Bleacher Report - Articles by Lashan

Florida State Seminoles No Longer Gators' Rival

Lashan — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 14:18:42 -0400

I am sure the debate of rivalries will continue for some time. It's what we college football fans will do until the season starts. The four months between spring Ggames and the start of fall practice are probably the worst period in a college football fans' life. At least those of us who can't wait to see out guys back on the gridiron.

But because we don't have much to entertain us in this respect. We turn to the analysis of our chances for the following year and making profound statements on what our rivals are looking like and can they beat us in the upcoming year.

Well, those of us who know the intensity of Florida/Florida State know we normally circle this early or as soon as we get the schedule.

As long as I can remember going to Gator games there have been three things that happened on Thanksgiving weekend. Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday, shopping on black Friday, and Florida versus Florida State on Saturday, primetime, carried by some network, and billed as the game to watch.

This game has been tagged as "the Governors Cup" or even "the Sunshine Showdown." And, there have been fights on the field before the game and fights on the field after the game. One fight ensued because it was thought Florida Gator quarterback Doug Johnson threw at Bobby Bowden during warmups. Johnson later apologized.

There is what has been tagged "The Choak at DoaK" where a Steve Spurrier lead team went into the fourth quarter leading 31-3. Florida State came back and tied that game and that's how it ended 31-31, hence the name.

From 1990-2000 Steve Spurrier lead the Gators up against Bobby Bowden twelves times. Two of those were Sugar Bowls appearances, one a National Championship game. All twelves times both teams were ranked in the top ten. And, every time Spurrier went to Tallahassee he never came away with a win.

The Seminoles have beaten the Gators ranked No. 1 and the Gators have beaten the Semnoles ranked No. 1.

Then there is the dedication of Bobby Bowden Field in 2004. Ron Zook already has his walking papers at the head coach Florida. And, the Gators come away with a win. Something Spurrier never did.

In Gator Nation we affectionately refer to the field as "Ron Zook Field"

I think by now you get how heated this rivalry has been.

But, in comes Urban Meyer. He has not lost to Bobby Bowden. In 2005 at Florida it 35-7, 2006 at Tallahassee it's 21-14, 2007 in "the Swamp," it's 45-12, and last year on Bobby Bowden Field again it's 45-15. Now I could have left out the specific scores but it still feels good to gloat.

My point being that those scores are indicative of the disparity in the programs. The programs have and still is some ways headed in opposite directions. Bowden has experience more losses, low recruiting years, and more off the field issues than anytime in his program history.

And, of course I am going to quote, "it's not a rivalry if only one team is winning."

Now, the Gators expect to win. And, with walk on water Tim Tebow. the Seminoles expect the Gators to win again this year.

In 2008 on the way to a National Championship, in the pouring rain Tebow executed like it was a sunny day. The receivers caught like it was a sunny day. And, the Gators scored three more touchdowns after Percy Harvin was injured. Bowden said, before the game that, "he hoped the rain would slow him down."

Well it didn't and this game is becoming boring to those in Gator Nation. Please give us some real competition.

I for one want the Seminole to get back to national prominence or at least some relevancy in their own conference. Please make this a game.

But, for the time being the Gator sown the Seminoles. And, it is no longer a rivalry. We go into the season preparing for showdowns with Georgia, Tennessee, and LSU.

Florida State has become Senior Day Game at home and a gimme last regular season game on their field.

To quote a Florida State message board writer..... "the economy is down and the Gators are up, if this isn't hell then I don't know what is."

The SEC: Breakdown Of The NFL Draft

Lashan — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 14:49:30 -0400

Like many I watched the NFL Draft on Saturday and as much of it as I could stand on Sunday. I seem to always watch.

For one, I wanted to see where any Gators would end up in the draft. Second, I have particular interest in seeing where the players in the best college football conference in the nation end up.

This year was of particular interest as Matthew Stafford was deemed the No. 1 pick of the draft now many moons ago. And, whether I agree with it or not, I am proud that one from the SEC is chosen No. 1 again.

Admittedly, I came away from the draft thinking the Georgia Bulldogs did quite well, which they most certainly they did. LSU surprisingly did just as well, having six drafted just like Georgia.

The most surprising team of all though, as I analyze the draft this morning, was South Carolina, which took drafting honors in having seven players headed to the NFL. Quoting one of my fellow bleacher report writers, "all that individual talent and no collective success." Very well put Robert.

Below is a breakdown of players that were drafted and to what teams and some analysis by me.

South Carolina - 7

Jasper Brinkly Pick 14, round 5 Vikings

Jarod Cook Pick 25, round 3 Titans

Kenny McKinley Pick 5, round 5 Broncos

Jamon Merideth Pick 26, round 5 Packers

Captain Munnerlyn Pick 7, round 7 Panthers

Ryan Succop Pick 47, round 7 Chiefs

Stoney Woodson Pick 29, round 7 Giants

No surprise here in Cook and Munnerlyn. I actually thought Cook would go higher as he was a beast in the combine until he aggravated his hamstring.

I also thought Munnerlyn would come off of the board before the seventh round. Note: South Carolina has the dubious distinction of having Mr Irrelevant, the last pick of the draft in Ryan Succop

Georgia - 6

Asher Allen Pick 22, round 3 Vikings

Corvey Irvin Pick 29, round 3 Panthers

Mohammed Massquoi Pick 18, round 2 Cleveland

Knowshon Moreno Pick 12, round 1 Denver

Matthew Stafford Pick 1, round 1 Detroit

Jarius Wynn Pick 9, round 6 Packers

This has got to be one of the best drafts for the Bulldogs as far as position. Having the first player in Bulldog history to be drafted No 1.

I personally think that Sanchez was a better pick for No. 1 but the Bulldogs should be proud. I also think Moreno to the Broncos gives him a chance at Rookie of the Year.

They will probably run the ball a lot. Massaquoi going in the second round was a surprise. I didn't think he would be high on any ones want list. But, in his defense he had a killer Sr year.

I think the Vikings got a steal in Allen in the third round.

LSU - 6

Demetrius Byrd Pick 15, round 7 Chargers

Tyson Jackson Pick 3, round 1 Chiefs

Ricky Jean-Francois Pick 35, round 7 49ers

Herman Johnson Pick 31, round 5 Cardinals

Quin Johnson Pick 9, round 5 Packers

Curtis Taylor Pick 10, round 7 49ers

Tyson Jackson was surprise for me as the third pick overall. The rest were just uneventful to me.

I expected more Jean-Francois but all we got was him running off at the mouth. And, good for Byrd to get drafted even though he is recovering from an car accident.

Alabama - 4

Antoine Caldwell Pick 13, round 3 Texans

Glenn Coffee Pick 10, round 3 49ers

Reshad Johnson Pick 31, round 3 Cardinals

Andre Smith Pick 6, round 1 Bengals

Even though the Tide didn't have quantity drafted they had high picks. No one passed the third round.

Congrats to Smith for overcoming his bad decision phase from the Sugar Bowl up til now. Please go thank Saban for the character repair. I can't wait to see Coffee in San Fran. I think he will flourish.

Ole Miss - 4

Peria Jerry Pick 24, round 1 Falcons

Michael Ohr Pick 23, round 1 Ravens

Jamarca Sanford Pick 22, round 7 Vikings

Mike Wallace Pick 20, round 3 Steelers

I was surprised to see four from Ole Miss but maybe I haven't been following any of them except Michael Ohr. Again, what a powerful story he has and if you haven't heard it please go google it.

His speech was probably one of the best too at the draft. Good job Ozzie for recognizing character and talent.

Florida - 3

Percy Harvin Pick 22, round 1 Vikings

Cornelius Ingram Pick 17, round 5 Eagles

Louis Murphy Pick 24, round 4 Raiders

No surprises for the Gators from me. I expected Harvin to still be taken in the first round even after he obviously took a stupid pill or maybe that's what they call weed. I am just happy Ingram and Murphy are getting a chance to prove themselves NFL.

Auburn - 3

Tyronne Green Pick 33, round 4 Chargers

SenDerrick Marks Pick 30, round 2 Titans

Jerraud Powers Pick 28, round 3 Colts

Round 2 was their highest draftee. This can be chalked up as a bad season all around for the Tigers.

Arkansas - 1

Jonathan Luigs Pick 6, round 4 Bengals

Kentucky - 1

Myron Pryor Pick 34, round 6 Patriots

Tennessee - 1

Robert Ayers Pick 18, round 1 Broncos

Vanderbilt - 1

Reshard Langford Pick 19, round 4 Bears

Miss State - 0

Observation worth noting is that the Minnesota Vikings took four from the SEC....a Gator, Bulldog, Gamecock, and Rebel.

Florida Gators' Cornelius Ingram Is a Philadelphia Eagle

Lashan — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 18:51:21 -0400

Cornelius Ingram's ultimate dream is realized. Cornelius was the No. 17 pick in the fifth round of NFL Draft today. Most prognosticators had him going in the second or third round.

But, the Philadelphia Eagles used their third pick in the draft to draft a tight-end. That TE being Cornelius.

It's been a long road for Ingram since he was recruited out of Hawthorne High in Florida by Gator Coach Ron Zook as a quarterback.

Coming into the program where there was another heralded recruit at QB name Chris Leak. Ingram was never given serious consideration at the position.

Ingram contemplated seriously leaving the team. Urban convinced him he could play TE and play it well. That he could compete at the next level if he just listened to him (Meyer) and embraced the position. And, with that talk Ingram came back to Florida with a renewed sense of commitment.

In 2007 he had 34 catches and 508 yards receiving as a red-shirt junior. A very productive year. He was considered a hybrid TE with 4.6 speed at 6'4 245 lbs.

In 2008 it was going to be his year. Urban Meyer had plans for a two TE package in his offense with Ingram and Aaron Hernandez. A package that he thought was going to confuse many SEC defenses and reap many YAC yards for his two talented TE's.

But, Ingram tears his ACL in the first week of fall practice in August 2008. Just like that he was gone for the rest of the season.

Ingram's knee collapsed while running a route without any awkward movement or contact. "The way it happened, I will never forget that day as long as I live," Meyer said of the injury.

"Missing Florida's 2008 BCS championship season was difficult for Ingram, despite Gator coaches and players doing all they could to make sure he felt like he was a big part of the team. As well-intentioned as they were, Ingram said there were moments he questioned his decision to return to school for his senior year."

The team and coaches had convinced him to take the victory snap in the BCS National Championship game if they had the game secured. After Ingram running out on to the field that night in full pads to warm up and coming back into the locker room he decided he wanted to play more than just a couple of downs.

With that his college career was fully over and he could look forward.

And, it has all worked out now. Ingram went through the combine and performed well. Doctors and trainers at the combine thought there were no lingering issues to from his injury.

He met with many teams and seemed to come away with a good sense that he had good interviews.

He worked out for teams like the Dolphins, Ravens, Eagles, Seahawks, and the Patriots.

It was the Eagles, though, that came calling this Sunday and offered him a chance to play in the NFL. I am excited for him. He is expected to contribute immediately with the rest of draft counterparts LeSean McCoy RB from Pittsburgh, and Jeremy Maclin, WR from Oklahoma State.

If anyone deserves some reward for all of the hard work it is Cornelius Ingram. I expect to see Ingram on the other end of many catches from Donovan McNabb.

Percy Harvin Is a Minnesota Viking

Lashan — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 07:37:51 -0400

Percy Harvin was drafted in the first round at No. 22 in the NFL Draft. The Minnesota Vikings made him their No. 1 pick. Obviously, Brad Childress saw a lot of upside in this Gator.

So many said with all of his issues that he would probably fall out of the first round and some say the second. Those issues have been well documented the past week or so.

He tested positive to marijuana at the combine, he is difficult to coach, and he has a history of off-the-field issues stemming back to high school are the ones that I have heard swirling around.

Percy was considered the biggest name to test positive at the combine according to some networks like Fox Sports.

According to Pro Football Weekly, five unnamed NFL executives unanimously named Harvin the greatest character risk among the draft's top-flight players.

"Coach Urban Meyer said a couple of weeks back he would be "shocked" if the allegations against Harvin were true, and he's expressed his support of Harvin without addressing specifics about his character."

"We won two national championships and 44 games, most in the SEC during that time period, and some of the greatest years in the history of Florida football," Meyer said.

"And I was on the sidelines with a guy that I know exactly the competitive nature that we're dealing with. Percy is an extreme competitor."

I think that is the sentiment that the those in the NFL saw. There is no way that this player was going to fall out of the first round with that type of talent and with that type of speed. With the type of results that he had while he was at Florida.

Percy Harvin had almost 2000 yards rushing and almost 2000 receiving and that kind of results is hard to ignore.....it is hard to pass up.

So with that being said, owners thought a lot of Percy and the owners of the Vikings acted on it.

“When we evaluated him on football between the lines, he was definitely a Top 10 pick,” Rick Spielman, the Vikings’ vice president of player personnel, told Minneapolis-area reporters. “We feel we have a very strong locker room, a very strong support staff here. We felt comfortable enough that he was just too explosive of a playmaker and too hard to pass up when we were picking.”

It was reported earlier this week Spielman and Childress flew down to visit with Percy on Wednesday. They also met with Urban Meyer and Percy's Mom. It obvious that they all convinced him that Percy would be a positive addition.

But, still all stated and wrote that his stock was plummeting fast and he was now considered a first day draftee and not a first rounder.

I on the other hand thought this was no brainer. Maybe it's because I am a shameless homer for the Gators.

But, I predict Harvin will make an immediate impact and open up more lanes for Adrian Peterson and be a compliment to Benard Berian.

He has potential that is un-matched, a game changer at multiple positions on offense. It would not be surprised either to see Percy run back kicks and punts.

He will be great for the locker room and all will see exactly what value this player has. We in Gator Nation can't thank him enough.

Other surprises in the NFL was Jacksonville not taking Harvin although they had a need at OL and that's exactly what they went after.

I also thought it was surprising that the Buccaneers moved up to get Josh Freeman. But, I think that is a good pick. I like Josh Freeman play and I really thought the Buccaneers needed to find a franchise QB.

And, my feel good story of the draft was the pick at #23 in the first round. That pick went to Michael Oher. His story is well documented but, I will be following this young man who was once homeless. He is now getting a chance to play for the Baltimore Ravens.

