable sources in Metairie, of Brees and his changing personality since the Super Bowl.  He is dismissing people that considered him to be a friend.  It appears that he was friends with those guys in New Orleans when they could help him, now he doesn't seem to need help without a media reason.

Back to my Point:
Peyton Manning is getting throttled in the media for his year for his statistics and interceptions.
I thought we should compare a bit, so I place a chart to show the Peyton -Brees stack up.

This is with the realization that Brees plays for the Brainiac in Payton who designed this NFL version of a run and shoot, while Manning designs routes on the field and calls the plays.
Brees has more picks 19-15 and more sacks 21-15 than the ridiculed Manning.

j

Rate the NFL RB for 2010.

A few of things jump out:

1. Jamaal Charles has forced Haley to recognize the Talent.

2.Darren McFadden is having a great year.

3. Andy Reid, like Bill Belicheat can plug in players and make them special.  McCoy and Vick in 2010.

J

Tim Tebow

His first start, he goes 40 yards for a TD on a QB draw in the first Quarter.
That would be the longest QB TD in Cowboys history.
(8 carries 78 yards and a lot of Raiders were talking about his talents. )

His day though not fabulous was not as bad as I thought it would be.
8 for 16 138 yards.  100.5 QB rating with one TD.

Still, it is going to be a big learning curve and I don't see how he will succeed without the right coaching.
Maybe Andy Reid will get him and work his magic on him also like he did Vick.

J.

UConn Women

Does anyone really care about women's basketball?  Really, you watch it on Sunday on Espn360.

"And all the miserable bastards that follow men's basketball and don't want us to break the record are all here because they're pissed."

It is too difficult to watch girls basketball without a rooting interest for a certain school or player.
Can he really think that this is the same impact as UCLA in historical references.

J

Bill Cowher

Evidently his agent or whomever works for Cowher is leaking information, that he wants the head coaching job at places with current coaches.

Giants.  Dolphins,   Texans.

Classy, Cowher evidently is not.

J

Eagles Miracle

28 points in the last 7 minutes to win against the Giants.  Wow.
When the game ended on Fox, I had not idea about the punt return to win on the last play.

Vick went for 121yd passing and 2td with 91 yds rushing in the final 8 minutes.

The Giants coaches are screaming to kick away from Jackson and then the punter kicks it down the middle.
Tom Coughlin went ballistic, but he should have been screaming at the Special teams coach who handles the onside kick and punt team.

Unbelievable.
J

Mavericks win in Miami.

Last week during the Mavs 12 game winning streak, ESPN ran a ticker across the bottom that said.
(MAVS win 12 in a row, 6 wins against teams with losing records)
Did anyone mention that only 12 teams in the league besides the Mavs have a winning record.

Tonight they break the Heats 12 game winning streak*7 teams with losing records,  earlier this year the Mavs broke the Spurs 12 game streak.

No Respect for the Mavs in Bristol.
j

Best "One-Liner" of the Year

Brian P has a disdain for J Gruden on Monday Night Football. 
This is the text I get during the first half.

When does technology get to the point where I can mute one announcer?

j

Jerry Jones Admits What?

Owner Jerry Jones admitted to one local columnist that Jason Garrett's future may have been hanging in the balance in the fourth quarter.

Are you kidding me?  Jones is too emotional to be an owner/GM.
This team gave up 300 yards to Grossman and still cannot score in the red zone.

J

Carthage and Aledo

3 straight titles for Carthage. 
The Bulldogs have become another power out of East Texas.
Dangerfield will go for their 3rd straight Saturday.

Then Aledo wins their 2nd in a row.
They were led by Jr. Running Back Jonathan Gray- with 8 Touchdown last night.
28 carries 325 yards.  *He is quick and strong, more elusive than I expected.
Tonight he broke the Sugarland's legend Kenneth Hall's record with 59 TD's in a season.
 (He played a 5 more games, Hall played 12 games with 4045 yards vs 17games for Gray, but still an amazing record for Gray.)

Malcolm Brown will really have to show something to impress me more than Gray.

J

Pistol Petro

As I catch up on my DVR shows, I watched the 30 for 30 show on Vlade Divac and Drazen Petrovic.  Another good show and a good example of how a region can throw up a great group of athletes in some particular sport in a short time frame.  Similar to how Argentina did a few years back, the Yugoslavs were terrific.  They had size and skill and it was fun to watch them play.

It was also a great reminder of how good Drazen Petrovic was and what we lost when he died.  The other players in Yugoslavia spoke of him with awe and talked about him dropping 50 and 60 on teams all the time.  Of course when you're watching highlights everyone looks good, so I looked up the numbers.  As a starter for only 2 full years in the NBA you can see that he was a truly remarkable shooter.  Playing shooting guard he averaged over 20 and impressively shot 51% from the field and an even more impressive 45% from 3pt range.

Watching clips you can see that he had some Pistol Pete in him and Danny Ainge even brought up the comparison.  He was bold enough to try those crazy passes, he played with total confidence, and he just shot the lights out.  Unfortunate for basketball fans that we didn't see him longer.  Even Larry Bird chimed in talking about how he took it to the Dream Team and Kenny Anderson told a story about him talking trash to Michael Jordan.  He could play.

S

Players to Watch

Saturday we'll get to check out the following All-State players based on the AP 4A and 5A official results, and the colleges they are committed to or considering:

4A

OL Taylor Doyle - Lake Travis - 1st Team (Texas)
K Stephen Pyle - Lake Travis - 1st Team
DL Mario Edwards - Denton Ryan - 1st Team & Def Player of the Year (Jr.)
LB Austin Williams - Lake Travis - 1st Team (Rice)
DL Ty Hoook - Denton Ryan - 2nd Team (La. Tech)

5A

OL Derek Hoffpauir - Pearland - 1st Team
OL Hiva Lutui - Trinity - 1st Team (Jr.)
OL Justin Martin - Trinity - 1st Team (UL-Monroe)
OL Alec Willis - Denton Guyer - 1st Team
QB J.W. Walsh - Denton Guyer - 1st Team (Okla St.)
RB Malcolm Brown - Cibolo Steele - 1st Team & Off Player of the Year (Texas)
RB Dustin Garrison - Pearland - 1st Team
LB Brian Nance - Trinity - 1st Team (Jr.)
LB Ryan Simmons - Cibolo Steele - 1st Team (Okla St., Oregon, Stanford)

S

Rapid Robert Feller

Along with Stan Musial, Bob Feller was the last of the great baseball icons from the sport’s golden age; players who lived through the great depression and saw their country fight its greatest war. Except for hometown fans, they existed only in box scores and on the radio airwaves that carried their exploits to big cities and small towns across America. During that era, when baseball was the undisputed king of sports, the players were bigger than life, and Feller was among the biggest ever.


