Bleacher Report - Articles by Brendan Collins

Notre Dame AD: Playing With The Cards He Was Dealt

Brendan Collins — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 23:09:40 -0500

The Notre Dame Head Football coach hire is far more complex than the Internet hype on Stoops, Meyer, etc would indicate. The saying "he's a winner" carries less and less weight in college football as coaching salaries have gone from five to seven digits and high school recruiting rankings are almost as important as the win—loss record. So when ND athletic director Jack Swarbrick and company go into their private jet and head around the country interviewing candidates, there are several moves he will have to get right in order for Notre Dame to prosper in the future.

In essence Swarbrick is playing Texas Hold'em Poker and in order to win the hand, which would be landing a coach that brings long term success to a struggling program, then he will have to play his cards perfectly.

Swarbricks first move was to fold his open-ended flush draw (Charlie Weis) even though he had $18 million in the pot. He decided that he did not have a great deal of confidence that the next two cards, the turn and the river, were going to complete his flush and win the hand so he folded and took the loss.

His next move is to post the big blind as he has no choice in the matter, Notre Dame needs a head coach so regardless of the two cards he recieves from the dealer, he has to play them. This week he and the firm they have hired have been all over the country interviewing candidates for the head coach job at Notre Dame.

While Swarbrick waits for everyone to post the blinds so that he can get a look at the flop, everyone at the table is saying he has pocket aces or pocket kings (Stoops and Meyer speculation), but at the end of the day those two cards are face down and will not be flipped up until the hand is over (when the decision is made).

Once the dealer flips up the next three cards not only Swarbrick, but the rest of the table have a much better feeling of how the hand is going to shape up. He may not have liked his cards before the flop, but given the cards that were turned over he is now reaching for chips. On the contrary, he may have had a low pocket pair and fell in love with it before the flop but with a suited ace and a suited king on the board he may not be as confident anymore.

The Flop: Ace of Spades, 5 of diamonds, King of Spades

The player to his right makes a bet and Swarbrick is now left with some decisions: how much is this going to cost me to play, how much should I invest in my hand, am I taking a short term risk (chasing a flush or straight) or am I making a long term investment (slow playing the tree of a kind). Is there a chance at hitting a big hand or is this the best I have. In the end he has to decide whether he is going to call, fold or raise. Folding would mean he would have to spend the spring without a head coach which is devastating to a college football team, calling would show he is not overly optimistic but he is not out either and the raise would show that he is confident in the cards he possesses. It is only he that knows what cards he has as the rest of the table watches him, guesses at his hand, waiting for him to make a bet.

Once Gruden signed his extention with ESPN and Meyer and Stoops both told the media they are not leaving the schools, that would lead me to believe that Swarbrick liked his pre-flop hand (im guessing pocket 10's), but he knows he is in trouble. Feeling pressed for time and knowing that he just lost $18 million on the previous hand without seeing it play itself out he decides to call. He is worried about the flush and the potential stright draw but he has a small level of optimism in the next two cards.

The Turn Card: 10 of diamonds

Here is where Swarbrick most likely is today. There is a straight possibility, there is a flush posibility but he hit the three of a kind (if my guess is correct that he had pocket 10's). We, like everyone else at the table, have no idea what his two cards are and that card may have made him, crushed him or may have no impact.

What is important to realize however is that he has no control over many of the variables that are at play for him to win the hand. The next card the dealer flips is random, what the other players are holding for there two cards is out of Swarbricks hands and how they bet is also not something he controls. Its now a game of chance, but he has to make the best of the cards he is dealt. The guy down the table throws down a big bet, hinting that he may have hit the straight with the 10. Swarbrick has another decision to make.

This decision is not just about whether he thinks he can win this hand, but whether these same two cards would win the hand in the long run. He also needs to look at how much the bet is going to cost him, how much he can win from the pot if he succeeds and most importantly he has to know the people he is playing against and how their strategies.

The dealer looks Swarbrick straight in the eyes and says, "its your turn," he pauses and ..... (to be continued)

Notre Dame fans across the country wait anxiously for his next couple of moves.

NFL's All-American Team

Brendan Collins — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 01:34:32 -0500

The United States when it was first organized was young, scrappy and willing to take on the biggest and most powerful country in the world, Great Britain. The Americans bravely fought for their independence and once they got it people from all over the world came to enjoy the freedoms of living in America. This gave birth to the oldest and most unique truth of American life and that is the “American Dream.” The dream is different for everyone but its roots are sunk into the fact that regardless of background, economic status, race or location any American through hard work and determination can succeed. The dream is an important part of American culture. No three men in the history of the National Football League embodied the American Dream more than the NFL’s First Team All-Americans. Humble beginnings, determination, pride and courage to achieve a level of success exceeding their god given ability and potential; these are the men we cheer for on Sunday’s after a long week of work. These men are the real heroes that do more than score touchdowns and make tackles but inspire us through our outdated television sets by the way they played and how the conducted themselves off the field.

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Dear Brian Kelly: Don't Dig Your Own Grave in South Bend

Brendan Collins — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:50:20 -0500

Dear Brian Kelly,

Nice work this season with Cincinati. Undefeated is pretty hard to come across these days, no matter what division you are in. It's even more impressive given that your stud quarterback went down with an injury and now your backup quarterback is a household name.

As the skies in South Bend take on a gray hue and a storm appears to be brewing, your name gets tied to future coach of the Blue and Gold. Fans across the country are praying for you, and for several other coaches, to come and put some life back into the fading Golden Domers.

The salary may be high, the tradition may run deep and the media attention may be focused. But do not ignore history. How many coaches have left Notre Dame and gone onto careers elsewhere? Very few. How many have all but retired after Notre Dame? Plenty.

OK, so retiring at Notre Dame doesn't sound so bad. If you want to retire in 3-5 years, there is nothing wrong with it.

But you seem like a coach with a great deal of potential who'd like to stick around for longer than that.

Those same fans who cheer your name in South Bend are the ones that will eventually kick you to the curb. Well what if I do well, you might ask. Nothing is good enough in South Bend; just ask Lou Holtz.

Just when you think nine wins is enough, 10 the next season is a disappointment. After that you'd better make sure you win a National Championship.

Today they want to be in the BCS discussion; that's do-able, you might presume. But once you are in the BCS discussion they will expect you to compete for the national title; if you fall short, it'll be "bye bye Coach Kelly". By then you will be so frazzled by the constant pressure and ridiculous expectations that you will never want to pick up a whistle again.

So take some advice from a Notre Dame fan. Stay where you are, enjoy the game you have brilliantly coached and spare your kids having to read how horrible of a person and coach their father is in every American newspaper. Take it from the fans, we have seen coaches come into South Bend on chariots only to get thrown to the curb a few short years later.

Sincerely,

ND fan with a heart

Notre Dame Football: Learn from the Best

Brendan Collins — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 20:21:20 -0500

In a time when accountability has faded and there aren't enough fingers to point the blame, head coaches are the ones who take the heat. Not the 22 players on the field, not the six guys on the court, not the five skaters on the ice, not the nine guys on the diamond. "Of course it was not Muhammad Ali's fault when he lost to Frazier, his trainer failed," is the attitude of today's sports fans.

The heat could not be any hotter than it is for Charlie Weis as Notre Dame comes to the crossroads with yet another head coach. Media outlets across the country say Weis' tenure is through at Notre Dame; the alumni has "had enough" of him and even the student body has given up on their programs leader. AD Jack Swarbrick will most likely spread the word behind closed doors that the head coaching job is up for grabs, and they will begin the process of looking for a new Head Coach, Offensive Coordinator, Defensive Coordinator, etc.

"He wasn't able to get the job done", "Couldn't win the big game", "He's not a head coach", "Had five years and couldn't win a national championship," have all been said countless times. In South Bend, "execution" (of the gameplan) is a forbidden word and every loss is taken as a reflection of Weis' inability as a Head Coach. The latest news stories don't surround the issue of whether or not he will be fired, but around who will replace him. The big names mentioned have been Gruden (Tampa Bay Buccaneers), Patterson (TCU), Peterson (Boise State), Kelly (Cinncinati), Stoops (Oklahoma), and Harbaugh (Stanford).

Before Notre Dame throws their coach to the wolves, as they will at the end of the season, they should take a look at some of the greatest coaches of all time and learn that winning championships is a process; it takes time, and requires patience.

John Wooden is considered to be the greatest Head Coach of all time. His record of having won 10 National Championships in 12 years is well known amongst sports fans. It's not the winning percentage or the conference titles by which the great coaches are judged, but national titles...and nobody has ever been able to duplicate what Wooden accomplished. What most do not realize however, is that it took him 16 years to win his first national title.

Joe Paterno is another candidate for one of the greatest coaches of all time with his impressive career at Penn State. It is well documented that he has the most wins as a coach in college football history. Many don't know that it took him 17 years to win his first national championship even though he previously had three undefeated seasons with the Nittany Lions.

Dean Smith is right up there with Wooden and Paterno as one of college's greatest all-time coaches; and like those two, it took him some time before he won his first National Title for the University of North Carolina. 21 years, to be exact, and 10 years to win an NIT Championship. He didn't win his second NCAA Championship until 11 years after the first.

Those are three of the best college coaches of all time, and while they are known for winning National Titles, and being some of the most winning coaches ever, the road to their destination was much longer than most realize. Are there great coaches who won quicker? Of course; Bear Bryant won his first title in six years, but it wasn't for another 11 that he won his second (with a different school). However, there are many more coaches like the three mentioned above who took over a decade to win their first title.

Some of those guys are basketball coaches which is different, you might say. Well how about Bobby Bowden who is neck and neck with Joe Paterno for the most winning coach in college football? It took him 18 years to win his first national championship at Florida State.

In the end our mothers were right when they said "good things come in time" and "Rome wasn't built in a day." To be successful in life, and in sports, you have to be patient, take your time and do things the right way, not the easy way. The easy thing for Notre Dame would be to listen to the alumni, the fans, and the student body and send Weis packing. As they most likely will do, because in today's climate it's "what have you done for me lately."

For all the student athletes that were a part of Wooden's, Smith's, Paterno's, and Bowden's first national championship teams, thank god that your school had the vision and the patience to let your coaches develop the program without the AD having a stopwatch at hand.

It might not be fair to compare Weis, or anyone else for that matter, to these coaches, but the message remains. Notre Dame, practice what you preach! If you want your students to follow the ways of God, conduct themselves with class and character and do the right thing when times are tough, then you yourself should do the same. Don't take it from me, take it from the best college coaches of all time.

How Franklin D. Roosevelt Ruined Sports Philosophy in the United States

Brendan Collins — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:46:11 -0500

It all started in the spring of 1933 when Franklin D. Roosevelt incorporated the New Deal in the United States to combat the Great Depression that had swept through the country.

He used communist tactics to raise employment all across the country and rebuild the economy that had virtually collapsed. FDR's schemes were a great successs and his legacy stands today as getting the country out of the Great Depression. However, many short term solutions can have long term consequences as was the case for the New Deal.

Rewind six years to the Mississippi Flood of 1927 when the Mississippi river had overflowed and devastated half of the region leaving thousands of families hopeless. Were the proud people of Mississippi looking to the federal goverment to solve their problems? Absolutely not. Citizens from across the United States got involved in helping these people and they helped themselves. In the end the American Red Cross led the largest relief effort in the history of the United States to help the struggling people who were affected by the flood.

What does this have to do with sports philosophy? Well go to a website of any losing sports team and you will see "fire the coach" messages galore. You will hear how the problems of a team are due to the coach and the organization.

The New Deal was a short term solution but it left in its wake the silent murder of accountability in the United States. Players as well as fans do not take responsibility for their actions and point to the head coach whenever a problem arises. Although this was not a direct reflection on anything FDR did, the evolution of his philosophy has led to a demise of responsibility and taking care of ones self.

One of the greatest sports moments of our time was the Ali-Frazer fight in 1971 in which Ali lost his first proffesional fight. Were the newspapers blaming Ali's trainer for losing the fight? Of course not, because it was one on one and the only logical person to blame was the fighter.

We have lost sight of that in recent years as a bad pass from a quarterback reflects on the offensive coordinator or a missed free throw in a game is a demonstration of bad coaching. When are we going to take responsibility for our own actions? When are athletes and fans going to use the words "execution" when refering to a player's performance instead of blaming it on a coaches scheme?

Now it goes both ways, as Phil Jackson is not as responcsible for winning titles in Chicago as Michael Jordan. At the end of the day, regardless of who the coach is, if the players play and do what they are suppose to the team will win, as all sports are series of one on one battles, a series of Ali-Fraziers, and the team that works the hardest and executes their gameplan will win those battles and win the game.

Next time you are yelling at your GM or athletic director remember that there is a history behind your attitude towards the coach and it starts in the spring of 1933. Just ask Ali how much his coach affected whether he won or lost a game, ask Michael Jordan if they would have won titles without Phil Jackson. Who was the coach of the Edmonton Oilers when Gretzky won his first stanley cup? Exactly.

Florida Gators: First-Class Football, Second-Class Citizens

Brendan Collins — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:38:19 -0500

Earlier today Urban Meyer released a statement in his press conference that Brandon Spikes would be suspended for the first half of the Vanderbilt game this upcoming week.

