Bleacher Report - Articles by Jonny Solovy

The Ultimate Retirement Party For Bobby Bowden Can Be This Weekend

Jonny Solovy — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:22:30 -0500

Bobby Bowden has been the ultimate coach for the past several decades.

His win/loss record is incredible and the impact he has made on the game, especially in Florida, is beyond astonishing.

He built a nothing football school into the ultimate powerhouse for over a decade. No team was feared like the Seminoles of the 90's, and no coach as respected as Coach Bowden.

His southern charm and class will never be seen again in the game. Even when critics are everywhere and the love is turning into angry love, Bowden has taken it all in and done his best at all times.

FSU is still rebuilding, and has had yet another season that has Seminole supporters everywhere shaking their head in sadness. Bowden has been asked several times this season what the problem is, why have they not been able to win more games? His response has mostly been the same all year, "... we're really close."

Fact is, he is right. The Noles are really close, but how close?

Not once this entire 2009 season was FSU blown out. Sure the Clemson score looks bad now, but if you watched the game FSU lead most of the game and blew it up in the fourth quarter.

The game against USF, same thing. FSU could have won the game but instead blew the game in the fourth quarter. Georgia Tech game, same thing. Miami game, same thing. Are you seeing the same thing I am seeing? Bowden is right, they are really close.

A loss is a loss and a win is a win, we all get that, but anyone telling me FSU hasn't competed this year and is not a good team at all hasn't watched them play.

They have some incredible talent on both sides of the ball as well as some of the fastest kids on one team I have seen. This young team just doesn't know how to consistently win, something FSU has known how to do for decades.

So this brings me to this week's game against the No. 1 team in the nation, the Florida Gators.

Do the Noles really have a realistic shot of beating UF in "The Swamp?" Absolutely not.

But they do have a chance. Even if it is slim, they have a chance.

Imagine it now: Five seconds remain on the clock as UF's solid kicker takes the field to attempt a game-winner. Bowden calls a timeout and tries to "ice" the kicker. He and best friend Mickey Andrews tell the Noles to do everything they can to get a piece of that ball.

A few moments later the snap is made, the kicker lunges forward and the ball is kicked. The ball appears to have been tipped just enough as the 51 yard kick falls short and left. People are stunned, the UF players can't move or breathe, and the FSU players jump and yell like they haven't done in years.

The camera zooms in on a close-up shot of Bowden and Andrews hugging in tears of joy—tears that have built up for over thirty years. Happiness that the entire FSU community hasn't felt in many years is suddenly floating in the air. UF's coach, Urban Meyer, walks across the field and graciously hugs and congratulates Bowden on an incredible upset win. Bowden, classy as always, tells him how incredible the Gators are.

With cameras and commotion surrounding Bowden, the players pour the Gatorade coolers all over their coach, and the seniors then pick up their old coach and carry him off the field. The Gator fans are on their feet applauding not just a man who has been the coaching name of college football for decades, but a man who has made football in Florida what it is today.

As Bowden, in tears, is carried of the field, the CBS reporter asks him what he is feeling at this very moment, and Bowden responds, "Not sure I was ever going to feel this happy again on a football field. I told these guys before the game in the locker room that this was going to be my last game as the FSU football coach, and they gave me the best retirement party ever!"

Well, we can dream, right?

The Ultimate Retirement Party For Bobby Bowden Can Be This Weekend

Jonny Solovy — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:22:07 -0500

Bobby Bowden has been the ultimate coach for the past several decades. His win/loss record is incredible and the impact he has made on the game, especially in Florida, is beyond astonishing. He built a school not known for football into a powerhouse. No team was feared like the Seminoles of the 90's, and no coach is as respected as Coach Bowden.

His southern charm and class will never be seen again in the game. Even when critics are everywhere and the love is turning into angry love, Bowden has taken it all in and done his best at all times.

FSU is still rebuilding and have had yet another season that has Seminole supporters everywhere shaking their heads. Bowden has been asked several times this season what the problem is, and why have they not been able to win more games. His response has mostly been the same all year, "... we're really close."

Fact is, he is right, the Noles are really close, but how close?

Not one game this entire 2009 season was FSU blown out. Sure the Clemson score looks bad now but if you watched the game FSU lead most of the game and blew it up in the fourth quarter. The game against USF, same thing, FSU could have won the game but instead blew the game in the fourth quarter. Georgia Tech game, same thing. Miami game, same thing. Are you seeing the same thing I am seeing? Bowden is right, they are really close.

A loss is a loss and a win is a win, we all get that, but anyone telling me FSU hasn't competed this year and is not a good team at all, hasn't watched them play. They have some incredible talent on both sides of the ball as well as some of the fastest kids on one team i have seen. This young team just doesn't know how to consistently win, something FSU has known how to do for decades.

So this brings me to this weeks game against the No. 1 team in the nation, the Florida Gators.

Do the Noles really have a realistic shot of beating UF in "The Swamp?" Absolutely not. But they do have a chance, even if it is slim, they have a chance.

Imagine it now, 5 seconds remain on the clock as UF's solid kicker takes the field to attempt a game winner. Bowden calls a timeout and tries to "ice" the kicker. He and best friend Mickey Andrews tell the Noles to do everything they can to get a piece of that ball.

The camera zooms in on a close-up shot on Bowden and Andrews are hugging in tears of joy. Tears that have built up for over thirty years. Happiness that the entire FSU community hasn't felt in many years is suddenly floating in the air. UF's coach, Urban Meyer, walks across the field and graciously hugs and congratulates Bowden on an incredible upset win. Bowden, classy as always, tells him how incredible the Gators are.

With cameras and commotion surrounding Bowden, the players pour the Gatorade coolers all over their coach' the seniors then pick up their old coach and carry him off the field. The Gator fans are on their feet applauding not just a man who has been the coaching name of college football for decades but a man who has made football in Florida what it is today.

Well, we can dream, right?

Joe Who?: Why USC's Joe McKnight Is the Nation's Most Underutilized Player

Jonny Solovy — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:18:27 -0500

With 15 carries for 78 yards and two catches for three yards, this is how Joe McKnight's stats read after last weeks win over Arizona State. I know what many of you are thinking, especially the harsh USC critics, "That's it? That's all McKnight did?"

Then some of you would say he is "overrated" or "doesn't run hard enough," but I'll tell you the biggest reason why McKnight's numbers don't symbolize the player he truly is... he doesn't get the damn ball enough!

When Joe McKnight chose USC over his home state university, LSU, many analysts and experts were predicting that McKnight was a "Reggie Bush like" player.

Truth is, he is!

However, there is only one Reggie Bush and people need to stop expecting another. Now, before you judge the rest of my article, please realize that I do not think McKnight is as good as Bush but his skill sets and speed bursts are eerily similar to No. 5.

McKnight has tremendous break away speed with a Ferrari's ability to stop on a dime and swerve around opposing defensive players. He also has become a much tougher runner who isn't afraid of contact.

Sure, his durability has showed weaknesses at times but he has rarely missed a game. He is extremely competitive and has shown a nose for the end zone (already seven touchdowns in 2009).

There are plenty of critics out there who suggest he has a fumble problem and he dances around the hole instead of through the hole. In year's past this may have been true but this year it is certainly not the case. The offensive line has underperformed this season and without McKnight's vision and tremendous speed, one could argue his stats would be extremely pedestrian.

Furthermore, in spite of the offensive line's lackluster performance this season, McKnight is averaging over six yards a carry, six!

And when it comes to receiving yards, he is averaging nearly eight yards per reception. So, what's the problem then right?

The problem is this, McKnight is averaging only 14 carries per game in 2009 and for a team with a significant amount of young skill players, that number should be nearly twice as high. If McKnight carried the ball 20-24 times per game he would go over 100 yards easily and most likely find the end zone at least one or two times a game.

My biggest problem with USC's play-calling has been the lack of use of the screen play. McKnight is the ideal back for screen plays and it is quite obvious that teams are blitzing USC a ton due to their freshman quarterback and stable of five-star running backs; which means the screen play could be used and executed to perfection to slow down the opponent's all out pressure.