Feller’s true story has spawned an enduring baseball cliché’, that of the “farm boy” growing up in the Midwest, playing on homemade diamonds, taught by his father to play the game right, and developing his fastball through hours of playing alone throwing against a barn or haystack. He hit the majors at 17 without a day in the minors and immediately had the best fastball in the game. When you watch the young Roy Hobbs in the Natural, this was Bob Feller.

Like Musial and Ted Williams, Feller lost many of his prime years to WWII. Feller’s lost years were probably the most damaging in terms of what might have been. He won 76 games in the 3 years leading up to the war, and 46 in the 2 years following it. Those 4 years he missed were the pure heart of his prime (age 23-26) and there is no doubt he lost 80+ wins. Despite that, he threw 3 no-hitters and 12 one-hitters, led the league in wins 6 times and strikeouts 7 times, and totaled 44 shutouts and 266 wins.

Feller’s fastball was legendary with most players agreeing it was the best in baseball since Walter Johnson. Like Johnson he mostly relied on the heater and never minded challenging any hitter in any situation. His downfall was control, very similar to the modern day Feller, Nolan Ryan. Like Ryan, Feller routinely walked well over 100 batters per year, and amazingly had games where he totaled 8 or more walks 20 times in his career.

Bob Feller was proud of his career and prickly about his standing in the game. But in listening to him over the years, he was plainly most proud of serving in the Pacific Theater in WWII for 4 years. He was a charter member of the “Greatest Generation” and never minded talking about it. It would be hard to find a more iconic representative of what we perceive as being great about America during that age. A son of the Midwest, a product of a rural upbringing, a big strapping sports hero, and a true war hero, a man who never wavered from what he stood for and what he believed. America lost one of its greats yesterday.

S

Landry Exhibit

The Dallas Historical Society is showing a Tom Landry exhibit at Fair Park through January.  It has rec'd fantastic reviews and supposedly in conjunction with his family includes personal items and memorabilia from throughout his life and career.  Depending on when you are coming to Dallas this week, it might be worth trying to go.  I'd certainly like to see it.

S

Landry / Parcels

I recently watched NFL films specials about both Tom Landry and Bill Parcels.  Both are icons in their sport and could not possibly be more different.  It made me think about the culture of coaching and what people expect from coaches.  On one hand many people gravitate toward and expect fiery coaches with dominant personalities who tower over their teams through force of personality.  Parcels, Saban, Lombardi, those types.  I find that I typically like those kinds myself because I want to see someone in total charge who is not afraid to make the hard decisions and will keep the players in line no matter what level.

On the other hand is the quieter and more introspective type generally thought to be the more intelligent ones like Landry, Gibbs, Walsh, etc.  Their success is built more upon innovations and schemes and less on driving or motivating players through sheer personality.  Ultimately there is room for both types and both types win championships.

I really enjoyed both shows.  It was amazing to me that Landry had the success he had while being so cold and difficult for players to relate to.  He was wishy-washy on decisions (witness Staubach/Morton) and refused to get involved with players' lives.  Yet he invented the 4-3 defense, the flex defense, the shotgun and multiple shifts on offense, and could be considered the most innovative coach in league history.

Parcels was just born to coach and got success by sticking to basics and creating an atmosphere where players would follow him to hell.  No one was safe and they knew it.  It was a really interesting contrast to watch both shows close together and see how 2 totally different coaches could forge success in completely different ways.

S

Lee - Short Moment in the Sun for the Rangers

I was on record as being against the Lee trade, but changed my mind during the playoff run.  Along with Nolan Ryan, Lee brought credibility to a franchise that had none.  However I never seriously thought he would sign here.  This is a football market and a baseball franchise utterly devoid of tradition.  With no connection to TX there was little chance.  Going to a market where baseball matters and playing for an organization with some history and a chance to win championships in the short term were obviously strong factors.  I don't blame him for a second and I'll continue to enjoy watching him.  Now, what decisions will the Rangers make for their staff?

S

Malcom Brown

One treat for us this weekend will be seeing probably the highest ranked HS player that I've ever seen live, Malcolm Brown of Cibolo Steele.  Brown is listed at 6'0 220 and Rivals has him ranked as the top RB in the nation, the top overall player in TX, and the 8th ranked player in the nation.  Reading the recruiting comments one thing is troubling; they compare him to Cedric Benson, which J will certainly not appreciate.  However I'm sure that Mack Brown would be only too happy to see him duplicate Benson's collegiate stats.

S

Horns at a Crossroads

Coaches like Mack Brown get paid millions to win; but like any high-profile high-paying job, the test is crisis management and Mack certainly finds himself in a crisis now.  It will be so interesting to watch him navigate through it and see if he's worth all the accolades he's received over the years for being a great CEO.

First order of business; rebuild his staff.  Second, nail down this top-ranked recruiting class.  Third, make some major personnel decisions.  He's going to have to be bold and decisive and spare no feelings.  Now, Mack has proven to be resiliant in the past, catching up to Stoops, changing philosophies, making TX a top-five program.  But at 59 he now faces the biggest challenge of his career.  It will be fun to watch!

S

Dupree

I finally watched the 30 for 30 movie about Marcus Dupree.  I can't say the last time I enjoyed a sports movie that much.  The thing is the mid-80's were transition years for me, the time in my life when I probably watched the least sports.  Watching this movie was a revelation.  I forgot how big he was (literally and figuratively).  Such a tragedy that he had no one to give him sound advice and keep him grounded.  I keep thinking what it would have been like if he had a level head and a strong work ethic when he was young.  Imagine him in shape, playing at 220, running for Switzer for 3 more years!  It would have been epic.

I'm happy that all those film clips are now preserved so people won't forget.  I'm going to download it on I-tunes.  The highlights actually took my breath away.  I also thought about J's long-standing opinion that Miss produces the best athletes and it would be hard to argue the point.  I just don't think any runner in the history of football had a total package to match Dupree.  I really appreciate this film maker for this movie.  Greatness.

S

Dirk on Fire

At age 32, Dirk is off to the best start of his career.  Averaging 25.2 and shooting a smoking 56% from the field after 24 games.  His 3-pt % is 43%.  In his career he has had 10 games when he's shot at least 10 times and made at least 80% during a game.  Four of those 10 are this year in just 24 games.

I have to say I'm guilty of nitpicking on Dirk for his shortcomings, but I'm trying to remind myself that I'm watching a sure HOF'er and to appreciate what he's bringing.  Dirk will give you 25 a night, take the big shots, play hurt, and take responsibility for everything he did after the game.  I've noticed that even most of the rather bigoted former players who populate the airwaves are beginning to appreciate Dirk.