This past weekend against Georgia, Spikes was caught on video eye gouging the Georgia running back after he had already been tackled and was laying on the ground. The video showed him not only sticking his hands into the face mask, but also twisting his hands around and gouging his eye. This is seen by most as blatantly unsportsmanlike and a disgrace to the game of football, but Tim Tebow and Head Coach Urban Meyer attempted to cover up the situation as Meyer said "he got caught up in the emotion" and Tebow said " I don't think we did anything that they didn't do." Although the Gators may be the best team in college football they are certainly not the classiest.

It is one thing if a player makes a mistake and acts against the will of his teammates as was the case with Oregon running back LeGarrette Blount when he punched a Boise State player after the game when he was being taunted, where the school, the league, and the coach found Blount guilty and suspended him for the rest of the season ( originally and now he is trying to get back into the league). That is one situation, another is when you supposed "student-athlete" jumps on top of a player who was already tackled to the ground and puts his finger inside their face mask in an effort to gouge out his eye.

The league (SEC) the school and Urban Meyer decided that this action warranted a half of a football game suspension. Seriously? What kind of message does that send to the team? What kind of message does that send to the rest of the league that the best team can give out a blatant cheap shot and receive little to no disciplinary infractions. When did football become all about winning and not at all about teaching these student athletes how to be men both on and off the field. Part of the appeal of college football is that these are student athletes that are competing on Saturday and studying on Monday; good kids that families at home can relate to.

Urban Meyers suspension, the SEC's agreement with that suspension and Florida University's actions are about as sick as Spike's eye gouge. All of these agents involved in this situation are trying to, as Urban put it, "move on" instead of using this as a learning example to teach both Brandon Spikes and his teammates that this behavior is unacceptable instead of a slap on the wrist move so that you do no loose your best defensive player.

I agree that a coach should defend his player to the media and stick up for him when the rest of the country is outraged by his actions, that I have no problem with. But by suspending him for just half of a football game is a slap in the face to the rest of the league, to Georgia, and every other team that is held accountable for their actions.

My high school football coach once said that wins on paper are shallow and that it was the people in the locker room those wins special. The SEC, Urban Meyer, Brandon Spikes, and the University of Florida have disgraced themselves and college football in general with their slap on the wrist penalty to Spikes today and I for one have lost all respect.

As said best by a Notre Dame fan today when he said he will take Charlie Weis and a 6-2 record with student athletes on the field that fans can be proud of over the Florida Gators and Urban Meyer any day.

Somebody needs to teach this team that it is not your success on the football field, but who you are as a person that will determine your success in life.

The Charlie Weis Discussion: Where the Irish Stand at the Halfway Mark

Brendan Collins — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:01:20 -0400

Charlie Weis is in his fifth season as the Notre Dame Football Head Coach and although his first two seasons he was celebrated as one of the most beloved coaches in college football, but over the past two years, his popularity has diminished and many of his loyal backers have fled.

As in most cases, there are two sides to every story and everyone has heard them.

The Irish sit 4-2 at the halfway mark with many fans and alums thrilled with the improvements since the past two seasons and other fans and alums are heartbroken about the Irish's inability to beat the "good teams." Most attack the easiest target, aka the head coach, while others attack unreasonable expectations, admissions standards or even location of the school.

The truth is it is a combination of many of these factors that has kept Notre Dame from the top of the college world. The school is located in the middle of nowhere, the weather is cold and nasty, the religious and academic prestige of the school is no longer important to today's recruits and the House the Rockne built is just another stadium.

As division one football has expanded and recruiting efforts are more intensive every year, the level of play has dramatically increased over the past 30 years. Unfortunately due to several factors Notre Dame has not been able to keep up with the pace.

As for Head Coach Charlie Weis, his conduct of the field in terms of leadership, spirituality and commitment to his players academics and off field behavior is as impressive as any coach in division one sports. His teams GPA is over 3.0 which is quite hard to accomplish at Notre Dame and the teams graduation rates are among the highest in the country.

He has been said to be arrogant but to all that know he is heavily involved in his daughters foundation for children with learning disabilities and has helped several people across the country such as Montana Matzerkavich a young boy who died of cancer, and former BC linebacker who was also diagnosed with cancer.

It is not what he has done off the field that gets ink in the papers but his teams performance on the field. "He can't win the big game," "he's a bad coach," "Notre Dame needs a change," "he doesn't motivate his players." Anyone who follows the Irish have heard these complaints and many more, but my favorite is that he cannot win the big game.

If you go into the Weis house and look up on the dresser you may find not one, not two, not three, but four Super Bowl rings, and the last time I checked, those are some pretty big games.

I also like the one "he has not proven he can win," this is after he took a relatively talentless team to back to back BCS games and took a quarterback with little to no success before he arrived and molded him into a Heisman candidate and first round draft choice.

I also get a kick out of those who question is gameplan and playcalling as this is the same coach who was able to get Golden Tate over 100 yards receiving and two touchdowns when he faced the best defense in the country and was doubled the entire game with arguably the best defensive prospect in the upcoming draft Taylor Mays playing over top all game.

If that is not enough proof for you, then look at the offensive Notre Dame team records and guess what, you will see Weis' teams fill up nearly 75 percent of all Notre Dame offensive records.

In the end, everything that I say or any other reporter about Weis and his job security is speculation. Before the season, people were saying BCS or bust, others said 10 wins, nine wins, or eight wins but more than likely, Jack Swarbrick the Notre Dame AD would not disrespect Weis by giving him an ultimatum. This is a coach who could be a head coach in the NFL, not a guy who is dependent on Notre Dame for a job.

My guess is that the administration and those close to the program are happy with the season so far as the team is much improved in most all aspects especially offensively with the additions of Frank Verducci at offensive line coach and Tony Alford as running backs coach. The defense is a work in progress and revered defensive coordinator Jon Tenuta has his hands full trying to correct all the problems with that group.

The question on whether he should stay or go is misleading as it provides a blank solution, the real question is what impact would his leaving have on the program and who could do a better job.

The impact of Weis' departure is the most devastating as the team will be upset as they have grown attached to Weis and will transfer or opt early to the NFL and the verbal commits will sign elsewhere leaving another hole in the recruiting gap that caught up with Notre Dame in 2007 and 2008.

"Rebuilding" will be the message over the next three seasons and a new regime and new vision will come rolling into South Bend. Most obvious is the close relationship between Weis and Clausen and you can be assured that if Weis goes Clausen will go as well. The last thing a Heisman quarterback is going to do his senior year is learn a new offense under a new coach no matter who it is. He will not be the only one either.

As far as who could do a better job, recently I have even heard fans talking about wanting Urban Meyer as their coach and although I have great respect for what he has done at Florida that comment is ignorant at best.

First, probably his greatest attribute in his career at Florida is his ability to recruit but if you look at his roster the majority come from his own back yard in the state of Florida and many of those students could not get into Notre Dame. The point is that he has significant advantages, as does USC, Texas as they are beautiful schools located in warm areas, surrounded by talented prospects and attractive cities.

He does not have to worry about academics, poor location or religious affiliations when recruiting an athlete. That is not to say he cannot but the fact that Weis bring in top end talent to South Bend is more than impressive given the obstacles in his way. In today's climate, athletes care much more about a warm day at the beach then the grotto or Touchdown Jesus.

The next six games will decide not only Weis future but the future of the program itself. If they win against BC, they will emerge back into the top 25 and their next two games are against Washington State and Navy, which Notre Dame will be favored in both.

Therefore, they would have an opportunity to break the top 20 with three wins and have a 7-2 record with only two losses to Michigan at the Big House by four points in the last 11 seconds of the game and USC by seven with a series of missed touchdown attempts to tie the game in the final seconds. From there the road gets tougher and they will have to play three solid teams in Pittsburgh, UConn and Stanford.

Let us not forge that last year this was a 7-6 football team with a poor offensive line, struggles at the QB position and no playmakers on defense.

This year they are on pace for a special season with a legitimate chance to win 10 games, arguably the best quarterback and wide receivers in the country, a future first-round draft pick at tight end, a huge and coherent offensive line that will graduate three players with a great chance at an NFL career and some big time players on defense such as Manti Teo and Brian Smith.

The Irish have a lot of work to do on defense but offensively they are as good as you could as for and the ceiling for improvement overall is endless with their coaching staff and depth at nearly every position for the first time in a long time.

So will Weis be the head coach next year? Nobody knows, not Weis, not you, not me, not even Jack Swarbrick but over the next six weeks we will have a much better idea.

But if you are a Notre Dame fan and you are looking for results in forms of wins then you might want to stick with a coach for more than five years and let them develop their team from top to bottom or else you will have cycle of rebuilding and rebuilding every couple of years.

Heisman Top Five: Who's The Best

Brendan Collins — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 18:24:28 -0400

As Week Five has come and gone in college football it is time to start asessing what players have shown the most so far this season.

Every website in the country will say Tim Tebow is the clear favorite for the Heisman Trophy, especially after Oklahoma's Sam Bradford went down with an injury in Week One.

So far according to media sources the battle is between Tebow and Colt McCoy at this point. However, the media dominates people's impressions on what players are good even before the games start.

Therefore we will take a minute to go over the best players in college football this year and just so happens all five in the Hesiman Top Five are quarterbacks which makes analysis much easier.

Tim Tebow:

Positives:

Tebow has been typical Tebow this season, with 643 yards in the air completing 64 % of his passes for six touchdowns with only one interception. He has also ran for almost 270 yards and five rushing touchdowns.

These numbers combined rank him third in passer efficiency in the country and his leadership has always been marveled at by players, coaches and opponents. He is the best player on the best team in the country, and that means something.

Negatives:

Tebow has not thrown the ball incredibly well, despite only throwing one interception all year. He has less than 700 yards through the air after four games against very soft opponents.

The weakness in schedule is a factor as well seeing how they have not played a team with a winning record or a team that has any chance of getting into the Top 10.

In the begining of the season scouts and coaches said Tebow was going to prove to NFL scouts that he could throw but when you run almost as many TD's as your throw then it says two things; 1.) you're a great athlete, 2.) you're not a great passer.

Grade: A-

Comment:

Week Six vs. LSU will show the country what Tebow is made of as a quarterback. Everyone knows he is a gamer and a tremendous athlete, but everyone wants to see if he is a quarterback.

Colt McCoy:

Positives:

Texas is ranked second in the country with one of the most dominant offenses in college football, and it all start with Colt. He has thrown for over 1,100 yards and is completing 71 % of his passes for a total of 10 touchdowns, nine through the air and one rushing score.

So far this season he has moved away from the dual-threat role and become more of a pocket passer. He is averaging just under 300 yards per game and has decreased his sacks from last season.

Negatives:

The Longhorns' schedule so far has been weak, a little better than Florida but not much.

Colt has already thrown five interceptions for a 9/5 TD to INT ratio. Although 71% completion percentage is very high, he had 76% last year, and this is the softest part of their schedule.

If McCoy wants to get above third in the Heisman race he will have to get his passer rating up into at least the Top 10 (currently out of the top 20).

Grade: B

Comment:

As the season continues Colt is going to have to keep throwing the ball well to recievers but not force throws and make better decisions with the ball.

Case Keenum:

Positives:

It is hard to argue against his stats although he reminds me a little of Colt Brennan of Hawaii from two seasons ago. He puts up big numbers against relatively unknowns and does not have to take the day-to-day pounding that his Heisman rivals do (or are going to as the season progresses).

He has passed for almost 1700 yards and completed 13 touchdowns with only two interceptions; not to mention he also has three rushing TDs. Last week he completed over 50 passes for 536 yards but lost to UTEP.

Case has a lot of talent and his numbers do all the talking for him as he willed them to an upset victory over Oklahoma State and a seat inside the Top 25 (until this week).

Negatives:

Case has a soft schedule ahead, and although his numbers are brilliant, he will always be doubted due to the team he is on and the conference they are in. His passer rating is not as high as some might think at 154, as he does throw the ball a lot more than most quarterbacks, which contributes to his high yardage games and touchdown passes.

Grade: A- / B+

Comment:

If he kept up his numbers and went undefeated, he would have put a lot of pressure on Tebow for the Heisman, but his loss last week kissed his chance of being Tebow's rival away. He is on pace for some serious numbers this season.

Tony Pike

Positives:

He has led his team to 5-0 start throwing 13 TDs and rushing for two. He has completed nearly 67% of his passes for a total of 1493 yards. He ranks 11th in passer rating and has attracted many NFL scouts in the past few weeks. He averages almost 300 yards per game.

Negatives:

The Big East is a soft conference in general, and he could go the entire season without playing a team that ends the season in the Top 25. His three interceptions are low but his deep ball accuracy is inconsistent.

Grade: A-

Comment:

So far so good. He manages the game well and has led a good team way beyong expectations to a number eight ranking. His game this week against ranked USF will pose a legitimate test to see how he can play when the team is challenged.

Jimmy Clausen

Positives:

Clausen has been the most improved player in college football with the highest passer rating in the nation, 1544 yards through the air and 12 touchdowns with only two interceptions.

One of those interceptions was a mistake by the freshman wide out, and the other hit Armando Allen in the hands and popped straight up for a pick.

He is completing nearly 68% of his passes and averaging over 300 yards per game. His numbers, however impressive, do not tell the full story as he has managed to come back in three straight weeks to win the game in the final seconds.

He has been able to do all of this after losing arguably the best wide reciever in college football for the season to injury.

Negatives:

Jimmy has a loss to his name, which can't be said about three of his rivals. He was unable to convert on two pass plays to put the nail in the coffin against Michigan and win the game.