Ozzie Newsome and Ravens didn't think he would be available that late in the first round. But, he was and they pounced on him.

I for one cried to watch that moment and listened to him say, "It didn't matter. He could have gone in the seventh round and that the Ravens were getting the hardest working player ever." Good luck Michael, well done.

Defections and Transfers: Who is Really Running College Sports?

Lashan — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 15:16:28 -0400

I have always been a college sports fan. And, when I say college sports I truly mean football and basketball. I will watch all other college sports especially if my team is ranked in the top 25 or advanced into the individual tournaments but, again, football and basketball are the focus.

The passion in college sports can't be equal by in any other arena of sports. The personable affiliation with it means the fan base will increase two-fold annually. You of course have families of athletes and then alumni. And, then there are those that just grew up in the perspective states that are just crazy about their home town teams.

I grew up in the midst of one of those communities where all are connected to a team. And, days that our favorite teams played were better than any holidays that came along. The stars of our team were worship on and off the field. If these players had a hand in our winning they would be remembered and idolize for times to come.

With the defection of so many athletes from one team to another I began to think who is really running this sport. I could go into the money is the route of all of this but that would require a completely separate article.

But, I grew up in a time when players in football and basketball stayed in school all four years more often than not. There was actually a concept well known to many call red-shirt senior. And, that's not that long ago. But, in the times we live in right now a red shirt senior in football or basketball...even a true senior is unheard of. If you are a senior most are incline to think you have no talent. No one would assume that the athlete wanted to finished what they started.

The tone of defection of college sports to professional sports has taken on an entirely new face. The prevailing thought is you came to college to improve your pay scale later in life. So why stay and actually get an education if you can declare and make millions?

I waffle back and forth on my stance on early entry to the NBA and the NFL. Obviously times have changed and if you have first round talent why not test it at the next level.

But, it is that lure of millions that makes athletes and their families. It is this attraction and talk of so much money that has the level of transfers at a all-time high.

It is important though that I discuss several discoveries. Several things have happen as my fan hood has grown and evolved over the years. I have started to pay attention to the nuances of the behind scenes activity with these players. The "what is it going to take to get you in our program nuances?"

So, here are my revelations; one, the college athlete is not the only one that is being recruited. Two, the lure of money for the athlete and the institutions has taken this commitment to one college a joke. Three, the athlete as well as him family over-estimates the amount of an athlete's talent and therefore feels they are owed and should be awarded a lot more than a free education. Four, the climate is now where these kids can fall out of love with their coaches and colleges and have their parents shop them around to the highest bidder and hence change schools in mid-stream even if it means sitting out a year.

I realize I may be a late bloomer in this whole revelation and this process of college recruiting but, it has become apparent to me that recruiting has and maybe always has extended way beyond the athlete.

High school and AAU coaches are now schmoozed a lot more than the player. The Coach vows that he is the closest to the player and vows that the athlete will go where ever he suggest. In the one parent homes the uncles or older brothers are the key and then wooed.

I am under the impression that college coaches understand this game and are more willing to play and circumvent the rules whenever they can.

Which then begs the question who is in charge? If coaches are giving away more than they should are they being held hostage to a certain extent? Are they setting themselves up for eventual failure? Doesn't this pay to play in college athletics change the level of the playing fields? Does it not give the athlete the idea that their talent is worth something in the realm of college sports? Do we really give jobs and one time payments to these athletes coaches and families.

Or in the instance of Arkansas Razorbacks Houston Nutt a commitment of three players in exchange for a position on his staff. (that coach being Gus Malzhan now OC for the Auburn Tigers) Houston Nutt has since been run out of town to the Ole Miss Rebels.

I vaguely remember the years of Galen Hall and Charlie Pell when they gave away the farm and got caught. . But, I do remember the sanctions...the death penalty that it imposed on the Florida Gator program.

I definitely remember the Reggie Bush scandal. And, I remember my thoughts were that there is no way an athletes parents accepted the offer of a house, the offer of transportation, the offer of clothes for their son.

There is no way that I thought that Pete Carroll would allow agents to roam the locker rooms and sidelines like they were alleged to have done.

Did I think that Lebron's Mom all of a sudden decided she wanted a Hummer for her son? At least he was not violating any NCAA rules.

Again, a late bloomer in this realm. What happen? Has this always been the case and I have been so busy impressing my male friends that I know what a Tampa 2 Coverage is?

This begs the next question that doesn't this all out effort to appease this young athletes and their family give them a false sense of value.

Does anyone ever weigh talent versus integrity?

These kids are recruited profusely by the the coaches and their assistants. They are told how they can come in a start right away. That could even be a one and done. And, then they offer the families and supporting cast nuggets of value to entice them to one program or another. Isn't a scholarship for four years enough?

And, with false sense of value that the system of recruiting has bestowed upon them, they start to think more of themselves. They actually come in that way because they were undoubtedly a big fish in a small pond. And, if they don't like the way they are being treated, or how the coach is playing them within the system, or don't like the amount of time they are getting...it's now time to shop themselves around. Former coaches, fathers, and AAU affiliates start to feel out other coaches and program, and boosters too see if they have a chance somewhere else.

I know for fact there are several fathers calling around to coaches that recruited them early in the process. Does a commitment not mean anything? Obviously a letter of intent doesn't mean much.

Just ask Demarcus Cousins who left Memphis and followed Calapari to Kentucky, Or ask Deshawn Painter that ask out of his letter of intent to Florida.

Look at Seth Curry who now feels that Liberty will not give him the level of competition that he needs to compete at the next level. Can anyone really tell me that Dell Curry did not some how investigate the interest in his son before they ask for a transfer. How was Coach K contacted?

Or look at Emmanuel Moody who thought himself to far down the depth chart at Southern Cal and transferred to Florida and sat out a year.

Robert Maurve formerly of the Hurricanes is still shopping himself. And, he ask for a release because he did not agree with the punishment given by his coach for violating team policy...and that was attendance to class.

When did this get so out of hand or have I been so out of touch? I assumed the bigger question is how bad will this get. I submit that college institution and college sports are out of control. And, it starts with recruiting, it starts with money, it starts with the big eyed coaches and families.

We see the increased levels of movement. What do we do? Do we continue to play this game? If so then more programs will experience these transfers.

We have said to young men 17-22 that cheating is okay. That your God given talent is worth anything to pack stadium and coliseum. It is worth a coaches job, It is bigger than the game we love so much.

The Gators and Superman Visit The White House and President Obama

Lashan — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 18:52:56 -0400

The national champion Florida Gator Football team visited the White House today. They were invited late last week and actually showed up for this American tradition.

That tradition being if you win a national championship of any sort you get invited to White House to visit with the President. I have never found a team collegiate or professional that was not excited about this luxury. This luxury that comes along with being a champion and this year was no different. The Gators were excited to meet the president.

A 115 players, coaches, and trainers traveled with Urban Meyer anticipated ocassion. The Gators got their official congratulations from our president, Barack Obama.

Obama said, "“I want to congratulate everybody who makes this program run—from the assistants to the trainers, from the students to the ticket takers,” he said. “All of you should be very, very proud.”

He congratulated the team for two national championships in three years. That means players like Tim Tebow, Brandon Spikes, Brandon James, Jonathan Phillips, and host of other Juniors and Seniors got to me two different Presidents. That in itself is big deal.

The President applauded the Gators for their work ethic on and off the field and stated, "it showed strong leadership that the team played hard together and works in their communities."

He pointed that being a champion entails other qualities and made note that the Florida Gators had over 400 hours of community service collectively. He said of Tebow that, "the quarterback's leadership is what you want to see from all our young people—taking responsibility, challenging yourself and others, and rising to the moment."

Obama called Tim Tebow, the Gators’ quarterback, an inspiration for many people. Tebow is a Heisman Trophy winner who speaks openly about his Christian faith.

“He puts faith, family and academics above football. And that’s incredible when you think about what he’s done on the field,” Obama said.

President Obama did address his original statement that he supports a playoff system in college football. He also gave a political response in saying, "he's confident the Gators could've defeated any team out there."

It's was surprising to see Cornelius Ingram, Jason Watkins, Phil Trautwein, and Louis Murphy also in attendance. Even with the NFL Draft looming this weekend it looks like they thought it was important to be with their former teammates. There was no Percy Harvin sighting.

The President was also presented with a Gator jersey with his name on it and a commemorative national championship football with the score of the game and his name engraved on it. The Gators defeated the Oklahoma Sooners on Jan 8 in the Orange Bowl with a score of 24-14.

The President proceeded to throw the ball to one of his White House staffers Reggie Love who played basketball for Coach K at Duke University.

President Obama did make a point of shaking the hand of Tim Tebow. Mr. President meet Superman. He is our hero in Florida.

Florida Gator Basketball Hires Rick Pitino's Son

Lashan — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 09:43:50 -0400

It was announced that Richard Pitino, son of Louisville head coach Rick Pitino, will join the staff of the Florida Gators men's basketball program. This is good news for the Gator program, or at least some positive news for a program trying to regain its recent successes.

On the surface, this seems like a good hire and a natural fit. With Rick Pitino being the mentor of current Gator head coach Billy Donovan, it looks like young Pitino needed to move on from his dad's program to start a coaching identity of his own.

Richard Pitino is 26 years old and truly coming into Gainsville with very little coaching experience.

He has been a part of his dad's program for the last two years. Prior to that, Pitino spent two years on Ron Everhart’s staffs at Northeastern (2005-06) and Duquesne (2006-07).

He spent the 2004-05 season as an administrative assistant under Tom Herrion at the College of Charleston.

I am sure that Richard Pitino understands Billy Donovan's system, and will probably fit right in, as both Donovan and Pitino got their basketball knowledge through the elder Pitino during his stint with the Providence Friars.

Donovan was even an assistant under Rick Pitino at Kentcuky, so again, I think this is a good marriage for both.

But, how does he help us on the recruiting front? That seems to be our area that needs improvement.

I am hoping that Pitino comes with the resume of tenacious recruiting. We seem to either be recruiting the wrong players or or not developing a strong enough relationship with them to build some loyalty...if there is such a thing as loyalty from an 18-year-old.

At this point, the Gator program is down four scholarship players if Nick Calathes keeps his name in the draft. Meanwhile, Allen Chaney and Alex Tyus asked for transfers, and recruit Deshawn Painter asked to be let out of his letter of intent.

The program has taken a serious jolt and seems in disarray and a far cry from the championship years of just two years ago. Maybe this coaching addition can be somewhat of a positive distraction and eventually add some star power to the program.

"I'm very excited about the opportunity to work with Coach Donovan at Florida" said Richard Pitino. "I've known him my whole life, and feel like he's a part of our family. Moving on will give me an opportunity to be a part of another one of the nation's top programs and I'm thrilled to work with one of the best coaches in the nation as well.

"I'm proud of what we accomplished and thoroughly enjoyed my time during my two years at Louisville while working for my father. Now, I'm dedicated to continue to build on what has already been accomplished with the Gators."

This is a move that has been swirling around college basketball news for a couple of weeks, and something that has been talked about in Gator Nation recently as well.

At first, the move didn't seem plausible, but when the news broke of Rick Pitino being the target of possible extortion, maybe this move took on an air of protection.

So, I can see where Pitino Sr. would think it was time to get his son out of his program and let him flourish somewhere else. I can also see how this makes sense to Billy Donovan. This is one of those moves that he probably feels, if there is anyone he trusts around his program, it would be the son of his mentor.

"Richard and I have been talking this possibility over for the last two weeks," said Rick Pitino. "Billy is like a son to me, and there's no other person in the country that I would rather have Richard work with than him."

"We both agree that this a unique opportunity for Richard to develop his own identity while helping Billy build his program back to national prominence. Richard has done an unbelievable job in his recruiting efforts. I'm so proud of what he has accomplished over the last two years at Louisville. I'm excited and very happy for him to have this opportunity to continue to grow as a basketball coach under one of the best coaches in the game.”

Welcome to Gator Nation, Richard Pitino.

Should The Florida Gators Accept The President's Invitation To The White House?

Lashan — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 22:16:14 -0400

It was announced at the Orange and Blue game on Saturday that the BCS National Champion Florida Gators have been invited to the White House to visit with President Obama. An honor that is bestowed on all National Champions in America.

An honor and tradition that I truly like and enjoyed whenever one of my favorite teams have made it all the way to the status of Champion. The crowded applauded very loud over this announcement.

But, now I am having some ambivalence over this invitation. And, please before I get any negative comments this is not a political statement. This is a sports page where I come to write about sports and enjoy some wonderful articles by some very talented writers.

My dilemma with this invitation very simple. President Obama made a point of saying that we needed a playoff. Probably an argument that I can debate in another article and one that I am inclined to agree with.

But, as the system stands right now, BCS Championship, the Gators went out in 2008 and took care of business.

They won the Eastern Division of the Southeastern Conference. Went on to face the number one team in the nation, the Alabama Crimson Tide and beat them. They subsequently got the vote in the BCS and AP Polls and went on to face the Oklahoma Sooners and beat them.

I remember the conversation like it was yesterday.

President Obama looked into the camera and said, congrats to the Gators, and I think Tebow is wonderful, and I actually have a Secret Serviceman that has a son on the Florida Gators, but, (there is that word that really got me) wouldn't you feel better, if you had a playoff system. I mean there is Texas that has a argument and USC."

I remember thinking I was feeling pretty good about the University of Florida. I thought the Gators had gone out played within parameters set, earn the votes of the sports writers and coaches and performed on the field.

I was thinking how dare you talk about the Gators. It didn't matter that it was the President. Which goes to show we fans will banter with anyone anywhere about our team.

I am not going say that our President shouldn't have an opinion. I actually like that he is involved in sports and that ESPN seemed to always seek who he is pulling for individual playoffs. I even compared his bracket to my bracket.

I even applauded as it was announced that he was having a Super Bowl Party even though I didn't agree with who is was pulling for.

My beef is again is as stated. The Gators had a dream season. They dismantle the SEC competition in 2008 with only one loss to Ole Miss. They came out on top against the hardest hitting team in the NCAA last year in football the Crimson Tide. The kept the most productive offense in college football history in the Sooners.

And, the President lessen our moment. Took away from the congrats by supporting the Longhorns and a playoff system. Not good.