Look back on Reggie Bush's best games at USC and you will see it is no coincidence that those were also the games he was the most involved in with the offense. The back to back games where he had over 200 yards rushing... you guessed it, he had over 20 carries in both of those games. McKnight is no Bush but he is very similar and on a very young and rebuilding team, McKnight is the best player that needs the ball to prove it.

Running backs need to find their "groove" their "rhythms" and just like the Ohio State game proved, McKnight has the ability to get in one of those "zones" and carry the entire offense. Sure certain teams match up better with McKnight than a bigger back like Allen Bradford, but McKnight has more skills and abilities than anyone and he has had very little chance to prove it.

If USC wants to put a complete game together against Stanford and end the season with three solid wins in the coming weeks, they need to give their best player the ball.

He may not be as good as No. 5 was for the Trojans but how about we give him a chance and the ball, No. 4's don't come around very often, either.

NCAA Football: Week Seven Predictions and Scores

Jonny Solovy — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 21:04:56 -0400

Welcome back college football fans! Week seven of the season is upon us and there are some huge games this week that have national title implications. Also, several teams are on upset alert and a few of my selections may surprise you. If you are new to my weekly predictions, I choose every game in the AP Top 25 and also a handful of intriguing games outside of the top 25. Feel free to comment with your own picks or disagreements! Last week I had a good week and hope to have another good one this weekend. I have one top ten team going down... click my slideshow to find out who. Record last week: 26-4 Record on the season: 129-38

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Advantage Dodgers or Advantage Cards? A Breakdown of the Lineups

Jonny Solovy — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 17:10:30 -0400

Beginning tonight at 9:37 PM Eastern time, the Los Angeles Dodgers will take on the St. Louis Cardinals at Dodgers Stadium. Both teams are tremendously talented and lead their respective leagues in several categories. Both the Dodgers and the Cardinals have strong pitching and stacked hitting lineups. The question is, who has the advantage at each position? This slideshow breaks down the projected lineup each team will put out on the field during this NLDS, of course I my lineups may not be completely accurate but I am going by what they most likely will be. Feel free to chime in with your predictions and or thoughts.

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NCAA Football: Week Six Predictions and Scores

Jonny Solovy — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 19:34:14 -0400

Welcome back College Football fans! The arrival of week six is here and there are several great games this weekend that should keep us all glued to our couches or bar stools. If you are new to my predictions, I choose the winner of each top AP Top 25 game this week as well as a handful of other intriguing games outside of the top 25. Last week I had my worst week yet but still did rather well. I nailed the Michigan State game but missed the LSU game. This week I am confident in my picks but feel free to chime in with your own predictions; it is always great to hear other opinions. Enjoy! My record last week: 20-8 My record on the season: 106-34

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Bobby Bowden Feels "Betrayed": And Dadgummit He Should!

Jonny Solovy — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 20:20:32 -0400

I don't care if Bobby Bowden's Florida State Seminoles don't win another game this year. There is no excuse for how the University's Board of Trustees are treating him.

If you want Bowden to step down and consider retirement, fine, but don't go whining and criticizing the man that built your school into what it is, behind his back, to local newspapers. The way FSU supporters, alumni, and boards are handling this is nothing short of pathetic.

I lived in Tallahassee for two years and I have never seen so many fans whine about a coach who brought so much fame and popularity to an institution. Fans everywhere need to realize that college football is cyclical. Some decades you will dominate, others you will struggle. Ask USC of the 1990s, ask Florida, ask Notre Dame...it happens, it's part of life.

Does Bowden need to step down soon? Absolutely, no doubt about it.

However, Jimbo Fisher, say what you will, has more control of game-planning and play-calling than Bowden does now. What's FSU's record?

Who called the four straight pass plays on 1st-and-goal inside Boston College's 5 yard line that turned into zero points and a turnover on downs? Not Bobby, I'll guarantee you that much.

These ridiculous Board of Trustees members like Jim Smith are throwing Coach Bowden under a bus and letting him try to survive it on his own. Smith said to a local reporter at the Tallahassee Democrat on Sunday, "My hope is frankly that we'll go ahead, and if we have to, let the world know that this year will be the end of the Bowden era."

Really, Mr. Smith, really? So it is your hope that you whining to the media behind Bowden's back will get him to finally step down? He continued on, saying that FSU has been "more than patient" with Bowden. Then why not be patient one more day? Why not plan a meeting with the entire FSU staff and have something worked out behind closed doors?

None of you think Bowden has ever turned down another job? How about his early years when Bowden was up in West Virginia and received a random job opportunity at a school with no tradition or winning teams (FSU) and he took a chance and left his comfort zone to join the Tallahassee community?

Without Bowden, Florida State isn't Florida State. Without Bowden, there is no "Seminole nation." Without Bowden, the high standards would have never been set. He set the bar high, very high, and now everyone just wants to throw him out in the wind to get swept away? Heartless, pure and utter selfishness.

Again, I agree Bowden's time is up but the utter disrespect and coldness fans and FSU "supporters" are displaying is unforgivable.

Trustee Jim Smith wasn't done with his comments though, he also said this: "The president intends to announce we've negotiated a contract with coach Fisher".

Are you kidding me? Did you tell Bobby anything yet? My guess is no considering these comments were made on a Sunday morning and the 'Noles were up in Boston the night before.

Wait, there's more, on Monday Smith said this to the AP, ""I know coaches are sniping at each other and that's just terrible," Smith told the AP on Monday. "There are too many mixed signals."

Wow, this is laughable. Mixed signals huh? How about naming Jimbo Fisher the "coach in waiting" before he proved a damn thing? Is this a mixed signal? Who should freshmen really report to then, Bowden or Fisher? They're both "head coaches" with different wording right?

This is exactly what's wrong with the sports world, this is exactly what's wrong with our society. The new slogan for America and sports is "what have you done for me lately." Obviously, by Bowden's high standards, he hasn't done that much. However, to completely go behind someone's back, let alone a legend, is unforgivable and appalling. Bobby has earned respect and should be given it, dadgummit.

Even Bowden's Wife Anne who is typically quiet, is outraged by the treatment of her husband:

"I'm angry at some of our boosters that Bobby has worked for and supported, raised money for. And he's been such a top quality person, such great character and everything for this university. And for them to turn their back on him like that -- I don't care if he is 80 years old..."

Exactly Anne, exactly! Bobby has trusted these supporters and even gone above and beyond to help them improve their situations. I am sick and tired of people treating others like this. We live in a selfish society and even a coach who has earned to go out on his terms no longer has that option. Whether Bowden stays on now or retires, damage has been done to a legendary coach who doesn't deserve it.

Anne also told the Orlando Sentinel that she was, "...disappointed in Jim Smith, who's been a longtime friend," she said. "Jim Smith's been a longtime friend of ours. When we first came here and we struggled and Bobby went on the road for nothing to raise money for this university and traveled all over the state, set up most of these booster organizations because they were doing nothing when he came here -- trying to raise money."

And this is what Bobby gets in return? And the boosters and bloggers think their actions of causing more problems and going behind Bowden's back is helping recruiting? I got news for you guys, you are hurting your entire university with these immature whiny "retire already tactics."

If hard work, dedication, love, and friendship doesn't mean anything anymore to anyone, it's a sad day. I'll repeat it again, FSU would have never become FSU without Mr. Bowden. He is 80 years old, he knows his time is soon...the least these people can do is shut up and keep it in house.

Nan Locher, a long-time Panama City Area Seminole Club made another ridiculous comment that really summarizes it all, “He (Bowden) got us where we are, or where we were, and he’s like any ordinary person with a job. He’s not getting the job done."

That's where you and everyone else are wrong Nan, he is not an ordinary coach. Bowden (along with Paterno) stands for something that we will likely never see again in this business.

A man that committed his life to one university and one community and turned it from nothing to something is now considered a historical somebody and a present day nobody.

What's next, the boosters pay for a wonderfully extravagant surprise retirement party for Bowden?

