Bleacher Report - Articles by BabyTate

College Football Playoff for the 2009 Season

BabyTate — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 06:49:38 -0500

A long time ago yours truly submitted a college football playoff system to the editor of a nationally published weekly sports magazine. In the breakdown, we incorporated all of the conference champions and the best of the independent schools. During that season the listed semi-finals were Texas vs. Alabama and Nebraska vs. Notre Dame. The champion was projected as Nebraska. Shockingly, one of the staff writers took the idea and rode with it. Preparing a full spread on the process. How much money was paid for that idea? The price of the postage on the "Thank You" card received a week later from our publishing friends who, shall we say, like to Illustrate their Sports. You grow up quickly in the writing game when you are looking for dough to survive instead of promoting ideas for consideration. How did the season actually play out that year? Nebraska went undefeated during the regular season and met Alabama in the Orange Bowl for what turned out to be the National Championship deciding contest. Leading all the way, Alabama ended Nebraska's dreams of a perfect season, 39-28. The Crimson Tide was awarded the AP National Title. The Cornhuskers were led by their brilliant Fullback, 5'8" 158 pound Frank Solich who made up for what he lacked in size with grit and determination. It should not be lost on anyone that Frank Solich is still in the post season business. As head coach of Ohio University, he has the Bobcats in the Little Caesar's Bowl this season. To the point, the listed playoff system provided two of the finalists for the title. Due to such success early on, there is a book on this table which contains all of the past seasons of this personal playoff system. Oh, it has been modified over the years due to conference expansion, the slide from major college football by the Ivy and the Southern Conferences, and the demise of the once beloved by sportsmen, Independent teams. Now days we must have two playoff system breakdowns. One for the pre-season rankings and the other after the final regular season games and conference champions are declared. The following is the latest in a long line of Baby Tate's Playoff System.

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College Football: The Major Injustice of the Bowl Season

BabyTate — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 04:03:11 -0500

Hold on to your hat. Put on your snow boots in July. This could be the big one Elizabeth—I'm coming to join you.

Baby Tate is about to defend Clemson.

No, there is no need for hospitalization such as Florida Coach Urban Meyer required after losing the SEC Title Game.

What we have here is an insult to sportsmanship, competitiveness, and a slap in the face to everything one learns concerning the basics of winning and losing.

It is a travesty that Florida State is playing West Virginia in the Gator Bowl while Clemson is going to the Music City Bowl to play Kentucky.

Clemson defeated Florida State this season, 40-24. The Tigers won the ACC Atlantic Division while the Seminoles finished third.

The orange-clad men of Coach Dabo Swinney won eight games this season while FSU struggled to go 6-6 for the year.

In the ACC Bowl pecking order, we find that the Orange Bowl goes to the league Champion and that is where Georgia Tech is headed after defeating Clemson in the ACC Title game.

The subsequent postseason games of the ACC are the Gator in Jacksonville, the Chick-Fil-A (Peach) in Atlanta, and the Champ Sports in Orlando.

Down the line, we find the Emerald Bowl of San Francisco and the Nashville-based Music City Bowl. Further on down the road is the Meineke Car Care Bowl of Charlotte.

Why then do we find the loser of the conference title game in a Bowl lower than the ones in Atlanta and Jacksonville?

Orlando? Miami is slotted to go there. Clemson beat Miami at Miami by the score of 40-37 this season. Next case.

Fans traveling? You are kidding, right? Clemson's traveling show makes the fan bases of Nebraska and Ohio State look like wayfaring strangers.

Plain speaking, there is no reason on earth for Clemson to be going to Nashville while lower teams the Tigers have beaten this year reap the rewards of a Florida location.

Why and how did this happen?

According to Dabo Swinney, it is a case of politics. The following conversation was reported by Rivals.com shortly after the selection process was made public.

Question

Now that you’re on this side of the ledger, how do you take the ACC title game loser and drop them to this level?

Dabo

“There’s politics in everything. That’s just part of it. We had our opportunity to do something about it last night, and we didn’t take care of business....Politics get involved when decisions are being made.”

There is a translation of what the ultra-nice and respectful Coach Swinney meant to say. It goes like this:

"Coach Bowden wishes his final game to be in a Bowl game in the state of Florida."

"Instead of putting Florida State in the Champ Sports Bowl, the ACC is using the Gator Bowl to attract the highly visible West Virginia fan base. This also sets up a contest between the two major schools where Bowden was head coach, Florida State and West Virginia."

"The ACC owes Bobby Bowden for all the years he gave the profession and wants to reward him with a selection of what Bowl, location, and opponent he wishes in his final game."

Another translation could be "To Devil with Clemson."

Upon reflection of thought, Clemson's opponent in the Music City Bowl will be Kentucky, coached by the venerable Rich Brooks in his final game before retiring.

Why bother playing? Rich Brooks has been a great guy all of these years, just forfeit the Music City Bowl so Coach Brooks can "go out a winner."

But why stop there?

It is true that Kentucky lost to Florida during the season, finished behind the Gators in the SEC East, and do not have as successful a won-loss record this year, but why let that come into discussion?

Just ask Florida to step aside and let Kentucky go to the Sugar Bowl to honor Coach Brooks in his final game. The Gators will enjoy Nashville—that's good enough for them, they lost the conference title game like Clemson did.

It is difficult to believe Bobby Bowden would go along with this travesty—this shocking insult to the Clemson football program.

It is almost like Clemson has done something terrible in the past to Bobby Bowden.

Certainly, no one should suggest Clemson firing his son as head coach last year would have anything to do with this manipulation of the system for the Bowden family benefit and the detriment of the Tigers.

It's "just politics."

The 11 Best 11s: College Football's Final Regular Season Edition

BabyTate — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 04:03:33 -0500

The 11 best 11s is a reflective ranking system based upon the performances of the previous week.

Due to the highly volatile nature of college football, rankings may vary from one week to the next. However, this edition will take the entire season into consideration.

The 11 Best 11s

Ranking This Week Ranking Last Week

1. Texas 1.

2. Alabama 2.

3. Texas Christian 4.

4. Boise State 5.

5. Florida 3.

6. Cincinnati 6.

7. Oregon 7.

8. Georgia Tech N/R (No. 1 On The Porch)

9. Ohio State 8.

10. Iowa 9.

11. Penn State 10.

On The Porch: Oregon State, Pittsburgh, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Virginia Tech, LSU

During last week's edition of the 11 Best 11s series a poll was conducted to find out what Conference Title Game would be the most exciting.

84 percent believed the SEC Title Game would be the most exciting. And 84 percent of you were wrong.

The SEC Game between Florida and Alabama was the least exciting of all the Conference Title Games. The 2009 SEC Championship was decided by halftime.

Certainly it was exciting for all Alabama fans who enjoyed the victory and the opportunity to humiliate Tim Tebow, Urban Meyer, and the BCS Champion Gators for what happened in the fourth quarter of last season's SEC Title Game.

To the rest of the viewing public who do not live a Crimson-colored life, the game itself was a great letdown resulting from the margin of victory, 32-13.

The previously unbeaten Gators were whipped from pillar to post by an intense and focused Red Elephant unit who asked for no quarter and gave none. Florida seemed unable to do anything to keep the outcome in doubt, or even put up a good fight.

The word being searched for here could be anticlimactic.

Let us hope the BCS Title Game will provide more excitement for fans everywhere. It has been four years since there was any edge-of-the-seat action in this annual match-up for the BCS Trophy.

The ACC Championship and the de facto Big East Title Game were thrilling and exciting battles.

Georgia Tech completed a season sweep of Clemson with a 39-34 win for the ACC crown. The Bearcats of Cincinnati edged the Pittsburgh Panthers, 45-44 to complete a perfect regular season.

If there is a more interesting possible match than Ga Tech's running game versus Cincinnati's passing game it does not readily come to mind.

East Carolina showcased the brilliance of the Pirate Head Coach, Skip Holtz, in a dazzling 38-32 victory over Houston.

The younger Holtz devised a plan which led East Carolina to a win over Houston and claim the CUSA Title for a second consecutive season. For their reward, the purple-clad Pirates get a date in the Liberty Bowl.

The Civil War, Oregon vs. Oregon State, featured two of the best all-around teams in the nation playing to the limit of their ability. The Ducks made good use of their home field and escaped former Alabama star Mike Riley's lethal Beaver Brigade, 37-33.

The Big 12 Championship game was a defensive affair. The Cornhuskers stopped the vaunted Longhorn offense and stymied quarterback Colt McCoy's bid to run away with the Heisman Trophy.

Not as thrilling as some of the high scoring championship contests, never the less, the 13-12 affair was an interesting and intense battle between two of the finest stop units in America.

While the Longhorns survived to hang on to their No. 1 ranking for yet another week in the 11 best 11s, in all truthfulness Texas was not the most impressive team this past weekend.

In fact, they may not have been the most impressive team on the field in Arlington, Texas on Saturday night.

Still, a win is win. And the Longhorns just may get to the BCS Title Game ahead of old nemesis Texas Christian.

If they do, many observers would credit the performance of the men from Austin less than the good fortune of instant replay and the official who added one second to the game clock.

A second in time which insured Texas the opportunity for the winning kick on the final play of the game.

But, it has been opined through the years champions are made from overcoming such adversity.

Forgive the interested party in Fort Worth if they do not agree.

College Football: Will Mike Leach be the New Coach At Louisville?

