Bleacher Report - Articles by Jim Cowan

Notre Dame's View From Three Point Land

Jim Cowan — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:49:00 -0500

In recent years Notre Dame has had their share of sharpshooters from behind the arc.

In fact, Coach Mike Brey's modus operandi, intentional or not, has been to have two or more marksmen on the court at any given time.

Their reliance on the three-point game was all too evident last season though. After a lights-out season two years ago, Big East teams, at least, adapted to the Kyle McAlarney game even as he dropped 124 three-pointers from all over the court and a few seemingly from South America!

Even when McAlarney, who ended his career with 298 three-pointers at a 43 percent click, was neutralized, teams had to be wary of Ryan Ayers.

Ayers contributed 170 career three-pointers of his own, 94 of which came last season. He was deadly as well at 42 percent.

Before the McAlarney/Ayers tandem, the Big East had to worry about the likes of Chris Quinn and Colin Falls.

Falls was generally considered more dangerous as he was the first player ever to drop 100 threes at South Bend when he made 102 in the 2005-06 season. He left with a 40 percent success rate, making 232 three-pointers.

Quinn, himself, was no slouch as he complemented Falls with Ayers-like support with 169 threes at 42 percent.

Those days are thought to be long gone. Are they though?

Not so fast says Ben Hansbrough!

It's certainly too early to predict anything this season, but over his two previous playing seasons, Hansbrough has made 42 percent of his three-point attempts, dropping 173 of them. If two games can be any indication, he's off to a good start, converting eight of 10 threes thus far.

So if Hansbrough is this season's Falls/McAlarney, who fits the bill for the Quinn/Ayers character?

It's tough to pinpoint solid candidates, if any, but there are a few indicators early on.

Jonathan Peoples and Tory Jackson drain an occasional three, but I don't think they have the green light to put it up any time they want.

Tim Abromaitis and Luke Harangody have shown they can hit from anywhere on the court. I expect both to contribute to the three-point game.

Coach Brey is fully aware their game plan must change from the previous season's, where McAlarney would throw up threes from half court and make them!

With no one expecting much out of South Bend, other than 'Gody producing MVP numbers, the Irish may be able to fly under the radar a bit and surprise some folks once again come conference play. So, I still expect to see plenty of shots from downtown and hopefully just as many drops!

The Unofficial Top Five Notre Dame Coaching Prospects

Jim Cowan — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 09:04:00 -0500

At this point every single living Notre Dame fan has contemplated the football program's future and who should replace Coach Weis. I suspect there are even a few turning over in their graves turning at the recent loss to Navy. No coach since the Kuharich experiment has lost to Navy...not even once, let alone twice!

Let us say that Weis is released at the end of this season. I'd support shipping him up Lake Michigan right now and punting the rest of the season, but that's an admittedly irrational personal opinion. The way I see it, at least when they get their asses kicked by Pitt and Stanford they'll have the interim coach excuse.

Either way, I wish I could say I'm breaking new ground here, but I cannot. Like I said, we've all thought about who would be best to fill the enormous shoes as head football coach at the University of Notre Dame. I've come up with my five top candidates, assuming they would leave their respective jobs of course.

Let me first say, I am not a fan of inter-league coaching moves, a la NFL coaches to NCAA and vice-versa. For the most part, save Pete Carroll and a few others, it is a failure. With the exception of Bill Cowher, I would not support another NFL to Notre Dame coaching move right now.

Here you go:

Kyle Whittingham, Utah

Replaced Urban Meyer as head coach at Utah and has a 45-15 record in his fifth season. He's been at Utah as a defensive line coach and defensive coordinator for most of his career and coached the Utes to an undefeated season in 2008.

Brian Kelly, Cincy

In his fourth season as head coach of Cincinnati and has a 31-6 record there. But his totals as head coach are now 168-57-2. He has one Big East title, contending for a second, one division title with Central Michigan, six division titles, and two national championships with Grand Valley State. An undefeated season this year could land the Bearcats in the BCS National Championship game.

Gary Patterson, TCU

He has coached the Horned Frogs to an 80-27 record in his 10th season. I believe he is the only head coach who can say he's coached three separate conference winners, all with the same school certainly. One WAC, one Conference USA, and one Mountain West Conference title and will pretty much coach for a second this week. He's got TCU at No. 4 in the country as I type this.

Chris Petersen, Boise State

Certainly the best coaching record out of my five here at 44-4 in his fourth season. The Broncos are on their way to a second undefeated season under Petersen, the first in 2006 of course ending with the BCS win over Oklahoma. They are also playing for their third WAC title in his four years as well.

Personally, this choice is very intriguing and is probably my top choice. The only thing I would say is that he can be conservative at times where opening up the play book a bit would be warranted. That point can be countered, though, with the simple fact that they are a damned good football team and don't really need to be loose with the play calling.

Bronco Mendenhall, BYU

Maybe a bit of a sleeper here but he's coached the Cougars to a 44-15 record in his fifth season at the helm. He's probably the most uncontested as far has head coaching goes, but I think he's done a hell of a job in a tough spot like BYU. They are on their way to a fourth consecutive 10-win season and will contend for the third Mountain West Conference title this season under Mendenhall.

As you can see, I'm in the Midwest box here as far as my coaching candidates go. That was unintentional. I purposely left off the Urban Meyer and Nick Saban type coaches because, while I believe they come in and provide proven credentials and instant wins, I don't see them as either truly available or long term candidates.

Looking back in Notre Dame's coaching history, many choices have been unconventional, dark-horse types. Many have panned out to be hall of fame coaches, some have faltered.

Either way you flip that coin, this regime is on its last leg...and it's one that John Ryan buckled a season ago. I'll open this up as many other articles have thus far: Who are your top candidates?

Top Animal-Related Incidents in Pro Sports

Jim Cowan — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 07:25:00 -0500

Here's my top three animal deaths over the past 35 years. I couldn't pick one over the other...you be the judge.

Sabres' Jim Lorentz Bat-Fog Game – 1975

Considered by many at the time an evil omen, in game three of the 1974/75 Stanley Cup Finals, Jim Lorentz swatted a bat out of the air with his stick. Later that game would later be known as the fog game for the ridiculously thick fog due to an unusually hot Buffalo May.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvzp32zYtCY

Randy Johnson Hits Bird With Pitch – 2001

What are the odds a bird, or dove, whatever it was flies into a 100 mph Johnson pitch or the other way around? Will we ever see this again? Allegedly there was a seagull hit in the minors, Buffalo go figure. And there was another video of German Michael Ballack hitting a bird in shooting practice before a match.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WF85R1em7Zs

Manu Ginobili Kills the Bat – 2009

Halloween night + bat + AT&T Center + Manu = another dead bat! Unlike Lorentz, Ginobili swatted the bat out of the air with his bare hands, picks it up and passes it to some poor donk on the baseline.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1DpjBEwekE

College Football Uniforms: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Jim Cowan — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:38:18 -0500

There are certainly many factors which help college coaches persuade a certain athlete to attend their respective institution. It would be naïve to believe in this day and age football uniforms are not one of said factors. Minor as it may be, if I have the choice between school A and school B, all else equal, I may choose which unis make me look better on the field. Let’s face it, to many of these kids, looks may be a top factor. Before I break down what will surely be my most objectionable article yet, let me give the disclaimer. This is my opinion and my opinion only. I am admittedly biased. I am not an SEC hater...trust me, I spread my hate equally. I apologize if I offend anyone's sensibilities, as I fully understand it may be hard for some of you to comprehend the fact that your team's uniforms may be ugly. Own it, be proud of it and embrace your ugliness. That said, I'll start out with...

Begin Slideshow

Don't Look Now...Are the Buffalo Sabres Back?

Jim Cowan — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 06:48:00 -0400

One tenth into the season, the NHL's best record belongs not to the Pens, not the Caps, not the Avs but to the Buffalo Sabres. Of course they've only played nine games compared to nearly everyone else whose played up to 13 games, but with a 7-1-1 start, they hold best record.

Slow starts, poor D and overplaying Miller has been the Achilles heal in the past couple years and it looked to be more of the same in the first few games. Then they scored 18 goals and gave up five against Detroit and New York, lost to Atlanta 4-2, and are now riding a three game win streak scoring 12 giving up five.