Although he throws a very accurate deep ball, he benefits from having standout recievers and tight end.

Grade: A

Comments:

I do not think there is a better pure passer in college football as he puts the ball right on the money time and time again. He has been consistent, poised in the pocket, leader in the huddle and clutch when the game is on the line.

When Weis, who developed Tom Brady and Brady Quinn, gives you high praise, you know the kid's got the stuff.

There you have it. According to my analysis Tim Tebow, however shocking, is not the best player in college football, and may not even be the second best. NFL Scouts agree as well as they predict him as a second/third rounder and the 7th overall quarterback.

Colt McCoy might end up winning this year's Heisman, but if Clausen takes down USC on Oct. 17th, then the Heisman committe will have a very difficult time explaining that Clausen is not the nation's finest.

Looking at the numbers and the intangibles for this season, Jimmy Clausen appears to be the best of the rest.

Charlie Weis: The Face of the Irish

Brendan Collins — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 14:03:05 -0400

Born and raised in Vermont to an Irish Catholic lower middle class family, it was Notre Dame on Saturday and the New England Patriots on Sunday.

So for my family, Charlie Weis has been coaching the teams we watch for a decade.

In New England, Weis was known as an offensive mastermind, the man who discovered and developed Tom Brady and a hard working man.

When he was given the head coach job at Notre Dame I was as happy as ever knowing that they were getting a great coach that could really impact their offense. I, like many, thought this would take several years but he made an immediate impact bringing Notre Dame to back-to-back BCS bowl games and making Brady Quinn, a relative unknown prior to Weis' arrival, a Heisman candidate.

His next two years were not as bright, dipping as low as Notre Dame has been in its storied history.

After a 19-4 regular season record, he went 9-15 over the past two seasons. As the losses have piled up, fans in South Bend and across the country, as well as alumni, have gone back to what they do best, driving coaches out of town just as they did with Holtz, Willingham, Davie, etc.

For the past few years I have defended Weis' coaching, recruiting, leadership and character. Every close game I am yelling into the TV, wanting the Irish to come out on top but also wanting Weis to win so he doesn't lose his job. Never will I ever do that again after last week.

Last week Weis and his wife Maura and son Charlie Junior opened the doors at the Hannah and Friends Foundation Farm for special needs children.

It was after looking at the beautiful homes on the farm, the property, and the children that were to live there that I soon realized that Weis is far above the game of football.

While the media and fans want to call him arrogant or make fun of his weight, he is man whose successes far exceed the sidelines of a football field or the doors of a locker room.

I took a step back as a Notre Dame football fan, which is my proudest title, and realized that our coach would be fine no matter what happens with his job at Notre Dame.

He has enough money to live happy the rest of his life, his daughter is taken care of with the farm, he has a great relationship with his family and former players. And if he ever wanted to coach anywhere else he would have NO trouble finding a head coaching job in the NFL or Div. I college seeing how he turned Notre Dame around and the fact that hes got four Super Bowl rings on top of that.

This year the Irish sit at 3-1 and could easily be 4-0 or 1-3 given how close the games have been.

The offense is firing on all cylinders even after the loss of top receiver Michael Floyd and their defense is starting, however slowly, to come together.

They face a tough Washington Huskies team this weekend, and, for the first time since his arrival, I will cheer wildly for the boys of blue and gold without worrying about Weis' job security.

Notre Dame is at a time that they need Weis more than he needs them and that shows his ability to lead young men on and off the field, to inspire athletes to come to Notre Dame and play for him, and to recruit and assemble the most impressive coaching staff in college football.

I have been a passionate Notre Dame football fan since I was very young and I realize all the obstacles that stand in their way to making the Irish a national contender again, but, under Weis, this program can do it.

When Jimmy Clausen arrived on campus he was a cocky, self-centered jerk with very little success on Saturdays. He has grown under Weis into a very impressive quarterback with leadership, toughness, and character.

So, if you are not a Weis fan, or you believe in how the media or the Notre Dame Football websites define Weis, just ask those who have watched him for at least a decade.

Look at the kids who walk in the door and look at them when they leave. Weis turns boys into men and is a coach on and off the field, and, as a fan, I could not be any more proud than to have him as the head coach of my favorite sports team.

Good luck to the IRISH this season but not to Weis, because after seeing what he has done with Hannah and Friends Foundation I realize he doesn't need it.

Breaking Down This Week's College Football Top 25

Brendan Collins — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 14:02:48 -0400

Loses from No. 4 Ole Miss, No. 5 Penn State, No. 6 Cal and No. 9 Miami ensured the Top 25 would undergo significant upheaval this week. Let's take a look.

Top 25 Upsets: No. 4 Ole Miss, No. 5 Penn State, No. 6 Cal, No. 9 Miami, No. 18 Florida State, No. 22 UNC, No. 24 Washington

Top 25 Teams Near-Upsets: No. 7 LSU (30-26 Miss. St.), No. 14 Cincinnati (28-20 Fresno St.), No. 15 TCU (14-10 Clemson), No. 17 Houston (29-28 Texas Tech), No. 21 Georgia (20-17 Arizona St.), No. 23 Michigan (36-33 Indiana)

Therefore, only 12 of the 25 teams played as was expected, completely reshaping the face of the Top 25. The following is the updated Top 25 for this upcoming week.

1. Florida (4-0)—Decisive victory over Kentucky, they are the consenus No.1 team in the country, and deservingly so. Next game is at No. 4 LSU after their bye week, and will show if this team really is the best in the nation. With Tebow down, that could be a tough task ahead.

2. Texas (4-0)—Texas smashed UTEP, and though they have not faced much opposition yet this seaon, they have performed when called upon. Next week they'll play Colorado, and then on to the Red River Rivalry with Oklahoma. If they can get out 2-0 in the next two weeks, they could take the No.1 spot.

3. Alabama (4-0)—Alabama was not-over-the top impressive this week like Texas or Florida, but they have had a tougher road than both teams and sit 4-0 rather comfortably. They are young on offense and at times it shows, but the defense has been very impressive. No. 20 Ole Miss in two weeks will be a real test for this team on the road. However, after Virginia Tech had probably the most impressive performance of any team this week, the Crimson Tide's win over them looks better and better each week.

4. LSU (4-0)—Tough game this week against Mississippi State. It's difficult for me to say this is the fourth best team in college football, but they are undefeated and 1-0 in the SEC—with notable victories over Washington and Mississippi. Both games, however, were too close to merit a dominating performance that would be expected from a No. 4-ranked team. Their fate will be decided over the next two weeks as they face No. 18 Georgia and No. 1 Florida. Not sold on this team yet.

5. Boise State (4-0)—It is always tough to judge this team, providing significant problems to pollsters and BCS voters as their competition is usually very low and their wins are tough to judge. However, this season they topped Oregon—coming off a dominant win over then-No. 6 Cal (No. 24 this week)—and Fresno State, who almost knocked off No. 10 Cincinnati.

Thus far, their body of work has been as impressive as any team in the Top 25. As it stands, though, those other teams in the Top 5 all battle each other throughout the year, while Boise State does not. In fact, they likely will not play a team in the Top 25 again this season. They will—and should—run the table, which (depending on how the other teams ahead of them do) will pose a serious problem as to whether they deserve a shot at the national title.

6. Virginia Tech (3-1)—Virginia Tech had a great week after annihilating No. 17 Miami (No. 9 at the time), and showed that they can finally put the whole package together with offense, defense and (of course) Frank Beamer's special teams. This is a dangerous team with big-time athletes, great coaching, and a favorable schedule from here on out. They are without a doubt the team to beat in the ACC, and could very easily run the table as only one ranked team (No. 25 Georgia Tech) remains on the schedule.

7. USC (3-1)—The best of the Pac-10 has still not shown the offense they need to be a top-ranked team. Their talent and defense, however, is as good as any team's in the country. As freshman QB Matt Barkley adapts to the college game, USC will continue to grow. I would not count them out of the national championship conversation.

Their toughest weeks are ahead of them, with No. 24 Cal and Notre Dame on the road. USC is known for its inconsistency in away games, and Cal will be looking for blood after being embarasssed last week. Not to mention Notre Dame, with a healthy Jimmy Clausen, is an extremely dangerous team at home.

8. Oklahoma (2-1)—This one puzzles me the most. The Sooners lose to No. 20 BYU and have had two wins—blowouts against no-namers—that justify a No. 8 ranking? This is while teams that have had much more impressive victories and stand at 3-1 are in the mid-20s. Oklahoma faces Miami this week, and that will show where the Sooners stand on the national level. I'm not sure No. 8 has been earned...yet.

9. Ohio State (3-1)—The Buckeyes had an impressive win over Illinois this weekend, and are going to be favored from here on out, though they've got three tough games against three ranked teams to close out the season.

Yes, Ohio State has been excellent on defense. But I'll say it: I'm not sold on Terrelle Pryor. He has all the tools and size, but the kid is a shaky thrower at best, his decision-making is suspect and I am not confident that he knows how to manage a game. He is raw with tons of upside, but he has a lot to show me before I talk about him in the same manner as the ESPN commentators.

10. Cincinnati (4-0)—This Big East team is undefeated and deserves this spot at the No. 10 because though they do not blow teams out of the water, they are able to win the grudge matches. They have not beaten any notables and there are no ranked teams left on its schedule, so this is a team that could run the table if they continue to improve each week.

11. TCU (3-0)—Not sure about these guys yet. They have won all three of their games, but according to this ranking they are better than Penn State? I don't think so. Their only real competition from here on out is No. 20 BYU, so the result of that game will show me how good this team is, as I'm not sold quite yet.

12. Houston (3-0)—Of all the suspect non-BCS conference teams such as Boise State, TCU, and Cincinnati, I believe this team is the best. They have a Heisman candidate at QB and an offense that can play with anyone. This is my sleeper team for a BCS bowl game.

13. Iowa (4-0)—This team has been as impressive as any of the teams ranked above them, as proven by beating a very talented Penn State at their home (in front of more than 100,000 fans). However, before the season is out they have to face No. 22 Michigan and No. 9 Ohio State. This team will end up in the Top 25 if they keep up this pace.

14. Oklahoma State (3-1)—This is a talented team with a great offense, but their loss to Houston showed that their offense alone cannot win them games and make them a BCS contender. They also have Texas and Oklahoma left on the schedule, though I think they take one of those games. This team is Big 12 threat, but will probably fare alright outside the BCS this year.

15. Penn State (3-1)—Penn State had it going for them, firing on all cylinders with a managable schedule—until this week. Facing Iowa, the team that knocked them off last year with a game-winning field goal, they faltered again. This team cannot afford another loss if they want to win the Big 10. I still believe this is the team to beat in the Big 10 this year.

16. Miami (3-0)—Tough Loss to Virginia Tech, how they respond this week against Oklahoma will show their worth.

17. Kansas (4-0)—Have not seen much competition yet, but the Jayhawks won the games they were supposed to so far. I don't see them going above the top 15 this season, and will probably end up outside the top 25 once they get deeper in their schedule.

18. Georgia (3-1)—One of the most schedules so far of all the Top 25 and they have hung on with their only loss coming in the first game of the season. They face a dangerous LSU team next week but with an upset their then Georgia will step into the national picture again.

19. BYU (3-1)—Overrated. Thats about all I have to say on this one.

20. Ole Miss (3-1)—Far too big a drop—from fourth to 20th in one week—for Ole Miss with their loss to Southern Carolina. This is a good football team with some great young talent that will only go up from here.

21. Michigan (4-0)—Their schedule has been weak thus far, and they have just squeaked past Indiana and Notre Dame with last-minute heroics. But Tate Forcier is a gamer, and this team is making some noise in the Big Ten. They are still a few years away, but it's hard to argue with their production thus far this year.

22. Nebraska (3-1)—The Huskers responded well after a disappointing loss last weekend. This team is a contender in the Big 12.

23. California (3-1) After being ranked 6th in the nation and the favorite for the Pac 10 they laid an egg vs. Oregon this week as they were destroyed on the road.

24. Georgia Tech (3-1)—Big win over UNC, could be a threat in the ACC

25. Oregon (3-1)—A crushing win over No. 6 Cal at the time, who now stands at No. 24 all because of the Ducks. Now that they have learned to throw the football effectively, this is a team under a new coaching staff that will turn heads this season. I believe the arrow is only pointing up.

Outside the Top 25: Missouri (4-0), Auburn and South Florida.

The State of the Irish: Notre Dame Football—September Edition

Brendan Collins — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 16:28:01 -0400

Just as a single game can, a football season can be broken down into four quarters, with three games each quarter; and as all fans know, it's the second half that people remember. The Irish have finished one quarter with a 2-1 start and are a hair away from either 3-0 or 1-2.

Those who have watched this team play would agree their offense deserves to be 3-0 and their defense deserves to be 1-2, but regardless of the "could have" and "should have," the Irish are 2-1 and outside the top 25.

What should viewers expect from the Irish next quarter, with three tough games against Purdue, Washington, and arch-rival USC? What have they learned so far?

Before the predictions arise and everyone looks towards the polls to justify where their team stands, be reminded that there was much about Notre Dame's first quarter that should be remembered, commended, and carried along.

As a fan of this team since birth, I can honestly say that last week against Michigan State I was as proud of the Irish as I have been in a long time, since Quinn had the winning drive against UCLA or when the Irish came back to beat Michigan State in the fourth quarter in 2007.

