Bleacher Report - Articles by Paul Fulwiler

Oregon State's Mike Riley Should Be Notre Dame's Coach-In-Waiting

Paul Fulwiler — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:56:45 -0500

It's only a matter of time, it seems, until Notre Dame pulls the plug on the Charlie Weis experiment. After two home losses to Navy in the past three seasons it appears a foregone conclusion.

The real question is who will be tabbed to replace him. And the answer is Oregon State's Mike Riley .

Notre Dame can go three different ways with its next hire (we won't even consider the Urban Meyer option. Sorry Irish fans, it's just not going to happen): 1) an NFL coach or assistant, 2) a young up-and-coming college coach or coordinator, or 3) an experienced college head coach.

FROM CHARLIE TO CHUCKY?

History has shown them that option No. 1 may be out of the question, unless of course Jon Gruden is truly interested. The former Tampa Bay head man (and winner of Super Bowl XXXVII), as well as Clay High School alum (in South Bend), is currently sitting in the Monday Night Football booth and should have several suitors this offseason.

Notre Dame would be crazy to pass up on hiring him and should make a generous offer...soon.

Chances: Possible (5-1)

YOUTH MOVEMENT?

Will former Irish assistants Charlie Strong and Steve Addazio be given a shot? Although certainly qualified, it's doubtful that Notre Dame will reach for either Florida coordinator to right their ship. They could, however, be in line for these relatively young head coaches:

1) Chris Petersen , 45, Boise St.: will be landing a big gig somewhere soon. All he does is win (44-4) and has a few big wins under his belt already: Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl and Oregon each of the past two seasons.

Chances: Possible (5-1)

2) Kyle Whittingham , 49, Utah: has only been the head man since 2005 (following the departure of Urban Meyer), but has fared quite well with a 45-15 record, including 4-0 in bowls and an unblemished 13-0 campaign in 2008.

Chances: Decent shot (6-1)

3) Brian Kelly , 48, Cincinnati: putting together another successful campaign and will also have his pick of jobs should he choose to move on.

Chances: Somewhat likely (8-1)

ARE YOU EXPERIENCED?

Landing Gruden would be a coup, and could put the Irish right back on the national scene. Going for the sexy hire of a BCS buster like Petersen or Whittingham might also seem intriguing.

Nevertheless, what Notre Dame should do, and in all likelihood will do, is go after an established head coach with a proven track record of success in both recruiting and winning.

1) Kirk Ferentz , 54, Iowa: used to be everyone's top pick, faded a bit in recent years, but now with his Hawkeyes sitting at 9-1 he'll have the attention of several potential suitors.

Chances: Maybe (7-1)

2) Jim Grobe , 57, Wake Forest: has made a winner out of one of the worst programs in NCAA history, including an Orange Bowl appearance (and 11-3 mark) in 2006.

Chances: Maybe (7-1)

3) Mike Bellotti, 58, Oregon (retired): what's that? He's retired. Sure, but he was also on their very short list in recent years and has the proven track record they should be seeking.

Chances: Unlikely (25-1)

Which leads us to one man. The current head coach at Oregon State, former Alabama player, former USC assistant, and former San Diego Chargers head coach Mike Riley.

He has the experience they need, both in the college and the NFL (as well as the CFL). He's been recruiting California for years (both with USC and OSU) and has had success in other regions as well, nabbing the Rodgers brothers out of Texas.

He wins (63-45). He wins bowl games (5-0). And most importantly for Notre Dame fans, he beats USC, 33-31 in 2006 and 27-21 in 2008.

Notre Dame also has a little bit of history in attempting to lure coaches out of the state of Oregon: see Mike Bellotti above, as well as Oregon's basketball coach Ernie Kent and OSU's baseball coach, Pat Casey. While they weren't successful in those attempts, might they be successful in luring Riley this December?

Chances: Likely (3-1)

2009 Midseason All Pac-10 Football

Paul Fulwiler — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 20:19:53 -0400

As we hover around the midway point of the 2009 College Football season, it's time to pause and reflect on the first half and figure out what we've learned...

Not a whole lot, actually. Compared to how I saw things shaping up this season (see 2009 Preview ) the Pac-10 has the usual suspects up top (USC and Oregon) and the perennial cellar dwellers near or at the bottom (WSU).

There were a few surprises early (Washington over USC and UCLA over Tennessee come to mind), as well as a surprise right hook in Boise that left the Ducks wondering what would become of their 2009 season.

And that is precisely the reason why, at the halfway point at least, the Pac-10 Coach of the Year is Oregon's Chip Kelly. Since that fateful blow was struck on the blue turf, Kelly has led his Ducks to five straight wins, including ending the nation's longest winning streak by beating Utah, a 42-3 shellacking of then No. 6 Cal, and an impressive road victory in the Rose Bowl, 24-10 over UCLA.

With that, the midseason players of the year...

Offense: Toby Gerhart (Stanford) Has rushed for 869 yards (which leads the conference) and 12 TDs in leading a resurgent Cardinal team. Can they keep it up?

Defense: Taylor Mays (USC) We all saw what happened with him out of the lineup in Seattle. He does it all for the Trojans.

Freshman: LaMichael James (Oregon) Has filled in exceptionally for the departed LeGarrette Blount, going over 100 yards three times in leading the Ducks to five straight wins. This season's Jacquizz Rodgers?

Midseason All Pac-10 (First Team in Bold)

OFFENSE

QB - Locker (UW); Barkley (USC)

RB - Gerhart (Stanford), Rodgers (OSU); James (Oregon), Best (California)

WR - Rodgers (OSU), Whalen (Stanford); Williams, D. (USC), Williams, K. (ASU)

TE - Dickson (Oregon); McCoy (USC)

OL - O'Dowd (USC), Byers (USC), Marinelli (Stanford), Kaiser (Oregon), Ossai (UW); Baxter (Arizona), Peat (OSU), Tepper (Cal), Parsons (USC), Holmes (Oregon)

DEFENSE

DL - Price (UCLA), Griffen (USC), Te'O-Nesheim (UW), Rowe (Oregon); Alualu (California), Perry (USC), Tukuafu (Oregon), Casey (USC)

LB - Kristick (OSU), Carter (UCLA), Galippo (USC); Mohammed (California), Snyder (Stanford), Butler (UW)

DB - Mays (USC), Verner (UCLA), Thompson (California), Lewis (Oregon); Moore (UCLA), Ross (Arizona), Boyett (Oregon), McNally (Stanford)

Special Teams

KR - Owusu (Stanford); Austin (UCLA)

PR - Williams, D. (USC); Austin (UCLA)

K - Forbath (UCLA); Flint (Oregon)

P - Locke (UCLA); Hankins (ASU)

Don't expect to see this actual group of players when the honors are passed out (prematurely) this December. (Still not sure why they don't wait until the season is actually over to vote on these, but that's just me—the guy handing them out in mid-October.)

Do expect to see someone emerge as a true offensive player of the year (no offense Toby) as the second half unfolds—perhaps in the Halloween showdown at Autzen.

Or perhaps Quizz Rodgers makes his case for a repeat honor in his first Civil War appearance. Stay tuned...

2009 NCAA Football Preview: Punxsutawney Phil Steele at It Again

Paul Fulwiler — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 00:42:50 -0400

“Okay, campers, rise and shine, and don't forget your booties 'cause it's cooooold out there today…”

“Well, it's Groundhog Day... again... and that must mean that we're up here at Gobbler's Knob waiting for the forecast from the world's most famous groundhog (sportswriter), Punxsutawney Phil, who's just about to tell us…”

…the Oregon Ducks didn’t make his top 25! Where does Punxsutawney Phil Steele, “the seer of seers, prognosticator of prognosticators” have the Ducks rated then? 26? 27?

The Coaches Poll has Oregon at No. 14. They land at No. 16 in the AP. Sporting News places them at No. 7. Jeff Sagarin has them at No. 10. And Sports Illustrated tabbed the Ducks as BCS "Party Crashers," ranked them No. 11, and even put them on their regional cover.

In fact, at least 11 different prominent forecasters have the Ducks in their preseason top 10. And according to the Massey Ratings, which takes an average of 28 different experts, Oregon sits at No. 10.

So, Punxsutawney Phil, what is it? 30? 31? Would you believe not even in his top 50?!? And Phil only lists 50, so we’ll never know just how low he has them.

“That's right, woodchuck-chuckers…it's…GROUNDHOG DAY!”

Phil Steele has a tendency to do this every year it seems. And by this I mean completely blow it on a handful of teams.

I’ll admit it, for the better part of a decade I’ve felt Phil could do no wrong, especially compared to Athlon’s, Lindy’s, and the like. I’d buy them all. And Phil would outperform them in every aspect—info, insight, stats, and picks.

Then I started noticing that he takes a few too many fliers and often misses. And I started to realize that to beat out those mags isn’t saying a whole lot—the majority of them just want to be out there first, regardless if they make the right picks, or even have the right depth charts.

Since 2005, an average of 20 teams from Phil Steele’s top 50 have not received a single vote in the final Coaches Poll.

Also since 2005, 18 different teams have ended the season ranked in the Top 25, yet, were mistakenly omitted from Phil’s Top 50.

2005

Along with his various stats and formulas, Phil has always been big on returning starters. In fact, it’s even on his Facebook page regarding his concerns for the 2009 Oregon Ducks having “just 9 returning starters.”

West Virginia, according to his 2005 mag, had the “fewest returning starters in the league.” They missed out on his top 49 that year. Yet, the Mountaineers somehow managed an 11-1 season and a No. 6 final ranking.

TCU, in 2005, "must rebuild the O-line," he wrote. Not in Phil’s Top 49, yet finished 11-1 and #9 in the nation.

Notre Dame, always overhyped and overrated, right? Not by Phil Steele. Nowhere on his list for 2005, yet finished 9-3 and No. 11.

Conversely, Phil had Purdue as his No. 3 team in the land in 2005. And to be fair, the Coaches had them at No. 16. Final ranking, however: zero votes, finished 5-6.

He apparently swapped Purdue out with Tennessee that year. The Vols were #3 in the Coaches poll yet No. 15 in Phil’s. Final ranking: zero votes, finished 5-6.

2006

In 2006, he wrote that the Wisconsin Badgers have a new coach (Oregon also welcomes a new Head Coach, Chip Kelly, in 2009) and "only have 11 returning starters." Not in Phil’s top 47 for the year, but Bret Bielema and his Badgers somehow manufactured a 12-1 season and a No. 5 final ranking.

Also in 2006, Rutgers, BYU, Wake Forest, and Oregon State, all found themselves without any love from Phil. And all ended up ranked in the final top 25.

And while he failed to see those teams on the rise, he stuck to the tried and true—ranking Miami and Florida State at No. 7 and No. 10, respectively. And yet with each school having just "11 starters back" both were out of the top 25 with 7-6 marks in 2006.

2007

Phil almost nailed the top two in 2007, placing USC No. 1 and LSU No. 2. They would finish in reverse order, as the Tigers took home the National Title.

Kansas, on the other hand, was picked 5th in the Big 12 North by Phil, claiming the offensive line "unit is clearly less experienced." He had them completely out of his top 50 and watched as they went 12-1, finishing at No. 7 in the nation.

Boston College, and new NFL darling, Matt Ryan, went 10-3 in 2006. However, Phil felt that "breaking in a new coaching staff" might be too much. He picked them last in the ACC Atlantic and obviously out of his entire top 50. The Eagles finished 11-3 and sat at No. 11 at the end of 2007.

College, and new NFL darling, Matt Ryan, went 10-3 in 2006. However, Phil felt that "breaking in a new coaching staff" might be too much. He picked them last in the ACC Atlantic and obviously out of his entire top 50. The Eagles finished 11-3 and sat at No. 11 at the end of 2007.

And while he did almost nail his 2007 Oregon Ducks pick (calling them a "darkhorse National Title contender," only to see them, and their lofty #2 ranking, crumble with the loss of QB Dennis Dixon) he also failed to see the rise of Cincinnati and Texas Tech. Both teams would finish in the top 25 in 2007.

2008

2008 was one of Phil’s better years. He picked Florida to win it all, and they did. And everyone of the final top 15 were somewhere in his top 50 (although picking No. 3 Texas down at No. 15 was a bit off).

He also didn’t drink the proverbial kool-aid that everyone else did and pick Georgia. He had them at No. 9 and they finished at No. 10. However, he did fail to rank Cincinnati, Oregon State, Georgia Tech, or Michigan State in his preseason top 50. And all four schools finished 2008 ranked somewhere in the top 25.

In fact, of Oregon State, he wrote that they have the "second fewest amount of returning starters in conference" and that "they won’t match last year’s nine win total." They finished 9-4 and ranked No. 19.

Clemson, on the other hand, was a popular pick by most, with their "16 returning starters." Phil had them all the way up at No. 5, higher than most. But after firing Coach Tommy Bowden, the Tigers would rally to finish at 7-6.

As the year-by-year examples above can attest, Phil has missed on more than his share of teams. But he’s not alone.

Of the 18 misses referenced above, 14 received some votes in the USA Today Preseason Coaches Poll, but only one was in the top 25.

Also, since 2005, there have been 25 different teams ranked in the Coaches Poll that were not represented in Phil Steele’s top 25 (an average of five per season). Of all those 25 teams, the 2009 Oregon Ducks are the highest ranked team (at No. 14) to not even crack Phil’s top 50.

Yes, the Ducks need to shore up some depth on both lines, but they also return some big time playmakers, including QB Jeremiah Masoli (who Phil tabs as the Pac-10’s 1st team QB, which is a bit odd and hard to reconcile with where he picked Oregon) and RB LeGarrette Blount, who rushed for over 1,000 yards and led the conference with 17 TDs, all as a backup to Jeremiah Johnson.

And yes, Mike Bellotti is out as head coach, and in steps former Offensive Coordinator Chip Kelly. The last time Oregon tried that, with Bellotti stepping in when Rich Brooks bolted for the NFL in 1995, the Ducks went from 9-4 to 9-3, as Bellotti began to build the foundation for Oregon as one of the Pac-10s’ premier programs.

And as Kelly takes over, with his former mentor now his Athletic Director, he looks to build on one of the nation’s best running games with a spread option passing game, adding several tall and speedy targets for Masoli to roll out and find.

In fact, while at New Hampshire, prior to coming to Oregon in 2007, Kelly’s teams were always among the nation’s leaders in passing, including in 2006 when his QB Ricky Santos threw for 3,125 yards, 29 TDs, and won the Walter Payton Award (Division I-AA’s Heisman equivalent).

Throw in the fact that in his only season of junior college ball, Masoli led his City College of San Francisco team to a national title, not on the ground, but through the air (by going 258-421 [61.3%] for 3,592 yards and 30 TD’s) and you have the makings of what could be an unstoppable offense.

Now what does all this mean? Sure, forecasters are going to miss from time to time. They all do. To miss is one thing, but to go this far off the radar is quite another.

For Oregon to be as far south of the top 25 as Phil believes, lying somewhere between 51-120, they would need to finish, at best, 5-7. This would mean they would have to lose road games at Boise St., UCLA, Arizona, and Stanford (or UW), as well as lose home games to Cal, USC, and Oregon State. That seems a bit of a stretch.

To me, the schedule, and how that flows throughout the season should be first and foremost when forecasting records. And Oregon’s 2009 schedule, which is quite favorable, couldn’t be the reason that Punxsutawney Phil neglected to include them in his top 50.

So, it must be due to his all-important "NCAA Team Experience Ratings," which has the Ducks ranked 103rd in the country for 2009. And I know that this stat is "new and improved" this year, but wouldn’t it have to be?

Consider the fact that sitting at 119th in the nation (out of 120) last season were the Texas Longhorns. Oh, and they were actually tied for 119th. And with whom were they tied? That's right, the 2008 National Champion Florida Gators.

Now Phil, you don’t know me and you’ve never even heard of me, but "I sure as heckfire remember you," and I hope next season when you come up to check for your shadow, or whatever it is you do, that I'm not left with six more weeks of research to prove you wrong.

2009 Pac-10 Football Preview: Is The USC Dynasty Over?

Paul Fulwiler — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 04:43:46 -0400

It appears the Pac-10 Conference might finally be up for grabs. After nearly a decade of dominance, USC and Head Coach Pete Carroll may have more questions than answers this season.

We all remember the Mark Sanchez press conference just a few short months ago. The one in which the former Trojan quarterback announced he was leaving early for the NFL. And the one in which Pete Carroll looked as if someone had not only stolen his ice cream cone, but also kicked him in the privates while doing so.

Flash forward to the end of fall camp where Carroll finds himself naming a true freshman as his replacement for Sanchez. Sure, a very highly touted freshman in Matt Barkley, but also the first true freshman to ever be named No.1 QB at USC...I repeat...ever.

Throw in the fact the Trojans are replacing both coordinators (OC Steve Sarkisian and DC Nick Holt both bolted for the University of Washington) and just three defensive players with legitimate starting experience and the race for the Pac-10 Title in 2009 could be a real one, and it could play out a little bit differently.

First off, it's not enough to simply predict how teams are going to finish by simply labeling them an '8-4 team' or a '7-5 bowl team.' In order to forecast the Pac-10 standings you have to navigate your way through the schedule, game by game, week by week. The ebbs and flows of the schedule will dictate many of the wins and losses.

And in the Pac-10, it's about the schedule first. Just ask Washington about having to follow up an 0-12 season with a season-opening tilt with LSU, as well as early games against USC and at Notre Dame.

And second, you consider returning starters. Most importantly, and don't let USC's recent history fool you, it's most often been about a returning quarterback, preferably a senior.

California and the 0-12 Huskies are the ONLY Pac-10 teams returning their opening game quarterbacks from a year ago—and they each spent significant time on the sidelines, either due to injury (UW's Jake Locker) or coach's decision (Cal's Kevin Riley).

Three schools appear to be going with freshmen (either true or redshirt): USC's Matt Barkley, UCLA's Kevin Prince, and Stanford's Andrew Luck.

Three other schools are leaning toward senior signal callers who have some starting experience but have either been waiting in the wings, or on the trainer's table: Oregon State's Sean Canfield, Arizona State's Danny Sullivan, and Washington State's Kevin Lopina.

Arizona looks to be going with two quarterbacks, sophomores Matt Scott and Nick Foles.

And that leaves Oregon...

