Bleacher Report - Articles by James P. Conway

Wade Phillips Won't Improve Cowboys' Special Teams

James P. Conway — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:51:24 -0400

I don’t know if I have seen anything as pathetic as the performance of the Dallas Cowboys' special teams, specifically on kickoff and punt returns.

Through seven games, the Cowboys' special teams are giving up averages of 119 yards on kickoffs and 24 yards on punt returns.

That is completely unacceptable. But is it anything new?

Not really. Last year’s special teams weren't this bad, but definitely showed some warning signs. Last year's 21-17 loss in the playoffs to the New York Giants was certainly one of them.

This begs the question: Who is responsible? Special teams coach Bruce Read?

Kind of, but the brunt of the blame should fall on head coach Wade Phillips. Phillips brought Read in from Oregon State in 2007, and fired former Cowboys special teams coach Bruce DeHaven. DeHaven, while serving under Bill Parcells, had the Cowboys playing at a high level on special teams, and his units were ranked among the top in the NFL.

Way to go, Wade!

If you look into Wade Phillips' background as a head coach, you will see a history of special teams issues, with one event in particular standing out. Remember the Music City Miracle?

Coaching the Bills at the time, Phillips led the team into the Wild Card game against the Tennessee Titans. Leading 16-15 with :16 left to play, it looked as though Phillips was going to get his first playoff win. But then all hell broke loose.

Upon receiving the kickoff, Titans' tight end Frank Wycheck threw a questionable lateral that resulted in a 75-yard touchdown run.

While it was an amazing play, had the Bills' special teams been disciplined enough to hold their positions, someone would have made the tackle. But that didn't happen. The Titans won the game, and advanced to the Super Bowl before losing to the St. Louis Rams.

The aftermath was even more interesting.

Phillips was told to fire his special teams coach. He refused, and was then fired himself. Phillips probably did the right thing by standing up for his coach, but losing a playoff game in that manner is certain to result in a firing or two.

Fast forward to the present Cowboys, and the same problems persist. You could argue that their problems are even worse now than they were in Buffalo. I think Bruce Read should be gone now.

Unfortunately, it appears that Jerry Jones has gone soft and is actually backing up Phillips. But if these problems persist, Bruce Read's job—and perhaps even Wade Phillips'—is in jeopardy.

What a Wild Eight Days for the Dallas Cowboys

James P. Conway — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:40:05 -0400

After Saturday’s demoralizing loss for the Dallas Cowboys in Arizona, did anyone think it was going to get better or worse?

Try both.

Without delving into the particulars and specifics of the dreadful loss the Cowboys suffered in Arizona, all you had to do was look at the injury report.

Quarterback Tony Romo out four weeks with a broken pinkie.

Running back Felix Jones out 2-4 weeks with a hamstring injury.

Punter Mat McBriar out for the season with a broken foot.

Wide Receiver Sam Hurd likely out for the season with an ankle injury.

And their was the end of the Pacman Jones era in Dallas for at least four weeks, hopefully and probably forever, and I’ll admit that I was stupid enough to believe that playing for the Dallas Cowboys would change him, but again I was dead wrong.

But enough of Pacman, because on Tuesday the Cowboys star gotta little shinier with the acquisition of Odessa, Texas native, Texas Longhorn, and now former Detroit Lion, wide receiver Roy Williams.

Rumors of a trade for Williams had been lingering for two years, and Jerry Jones confirmed those rumors once the deal was made. The Cowboys in return for Roy Williams and a 7th round draft pick trade a 1st,3rd and 6th round pick in the 2009 draft along with signing him to five year $45 million dollar deal.

Was the asking price high?

Maybe, just depends on who you ask.

But lets make one thing clear he will take a lot of the double team pressure opposing teams have been using quite successfully to shut down Terrell Owens, which make him crazier than normal and light the fuse of that ticking time bomb.

Then later that day things got even more interesting.

ESPN reported that New York Jets quarterback Brett Favre called Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo and told him to think about trying to play anyways.

Well sure enough the next day Romo was out on the practice field trying to give it a go, and again on Thursday he was out there again.

Will he play Sunday against the St. Louis Rams?

I doubt it.

Then there’s Brad Johnson, also known as the “Bull”, who will likely be your starter the nest few weeks. He’s a journeyman quarterback playing in his 17th season for his fourth different team. He has average to good stats, and a Super Bowl ring, but will undoubtedly be asked to manage the games until Romo is healthy enough to start.

Well Tony Romo didn’t start, and it didn’t matter at all as the Dallas Cowboys laid a giant egg at Edward Jones Stadium in St. Louis.

Their effort was pathetic and so were all three sides of the ball.

The offense had four turnovers.

The defense gave up 160 rushing yards along with big passing plays.

Nick Folk missed a field goal and nearly missed an extra point at the end of the game.

Are we seeing the beginning of the end of the 2008 Dallas Cowboys?

Cowboys-Browns: 'Boys Make Statement, Penalty Issues Still a Problem

James P. Conway — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 06:44:51 -0400

If the Dallas Cowboys were looking to make a statement in their opening game against the Cleveland Browns, then you can consider that mission accomplished to the tune of a 28-10 victory.

In the box score next to all of the gaudy offensive stats, there was one category that threw up a giant red flag.

Penalties: 11 for 82 yards.