BabyTate — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 05:54:57 -0500

Impossible! And so rains down the chorus of sound from the knowledgeable and informed fans of college football. But, stranger things have happened. At this point the decision appears to be whether to bring former quarterback Jeff Brohm home or to go after a well established coach with outstanding credentials. Rumors were flying two weeks ago concerning the certainty of Texas Tech coach Mike Leach coming to the city known for athletes of the four-legged variety. That was before failed coach Steve Kragthorpe of the Cardinals was released to land softly on an over four million dollar exit package. Louisville AD, Tom Jurich, has been acknowledged as a fine business person who knows how to operate a sports program to insure maximum return on investment. But it was Jurich that set the table for the Kragthorpe disaster by requiring incoming coach Kragthorpe to reatin a number of assistant coaches from the Bobby Petrino staff. Rarely is this move anything but a recipe for disaster. Coach Kragthorpe was asked to leave after going 15-21 in his three years at the helm however, the death knell was the over 20 percent drop in home attendance in 2009 from Petrino's final season of 2006. No less an honorable man than Coach Ken Hatfield explained after being forced out at Clemson in 1993 despite going 32-13 in four seasons, "if home attendance drops 10 percent, you better pack your bags." Steve Kragthorpe is a good person, he left with his dignity intact, and the millions did not hurt one bit either. Jurich was responsible for easing out legendary Cardinal basketball coach Denny Crum and bringing in the flamboyant Rick Pitino. Likewise, he had to feel burned when former football coaches John L. Smith and Bobby Petrino exited before he was prepared to let them go. So what will it be Tom? Another flamboyant genius coach or a simple call to an alumnus to "come home to Mama?"

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College Football: Baby's Losers for the First Week of December

BabyTate — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 05:37:30 -0500

The first week of December provides the opportunity to watch numerous championship games while jockeying for bowl position continues at a high level.

Baby's Losers

1. The Civil War: Oregon State @ Oregon (*See Important Note Below)

There are some games that are always full of adventure, excitement, and surprises. The Civil War is one such game, which is why we feel it is necessary to include this match in the predictions and picks for the week.

Former Alabama star cornerback Mike Riley will have his Beavers ready to repay the Ducks for knocking them out of the Rose Bowl in '08.

Baby's Loser: in a thriller, Oregon State

2. Big 12 Championship Game: Texas vs. Nebraska in Arlington, Texas

Colt McCoy will secure his Heisman Trophy with a victory over the Cornhuskers, but this will not be easy. Expect Nebraska to hold the Longhorns to 21 points or less.

Baby's Loser: Nebraska

3. ACC Title Game: Georgia Tech vs. Clemson in Tampa, Florida

Clemson had every intention of winning this game until Steve Spurrier showed the world how to control C.J. Spiller last week in Carolina's 17-point win over the Tigers.

Baby's Loser: Clemson

4. Cincinnati @ Pittsburgh

Everyone wants another unbeaten team to go to the BCS. In this corner we have a supporter of Pitt all year, but can they score enough to defeat Cincinnati?

Baby's Loser: close, Pittsburgh

5. Arizona @ Southern California

Respect for sportsmanship would not be a description of what Pete Carroll did to UCLA in the final minute of their game last week. The Wildcats had best be prepared.

Baby's Loser: Arizona

6. California @ Washington

Before the Huskies are written off here, look at the situation: The Bears are set to go bowling and have little incentive.

Sarkisian just might have UW ready for an upset.

Baby's Loser: tight, Washington

7. Wisconsin @ Hawaii

One of the reasons the Outback Bowl is hesitant to invite the Badgers is because of this game and the possible impact on attendance a month later in Florida.

Baby's Loser: Hawaii

Saturday's Tough One

8. Conference USA Championship Game: Houston @ East Carolina

Skip Holtz is being talked about as a coaching possibility for many of the positions that are opening. He'll have his Pirates ready, but the Cougar offense is too formidable.

Baby's Loser: East Carolina

Game of the Week

9. SEC Title Game: Florida vs. Alabama in Atlanta, Ga.

The teams in this clash are equal and know everything about each other.

Alabama has a true advantage in their ability to create and convert turnovers. The Crimson Tide players think they can beat Florida, but the Gator players know they can beat Alabama. That just could be the difference.

Let's go with history to repeat itself.

Baby's Loser: Alabama

Last week, Baby Tate went 6-3, missing Ga.Tech, Pitt, and Ok.St. (84-33 for the year)

9-0: No One

8-1: Zodiac, Kimberley, Ga Dawg, Taylor B., Connor, Jared, Boulder, and Fanatic.

7-2: Michael C., 007, Kevin M., Alex, Daniel H., Tom O., Scott R., Ryan H., Carl S., Mark F., Jim M., and Sean.

6-3: Baby Tate, Ronnie, 12, Dan B., Tim C., Brandon H., Daniel S., Kent, Mosang, Iceman, Mark S. Bill B., Cliff, Ryan, Blake B., and Tyler L.

5-4: Hokie Hogg, Matt S., James W.

Below Baby Tate's Mendoza Line: Red Raider, Ryan R., Josh M., and Wil

Congratulations to Kimberley who had her finest week ever as her beloved Bulldogs put it to Ga. Tech on national TV.

Same for Ga Dawg. We see he is feeling his oats this week with a fine article recapping the burning of Atlanta.

This is one of the best results record-wise we've seen as an overall group. I'm certain Zodiac will claim that he is responsible.

A tip of the hat to the first-timers who all did well.

Taylor, Connor, and Jared outdid themselves with their fine work during holiday week.

We had 43 participants for this past week. Keep up the great work.

A note of thanks to Bill B. who spent the week telling everyone how Georgia would beat Ga Tech.

*Note: In view of the importance of the Oregon State-Oregan clash, (and since it is the final week of the regular season) let's make an exception this one time only and include a weeknight game. Please have all of our picks in by Thursday night, prior to the Civil War kickoff at 9PM Eastern Standard Time.

College Football's 11 Best 11s For December: The SEC Rules The ACC

BabyTate — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 03:44:21 -0500

During the final week of the regular season each season, arch-rivals in the two conferences who define southern sports meet to settle their differences.

The two leagues are the Southeastern Conference and the Atlantic Coast Conference, SEC and ACC to friends and foes alike.

Arrogant and powerful, each conference considers itself head and shoulders above any other in the primary college sports, the SEC in football and the ACC in basketball.

All apologies to the other BCS conferences, PAC10, Big10, Big East, and Big 12 but, until you can wrest the National Championship in each sport away from the two conferences it is the reality of the current situation.

Fans recognize Alabama taking on Florida in SEC football, and Duke and UNC battling in ACC basketball, make the sports world come to a stop. However, it is the inter-conference rivalries in football that create the extended family atmosphere.

This situation happens in the states of Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina when the Gators meet the Seminoles, the Yellow Jackets meet the Bulldogs, and the Tigers take on the Gamecocks.

The basketball season is young so, the jury is still out as to who is the boss of who this year. Not so with football.

Saturday's results proved the SEC is clearly superior to the ACC in football this season.

Ga Tech, pride of the ACC and ranked No. 7 in the BCS poll, was beaten by a middle-of-the-road Georgia, 30-24.

Clemson, who face the Yellow Jackets for the ACC title in Tampa next week and feature possible Heisman Trophy finalist C.J. Spiller, received a beatdown from Steve Spurrier's South Carolina Gamecocks, 34-17.

Florida State, for years the big gun of the ACC, was mauled by No. 1 ranked Florida 37-10 in a game never as close as the final score indicates.

Bad blood between blood relatives in these three situations.

And there is always next year.

The 11 Best 11s

Ranking This Week Ranking Last Week

1. Texas 1.

2. Alabama 2.

3. Florida 3.

4. Texas Christian 4.

5. Boise State 5.

6. Cincinnati 6.

7. Oregon 9.

8. Ohio State 10.

9. Iowa 11.

10. Penn State N/R (On The Porch)

11. Oregon State N/R (On The Porch)

On The Porch: Georgia Tech, Pittsburgh, Va. Tech, Nebraska, LSU

Alabama presented a case for becoming No. 1 with an inspired 26-21 comeback victory over arch-enemy Auburn. The Crimson Tide will will meet Florida this Saturday to determine who is the Champion of the SEC.

Tennessee pulled out a 30-24 overtime win at Kentucky while LSU needed an extra period to subdue Arkansas, 33-30. Mississippi State surprised high-riding Ole Miss in Egg Bowl action, 41-27.

While the SEC settled their differences, the PAC-10 provided some of the best action of the weekend.

Southern California and UCLA, two schools who know a thing or two about rivalries, staged a magnificent contest in the Coliseum for nearly 60 minutes.

The final moments created the stir when Bruin head coach Rick Neuheisel called time out, apparently to cramp the Trojan victory celebration. Trojan overseer Pete Carroll did not appreciate the gesture and responded with a "bomb" pass play for a touchdown.

Properly incensed over the matter, the Bruins attempted to start a rumble. Cooler heads prevailed and the Men of Troy went home with a 28-7 win over their crosstown rival.

Houston showed no mercy to their city rival, the Rice Owls. Leading 59-0 at halftime, the Cougars went on to a 73-14 act of destruction.

The Apple Cup was settled early on as the Huskies dominated Washington State 30-0.

In the desert battle between Arizona and Arizona State, the Wildcats scored on a last second field goal to escape the clutches of Dennis Erickson's nasty boys defense.

Stanford put a merciful end to the season of Notre Dame and the much-maligned Charlie Weis. Behind the powerful running of Toby Gerhart, the Cardinal overhauled the tiring Irish in the second half for a 45-38 victory.

Boise State took the pistol offense of Nevada and clobbered the Wolfpack with the handle, 44-33 while TCU destroyed hapless New Mexico, 51-10.

Brigham Young had to work overtime to defeat Utah 26-23 in the Battle of the Beehive State but it was the remarks of the Cougars' star quarterback Max Hall that made the most noise.

"I don’t like Utah. In fact, I hate them. I hate everything about them. I hate their program, their fans. I hate everything,” Hall said. “It felt really good to send those guys home.”