Now, the President wanted to know if the Gators would feel better about the Championship if it had been at the end of a playoff. Well, here's news for you Mr President. I don't know any Gator that's not feeling good right now and it's three months later.

I don't know one Gator that was walking around on the night of Jan 8th or any day after that saying, "we would sure feel better right now if this was USC, or Texas, or Utah, or just a playoff system."

Actually we felt and feel mighty fine. Fans celebrated throughout the night. Those with orange and blue stayed and watched the whole celebration and played in confetti.

Folks listen as player after player and coach after coach were interviewed.

The Gatornation faithful cried as they saw Dan Mullen walk off a Gator. We cried as we watched Harvin celebrate and remembered his rehab and marveled at his courage. We gator chomped every time we saw crimson and white and then we waited outside the stadium to get a glimpse of our Champions one more time.

I promise you President Obama we felt pretty good. As a matter of fact we are still gloating. Heck we are thinking we will have a team to repeat in this same flawed system in in 2009.

I just don't know if the Gators should accept this invitation so that you can rain on our perpetual parade.

But, here is my suggestion if we do. I don't think we should bring you a Gator jersey. I think we should call and ask Mack Brown for a Longhorns jersey. You and the whole state of Texas thought they should be in the National Championship Game.

Or maybe Urban should see if Mark Sanchez has an old jersey he is not using since he's headed to the NFL and bring that to you.

All I am saying is, "the President this year has taken away some of the excitement and honor for me."

CBS Thinks the Gators and Tebow Have Star Power for 2009

Lashan — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 17:42:19 -0400

CBS announced it's College Football schedule this week, and Florida Gator fans should be very pleased.

The Gators could have as many as six games nationally televised. There is a very good chance that we could see the Tennessee, LSU, Arkansas, Georgia, South Carolina, and FSU games.

CBS is under the impression that they can't lose airing the Florida Gators stating, "never has it been a more marketable team than Florida, which has captured two of the past three national titles. Nor has he seen a more celebrated player than Gators senior quarterback Tim Tebow."

CBS went on to say, "that they haven't seen anything like it in the Southeastern Conference and this is a conference that had the likes of Peyton and Eli Manning."

Now I think it's great to have my Gators in the spotlight as much as possible. But, I wanted to break down the significance of each game and what it means to a national picture at that time.

No game in the SEC is predictable, as we may have already surmised. So if the Gators can navigate this schedule and come out on the other side of FSU undefeated, there is a chance that they can repeat as SEC champions and be talked about in BCS Championship discussions.

There is a interesting plot and subplot to each of these games, which should do nothing but boost ratings for CBS and show the West Coast some good ole hard hitting football. And, show that nation why the SEC has come out on top in the last three national championship games.

I am one of those that believe that the SEC has strength from top to bottom.

That even the Kentucky's and Vanderbilt's of SEC could beat some of the top ranked teams in the rest of the NCAA, on any given Saturday. Or just ask anyone in the nation about Ole Miss. They will be forever known in 2008 for their big win in Gainesville.

So, with that being said lets take a look at some great matchups for the Gators in 2009.

September 19th Tennessee Volunteers Come to "The Swamp"

This will undoubtedly be the most anticipated game of the early 2009 season.

There has been so much talk coming from Knoxville by Coach Kiffin and of course, it's been well documented. But, the fact that Kiffin and staff has his fans fired up makes this a "gotta be sitting in the stands next to the 'this is Gator Country wall' or in front of your flat screen with strict rules not to disturb" game.

You have to admit Kiffin has beat Meyer at his own game. He came into the SEC and has taken some prime recruits. He has compiled a star-studded staff and left whatever humility he had in Oakland.

So, make no mistake Meyer will be ready for this one. He will have so much planned for this game but will never admit it. He will downplay this the first two weeks of the season and then say that the importance of the Tennessee Game is to start the SEC playoff on a positive note.

But, we in Gatornation know that this it. This is the 2009 version of the Georgia game.

I suspect the sky will be orange and blue in Gainesville on this day. I suspect all the Kiffin pinups in the Heavener Complex will make the heart rate in the game off the charts. I suspect the Spikes will give off many Knowshon Moreno hits and Major Wright will make sure the sidelines is covered.

I say Tennessee will be lucky to leave "The Swamp" with all their players healthy.

This promises to be very physical. Position for position, the Gators are better no matter what defensive look Monte brings. And, in all phases of the game I give the Gators the nod.

With two games before this one to shore up their offensive plays, prepare their special teams, and get their two deep defense lots of action and confidence. That all leads to a lopsided score versus Tennessee: Florida 56 and Tennessee 7.

October 10th Florida Travels into Death Valley and Faces the Bayou Tigers

The last time the Gators and Tebow were there, they lost a comfortable lead and Coach Miles embarrassed the whole program and went for five 4th down plays and converted all of them.

So the team and Meyer should remember that sick feeling leaving Baton Rouge and have revenge on their minds.

I think this our toughest matchupof the season. LSU has recruited like their jobs were on the line and like it's win or go home in March Madness. With their quarterback position being solidified in the latter part of 2008 and then adding the top class of 2009 recruiting, by ESPN standards this will be a tough one.

And, of course LSU will have revenge on their minds too, as we took it to them last year in the Swamp. At that time LSU was predicted to win by most. Lots of talk was swirling around about the strength of the Tiger defensive line. It was thought that the Gators could not handle them. Well, that was proven wrong.

This year though, the Gators offensive line and the Tigers defensive line are not returning those same players.

I think the Gators have an edge in defense, experience on offense, and special teams.

That of course could change by the time this game is played, but I say this will be close in the first half, just from the raw talent that the Tigers have picked up, but our defense will dominate and will not be phased after being on the national stage in January.

Florida 35 and LSU 14.

October 17th Florida Gets Arkansas in the Swamp.

Having Bobby Petrino as their head coach makes them legitimate for an upset. Just ask LSU and Les Miles.

You can point to this game, last year, as the turning point for the Gators. I think it is when the Gators, their fans, and the SEC discovered that Rainey and Demps were pretty good.

It has been said that Petrino is about two years from SEC relevance. It was also obvious that Arkansas made great strides as the season progressed.

And now that they think they have a gunslinger at quarterback and some weapons around him this should be an interesting game. I expect some new wrinkles and some signs of the Louisville offense, but I still think we will see some growing pains.

I would hate for this to be a pitfall game for the Gators, an Ole Miss. game of '09 if you will.

If all other motivation fails, I would encourage Meyer to remind his players that Petrino picked Alabama to win the SEC Championship game on ESPN First Take. I really don't want the Gators to overlook this game. I am thinking that they won't.

Florida 33 and Arkansas 14.

Oct 31st Florida vs. Georgia

There is not much that needs to be said with this game.

I would assume as in past years that this game could be for control in the SEC East Division. Even without Stafford and Moreno, I consider this to be a formidable matchup.

Richt will have this team ready. I predict, though, that it will not be Cox leading the team into the Cocktail Party but Logan Gray.

I was much more impressed with him during the G-Day game. And, with AJ Green and Marlon Brown together forming good receiving tandem, this could be closer than people think. All in all though I think that the Gators will be better on defense and special teams and more experience at the quarterback position.

Last year's revenge factor is gone for Florida, as it has been replaced by Tennessee. This will just be a good ole border war filled with long time hate for each other.

I'm not sure what to think of the Bulldogs, though. I do think that they get to fly under the radar this year and may surprise some people. They are very talented, just young at some key positions.

Florida 28 and Georgia 14.

Nov 14th Florida Travels to Columbia, SC to Face the Gamecocks

This is the Florida Coaches Bowl old and new No. 5. Spurrier won the first one and came close in the second matchup. But since then, Florida and Meyer have gotten the best of the "old ball coach" and his team.

Being an avid Gator fan, I am thankful to Spurrier and I always want him to do well, except when his team plays Florida. But, last year I was embarrassed for Coach Spurrier and the team that he fielded against Florida.

They completely self-destructed.

And, if that was not enough, they looked uninterested in their bowl game against Iowa. They did not uphold the image of the SEC at all.

I pray this year that Coach Spurrier can find the quarterback for him.

That he can get some athletes around his quarterback to make a difference. The review from the Garnett and Black Game is that Stephen Garcia looked much more comfortable in the offense and much more in control. Traditionally, their defenses are solid.

Even with all the improvements the Gamecocks seemed to have made, I don't think they will be able to take the Gators.

I suspect there will be a better showing by the Gamecocks at home. The x-factor in this game as well as others is that I look for our defense to be just as stingy as they were last year. And, they gave up less than 13 points per game last year.

I don't see their specials teams being better than the Gators and, again, the advantage goes to the Gators on offense and at quarterback. I look for the Gators to pull away early. I don't think this one is close at all.

Florida 35 and South Carolina 10.

Nov. 28th Florida vs. Florida State

I look for this to be the last Florida vs. Florida State game of the Bowden era. That in itself makes this a must see. There have been some heated games in this rivalry.

But, there has been to much controversy in this FSUprogram. The sentiment amongst those on the outside looking in is that Coach Bowden is to out of touch with the program, the players, and the game.

And, I for one don't think that his name is no longer holding much weight in the living rooms, during recruiting.

Now on the other side, Tebow's last game as a Gator at "The Swamp."

You can be sure that that element alone will get much hype and much attention from Gator fans. There will be every version of Superman on this day.

But, with all that being said. This game will give CBS it's money's worth. I think this is one of the classics of College Football. I may be bias, but it's right up there with Auburn vs. Alabama and Michigan vs. Ohio State.

And, just from a rivalry standpoint, you never know what's going to happen.

On paper, right now, the Gators look unbeatable in this one.

But, this is the end of the regular for both. You don't know what injuries will have taken place by then. You don't know how much confidence and ability Ponder will have in his pocket by this game. Ponder has good row talent and good speed.

They have to be a dark horse to win the Atlantic Coast Conference this year.

If the Seminoles realize any success at all, they could come into "The Swamp" with some confidence and upset the Gators. I think this is another watch out game for the Gators.

If the Gators come in undefeated, at this point, or with one loss you this could be just as important to the national discussion game as it was last year. In the end, I think the Gators have too much for them at home.

Florida 33 and Florida State 14.

Of course my predictions may be adjusted as the season progresses. But, I do believe that the Gators have an excellent chance to go undefeated. If they can just fight off the air of complacency.

Alex Tyus Transferring Out Of The Florida Gator Basketball Program

Lashan — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 13:33:16 -0400

I am beginning to be quite concerned about my Men's Basketball Program. There seems to be quite a stir within the program. When one transfers as Jai Lucas did last year you just say to yourself as an avid fan that, "those things happen."

My resolve is/was with the Lucas transfer is that there can only be one point guard and my bets were with Calathes at that point. I have since back down on my allegiance to Calathes but, my support for Donovan has never wain until today.

Announced today is Alex Tyus leaving the Gators. That coupled with Calathes declaring for the draft without signing with an agent, Deshawn Painter asking out of his letter of intent and there seems to be something not right. Or as my grandmother use to say, "something in that milk ain't clean."

Should this just be accepted within a program? If this were college football three leaving the program would not be a big deal. But, we are talking college basketball where you only have thirteen scholarships at one time and when three within a span of a month decide to leave your program and I have an issue. Even with Donovan.

Is it his (Donovan) coaching style? Was he two hard on Calathes? I have always thought that Billy Donovan was the master of getting the most out his players ala Walter Hodge. I don't know of any other program where he (Hodge) would have contributed so much. And, truly I have my doubts about how much he contribute once the 04's left. Again, Coach Donovan's ability just has never come into question until now.

News that Calathes was unhappy with being pulled from a game with less than three minutes to go surfaced. News that he (Calathes) thought Coach Donovan lost faith in him also surfaced.

But, do you really pay those things any attention? When you are dealing with players successful in high school and on winning programs bringing their egos to college you can expect some hurt feelings. But, again, what is going on in this instance?

I forgot to mention we also have Chaney transferring out of the program too. Now, the news of this was not shocking. He had some run ins with the coaching staff and seem to take ownership of the fact that he messed up and that he needed to grow up.

I feel though having what now seems like a mass exodus from the program makes you want to look deeper into this. The word is that Tyus's parents have been pushing for him to leave, sighting that he would be flourishing in many other offenses.

I don't doubt that parents have a huge influence at this point in their lives. But, then that begs the question, are there more fans, parents of the programs, and alumni that are not please with Coach Donovan and the 09 season?

Do the players some how know more than we do? Was Donovan actually thinking about the job at Kentucky? Was he talked out of it by Rick Petino and Tubby Smith? Was Anthony Grant waiting on word from Donovan before he accept the position at Alabama? Can the players sense the Coach Donovan is bored at this position?

I hope the answer is no to all of these questions but, these are just some of the stories that have been floating around the basketball program. And, I think it is because of this that we have such an unstable program just two years removed from our National Championship run.

I am concerned about my Gator Basketball program. I will be looking for positive news to be coming from the O'Connell facility. Some news that all want to right this ship. That we have recruited Eric Bledsoe or John Wall or Xavier Henry. Yes a fan can dream can't she?

Orange and Blue Game: What This Gator Fan Would Like To See in This Game

Lashan — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 10:22:40 -0400

The Spring celebration of Gator Football is upon us. The Annual Orange and Blue Spring Game will be played this Saturday. Kickoff at 1:00 PM. I have had this date circled since it was announced. My Gators have become a main-stay in the National Championship and BCS talk in College Football and this year is no different.

The Gators coming off another BCS Championship Season in 2008 obviously have high expectations. And, those high expectations are coming from fans, alumni, and of course the team itself. Now, more often than not I attend this game and this year will be no different.

With there being so many changes in the team it will be interesting to see what changed in the overall look of my Gators and what has stayed the same and kept the course of continuity.

How do we look without Dan Mullen calling the plays and without his interaction with Tebow? Now as a Gator fan we have been told many times that play calling by this team is done by committee.

But I have never underestimated the value of Coach Mullen to our success. He was maligned early in the 08 season for his conservative play calling or for thinking that only Harvin could make plays but, post Arkansas he was a Offensive God to many in Gatornation.

How will this new position affect the focus, the coaching, and the motivation of Steve Addazio? Coach Meyer said after promoting Addazio that, "there was no other choice....no doubt in his mind." I am going to hold you to that Coach Meyer.