At least right now Miller and the defense are lights out. They've given up 17 goals over nine games. That is by far the best in the NHL by ten goals. Even playing two or three games less than the rest of the league, their average beats the next best Coyotes.

The Sabres are also league tied going undefeated on the road thus far at 4-0; the Penguins are 5-0 on the road.

So far, the goal leader is Clarke MacArthur with five goals and seven points. Vanek has four goals, Grier, Pominville and Stafford all have three.

Myers is proving to be the badass I thought he would be and doing it early. He's sitting at +8 only behind Tallinder who's +9. Myers also has two goals and three assists leading all defensemen in points.

One of their two losses came on one of their two-in-a-rows, which by the way, they are playing more of than any other team. In November, I'll say they've got the toughest schedule I've ever seen.

First they play Wednesday, Friday and Saturday every single week in November. That is a grind! Then they play Philly three times, Boston twice, Washington, Ottawa, Edmonton, Calgary, Toronto and Carolina; the Sabres start this joke of a sched. with NYI on the 4th.

While it's certainly early to get too excited, I've got a vibe that Buffalo will fly under the radar and surprise some folks if the can survive November.

LETS GO BUFFALO!!!

Six Blunt Points On The Irish Win

Jim Cowan — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 14:52:00 -0400

I’m very happy to see this Notre Dame win, as ugly as it was, but I have a few points I think need to be said:

1. I hope no one credits Weis for this victory—he certainly did his part to jack it up!

2. Harrison Smith IS NOT GOOD! There's just no other way to say it. He can lay wood, but that's about it and when it doesn't knock a guy down, it's worthless wood—which is what happens ALL THE TIME. Or worse yet, he just whiffs. Regardless, he needs to have a seat because he's now a liability.

3. Why the %#$! is Kyle Rudolph not getting the ball? I understand Tate is probably the best athlete on the field at any given time, but Rudolph is not far behind! He is constantly being ignored and I don't know why.

4. Thanks, wildcat, once again!

5. Hughes is overrated. I love the kid's heart and what he did a couple seasons ago but he's not a tailback and I'd appreciate it if Weis would wake up and realize this fact.

6. Dammit it was good to see Notre Dame beat BC! The old man was there so it made the win that much more enjoyable!

Mr. Obama: Stay Out of My College Football!!!

Jim Cowan — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:17:00 -0400

I will be the first one to say that the BCS is an ugly baby and needs to disappear in favor of a playoff system—or just something else for that matter. I will also be the first person to say that government involvement in the NCAA is so far from an acceptable solution it’s an absolute joke!

While I believe a majority will agree that there is a need for a new post-season system in Division 1, I’m fairly certain I’m in the minority as far as who should institute that change. Without getting too political, it’s evident we Americans have become far too dependent upon Uncle Sam fixing everything that we foul up. NCAA officials either did not predict or did not care about the scenarios which we’ve seen play out over the past few years. But to have senators, representatives and now the President involved is ludicrous!

http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/story/12399197

This is not a debate on whether or not the BCS is a boondoggle and what should be done. We’ve all been to that party. This is, however, my fundamental objection to a government who is successfully encroaching on my personal freedoms day by day and is now pressing to decide how best to solve problems in college football.

I throw the B.S. flag!

The Half Decade of Dominance: USC vs. Notre Dame Rivalry

Jim Cowan — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 07:36:00 -0400

188-85, sounds like I'm talking basketball again right...I wish!

After the eighth blunder against USC, I decided to take a look at how Notre Dame, specifically, the Charlie Weis era, has fared against USC's other annual opponents. While I understand numbers don't really mean squat, it is a just a reminder how inept the our beloved Irish have been in this rivalry.

Since this was Weis's fifth consecutive loss to USC during his entire tenure, I've taken the last five games played against USC and their Pac-10 opponents and crunched a few numbers.

I'll start top down...

Oregon State - For whatever reason, if there was a team who could claim to have stinky Pete's number, it's the Beavers. Of course, that just means they've squeaked out a couple of wins over the last five! They've been the closest though as the numbers show. Score: USC 156 – 111 OSU (Edge USC by 45)

UCLA - It's certainly no surprise that the fellas across the street would be somewhere near the top. I'm not sure, but my guess would be that UCLA holds the status as being the top rival? Either way they're 0-5, but a second best 0-5. USC 156 – 85 UCLA (Edge USC by 76)

California - With the success Cal has had over the past few years, it's easy to forget they haven't beaten USC...0-5. They have shown the ability to stop the bleeding though with only allowing just over 25 points per game. USC 129 – 42 Cal (Edge USC by 87)

Washington - The Huskies have probably been one of the closest save the 0-56 score last season. For whatever reason, UW has been a forgettable rival and this year the Trojans got bit! 1-4. USC 173 – 84 UW (Edge USC by 89)

Arizona - Maybe a surprise middle-of-the-packer here in the Wildcats, but not a surprise they're 0-5. They've just kept it respectable over the past few years. USC 148 – 56 UA (Edge USC by 92)

Oregon - Certainly did not expect Oregon to be on the bottom side of this spectrum even with a win in '07. I also didn't realize there was a few season hiatus where they didn't play so I had to go back to 2002 to get the first of five...that was a loss too. 1-4. USC 185 – 90 UO (Edge USC by 95)

Stanford - Probably considered “that other California team” over the past few years, but again, they did pull out the one point victory two years ago! Sans that game, it's been pretty dismal. 1-4. USC 192 – 96 Stanford (Edge USC by 96)

Arizona State - The Sun-Devils are getting better under Erickson; maybe not as fast as some would have liked, but they are a worthy opponent, except when playing USC. Nearing the bottom now, they're 0-5. USC 183 – 80 ASU (Edge USC by 103)

Notre Dame - And there they are. I'll relate some thoughts below. As we're well aware of, they're 0-5. Of course save the Bush-push and the last eight minutes on Saturday, it's been absolute murder. But do not jump off that ledge just yet...they're not as bad as Wazzu and tied with ASU! USC 188 – 85 UND (Edge USC by 103)

Washington State - I don't think this will blow anyone's lid here. The Cougars are bad...real bad. Whether or not they've improved under Wulff is debatable but they did survive this season with only a three TD loss, which given recent history may be as good as a win in Pullman! USC 226 – 55 WSU (Edge USC by 171)

The point the these numbers are few but I believe they are significant. One, well, the Irish are not as sucky as Washington State so that's pretty cool. In this category, they are 68 points from being as bad as the 18-36 Cougars (over past five including this year).

Point two, which is kind of a multi-point point, in this rivalry, how can anyone affiliated with Notre Dame, fans included, accept these numbers? Look at any five-year span in any major rivalry in college football, has there been such a difference in scores whilst posting a lopsided 0-5?

I actually have not looked, but I'd bet money on no. A point was made a while back by someone on the Bleacher Report, whom I would never agree with, but she said that any coach worth their salt would NEVER get their ass kicked by a rival and survive. Of course, the point is not factual as their have been plenty of beat-downs by rivals where coaches were not immediately fired.

But taken as a whole, over five seasons now, a 103-point difference by arguably your biggest rival! Is that acceptable? And the other point just pointing out how bad Notre Dame's D has been. I mean, only Stanford and Wazzu have given up more to USC.

Let me say that I actually believe they can win out. Do I think they will, no, but I believe they certainly can would kill to see it. That would make for a 10-2 record this year and probably a “guaranteed” BCS berth.

Joke or not, that = success by the standards we're given. Success or not, there's still something amiss when you not only do not beat your rivals, you get creamed by them.

Sure, I'm a Weis hater, call me out. “But it was a moral victory...look at the positives...bla bla bla." Moral victory = bollocks in my book. That crap only flies when you can make it a close game for 60 minutes. Maybe next year yes...maybe next year.

Charlie Weis Wildcat Extinction Would Ever Be So Sweet

Jim Cowan — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 13:42:00 -0400

There indeed was three sightings of the enigmatic wildcat this weekend in South Bend. But the Nick Holt led defense lie in wait and poached the dead-beat animal to an oblivion!

I loath the wildcat. I could only hope it is dead and gone. But sure enough, the mad genius himself will not let bygones be bygones and I'm sure we'll have yet another wildcat sighting or two.

I know what you'll say... “Golden Tate in the Purdue game... what about the two touchdowns earlier...”

