Bleacher Report - ACC Football

Bobby Bowden Faces Harsh Reality, Hands Florida State's Future to Jimbo Fisher

Michael McGuffee — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 12:17:20 -0500

Today, Florida State says farewell to a living legend.

There will never be another Bobby Bowden, nor will college football ever witness another coaching tenure as long or as successful as his.

At Florida State, Bowden built a national powerhouse from scratch. His values not only shaped his football program and the many young men he mentored, but also the university that grew around his personality and his success.

Beyond football, Bobby Bowden has always been a class act and a role model.

There are no mysteries when it comes to Bowden—the definition of “down to earth.” He is a man of faith whose lighthearted, Southern charm can make anyone feel comfortable.

He’s a fighter who sees the best in every situation, and whose success has made him a college football icon—though you wouldn’t know it by looking at him.

In a perfect world, Bobby Bowden would coach forever.

Unfortunately, the real world is far from perfect.

In the real world, football is a business, and the Seminoles are on the verge of going bankrupt.

It’s not that the Florida State faithful are not thankful for everything Bowden has accomplished; they just don’t want their debts of gratitude to keep the Seminoles from investing in the program’s future.

As Florida State struggled through the six-loss seasons and the humiliating defeats at the hands of the team’s biggest rivals, Bowden’s goal, as he said it, was always to get back to the way things were.

But it can’t be done. Bowden may be a saint in Tallahassee—with a statue and a stained glass mural to prove it—but not even Bowden can turn back the hands of time. Not even Bowden can keep college football from evolving beyond his years.

The fact of the matter is Florida State needs to get to where college football is going, not to where it has already been.

In 2007, Florida State’s offense received a modern makeover with the addition of Jimbo Fisher—an offensive coordinator hand-picked by Bowden to retool a once dominant offense and, eventually, to take over as head coach.

But this season, with the offense finally starting to show signs of life under the leadership of junior quarterback Christian Ponder, it was FSU’s defense that uncharacteristically deteriorated.

With the retirement of Mickey Andrews, Bowden’s right-hand man and longtime defensive coordinator, Florida State will undergo yet another dose of reconstructive surgery—this time on defense—this offseason.

With so many developing changes on the horizon for Florida State, it’s only fitting that the Seminoles finally embrace the new era waiting in the wings with head-coach-in-waiting Jimbo Fisher.

Sure, Bowden could stick it out for another year, but why? What does Bowden have to prove? That he can still coach?

Being the competitor that he is, I know it pains Bowden to see Florida State struggle, and I know he would keep coming back year after year if he could in his determination to right the ship in Tallahassee. But I hope Bowden realizes his work is done at Florida State.

His legacy is cemented in place. The values and traditions he has passed on to Florida State will guide his program for generations to come—even in his absence—and there’s nothing Bowden could have done for better or for worse next season to change that significantly.

Sadly, for Florida State, Bowden’s retirement is exactly what FSU needed. The sooner Bowden stepped down, the sooner Fisher could begin to provide Florida State with a new and more ambitious vision for the future—a vision that extends well beyond a one-year renewable contract.

Though it’s disappointing that Bowden did not get the opportunity to leave on his own terms, I think—despite his more recent statements—this is the exit Bowden always talked about.

Bowden said he didn’t want to be the boxer who fought one year too long. He said wanted to leave his successor with a promising team, and he said he would leave when it was the right move for the program.

Well, that day has come. Sure, no one thought it would end like this, but that’s reality. We don’t get to pick and choose how our lives unfold.

I think for Bobby Bowden it took one more loss to Urban Meyer and the Gators to face that reality. After six consecutive losses to the team’s archrival, including three consecutive dominant performances by the Gators, Bowden realized he could still coach, but not at a high enough level to compete with Meyer and the other elite coaches whose programs have surpassed his own.

Today is a sad day for Florida State, but it is also a day in which Tallahassee will embrace a fresh start and an exciting new era.

Today is a day to celebrate and be thankful for everything Bowden has accomplished—achievements so glorified they do not need repeating.

Bobby Bowden is an icon for all the right reasons. He is one of a kind, a great man and an incredible coach, and he has left his mark on the world as we know it.

So thanks, Bobby. Thanks for being a person first and a football coach second. Thanks for making college football fun, and thanks for all the memories.

You will be missed, but never forgotten, and Florida State will live on.

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ACC Versus SEC: Which Conference Is Better?

Jacqueline Kirby — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 11:48:26 -0500

On rivalry Sunday, ACC Division Champions Clemson and Georgia Tech both lost to their SEC rivals.

Clemson (8-4) lost to a 7-5 South Carolina Gamecocks team for the third time in 13 years.

The 10-2 Georgia Tech lost to the 7-5 Georgia Bulldogs. Georgia has had the upper hand on that rivalry for the better part of this decade.

The question is who has better football, ACC or SEC? If two non-champion teams from the SEC defeat the two Division Champion teams from the ACC, the answer seems pretty clear.

Each conference has strengths and weaknesses, but I think the ACC is much better known as a basketball conference. When you look at the AP Top 25 teams, the ACC has four teams in the Top 25 while the SEC only has three teams.

So then which championship game will be more entertaining? People from either side can argue that their conference is better.

Kathleen Rogers, a recent graduate of the University South Carolina, says that the SEC is the better conference because they have a much tougher schedule than the ACC and the level of play is more intense.

I think she has a good point, and most people would agree, but this is a problem that will probably never get a real answer.

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Living Legend: Bobby Bowden's Departure Leaves Huge Shoes to Fill in Tallahassee

Tim Bielik — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 22:22:38 -0500

According to ESPN, Florida State Seminoles coach Bobby Bowden, one of the all-time legends of the game, is expected to retire after 33 years of coaching in Tallahassee.

With the recent struggles of the Seminoles and the inability to sustain success in recent years, it seems the game had passed Bowden by. But if indeed he does decide to step down, he is doing so maybe a little too late.

The legend is second in the FBS in wins at 388, just behind Penn State legend Joe Paterno.

But even though Bowden has had issues with lack of success, one thing he deserves more credit for than anything else is putting the Florida State football program on the map.

Since he arrived at Tallahassee in 1976, Bowden and the Seminoles have missed the postseason only three times, including a 26-year stretch of consecutive bowls with hopefully a 27th straight appearance on the way this season.

But more than anything else, Bowden will be remembered for how he and the Seminoles ruled the college football world for most of the 1990s.

When FSU joined the ACC in 1992, the 'Noles went through an eight-year stretch where they won the ACC title and never finished with more than two losses.

In that decade, Florida State won two national championships, and had two Heisman Trophy winners in Charlie Ward and Chris Weinke.

Also, not too many coaches have put out the caliber of star NFL prospects than Bowden and the 'Noles. Among those who hailed from Tallahassee were Derrick Brooks, Deion Sanders, Corey Simon, Warrick Dunn, and Sebastian Janikowski.

But lately, Bowden's legacy has been tarnished with mediocrity and an inability to adjust to the current game, something fellow legend Joe Paterno has been able to do in Happy Valley.

Since 2000, Florida State has mustered only one 10-win season and has not won a BCS bowl game in that stretch.

Florida State just hasn't been able to get the type of players they used to have in the 1990s, mostly because of Florida and Miami becoming powerhouses in different parts of the last decade and leaving the 'Noles in the dust.

And Bowden's schematics seem outdated as he no longer has the speed advantages in the older days, which made his man-to-man schemes so effective.

Ultimately, the difficulties in keeping up with their in-state rivals and adjusting to the game caught up with Bowden.

It's a shame, because Bobby Bowden is Florida State football and literally gave them legitimacy the same way Pete Carroll has done in USC this decade.

But he is still one of the greatest coaches of the modern era of college football, and possibly of all time.

As Jimbo Fisher now steps in, he has as big a set of shoes as any man in recent memory to fill in the coaching ranks.

It's tough to tell if the Seminoles can return to past glory and launch another dynasty.

But with a legend stepping aside after 33 years, 12 conference titles and two national championships is quite a stat line for the Hall of Fame coach.

With those 33 years, Bobby Bowden has been one of those coaches such as Woody Hayes and Darrell Royal, who single-handedly put their programs on the map.

The difference is how far Bowden carried the Seminoles, from four wins in the three years before he took the helm, to one of the most dominant decades in the history of college football.

Bobby Bowden may be done in Tallahassee, but his legacy, and the building of the Seminoles' football program, will live forever.

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Al Groh: The Four-Million Dollar Man?

Ben Gibson — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 18:58:46 -0500

Our long national nightmare is over.

Okay, so maybe it's not Watergate, but Al Groh was officially fired Sunday, a mere 18 hours after another humiliating loss to Virginia Tech. Groh's exit to stage left after nine tumultuous years as coach of the Virginia Cavaliers was much like the man himself: complicated.

As I have said many times, Al Groh is not a bad guy.

He may be stoic and stern, but he is far from a brute or a bully. In a small group, he can be downright jovial. However, this final year will not be anything that anyone looks fondly upon.

In fact, Groh's entire career could probably be described in one word: meh.

For you see, Groh's tenure in football is the epitome of mediocre. He has made his career piggy-backing off the fame of others like his mentor Bill Parcells.

Groh adopted just about every mannerism of Bill Parcells whom he worked under for years and was handed his only NFL head coaching job when Parcells left the New York Jets. The desk in his office has a gift that was given to him by Parcells, famous words of wisdom that say: "Just coach the team."

Even Groh's bizarre departure, reading a poem entitled "Guy in the Glass" in his final press conference, was the exact same poem that Parcells read in his final press conference as the New York Jets coach.

He then added a smug final stanza in which Groh explained that when he looked in the mirror he saw a man of integrity, dependability, accountability and commitment among others things.