“I think the whole university [Utah] and their fans and the organization is classless,” Hall said. “They threw beer on my family and stuff last year and did a whole bunch of nasty things. I don’t respect them and they deserved to lose.”

Max, tell us how you really feel.

In Big 12 action, Texas withstood a furious Texas A&M attack to pull out a win on Thanksgiving evening, 49-39. The Oklahoma Sonners blanked the Oklahoma State Cowboys 27-0 in the Bedlam series.

Kansas fell to Missouri 41-39 in the Border War, Texas Tech defeated Baylor 20-13, and Nebraska punched out Colorado 28-20 despite some good news around the Hawkins family household. Coach Dan will be back for another season as head coach in Boulder.

Around the Big East stories circulated concerning the demise of Louisville coach Steve Kragthorpe following another losing season, this one punctuated by a Friday loss to Rutgers by the tune of 34-14.

Illinois bowed to Cincinnati 49-36, Syracuse fell to UConn 56-31, and in the Backyard Brawl Pittsburgh fell on the final play of the game to West Virginia, 19-16.

The ACC-Big East showdown between South Florida and Miami ended with the Hurricanes rolling to a 31-10 victory. In other action, Boston College downed Maryland 19-17, N.C. State handed UNC another defeat 28-27, Wake Forest escaped Duke 45-34, and Virginia Tech destroyed Virginia, 42-13.

Why Didn't Alabama and Auburn Play Football Against Each Other for 40 Years?

BabyTate — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 05:05:12 -0500

It does seem difficult to believe but, it is true. Alabama and Auburn went 40 years without playing their annual rivalry game. The most obvious question should be "Why" but, the more interesting details may surround "Who" as in who was responsible for ending and then recreating the series that seems so much a part of each football season? For whatever reason, the rivalry was suspended from 1907 to 1948. The following information suggests possible reasons for the 40 year void in the record books of one of America's most intensely fought yearly competitions..

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Dick Vitale Proclaims the Pac-10 Is the Best College Football Conference

BabyTate — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 04:52:54 -0500

Dick Vitale is about as famous as, well, Paul McCartney. Jack Nicholson? Donald Trump? Oprah Winfrey?

Let's just agree he is one of the most famous personalities of the past 25 years.

So when the college basketball guru makes a statement, the rest of the world perks up its ears to hear what he says.

However, one was forced to do a double take with the commentary he laid down in New York City on Wednesday night during the later stages of the Duke-Arizona State basketball contest.

With the Blue Devils moving along to another victory in the young round-ball season, ESPN play-by-play announcer Dan Shulman began to question Vitale concerning a variety of subjects to keep the TV audience from turning to another channel.

At this point, Vitale shocked the world by proclaiming the "Pac-10 is the best college football conference" this season. Shulman prodded the legendary sports analyst with hints that fans of other conferences may feel differently.

Vitale held firm, stating he felt that way "because of strength top to bottom" in the Pac-10.

Moments later, after additional queries by Shulman, Vitale declared the "Big 10 is the best basketball conference" this season.

A most likable and self-deprecating man of great charisma and accomplishments, Vitale is always available for speaking his mind and giving his opinions regarding virtually everything.

Dickie V., as he is known to his followers and detractors, is extremely knowledgeable in the major sports. His candid analysis of athletic issues underpins his position as the most famous person in the business.

While entertaining to say the very least, Vitale may have provided college football fans with a rallying cry for the season. No matter who plays in the BCS Title game, does it really matter if they advance without playing in the Pac-10?

A review concerning outside of conference schedules for teams in the Pac-10 reveal a very favorable record of 20 wins and nine losses for a 69 percent winning rate.

But a comparison to teams in the SEC casts doubt upon the veracity of Vitale's assertion of PAC-10 supremacy.

The outside of conference record of SEC teams is 39-6, an 87 percent success rate.

Surely the actual results must mean something in this debate.

To be certain, an in-depth analysis regarding quality of the outside opponents could reveal a different conclusion but, even that appears argumentative and unlikely.

So there we have it. An entire season of work and accomplishment washed down the drain by the ultimate sports announcer.

And just thinking, isn't that the responsibility of the BCS selection committee?

College Football: Baby's Losers for Thanksgiving Week

BabyTate — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 05:25:49 -0500

It is here again. Thanksgiving week and all that goes with the special Holiday.

All picks must in by Thursday at Noon.

Let us get right into it.

Thanksgiving Day

1. Texas (11-0) @ Texas A&M (6-5)

Texas fans may recall in 1975 and '79 the Longhorns rolled into College Station with 9-1 teams and were upset by inspired Aggie squads. Could it happen again?

Baby's Loser: Texas A&M

The Friday Games

2. Alabama (11-0) @ Auburn (7-4)

Alabama fans no doubt remember 1989 when an undefeated Crimson Tide outfit rolled into Auburn with visions of a National Championship, only to lose, 30-20.

Baby's Loser: Auburn

3. Pittsburgh (9-1) @ West Virginia (7-3)

The Backyard Brawl has featured a variety of exciting contests. In 1970, Bobby Bowden's Mountaineers led the Panthers 35-8 at halftime but eventually lost, 36-35. Here is a vote for the powerful Pitt defensive line to stifle the hi-octane Mountaineers.

Baby's Loser, tight: West Virginia

The Saturday Games

4. Florida State (6-5) @ Florida (11-0)

An apology is due to Gator followers. Florida is so strong, and so heavily favored over all the teams they face, there are few instances where the opponent can generate enough support to make the contests interesting. The mighty Gators are here now.

Baby's Loser, Florida State

5. Oklahoma State (9-2) @ Oklahoma (6-5)

In some preseason publications, this game was believed to have a major say in producing the BCS Champion. Oklahoma State quarterback Zac Robinson has an injured shoulder and the Sooners have won the past six in the epic Bedlam series.

Baby's Loser, in a mild upset, Oklahoma

6. Notre Dame (6-5) @ Stanford (7-4)

The Cardinal lost "The Big Game" to Cal last week and with it the chance for a Rose Bowl invitation. Notre Dame is in a world of controversy with the coaching situation of Charlie Weis. The Cardinal appeared tired in the second half last week. Look out!

Baby's Loser, close: Notre Dame

7. Washington State (1-10) @ Washington (3-7)

Apple Cup action! Notorious for underdogs springing the upset, this is one of the most unpredictable rivalries in the country. A vote for the improved Huskies to escape.

Baby's Loser, much closer than expected: Washington State

Saturday's Tough One

8. Utah (9-2) @ Brigham Young (9-2)

Beehive State battle between two of the finest western squads. In the past 20 years each team has won 10 times. The ingredients are present for a classic showdown.

Baby's Loser, in a thriller, Utah.

Game Of The Week

9. Georgia (6-5) @ Georgia Tech (10-1)

The Yellow Jackets have scored 50 touchdowns this year while giving up 29. The Bulldogs have scored 33 TDs while surrendering 31. Advantage Georgia Tech.

Baby's Loser, Georgia.

Last Week Baby Tate went 6-3, missed Stanford, Ga., and Okla. For the Year– 98-30

It was a particularly difficult week due to the intensity of so many rivalry games.

9-0: None

8-1: None

7-2: Zodiac, 12, Red Raider, Cliff, Ryan H., Chris C., 007, and Mark S.

6-3: Baby Tate, Dan B., Kevin, Georgia Dawg, Tim C., J.A., Connor, RunTellMatt, Scott R., and Taylor B.

5-4: Michael C., Kimberley, Henry, Alex, Kent, Tyler S., Matt S., Daniel S., Jared W., Blake B., Bill B., Hal R., Josh M., Jim M., James W.

Below Baby Tate's Mendoza Line: (Are You Ready For This?) Ronnie, Brandon, Mosang, Daniel H., Tom O., Carl, Ryan R., Iceman. Hokie Hogg went 3-2.

There are some bigtime heavy hitters below the Line this week. No doubt they will all bounce back to normalcy this time around.

And thanks to all 42 participants who played this past week.

College Football's 11 Best 11s: Texas, Alabama Stalk BCS Title

BabyTate — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 03:41:11 -0500

The storyline may vary, the locations differ, but rising to the occasion will be the theme as one reviews the college football activity of this past weekend.

Stanford, fresh from two of the most impressive victories in the BCS era, was beaten on their home field by ancient rival California, 34-28.

The Cardinal had their chances, and were only turned away in the final moments when their powerful ground game was betrayed by an interception near the Cal end zone.

Michigan and Notre Dame, two of the most storied programs in history, each lost at home.

While the Wolverines fell by 11 points to a superior Buckeye team, the Irish bowed to middle of the road Connecticut. The UConn squad refused to fold this year, despite carrying an enormous burden of having a teammate murdered during the season.

The Iowa Hawkeyes, left for dead following two consecutive Big 10 losses, rose from the ashes like a Phoenix to shut out the Golden Gophers of Minnesota.

The 12-0 victory secured the Floyd of Rosedale Trophy (see pictured above) and should inoculate the Hawkeyes against being dropped from BCS Bowl consideration.

Quarterback Greg Paulus and Syracuse stunned 25th ranked Rutgers, 31-13. Paulus, the former Duke basketball point guard, led an offensive charge from the Orange that controlled the ball for 40 minutes in a complete annihilation of the Scarlet Knights.

Penn State bounced back from some less than stellar performances to destroy Michigan State 42-14, thus securing the Land Grant Trophy.

The Old Oaken Bucket went to Purdue after the Boilermakers stifled the Indiana Hoosiers, 38-21. It was IU's eighth loss in the last nine games.

Nebraska qualified for a spot in the Big 12 Title game against Texas by throttling feisty little Kansas State, 17-3.