Now most might say that well this was the first game of the season, and that’s to be expected, but the fact is that penalties have continued to mount and create problems for this team since disciplinarian Bill Parcells rode off into the sunset in 2007.

And yes, I point the finger at Wade Phillips, whose laid back approach for this star-laden team has resulted in penalty problems and special teams problems since he took over.

Let me remind everyone that “Aw Shucks” Wade Phillips tried to combat the problem last year by having the players sign contracts that they wouldn’t commit penalties.

Did it work?

No, of course not.

The penalties continued to pile up throughout the 2007 season and were a big reason that the Cowboys lost their playoff game at home to the New York Giants.

Setting all that aside, it was a very good game by all three of the Cowboys' units.

The offense was in midseason form. The Cowboys' offensive line dominated the Cleveland front seven, giving Tony Romo all day to throw, and throw he did. Romo connected with Terrell Owens, Patrick Crayton, and Jason Witten all day and carved up the Cleveland secondary.

Marion Barber, Felix Jones, and Tashard Choice all had nice days running the football to complement the already-potent Cowboys passing attack.

The defense was solid and only gave up one touchdown—albeit one which shouldn’t have happened—after the Cowboys committed two penalties on third down during the drive that gave the Browns a first down when they would have otherwise been forced to punt.

Surprisingly the special teams were very good, especially in the areas they needed to be (kickoff and punt coverage). The only miscue was on a fumbled punt by Adam Jones, which he was able to recover.

However, the penalty problem must be fixed if the Dallas Cowboys want to achieve their goal of winning a Super Bowl. Unfortunately, I don’t see the issue being resolved as long as “Aw Shucks” Phillips is the head coach in Dallas.

Tony Romo hasn't choked and Isn't Danny White

James P. Conway — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:58:24 -0400

As the energy and adrenaline seeped trough the hole in the roof of Texas Stadium, many couldn’t believe that the No. 1 seed in the NFC, the Dallas Cowboys, had just loss to the New York Giants.

After all, the Cowboys had beaten those same New York Giants by double-digits twice during the regular season, and with a minute to go in the first half, a seven-point lead was capped by a 10-minute drive. The Cowboys looked well on their way to another double-digit win over the Giants.

But it wasn’t meant to be.

The Giants began to attack Cowboys' cornerback Jacques Reeves on every play, and after a facemask penalty gave the Giants the ball at the Dallas 23-yard line, they were able to score a touchdown and tie the game before halftime. That touchdown completely changed the game.

Now, Romo didn’t have his best day—18 for 36 for 201 yards, one touchdown, and one interception—but he didn't lose the game.

The defense couldn’t make stops at critical moments, and the running game, which dominated the first half, quickly lost steam in the second half, and penalties continued to plague them throughout the game.

Not one of those aspects of the game were a direct reflection of Tony Romo, but because on the last play of the game, when the Cowboys needed a touchdown to tie the game and he threw an interception, the blogosphere and all the idiots that think their opinion count, began to label Tony Romo a choker.

To further prove their beliefs they used the bobbled snap in the playoffs at Seattle in 2006 as exhibit No. 2. However, that was Tony Romo as a field-goal holder, not a quarterback. If people want to call that play a choke job, then so be it, but to say that Romo will not amount to anything is absolutely ludicrous.

The performance in the playoff game against the Giants, partnered with the fact that the Cowboys haven’t won a playoff game since 1996, has fueled the comparisons to former Cowboys' quarterback Danny White.

White, much like Romo, was blamed for playoff losses that didn’t completely reflect his own performance (e.g. 1982 NFC Championship game against the San Francisco 49ers), and he will forever be labeled as a good quarterback who couldn’t get the job done when it counted.

I would also be remiss if I didn’t mention the Jessica Simpson/Mexico trip before the playoffs as examples of other reason’s why Tony Romo won’t ever be a great quarterback.

Again, the notion that Jessica Simpson is a valid reason that the Cowboys faded down the stretch and ultimately lost in the divisional round of the playoffs is ridiculous and retarded.

It's preposterous for fans to expect players to not have a personal life, or to condemn how the players conduct their personal lives.

My point is that Tony Romo is the man for the Dallas Cowboys, and he will be for quite some time. He is very talented and had a Pro Bowl season in 2007, and there is little reason not to believe that he won’t do it again.

Remember that last year was Tony Romo's first season as a starting quarterback, and last I checked, it was a very good one. Also, the young man is 26-years old, and this will be in his second year under the tutelage of offensive coordinator Jason Garrett, which should help him improve even more.

He will ultimately be measured by how many Super Bowl Championships he wins, but when it is all said and done, I expect Tony Romo to be one of the greatest quarterbacks ever.

Cincinnati Reds Midseason Report Card

James P. Conway — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:15:33 -0400

Heading into the 2008 season, expectations were higher for the Cincinnati Reds than they had been since 2000.

They had made several acquisitions in the off-season along with the hiring of manager Dusty Baker, though they weren’t picked to make the playoffs, they would be improved.

At the All Star break the Reds are 46-50 and the first half of the season has been quite a bumpy ride.

The question for the Reds going into the season was: did they have the pitching from the starters and bullpen to keep them in games, so their offense didn’t have to outscore their opponent to get the win?

However, that assumption was wrong.