What he fails to see in the mirror though is the man he has tried so hard to emulate. He also fails to see the success he promised in 2001 when he spoke of taking Virginia football to the next level. Instead, what Virginia fans see in the glass is a man who lost eight out of nine games against Virginia Tech and has three losing seasons out of the past four.

Now "Guy in the Glass" has a rather pertinent message and if most coaches read it, it would probably be well received. After all, approval from the media, the fans, and even your colleagues mean nothing if you don't approve of yourself.

However, "Guy in the Glass" fits into the perception we all have of Al Groh. As much as Groh cares about X's and O's and thinks he knows everything, he just does not get it.

In Groh's mirror world everything may be shiny and bright, but in the real world his program is crumbling and he does not seem to see it.

Of course, before you start to feel sorry for the slightly out-of-touch Groh, remember that he left with quite the parting gift. Groh's three wins garnered him a four-million dollar bonus to sit at home and never come back.

In 2008, following a 5-7 season, the Athletic Director sat down with Al Groh and asked him if he would be willing to restructure his contract. The thought being that if Virginia struggled again, it would lower the astronomical buy-out clause.

Groh, as you may imagine, refused.

It may not be all that shocking, after all, most people are not inclined to throw money away. Even if the new number would still have been more money than most of us will see in our lifetimes.

However, former Virginia basketball coach Pete Gillen, a man who had no previous ties to the University, selflessly, agreed to restructure his deal.

He thought of the University first and even admitted that Virginia deserves better than what he provided.

After nine years, we have yet to hear Groh, a Virginia alum, admit that he failed to live up to his promises.

He has made excuses, he has played the blame game and he has stuck to his guns about instilling these young people with traits beyond the gridiron.

However, Groh could mend many fences by simply apologizing and admitting that he made some mistakes in his time. Is it fair for us to expect this from coaches? Maybe.

Does Groh have to apologize?

Of course not.

He does not owe the fans anything, but I think he would find that a simple statement could really help the program start anew and not wallow in its past frustrations.

Time will tell what the future holds for Al Groh. He very well could pack it up and call it a career, but that does not seem to be what he wants.

In a statement released by Groh, he claims that he is ready for "his next game." Now, perhaps Groh was using poetic license, but I would not be surprised if he does not attempt to return to the NFL, a place he never should have left.

A college coach takes a particular type of person, one that Groh was not fully suited for, but he does know how to coach up his defenses and that should make him a viable candidate.

The question is, will people be interested in someone who has been out of the NFL for nine years?

We all know that Groh certainly does not need the money. However, he does not seem like a home body, his love for football may force him out on to the gridiron one more time.

It is hard to assess just how Groh will be remembered in perhaps the darkest period of his tenure at Virginia. A career that held such promise for the former two-time ACC Coach of the Year has now turned into apathy and frustration.

Virginia is at the precipice of a new regime and Littlepage needs to make a big splash to re-energize the fan base.

However, in a bad economy with a half-full stadium and four million dollars down the drain, finding the funds necessary to sway a big name to Charlottesville will be more difficult than most people realize.

For you see, no matter who Virginia brings in as the next "guy in the glass," he will surely see some major dollar signs in his reflection.

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Georgia Tech vs. Clemson: A Preview of the ACC Championship Game

Jeffrey Fann — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 17:46:03 -0500

It's ACC Championship game week! It's Georgia Tech vs Clemson for the right to go the Orange Bowl. Both teams are coming off bitterly disappointing losses to their in state arch rivals. Georgia Tech lost 30-24 to the Georgia Bulldogs and the Clemson Tigers lost to the South Carolina Gamecocks 34-17. Despite the losses the two teams have had an exciting rivalry the last decade and this should be a close competitive game.

I don't think last Saturday's results will play much role in the upcoming game. Clemson hasn't shown the ability to power run this season the way Georgia did against Georgia Tech. Clemson will typically line the quarterback up in the shotgun, and run from that formation. For Clemson a stiff South Carolina defense stuffed them. Georgia Tech's defense has been inconsistent at best, and got sliced apart by the Bulldogs run game. Neither team is likely to take advantage of the other the way the Bulldogs and and Gamecocks did. So what do I see as the keys to the game?

How does Clemson handle Georgia Tech's triple option?

This is an interesting question. Clemson will be the first team to see Georgia Tech's offense twice in the same season and three times in the last 14 months. Certainly that will help the Tiger's preparation, but I also think that Yellow Jackets offense has become much more diverse in the last year. Josh Nesbitt is an improved passer and Paul Johnson is not afraid to throw it deep, specifically to all-ACC receiver Demaryius Thomas. The Tigers have looked disturbingly soft up the middle in recent weeks. Virginia and South Carolina had success running simple quarterback draws. Nesbitt suffered an apparent ankle injury against Georgia, and was out most of the 2nd quarter. When he returned he appeared around 80%-90%. He looked a step slow, but the Jackets could still move the ball. With all do respect to backup Jaybo Shaw if he plays the Jacket's can't win this game. He simply isn't much of a running threat, and Clemson's athletic ends Ricky Sapp and Da'quan Bowers can just sit on the edges.

Can Georgia Tech's defense stop Kyle Parker, C.J Spiller, and Clemson offense?

I don't think so. Early in the year the Clemson's offense was C.J. Spiller and Jacoby Ford, and an inexperienced Parker at QB. Since then TE Michael Palmer and WR Xavier Dye have become part of the passing offense. Andre Ellington can contribute at RB resting Spiller. The Georgia Tech defense had a some decent games giving only seven points to North Carolina and nine to Virginia, but in large part this unit has been a disappointment. I'm not sold on Dave Wommack as a defensive coordinator either. I have not been impressed with his job over the last two years. I'm not convinced he can come up with game plan that can slow the Clemson team. If the Tigers can handle Yellow Jacket DE Derrick Morgan, they'll be able to move the ball on Georgia Tech.

Ok neither team will be able to stop the other so what will be the difference?

Dabo Swinney has done a great job this year and is a very good motivator. As discussed he's improved the Clemson offense since early in the year, but it is stilled ranked only 74th in the nation. They will score points, but they can't match Paul Johnson's triple option offense. Miami has been the only team this season that's really slowed the Georgia Tech offense for a whole game. Paul Johnson is a master at in-game adjustments, and has never lost two games in row while at Georgia Tech. The Jacket's beat every team they lost to last year except LSU whom they didn't play. If you had success against him once he usually finds something the next time around. He hasn't lost to Clemson, but the Tigers have given Georgia Tech some very tough games. I give Paul Johnson the edge over Dabo Swinney in the coaching department and that will be the difference.

Throw it all out the window if Nesbitt can't go or is less than 80% for some reason. Let's assume Josh Nesbitt is fairly healthy which reports Monday say he is.

I like the Jackets in a moderately high scoring affair 31-27.

This article is also featured at All About Sports .

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Clemson Tiger Football: What Were Napier and Steele Thinking?

Chad Hensley — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 16:35:02 -0500

The Clemson Tigers came into this weekend's game against the South Carolina Gamecocks with confidence and a six-game winning streak.

But after being embarrassed by their arch rivals 34-17, the Tigers and their fans are looking for answers.

The Tigers were outplayed and out-coached by the Gamecocks.

Plain and simple, the Gamecocks were better.

Spiller's number of touches were low, but Harper? Really?

Heisman hopeful C.J. Spiller touched the ball 12 times out of 61 total offensive plays.

There were reports that Spiller was sick after his opening 88-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, but that doesn't excuse offensive coordinator Billy Napier for giving the nod to backup running back Jamie Harper in the game's first drive.

Harper fumbled as the Tigers were driving, and the momentum shifted to the Gamecocks for the rest of the game.

I am not sure about other Tiger fans, but ever since he fumbled in his first carry as a true freshman against Alabama, I hold my breath every time Harper gets to tote the rock.

Andre Ellington is the best option behind Spiller. It is as obvious as the quarterback situation, where Kyle Parker is head and shoulders better than his backup, Willy Korn.

42 passes. 24 rushes. Enough said.

Napier must have pulled out the game-plan that he used against the Maryland Terrapins, because he completely abandoned the run.

The Gamecocks were sliding guys up to the line to contain the running game, but that doesn't mean you completely abandon the run—especially with a red-shirt freshman as your quarterback.

Spiller and Co. had some trouble getting traction early in the game, but that doesn't mean you abandon the run and try to pass against the No. 11 passing defense in the nation.

All Napier had to do is look at the previous three games the Gamecocks played—all losses.

Tennessee—40 rushes, 24 passes
Arkansas—36 rushes, 27 passes
Florida—39 rushes, 25 passes

One might say that success allows a team to run more than pass. However, Arkansas and even mighty Florida with Tim Tebow only averaged 2.1 and 3.6 yards/rush, respectively.

Obviously the offense turned the ball over numerous times, but I believe sticking with the run would have at least allowed the Tigers to make a game of it at the end, and definitely would have kept South Carolina's front four from teeing off on Kyle Parker.

Kyle Parker and the offensive line looked like they did early in the season

Besides a lack of running game, the protection scheme was pretty bad for Parker.

Napier left the young quarterback on an island without an extra blocker, and Parker was running for his life for most of the game.

The Tigers offensive line was man-handled, and Parker was back-peddling like he did against TCU and other games early in the season.

Some fans were calling for screens, but screens typically work when teams are blitzing. The Gamecocks were getting pressure with their front four.

Besides trying to establish the run, Napier could have used shorter drops and quicker passes, but instead decided to take a page from ex-offensive coordinator Rob Spence. Bubble screen after bubble screen was blown up, and the Tigers never got anything going.