S

Al Golden at Miami.

If a short time span of success is an identifier, Miami has a good coach.
Going to Temple and winning 17 games the last two years is a really good job.

But, he hasn't had the week end week out, pressure in a big time area before. 
He seems to have charisma on TV, so maybe he will be a great recruiter and hire.
It will be interesting to see if he can control the mind set of the players he will be recruiting.

I think it is a reach,


J.

La State Champions.

1.  West Monroe lost to Acadiana.  That old style offensive coaching is costing them games at West Monroe. 21-14.   Acadiana out played the Rebels. That is why I never preached them as a top 10 team in the nation. They beat small teams down.
2. Evangel- Beat John Curtis again.  Same type of problem at JC on offense. 
Evangel had the ball the entire game and double the offensive totals.
The only score JC had was a 85 kickoff return until the end of the 3rd.   
3.  Franklinton won 4a in overtime over Karr.    Passing offense in Karr vs athletes and balance..
I would have loved to see Haughton play Karr.   Franklinton beat the Bucs with that running game.

j

I am looking forward to the Tx State Championships.

Tashard Choice and Vicks Autograph.

What a crazy situation this 3rd string RB has gotten himself into with his autograph request on the field after a game.  (S, You know my thoughts on autographs in general.  No man or women is worthy of a signature without legal issues or money involved. )

The entire episode is getting too much press, but it does show the problem with Choice and his immaturity.
It had to irritate the hell out of the Defense and Coaches that he did it on the field.  
It is almost a worship type thing toward a guy that tortured animals and killed them for no other reason than he was mad.

I have a feeling this an example of why Choice hasn't been on the field.  Immaturity and a inflated opinion of his self because of the over abundance of Dallas media may have retard Tashard's growth.  How did he get his own radio show?  
J

Cowboys and Garrett.

During the telecast, Jerry was quoted as taking a  "A wait and see approach" on Garrett. 
Dallas as usual is close in games with skill players, but cannot win. 

Well good for him, but I think Garrett has done a fine job so far but he is not what they need.  
A few points:
1. Have the Cowboys actually improved from the last 2 years in anything.  "No"
Garrett as O Coordinator is good, but he is my prime target for the lack of control on offense and no points to put the games away. I will not blame Romo for being hit so much during the last 3 years. They still have issues with running the ball and pass protection is horrible.
2.  Garrett has protected and played Barber for 3 years.  Ugh. 
3.  Can he fix the defense to allow a scheme to overcome the lack of talent up the middle.  No.
4.  More Importantly- Can Garrett get to Jerry and control his obvious ego issues with talent decisions.
I say No. 


Overall, I hope Jerry get a new established coach. 
 Jeff Fisher?  Is Bud Adams really that in love with Vince Young.

J

TX Playoffs - Semi's

We're getting 3 pretty good match-ups for Saturday.  Today, Trinity won another tight one 28-24 over Stony Point.  Finally a little defense showed itself, but Trinity once again dominated on the ground with 50 rushes for 399 yards.  They will vie for a 4th title against undefeated Pearland; the two teams are 30-0 and Trinity has beaten 4 straight district champs.

Guyer shocked Longview 28-27 with a blocked punt and TD in the final minute.  They will face Cibolo Steele and the nations top RB Malcolm Brown, something to look forward to seeing.  He holds Mack Brown's offensive future in his hands.

The first game will be undefeated Denton Ryan vs. 3-time defending state champ Lake Travis in 4A.  Let's hear it for Denton football; 2 teams in the finals.

I'm pumped!

S

Cam Earned It....Literally.

I will stop the Puns about Cam.
   He should have won the Heisman if the NCAA didn't rule him out.  He was great.

I was glad that Andrew Luck was 2nd.

J

Muschamp A Gator?

Maybe I am not that surprised with the choice, but I am surprised he was picked over people that the Florida administration had work with previously.  Muschamp did a fine job at Texas in the previous years and I blame the entire debacle in Austin this year on Brown.  

So lets see if it is Muschamp is the real deal or a Saban copy-cat.

"I grew up watching the Gators and whatever other SEC team was on television," Muschamp said in a statement. "I have great memories watching SEC football with my father on Saturdays and playing football in the back yard with my two brothers right here in Gainesville."

J

As a side note:  Today on Rivals the word was Mack Brown was trying to hire the Alabama O coordinator.  Why?

Mav's Win 11 in a Row - No National Coverage.

It is amazing to think that the addition of Chandler has done for the Mavericks on defense this year.
The Mav's at 18-4 is just ridiculous to me.  The Spurs at 18-3 are the only team with a better record.
The list of victims includes. San Antonio, OKC, Jazz, Atlanta and the Heat, all with at least 15 wins.

 They get the Jazz for the dirty dozen in the next game.

Impressive start to the season.
J

Top Rushing Years in NFL History.

I never cared much about total yards in a season like Chris Johnsons year last year. 
But it made me consider the yards per game side of the angle.

Here at the top 11 season yard per game all time.

Rank Player (age), + - HOFer, - Active Y/G Year Teams


1. O.J. Simpson+ (26) 143.1 1973 BUF
2. Jim Brown+ (27) 133.1 1963 CLE
3. Walter Payton+ (23) 132.3 1977 CHI
4. Eric Dickerson+ (24) 131.6 1984 RAM
5. O.J. Simpson+ (28) 129.8 1975 BUF
6. Jamal Lewis (24) 129.1 2003 BAL
7. Earl Campbell+ (25) 128.9 1980 HOU
8. Barry Sanders+ (29) 128.3 1997 DET
9. Jim Brown+ (22) 127.3 1958 CLE
10. Terrell Davis (26) 125.5 1998 DEN
11. Chris Johnson (24) 125.4 2009 TEN

Highlights from 30 on 30.

Espn released some clips about from the Pony Express show coming on Saturday at 8pm.

The clips of Dickerson reminded me of what he was really like, I had forgotten the power about his shear greatness.  Sometimes I forget how fast and powerful he really was, he also tended to break arm tackles like they were nothing.   James was a great college back and it wasn't even close to the same excitement when they touched the ball. 

J

Urban Meyer

Meyer's retirement is sad to me, at age 46 he was building quite a legacy. His record in 10years as a head coach 103-23 with two National Titles.

The entire episode with him during the last year is just bizarre and we can only hope his issues are not life threatening.  I have read more than once that he was the most arrogant coach people had every been around, but he could recruit with the best of them.
OK, THE MORE IMPORTANTT QUESTION- Who gets the keys to the job of a lifetime?