Though their pitching has been inconsistent, it is much improved and has been the reason the Reds are close to .500 and still have a long shot to win the wild card.

The Reds hitting on the other hand has been atrocious. The identity of their offense has finally surfaced.

If the Reds aren’t hitting home runs they usually lose, and most of their best hitters are swinging for the fences instead of putting the ball in play. If the Reds want to be considered a serious contender in the National League next season they must address these hitting issues not only from a personnel standpoint but a philosophical standpoint.

Nonetheless, here are the mid-season grades for the Cincinnati Reds:

Corey Patterson: F

The Reds attempt to have Dusty’s guy be the lead-off hitter has failed miserably and it has come at no surprise. The question is how is he still on the team and for how much longer?

Adam Dunn: D

At the break Adam Dunn’s numbers are on par with his career averages which are 40 home runs, 100 RBI, 100 walks, and 100+ strikeouts.

But going into a contract year you would like for him to hit better than .230, based on his low average and even lower average with runners in scoring position it seems likely than the Reds won’t re-sign him.

Ken Griffey Jr.: D-

Junior hit his 600^th home run in June which was very special, but for the first time in his career it is apparent that age has finally caught up to him.

His swing isn’t as quick as it once was and evidence of that is his batting average which is about 30 points lower than his career average and his defense in the outfield has been inconsistent at time.

It is highly unlikely that the Reds will pick up his option for 2009, making him a free agent.

Jay Bruce: B

It’s hard to put an exact grade on young phenom Jay Bruce as he has barely been in the big leagues for a month, but he has been as advertised. He is still figuring out the major league game, but the future looks very bright for him.

Jerry Hairston Jr.: A+

Many thought when Hairston was signed that this was another situation to bring in one of Dusty’s guys, but I don’t think anyone saw his performance this year coming.

Hairston is the Reds' best hitter and on base percentage player on the team, and had he not spent time on the disabled list the Reds might be at or a little above .500

Edwin Encarnacion: C+

After another sluggish start to the season that saw Edwin really struggle, he has turned it around and will often wow you with his glove and arm and then drive you nuts with throwing errors.

His bat has been up and down and you would like to see him take a few more pitches, but all in all he has been on par with his career averages.

Jeff Keppinger: B

When he started the season at shortstop most figured as soon as Alex Gonzalez returned he would be used in a utility role for the rest of the season.

On the contrary, Keppinger started the season hot with the bat and continued to make a case for himself as the starting shortstop. Unfortunately he fouled a ball off his knee cap that put him on the injured list for a while, but he is now back and is trying to get back to form.

Brandon Phillips: B

Continues to show that he is one of the best second baseman in the national league with his glove and bat. This season he leads the team in RBI and is one of their best on base threats.

I wish he would lay off that first pitch and not make as many errors running the bases, but he continues to make plays during clutch situations.

Joey Votto: C

In his rookie season Votto has shown many flashes of what made him a top prospect in the Reds farm system, but at other times has shown that he is truly a rookie.

He has tremendous power to all parts of the field and has surprised many with his exceptional defensive play at first base. He needs to improve his fielding and work on laying off the high fastball, but he is another piece that makes the Reds future look bright.

Paul Bako: C

Considering the fact that he is a journeyman catcher, he was a pleasant surprise in the early part of the season with his arm and his bat. As the season has gone on his bat has gone cold, but had he not been on the roster I don’t think the Reds would be almost a .500 team.

David Ross: C

After starting the season on the disabled list he has split time with Paul Bako as the starting catcher, and his defense has been shaky at times along with his bat.

Javy Valentin: I

Has been used sparingly as a pinch hitter since the return of David Ross, and has only gotten a few at bats and played a few games at third and first base.

Edinson Volquez: A+

When he came to Cincinnati in the trade with the Texas Rangers for Josh Hamilton there was no doubt that he was a highly touted prospect, but few saw the first half he has had.

Volquez is 12-3 with an ERA of 2.29 which is the best in the National League and is a serious Cy Young contender for the Reds.

Johnny Cueto: C+

Since making a huge statement in his major league debut against the Arizona Diamondbacks, he has had his share of ups and downs. But after several rough starts in June, he has really began to pitch very well consistently, and I think he might have the best second half of all of the Reds starting rotation.

Aaron Harang: F

At the beginning of the season the problem was that he wasn’t getting any run support. Now the problem may be physical due to a tight forearm, but either way when your number one starter is 3-10, you’ve got a problem.

Bronson Arroyo: D+

After a sluggish start to the 2008 season, Arroyo has regained some of his form as the number two starter and you would like for him to have a very good second half.

Josh Fogg: I

After earning a spot as a starter in spring training, he was relegated to the bullpen after two of his first three starts were really bad.

At that time it looked imminent that Fogg would be trade or released, but he hasn’t been and after spending time on the disabled list and a few rehab starts he has looked very good in his last two starts.

If he continues to pitch well he could have some trade value come the trading deadline.

Homer Bailey: I

His first three starts were atrocious after spending the beginning of the season in AAA Louisville. At that time many wondered if Homer would ever live up to the hype after he was drafted in 2005.

On a positive note, he made a start at Milwaukee for Aaron Harang and looked very good in 5 2/3 innings in which he didn't walk a single batter. Here’s to hoping the second half of the season is bright for him.