WEEK 1, SEPT. 5

The first week, and the season, actually kicks off Thursday night, September 3rd, with Oregon heading to Boise State to battle the Broncos on the blue turf.

Oregon will have junior Jeremiah Masoli back under center. Masoli started 10 games for the Ducks last season, and brings bruising runner LeGarrette Blount (and his Pac-10 leading 17 TDs) with him.

The conference, a woeful 19-38 in road games a year ago, will also be attempting to shore up some inefficiencies on defense.

No team returns more than four to their front seven. And not one Pac-10 defensive lineman or linebacker was named to any of the major preseason All-American teams.

Might this mean some high scoring games for the conference?

NOTABLE GAMES:

Oregon @ Boise St.

This is a revenge game for Oregon, after being punched in the mouth at Autzen last year, 37-32.

The Ducks, led by first year Head Coach Chip Kelly, are inexperienced on the offensive line, however, Boise counters with just two returning starters in their defensive front seven, and zero seniors.

And despite a solid Bronco secondary I look for Oregon, known for their potent running game, to shock Boise St. with an aerial attack as the Ducks and Air Kelly soar to a 1-0 start.

PREDICTION: Oregon 41 Boise St. 37

Central Michigan @ Arizona

Coach Mike Stoops' Wildcats will be attempting to find a replacement for the departed QB Willie Tuitama.

Central Michigan, on the other hand, will arrive in Tucson with their record setting signal caller, Dan LeFevour.

The Chippewas return 10 defensive starters that will have Stoops bouncing back and forth between Scott and Foles at quarterback, and LeFevour will add enough offense to place Stoops right back on the hot seat.

PREDICTION: Central Michigan 24 Arizona 20

Stanford @ Washington State

The conference opener pits a team on the rise in Coach Jim Harbaugh's Stanford Cardinal with a team nearing record depths in Coach Paul Wulff's WSU Cougars.

The Cougars fell 58-0 last year in Palo Alto. This year, even with the Cardinal sporting a new starter at QB (redshirt frosh Andrew Luck) it should be a nice start for Harbaugh in his quest for a bowl.

PREDICTION: Stanford 48 WSU 10

Others: Arizona State over Idaho State, LSU over Washington (big), California over Maryland (perhaps closer than expected), Oregon State over Portland State, UCLA over San Diego State, USC over San Jose State (despite Dick Tomey owning five wins over USC while at Arizona).

WEEK 2, SEPTEMBER 12

NOTABLE GAMES:

USC @ Ohio State

Does it get any bigger than this?

Here is where a lot of questions may be answered. Or perhaps some weaknesses exposed, as the script flips from a year ago when the Buckeyes came to LA with their true-frosh phenom Terrelle Pryor. Now it's USC's turn, coming into Columbus with Matt Barkley.

How will he handle 102,000 rabid Buckeye fans?

PREDICTION: Ohio State 23 USC 17

UCLA @ Tennessee

Lane Kiffin versus Norm Chow—the two former USC assistants face off in a rematch of last year's stunner, a 27-24 UCLA win.

Kiffin is taking over for the departed Phil Fulmer and will be looking to make a statement.

UCLA, under 2nd year Head Coach Rick Neuheisel, is just not quite ready for this cross country challenge.

PREDICTION: Tennessee 30 UCLA 20

Others: Wake Forest (and QB Riley Skinner) over Stanford, Oregon over Purdue, California over Eastern Washington, Washington over Idaho (the streak ends at 15 as the Huskies win their first game since beating Cal in 2007), Arizona over Northern Arizona, Oregon State over UNLV (but close), WSU over Hawaii in Seattle.

WEEK 3, SEPTEMBER 19

NOTABLE GAMES:

Arizona @ Iowa

If Mike Stoops thought the seat was hot after losing at home to Central Michigan, it will be scorching after the return trip from his alma mater.

Iowa, 9-4 a year ago, is 46-18 at home under Head Coach Kirk Ferentz.

PREDICTION: Iowa 27 Arizona 16

Utah @ Oregon

Only three returning starters to the Utah offense that shook up the BCS last year, going 13-0.

They also have two new coordinators and must replace QB Brian Johnson.

Heading into Autzen Stadium with this many questions could be a problem.

PREDICTION: Oregon 38 Utah 24

Others: California over Minnesota (in their new digs), Oregon State over Cincinnati, UCLA over Kansas State, Arizona over Louisiana-Monroe, Stanford over San Jose State, WSU over SMU (can you say Cougar winning streak now at two?), USC over Washington (could Sarkisian have something up his sleeve for Carroll, or the other way around? Huskies winning streak ends abruptly...at one).

WEEK 4, SEPTEMBER 26

NOTABLE GAMES:

California @ Oregon

In the conference season's first marquee matchup, Jeff Tedford comes back to Oregon (where he was coordinator from 1998-2001) and brings an Oregon quarterback with him.

Kevin Riley, from Beaverton High School, gets the nod at QB. However, he has not fared well against Pac-10 competition, and could be in for a rude awakening in his homecoming to Autzen.

Yes, Cal returns eight starters on defense, but they must replace three big-time linebackers.

PREDICTION: Oregon 24 California 23

Arizona @ Oregon State

The Wildcats are a dismal 1-9 in their last 10 against the Beavers. Mike Riley, after a rare good start in Corvallis, will have OSU more than ready and will have his first 4-0 start.

PREDICTION: Oregon State 27 Arizona 16

Others: Georgia over ASU (big and potentially ugly), Stanford over UW, USC over WSU.

WEEK 5, OCTOBER 3

NOTABLE GAMES:

USC @ California

Despite Cal's loss at Oregon the week prior, this will still be a huge game. But perhaps because of the loss, Cal will be a bit deflated and USC will pounce.

Barkley will be a little more experienced and the defense has the speed to contain potential All-American running back Jahvid Best and give QB Riley fits.

PREDICTION: USC 24 California 17

Oregon State @ Arizona State

ASU has won 16 straight over OSU in Tempe. And although this season the Sun Devils might be ripe for an "upset" I think Dennis Erickson will have enough on defense (led by potential All-American DE Dexter Davis) to steal one from his old team.

PREDICTION: ASU 20 OSU 17

Others: Stanford over UCLA (could the 4-1 Cardinal be ranked?), Notre Dame all over UW, Oregon over WSU.

WEEK 6, OCTOBER 10

NOTABLE GAMES:

Stanford @ Oregon State

Are the Cardinal contenders or pretenders?

Stanford got OSU early last season (which is the best time to get them), beating them in week one. Riley, who coached Harbaugh with the Chargers, will be happy to slap the pretender label on his former QB.

PREDICTION: OSU 31 Stanford 21

Oregon @ UCLA

Could this the first of two trips the 2009 Ducks will be making to Pasadena?

Rick Neuheisel would love to provide the stumbling block, but UCLA, with a rebuilt offensive line, new defensive coordinator and new QB will still be searching for too many answers to tame Oregon.

PREDICTION: Oregon 33 UCLA 27

Others: Arizona over UW (Wildcats coming off a bye spells trouble, even in Seattle), ASU over WSU.

So, if you've been keeping track, you'll know the mid-season standings will look something like this:

1. Oregon, 3-0 in Pac-10, 6-0 overall

2. USC, 3-0, 4-1

3. Arizona State, 2-0, 4-1

4. Stanford, 3-1, 4-2

5. Oregon State, 2-1, 5-1

6. Arizona, 1-1, 2-3

7. California, 0-2, 3-2

8. UCLA, 0-2, 2-3

9. Washington, 0-3, 1-5

10.Washington State, 0-4, 2-4

WEEK 7, OCTOBER 17

NOTABLE GAMES:

USC @ Notre Dame

Another big non-conference showdown for the Trojans and their young signal caller.

Will Barkley still be manning the huddle?

Perhaps.

Both teams have byes the week before, but the experience of Jimmy Clausen will be the difference and will provide another chink in the Trojan armor.

PREDICTION: Notre Dame 23 USC 20

Others: Cal over UCLA (the Bears take advantage of the bye week), Arizona over Stanford (Stoops saves job?), Washington over ASU (in an upset special on the road)

WEEK 8, OCTOBER 24

NOTABLE GAMES:

Oregon State @ USC

Yes, the Beavers have won two of the last three.

And yes, USC will be coming off a tough loss in South Bend.

But there is no way the Trojans will forget what last year's stunner in Corvallis cost them.

This is revenge time.

And it might not be pretty.

PREDICTION: USC 41 OSU 21

Others: Stanford over ASU, Oregon over Washington (Ducks make it six in a row, but the Huskies keep the spread under 20 for the first time), Arizona over UCLA (are Neuheisel's Bruins reeling?), Cal over WSU.

WEEK 9, OCTOBER 31

NOTABLE GAMES:

USC @ Oregon

Could it happen? Could the mighty Trojans lose for the third time in one season, something they haven't done since 2001, Pete Carroll's first season?

Well, since that first season, USC has been an underdog just one time.

Once.

In 2007, at Autzen Stadium, and the Ducks covered.

Happy Halloween, Matt Barkley.

PREDICTION: Oregon 24 USC 20

UCLA @ Oregon State

With the Beavers still reeling from their beating at USC, UCLA comes to Corvallis for an upset special.

Or is it?

The Bruins have actually won the past three at OSU.

PREDICTION: UCLA 31 OSU 27

Others: Cal over ASU, Notre Dame over WSU in San Antonio.

WEEK 9, NOVEMBER 7

NOTABLE GAMES:

Oregon @ Stanford

After the huge win over the Trojans the Ducks head to Palo Alto to face a Cardinal team coming off a bye week and looking to knock off an undefeated Oregon team.

Sound familiar at all?

In 2001, Stanford handed then undefeated Oregon it's only loss on its way to the 2002 Fiesta Bowl.

PREDICTION: Stanford 38 Oregon 34

Oregon State @ California

This time Kevin Riley gets outs of bounds.

Or will he even need to?

The Beavers often slump early. This year the slump comes mid-season, as they drop their third in a row.

PREDICTION: Cal 30 OSU 17

Others: USC over ASU, UCLA over UW (Neuheisel takes out old team), Arizona over WSU.

WEEK 10, NOVEMBER 14

NOTABLE GAMES:

Washington @ Oregon State

This was another potential upset special, but the Beavs should bounce back here at home to take their sixth in a row against the Huskies.

As hard to believe as that is.

PREDICTION: OSU 33 UW 24

Others: Cal over Arizona (Tedford's Bears getting hot), Oregon over ASU, USC over Stanford, UCLA over WSU (Neuheisel still talking 'Northwest Title?').

WEEK 11, NOVEMBER 21

NOTABLE GAMES:

Arizona State @ UCLA

This is a bowl or bust game for both schools.

Will Erickson be back if the Sun Devils fail to make the postseason again?

Can Neuheisel lead the Bruins to a bowl in just his second season?

PREDICTION: UCLA 35 ASU 28

California @ Stanford

The Big Game is starting to look Big again.

Fortunately, Stanford gets Cal at home.

Unfortunately, the Cardinal gets the Bears coming off five straight wins.

PREDICTION: Cal 37 Stanford 27

Oregon @ Arizona

Two years ago the Ducks came to Tucson poised for a National Title run, only to see it crumble in the desert as Dennis Dixon's knee buckled on the Arizona turf.

Now they'll need a win to keep their Rose Bowl hopes alive.

PREDICTION: Oregon 24 Arizona 21

Others: OSU over WSU

WEEK 12, NOVEMBER 28

NOTABLE GAMES:

UCLA @ USC

Is the USC dynasty over?

Perhaps, if only for a moment.

But they still own UCLA, no matter the uniform colors or the time outs taken.

PREDICTION: USC 28 UCLA 10

Others: ASU over Arizona (Stoops' chances for second bowl dwindle), Notre Dame over Stanford (Irish complete 4-0 sweep of Pac-10), UW over WSU (will Apple Cup mean something again someday?)

WEEK 13, DECEMBER 5

NOTABLE GAMES:

Oregon State @ Oregon

The not-so Civil War will again give one team the opportunity to spoil the others bid for a conference crown and a date in Pasadena.

Will Jacquizz Rodgers be on the field for the Beavers?

Or will Riley have overworked his potential All-American tailback yet again?

Regardless, he won't be enough as the OSU secondary will be unable to handle Air Kelly as the Ducks passing game is the difference in this one.

PREDICTION: Oregon 44 OSU 31

Others: Cal over UW, USC over Arizona (knocking them out of bowl contention

FINAL 2009 PAC-10 STANDINGS

1. Oregon, 8-1, 11-1 (Rose Bowl v. Ohio State)

2. USC, 8-1, 9-3 (Holiday Bowl v. Nebraska)

3. California, 7-2, 10-2 (Sun Bowl v. Oklahoma State)

4. Stanford, 5-4, 6-6 (Emerald Bowl v. North Carolina)

5. Oregon State, 4-5, 7-5 (Vegas Bowl v. TCU)

6. UCLA, 4-5, 6-6 (Poinsettia Bowl v. Utah)

7. Arizona, 4-5, 5-7

8. Arizona State, 3-6, 5-7

9. Washington, 2-7, 3-9

10.Washington State, 0-9, 2-10

There you have it.

2009 NFC Championship: Worst Ever!

Paul Fulwiler — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 17:28:54 -0500

Where have you gone Joe Montana? What happened to the glory days of the NFC? Cowboys and Niners. Giants and Redskins. Packers and Bears.

I guess the NFL got what it wanted. Parity is alive and well in 2009.

Not since the 1979-80 NFC title game, which pitted the 9-7 Los Angeles Rams with the 10-6 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has the NFC brought together two teams that have no business being here. And for the record, the Rams took out the Bucs, 9-0, in the lowest scoring (and hardest to watch) title game in history, followed by the inevitable loss to Pittsburgh in Super Bowl XIV.

Will the Steelers be waiting there again in 2009?

I don't know what it is about the Cardinals and Kurt Warner. Perhaps it's the glove on his throwing hand, maybe it's the innumerable cutaways and split screens with his wife, displaying their matching buzz-cuts.

I just can't imagine a world where he and his Arizona teammates could be hoisting a Super Bowl trophy, or even George Halas trophy for that matter.

Yes, Kurt Warner has been here. He's won it before. He's won MVP's. But the last time he and Donovan McNabb hooked up for the NFC title was way back in 2002 and things were very different.

Warner's team then, the St. Louis Rams, were 1999 Super Bowl Champs, had just gone 14-2, and were the No. 1 seed in the playoffs. McNabb's Eagles were the new kids on the block, had just won the NFC East with an 11-5 record and were poised for their run of four consecutive title game appearances.

They gave us quite a show as the Rams notched a 29-24 win and would go on to lose a thriller to New England in Super Bowl XXXVI.

This season Warner brings his Arizona Cardinals to the dance with a 9-7 record while McNabb counters with 9-6-1 (we all remember their tie, right?). Thus, guaranteeing an NFC participant in the Super Bowl with fewer than 10 regular season wins for the first time since those 1980 Rams.

Gone are the days when you had to be a great running team to win in the playoffs. Philadelphia boasts just the 22nd-best rushing offense, and Arizona the 32nd (out of 32 teams).

Defense wins championships? Arizona sits at 28th in the league in points per game.

Sure, we'll watch. But only because it's football, and there are only three games left (and no, I'm not counting the Pro Bowl). And not for a second will I think that either of these teams has even a remote shot at their AFC counterpart.

2008 Sports Girls Gone Wild

Paul Fulwiler — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 11:23:02 -0500

2008 was not a big year for Anna Kournikova. Nevertheless, I couldn't see doing this without her. She once made us all interested in everything Russian...and even a little bit interested in tennis. The year did bring us many great sports stories, and yes, I was able to find a link to a beautiful woman for just about all of them. Of course, there were the Summer Olympics, with the likes of Michael Phelps and Usain Bolt stealing the spotlight. And there was Tiger Woods and his magical finish at Torrey Pines (which I had the pleasure of witnessing first hand). However, I think we've all seen about enough of their mugs, so I chose to put my own slant on the Year in Sports. Enjoy...

Begin Slideshow

Fantasy Football Is Killing The NFL

Paul Fulwiler — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 09:32:11 -0500

USA Today, February 10, 2010: Oakland Raiders' owner, Al Davis, has hired Ronald Lowenstein to be his next General Manager and Director of Player Personnel. Lowenstein, 27, has no prior NFL experience, however, he was won his highly competitive Fantasy Football League on ESPN.com three out of the last five years.

Far-fetched? Perhaps. But if you consider the success that the "Moneyball" players are having in Major League Baseball, you have to wonder if this is what's next for the National Football League.

But killing the league? How can you say that?

I know. I know. I'm in several fantasy leagues myself. And being more of a college football fan, it's primarily the reason why I keep track of the NFL at all.

And over the past several years it has become increasingly difficult to keep up with all the quarterback swaps and roster moves.

Comparing the rosters from today to thirty years ago (before Fantasy Football got its hooks into all of us) there are far fewer "Franchise Quarterbacks" in the league.

First, we need to define "Franchise QB." It's not simply a quarterback that was a high draft pick or who went to the Pro Bowl - or even one that led their team to the playoffs. It's the consistent face of the franchise, for at least five years. Why five? It's longer than the four they had in college and it's enough time to establish yourself.

In 1978, of the 28 starting QB's in the NFL, 25 were or became Franchise QB's.

The three exceptions being: the New York Giants dumping Joe Pisarcik (he of the infamous "Miracle at the Meadowlands" fumble) for Phil Simms; the San Francisco 49'ers' Steve Deberg giving way to Joe Montana; and the Chicago Bears simply doing what they've done for pretty much their franchise's entire history - play quarterback roulette.

In fact, in the last 40 years, the Bears have given only one quarterback more than four years at the helm - Jim McMahon - and he gave them their only Super Bowl win.

In 2008, of the 32 starting QB's in the NFL, only 8 are legitimate Franchise QB's, with the potential for another 7 or 8 - assuming the likes of Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers and Jacksonville's David Garrard can hang on.

What does all this mean? To me, when I looked around my room as a kid and saw the mini-SI poster covered walls, with the likes of Terry Bradshaw, Roger Staubach, Dan Fouts and Fran Tarkenton, I felt like I knew them. And when I thought of their team, their franchise, I thought of them. The two were interchangeable.

Today? Well, you may know Peyton Manning or Tom Brady, but ask the average young NFL fan who the quarterback is in Jacksonville, or Cleveland, or Detroit, or Minnesota and you sure to get a lot of blank stares.