In other Big 12 action, Texas Tech avenged its only regular season loss of 2008 by overwhelming the suddenly ineffective Oklahoma Sooners, 41-13.

Oregon, a powerful but inconsistent western steamroller, came back in the desert to conquer a rugged Arizona Wildcat squad in double overtime, 44-41. Nothing speaks louder concerning a team's future than how it performs when faced with adversity.

Score one for first year coach Chip Kelly of the Ducks, an impressive gentleman with places to go and important deeds to complete.

Brigham Young continued its march toward a showdown with Utah by handling The Air Force, 38-21.

In the South, two games of note were played while many squads rested or feasted in preparation of next week's rivalry games.

Mississippi spotted talented LSU the lead early on but, manged to find it within themselves to withstand a late Tiger onslaught and escape with a 25-23 win.

Clemson reached their first ever ACC Championship game by disposing of overmatched Virginia, 34-21. The Tigers move on to play Georgia Tech for the title.

These teams met earlier this season with the Yellow Jackets pulling out a 30-27 victory. With both running games operating at full throttle, fans can envision a decision being reached in less than two hours down in Tampa.

Simply put, it was the type of day where legends are created.

The 11 Best 11s

Ranking This Week Last Week

1. Texas 1.

2. Alabama 2.

3. Florida 4.

4. Texas Christian 3.

5. Boise State 5.

6. Cincinnati 6.

7. Georgia Tech 7.

8. Pittsburgh 8.

9. Oregon 9.

10. Ohio State 10.

11. Iowa (No. 1 On The Porch)

On The Porch: Oklahoma State, Mississippi, Penn State, Oregon State, Nebraska

By virtue of results from the past two weekends, the SEC Title Game is set between defending champion Florida and Alabama.

Texas and Nebraska are headed to the Big 12 Championship.

Before reservations are made in Pasadena for the ultimate prize, the small matter of avoiding a season ending upset at the hands of an arch-rival must be avoided.

Just don't call Jim Harbaugh and Stanford for advice on how to do it.

College Football: Midnight At The Oasis

BabyTate — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 02:42:56 -0500

In this edition of the Friday night challenge we will pursue the answers to some of college football's most argued and discussed enigmas. While there should be some thought provoking activity in any inquiry of college football history the answers are clear. Guard against falling victim to over-thinking or suggestive slide information. From The Standpoint of grading, please consider the following rating system: Number Answered Correctly 7-8 Brilliant student of the game. 5-6 $5 usually gets you $10 in discussions with your friends. 3-4 Casual follower of college football. 1-2 Need to spend time studying the history of the game. zero Perhaps a tutor is in order.

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College Football Predictions: Baby's Losers For Week 12

BabyTate — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:56:33 -0500

The third Saturday in November serves up many of the great rivalry games. With an eye to the all-important jockeying for BCS rankings, the spotlight this week will feature several classic rivalries.

Baby's Losers

1 . Ohio State @ Michigan

The Buckeyes have clinched a trip to the Rose Bowl so they have to come down emotionally. The Wolverines are no longer up to the speed of Lloyd Carr's teams in Ann Arbor. Baby's Loser: Michigan.

2. Oklahoma @ Texas Tech

Leach has waited a year for his revenge against Oklahoma. The Sooners ruined the Red Raiders' opportunity at the BCS Title in 2008. Baby's Loser, tight: Texas Tech.

3. Kentucky @ Georgia

Georgia could be riding for a fall. Feeling a little too good about the win over Auburn. The Wildcats are 6-4 just like the Bulldogs. Baby's Loser, close: Kentucky

4. Kansas State @ Nebraska

The Big 12 North Title is on the line as Bill Snyder tries to make it back to the top. The Cornhuskers have strong play on the defensive line. Baby's Loser: Kansas State.

5. The Air Force @ Brigham Young

The Cougars like to pass. The Falcons run extremely well. BYU may be looking ahead to Utah. Baby's Loser, in what could be the best game of the day: The Air Force.

6. Virginia @ Clemson

The Tigers must win this contest in order to qualify for the ACC Championship in Tampa against Ga Tech. Clemson coach Frank Howard called Virginia "the white meat" of the schedule as the Tigers never lost to the Cavaliers until 1990. Baby's Loser: Virginia.

7. California @ Stanford "The Big Game"

Known as "The Big Game" as the West Coast answer to "The Game" played by Harvard and Yale. All signs point to the Bears upsetting the Cardinal. Baby's Loser: California.

Saturday's Tough One Of The Year

8. Harvard @ Yale "The Game"

Ivy League action, one of the greatest school rivalries, no matter the activity. The Elis have the home field and the Crimson could be emotionally spent. Baby's Loser: Yale.

Game Of The Week

9. Louisiana State @ Mississippi "The Magnolia Bowl"

The Tigers are better than Ole Miss but, the Rebels have more to prove and will play with more intensity than LSU. Baby's Loser, in a classic thriller: LSU

Baby Tate Went 8-1 last week, missing Stanford. For the year 72-27.

After the worst week of the season where only two people were above 5-4, last week the experts at Baby's Losers turned it completely around by having only one person under 6-3 and he predicted the upset of Stanford over Southern California.

In fact, it was surprising how many people saw the downfall of the Trojans coming last week.

Saturday's Tough One continued to live up to its reputation. VMI led The Army halfway through the fourth quarter before surrendering late, 22-17 in a highly competitive game.

This week's choice for the tough one will no doubt be the toughest call of the year.

Run Tell Matt posted his second 9-0 record this season. But, even he had to confess to taking " a wild guess" with Saturday's Tough One of VMI and The Army.

The Game of the Week saw a great performance by TCU, and virtually all the prognosticators correctly saw the outcome.

Congratulations to everyone for bouncing back so strongly. You were challenged and responded in a big way.

9-0: Run Tell Matt

8-1: Baby Tate, 12, Tim C., Kent, Mosang, Bill B., 007, Iceman, Scott R., and Chris C.

7-2: Ronnie, Dan B., Michael C., Kimberley, Daniel H., Alex F., Tom O., Illya, Connor, Cliff, Carl S., Jonny, Trey J., Ben Long, Matt S., Blake B., Tyler S., Jared W., Ryan R., and Taylor B.

6-3: Brandon, Zodiac, Kevin M., Red Raider, Ga Dawg, Kristofer G. Henry (Formerly known as Southern Man), Kenneth J. III, and Jim.

5-4: None

Below Baby Tate's Mendoza Line: Josh

College Football's 11 Best 11s: TCU Makes Its Move

BabyTate — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 04:47:20 -0500

The Horned Frogs of Texas Christian have not spent a great amount of time this season croaking up the wrong tree.

They have gone out and put away the opposition, usually leaving no doubt who is the best team on the field that day. Case in point would be the 55-28 destruction of defending Mountain West and Sugar Bowl Champion Utah on Saturday evening.

Going into the encounter with TCU, the Utes had only lost once in the past two seasons, earlier this year at powerful Oregon by a score of 31-24.

It was about that close against TCU, for about 10 minutes.

The road is clearing for the Horned frogs to make the BCS Title game, all they need is a little luck in the next few weeks. And if the Purple People Eaters get there, the rest of the nation had better look out, these men do not come to lose.

The 11 Best 11s:

Ranking This Week Ranking Last Week

1. Texas 1.

2. Alabama 2.

3. Texas Christian 5.

4. Florida 3.

5. Boise State 4.

6. Cincinnati 7.

7. Georgia Tech 6.

8. Pittsburgh 8.

9. Oregon 9.

10. Ohio State N/R (No.2 On The Porch)

11. Louisiana State 10.

On The Porch: Iowa, Mississippi, Stanford, Penn State, Oklahoma State

The second week of November produced several close games but few surprises. Most astonishing was Stanford's 55-21 annihilation of the fast-fading Southern California Trojans.

It was the most points ever given up by the Men of Troy at home. That is a shocking indictment of what was to be a dominant defense at the beginning of the season.

The Cardinal eclipsed Southern California in coaching, preparation, and execution. Now the Trojans can await the call from the Sun Bowl Committee, perhaps to face Rutgers.

Alabama was its normally routine self in disposing of out-classed Mississippi State. Boise State, Cincinnati, and Georgia Tech continued to demonstrate their superiority over conference rivals.

Pittsburgh's great defensive front wall was impressive in striking another blow to the career of Notre Dame coach Charlie Weis. Oregon bounced back from its licking in Palo Alto at the hands of Stanford and overwhelmed the injury-riddled Sun Devils of Dennis Erickson.

Ohio State lumbered into the 11 best 11s this week by winning over short-handed Iowa in overtime. This sets up the Buckeyes for another trip to Pasadena.

And what of Florida and LSU, perhaps the two most talented teams in the country and winners of the past two BCS Title games?

LSU after losing a brutal and controversial clash at Alabama last week, suffered the apparent "next week letdown" and barely escaped WAC-entry Louisiana Tech. But, let's give credit to Coach Dooley's Bulldogs.

Last week, La Tech fought mighty Boise State to the end in a 45-35 loss. With the "moral victory" 24-16 loss to LSU in Baton Rouge there should be no bowed heads in Ruston. Merely the hint of better times ahead.

Florida simply plays as hard as they need to play for a win. The defending BCS Champions' uninspired performance against a South Carolina team coached by former Gator Steve Spurrier causes them to drop below the far more explosive TCU in this week's ranking.

With several rivalry games to be played during the next week, there is ample opportunity for even more change to come in the weekly 11 best 11s.