Throw enough sh*t against the wall and some of it is bound to stick. And for cryin' out loud, Golden Tate is generally the best athlete on any field at any given time; put him in any stupid play and he'll probably get something out of it!

Here's the deal. Notre Dame has never proven successful with gimmick plays in the Weis era. It's just not their bag. While I think their athletic talent can match with anyone position to position, it's not conducive to these types of plays. They run a pro-style offense; it's like a quasi-west coast with a college twist. And let me say, I think they are unstoppable when Chucky sticks to that plan. When they are hitting the quick 8-15 yarders, Clausen is unstoppable! Mix that with a few long bombs (not overdoing it like we've seen some) and of course mix in the run (not 10 pass plays then seven run plays simultaneously). This offense is unstoppable!

I digress. The wildcat scheme can be successful with the right talent. First and foremost, my biggest problem is that you're virtually running a play with 10 men. Splitting Jimmy Clausen out wide is worthless. One he's going to get the sh*t knocked out of him sometime, and two, who are they fooling? What's he going to do out there, run a fly!? If you have a QB like Griffin or Robinson, putting them out wide may be a legitimate threat...not Jimmy Clausen though.

Second, there's no secret. The wishbone option is great because the QB can run one of about four different plays in a split second decision. With the wildcat, it's virtually just a direct snap to the tailback where he what, runs an off tackle or worse yet, they try and pull some double reverse crap! Lastly, is just the risk vs reward. It is a low percentage play and I see it as a wasted play.

Sure, I understand that every play is a crap shoot all things considered, but how many times does this play have to bust for Weis to shelve it for a while?

The three times they ran it against UW arguably cost them two touchdowns! I was glad to see, at least for one week, the wildcat is dead!!!

October Madness: Notre Dame's '09/'10 Schedule

Jim Cowan — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 10:02:00 -0400

Nov. 14 is a ways away but...

I figure a little before a month after its release date, I can start to contemplate the fare for the 2009-10 season. I'm actually glad to not see a repeat of last season's gauntlet right out of the gate. Indiana, Texas, North Carolina, and Ohio State to the big games...that is no joke.

If anything, Mike Brey probably recognized the need to set themselves up a little better for Big East play. The problem is when they lose a couple of those games, they start behind the curve.

This season they open up a little softer. I like it. They've got enough experience and talent that they don't need to play in some big-time tourney to prepare themselves or to show what they've got. Truth be told, they should be able to cruise through most of their first games setting up for the showdown with UCLA on Dec. 19 the Joyce Center.

This is how it looks:

November

1 LEWIS (Exhibition)
6 QUINCY (Exhibition)
TBA
14 NORTH FLORIDA
16 ST. FRANCIS (PA)
19 LONG BEACH STATE
22 LIBERTY (Tourney)
24 KENNESAW STATE (Tourney)
27 Northwestern (Tourney)
28 Iowa State or Saint Louis

December

1 IDAHO STATE
6 CENTRAL FLORIDA
9 IUPUI
12 LOYOLA MARYMOUNT
19 UCLA
22 BUCKNELL

Weak non-conference schedule or not, why kill yourself before entering Big East play. Say what you will about the ACC or Pac-10, but I still put the Big East on top when they start pounding on each other.

There hasn't been much buzz about the Irish as of yet...another point I like. The beauty of the Big East is that no matter what, they'll be talking about someone else. There's always going to be a contending Georgetown, or UConn, or, now West Virginia and Villanova; the list goes on and on.

They can all sleep on the fact that, while they lost McAlarney, Harangody returns with a sick cast of characters with him (another breakdown later...).

...is it ever too early to talk NCAA hoops?

Texas A&M-Arkansas: Both Will Bend, but Who Will Break in the Southwest Classic?

Jim Cowan — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:46:42 -0400

In a renewed old school Southwest Conference rivalry, which hasn't been played since 1991, Texas A&M and Arkansas have both showed the ability to score.

After three games, the Aggies still lead D-I in offensive yards per game. Arkansas is no scrubinni at 19th best.

The question is not whether there could be 1,000 yards gained in this game, but rather which defense will allow those yards to end in points.

A&M's defense is hovering around the middle of the pack, giving up 352 yards per game but only allowing just over 18 points per game. Arkansas' D is not much worse, giving up 387 but allowing just over 32 points per game.

It should be noted though that Arkansas has played both Georgia and Alabama, so those statistics may be a bit misleading. The Ags should not go into this game and expect to run amuck in Dallas. Arkansas, even at 1-2, still has a legitimate chance to cause problems in the SEC West.

Also, another point to be made is that even though A&M's D is around average in most stats, they lead the BCS in sacks. Ryan Mallett is no joke, but if Von Miller can keep the pressure up, it could make for a long day.

As I've said before, teams will live and die by the offensive line. A&M's line has provided the offense with the ability to utilize a balanced attack. Look for Christine Michael to return in the backfield and Jerrod Johnson to continue spreading the ball around to multiple targets.

With Jeff Fuller gone for a majority of the season, instead of a one for one sub, the entire receiving corps has stood out!

Alabama has provided a blueprint on how to shut down Arkansas' offense. I'm not going to say that A&M is Alabama-caliber right now, but I will say they should have the ability to mirror some of 'Bama's defensive schemes to neutralize the Arkansas attack.

A&M is top 10 in penalties...they need to tighten it up a bit; 33 penalties for 295 yards is unacceptable by any stretch. As they end their non-conference with the Southwest Classic and begin Big 12 play with Okie State, they cannot afford to give away 100 yards a game in penalties.

The importance of this game to both teams should be noted. Arkansas desperately needs a win. Their schedule doesn't get any easier with Auburn, Florida, and Ole Miss coming up next. Heading into that gauntlet at 1-3 would be a dagger.

A&M needs this win for legitimacy. They've been dealt a sh*t sandwich over the past six years and have seemed to eat their way through it. A win against Arkansas would show the Big 12, and more importantly themselves, they are the real deal and can compete for a Big 12 title. Confidence is huge, but keeping it is paramount!

Gig 'Em Ags!

Is Notre Dame Football Content with Mediocrity?

Jim Cowan — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 07:51:00 -0400

At what point did it become acceptable to field a pretty good team in South Bend? Was it in the Davie era, Willingham's maybe or possibly the current administration? Sure, there's a sense of entitlement here; maybe more so than any other program in the country.

That's a natural reaction which inevitably comes with winning at least one National Championship in every decade since the 1910's. So why is it different now?

Arguably, the last time Notre Dame was in the NC spotlight was in 1993; they were actually awarded the championship title by the NCF and probably robbed otherwise. The following year was a disaster for Coach Holtz, losing five games for a 6-5-1 record.

And the following two, both three-loss seasons. Lou Holtz has claimed to have left for many reasons one of which being he felt it was time to move on and to give someone else the opportunity he was given.

But part of me believes another reason is because the team compiled 11 losses and a tie in those last three seasons. There may have been a feeling that it was unacceptable at Notre Dame to have the football team lose 11 games in a three-season span.

Enter Bob Davie. I actually like Bob Davie. I think he is a hell of a defensive coordinator. What he did at Texas A&M and later somewhat at Notre Dame has rarely been repeated in college football. He coached some of the most feared defensive units ever, albeit mostly at TAMU with the Wrecking Crew.

That said it was just not in the cards for him to be a head coach, more so, head coach at Notre Dame.

I don't think it was a bad choice at the time. Given his track record and his time there at Notre Dame, it was a natural selection. I've said this before...damned good coordinator, okay head coach, but not so good recruiter.

If you take any consecutive three-year span out of his five years as head coach, you will get 16, 11, 16 losses. While there were some underlying problems during that time as well with violations, that loss count was unacceptable.

After the George O'Leary debacle (which I cannot even fathom) Tyrone Willingham was brought in. This choice has always kind of baffled me, but if you look back at history, it's Notre Dame's MO to pick these kind of guys. Faust was a high school coach. Devine had a couple good seasons at Mizzou but nothing spectacular.

Parseghian was a big ole bust-a-rooni Northwestern and just kind of fell into the position. So it wasn't all too far out that Notre Dame was going to pick someone off the radar. But even still, I'm not sure what White saw in his resume that screamed, “I will bring a NC back to South Bend!”

I have also said this...Willingham was a better recruiter, good motivator, but not a good head coach. He was only given three years, where he compiled 15 losses. Unacceptable.