Parker was also very inefficient on third-down, which he has excelled at for much of the year. Maybe Napier needs to come up with some new wrinkles because teams are obviously keying on tight end Michael Palmer as Parker's go-to guy.

But again, it goes back to the running game. South Carolina didn't respect the run, and therefore didn't respect play action, which has been there all season for the Tigers.

The Tigers defense still have no answer for the quarterback read option

Defensive coordinator Kevin Steele and his defense finally had a bad game.

Since the last two drives by Georgia Tech 's quarterback Josh Nesbitt against the Tigers in September, teams have exploited the heart of the Tigers defense with the quarterback read option—and Steele has still not come up with an answer for it.

The offense didn't exactly help the defense out with its turnovers and poor execution, but the Gamecock's Stephen Garcia extended drives with his legs, just like every other team that has a mobile quarterback.

With all due respect, how could Steele not have his team prepared for it? Every team that has tried it has been successful.

The Tigers defense, led by Steele, are the main reason the Tigers are playing in the ACC Championship game. The defense is what has kept the Tigers in games that would have gotten away from them in years past.

But don't be surprised when you see Nesbitt running wildly through the first and second levels of the Tigers defense this Saturday. If Steele doesn't come up with something to defend it, it will be a long night for the Tigers.

It's all about the ACCCG

For the next year, Tiger fans will have to listen to Gamecock fans, who like cicadas, only get to come out so many years. Let them chirp. Their team deserved it.

The Tigers goal is to win the ACC Championship and get to the BCS game in the Orange Bowl.

I believe this is possible, but the only way they achieve these goals is if Napier and Steele put together a solid game plan on both sides of the ball.

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SEC Runs Over ACC in Rivalry Weekend

ACC SEC Blog — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 23:10:13 -0500

Sometimes rivalry games bring out the best in teams and sometimes they bring out the worst in teams. The best was squarely in the SEC's corner this weekend with three wins over the ACC, two in upsets.

The day started off with South Carolina beating up on Clemson 34-17. The Tigers were never able to get CJ Spiller on track after he returned the opening kickoff 88 yards for a touchdown. The senior had just 22 yards rushing on the day with his longest gain only five yards.

I thought the Gamecocks had to establish a running game and boy did they ever. South Carolina finished the game with 223 yards rushing. Where has that been all year?

The Gamecocks dominated the line of scrimmage and that was the difference.

That would be a theme for rivalry weekend.

Clemson must regroup quickly for the ACC Championship Game next Saturday. This week is very important as this upcoming game presents a cross roads for Dabo Swinney's program. A loss brings an 8-5 season with defeats in your two biggest games. A win gets you to a BCS bowl and a possible 10 win season.

Which way will the Tigers go?

FSU came up short, way short in spoiling Tim Tebow's Senior Day. The guy who may go down as college football's greatest ever had five touchdowns and passed Herschel Walker's record for total rushing touchdowns in an SEC career.

The Gators were also four for four on red zone conversions, one of their best outings all year.

I thought the Seminoles had to establish a run game to have shot in this one, but they failed miserably with only 83 yards on the day.

Florida now turns their attention to next week's SEC Championship Game after winning the state championship. Florida State is left to ponder what bowl game they will be in at 6-6 and what to do with Bobby Bowden, who has said publicly he wants to come back.

Georgia took a page right out of Georgia Tech's playbook, out rushing the Yellow Jackets 339 to 205. The Bulldogs dominated the line of scrimmage, especially on offense. There is that theme again.

By establishing the run, UGA was able to control the clock and keep GT's offense off the field, just like I thought they had to. Georgia regained state pride by doing it the way Vince Dooley would have.

GA Tech QB Josh Nesbitt was injured in the first quarter, sitting out a few series before returning from an ankle injury. His backup Jaybo Shaw threw an interception in his second series. UGA also recovered a Nesbitt fumble later in the game.

The Bulldogs turned the ball over just once and won the turnover margin for just the second time this season after coming into the game ranked 116th in the nation. Both of those game were wins too.

For Georgia Tech, they face Clemson next week for the ACC Championship and like the Tigers that game is big for the future of the program. Paul Johnson's club still has a chance at a conference title, a 12 win season, and a top ten finish by finishing strong.

A loss in Tampa will put a very sour note on what looked like a special season.

Was it me or did Alabama look like they were in quicksand on defense in the first quarter against Auburn? It looked like the Tide didn't come out with the same passion as the Tigers and it almost cost Nick Saban's club a shot at the national title.

But Alabama recovered and got the late drive they needed spearheaded by a guy who had kind of fallen of the map during the season in Julio Jones.

The passes completed on that last drive by QB Greg McElroy has to give 'Bama fans confidence heading into next week against Florida.

Auburn finishes 7-5 in a season that started out great but ended on a down slide. Recruiting will be very important this off season for Gene Chizik to be able to rebuild this program into an SEC power again.

Mississippi State made the Egg Bowl their bowl game, taking down Ole Miss for the third straight time in Starkville. Dan Mullen pressed to his team all offseason how big the game against the Rebels was and he followed it up with a win. You have to like that for the future of the Bulldogs.

Kentucky came up short again against Tennessee, extending their losing streak to the Vols to 25 straight, the longest active streak in FBS. Randall Cobb had a good game, but Montario Hardesty had a great game rushing for 179 to lead UT to an OT win.

Looks like the Liberty or Music City Bowl may be the destination for the Wildcats while the Vols could be headed to the Outback or Chick-Fil-A Bowl.

The ACC wasn't able to beat the SEC, but they were able to beat up on themselves.

Virginia Tech took UVA behind the woodshed and sent Al Groh packing. If I am Virginia, the two guys at the top of my list are Al Golden and Mike London.

Golden took Temple to nine wins this season after taking over a program in danger of losing FBS status a few years ago.

London has the Richmond Spiders back in the FCS playoffs after winning it all last season. I am believer that if you can win in FCS, you can win in FBS and London knows the state of Virginia for recruiting.

The NC State Wolfpack were led by QB Russell Wilson in an upset of North Carolina beating the Tar Heels for the third consecutive season. This should be a nice boost for NC State in an otherwise disappointing season and may convince Wilson who is a baseball prospect to come back for another season.

The Tar Heels miss out on the possibility of a 10 win season, which would have been their first since Mack Brown left.

This past weekend was not the greatest for my picks going 7-5 Straight Up and 4-8 Against the Spread. I was taken down by the home underdogs just like those SEC lines took down the ACC.

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College Football Thoughts and Opinions After Week 13

David Hedlind — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 21:09:40 -0500

Let the Carousel Begin

Ok, so, officially it started a couple weeks ago with Western Kentucky and UNLV. With the addition of Louisville and Virginia the annual coaching carousel is picking up speed.

More and more coaches are will find themselves out of a job in the coming weeks and some may move on quickly to another position others may be done with coaching altogether.

Championship Games

Oh the spectrum.

The SEC will do what it normally does and match up two highly ranked teams, the two highest in fact.

The ACC game just lost all luster and appeal with both participants losing to middle tier SEC teams in their rivalry games.

The Big XII will favor the South division Texas again. Nebraska could make the game somewhat interesting though.

Lou Holtz Needs to Wake Up

Notre Dame is not the best job in the nation. It is not the same job it was when he was there. Not every coach will sell out from their current position to take on the Notre Dame job should it become open. Jobs that once were probably never even considered to be mentioned in the same conversation as Notre Dame will see their coaches tell Notre Dame thanks but no thanks.

Look for the Pac 10 to Continue Upward

It has been argued that the recent success of USC has forced the rest of the Pac 10 to improve. In my eyes I feel as though this is true. Last season the conference went 5-0 in bowls. This season even more teams became bowl eligible and every game really did matter in the race for the Rose Bowl. There is still one more to go with the winner of the Civil War between Oregon and Oregon State going to the Rose Bowl.

My suspicion is that next year will be no different. Many key players on most of the teams will be returning. I am sure that USC will be picked at the top with Oregon right with them. Arizona and Oregon State should get some top votes as well. All in all thought the conference should for at least another year increase their value.

Well except Washington State.

BCS at large

By my count there should be two at large bids to go out. The six automatic bids and TCU by virtue of their ranking will take seven spots. The loser from the SEC title game should get to the Sugar Bowl. I would be surprised if the Big 10 doesn’t get an at large for either Iowa or Penn State.

One scenario is what if Nebraska beats Texas in the Big XII title game? Nebraska will get the automatic to the Fiesta Bowl. It seems likely that Texas would get an at large bid.

Another is what if Pitt beats Cincinnati? Split title but Pitt would win the tie breaker and get the automatic bid.

If that doesn’t happen and there is still an at large bid some would argue for Boise State to get it, many would still argue against it but I don’t know how strong of an argument you would have with the other teams likely to be eligible.

It Isn’t Over Yet

There were close games all weekend.

There were 23 games that were one possession games. One score away from going the other way or going beyond regulation. Four more games went to overtime.

Then there was DIAA Montana vs. South Dakota State

South Dakota State took a first quarter lead of 14-0.

At the half it was 34-14. South Dakota State was still in the lead.

They traded scores in the third to make it 48-27 heading into the final 15:00.

From there, Montana scored five more touchdowns. Unanswered. Montana won 61-48. From the end of the third quarter the Grizzlies scored 40 unanswered points including a kick return, a passing touchdown, a running touchdown, and an interception returned for a touchdown.

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ACC Football Finals Predictably Disappointing

Glenn Petty — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 12:32:20 -0500

At the beginning of the college football season that is now winding down, national expectations for the ACC were limited. This was not going to be the year that the basketball powerhouse would take another step to becoming recognized for its pigskin prowess.