I was shocked when I went onto all of the Notre Dame websites and the headlines were about the brutal defense, Michael Floyd's injury, the suspect officiating, and the "luck of the Irish."

Was anyone talking about the courageous effort from Jimmy Clausen, the resilience of Golden Tate to come back from important dropped passes to make the catch to win the game (as well as a crucial third down conversion), Kyle McCarthy's career at Notre Dame or Weis' class in victory saying it was not his win, but the team's?

It is rare today that articles are written that highlight the academic achievements, community service efforts or locker room leadership. Rather, the press is obsessed with scandal and skill, the suspensions, or the speed of a running back.

But as I watched Notre Dame come out of the tunnel after being down one point and having lost all momentum at the end of the first half, then go out and score on its opening drive, I knew this was now a special team.

A quarterback hobbling all over the field, their best receiver out of the game (and for the rest of the season), a defense that couldn't make a stop and yet they prevailed; they won in the same situation they had lost in the week before.

I have been skeptical of Jimmy Clausen since he was recruited, as Brady Quinn is my all-time favorite Notre Dame player because of his leadership, character, talent, and work ethic. Clausen came into the South Bend cocky, arrogant, disrespectful, and with a me-first attitude.

While everyone is talking about his physical attributes and improvement this season, the most impressive change he has made is in the locker room, off the field, and in the huddle. When I watched Jimmy out there hobbling around on one leg and still making the throws, still leading the offense, I was very proud.

Here is a kid who has done a 180 under the leadership of Coach Weis and has really matured into a leader and a great football player. What he did last week went way beyond completion percentage and QB rating, as his teammates watched their captain leading the offense despite pain, and they rallied behind him. It left an impression on everyone, including the fans.

Golden Tate has been a mystery to many this season, making uncharacteristic drops and not making the plays when the team needs him the most. Tate made a key drop in the fourth quarter against Michigan that would have most likely resulted in a touchdown, leading the entire ND nation to scream and yell from the stadium and their homes.

Tate took it upon himself to shake it off and come back to win the ball game. He put the game on his shoulders and made a very difficult catch to win the game, as well as making a hard-faught six yards after the catch on a short out pattern to convert a key third down on that drive. He proved that he had moved on from Michigan and could be relied upon when the team needed him.

Charlie Weis has had more pressure on him this season than Barack Obama has had with his health plan. After every game, the Weis hot seat questions heat up, especially after the Michigan game.

Weis came back after that tough loss with the negative chants of ND nation on his back and masterfully dominated the Michigan State defense, having his third 30-plus point game for his offense and a touchdown on each opening drive of the half. He also showed a great deal of class when the game was finished, putting all the praise on the players and none upon himself.

While most of the hype this season has been on McCarthy's three interceptions and team-leading tackling statistics, it is important to realize that for his first three seasons at Notre Dame he was primarily on the bench. After a redshirt freshman year he saw little to no action until his senior season, when he showed that the extra time in the weight room and all the hours out on the practice field had paid off.

He is a model student-athlete and has showed that good things happen to those who wait; and although his wait was long before he touched the field, I'm sure he would tell you it was plenty worth it.

As the Irish head into the next quarter of the season, I hope they can show the type of class and character they did in the first quarter, with guys playing through injury, working hard to move up the depth chart, and learning from their mistakes.

This is a team that has that special will to win and we saw that last Saturday against Michigan State with the final drive of the game. So, Notre Dame, hold those gold helmets high to the skies, because we are proud of you.

It's not always winning or losing, but how you win and how you lose. After a disheartening loss to Michigan, to come out against Michigan State and be put in the same situation, yet walk away with a win shows they have the "it" factor it takes to be a winner both on and off the field.

Purdue is the best offense they will face after their defense was embarrassed in their last two games and Washington poses a serious dual quarterback threat that has been Notre Dame's undoing defensively. And then USC will be the best team they play all year.

With that being said, I like where the Irish are right now and I think they have a good chance of winning any and all of those games. If (big if) this team stands 5-1 four weeks from now, then look out, college football, as a new team has emerged through the shadows of its past to join the highest ranks in the land.

The Fight Of The Irish Both on and off The Field

Brendan Collins — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 23:40:07 -0400

This Saturday the Irish will take the field at Notre Dame Stadium against a formidable opponent the Nevada Wolfpack. The Wolfpack led the WAC in nearly every offensive category both on the ground and in the air led by Junior Quarterback Colin Kaepernick (one of the top QB's in the country).

Much has been said over the last few weeks as we get closer to the start of the college football season as to Coach Weis being on the hot seat, the evolution of Jimmy Clausen, the rise of Manti Teo, the impressive preseason performances of Shaq Evans, Kapron Lewis Moore and Darius Flemming.

From top to bottom at every position the Irish have made significant strides in talent, depth and intelligence. New staff such as Coach Verducci, Coach Hart and Coach Alford have elevated the teams moxie and football IQ as they head into Week 1.

Although 40 yard dash times and big play ability are what define the modern athlete in today's game, it is what happens off the field that makes this Irish team special. Over the past decade Irish fans have lost their way, forgeting what being a Notre Dame fan is all about. It is about appreciating the academic, spiritual and athletic abilities of the players and having success both on and off the field and doing things the right way not the easy way. Yes it would be easy for Weis to start Manti T'eo and Shaq Evans this weekend but instead he starts senior Scott Smith and Robby Paris because it is the right thing to do respecting the upper classmen effort and dedication during their tenure.

Over the off season Scott Smith selflessly went out of his way to teach freshman sensation Manti T'eo learn the defensive playbook and understand his position. Smith will inevitably loose the starting spot to T'eo who has far superior size, speed and overall talent which makes Smith's act all the more impressive.

On many college programs an act like this may go unnoticed but at Notre Dame character matters and Scott Smith was elected captain of the special teams.

Also over the offseason senior tailback James Aldridge who ended last season on a strong note was moved to the less favorable fullback position where he will be used more as a blocker than a runner.

While many seniors would be upset by the move, Aldridge has embraced it with his team-first attitude and sheer desire to win football games. It was clear in his most recent press conference that winning games means far more to him than his own personal accolades.

James came into Notre Dame as a highly touted running back and it is safe to say his career was not was anyone envisioned; however, he has been a leader and maintained a positive attitude that has inspired his teammates and the Notre Dame coaching staff.

Regardless of how many carries Aldridge gets this season he has scored much more than he ever could have done on the football field with his selfless attitude.

Last but certainly not least has been the work of Manti T'eo, the highly decorated freshman linebacker from Hawaii. Unlike Jimmy Clausen who came to Notre Dame with similar hype, T'eo has worked ferociously to earn his spot on the field this upcoming Saturday and earned it he has.

With the speed, size and vision of an elite college linebacker Manti is as impressive off the field as he is on it. An incredibly humble young man he talked to the media about the importance of being a good person inside and being a man of "worth" and not necessarily a man of success.

He credits his family, the coaching staff and the upper classmen for preparing him for what appears to be a highly successful career with the Irish.

When I take a step back from the predictions this season, the Weis hot seat and many other subjects pertaining to this football team I cant help but be reminded through these players actions why I love Notre Dame football and its because of the character of its players.

These are student athletes who live by christian values and work together for goals greater than their own, winning games the right way.

This year's Notre Dame team is going to be exciting as they have the players in place to win games; but before you get caught up in the scores and records of this team remember the student athletes that put that jersey and represent the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame both on and off the field.

Notre Dame Football 2009: A Mission Beyond Football

Brendan Collins — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 14:58:05 -0400

As college football fans across the country wait anxiously for the start of the 2009 football season, we are bombarded with the harsh realities of our current state.

The economy is at its lowest point since the great depression, unemployment is rising in the cities as well as small towns and as we watch our retirement fade into the night we are reminded each Saturday of the purity of the college game. Kids playing for the love of the game, for the pride of their school, for their friends and families.

There is no other sport that rewards teamwork than college football. This fall as the College Football season begins in colleges across the country from division I to division III; players, coaches and fans alike are anxiously waiting.

However, what makes this season different from the rest is what has happened outside the lines of the football field, in the cities, small towns, farms and local businesses throughout the US.

In recent months the media has dedicated its concentration to John and Kate's divorce, Michael Jackson's death, Senator Sanford's affair, several CEO's unlawful misconduct and all the other disgusting realities that our so called "leaders" displayed.

It became all the more obvious that talent trumps character when the US Congress had a moment of silence when Michael Jackson, the highly talented singer, drug addict and supposed sexual abuser of young children, died in his home.

It is times like these where the country needs a leader, someone or something to rally behind.

This spring the world saw the reaction of Susan Boyle fans on YouTube as she received record breaking views in her first audition of Britain's Got Talent. An ordinary person from a small town with an extraordinary gift and for the first time in a long time the world was inspired.

This September the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame, the country's most loved and hated college football team, the home of Rudy will set out to wake up the echoes of its storied past and return the program to glory. Irish fans are optimistic with their talented team after adding some highly decorated position coaches as well as some highly touted incoming freshman.

Those opposed to the Irish feel they will sink in their pool of mediocrity that has defined the program since the mid-1990s. Regardless of the outlook, the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame under Head Coach Charlie Weis need to be successful in 2009 and not for Weis job, not for recruiting or more money but for the United States.

Notre Dame is unique in its makeup; a catholic University that prides itself on moral values, a commitment to academics and a binding respect and appreciation among all the students.

Athletes at Notre Dame are expected and required to fulfill all their credits like every other student without exception and year after year have some of the highest GPA and team graduation rates among Division I college football programs.

A school based on christian values, Notre Dame football players are student athletes that represent their University exceptionally well and carry themselves with pride, respect and class everywhere they go.

Under Weis' direction, nobody is above the team and walk-ons like Mike Anello are treated the same as No. 1 prospects such as Sam Young and Jimmy Clause.

In 2007 when the Irish lost in a devastating upset to the Navy Midshipman the Irish followed them to the corner of the field, held hands and paid respect to the brave men and women of the service academies showing their appreciation for their sacrifice.

Coaches like Lou Holtz and Charlie Weis have used their position as head coach not only to teach the fundamentals of football but as a platform to teach the fundamentals of life and becoming a man. Actions like these are what define leaders and it is this very spirit that can carry a nation in time of adversity.

At the end of the day Irish fans know that the kids they scream for every Saturday as they run through that famous tunnel are good people with integrity, character and humility. These men are the real leaders working in an environment where talent does not bypass moral values and character.

It is this reality that makes the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame the beating heart that is college football, the very heart that will triumph over the shallow nature of our problems and inspire us if only for a few hours each Saturday.

2009 Draft Bust: The Story Of Unproven Dollars

Brendan Collins — Tue, 05 May 2009 15:00:28 -0400

As made clear in the 2009 NFL Draft, there are several teams that are in great need of a quarterback including the Detroit Lions and the New York Jets.

While draft analysts and coaches get into the scouting season and draft preparation, however, they often forget about the college season. They watch the workouts and pro days, and lose sight of the fact that some of their highest picks were not even the best players on their respective teams.

In the 09' draft, I saw two quarterbacks in Mark Sanchez and Matt Stafford that were drafted No. 1 and No. 5 overall. The incredible amount of money these players will accumulate over the next five years is astonishing, especially considering they were not the absolute best players on their college teams.

In Sanchez's case, the defense of USC gets most of the credit, and rightfully so. USC's offense also enjoyed a deep core of running backs highlighted by Joe McKnight and some talented young receivers as well.

While Sanchez's draft stock rose considerably over the past two months, is it too long for people to remember that this is the same player who was a backup to John David Booty?

Would you trade up, get rid of two starters on your defense and pay up to $30 million guaranteed for Booty? Booty sat behind Matt Leinhart, who is a backup to a 37-year-old quarterback who is years beyond his prime despite having a tremendous season last year.

Not to mention that Pete Carroll—who has coached in the NFL and produced quarterbacks such as Carlson Palmer, Lienhart and Booty—has said that it was not in Sanchez' best interest to leave early for the NFL. Although I will admit to being a Notre Dame fan and do not think highly of Pete Carroll, he is nevertheless a legitimate source of advice.

I am not saying that Sanchez will not have a good career in the NFL, or that he is overrated—I am just saying that his body of work up until this point in his career does not at all warrant him such a high selection in this years NFL draft or the large sums of money he will inevitably receive.

Is it too long for people to recognize that there were four quarterbacks in the voting for the Heisman trophy this year and neither Stafford or Sanchez were among them?

Graham Harrell was not even drafted and he was far more productive as a college player than Sanchez and Stafford in terms of numbers and making plays without much talent around him (with the exception of Michael Crabtree, but as a whole Texas Tech has much less talent than Georgia and USC).

Obviously, I am not saying that Harrell should have been drafted as high as these players, as he does not have the body or mechanics for an elite NFL quarterback the way that Sanchez and Stafford do, but it its noteworthy that he had a better college career and was undrafted.

The case with Stafford is a little more complex. He was successful as a starter at Georgia like Sanchez at USC, but played in a much more competitive league in the SEC.

However, with that being said, he was not even the best quarterback in the league, as Tim Tebow received most of the QB honors and respect in the SEC.

I do think that Stafford is going to be an NFL quarterback, and that he may even have a decent career, but $41 million guaranteed is an awful lot for a player who was not even the best in college, not even close for that matter.