Suddenly the Miami and Michigan jobs do not look so appealing!
#Mullen?-Too big of a job with that offense.  #Peterson?-Not for me.
#Petrino?  Well that is just scary   # Harbaugh?  Closest to NFL job he can find.
#Patterson?  Can he recruit with Saban and Miles.  #Stoops- Could the instability of the Big 12 come into play.

If I was the Miami and Michigan AD, I would get busy making an offer. 

The SEC is weaker tonight because of this retirement.

J

A Defensive Player is a fan of Jason Garrett.

Red Jesus is making his personality felt at Valley Ranch.   This is part of Mosley blog on Garrett from Espn.
Evidently he is sitting in on every groups team meetings and that is something new at the Ranch. It specifically mentions the Special Team meetings.
How could Wade or anyone else not have sat in on all of the team meetings? 

Quote
I like what I see," Sensabaugh told me Wednesday. "I'm pretty sure he goes to every meeting room and watches some tape with all the players. And he even sits in on the special teams meetings. I don't think anyone realizes how much that means to us."


Sensabaugh went on to say that Paul Pasqualoni is the best defensive coordinator he's ever played for.

"I love his speeches," said Sensabaugh, who is one of the team leaders that folks don't talk about. "He holds everyone accountable, and he wants what's best for the team. I think he's one of the best coaches I've been around in that respect."

I am unsure what to make of this, but I felt like it was an interesting comment about the interim staff.
 
J

Newton/Tebow

How quickly people forget!  I've heard 2 radio hosts say that Newton is a better player than Tebow.  He is an incredible athlete but let's not forget that Tebow won the Heisman as a sophomore and won 2 national championships.  Looking at the numbers from Newton this year and Tebow as a sophomore:

Newton: 2589 passing yards, 1409 rushing, total 3998; 28 TD's throwing, 20 rushing, total 48
Tebow: 3286 passing yards, 895 rushing, total 4181; 32 TD's throwing, 23 rushing, total 55

And of course Tebow brought character and class to his program while Newton may leave shame and embarrassment.

S

Comments-   J Said  -  "Amen Brother!"

Heisman

I was glad to see 4 people were invited. Newton, James, Moore, and Luck.

My Choices:
1. Cam Newton-2589 passing 28 td 6 int.  - 1409 rushing 5.8 yds per carry.
He is better than Vince Young.  (Again lets mention Young was robbed of the Heisman by the hype out West.)  Cam may have to give it back one day, but he deserves the Heisman this year.
28 TD Passes, 20 Rushing TD's!!!

2. Andrew Luck  -   All year I have wondered why this Houston QB didn't get more press coverage for this award. 
He is more valuable than James and Stanford lost 1 game. Again Stanford!  Luck is something, I like him better than Matt Ryan coming out of College.  3051yds passing, 28td 7 int,  438 rushing 8.6yds per attempt. 

Honorable Mention -
 
Colin Kaepernick - If Kellen Moore is even mentioned this Nevada QB is more impressive and should be in New York. 2850passing 20td 7 int.  1184 Rushing. 7.2 average. (20 TD passes 20TD Rushing.)
 James Blackmon  - Best skill player I watched this year. He may not be a better pro that AJ Green and Jones, but he is a beast physically. 1665 recvng.
Denard Robinson- Wow- Injuries shortened his playing time. 1643 rushing- 6.7yds attempt, 2316 passing 16 tds-10int on a team that is always behind.
Tyrod Taylor-  Bill King voted him 3rd on his ballot and it is deserved.  2521passing 23 td 4 int. 637 rushing 4.9avg.
Patrick Peterson-  He is the most physical, quick CB we may have ever seen.
L James- I love quick backs, but everyone at Oregon is quick. 1682 yards. He avg 6.0yds a carry. Team averaged 6.1.

Harbaugh Rumors

The rumors being reported out of Harbaugh's camp is that he wants the Michigan job.

J.

A Playoff Bracket

Dandy Don Meredith- Turn Out The Lights, The Partys Over.

A football great died today, Don Meredith is an All Time DFW hero. 
The TCU and Cowboy quarterback really put up some impressive numbers while he was taking the Cowboys out of the cellar of the NFL.  He, Landry, Lilly and Bob Hayes made the Cowboys what they are today.  America's Team.

He led the Cowboys to division titles in 1966, '67 and '68, earning NFL Player of the Year honors in 1966. The Cowboys lost NFL title games to the Packers in both 1966 and '67, the latter of which is widely known as the "Ice Bowl" in Green Bay.   He was inducted into the Ring of Honor in 1976.

The personality and stories about Dandy Don are legendary, who was born in East Texas on the I-20 corridor in Mt Vernon.

A few of  my favorite stories:
1.  As a Monday Night Football announcer in the pinnacle of MNF.
A cameraman had zoomed in on a disgruntled Oilers fan, who then made an obscene gesture with his finger. Without a moments hesitation, Meredith said of the fan. "He thinks they're No. 1 in the nation."
2.  He retired at the top of his game very unexpectedly, and he never got over losing the chance to play in Super Bowl 2 when Dallas lost to Green Bay in 67.
3. During a telecast in Denver.  Meredith opens with this.
"Welcome to the Mile High City, ... and I really am.”

One of the Cool people in the world died today of a brain hemorrhage.


j

Comments-  S said...



I knew you would post on Dandy Don. We've had nice tributes over here on the TV and newspapers. A true American original and Texas legend. What's great to me is that he did not allow his star-crossed Cowboy career to keep him from staying around football. Everyone talks about how brutal the fans treated him. Too bad. I know a lot of people are surprised today to find he was good enough to get a player of the year award and was a 2-time all-american at SMU. He also holds the basketball scoring record of 161 points in the Dallas Dr. Pepper high school tournament. He was 2-time all-state in basketball.






S

Todd McShay on Cam

Saturday during and interview, McShay said that Newton would be a mid first round draft pick.
He was adamant that he would not draft him in the first round. 
A lack of preparation and other issues worried him.

I disagree. If Vince Young went in the top 12, then Newton should be top 10.

J

South Panola Rolls to another Title in Mississippi.

The University of South Panola has won another title and secured a High School National Championship is one of the Polls.

Griffin, who played Defense last year, ended with 2500 yards and usually played only a half.

Congrats to Sean and his Alma Mater.  

If you read S's post on Euless Trinity this week you will see they have their hands full in Texas Playoffs and won on the last play of the game Friday night.  They never forced a punt from Coppell all night.

J.

LSU-Aggies Sold Out Last night.

The Tigers will be in a hostile enviornment on Jan 7.

It is funny, but I think LSU fans will represent well in Cowboy's Stadium.