College Football: Return to Midnight at the Oasis

BabyTate — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 01:33:52 -0500

The ACC, Coaches, and Trickery

1. This former N.C. State coach handed John Cooper his final defeat as coach of Ohio State.

2. This former Appalachian State coach won the BCS Championship in Pasadena.

3. This former Duke coach won the last non split National Championship before the coming of the BCS.

4. This former Wake Forest coach led his team to the first ever Big 12 title.

5. This former Clemson head coach led the nation in punt return average in 1963 and 1964 and was second in 1962.

6. This former Ga Tech player was the college coach of the the answer to No. 5. Who is he?

7. What former Maryland coach retired as the all-time winningest coach in major college football?

8. What former Florida State player was the offensive coordinator of Oklahoma under Barry Switzer, and helped lead the Sooners to the Orange Bowl?

Texas Longhorn Quarterbacks: A Journey Into Two Dimensions of Fame

BabyTate — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:47:03 -0500

The Texas Longhorns have a proud and storied past on the gridiron. Over the decades UT football has proudly presented rugged linemen, dependable runners, and spectacular quarterbacks to a variety of all-star teams. When the jolly crowd in Austin can put all three together, a championship is often the result. As the current occupant of the No. 3 position in the BCS ranking system, the situation appears ripe for another Texas opportunity to lasso the national title. If the Longhorns are succesful, expect much of the subsequent discussion among fans to center on Colt McCoy and his place as the greatest quarterback in UT history. For full disclosure, please note this writer predicted on the Bleacher Report in August Texas would win the BCS Title this season and McCoy would win the Heisman Trophy. Let there be no question regarding the high regard for Colt McCoy in this corner. But, the University of Texas football tradition is far more than young McCoy. Respect for the hallowed halls of Austin and the rich history of the football program runs much deeper and further back in this reviewer, a native Texan. Many have witnessed the greats who took the field deep in the heart of the Lone Star State however, the passing years have not been as kind to some as to others. Plain speaking, a lot of people who could tell the story of the past 70 years of Texas quarterbacks are simply not around anymore. Having attended Longhorn football games since a first-grader in 1939 it is a curious case of good fortune this writer is available to pass along observations made through the past seven decades. The responsibility of the signal caller position has changed over time. In fairness to various generations, we should view the position in no less than to different eras. Prior to the mid-1960s, players were expected to "go both ways," meaning they played both offense and defense like a baseball or basketball player. These were football players, not specialists. From the mid-1960s to present day we have seen the rise of the age of the specialist. This performer is not expected to play but one position on "one side of the ball" the entire season, if not his career. In some circles this era of specialists is called the age of the "modern player." Let the journey begin.

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College Football: Baby's Losers For November 14

BabyTate — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 04:37:31 -0500

Last week was filled with upsets and runaway contests with the major beneficiaries being Alabama and Ohio State.

With this in mind, let us dive into another list of great games for next Saturday.

Baby's Losers

1. Auburn @ Georgia

The oldest continually played rivalry in the Deep South features the up-and-coming Plainsmen against the Bulldogs, who are riddled with question marks.

Baby's Loser: in a mild surprise, Auburn.

2. Stanford @ Southern California

Jim Harbaugh will not let his team suffer a let down after its win over Oregon, but the Trojans have a BCS Bowl in sight and will be ready for the Cardinal’s running game.

Baby's Loser: Stanford.

3. Iowa @ Ohio State

Fans seem ready to throw the Hawkeyes out with the bath water.

Don't believe it.

Ferentz will have Iowa ready to play for the Rose Bowl and Big 10 title.

Baby's Loser: close, Iowa.

4. Notre Dame @ Pittsburgh

Questions surround the future of Irish head coach Charlie Weis.

Pittsburgh has no outstanding attributes except for brute strength, which they will use to win this game.

Baby's Loser: in what could be the best game of the day, Notre Dame.

5. Alabama @ Mississippi State

The Maroons are stalking a signature win for coach Dan Mullen.

Expect the Bulldogs to be competitive in Starkville.

The Crimson Tide is extended, but secures another victory.

Baby's Loser: Mississippi State.

6. Texas Tech @ Oklahoma State

The Red Raiders annihilated the Cowboys last season and revenge will be on the mind of coach Mike Gundy.

Look for a much closer game than expected.

Baby's Loser: tight, Texas Tech.

7. Georgia Tech @ Duke

Alabama alum David Cutcliffe has drastically improved the Blue Devils’ fortunes this season as Duke seeks a small bowl.

The Yellow Jackets are hunting for the Orange Bowl.

Baby's Loser: Duke.

Saturday's Tough One: In Honor of Veteran's Day, Nov. 11

8. Virginia Military Institute @ The Army

In the past 92 years of this military rivalry, VMI owns only one win over the Black Knights.

The Keydets believe that this is their moment in the clash of north versus south.

Baby's Loser: still seeking payback for Appomattox, VMI.

Game of the Week

9. Utah @ Texas Christian

Despite a seemingly nationwide movement to vault the Horned Frogs into the BCS title game, the small detail of taking the Mountain West title away from Utah remains.

The Utes have won 29 of their last 31 games.

TCU can run and smother opponents with its defense.

Baby's Loser: in a thriller, Utah.

Last Week

Baby Tate: 4-5.

Missed: Penn St, Oregon, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, and Minn.

YTD: 64-26.

This week, we have 18 people above and 23 below the Mendoza Line. Maybe that can't be the Mendoza Line!

9-0: None

8-1: None

7-2: Jordan (a regular participant in "Midnight at the Oasis" on Friday nights)

6-3: Kevin (a regular participant of "Midnight at the Oasis")

Say, maybe there is something in the water on Friday nights!

5-4: Ronnie, Zodiac, Red Raider, Brandon H., Ben Long, Matt S., RunTell, Ga Dawg, Tom O., Scott R., Tyler S., Josh M., Chris C., James W., Henry B., and Kenneth J.

4-5: Baby Tate, Kimberley, Tim, 007, Jared W., Iceman, Connor, Cliff T., Taylor B.

3-6: Dan B., Mosang, Michael C., Alex F., Carl S., Ryan H., Daniel H., Trey J., Drew M., Blake B., Michael O.

2-7: Kent, Bill B., Ryan R.

Two weeks ago we had no one under .500…go figure.

Thanks to everyone who participated last week.

A special thanks to Kenneth for his return and fine write-up, we have missed his great input.

Now, let's get back to our status of being the most knowledgeable group of prognosticators on the Bleacher Report!

College Football's 11 Best 11s: Big Day For Ohio State and Alabama

BabyTate — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 01:36:53 -0500

Saturday was a big day for the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Ohio State put their foot on the neck of rival Penn State in Happy Valley, 24-7, to lay claim as the eminent challenger for the Nittany Lions' Big 10 crown.

The Buckeye position was further enhanced by Iowa's dismal performance and 17-10 loss to unranked Northwestern in a game played on the Hawkeyes' home field.

The Iowans lost their quarterback, Ricky Stanzi, to injury early on and did not seem to be the same team who rallied so valiantly in many previous games this season.

Next up for the Hawkeyes? Ohio State in Columbus.

Alabama eased past LSU as expected 24-15, to set up an SEC Title game between the Crimson Tide and the defending BCS champion Florida.

The result in Tuscaloosa will be debated for some time due to perceived incorrect official calls that went against the visiting Tigers.

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/news?slug=dw-secrefs110709&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

On Saturday, the Gators defeated Vanderbilt by 24 points in Gainesville, 27-3. The prior week Georgia Tech defeated Vanderbilt by 25 points in Nashville, 56-31.

It remains to be seen if the same naysayers over the Yellow Jackets' performance come out of the woodwork concerning Florida's less impressive win this past week.

Two former Alabama football players, who are now head coaches elsewhere, demonstrated the lessons of the masters are not lost on the students.

Mike Riley, an all-star defender for Bear Bryant's 1973 National Championship team, had his Oregon State Beavers ready when they hit the road to take on the high-wire act of the home-standing Bears.

The Beavers punished the Cal linemen, causing several of the big Bears to take themselves out of the game as Oregon State bullied No. 23 California, 31-14.

Mike Riley's troops moved to 6-3 for the season.

This superb disciple of the Bear obviously teaches the same rugged style of football in the great Northwest.

Former Alabama player Dabo Swinney, a member of Gene Stallings' 1992 National Championship squad, apparently learned his lessons just as well.

As Bear Bryant once said "when you got a Ty Cobb you turn him loose." The Clemson coach unleashed his unstoppable force against Florida State.

Dabo's Ty Cobb is one C.J. Spiller, arguably the best high school football player in the state of Florida during his senior season, the same as Tim Tebow's senior year.

An incomparable Florida athlete with Alabama coaching, C.J. is an incredible example of power and speed who demonstrates his superiority over all other players each week.

Spiller, who had set the school record for all-purpose yards in a game with 310 in a win at Miami earlier this year, broke his own standard with 312 yards against Florida State.

The Tigers brutally mauled the Seminoles, 40-24. A painful sight for all who remember when Florida State was, well, Florida State.

What a country.

The 11 Best 11s

Ranking This Week Ranking Last Week

1. Texas 1.

2. Alabama 3.

3. Florida 2.

4. Boise State 4.

5. Texas Christian 6.

6. Georgia Tech 5.

7. Cincinnati 8.

8. Pittsburgh 11.

9. Oregon 7.

10. LSU 10.

11. Iowa 9.

On The Porch: Southern California, Ohio State, Utah, Arizona, Miami (Fla.)