Now good ole Charlie Weis. He comes in, high profile hiring, now in the spotlight, going to change things in South Bend. He's got three Super Bowl rings and is the self-proclaimed offensive genius behind the 199th pick of the 2000 draft “Tommy” Brady.

And that's exactly what happened. Everything changed. Notre Dame goes 9-2 and by Notre Dame Clause is selected to play Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl. “Hmm...what just happened here,” we all thought after that drumming? Next season, 10-2! And by Notre Dame Clause once again, they play LSU in the Sugar Bowl.

No chance Notre Dame holds the bowl losses record right? “Hmmmm...trend, or just another fluke?” And, of course, we all know what happens next. So, of course, if you mix in a nine-loss season with any other, chances are it's going to look poor...and it does. Take any consecutive three-year span and you get 15 and 18, not counting this season thus far.

Just for the sake of argument I'll go back a little bit farther. Gerry Faust, considered the worst of the bunch by many, can claim 15, 14 and 16 in any consecutive stretch over his five seasons. Devine has 7, 7, 8 and 9 with a NC of course.

So barring they win out this season which is highly unlikely, or as far as my standards go finishing with two losses, is another three loss season acceptable? What about four?

So just going by the numbers, why is it acceptable now for Notre Dame to field consecutive years of mediocrity where in the past it was unheard of? Have they lost that sense of entitlement where they are relegated to “hopefully a decent season” status every year? Coach Weis has said it himself, two- and three-loss seasons are unacceptable at the University of Notre Dame.

Of course, this season is still new. I'm not saying they will lose three games this season. I am saying it is likely and if that indeed is the case, will people finally call an ugly baby an ugly baby and realize what we've got here? Or will the grass be continually greener...next season?

Texas Aggies vs. Utah St. Aggies = A Guaranteed Aggies Win!

Jim Cowan — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 10:47:00 -0400

All Aggies would compile nearly 1100 yards of total offense, 68 points and 25 penalties for 213 yards. Mix that all together and what do you get; one ugly win for the Aggies...the Texas A&M Aggies that is. Even though they tried almost everything in their power to give this game away in the last few minutes, they finally realized a loss to the Utah State Aggies was not really what they wanted in week two.

Even though the final was 38-30, nearly three quarters of the game, A&M's D allowed only a field goal after allowing a quick two TDs in the first. They wouldn't touch again until six minutes remaining in the forth. If Joe Kines had the bend but don't break mentality yesterday, Utah St. had the Ags D tied in a knot! But it worked out in the end. The D forced four fumbles getting two and had five sacks on the day.

On the other side, the Ags continue their offensive dominance even with Jeff Fuller out of the game with a cracked fibula. Johnson lit it up once again for 322 yards, four TDs and rushing 11 times for 78 yards! With the absence of Fuller, Uzoma Nwachukwu stepped up big scoring four TDs, three catch and one run.

In the Big 12 there is no shortage of offensive fire-power so A&Ms improvement will largely go unnoticed, at least until week four when they play Arkansas in a renewed Southwest Conference showdown. I will say this offense, two games in, is on par with the rest of the Big 12 elite.

It will take a couple of signature wins before they get the respect though. Until then, under the radar is where they need to be in my opinion. With their defense at times still adapting and bit lethargic, opposing teams will likely focus on their offensive game plan. Meanwhile they'll be surprised with a round-house kick to the face by Jerrod Johnson and crew.

BCS Thoughts: What Does It Mean If Anything?

Jim Cowan — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 23:42:05 -0400

We are now into week three of “debacle” year 11, also known as the BCS era. While history claims otherwise, like it or not, earning a BCS bid is our primary measure of success. Sure there are the undefeated 2004s, some conference champs who are snubbed, Independents not named Notre Dame and those who play Big 12 teams in the first four weeks, but for the most part, are those who've failed to make it thus far considered lower on the football program totem pole? I dare to ask...

For the sake of brevity, I'll single out the big six conferences in D1 football, or, as some would say, the upper echelon of D1. In the 11 previous seasons there has been 37 out of 65 teams to reach the holy grail of post-season play out of the six major conferences.

My question is, are these teams considered inferior programs because of their absence BCS bowl games? Let me break it down...

Those who have failed by BCS standards:

Big Ten – Indiana, Minnesota, Michigan State, Northwestern

SEC – Kentucky, South Carolina, Vanderbilt, Arkansas, Ole Miss, Mississippi State

Big 12 – Iowa State, Mizzou, Baylor, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech

Pac-10 – Arizona, Arizona State, Cal

Big East – USF, Rutgers, UConn

ACC – Boston College, Clemson, Duke, Georgia Tech, UNC, NC State, Virginia

Now let me make myself abundantly clear..I'm not calling these programs out as inferior. I'm just wondering if, by BCS standards, are these teams considered irrelevant until they reach that landmark? More so, if this is how we are to measure success, then is it the best system possible, leaving out the likes of Texas Tech, Mizzou and Cal who has had tremendous success in recent years?

Texas A&M: If They Only Knew...The Post R.C. Slocum Years

Jim Cowan — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 07:53:00 -0400

It's is hard to imagine the that there was a time where Texas A&M football was a mainstay in the top 25. It's even harder to imagine the days of one and two loss seasons. That's exactly what Aggies had become accustomed to during the 14 seasons R.C. Slocum ran the program.

The man largely responsible for producing some of the most feared defenses ever during the Sherrill years, also holds the best winning percentage in the old Southwest Conference.

Of course, hindsight is always 20/20, but looking back to 2002, his firing brought on a span of mediocrity nearly unmatched in elite college football programs. Possibly no other program on par with A&M has fallen off the map in a shorter period of time.

Colorado has but only after a few coaching changes mixed in with a couple successful seasons. Washington was a powerhouse for many years in the Don James era but after he retired in 1992, they've had only few good seasons for their standards.

And, of course, there's Notre Dame, but their measure of success is nothing less than National Championships, and their last one was 1988.

The fact is that the powers that be became so jaded that one poor season and a couple slow seasons before was enough to fire arguably the most successful coach in school history. I wanted to see the difference between the Slocum and Franchione eras.

Just a few numbers broken down:

R.C. Slocum – 14 years as HC
>123-47-2 (.715)
>3 SWC Titles (4 if they had not been ineligible in their 10-0-1 1994 season)
>2 Big 12 South Titles
>1 Big 12 Title
>Never had a losing season. Only once, his last year, they had a losing conference record of 3-5.
>Eight 9+ win seasons
>Lost ONE home game in the 1990s!
>Defense – 17.01 ppg / Offense – 29.4 ppg

Dennis Franchione
>32-28 (.533)
>0 conference/division titles
>One 9 win season (3rd in Big 12 South)
>Defense – 28.1 ppg / Offense 28.5 ppg

Now, of course, all of this means nothing except for the fact that it's painfully obvious they jumped the gun ousting Slocum because of a couple slow seasons and the thought that defense was no longer a priority in the Big 12.

It is possible the outcome may have been similar had they not fired him, but it is entirely plausible that they would have eventually bounced back to national prominence...where they belong.

I did not include last season as I will not criticize Sherman's effort after one season albeit a horrible season. If there is not steady improvement in virtually every statistical category after a 4-8 season, then there are issues. But a 600 yard game performance and no touchdowns allowed, they're on the right track...at least after week one!

Buffalo Sabres Prospects Look Sharp, Competing Now To See Who's Cut Out for NHL

Jim Cowan — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 09:35:49 -0400

Buffalo's "grow your own program" will hopefully start to bear fruit, as a few of their recent draft picks should be competing for permanent roster spots this season.

Boston College standout Nathan Gerbe, while only 5'5”, has already showcased his abilities by scoring 56 points in 57 games last season for the Portland Pirates. He was drafted in 2005 by Buffalo in the entry draft.

Meanwhile, Buffalo native Tim Kennedy should also be competing for a LW spot. He scored 67 points in 73 games last year in Portland. I would say that behind Vanek, Hecht, and Paille, it's wide open. These two could make it interesting.

The most anticipated arrival in the past few years has been the early draft pick, defense man Tyler Myers. Not only is his skill and raw talent allegedly solid, the kid is 6'8”. If you can remember a few years back, Chara was kind of a very large tomato can with a rocket slap shot. He's since developed his skill to become an obvious force at 6'9”, and a premier defender in the league.