You haven't disappointed me yet in any of your actions as the Head Football Coach of Gatornation. So, I want to see what this position coach slash Saturday morning wake up caller can do as our new Offensive Coordinator.

What kind of effect will the new QB Coach Scott Loeffler have on Tim Tebow, and John Brantley? I have heard and read that there is a noticeable difference in Tebow's delivery, arm strength, accuracy, and his footwork. As a true homer I didn't think anything was wrong with his performances in the past three years.

But then I love Superman and I think my hand shake with Tebow is as close to perfection as I will get. My desire is though that he will become NFL ready and shut the mouths of the Mel Kipers of the world and all those Stafford lovers. In the mean time I am expecting these new improvements in Tebow to bring about another BCS appearance.

John Brantley: I have always thought he had a rifle arm. And, he showed signs of great promise last year in relieving Tebow in blow out games. This year and this spring game I am looking for more confidence, signs that we won't miss a beat when Tebow walks out of the swamp for the last time.

Now, that maybe a bit much to come away with from the Spring Game. But I do feel that Brantley has the ability to win in the SEC. And, in 2010 he will be a red-shirt junior. Three years of experience so I want no Joe Cox-Matthew Stafford transition kind of talk here.

I want there to be no questions that need to be answered. Brantley also seems to be gaining the confidence of the his receivers and O-line and that is key to his eventual success.

Speaking of receivers I have been reading that no one has been truly separating themselves. But, DeonteThompson and Carl Moore have shown signs of making me feel a little comfort now that Murphy and Harvin have exited to the draft. I thought Thompson had some success last year and showed that he should be our deep threat.

Moore didn't catch many passes last year but those that he did were of course important. I look for Carl Moore to really surprised us. Riley Cooper is busy with baseball but I hoping that he forgoes the Major League Draft and comeback for his senior season.

David Nelson, who became my clutch-time hero in so many games 2008, is out with an injury. But, I will be excited to see him be a go to guy in this offense come fall. I said after last year Nelson needed to gain a little bit of weight and he has done that.

Also, who is this Justin Williams? I have heard he is turning a lot of heads in practice, has great speed and sure hands. Now maybe that's what all receivers have until the lights come on but, I would still like to see what all the hoopla is about with him on Apr. 18.

I was excited to get a chance to see RB Emmanual Moody. But, the injury bug has bitten him again and he had surgery on his hand. Now I hear he is going to be available for the game this Saturday but I don't know how much he will be able to contribute or how much of a statement he will be able to make.

I really think though that with his style of running he can really be a power runner and finesse runner for us. I like what he did in the Georgia game and what he did in the second half of the Alabama game.

I thought Bama really handled our small backs in Rainey and Demps. I am hoping that he can stay injury free and give us a respectable and durable back to rely on.

Aaron Henrnandez: Now Meyer said in the middle of the season that, "Hernandez could be even better if he would focus and work a little harder." I wonder if he reach those standards for Meyer by the end of the season in 08. I thought he played spectacular from FSU on through the National Championship game.

Now I consider Gresham of Oklahoma the beast of all beast when it comes to TE's in College Football. But, I also think Hernandez has to be a close second. He is clutch with great hands and I am interested to see how they use him this Spring and of course in the Fall. The only other TE on scholarship Desmond Parks is hurt and won't see action this spring.

What about this hurry up offense? Are we really trying to installed this for the entire game or the entire season? Or are we just putting in certain plays and packages for a different look for our offense? I will be looking to see what we are doing with this in the Spring Game.

I am not sure we can do much with this hurry up offense with all the injuries to the line this Spring. But, considering how impressed I was with the Sooners and this offense in 2008, if my Gators can pull this off and make it so for the 2009 Season, I think that makes us a huge prospect to repeat.

This is officially now "The Omar Hunter Watch Part II." Needless to say with all the injuries and the back problems last year, Hunter never became anything but a red shirt freshman. But I am hopeful with all the positive news coming out of spring drills.

He has lost weight and showing aggression and intensity in practice. After he de-committed last year from Notre Dame and shun Richt and Georgia I would love to see this player materialize into a monster on our defensive line. Our own Mount Cody if you will. So all eyes on you Omar. I will be looking for you.

Other than that I am just looking to enjoy my Gators. It's just wonderful to see so much orange and blue in one place. I don't care what the score is. I just want to be apart of this special day in Spring '09.

Top Five Georgia Bulldogs Games To Watch on The 2009 Schedule and Why

Lashan — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 13:30:26 -0500

After a preseason ranking of No. 1 last year it goes without saying that the bulldogs did not live up the expectations. Georgia Bulldog program in some ways has been tap as the program of long term consistency but not getting over the proverbial hump and winning the big one.

The Bulldogs have a tough program with tough players and excellent coaches. You know you have been in a Dawg fight when you play this team.

But with Stafford and Moreno declaring early for the NFL Draft and some key players on defense the Bulldogs and all other SEC fans are curious to see if the program re-loads or if they are in a re-building mode.

With 2009 Spring Practice upon us I decided to take a look at the schedule of the Bulldogs. Georgia find themselves with a tough out of conference.

They go play a Big 12 team in Oklahoma State and then they entertain a Pac-10 team at home in Arizona State. And, then there is the SEC Schedule.

What were they thinking? Navigating this schedule with success will have college football talking top ten ranking. Failing in just two of these games though and we are talking about gaining experience and building character for next year.

So, there are some key games that make or break their season. There also some games that are just flat out rivalries. Games that you can circle on your calendar right now as must sees. Here are my top five games on the Bulldogs' schedule:

September 5, at Oklahoma State

The Bulldogs travel west again to return the home and home favor to the Cowboys. I think right from the start we will see what Georgia has to offer after losing some key players on offense and defense.

Right away we will get a glimpse of how this young team handles away games; how Joe Cox will lead this team; and what Caleb King brings to the rushing game as the every day back. It has been said that King and Samuels may be more durable and stronger than Moreno and may break more tackles but I think that remains to be seen.

Either way this is huge for the Bulldog program. Right from the start this is their chance to say we have reloaded, we are the SEC, our defense is back, and Stafford who. That's a tall order but I would venture to say that Richt will have this team ready.

For Oklahoma State quarterback Zac Robinson, running back Kendall Hunter, receiver Dez Bryant and offensive lineman Russell Okung are all returning.

The concern lies once again with the defense. Oklahoma State has not had a defense ranked any better than 74th since 2002. They are hoping the recruits and new defensive coordinator they have brought in will change that.

I venture to say Georgia is a touchdown ahead when the whistle blows.

Prediction: Georgia 24 Oklahoma State 17

October 3, Louisiana State University at home

This match up is always a dog fight. Mark Richt himself once said, "Death Valley is loudest he has ever experience." I expect nothing different this time. Georgia went into Baton Rouge last year and pounded LSU's defense for fifty-two points.

It was a match-up of two of the best RB's in the SEC. Moreno had a 68 yard touchdown run in the third quarter that virtually put the game away and he rushed for 163 yards. Charles Scott from LSU rushed for 144 yards.

Georgia had the edge at QB last year as Stafford threw for two and ran for one. LSU's QB Jarrett Lee didn't fair so well as he threw for three interceptions. Two of which were returned for touchdowns.

Along the way though LSU discovered a quarterback in Jordan Jefferson. Couple that with the No. 1 Recruiting class by ESPN's standards and you have another great game coming up this year. These defenses are known for some heavy hitting.

I don't doubt that this will disappoint any fan on that front. So, you can definitely circle this one as the Tigers head into Sanford Stadium with I am sure revenge on their minds. I am predicting an upset here as I think the additions the the Tigers made will be instant contributors.

Prediction: LSU 28 Georgia 24

October 10, Tennessee Volunteers at Tennessee

For the first time in the Lane Kiffin era Tennessee welcomes Georgia into Knoxville and Neyland Stadium. There are so many sub-plots to this where do I start? How about with the fact that Kiffin did everything thing he could raid Richt's staff and garnish Rodney Garner away.

Garner is known for his Defensive line coaching but he is also known as an outstanding recruiter. There is something in Dawg land now known as "The Plane Watch."

Tennessee's staff sent a plane for Garner and as Dawg fans reported back and forth on Dawgvent whether Garner was sited getting on. Luckily for Georgia he never showed at the airport and later told Lane Kiffin no thanks.

Second. Kiffin hasn't been making many friends around the SEC and that is including Coach Richt. Kiffin was reported as saying, "Richt is asleep when it comes to recruiting." Now we Gator fans have our own beef with Kiffin but, I am sure that Dawg fans will be looking forward to this game.

Also, the last time the Bulldogs went to Neyland Stadium I don't think most of his team showed up. The game was over by the second quarter as it was 28-0 at halftime.

Georgia never threaten the outcome in the second half. Even though this game is in Knoxville I think Georgia is in a better depth position than Tennessee.

Yes, Kiffin has a great staff and yes he had a outstanding recruiting class, and yes there is daddy Kiffin but I think Tennessee have bigger holes to fill than the Dawgs. I think the Bulldogs come up big in this one.

Prediction: Georgia 30 Tennessee 17

October 31, Florida Gators, in Jacksonville, Fl

I don't know how you top the anticipated game of 2008. It was a game talked about by ESPN and other coaches. It was deemed as the game to watch by Randy Shannon of the Miami Hurricanes. He stated, "don't watch our game, please watch Georgia-Florida, I guarantee you something will happen in that one."

It was known among all gators that the football players had to do all spring and summer drills in reps of 188 for this. That of course was how many yards KnowshonMoreno had gain in the 2007 Clash in Jacksonville. So it was payback time for all.

We all remember the celebration in the end zone. It was debated and argued about for the entire year. Was it right? What was Richt thinking? From this Gator fan in looking back at it, it was a smart move.

But, now comes the game in 2008. So many side stories. Both teams ranked in the top ten. Both teams looking for the drivers seat in this SEC East Division Race. The winner goes home with their fate in their hands. The loser has to hope for some help later on. By now everyone knows the results but just case you missed it it was 49-10 Florida.

And, to add insult Meyer call three time outs in the last minute and half. I assume that was payback for the celebration in the previous year but, maybe it could have been for Emmanuel Moody to get more yards like Coach Meyer said.

Now, that is debated by all Florida and Georgia fans. The 2009 game is revenge again, Will Georgia be able to answer? Will they have enough depth to compete with the Tebow lead Florida Gators?

This is still a major match-up if you want to win the East in the SEC. Again key contributors now in the NFL Draft for Georgia. And, Florida's key losses are limited to Percy Harvin and Louis Murphy. All of this makes this a must see again. I think Richt will have something up his sleeve again.

Losing 16 out of the last 19 does not sit well with such a competitor as Coach Mark Richt. And, even though he and his coaching staff have only been apart of a few of these losses. It was one of the reason he was hired. Beat Florida!

I think there is too much strength coming back in all phases of the game. I think Florida takes the nod at special teams, defense and offense. By no means will Georgia lay down though. And, they will come to hit. They key may come down to the inexperience at QB for the Dawgs.

Prediction: Florida 28 Georgia 17

November 14, Auburn Tigers, at home

To a lot of Georgia this is just as big of a rival as Florida and Tennessee if not bigger. This is a border war. And, the fact that the whole black out jersey hoopla started with Auburn adds to this match-up.

In fact even with a mediocre season at hand for the Auburn Tigers they played Georgia tough in 2008. As matter of fact with just 11 minutes to go in the fourth the Tigers took the lead.

But, Georgia wouldn't be denied as they came storming back with a drive of their own that was culminated with a 17 pass from Matthew Stafford to AJ Green. Georgia never relinquish the lead after that. The trend is that these two teams seem to win on each other field. That has not happen the past two season as Georgia has taken them both.

There is no love loss between these two. Auburn's new Head Coach Gene Chizik even tried to raid the Georgia coaching staff and hire away Rodney Garner from the Bulldogs in the off season.

This I would consider a re-building season for the Tigers. They recruit the same high school players from Auburn, Alabama to Athens, Georgia. With the late coaching changes in Auburn Georgia won that war too and finish in the top 10 or 15 most recruits polls. But, expect no sympathy from Georgia.

This is a bragging rights game and Georgia will do all it can to dominate. Both teams will have new quarterbacks this year. I think though Auburn's needs on offense and defense makes this an easy win for the Bulldogs.

But, because of the rivalry Auburn and Georgia both have this one circled on their calendar. Families are making plans and arguing about their sons and nephews on the perspective teams right now. And, we are not even near the Spring Games. This is a point to game.

Prediction: Georgia 24 Auburn 7

November 28, Georgia Tech, at Georgia Tech

If you were to poll Georgia or Georgia Tech fans from Athens, Ga to Columbus, Ga who is the their biggest rival they all would say each other. Georgia are the Puppies and Georgia Tech are the Bumble Bees. This is a hated one.

The last time Georgia Tech took a game in the series was 2000. But, feeling like they had found there Coach of the future and had found their offense of the future they went in to Sanford Stadium and made it a game. Tech was losing by sixteen at half-time.

But, 214 yards later by RB Roddy Jones and 409 yards of total offense and the Bumble Bees found themselves celebrating on their rivals field; found themselves with a win that erased all the years of misery.

No matter what now they had bragging rights for the year. In offices all across the state the bets were won by Tech fans and it was the Bulldogs fans who had to dawn the jerseys of the Ramblin Rech. Most Bulldogs fan can stomach losing to Florida and Alabama but, Georgia Tech.

Paul Johnson was a genius and the sentiment was that Coach Mark Richt must fire Defensive Coordinator Willie Martinez. As Georgia heads south this year an hour to Atlanta, you can be assured there will be nothing but revenge on the minds of those in red and black.

This will be not one of those games they will want to just win but, want to embarrass in the process. The hate is alive and well in this one. Ink this one and if you are anyway near Atlanta make this a must attend.

I think Georgia takes this one on just shear will. I don't think they can go back to Athens with two losses in a row Georgia Tech. I think they find an answer to the triple optioin for this one.

Prediction: Georgia 24 Georgia Tech 21

SEC Women's Basketball Tournament Starts Today

Lashan — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 11:06:16 -0500

Today is the first day of the SEC Women's Basketball Tournament in North Little Rock, Arkansas. First tip off is at 12:00 noon.