Daryl Thompson: I

Many people had no idea who this kid was, going into the season, but he has made a lot of noise in the minor leagues, and created a stir when he was called up in June.

In his debut at Yankee Stadium he threw six shutout innings and looked very good, he struggled in his next start, and in his third start he got lit up, which resulted in him being sent down to the minors.

But this kid is very young and should make a strong push for a spot in the starting rotation in 2009.

Bill Bray: B+

Since coming over from the Nationals in 2006, the problem with Bill Bray has been staying healthy. After starting the season on the disabled list, he has been healthy and pitching very well.

David Weathers: B

After being the closer last year, David Weathers has been moved back to the setup role and has been consistent, but not flashy. He has been the subject of trade rumors that may come true at the end of this month.

Jared Burton: A-

The start of his 2008 season was also very sluggish, leading some to get worried, but since May he has regained his form from last season and has been the most reliable pitcher in the bullpen, and should have been an all star.

Francisco Cordero: A-

Many were quick to criticize his signing for what many deemed to be too much money, but he has been as advertised. He has converted 19 of 23 save chances and his ERA is two. The only problem regarding Cordero is getting him more save opportunities and maybe that will happen in the second half.

Gary Majewski: C+

It looks like his shoulder may have finally fully healed after being sent over damaged by former Reds GM Jim Bowden in 2006. He no longer has trouble staying in games and at times has been very good in the first half and I hope he continues to pitch well.

Mike Lincoln: C

Many weren’t sure how much Mike Lincoln could contribute after not pitching for two years. However, he has been a pleasant surprise and a nice contributor for the Reds bullpen.

Jeremy Affeldt: C+

Affeldt has been another good role pitcher out of the bullpen, but has also been linked to several trade rumors and it is unknown whether he will be with the team at season’s end.

Dusty Baker: C

There is no doubt that he is a proved winner, and the Reds have won ten more games at the all star break than they did at the same time last year.

The pitching is much improved, but the hitting has fallen off leading many to speculate on the future of several of the team’s position players.

If the Reds can have a winning season this year, then progress will have been made and all things would point to the Reds being serious playoff contenders in 2009.

Texas Tech Position Breakdown: Quarterback

James P. Conway — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 18:25:24 -0400

There is no doubt that Graham Harrell is the starting quarterback for the Texas Tech Red Raiders in 2008.

Harrell was the most highly touted quarterback out of high school since Mike Leach has been the head pirate on the South Plains, and after this season, he will arguably go down as the greatest quarterback in Texas Tech football history.

Since getting the starting job in 2006, Harrell has continued to progress and shown signs of improvement under center.

As a sophomore, Graham Harrell threw 617 passes, completing 412 for a completion percentage of 67 percent, 38 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.

As a junior, he was even better. In 2007, he threw 713 passes, completing 512 of them for a completion percentage of 72 percent, and 14 interceptions.

Though it will be hard to continue the pace he has set and better his previous two seasons, there is no doubt that Graham Harrell is talented enough and capable of doing so.

One aspect of his game he will need to improve on is after a loss being able to bounce back the next week. In 2006 Texas Tech lost to Missouri at home and a very bad Colorado team on the road. In 2007 the Red Raiders lost at Missouri, an understandable defeat, but then loss to Colorado at home in a game which Graham Harrell had several interceptions. Given the 2008 schedule I don't foresee a stretch of games where that could happen, but you never know...

However, should Graham Harrell get injured, the backup is red-shirt sophomore Taylor Potts. There shouldn’t be great cause for concern should Potts be needed to take some reps, due to what we have seen in the past with quarterbacks under the tutelage of Mike Leach, but he did struggle in the spring, and many question his progress at this time.

And in case you are wondering in 2009, as of now it is Taylor Potts' job to lose, and there should be quite a competition in the spring and summer of 2009 between him and current red-shirt freshman Seth Doege.

Texas Tech: BCS or Bust in 2008?

James P. Conway — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 21:59:07 -0400

2008 has been quite a year for the Texas Tech football program and its fan base, from the Red Raiders' exciting comeback win against Virginia in the Gator Bowl to all the preseason hype that has them in the Top 15 and making it to a BCS bowl.

But the question is, if the Red Raiders don't make it to a BCS bowl in 2008, is their season a failure? That question has been on the minds of all Texas Tech fans throughout the spring.

To ponder the question fully, the history of the Texas Tech football program must be examined.

The Texas Tech Red Raiders have never won a conference championship outright. They earned a share of the Southwest Conference Championship in 1976 and 1994.

They have been to 31 bowl games, but their record in those games is 10-20-1, with half of those wins coming in the last eight years under head coach Mike Leach.

Their bowl record poses another question. Has the Texas Tech football program achieved a level where anything less than a BCS bowl berth is okay?

If you look at the recent history of the in-state rival Texas Longhorns, the stats may say otherwise. Despite all the Longhorns' successes over the years, including four national championships and a plethora of conference titles, it still took them several years until they played in a BCS bowl, as well as won the National Championship, in 2005.

Mack Brown took over the University of Texas program in 1998 and quickly turned it into a consistent National Championship contender. Behind four-straight top recruiting classes from 1999 to 2002, the best they did in terms of a bowl game was the Cotton Bowl.