Could Myers be the next Chara? Word is from practice reports is that the guys have to really be on point when he's on ice because he was ripping people's heads off!

Him and Butler had a little inside competition with each other to see who could lay the smack down on fools!

With the Montador addition and the Barbarian up front, there could be record PIMs this year! As I've said before, watch out for Tyler Myers.

Texas A&M-New Mexico: Surprisingly Strong Offense Drives Aggies Victory

Jim Cowan — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 12:13:24 -0400

Of course, as we all know, there are a lot of teams who consistently choose to pad their offseason schedule with a lineup of tomato cans. Florida plays Charleston Southern University, a (formerly) D-II school with a blistering enrollment of 3,000 kids. It's no surprise they're able to put up 60-plus points.

Tennessee is the same deal except that Western Kentucky is D-I and has 17,000 more students. But still, no surprise Lane Kiffin wanted to make a statement in his first game at Neyland.

The same argument can also be made for Texas A&M's game one against the New Mexico Lobos.

New Mexico is not what anyone can consider a football powerhouse. Nevertheless, they are not the level of scrubinni as Florida International or Louisiana-Monroe, in my opinion at least.

That said, records were broken in College Station on Saturday. No, Von Miller did not bust through your grandma's door and jack her music collection. I'm talking about 606 yards of total offense.

Let me remind you I'm talking about the Texas A&M Fightin' Aggies! When was the last time they were in the top 10 in offensive production? I didn't actually look it up, but I'd bet it hasn't happened, maybe ever.

A&M's defense has always buttered the bread in College Station. While the phrase "Wrecking Crew" has become a distant memory of late, I don't know that anyone would expect the Aggies to become an offensive juggernaut.

I will not get ahead of myself here, not by any stretch. Like I said, it was against New Mexico. Show me some consistency, and do it against what the Big 12 South is going to bring, and I'll go all in. But it may be a point worth noting that last year the Ags just beat the Lobos in week two 28-22.

Some other points of success worth noting:

Their D showed up as well. They allowed 21 yards rushing, only two field goals, and only 231 yards total...that's not too shabby for a bottom five defense a year ago.

Celebrate the week one win...for a minute. The Ags were penalized 14 times for 123 yards—unacceptable by any stretch.

The biggest surprise, even with the Johnson, Michael, the Jack position allowing six points, is that there seemed to be a little bit of attitude that there hasn't been in recent years. A little bit of swagger bordering on cockiness.

It's what they've needed for far too long. It's an attitude that they're going to need this season maybe more than others recently with Okie State deciding to step it up, TU and their 13th-year receiver, Tech who they cannot beat, and now Baylor with the superhuman Robert Griffin.

I'll say the same as I did for the Notre Dame's week one win...they did what they were supposed to do. I can only hope the Aggies remain on that track until week four when Arkansas travels to Dallas.

The Point to Notre Dame's Week One Rout: Te'o is a Badass!

Jim Cowan — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 20:14:00 -0400

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish otherwise did what they were supposed to do. Everyone will be Lou Holtz believers after this win, but I choose to reserve my enthusiasm until week four. I'm not going to type out what most fans will...what the obvious playmakers did. There were, however, a few points that stood out to me.

The fact still remains this was Nevada. Back in the day, a Nevada equivalent would come to town and get their ass whipped. Today, Nevada comes to town and got their ass whipped. The offense looked spot, rightly so. Point one is exactly that, they did what they were supposed to... put a whuppin' on a team they were supposed to whup.

But the real test was going to be how their D held up against the high octane pistol offense. John Tenuta and Corwin Brown brought the heat today and looked solid against a legit rushing attack. We cannot go and sell the farm just yet though. Realize that there wasn't much of a passing threat so it was easy to bring numbers each and every play.

Also, Taua still put up a buck eighteen, and the Wolfpack racked up over 300 yards. Overall, a damned good show for the D though. Point two, D players all over the place; different looks, blitz packages, and quickness.

The real surprise, which is no surprise at all. Manti Te'o is gross! In limited minutes he was able to show why he may be the sickest defensive recruit ND has ever pulled. I simply cannot wait to watch this guy grow! Expect him to continually rack up playing time.

Point three, Manti Te'o will punch your grandma in the face...if she's not sporting a No. 5 Irish jersey!

Also, I like to see the scrubinnis get some time! The only thing "scrub" about them is that there is a sicker athlete who's got some more time in the system in front of him on the depth chart. Point four, the second team are no longer 22 Jim Cowans on the field...they are actual legit athletes!

The Top Five Most Annoying College Football Fans

Jim Cowan — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 09:40:41 -0400

In light of one of the best times of year right around the corner, I've decided to compile a list of the top 5 most annoying college football fans. This task was an exercise in futility as it is nearly impossible to pick only five. I've narrowed it down the best I could from my own personal experiences and opinions. First, the honorable mentions... Every Florida school. The state of Florida is a polished turd. You have old people, rednecks, and a history of providing the country with a stock of sick football players. If you own an unlicensed weapon, you probably go to Miami. If you enjoy helping yourself to other student's test scores, you probably would like FSU. If you're a sick athlete superstar but claim abstinence, Florida is the place for you. Annoying indeed! WE ARE... PENN STATE!!! THANK YOU...YOU'RE WELCOME!!! Enough said... F-USC... I hate you so much I don't even want to include you on my top five most annoying fans. I can almost with near certainty claim I probably have not received any compensation for you being on my list...so here you are.

Begin Slideshow

Watch Out for Jerrod Johnson

Jim Cowan — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 11:05:00 -0400

Announced yesterday, JR QB Jerrod Johnson was named on the Manning Award “watch list.” What does that mean in the broad scheme of things? Not much in reality. But it does show that someone is paying attention, and it could possibly provide just a little bit of motivation and confidence to an offense which struggled at times last year.

A struggling offense which allowed Johnson to set the all-time Aggie passing touchdown record (21). While Johnson's job is not 100 percent secure just yet, I don't think he'll lose the job. Furthermore, Tannehill + Fuller = more than formidable, bordering on a bad-ass receiving duo.

I will say this...watch out for this offense this season. Not because they're going to wow anyone with numbers and they probably will not produce any Heisman candidates, but for a team that only won four last season, they are unknown and will be overlooked.

I believe, depending on O-line development, Johnson has the potential to be a serious threat. He's 6'5”-243; that is no joke! He is a pocket passer with good fundamentals and a hell of an arm. Fuller and Tennehill are nearly identical [in size] at 6'4”-215/216 respectively. Cyrus Gray should fill the Goodson void with no problems.

Watch for Fr RB Christine Michael to emerge at some point this season as well.

Other teams have gotten used to the old Francione offenses which relied on grinding out boring yards which hopefully amounted to 10.5 yards in 3 or 4 plays. Sherman should be able to open it up a bit with a few more of his guys on the roster and one more year of exposure to his system.

Again, I'm not going to predict wins and losses, but I do expect significant improvement, improvement which will hopefully go under the radar for much of the season.

The Aggieland Fix: Two Keys To The Upcoming Season

Jim Cowan — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 20:17:00 -0400

I was going to break down the Aggie schedule much like everyone does for every team. While researching Alabama-Birmingham however, I decided that it just does not matter.

There are ultimately two points which will make break the season for the Ags. Of course these points can be made for every team in the country, but for the Texas Aggies, they are paramount. First, is offensive line improvement. While the top position athletes from Texas and elsewhere are drawn to the Oklahomas, Texases, and Floridas of the country, few make the wise choice of becoming a Texas A&M Aggie. This should not be the case for offensive linemen.

Rural Texas has never been short of humungous talent, literally. A&M's wheelhouse right? What has changed in recent years in College Station? Why are they not producing top ten lines year in and year out? The 2009 campaign should be different. They were successful in turning one of the most prolific high school quarterbacks in Texas state history into a run-first, pass-if-you-can QB in Stephen McGee. Luckily he had the legs to run away, and not die! Johnson has shown his ability to throw the rock...but can he run? Maybe he wont have to this year.