NCAA Football: Week Five Predictions and Scores

Jonny Solovy — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:17:47 -0400

Hey again college football fans. Welcome back to my weekly prediction's and score's slideshow. Last week I had another pretty solid weak and my upset picks were right on for the most part. I nailed Iowa's win, Virginia Tech, South Carolina, and Oregon. If you are new to my picks, I pick every game in the AP Top 25 and also choose a handful of intriguing games outside of the top 25. My upsets are based on rankings, NOT point spreads. Enjoy my selections and slideshow and feel free to leave me some of your predictions! Have a great week of college football! Last week's record: 23-6 Record on the season thru week 4: 86-26

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USC's Star Running Back Stafon Johnson Injured Today In Weight Room

Jonny Solovy — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 18:25:20 -0400

Breaking News:

According to a source with ESPN, USC Trojan's running back Stafon Johnson was injured today in a freak weight room accident. The initial report suggests that Johnson was doing some sort of weight lifting when one of the bars fell or snapped and landed on Johnson's throat. The report also mentioned the fact that Johnson was coughing up blood and bleeding from the nose. Emergency surgery may be needed and his condition at the hospital is "serious." (Shelly Smith, ESPN Reporter)

MORE BREAKING NEWS:

USC Trojan's blog writer Ben Malcolmson just blogged about Johnson's injury in more description, that blog can be seen here: http://www.usctrojans.com/blog/

It does appear that Johnson was bench-pressing with a spotter at the time and the weight slipped and landed on Johnson's throat. Johnson is in surgery this afternoon and no reports have come out about his recovery. I want to send my prayers to Johnson, his family, friends, and of course the Trojan family!

First off, lets hope he is okay and nothing serious happened to the young man. Second, this could be a big loss for USC if he misses any practices or games. Johnson has been sharing the load at running back with Joe McKnight and there is no doubt that Johnson is USC's best red zone runner.

So far this season he has 32 carries for 157 yards and 5 touchdowns including the game-winning touchdown at Ohio State.

If this injury is indeed serious, look for C.J. Gable and physical freak Allen Bradford to get more carries. Also, freshman speedster Curtis McNeal could even see some playing time.

Hopefully Johnson is okay and when there is more news released I will update this article!

***Remember, these are early reports and USC hasn't commented much and a lot of information has not been received yet.

Tim Tebow Injured: Why Was He Still in the Game?

Jonny Solovy — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 02:57:19 -0400

I'm sure I will hear it from many Gators fans, because they are never happy with anything you ever write about them unless you use 100 percent kind words (no offense UF fans).

Hear me out though, why would Urban Meyer possibly risk Tebow's season and maybe UF's season by playing him in a blowout?

Florida was clearly the better team and they over-matched Kentucky in every position on the field. The score after the first quarter was 31-0 Gators. So, I will ask the question, why is Tebow even playing?

First, Tebow was questionable this morning when he reportedly had to take a separate charter flight to Lexington due to an illness.

Secondly, you have command of the game and there is no chance you will lose this game. Ah, I remember now, Meyer likes to run up the score on teams for "style points."

Tebow was obviously not feeling well and once you open up the game, why would you take the risk of a freak accident happening?

Obviously, Florida's back-up is more than capable so why not just let him hand the ball off and you get out of there with an easy win?

The Gators do have a bye week coming up but no matter what fans want to say, Tebow will be a little shaky coming back in the next game. Concussions are not minor injuries and people need to realize this.

Now, I am not suggesting he won't come back and be good because he probably will but this may have a bigger effect on UF's season than most think.

Meyer may have wanted to go after some more "style points" but in the end his greed may have caused his star quarterback a pretty awful injury.

I never wish injury on anybody (I give my best to Tim) and people who do that are sick in the head, but maybe now Meyer will think twice about going after the blowout win.

Urban, I don't think people would hurt your ranking if you rested a sick Tebow after the first quarter or even first half, I think you owe the team an apology for this one.

USC Cruises to an Easy Win Over Washington State; Still Need to Wake up!

Jonny Solovy — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 02:25:04 -0400

The USC Trojans were ready for some home-cooking after last week's "no show" in Seattle. The Men of Troy also welcomed back Freshman quarterback Matt Barkley and Senior safety Taylor Mays.

Although the score may not indicate it, USC did have command throughout the entire game.

Total yards were: USC 403 and Wazzu 229 (Many of which were against back-ups). Give the Cougs credit though, they played hard throughout and are much improved.

Barkley came out right away and fired down field on the Cougar's weak secondary, connecting on two long touchdowns which opened up the game early.

The defense played very well most of the game, although they did allow the Washington State to stay on the field for far too long.

The offense did open up the playbook more... in the first half that is. Play-caller Jeremy Bates allowed for Barkley to throw down-field and really open the field up vertically. Nevertheless, the Trojans offense was stalled on several occasions because of penalties.

I don't care if aggressiveness is their excuse, 13 penalties for over 100 yards is ridiculous and shows a lack of discipline. I expected much more from a team who was embarrassed the previous week.

Carroll was very annoyed during the game because of the penalties and was even seen chewing out Damian Williams after a holding penalty was called on him down-field.

In addition, the special teams for SC was equally bad and several penalties were also called on them.

Moving on to the second half, USC came out and again struggled with penalties and lack of execution. The play-calling went from open to conservative and Bates looked like he was back in Seattle struggling to find plays that worked.

Two separate times USC had the ball inside the 5 yard line and they came away empty. The final time was unforgivable in my opinion; 3rd and goal on the 3 yard line and Bates calls a sweep with C.J. Gable (I'm glad Gable was in, at least). He gets stuffed at the 1 yard line.

So, one would think that with USC's great offensive line they would pound the ball in and score an easy touchdown. Wrong, Bates calls another sweep play to the other side of the field and was dropped for a 2 yard loss. To me, this is play-calling that just does not make sense.

The offensive line is much better than WSU's defensive line and early in the game McKnight scored on a dive play without even being touched, I just do not understand the call.

Again, USC dominated this game and could have and should have won 45-6, but they need to clean it up big time if they want to win their next few games.

Next week's game against Cal should be very interesting but the Bears may have a chip on their shoulder after today's blowout loss to Oregon. Cal's defense will get killed at the next film session and I expect them to step it up against the Trojans.

Defensively, USC should be okay against Cal, but USC's offense had better get some momentum going in practice this week or it could be a long season!

Side note: USC better find a solution at the kicker position as well because Jordan Congdon is not it. He has missed two field goals around 42 yards, short! That is a chip shot for most kickers and if the game comes down to the end I don't think Congdon has earned much respect.

Lastly, Aaron Corp played in four plays tonight and lost a fumble on the third play. Can we please see Mitch Mustain, Pete?

Quarterbacks like Barkley walk around with a swagger and the attitude that they can do anything, Corp doesn't have any of the above.

NCAA Football: Week Four Predictions and Scores

Jonny Solovy — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 03:18:36 -0400

Welcome back college football fans! Week four is among us and there are several great games this coming weekend. Thursday night's game should be an entertaining one and Saturday is full of some awesome match-ups. If you are new to my predictions, I predict the winner and the final score of every top 25 game (AP Rankings) and a handful of other intriguing games outside of the top 25. Upsets are based on rankings, not point spreads. Last week was pretty similar to my previous prediction slideshows but I did guess an upset or two correctly including FSU's win over BYU. Last week's record: 23-7 Overall season record through 3 weeks: 63-20

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What Is College Football?

Jonny Solovy — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 16:47:31 -0400

College football is something that captures a unique and proud audience. An audience that rushes onto a field when their huge underdog team beats a Goliath. One that wears their emotions on their face and disappointment and elation can be spotted from across the stadium.

College football is fun. It is exciting. It is heart-wrenching. When the stadium announcer calls out the final score of your rival, everyone is silent until the last sound is spoken.

College football brings out raw emotion in people. In this nation of ours so many people are encouraged to keep to themselves. Sadness and anger are for the weak minded. Not in the society of college football though. Fans who cry are not laughed at, they are met with compassion. Fans who cheer loudly are greeted with high-fives and even some half-hugs.

Of course there is trash talk and disagreement but every fan knows the heartache and pain a fellow fan has after a loss.

College football night games are like no other. The lights are bright, the crowd is loud, and the stadium is always ready to erupt. Friends and foes sit only feet apart and stand and holler at much different times.

The tailgating and barbecue scene cannot be matched. College football brings new and old friends together for many a good time. Beers are drunk, TV's are watched, and camaraderie is formed.

In no other sport do fans drive hundreds of miles to watch their team play. Underdog or favorite, the fans are always there to stay. Defeats are crushing, wins are are life-changing (at that moment). Players give everything they've got and do it all for pride.