In each of those years, the Longhorns won 10 games or more each season, but still couldn't make the jump to a BCS bowl, even though they have unlimited resources and facilities which make them an elite program.

I'm not saying that Texas Tech won't win or won't to go to a BCS bowl in 2008, but I think it is unfair to consider the season a disappointment if they don't make it that far. A lot of things must go their way in order for that to happen.

Can they do it? No doubt about it. But if they don't I won't—nor should the Texas Tech faithful—be disappointed. If the Red Raiders go 10-2 or 9-3 and make it to the Holiday or Cotton Bowl, it's still another step in the right direction. If Texas Tech were to go 8-4 or 7-5, then without a doubt the season is a disappointment.

Either way, I will take my chances with this team and let the cards fall as they may in 2008.

Texas Tech Football Roundtable Chat: James P. Conway Q&A

James P. Conway — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:09:50 -0400

1.) Mike Leach was so disappointed in the Red Raider's showing in the spring game that he made them play it twice. What is your take on this? Is there an attitude problem amongst the Red Raiders or was it simply a poor showing in the first spring game?

By most reports this spring was a very good one for the Red Raiders, until the Red/Black game. The game was dominated by the defense behind nine sacks and several interceptions. After the game, Mike Leach's disgust was evident in the post game press conference. Leach was very disappointed in the effort of his offense, specifically the first team unit. There isn't necessary an attitude problem with the team, but there has been a sense of complacency throughout the history of the school's program that has hurt the Red Raiders. It seems that in big games the team seems too confident in their own abilities and their performance says otherwise. This could be an issue for this year's Red Raiders, but one that shouldn't be evident if this team wants to live up to this season's expectations.

2.) Some people believe that Texas Tech is this year's Kansas. How realistic is this comparison?

It's a fair comparison. However, Kansas came as a complete surprise where Texas Tech is expected to be good this year. If Texas Tech can have a season where they are 11-1 or 10-2 and win a BCS bowl game, then the comparisons will be made.

3.) There has been much talk surrounding talents wide receiver Michael Crabtree. Could it be that Crabtree ends up as the second sophomore in a row to win the Heisman? What would it take for Crabtree to accomplish this goal?

There is no doubt that Michael Crabtree is the caliber of player that could win the Heisman trophy, however, if you look at the previous winners of the award, history says otherwise. The last two receivers to win the Heisman were Desmond Howard and Charles Woodson, but their play wasn't limited to just being a receiver. Desmond Howard was a very good punt returner which added value to his case as a Heisman candidate. Charles Woodson was also a cornerback and kick returner that also added a different dimension to his play that ultimately won the award for him. Crabtree is strictly a wide receiver and due to the potential for injury the coaching staff has refused to let him return kicks and punts which would help his case for winning the Heisman. If Crabtree wanted to win the heisman he would have to have a better season than he did last year which would be very difficult, along with being a punt or kickoff returner.

4.) There has been a position battle at running back this spring, and most people agree that Shannon Woods has emerged out of the four contenders. Do you think it will be more of a running back by commitee or will Woods take the hunk of the carries? How many yards do you think Woods will be able to produce?

Going into the season one of the deepest positions on the depth chart was at running back. Freshman Aaron Crawford was the starter last year, Kobey Lewis was the change of pace back, Baron Batch was returning from injury, Shannon Woods was coming off a season that saw him suspended for the end of the season and being sent home from the Gator Bowl, and highly touted recruit Harrison Jeffers figured to possibly factor into the mix at running back. But much has changed the last few weeks. Two weeks ago Kobey Lewis was kicked off the team and recruit Harrison Jeffers has yet to qualify academically. Also you mentioned that Woods was figured to be the starter, and that is completely false. If the season started today Aaron Crawford would be the starter and he would be the favorite at this time. This season will be a running back by committee with Crawford being the starter and I would have to guess that Baron Batch would be the second string and change of pace back. The problem with Shannon Woods is that he has always had attitude issues that have kept him from living up to his potential, and reports in the program say that Shannon Woods isn't the same player that he was in 2006 when he led the Big XII in all purpose yards. Collectively I think that Crawford and Batch will combine for 1500-1600 all purpose yards.

5.) Some experts have Texas Tech in their pre-season Top 25 ranking. This shows the tremendous expectations for this year (vying for a Big 12 South championship). Do you think the Red Raiders have any chance of capturing the Big 12 South title and which games will be big in determining this?

On paper this year's Texas Tech team is the best since 1977 and based on that they definitely have a chance at winning the Big XII South. As I mentioned earlier though this team must not get complacent and stay focused at all times in order to put them in a position to have a chance to win the Big XII South at the end of the season. The big games on the schedule are at Kansas, Texas at home, and at Oklahoma. If Tech is to have a chance at the South title they must go at least 2-1 in those three games. If they can win all of those games then they will likely have won the South if they beat the teams they were supposed to beat.

Texas Tech Football: Big 12 Title Hopes Rely on Defense

James P. Conway — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 12:10:54 -0400

There hasn't been this much hype surrounding the Texas Tech Red Raiders since 1977, as the Red Raiders return 18 starters from a 9-4 team that won the Konica Minolta Gator Bowl over Virginia.

The offense returns every starter except wide receiver Danny Amendola. The defense returns eight starters from a unit that led the Big 12 in total defense and came on strong after the firing of defensive coordinator Lyle Setencich and the promotion of defensive line coach Ruffin McNeil.