In the era of Fantasy Football, especially in regards to the quarterback position, it's win now or we'll get someone else in there. The backup quarterback is king.

In 1973, Dan Fouts took over for Johnny Unitas in San Diego. In the next five seasons he threw 34 touchdowns and 57 interceptions. His quarterback passer rating never reached higher than the 75.4 he posted in 1976. Do you think he would have been given the slightest chance to even compete for a job today after just two or three of those seasons? Answer: Never. And yet he was allowed to continue on as the Chargers starting quarterback...all the way to the Hall of Fame.

And would Peyton and Eli Manning have ever been given their chance had dad, Archie, been dumped by the Saints after his first six seasons produced 55 touchdowns and 87 interceptions (with a high passer rating of just 68.8 in 1977)?

Would Miami's Bob Griese have been given his job back after his first four seasons of 58 touchdowns and 67 interceptions, combined with missing most of the Dolphins' miraculous undefeated 1972 season? Answer: No. Next!

Terry Bradshaw threw just 6 touchdowns and 24 interceptions in his rookie season of 1970. Bust!

Today's coaches have to win now so they have to move quick. The easiest way for the Steve Mariuccis of the world to try and eke out a contract extension is to toss their young quarterbacks under the proverbial team bus.

I'm not saying that former Detroit Lions quarterback Joey Harrington is or was destined for the Hall of Fame, however, had he been given the Franchise QB tag, and the actual support and confidence that should accompany it, I sincerely doubt the Lions would be staring at a historic 0-16 season.

The media, of course, plays its part. They propped up Harrington (as well as David Carr and others) just as they currently prop up Atlanta's Matt Ryan and Baltimore's Joe Flacco - waiting for the inevitable decline and inconsistency that happens to every young quarterback not named Peyton Manning, so they can paint them as massive failures - or "busts" - and feast upon the next one.

Does this mean that every NFL franchise needs to select a quarterback and vow never to replace him? Absolutely not. However, this Fantasy Football mentality of looking for the next big thing and the need to win now - right now! - might need to be tempered a bit. And some quarterbacks may need a little more time to mature than others. I say you give them that chance.

Pac-10 Recruiting Update: USC Dominating (Surprise!)

Paul Fulwiler — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 17:36:05 -0500

Signing Day is still two months off but USC has already stockpiled enough talent to last a decade. With what appears to be the top recruiting class in the nation, the Trojans are far ahead of their Pac-10 counterparts.

Of the eight top 100 recruits landed by Pac-10 teams, USC has six of them, including four of the top 14 (according to Rivals.com).

The following is a ranking of the Pac-10 recruiting classes as I see them now, using data compiled from both Rivals and Scout (both prominent Internet recruiting sites):

1. USC (16 verbals, 4.22 combined star average from Rivals and Scout)

Year in and year out, USC gets crazy amounts of talent. So much that it's almost underachieving for them not to win a National Title every season - or at least get to the Title game.

Jewel of the Class: QB Matt Barkley, arguably the top overall player in the nation was an early commit for Pete Carroll. Will he de-commit and join OC Steve Sarkisian at Washington? I doubt it.

The class also boasts the top LB in the nation, Vontaze Burfict, as well as 14 others that received either 4 or 5 star rankings.

The next four classes are of similar strength, well below USC's, but above the bottom five by a good margin as well.

2. Stanford (15 verbals, 3.54 combined star average from Rivals and Scout)

Now I see why Coach Jim Harbaugh wanted no part of any potential suitors. He's quietly putting together one of Stanford's all-time best classes.

Jewel of the Class: With QB Josh Nunes, a 6' 4", 4-star recruit, Harbaugh has his future signal caller.

He'll also have a couple of 4-star WR prospects, a big-time LB, Shane Skov, as well as the No. 2 TE in the land, Levine Toilolo. One weakness(?) might be that he's loaded up with four TE's already. How many does he need?

3. UCLA (16 verbals, 3.00 combined star average from Rivals and Scout)

Combine Rick Neuheisel's recruiting tactics (which may not always be legit) with the bevy of talent in southern California and it's really no surprise to see UCLA near the top.

Jewel of the Class: QB Richard Brehaut, who Neuheisel and OC Norm Chow could use this Saturday against USC - not that it will help. He will help in the years to come, however.

Also in this class is a top 5 LB, Todd Golper, as well as several 4-star defensive backs.

Visiting this Weekend:Two 4-star OL from Utah, a 3-star WR and a JC DB. Think they'll care about the score?

4. Oregon (12 verbals, 2.83 combined star average from Rivals and Scout)

As is always the case with Oregon, it's wait and see. The big names, when they sign, usually do so on or around Signing Day.

On this year's wish list for Duck fans: QB Tajh Boyd, a 5-star dual threat who just recently de-committed from Tennessee, No. 1 RB Byrce Brown from Wichita, Kansas (who would slide in nicely for the departing Jeremiah Johnson), No. 1 S Craig Loston and 5-star DL Myles Wade (a 2007 Oregon commit), who many consider to already be in the fold.

Jewel of the Class (so far): WR Diante Jackson, a big, fast target for new 'head coach in waiting' Chip Kelly's high powered offense.

This class also adds much needed depth on both lines, as well as the top punter and No. 3 placekicker in the nation.

Visiting this Weekend: 4-star WLB Michael Clay

5. California (7 verbals, 3.41 combined star average from Rivals and Scout)

Coach Tedford is assembling some talented players, but just not many of them...yet. Much like Oregon, look for the Bears to close near Signing Day.

Jewel of the Class: RB Dasarte Yarnway, who looks to follow in a long line of talented backs at Cal.

There is also a 4-star QB, Allan Bridgford, from Mission Viejo, and a couple of quality corners.

Visiting this Weekend:Huge, 6'7" JC OT, Brett Leonard

The next five classes still have time, but will need to close on some big names to move up into the top half of the conference.

6. Arizona (14 verbals, 2.71 combined star average from Rivals and Scout)

Coach Mike Stoops has had some quality classes in the past, but is lacking a few marquee names to round this one out.

Jewel of the Class: RB Daniel Jenkins will fit in nicely to OC Sonny Dykes spread attack.

Also in this class is a 4-star WLB, Trever Erno, and a couple of other solid LB prospects.

Visiting this Weekend: 4-star WR, Adam Hall, two JC defensive standouts and a 3-star defensive back. Big rivalry win over the Sun Devils would go over well.

7. Washington State (11 verbals, 2.80 combined star average from Rivals and Scout)

This is somewhat surprising, but Coach Paul Wulff and his staff have picked up several quality commitments from all over the west coast.

Jewel of the Class: WR Gino Simone, who Wulff will need to insert immediately into the huge void being left by the outgoing Brandon Gibson.

The class also has a top 25 LB, Darren Markle, as well as a quality QB prospect, Jeff Tuel—who should keep the Cougs from needing anymore on-campus tryouts.

8. Arizona State (11 verbals, 2.69 combined star average from Rivals and Scout)

If you combine an underachieving season (picked to finish No. 2 in the conference, and are currently sitting at No. 6) with a thus far subpar recruiting season, and what do you get? Could this be Dennis Erickson's swan song? We'll see.

Jewel of the Class: QB Brock Osweiler is huge, 6'8", but is the No. 44 ranked QB the next Rudy Carpenter? I doubt it.

Also in this class is a top TE, Chris Coyle and pair of solid WLB's.

9. Oregon State (18 verbals, 2.25 combined star average from Rivals and Scout)

"Coach Mike Riley doesn't need blue chip recruits."

"He gets more out of nothing than anyone."

I get it. I get it. But wouldn't he like at least a few toys to play with this Christmas? I think it might make the next Civil War a little easier. Granted, Riley does land a lot of in-state talent (four Oregon recruits already in) but in a state that boasts maybe one four or five star recruit every other year and maybe a handful of three star recruits each year, he may want to hop on a plane a bit more often.

Jewel of the Class: QB Cody Vaz,although Virginia transfer, Pete Lalich (despite his minor indiscretions) might be the better of the two.

Also in this class is some depth on the OL and some decent LB recruits.

10. Washington (7 verbals, 2.57 combined star average from Rivals and Scout)

Absolutely no surprise here, however, if USC OC Steve Sarkisian is indeed on his way to Seattle, things might start to look a bit brighter on the recruiting front. They couldn't get worse.

Jewel of the Class: QB Keith Priceis not exactly the next Jake Locker. Next Ronnie Fouch, maybe?

They also landed another decent TE prospect, Marlion Barnett, but the next coach (whoever that might be) has some serious work to do.

NCAA Football Coaching Carousel Update

Paul Fulwiler — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 10:13:16 -0500

Some jobs have been filled, but even more have opened up. Will there be yet another opening in South Bend?

The hottest name right now is Brian Kelly, the current head coach at Cincinnati. He's hot in Notre Dame circles, there's Washington buzz, and elsewhere. Where he ends up will have a definite impact on the remaining openings.

WHAT WE KNOW

Tennessee

Found their man in Lane Kiffin, who, along with his dad, Monte, will attempt to revive Vol nation. Was Brian Kelly offered this job first?

Clemson

Retained their man in Dabo Swinney. He got the big wins down the stretch that he needed and earned the gig.

Kansas State

Brought back their man in Bill Snyder. Can lightning strike twice?

Wyoming

Missouri offensive coordinator Dave Christensen will take over for recently released Joe Glenn.

WHAT WE THINK WE KNOW

Who will fill the vacancies at the following schools?

Washington

They appear to be making a run at Brian Kelly as well. However, one name keeps popping up on the radar...the recently interviewed Pat Hill. He's currently the head man at Fresno State, at least for now.

Could the once-proud Huskies seriously be considering a man who could possibly be let go by Fresno State? We know it didn't work when they jumped on Notre Dame's leftovers.

Other names still in the mix are Utah's Kyle Whittingham, TCU's Gary Patterson, USC's Steve Sarkisian, Texas Tech's Mike Leach (a long shot) and Boise State's Chris Petersen (although it seems highly unlikely he would make the move).

And names that appear to be out are Jim Mora, Gary Pinkel and Jeff Tedford.

Syracuse

The hot name is Wednesday's interviewee Oregon Offensive Coordinator Chip Kelly. What he's done with the Ducks the past two seasons has been remarkable and record breaking. And he's done it with five different starting quarterbacks, seven total getting significant time, and an eighth (the would-be 2008 starter) knocked out for the season.

Other names being spread around: Buffalo's Turner Gill (who should be the choice), East Carolina's Skip Holtz, Connecticut's Randy Edsall (rumors won't die) and Penn State's Tom Bradley.

Mississippi State

Wasn't Sylvester Croom the 2007 SEC Coach of the Year? Now this?

New AD Greg Byrne has many ties to the Pac-10, particularly to the state of Oregon, where he worked for both the Ducks (with dad Bill) and the Beavers. Look for him to at least make a play for Boise State's Chris Petersen or Oregon's Chip Kelly.

However, the pick will more than likely come from the south, and the hot name right now is Louisiana Tech's Derek Dooley, a former Nick Saban assistant and the son of former Georgia coaching great, Vince Dooley.

Would Phil Fulmer be interested? I doubt it.

WHAT WE DON'T KNOW

Why the following names aren't getting much play regarding the current openings: Ball State's Brady Hoke (the best coach in Indiana), Louisville's Ron English, UCLA's DeWayne Walker, Northwestern's Pat Fitzgerald, Virginia Tech's Bud Foster (is he their coach-in-waiting?), BYU's Bronco Mendenhall, NY Jets' Brian Schottenheimer, or Florida's Dan Mullen.

WHAT WE WOULD LIKE TO KNOW

Will Notre Dame be looking for a new head coach this time next week? And if so, is that why Brian Kelly passed on Tennessee? It wouldn't surprise me.

Is Auburn's Tommy Tuberville's job in jeopardy? What about Virginia's Al Groh?

Jeremiah Masoli: Pac-10's Forgotten Quarterback Should Make All Pac-10

Paul Fulwiler — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:14:01 -0500

I realize the season has yet to officially conclude. However, it won’t be long before we’re inundated with All-American teams and Award shows.

So, I thought I’d kick things off with my own All Pac-10 team. First of all, it’s a foregone conclusion that Mark Sanchez will be the First Team quarterback. In fact, it would be shocking if he wasn’t also Pac-10 Offensive Player of the Year.

However, there is some suspense over the Second Team quarterback. There are several possibilities: Arizona’s Willie Tuitama, Arizona State’s Rudy Carpenter, Oregon State’s Lyle Moevao, and Oregon’s Jeremiah Masoli.

My choice: Oregon’s Jeremiah Masoli.

After backing up starter Justin Roper in the first few games of Oregon’s season, Masoli was thrust into the starting lineup after Roper went down at Purdue. Despite some inconsistent play and doubt from his fan base, he has responded admirably and deserves the acclaim.

The popular choice may be either (or perhaps both) of the seniors, Tuitama and/or Carpenter. However, not only have these two upperclassmen woefully underachieved, but Masoli bested both in huge Oregon wins – earning conference player of the week in each contest.

Moevao has led a miracle run for the Beavers, however, he has been absent down the stretch due to injury. And it appears will not see any action in the biggest game of the year—this Saturday’s Civil War.

Of the five potential choices, Masoli boasts the most conference wins (six) as a starter, the most rushing yards for a quarterback (which places him 12th among all runners in the Pac-10), and is the only one of the four to be named Pac-10 Player of the Week.

If you focus simply on their passing statistics for the season, Masoli will lose out. But, remember he is a dual-threat and was not the starter at the outset of the season.

Nevertheless, in looking at their numbers in Pac-10 games, you can see a much more even contest, with the ultimate edge going to Masoli.

Pac-10 Conference Games Only

Quarterback	W	L	PC	PA	PCT	YDS	TD	INT	RAT	RA	YDS	TD
Masoli	6	2	97	175	.554	1118	9	4	121.49	95	565	6
Carpenter	3	4	129	207	.623	1430	11	6	132.09	32	-125	1
Moevao	5	1	100	162	.617	1136	9	7	130.32	13	-41	1
Tuitama	4	4	141	223	.632	1687	11	5	138.57	32	-96	1

The following are my selections for the 2008 All Pac-10 team.

First Team Offense

Pos	Player	Yr	School
QB	Mark Sanchez	Jr	USC
RB	Jahvid Best	So	California
RB	Jacquizz Rodgers	Fr	Oregon St.
WR	Mike Thomas	Sr	Arizona
WR	Sammie Stroughter	Sr	Oregon St.
TE	Mike Gronkowski	So	Arizona
OL	Alex Mack	Sr	California
OL	Max Unger	Sr	Oregon
OL	Andy Levitre	Sr	Oregon St.
OL	Eben Britton	Jr	Arizona
OL	Jeff Byers	Sr	USC
OL	Fenuki Tupou	Sr	Oregon

Second Team Offense

QB Jeremiah Masoli So Oregon
RB Toby Gerhart Jr Stanford
RB LeGarrette Blount Jr Oregon
WR Patrick Turner Sr USC
WR Michael Jones Sr Arizona St.
TE Ed Dickson Jr Oregon
OL Kristofer O’Dowd So USC
OL Paul Fanaika Sr Arizona St.
OL Alex Fletcher Sr Stanford
OL Charles Brown Jr USC
OL Tavita Thompson Sr Oregon St.
OL Adam Speer Sr Oregon St.

First Team Defense

DL Nick Reed Sr Oregon
DL Dexter Davis Jr Arizona St.
DL Victor Butler Sr Oregon St.
DL Fili Moala Sr USC
LB Rey Maualuga Sr USC
LB Brian Cushing Sr USC
LB Zach Follett Sr California
LB Anthony Felder Sr California
DB Taylor Mays Jr USC
DB Greg Laybourn Sr Oregon St.
DB Sydquan Thompson Jr California
DB Jairus Byrd Jr Oregon

Second Team Defense

DL Slade Norris Sr Oregon St.
DL Will Tukuafu Jr Oregon
DL Cameron Jordan So California
DL Clay Matthews Sr USC
LB Mike Nixon Jr Arizona St.
LB Reggie Carter Sr UCLA
LB Worrell Williams Sr California
LB Kaluka Maiava Sr USC
DB Brandon Hughes Sr Oregon St.
DB Patrick Chung Sr Oregon
DB Bo McNally Jr Stanford
DB Al Afalava Sr Oregon St.

First Team Specialists

PK Jason Bondzio Sr Arizona
P Aaron Perez Sr UCLA
KOR James Rodgers So Oregon St.
PR Jairus Byrd Jr Oregon

Second Team Specialists

PK Justin Kahut So Oregon St.
P Bryan Anger Fr California
KOR Jahvid Best So California
PR Mike Thomas Sr Arizona

Awards

Offensive Player of the Year: Mark Sanchez QB Jr USC
Pat Tillman Defensive Player of the Year: Rey Maualuga LB Sr USC
Freshman of the Year: Jacquizz Rodgers RB Fr Oregon St.
Coach of the Year: TBD *

* Pac-10 Coach of the Year will be determined by winner of Civil War.

Pac-10 Coach Of The Year: Civil War Winner?

Paul Fulwiler — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:01:47 -0500

Oregon Head Coach Mike Bellotti has won many bowl games and conference titles and led many Duck teams to winning seasons, but has yet to take home a Coach of the Year honor himself, in his entire career.

In 1995, after leading the Ducks to a 9-2 record he was beaten out by then Stanford coach Tyrone Willingham, who led the Cardinal to a 7-4-1 record.

In 2001, with his No. 2 ranked Ducks headed to the Fiesta Bowl he lost out to Washington State’s Mike Price.

In 2005, his Oregon team lost just one regular season game, to USC, and he was left out again, as USC’s Pete Carroll and UCLA’s Karl Dorrell shared the honor.

And in 2007, after taking the pre-season No. 6 pick in the Pac-10 to as high as a No. 2 ranking in the BCS in week 10, only to see injuries derail a potential shot at a National Title, ASU’s Dennis Erickson took home the award.

If Bellotti can get the Civil War victory in Corvallis on Saturday, leading an Oregon team through its many quarterback issues all the way to a second place finish and the Holiday Bowl, he should be a lock for Pac-10 Coach of the Year.

Mike Riley, on the other hand, has never coached a Beaver team to a first or second place finish in the Pac-10. However, if he were to finish off this seemingly miracle run the Beavers are on, it would be his, and by a landslide.