Of the ten linemen, two in each of the five positions, not counting tight ends, the average weight is 304 lbs. The average height is 6'4” - size should not be the problem. Coach Buddy Wyatt does have his hands full though. The line gave up 39 sacks for a loss of nearly 300 yards. The Aggies only rushed for slighty over 1000 yards, averaging 88 dismal yards a game. They also averaged about 250 passing yards a game. That is not going to cut it playing Big 12 football! I can tell you this...the entire team, on any team, lives and dies by the offensive line.

My other point of contention is secondary to the offensive line problems but hardly less important. Texas A&M has rarely wowed anyone with their prolific offenses. I haven't verified, but I'd bet they've never led the country in a major offensive statistic. They have however produced some great teams in the past, but they did so in Aggieland with their defense.

The Wrecking Crew is known nationwide as some of the most tenacious defenses to play the game. Teams were once terrified to step onto Kyle Field, not only because of the atmosphere, but because they knew a long ice bath was coming. Recently this has not been the case. While the 12th Man continues to post, the defense remains absent. Where's the attitude? Where's the assurance that whomever chose to touch that ball would have to deal with getting their head ripped from neck?

My solution starts from the top. Defensive athletes can be molded into a cohesive defensive powerhouse. There needs to be intensity from the sidelines I'm not sure they're getting with Coach Kines. I don't discredit what he has done over his career. He's sustained a long and successful one for sure, but let's be honest here. Kines is 65-years-old, plain and simple. How can he relate to a 19-year-old kid? Can he get in the face of a 6'4" 300lbs. D-lineman and scare the sh*t out of him? Possibly, but I don't believe it. I could be wrong of course, but show me on the field.

Simple... O line and Defense.

Speaking the truth...the 2009 Notre Dame Schedule

Jim Cowan — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 11:47:00 -0400

I cannot remember a season in recent years where I've been more excited and scared at the same time. There seems to once again be a high expectation from Irish fans and critics alike. It's hard not to feel that way. The talent pool of athletes Weis has racked up is on par with the perennial BSC mainstays. Pound for pound, I'd put up their raw athletic talent with that of any team, albeit their pool is not as deep as the likes of Florida, Oklahoma, or USC. Given a couple more offseasons like the past few and that will change.

Their raw talent is not the only reason to be excited. An unmolested look at this year's schedule lends to believe they have a shot at 10 wins. Statistically, from last year of course, those predictions are warranted.   Not so fast I say. While I refuse to predict wins and losses this year, I will say I'm no longer optimistic that this year's schedule is as weak as everyone thinks. While combined 2008 wins/losses may not be impressive, to assume the same sorry teams will repeat this season without improvement is asinine!

Nevada brings back a highly potent offense led by QB Colin Kaepernick. Coach Ault invented the Pistol Formation, and this kid has perfected it. Think about this: he is only the fifth player in NCAA history to rush for 1000 and throw for 2000 yards! Do not underestimate this offense. Much like the old Nebraska option, it's a bit more gimmicky but when executed to perfection, it's hard to stop. The question mark for this team is their turnstile D which gave up somewhere around 40 points a game last year, hence their seven win season.

Michigan is Michigan. As much as I'd like to see Rich-rod fall straight on his fat face and turn out to be a bust, I don't see it happening. His style is not Michigan-like, but winning has been his business in the past, and that is was Michigan folks want and expect. I expect them to follow Notre Dame's footsteps after their 3-9 season and end up around .500 or maybe a couple better. Especially with their creampuff out of conference schedule of Western and Eastern Michigan and the powerhouse Delaware State! Pretty tough...

For once, I can go into week three and feel just a wee bit of hope that the Irish will not be embarrassed at home by Michigan State. My optimism lies only in the fact that Irish killer Javon Ringer is finally gone. Brian Hoyer is also gone which is a plus. God I hate these guys... but it is Michigan State and a huge underrated Notre Dame rival.

What should be an expected win has usually turned out to be disappointment in recent years. This is one of those games which can go either way any given season. For whatever reason, no matter how soft Purdue is, they show up for Notre Dame. Do not expect these guys to lie down. While Painter is finally gone, Sr. Elliot takes the helm. But remember who we're talking about here. It's QB U! Brees, Hance, Orton, Painter... those are just recently, the list goes on. Also long time coordinator Danny Hope takes over as head coach.

The Irish come home for a few and open up to Washington. This team is a sleeper that WILL NOT be as poor as they were previously. They've got a coach now who has the bollocks to open it up and the ability to recruit the talent to do so. Jake Locker is the real deal. If Notre Dame falls asleep at the wheel, ala Syracuse last year, they will get bitten.

If there is one season in the past decade I could actually say I'm looking forward to the USC game, it's this one. I'll admit, I still hold a grudge for 2005; I may never let that go. I still cringe at the thought that they would have ended with a one loss season, and a one loss Notre Dame who beat #1 USC probably would have played in the NC and of course would have lost to Young and the Longhorns. I digress. This season, first, off from a bye week after UW at home. Next, USC is bringing a new QB out this season. What does that mean? Nothing. He will be surrounded by ridiculous athletes like all Pete Carroll quarterbacks and will play the part as they all have. But just hopefully, he will be a little bit green halfway in the season.

USC lost nearly all of their D. Of course, like I said, where one 5-star All-American graduates (or moves on) another pops up in his place. Norton and Carroll will have whomever ready to go, no question about that. The offense is a bigger question only in the facts that they are indeed going with either new starter Corp or the No. 1 QB recruit Barkley and that their former OC will hopefully have gotten the beat-down two weeks prior. But let's be honest here and call an ugly baby an ugly baby. Chances are FUSC will come in and whip the Irish as they've done the entire Carroll era.

7-of-8, back to the Bob Davie era. That is called PWNED and that is what Boston College has done to Notre Dame over the past decade. There is not much to say about this game. There is no excuse for another loss in this series. New coach, freshamn QB, young offense all around. This is a must win, hands down.

I will be in San Antonio for the ND v. WSU game. I suspect it will be similar to an Irish home game... mostly old, quiet, white guys, and the strong Catholic Mexican presence of course. Only kidding of course...about the Mexicans. Along with their Apple Cup buddies, WSU will improve this season. While I truly don't feel worried about this game, I wasn't worried when I was in South Bend last season for the Syracuse game either. Paul Wulff will have these guys fired up for sure.

The Navy games used to be a given W; as they should be. Michigan plays Delaware State, USC plays San Jose State, and the Irish play Navy. The last two seasons, it's been a little different story obviously. This team is fairly young, small as usual, but athletic as hell. They have proven to no longer be the doormat of the Irish. I would like to see them return to that status though.

Pitt brings another question mark to the schedule. Early reports predict them to win the Big East. That and 50 cents will get you a coke compared to the Big 12, SEC and Pac-10 champs, but either way, a division championship is no small feat. Let's not get ahead of ourselves here though. New OC this season, sans McCoy, McKillop, and Kinder, this team is young and somewhat inexperienced. They do return Stull and former starter Bostic, but they have hardly been consistent. Needless to say, it could depend on how the earlier part of the season goes for the Irish. They go into Pitt expecting an easy win, they'll be sorely mistaken.

The Connecticut game will be really interesting. They're attempting to steamroll their way into legitimacy in D1 ball by signing a contract with Notre Dame. The new rivalry already brings some heat as there was some disdain from U Conn folks because of Notre Dame's demand to play the away games in a larger venue such as Foxborough or the Meadowlands. Also don't sleep on the fact that Zack Frasier is an Irish transfer a few years back. He actually backed up Brady Quinn his senior year and contended for the starting gig which ultimately ran Jones out of town. The kid has talent and it should not be over looked. I don't expect the Irish to do that, but if they're looking ahead to Stanford, they might regret it.

The Irish conclude 2009 going to Palo Alto. If you think this recent rivalry does not have some kick, think again. Weis has owned Stanford...it's about the only one he can claim right now. Remember last year, Jim Harbaugh jumping around slamming his clipboard and hat to the ground practically doing back flips onto the field? This guy wants to beat the Irish, make no mistake about that.

On offense there's one freshman and one sophomore; the rest are upperclassmen. Five sophomores on D round out the inexperienced. That's 18 of 24 starters who are juniors and above. Pritchard is back as well as Gerhart who treated the Irish D line like bowling pins last season. Depending on how the first 11 games end up, this game could be a tremendous spoiler. Remember 1990 folks! Or how about 1992?! Do not over look Stanford.