Virginia Tech looked to be the lone hope for a BCS Championship squad, and that was thwarted with an opening loss to Alabama. Teams came and went out of the polls, and finally after a roller-coaster season it looked like, at the very least, that the two best teams were headed for Tampa.

Then, yesterday happened. When ACC schools traditionally take on their in-state rivals both in and out of conference. Only the Hokies managed to survive with their pride and win-loss record intact.

If anybody out there is looking to further bash ACC football, yesterday will give them all the ammo they need for the next few days at the water cooler.

In conference, the No. 14 Hokies throttled the Wahoos. The score doesn’t reflect how well Virginia played for most of the game. When it was over, embattled Virginia coach Al Groh recited a poem at his post-game press conference and then took leave of the assembled media. Go figure.

Like Groh, N.C. State’s Tom O’Brien seems to have Butch Davis and the once-again-ranked Tar Heels’ number. UNC was smarting from a 45-10 whipping at home at the hands of the Wolfpack last season and were double-digit favorites.

However, penalties, turnovers, a blocked field goal, a fumbled touchdown, and Russell Wilson were critical in another improbable Tar Heel loss. The Wolfpack received the tough news earlier in the week that offensive coordinator Dana Bible was diagnosed with leukemia.

Heisman candidate C.J. Spiller set a record for kickoffs returned for touchdowns, but Clemson managed just 260 yards of offense after that. South Carolina throttled the Tigers casting a bit of a pall over next Saturday’s Dr. Pepper Bowl.

Georgia then ran all over Georgia Tech, which is exactly what the Jackets were supposed to do to a mediocre SEC team. Instead, the Bulldogs racked up 339 yards on the ground. This loss made it very clear that whoever emerges the winner from the ACC Championship game will not be a major player on the BCS stage, in spite of the automatic bid to the BCS Orange Bowl.

Florida State was a three touchdown underdog to No. 1 Florida, with Tim Tebow playing his final game. Without their best player, injured QB Christian Ponder, the Noles really had no chance. Iconic head coach Bobby Bowden says he will do some “soul searching” prior to making a decision about next year.

Simply put, back in August we didn’t think the ACC was good enough top to bottom to change its basketball image. Nor was any one team good enough to challenge for a spot in the BCS Championship Game.

Looks like we were correct. Maybe next year.

Read more ACC Football news on BleacherReport.com

Ranking the ACC after Week 13 of College Football Action

Jeffrey Fann — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 01:26:46 -0500

Most of the ACC's top teams came up with poor performances this weekend. Clemson, Georgia Tech and North Carolina all lost.

This was embarrassing weekend for the ACC against SEC. What can you say? The ACC championship game is the de-facto game for 6th place in the SEC.

The ACC blew a big chance to gain some national respect and will face at least a month, until the bowl season, of the rest of country questioning its football credibility.

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1) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (10-2, 7-1) - Last Week 1

The Jackets have proved up to this point that they are the ACC's best team, but losing to a mediocre Georgia team at home 30-24 proves they are not a truly elite team. The Jackets' powerful rushing offense has been masking a defensively flawed team all season.

Note to head coach Paul Johnson get a new defensive coordinator. Dave Wommack lost this game for Georgia Tech, long before that last drive stalled. I would have averaged eight yards a carry running between those gaping holes Saturday night.

2) Virginia Tech Hokies (9-3, 6-2) - Last Week 4

The Hokies ended the season solidly by blowing away their in state rival Virginia. I can't put the Hokies at No. 1 just yet. They haven't beaten a quality team since Oct. 10 when they defeated Boston College. That doesn't mean they can't finish the year in the top spot though.

They had 483 yards of total offense with nearly 300 on the ground. Now the Hokies get ready for a Gator or Chick-fil-A Bowl appearance. I don't think they fall lower than either of those. I'm thinking they are returning to Atlanta.

3) Miami Hurricanes (9-3, 5-3) - Last Week 5

At least one ACC team decided to beat a non-conference opponent today. Miami looked rock solid today with a 31-10 win over a decent South Florida team. The defense held South Florida to 220 total yards and the offense had more than 400. Now the Canes wait for their bowl bid. I think they end up in the Gator but we will have to see the result of the GT\Clemson game, because GT can't fall below Miami if they lose the ACCCG.

4) Clemson Tigers (8-4, 6-2) - Last Week 2

The Tigers were an even bigger no-show against their SEC rival South Carolina than Georgia Tech was losing 34-17. They gave up 223 yards on the ground to a Gamecocks squad that has struggled running the ball all season.

This is not a good sign before facing Georgia Tech's strong running game. Fortunately for Clemson, the Jackets' defense is not nearly as good as South Carolina's. The Tigers only had 48 yards running against South Carolina. Rushing yards will come much easier against Georgia Tech.

5) North Carolina Tar Heels (8-4, 4-4) - Last Week 3

The Tar Heels completed the fall from last week's top three teams with a dismal performance losing to a bad NC State team 28-27. The Heels dominated statistically out gaining the Wolfpack 481 yards to 335 yards but still lost their third straight to the Wolfpack. This game will keep the Heels from one of the upper-tier ACC Bowl games.

6) Boston College Eagles (8-4, 5-3) - Last Week 6

In spite of all the obstacles they had to face, Boston College has completed, in my opinion, the most surprising season of any ACC team. Frank Spaziani should get some ACC Coach of the Year votes. They beat Maryland only 19-17, but so what? Eagle fans should be very pleased with this season.

7) Florida State Seminoles (6-6, 4-4) - Last Week 7

Today was just more evidence how far this once great program has fallen. Florida dismantled FSU 37-10 in a game that wasn't even that close. The Noles didn't look like they belonged on the same field as the Gators.

Florida dominated in every fashion, and after the game Bobby Bowden said he has some soul searching to do before deciding on his future at Florida State. On one hand I understand Bowden wanting to return FSU to some semblance of its former glory, and on the other hand he has to realize they can't move forward with him there.

8) Wake Forest Demon Deacons (5-7, 3-5) - Last Week 10

Quarterback Riley Skinner goes out a winner at Wake Forest with a 45-34 victory over the Duke Blue Devils. All that you have to know is he led Wake Forest to the Orange Bowl. That's amazing in itself.

9) North Carolina State Wolfpack (5-7, 2-6) - Last Week 9

The Wolfpack salvaged something out of the season by knocking off in-state rival North Carolina Saturday. Russel Wilson threw four touchdown passes today and pretty much was a one man show this season for NC State. I'm curious, does anyone if he comes back next year or does he play baseball? I know what head coach Tom O'Brien is hoping for.

10) Duke Blue Devils (5-7, 3-5) - Last Week 8

Thaddeus Lewis was his usual brilliant self. He threw for 387 yards today and three touchdowns. Duke lost its final four games, and won't go bowling this year, but they are inching closer and closer towards that goal.

11) Virginia Cavaliers (3-9, 2-6) - Last Week 11

That was probably Al Groh's last game at Virginia. They were in it for awhile against the Hokies, but eventually lost 42-13. Time to move on, Cavaliers.

12) Maryland Terrapins (2-10, 1-7) - Last Week 12

Was this Ralph Freidgen's last season in Maryland? It was a nightmare 2-10 year, but I think the Fridge gets another year to try and get things on track. The Terps won eight games as recently as last season, but they might want to throw this season away. They lost 19-17 to Boston College Saturday.

Read more ACC Football news on BleacherReport.com

ACC, Pac-10, and SEC Football Capsules Week 13

Asher Feldman — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 01:25:18 -0500

Atlantic Coast Conference

Conference Leaders: Clemson (Atlantic Division; 8-4, 6-2 ) and Georgia Tech (Coastal Division; 10-2, 7-1) have both clinched their respective divisions and will meet for the ACC Championship Game and the ACC’s BCS bowl bid.

Game of Last Week: NC State 28 vs. UNC 27. A blocked field goal secured victory for the Wolfpack and let NC State fans rejoice even though their team will not be making a bowl this season

Game of Next Week: Georgia Tech vs. Clemson. The ACC Championship Game will be between two teams coming off tough losses to rivals, and will be looking to cap off good seasons with a BCS bowl bid.

Bowl Eligible Teams: Boston College Golden Eagles, Miami Hurricanes, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Virginia Tech Hokies, North Carolina Tar Heels, Florida State Seminoles, Clemson Tigers.

Pac-10

Conference Leader : Oregon (9-2, 7-1)

Lurking: Oregon State (8-3, 6-2)

Game of Last Week: Arizona 20 vs. Arizona State 17. After painting the huge “A” on the hillside at Arizona State in Wildcat red, the Wildcats took a victory in this western rivalry game on a last second field goal.

Game of Next Week: Oregon vs. Oregon State. Another de facto conference championship game—on a Thursday—the winner likely heading to the Rose Bowl as the Pac-10’s BCS bid receiving team.

Bowl Eligible Teams: Oregon Ducks, USC Trojans, California Bears, Arizona Wildcats, Stanford Cardinal, Oregon State Beavers, UCLA Bruins.

SEC

Conference Leaders: Florida (East Division; 12-0, 8-0) and Alabama (12-0, 8-0) have both clinched their respective divisions and will face off in the SEC Championship Game for a bid in the National Title game and the SEC’s automatic BCS bowl bid.

Game of Last Week: Tennessee 30 vs. Kentucky 24. A game for possible bowl positioning, the Volunteers took a huge game from Montario Hardesty and beat Kentucky for the 25th straight time.

Game of Next Week: Alabama vs. Florida. The SEC Championship Game will be a national semifinal, and the loser will likely still get a bid to a BCS bowl game.