Giving it to someone either than these two would be a surprise. Even it went to Jim Harbaugh, who has done an outstanding job with Stanford this season. His team is not bowl eligible. He’ll have to wait.

So, not only is the Rose Bowl and state pride, etc. at stake on Saturday. But so, too, could be Pac-10 Coach of the Year.

The NCAA 10: BCS & Heisman Update

Paul Fulwiler — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 06:46:10 -0500

One of these days they’ll give us a playoff, but for now we’re left arguing about who’s ranked where and who’s left out, etc.

Oklahoma got the huge win this weekend against the Red Raiders but are still on the outside looking in for the BCS Title game. For me, there is just no logical explanation as to why Oklahoma is not the second best team in the nation, if not the best, right now.

MY BCS TOP 10

My rankings are not how I predicted they would end up, nor are they how I think they might finish, but rather where I see them now, through games of November 22, 2008:

Rk	BCS	U/D	School	W	L	Notes
1	1	Up	Alabama	11	0	Don’t forget Auburn.
2	3	Up	Oklahoma	10	1	Did you watch that?
3	4	-	Florida	10	1	Still in the mix.
4	5	-	USC	9	1	Poor Notre Dame.
5	2	-	Texas	10	1	Sitting pretty at 2.
6	7	Dn	Texas Tech	10	1	Cotton Bowl?
7	6	-	Utah	12	0	Fiesta Bowl bound?
8	9	-	Boise State	11	0	Will they take two?
9	8	-	Penn State	11	1	Rose Bowl awaits.
10	10	-	Ohio State	10	2	BCS bowl in future?

MY HEISMAN TOP 5

What goes in to selecting a Heisman winner? There are so many variables. Look here for my list of them.

My Heisman rankings are not necessarily who I think is the most talented or who has the most NFL potential (Texas Tech's Michael Crabtree would probably get the nod if that were the case). Rather, it is where I see the Heisman race as it stands now, based on how I think the vote would go.

Rk	U/D	Player	School, Pos.	Notes
1	Up	Sam Bradford	Oklahoma, QB	3710 yds, 42 TD, 6 Int
2	-	Colt McCoy	Texas, QB	3134 yds, 30 TD, 7 Int
3	Dn	Graham Harrell	Texas Tech, QB	4438 yds, 39 TD, 6 Int
4	Dn	Tim Tebow	Florida, QB	2114 yds, 22 TD, 2 Int
5	Up	Shonn Greene

Pac-10 Bowl Breakdown Update

Paul Fulwiler — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 17:56:58 -0500

The following is an updated breakdown for the Pac-10 bowl season: the games yet to be played and all of the possible outcomes. We’ll start with each of the potential bowls and then go team-by-team for each scenario...

ROSE BOWL (Pasadena, CA)

Thursday, Jan. 1, 2009

Pac-10 Champion vs. Big Ten Champion, unless either champion is ranked No. 1 or No. 2 in the final BCS rankings. This seems highly unlikely this year, as USC sits at No. 6 with just two to play. Penn State will be the opponent from the Big Ten.

HOLIDAY BOWL (San Diego, CA)

Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2008

The Holiday Bowl, as do the other bowls with Pac-10 affiliation, has the right to select between whichever teams are tied. Either Missouri or Oklahoma St. would fall here as possible opponents, provided Texas, Texas Tech, and Oklahoma make the two BCS Bowls and the Cotton Bowl.

SUN BOWL (El Paso, TX)

Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2008

The No. 3 or No. 4 Pac-10 team against a Big 12, Big East, or Notre Dame team. Like the Holiday Bowl, they would have the right to select between whichever teams are tied for the No. 3 or No. 4 spot. The opponent was South Florida from the Big East last year, so, possibly Nebraska from the Big 12 or Notre Dame if the Gator Bowl does not select them.

LAS VEGAS BOWL (Las Vegas, NV)

Saturday, Dec. 20, 2008

The No. 4 Pac-10 team (they rotate fourth and fifth with the Emerald Bowl) against the Mountain West Champion. Unless one of them makes a BCS Bowl, the opponent appears to be Utah, BYU, or TCU.

EMERALD BOWL (San Francisco, CA)

Saturday, Dec. 27, 2008

The No. 5 Pac-10 team (they rotate fourth and fifth with the Las Vegas Bowl) against the No. 5, 6, or 7 team from the ACC. Take your pick of opponents. The ACC is staring at about a 10-way tie. It could be Georgia Tech, Clemson, or Wake Forest, or perhaps even Miami, Florida State, or Boston College.

HAWAII BOWL (Honolulu, HI)

Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2008

The No. 6 Pac-10 team against Hawaii (if eligible) or other WAC team. If Hawaii beats Idaho and Washington State, they’re in. Otherwise it's Nevada, San Jose St., or maybe Fresno State.

POINSETTIA BOWL (San Diego, CA)

Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2008

The No. 7 Pac-10 team would play here. However, there will not be a seventh team that is bowl eligible for 2008.

Possible Pac-10 Bowl Participants and Scenarios

USC Trojans (7-1, 9-1)

Remaining games against Notre Dame and at UCLA.

USC BCS BOWL SCENARIOS

USC and Oregon State finish in a tie at 8-1. The tiebreaker would go to Oregon State by virtue of their 27-21 victory over the Trojans back in September. USC would then have to be selected as an at-large BCS school, which seems probable.

USC ROSE BOWL SCENARIOS

USC and Oregon finish in a tie at 7-2. The tiebreaker would go to USC by virtue of their 44-10 victory over the Ducks back in October.

Oregon defeats Oregon State, and USC finishes alone in first.

USC HOLIDAY BOWL SCENARIOS

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, and USC not selected for other BCS Bowl.

Oregon State Beavers (6-1, 7-3)

Remaining game against Oregon.

OSU ROSE BOWL SCENARIOS

USC and Oregon State finish in a tie, either 8-1 or 7-2 in Pac-10. The tiebreaker would go to Oregon State by virtue of their 27-21 victory over the Trojans back in September.

OSU HOLIDAY BOWL SCENARIO

OSU loses to Oregon, leaving them tied at 7-2, and is selected over the Ducks. This seems unlikely.

OSU SUN BOWL SCENARIO

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon to Holiday Bowl. Oregon State would be alone in third.

Oregon Ducks (6-2, 8-3)

Remaining game at Oregon State.

UO HOLIDAY BOWL SCENARIOS

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, USC to other BCS Bowl, Cal loses to UW. Oregon (6-3) would be alone in second and go.

USC to Rose Bowl, OSU beats Arizona, loses to Oregon. Oregon (7-2) would be alone in second and go.

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, USC to other BCS Bowl, Cal wins out. The Holiday Bowl would choose between Oregon (6-3) and California (6-3). Cal was there in 2006 and Oregon in 2005, which may give it to the Ducks.

UO SUN BOWL SCENARIO

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, USC to other BCS Bowl, Cal chosen over Oregon for Holiday Bowl. Oregon would be slotted for the Sun Bowl. However, Ducks played there in 2007. Arizona could sneak in here.

UO LAS VEGAS BOWL SCENARIOS

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, USC to other BCS Bowl, Cal to Holiday Bowl, Arizona to Sun Bowl. Oregon would fall here.

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon State to Holiday Bowl, Cal to Sun Bowl. Either Oregon or Arizona.

UO EMERALD BOWL SCENARIO

The Emerald Bowl simply gets whatever Pac-10 bowl eligible team is left. From the looks of it, that will more than likely be Arizona or California. It could be Oregon if they’re not selected to return to the Sun Bowl. It could also potentially be ASU if they win out.

California Golden Bears (4-3, 6-4)

Remaining game against Washington.

CAL HOLIDAY BOWL SCENARIOS

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, USC to other BCS Bowl, Cal beats UW. The Holiday Bowl would choose between Oregon (6-3) and California (6-3). Cal was there in 2006 and Oregon in 2005, which may give it to the Ducks.

CAL SUN BOWL SCENARIOS

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, USC to other BCS Bowl, Oregon chosen over Cal for Holiday Bowl. Cal would get Sun Bowl.

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon State to Holiday Bowl. Sun could have to choose between Oregon and Cal.

CAL LAS VEGAS BOWL SCENARIO

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon to Holiday Bowl, Oregon State to Sun Bowl.

CAL EMERALD BOWL SCENARIO

Arizona Wildcats (4-3, 6-4)

Remaining game against Arizona State.

UA SUN BOWL SCENARIOS

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, USC to other BCS Bowl, Cal chosen over Oregon for Holiday Bowl. Oregon would be slotted for the Sun Bowl. However, Ducks played there in 2007. Arizona could sneak in here.

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon State to Holiday Bowl. Sun could have to choose between Oregon, Cal, and Arizona.

UA LAS VEGAS BOWL SCENARIOS

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, USC to other BCS Bowl, Oregon to Holiday Bowl, Cal to Sun Bowl. More than likely Arizona would slide here.

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon State to Holiday Bowl, Cal to Sun Bowl. Either Oregon or Arizona.

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon to Holiday Bowl, Oregon State to Sun Bowl. Either California or potentially Arizona/Arizona State winner.

UA EMERALD BOWL SCENARIO

UA HAWAII BOWL SCENARIO

The Hawaii Bowl would get the sixth eligible team from the Pac-10, which could be Arizona if they lose out, or ASU or UCLA if they win out.

Arizona State Sun Devils (3-4, 4-6)

Remaining games against UCLA and at Arizona.

ASU LAS VEGAS BOWL SCENARIO

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon to Holiday Bowl, Oregon State to Sun Bowl. Either California or potentially Arizona/Arizona State winner.

ASU EMERALD BOWL SCENARIO

ASU HAWAII BOWL SCENARIO

The Hawaii Bowl would get the sixth eligible team from the Pac-10, which could be Arizona if they lose out, or ASU or UCLA if they win out.

UCLA Bruins (3-4, 4-6)

Remaining games at Arizona State and against USC.

UCLA HAWAII BOWL SCENARIO

The Hawaii Bowl would get the sixth eligible team from the Pac-10, which could be Arizona if they lose out, or ASU or UCLA, if they win out.

Paul’s Picks, as of November 23, 2008

Bowl	Pac-10 Team	Opponent
Rose	USC	Penn State
Holiday	Oregon	Missouri
Sun	Oregon State	Nebraska
Las Vegas	Arizona	BYU
Emerald	California	Wake Forest
Hawaii	Non Pac-10	Hawaii

Pac-10 Football Weekly: Standings, Stats & Picks (Revised)

Paul Fulwiler — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 11:13:41 -0500

Keeping you up to date with just about everything going on in Pac-10 Football, from the week that was to this week’s upcoming games.

2008 Pac-10 Conference Standings (as of November 20, 2008)

	School	W	L	W	L	Current*	Projected**
1	USC	7	1	9	1	Rose	Rose v Penn St
2	Oregon St	6	1	7	3	Holiday	Holiday v Okla St
3	Oregon	6	2	8	3	Sun	Las Vegas v TCU
4	Arizona	4	3	6	4	Las Vegas	Sun v Nebraska
	California	4	3	6	4	Emerald	Emerald v G Tech
6	Stanford	4	4	5	6	Hawaii
7	Arizona St	3	4	4	6	Poinsettia
	UCLA	3	4	4	6
9	Washington	0	7	0	10
10	Washington St	0	8	1	10

* - If season ended today

** - per CBS Sportsline

Players of the Week

Offense

Jeremiah Masoli, QB, Oregon (second time)

21-26, 298 yards, 2 TD’s (202.43 rating) in 55-45 win vs. Arizona

Defense

Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State

6 tackles, 1 sack in 34-21 win vs. Cal

Special Teams

C.J. Gable, KR, USC

93 yard kickoff return for TD in 45-23 win at Stanford

James Rogers, KR, Oregon State

86-yard kickoff return for TD in 34-21 win v. Cal

2008 Ronnie Lott Award (Defensive Impact POY) Semifinalists

Player	Pos., School	Statistics
Eric Berry	S, Tennessee	6 interceptions
Aaron Curry	LB, Wake Forest	77 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss
James Laurinaitis	LB, Ohio State	101 tackles
Scott McKillop	LB, Pittsburgh	89 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss
Brit Miller	LB, Illinois	110 tackles, 15.5 tfl, 6 sacks
Brian Orakpo	DE, Texas	13 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks
Nick Reed	DE, Oregon	16.5 tackles for loss, 10 sacks
Myron Rolle	S, Florida State	46 tackles, 5 pass break ups

2008 Bronco Nagurski Award (Defensive POY) Finalists

Player	Pos., School
Jerry Hughes	DL, TCU
Rey Maualuga	LB, USC
Brian Orakpo	DE, Texas
Brandon Spikes	LB, Florida
Alphonso Smith	DB, Wake Forest

Pac-10 Bowl Breakdown and Scenarios

Paul Fulwiler — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 10:55:28 -0500

The following is a breakdown for the Pac-10 bowl season: the games yet to be played and all of the possible outcomes. We’ll start with each of the potential bowls and then go team-by-team for each scenario...

ROSE BOWL (Pasadena, CA)

Thursday, January 1, 2009

Pac-10 Champion vs. Big 10 Champion, unless either champion is ranked No. 1 or No. 2 in the final BCS rankings. This seems highly unlikely this year, as USC sits at No. 6 with just two to play. Either Penn State or Ohio State seem likely opponents. Michigan State’s a long shot.

HOLIDAY BOWL (San Diego, CA)

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

The No. 2 or No. 3 Pac-10 team against the No. 3 or No. 4 Big 12 team, depending on if either conference has a second BCS Bowl representative. More than likely the Big 12 would. The Pac-10 would need OSU to get to the Rose Bowl and for USC to be chosen as an at-large. The Holiday Bowl, as do the other bowls with Pac-10 affiliation, has the right to select between whichever teams are tied. Either Missouri or Oklahoma St. would fall here as possible opponents, provided Texas, Texas Tech and Oklahoma make the two BCS Bowls and the Cotton Bowl.

SUN BOWL (El Paso, TX)

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

The No. 3 or No. 4 Pac-10 team against a Big 12, Big East or Notre Dame team. Like the Holiday Bowl they would have the right to select between whichever teams are tied for the No. 3 or No. 4 spot. The opponent was South Florida from the Big East last year, so, possibly Nebraska from the Big 12 or Notre Dame, if the Gator Bowl does not select them.

LAS VEGAS BOWL (Las Vegas, NV)

Saturday, December 20, 2008

The No. 4 Pac-10 team (they rotate fourth and fifth with the Emerald Bowl) against the Mountain West Champion. Unless one of them makes a BCS Bowl, the opponent appears to be Utah, BYU or TCU.

EMERALD BOWL (San Francisco, CA)

Saturday, December 27, 2008

The No. 5 Pac-10 team (they rotate fourth and fifth with the Las Vegas Bowl) against the No. 5, 6 or 7 team from the ACC. Take your pick of opponents. The ACC is staring at about a 10-way tie. It could be Georgia Tech, Clemson or Wake Forest. Or perhaps even Miami, Florida State or Boston College.

HAWAII BOWL (Honolulu, HA)

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

The No. 6 Pac-10 team against Hawaii (if eligible) or other WAC team. If Hawaii beats Idaho and Washington State they’re in. Otherwise Nevada, San Jose St, maybe Fresno State.

POINSETTIA BOWL (San Diego, CA)

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

The No. 7 Pac-10 team would play here, however, there will more than likely not be a seventh team that is bowl eligible for 2008. For that to happen, Stanford must beat Cal and the winner of ASU-UCLA must win their last game (ASU plays Arizona and UCLA has USC). If that happens, they’ll face the No. 2 Mountain West team, most likely Utah, BYU or TCU.

Possible Pac-10 Bowl Participants and Scenarios

USC Trojans (7-1, 9-1)

Remaining games against Notre Dame and at UCLA.

USC BCS BOWL SCENARIOS

USC and Oregon State finish in a tie at 8-1. The tie-breaker would go to Oregon State, by virtue of their 27-21 victory over the Trojans back in September. USC would then have to be selected as an at-large BCS school, which seems probable.

USC ROSE BOWL SCENARIOS

USC and Oregon finish in a tie at 7-2. The tie-breaker would go to USC, by virtue of their 44-10 victory over the Ducks back in October.

Three teams (USC, OSU, UO) tie at 7-2, Stanford finishes alone in fourth. Stanford’s win over OSU eliminates them. USC’s win over Oregon gives it to them.

Three teams tie at 7-2, Arizona finishes alone in fourth. Arizona’s (presumptive) win over OSU eliminates them. USC’s win over Oregon gives it to them.

Three teams tie at 7-2, Cal, UCLA and Stanford finish in tie for fourth. Records against the three would all be 2-1, thus, USC would more than likely get the final tie-breaker by virtue of being the highest rated of the three in the BCS.

USC HOLIDAY BOWL SCENARIOS

Oregon Stateto Rose Bowl, USC not selected for other BCS Bowl.

Oregon State Beavers (6-1, 7-3)

Remaining games at Arizona and against Oregon.

OSU ROSE BOWL SCENARIOS

USC and Oregon State finish in a tie, either 8-1 or 7-2 in Pac-10. The tie-breaker would go to Oregon State, by virtue of their 27-21 victory over the Trojans back in September.

Three teams tie at 7-2, Cal finishes alone in fourth. The tie-breaker would begin with head to head and with each team having gone 1-1 against the other two, the next tie-breaker would be record against the next highest team. Cal’s win over Oregon eliminates them, and Oregon State takes the tie-breaker due to their win over USC.

OSU HOLIDAY BOWL SCENARIO

USC to Rose Bowl, OSU loses to Arizona, beats Oregon. Oregon State (7-2) would be alone in second and go.

OSU SUN BOWL SCENARIO

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon to Holiday Bowl. Sun could have to choose between Oregon State and California.

OSU LAS VEGAS BOWL SCENARIO

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon to Holiday Bowl, Sun chooses and 8-4 California team over a 7-5 OSU team.

Oregon Ducks (6-2, 8-3)

Remaining game at Oregon State.

UO ROSE BOWL SCENARIO

All three teams tie at 7-2, UCLA and Stanford finish in tie for fourth. Stanford’s win over OSU eliminates them. UCLA’s (presumptive) win over USC eliminates them. And Oregon, having beaten both heads to the Rose Bowl.

UO HOLIDAY BOWL SCENARIOS

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, USC to other BCS Bowl, Cal loses one. Oregon (6-3) would be alone in second and go.