No other event in life do men and women come together and hardly have an argument. Guys and girls jump and yell together and nobody questions them for bringing their partner. Everyone is accepted, everyone is liked, for it is college football and our school's pride takes center stage, not our own.

People get drunk and yell stupid things. Guys whistle at hot girls and they roll their eyes back...unless they're wearing the same jersey of course, as fate would have it. The smell of BBQ is always in the air...where else can you pig out and feel like the norm?

College football is the best. Without it, text messages and phone calls would never be made. A simple dial to tell your friend how great your school is and how awful his is. Or a simple text message of "I'm sorry dude", when his/her team is beat on the last play.

Everything is there, it is what it is, college football is unique as are its fans. Football fan or not, every student should go. It is an experience like none you have had before.

The next time you go, this weekend or next, wait until the crowd leaves after the game, sit in the empty stadium all by yourself...and I bet if you look close enough, you won't be alone.

College football, a win or a loss, is the best. Happy or sadness, it is always a blast. When you look back on your college years, the best memories will be those of the games and the "pre-gaming" times. Don't take it for granted, these times are the best...Saturday's together, always and forever.

This is what college football is, it's passion from the players and love from the fans.

Enjoy this next Saturday and all the games from here on out. Remember to take a minute to yourself...look around you, you have thousands of friends.

Eleven Questions I'd Ask Urban Meyer and Lane Kiffin in a Sit Down, Together

Jonny Solovy — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 01:12:15 -0400

Obviously this scenario is a hypothetical one.

Nonetheless, I would love the opportunity to sit down with Florida's Head Coach Urban Myer and Tennessee's Head Coach Lane Kiffin...together.

The two coaches have been at a war of words for several months now. Kiffin started it all by proclaiming sarcastically that the Vols would beat UF this year and sing "Rocky Top" all the way home. Meyer however, hasn't moved away from the spotlight and continues to fuel the fire and make both coaches sound silly.

Meyer was quoted on Sunday, "When I saw them start handing the ball off, I didn't feel like they were going after the win." Now, why in the world does Meyer care? His team won, he should move on to discussing the Kentucky game and leave it at that. Meyer wasn't done though, "...I remember looking out there and there's 10 minutes left in the game and there's no-no huddle, they are down, I think it was 23-6 and there's [no urgency]."

Again, Meyer, why do you care? You won!

You look just as classless as Kiffin in this instance and prove again why so many people in the CFB don't like you. Meyer also made a ton of excuses after the game for the way his team played because of the flu. I have no issue with him pointing the fact out that several guys were sick, but lay off the excuses, Urban.

Now comes Lane, and of course he wasn't quiet in his response to Urban's low blows.

When Kiffin was asked whether or not he was worried about his team catching the flu he said, "I don't know. I guess we'll have to wait and after a performance we are not excited about, we will tell you everybody was sick." Very good response, and Urban deserves this, but considering Kiffin started the war, maybe he should have kept it quiet. Heck, never mind, this makes the rivalry even better and hopefully this continues until 2010! Go at it guys.

Back to my interview and the eleven questions I would love to ask the two coaches in a 3 on 3 interview. Strap their arms to a lie detector and let's get going with the Q and A. Here they are...

1). Urban, why are you such a jerk? Not just to Lane and Tennessee but most people who have dealt with you don't like you, why?

2). Lane, why are you so arrogant? Humility is a great tool to teach college kids, you know?

3). Urban, what bothers you more...Lane's cockiness or the perfectly curved visors he wears?

4). Lane, how about you, what bothers you about Urban...his angry demeanor or the fact that he uses more hair gel than you?

5). Urban, do you think after Tebow graduates, UF will be in a huge rebuilding mode? And will you beat Tennessee next year, in Knoxville?

6). Lane, how many violations did you really break in the offseason?

7). Urban, who is a better offensive mind, you or Lane? Could Lane have done an equally good job with your team and a leader like Tebow?

8). Lane, Swap teams a minute, would Urban have beat you with your Vols team last weekend? What would the final score be?

9). Urban, get it off your chest. Tell Lane what you really want to say. And, any guarantees the next year?

10). Lane, who's the better coach—you, Pete Carroll, or Urban Meyer? Remember, you are hooked to a lie detector machine...

11). To both of you, which one of your wives is hotter? Urban, relax. The results won't go public.

Barkley Out, Corp In For USC Against Washington: Mind Games?

Jonny Solovy — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 20:33:50 -0400

After a long week of practices and plenty of questions, USC Head Coach Pete Carroll has decided to start sophomore quarterback Aaron Corp over injured Matt Barkley this Saturday against the Washington Huskies. Now, my question is this: Did Carroll have this in mind the entire time?

One would think that if a freshman quarterback led his team on a game winning drive in one of the most brutal atmospheres, his job was certainly secure. Not Barkley's though. Aaron Corp will now be taking snaps from behind center on Saturday and in my opinion, I think Carroll wanted it this way.

Corp was not working with the first team offense a few weeks before the season opener for no reason; the coaches liked what they saw and felt like he gave them the best chance of winning. However, just a week or so later Corp suffered a knee injury which would ultimately make him the backup for the home opener against San Jose State.

Barkley played well in the first game and Corp's knee was still trying to heal up. Barkley still looked better although Corp was said to have been improving and gaining more mobility each and every day.

Here is where the mind games and speculation on my part comes in. I believe Carroll was confident enough in his team that he could win at the "Shoe" with a true freshman quarterback. Also because it gave Barkley the confidence and experience necessary if he needed to be the man later on.

The offensive game plan against the Buckeyes was very conservative and allowed for Barkley to manage the game to win rather than putting him in a position to lose (although it almost back fired).

Now, Barkley was injured during the win in Columbus and suddenly it appeared as though maybe Corp would get his starting job back for the Pac 10 opener in Seattle. Perfect right?

Now Carroll could go back to his original plan at the start of the year since Corp is now back to being 100 percent. I am not suggesting that Barkley and USC are fabricating the shoulder injury, but I do think no matter the circumstance, Corp was going to be the starter once he was back to full speed.

In addition, not only is this the perfect week for Corp to return (Pac 10 opener), Carroll was able to play mind games with his former offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian and defensive coordinator Nick Holt all week.

Why do you think it took so long for the "official" word to be spread that Corp would be the starter? It is not a coincidence...Carroll most likely knew after the OSU game that his man was 100 percent Aaron Corp.

Mind games were played and Carroll, you can bet, enjoyed keeping Washington and the rest of the fans on their toes.

How will this change the game this weekend though? Is Corp's game much different?

I don't think it will change the approach that the Huskies will take on defense because whether or not it was Corp or Barkley, they're most likely going to put eight guys in the box and make their arms beat them.

Nevertheless, Corp does bring a new dimension to USC's offense that Barkley and other past quarterbacks have not brought to the table; a mobile quarterback.

We aren't talking about a Michael Vick type runner but we are talking about a guy with a 4.59 40 time. He has great speed and a ton of ability to move around the pocket or even scramble down field for big gains.

I would not be shocked to see some quarterback draws called from shotgun and maybe even an option or two called to spread the defense out. He is a very, very good athlete and I think people will be shocked at how good he is and how he can turn nothing into something in a hurry.

Some of you may be thinking: now does Matt Barkley come back now and start once he is back to full strength?

My answer would be no.

What has Coach Carroll always said? That a player never loses his starting job to an injury. If Corp really was their No. 1 several weeks ago before the injury, we should expect to see him start the rest of the season as long as he remains healthy.

In my eyes, this is Corp's job to lose and Carroll's perfect test to see what he can bring to the offense. A loss to Washington could change everything but I expect USC to come out hungry.

Side note: Watch for Corp to Damian Williams this weekend, they have a similar relationship to what Williams and Mark Sanchez had last year and could put up big numbers.

Lastly, third string quarterback and highly recruited Arkansas transfer Mitch Mustain may have just found a way to get playing time...but it isn't what you are thinking. Mustain has been punting; yes, I said punting, this week in practice, and may get a shot to show off his leg against UW.