Bowl Eligible Teams: Florida Gators, Alabama Crimson Tide, South Carolina Gamecocks, LSU Tigers, Auburn Tigers, Ole Miss Running Rebels, Kentucky Wildcats, Georgia Bulldogs, Arkansas Razorbacks, Tennessee Volunteers.

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Notre Lamed: Irish Lose Heartbreaker at Stanford and Other Rivalry Week Tales

Alex Ferguson — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 23:25:00 -0500

We've got a lot to talk about in a little time, bearing in mind that's we've been watching football all day and we're a little tired.

This couldn't be a better rivalry week—or more's the case, rivalry evening.

At the end of it, the only coach crying was Charlie Weis (well, he probably wasn't, but there we go). On fourth-and-job, Jimmy Clausen's Hail Mary was batted down by a Stanford secondary that had done its best to hand the Irish the game, and the Cardinal beat the Catholics 45-38.

If Stanford running back superstar Toby Gerhart (dear God did I take a long time to get that name right!) doesn't go to the NFL, then we're pretty sure he'd be a good minor league baseball player, or any college should take him about as future running backs coach or head coach. He's all heart baby.

We also got to see some redemption, which is always nice on a rivalry week where smack is talked from start to finish.

So here's the list:

LSU coach Les Miles: With over a minute on the clock in regulation, needed a minute to tie to the game against Arkansas, and instead of royally screwing up like he did against Ole Miss, the Tigers coaching staff and offense managed to get its head together and force overtime.

They then played poorly in OT, but thanks to the closest 'wide right' field goal miss you'll ever see by Arkansas, the Tigers won, much to the joy of around 92,000 people, some of whom were seen (to my laughter) using the 'F' word opening in front of ESPN cameras to question Miles' coaching efforts. I only wish we'd been there.

Georgia's Reshad Jones: The talented safety missed a tackle in the 2008 home loss to Georgia Tech that essentially gave the nerds a rare victory in Good Old Fashioned Hate.

Jones was brilliant on Saturday night, making a last-gasp tackle to force a player out-of-bounds with seconds on the clock to essentially save Georgia's 30-24 victory over 15th-ranked Georgia Tech at the high school stadium known as Bobby Dodd. Best sign goes to the Tech fans though: "And The Nerds Shall Take Over The World."

South Carolina: No-one could have given South Carolina more crap than we did throughout the year—especially quarterback Stephen Garcia. Don't get me wrong, we still think he's one of the SEC's poorer quarterbacks, but he—and a tremendous defense - helped to engineer an upset of hated rival Clemson.

Georgia defensive co-ordinator Willie Martinez: He might well be out of Athens by Monday, but boy, his 'D' battled today—especially against Georgia Tech's tremendous running game, which was stifled all night long.

Mississippi State coach Dan Mullen: For all intents and purposes, Mississippi State had been a laughing matter when talked about as a possible SEC West destination for good recruits. At the start of the season, we didn't expect MSU, with their new head coach, to beat Ole Miss in the Egg Bowl this year. They did, and we can shut up now.

And a quick bit of love for Mississippi State's band, who may just get into the VFA's top ten cheerleading squads for 2009—if a band is indeed cheerleading (which we think it is). I love the copy of "Rammer Jammer." It's not been sung very often.

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Farewell Al Groh, We Knew Thee All Too Well

Ben Gibson — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 19:18:22 -0500

Dear Al,

Hey it's me, Ben. You might remember me from earlier when I asked why you hate me. I'm back! Well, this time I wanted to tell you something. I am ashamed.

There are so many reasons why I am ashamed, too many for this simple letter to list, but I really do not need to. All anyone has to do is look at your game against Virginia Tech to understand why Virginia fans feel terrible.

This was your swan song, coach, your last chance to make a statement and leave on a high note by knocking off a team that has embarrassed you your entire time at Virginia.

You didn't.

Oh, you played well in the first half and some might confuse that with great coaching. It wasn't. The plays you called in the first half were the exact same that you have called for the entire season.

A season in which you won three games I might add.

This is a team you have beat just once in your nine years at Virginia, it looked like you did not even try to create a successful game plan. In many ways, you kept your conservative strategy of "playing not to lose" as opposed to "playing to win".

The difference was that the players tried, the players poured their heart and souls out on the field and were able to bully their way past the Hokie defenders.

Well, for two quarters at least.

Then, after Chris Cook picked off Tyrod Taylor in the end zone, Jameel Sewell ran an option play and a bad pitch to Mikell Simpson led to a turnover that quickly led to a Hokie touchdown to make the score 21-13 and the rout was on.

Granted, usually eight point games do not foretell doom. I mean this was a one-possession game with over a quarter and a half to go in the game. However, Virginia players knew better.

The players quit.

How else can you explain why a 21-13 game turned into a 42-13 beat down in the course of 20 minutes?

As much as we like to praise the Cavaliers for battling through the 0-3 start, this team is not tough. This team is not composed of fighters.

The truth is, every time this season Virginia faced any sort of adversity, they folded up quicker than a lawn chair. They pout, they hang their heads, and they look at each other with wide eyes and stone hands.

After that touchdown, the Cavaliers simply let Hokie running back Ryan Williams run into the endzone with barely a semblance of effort. The defense's back was broken and the offense had no confidence to make things any better.

I could easily rip apart Sewell's bad pass, Ras-I Dowling's terrible coverage, the special teams atrocities that took place, or Nate Collin's dumb penalty but it all comes down to the same thing.

Virginia is not mentally tough.

A mentally tough team does not lose to William & Mary at home. A mentally tough team does not lose 7-5 to North Carolina after upsetting the No. 4-ranked Florida State Seminoles in 2005.

Virginia did try in every game this season, until the going got tough. Then Virginia started hanging their head, bemoaning their bad luck and poor circumstances.

I hate to tell you this Al, but that's a reflection on the coach. The players may like you, they may feel bad that you're going, but they did not believe they could win that rivalry game.

The second adversity strikes, your team used it as an excuse to pack it in and lose.

The moment things started to turn in the Hokies favor, every single person in Scott Stadium thought the same thing: Here we go again.

As the popular adage goes, whether you think you can or you think you can't, you're right.

Virginia has to believe in itself again. It has to have passion throughout the game and not just when the game has been decided and you feel like standing up for a teammate who was hit late.

The fans have to believe in Virginia football again, their heart has been broken again and again. So much so that Scott Stadium was completely overrun with Hokie fans who greedily grabbed every apathetic fan’s ticket for the season finale. While the Virginia athletics program may get money from these sales, they lose much more in respectability.

Watching the Cavaliers this season has almost been comical for it has followed a similar script each and every game.

Virginia plays well for a half until adjustments are made and then the Cavaliers become lost. They need leadership and you, Al, are not providing it.

I know that you care deeply for the Cavaliers and the program. As an alum, I know it kills you to see this program having the worst season in 27 years.

However, your pride will not allow you to take the blame. It will not allow you to admit to people that the lack of talent is your fault. It is not circumstances or bad luck or even a voodoo charm.

Groh, it's been a long ride. There were definitely some ups, but there were simply too many downs. You did not deserve for your career to end like this, with Ryan Williams laughing on the sideline while a third-string Hokie running back is breaking tackles into the end zone, but it has.

I have felt every emotion under the sun with you. I felt ecstatic with our run in 2002, I felt anticipation before the Florida State game in 2004 with our No. 5 ranking, I felt shock with our 52-14 shellacking from Virginia Tech in 2005 and I felt apathy after losing to Southern Mississippi this season.

At the moment, I feel anger. Frustration that you have let our archrivals reach the level of prominence they have achieved. Bitterness that the Hokies will have another 10-win season while we are suffering our third losing season in the past four years. However, I know the anger will quickly fade when your firing is announced within the next 48 hours.

Goodbye Groh; I hope you find happiness in retirement. I cannot help but think a world without reporters and fans criticizing your every move will be a welcome joy in your life.

I can only hope Virginia football fans find a similar joy in their next coach. Of course, I have wished that before.

Sincerely,

Ben

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Clemson-South Carolina Football: No. 15 Tigers Manhandled in Columbia

Jeffrey Fann — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 15:43:15 -0500

Clemson is still going to the ACC championship. That's the good news. The bad news is the Tigers got beat in every way by a very mediocre South Carolina team.

After C.J. Spiller returned the opening kickoff for a touchdown, the Gamecocks scored 24 straight points in a 34-17 victory. The most frustrating part of the game was hearing the ESECPN announcers fall all over each other discussing the SEC's perceived speed advantage over the ACC.

Frankly, that had absolutely nothing to do with the result. This had everything to do with one team being heaped with praise for several weeks and the other having enough of it. Credit Steve Spurrier and South Carolina for playing harder and more physical than Clemson. The Tigers just couldn't match Carolina's level of intensity.

What does this mean for Clemson's ACC title hopes? I still have to see how Georgia Tech plays against Georgia. If the Jackets lose today, the result for Clemson may be a wash. The ACC's best teams losing to middling SEC teams. That's not good for the conference's perception.

If the Jackets do win, what should worry Clemson's fans is that Kevin Steele's defense is not playing its best football at the end of the year. Virginia had some success running the ball last week, and South Carolina is a poor running team but had 224 running yards today. Certainly Georgia Tech's formidable rushing attack has taken notice.

Clemson recovered nicely after a bad performance against Maryland; let's see how the Tigers come back after this ugly effort.

This article is also featured at All About Sports.

Read more ACC Football news on BleacherReport.com

Virginia Tech-Virginia: What to Expect In Charlottesville

Justin Cocchiola — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 09:38:26 -0500

When Virginia Tech and Virginia face off on Saturday the two teams will be playing for very little, other than pride of course.