USC to Rose Bowl, OSU beats Arizona, loses to Oregon. Oregon (7-2) would be alone in second and go.

UO SUN BOWL SCENARIO

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, USC to other BCS Bowl, Cal chosen over Oregon for Holiday Bowl. Oregon would be slotted for the Sun Bowl, however, played there in 2007. Stanford or Arizona could sneak in here.

UO LAS VEGAS BOWL SCENARIOS

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, USC to other BCS Bowl, Cal to Holiday Bowl, Arizona to Sun Bowl. Oregon would fall here.

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon State to Holiday Bowl, Cal to Sun Bowl. Either Oregon or Arizona.

UO EMERALD BOWL SCENARIO

California Golden Bears (4-3, 6-4)

Remaining games against Stanford and Washington.

CAL HOLIDAY BOWL SCENARIOS

CAL SUN BOWL SCENARIOS

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, USC to other BCS Bowl, Oregon chosen over Cal for Holiday Bowl. Cal would get Sun Bowl if they beat Stanford.

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon State to Holiday Bowl. Sun could have to choose between Oregon, Cal, and Arizona.

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon to Holiday Bowl. Sun could have to choose between Oregon State and California.

CAL LAS VEGAS BOWL SCENARIO

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon to Holiday Bowl, Oregon State to Sun Bowl. Either California/Stanford winner or potentially Arizona/Arizona State winner.

CAL EMERALD BOWL SCENARIO

Arizona Wildcats (4-3, 6-4)

Remaining games against Oregon State and Arizona State.

UA SUN BOWL SCENARIOS

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon State to Holiday Bowl. Sun could have to choose between Oregon, Cal and Arizona.

UA LAS VEGAS BOWL SCENARIOS

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, USC to other BCS Bowl, Oregon to Holiday Bowl, Cal to Sun Bowl. More than likely Arizona or Stanford would slide here.

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon State to Holiday Bowl, Cal to Sun Bowl. Either Oregon or Arizona.

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon to Holiday Bowl, Oregon State to Sun Bowl. Either California/Stanford winner or potentially Arizona/Arizona State winner.

UA EMERALD BOWL SCENARIO

UA HAWAII BOWL SCENARIO

The Hawaii Bowl would get the sixth eligible team from the Pac-10, which could be Arizona if they lose out, or ASU or UCLA, if they win out. Stanford could also slide here.

Stanford Cardinal (4-4, 5-6)

Remaining game at California.

STANFORD SUN BOWL SCENARIO

STANFORD LAS VEGAS BOWL SCENARIOS

Oregon State to Rose Bowl, USC to other BCS Bowl, Oregon to Holiday Bowl, Cal to Sun Bowl. More than likely Arizona or Stanford would slide here.

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon to Holiday Bowl, Oregon State to Sun Bowl. Either California/Stanford winner or potentially Arizona/Arizona State winner.

STANFORD EMERALD BOWL SCENARIO

STANFORD HAWAII BOWL SCENARIO

The Hawaii Bowl would get the sixth eligible team from the Pac-10, which could be Arizona if they lose out, or ASU or UCLA, if they win out. Stanford could also slide here.

Arizona State Sun Devils (3-4, 4-6)

Remaining games against UCLA and at Arizona.

ASU LAS VEGAS BOWL SCENARIO

USC to Rose Bowl, Oregon to Holiday Bowl, Oregon State to Sun Bowl. Either California/Stanford winner or potentially Arizona/Arizona State winner.

ASU EMERALD BOWL SCENARIO

ASU HAWAII BOWL SCENARIO

The Hawaii Bowl would get the sixth eligible team from the Pac-10, which could be Arizona if they lose out, or ASU or UCLA, if they win out. Stanford could also slide here.

UCLA Bruins (3-4, 4-6)

Remaining games at Arizona State and against USC.

UCLA HAWAII BOWL SCENARIO

The Hawaii Bowl would get the sixth eligible team from the Pac-10, which could be Arizona if they lose out, or ASU or UCLA, if they win out. Stanford could also slide here.

Paul’s Picks, as of November 21, 2008:

Bowl	Pac-10 Team	Opponent
Rose	USC	Penn State
Holiday	Oregon	Missouri
Sun	California	Nebraska
Las Vegas	Oregon State	BYU
Emerald	Arizona	Wake Forest
Hawaii	Non Pac-10	Hawaii

Pac-10 Football Weekly: Standings, Stats, and Picks

Paul Fulwiler — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 12:02:15 -0500

Keeping you up to date with just about everything going on in Pac-10 Football, from the week that was to this week’s upcoming games.

2008 Pac-10 Conference Standings (as of November 20, 2008)

	School	W	L	W	L	Current*	Projected**
1	USC	7	1	9	1	Rose	Rose vs. Penn St.
2	Oregon St	6	1	7	3	Holiday	Holiday vs. Ok. St.
3	Oregon	6	2	8	3	Sun	Las Vegas vs. TCU
4	Arizona	4	3	6	4	Las Vegas	Sun vs. Nebraska
	California	4	3	6	4	Emerald	Emerald vs. G. Tech
6	Stanford	4	4	5	6	Hawaii
7	Arizona St	3	4	4	6	Poinsettia
	UCLA	3	4	4	6
9	Washington	0	7	0	10
10	Washington St	0	8	1	10

* - If season ended today

** - per CBS Sportsline

Players of the Week

Offense

Jeremiah Masoli, QB, Oregon (2^nd time)

21-26, 298 yards, 2 TD’s (202.43 rating) in 55-45 win v. Arizona

Defense

Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State

6 tackles, 1 sack in 34-21 win v. Cal

Special Teams

C.J. Gable, KR, USC

93 yard kickoff return for TD in 45-23 win at Stanford

James Rogers, KR, Oregon State

86 yard kickoff return for TD in 34-21 win vs. Cal

2008 Ronnie Lott Award (Defensive Impact POY) Semifinalists

Player	Pos., School	Statistics
Eric Berry	S, Tennessee	6 interceptions
Aaron Curry	LB, Wake Forest	77 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss
James Laurinaitis	LB, Ohio State	101 tackles
Scott McKillop	LB, Pittsburgh	89 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss
Brit Miller	LB, Illinois	110 tackles, 15.5 tfl, 6 sacks
Brian Orakpo	DE, Texas	13 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks
Nick Reed	DE, Oregon	16.5 tackles for loss, 10 sacks
Myron Rolle	S, Florida State	46 tackles, 5 pass break ups

2008 Bronco Nagurski Award (Defensive POY) Finalists

Player

Pos., School

Jerry Hughes

DL, TCU

Rey Maualuga

LB, USC

Brian Orakpo

DE, Texas

Brandon Spikes
Will Muschamp off everyone’s list. Thanks to the new sensation soon to be sweeping across college football—naming a “coach-in-waiting”—Texas named the 37-year-old Muschamp, in just his first year with the Longhorns, the heir-apparent to Mack Brown’s Big 12 power. With that, here’s what’s hot and cold with all the coaching vacancies:

1. Washington

The Huskies continue to lose. Not only football games (where they sit at 0-10 on the season) and basketball games (tipping off their season with a loss at Portland) but now, it appears, with Texas latching on to Muschamp, they’ve lost out on what appeared to be AD Scott Woodward’s top pick. So that leaves the search to replace Ty at:

HOT:

Jim Mora (Seahawks Asst.)

We know that he has indicated that he plans to remain with the Seahawks, and take over as Head Coach when Mike Holmgren exits in 2009. Nevertheless, there is some recent buzz that the Huskies haven’t have given up going after a man who claimed this was his dream job, and basically lost his Falcons gig for saying so.

Kyle Whittingham (Utah HC)

The more he wins and the closer he gets to a BCS game, the easier the sell job Woodward will have to the fans, alumni, players, etc. that he is a big-time hire and their first choice all along.

Pat Hill (Fresno State HC)

Again, he has a 91-59 record with the Bulldogs (6-4 in 2008) and just the one conference championship, tying for the WAC title in 1999. Still seems like this would be the Huskies settling.

Others (more lukewarm than hot):

Lane Kiffin (former Raiders HC), Brent Venables (Oklahoma DC), Dave Christensen (Missouri OC, former Husky), Bobby Hauck (Montana HC), Steve Sarkisian (USC OC), DeWayne Walker (UCLA DC), Mike Riley (Oregon St. HC), Mike Haywood (Notre Dame OC)

COLD:

Jeff Tedford (California HC)

Much talk about the Cal head coach, but I can’t see the former Oregon OC leaving what he’s built in Berkeley to attempt another rebuilding job in Seattle.

Gary Pinkel (Missouri HC)

Don James’ former OC has a good thing going in Missouri and it would be highly unlikely if UW was able to pull him away from that. In fact, James himself has said he would be surprised.

Chris Petersen (Boise St. HC)

Still can’t figure out why he isn’t being talked about more. He is in the midst of his second undefeated season in Boise and possible second BCS Bowl (in just three years). Is the Oregon connection (WR coach for the Ducks from 1995-2000) too much for the Husky faithful?

CURRENT CALL:

It appeared that it was Muschamp’s to lose. And apparently things got so close (and perhaps close with other schools as well) that Texas felt they needed to lock him up. That leaves UW scrambling for either a big name hire (Mora or Tedford—or perhaps Oregon St.’s Mike Riley), which seems unlikely, or going after Whittingham, which I think is their best shot.

I still think they should make a run at Peterson, perhaps give Brian Kelly an interview, and if need be, settle on either Kiffin or Sarkisian, but they didn’t ask. Who they are asking is a newly formed search committee, which includes Sophomore QB Jake Locker. They have been asked to come up with some names by early December (their last game is December 6th vs. Cal).

Reports are that the first interview lined up is with Mike Haywood, Notre Dame OC. How’s that grab you, Husky fans?

2. Clemson

Now that the Tommy Bowden is out, Tommy Tuberville rumors have died out, and Will Muschamp is off the Tigers list as well, we’re left with:

HOT:

Bud Foster (Virginia Tech DC)

Apparently interviewed well. However, could he be the next to be named a “coach-in-waiting” at Virginia Tech? Frank Beamer doesn’t seem to be too keen on the idea, but they are considering it.

Dabo Swinney (Interim Clemson HC)

He’s won two of three as interim head coach (over Duke and Boston College) and has the Tigers looking at a bowl game if he can beat either Virginia or South Carolina. Winning both would go a long way.

Mike Leach (Texas Tech HC)

Seems to be the very popular choice right now for all the schools with a vacancy. I think the Oklahoma game could be a huge factor in determining his future: win, and I think he stays and continues to build there, lose, and after the dust settles from their fall from the rankings and I can see him considering some offers.

Others (more lukewarm than hot):

Lane Kiffin (Former Raiders HC), Brian Kelly (Cincinnati HC)

COLD:

Brent Venables (Oklahoma DC)

Bob Stoops’ defensive coordinator, despite his age, 37, is still somewhat in the running for this gig, but appears to have a better shot at his alma mater, Kansas State.

Bobby Johnson (Vandy HC)

The former Clemson player seemed the obvious choice. He had Vandy at 5-0 and nationally ranked. What happened? Four straight losses happened. A win over Tennessee might peak some interest.

CURRENT CALL:

I doubt Leach would choose Clemson over what he has at Texas Tech and if Virginia Tech locks up Foster, which looks probable, I see them giving Swinney (assuming he wins at least one more) a decent shot…at least through the bowl game.

3. Tennessee

As the rumors fly that the Vols are poised to make a big announcement, some new names have begun to surface for what is obviously a very coveted position:

HOT:

Mike Leach (Texas Tech HC):

See above under Clemson.

Brian Kelly (Cincinnati HC)

Getting a lot of buzz, including from hoop coach Bruce Pearl. This may be a nice fall back if the big fish they’re attempting to lure don’t bite.

Lane Kiffin (former Raiders HC)

His name is still everywhere. And I think Tennessee wouldn’t mind his ability to come in right now, shoring up recruiting, and potentially bringing in his father, Monte Kiffin (Tampa Bay DC), to help shore up the Vol D.

Others (more lukewarm than hot):

Tim Brewster (Minnesota HC), Jim Grobe (Wake Forest HC), Chris Petersen (Boise St. HC), Mike Riley (Oregon State HC)

COLD:

Jim Leavitt (South Florida HC)

This might be Tennessee’s backup plan—see Pat Hill under UW’s search. Good coach but is he what the Vols needed to replace Fulmer?

Butch Davis (North Carolina HC)

The Tennessee folks are still not giving up, despite his remarks that he was staying in Carolina. Obviously all coaches have to say that, but it feels like Butch means it. We’ll see.

David Cutcliffe (Duke HC)

Claims not to want the gig. I still find it hard to believe, but we’ll see.

CURRENT CALL:

I still have a hard time with Leach moving on from Texas Tech, however, if things go south here at the end, Tennessee might look a bit more attractive. Nevertheless, at this date, Brian Kelly looks to be leading over Lane Kiffin.

Long shot: Mike Riley at Oregon State. If he gets the Beavers to the Rose Bowl, the former Alabama DB might have his choice of jobs.

4. Kansas State

No apparent change to the situation here, however, I think Turner Gill needs to be given a much harder look from all these schools...

HOT:

Gary Patterson (TCU HC)

It appears that if he wants the job, the former Wildcat, can have it. Does he?

Brent Venables (Oklahoma DC)

Another former Wildcat. He's young but could be just what the Wildcats need, to win back the fan base as well as recruits.

Bill Snyder (former KSU HC)

His 136-68-1 record at K-State still brings back fond memories for Wildcat fans. He’s 69, but could be called upon to re-energize the Wildcat base.

Others (more lukewarm than hot):

Turner Gill (Buffalo HC), Todd Graham (Tulsa HC)

COLD:

Dennis Franchione (former Texas A&M HC)

The former K-State assistant, who was let go just a year ago from A&M, still hasn’t been getting much play. He might be their out-card should other things fall through.

CURRENT CALL:

I’m starting to think they might land Patterson. However, Venables is sitting there, willing and able, and Turner Gill needs a decent look.

5. Syracuse:

Greg Robinson was let go this week and a whole crop of names have surfaced.

HOT:

Randy Edsall (Connecticut HC)

He’s out there saying ‘no, thanks,' but we’ll see.

Turner Gill (Buffalo HC)

If Edsall is definitely out, the former Nebraska All-American QB would be an ideal candidate. He’s right in Syracuse’s backyard and has worked wonders turning Buffalo into Mid-American Conference contenders.

Lane Kiffin (former Raider HC)

Here he is again. With ties to Daryl Gross, the former USC Assistant AD who is now at Syracuse, he will be seriously considered.

Some other names that are neither hot nor cold:

Brian Schottenheimer (New York Jets OC)

Former Orange WR coach, with obvious football blood lines. And he’s right in their backyard.

Dan Mullen (Florida OC), Major Applewhite (Texas Asst. HC), Stephen Addazio (Florida Asst. HC): All former Syracuse assistants.

Rob Ianello (Notre Dame Recruiting Coordinator):

The NY native is getting some buzz, but seems a huge long shot.

Other long shots: two other former assistants (not Nick Saban or Jim Tressel), Ed Orgeron and George O’Leary.

CURRENT CALL:

If Edsall is truly out, I think Turner Gill needs to be the choice, even with the connection to Kiffin. Gill has the experience and is sitting right there in Buffalo.

6. New Mexico

Out goes Rocky Long, in steps…David Bailiff? The current Rice head man (and former Lobo assistant) might be next in line, if he wants the job. We’ll see…

The People V. Nick Aliotti: The Case FOR Oregon's Defensive Coordinator

Paul Fulwiler — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:03:19 -0500

I’m not an attorney. But I’m happy to play one here on the Bleacher Report.

And I’ve watched more than enough movies and television to know that everyone deserves a fair trial.

So, before you go demanding the dismissal, yet again, of Oregon Defensive Coordinator, Nick Aliotti, I ask that you consider all of the facts.

THE PLAINTIFF

The people (Oregon fans) have definitely spoken. From message boards to tailgates. From bar stools at Taylor’s to bath rooms at Autzen.

No matter where you go, the people have their opinion of Aliotti (or “Allow-a-lot-ti” as he’s become affectionately known). And that opinion often isn’t good.

But are these knee-jerk reactions calling for him to step down, that seem to accompany every third down the Duck defense gives up, grounded in actual facts? Or is he simply the scapegoat for every fan looking for a dog to kick whenever their favorite team surrenders a touchdown?

THE DEFENDANT

Nick Aliotti has coached football for over 33 years, and is currently in his 18th season with the Oregon Ducks. He has spent some time in the NFL and has joined the Oregon coaching staff on three separate occasions, his most current beginning in the 2000 season.

He has seen just about everything. From the highs of the 1995 Rose Bowl (led by his “Gang Green” defense) and the 2002 Fiesta Bowl (punctuated by Steve Smith’s three interceptions) to the disappointments of the 2002 season, which saw the Ducks finish last in the conference in total defense.

What the people decide to remember is up to them.

THE EVIDENCE

In an attempt to spin the numbers as little as possible, the following are the Pac-10 Conference rankings for defensive statistics from 2000 through 2007.

The intent is to focus on Aliotti’s current stint as coordinator. What is missing are the numbers from his first go around: 1993, when the Ducks finished 5-6, and 1994, which many regard as Oregon’s best defense ever.

Pac-10 Conference, Total Defense, 2000-2007

Rank

School

Yds/Game

1

USC

312.13

2

Oregon State

322.02

3

Oregon

364.72

4

UCLA

369.37

5

Washington State

375.88

6

California

376.31

7

Arizona

381.29

8

Arizona State

382.01

9

Washington

386.70

10

Stanford

403.43

League Average

366.71

And in the four seasons prior to Aliotti’s return to Oregon (1996-1999), the defense allowed an average of 407.5 yards per game.

Also, in those four prior seasons, the Ducks defense surrendered 28.2 points per game. And since Aliotti’s return:

Pac-10 Conference, Scoring Defense, 2000-2007

Rank

School

Points/Game

1

USC

18.65

2

Oregon State

23.41

3

Oregon

24.55

4

California

24.80

5

UCLA

25.21

6

Washington State

26.26

7

Arizona

26.90

8

Arizona State

26.94

9

Washington

27.87

10

Stanford

28.84

League Average

25.27

What about "bend but don’t break" you ask? One of the philosophies of Aliotti’s defenses over the years. Well, apparently it’s given up only the third most yards as well as only the third most points under his watch.