In many years past, we assume the tournament was the Tennessee Lady Vols to take.

But, not this year.

The Lady Vols finish 9-5 in conference play and 20-9 overall. They have a young team really still searching for an identity this late in the season. Their inconsistency all year has hampered them. At best, we don't know which Lady Vols team is going to show in the tournament. Tennessee opens with the No. 12 seed Alabama. The Lady Vols can be comforted by the fact that Alabama hasn't beaten them since 1984.

The Lady Tigers from Auburn are looking like they are in the drivers seat. They are ranked No. 5 in the nation and went through conference play with a 12-2 record.

And, those two losses in conference play were the only two losses of the year for them.

The Lady Auburn Tigers are sporting the third best field goal percentage in the nation. They have the best player in the nation when it comes to assists in point guard Whitney Boddie. And, they also have four players averaging in double figures in scoring: Dewanna Bonner, Sherrell Hobbs. Alli Smalley, and Whitney Boddie.

This tournament is big for Auburn. If they can blitz through this field and win the championship, it could mean a No. 1 seed for them in the NCAA Tournament.

Vanderbilt and LSU came on strong in the end of the season and tied for second place in the SEC with 10-4 records.

Vanderbilt won three out of the last five games they played beating Florida, Georgia, and Auburn before losing to Mississippi and Tennessee. They have some scoring of their own coming from Christina Wirth, Hannah Tuomi, and Merideth Marsh. If this team gets hot from behind the arc in the tournament, they can make some noise.

LSU Tigers come in to the tournament winning their last five games against Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Mississippi. They have a true scorer in Allison Hightower, but her supporting cast is inconsistent. This young team has talent, but will need their best play to make it through this tough conference tournament.

The Florida Gators were on fire through midseason, but seemed to run out energy at the end. They ended the season losing four of their last five and really struggled on both ends of the court.

That performance got them fourth in the SEC. Yet, I think Coach Butler will have these ladies ready to compete and they could be considered a dark-horse in this one to take it all. Sha Brooks and Marshae Dotson are productive seniors on this team and I don't think they are satisfied with just fourth place.

If Steffi Sorensen can get hot from the outside, they may surprise some teams. They await the winner of the Tennessee-Alabama in second round.

Mississippi State has to feel good about it's performance this year too and hence they should feel good about it's chances in the NCAA Tournament. The Lady Bulldogs came away with 21 wins for the season and a 8-6 record in conference play.

They can't afford though to lose to South Carolina in the first round. That may cost them a birth in the NCAA Tournament.

The South Carolina Gamecocks lead by Coach Dawn Staley had too many injuries this year to overcome and ended the season 10-17 overall and 2-12 in the conference.

Its going to be tough for the rest of the field. Georgia ended the season at .500 in the SEC and 19-17 overall. Arkansas, Mississippi, Kentucky, South Carolina, and Alabama all had losing seasons in conference play.

Key Players in the my star watch

Skekinna Stricklen, Tennessee, Sha Brooks, Florida, Dewanna Bonner, Auburn, and Merideth Marsh, Vanderbilt.

I look for great performances from these ladies. They can change the complexion of a game and push their teams to the win column.

If you are a fan of Women's College Basketball, please try to catch these teams in action. There will great games throughout the weekend.

Why I Don't Want My Florida Gators to Make the Big Dance

Lashan — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 12:50:51 -0500

To be honest, my Florida Gators have exceeded my expectations. With no big man to speak of I think Coach Donovan has done the best that he can and could. Some would say he did not recruit very well. But, there is no way he could have expected Speights to leave UF and enter the NBA Draft early; that in itself left a big hold.

At this point in time though, you would have to consider the Gators a bubble team at best. It really depends on what analyst you listen too.

So I find myself painstakingly going through this season with the Gator basketball team and saying, "Come on if you can just win two out your next four we can get in." Those four teams being LSU, Tennessee, Mississippi State, and Kentucky. Well, we already lost to LSU which is what I expected. But, after that lost I realized we cannot win away from home. We cannot compete or think about shutting down the opponent's top scorer or big man. So why am I am prolonging this agony? If they make it they won't get any favorable seeding. If there is such a thing. We won't even get in a region that will keep us close to home. We haven't performed well enough to have that type of consideration. My outlook on this is bleak but realistic.

The Gators have a game today against the Tennessee Volunteers at home in the Stephen C. O'Connell Center. It will be alive and rocking. But, truly most Gators would not be surprised if the Volunteers come into our home and walk away with a win. And, we are undefeated at home. But, our inability to get a big win is prominent.

We are not a close win team. We don't have a closer. So here is my analysis of the prospective Gator March Madness team:

Nick Calathes does not have a supporting cast that can pick up the slack or compliment his game. He is a special guard with awesome talent. He surprises me every game with his court awareness and his timely shooting. And, there is the rest of the team.

I think Irving Walker is a scrapper and a future All-SEC Player at his position. But right now he is a freshman and making freshman mistakes.

Alex Tyus has shown signs of tenacious play and dunks. But, he can not be expected to defend and play against the likes of some in the SEC who are stronger and bigger. In other words he is no Joakim Noah or Al Horford. (we in Gator nation should be so lucky)

Kenny Kadji is so inconsistent, but I do see some signs that he can be a good post player.

Dan Werner is in space literally. To be one of the seasoned players on the team he seems to lose focus. I honestly don't why he still gets the nod to start except for that's the best we have. And, if he takes another open three and miss I am going to scream.

Walter Hodge, our lone senior, is getting almost twenty-eight minutes a game and given us just eight points a game and not much in leadership. That leadership title goes to the sophomore Calathes.

Chandler Parson has some game and his high basketball IQ is obvious. He has no strength and truly can't compete inside. We have no power forward.

Our bench has no depth. They are giving minutes but no production. So why would I want them to make this Tournament? If they make it, and I am still skeptical about that, they will not make it out of the first round. Again, I am truly prolonging this agony.

There is no way that we have the team to compete with the likes of North Carolina, Oklahoma, UConn, and Pittsburgh; let alone Duke, Marquette, and others.

Now, I know this a selfish view and some of my fellow gator alum will disagree. I know to not make the tournament continues a non-appearance streak started by last years team. Maybe my view and desire keeps the team from needed experience. But I continue to say we know the end to this season already. We can predict it. I say we squeak by Tennessee, we lose to Mississippi State in Mississippi and maybe find a way to win against Kentucky at home.

We make it into the tournament. We probably win the first game. But our inconsistency will then rear it's ugly head as soon as we Gator fans get some hope. I say stay at home this year. Don't accept the invitation and don't go to the NIT. We would probably lose in the semi-finals of the NIT like last year anyway. And besides, I don't really respect a tournament that the South Carolina Gamecocks have made their own.

We have our twenty win season. We have our savior Kenny Boynton coming next year. Most say he is a one and done. At this point I am willing to accept temporary success with long term hope. This short term failure is killing me. We Gator fans, as I am sure other college fans suffer through these losses. Let's just call it a season after the conference tournament and go back to the drawing board. Please!

Go Gators!

NFL Teams Shouldn't Sleep On Percy Harvin

Lashan — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 10:41:35 -0500

I personally think the performance of Percy Harvin speaks for itself. His impact on the team was immediate. His impression on Urban will last forever. His speed will be remembered in the SEC for a long time.

Also, I selfishly did not want to see him leave early and declare for the draft. How much he will be missed will definitely be debated at a later time. But, this is to say that he is the real deal. He is exactly the x-factor for a lot of offenses in the NFL and here is why.

In 2006 he had only five touchdowns for the year. But, his presence and impact in the SEC Championship was felt. The Arkansas Razorbacks had no answer. He came away with the MVP of the SEC Championship Game.

His performance was minimal in the BCS Championship Game but, that was because the ball was spread around to perfection by Urban Meyer and Dan Mullen. He had to compete with Bubba Caldwell, Dallas Baker, and Cornelius Ingram. Needless to say they came away with a dominant win.

But hopes were high in 2007 even though the Gators lost their entire defense. Percy had his best year statistically. He scored 10 touchdowns, had 858 yards receiving and 764 rushing. And, because of this production Percy was the key to the offense.

He was part of the reason that Tebow walked away with the Heisman Trophy Winner. His contribution was so important that it had Tebow talking about Percy winning the Heisman in 2008.

In 2008. even though our rival Georgia Bulldogs were considered the favorite to go all the way, Gatornation had high hopes and that had a lot to do with Percy Harvin.

Gatornation felt that we had the most dangerous player in College Football. Harvin had 17 touchdowns in 2008 with 644 yards receiving and 659 yards rushing. But, it is in this year that I think Percy Harvin made his stock worthy. This is the year that he solidified himself as a college player who could play at the next level.

His ability to make people miss was/is uncanny. He has a natural first step. Some say the fastest first step. He can maneuver through the line and come out with a burst of speed that has/had many coaches and defenses in college football shaking their heads.

Percy scored at least one touchdown in every game he played in 2008. His game against Georgia signified his talents as he scored rushing on a 20 yard sweep. He then scored wide open in the end zone on a 25 yard pass from Tebow.

He had a similar game against LSU as he scored two receiving touchdowns; racked up a 70 yard receiving touchdowns, tons of yards and SEC Offensive Player of the week. He also had a 80 yard touchdown against South Carolina.

Every way he was used he was successful and I think this can happen in the NFL.

Some say he is the next Reggie Bush. I think he is better. I feel he went up against a lot better defenses week in and week out in the SEC. I think once you get pass USC in the Pac-10 the level of defense declines.

Some say he is injury prone. But, if you look he only missed 5 games in his three year history. This issue has been personified because he is so valuable to his team. And, because he missed one of the most important games in Florida Football history against the Crimson Tide in the SEC Championship Game.

But, if there is anything that is a testament to his strength and durability it is his come back and his sometimes self imposed rehab for the National Championship Game. Not only did he sustain a high ankle sprain in the FSU game but, he also had a hair-line fracture in the ankle.

Harvin's performance recovering was just as a spectacular as his performance in the National Championship Game. The Gators had no chance to win that game without Harvin. And, his 50-yard run from scrimmage after Oklahoma had just scored was monumental.

It can be argued that at this point Oklahoma had just taken some semblance of momentum. For Harvin to comeback on the very next play offensively from scrimmage was huge. Now, that drive ended in a field goal but, it was momentum gain that would never be relinquish by the Gators.

Harvin can have this kind of impact in the NFL. He can do it all. He can return kick, run the ball and catch the ball. And, I think he can learn to be a better route runner. I also believe that the bulk and strength that Harvin picked up in the off season before the 2008 schedule commenced will be what will sustain him in the NFL.

Harvin and Meyer created the Percy Harvin position that most coaches are looking for when they recruit now. I think Harvin can create the Percy position in the NFL if given the chance.

The Minnesota Vikings and the Tennessee Titans are two teams that gave him some attention at the Combine. I say more need to pay attention to this player or they will be kicking themselves later.

Go Gators!!

Florida-South Carolina: Lady Gators' Basketball End Skid Against Gamecocks

Lashan — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 09:38:48 -0500

Lady Gator Basketball ended it's three game skid against the South Carolina Gamecocks on Sunday. Since being ranked No. 9 in the AP Poll, the Lady Gators dropped games to Vanderbilt, LSU, and then Arkansas at home.

On this Senior Day it was fitting that Seniors Sha Brooks and Mashae Dotson had a major impact on the outcome of the game.

Brooks scored a game-high 24 point against the Gamecocks but, she also had five three-pointers and was a perfect 5-5 from the free-throw line. She also had eight assists and six rebounds.

Fellow Senior Marshae Dotson contributed 18 points and blocked two shots and added five rebounds. Another Senior Aneika Henry had five rebounds and three assists.

It was a special day for us,” Florida head coach Amanda Butler said. “It was an opportunity to honor four young ladies who have given so much to their university. The fact that we were able to do that off the heels of another big SEC victory was special.

South Carolina is one of the scrappiest, most competitive teams in the league. Their fight and spirit is very, very strong and we knew that we were going to have to come ready. We knew that if we brought Florida basketball fight and fire, that we were going to be in good shape.”

Coach Butler shook up the starting line-up and started true freshman Trumae Lucas. Because of her previous play off the bench it became evident that it was going to be hard to keep this young lady off the court.

She can make plays and obviously make things happen for her teammates. Her play had been productive in the midst of a three game losing streak.

In this game though the whole Florida team put it all together and shot almost 51% from the floor and almost 86% from the free-throw line. They also ended up winning the battle in rebounds with a 38-34 edge and contributed 10 three-pointers. This was definitely their best all around game as they lead they entire game against the Gamecocks.

Dawn Staley's bunch though are a scrappy group and they twice cut into the Gators lead. But, each time the Gators responded with runs of their own.

South Carolina was led by freshman Lakeisha Sutton who had a team high 17 points.

Sutton is definitely the future of Gamecock Basketball. When the ball was in her hands she made plays everytime. Senior forward CJ Pace brought down a game-high seven rebounds.

“I thought our team played well,” Staley said. “I thought we won the hustle plays and the areas in which we had to win in order to put ourselves in a position to win. We got beat by a good basketball team that did what they did well, especially Dotson, and Brooks. They just had their way with us today.”

The Gators took a four point lead into the half. They shot an impressive 47.8 percentage from the floor.

The Gators also played great defense holding the Gamecocks to just 26.3 percent and no basket for the first 3:48 minutes.

“One of the reasons why this team has been so successful this season is because they are a confident bunch,” Butler said. “I think that we knew that with the work we have put in the past two days in practice, what the result was going to be. We wanted to make sure that we played with enough confidence, aggressiveness and a little bit of that swagger.”

The Lady Gators improve to 23-5 and 9-4 in the Southeastern Conference.

Florida gets back to the floor on Sunday, March 1 as they travel to Athens, Georgia to play the Bulldogs. This is the last game of the regular season for both teams.

Notes: The Gators reach their 300th victory in program history. The Gators need one more victory to match the programs' record of 24. With Sha Brooks five three-pointers she is now at 203 three-pointers for her career. She becomes only the third player in program history to reach 200 three-pointers.