The offense includes quarterback Graham Harrell and 2007 Biletnikoff Award-winning receiver Michael Crabtree. The one area of concern will be the status of right tackle Rylan Reed, who broke his ankle in the Gator Bowl and has yet to get on the field.

This unit led the NCAA in total offense last year and should not miss a beat in 2008.

As in previous seasons, the success of this year's team will depend on the performance of the defense, specifically their ability to stop the run. They must also be able to win big games on the road with a schedule that includes many tests.

The strongest area of the defense is the defensive line that returns all of its starters—Jake Ratliff, Rajon Henley, Colby Whitlock, and Brandon Williams. They will also add former freshman All-American defensive end McKinner Dixon, highly touted junior college defensive end Brandon Sesay, and Miami transfer Chris Perry.

This unit must be able to stop the run if this team wants to go to a BCS bowl.

The starting linebackers will be Bront Bird, Brian Duncan, and Marlon Williams, who all showed promising signs last year after the firing of defensive coordinator Setencich.

The secondary returns starters Jamar Wall and Darcel McBath, but lost cornerback Chris Parker and safety Joe Garcia.

Texas Tech is very deep in the secondary and should be able to replace those losses with the likes of cornerback LaRon Moore, cornerback Brent Nickerson, safety Anthony Hines, safety Steven Harris, and safety Daniel Charbonnet.

8/30 Texas Tech vs. Eastern Washington (WIN)

This game should be no problem even though Eastern Washington was one of the better FCS teams last year and lost to eventual National Champion Appalachian State.

9/6 Texas Tech at Nevada (WIN)

This will be the first big road test against a formidable opponent that made it to a bowl game last year. In previous years Tech has struggled in this type of game (i.e., New Mexico in 2004).

9/13 Texas Tech vs. SMU (WIN)

This could be one of the longest games of the year given SMU's hiring of June Jones in the off-season. SMU will be improved, but not enough to beat the Red Raiders at home.

9/20 Texas Tech vs. Massachusetts (WIN)

Should be an easy home win.

10/4 Texas Tech at Kansas State (WIN, but could be close)

This is Texas Tech's second tough road game and their first one in conference. The Red Raiders won their last time in Manhattan in 2004, but much has changed with Kansas State and this could be a close game.

10/11 Texas Tech vs. Nebraska (WIN)

I expect Nebraska to be much improved, but this will be their first road game of the year and first against a team that throws the ball as much as Texas Tech does.

10/18 Texas Tech at Texas A&M (WIN, but could be close)

The Red Raiders have dominated the Aggies over the last decade, but historically every game at Kyle Field between these two teams has been close. A&M will have a very young but talented defense that may struggle in this game.

10/25 Texas Tech at Kansas (Toss Up)

Kansas was the biggest surprise in all of college football last year. They return most of their starters, but they did lose their defensive coordinator and all-conference cornerback Aqib Talib. Texas Tech won the last time in Lawrence, but it was a close game that they won late.

11/1 Texas Tech vs. Texas (Toss Up)

This will be the Red Raiders' only real tough game at home in 2008, but they have only beaten the Longhorns once in Mike Leach's tenure. I'm curious to see how new Texas defensive coordinator Will Muschamp will game plan against Texas Tech's offense.

11/8 Texas Tech vs. Oklahoma State (Win)

The series between these two teams has favored the home team—Oklahoma State hasn't won in Lubbock since 1944. Oklahoma State has many questions in the secondary, an area that the Red Raiders will try to exploit.

11/22 Texas Tech at Oklahoma (Toss Up)

This game could be for the Big 12 South title and should be a good one regardless. In the last three years, Texas Tech has a 2-1 record against the Sooners, but Bob Stoops is 50-2 at home. Something has to give in this game.

11/29 Texas Tech vs. Baylor (Win)

Art Briles should have the Baylor bears much improved, but they are a few years away and Texas Tech should have little difficulty beating them.

Texas Tech will go to a bowl game for the ninth consecutive year, but the question is which bowl game it will be.

If the Red Raiders can go 2-1 against Kansas, Texas, and Oklahoma then they should have a very good chance at a BCS bowl.

If they go 1-2 or 0-3 against those teams, then they will likely play in the Cotton, Holiday, or Alamo Bowl.

Edinson Volquez Could Be Cincinnati's First-Ever Cy Young

James P. Conway — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 17:04:16 -0400

There is very little doubt throughout the National League that Cincinnati Reds right-hander Edinson Volquez has been the best pitcher up to this point in the 2008 season.

Volquez was acquired by the Reds in the offseason from the Texas Rangers for center fielder Josh Hamilton. The deal, which has worked out extremely well for both teams, has some feeling that it could go down as one of the best trades for two teams in the history of baseball.

Volquez has appeared in 13 games this season, starting 12 of them and compiling an 8-2 record with a 1.32 earned-run average. He has pitched 75 innings, allowing 49 hits, 15 runs, 11 earned runs, 38 walks, and 91 strikeouts.

Based on these current statistics, he is on pace for 18 wins, 196 innings pitched, 238 strikeouts and that ERA of 1.32. Of those numbers, he is tied for third in wins, first in strikeouts, and first in ERA in the National League.