Virginia Tech is trying to solidify a second-tier bowl, such as the Chick-fil-a or Gator Bowl, and Virginia is likely to move in a entirely new direction starting with a new head coach after this game.

Virginia started the season with an embarrassing loss to say the least. William & Mary came into their house and dominated. This isn't excusable, but every team in college football is different at this point in the season compared to the beginning.

That being said, Virginia has lost five straight games with their last win coming against the worst team in the ACC, Maryland.

None of these facts should bode well for the Cavaliers when they have to take on the second-best team in the ACC. Yes, Virginia Tech is the second-best team in the ACC.

The Hokies have once again had an interesting season. It has looked a lot different on paper as far as team statistics go.

Virginia Tech's offense has been their strongest asset at times and the defense has struggled. At the same time, the offense is the reason the Hokies lost to North Carolina and both the offense and defense can be blamed for Tech's other two losses (Alabama, Georgia Tech).

Alabama was a better team than the Hokies and that's why the Crimson Tide were able to come out on top in the fourth quarter. The other two losses Virginia Tech had came in back-to-back weeks and the Hokies seemed to be in a bit of a slump.

Why? I don't know. It always seems to happen with the Hokies. The slump lasted three weeks and they were able to sneak by with a win against East Carolina despite an abysmal offensive performance.

Since the Hokies last loss, they've won three in a row. Two of those wins came against two of the worst teams in the ACC. On Saturday they will finish their streak of weak conference opponents as they take on Virginia.

But this game means a little more than the other two. These are big time rivals and the rivalry has taken a hit over the past few years because of Tech's dominance. Al Groh is 1-7 all-time against Virginia Tech and Frank Beamer is 13-9 against Virginia.

It's fair to say that the two schools, at least fans, alumni and students, don't like each other, but the respect factor is their.

The two have completely different styles. Virginia Tech is typically a hard-nosed, tough football team, whereas Virginia is a bit more soft, but they typically have pretty strong defenses.

Although the Hokies have struggled on defense this year, they still have the 13th best defense in the nation in both total defense and points allowed. Virginia's defense ranks 47th in total defense and 62nd in points allowed.

However, the Cavaliers rank 118th in total offense and 105th in points scored. One word can describe these numbers: pathetic.

However, Hokie fans know the feeling all too well. Virginia Tech's offense was ranked 100th or worse for three straight years, but they've finally been able to break away from that this season.

So, what does all this mean for Saturday's game? On paper, Virginia Tech should blow out their rival, but it's a rivalry game. No matter how bad teams have played all season they will sometimes play their best game against their bitter rival.

I think the game will be close for a couple of quarters, but Ryan Williams will be way too much for the Virginia defense to handle. Tyrod Taylor has also been extremely efficient of late and hasn't thrown a pick in 98 pass attempts.

As long as the Hokies rush defense can limit the damage, everything should go smoothly for the Hokies. I would be surprised if Virginia Tech were to lose this game, because the talent on these two teams isn't even close.

Virginia Tech 38, Virginia 13

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The Great Debate for Clemson Football: Beat South Carolina or Win the ACC?

Joseph Durst — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 01:01:04 -0500

Over the course of this past week, Clemson fans have found themselves pondering an interesting question. If it came down to it, would they rather beat the hated Gamecocks or win the elusive ACC?

Clemson fans seem to be split on the matter. I, for one, would take an ACC Championship over beating Carolina any year. However, many Tiger fans have told me that beating our in-state rivals must come first.

It’s been 18 years since Clemson held the ACC crown, while beating South Carolina has become a nearly annual event.

Perhaps fans who have clear memories of ACC glory are not as desperate to return as those of us who have never seen Clemson rise to such heights.

The South Carolina game gives half of the state bragging rights for an entire year. On the terrible, albeit rare, occasion that Clemson loses, fans have to listen to smack for an entire calendar year. They hear it from their friends, neighbors, and often, even their own families.

I’ve always believed that Clemson was better than Carolina; that the Tigers wanted more than just a state championship.

I’ve always preached that Clemson fans have higher aspirations than Carolina fans and that given the choice, the Tigers would prefer national glory over instate dominance.

Now the time has finally come for me to practice what I preach. Those who can easily recall Clemson’s glory days in the ACC, or live in Gamecock country where verbal abuse will be unbearable, can be excused for wanting a Gamecock trouncing over an ACC crown.

When Clemson doesn’t make it to the ACC Championship, the SC game is the biggest of the year. This year, however, Clemson has reached the title game, the Gamecocks must play second fiddle, and that’s exactly the way it should be.

Hopefully, Tiger fans can find a happy compromise where Clemson wins both games, but if you could only win one, which would you take?

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The Ten Best (And Worst) Moments In The History of Florida—Florida State

Jeff Kessock — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 16:59:04 -0500

TAMPA—The history, the prestige, the implications, and the dynamism of two polar opposites, who happen to be less than 200 miles apart. On one end—the Florida Gators, the other—the Florida State Seminoles. This is college football. The journey to this apex, while perhaps a bit hazy in the minds of those who aren't the most intimate of die-hard fans, may tell the tale of how Florida State and Florida will forever be a rivalry worth tuning in for. Luster or not—these two teams have always been an instant sensation, and in the minds of most, perhaps one of the most storied programs of the last quarter century. The next few pages will attempt to recap some of the more monumental and memorable times of the rivalry that is: Florida/Florida State.

Begin Slideshow

Rivalry Weekend Is Playoff Elimination Weekend

Crayton — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 13:15:12 -0500

If Texas, Florida, or Alabama lose this week, then they will most likely be thrown from the BCS title race. While some people stomp for a large, 16-team playoff; the truth is that under that format each of these teams might lose but would still ascend into such an expansive playoff, right...right?

Thanksgiving weekend is, for all intents and purposes, rivalry weekend. You have the Civil War, The Holy War, The Bedlam Series, the riveting Egg Bowl, and Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate.

The last thing these rivalry games need is one team resting their starters for the playoffs.

This year, the Civil War between Oregon and Oregon State would have tremendous playoff implications. The winner would gain a spot in essentially a play-in round, while the loser would have to settle for the Holiday Bowl, or worse.

Perhaps all games on rivalry weekend should be elimination games.

Imagine, if Florida loses to Florida State then the Gators would be eliminated. Sure, they may fall only to No. 6 in the BCS, but they would be ineligible for an at large spot in the playoff and would take the back-seat in the SEC tie-breaker to 'Bama because of their loss.

The Playoff

So what would the race to a 16-team playoff look like this weekend? We will assume that every team's final regular season game will be played this week and that next week Conference Championship Games will be replaced by the first round of the playoffs.

To replace the Conference Championship Games, four regional tournaments (West, South, East, and North) of four teams will be held on campuses the first two weeks of December; the winners of which will ascend into two of the five BCS Games on Jan. 1.

Eleven conference champions and five at large teams will go into the playoff. Rivalry Week losses will trump head-to-head in breaking conference ties and no team which loses on rivalry week will be eligible for an at large bid.

A maximum of three teams from each conference will be put in one of the regional tournaments so as not to monopolize the region. Here are the potential brackets:

(note: 30 teams are listed as hopeful; a full, extra playoff round with Georgia Tech already assured a playoff spot)

The West Regional Contenders

No. 3 Texas
The Longhorns have traversed their schedule unscathed and with the top seed in the West; but they face a tough rival in Texas A&M. A loss to the Aggies and an Oklahoma State victory over Oklahoma would force a tie for the Big 12 Championship, which the Longhorns would lose and be eliminated by virtue of their Rivalry Loss.

No. 6 Boise St
The Broncos have also gone undefeated through the season, except against an arguably weaker schedule and currently hold on to a first round home game. This week's elimination game against Nevada will decide which team will represent the WAC in the playoff.

No. 8 Oregon
The Ducks lead the Pac-10 but face elimination against Oregon State who can snatch the conference title away from them. If both Oregon and Boise State make the playoffs, the two teams would not be paired in the first round. If Boise State or Texas slip then the Ducks will find themselves with a first round home game.

No. 12 Oklahoma State
The Cowboys have a firm grip on an at large bid and can even grab the Big 12 title if they show up against rival Oklahoma and Texas slips against A&M. If both the Longhorns and Cowboys make the playoffs they will not be paired in the first round.

The West Regional Hopefuls

No. 16 Oregon State
The Beavers control their own destiny and can take Oregon's spot in the playoff with a victory over the Ducks this weekend in what amounts to a "Round of 32" game.

No. 20 USC
The Trojans need a lot of help to make the playoffs should they defeat rival UCLA this weekend. Four of the following Eight teams must lose: Florida, Alabama, Texas, Oklahoma St, Virginia Tech, LSU, Clemson, and Miami

No. 22 California
The Bruins played their rivalry game a week early and are have one more game against Washington. If USC also losses then California would make the playoffs from the longest of odds.

(7-0 WAC) Nevada
The Wolfpack can jump into the playoffs with a victory over Boise State and the WAC crown. It will be a tough game and Nevada will most likely play at Texas in the first round.

C-USA / Sun Belt Champ

If the Big 12 does not send two teams to the playoff then expect the westernmost of the Conference USA Champion or Sun Belt Champion to join the Western Regional Playoffs.

The South Regional Contenders

No. 1 Florida
The Gators have built up an impressive resume this year but face almost sure elimination if they lose against rival Florida State. Only a simultaneous loss by Alabama will save the Gators.

No. 2 Alabama
The Crimson Tide have also gone undefeated but still must defeat rival Auburn this Friday to make the playoffs. Otherwise they will have secured a first round home game against Troy.