Florida-Vanderbilt: The Gators Decided That Being Ranked No. 9 Was Enough

Lashan — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 16:19:33 -0500

The Lady Gator Basketball team went into Nashville to play the Vanderbilt Commodores. They had all the necessary equipment to play: uniforms, shoes, and water bottles. But the Gators left their most important tools—they left their suffocating pressure defense, their ability to pass, their good decision making, their ability to make easy baskets, and their ability to stay out of foul trouble.

Actually, they never looked worse. They looked overwhelmed and confused and never in the flow of the game. I haven't seen Coach Butler so animated and disappointed on the sideline.

Give Vanderbilt a lot of credit. They were on fire from the beginning and played well on both ends of the court. At one point the Gators were down 12-0 and then at another point 24-7. Merideth Marsh led their attack on offense with 3-3 from the three-point line in the first half.

Ms. Marsh ended the game with eight three-pointers, which coincidentally tied an all-time record. The Gators never thought it necessary to get out on her and play some defense. The Commodores had energy and had the crowd behind them.

Still Sha Brooks led a charge back and made it respectable late in the first as they went on a 12-2 run. That run help them to end the half at 37-29.

With only an eight-point deficit, I thought, that's nothing. The Gators can do this in their sleep. I counted on Coach Amanda Butler correcting their lackluster behavior, their horrible passing, and uncanny ability to turnover the ball. I counted on that.

But what I didn't count on is that they wouldn't listen, or that they were not going to play well. The Gators in the first three minutes of the game turned the ball over twice, got their two top scorers in foul trouble, and left Vanderbilt's top three-point shooter for uncontested buckets at will. Game over really at this point.

Coach Butler tried different combinations on the floor. Some she tried to get a spark out of her team, and some she tried because her team was in foul trouble.

The Commodores were in the bonus on the line with over 10 minutes left in the second half—unheard of if you want to win a SEC game in the opponent's backyard. The Lady Gators amassed 23 turnovers.

Give Vanderbilt credit; they shot well, and when they didn't, they hustled and played tenacious defense. It seemed as though they were not going to let Sha Brooks beat them, and she didn't. She ended the game with just 14 points and had fouled out with almost five total minutes to go in the game. This output by Brooks after two consecutive games of 29 points.

"Vanderbilt played an outstanding game," UF head coach Amanda Butler said. "We just got outplayed. They were tougher than us. We got outhustled. We got outcoached. You just have to give them every bit of credit for the outcome of this ballgame. They set the tone and we were chasing them the whole ballgame. I'm proud of the way Azania Stewart played and the players who were in the last five minutes of the game. They played with confidence compared with how we played the first 35 minutes."

This loss snaps a seven-game winning streak for the Gators, their first game after being ranked No. 9 in the nation in the AP Poll. I encourage the Lady Gators not to let being ranked in the top 10 be enough. I encourage them not to be satisfied with just beating a young Tennessee Volunteer team.

They now travel to Baton Rouge to face the LSU Tigers for a nationally televised game on Sunday, Feb. 15, at 12 noon.

Top Ten Players To Watch In Womens' Basketball

Lashan — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 15:03:22 -0500

There is some great play going on in Women's College Basketball this year. I thought it was time to narrow down who I think is making some news in the game and having some great performances. These women are making it happen for their teams and individually reaching some milestones of their own.

1. Courtney Paris, Oklahoma Sooners, Center

Courtney continues to impress me. She has to be leader in the race for Player of the Year.

Her streak of double-doubles ended last week against Tennessee but she keeps on going. In her next game against Oklahoma State she became the all-time rebounds leader in women's basketball. She surpassed Wanda Ford of Drake.

She also broke the Big 12 career scoring record of 2,480 points, set by Baylor's Sophia Young from 2003-2006, and Young's Big 12 field goals record of 1,034.

Courtney is consummate team player and a hard worker. This year the Sooners have a legitimate chance of making some noise and reaching the Final Four and beyond. It's all because of Courtney's game and her maturity. She is the all-time "double-double princess."

2. Maya Moore, UConn Huskies, Forward

Maya is probably the best all around player I have seen since Diana Taurasi. She can take over a game. And, her jump shot is as smooth as any that I have seen in the men's college game this year.

She is averaging 19.9 points a game and 9.1 rebounds. Her Huskies have had a hold on No. 1 for quite some time now and still remain undefeated. She was actually tagged by ESPN as the preseason favorite to win POY and she is only a sophomore.

If it were not for Courtney Paris she is a runaway for Player of the Year and still may be closer than I think. She was the first freshman to garner player of the year honors in the Big East last year. Maya is worth all the hype and more.

3. Kristi Toliver, Maryland Terrapins, Guard

Kristi has to be considered one of the nations' top guards. She is the only one on my list that has a national championship under her belt.

This young lady has ice water running through her veins. She is definitely a big shot taker. She had a buzzer-beater against Florida State in a thriller and was just recently named ACC Player of the Week.

She wants the ball when the game is on the line. She can pull up and take a three-pointer or she can drive it down the lane for a lay up. She is a hustler and loves to play defense.

She is averaging 17.3 points a game and shoots 46 percent behind the three-point line. If I was starting a team this young lady would definitely be on it.

4. Epiphanny Prince, Rutgers Scarlett Knights, Guard

Epiphanny has been player of the week twice in the Big East. And, for such a small player she has a big game. She is averaging 20.5 points a game and converting 82.5 percent from the free throw line.

The Rutgers Ladies haven't realized as much success as other years, but they are young and Epiphanny is evolving into one of the best guards in the nation.

Size does hamper this player as she will pull up for a jumper or drive it in the lane for a lay-up against a lot bigger foe. This small guard has earned the right to have the ball in her hands in the last moment of a game.

5. Jantel Lavendar, Ohio State Buckeyes, Center

I have had the opportunity to see this freshman play in person now. All of the hype is warranted.

She is contributing 21.0 points and pulling down 10.8 rebounds. Both those numbers leads the Big Ten.

She also has 53 games where she has scored in double figures. She recently reached 1,000 points in just her second year playing. This is a future player of the year in women's basketball. She is a force on both ends and her teammates love her.

6. Chante Black, Duke Blue Devils, Center

Chante is probably the most physical of this bunch. At 6'5" she definitely makes others coming down the lane alter their shot.

She is getting 2.3 blocks a game, 15.0 points, and 8.7 rebounds. She has reached the 900 rebound club and she still remains the only player in ACC that has scored double-digits points every time out.

Her experience keeps them ranked and gives them a chance to win every game. She is not afraid to mix it up and she will run the floor with you. I love her game and I think she will see playing time at the next level.

7. Sha Brooks, Florida Gators, Guard

This is my personal favorite but, I don't think my judgement is clouded in including her in this list.

This senior has paid her dues on some mediocre teams. But now, she is leading her team right into their No. 9 ranking.

Brooks is averaging 16.4 points a game, but it is her overall will that she imposes in any game that makes her dangerous. She averages five assists and two steals a game.

She has stretches where she will make consecutive threes on trips down the court and then come back on defense and take a charge. She is tenacious and finally understands how to help her team to close games. Her grit is the core of this years' Lady Gators

8. Ashley Walker, California Golden Bears, Foward/Center

Ashley is able to play several positions and is a scoring machine averaging 20.2 points a game. She is a force on the boards bringing down 8.1 rebounds. She is the main reason that Bears are ranked No. 3 behind UConn and Oklahoma.

Cal is playing very good team ball and Ashley has been an experienced leader. She is a two-time All-American and just moved into second place on the Bear's all-time scoring list. Her importance to women's college Basketball this year is evident.

9 Danielle Robinson, Oklahoma Sooners, Guard

Courtney Paris may be filling the stat sheet, but this young lady is leading the team with speed, good ball-handling and outstanding decision making.

Danielle can change the complexity of a game. She keeps everyone involved on her team and always finds the open player. She gives opposing guards trouble on defense. She can beat the press with ease. She is the real deal and was named Freshman of the Year in the Big 12.

She was also the only freshman last year to be on the conference's All-Defensive Team. She had three double-doubles this year and also had a career 12 assists in a game.

She's a great decision maker and her speed in unmatched. With just being a sophomore she is the future of Sooner Basketball.

10. Alysha Clark, Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders, Forward

Now Alysha is my surprise to some in this top ten list. But, if you know women's basketball at all you can't leave her off.

She is the second leading scorer in the nation, averaging 25.0 points per game. She is also grabbing 9.5 rebounds a game.

She is 5'11", plays for Middle Tennessee State, a volleyball player, an aspiring journalist, and model.

Her game is just as well rounded. Middle Tennessee State will make the tournament. They have played the likes of Oklahoma and Tennessee and held their own.

She is a transfer from Belmont and I am positive Middle Tenn is glad they discovered this double-double machine.

Only Hate Between The Florida Gators and Georgia Bulldogs—and We Love It!

Lashan — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 12:02:38 -0500

We say, "the Georgia Puppies up North." They say, "the Alliga-turds down South." We as college football fans debate quite often who are our biggest rivals. Well, from this Gator fan, I would say, it's the Georgia Bulldogs.

FSU has played itself into irrelevance. Gaining Greg Reid and losing Preston Parker still makes them irrelevant.

Tennessee and Lane Kiffin are slowly approaching.

But for now, Dawg fans, the disdain for you is still immeasurable.

To have the Dawgs start 2008-2009 as the preseason No. 1 and their eventual fall from grace was poetic. The story that evolved right before Gator fans' eyes was better than any story depicted in this decade.

And then, to add the best icing that has ever been created, the Gators embarrass the Dawgs in Jacksonville, win the SEC East, go on to take the SEC Championship right out of Saban's hands in the fourth quarter, and win their second National Championship in two years.

Make no mistake, the rivalry is heated. We are referred to as the "Jort-Wearing Gators Down South," the Crocodiles," and the list goes on. If it was not heated enough, Mark Richt and his Dawgs made it more heated.

I don't care about the record 16-19 losses in that time span. When they jumped around in the end zone like they owned it, and then beat us in every phase of the game, our hate for each other reached an all-time high. The fact is, they beat us and embarrassed us.

There had to be a plan to pay them back. This is college football, but it's all Gator fans thought about. There were other big rivalry wins early against Miami and LSU, but nothing mattered more than the Georgia-Florida game on Nov. 1.

We bought T-shirts that read, "That Dawg Bandwagon is so full, but wait 'til November 1st, and there will be plenty of room!"

We beat them soundly. In every phase of the game. We forced four turnovers, intercepting Matthew Stafford's powerful arm three times. We forced a fumble from their Herschel Walker wannabe. We made their defense argue with each other as Percy Harvin was in the end zone alone for a touchdown.

And with the game in hand, we called timeout so that Emmanuel Moody could have some more time to gain useless yardage.

We hate each other so much we can't exist in the same stadium together. Subsequently, Dawg fans left early.

We left Dawg fans with one argument—Stafford is better than Tim Tebow and will have a better NFL career. Well, Dawg fans, you can have that one. Your prized possession left town without giving you squat. No SEC Championship, no signature win, and only one BCS win. I think I will take Tebow over Stafford.

The bi-product of being a huge college fan and being so passionate is that we look for our team and its players to succeed. We in Gator Nation feel that that was accomplished in both 2006 and 2008. Dawg fans, take your pick.

You Dawgs were left to debate whether Willie Martinez should go, and you were left to debate whether Knowshon Moreno and Stafford would leave for the NFL, whether Rodney Garner was going to Auburn and then Tennessee. You were left to watch the plane at the airport and see if Garner would get on it, for God's sake.

All the while, we were game planning and plotting our tailgating efforts in Miami.

In the end, you were left to gather together and watch the championship game and cheer against us. No SEC loyalty here. I agree—I was a Michigan State fan for a day, too.

Yes, this rivalry is heated. We hate each other. We throw stuffed dogs and alligators out in the middle of traffic before the game and evoke the biggest cheers. We sell T-shirts saying. "Tebow was Te-bone" and "We don't know Knowshon and we do know S**t."

If you ask a Dawg fan right now, they would probably say, Mark Richt is a better coach. I say, he better get over the 10-3 hump and show more emotions on the sideline. He better get control of that penalty-laden team that led the conference in yellow flags. He better get rid of CWM before the season starts, or there will be a new website looking to 'Free Willy.'"

So while others around the country are debating Michigan-Ohio State or USC-UCLA, I say, we have some good ole down-home hate cooking here.

We can't wait for the season to start again. We can't wait for Jacksonville and the invasion of red and black and the God awful bark that you hear from men, women, and children. We can't wait to hear that "Gator Bait" chant that is as country as two brown eggs. We can't wait to wear our National Championship gear.

We will never support each other, SEC or not. We will never like each other, no matter who has the edge in winning. If you ask a Dawg fan right now, they will say, "we lead in the win column collectively."

I say, who remembers or cares about that far back? We have beaten the Dawgs more than anyone else in the country in the past 20 years.

We are programs headed in two different directions. The Bulldogs are trying to recover, while the Gators are reloading.

It seems Joe Cox has a little more personality. Well, good luck—your team will need it since your defense lost its persona as the toughest in the SEC, and your coach doesn't have one.

Go Gators!

Florida-Tennessee: Volunteers Finally Gator Bait!

Lashan — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 08:40:39 -0500

Even though they were favored, this was a big game for the Lady Gators and Amanda Butler. This was the game that would measure how far the Gator program had come—the game to determine if their rise in the polls was legitimate.

Pat Summitt had only lost twice to the Gator program in her entire coaching career. The Lady Gators hadn't beaten the Volunteers on their home court in 12 years. Twelve years—wow, what dominance! So the stage was set and the expectations were high.

They had faced Auburn earlier in the season and now ranked 4/6 in the country, a game after losing their point guard to an ACL tear. They were out of sorts that whole game. Sha Brooks stated that "if they faced them now they would be a different team." Well, maybe they will get their chance in the SEC Tournament.

For now the goals for the Gators were to keep pace with the Lady Tigers, hold serve at home, and play lights out on the road and see if some wins come along with it.

The Gators came out flat and outhustled in the first half. They were getting fouled and not hitting their free throws. Steffi Sorensen was not hitting open looks from the outside, they were all missing easy lay-ups, and Tennessee was winning the battle on the boards. Sounds like a recipe for disaster, right?

Well, the half ended 29-27. Coach Butler at this point had to be pleased. Tennessee ranked 12/17th or not, this is still a Pat Summitt-coached team, and they were going to give it their best.