Also, barring any setbacks over the next month-and-a-half, there is a strong chance that he becomes the starting pitcher for the National League in the All-Star game.

Again, if these trends continue, it would be a major injustice if Edinson Volquez didn't win the National League Cy Young Award, considering the fact that this is his first full season of pitching in the major leagues, as well as his first year in the National League.

Throughout the storied franchise of the Cincinnati Reds, they have had many good pitchers, but not once have they had a Cy Young winner. Some of these pitchers are Tom Seaver, Jose Rijo, Aaron Harang, Mario Soto, Gary Nolan, Jack Billingham, Johnny Vandermeer, and Christy Mathewson.

If Edinson Volquez does, in fact, win the Cy Young Award this year, it would be a very special award for him, the Cincinnati Reds franchise, and their fans.

Jay Bruce Doesn't Disappoint in Cincinnati Debut

James P. Conway — Tue, 27 May 2008 16:22:24 -0400

The hype and gossip surrounding Cincinnati Reds centerfield prospect Jay Bruce began to pick up steam at the end of last season, as he dominated and advanced through every minor league level quickly. His performance wasn't noticed only by Reds fans, but by experts throughout all of baseball.

He was named the best minor league player in the Reds organization, and the best prospect in all of Major League Baseball by Baseball America in 2007.

Going into spring training this year, most figured he would be the Reds centerfielder on opening day. However, Bruce was sidelined with hamstring problems—and a stellar spring by the newly acquired Corey Patterson.

So Bruce started the season in Triple AAA Louisville, much to the surprise and dissappointment of Reds fans. But as the Reds began to struggle this year—along with Corey Patterson—fans knew it would only be a matter of time before the young man would get the call up to the big league.

That call came on Memorial Day, and he made his debut Tuesday night against the Pittsburgh Pirates in Cincinnati.

His first at bat, he walked on four pitches.

In the bottom of the third inning, he singled to left field.

In the fifth inning, he walked, and later scored off an Adam Dunn three-run homer.

In the sixth inning, he singled to left field, scoring Paul Bako.

In his final at bat in the seventh inning, he doubled to left field, scoring Bako again and left the field to the chants of "Bruuuce".

For the night he was three for three, with two singles and a double, with two RBI. He scored two more runs, and had two walks.

All in all, it was one heck of a debut for the young man from Beaumont, Texas drafted twelvth overall in 2005—and more than likely, one that won't be forgotten any time soon.

The future is very bright for this young man, and the Reds hope it is one that will last a long time.

Reds-Marlins: Cincinnati Bullpen Blows Ninth, Paul Janish Wins It in the Tenth

James P. Conway — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:59:58 -0400

The Cincinnati Reds had everything going their way against the Florida Marlins heading into the top of the ninth inning. Their offense had produced six runs, right-hander Bronson Arroyo had pitched seven shutout innings, and their defense got some crucial outs in critical moments of the game.

But everything went south in the top of the ninth. Reds reliever Mike Lincoln—who had pitched a perfect eighth inning—came in to close out the game, and he did everything but that.

Lincoln gave up an infield single to the lead-off hitter Jorge Cantu. Dan Uggla followed that with a single and Luis Gonzales doubled to right field scoring Cantu making it 6-1. Lincoln then hit Wes Helms with a pitch before being replaced by Reds closer Francisco Cordero, who probably needed the night off after closing the last saves.

Cordero got the count to no balls and two strikes to Marlins catcher Matt Treanor until he hit a two run single to cut the deficit to 6-3. He then struck out pinch hitter Mike Jacobs before facing former Red and pinch hitter Cody Ross with runners on first and third. Ross hit a three-run homer to left center to tie the game before Cordero retired the next two batters to end the inning.

In the bottom of the ninth, the Reds got a lead-off walk by Jerry Hairston Jr. before Ken Griffey Jr. hit into a fielders choice and Brandon Phillips grounded into a double play to end the inning.

Reds reliever Jared Burton retired the side in order in the top of the 10th to give his team a chance to win it in the bottom of the inning.

In last night's game, Reds shortstop Jeff Keepinger fractured his left kneecap off of a foul ball and is expected to be out for four to six weeks. Immediately after the injury, the Reds called up shortstop Paul Janish in the middle of a game for AAA Louisville and brought him up to Cincinnati.

Janish was a fifth-round pick in 2004 and the scouting report listed his primary strength as his defense, though he had made strides hitting the ball. Janish wasn't the only one headed to Cincinnati. His parents were originally headed to Louisville before re-routing their trip to Cincinnati to be in attendance at tonight's game.

In the bottom of the 10th inning, Joey Votto and Edwin Encarnacion both led off the inning by striking out. Reds catcher David Ross followed, pinch hitting for Burton, and got a walk. Bako followed with another walk to bring up the rookie Janish.

Janish flied out in his first major league at bat in the bottom of the eighth, but his at bat in the tenth inning would prove to be more memorable. After getting into a no balls and two strikes hole, Janish singled to right off Marlins reliever Renyel Pinto to score pinch runner and pitcher Johnny Cueto, winning the game 7-6.

Burton got the win, improving his record to 2-1. Pinto took the loss, dropping his record to 1-2.

The Reds will go for the four-game sweep tomorrow night, when they send right-hander Matt Belisle (1-3) against Marlins left-hander Andrew Miller (3-2) at 7:10 PM EST, at Great American Ballpark in Cincinnati.