Heisman Hopefuls:

1. Colt McCoy, Texas—The best player on the best team. An effective recipe.

2. Tim Tebow, Florida—Former winner who is the star of the top ranked team.

3. C. J. Spiller, Clemson—The best football player in the country.

4. Jimmy Clausen—Massive talent comparable to former Irish signal caller Joe Montana.

5. Mark Ingram—Effective inside runner for a highly popular team.

The Coach of the Year Awards:

National Coach of the Year–Paul Johnson, Ga Tech

1st Runner Up- Gene Chizik, Auburn

2nd Runnerup- Randy Edsall, UConn

BCS Conferences Coach of The Year

ACC Coach of the Year– David Cutcliffe, Duke. Runnerup- Frank Spaziani, BC

Big 10 Coach of the Year– Pat Fitzgerald, Northwestern. Runnerup– Kirk Ferentz, Iowa

Big 12 Coach of the Year- Bill Snyder, K State. Runnerup- Paul Rhoads, Iowa State

SEC Coach of the Year- Gene Chizik, Auburn. Runnerup- Lane Kiffin, Tennessee

Big East Coach of the Year- Randy Edsall, UConn. Runnerup-Dave Wannstedt, Pitt

PAC10 Coach of the Year- Mike Stoops, Arizona. Runnerup-Jim Harbaugh, Stanford

College Football Inquiry: Midnight At The Oasis

BabyTate — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 01:17:03 -0500

Another trip through time to discover the answer to eight of life's great questions.

1. First team defeated by Bear Bryant as head coach of Alabama?

A) Michigan, B) Kentucky, C) Furman, D) Tampa, E) Georgia

2. Last team to defeat Bear Bryant as head coach of Alabama?

A) Michigan, B) Auburn, C) Southern Mississippi, D) South Carolina, E) Tulsa

3. Head Coach of Michigan when they won their last National Championship?

A) Rich Rodriguez, B) Bo Schembechler, C) Les Miles, D) Gary Moeller, E) Lloyd Carr

4. Head Coach of Brigham Young when they won their National Championship?

A) Tom Osborne, B) LaVell Edwards, C) Urban Meyer, D) Gary Crowton, E) Stan Watts

5. Name the coach who has not won a national championship at LSU.

A) Nick Saban, B) Les Miles, C) Paul Dietzel, D) Jerry Stovall

6. What team handed Southern California their last Bowl loss?

A) Alabama, B) Auburn, C) Florida, D) Texas, E) Colorado

7. Who was the last Heisman Trophy winner from a current Mountain West team?

A) Steve Young, B) Steve Sarkisian, C) Robbie Bosco, D) Ty Detmer, E) Jim McMahon

8. Who was the first team to ever defeat Notre Dame in a Bowl game?

A) Tennessee, B) Nebraska, C) Texas, D) Southern California, E) Michigan State

College Football Bowl Projections: Oregon's Lord Ha Ha's Last Laugh

BabyTate — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:48:26 -0500

Most of you watched Boise State overpower Oregon 19-8 to start the season. It was a Duck team at full strength bent on revenge for a loss in 2008 to the Broncos.

The Ducks failed. They were controlled by Boise State and sent packing.

So angry was one Oregon player at the failure of his team to live up to his pregame boasts that he struck a Bronco player with no warning following the encounter.

Oregon looked petty and weak. One thing was for certain, they were beaten by a superior team in front of all the world.

The Broncos have fulfilled their responsibility since then by disposing of each opponent placed in front of them. They have done nothing to cause any voter to retract their support of the Broncos.

To the credit of Oregon Coach Chip Kelly, he gathered his wounded troops, instilled discipline, and took them off to the wild blue yonder, or wherever it is that Ducks fly.

Oregon annihilated California and Southern California. Impressive, even more impressive would be a team that could take Oregon apart like Boise State did.

The unfortunate situation for the Broncos is TCU is passing them in the BCS and Southern California is likely to steal their "second non-BCS" spot.

The Trojans? How did this happen?

Because Oregon is in the driver's seat for the Rose Bowl and that makes the Men of Troy a very eligible choice for the Fiesta Bowl to play Texas Christian, provided Texas continues on its path to the BCS Title Game.

The BCS rankings are a funny group of numbers. Comedian Lord Hawley was fond of saying "everybody plays the fool."

In this particular case, Oregon appears to get the last laugh on Boise State.

At this point of the year a weekly newsletter aimed at the travel agency industry alerts of various trends for traveling.

In the southeastern and mid-atlantic regions there will be an emphasis placed upon SEC and ACC groups traveling to Bowl destinations.

For instance, the Tampa area is primed for groups from Tennessee and Wisconsin to visit their area around New Year's Day.

This places the Vols and the Badgers squarely in the Outback Bowl. That should be an interesting culture clash in the Bay City.

Recalling the legend of Davy Crockett, when a Tennessean gets a call from Texas, they do tend to take off to answer the need.

Auburn did whip the Vols earlier this season in Knoxville and should have a leg up in any beauty contest regarding a Cotton Bowl invitation.

Nashville will gird itself for a media event when Steve Spurrier and South Carolina hit town to take on his old foe Bobby Bowden and the Florida State Seminoles in the Music City Bowl. Sounds like a big time event in the home of the Grand Old Opry.

Dallas is preparing to receive a big crowd from Alabama. The Auburn Tiger variety.

All the while, the Auburn-Clemson-Va Tech industrial hotline is burning up the phones with promises of reunions in Atlanta.

So it seems the Cotton Bowl looks set with a Auburn-Tennessee beauty contest versus the winner of Nebraska and Oklahoma this week, and the Peach narrows its interest to Virginia Tech and Georgia.

Jacksonville turns green with Notre Dame and Miami for the Gator Bowl. The Orange Bowl will attempt to offset Ga Tech's small, although select, alumni base with the giant Penn State army.

Of course, if the Lions lose this week to Ohio State, South Beach will just as easily invite the huge Buckeye group. A Paterno win seems to send Tressel's crew to face LSU in the Cap One Citrus.

The Mid-South city of Memphis has it all for the accidental tourist or planned visitor, and the Liberty Bowl will sell out the projected Ole Miss-Houston confrontation.

And Clemson? Let's be honest, Clemson has to go where the fanbase can drive. Not a slight, just a fact.

Look for orange dollar bills to notify the Orlando Chamber of Commerce how much the Tiger fanbase can pump into the local economy when they show up for the Champ Sports Bowl to play Minnesota. This habit makes Clemson a top choice for any city.

Just don't forget to send Boise State a fruit basket from the Las Vegas visitors bureau.

Baby's Losers: Will the Witch of November Raise Her Broom?

BabyTate — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 04:03:05 -0500

She lays in wait on Lake Superior on the way to Whitefish Bay. Every year, from around October 12 to December 20, The Witch of November will lay waste to shipping and transportation in the Great Lakes area. The November Witch is cold air from Canada, prevented from meeting with the warm air up from the Gulf of Mexico, The result is terrifying weather that can affect not only the inland seas but, conditions ashore. College football teams in the Great Lakes region know when the calendar turns and the days get shorter, they must prepare for a weather experience that can change the course of a game, and eventually, a season. They must prepare themselves for The Witch Of November..

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College Football's 11 Best 11s: Oregon Stomps Bewildered USC

BabyTate — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 01:20:01 -0500

The big story in college football on Saturday was the absolute domination of the Southern California Trojans by the underdog Oregon Ducks.

The 47-20 beatdown exorcised a number of demons for the PAC-10, a conference accustomed to being on the receiving end of the previously invincible Trojan juggernaut.

It was the worst loss for Pete Carroll as head coach of USC. It was a bad scene, and it was getting worse as the game went along.

Another ten minutes of action and one senses the Ducks could have put 70 on the suddenly hapless Trojan defense.

Southern Cal's two conference losses so far this season have been to teams with first year head coaches.

If this doesn't demonstrate rough times are ahead for the Men of Troy it at least indicates league teams are no longer intimidated by the name, jersey, or tradition.

SC must recognize there has been a turning point in their rule of the conference and will now have to combat vengeful and confident opponents in future PAC-10 games.

"The times, they are a-changing."

The 11 Best 11s

Rank This Week Rank Last Week

1. Texas Longhorns 1.

2. Florida Gators 2.

3. Alabama Crimson Tide 3.

4. Boise State Broncos 5.

5. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets 4.

6. Texas Christian Horned Frogs 10.

7. Oregon Ducks 11.

8. Cincinnati Bearcats 7.

9. Iowa Hawkeyes 6.

10. Louisiana State Tigers 9.

11. Pittsburgh Panthers N/R (No. 1 On The Porch)

On The Porch: Penn State, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Houston

THAT WAS THE WEEK THAT WAS

When the season comes to a close, football analysts need look back no further than this past week's action to read the tea leaves regarding what will happen this year.

In more polite circles, it is called "topsy-turvy."

Defending champion Florida, drifting about aimlessly for several weeks following the concussion of superstar quarterback Tim Tebow, suddenly rose up and swatted the Georgia Bulldogs as though they were no more than annoyance.

The Gators, ranked No. 1 by practically everyone everywhere, are on the road to a historic second consecutive BCS Title. The 41-17 win over Georgia signals they are back on track.

Standing firmly in their way is the Texas Longhorn powerhouse, a dynasty that has won more games in the past 12 years than any school in the country.

Texas showed they are up to the eventual task of challenging the Champion Gators by destroying Oklahoma State 41-14 in Stillwater.

Georgia Tech's mighty "Avalanche Rushing Attack" was reduced to a mudslide in the first half of their encounter with the Commodores of Vanderbilt, resulting in a 28-28 tie at the break.

Playing the second half with an intensity and purpose, the Yellow Jackets eventually broke the spirit and then the back of Vanderbilt, resulting in a 56-31 victory.

Boise State, TCU, and Cincinnati continued their unbeaten ways but, Iowa was singularly unimpressive in a home field comeback win over lightly regarded Indiana.

LSU cruised to a 42-0 win over old foe Tulane while Pittsburgh slipped into the 11 Best 11s for the week by virtue of a week off.

Dropping from the rankings were Southern California and Virginia Tech. Both, of course, lost to teams they were favored to defeat.