Brooks was outstanding again; she scored a game-high 29 points and really came alive in the second half. There was a stretch when the Gators were down seven. The Lady Volunteers led 50-43. Brooks took over the game and made two straight three-pointers. On the next play she took a charge. You could feel the momentum change in the building at that point. The Gators looked energized.

Marshae Dotson was perfect from the line at 6-6 and had some key rebounds when the game was still in doubt. Sorensen came alive and hit a key three-point shot when Tennessee brought themselves within two of the lead. From that point on Tennessee had to foul, and Florida finally made some free throws coming down the stretch to put the game away. They hit 5-6 free throws in the last 28 seconds.

The Gators turned up the heat on defense too. Butler had stated that "no one had dared to pressure them full court," something Tennessee was known for.

"I really felt like the difference in the ballgame was when we decided we were going to play defense,” Butler said. “We were confident that our offense was going to come, but we knew if we were going to have a chance against a team like that, it was going to be about stops. They’re too good for us to give individuals like that easy baskets.”

Pat Summitt complained the entire game about the disparity in fouls call. She said, "I am still trying to figure out how we didn't get to the free throw line. That to me is kind of a mystery. We were 2-for-8, so when we got there, we weren't very good. They were 20-for-29, so obviously that is a big margin right there, and that is one of the differences in the game. We settled for the three-ball way too much. We were 5-of-22 from there, and our guards just really struggled tonight."

She was also very intense during timeouts in trying to get her players to respond better. But this was the Gators' moment, and I give them credit for stepping up, for showing such calmness and leadership.

“I want to give credit where credit is due,” Summitt said. “I think this Florida team really plays well together. They have a veteran group that understands a commitment to defense, to rebounding, and to sharing the basketball. I knew it would be a tough challenge for us.”

I personally thought they were a little too calm. But this team is for real. They have all the parts to go deep in the tournament. I think they have enough to put together a serious run in the SEC Tournament. The Gator Athletic program has a SEC Championship in every sport except Women's Basketball. I am positive with Amanda Butler at the helm a SEC Championship is on its way.

The schedule doesn't get any easier though, as they head to Nashville on Thursday to face the 20th-ranked Vanderbilt Commodores. The Gators are 4-5 against ranked opponents this season, and Vanderbilt is coming off of a win against Kentucky 72-62.

Noteworthy: The Gators are off to their best start in 24 games in program history. Marshae Dotson became the 10th player in program history to get 800 rebounds. The crowd of 8,060 was the second-largest crowd to ever watch the women's team play.

Florida-Alabama: Ladies' Gator Basketball Rolls Against Tide

Lashan — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 10:07:17 -0500

The Lady Gators had a 21-point win on Thursday night in Tuscaloosa. The SEC winless Lady Tide battled strong in the first half, as they led the Gators by four with about 7:45 to go. But the Gators then went on a 22-5 run to take a 13-point lead into halftime.

The Tide came out strong in the second half and scored the first eight points. Then the Lady Gators took over and went on a run of their own, and with 5:23 to go, they were up by 27. Twenty-eight points was their biggest lead in the game.

Sha Brooks led all scorers with 29 points on 11-20 shooting. She continues to be the leader on the team and was outstanding from behind the arc, going 6-9. Steffi Sorensen poured in 14 points, and Marshae Dotson contributed 14 points and 12 rebounds for her second double-double of the season.

Aneika Henry, who I continue to be impressed with, added 11 points but also had a career-high five blocks. Her game has really improved this year. Henry came away with a couple of milestones in this one, as she blocked her 100th career shot and made this her 12th consecutive game with a blocked shot.

The Lady Gators as a team shot 64 percent from three-point land; it's hard to beat a team that's on fire like that.

There was also tremendous contribution from the bench. The Gators bench outscored the Tide bench 32-5.

“To be able to get a win on someone else’s floor and score as many points as we did on the road is a great thing,” UF head coach Amanda Butler said. “We had great offensive balance tonight, and it was a great team win. There was a lot of very physical play in the ball game, and I liked the way we handled it and played through it. It was a good test for us.”

Now the Gators can turn their attention to Sunday and the matchup with the Vols. Pat Summitt and team, coming off of win 1,000, will visit the Gators and feature a 11th versus 12th battle. Good luck ladies; let's show them what Gator Basketball is in 2009.

Take Note: My Basketball Lady Gators Are 20-2, Ranked, and Not Satisfied!

Lashan — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 11:25:01 -0500

My Lady Gators are playing good ball these days. They are in the midst of a 13-game winning streak at home. They are being broadcast nationally on ESPN2 on Sunday.

Now, part of this is because of the Pat Summit watch. But, I will take it. These ladies and this program have come a long way and I am proud of them.

Two years ago, the Lady Gators won one game in the SEC—ending the season on a 14-game losing streak. They seemed to be used to losing. This subsequently lead to the firing of Carolyn Peck, who came to Florida with a National Championship under her belt. Foley went out and brought in the best and it worked.

So, Foley and his team searched for some new blood and he found it in an old Gator, Amanda Butler. Foley searched for some great young talent and it just happened to be a player that former Gator Coach Carol Ross had coached.

Butler, a fireball in her own right, seemed to be exactly what the program needed—exactly what Sha Brooks and Marshae Dotson seemed to need. These seniors were Peck's recruits, but their play is now just like Butler's.

Brooks is leading the team with 15.3 points, 5 assists, and 1.9 steals. Dotson leads the team in rebounds with 6.9 and 13.0 points a game. However, Brooks and Dotson are different players. They are leading this team into a special season and hopefully, into a championship ending.

We have a freshman, Lucas, leading three-point percentage with 56.2 percent. This freshman gives me hope in the program's future. Then, there's Sorenson—a JUCO transfer from Jacksonville that's playing with confidence and contributing almost 9 points a game.

They are all playing good, confident ball. They are putting teams away early and playing with intensity during the process.

Now, some may not like Women's College Basketball and I may have been one of them. But, Summit and her teams cured me of that a long time ago.

With the emergence of UConn, Duke, Maryland, North Carolina, Rutgers, and Oklahoma and successful SEC teams like LSU and Georgia, I am hooked. Women's basketball has come a long way and I am glad to have witnessed the transformation.

I have always followed my Gators and I can now say that I have never seen this much excitement over our women's program. Great job, Amanda Butler!

You are my Billy Donovan of women's basketball. This team is going places. They are ranked 12th—higher than Tennessee. Somebody pinch me!

I can't wait to see you in the big dance. It's your destiny. I am sure of that. And, to your game with Tennessee on Sunday, I will be there. And, I will be the loudest one there...because I remember the lean years.

Florida-South Carolina: Gators Win but Gamecocks Are for Real

Lashan — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 09:00:06 -0500

The Florida Gators got a little revenge Wednesday night as they tussled with the Gamecocks. Now, admittedly, I wanted a rout considering the way that they lost two weeks ago and the way my heart felt when I walked out of Colonial Life Arena.

I was completely stunned. The Gators gave them that game in the last three minutes with missed free throws and a lapse in focus. But, this game was a tight and hard-fought game and both teams shot well.

This time, the Gators protected home court and shot a better percentage behind the arc. The Gators were 10-22 from the three-point line. They also had better passing. The Gators' passing decisions were disturbing to watch for me in Columbia.

Even more important though is the Gators now own first place in the SEC East. The Gators are now 6-2 and 19-4 overall. Kentucky seems to be reeling the other way and having lost two consecutive games with the loss to Mississippi State on Wednesday night. Tennessee moves into second place at 4-2 while South Carolina and Kentucky are tied for third in the East at 5-3.

There were six Gators in double figures and they needed every bit of that. Nick Calathes lead the way with 22, Alex Tyus had a monster, all-around game and put in 19, Irving Walker came off the bench and contributed 18, Chandler Parson had 14 (he seemed to struggle from the outside, but you can tell his game and tenacity is at an improved level), Walter Hodge contributed 12 (I thought he imposed his leadership and experience in this game and helped put it away with his stroke at the line), and Dan Werner had 10.

I was most impressed with Donovan's game plan in using Walker. He put Walker on Devan Downey defensively most of the night. I felt that Walker in this defensive position along with his speed were key to the game.

Downey seemed to be bothered by this move and got into foul trouble early, collecting two fouls in the first half and his third and fourth in the second half. Of course, that foul trouble bought him some time on the bench.

Gamecock Coach Horn had to then use him only on offense in the last few seconds. His absence on the court—on both ends—hurt the Gamecocks.

Coach Horn had them playing good ball and seemed to have injected a lot of energy and will into this team and the program as a whole. If they continue to play well, I think they can make the big dance—not something that I thought was possible at the beginning of the season or even as we approach SEC play with their soft out-of-conference play.

I have been skeptical about the Gamecocks, but I give them credit for coming into the Dome and playing very well. They had just came off of a big win against Kentucky at home—something that they had not done in decades.

They could have easily have been complacent and not shown up for this one. But, they came to win and we had to play our A-game to beat them.

Make no mistake, this Downey kid is their best player and he is for real. His decisions in the game were outstanding and he had the hot hand throughout the game. I looked up late in the fourth and he had 30 points and only three assists.

But, the Gamecocks needed him to shoot. He alone brought them back and made it a nail biter at the end. He made two shots so deep behind the arc and falling back—just made you sick. These moves left all Gator fans just shaking their heads.

Great game though, Gators. Maybe we are not NIT bound after all. I am hoping that we take this right into Rupp Arena and stick it to them.

Pittsburgh Steelers Are the New America's Team

Lashan — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 14:08:13 -0500

Now, before all you Dallas Cowboy fans get upset, I want you to know I am a die-hard Cowboy fan.

I am a Tom Landry wearing a suit and hat fan. I wanted to join the

Naval Academy because of Roger Staubach.

I attended University of Florida because of Emmit. I even started watching "Dancing of the Stars" because of him. I was at the Atlanta Falcons v Dallas Cowboys game when a pass from White to Drew Pearson with only forty-two seconds left.

I have signed footballs from Robert Newhouse and Ed (To Tall) Jones. I thought Hollywood Henderson was the most handsome man on earth.

And, then came along the next generation of Cowboys with Irvin, Smith (my beloved Gator), and Aikman. It was great to be a Cowboy.

But, you got give the Steelers their praise. They have won in several different eras. They have been relevant to the playoff and championship discussion for quite some time. They just seem to get it done. The Steel Curtain is just a household term in the sports arena. And, when you think of great defenses in the league, you think of the Steelers.

The legacy of the Steelers: Chuck Noll to Cowher and now Tomlin. The legacy of the Rooneys and the ""Rooney Rule" The legacy of Lynn Swann and his outstanding career athletically and politically, Terry Bradshaw and his work on Fox, Tony Dungy, who represents so much of what we want in a coach, husband, and father.

And, then there is Dick LaBeau. He is seventy-one and still at the top of his profession and respected by all.

We are a blue collar nation with a little bit of romance and sophistication and a new generational look. Is that not Mike Tomlin?

I mean, where did this guy come from? The message boards of the Steelers were lighting up two years ago as they debated who would replace Bill Cowher—Ken Whisenhunt or Russ Grimm?

Then here comes the American Dream, an underdog was being considered. A coach with little or no head coaching experience. And, this little known coach impresses the Rooneys, takes on the NFL, takes a hard-working, tradition-rich team and guides them to another title.

And, speaking of titles, they own them. They were the first to reach three, the first to reach four, and now the first to reach six. You have to love the comeback spirit of these Steelers. They never give up until the game is over.

You knew no matter how hurt Hines Ward was, no matter how many practices he missed this week, he was going to show up and make a difference in this game. You knew their defense was going to be a factor again. You knew that they would leave it all on the field.

And, didn't you just know Steeler fans, that they had it in them to come back last night? That the everyday American, motorcycle-riding Roethlisberger was going to bring them back? That he was going to make the plays when it counted?

Let's talk about fans. I can't stand them—they are everywhere and I am sick of the towel. But, there is a reason that they are third-most recognizable brand behind the Red Sox and Packers. I have been to NFL games, especially Jag games, and they outnumber fans in the home stadium.

And, if you are trying to get into any bar, in any city, on any given Sunday that they are playing, you better get there early. They will undoubtedly take it over. I travel quite extensively and they have always proven me right. They show up in numbers everywhere. They make me sick I tell you, just sick.

But, they are America's new team. They represent so many of us and so much of what we are about, (this is excluding the bone-head antics by the Defensive Player of the Year James Harrison. He had to have take a stupid pill at half-time. Otherwise he is MVP of the game).

The Steelers represent the American way. Give it your all, work harder than your predecessor and your opponent. And, it may not be pretty but you will come out on top. Is that not life? Is that not the American way. America's Team: The Pittsburgh Steelers! Awful to hear but so true.

I say, take that American star away from Dallas for now. My team is in shambles. We spent more time pleasing a moron named T.O. We spent more time trying to buy chemistry instead of creating it. We gave Romo millions and he spends more time figuring out how to spend it on Jessica than his playbook.

And then there is Adam Jones. (As an adult, I refuse to call a man posing as an adult Pac-Man.) How did Jerry Jones talk himself and everyone around him into bringing this character

aboard? Along with that fumble by Tony Romo went all of our Cowboy dreams, our Cowboy hopes, the hopes that we had the team to make the generational transfer. To be our next Roger and Troy, or even Danny White, to be our Irvin and Pearson, to be our Newhouse, Dorsett, and Smith.

They are a team of wasted talent right now. Not deserving of the Star in the middle of the field.

Until they (Cowboys) show me an ounce of the gut, grits, team unity, and fight for each other like Pittsburgh Steelers, there is a new America's Team.

Congratulations Steelers, you and your fans have earned it.

Super Bowl or Not, James Harrison Should've Been Ejected

Lashan — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 09:24:40 -0500

I know it's the biggest game of the year and on the biggest stage. I know that this is a Man's game and a physical game. But did Harrison have to take it to that level? And, why was the act ignored?

Did the refs not want to be the one to kick someone out the Super Bowl? Would it have been an unprecedented toss? I truly don't know if a player has been kicked out of the Super Bowl Game or not.