Obviously, offensive numbers have gone up over time. And with that, defensive numbers as well. The two go hand in hand. In fact, a more telling stat may be scoring margin, or the difference between points scored and points allowed, or delta.

And looking at the teams in the Pac-10, Oregon is the only school that has not had a negative delta (more points allowed for a season than scored) this entire decade.

Make of it what you will. What I see is, first of all, an Oregon defense that has shown great improvement and one that appears to be performing above the league average.

But mainly, I see a league that gives up and puts up a boat load of yards.

And is it any wonder, when in the past eight seasons these defenses have attempted to stop (or at least slow down) the likes of: Matt Leinart, Reggie Bush, Carson Palmer, LenDale White, Mike Williams, Dwayne Jarrett, Aaron Rodgers, DeSean Jackson, J.J. Arrington, Marshawn Lynch, Derek Anderson, Steven Jackson, Yvenson Bernard, Mike Hass, DeShaun Foster, Reggie Williams, Marques Tuiasosopo, Andrew Walter, Rudy Carpenter, Derek Hagan, Joey Harrington, Dennis Dixon, Jonathan Stewart, Kellen Clemens, Jason Gesser, Alex Brink…and I could go on.

The top three quarterbacks in Pac-10 career passing all played during this era. As did five of the top six in career total offense.

Six of the top seven seasons of all-time for passing yards also happened from 2000-2007.

Five of the top six seasons for career receiving yards came in this stretch as well. Not to mention countless 1,000 yard rushers (actually 32 so far this decade).

Excuses? If that’s what you want to call it. I just see facts. And here’s more:

Although Oregon gets a bad rap for having tiny defensive backs that get beat deep way too often, 2002 is the only season in this decade that they finished last in pass defense. In fact, during this stretch, they’ve finished on top of the Pac-10 a league best three times: 2000, 2005 and 2006.

And those tiny corners? Jairus Byrd currently leads the conference with four interceptions, after leading it in 2007 with seven picks. Oregon’s Aaron Gipson led the Pac-10 as well in 2005 with seven of his own. And I already told you about Steve Smith’s three picks in the 2002 Fiesta Bowl.

The 2008 Duck defense also leads the Pac-10 in total takeaways and total sacks.

Nick Reed, Oregon’s standout defensive end, is attempting to become the Ducks’ second Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year. He would join Haloti Ngata, who parlayed the 2005 award into a first round NFL selection. Reed led the Pac-10 in both sacks and tackles for loss in 2007 and sits atop both categories in 2008 as well.

And while this year’s defense may be struggling at times to keep up with the offense (which is leading the Pac-10 in scoring at 39.8 pts/gm), perhaps that may have more to do with the amount of time on the field rather than simply the play calling or schemes of their coordinator.

Again, not an excuse, but a fact: Oregon’s offense averages a league low of 24:55 for time of possession in 2008. That leaves 35:05 for the defense. And in the Arizona game alone the defense was out there for 41:46.

CLOSING ARGUMENT

In the end, it all comes down to wins and losses. Analyze each of Oregon’s defeats over the years (and there have been far fewer losses than wins: 75-35 this decade) and honestly ask yourself if it was entirely the defense’s fault. Or rather, was it the fault of the defensive coordinator himself?

While at UCLA in 1998, Aliotti’s defense helped the Bruins to a 10-0 start. However, after a 49-45 loss at Miami and a 38-31 loss to Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl, he was used as head coach Bob Toledo’s scapegoat for all the “fans” clamoring for perfection, and run out of town after just one season. After his departure, in 1999, UCLA would go 4-7.

Is Aliotti perfect? No. Does the defense give up some plays that fans wish they wouldn’t? Absolutely. Is that entirely the fault of the defensive coordinator? Absolutely not.

Now considering all of the above, as well as whatever you may have witnessed with your own eyes, would you vote to give Aliotti a raise? Maybe not. Promote him to head coach? Probably not.

And lastly, will you continue to blame him for anything and everything that goes wrong, win or lose, and demand that he be fired?

The NCAA 10: Updated BCS and Heisman Rankings

Paul Fulwiler — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:07:02 -0500

A fairly predictable week of College Football leaves many rankings untouched, including my own. That will change this week when Texas Tech goes to Norman to battle Oklahoma.

My rankings are not how I predicted they would end up, nor are they how I think they might finish, but rather where I see them now, through games of November 15, 2008:

Rk

BCS

U/D

School

W

L

Notes

1

2

-

Texas Tech

10

0

Huge game at Oklahoma. Can Graham Harrell & Michael Crabtree do it again?

2

1

-

Alabama

11

0

Nick Saban is earning that massive paycheck…so far.

3

4

-

Florida

9

1

This is the team no one wants to see come bowl time.

4

6

-

USC

9

1

This still looks like one of the most dominant D’s in history.

5

3

-

Texas

10

1

Could they still sneak in? Sitting pretty at No. 3 in BCS.

6

5

-

Oklahoma

9

1

TTech at OU: winner, BCS? Loser: Cotton Bowl?

7

7

-

Utah

11

0

Only BYU stands in way of Kyle Whittingham’s resume builder.

8

9

-

Boise State

10

0

Will there be two BCS busters? Or a need to root for Ute loss?

9

8

-

Penn State

10

1

Could Spartans shock them? I think they just might.

10

10

Up

Ohio State

9

2

30-20 win at Illinois gets them in. BCS bowl in their future?

     Out: Georgia (9-2) Won tight one, 17-13 @ Auburn.

What goes in to selecting a Heisman winner? There are so many variables. Look here for my list of them.

My Heisman rankings are not necessarily who I think is the most talented or who has the most NFL potential (Texas Tech's Michael Crabtree would probably get the nod if that were the case). Rather, it is where I see the Heisman race as it stands now, based on how I think the vote would go.

Rk

U/D

Player

School, Pos.

Notes

1

-

Graham Harrell

Texas Tech, QB

4077 yds, 36 TD, 5 Int

2

-

Colt McCoy

Texas, QB

3134 yds, 30 TD, 7 Int

The old saying goes, “those who can’t do, teach.”

Is that true when it comes to college football coaches?

I was surprised to learn that of the 119 Division I (or FBS, if you'd rather) head coaches there are only six who never played college football.

They are: David Cutcliffe (Duke), Paul Johnson (Georgia Tech), Mark Mangino (Kansas), Mike Leach (Texas Tech), Charlie Weis (Notre Dame) and George O’Leary (Central Florida). Although, if you give him enough time I think O’Leary might be able to come up with a little playing experience for the old resume, if needed.

It makes sense that there would be a fair number who either never played, or at best road the pine. However, what I found was that there were also plenty who could play and who had some stellar college (and a few NFL) careers. How they rank (as collegiate players) is as follows:

10. Mike Gundy, QB, Oklahoma State (Head Coach: Oklahoma State)

Gundy was a 4-year starter for the Cowboys and in 1988 (back when he was just 21, and not quite a “man”) he helped lead OSU to a 10-2 mark and a Holiday Bowl thumping of Wyoming, 62-14. In that Junior campaign he was second in the nation in QB efficiency at 158.2, behind only Washington State’s Timm Rosenbach and ahead of Heisman finalists: USC’s Rodney Peete and UCLA’s Troy Aikman. He was 153-236 for 2,163 yards, 19 TDs and 12 Ints.

Granted, he was given the gift of handing off to the likes of Thurman Thomas and Barry Sanders (who won the Heisman in 1988) but he graduated as the all-time leader in passing at both Oklahoma State and in Big 8 history.

9. Frank Solich, FB, Nebraska (Head Coach: Ohio)

Known as “fearless Frankie” while with the Cornhuskers, Solich was an All Big 8 selection in 1965 and the first Nebraska player to rush for over 200 yards in a single game. He was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated that year, and was later inducted into the Husker Hall of Fame.

8. Stan Brock, OT, Colorado (Head Coach: Army)

Brock was a Sporting News All-American in 1979 for the Buffaloes, on his way to becoming a first round draft pick (#12 overall) of the New Orleans Saints. He would parlay that into a long and successful 16-year NFL career.

7. Sylvester Croom, C, Alabama (Head Coach: Mississippi State)

As captain, he helped Bear Bryant and the Crimson Tide to three SEC titles (as well as a National Title in 1973) and was an All-American center in 1974.

6. Rick Neuheisel, QB, UCLA (Head Coach: UCLA)

In 1983, his senior year with the Bruins, Neuheisel was fifth in the nation in QB efficiency at 142.5 (just ahead of UNLV’s Randall Cunningham and behind the nation’s leader, BYU’s Steve Young). He was 163-236 for 1,947 yards, 9 TDs and 10 Ints, while leading UCLA to a 7-4-1 mark and garnering Rose Bowl MVP honors, beating #4 Illinois 45-9.

5. Turner Gill, QB, Nebraska (Head Coach: Buffalo)

Gill led the Cornhuskers to an amazing 28-2 record as a starting QB. He finished #4 in the Heisman balloting in 1983 to his Nebraska teammate, RB Mike Rozier, on their way to a #1 ranking and a heartbreaking 31-30 loss to Miami for the National Championship. It was Gill’s pass, on a two-point conversion to win the game, that was deflected with just seconds remaining.

SIDE NOTE: What Gill has already accomplished with the Buffalo football program has been nothing short of miraculous. He didn’t land the coveted Nebraska gig last year, but he should be on plenty of short lists this time around. K-State, UW, are you listening?

4. Jim Harbaugh, QB, Michigan (Head Coach: Stanford)

As a Junior in 1985, Harbaugh led Michigan to a 10-1-1 mark and led the nation in QB efficiency at 163.7. He was 139-212 for 1,913 yards, 18 TDs and 6 Ints. He then followed that up with a senior campaign in 1986 that would see him finish third in the Heisman voting (behind winner QB Vinny Testaverde of Miami and just ahead of Oklahoma LB Brian Bosworth). He would also end up second in the nation in QB rating at 157.0 while leading the Wolverines to an 11-2 mark and the Rose Bowl.

3. Pat Fitzgerald, LB, Northwestern (Head Coach: Northwestern)

One of the most decorated defensive players in college football history, Fitzgerald was a consensus All-American in 1995 and 1996, as well as a two-time Big 10 Defensive Player of the Year for the Wildcats, on his way to winning both the Bronco Nagurski and Chuck Bednarik trophies – twice. He was recently inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame

2. Chuck Long, QB, Iowa (Head Coach: San Diego State)

As a 4-year starter, Long put up huge numbers as a Hawkeye QB, finishing second in the nation in QB rating his sophomore year (160.4), seventh his junior year (147.1) and topping it off with finishing third his senior year (153.0). And after finishing seventh for the Heisman in his junior campaign, his senior season of 1985 would see him finish second in the closest Heisman voting ever (1509-1464 to Auburn RB Bo Jackson).

That season he threw for 231-351 for 2,978 yards, 26 TDs and 15 Ints. He was a consensus All-American and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1999.

And perhaps as no surprise to anyone, the only head coach currently toting around a certain stiff-armed piece of hardware (actually he gave it to the University to display), the #1 Coach Who Could Play…

STEVE SPURRIER, QB, FLORIDA (Head Coach: South Carolina)

Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1986, the winner of the 1966 Heisman Trophy (over Purdue QB Bob Griese), led the Gators to a 9-2 mark and an Orange Bowl win, 27-12, over Georgia Tech. He was third in the nation in completions per game (the standard prior to QB rating) and finished 179-291 for 2,012 yards, 16 TDs and 8 Ints.

Honorable Mentions:

Jeff Tedford, QB, Fresno State (Head Coach: California)

Tedford finished eighth in nation in QB rating (136.4) in 1982, while leading the Bulldogs to 11-1 mark.

Howard Schnellenberger, TE, Kentucky (Head Coach: FAU)

Schnellenberger was a consensus All-American selection in 1955 for the Wildcats.

Shane Montgomery, QB, NC State (Head Coach: Miami (OH))

Montgomery was MVP of both the 1988 Peach Bowl and 1989 Copper Bowl.

Mark Richt, QB, Miami (Head Coach: Georgia)

Sandwiched between Jim Kelly and Bernie Kosar, he only got in as a starter when Kelly went down in 1982.

Miscellaneous Items of Note:

Not-so-surprising, there are five former Alabama players (Bobby Bowden-Florida State, Neil Callaway-UAB, Mike Riley-Oregon State, Sylvester Croom-Mississippi State and Dabo Swinney-Clemson)…somewhat surprising, there are three former UC-Davis players (Mike Bellotti-Oregon, Dan Hawkins-Colorado, Chris Petersen-Boise State)…kind of interesting, the Sun Belt Conference is loaded with former talent, from Schellenberger to: FIU’s Mario Cristobal (All Big East OT at Miami); Middle Tennessee’s Rick Stockstill (Florida State QB); North Texas’ Todd Dodge (Texas QB); Troy’s Larry Blakeney (Auburn QB); Louisiana-Monroe’s Charlie Weatherbie (Oklahoma State QB); and Louisiana-Lafayette’s Rickey Bustle (Clemson WR)…who knew?...and if you’re thinking of some top assistants or coordinators who had talent and could be landing top spots soon, scratch off Ryan Leaf (yikes) and look no further than USC’s Steve Sarkisian. The former BYU QB led the nation in efficiency in 1996 at 173.6 (ahead of Heisman winner Danny Wuerrfel and Peyton Manning)…or perhaps former Kansas great and NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Nolan Cromwell, who is now with Texas A&M…or Georgia’s Mike Bobo…or Pitt’s Matt Cavanaugh…

Jeremiah Masoli: Why He's Oregon's Quarterback...for Now

Paul Fulwiler — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 16:16:37 -0500

It won't be long before Oregon fans have a new quarterback to boo. It could be Darron Thomas next year, or maybe Nate Costa if he reclaims his spot. It could even be Chris Harper. Either way it seems highly unlikely that it will be Justin Roper. At least it won't be this season, and looking at the numbers this becomes a little clearer.

Justin Roper and current quarterback Jeremiah Masoli are young with similar experience, even though Roper is in his third season and Masoli has only been in the system for three months.

Roper has the reputation as the better passer, and he may be, but by how much is debatable.

Following are the career numbers thus far:

Jeremiah Masoli

Passing: 86 for 164, 52.4, 914 yards, 7 TD's, 4 Int, 108.46 rating

Rushing: 89 carries for 470 yards, 5.3 avg., 3 TD's

Justin Roper

Passing: 80 for 152, 52.6, 952 yards, 9 TD's, 6 Int, 116.75 rating

Rushing: 32 carries for 86 yards, 2.7 avg., 2 TD's

Masoli has an obvious running advantage, but the passing numbers are surprisingly similar.

The dissimilarity is the competition, because Roper racked up his numbers against Washington, Utah State, and South Florida in a very solid blowout performance.

Masoli has face-stiffed the Pac-10 competition, and did it in on the road for four of his six conference starts, and in two rain soaked games.

At USC Masoli went 18-of-29 for 156 yards, while at WSU he went 9-of-16 for 161 yards and two scores, and at ASU he was 17-of-26 for 147 yards.

Masoli was named Pac-10 Player of the Week.

Meanwhile in Roper's first three starts of the season he threw four interceptions to just two TD's, including tossing picks in home games against both Washington and Utah State. He threw two picks at Purdue while completing just 20 of his 47 attempts, and he was out of the game prior to Oregon's winning touchdown in overtime.

Masoli has been inconsistent and he's had some poor outings. Against UCLA he was just 5-of-19, but he rushed 24 times for 170 yards and the Ducks won.

Against Stanford he had some costly fumbles, threw a ball in the turf at the outset of the two minute drill, and heard the boo's from the Autzen crowd. He steeled himself, led an amazing drive, earned the confidence of his teammates, and earned the right to be Oregon's quarterback...for now.

Round & Round: NCAA Football Coaching Carousel Update

Paul Fulwiler — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 07:15:07 -0500

We’re heading toward crunch time now for the schools who decided to axe their head coaches in mid-season.

As the recruits start to make up their minds, it’s going to be more difficult to choose a school without a leader. Here’s the update for this week.

1. Washington

Head Coach Tyrone Willingham is still at the helm. And is still winless on the season. The Huskies have landed just five recruits thus far, none of whom deserve significant mention.

This time last year they had 13 recruits locked up, including two 4-star lineman. This is where I see the search to replace Ty:

HOT:

Wil Muschamp (Texas DC): I think that due to the fact that Woodward (UW AD) has ties to LSU and Nick Saban, Muschamp's old boss, this still seems like where they want to go. Will it be the best hire? He has no connection to the west coast, no head coaching experience, and his Texas team currently ranks 60^th in the nation in total defense.

Pat Hill (Fresno State HC): His name keeps popping up everywhere. It seems obvious he wants the job. Do they want him? He has a 90-59 record with the Bulldogs (5-4 in 2008), but just one conference championship, tying for the WAC title in 1999. If he lands it, does it mean they settled?

Kyle Whittingham (Utah HC): He claims to want the job. Urban Meyer was able to make the transition from going undefeated at Utah to a National Title at Florida. Could the folks on Montlake be thinking the same might happen for them? I think they would take any sort of winning season at this point. The 48-year-old has a long history with the Utes but appears willing to go for much bigger things at Washington.

Others: (more lukewarm than hot)

Lane Kiffin (former Raiders HC), Brent Venables (Oklahoma DC), Dave Christensen (Missouri OC, former Husky), Bobby Hauck (Montana HC), Brian Kelly (Cincinnati HC), Steve Sarkisian (USC OC), DeWayne Walker (UCLA DC)

COLD:

Jim Mora (Seahawks Asst.): Has indicated that he plans to remain with the Seahawks, and take over as Head Coach when Mike Holmgren exits in 2009. However, I don’t think the Huskies have given up going after a man who claimed this was his dream job, and basically lost his Falcons gig for saying so.

Gary Pinkel (Missouri HC): Don James’ former OC has a good thing going in Missouri and it would be highly unlikely if UW was able to pull him away from that. In fact, James himself has said he would be surprised.

Chris Petersen (Boise St. HC): Still can’t figure out why he isn’t being talked about more. He is in the midst of his second undefeated season in Boise and and a possible second BCS Bowl (in just three years). Is the Oregon-connection (WR coach for the Ducks from 1995-2000) too much for the Husky faithful?

CURRENT CALL:

I think it comes down to Muschamp, if he wants it, Whittingham, if they like him, or they settle on Pat Hill.