In addition to the above mentioned teams, special notice should be given to the following teams for a fine performance this Halloween weekend.

Auburn– For righting their ship and overwhelming the forever under-performing Rebels of Ole Miss, 33-20.

Texas A&M– For continuing the long road back from mediocrity with a fine 35-10 win over highly competitive Iowa State.

Tennessee– For demonstrating real courage to wear the Halloween uniforms while annihilating the over-achieving South Carolina, 31-13.

Utah– For the superb decision to insert Freshman Quarterback Jordan Wynn when the game with Wyoming seemed to be lost, resulting in a 22-10 Ute victory.

Temple– For recognition of a 6-2 record, first place in the MAC East, and the 267 yards rushing by Bernard Pierce during the 27-24 win over rugged Navy.

Duke– For the opportunity to salute the 5-3 Blue Devils after a 28-17 road win over Virginia, placing Duke in a virtual tie with Ga Tech for first place in the ACC Coastal.

College Football: Midnight At The Oasis For Halloween

BabyTate — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 03:25:28 -0400

The theme of this week's question and answer session will be head coaches. Beware the season of the witch.

1. In the past 50 years, how many former University of Tennessee football players have led teams to major college National Championships as the head coach?

2. Two current SEC head coaches have the same alma mater. Name the coaches.

3. This former Oklahoma State quarterback was the head coach at Boise State before coming to the SEC as a head coach. Name this current SEC head coach.

4. Lou Holtz and Nick Saban have the same alma mater. Name their school.

5. What former Miami Hurricane quarterback led his team to the 1991 national championship as head coach?

6. Alabama head coach Nick Saban and Missouri head coach Gary Pinkel played in college for what head coach? Part two: What was their coach's alma mater?

7. What former Miami Hurricane quarterback led his team to two SEC Championships as head coach during this decade?

8. What was the alma mater of the head coach at Kentucky the last time the Wildcats went undefeated in the SEC?

Elite College Football Sharks Gather in Georgia Mountains

BabyTate — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 02:04:29 -0400

Boots Carroll, Hoss Brown, Sam Samuels, and Mickey McGuffin.

Know them?

They know you.

If it were not for readers like yourself, they would have faded from the scene long ago. Their business is sportsman wagering. College and professional.

They are the sharks.

For over 50 years, these gentlemen have set up lines of chance, produced material relating to injuries, personal issues, and stadium conditions.

Add to this distributing various reading material for the information-starved public to gobble up, and you have the basis for making a living in the mid- to late-20th Century.

The Internet explosion in 1996 provided the opportunity to maximize their influence. Various sites provide a nice retirement annuity for the group.

Now, nearly 14 years later, most of them have turned over the day-to-day operations to family or to investors. Still, they keep their hand in.

Why?

Easy money has always been the answer.

The technical aspect of setting lines lacks interest from the everyday fan. Often, the individual customer is simply following an instinct to boost his own self-worth or confidence in his team to win.

Professionals must identify the customer base and properly entice fans to spark the appropriate activity. Money placed must have a balance. The holder of money moves the line accordingly, much like a fisherman who has the hook in a big one.

The four sharks met in a tavern overlooking the river while celebrating Oktoberfest in Helen, Ga., this past weekend. Changes in the business over the years became the primary item of discussion.

There was no disagreement that it is easier to make more money than ever before.

With so much information available, new customers are cultivated and created each passing hour. "Please hand over that account number, it will make you feel better."

After an extended evening of celebration, goodbyes were said with a promise to meet again next May provided the Good Lord is willing and the creeks don't rise.

Stop by and speak if you are in the neighborhood of the Cabbage Patch Hospital. The guy wearing the Cat in the Hat scalp warmer makes the table easy to spot.

Warning, Warning!: College Football Computer Rankings Are Dangerous to the BCS

BabyTate — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 04:34:07 -0400

You know the storyline. An invading alien threatens to eliminate the space family Robinson.

To protect the family, the computerized Robot waves his arms wildly and states " warning, warning, danger." Maybe the BCS should be advised of the threat to their world. The Bowl Championship Series is the select province of the well to do football schools. A quick review of the teams invited since its inception in 1998 reads like a who's who in gridiron history. According to the latest "non-biased" Elo-Chess rankings prepared by computer Guru Jeff Sagarin, the No. 1 team in the land is a real surprise. The scary thought to the BCS Bowls is the Elo-Chess ranking system is used by the BCS to help determine the final placement of teams in the poll. If sponsors have to "ante-up" for some of these matches in their precious advertising venues, we may find a change to the system before next season. Who are the other schools listed in this computer poll? Let's look at the "11 Best 11s" as of the final week in October.

Begin Slideshow

College Football: Baby's Losers for Halloween Week

BabyTate — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 05:56:43 -0400

The week of Halloween has a nasty reputation for playing tricks as well as treats on college football title contenders.

The only sure winner this week is the Alabama Crimson Tide. They do not have to play.

So, proceed with caution regarding this week's Baby's Losers.

Baby's Losers

1. Florida vs. Georgia in Jacksonville

The Bulldogs should be ready for the Gators. Mark Richt's coaching ability and A.J. Green's skill against the many weapons of Florida. Could be closer than expected.

Baby's Loser: Georgia.

2. Southern California @ Oregon

You can find yourself getting in a lot of trouble doing this, but let's just go out on a limb and saw it off.

Baby's Loser, in a shocker: Southern California.

3. Michigan @ Illinois

Brute power vs. brute strength Big 10 style. Running quarterbacks and Ron Zook's recently settled job security issue highlight the event.

Baby's Loser, close: Illinois.

4. Cincinnati @ Syracuse

Greg Paulus will do all he can for his Orange, but the Bearcats appear too strong defensively and may be headed to the Big East Championship.

Baby's Loser: Syracuse.

5. Nebraska @ Baylor

An old-fashioned upset is what happened to Nebraska last week. The Bears give up 375 yards rushing a game. Look for the Cornhuskers to rebound.

Baby's Loser: Baylor.

6. Georgia Tech @ Vanderbilt

Trap game. Commodore Head Coach Bobby Johnson has the well-disciplined defense to slow down the ferocious Yellow Jacket running attack. Should be a thriller in Opry City.

Baby's Loser, tight: Vanderbilt.

7. Ole Miss @ Auburn

The Rebels are improving and have expectations of a Top 20 finish. The Plainsmen seem to have fallen back a slight bit, just for the time being.

Baby's Loser: Auburn.

Saturday's Tough One

8. The Air Force @ Colorado State

These in-state Mountain West rivals have a peculiar dislike for each other. Look for the fly boys to go into Fort Collins and knock off the Rams in what should be a dogfight.

Baby's Loser: Colorado State.

Game Of The Week

9. Texas @ Oklahoma State

The Cowboys will throw an all-out party if they can pull off the biggest upset of the season. If the Cowboy passing game is on, they have a real shot at taking down the Longhorns. If wishes were horses, beggars would ride.

Baby's Loser: Oklahoma State.

Last Week Baby Tate went 8-1, missing Miami. For the year, 53-19.

9-0: 12 (Back to the old tricks for the defending champion), Michael O., and Chris C.

8-1: Baby Tate, Michael C., Ga Dawg, Mosang, Cliff, Blake, Dan S.

7-2: Tim C., Zodiac, Dan B., Kevin, Red Raider, Bill B., Brandon H., Kent, Daniel H., Trey J., Alex F., Ryan R., Scott R., 007, and Ben Long.

6-3: Ronnie, RunTell, Tom O., Taylor B., Carl, Jim, Tony O., Jared W., Josh M., Matt S., Iceman.

5-4: Southern Man, Connor, and Drew M.

Below The Baby Tate Mendoza Line For The Moment: Tyler S., Kimberley, Tyler L.

Thanks To All Who Played This Past Week!

College Football's 11 Best 11s For Halloween Week: Texas Is No. 1

BabyTate — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 03:09:28 -0400

Each weekend another contender rises to claim the BCS throne currently occupied by the Florida Gators.

From the start of the season it has seemed to this writer the most reasonable challenger is Texas.

In view of the Longhorns' impressive 41-7 dismantling of Missouri there seems no reason to continue the facade of any other team occupying the top position.

On Saturday afternoon, Alabama was particularly unimpressive in barely escaping from lowly Tennessee and Florida continued their post-Tebow concussion woes with a 29-19 victory over hapless Mississippi State.

Alabama, playing at home, could not even score a touchdown against a Tennessee squad with a losing record who previously surrendered 26 points to Auburn.

The Gators win over the maroon Bulldogs from Starkville is hardly more impressive. Mississippi State's most notable victim this season is Vanderbilt.

Outside of Texas, who appears to be the most powerful outfit? A case could be made for Paul Johnson's merciless Legion of Doom operating out of Atlanta.

No unit in the nation appears to be improving so much from week to week as the Rambling Wreck. No team in the country seems to crush the life out of the opposition from week to week as do the Engineers.

The latest recipient of Ga Tech's wrath? The supposedly red-hot Cavaliers of Virginia who had outscored their past three opponents by a combined total of 83-12.

Playing on the road in Charlottesville, where the Yellow Jackets had not won since their National Championship season of 1990, Tech controlled the ball for 43 minutes to 17 for the Wahoos, outrushed the Cavaliers 362-30, and destroyed Virginia 34-9.

With this in mind, we now present the 11 Best 11s for the week of Halloween.