(7-0 Sun Belt) Troy
The Trojans have almost clinched the Sun Belt and can do so with a win against Louisiana Lafayette or with a Middle Tennessee loss. The Trojans are looking to play at cross-state powerhouse Alabama in the first round.

(6-1 C-USA) East Carolina
The Pirates are the only Conference USA team in control of their own destiny. A win against playoff hopeful Southern Miss will clinch the conference and a playoff spot for the Pirates.

The South Regional Hopefuls

No. 15 LSU
The Tigers are the highest ranked team not yet in playoff position and play the Arkansas Razorbacks in the Battle for the Golden Boot this weekend. The Tigers can take the place of Alabama or Florida if one of those teams loses or they may edge out the Westernmost C-USA or Sun Belt champion if Texas or Oklahoma State lose.

No. 23 Houston
The Cougars are a game behind the East Carolina Pirates and need a victory over rival Rice and an East Carolina loss to secure the Conference USA title.

(6-1 Sun Belt) Middle Tennessee State
The Blue Raiders play Louisiana Monroe this weekend but need not only a victory but also a Troy loss to find their way into the playoff

(5-2 C-USA) Southern Mississippi
The Golden Eagles can play their way to a tie in the conference against East Carolina but will lose the tie-breaker unless Houston loses as well.

The East Regional Contenders

No. 5 Cincinnati
The Bearcats are riding an undefeated season into their season finale against Pittsburgh. The Bearcats are holding on to a top seed and two home playoff games but will lose it all with a loss to Pittsburgh.

No. 7 Georgia Tech
The Yellow Jackets have already clinched the ACC, the ONLY team guaranteed a playoff spot with a game remaining, so theirs is the rare instance when the rivalry game against Georgia does not have overt playoff implications. Even a loss to the Bulldogs may not steal Georgia Tech's first round home game.

No. 15 Virginia Tech
The Hokies are holding on to the last at large spot. Their rivalry game against Virginia should pose little problem, so expect Virginia Tech to play at the Big East champion in the first round.

(7-0 MAC) Central Michigan / Temple
The Chippewas and Owls are both tied for the MAC lead without a head-to-head matchup to break the tie.

If one of the teams stumbles this weekend against Northern Illinois and Ohio respectively then the MAC representative will be obvious, but it may be the polls which ultimately determine which team will ascend to the playoffs and play at Georgia Tech in December.

The East Regional Hopefuls

No. 9 Pittsburgh
The Panthers control their own destiny with their season finale against Cincinnati and a home playoff game against the ACC runner-up. Expect in years future, without regular season games in December, that Pittsburgh will conclude its season in the Backyard Brawl against West Virginia.

No. 17 Miami
The Hurricanes can slip in if a second at large team, perhaps Virginia Tech, stumbles. Miami begins a six-year series against USF this weekend in what should shape up into a solid rivalry.

No. 18 Clemson
The Tigers may have something to say about Miami getting the last at-large spot and will showcase their ACC-Atlantic champion team against the rival South Carolina Gamecocks. Whichever team between the Hurricanes and Tigers is ranked higher may end up with the last at large bid. Clemson has already played and defeated Miami in October.

(6-1 MAC) Ohio
The Bobcats actually have a shot at the playoff as long as they defeat Temple this weekend and Central Michigan drops its regular season finale. By virtue of their Rivalry Week Victory, Ohio will ascend into the playoff at Georgia Tech the following week.

The North Regional Contenders

No. 4 TCU
The Horned Frogs are undefeated thus far but need a victory against lowly New Mexico to stay in the playoffs and keep their top spot and two home playoff games.

No. 10 Ohio State
The Buckeyes have completed their season a week early, secured the Big Ten title outright, and earned a home playoff game. Expect next year, as the Big Ten adds a bye week, that the Michigan game will be moved to rivalry weekend.

No. 11 Iowa
The Hawkeyes have also secured an at large spot in the Northern Region by concluding their season a week early and will likely play at the Mountain West Champion.

No. 13 Penn State
The Nittany Lions have secured their playoff spot and will likely be the team chosen from Iowa to play in a rematch (in Columbus) against Ohio State in the first round.

The North Regional Hopefuls

No. 19 BYU
The Cougars will find themselves in a Holy War for the MWC title and playoff spot if TCU loses this weekend. BYU's lone conference loss is to the Horned Frogs and the tie will be broken by TCU's Rivalry Week Loss.

No. 21 Utah
The Utes may squeeze their way into a second straight Mountain West title with a victory over BYU and a TCU loss, but the chips are stacked against them as this week's game is played in Provo.

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Clemson-South Carolina Preview: Gamecocks Hope To Reverse Rivalry Trend

ACC SEC Blog — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:44:59 -0500

The Gamecocks and Tigers will tee it up for the 107th time on Saturday in the Battle For The Palmetto State.

There is no love lost between these two as was evidenced when I asked bloggers from both teams what this rivalry means.

Clemson would like their sixth win in a row this season and a seventh win in the last eight meetings between the two. But they also have an ACC Championship Game to look forward to next week.

South Carolina, on the other hand, is hoping to break a three-game losing streak this season and beat a potential conference champion and their archrival.

Keys for Clemson

1. Spiller Time

C.J. Spiller is the most dynamic player in college football, having scored running the ball, receiving the ball, returning the ball, and throwing the ball this season.

The Tigers have done a very good job at making sure he gets plenty of touches this season. That needs to continue on Saturday.

South Carolina must know where the Heisman candidate is at all times, especially coming out of the backfield on receptions.

The Gamecocks may just decide to kick the ball out of bounds too, instead of allowing a fourth return for touchdown by Spiller this season.

2. Pressure Garcia

Clemson's defense is at its best when it can rush the passer and allow ball-hawking safety DeAndre McDaniel to roam the secondary. McDaniel is second in the nation with eight interceptions.

If the interceptions weren't enough, the Tigers lead the ACC and rank 11th nationally with 33 sacks.

South Carolina's Stephen Garcia has really improved his pocket awareness this season, but he needs to be extra sharp on Saturday.

Getting the ball out of his hands quickly will be necessary, and preferably the ball is going to go to talented freshman Alshon Jeffery a lot.

Keys for South Carolina

1. Establish a Running Game

The reason here is two-fold: to keep the ball away from a Tiger team averaging 39 points per game over their past three with ball control, and to keep the "Bamberg Bookends" from pinning their ears back to rush Garcia.

The Gamecocks have not had much success running the ball this year, but Brian Maddox emerged in the Florida game as a potential threat with 82 rush yards.

For Clemson, if they stuff the run early, I can see where Steve Spurrier would go almost exclusively with the pass.

2. Eric Norwood

The senior from Acworth, Ga. is to South Carolina's defense what Spiller is to Clemson's offense. Norwood has come up big in the Gamecocks' wins this season and will need to again on Saturday.

The Tigers had trouble blocking another great pass rusher in Georgia Tech's Derrick Morgan this season.

Norwood would be greatly helped by a healthy Cliff Matthews on the other side to create their own pass rush tandem. Matthews' status was questionable early in the week.

Just like Spiller, QB Kyle Parker and the Clemson backs will need to know where Mr. Norwood is at all times since he lines out up at end and linebacker throughout the game.

Prediction

If I mention the words "Chicken Curse" to my South Carolina blogger brethren, they get upset. But it looks like it could be rearing its ugly head again this season.

The Gamecocks always have a tough time in November (probably due to their schedule of Tennessee, Florida, and Clemson rather than any "curse") and it looks like it is continuing this season.

Despite a hostile road crowd, I think Clemson's offensive talent and ball-hawking pass defense is too much for South Carolina.

Clemson Wins
Clemson Covers -3

You can check out this preview and many rivalry week previews at The ACC & SEC Blog

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Paul Johnson and Dabo Swinney Prove Their Critics Wrong

Jeffrey Fann — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:31:24 -0500

Regardless of what happens against their rivals South Carolina and Georgia Saturday, the Clemson Tigers and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets will meet in the ACC Championship Game for the right to represent the ACC in the Orange Bowl.

Paul Johnson coaches Georgia Tech, and Dabo Swinney coaches Clemson. If you've followed these two coaches over the last one-and-a-half to two years, you know they had a lot of critics doubting whether each could succeed at his respective school.

Let's start with Paul Johnson.

Johnson had always been a nice coach. The early part of his career was highlighted by winning two I-AA national titles in 1985-1986 as offensive coordinator of the Georgia Southern Eagles. Back then he ran his version of the option offense with a guy named Tracy Ham. Ham was one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks college football has ever seen.

Johnson had successful offensive coordinator stints at Hawaii and Navy, setting all kinds of school records along the way. He went back to Georgia Southern as head coach and won two more I-AA championships. He moved on to be head coach of the Naval Academy, where Navy had their most successful run of football since the 1960s. Navy beat Notre Dame for the first time in over 40 years while Johnson was there.

Come on though; Georgia Southern and Navy aren't big-time college football. How could his throwback triple option offense succeed at a BCS school? Georgia Tech gave him a shot, and the rest is history.

Critics said you couldn't run the option anymore in major college football; the defenses were too fast. If it did succeed for a little while, defenses would figure it out. Fans would be bored by the offense. This experiment was doomed to fail.

Paul Johnson, ever confident in his offense and abilities, proved his critics all wrong. All he's done while at Georgia Tech is win 19 of his first 24 games for a .792 winning percentage. His offense is second in the country in rushing and first in the ACC in total offense. Apparently defenses didn't figure it out the second time around.

He's taken a Georgia Tech program mired in mediocrity and has them ranked in the top 10 and in the midst of their best season since the 1990 national championship season. Georgia Tech fans love him. Anyone care to doubt him anymore?

Let's talk about Dabo Swinney now.