Reds-Mets: Cincy Wins Behind Stellar Play of Bronson Arroyo, Jeff Keppinger

James P. Conway — Sat, 10 May 2008 18:46:24 -0400

The Cincinnati Reds, behind stellar pitching by Bronson Arroyo and five hits by Jeff Keppinger, beat the New York Mets 7-1, earning a split in Saturday's doubleheader at Shea Stadium.

After being pummeled 12-6 in the earlier game, the Reds needed a very strong outing from Arroyo, and that is exactly what they got.

Arroyo (2-4), who last time out gave up seven runs in a loss to the Braves in Atlanta, gave his team eight innings with four hits, one run and nine strikeouts. With the pressure off from Arroyo's solid pitching the Reds hitters were able to relax and do their job.

Leading the way for the Reds was shortstop Jeff Keppinger, a former New York Met, He went 5-for-5 with 1 RBI and 2 runs scored. The Reds scored seven runs without hitting a home run.

The rubber match of the series will be at 1:10 EST today with the Reds sending their young phenom Johnny Cueto (2-3) against the Mets' Oliver Perez (2-3).

Mets-Reds: New York Pounds Cincinnati 12-6

James P. Conway — Sat, 10 May 2008 18:28:08 -0400

In the first game of a doubleheader at Shea Stadium, the Cincinnati Reds outhit the New York Mets 15-13 only to lose 12-6.

The game was another painful example of how poorly the Reds hit with runners in scoring position, as they stranded 23 runners on the day. The Reds seemed to start the game well when Corey Patterson led off with a single. However, he was caught in a rundown in another baserunning blunder by the so-called veteran.

The Reds totaled 15 hits on the day, with 10 of them coming off Mets pitcher Johan Santana. That is the most hits Santana has ever given up in his career. Santana went six innings improving his record on the year to 4-2. However, the Reds could only manufacture three runs off those 10 hits.

But if the Reds thought it couldn't get worse, then they forgot Matt Belisle was on the mound for them.

Belisle continued his inconsistent play, pitching only five innings giving up six runs on four hits. With the loss his record falls to 1-3, and his performance only makes people wonder when Homer Bailey will be called up from Class AAA Louisville.

Carlos Beltran led the Mets' hitters, going 2-for-3 with 5 RBI. For the Reds, Ryan Freel was 3-for-5 with two runs scored.

Walt Jocketty Can Leave His Mark on the Cincinnati Reds in 2008

James P. Conway — Fri, 09 May 2008 20:54:18 -0400

The firing of Cincinnati Reds GM Wayne Krivsky on Apr. 23rd came as a surprise and sent shock waves through the entire organization.

The drastic move by Reds CEO Bob Castellini sent a stern message to all in the organization that losing wasn't going to be tolerated. The move, which was criticized by many, led to comparisons to New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner.

However, it came as no surprise when at the Krivsky press conference it was announced that former St. Louis Cardinals GM, and at that time, Reds special assistant to the owner, Walt Jocketty, would be filling the vacancy.

The move is interesting from the standpoint that from a baseball philosophy, Krivsky and Jocketty are at opposite ends of the spectrum. Krivsky's background is scouting, and his approach was to build the franchise up from the minor leagues.

On the other hand, Jocketty is more of a trades and free agent guy who had great success in his 13-year stint in St. Louis, where the Cardinals went to the postseason seven times and won a world series in 2006.

It would be wrong of me to not mention the accomplishments of former general managers Dan O'Brien and Wayne Krivsky, who loaded the Reds' minor league system with tons of talent, making it one of the top-five best according to several baseball publications.

With that being said, Jocketty will have numerous decisions, not only during the 2008 season but in the offseason as well. As it stands, the current Reds team need hitting and needs it bad. The roster is full of too many left-handed batters that either hit home runs or strikeout.

The pitching, for the most part, has been good. The Reds could use another proven starter, and possibly two, given the recent decline of number two starter Bronson Arroyo. There are options to fill those roles in the minors, most notably with touted prospect Homer Bailey.

Jocketty's first big decisions will regard Ken Griffey Jr. and Adam Dunn. With Griffey Jr., the Reds can exercise an option for Griffey in 2009, but at a steep price of $16.5 million and a $4 million buyout. Exercising the option seems unlikely at this stage of Griffey's career, and his latest words are that he wants to be traded to a contender.

Dunn will be a free agent at the end of the season, and he has done nothing this season on the field to convince the Reds that they need to sign him to a long term deal. Trading one or both of them is a possibility, but it is uncertain what the demand for either of them at this time would be.

The decision doesn't stop with Griffey and Dunn, as there will be 11 other free agents at seasons end. The 11 players are: catchers Javier Valentin, Paul Bako, and David Ross, first baseman Scott Hatteberg, utility player Jerry Hairston Jr., outfielder Corey Patterson, and pitchers David Weathers, Kent Mercker, Mike Lincoln, Jeremy Affeldt, and Josh Fogg.

Hatteberg and Fogg could more than likely be traded this season, and other than Weathers, Lincoln, and Affeldt, the others could be let go.

Ultimately though, it will be Jocketty's call, and given the Reds' situation, along with his own background, there aren't many other general managers you would want in this situation.