There it is. While most Notre Dame fans will not agree, I hate their pre-season No. 24 ranking. I hate the fact that there's already so much talk about this team. Zip it already! Show me something on the field not on paper. Going by last season's stats, yes, this is a tomato can schedule. But I bet the farm, this year's stats will show otherwise. I can only hope, we, the fans, do not get ahead of ourselves.

I don't want to hear about 10 wins, BCS games, and for cryin out loud, National Championships. This team has proven nothing except for the fact that they finally won a bowl game against a cream puff Hawaii team. What I hope for and what I expect are now two different things. Until I see otherwise on the field against teams worth a damned, that will continue to be the case.

Versus and the NHL Playoffs: WTF

Jim Cowan — Fri, 08 May 2009 21:35:00 -0400

Someone please help me out with this one.

Okay for the second time in as many games, the NHL has scheduled two playoff games on the same night one half-hour apart. I can understand that, of course, as all teams involved are East Coast teams. Sure no one wants a game to start at 9:30. I do get that. For cyrin’ out loud, show the frickin’ games though.

I live in the DC metro area, so naturally, I’m going to see the Caps regardless. Versus has the NHL contract, so I understand they have the rights to the NHL playoff games.

For the local games here in DC though, the local sports channel shows the game. Okay. Fully understandable. They want in on the cash cow that is NHL broadcasting.

What I absolutely do not get is that when the local sports channel shows the Capitals game, Versus blocks out the channel; completely blocks it out!

I know for an absolute fact, with today’s television technology, they have the ability to show one game in one area and another in a different viewing area. In fact, now that the Caps game has just ended, Versus will now show the remaining half hour of the Boston-Carolina game.

WTF is that!?

Please tell me why they cannot give up the right of the local game to the local sports station and show the remaining game. You can explain to me about money and rights, bla bla bla. You cannot, however, convince me it’s better for the league to one, schedule two out of two playoff games at the same time, and two, not show both of those games.

Someone gets an F for that one!

NHL Logos: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Jim Cowan — Wed, 06 May 2009 10:18:00 -0400

In honor of the 2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs, I’ve compiled my top five seeds of NHL logos. And what would a top five list be without a bottom five to hit if off? For the sake of balance, I’ve added five mediocre logos, as well.

The Good

Maybe it's the history, maybe it's the color, or maybe just badass!

5. The Original Six: Although I’m not a fan of any of these six teams, I cannot argue against the fact that these logos are time tested and still impress.

4. Montreal Wanderers: Unlike most of the defunct teams of the early teens, Montreal at least had the wherewithal to roll with a W on a shield. Right on!

3. Colorado Rockies: Thought by many to be ugly, this logo is, in my eyes, a 70s classic! It’s got a blue mountain, a red C, and a little orange circle in the mix. How can you go wrong?

2. Kansas City Scouts: It's not really PC, but this isn’t a politeness list, it’s a list of cool! It shows a Sioux warrior scouting out the ice, planning for his next attack. Yeah, buddy!

1. Buffalo Sabres (Old School): This isn't a surprise, here. The Sabres logo is and will always be the best logo of any sports team—of all time! Yes, I said it: All time!

The Bad

These aren't necessarily ugly, but head scratchers, nonetheless.

5. Dallas Stars: I’ve added the ole Stars because, well, I don’t like them first of all. Also, it just doesn’t make sense. You take a team from “hockey country,” Minnesota, rightly named the NorthStars, move them to Dallas, and drop the North. Senseless move, senseless name.

4. Quebec Nordiques: It's intriguing at first; then again, I'm not really sure what its supposed to be. Is it an elephant with a stick? A red hump with a stick? It’s just something else from the French we don’t understand?

3. California/Oakland Golden/Seals: Much like Al Davis’ Raiders, for cryin’ out loud, pick a name already! The logo is kind of cool and kind of weird, with a cute little seal face on a bird-like shaped body thing. Enough said.

2. Minnesota Wild: This one would be on the Ugliest list but it's creative, if nothing else. A picture in a picture. It's ugly yet cool, I guess.

1. Buffalo Sabres (2nd generation): For reasons unknown, the Sabres took the greatest jerseys/logos of all time, changed the colors to red and black, and decided to roll out with a big buffalo head. Potential? Yes. Execution? No. Fail.

The Ugly

They're not only ugly, but f-ugly!

5. Tampa Bay Lightning: I get it—Tampa, storms, lightning. But the logo sucks, plain and simple.

4. San Jose Sharks: Triangle + stick-eating shark + horrible colors = recipe for a sucky logo.

3. Vancouver Canucks: This is maybe one of the just plain ugliest of all time, on par with the 70s/early 80s Houston Astros. They get the ultimate WTF!

2. Buffalo Sabres (current): The most painful on the list is the Buffa-slug, the snot-rocket, Donald Trump’s hair. It has many names, indeed, none of which are awesome.

1. Anaheim Mighty Ducks: Worst franchise in history, meet worst logo in history! It's a team that never should have been. Yes they’ve had success, but they’ve got to go!

Caps-Rangers: Capitals Unleash Game Seven Fury

Jim Cowan — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 07:18:00 -0400

Seriously, I am at best a second-rate Caps fan. Only by default of course, as the Sabres missed out this postseason.

That said, there are few things better than a Game Seven after a 3-1 comeback. This is the point of rankings; this is the point of wins, losses, and the point system; to get to this point where your home-ice advantage is reality.

It was a shaky start for the Caps, who didn’t have a quality shot until near the end of the first period. After that, the D buckled down and only allowed 15 shots for the entire game. The Caps had 24 shots in about two-and-one-third periods. Not a bombardment in the least, but enough to get two by.

The biggest stat of the game for the Caps is the 46 hits they laid down on the Rangers to their 30. With Brashear out for six games, one of the worries was the uncertainty of who would fill that enforcer roll. It turns out everyone did, and 90 percent of the 46 hits were quality checks.

There were a few good hits on the Rangers’ circus clown Sean Avery too, who—not shockingly—came up with loser's limp in the last minute.

After watching this game, I’ve come to one conclusion: As an NHL team, you are much better off the more Russians you have. The Caps are stacked! Simeon Varlomov is the real deal folks.

At least for this series he was.

An Early Look to the Future...Notre Dame Irish Basketball 2009/10

Jim Cowan — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:27:00 -0400

At first glance, if you’re a casual observer, you may be concerned about the 2009-2010 basketball season for the Fighting Irish. You also may not believe that I’m pretty excited about next season, even with the sure losses and the potential huge loss to the team.

It has been recently reported that Luke Harangody has declared for the draft one year early, although he will not hire an agent. This leaves the door open to return in case he doesn’t get a warm fuzzy about his pull in the draft.

Let me say this: I hope for Luke to have a long successful career in the NBA. I’ve seen enough to make the call that there’s no reason he shouldn’t. Here’s the catch…as a fan, I just hope it’s after next year.

First thing’s first… what do they lose. The Irish will also lose one of the best outside shooters I’ve ever seen. While I could run a laundry list of shooters the NCAA has seen in recent years, Kyle McAlarney is one of the best, and his range is maybe unparalleled in the college game.

While that threat will surely be missed, Notre Dame has lost three point killers before, namely Colin Falls a couple years ago, and just filled the gap with McAlarney. Who’s next up remains to be seen. With the departure of Kurz a year ago, Zeller stepped up to fill the big man’s spot this past season.

Now Zeller is gone and that gap probably concerns me more than any other so far. Ryan Ayers emerged this year as a serious offensive threat and Hillesland has been a solid starter and defender the entire season.

That said, I’m counting on watching an Irish team sans Harangody next season as well. But like I said, there’s still room for much optimism. Even though they have been to the dance 29 times, tied for ninth amongst all others, Notre Dame has never truly been seen as that powerhouse basketball school.

I’m not talking about putting together successful seasons, but more about bringing in talent with little or no effort for the basketball pedigree, ala Kentucky, UNC, Duke, Kansas, UCLA.

So one could argue that Mike Brey is asked to do more with less than say, John Calipari at Kentucky who has five star recruits waiting at the doorstep year in year out. That’s not a complaint, or a knock on the players in any way, it’s just a fact that Notre Dame, with all the factors, does not rake in five stars too often, if ever.

The four recruits coming in next season are as follows:
Center Thomas Knight from Maine—6’8” 260. He was Mr. Basketball in Maine, one of the best players to come out the state, who knew… He’s left-handed shooter, which can pose problems for defenses if they’re unprepared for it.