Irony- Texas Tech is playing in the old Cotton Bowl Stadium in a game called the "TicketCity Bowl"?

Bowls- Quick Glimpse

I will break them down in High Interest, Bad Game, Good Games and What a Shame.

High Interest
Auburn- Oregon  In this year of no defense, I am glad they survived undefeated.  I picked the Ducks to win the Championship earlier this year, but it was not against an SEC defense.  This is the first time, I actually think the SEC could lose.  But I doubt it.

LSU- Aggies - I commented on this game earlier in the week.   LSU should win and the entire game will be slow and a yawner.

TCU-Wisconsin - Well TCU gets to play a good team finally. Wisconsin rolled through the Big 10 after losing to Michigan State.  I hope that TCU scores enough early to keep the Badgers from pounding them to death.   I really wish TCU would have played a smaller team like Stanford. 
I cannot pick TCU, even though I think Wisconsin can be had with a few tricks.

Ohio State - Arkansas -  I have heard too many people say Arkansas cannot win.  I do not understand this thought.  With Petrino anything is possible and Ohio State will not do anything they haven't seen done before at a higher speed.    Hogs finally win a Sugar Bowl.

Michigan-Mississippi State-It seems strange for these teams to play and the Dogs being favored.
It will be interesting to see Rich Rod with a few weeks to prepare, he will come out guns a blaze. 
Mullen should win with pure muscle.

Air Force-Ga Tech-  I only list this because its the first Indy Bowl with the new conference alignment.  I wanted to watch something besides two wishbone teams. I hope Air Force wins for the cities Air Force personnel.

Bad Games
Oklahoma-UConn-  Something is not right in the world with this match-up.  Big 12 champ should play someone with more talent.
Nebraska-Washington -  They played earlier this year - Nebraska 56-21 winner.

Good Games
Alabama-Michigan State-  MSU faces Saban again.  They will rue the day that they have to see him again.
This is Norte Dame or even Wisconsin.  This is the NFL minor leagues.
Illinois-Baylor -  I just like watching Briles coach and hope Zook loses.  I hope the Bears have enough defense, but I doubt it.
Oklahoma State-Arizona-   Gotta love the Okies offense and no defense playing against a Stoops.


What A Shame
Stanford-Va Tech- Stanford earned the right to play someone bigger.  Even a Wisconsin-Stanford game would have seemed more appropriate.  Anyone of the 3 one loss Big 10 teams or SEC teams with 2 loses.
Boise State-Utah -  I would like to see Boise State play a Pac 10 or Big 10 school.  Not interested in seeing them play a team TCU thrashed.  How about a Nebraska- Boise Match Up?  Boise State backed out recently of a game because Nebraska would not pay them a reported 1 million dollars to go to Lincoln.

This is exactly why I do not like conference affiliations on both sides with a bowl.
It sure would be nice with one side open to get the better match ups.

J.

 

Comments
"Jonathan"  said- CFB can not have a playoff because it would take too long. The student would
be away from school too long. --- Sound familiar?


I just looked at the bowl schedule and it goes on until Jan10!

I miss New years days of the past Loaded with great games all day. Instead
we get to see the Penn ST Fl, Tx Tech v Northwestern, and Mich vs Miss
State. Games of little consequence. I will watch the Rose-- interested to
see how TCU ranks against a traditional Big 10 school.

Why the hell are there bad games in January-- No reason and I could care
less about the Compass, Go Daddy, or Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl.
Games I will look forward to --- Rose, Sugar (Go Hogs), and the BCS. Cotton
out of loyalty as well.

Another Rip Jerry Post

Today Gerry Fraley wrote about the Cowboys' 2009 draft.  They drafted 12 players and as of today only 2 of them are stepping onto the field, K Buehler and LB Victor Butler.  5 were already released, 4 never see the field, and 1 is injured.  With the issues we have on the OL and the defensive backfield, we could not afford a year in which we may as well have skipped.  Just unforgivable, yet in Jerry's organization, no one pays.

S

TX Playoff Update

Our dream matchup was dashed when unheralded Pearland upset Katy 38-35.  Pearland is undefeated and I think was one of the teams disparaged by that blowhard on Rivals.  The town is a southern suburb of Houston.  Stony Point smashed Desoto and will face Trinity next.

Guyer will face Longview in Div II; which is a 3rd shot for Guyer after being beaten by Longview in each of the previous 2 years in the 4A playoffs.  Both moved up this year and play yet again.  I'm hoping that the winner will face Steele High from Cibolo because Steele features the nation's top RB Malcolm Brown, committed to the 'horns.

Still have hope for my wished for 4A final of Denton Ryan and Lake Travis; both made the semi's.

S

Dallas - Colts.

4 interceptions thrown by Manning.   Now i understand why most coaches will not let WR's change the routes based on which way the DB turns his body.  Manning is just off base with these new wide outs.    Manning seems to be losing confidence with this O line doing an "OLay" block every other play.

Dallas is now 4-8, partly due to not having Barber falling down after his customary two yard runs. Dallas had the ball for 40 minutes. Can the Colts be regretting the hiring of the Caldwell.  That Defense is horrible and Irsay is too busy slapping himself on the back for having a good team while Manning has been there to correct what is coming.

Back to Dallas game, no more Barber, please.   (And send the Special Teams coach packing with him)
And while we are at it, someone go tell Felix Jones to get back down to 200lbs so he can make more people miss him.  He is not a special quickness anymore.  Choice is such and improvement over Barber that Jerry will be struggling for excuses on why Barber should not play on the punt team.    

Explain please.  Why, Rookie Sean Lee could not get on the field with Wade?  His reaction time speed jumps off the screen.

On Rookie number Uno..The Dez Bryant broken bone is a killer for this years record, but maybe a blessing in disguise.  The rumors are rampant that he still doesn't understand the check off calls at the line of scrimmage.   Maybe they can find a tutor to teach him the plays, just not Dexter Manley's guy from his alma mater.  

Red Jesus is doing a good job, but that O line is still horrible.  The Dallas defense is just not very good, as a matter of fact I still think they have a such a talent problem on the O line and with this D they will struggle again next year.

Did I make it back to the GM again?

J

Sort of Related to Football

After J's text to me last night regarding the size and afluence of TX high schools including their marching bands, I wanted to post this just for reference.  This ran in the morning news last year about the Allen band.  The numbers are quite amazing.  J's wife will appreciate it...............