How much is an NFL team going to pay Colt McCoy or Sam Bradford, $60 million guaranteed? This is very similar to the 2007 NFL draft, in which JaMarcus Russell—who had a decent college career but far from special—was selected first overall because of a good bowl game performance and impressive works at the Combine and pro day.

Let's just say it has not worked well for Russell yet.

Some could point to Matt Ryan and say he is the exception to the rule. But even in great rookie season last year, he had the support of a stable running game and completed short, quick slant routes for the majority of his passes.

I am not taking anything away from Ryan, but many quarterbacks would have had success in that offensive scheme, and with that kind of talent at running back and on the offensive line. Stafford will not have the luxury, and could suffer as a result.

In a way, I feel bad for both Sanchez and Stafford, as it is not their fault they are getting all the money thrown in their faces.

However with money comes expectations, and I feel these players are not going to produce at the level their fans and organizations expect them to.

I wish them luck in the upcoming season, but for now, I would say from both a financial and talent standpoint, these are going to be two busts!

Want to Win? Put Brady Quinn in!

Brendan Collins — Tue, 05 May 2009 14:31:38 -0400

The Cleveland Browns went big in the 2007 NFL draft, selecting both Brady Quinn and Joe Thomas in the first round. Since then Thomas has gone on to Pro Bowl status and proved to be worth every penny.

Quinn, on the other hand, has not yet been given a true chance to shine despite the fans and Jim Brown himself asking for Quinn to start. Plain and simple, the Browns' 10-6 season in 2007 proved to have little to do with the play of Derek Anderson, as the 2008 season showed.

Fans all throughout the state of Ohio have been waiting patiently for their homegrown superstar to put the clipboard down and run onto the field to stop the bleeding in a hurting organization.

Will he be able to accomplish this? Can the Golden Boy Brady Quinn turn the franchise around? Nobody knows because he has not yet been given a chance. The Browns fired Romeo Crennel at the end of last season, but much more importantly, they fired Phil Savage—the cause of many problems with the Browns.

Savage signed Derek Anderson to a three-year, $24 million contract and did not actively look for a backup running back for the old and fading Jamal Lewis. The defense was a whole other story that he was unable to repair, finding it more important to pay top dollar for two quarterbacks.

Hopefully the new administration can figure out what fans have known for over two years now: If you want to win, put Quinn in.

I am not going to come across as a Browns fan, because I have only been one since Quinn was drafted in 2007. I have watched Quinn since he was a senior in high school and watched Notre Dame rise from the ashes under his leadership and then fall back as soon as he left.

Although people are quick to mention Jeff Samardzija while Quinn was at Notre Dame as being a key reason for his success, it is important to realize that before Charlie Weis came to town, Samardzija was not even on the depth chart. Quinn was able to put up Heisman-caliber numbers in his last two seasons with the Irish and lead them to a 19-6 record in those two seasons.

He battled a weak offensive line where he was constantly under pressure and a weak running back (Darius Walker), as well as an average receiver corps.

From experience, watching what Quinn did with the Irish, how he led the boys of Blue to victories and did so with class and respect, I could only hope for those true Browns fans that you could be as blessed as I was as an Irish fan.

Since Quinn left, the Irish have experienced a great deal of problems in terms of leadership, command in the huddle, skill, and intelligence to run Weis' systems. Jimmy Clausen, who was the top recruited quarterback, has struggled greatly in his two seasons trying to fill some of the wake Quinn left behind; however, his departure has shown just how much he meant to the school, the fans, and the entire football team.

Quinn is a leader both in words and in action. He is a rare talent in size, strength, arm, accuracy, and a head for the game. He also manages a football team in the huddle and can make big plays, short yardage plays, check down passes to the running back, 40-yard bombs on the play action pass; in short, there is little this man cannot do.

As I read articles and listen to commentators talk about Quinn, I quickly understand that they do not understand.

Maybe you have to be a Notre Dame fan to understand the true value of Brady Quinn, but I can tell you from watching this kid for over seven years now, this is not the prima donna "Golden Boy" they refer to him as in the media. This is a blue-collar Ohio native with the leadership and ability to get the Browns to where they want to go.

As I am happy overall with how they handled the draft, the Browns MUST name Quinn the starter. Fans, as well as the Browns' team themselves, are sick and tired of the QB controversy, so Eric Mangini, if you want to win, PUT QUINN IN. Give him some time to learn and grow into the franchise quarterback we all know he can be.

If there is one thing I know, it's that there is nobody on the team whose jersey I would be prouder to wear than No. 10 Brady Quinn. From all of us Notre Dame fans: We miss you.

Denver's Chris Andersen: "Bird Is the Word"

Brendan Collins — Mon, 04 May 2009 19:22:49 -0400

Chris "Birdman" Andersen, after a two year suspension for violating the NBA's drug policy, has come home to Denver with the greatest purpose in sports: to prove the doubters wrong.

The Birdman has helped lead the Nuggets to a record-breaking season of 53 wins and a dominant performance in the first round of the Western Conference Playoffs. Although he only averages 20 minutes off the bench, he leads the NBA in blocks per minutes played per game and provides an energy that is unparalleled in the NBA.

When the Bird spreads his wings and soars through the air to block a shot or dunk the ball, everyone in the Pepsi Center, young and old, black and white, are brought to their feet. He is one of the most exciting players in the NBA with his crazy hair, tattoos, and energetic style of play.

What has been lost in the appeal of the Birdman is his incredible ascent from his undrafted status in 1999. He went from a no-name college to playing in foreign leagues to minor-leagues to the NBA.

But then, once his dream was finally realized, his life fell apart. The money and lifestyle was too much, as he was later suspended for two full seasons. But instead of giving up, taking the money he had accumulated over the years and leaving for a life of drugs, parties, and glamour, he returned to the gym.

This time he was sober. After months and months of working on his game and sculpting his body to make a triumphant return to the NBA, he knew he had one last chance.

As I watched the Bird walk onto the hallowed floor at the Pepsi Center at the beginning of this season, chills came down my spine...he had done it. He had proved his critics wrong, sobered up, and was back playing the game he loved.

What was not expected was that he would be playing decent minutes and leading his club in swats. He gets crucial burn in every game and his rebounding as well as unorthodox but highly effective defense has helped the Nuggets grow into a powerhouse in the Western Conference.

It did not hit me until Game One against the Mavericks in the Western Conference Semifinals that Anderson's appeal was more than basketball, more than a comeback story, and more than a tale of the unlikely hero. The Bird is a symbol for hard work; his image says "stay true to yourself, and you can become anyone you want to be."

Not blessed with the God-given abilities of Denver teammates Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups, he has had to work for everything he has ever gotten both on and off the court.

So as you watch him flap his wings and celebrate after making a block, realize that there is more to this man than the hair and the tattoos; he represents the heart and soul that is the foundation of basketball.

He is the "comeback kid," and he's come back to prove to fans across the country that it's not what you have, it's what you do with it.

At 31 years old, nobody knows that more than the Bird.

#1 BU Faces Off Against #10 UVM in The Frozen Four

Brendan Collins — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 11:52:14 -0400

After a 12 year absense the Terriers of Boston University, led by veteran Coach Jack Parker, are headed to the Frozen Four in Washington, DC. The Terriers have been the team to beat this season, amassing an impressive 33-6-4 record in the most competitive league in college hockey; Hockey East. Not only did they lose only six games, but four of those games were with the back up goaltender in net, as Freshman starter Keiran Milan has only lost two games all season. The team is led by two Hobey Baker finalist Matt Gilroy, a senior defenceman and three time All-American, and Colin Wilson, sophmore forward with over 50 points this season. They have a great supporting cast as BU has fourteen NHL draft picks (not including Gilroy) and over 11 players who scored over 20 points this season, four of which are defenseman. Nick Bonino (47 pts) leads the country in plus/minus and Jason Lawrence (37 pts) is one of the top power play scorers in the nation (14 power play goals) and second in the country in game winning goals (8). Up front the Terriers get a lot of production from senior forwards Brandon Yip (41 pts: 20 goals),Chris Higgins (43 pts) and co-captain John McCarthy (29 pts). On the blue line, Gilroys supporting cast includes and first round draft pick Kevin Shattenkirk (26 pts), Colby Cohen (31 pts) and freshman speedster David Warsofsky (22 pts). They also have a great group of under classmen in Rookie of the Year Keiran Milan (1.84 GAA, .923 SV%) and First Team All-Rookie Hockey East Chris Connoly.This team from top to bottom is potentially the most talented college hockey team ever assembled. There talent was demonstrated in winning three of the most prestigious tournament in college hockey including the Denver Cup, Beanpot and Hockey East Championship as well as regular season champions.

In Washington D.C. the Terriers will face the Catamounts of Vermont led by their top scorer Victor Stalberg. The catamounts pose a ligament threat to BU as they are the only team to beat BU back to back the entire season. They are also the only team in the country that has a better record head to head against BU as they lead the series this year 2-1. UVM is a team that takes pride in their speed up front and strong goaltending, and their best skill as of late has been hiding their weaknesses on special teams and on the blueline. In single elimination talent is much less important than execution and smart play. For the Terriers to win their first National Championship since 1995 they must beat UVM and the keys to doing that are the following:

1.) BU has the most talented team in the country by a significant margin in both star players and overall depth. As a result Jack Parker must roll all four lines as he has been doing all season long. Teams cannot play their bottom two lines for a lot of minutes against the Terriers because they are greatly over matched so to run a team down, BU must roll their fourth line throughout the entire game. This will be very important against UVM who will try and strike first and set the pace of the game early on, BU must weather the storm by continually rolling four lines to keep the team fresh for the full 60 minutes. The fourth line needs not only to get minutes but produce as they have two excellent defensive forwards in Steve Smolinsky and Luke Popko and a high end goal scoreer in Zach Cohen (11 goals). The third line, known as the freshman line, will be as important as the first two lines in establishing the pace of the game, setting the tempo and taking advantage of UVM's mistakes in the offensive zone.

2.) BU has to attack UVM's defense and generate their offense off the forecheck. UVM will be watching tape on BU all week and like most teams, in an attempt to neutralize their speed, will play a lot of neutral zone traps meaning that BU will have a hard time generating offense coming through the neutral zone. They must attack the defense with conviction as all Jack Parker teams have done before them, and once they get possession cycle down low to wear out UVM's defense. This is the weakness of the catamounts. Not only are they weak on defensive firepower but their forwards are small and subpar in their defensive end. This is all the more reason why BU has to forecheck hard, take the body along the boards and pound them in their own end. This will lead to UVM mistakes which BU must capitalize on.

3.) BU gets a lot of press for having the best net special teams in the country as well as an abundance of top flight talent. However, the most underated talent of the Terriers this season is their strong sticks and tough play along the boards. This is a very important characteristic among winning teams in hockey at all levels. However, last game against UNH, the Terriers were not positioning themselves on the defensive side of the puck in scrums along the boards, thus leading to a few odd man rushes by UNH. BU has to do a better job against UVM by playing on the defensive side of the puck along the boards and taking the body, to cut down odd man rushes. The catamounts generate their offense off of the transition game, which means the Terriers have to dominate the neutral zone to cut their legs out from under them and there is no better way to play good neutral zone hockey then to think defense first. If UVM is able to cause a BU turnover in the neutral zone, then BU forwards need to but the breaks on (stops and starts) and back check.

4.) As Barry Melrose said in the last game against UNH, it will not take BU as many chances to score as its going to take UNH. Therefore, BU should not get cute with the puck along the blue lines, be patient and wait for their opportunities to score. At the same token however, there is little reason to play a risky brand of hockey, especially against a fast, under sized transition team like the Catamounts because the risk is not worth the reward. Stick to the basics! They must take advantage of their size in this matchup, it will allow for them to be more patient along the boards, and not make risky or even ill advised passes into lanes that are not there because that plays into UVM's transition game.

5.) The players need to know that the only team that can beat them is themselves. At times this season there effort has not matched that of their opponents and to win at this time of year they have to make sure that does not happen. They have superior ability to any division one hockey program this season; they average scoring nearly goals a game and give up less than 2 (Milans GAA is 1.84). They have defeated the best teams in the country by overwhelming margins (Michigan 7-2, UVM 7-2, North Dakota 5-1, etc.) and they have arguably the best coach in the history of college hockey. They have the second best powerplay (22%) in the country and one of the top 10 penalty killing teams.

6.) Matt Gilroy and Colin Wilson need to play to their potential as they are both coming off quiet performances against UNH. Gilroy is an elite skater, playmaker and offensive defenseman who can jump into the rush at will as well as defend the one on one. For him to be at his best he has to be aggressive, generate speed off the breakout and take what the defense gives him. Most likely once he gets possession behind the net, UVM will drop into a 1-2-2 fore-check where he can skate the puck out of the zone. Colin Wilson in my opinion is the most dominate player college hockey has seen in a long time. He has the physical skills to be an All Star in the NHL with a 6'2'' 215 lbs frame to go with great hands and vision. Every time he has the puck on his stick his head is up, he protects the puck and is looking for the open man. When he shows up to play, which is not every game unfortunately, there is not a defender in college hockey that can stop him. He can dominate opponents in all three facets of the game as he plays sound in the defensive zone with sticks in passing lanes and a take the body mentality. In the neutral zone he protects the puck well, can muscle his way over the red line and has impressive vision for players streaking down the middle of the ice. In the offensive zone, his 52 points and 37 assists do all the talking for him. If he is on his game, UVM will not be able to stop him and that will bode well not only for him but for his two line mates Jason Lawrence and Chris Higgins both 5v5 and on the powerplay.