NCAA Football: Week Three Predictions and Scores

Jonny Solovy — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 19:22:24 -0400

Welcome to week three of the NCAA Football season! Last weekend we had some instant classics and hopefully we will see more of those moments this weekend. There are some very intriguing games this weekend and some tough picks. If you are new to my weekly selections; I predict the winners and scores of all top 25 games and a handful of interesting games outside of the top 25. Check my slideshow out for my predictions this week and feel free to chime in with your own selections. My record last week- 21-6 My record on the season- 40-13

Begin Slideshow

Remembering 9/11 and Keeping Our Sports World in Perspective

Jonny Solovy — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:51:58 -0400

September 11, 2001 is not just a day to remember where you were and what you were doing, but it is a day for all of us to express our gratefulness as a nation. It is also a day for us to remember those who lost their lives and to support those who have to deal with their loss every minute of every day for the rest of their lives.

Love him or hate him, President Bush's first pitch at the 2001 World Series was one of the most powerful moments in the history of sports. At that moment in time our country was never as devastated and scared, but along with those fears, our country was never so united.

Sports fanatics and fans still had their favorite teams and players, but nobody hated anyone. A Miami Dolphins fan was clapping as a NY Jets player ran across the field, proudly carrying the American flag. Red Sox fans were standing and clapping at the very same time as Yankee fans. It was a short time in our lives where everyone was on the same page, everyone helped one another, and everyone knew how rich in spirit our country really was.

Thousands upon thousands donated money, prayed for those in need, and dedicated their lives to making a difference.

Our blue skies never looked so pure, our rain drops never felt so refreshing, our grass never looked so healthy, and our hearts never felt so warm. People looked all around their own lives and realized what a great life they had. Freedom was appreciated, tears were passionate and not stereotypically cowardly, and nobody cared anymore that their team missed the playoffs.

It is a rather simple fact of life that people get worked up over the little things in life. How can we not though, our days are extremely fast-paced and lubricated with people around us who want to get through the day even faster than you.

Why though? Why are we so excited for tomorrow when so much can happen today?!

It is easy for people to comment on other writers' pages or articles and not care what one says. Why would you? You don't know them, and will probably never meet them, so who cares?

People who "hate" other schools only do it because they are jealous or don't know enough about them other than rumors that spread. It is the very same reason that people hate teams, coaches, and players whom they have never met and know virtually nothing about.

It is these ridiculous assumptions that cause problems in the world and cause so much hate and spite amongst our global society.

I am not suggesting that rooting against or disliking opposing teams is wrong because it isn't, but overreacting and acting as if your world has caved in from every direction when your team loses is a pathetic way of you not accepting the reality of life.

Sports are fun, sports are exciting, sports cause happiness and sadness, most importantly, though, sports unite people from every background, religion, and class. Even if it is only for a mere three hours per week, it matters...sports are a weekly tradition that we can use, just as President Bush did, to unite.

It is really easy to be ignorant and selfish, but it is even easier to reach out your hand and give support to someone who needs it.

So when you are watching your favorite teams this weekend as I will also be doing, think twice about using hateful words. Look around you, look at everything you have. When you high-five a neighbor or friend, be grateful of the love that circles around you.

If your team loses a heart-wrenching game, keep your head up and heart open. While you may feel embarrassed or upset that your team lost, think about those on 9/11 who lost much more than a game.

I am so very thankful that we have sports to sweep us away into another world that helps us escape from a sometimes hectic life, but I am even more grateful for living in a nation where I can so freely express my opinion or write an article just like this one.

Stay passionate, cheer for your team with everything you have, and lastly...do it together. Remember that a game is just a game and if your team's loss is the worst event of your day, I'd say you have quite a bit to feel thankful for.

September 11, 2001 is not just a day to put your flag out on the porch or listen to patriotic tunes, it is a day in our past that we can learn from to better our future. It is a day to acknowledge and give love to all those who lost and all of those who sacrifice so that you and I can rest easy on our couch enjoying what we do, sports.

Never forget 9/11... never forget the price many have paid for our freedom... and never forget that in the end, we are all on the same team.

NCAA Football: Week Two Predictions and Scores

Jonny Solovy — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 19:52:07 -0400

Welcome back to the second week of the college football season! The first weekend was full of great games with exciting finishes. Hopefully week two is just as good and we find a little more out about each and every team. If you are new to my predictions... I pick the winners and scores of all games in the top 25 (AP Poll) and pick a handful of games outside of the top 25 that may also be intriguing. Feel free to disagree with my predictions and leave yours below. Last week wasn't great, I went 19-7 but I figured the first week would be one of the worst. Well, enjoy the slideshow and predictions!

Begin Slideshow

Brawls, Suspensions, Contradictions, and National Television

Jonny Solovy — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 19:28:42 -0400

October 14th, 2006, is a day that all Miami Hurricane fans and Florida International fans will remember for the rest of their lives. Punches were thrown, people were stomped on, helmets were swung, and people were suspended...for one game.

Now I am well aware that the University of Oregon handed down the punishment to their running back LeGarrette Blount this afternoon which lands him on the sideline for the remainder of the 2009 season; but, you better believe the NCAA gave Oregon a call today and said "if you don't do it, we will."

I praise Oregon for stepping up and giving Blount a suspension but part of me thinks if this game was not on national television, the suspension would have been less severe. Some of you may be thinking: "What does him punching a guy have to do with national television, that doesn't matter." Wrong, it does, hear me out.

On October 14th, 2006, the University of Miami and Florida International University were involved in a brawl far greater than this fight last night. Player after player ran onto the field and as I described in my introduction, the scene was out of control. There was one huge difference between these games though, one was on national television on opening night and the other was the middle of the season and not on televised nationally.

This morning the Pac-Ten and NCAA put out a statement that they were "reviewing" the incident. They didn't need to review it, they needed to contact Oregon and figure out who should make the announcement to the NCAA Football world. Oregon was smart and decided to announce his suspension for the remainder of the year, which then makes Oregon look responsible. Now, I have no doubt that Oregon was going to punish him for the rest of the season but my question is this, where was the NCAA and more importantly where was this sort of response in 2006?

Each player involved in the 2006 brawl was suspended for only one game. Meanwhile, FIU stepped up and showed courage by kicking some of their players involved off the team completely. Where was the NCAA or even the ACC committee(s)? They never stepped in and did anything more and now in light of what happened in last night's Oregon game...if Boise State doesn't step up and suspend their player that provoked Blount, the NCAA better!

Blount has no sympathy from me because he deserved a big suspension but Hout from Boise State also deserves a one game suspension. If the NCAA doesn't hand it down, they are contradicting their new "sportsmanship" standards and dropping the ball...again.

More disturbingly, I can bet that had this game not been a big time showcase for the NCAA and on national television, Blount would be playing again in a few weeks; just ask former UM players like Brandon Merriweather.

So I will ask you again, where was the NCAA, ACC, and the University of Miami after 2006's brawl? Yep, you guessed it, at home watching another game on TV.

***Here is a clip of the Miami brawl for all of you to watch again and remember that it was actually worse than last night's fight.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNypDGoC_8M

Five Things in Sports I Will Never Understand

Jonny Solovy — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 15:48:30 -0400

Sports are fun, competetive, challenging, and always entertaining. Most athletes are good people with good hearts but of course there are a number of athletes who are not. The sports' world is full of good and bad apples combined with bad and good stories. There are many aspects of sports that I truly admire and think optimistically about but there are also several things that truly bother me as a sport's fanatic. This slideshow is comprised of the five things in sports that I will never understand because quite frankly they are ridiculous and ruin what sports is supposed to be about.

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NCAA Football: Week One Predictions and Scores

Jonny Solovy — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 14:29:29 -0400

Each and every week I will be giving my predictions and scores for the entire slate of top 25 games; in addition, I will choose a handful of games to predict outside of the top 25 (AP's poll) that may be intriguing or has a great history. I will update my record on here after each week and if you agree or disagree with some of my picks feel free to give me your own predictions! Week one is finally upon us after a long summer and we as CFB fans coudn't have asked for a better group of games to begin with! There should be some close contests and of course some blowouts. Click the slideshow to review my complete week one predictions! Week one for some of the matchups is the toughest because no games have been played so hopefully I don't do too bad.