Just as buffalo in unimaginable numbers once covered the plains, the Allen High School marching band covers football fields on Friday nights.  This season, the Collin County school marches 527 musicians. A 39-member color guard weaves in and out of the ranks. A 72-member drill team performs up front.
Bigger marching bands have been assembled for special events. But folks at the University Interscholastic League, the Texas Music Educators Association, Marching.com and Bands of America say they don't know of a regularly performing marching band anywhere that's the size of Allen's.  "It's the largest marching band program that I'm aware of," agreed Robert Carnochan, director of the University of Texas Longhorn Band, which has a trifling 390 members.
The Allen High marching band has about as many musicians as there are members of Congress. It has five musicians for every one in the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. The 85-member trumpet section is bigger than many high school marching bands.

The band, drill team and color guard together are formally known as the Allen Eagle Escadrille (French for "squadron"). For trips, such as last Friday's to Southern Methodist University's Ford Stadium for a game against Jesuit, the 638-student contingent requires 18 school buses. Three big trucks haul instruments and other equipment.

"The volume they produce is amazing," said Joe Nunez, director of the McKinney Boyd High marching band. "It can part your hair."  That Allen High would have a big marching band is no surprise. Allen High is one of the biggest schools in the state, reflecting rapid growth in the city as well as the school district's decision to stick with one high school. The district also is affluent, with a strong commitment to arts education.


"There's good quality in that band, not just quantity, but I don't think competition is what they're about," said Frank Coachman, deputy director of the Texas Music Educators Association. "I think they're about family, and I think that's phenomenal."
"Family" is not a metaphor, because parents are a major part of the Escadrille, handling much of the difficult logistics. At any game, nearly 100 are involved, chaperoning on buses, handing out snacks and water bottles, laying out instrument cases and carefully putting away plumes that go with marchers' hats.

The band boosters group includes a special-forces unit, the Pit Bulls. These unlikely roadies – clean-cut, middle-aged dads in special T-shirts and work gloves – move the heavy equipment, including the mallet percussion that goes in the "pit" area by the field.

The band itself certainly doesn't lack for appreciation, including from the Allen High football team. Put 500 or so rabidly partisan teenage musicians in a section near an end zone, and your team doesn't have a 12th man. It has a 12th gorilla.

Allen High is the defending state Class 5A Division I champion in football, and in last year's title game, a spectacular blast from the band coincided with miscommunication between the opposing team's center and quarterback. The ball bounced off the quarterback, who was in shotgun formation and looking the other way.  There's a video clip of that play on YouTube, and there are quite a few videos there of the Allen High band.


Members make no apology for their monster band.  "It's who we are. It's what we do," said Angela Tomlinson, a senior drum major.  The Escadrille will probably get bigger. Growth has slowed, but not stopped, in the Allen school district.  This year's band has 59 trombones. Pennington has promised that if the number gets to 76, he'll add the show tune "Seventy Six Trombones" to the repertoire.  "We're closing in," he said.  And there's still marching room – a little – in the end zones.

S

SMU's Pony Express (30 on 30's next Espisode)

30 on 30 is tackling the early 80's SMU football team. 
Great story that involves the political hypocrisy in Texas, Big  Money Alumni, Incredible talent and the NCAA's mistake of a Death Penalty to SMU Football.

This was a decision time that killed the Southwest Conference forever and in hindsight doomed the Big 8 and Big 12. 

The Story: 
Incredible talent on that team with Eric Dickerson and Craig James (best tandem of backs I have ever seen,) Coach Meyer accepts the cheating then leaves in 1981 and goes to the NFL, SMU hires Collins and goes 11-0-1.   (Then SMU gets robbed of a National Title, when it was given to media darling and hypocrite Joe Paterno and Penn State.  Penn State was 11-1 having lost by 21 points to a 4 loss Alabama team.)

I was actually in Texas Stadium for the tie game against Arkansas in 1982.  Controversial game with questionable pass interference and a blocked FG. What a shame neither Eric Dickerson nor Craig James will ever get credit for how great they really were.

I will watch this to see if the NCAA admits publicly the Death Penalty was much to harsh for SMU and also admit that other schools were doing the same things. 

The powers of the old UT grads in Austin, did not like the fact that SMU was taking over the Horns spotlight and opened Pandora's box for the NCAA.

J.

Saying Bye to Nebraska. A decade they deserved.

Thank goodness, Oklahoma ended this rivalry with a win and sent that group of violent complaining coaches and administration out with a loss.   No titles in over a decade. 

Nebraska has a truly great history, but I cannot remember a single game in which I have pulled for the Cornhuskers..My childhood is full of memories with the Sooners-Huskers, I considered it the best rivalry in College Football for years.  I have always associated Nebraska and Osborne with steroids and thugs.
Switzer beat them most years and at least admitted that he had thugs.

Nebraska always seemed like a fake program to me, similar to how I see Paterno and Penn State.  These teams seem to be protected by a small market media, while the players that graduated from these programs during their heyday had unusual body shapes, that are often associated with illegal drugs.  I am glad they are together in the Big 10 and will wondering why they can't seem to catch the big 2 of the Big 10.

Now we can finally say "So Long"to Nebraska and the whiner known as Dr Tom. 
Life was not good to Nebraska after they joined the Big 12.
  After 15 years they have TWO titles and have not won one since the 1990's ...  SOUR APPLES?
 
Can they really believe that Ohio State and Michigan will not be the decision makers in the Big 10.  I expect the whining to continue.

As a positive, Nebraska fans are some of the greatest.
But overall, they are a program that needs to get rid of Osbourne.
J

Nascar - In case there was a doubt.

Jimmy Johnson is the man with his 5th straight title and passing teammate Jeff Gordon's 4 titles.

Please, remember that comment, that may be the only positive thing I ever say about this sport.

Now the reason for my post:
Dale Earnhardt Jr just won his 8th straight most popular driver award???????????

He has 18 wins in 12 years. .He has not won in 2 years and has 1 win in 4 years.
He had 6 of his total in 2004, which suggest his car must have been much much better than the other drivers that year to overcome his obvious lack of a special skill.  He has no real history of success.

Add this award to the fact that NASCAR fans and racing public relations espouse crap about his father greatness, without ripping his legacy by discussing his cheating and life threatening habit wrecking people intentionally is sickening.

Two Facts:
Jeff Gordon has surpassed Dale Sr in wins 83 to 76  in less years.  NASCAR Fan's Not most popular.
Jimmy Johnson is better than Jr and has 53 wins to 18 and is one year younger.  - Not most popular. ?

Ridiculous fan base- 
Now back to the real athletic accomplishments in Football and Basketball.
J

Herbstreit on a TCU vs Oregon or Auburn.

Herbie was on Espn yesterday and made an interesting comment on the Oregon, Auburn and TCU comparisons. He was asked what the best match up for TCU would be.
Without pause, he says Oregon.   The match up would be a much better game. 