Overall, they are the team to beat in this tournament and have been since the brackets were released. If the Terriers stick to their game plan, think defense first in the neutral zone, attack the weaker UVM defense, generate offense off the forecheck and out work their opponent than there is no reason that the Terriers should not walk all over UVM. They are a better team than UVM in every statistical category, power play, shorthanded, Goals Against, Goals For, face-off wins, etc.

Jack Parker will have these guys ready to play as UVM ended their season last year in the Hockey East playoffs; a bitter memory that Wilson and Gilroy must respond to.

Hockey Gets Its Step-Brother Back!

Brendan Collins — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 16:48:53 -0500

Hockey Fans across North America know the name Sean Avery. Throughout his 11 year professional career Avery has been a "presence" on the ice, whether he is throwing a big check, dropping the gloves or talking trash after the whistle. He is not a player who goes unnoticed, as he has been in confrontation both on and off the ice with opposing teams as well as his own. After an impressive stint with the New York Rangers where he recorded 55 points in 86 games with over 200 penalty minutes. In the 2007-2008 playoffs Avery led the Rangers past the Devils scoring 7 points in 8 playoff games.

This season he was brought to Dallas to help a struggling franchise led by GM Brett Hull. It was not a perfect fit as he recorded 10 points in 23 games and 77 penalty minutes. His season and possibly career came to an end when Avery called out Dion Phaneuf for dating his ex-girlfriend. The "sloppy seconds" line was the last straw for this controversial player.

Sean Avery is known to many as a disgrace to the game of hockey and his fan base, however small, has been dwindling since his departure from New York.

However, just a few days ago Avery will get a "second chance" to come back to hockey and play for the Hartford Wolfpack. The hockey tough-guy will be entering this time with his mouth shut and his feet moving. Avery is one of the most underrated hockey players in the game today, as he can score, pass, skate and play the physical game no matter how big the opponent.

He stands only 5 feet 9 inches but has exchanged punches with some of the biggest and most feared players in the game. I watch as the new generation of hockey fans dislike this player, but for us who remember "old time hockey" Avery is not a disgrace to hockey the last disciple to the game the way it used to be played.

He is tough, he plays with an edge, he has a passion for winning the game. He does not care if he scores three goals or none, as long as the team wins, Avery is happy, well as happy as he knows how to be.

So before you wish this player bad luck, give the guy a chance - and for those of us that support you: keep your mouth shut and your feet moving.

Brett Favre Walks Away After an Inspiring Career

Brendan Collins — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 16:21:23 -0500

Over the past few months, the talk of New York football fans has been the future of the Jets quarterback Brett Favre.

Favre is one of the NFL's most beloved players to ever pick up the pigskin, but some say he had been doing damage to that reputation by retiring from the Packers, coming out of retirement last spring and then going to the Jets for one season.

Others see him as a selfish fraud who plays for himself and not his teammates, and the Jets season is an extension of that.

Regardless of where you are on the spectrum, it appears the time has come for Favre to hang up the cleats for good. Favre announced through his agent Wednesday that he will retire.

While some have been very critical of athletes who don't retire when they should, the reasons for the athlete's behavior are understandable. Most people begin their trade after high school or after college. Professional athletes, for the most part, have been playing their particular sport or event their whole lives.

To these select few who have the opportunity to play sports for a living, their life has developed in the locker rooms, at practices, and in games. When they leave their sport, they leave more than the roar of the crowd, more than the home in the locker room.

They leave a lifetime of memories. It's not easy to walk away.

As we have seen from the likes of Michael Jordan, Lance Armstrong, Wayne Gretzky, and Roger Clemens, masters of a sport find no comfort in vacation away from the game.

So when people say Brett has disgraced his legacy by retiring as a Jet, I ask them to hold their judgment. Athletes have a hard time walking away.

Clearly, this was not an easy decision for Brett, who has played football in both back yards and Super Bowls. I would like to extend my congratulations on a great career. Favre left the NFL in a better condition than he found it. He will be missed.

Cleveland Browns Fans Should Be Optimistic for 2009

Brendan Collins — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 12:20:14 -0500

The Cleveland Browns did not live up to expectations in the 2008 season, finishing 4-12, but Browns fans should not hang their heads on the past. Rather, they should raise them up onward to the future.

Last year, the Browns made several mistakes, and it all began with GM Phil Savage. Savage is a terrible GM and his decision to re-sign Derek Anderson showed that he was impatient and full of ego. He wanted to prove to Cleveland that Quinn was not the answer and the face of the organization.

WRONG!

Derek Anderson disappointed, as fans predicted, and Quinn showed that he can lead this franchise in the right direction. So with Savage gone, the Browns have taken the first step in the right direction.

Next, they signed Eric Mangini, who is a great coach and should help lead the Browns next season. Romeo Crennel was not a terrible coach, but Mangini will bring a breath of fresh air and a younger more creative playbook.

More importantly than those moves are the fact that Brady Quinn will most likely go into training camp or at least the preseason games as the starter. He will get reps with the first team and the Quinn-Edwards combo will develop.

Quinn is the answer for this team to succeed! Next they will get the No. 5 overall pick in the draft and with the teams ahead of them needing QB's, the Browns could land the top OL or defensive player in the draft.

Between now and the upcoming season the Browns are going to make a lot of moves, sign new players, draft high end talent and move in a different direction than Phil Savage had in mind.

Notre Dame's Future Is in Dayne Crist's Hands

Brendan Collins — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 08:34:34 -0500

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish are looking to combat their failure in 2008 with a strong turnaround next season. As fans across the country look at the incoming recruiting class and the overload of young talent on the roster, there are several reasons to be hopeful.

However, the Irish will not see their potential unless their highly touted quarterback, Jimmy Clausen, steps up as a leader and begins producing at the level he's expected to. If he falls short, then head coach Charlie Weis needs to pull the plug and start backup QB Dayne Crist.

Crist potentially has more upside than Clausen, with a bigger frame and greater athleticism, but more importantly, he has displayed extraordinary leadership.

Jimmy Clausen's greatest football accomplishments were in high school, and his success has not yet translated into the college game. This should be a big sign to Irish fans, because under Charlie Weis, quarterbacks shine (Tom Brady, Brady Quinn), and if you cannot produce in his offense, you are going to struggle in this game.

Both Tom Brady and Brady Quinn were not superstars until Weis was able to shape them into record holders.

So what must happen to turn this team around and get them back into the BCS hunt? Jimmy Clausen has to be told, starting at the spring practice, that there is an open competition at quarterback.

Every position should be under that same assumption as well. If Clausen goes into 2009 unsure about his job security, it will force him to work harder, watch more film, study the playbook more intensively, and prove to himself and to his teammates that he is the starter because of his ability—and not because of his high school accolades.

Clausen has not yet had to earn his spot on the field because of a lack of strong competition in his way. Next year, with Crist off the redshirt list, that will not be the case.

If Clausen beats out Crist, by doing so, he will gain the respect of his teammates, which will hopefully lead to a spark in his future as a leader. He can no longer expect to be viewed as a leader on his team by just playing quarterback; he has to prove it.

In the end, what the Irish need out of their quarterback is not just touchdowns and high completion percentages but good decision-making and strong leadership. Clausen, thus far, has not proven to posses either of those necessities.

It was not a mistake that Crist came to Notre Dame after they had just recruited the No. 1 overall prospect, Jimmy Clausen, a year before. He knew he could compete for the position, and if the Irish want to live up to their potential, he must.

Notre Dame "Not Interested" in Urban Meyer

Brendan Collins — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 10:25:52 -0500

Over the past week, there has been a media craze over Florida Head Football Coach Urban Meyer saying that Notre Dame is "still my dream job." Many sportswriters and fans have dived into this topic of, "What if Meyer had gone to be coach Notre Dame?" or "Will Meyer replace Weis at Notre Dame?," etc.

The problem with many of these articles is that the writer is making one inaccurate assumption; that Notre Dame wants Urban Meyer.

I will make this very clear to people outside of Notre Dame football, when they decided to stick with Charlie Weis it was not because of money, it was not to be courteous, it was not to save a highly ranked recruiting class.

It's because the alumni, father Jenkins and Athletic Director Swarbrick felt that Charlie Weis was the "best option." The University of Notre Dame is now one of the best Universities in the world as a result of the revenues of its storied football program.

Therefore, the powers that make the decision of who the Head Coach will do so in the best interests of the school. The school has made it very clear that they are not interested in another football coach, not Urban Meyer or anyone else at this time. This may change in later years, but Meyer's national championships will not look as impressive to Notre Dame as it will to other programs.

This is because ND is looking for a Coach who understands their traditions, a Coach who can have its athletes be successful both on and off the field, a coach who can recruit around the country for student athletes that fit the mold of Notre Dame. They obviously are looking for wins as well, but if it came down to wins and losses to Notre Dame, Weis would have been gone.

The fact is that Notre Dame kept Weis is a tribute to their focus on student athletes (Weis has raised the team GPA from a 2.8 to over a 3.0) and the bigger picture of college football (graduation rates under Weis Notre Dame has the highest in the country).

Some like Weis, and others do not, just like nearly every other football program both college and profesional. The main point here, is that Notre Dame supported Weis when they made the decision to bring him back.

They are not interested in Urban Meyer, they are invested in Charlie Weis. The powers that be know that Charlie has one of the most difficult jobs in College football, or at very least the most expectations however unrealistic, and Meyer has one of the easier jobs, or at very least easiest schools to recruit at.

For some Notre Dame fans they could not fathom why the University would not be interested in Meyer, he won two SEC championships in four years and is on the way to winning his second national championship. This is all very true and his success at Florida has been impressive.

However, the skill that Meyer has is not coaching, is not schemes, its not motivation it is simply recruiting. He is a masterful recruiter and has done a phenomenal job at Florida. However, Notre Dame has an incredible recruiter as well in Charlie Weis who was able to bring in the No. 2 class in the country after a 3-9 record.

Swarbrick, Jenkins. and those close to the University know that Meyer will not bring anything to Notre Dame that they do not already have and although his success has been impressive, I am sure if Charlie Weis had taken over Florida four years ago he would have similar success.

To even compare Weis and Meyer is out of context because they have two very different jobs. Weis has to bring in high profile student-athletes with high GPA's and SAT scores while Urban Meyer can accept nearly every player he wants due to low academic standards.

Second, Weis has to recruit all over the country as Indiana is not at all a hot bead for football prospects where Meyer gets the majority of his team in-state. Next, Weis has to get students to come to South Bend Indiana where there is a strong religious community where females are not allowed to stay in boys' dorms past 2:00 a.m., aka, not at all a party school.

Meyer, on the other hand, brings his athletes to Florida on recruiting visits and they are in warm weather, going to huge parties with beautiful women all over the place; a much more exciting experience for an 18 year old then the churches and Rockne statue at Notre Dame. They have both done well where they are, but just as Florida is not interested in Charlie Weis, Notre Dame is not interested in Urban Meyer.

So my words to Urban Meyer, do not take your job at Florida for granted, because there are many coaches in college football that could have your success if they were in your position, you are not the only one.

Yet, not many coaches in college football could turn Notre Dame around and bring them to two Bowl games in their first two seasons, and bring in three straight top 10 recruiting classes.

Yes, I know Charlie has struggled in the past two seasons, but Swarbrick, Jenkins, and the alumni of Notre Dame have their faith, money and support on this man and that means a lot considering how fast they have pulled the plug on coaches in the past.

The Bowl Game Breakdowns: Who Will Rise To The Challenge?

Brendan Collins — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 16:31:24 -0500

BCS Championship: Florida Vs. Oklahoma

Predicted Score: 44-31 Florida

Both teams feature high-powered offenses led by Heisman candidate quarterbacks, but Florida's speed will be too much for Oklahoma's defense in the end.

Rose Bowl: Penn State Vs. USC

Predicted Score: 31-17 USC

USC has as good a defense as any team in the country. Both of these teams were the best in their conference, but Penn State's offense has not played a defense as fast, physical, and mature as USC's. This game will be close until the fourth quarter, when USC opens it up. If USC wins the Rose Bowl again, they should change the name to the USC Invitational.

Tostitos Fiesta Bowl: Ohio State Vs. Texas

Predicted Score: 38 - 31 Texas

This is not the year for Ohio State. Texas is a one-loss team in arguably the most competitive conference in college football this season and the team they lost to is playing for the National Championship. Ohio State is a 2 loss team in a weak conference (this year).

All State Sugar Bowl: Alabama Vs. Utah

Predicted Score: 28-24 Utah

This, of course, is my upset pick. Alabama most likely will be a double-digit favorite in this game, but this is a team that had its eyes on the National Championship. The loss to Florida took the wind out of their sails.

I believe they will overlook Utah and get down 14-0 early in the game. They will make up some ground as the game goes on, but time will be their greatest enemy, and in the end they will run out. This is one of the Utah football program's biggest games, while Alabama comes rolling in disappointed. Emotions are important in college football, and Utah's got the edge.

AT&T Cotton Bowl: Texas Tech Vs. Ole Miss

Predicted Score: 42-21 Texas Tech

Two names that will be the deciding factor: Crabtree and Harrell. Mississippi will most likely be the best defense Texas Tech has faced this year, but with their skill in the air game, Texas Tech should be able to exploit Ole Miss' secondary.