With his size he should Harangody-esque type player. He’s a big boy and should be able to help fill that slot immediately.

SF Joey Brooks from Texas—6’5” 205. He’s a good defender, solid range shooter, smart player with good size and strength. From what I’ve read, he’s an intense player who should help with the boards and getting to the basket.

PF Mike Broghammer from Minnesota—6’8” 215. He is another tough inside player, should be like Harangody yet again with a little less size, solid outside shooting. If he puts on a few lbs, think Harangody meets Brockman = sickness!

PF Jack Cooley from Illinios—6’8” 210. He looks to be a very solid defender and great post player, which should also assist with the defensive losses this season. He has shown some areas needing work but should improve in most other aspects and has potential to be a long-term great asset.

With the four rooks, the much anticipated transfers will play as well next year. Ben Hansbrough and Scott Martin. Hansbrough of course, the little brother trade off with Tyler Zeller at UNC has tons of natural talent and should fill some of the leadership roles as well.

I’m really excited to see Scott Martin play next season. He’s a transfer from Purdue after his freshman season in West Lafayette. I can remember watching a few games he played for Purdue noted his skills even then. He had a very solid freshman season and should be a pillar of the Irish team next season as a junior. He has good size and a good basketball IQ.

I won’t go into depth about the returning players, but look out for Tyrone Nash to continue his development, Peoples and Jackson to take the lead, and should see some quality time from Carlton Scott and other solid role players such as Tim Andree and Tim Abromaitis.

My last nugget is that I believe the Big East will not be as brutal as it was this season; how could it possibly be? Syracuse should be gutted from their departures; UConn will take a hit with Thabeet, Adrien, Austrie, and Price leaving, thank god; and Louisville loses Williams and McGee.

Sure when all these guys leave, another five-star falls in place, but we can only hope, they all won’t be as good as their predecessors.

While I will never jinx the Irish into predicting where they’ll go in the Tourney, I do expect another solid winning season out of the boys next year, hopefully with Harangody, and without a seven game skid…Cannot wait for October!

Don't Disrespect the NIT...Irish Updates

Jim Cowan — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 08:54:00 -0400

Even if they didn’t make the big dance this year, accepting a bid as a No. 2 seed in the lowly NIT, I’ll call this a successful season yet again for Mike Brey and the boys.

In fact, I’ll go so far as to say getting down to the NIT semis is their most successful postseason since making it to the Sweet Sixteen in 02-03 where they were then bounced by three loss Arizona.

Two years ago, the upset by Winthrop in the first round was a huge disappointment, and even last year where they did beat George Mason in Round One, they got their ass handed to them by Washington State in Round Two.

With the seasons they had in those two years, I call those finales disappointing.

This year however, where they’ve had a few tough breaks in the toughest Big East in a long time, they’re one of the last four teams alive in a NIT filled with some damned good basketball programs.

The NIT truly gets a bad wrap. With teams like Georgetown, Kansas St., Tennessee, Kentucky, Nebraska, and Florida, who, hello, is two years removed from their NC! These are no scrubbini programs here. Whomever comes out on top will have accomplished no small feat.

So back to the Irish…They bounced UAB, squeaked by New Mexico on the last second drive by Tory Jackson, then pretty much handed Kentucky a beatdown in the Joyce Center last night, with the exception of a late UK run.

Harangody has been his normal self scoring 78 points in those three games. But last night, I think proved to be the better win of the three. While I don’t believe Kentucky is that good, they do have talent; they are still Kentucky after all.

The biggest story of the night though I think is this was the last home game for four seniors. Kyle McAlarney, Ryan Ayers, Zach Hillesland, and Luke Zeller. With Harangody testing the NBA waters this off-season, this could shape up to be a huge blow to next years squad.

As a fan, I can only hope Luke decides to stick it out one more year. I think with additions of the transfers and some developing talent, they could actually have a better than solid group next year. More on that later…

But for now, Pennsylvania State University awaits in the Big Apple.
Good luck to the boys…GO IRISH!

Buffalo's 2-0 Baby....This Week at Least

Jim Cowan — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 23:37:00 -0500

I guess it’s true what they say; 4.5 M per for a couple years provides a little kick in the ass. In the case of Tim Connolly, amidst rumors of a possible trade, and many fans calling for the trade, a new contract has proved just that.

While only two games after the trade deadline, and dangerously close to must-win territory, they’re 2-0. In those two games, the Sabres have notched 10 goals and gave up only two.

Lalime has not only started and won both games, due to Miller’s injury, but has stopped 67 shots. That doesn’t bode well for Buffalo’s D, but I’ll take two goals on 67 shots any day!

Connolly meanwhile has two goals and three assists in the same time. Not too shabby for a guy who was unsure of his future only a few days ago.

With seven teams within five points of each other in the playoff race, every win is crucial as it seems the competition not letting off.

NHL Network, NHL Not-work?

Jim Cowan — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 18:49:00 -0500

There are some things I don’t understand when it comes to the folks running the NHL, well, a lot of things. We’ve seen a lot of fans talking of contraction, shifting teams, bringing back old teams, etc. All good ideas if you ask me.

One of the major issues I have is their selling the game. Better yet, how they’re not selling the game. I actually like the NHL games on VS. I think they do a fine job; I’ve become accustomed to the corny-ness of the set, etc. It’s better than a few years ago on FOX with the dumbass robots, which everyone knows and loves.

The reason for my post today is that the NHL has its own channel yet only shows games every few days. Why is it that on a night that 12 games are going to be played, zero of them will be shown on the NHL network?

There’s NHL Live and about four hours of NHL On the Fly. While I like NHL On the Fly, where they’ll hit on every game, I believe it would benefit more to show actual games. There’s no excuse to not show a live game every single night one is played.

I’m a huge college basketball fan, so I don’t mind that any given night January through March, I have the choice of anywhere from two to four games on various channels. In a dream world, I would have a hockey game on every night too! I won’t go so far as to wish for a choice—yet.

NHL Network...get with the program!

NCAA Superstar Treatment: Does it Exist?

Jim Cowan — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 08:16:00 -0500

A recent post by a faithful Duke fan has prompted me to give my unsolicited two cents on the subject of preferential treatment to a handful of NCAA teams, the “basketball” schools if you will.

I always find it funny when people refuse to recognize the real truth, usually only when your team is one of discussion.

In my previous article, I point out the NCAA's fault in allowing a so-called "hurt" player, who happens to be a superstar player, who happens to be a 60 percent free throw shooter, get subbed out for an 80 percent shooter at the time of a critical foul in the last minute of a two-point game.

Preferential treatment? I don’t know, maybe just a loophole in the system.

But would they have allowed Kyle McAlarney to shoot for Tory Jackson in the same situation against UConn? Yes, since there’s no rule against it.

But the difference is, it would have been pasted all over the front pages, ESPN, and other outlets would have publicized the outrage on how the lowly Irish scammed the system to sure up a win against the poor No. 2 Huskies. In this case, I think my crappy blog is the only written word of the incident.

I digress.

If you think preferential treatment does not exist, whether consciously or not, you are living in a dream world, folks. There are a handful special teams at the college level, one of which is Duke, that get these calls.

I don't go so far to say all the calls—that's ridiculous. I do, however, believe that when it comes down to a call being made in the split second to make it, the call will always go to those teams.

"Tyler Hansbrough under the rim could never put up a poop shot, he must have been fouled there." Whistle. (These are the thoughts going through the mind of a ref in a fraction of a second.)

It's not a conscious decision, it's a reaction to the outcome of a moment on the court, not actually processing whether a foul or no foul has taken place. For the sake of explanation, I call this a tie—to use the baseball analogy—and the tie always goes to the special teams.

Just to name a few: Duke, North Carolina, Kansas, Kentucky, UCLA, Connecticut, Georgetown, Syracuse, Louisville, and not to mention any team playing Notre Dame (sic).

On top of those teams is the "superstar" treatment some receive. Names such as Hansbrough, Griffin, Thabeet, Meeks, Texas players in Big 12 play, etc., (even my boy Harangody sometimes...not really).

Those guys and like players will always get the benefit of the doubt. It's just natural—but very unfortunate.

But to say it doesn't exist is just a little naive.