Then he says this...
Auburn is not a good match up, he did not think TCU would be able to handle the size and speed of the Tigers.   He also said that he would imagine that even if Auburn loses today, they would be considered over TCU for title game. 

Do I think TCU would win the Eastern division in the SEC?  NO.
 Notice I didn't mention the SEC West where they would finish around 5th.. Behind.
Auburn, LSU, Bama, Arkansas and likely MState after a season of playing the physical SEC schedule.
In one game, they have a shot, in 6 games...No Way.
J

Mike Ferrell on Rivals.

I may comment on this interview some more at a later time.

Coaching Job at Miami  ---------  Mullen or Tubberville

He is hinting the Rich Rod is not going to last and Harbaugh is a serious candidate.

J.

LA Football State Finals Next Week.

No real shockers:

5A West Monroe vs Acadiana- Best two teams all year.   Should be a good one.
4A  Franklinton vs Karr-  I want to complain once more,  Haughton really had a bad draw with the power ranking with Franklinton seeding dropping while playing a 5A Texas team and not getting credit as top seed... Ridiculous.  Karr Haughton should have played for the right to face Franklinton.  
3A       Parkview - Patterson
2A --  Here We go again.    Evangel- John Curtis.    Why are they in 2A?
1A -  Quachita Christian - White Castle.

As usual Monroe and that small population has multiple teams in the Dome.
Baton Rouge had two- New Orleans two.  

High School BB

This past week I have been able to see a few games at the St Amant Gold Dome Classic.
(And yes,  the gym is in a replica of the Centenary Gold Dome, just a bit smaller.)

Airline is in the Championship game tonight against Donaldsville.
Airline beat a very athletic Hammond team last night, Airline controlled the entire game.

Tuesday night, Airline at Bossier.   It will a wild one.

S, you need to come see these Soph's and Jr's on this team at Airline play. 
The kids really do not know how good they are as of yet, when they start denying the ball on defense off the ball they will really be a special team.
Tuesday will also be the last time we are assured of seeing those 3 guards at Bossier play against Airline. 


j

Championship Saturday

In all these years of conference championship games, I don't think I've ever been as disinterested as I am today.  These games are real let-downs with only 1 championship game participant having national title hopes.  And worse, since I'm not and never have been an Auburn fan, I will root against them hoping for Spurrier to claim another slice of glory instead.  Little chance though.  Meanwhile Bob Stoops tries for his 7th Big 12 title in a game he's only lost once.  Last year we were getting ready for an epic Saban/Meyer confrontation, this year......yawn.

S

It Cannot Get Any Better

Trinity scored from 2 yards out on the final play of the game to edge Coppell 41-40 tonight.  They trailed the entire night, never leading until the final play.  Here are the progression of scores: Coppell led 3-0, 10-0, 13-0, 13-7, 16-7, 16-14, 23-14, 23-21, 30-21 (half), 30-28, 37-28, 37-35, and finally 40-35 before surrendering the final TD to lose it by 1.  Trinity has now defeated 3 consecutive north TX district champions and will wait for the Stony Point/DeSoto winner in the semi's.  The radio guys are calling it an all-time classic.  The Trojans are certainly earning this one.........

S

Remembering Sam Harrell

Sam Harrell, Ennis coach and father to Graham Harrell retired this week due to multiple sclerosis.  Harrell went 153-51 at Ennis, won 3 state championships (2000, 2001, 2004), and helped usher in the new era in TX high school football where passing and spread offenses took over.  A tragic story, Harrell will be missed.

S

Recruiting Anomoly

This has been a strange recruiting story that I wanted to post.  I've followed it for a while.  The DeSoto QB, Ryan Polite, is the 9th player in TX history to throw for 10,000 yards.  This year he passed for 3,700 yards and 35 touchdowns and DeSoto is in the regional finals.  He is 6'1, 205.  Yet, he did not have a Div I offer until this week, and it is at UT-San Antonio.  The story has run a few times but I haven't heard any rumors about why he was being overlooked (drugs, injury, etc.)  There has to be something no one is talking about, but I don't know what it is.  He has never been suspended or kicked off the team and the coach raves about him.  Strange story.



S

Plano's Superman

I saw Rex Burkhead a couple of times in high school and read about him frequently.  As great a high school player as he was, I didn't seriously consider seeing him on Saturdays.  But, here he is getting headlines as a sophomore on a ranked BCS team.  Really surprising, but very cool.  He was that ultimate high school Mr. Athlete at Plano.  Played varsity all 4 years, QB as a soph, and tailback the last 2 years.  When the chips were down he played defense where they basically lined him up at middle LB and let him chase the ball.  He was obviously the best player on the field many times, but can you take a 5'11 200lb white tailback seriously for the next level?

I looked back at his senior year; he was the DFW player of the year and had offers from Ole Miss, Tx Tech, Stanford, Arkansas, A&M, and of course Nebraska.  ESPN rated him as an "athlete" and 44th in the nation in that catch-all category.  I thought it was great that a guy like him would get those offers, but I just didn't see him projecting as an impact player for a big school.  What's great about this is what I talk about so often how some players just have an undefined knack for playing football.  You cannot measure it.  The numbers don't support it; 40 times, bench press, etc. don't make the case.  But put them (him) on the field and they makes plays and somehow seem faster than the stopwatch indicates.

Here are some quotes from a story today:  from Nebraska's O-coord; "Rex has the ability to pick up whatever. He could pick up a golf club and be good in 2 weeks. He is a player who has that unique feel for football, for the game."  From Bo Pelini: "He has an impact on the game in a lot of different ways. Everyone focuses on the wildcat, but he runs the ball hard, he's efficient, he can run inside or outside."  From Plano's head coach: "He exemplifies the type of player and person we want to represent our program."

S

Cotton Bowl- LSU- Texas A&M?

I know its not official, but I like the match up.

When I posted the Cotton Bowl for LSU last week, I was unsure who they would get.  
Oklahoma State scared me to death, as an LSU fan, in a scheme match up.
  Even though, I think LSU would beat every team in the BIG 12.

Today's Shreveport Times had an article that Miles wanted to visit the Cotton Bowl. 
As Donnie commented on my Thanksgiving post.  Two games in a row in the Boss Hogg Bowl has to be a plus.
http://www.shreveporttimes.com/article/20101201/SPORTS0202/12010374/1028

As a bonus point.  Gary Crowton reportedly is not interested in the U LaLa job in Lafayette.      My first thought.......Dang it!!!!!!!

Miles has no comment on Crowton returning next year...Hmmm.

J.