Begin Slideshow

USC's Speedster Receiver Ronald Johnson Out 6-8 Weeks

Jonny Solovy — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 19:19:51 -0400

If USC's passing game didn't already have enough to worry about with the announcement that a true freshman is the starting quarterback this season for the first time in the program's storied history, the worrying became even louder after Saturday's game-like scrimmage at the Coliseum.

Ronald Johnson, USC's current second leading receiver and biggest deep threat, broke his collarbone during the scrimmage and will miss six to eight weeks.

This is a huge blow for an offense already vulnerable due to inexperienced quarterbacks. True freshman quarterback Matt Barkley is undeniably a great quarterback and is the future of the USC program; however, at this point in his young career he is going to need all of the help at wide out that he can get.

Johnson, originally from Michigan, caught over 40 passes last season while also scoring eight touchdowns. He is by far and away the fastest receiver on the Trojan's roster and there is no doubt Damian Williams, the number one receiver, will miss Johnson's deep threat patterns.

USC has a stacked sideline full of four and five star recruits, but hardly anyone has the experience and speed that Johnson brought to the table. The replacement for Johnson, as of now, is junior David Ausberry who is virtually the Taylor Mays of the offense. In other words, he is 6'4 and 235 pounds. His speed is decent and should make some plays, but if Head Coach Pete Carroll describes the injury as a "crusher," then you know it is a big deal.

If Ausberry is unable to impress and help the Trojans, then it will be up to redshirt freshman Brice Butler to step up. Butler is a gifted receiver with probably the best hands in the program so the Trojans certainly have options, but with such a front loaded schedule, this can lower expectations for this year's team.

USC has a loaded offensive line with probably one of the three best o-lines in the country, along with six running backs that would start for any other program with ease. USC has a long and storied history of throwing the ball around the field and having huge numbers through the air, yet the 2009 Trojan's may be smart to keep the ball on the ground and use the strengths it has.

Ronald Johnson is expected back around the middle of October...maybe just in time for a redemption game vs. Oregon State.

14 Stadiums Every College Football Fan Needs to Experience

Jonny Solovy — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 19:44:49 -0400

We all love College Football and we all love the excitement of a big crowd, hot college chicks, and a great tailgate scene...but a lot of people don't venture out of their town too often and are missing the greatness of the college football across the U.S. Whether you are from the south, west, east, or north, college football is fun, exciting, and is an experience like none other. In this slideshow I have put together 12 stadiums, most I have been to, others I have heard from friends who have worked for several programs, that every college football fan needs to experience. No specific ranking order here, just 12 of the best environements you all need to see for yourself!

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2009 USC Football: Ten Things To Watch

Jonny Solovy — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 15:04:20 -0400

For most of the 2000s, USC football has been a dominating force, some would even call it a dynasty. Agree or disagree, it is hard to argue the validity of how great USC football has been and continues to be year in and year out. Pete Carroll has mixed in his boyish enthusiasm with his laid back California attitude to build one of the best college football programs in America.

While these past few seasons have been very successful for the Trojans, many critics think it is championship or bust every year. However, 2009 is a new season for SC that brings us a lot of new faces and names. Predictions for this USC team have varied drastically; I have heard from some that they may win it all, others have said that this is the year USC finally loses its top spot in the Pac 10 and may finish outside of the top 10 nationally for the first time in nearly a decade.

The season is just around the corner and with all of the questions surrounding this year's USC team, there are certainly some positive and negative things to watch for.

Five Negatives

1. The quarterback situation: There is no denying that the biggest question hoovering over this years Trojan team is their lack of experience at the quarterback position. First we have Aaron Corp. Corp is a highly-talented and tremendously gifted athlete, but he has very little game time experience.

This lack of experience may show up in loud and difficult environments like Ohio State's Horse Shoe. How will he handle possible audible situations at the line of scrimmage? How will he handle a consistent pass rush if the offensive line is having trouble communicating?

If Corp doesn't get the starting nod, then it looks like at this point that true freshman Matt Barkley may get it. He is probably the highest rated quarterback recruit in USC history, and due to his high expectations, people should realize he may not be the savior right away. He has an incredible arm that many are comparing to Carson Palmer's, yet he has no NCAA experience and rarely ever do true freshman quarterbacks succeed.

Lastly we have Mitch Mustain. Mustain is the highly rated transfer from Arkansas who came to USC because of their passing playbook... much to his dismay he has hardly seen the field. He has a great, accurate arm but the problem for him is his lack of adjustment to USC's pro style offense. He comes from a spread offense, even in high school, where he hardly ever had to drop back and read coverages across the field. Mustain has been showing some promise as of late but something tells me Carroll doesn't trust him just yet.

Overall, USC has plenty of talent at the quarterback position, it is just the matters of maturity and development that may hinder this season's team. Yesterday Carroll announced Matt Barkley as the starter. I have questions, but knowing that the USC staff is this impressed with a freshman makes me feel a lot more comfortable with the idea.

2. The Defensive Line: Not only is this year's defensive line rather inexperienced, there has been a contagious rash of injuries spreading throughout the d-line this summer. Armond Armstead is probably the Trojan that most people should keep an eye on; unfortunately, he has a broken foot and will be out 6-8 weeks. His surgery is scheduled for Monday (August 24).

Spicer is another defensive lineman that Carroll and company are expecting big things from, but he has recently been slowed down with some minor injuries that have him out for about two weeks. The backups are obviously very capable but again the big issue here is inexperience... how will the d-line develop? They have the talent but they need health and maturity to follow.

3. Brand new set of Linebackers: Without Rey Rey and Cushing the Trojans linebacking crew may look quite a bit different this season. Junior Michael Morgan, Junior Malcom Smith, and Sophomore Chris Galippo are going to be the main names that college football fans will be hearing this year in regards to thje class of '09 at "Linebacker U."

All have tremendous size and athleticism but as redundant as this may sound... where is the experience? None of these guys have seen much playing time because of the past stars that are now millionaires in the NFL. How will they handle a mobile quarterback like Terrelle Pryor and how will they shut down Mr. Best from Cal just as their predecessors did last season? It is a question that we will all have answered by week two!

4. Joe Who? When Reggie Bush left USC for the NFL just a few seasons ago, USC fans everywhere were sad to see him go but were excited when they heard the "Next Reggie Bush" chose SC over LSU.

Joe Mcknight is one of those runners that doesn't come around too often, so we thought. He has been a big disappointment to many critics and has experienced a ton of injuries. Mcknight is very gifted... fast, quick, agile, and smart; yet he appears to be injury prone which often times slows his motor significantly. At times he has shown that he can be similarly great to Bush, while other times he shows a lack of toughness. If USC wants it all this year, Mcnight needs to show what he is capable of.

5. Coaching Changes: New offensive coordinator, new defensive coordinator, and a new Director of Football are just a few of the staff changes the Trojans have had to endure this off season. New offensive coordinator Johnny Morton will have a tough task of trying to prepare young and inexperienced quarterbacks for weekly battles. The new defensive coordinator Rocky Seto will have a huge task on his hands as he needs to turn a very young front seven into a game-changing defense.

5a. Tough schedule: USC's schedule this year will be arguably the toughest road schedule in the nation. At no. 6 Ohio State, at no. 12 Cal, at no. 16 Oregon, at no. 23 Notre Dame, and even in a possible down year a game at Arizona State may not be easy.

Five Positives

1. The Secondary: Although the Trojan's defense as a whole may not be quite as good as last year's team, the secondary I believe will be better. Each and every corner and safety has had pretty extensive game-time experience and there is no secondary in the nation that has as many big hitters.

Shareece Wright and Kevin Thomas will control the corners and both have solid experience and did I mention they know how to hit? The safeties are no doubt the best combination in America, All-American Free Safety Taylor Mays and strong safety Josh Pinkard. This secondary will not give up big plays down field and if you test them, they will hit you hard... just ask Penn State and Cal.

2. A bundle of five-star running backs: There is no arguing this... USC has the best team of running backs in the nation, hands down. The depth chart as of now shows that USC's top runner this year will be Stafon Johnson who was also last year's go to runner.

Second is Joe Mcknight, but do not be surprised to see his overall role in the offense much bigger than anyone else. Mcknight has speed, moves, quickness, and according to the entire caching staff Mcknight is one hundred percent healthy for the first time and looks better than ever.