Harrison makes one of the most exciting plays in Super Bowl History. The longest interception return for a touchdown in Super Bowl history. At that point the whole stadium, the whole world was impressed. He ran down that field in undeniable fashion.

All he had to hope for was that the penalty was not against Pittsburgh and that he could quickly get to the oxygen. He is the hero of the first half. He has the admiration from every Steeler past and present.

In the second half though the play is over and not in his vicinity: he pushes the Cardinal player to the ground, then holds the player down and punches him, pushes him again, shoves him to the ground again and then for final good measure he shoves him backwards.

Again, what were the Refs thinking? Half the distance to the goal line was not good enough. Even John Madden said, "he should be thrown out for that." The Cards got cheated gaining only a few inches for what was clearly bad sportsmanship, bad judgement by the player, and bad non-action by the refs

Now I personally think the Steelers overall play is very dirty and they did things all game and all season that were unreal. But, I am told that is the nature of the game. And, for most NFL games that I watch that holds true. I also know that hits come late and players play outside the lines.

I actually thought the Steelers v Ravens game was the most physical game I have ever watched. I can appreciate a physical game, a physical team, and a physical player. But this action went overboard. For this infraction, he should have been tossed. No questions asked and no hesitation.

Now they pose this to Jerome Bettis in postgame and he skirted around it. He never answered it. As I am sure all Steeler players would and Steeler fans. But he deserved to be escorted out. And if he had been tossed, how would that have changed the complexity of the game?

Would that have made a difference with the performance of the Cardinal O-line in the final quarter? I don't know...None of us will ever know.

But, I do wonder will Goodell have a look at this play? Will he and the League Office assess it and make some recommendation for some games suspension in 2009?

Harrison definitely deserves a hefty fine and game suspension. He should also be ashamed of himself and publicly apologize today for his action.

Florida-Tennessee: Why Can't We Beat Bruce Pearl and the Volunteers?

Lashan — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 09:02:19 -0500

I am starting to expect this every time we play the Volunteers. It was Game Day though. We were on the big stage. Bobby Knight and Jay Bilas had picked us to win. Better yet, we had been playing good ball.

We came off a close loss to South Carolina. We go in Vanderbilt and take over the gym. We take on Georgia at home. Forced an early exit for Dennis Felton. (And, I am not sure I agree with that decision by Georgia but, not my team and maybe another article for another day.)

But here we are, Calathes off of a triple double, Hodge not playing his best ball but still a main cog in the wheel, Tyus, for what we are asking of him he is doing a good job. Parson, lights out at Vanderbilt and starting to show some toughness inside, and Werner, who has his moments but not consistent enough for me.

I thought if we played zone against a team who has one of the worst three point shot percentages. And, Pearl even stated at half-time that, "he knew that we were going to play zone. I thought we would have a chance no matter if it's away or not, playing zone or not. But, the unthinkable happened. Calathes gets two early fouls.

And we can't buy a basket. Game over? No, I still think we still have a chance. I thought still that we play and played better ball than the Volunteers. Instead, we go in and completely fall apart. Now, I can hear Billy Donovan right now: "We as a team should learn something from this."

Tell me what can we learn? That we can't withstand the pressure and get a must win to take the outright lead in the SEC? That Calathes is still just a Sophomore and we can't expect him to be a Taurean Green just yet? That Billy Donavan can be out-coached?

That we really don't have a inside presence and Kadji, Chaney, and Shipman are not the answer quite yet? So, is this a wait until next team? If so, someone please write me and tell me.

I am tired of losing to the Volunteers in basketball. We don't do it in football. Even when we had the 04's we couldn't seem to put it together against these guys. Bruce Pearl is now 6-1 against us. Can any other team boast that kind of us right now?

They (Tennessee) played lights out last night. And. I truly expected our guys to match their intensity. It never happened.

Now, comes the Gamecocks at home. And, they seem to be on a roll. If someone had said, the Gamecocks would be in a three way tie for the lead in the SEC at this point in the season with a new head coach," I would have said, "no way."

But, here we are Gators. South Carolina will be rolling in. And, you owe me Gators. I was at that game in Columbia with maybe twenty other Gator Fans. And, we walked out of there with a roar loud enough to shake the building. And we had a lead with three minutes to go. We had plenty of opportunities at the foul line to ice it. We gave that game away.

You owe me, Gator Basketball, and I am looking for payment in full in Gainesville.

Top Moments In 2008 Gator Football

Lashan — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 11:56:11 -0500

Now this may just be casual reading for the serious Gator fan. I surmise other college fans maybe going through Gator fatigue at this point.

Anyway, this was tough for me. Considering the level of passion for my Alma Mata. It was be hard to narrow the moments down to a few. But, I thought it a bigger injustice to not voice my top moments at all.

I hope other Gator fans can identify with some of them. It was a magical season and I must say I didn't see it coming. I definitely hoped for it but no clairvoyance like Kirk Herbstreit.

1. Orange and Blue game and ESPN game day being there

Even though Georgia had gotten all the preseason hype, it was obvious to me that we had something special, even at that point. At that point, it was just great to be a Gator.

2. Tebow's apology

A lot has been said and documented about this moment. I for one didn't see it until a week later. I personally boycott TV and ESPN and all sports shows after my Gators lose. But, once I heard of it. I immediately searched it and thought it to be a moment in sports that was most gentleman like and genuine.

3. Arkansas Game

Realizing with the rest of Gatornation that we had something special besides Harvin in the names of Demps and Rainey

4. Tipped ball and 70-yard touchdown by Harvin on the third play of the game against LSU

There was so much talk about LSU's defense and how they were going to stop our offense. Even our own local reporters thought it would be a close game and then won by the Bayou Tigers

5. Kentucky Game

Besides it being Homecoming and just a festive atmosphere, there is no way that you couldn't get a excited about two consecutive blocked punts. You could see the moods of the Kentucky players deflate. From that game on, we anticipated having a block punt or kick in every game. It didn't happen of course in every game but the standard had been set.

6. Brandon Spikes hit on Knowshon Moreno

It set the tone for the rest of the game. And, the coaching staff's reaction to that hit was priceless. The fact that Spikes lingered there and talked a little smack was awesome too!

7. Time outs called by Urban Meyer in the last minute of the game

I think a class reaction to a classless act by the Richt and Dawgs in 2007. The Dawgs and staff deserved every bit of that game. No nasty deed will go unpunished Dawg fans!

8. Seeing the Georgia fans leave the stadium in the fourth quarter

It had been a most talked about game and had National Championship implications. And, of course I thought the Dawg fans were exceptionally obnoxious that day. As we like to say in Gatornation, "Preseason No.1 and still falling."

9. The "Ole Ball Coach" comes to town

Lots of hype over this one and the strength of the Gamecocks' Defense against the No. 1 scoring offense. The factor hear that no one considered or at least no one fully discussed was that Smelly and Garcia did not previously perform to caliber of SEC QB. And, their play put their strong defense in insurmountable situations that they could not recover from.

Percy Harvin's 80 yard touchdown run on the first play to begin the second half. There was no doubt after that play that there would be no coming back by SC on that day. It was that game that made me think this could really be a special year.

10. Tebow's performance in the rain

His play and the entire offense's play during the game was outstanding. For the Gators, the rain did not matter and did not become the equalizer as Bobby Bowden and Mick Andrews wanted.

11. SEC Championship Game and all of the fourth quarter

Tebow was a monster. His play, his passion, and his resolve was/is unmatched. And, I have watched college football for quite sometime. Tebow and company owned the fourth quarter and David Nelson became a go to WR.

12. Southeast Championship Game and the look of intensity on Harvin's face

Harvin was relegated to cheerleader status for the game. And, then the congratulatory hug and moment between he and Tebow after the game. Truly what the sense of teamwork and camaraderie really means.

13. Tebow walking through the whole team during warm-ups and encouraging every player and touching every player on the team.

Enough said.

14. Major Wright's hit on Oklahoma's WR

That was a welcome to the SEC hit for sure. I thought at that point that there was no way that Bradford and company would put up 60 points against the the Gator's D.

15. Torrey Davis hit on Oklahoma's Brown on fourth and one.

Can I just say, "Torrey Davis?" Wow, I hope that catapults you to the next level in class and on the field next year.

16. Third and 12 in the fourth quarter against Oklahoma and Tebow threads the ball into David Nelson.

You knew we were on to trying to finish that game.

17. Jump pass to David Nelson in the end-zone to put the Gators up 9 and eventually by 10 with PAT.

I finally thought at that point that we were going to win our second NC in three years. There had been so much talk about the game and so many opinions. And, truly so many of us in Gatornation respected Bob Stoops. But, thank you Urban Meyer, Jeremy Foley, and all the Gator Players who put so much into this year.

18. Tebow's first personal foul

A personal foul I assume for taunting Nic Harris. It's about time Tebow! Please talk a little smack!

19. The moments between Charlie Strong and his defense

We cannot discount what Strong has meant to the success of Gator Football.

20. Dan Mullen walking off the field heading into the world of Miss State

Thank you Coach Mullen for it all. There were times when we questioned you, but what a year?

Matt Stafford Is Bringing a Big Arm to the NFL: What About Leadership?

Lashan — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 10:01:11 -0500

Matthew Stafford is heading off to the NFL.

As an SEC fan, I have watched Stafford throughout his career. I think this year I probably watched at least ten complete games of the Bulldogs.

I watched most out of curiosity and some out of the need to cheer for the team that was playing them. As a football fan you have to appreciate Stafford's arm—the accuracy, strength, and even the confidence.

The confidence that he can deliver the ball on a dime.

On one hand I was surprised to see him enter the draft. If you look back on his career, you would think that he would consider all that he left undone.

He didn't help his team win the SEC East, not even once. Hence, he never made it to the SEC Championship Game or a National Title Game. There were so many high hopes for he and the Bulldogs in '08. I am surprised he did not want to come back in '09 and rectify it or make amends with the fans.

Joe Cox maybe a fifth-year senior, but he is no Stafford or he would have been playing already.

On the other hand I am not surprised. Stafford is not from the Southeast. He came to Georgia by way of Texas. So, he did not know about the rich tradition in Athens, Hershel Walker, Larry Munson, and, "the hob nail boot," Lindsey and the infamous and dramatic past down the sidelines nor what Dooley did to change the fortunes of the Red and Black into national prominence again.

Because of his Texas roots, he found no allegiance to the Red and Black coming down the track. He found no reason to stick around when he was left pondering the move to the NFL.

So, Matthew, welcome to the NFL combine. Tell me what skills are you bringing with you? Is it that strong arm of yours? I say, "it was that arm and the unlimited confidence in that powerful arm that lead to so many poor decisions this year."

Now, this of course is speculation, but, I think he will do well at the combine.

Stafford though, is not a proven winner, therefore, he is not a proven leader. And it's the intangibles that I think everyone should be concerned about in Stafford. He decisions under pressure are not consistent.

He played poorly in all of his big games, or if he didn't play badly, he did not take over the game and bring them back in the fourth quarter.

Hence, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia Tech in '08 all ended up in losses. I am not expecting the Tebow show. But, I am finding it hard to believe that he will ever be the guy to mentally embrace his role.

In all the games that I have watched, he wasn't the vocal presence on the sidelines. Usually he had his seat on the bench waiting to go back in. I think with his success on offense if he could have projected just a little bit of emotions he could been a lift to team in any of their games.

Again, from a Gator fan perspective, I have been spoiled by Tebow.

I think the NFL Scouts see some good raw talent that can be managed at the next level. He played in a pro-style offense, has good mechanics, and Richt seems to produce good QB's.

Let's say he is going to go to the Lions or the Chiefs who are in need of a quarterback and some consistency at that position.

Do you really pick Stafford?

Can he come and learn the system and be an '09 Ryan or Flacco?

I don't see that in Stafford. I don't see him adjusting or embracing. I don't see the ability to bond and mesh and be a locker room presence.

It is obvious that both the Lions and the Chiefs are going to have new systems, coaching, and management.

Is a rookie QB the answer too?

Any quarterback has a slight chance, if you surround him with good players and put him behind a good line. I don't see that happening in Detroit or Kansas City.

What's amazing though, is that he obviously thought that the NFL is a better option than coming back for another year at Georgia.

Good luck in the NFL Matthew.

You are now a former Bulldog.

Passionate Fans Held Hostage By Recruits

Lashan — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 11:14:55 -0500

It is now six days 'til signing day. I like so many other passionate Gator fans have been waiting to see what some of the top 100 prospects are going to do on Feb. 4.

I don't know how this process got to be as it is. But, to coin a phrase, "it is what it is." Knowing that though doesn't make it any easier on those of us who want the success of their program to continue and those of us who want our programs just to to improve.

Now, personally I thank the likes of Andre Debose and Nu'Keese Richardson for stepping up to plate and making it so before the deadline. And, I give them an early Go Gators!!

But, those recruits who have started to believe everything they read and believe all of their hype, I say, "enough already."

The fans, the reporters, and ESPNU have made this a three-ring circus and these 17- and 18-year-olds are Barnum and Bailey. We hang on their every word even when it is evident that their knowledge of our program is minuscule.

And then we let them tell us about our precious program and coaches and rate us amongst others. We search with such intensity on how they are leaning. We search the thoughts of their coaches, parents, and of course the thoughts of that uncle who's living vicariously through the nephew. Then we post what we heard...we blog...and then we predict. And truly, none of us really know. Maybe the parents....maybe the coaches know the hearts and minds of these recruits. But I am beginning to doubt that.

I submit to you though that this process is tedious...nerve-wracking and just not fair to the serious fan...the passionate fan. We Gators would like to personally thank Greg Reid for his contribution. His de-committing, making a list if the front runners, and then eliminating Florida all together really got me nervous.

So, what if we have an early signing day? Would that help? Or, is that something that the coaches want or just something that the fans want? It would surely take away some of this drama. It would surely take away some of this courtship of high school age men. But, would it be advantageous? Maybe, we as fans should just ignore the process until signing day? (I am sure that ESPNU doesn't want to hear that) Maybe next year I will try that approach.

For now though, I am a hostage of all that are on the Gator Prospect List. I will waiting to see what they decide. To see what hat they put on, or see if they do the Gator Chomp, or the Tomahawk, or Heaven forbid dawn the dreaded black and red. Good luck recruits of 2009 and please set us free Feb. 4.