Bobby Knight

An hour after my post on terrible NBA analyst, on Espn Bobby Knight is calling the V Tech - Purdue game.

During OT, he is in a close up with Brent Musberger and starts diagramming a play on a piece of paper to take advantage of the quick point guard for the Hokies. 

  It was priceless, he discussed the need to give the PG an option on both sides of the lane so he could go either way against the Purdue defense when they collapsed on a double team.  His artwork was horrible, but he had the second pass diagrammed if the guard was double teamed.

Immediately, V Tech goes to one side and Knight says that is why he would not do it.  Then he says it was also a mistake to have your ball handler throwing the ball inbounds, because it restricts them to one side of the court. 

I love college BB.
J.

Joe Morgan out at ESPN- Made me think about some TV personalities.

With the replacement of these two old school announcers, Joe Morgan and Jon Miller,  I thought I would comment on the state of announcers for the telecast.

1.  Baseball- Considering the pre game host and the game announcers I have them at the top.
  I like Morgan better than Miller, but I still love to hear McCarver.  Bobby V will be replacing Morgan and that is still a informative telecast.   I will say that the World Series analyst were a bit boring and predictable and caused me to search for the radio telecast. Baseball on the radio is still great.

1a.  Football-  If I stopped at the big game analyst I would rate them above Baseball, but the pre game people on some stations are just terrible.    If Collingsworth wasn't on NBC would anyone learn anything from listening?  Dungy is just weak with no charisma.  Harrison is a cheater. -Espn Chris Carter- Coke Head, Keyshawn-Delusional.-  Matt Millen he has proven his knowledge or lack of.   I like Young and Jackson.

College football is still solid with the traditions, but ESPN needs someone to help Herbie.  Outside of Fowler the other two are a joke.  Dr Lou Holtz needs to go today .  I like May.  I like CBS and ABC.

3. Golf-   I would have them higher if they would get rid of the comic acts and butt kissers. ABC is the worse.
 Johnny Miller is the best in any sport.  He calls more shots, the technical aspects and is not afraid to talk about players fear or nerves.

4. Basketball-  College Basketball is not part of this discussion.
The NBA is just terrible!
 Can anyone logically figure out where they get these people.  Is there a good ole boys group for dim witted ex-players, they are doing the hiring.
Pre Game shows are so illiterate that I would not let anyone without a college degree walk in the room to hear the idiocy.   David Stern seems to be contributing to the Dumbing Down of America via the TV, its a good thing the NBA rivals Hockey in tv sets.
It seems that the people on TV are friends with the players.

If anyone questions why no one watches the NBA.  Consider these two facts.

a.   They have changed long standing rules for the wrong reasons.    (Ginobili made a lay up the other day from the top of the key and never dribbled after he paused after his first step. WHY?)
b.   The group of announcers has too many players.  They were in the NBA for physical gifts from a higher authority and not for their knowledge of a communication degree.   How about this to start:  If an announcer makes four grammatical errors on one 15 minute telecast.           Fire Him on the Spot!

j

U of M Coaching Jobs- Miami and Michigan

Miami- Gruden or Leach?

Why in the world is Gruden such a hot commodity for a college job?  Do they really think he would stay for 3 years? Can he recruit, probably, I see him as a Coach O at Ole Miss kind of guy.  He is pure hyperbole.

Can you imagine Leach with the talent that is funneled through Miami football, then the recruiting for a high scoring team with the NFL alumni influence?  Jimbo may start needing a stronger sleeping pill if Leach shows up.

I would pick Leach and make him hire a top notch D Coordinator.  

Michigan  -  Rich Rod should be not be given more time. 
He is recruiting a much higher level of Defensive Player this year but still has the same D coordinator.

I love Rich Rod and think he would have won big with LSU talent, but Michigan should never be this bad.
He is at 41% winning percentage and still is not really competitive against big schools.

Let's hope they appeal to Miles since of honor in remembrance of Uncle Bo.
J

TCU to Big East

Two things strike me on this subject.

1.  I do not blame TCU for jumping conferences.   The Mountain West really becomes the WAC next year with the recent departures.

2.  The Big East?  What in the world is going on?  West Virginia, Pitt, UConn and Syracuse as Rivals?
     Football wise it is going to be a interesting to see what happens but I still do not care who wins the Big East.  
Basketball wise,  Ouch!  The Big East is going to be a massacre unless they hire a big time coach who can get the DFW recruits to stay home.

Overall, I'm disappointed.  I wanted Texas A&M and TCU in the SEC.

J

Cam is cleared to play by NCAA after Dad's Shopping Spree

Newton was cleared to play by the NCAA, even though they say his Preacher man father was shopping his son's talent for six figures.

I admit that I am shocked at the outcome, did the NCAA finally find a sense of reasonable thought.
In the past if your family was guilty so was the player.  If you throw in the fact that numerous people are quoted as saying Cam knew what his father did regarding the money makes the story more difficult to accept.

On the bright side, we will at least have an option to watch the better athletes play in the championship games.

J

Jerry the GM

Jerry was asked why Barber is still getting carries over Choice.
Felix has passed him after a wasted 3 years of his talent and now the media is on the prowl fpr Barber to moved to 3rd option.  I will not get into Felix and his weight gain hurting his ability to make people miss.

"First of all, Tashard needs to be a better special teams player," Jones said on his twice-a-week radio show on KRLD-FM. "Your third back has to be a real contributor on special teams and he’s not. That really handicaps him."


Jerry is still trying to live down another bad decision on not trading Barber 3 years ago and signing him to long term deal.
 
Stats:
Barber-3.7 yds , 4.4 yds and 3.1 yds  17 tds in 3 years.
Jones- 8.9 yds,  5.9 yds and 4.0 yds
Choice- 5.1 yds, 5.5 and 2.7 this year but with only 14 carries.

Seriously, he judges a running back by his special teams play? 
Heck Barber is too slow to play Special Teams.  Maybe inside LB?  Oh wait he is smaller than Felix Jones so he cannot do that either.   

Ridiculous decisions in Cowboy Camp.

Here is an article on the subject.  I still can't believe he gets the majority of playing time.
http://sports.espn.go.com/dallas/nfl/columns/story?columnist=macmahon_tim&id=5868604

J

Comments from Jonathan:

        JJs loyalty enables him to keep any player he wants to and get most players he may want, but this would be the downside of that loyalty.


Watching the game on Thursday- Felix Jones was by far the best back. Not to say he can handle it all but I agree the Barbarian is the 3 best option.

JJ is delusional on the Special Teams comment- Choice can carry for 5-10 and still play spec teams. - Heck the Saints are on 3rd and 4th string backs right now (one was not even with the team at the close of camp)