Third we have C.J. Gable, who is similar to Stafon Johnson but a little faster and a little softer of a runner. Gable to me has the best potential in the NFL and I think Johnson and Gable will share the most carries.

Next we have Allen Bradford who is a flat-out beast. He is 5'11 and weighs in at 235 pounds. Thus, it becomes rather obvious that when USC wants to pound the ball this year, they will turn to Bradford... not a bad option at all.

The fifth option for the Trojans would be the first option for any other team; Marc Tyler, a bruising five star sophomore running back. Tyler's role may be limited this year but he has a bright future which he showed glimpses of last year.

Lastly, we have Curtis McNeal, a true freshman. He is the smallest of the running backs by a long shot (5'8 180 pounds), but he is also the fastest running back on the team. There have been some practice reports that have said that McNeal will definitely see some playing time this season because the coaches are eager to use his explosiveness. All in all, USC is certainly living up to its nickname... "TAILBACK U".

3. Wide receiver group: USC typically has pretty solid receivers, but usually not too many with breakaway speed. This year's receiving corps is maybe the best overall group they have had in a long time and several of the wide outs have great speed.

This year's top target will be Damian Williams who had a very solid season last year. Williams has decent speed but has incredible route running skills that seem to always give him a gap to make a catch.

On the other side of the field, Matt Barkley will be eyeing the speedster from Michigan, Ronald Johnson. He will most certainly be used as the deep threat and possible trick play receiver.

Their backups or guys that will see the field in three or four receiver sets will be: Travon Patterson who is similar to Ronald Johnson in size and speed, next there's David Ausberry who is the Taylor Mays of receivers, 6'4 and 235 pounds, last there's Bryce Butler who is their highly talented freshman with probably the best hands on the team. It's fairly easy to see that if freshman quarterback Matt Barkley can get the ball to them than they will most certainly make plays.

4. Powerful offensive line: Last year's offensive line was criticized at the beginning of the year for being too inexperienced and too small, and now? Well, I would argue that USC's offensive line will produce at least two first round draft picks in the 2010 and 2011 NFL drafts. This group is another year older and is even bigger and stronger than ever.

This is how SC's o-line will look: 6'6 295 pound tackle Charles Brown, 6'6 270 pound tackle Tyron Smith, 6'4 285 pound guard Jeff Byers, 6'5 280 pound guard Nick Howell, and last there's the 6'5 300 pound center Kristofer O'dowd. If the o-line manages to avoid serious injuries, then it is a safe bet that the Trojan's running backs will have nice holes to run through and Barkley will have the necessary time in the pocket to make the right throw.

5. New offensive coordinator, the return of Jethro: One of the most important things that happened to the USC program this past off-season has gone rather unnoticed... the return of Jethro Franklin. Franklin is the new defensive line coach and according to the entire team, he has made a huge difference especially for Defensive End Everson Griffin. He was once a part of the Trojan program but opted to go work in the NFL for a few seasons.

Now he is back, and it couldn't be a more perfect time. Even though the defensive line is young, it would not surprise me one bit if they exceeded expectations because of Franklin's influence.

Lastly, USC has yet another new offensive coordinator, Johnny Morton. Jeremy Bates will also be sharing the offensive coordinator duties and will mostly be calling the plays. Bates coached for the Denver Broncos the last few season and worked with Jay Cutler. Many people think this could be a step back for USC; I however, think this will be a step forward.

Steve Sarkisian was a solid offensive coordinator but in my opinion as well as most Trojan's faculty, fans I have spoken with, Sarkisian's play-calling held USC's offense back at times. He called a very conservative game and at times it was very predictable.

Bates has more of a reputation of challenging the offense and calling plays that may catch opposing defenses by surprise. I do think Sarkisian will bring Washington back to glory after a couple of seasons, but as far as a play-caller goes, I don't think he will be missed nearly as much as some media outlets insist.

5a. Team chemistry: In some sports team chemistry can be overrated but that is definitely not the case in college. Chemistry is huge and if players are willing to do what's right to help each other, they will be successful. This year's team has the best chemistry yet according to many sources and it is videos like this that make you believe it is true!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Suas0jhcPNI

*Watch the entire clip, it gets better and better.

RIP Nick Adenhart: A Drunk Driver Shatters Yet Another Dream

Jonny Solovy — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 21:10:41 -0400

He was 22 years old. Let me repeat that, 22 years old.

This morning, April 9, 2009, Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart was suddenly and tragically murdered by a stupid drunk driver in California.

I use the word murdered because it's the truth. If the driver didn't want to commit such an awful crime than maybe he should have swallowed his pride for a night and called a buddy or taxi to take him home.

At this point almost everyone knows most of the details so I don't want to get too in depth because it is horribly sad and extremely depressing.

Adenhart was on top of the world last night after he held the Oakland A's scoreless through six innings. Although the Angels later lost the game, Adenhart pitched a tremendous game and proved to everyone that he did belong in the majors.

Last night should have been a night of elation for him as he realized all of his hard work had paid off. His parents I'm sure watched on with amazed and proud eyes as all parents do for their kids.

When someone strives for a dream their entire lives and they finally achieve it the emotion is something I am sure nobody can truly explain.

Adenhart may have indeed achieved his dream by making it to the majors, but the selfish man who drove through the red light, drunk, will always be the one who destroyed it. I hope he spends the rest of his life asking for forgiveness and uses his experience as a way to teach all people that drinking and driving doesn't just affect your life, it affects everyone's.

I am very sensitive to this topic because just nine years ago one of my great childhood friends and sports teammates was killed by a drunk driver. My friend was 15 years old, and unfortunately his mom and dad were also in the car. All three of them died.

My friend was holding on as the ambulance reached the hospital, but his parents were already dead at the scene of the accident. He had no idea that they had died because he was going in and out of consciousness. The paramedics were assuring him that his parents were right behind them.

Once they reached the hospital the doctors began looking at Ryan and it became apparent right away that he was not going to make it. He knew it. The doctors knew it. God knew it.

My good friend and teammate Ryan looked into the doctors' eyes and said, "Are my parents okay?" The doctors again assured him that his parents were alive and were going to make it. He told the doctors, "Tell them that I love them and I will always be with them and I will see them again."

Ryan passed away at 15, his parents died, and of course the drunk driver who hit them survived it all.

Where were my friend and his parents going? Oh, just to his sister's wedding. Can you imagine making that phone call? "Your brother, mom, and dad were just killed by a drunk driver. I'm sorry."

Now, just imagine being Nick Adenhart's parents. They went to bed as proud as ever of their major league pitcher son, only to find out hours later that he was gone.

This hits me hard and I never met Adenhart, never talked to him, and never shook his hand. I only saw him pitch two or three times and hardly knew his name.

Now, I'll never forget his name.

I am sick and tired of these ignorant people who think "It will never happen to me."

What needs to happen for people to learn from other's mistakes? We see this far too often and it almost seems to be a habitual storyline in our news. Is it too hard to call for a cab? Is it too stressful to tell a buddy that you had too much to drink?

I know nothing about this drunk driving murderer, but I don't need to know anything about him to realize what a selfish act this was.

Please people: Kids, adults, and college students save a life by choosing not to drink and drive.

It is too late to save Nick Adenhart's life but it is not too late to make sure this sort of thing doesn't ever happen to you. We all love a good time but good times don't involve endangering other people.

Rest in peace, Nick. The fans will miss you.

To your parents, family, friends, and anyone else who knew you, keep living your dream. But instead of playing for a team whose jersey says "Angels," use your new wings in a place much better than we have down here.

God bless.

USC's Tim Floyd Turns Down Arizona: Wildcats, I've Got the Perfect Coach for You

Jonny Solovy — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 20:09:08 -0400

Just 24 hours ago, ESPN and other sports outlets were reporting that Tim Floyd was leaving USC for the University of Arizona.

Amazing how much changes in one day.

Now comes the official word: Floyd isn't going anywhere. Floyd will remain at USC after three straight 20-win seasons. For USC fans this is good news because under Floyd the Trojans have been the most consistent they have been in over a decade. Not to mention Floyd has another stellar recruiting class headed to L.A., including McDonald's All-American Renardo Sidney.

When Floyd originally took the job at USC he told the program, fans, and players that it would be his last coaching job and he would like to end his career as the Trojans' coach. A few hours ago Floyd looked like another coach backing out on his word and proving yet again why coaching in general has become a joke.