FedEx Orange Bowl: Cincinnati Vs. Virginia Tech

Predicted Score: 28-21 Virginia Tech

This will be one of the best bowl games of the year. Both teams are evenly matched, but Virginia Tech has more experience in big games. Their biggest lost of the season was by 10 points, and that was to Florida State, who was ranked at the time.

Capital One Bowl: Michigan State Vs. Georgia

Predicted Score: 31-28 Michigan State (Last Minute Field Goal)

I think this will be the most exciting of all the bowl games. These two teams are a great match-up for each other. Both teams have elite running backs that can make plays, strong offensive lines, solid defense, and good coaching.

This game will be back-and-forth, with nobody leading by more than seven points at any time. Michigan State will nip them in the end because RB Javon Ringer will be able to pound it all game.

Chick-fil-A Bowl: Georgia Tech Vs. LSU

Predicted Score: 21-17 Georgia Tech

LSU is the better team, but they have been disappointing all season. Their offense has really struggled because of a lack of a quarterback and their defense has all-star players, but does not compete at the level they did a year ago.

Coach Miles has not been able to motivate these kids for some reason this season. Georgia Tech is a good football team and they are a lot hungrier than LSU.

Sheraton Hawaii Bowl: Hawaii Vs. Notre Dame

Predicted Score: 31-24 Notre Dame

The Irish have been through a lot over the last month, but rest assured Charlie Weis will have these guys ready to play. Hawaii has a big advantage playing in their home state, but the Irish welcome WR Michael Floyd and LB Brian Smith back to the line up.

These are not all the bowls. There are many other great bowls, but I would assume these will be the most watched.

Is CC Sabathia Worth $161 Million?

Brendan Collins — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:15:08 -0500

The New York Yankees are the most storied franchise in the history of sports. However, over the last 10 years, the dominant Yankees have gone from inspiring to down-right embarrassing.

The Yankees have the highest payroll in baseball, paying $207 Million to its high-profile athletes in 2008. To put this number in perspective, the second highest team payroll went to the New York Mets at $137 Million. That means that their payroll was $70 Million more than the next highest paying team in the MLB in 2008.

The lowest payroll in the MLB in 2008 was the Florida Marlins at $22 Million; therefore, the the Yankees have nearly 10 times the payroll that the Florida Marlins have.

The true question is, can money buy a World Series? The simple answer is no. There is no greater example of this then the 2008 MLB season where the highest paying team (Yankees) did not make the playoffs and the second lowest paying team (Tampa Bay) made it to the World Series.

Year after year, offseason aquisitions are dominated by the New York Yankees, the New York Mets, and the Boston Red Sox signing big name players to huge contracts that the majority of the league could not even think about.

Yet, in the past decade, the Red Sox, who were the fourth highest paying team in the MLB in 2008, has had the most success. Why is this? Well, it is like my father always told me, its not how much you got, its how you spend it.

The New York Yankees have made some costly mistakes in the past decade in the offseason that has lead to their absence from the World Series picture. I would put their newest acquisition right at the top of the list.

There is no doubt that CC Sabathia is one of the games elite pitchers and has all the ingredients of a superstar. However, although Sabathia has put up major numbers in his career thus far he has struggled in the postseason.

He has a career ERA of 3.66, and nearly 1400 strikeouts over eight seasons. He is only 28 years old and he is already been a three-time All Star and winner of the A.L. Cy Young.

This is all impressive until you look at the postseason statistics. In his five postseason appearances, he has an ERA of 7.92 with only one win and 24 strikeouts. Is that the formula to winning championships?

Therefore, two of the highest paid Yankees, CC Sabathia and A-Rod are not gamers, not in the postseason anyways. They are a fantasy players dream, but they are not clutch and they are not postseason heroes.

The Yankees did need to address their pitching problem that plagued the team in 08' and Sabathia is one of the best you can get, but $161 million? Only time will tell if this was a good move for the pinstripes, but big name, high-profile players are not the answers to their problems. They need winners and leaders like Derek Jetter.

This signing is a prime example of the Red Sox beating their rival not on the field, but in the clubhouse. In 2005, the Boston Red Sox signed Josh Beckett, a former World Series MVP and postseason ace to the roster. He received $2.4 million in his first season with the Sox.

Here, the Sox were looking to get a pitcher that would help them win the world series. Two World Series Championships later, Josh Beckett has proven to be an excellent pitcher, especially in the post season.

So why am I talking about the Red Sox? I mention them only to prove why Sabathia MAY not be the answer the Yankees are looking for. Sabathia is big name player who can fill seats, win 15-20 games a year, be a pest to David Ortiz and win Cy Young Awards, however like his new teammate A-Rod stats can only take you so far. The Yankees do not need a stat pitcher, they need a winner, they need a Josh Beckett.

So while I listen to Yankees fans jump for joy as their team is about to sign one of baseballs finest players, I would say to be happy but not too happy because this could turn out to be a bust. Do not forget that this man weighs nearly 300 pounds and did not want to play in the East Coast.

So, in conclusion, I think the Yankees will be a good team and I think Sabathia will have a great season, but I do not think he will lead them to a World Series. They do not have enough depth at this point to beat the Red Sox or the Devil Rays consistently, with or without Sabathia.

Mike Leach: Hottest Coach on the Market

Brendan Collins — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:15:13 -0500

In a time where the country faces its greatest economic crisis since the Great Depression, there is one man whose portfolio will not be suffering after this year and that is Mike Leach.

Don't let his looks fool you, ladies and gentlemen, because this is the sexiest coach in college football, at least to Auburn, Mississippi State, Washington and any other schools who are looking for a head coach.

This year has seen a lot of attention focused on head coaches throughout college football. From Charlie Weis' job security to legendary Phillip Fulmer being fired, some fans love to see a coaches coming and going.

I, for one, am not of that sort.

I have never understood why a coaching change rejuvenates a program. Has Norv Turner brought hope to the Chargers? Did Lane Kiffin turn the Raiders into a competitive football team?

Coaching carousal has become a part of sports today, and no sport witnesses this act more than college football. With major programs losing coaches this year, eyes have been all over Mike Leach, head football coach of Texas Tech.

Texas Tech was able to have a superb season with two Heisman trophy candidates and an 11-1 record. Although they are not going to have the opportunity to compete for a national championship, they have had the most impressive runs in their schools history.

I have one word for Leach as the season comes to close: RUN!!

Look around the college football world. Who gets the most slack and who is under the most scrutiny? New coaches get a lot of slack, whether it is fair or not.

A great example of this is Rich Rodriguez at Michigan, who has had an embarrassing season there in his first year, but there are no plans to fire him.

The coaches under the most scrutiny, believe it or not, are the ones who have had the great success. Phillip Fulmer won a National Championship in 1998 and brought the Vols to three SEC Championships between 2001 and 2007. He was fired in 2008 after a disappointing 5-7 record.

Why does this apply to you? Look how fast the tables can turn in this business of college football. As a Notre Dame fan, I have seen this full circle as Willingham was fired and Irish fans were so happy.

When Weis came to South Bend, he was a God. He turned the program around in his first year bringing them from an unranked team to a BCS Bowl Game. His next season, they were ranked No. 2 in the preseason polls despite having one of worst defenses in the country. The next year, they went 10-2 going into the All-State Sugar Bowl against LSU and fans saw that as a disappointment. Two years later, he is sitting on the hottest seat in college football.

What the media and fans do not seem to understand with their "what have you done for me lately" attitude is that many of these coaches that get fired every year put their program on the map.

Why was Tennessee's expectations so high? They are high because Fulmer set a standard of winning throughout his 17 years as Head Coach. Why do Irish fans "expect" to be in a BCS hunt every year? Because Weis was able to get them there in his first two seasons.

As crazy as it sounds, a coach's early success is their worst enemy. They build programs from the ground up, and when they have one bad season, they are tossed away for a new coach to come in and "rejuvenate" the program. Timmy Tuberville was 13-0 in 2004, and in 2008, he is being fired.

How does this relate to you, Mike? You are a coach that has now set a standard of winning at Texas. Once Crabtree and Harrell graduate, it is going to be tough to repeat that success. However, you WILL be accountable for it.

That is why I think the best move for you buddy is to get the hell out of town. Take the job at Washington, take the job at Auburn, take the job as Mississippi State, and just get away from Texas Tech.

I say this with no disrespect to Texas Tech, it is just the pattern I have observed over the years watching college football. A coach comes in and builds a program—fans build ungodly expectations for their team, and the coach is fired if he fails to meet those expectations.

As teams are firing coaches left and right, I can't think of a more highly sought after head coach than Mike Leach. Here is my opinion on the matter: If you go to Auburn, you could make an immediate impact. Tuberville has some great players on that team and a relentless, high talented defensive core. You, being the offensive mastermind, could walk right in and make an immediate impact.

But beware, SEC fans are harsh and have very high expectations. Also, you better be prepared to play Alabama because whether they are No. 1 in the country or No. 119, it is your job to win that game!

Washington, on the other hand, would be a good fit as well. They need everything, Willingham left them with nothing. There is very little pressure to do anything next year, and you could use this season's fame and the Pac-10 conference prestige to get some top flight recruits to the dying program.

Here would be a great place to go if you are looking to settle down at a certain team because you first few years will come under little to no scrutiny and any success you have will be celebrated by all.

Either Auburn or Washington have their ups and downs, but if I were you, I would pick one of them and get out of Texas. You are too good of a coach and too good of a guy to be held over the flame that college football coaches are held by the teams they do well by. Either way, this year's success will guarantee you a big contract next year, no matter what you decide to do.

How 'Bout Those Denver Nuggets?

Brendan Collins — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 07:47:17 -0500

The Denver Nuggets ended the 2007-2008 season with a heartbreaking 0-4 performance against the L.A. Lakers in the first round of the Western Conference Finals.

However, a year later the Nuggets dispensed with Marcus Camby and sent Allen Iverson to Detroit, which brought veteran guard Chauncey Billups back home to Denver.

Billups, along with Nuggets leader Carmelo Anthony, have led Denver to a 13-6 record, ranking them among the league's best teams. Their most impressive win came in Boston when they defeated the Boston Celtics on their home court.

So what gives with the Nuggets? Is it getting rid of Iverson and Camby that has made the difference or, is it bringing in Billups?

The truth is, there are many answers to these questions. I think the Nuggets' rebound from last year's disappointing finish starts with Carmelo Anthony.

Anthony after winning the gold medal this year in China, has come back home to Denver with a more complete game. 'Melo has been averaging over eight rebounds a game, which is higher than any other time in his career. He is rebounding, passing the ball, and still averaging over 20 points a game. Carmelo has made dramatic improvements on the defensive side of the ball as well, which has helped to motivate his teammates.

The other change has been Chauncey Billups. With Allen Iverson, the Nuggets played a fast and uptempo pace on the offensive side of the court, and were too tired to play effective defense. Billups is a much better fit for Coach Karl's offense and helps slow the game down and distribute the ball better.

Billups also has more poise and veteran leadership qualities than Iverson. He may not be as flashy but distributes the ball just as effectively.

With 'Melo and Billups taking most of opposing teams' attention, other guys like Nene and K-Mart have been able to make significant contributions this year. They are getting these opportunities as a result of the selfless play of 'Melo and Billups. Overall, I think the Nuggets are much more team-oriented this year, their defense has made great improvements, and 'Melo is learning how to be a leader in this league—not just a superstar.

If the Nuggets keep up their present level of play, then look out—because this team has everything it takes to be a NBA Champion. They have a superstar in Carmelo Anthony, a veteran guard in Chauncey Billups with playoff experience, a talented and fearless forward in Kenyon Martin and a 6'11", agile center in Nene Hilario who is averaging 15 points a game.

All of their starters are averaging over 10 points a game, and they have only lost three games since acquiring Billups.

What is most dangerous about this team is they have not seen the full range of their potential, as Melo is in a shooting slump, making only 40 percent of his shots this season. Yet, he is still averaging over 20 points a game—which shows that when he gets the rust out and starts making shots, he could be a 30 point-per-game player.

Beware L.A., because the Nuggets will not be the eighth seed this year, and it is going to take a lot more than four games to beat them!

Christmas Comes Early for Notre Dame Football Fans

Brendan Collins — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 06:43:54 -0500

Since I was born, I have been a passionate, loyal Notre Dame Football fan. I have dedicated Saturdays in the fall to Notre Dame to the point that my girlfriend of three years is not allowed to call me on that special day because I do not want to be distracted. That and when we lost to Michigan in 2006, we almost broke up.

For me, being a Notre Dame fan has been the highlight of my life, as I pour my heart and soul into my support for the team, coaches, and University. And this is why Notre Dame's AD Jack Swarbrick's announcement today that Charlie Weis would return in 2009 was the greatest Christmas present I could ask for.

When I was growing up my father distilled in his son two facts of life for Notre Dame fans. 1.) Work hard like Rudy and you will accomplish anything you want. And 2.) Never forget why you love Notre Dame.

Over the last year, I think a lot of Notre Dame fans should refer to No. 2. Why do you love Notre Dame football?

It varies among fans, but for me my love of the team goes far beyond the football field. My passion for this team is not a result of wins and losses or bowl wins (maybe because there haven't been too many in my lifetime) but in the student-athletes, the tradition, the class, and everything that Notre Dame stands for as a University and as a football program.