If they’re smart (and given the last few hires you have to wonder) they make a run at Peterson, perhaps give Brian Kelly an interview, and if need be settle on either Kiffin or Sarkisian.

If they feel they can still salvage this recruiting season then Kiffin is available right now (unless someone else nabs him first).

2. Clemson

Tommy Bowden is out, but could another Tommy be moving in? Rumors are flying that Auburn HC Tommy Tuberville could be joining the Tigers.

He is obviously still with the Tigers and would either need to be fired (which some have speculated might follow a potential loss to rival Alabama) or buy out his contract. Not sure how likely that is, but here’s where I see it:

HOT:

Brent Venables (Oklahoma DC): The Clemson plane touched down in Oklahoma and Bob Stoops’ right-hand man was given one of the two official interviews for the job. He’s young (37), but has been quite successful running the Sooner defense since 1999.

Lane Kiffin (former Raiders HC): Apparently has received the other of the two official interviews. If they need someone today, he’s ready to report to work, complete with a stellar recruiting resume and NFL head coaching experience.

Bud Foster (Virginia Tech DC): Appears eager for the post and Clemson appears willing to listen. He is likely to get the third interview following Virginia Tech’s Thursday night tilt with Miami.

Others: (more lukewarm than hot)

Wil Muschamp (Texas DC), Brian Kelly (Cincinnati HC), Kevin Wilson (Oklahoma OC)

COLD:

Mike Gundy (Oklahoma State HC): No mention anywhere regarding the Cowboy coach. Given the current situation, it seemed a stretch to begin with.

Bobby Johnson (Vandy HC): The former Clemson player seemed the obvious choice. He had Vandy at 5-0 and nationally ranked. What happened? Four straight losses happened.

Dabo Swinney (Interim Clemson HC): He could be the odd man out as Clemson appears to be focusing on bringing in some fresh blood.

CURRENT CALL:

I think Venables and Kiffin end up elsewhere and the surprise pick could be Foster. They would have to wait until the Hokies' season is over, but recruiting is going fairly well, and if they made a quick decision it could hold off any de-commits.

3. Tennessee

Phil Fulmer's old job appears to be the big prize thus far. Recruiting had been going very well; however, with some potential de-commits the Vols may be getting a bit anxious about filling their vacancy. As of now, it’s looking like:

HOT:

Mike Leach (Texas Tech HC): There seems to be some hope in Vol country that they can pry Leach away from the Red Raiders. The offensive genius could get a nice pay raise, but he may like where he’s at.

Butch Davis (North Carolina HC): It appears that the Tennessee folks are not giving up, despite his remarks that he was staying in Carolina. Obviously, all coaches have to say that, but it feels like Butch means it. We’ll see.

Lane Kiffin (former Raiders HC): His name is everywhere. And Tennessee wouldn’t mind him coming in right now, shoring up recruiting, and potentially bringing in his father, Monte Kiffin (Tampa Bay DC), to help shore up the Vol D.

Others: (more lukewarm than hot)

Wil Muschamp (Texas DC), Brian Kelly (Cincinnati HC), Tim Brewster (Minnesota HC), Jim Grobe (Wake Forest HC), Chris Petersen (Boise St. HC)

COLD:

David Cutcliffe (Duke HC): Claims not to want the gig. Found it hard to believe at first, and that was when Duke was at 4-3. After back-to-back losses, we’ll see.

Ron Zook (Illinois HC): Absolutely no talk regarding the former Florida HC and Vol assistant.

Steve Spurrier (South Carolina HC): Grew up a Tennessee fan but appears content to finish off his Hall of Fame career with the Gamecocks.

CURRENT CALL:

I think Leach and Davis will be able to use the attention for a little increase in salary, and perhaps some needed facility upgrades, leaving Kiffin the odds-on favorite.

4. Kansas State

After Ron Prince’s somewhat surprise ousting, it appears that K-State may need to mend some fences. Does that mean they bring in a former assistant? Or perhaps a former legendary coach?

HOT:

Gary Patterson (TCU HC): It appears that if he wants the job, the former Wildcat, can have it. Does he?

Brent Venables (Oklahoma DC): Another former Wildcat. He's young but could be just what the Wildcats need, to win back the fan base as well as recruits.

Bill Snyder (former KSU HC): That’s right. His 136-68-1 record at K-State is starting to bring back fond memories for Wildcat fans. He’s 69. Would he take the job? Is it what they need to compete with Oklahoma, Texas, or even Kansas and Nebraska?

Others: (more lukewarm than hot)

Todd Graham (Tulsa HC), Turner Gill (Buffalo HC), Mark Stoops (Arizona DC), Butch Jones (Central Michigan HC)

COLD:

Dennis Franchione (former Texas A&M HC): The former K-State assistant, who was let go just a year ago from A&M, hasn’t been getting much play. Could he be their out card should other things fall through?

CURRENT CALL:

My sense is that Patterson will either stay at TCU or leave for even greener pastures and that while Snyder sounds like an intriguing idea, I can only see them bringing him in as some sort of mentor for a young coach. And that’s where Venables comes in. I think it’s his, unless better offers come his way.

Pac-10 Football Weekly

Paul Fulwiler — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 12:31:39 -0500

Keeping you up to date with just about everything going on in Pac-10 Football, from the week that was to this week’s upcoming games.

2008 Pac-10 Conference Standings (as of November 12, 2008)

School

W

L

W

L

Current Bowl*

Projected Bowl**

1

USC

6

1

8

1

Rose Bowl

Rose v. Penn St.

2

Oregon St.

5

1

6

3

Holiday Bowl

Holiday v. Oklahoma St.

3

Oregon

5

2

7

3

Sun Bowl

Las Vegas v. BYU

4

Arizona

4

2

6

3

Las Vegas Bowl

Emerald v. Georgia Tech

California

4

2

6

3

Emerald Bowl

Sun Bowl v. Nebraska

6

Stanford

4

3

5

5

Hawaii Bowl

7

Arizona St.

2

4

3

6

Poinsettia Bowl

UCLA

2

4

3

6

9

Washington

0

6

0

9

10

Washington St.

0

7

1

9

* - If season ended today

** - per CBS Sportsline

Players of the Week

Offense

Jacquizz Rodgers, TB, Oregon St. (third time)

31 carries for 144 yards, two TDs in 34-6 win @ UCLA

Defense

Taylor Mays, FS, USC

Five tackles, four pass breakups in 17-3 win v. Cal

Special Teams

Thomas Weber, PK/P, ASU

3-3 FGs, 4-4 PATs, 41.2 punt avg. in 39-19 win @ Washington

Notable Statistical Leaders (bold stats indicate conference leader)

RUSHING

Jacquizz Rodgers, Oregon St.

1,089 yards on 228 carries (4.8 avg), 121.0/game (10th in nation), 10 TDs

How long can the young freshman continue to carry this load? Is there a wall in his future? His 228 carries are just nine fewer than Oregon’s Jeremiah Johnson and LeGarrette Blount, who have combined for 237 carries.

Nic Grigsby, Arizona

885 yards on 149 carries (5.9 avg), 98.3/game, 11 TDs

Appeared to have lost his job when his backup, Keola Antolin, busted off 149 yards in 42-27 win v. Cal back in October. Had huge game with 189 yards on 27 carries in last week’s 59-28 win v. Washington State.

LeGarrette Blount, Oregon

741 yards on 104 carries (7.1 avg), 74.1/game, 14 TDs

Leads the conference in scoring despite being Jeremiah Johnson’s backup and having fewer than 10 carries in each of the last 5 games. His 7.1 yards per carry is second only to USC’s Joe McKnight.

Oregon Offense

2,743 yards on 464 carries (5.9 avg), 274.3/game (Fifth in Nation), 35 TDs

The combination of Johnson, Blount and QB Jeremiah Masoli often seems only able to be stopped by themselves (or rain).

USC Defense

700 yards on 298 carries (2.3 avg), 77.8/game (Third in Nation), five TDs

Still scratching my head trying to figure out how OSU’s Rodgers put up 186 big ones on this defense.

PASSING

Mark Sanchez, USC

2,122 yards on 162-250 (235.8/gm), with 24 TDs, seven INTs for 162.2 rating (12th in Nation)

Quietly putting together a solid season. Leading Pac-10 QBs in just about every meaningful statistic. Could be conference Offensive Player of the Year and also a 2009 Heisman favorite.

Mike Thomas, Arizona

664 yards on 52 receptions, 73.8/game, four TDs

The senior WR leads the conference in most receiving stats, including a season-best 175 yards @ Stanford back in October.

USC Defense

1,158 yards on 141-267, 128.7/gm (First in Nation)

You can’t run on them. You can’t pass on them. Special Teams? No. 1 in Kickoff Coverage, too.

OTHER STATS

Scoring Defense: USC leads the Nation with 6.7 pts/gm. Arizona is No. 24 with 19.1/gm

Scoring Offense: Tulsa leads the Nation with 52 pts/gm, Arizona is No. 10 with 39.11/gm, and Oregon is No. 12 with 38.3/gm

Total Defense: USC leads the Nation with 206.44 yds/gm. Arizona is No. 13 with 285.44/gm

Total Offense: Tulsa leads the Nation with 593 yds/gm, USC is No. 12 with 454.67/gm, and Oregon is No. 13 with 454/gm

Sacks: Oregon DE Nick Reed is attempting to lead the conference in sacks for the second year in a row. He led in 2007 with 12.0 and currently leads with 9.0 in 2008. The 2007 First Team Pac-10 Honoree could be the conference’s Defensive Player of the Year, having already been named to the 2008 Academic All-District Team.

This Week’s Games

California @ No. 23 Oregon State (12:30 ABC)

Mike Riley’s Beavers have been able to sneak up on a few unsuspecting foes over the years. Now we get to see how they do as favorites, at home, as a ranked team against a bowl-bound opponent.

Line: Oregon State -3

Harmon Forecast (CBS Sportsline): Oregon State 28, California 24

Paul’s Pick: Oregon State 34, California 27

Cal’s defense stood up pretty well in the rain against Oregon, and at times played well against the Trojans, but with the letdown after that USC loss and how awful they looked attempting to tackle Arizona’s pint-sized Antolin, I can’t see them stopping Rodgers and the Beavers.

Washington State @ Arizona State

Another chance for Dennis Erickson to coach against one of his former teams. This looks to be your crummy game of the week.

Line: Arizona State -36 ½ (yes, you read that right)

Harmon Forecast (CBS Sportsline): Arizona State 45, Washington State 12

Paul’s Pick: Arizona State 58, Washington State 17

The Cougs have given up 58 or more in six of their seven Pac-10 games. No reason this should be any different. The Sun Devils are technically still playing for something—they’ll be bowl eligible with wins over WSU, UCLA and Arizona.

Arizona @ Oregon (3:30 FSNAZ/CSNNW)

A chance for the Ducks to redeem themselves and possibly shake off some bad memories from the past three seasons: 2005, Kellen Clemens goes down for the season in Tucson; 2006, Dennis Dixon is booed off the field at Autzen; 2007, Dixon’s Heisman, and the Ducks’ National Title hopes, dashed when Dixon’s knee buckles on the Wildcats’ turf.

Line: Oregon -3 ½

Harmon Forecast (CBS Sportsline): Oregon 38, Arizona 36

Paul’s Pick: Oregon 27, Arizona 24

In another Autzen thriller, the Ducks, and their potent ground game, squeak out a win against the Wildcats. Arizona’s strength is their pass defense. However, they’re No. 6 in the Pac-10 against the run and will have their hands full against a vengeful-minded Oregon team. The Ducks will need to put some serious pressure on QB Willie Tuitama and make some big plays in the secondary.

No. 6 USC @ Stanford (4:00 Versus)

Could it happen again? It’s highly unlikely, but Jim Harbaugh has his Stanford Cardinal playing inspired football.

Line: USC -23

Harmon Forecast (CBS Sportsline): USC 32, Stanford 15

Paul’s Pick: USC 24, Stanford 6

As much as I would like to pick an upset here, the way USC’s defense has been dominating teams, it’s just not going to happen.

UCLA @ Washington (7:15 FSN)

Not exactly sure why this one is even on TV. I know Seattle and LA are large markets (I guess that’s the reason) and Neuheisel is coming back to go against his old team, but honestly, will Husky fans even care if they snag the upset?

Line: UCLA -7 1/2

Harmon Forecast (CBS Sportsline): UCLA 26, Washington 20

Paul’s Pick: Washington 28, UCLA 27 (UPSET SPECIAL)

Call me crazy. There’s absolutely no reason to think the Huskies can do this, other than the fact that UCLA is just not quite there yet and Husky QB Ronnie Fouch now has a few games under his belt. Stranger things have happened.

College Football's Quest for Perfection

Paul Fulwiler — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 09:43:40 -0500

“One minute was enough,” Tyler said,

a person had to work hard for it, but a

minute of perfection was worth the

effort. A moment was the most you

could ever expect from perfection.

~Chuck Palahniuk, Fight Club

It’s the ultimate goal, every season, for every NCAA Division I football program.

To be perfect. To go undefeated. To have no losses, no ties, and leave no doubt as to who is the best team in college football.

It’s an admirable goal, but just how realistic is it? How often is it really ever attained? And as a fan, are you asking too much to demand perfection from your team?

Take the Pac-10 Conference. Made up of some of the most storied Universities in the nation. In the 30 years since its current form took shape back in 1978, the Pac-10 has had just two undefeated teams:

The 1991 Washington Huskies, who after going 12-0 still had to share their National Title with the Miami Hurricanes.

And the 2004 USC Trojans, who went 13-0 and were unanimous National Champs. That’s it.

I’m not making excuses for teams that lose. I’m not asking you to accept mediocrity. What I am saying is that for something that is so rarely achieved you might want to be a tad more realistic about your team’s chances. And perhaps enjoy the ride a bit more.

Even looking past 1978, going all the way back to Cal’s first season in 1885, the teams that now make up the conference have played 1,132 combined seasons. And even including such “remarkable” runs as Oregon’s unblemished 1895 season, going 4-0 with two wins against Willamette University.

And also including Washington’s “miraculous” stretch from 1909-1913 without a loss, and with victories over the likes of Evergreen High School, Lincoln High School and a 55-0 thriller over the Bremerton Navy.

Even with all that, in the 1,132 potential chances for perfection, spanning 123 years, these 10 Universities have managed to do it just 41 times. And just eight times in the last 50 years.

And during the 30 years of the Pac-10, only six times has a team gone undefeated in Conference games: USC three times (1988, 2004, 2005), Washington (1991), Arizona State (1996) and UCLA (1998). And all six teams went 8-0.

Since 2006, when the league went to a full round robin schedule (with each school playing all of the other nine schools) the conference champ has finished at 7-2 each season.

School

1^st Year

Total

Years

Last Undefeated

Season

Total Undefeated

Seasons

Undefeated

Seasons Since 1978*

Undefeated

In Pac-10 Since 1978*

USC

1888

120

2004

9

1

3

UW

1889

119

1991

7

1

1

ASU

1896

112

1975

6

0

1

Cal

1885

123

1922

5

0

0

Arizona

1899

109

1945

4

0

0

WSU

1893

115

1915

4

0

0

Stanford

1891

117

1940

2

0

0

OSU

1893

115

1907

2

0

0

Oregon

1895

113

1895

1

0

0

UCLA

1919

89

1954

1

0

1

Totals

1,132

41

2

6

*—when Pac-10 was formed

And what does all this mean? Whatever you want to make of it, I guess. For me, it’s confirmation of just how difficult, and perhaps unrealistic, the task of going undefeated is. Of being perfect.

Gone are the days of scheduling cupcake after cupcake (or high school after high school if you want to go way back). Or winning 5 or 6 games and calling it good. The schedules are demanding. And the task of perfection is borderline impossible.

It means that perhaps we should expect, or at least hope for, our team to compete and have a chance to win each time out.

Because expecting that the team you root for practice hard, play hard, and leave it all out on the field is one thing. Expecting perfection is another.

An artist’s only concern is to shoot
for some kind of perfection, and on
his own terms, not anyone else's.

~Jonas Salk

The NCAA Top 10: BCS and Heisman Rankings

Paul Fulwiler — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 17:48:36 -0500

I'm all for doing away with pre-season polls. I mean, you can have them, but they shouldn't mean anything. And if you do one, please, be willing to toss it out as the season progresses. So many times it seems that the voters want to stick with their picks.

My rankings are not how I predicted they would end up, nor are they how I think they might finish, but rather where I see them now, through games of November 8, 2008:

Texas Tech (10-0) So much offense, just enough defense. Can they finish this thing up? We'll have to wait and see.

Alabama (10-0) Love him or hate him, Nick Saban is getting it done. Florida may stand in his path, however.

Florida (8-1) They've gotten over the Ole Miss upset and are playing better than anyone in the nation.

USC (8-1) Other than a couple of quarters that seem inexplicable now at Oregon State, the Trojans D just might be the most dominant defense we've seen in decades.

Texas (9-1) They need some help, but there is plenty of time.

Oklahoma (9-1) Could they really be staring at a Holiday Bowl?

Utah (10-0) BCS buster again?

Boise State (9-0) There's only room for one.

Penn State (9-1) Say thanks to Iowa, Nittany Lion fans. They saved you (and us) another Big 10 BCS thrashing.

Georgia (8-2) Both losses were to 'Bama and Florida.

How to pick the Heisman? There are so many variables. Look here for my list of them.

My Heisman rankings are not necessarily who I think is the most talented or who has the most NFL potential (Texas Tech's Michael Crabtree would probably get the nod if that were the case). Rather, it is where I see the Heisman race as it stands now, based on how I think the vote would go.

Graham Harrell, Texas Tech QB: It's his to lose.

Colt McCoy, Texas QB: It was his, he just left too many ticks on the clock for Harrell.

Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech WR: I see a potential Reggie Bush, Matt Leinart situation.

Tim Tebow, Florida QB: His team is better. Does that make him worse?

Sam Bradford, Oklahoma QB: It was his, until the second half against Texas.

Javon Ringer, Michigan St. RB: Leading the nation in rushing used to count for so much more.

Shonn Greene, Iowa RB: He rushed for117 big yards in big win against Penn State, which pushes him up everyone's list.

Chase Daniel, Missouri QB: He's still quietly putting up huge numbers.

Max Hall, BYU QB: He'll need them to win out to get even a whiff of an invite.