The 11 Best 11s

Ranking This Week Ranking Last Week

1. Texas 3.

2. Florida 2.

3. Alabama 1.

4. Ga. Tech 8.

5. Boise State 6.

6. Iowa 4.

7. Cincinnati 7.

8. Southern California 5.

9. LSU 9.

10. Texas Christian N/R (No.1 On The Porch)

11. Oregon 11.

On The Porch: Pittsburgh, Penn State, Oklahoma, Ohio State, Virginia Tech

TCU, with a fine road win over Brigham Young, leaps back into the 11 Best 11s to replace Miami. The Horned Frogs appear headed for a BCS Bowl.

The Huricanes made the mistake of underestimating the stunning ability of Clemson running back C.J. Spiller, who has been compared favorably to former Pitt Panther Tony Dorsett, the 1976 Heisman Trophy winner.

The Tiger sensation rewarded the overconfident Miami defense with the greatest one man performance in the history of Clemson University and a shocking home defeat.

The final tally for Spiller? Three hundred and ten total yards through rushing, receiving, and kick returns.

Southern California, "amped all week" as one outlet reported, had promised to achieve revenge against the Beavers of Mike Riley for their lone loss of 2008.

The result was a 42-36 victory for the Men of Troy that created more questions about the Trojans than it answered.

As for Big 10 leader Iowa, what more can be added to the fact the Hawkeyes defeated a .500 Michigan State team on the final play of the game? A Spartan team who had lost earlier this season to Central Michigan.

While Cincinnati, LSU, and Boise State all won impressively against schools who had played in BCS Bowls in the past five years, it was the Oregon Ducks who stood out among the remainder of this week's ranked teams.

On the road in Seattle, the Ducks dismantled a highly competitive Washington team by the score of 43-19. Oregon appears to be the best team on the West Coast at this point of the season.

And so it goes.

College Football: Another Visit To Midnight At The Oasis

BabyTate — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:28:53 -0400

With week three underway for Friday Midnight Madness, let's roll with the questions to drive you mad.

1. Who is Hart Lee Dykes?

2. For what school did Oklahoma State head coach Mike Gundy play quarterback?

3. Who was the coach Tommy Tuberville replaced when he took over at Auburn in 1999? A) Tommy Bowden; B) Terry Bowden; C) Pat Dye; D) None Of Those Listed

4. Who was the head coach at Miami when the Hurricanes won the BCS Title?

5. For what school did Georgia head coach Mark Richt play quarterback?

6. Fielding "Hurry-Up" Yosts' 28-year head coaching career at four different schools resulted in only one losing season and 34 total losses. Woody Hayes' 28-year head coaching career at Ohio State resulted in two losing seasons and 61 total losses. True or False?

7. Who was the losing head coach in the first ever Liberty Bowl?

8. List the number of (Div.I) National Championship seasons earned by each coach.

Urban Meyer

Nick Saban

Steve Spurrier

Dennis Erickson

Jim Tressel

College Football Conundrum: Red State, Blue State, What States?

BabyTate — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 03:25:51 -0400

Anyone who has followed the political discourse and drama over the past decade realizes there is a catchphrase to describe the U.S. Presidential elections.

The states who vote "Democratic" are known as "Blue States" and those who vote "Republican" are known as "Red States".

Charming, isn't it?

From the map pictured above, we can see how the colors played out during the 2008 Presidential election.

George Voinovich, a Republican U.S. Senator from Ohio, summarized his philosophy this past August regarding the state color controversy.

Sen. Voinovich was quoted on washingtonpost.com as stating "Southerners are what's wrong with the Republican Party."

Referring to GOP senators from South Carolina and Oklahoma. "It's the Southerners.' People hear them and say, 'These people, they're Southerners. The party's being taken over by Southerners. What the H**L they got to do with Ohio?' "

The idea of a fantasy world came to mind. What if there were two separate Americas, one blue and one red? One that could make the Voinoviches and Southern GOP Senators equally satisfied?

Of course, it would never work. It has been tried before (1861-65) with disastrous consequences.

The states are too intertwined by highway, commerce, families, airport schedules, and history to make the concept feasible.

Aside from the obvious nuttiness of the entire idea, suppose there was actually a division of the states for college football purposes?

Yes, with all we have to worry about in the world, it seems even discussing the matter is nonsense.

However, no less a world leader than our own President Barack Obama has addressed the need to do something about the state of college football.

Just suppose for a moment, we were to use the color model above to divide up "each nation's" Top 10 teams and the subsequent BCS Championship for each?

Let us present the Blue State and Red State "breakdown report" according to the current BCS Rankings.

The Top 10 Teams Of The Blue States The Top 10 Teams Of The Red States

1. Florida 1. Alabama

2. Cincinnati 2. Texas

3. Iowa 3. Boise State

4. Southern California 4. Texas Christian

5. Miami 5. LSU

6. Oregon 6. Georgia Tech

7. Penn State 7. Oklahoma State

8. Virginia Tech 8. Brigham Young

9. Ohio State 9. Houston

10. Pittsburgh 10 . Utah

In the "Red State Diaries" we would find Alabama and Texas squaring off for the BCS Title.

The Blue State BCS Title game would be Florida and Cincinnati.

After the two championships are decided we could have, heaven forbid, a championship match between the winner of the Blue and the Red.

Just looking at the map, isn't that called the SEC Title Game?

Why Herschel Walker and Bo Jackson Would Not Be Stars in Today's SEC

BabyTate — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:02:49 -0400

Easy enough to explain. We begin the conversation by declaring that Steve Van Buren of LSU is the greatest SEC running back of all time.

Don Hutson of Alabama is the greatest pass receiver. Doug Atkins of Tennessee the greatest defensive lineman.

"Oh, no," comes the chant from the Peanut Gallery, "those people played a long time ago, they couldn't play under today's conditions."

Doug Atkins and Herschel Walker played 28 years apart. It has been 29 years since Walker hit the scene at Georgia. Jackson played against Walker.

Yes, it is obvious that time dims the memory of some and illuminates the recollections of others.

You know what the great Louisville quarterback John Unitas said about Doug Atkins? "He picks up my linemen and throws them at me."

When someone picks up a 260-pound man and throws him across the field, the sophisticated blocking schemes of any era go sailing out the window.

And yet, very few fans of today would buy into Atkins as being better than, say, Eric Norwood of South Carolina. "Norwood, now that's the way a real defensive player is supposed to look" has been posted by many writers this fall.

Obviously more developed, more toned, more in tune with the nuances. In short, the more recent player is a better player, superior in all characteristics, more advanced.

And yet, old fables die hard.

Did we not see Walker run over Bill Bates of Tennessee? So what? Walker was 25 pounds heavier than Bates. Walker was the recipient of unfair publicity at Bates' expense.

Walker, at 6'1", 225, was ahead of his time, of course. And he was sensational when he played. Against players much smaller and slower than the ones of today.

Yes, it was so long ago, nearly three decades.

Same for Bo Jackson, who was even bigger, faster, and stronger than Walker, although he never achieved the same level of adulation. Perhaps there was a feeling we had seen Jackson before and his name was Herschel.

But do not confuse these Heisman Trophy winners with the outstanding running backs of today like John Clay of Wisconsin, Mark Ingram of Alabama, Noel Devine of West Virginia, Jahvid Best of Cal, or C.J. Spiller of Clemson.

These are the examples of the great modern day runners; "superior-man", capable of feats against the greatest defensive athletes and coaches evolution can provide, not just old-time coaches with defenders who didn't weight lift, much less weight train.

Yes, it is all better now and the childhood memories of players like Walker, Jackson, or even Hutson should be kept just as that—memories.

And like the story of the tooth fairy, we must accept that in the far more advanced world of today, our childhood heroes stand little chance of surviving as relevant to the new fans who come aboard with each passing day.

After all, how many times do we hear Tim Tebow is the greatest football player?

For this week? This year? This decade? Forever?

It must be true, just ask the modern fan.

College Football: Steve Spurrier Suggests Alabama Used Illegal Tactics to Win

BabyTate — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 04:00:44 -0400

No coach at South Carolina has been as successful as Steve Spurrier. The 1966 Heisman Trophy Winner has never had a losing season in Gamecock country.

There is no comparison to previous coaches in the past 50 years. Lou Holtz lost every game at Carolina in 1999. Past giants Paul Dietzel, Jim Carlen, and Joe Morrison all had a losing season or more.

One does not appreciate the tenacity and street fighting mentality of the man until observed up close and personal.

He does not like to lose and will do anything within the rules to win.

And there is the rub.

Looking back at game film of Saturday night's encounter with top-ranked Alabama, "the old ball coach" noticed suspicious behavior from the field goal unit of the Crimson Tide.

Spurrier states the Alabama holder for field goals and extra points put a small piece of white tape on the ground to spot the kicks.

Immediately following the kick, the holder picked up the tape and put it in his pocket.

Spurrier, a veteran of wars against Bear Bryant, Hayden Fry, Dan Devine, and Vince Dooley as a player and all comers as a coach, says he has never seen a team do that.

He is asking the Southeastern Conference officials if what he saw on video is legal.

SEC spokesman Charles Bloom says the league is looking into Spurrier’s claims.

Alabama kicker Leigh Tiffin hit both extra points and field goals of 25 and 35 yards Saturday.

Alabama officials state their coaches have been reminded of the rules governing kicks.

Did the Tide need to bend, or break, the rules in order to escape the clutches of the "Black Hominy Grits" defense of the Gamecocks?

Is it a testimony to South Carolina controlling the ball for 31 minutes and 43 seconds to 28 minutes and change for the homestanding Tide?

Perhaps it is due to the Gamecocks gaining 19 first downs to the 17 for the Crimson Tide.

Should Alabama officials concern themselves with a request for a forfeit? After all, it was a game South Carolina could definitely have won.

Despite any evidence to the contrary, the clash was probably decided in the first quarter with a 77 yard interception for a touchdown by Alabama's Mark Barron.

Steve Spurrier just wants to make sure the contest was decided legally.