Some local Los Angeles media outlets are claiming that at USC's banquet dinner on Tuesday night Floyd told the players who were considering the jump to the NBA to stay because they had "Final Four" potential and he wanted to stay at USC for good. Could this have been a main reason why Floyd stayed? I would think so.

Now Trojans' fans can only hope that players like Taj Gibson, Daniel Hackett, and even Freshman sensation Demar DeRozan will listen to Floyd and come back for next season. If so, is it too premature to think the Trojans may indeed be the PAC 10 favorites next season?

As for Arizona...the search continues. Names like Xavier's head coach Sean Miller are rumored, even Pitt head coach Jamie Dixon is rumored to be on the Wildcat's short list.

If I were Arizona there is one coach who hasn't coached in a few years that I would call to help rebuild their program, and no it is not Bob Knight. The very same guy I am about to mention would have also been my top choice for USC's replacement had Tim Floyd chosen to leave USC.

Drum rolls... Arizona, call ESPN and ask to speak to Steve Lavin! Yes, Steve Lavin. You are going to have to cough up major bucks for Miller or Capel or Dixon so you might as well buy Lavin out of his deal with ESPN and name him your new head coach.

Why you ask? I'll tell you why. When Lavin took over the UCLA program in 1996, he had to completely rebuild a program that was coming off recruiting violations from Jim Harrick. Not only did Lavin turn them around, he actually built them up into "UCLA" again.

His team made six straight tournaments. He and Duke's head coach, Coach K, are the ONLY two head coaches to lead their teams to five straight Sweet 16 appearances. In those appearances he made the Final 4 once and Elite 8 once. Seven of the players Lavin recruited are currently still playing in the NBA. He was also the assistant coach at UCLA in 1995 when they last won a national championship.

Coaching at Arizona you need to be able to recruit California and keep Arizona players in state... Lavin is capable of doing both. He has charm, knowledge (Assisted for Purdue's legendary Coach Gene Keady), and he has the ability and experience to make Arizona relevant again.

Plus, the dry desert air would keep that slicked back hair as shiny as ever!

The 5 Things in Sports I Miss Most

Jonny Solovy — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 21:22:42 -0400

As sports fans we tend to always look back at the past and claim how great things "used to be." From the way players used to play the game to how announcers used to call the events. Things have certainly changed, some for the better, others for the worse. This slideshow displays the "5 Things in Sports I Miss Most." The list is in no particular order and feel free to add a list of your own!

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Bud Selig Arrested Today For Under Age Drinking Event in 1950; Others Worried

Jonny Solovy — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:55:59 -0500

BREAKING NEWS:

Bud Selig, the current Commissioner of Major League Baseball, was arrested at approximately 11:33 PM last night at his home near Milwaukee. The arrest comes on the heels of Selig's remarks that Alex Rodriguez may face some sort of suspension for admitting his steroid usage in the early 2000s.

Ironically, police and other private investigators had been working together since Wednesday afternoon to build a case against Selig possibly breaking a law in his "past."

Police Chief Rose Pete claims that investigators have uncovered two photos in which Selig was "drinking some sort of alcoholic beverage" and also "doing a keg-stand surrounded by other drunk under age teens." This comes as a huge shock considering how impeccable Selig's background was thought to be.

One of the private investigators, Jose Sosa, claims that the events in these photos occurred when "He (Selig) was just 16-years-old, which would make what he did, illegal."

Selig had no direct response when reporters and camera crews swarmed him as he walked hand-cuffed from his house to the police car but did release a statement through his attorney:

"I don't know why I have been arrested, I am innocent of any charges filed against me. I did engage in some drinking before I was 18-years-old but that was nearly 59 years ago. I don't know how the police can possibly arrest me like this or possibly suspend me from my position as Baseball Commissioner when I was never caught in the act. My attorney and I will work as hard as we possibly can to prove how wrong this is and how much of a witch hunt this has become."

In other sports related news, swimmer Michael Phelps was contacted via his jail cell where he commented that "knew exactly how Selig felt."

Meanwhile, Alex Rodriguez had no comment but said "What he did was illegal at the time, he should be punished."

The story does not end there though; in fact, there are several renowned athletes who are concerned that their pasts are going to harm or end their careers or reputations.

Darryl Strawberry is now concerned that he will "be arrested for soliciting sex inside of a baseball stadium," something he says he does not regret but "knows it was against the law."

Florida Gator's football stud Tim Tebow is intensely nervous that police will discover that one weekend when Tebow was driving from his home to Gainesville he "drove 67 MPH in a 65 MPH zone." When asked if he thought he would be questioned by the police Tebow responded, "I hope not but if I am I will do my best to teach the youth what I did was wrong and irresponsible."

ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit defended Tebow this morning when talking to reporters, "In Tim's defense, I am pretty positive God told him that 67 MPH was the right speed to do."

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Matt Leinart is also shaking in his bed due to his past experiences with "under age women drinking booze in my jacuzzi." Leinart claims he "thought they were 21" but when they told him they were 19 he asked them to "prove their innocence."

Other NFL and MLB stars alike are expressing their nervousness as investigators and police across America bear down on these past situations. This includes Albert Pujols of the St. Louis Cardinals and Randy Moss of the New England Patriots who have admitted they used to "bail out of lunch tabs all the time" before they made it big.

When FBI Director Clinton Bush was asked why law enforcement everywhere was concentrated so greatly on these issues he replied, "They broke the law, therefore they must be punished." At this point he then nudged several reporters and said "Off the record...what better way to get the attention away from the real problems in America, like the economy and new stimulus package(s)?? Plus, some of these guys have some serious cash, they can help our economy by paying their fines."

All in all it seems that players and people everywhere need to not only watch their backs but also their past. In the same jail side interview mentioned before with Michael Phelps, he also told reporters that the first thing he would do when he got out of jail was "delete my Facebook of course!"

I guess the famous author Oscar Wilde was right...

"No man is rich enough to buy back his past."

A-Rod Steroids Fallout: Twelve Other Players Who Might Have Juiced

Jonny Solovy — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 12:15:01 -0500

We have all heard the news by now, Alex Rodriguez, future Hall of Famer tested and admitted to using steroids in the early 2000's. It personally did not surprise me but it did sadden me. Baseball is under a microscope now and I believe if A-Rod's name was released, the other 103 players names should be released. Here are ten players that I personally believe were steroid users during some or most of their careers. I tried to take players that the media and fans may not have talked about much and whose names have yet to be named. Let me know what you think and who you agree or disagree with on my list. Also, let me know if there are other players who you believe are on this list. ***Remember this is MY personal list. I am not declaring all 12 of these guys were on steroids it is merely my opinion based on their stats, bodies, and surroundings that the following players may have used performance enhancing drugs.

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A-Rod's Positive Steroid Test Comes as No Surprise

Jonny Solovy — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 11:11:57 -0500

Alex Rodriguez tested positive for steroids in 2003, his final year with the Texas Rangers, according to a report at SI.com.

My question is this...what took so long to figure this out? His body transformed just like Barry Bonds' did. His power numbers have been ridiculous and several former players including Canseco were skeptical of A-Rod's usage.

A-Rod, for the most part, is a very unpopular character; on the field, he was well-liked, besides the playoff collapses he has had; but he has been notoriously unpopular off the field.

I have been skeptical of A-Rod for years now, so this comes as no surprise to me.

However, why did this take so long? Why did SI.com just get this story out now? Could Major League Baseball have covered up his positive tests? Could Barry Bonds and Jose Canseco be right...have they been black-balled from the game? My initial feeling is yes.

Again, this story just broke, so the facts are unclear, but, according to Sports Illustrated, A-Rod tested postive for an anabolic steroid in 2003.

At this point, I have more anger and questions toward Bud Selig than I do Canseco. Can someone please get Selig out of office so the game can get cleaned up? Selig is paid over $17 million a year...what a joke!

How does everyone feel about this? Why did the MLB and Selig never suspend A-Rod or talk about his problem...if SI was able to get the information, why wouldn't the MLB?

How sad is it that so many people criticized Canseco day in and day out and, once again, the only man who seems to be telling the truth is the very man baseball has black-balled—how ironic.