(tie) Dez Bryant, Oklahoma St. WR and Jeremy Maclin, Missouri WR: They both have big talent and are putting up big numbers.

Heisman History: Inside College Football's Most Prestigious Award

Paul Fulwiler — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 09:25:32 -0500

Say what you want about the Heisman Trophy: "It's all about the hype." "The best player never wins." "The winner never makes it in the NFL." Whatever. The truth is, since its inception in 1935, the race for the Heisman Trophy is the most watched, most scrutinized, and most talked about in all of college football, and perhaps in all of sports.

When Jay Berwanger took home the first "bronzed stiff arm" for Chicago back in 1935, the award (known then as the Downtown Athletic Club Trophy) was intended to go to the "best college player east of the Mississippi." Some might say that nothing much has changed in that regard.

Despite USC's recent success, the western part of the United States has received very little love from Heisman voters. Terry Baker of Oregon State became the first West Coast winner in 1962. He was the 28th recipient of the award.

And after USC great Marcus Allen ran away with it in 1981, the West Coast would have to wait another 21 years. USC quarterback Carson Palmer won in 2002, the first of three in just four seasons for the Trojans.

After that first year, the Heisman folks (at least according to their website) began considering players coast-to-coast in an attempt to find the nation's "most outstanding college football player."

After taking a close look at the 72 selections since Berwanger, you'll find 40 running backs (tail, half, full, etc.), 26 quarterbacks, five receivers (ends, flankers, etc.), and just one defensive player—Michigan cornerback Charles Woodson in 1997.

Although several early winners played both ways (Iowa's Nile Kinnick did just about everything, including lead the nation with eight picks), perhaps that should read "most outstanding offensive player (who is not an offensive lineman)."

Despite the recent run on quarterbacks winning (seven in the last eight seasons, and 12 out of the last 18) a distinct pattern took form in the '70s and early '80s, when it went primarily to whomever led the nation in rushing and/or scoring.

Even with some of the greatest QBs in history putting up huge numbers (Dan Marino, John Elway, Joe Montana, Jim McMahon, Steve Young, and so on) not one of them would take home the hardware.

Boston College great Doug Flutie would put an end to that run (11 straight seasons), taking it home in 1984.

What is the real criteria for selection into this elite fraternity? There is no code or qualifications. However, there are some other similarities among these 72. Most have some sort of combination of winning team, huge stats, and a great career. How they're weighted is entirely up to the voters.

Save for one glaring exception (Paul Hornung in 1956), every Heisman winner has played on a winning team, and often very highly ranked. In fact, there have only been six winners on teams with four losses or more.

1. Paul Hornung, 1956, Notre Dame (2-8)

I realize that the hype that exists today probably doesn't compare to the attention Notre Dame players received in the '40s and '50s, but 2-8? There were plenty of other worthy candidates: Tommy McDonald, Johnny Majors, and Jim Brown. Can you imagine Jimmy Clausen getting the invite to last year's festivities?

2. Steve Owens, 1964, Oklahoma (6-4)

Led the nation in rushing and scoring.

3. Tim Brown, 1987, Notre Dame (8-4)

Don't get me wrong: Much like Hornung, Brown was an amazing athlete and could do so much, but man, Heisman voters sure love the Irish. I don't think Syracuse's Don McPherson cares for them much, however. He led the Orangemen to an 11-0-1 record and led the nation in QB efficiency rating. He finished second, and it wasn't even close.

4. Bo Jackson, 1985, Auburn (8-4)

Among the nation's leaders in rushing and scoring and won a nail-biter with Iowa QB Chuck Long, 1509-1464

5. George Rogers, 1980, South Carolina (8-4)

Led the nation in rushing.

6. Tim Tebow, 2007, Florida (9-4)

The first sophomore to ever win put up huge numbers but was given an even larger gift when the clear front-runner, Oregon QB Dennis Dixon, succumbed to a knee injury in Week 10 that would end his season, and thus, his Heisman campaign.

Somewhat surprisingly, only 11 Heisman winners have combined their trophy with a National Title. There were five that did it of the first 15 winners, followed by an incredible stretch from 1950-1992, 43 seasons, where just two completed the feat.

After a run of three in five years, there has been only one winner in the last 10 years to nab both: USC QB Matt Leinart in 2004.

The career award (is that how Hornung got his?) has gone most recently to Nebraska QB Eric Crouch in 2001, Wisconsin RB Ron Dayne in 1999, and Texas RB Ricky Williams in 1998. Both Williams and Dayne had huge numbers. In fact, Dayne broke the all-time rushing mark that Williams had set the previous year.

Eric Crouch? I'm still not sure about that one. It was a close vote among Crouch, Florida QB Rex Grossman, Miami QB Ken Dorsey, and Oregon QB Joey Harrington.

Grossman's problem, despite leading the nation in QB efficiency rating, was that he was a sophomore. Dorsey? Not enough flash? Perhaps just lucky to be the QB on a great team? And Harrington? Well, you might want to look into that West Coast bias again.

The bottom line: If you're looking to see who might be the one fortunate player to take home the trophy this season, start on offense, look at the QBs, see who's at least winning most of their games, who might be closing in on some career marks, who has sprinkled in a few highlights, perhaps a game winner or two, and make sure he's not a freshman.

Then you just might have it.

November Rain at Autzen: Boos Shower Victorious Oregon Ducks?

Paul Fulwiler — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 18:35:08 -0500

And when your fears subside
And shadows still remain
I know that you can love me
When there's no one left to blame
So never mind the darkness
We still can find a way
'Cause nothin' lasts forever
Even cold November rain

     -Guns 'n Roses, November Rain

You would think that not only had the Oregon Ducks lost to Stanford today at a rain-soaked Autzen Stadium, but that they had lost big. Perhaps even been embarrassed.

You wouldn't know that the Oregon offense rolled up over 450 yards. Or that Jeremiah Johnson and LeGarrette Blount would combine for 225 yards on 25 carries (9.0 avg.) and 3 scores.

You wouldn't know they would improve upon last week's third-down deficiency by going 6-of-11, holding Stanford to just 5-of-15, and punting just once. Repeat...one punt.

You also wouldn't know that the Ducks would overcome four fumbles (against just one by Stanford on the opening kickoff), a fake field goal for a touchdown, a perfect strike dropped in the end zone, a penalty negating a 60-yard kickoff return, another botched snap for a safety, and a heartbreaking call reversal of a fumble at the goal line (which surely brought back horrifying memories of Cameron Colvin's last gasp against Cal last season).

And despite all of that and fighting against extremely poor weather conditions, the Ducks found themselves on their way to a 35-28 victory over a resurgent 5-4 Cardinal team, desperate for bowl eligibility.

And by the end of the day the Ducks would find their own Pac-10 record sitting at 5-2 and 7-3 overall.

And why wouldn't you know any of this? Well, the rarely appropriate, often unacceptable, yet seemingly all-too-common chorus of "boos" that came pouring down upon Oregon players.

And unfortunately, they seemed to drown out too many of the good things that were happening for the young Ducks.

The boos were most often directed at quarterback Jeremiah Masoli and came nearly as frequent as the rain showers in Eugene.

With just 2:18 remaining in the fourth quarter, and his Oregon team facing a 28-27 deficit, Masoli rolled out, found a receiver in the middle of the field, took aim...and missed.

Booooo!  How dare he? Booooo! Does he know how much I paid for these tickets? An incompletion? Are you kidding me? He's been here too long to be throwing incomplete passes. (Just a few short months removed from San Francisco Junior College actually)

Never mind that he would he would shake off the "inexcusable?" mistake, as well as the bellowing buffoons, and fire a strike for a first down on the very next throw. And never mind that the 20-year-old sophomore would later make the biggest run of the game (and perhaps the season) on third-and-8 with just over a minute left on the clock.

Leading a drive perhaps reminiscent of Dennis Dixon or Joey Harrington, if it weren't for the inexplicable boos or for the fact that neither Dixon or Harrington did anything even remotely resembling what Masoli pulled off this early in their Oregon careers.

I realize some "fans" (and I use the term loosely) feel they've paid for the "right to boo." Whatever. From my viewpoint these people come to the stadium actually looking for a reason to boo.  Where's the fun in that?

These kids (and I don't use that term loosely) need your support, as fans. This wasn't a day for Oregon fans to be hanging their heads, or calling for Bellotti's. This was a good win. A solid effort. In difficult conditions. Pick your heads up. Enjoy it.

If you truly want your team to succeed, how can you possibly think the boos will actually help? Check yourself. Take a good hard look, boo-birds. Is it worth your effort?

The NCAA 10: Ranking College Football's Studio Analysts

Paul Fulwiler — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 19:18:07 -0500

It's hard to imagine we used to get along without them. Once upon a time, we simply had whatever pregame Keith Jackson wanted to give us a few minutes before kickoff.

Nowadays, from the moment the NFL boys on Fox are giving us the latest BCS Standings (hot off the press on Sunday) to ESPN's College GameDay crew (on a campus near you every Saturday) we are inundated with College Football preview shows.

Each week, we get countless hours of coverage, breakdowns, and prognostications, and after analyzing all the in-studio talent, these are the best at dropping their knowledge:

1. Kirk Herbstreit, ESPN College GameDay

Love him or hate him, you always tune in to hear what he has to say. His picks may not always be spot-on (something tells me he may choose some with his heart and some just for fun) but the former Buckeye QB's analysis, both on the GameDay set (technically not in-studio every week) and alongside Brent Musberger each Saturday is usually spot-on.

2. Mike Mayock, NFL Network College Football Now

He takes a little getting used to, but he breaks down tape and can spot NFL talent as good as anyone on the tube. I highly recommend his coverage of the NFL Draft as well.

3. Jesse Palmer, ESPN College Football Live

Now before you go thinking I have a thing for pretty boy QB's (or former "Bachelors") take a listen to what the former Gator has to say. I see a smooth transition to GameDay once Herbstreit decides all that travel is a bit too much.

4. Trevor Matich, ESPN College Football Live

The former BYU center brings a nice change of pace and fresh lineman perspective to the daily broadcast.

5. Tom Luginbill, ESPNU Inside the Polls

If you can suffer through whatever Coach Gottfried is spitting out, there is usually some good stuff from Tom, and he is always on top of the recruiting scene.

6. Doug Flutie, ABC College Football Countdown

Maybe I'm a little biased (huge fan when he took home the Heisman at BC, but then again who wasn't?) but I like his take from the QB's perspective.

7. Charles Davis, NFL Network College Football Now

I seem to agree with the former Tennessee DB more than just about anyone on this list.

8. Robert Smith, ESPN College Football Live

The former Buckeye RB seems to do his homework and isn't quite the homer you might expect him to be.

9. Mark May, ESPN College Football Live

I know Notre Dame lovers are not going to like seeing this, especially with Dr. Lou being noticeably absent. However, the former Pitt great is often right and quite often makes Mr. Holtz wish he had either not shown up that day, or perhaps just not said anything at all.

10. Craig James, ABC College Football Countdown

The former SMU RB barely makes the list, just ahead of Joe Schad and Lou Holtz, but only does so because I just couldn't possibly include...

The Not-so-Honorably Mentioned

Trev Alberts and Brian Jones, CBS Inside College Football

These two former LB's seem like they're having fun, but I'm just not getting it.

Desmond Howard and Lee Corso, ESPN College GameDay

The whole mascot head thing has just about run its course, and I'm still not sure what the former Heisman winner adds to the telecast.

Terry Donahue, NFL Network College Football Now

Great coach, but...

Bruce Feldman, EPSN College Football Live

Good writer, Meat Market was a decent read, but the jury is still out for TV.

Mike Gottfried

Nice guy, but...

Mike & Mike: Bellotti Vs. Riley, Round 2

Paul Fulwiler — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 06:11:48 -0500

In response to several posts, here and elsewhere, let's not fool ourselves about what Oregon football was before Mike Bellotti arrived either.

As many can recall, the Ducks hadn't been bowling themselves since the 1963 Sun Bowl when Coach Bellotti came in as Offensive Coordinator in 1989 (6 bowls total in their history). Since his arrival, 15 bowls (about to be 16)... in just 20 seasons. Pretty remarkable really.

The problem with many of the arguments for Mike Riley (or rather against Bellotti) is the need to "take away" certain things. But for the fun of it, take a look at the previous four years prior to Bellotti taking over as head coach, even with the 1994 Rose Bowl season, and the Ducks were 23-24.

What did Riley inherit upon his return? A 31-17 program with Fiesta Bowl experience. So, we take away Riley's first two years, we recognize that he actually inherited a program in better shape and we'll say that his next five years (2003-2007) were at least comparable to Bellotti's first five years (1995-1999), despite Bellotti reaching a Cotton Bowl and going 6-2 in the Pac-10 twice—at least their overall records were similar, 39-20 for Bellotti and 39-24 for Riley.

Now, the big question is: What is Riley going to do in years six and seven? We know what Bellotti did: two Pac-10 titles, 21-3 record, Holiday Bowl and Fiesta Bowl wins, a Heisman finalist, countless NFL draftees and countless facility improvements (as well as uni combos) and the foundation for a top tier program for many years to come.

Round and Round We Go: NCAA Football Coaching Carousel Continues

Paul Fulwiler — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 09:23:29 -0500

It happens every year, in just about every sport, but in 2008 it seems to be happening a lot sooner in College Football. With Ron Prince's recent ousting at Kansas State, there are already four head jobs open at BCS schools.

1. Washington: It was just a matter of time. In fact, you might say the letting go of Tyrone Willingham came a little late. With everything the UW program has going for it, tradition, facilities, fan base, it shouldn't be that difficult to win consistently there.

Ty was nowhere near consistent and it was time to go. So, who comes in next? UW faithful would love to see former Huskies Jim Mora or Gary Pinkel take over, however, I think that's wishful thinking. Here's how I see it:

Favorites:
A. Chris Petersen (Boise St. HC): This should be the first call UW Athletic Director Scott Woodward makes. He's a young, innovative, Northwest guy (also coached at Oregon), and he's a winner (sitting at 31-3 and working on his second undefeated season and possible second BCS Bowl). The question is, would he take the job?

B. Wil Muschamp (Texas DC): You'll see this name pop up on just about all the coaching searches, but especially at UW, due to the fact that Woodward (UW AD) has ties to LSU and Nick Saban, Muschamp's old boss. I think he'll be looking to stay in the south, and watching that Texas D the last few weeks, I'm not sure what all the fuss is about.

C. Lane Kiffin (former Raiders HC): He's also young, and now comes with NFL experience. And while his time at USC showed he could recruit and had a good offensive mind, the jury is still out on whether he's head coaching material.

D. Pat Hill (Fresno State HC): Known for being willing to play "anyone, anywhere," he could get his chance. Next season, the Dawgs have LSU and head back to South Bend, and in 2010, they're off to BYU and host Nebraska. And with a full slate of Pac-10 games (unlike other conferences that get a few years off from each other), I would be careful what you wish for, Pat.

E. Steve Sarkisian (USC OC): He has already expressed interest, however, appears a bit green to be leading what will amount to be a monumental rebuilding.

Others:
Dave Christensen (Missouri OC, former Husky): See Sarkisian above
Bronco Mendenhall (BYU HC), Kyle Whittingham (Utah HC), Todd Graham (Tulsa HC): All are up and coming young HC's

Long shots:
Scott Linehan (former Rams HC): Also a former Husky
Nick Holt (USC DC): Also a former Idaho HC, and with the top D in the nation, he should get more press than he does (methinks maybe Petey likes to take all the cred for "his" D)
Mike Leach (Texas Tech HC): I just can't see leaving what he's got

2. Clemson: Somewhat surprising for Tommy Bowden, especially the way it went down, and considering his record. To look for a replacement, they'll start in-house, but you will also need to consider Clemson AD Terry Don Phillips' history at Oklahoma State, Virginia Tech, and Arkansas. With that said, I can see him going after:

A. Bobby Johnson (Vandy HC): Former Clemson player, seems the obvious choice.

B. Dabo Swinney (Interim Clemson HC): He has the job now, but will need a huge finish in order to keep it. Winning at No. 22 Florida St. this week would go a long way. Beating Spurrier and South Carolina to end the regular season would go even further.

C. Mike Gundy (Oklahoma State HC): It would be tough for Gundy to leave the Cowboys now, especially with the money they have rolling in there.

D. Bud Foster (Virginia Tech DC): He has put together many great defenses for the Hokies and could be looking for his first shot to be a head man, assuming he's not simply waiting for Coach Beamer to hang it up.

Others:
Wil Muschamp (Texas DC): He's going to go somewhere.
Todd Graham (Tulsa HC): Young and innovative

3. Tennessee: Seems odd that you can win 10 games, play for your conference title and then be out of work midway through the next season (especially considering Phil Fulmer's career record and his ownership of a National Title). So it goes in college football in the year 2008.

The Vols should have their pick of candidates, considering the program really isn't in bad shape at all, the facilities are there, the fans are rabid and there's plenty of money. With David Cutcliffe bowing out early, here are some other former UT assistants that might get a mention (however long the odds are):

A. Ron Zook (Illinois HC): Would the former Florida HC leave the Illini to go back to the SEC?

B. Lovie Smith (Bears HC): Things seem to be okay for Lovie in Chicago...for now.

C. Tommy West (Memphis HC): Former Vol player and coach still has work to do in Memphis

And considering UT AD Mike Hamilton's history at West Virginia, Jim Grobe will garner some attention. Others to watch will be Chris Petersen, Wil Muschamp, Lane Kiffin, and two former SEC assistants: Mike Leach and Skip Holtz.

4. Kansas State: Ron Prince is the latest to be shipped out, and there are already a few possibilities surfacing. K-State AD Bob Krause has some connections in Minnesota and at Michigan State; however, he will be probably be selecting from the following:

A. Dennis Franchione (former Texas A&M HC): Former K-State assistant was let go just a year ago from A&M, and you would think he would be interested in coming back to Manhattan.

B. Brent Venables (Oklahoma DC): Bob Stoops would hate to lose him, but I think the Wildcat faithful would love to see him back where he both played and coached. He's young but could be just what they need.

C. Gary Patterson (TCU HC): He has a pretty good thing going, but would seem to be interested in making something out of the K-State program he once played and coached for.

Others:
See the usual suspects above (Muschamp, Petersen, Christensen, etc.) and throw in Terry Bowden as a long shot who just might be itching to get back in the game.