Charlie Weis, since the day he was given the Head Coach job at Notre Dame has embodied these principles.

In times where the game of football has moved from hard working blue collar families to thugs who are involved in shootings, rape, violence, murder, drugs and other off the field problems, Notre Dame has kept its commitment to student athletes. As other University's have lowered there admission standards for athletes to help recruiting, Notre Dame has not.

If you can not cut it as a student at Notre Dame, than they are not interested in having you there, no matter how good you are at a given sport. Therefore, Notre Dame will never be able to get top flight talent like Texas, Florida, LSU etc.

But wait! Charlie Weis came into Notre Dame and has had three top 10 recruiting classes in a row with another big class coming in for the 2009 season. How does he do this? Effort, effort, effort! He followed my father rule, work hard like Rudy and you can accomplish the impossible.

Not only has Weis been able to bring in student athletes at Notre Dame, but once they are there he holds them accountable to their academic responsibilities. The team GPA has consistently been over a 3.0 since Weis' arrival which speaks to his leadership both on and off the field.

Other Universities allow their athletes to take less classes during football season as long as they add another class in the spring term. For example, if the school requires students to take four classes a semester, schools let football players take two or three during football season, if they take five or six during the spring. Notre Dame does not take part in this practice, as its athletes get no exceptions.

Another reason why I love Notre Dame is the tradition. Touchdown Jesus, the walk to the stadium, the marching band, Friday night pep-rally, decades of history with famous coaches and players, the fight song, etc.

My father, brother and I started our own tradition as during half time of every game we would go play football in our backyard until the next half started with our Notre Dame jerseys on. There is too much tradition at Notre Dame to put into words, but the fact that Weis is an alumni of Notre Dame and that he understands all the traditions means a lot to me.

Not only is he aware of the teams storied traditions but he plays into them setting up great pep-rallies and adding a tradition of signing the school song with the students after each home game. Weis has never forgotten that years ago before he was a football Coach he was a regular loyal and passionate Notre Dame fan just like the rest of us.

Lastly, Notre Dame is a classy program not just in football but in all of their athletics. Charlie Weis proved to me just how classy he was when he made it a tradition for Notre Dame players to hold hands with each other and stand behind the military schools after playing them to listen to their schools alma mater.

The first time I saw the Fighting Irish stand behind the brave young men who have made the sacrifice to serve our country in respect to their dedication it nearly brought me to tears. Most media and fans believe that Weis is arrogant, cocky and rude but this is far from reality. Weis is very confident and it is his confidence in himself and the program that entices recruits to want to play for him.

At the end of the day, however, Weis is a classy person and a great man at heart. His daughter Hannah was tragically born with a life altering condition of autism, and he has been a supportive father and ambassador to all children who have been diagnosed with Autism by starting Hannah and Friends with his wife.

How many college coaches have their own tax exempt non-profit organizations?

I have heard every negative thing about Charlie Weis over the last four weeks surrounding Weis' job security. Most of the Weis criticism has come from outsiders, people who do not fully appreciate Notre Dame Football for what it is, or from negative fans. Negative fans are people that have forgotten No. 2 of my fathers facts of life of all Notre Dame fans.

If wins and losses is your sole reason for loving Notre Dame, then you are not a true fan.

In Weis' four years at Notre Dame his record has been both extremely impressive and extremely disappointing. His first two seasons he was able to turn Brady Quinn into a Heisman candidate and bring the Irish from unranked to two BCS Bowl games. His last two seasons have been disappointing at best have a 3-9 record last year and a .500 record this season.

However, progress was made and Weis through relentless recruiting has put this team in a good position to win in the future. Unlike many fans, I do not think Notre Dame is all of the sudden going to be a great team next year because they are going to face the same problem they had this season—lack of a mature senior class who has significant experience.

However, I think the Irish can win at least eight games and Weis will keep his job, but 2010 is where I think Notre Dame will move into a national contender again and stay there for as long as Weis is there.

So for all you Notre Dame fans out there, I know we have fallen on hard times and the blame has to go somewhere but let us not forget why we love Notre Dame Football. Lets not forget what it is that makes us turn on the television every Saturday to see those kids run out of that tunnel.

Because, at the end of the day, they are kids and as fans we are here to support them. So am I excited that Weis is coming back for the 2009 season, you bet I am! Go Irish!

Karl Malone Speaks Out on Athletes Carrying Guns

Brendan Collins — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 09:01:38 -0500

Two years ago, ESPN released an article about gun use among professional athletes.

Karl Malone, an All-Star basketball player for the Utah Jazz and future Hall of Famer, spoke out against athletes carrying guns.

With all the talk surrounding Plaxico Burress and athletes carrying guns as a source of protection, it is time to look back to Malone's words of wisdom.

I can understand that athletes of all professional sports are targets, some more than others, but the walking around with a gun is not the solution. Many people point to the tragedy of Sean Taylor and the stabbing of Paul Pierce as evidence that professional athletes are targets for criminals.

However, with that being said, I think fans, media and most importantly the athletes themselves need to have some common sense.

"I don't know what you need a gun for in the NBA. What are you doing that you want a gun? Who have you pissed off that you need a gun?" Karl told ESPN after being asked about gun use among NBA players.

Karl is an avid hunter and supporter of the National Rifle Association, but finds it foolish that professional athletes need guns to protect themselves.

"I think it's just a smoke screen, just an easy reason to say you want a gun," Malone said.

While Malone supports the constitutional right to bear arms, he said he is skeptical of the average athlete's mentality when it comes to firearms.

Malone thinks that carrying guns has become a way that the players can show off their toughness or rough background.

"Everybody sticks their chest out now when they have a firearm on them,'I come up from the hard part of the streets, the mean streets, and I need my gun and all of that?' Come on, please, enough of that already. We're tired of that."

Malone also questions peoples off the court or off the field habits. Sometimes these players need to make better decisions as to where they are hanging out and who they are hanging out with.

"Three a.m.? My goodness gracious, what were you doing out at three o'clock in the morning? Who were you with? Where were you at? Do you need a gun to protect you or do you need a babysitter to get you where you need to be all the time so that you don't get in any trouble?" Malone said.

"We need to talk more about where we are going, what we are doing, and who we are hanging out with that lead up to these confrontations."

Well said by a real tough man, who does not need guns to protect himself. Athletes, watch what is happening to those who carry guns—use your heads!

Lane Kiffin? Tennessee Vols Fans Beware What You Wish For

Brendan Collins — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 07:47:49 -0500

After Tennessee, a top 25 pre-season pick, lost its third game of the season and posted a record of 1-3 the long time Tennessee Head Coach Phillip Fulmer's job security came in question. To me this was hard to hear because the guy is a loyal coach who loved Tennessee football spending nearly his entire career there.

Fulmer was the face of the program for so many years that to see his losses stack up was sad. I do not think this was an obvious fire, as I do not think Fulmer is solely to blame for the lack of success in this years team. However, the Vols were looking to make a change for the future of their program and that is understandable.

So with that being said most Tennessee fans were anxiously waiting on who the University would name as its next Head Coach to replace the highly successful 152-52 Phillip Fulmer. The anxiety and excitement quickly faded as the University of Tennessee announced that Lane Kiffin was their next Head Coach.

If firing Fulmer, who had a 75% winning percentage in the most competitive leagues in college football, was not questionable enough they go an hire a Head Coach who was fired from one of the worst teams in the NFL. Granted the Oakland Raiders have many more problems than the Head Coach, Lane is not a proven coach in any respect.

The man was an offensive coordinator at USC when they had top flight talent that any college coordinator would drule over and then he heads to Oakland and was a bitter disappointment. At the end of the day the Vols got rid of a hall of fame coach for a young, inexperienced, unproven coach who has a lot to learn.

To me the move is illogical at best, and in time will prove to be a great mistake.

The Vols should have kept Fulmer for one more year and spent the entire year taking interviews behind closed doors to find a new Head Coach. That way recruiting would not be effected as much and the University could be patient and find a high level coach like the one they just got rid of. Bringing in Kiffin clearly shows that Tennessee took what they could get and that is not good news if you are a Vols fan.

Other teams and fans that see what has happened here should take a deep look at their program and if they are frusterated with their coach then they must ask the question who is better for the job? Because this example demonstrates that the replacement can be even worse than the original! Beware what you wish for.

The End Of Weis Would Be The End Of Notre Dame

Brendan Collins — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 17:51:25 -0500

I have read the articles all over the Internet from fans to media, calling for Notre Dame to fire Charlie Weis.Let me make things very clear:

Before you talk about firing Weis, make sure you know exactly what you are saying.

There are many reasons that I believe Weis is best for the job. But—to respond to all the negative media surrounding the Irish Coach— if you are going to fire a coach then here are the appropriate steps that one must take in doing so.

First, identify the main problem. Every coach has things they do well and things they struggle with, so for a fan or media to say that the coach is the problem they must identify the problem. In the case of Notre Dame I would submit that the "problem" is wins and losses.

The Irish had a terrible 3-9 record in 2007 and a decent but not great record of 6-6 in 2008. Although the teams GPA has risen under Weis and the graduation rate is at the top of college football, wins and losses are what the fans, media and alumni care about.

Second, find out how the Coach apart of the problem. So in the case of wins and losses being the problem I ask fans where they think Weis is to blame because to say that the losses are his fault because he is the Head Coach is not a very strong argument.

The UNC and BC losses were a result of turnovers, with a margin of -9. When the quarterback throws an interception is that the Head Coaches fault? The only problem I saw with Weis was that in the Navy game he put in the second string too early, they shouldn't have been on the field until the fourth quarter.

Besides that, I can not honestly pin point a problem solely on Charlie Weis. I think the schemes have been good enough to win games, and I think they have come out ready to play, but young players make mistakes that is why the better programs typically have a strong senior and junior class which Notre Dame does not.

Third, does the Coach have the answer to the problem? Here is probably the most important question among Irish fans, media and alumni. This question is where all the debate comes from.

I would submit that Charlie Weis is absolutely the answer the solve this problem, because the problem of winning and loosing has to do with an abundance of young talent playing important roles on the team and a very small and quiet upper class. Therefore, I think there is one way to solve this problem and that is the Coach needs to bring talent to Notre Dame which has been a struggle in years past since the early 1990's.

Once the talent is there the coach has to develop that talent and let it evolve. As those freshman and sophomores become juniors and seniors then they will have more maturity and possess the ability to execute Weis' game-plans. To most people, Weis is not the answer.

But, who could do a better job?

This to me is a great question that all fans should ask themselves. It is not just Notre Dame fans, its all sports fans that are so excited to see a coach get fired. Look at how it backfired for the New York Yankees. Fans and media and the Yankee clubhouse were all over Joe Torre for his "production" over the last 5 years so they gave him a humiliating offer which led to an obvious "see you later."

The Yankees then do not make the playoffs and Torre leads the Dodgers to a semi-final. The point is, before you talk about wanting to get rid of someone, you should have someone in mind to replace him. My question is who? Charlie is a Notre Dame graduate, a coach of four Superbowl Championships, a highly connected coach, a charitable-family man, academic stickler, and arguably the best recruiter in college football today.

The fact that he could bring in the No. 2 class in the country to a school with high academic standards coming off a 3-9 season is remarkable. So who do you think can do a better job? Who can bring in better talent? Who understands and loves Notre Dame tradition as much as Weis? For me I do not think that Coach exists, but if you have someone in mind then here is my last question.

Finally, if Weis is fired what will that mean for Notre Dame? I will admit I am a HUGE Charlie Weis fan and for reasons that go far beyond the game of football, but I am a much bigger Notre Dame fan and I want what is best for the University.

My biggest fear is that if they do get rid of Weis, then that will lead to a lot more problems than solutions. The first problem is that a lot of the current players will leave or go to the NFL draft and just as important Notre Dame will loose most all of its recruits. These are two huge problems that the Irish would have to face if they decide to fire Weis.

As a life long fan, I do not think this is worth it by any stretch of the imagination.

For the first time in my life Notre Dame has a hopeful future with more young talent than this team has seen in decades, maybe ever. To throw that all away because fans, media and alumni are too impatient and set unrealistic standards for Notre Dame Football, would be a great tragedy.

I look at this team now and yes they are far from BCS consideration, but they have the players and the systems and with another year under their belt execution will be better. If they can Weis, then a great deal of players will leave and the team will have to learn the next coaches system, which of course takes time.

What I mean to say here is that every time a new coach comes to a program that team must take a step back and wait another five years or so to see how the coaching change works out. Next year I think if Weis is Head Coach they will win 8-10 games which would be great, and the Irish would be back in the Top 25. The year after that is when I think the Irish could be in the BCS picture, as Weis recruiting efforts will finally pay off as they are then mature athletes.

I play a college sport and you cannot underestimate the importance of leadership from the upperclassmen and Notre Dame does not have it.

So for all you fans out there that are wishing Swarbrick fires Weis on Monday, I hope you take the time to consider the points in this article and realize that firing Weis may not be a good move after all. In my opinion it is the worst move they can make.

Bottom line, I have been one of the biggest Notre Dame football fans around today for 20 years, and if they get rid of Weis than I will be greatly dissapointed in Notre Dame because of what Weis represents which is everything that is good and pure in the University of Notre Dame.

Good luck Swarbrick, do whats right—not whats popular.