Swinney was moving right along in his career pretty well. He was coaching wide receivers and tight ends at Alabama for most of latter part of the '90s, but then he hit a road bump. When he was fired in 2001 with the rest of the Alabama staff, he worked in real estate for nearly two years.

Tommy Bowden gave him the chance to get back into coaching, and in 2003 Swinney joined the Clemson staff as wide receivers coach and recruiting coordinator. He would develop a reputation as a very good recruiter and assistant coach.

When Bowden departed Clemson in 2008, Swinney was named interim head coach. The college football world figured Swinney was just a short-term solution until the Tigers could find a more experienced head coach.

Swinney, ever energetic, began the Tiger Walk (Clemson players arm in arm walking toward the end zone during pregame) and the "All In" rallying cry. Opposing fans at best found Swinney harmless and at worst a coach wasting time with motivational gimmicks.

After a 4-3 finish and a Gator Bowl appearance, Swinney was given the reins of the Clemson program. Most still felt this was a mistake. He just didn't have enough experience.

Like Johnson, Swinney proved his critics wrong. A loss to Maryland early left many skeptical, but Swinney rallied the troops, and the Tigers have won six straight games. Clemson won its first ACC title of any sort in nearly 20 years by capturing the ACC's Atlantic Division. This is something Bowden could never accomplish.

If you doubt Swinney's coaching ability, you're making a mistake. He and offensive coordinator Billy Napier made adjustments to a struggling offense to get the ball into C.J Spiller's hands and get the tight ends more involved in the passing game. Clemson, known for its roller coaster-like play, is playing its most consistent football in many years.

These are two head coaches that believe in themselves and their players and now have their teams playing for an ACC championship.

This article is also featured at All About Sports .

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Despite No Bowl, Duke Football Has Plenty to Celebrate

Mike Kline — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:17:08 -0500

The Duke Blue Devils won't be playing in a bowl game this season, so what is new, right?

Actually, there would be a lot that is new about this program going forward. Win or lose in their final game, the groundwork has been and is being set for a sustainable winning program.

Coach David Cutcliffe now has the framework for a program that will compete for future bowls.

In his second year Cutcliffe has shown he can take lesser talent and make it competitive, and in the very near future there will be less of a talent gap. Duke has been making strides in recruiting, and it is only a matter of time before it starts to show on the field.

Despite the amount of talent that is leaving following the graduation of this year's senior class, Duke will return a lot of experience and should once again be competing for a bowl next season.

Even without getting to a bowl, seniors like Thad Lewis, Vince Oghabasse, and Vincent Rey certainly will leave a positive legacy. These three, along with others, have seen the end to many a losing streak.

Lewis at times carried the Blue Devils on his back, and despite losing his best target from last year in Eron Riley, he made this year's corps group of receivers very good.

If only Lewis would have had a running game to fall back on, this Duke team could have made that final push.

But there is no use in worrying about the past. The only thing that matters now is the future for the Blue Devils.

When Duke takes the field against Wake Forest on Saturday, the seniors will have the opportunity to do something a Duke team hasn't done in 15 years—end the season without a losing record.

If the Blue Devils finish 6-6, 4-4, they will gladly take that .500 winning percentage into the offseason and work as hard as hell to improve on it.

I wouldn't expect anything less from Cutcliffe and his staff.

For anyone who thinks Cutcliffe has done all he can at Duke and will seek greener pastures elsewhere, think again.

Cutcliffe has proven he can take a doormat and turn it into a respectable team. Now it will be his challenge to turn a respectable team into a serious contender for a conference championship.

Laugh, but bet against him if you dare.

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Scout's Notebook: Defensive Review For Week 12

Wes Bunting — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:38:56 -0500

Observations and analysis from the 12th week of the college football season, including thoughts about some of the nation’s top defensive prospects.

Virginia Football

One Up

One bright spot on the Virginia defense this season has been the play of five-technique defensive end Nate Collins. Collins, a 6'2", 290-pound lineman, doesn’t quite possess the height or length to play as a three-four defensive end at the next level, but he showcases the initial burst, power and suddenness to definitely make the transition inside to defensive tackle in the NFL.

He did a great job Saturday vs. Clemson, consistently exploding off the snap, maintaining his leverage, and fighting off blocks while making his way into the backfield. He displays a violent set of hands and exhibits the body control and power to effectively bull-rush opposing linemen and cleanly redirect past their blocks.

He finished with four tackles, one tackle for loss, and a pass breakup and looks like a guy who could certainly develop into at least a rotational type of interior lineman at the next level, maybe more.

One Down

One of the more intriguing junior cornerbacks who could potentially enter next year’s draft is Virginia’s Ras-I Dowling. The 6'2", 200-pound defender possesses a great-looking frame and long arms and displays the range to effectively track the football in pursuit. However, the more I watch him, the more I think he’s a free safety-only prospect at the next level.

Dowling isn’t a really flexible athlete, and although he possesses impressive strider speed, he simply takes too long to get out of his breaks and into second gear. Plus, he’s rarely asked to play up close to the line of scrimmage, flip his hips and turn to run with receivers down the field, as he typically plays way off in coverage and has the luxury of opening his hips early and using his big strides to stay with receivers vertically.

I just don’t see the type of suddenness or burst in Dowling’s game to make me think he has the ability to stay with receivers in man coverage at the next level. Now, there’s no denying the kid is a gifted size/speed athlete, but I think his future is at free safety in the NFL.

Another Immovable Object In the SEC

I’ve been critical at times of LSU’s defensive line play this season. However, if the Tigers had two defensive tackles with the power and strength of Al Woods, there’s no way Ole Miss RB Dexter McCluster would have rushed for 148 yards against them Saturday.

Woods was absolutely immovable at times vs. the Rebels and not only does a great job taking on double-teams, he can consistently anchor on contact. He isn’t a really gifted athlete and struggles to make plays away from his frame, but the guy knows how to eat up blocks inside and looks like a capable two-down lineman at the next level.

Questions Still Remain

This isn’t a ringing endorsement of the current play of Arizona cornerback Devin Ross. He isn’t a really polished corner, lacks ideal instincts in man coverage, and will open up his hips too early in his drop, which causes him to struggle to stay balanced when changing directions. On top of that, he isn’t really physical in press-man and struggles to generate much of a bump when trying to disrupt the timing of the pass game.

However, Ross is a gifted athlete who can certainly turn and run with NFL-caliber receivers down the field and possesses the type of physicality in run support I love to see from defensive backs.

Now, the guy was beaten at least three times last weekend vs. an Oregon receiving corps that is average at best. But you can’t knock the kid’s physical skill set, and with some proper NFL coaching, he has an upside that would make you think he could potentially end up starting in the league. Right now, though, I would grade him out more as a sub-package corner, with a very high ceiling.

A Year of Dominance

Ever since my initial player rankings were posted in September, Murray State’s Austen Lane has always been a top-20 defensive end prospect in my mind.

As soon as you pop in a tape of any Murray State football game and watch Lane perform, it’s obvious the guy is ready to take his game to the next level. He finished the season with 64 total tackles, 19-and-a-half tackles for loss and 11 sacks and wrapped up his college career last weekend vs. Tennessee Tech with 10 total tackles and one-and-a-half tackles for loss. Lane possesses a freakish combination of size (6'6", 258 lbs), length, and body control and has a physical skill set very similar to Miami Dolphins' OLB/DE Jason Taylor.

In no way am I saying Lane will have a career similar to Taylor’s because those kinds of expectations are too much for any prospect to live up to. However, what I am saying is that Lane is a highly gifted athlete who, with a strong postseason showing, could end up being one of the most coveted pass rushers in the draft.

Transfer Making Good On Promise

One of the lost storylines coming out of the Kansas State-Nebraska game was the play of Wildcats' defensive end Jeffrey Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald, a transfer from Virginia, has very quietly been one of the Big 12's top defensive linemen and looks capable of playing in just about any scheme at the next level.

The 6'4", 280-pound defensive end already has experience in both four-three and three-four fronts and possesses the type of power to consistently hold the point in the run game and get after the football. He finished with eight tackles, two tackles for loss, and a sack and will likely end up grading out as a pote

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Virginia Tech-Virginia: What Hokie Fans Think About the Rivalry

Justin Cocchiola — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:52:42 -0500

Any time the Hokies take on the Hoos, everyone's interest is drawn regardless of each team's record. It pretty much has to be this way because Virginia has been down the last few years.

In fact, Virginia has beaten Virginia Tech only once since 1999. Matt Schaub and company defeated the Hokies in Charlottesville during the 2003 season, and the play that put the Hokies under was the fake field goal (remember, Schaub used to be the holder) bootleg pass to current Pittsburgh Steeler Heath Miller.

The Hoos went on to win 35-21 but have not seen the win column since.

Virginia has had some decent teams since 2003, and back in 2007 the game actually decided who would represent the Coastal Division in the ACC. Tech prevailed and went on to defeat Boston College in the ACC Championship.

However, the last two years the Cavaliers have been playing for pride instead of championships.

Virginia had a chance to make a bowl last season if they beat the Hokies, and they came pretty close. The Hoos completely changed their offense, and Vic Hall, who was an all-state quarterback in high school, was running a spread-option, wildcat-like offense. This caught the Hokies off guard, and Virginia almost came out with a victory.

I doubt we'll see Virginia completely change their offense for this year's game, but it's probably Al Groh's last game, and he's 1-7 all-time against Virginia Tech.

Although Hokie fans fully expect to win this game, many seem to be jaded. The offense has been rolling the last couple of weeks, and the Hokies have given up only one offensive touchdown in their last three games.

However, fans of Virginia Tech often prepare themselves for the worst possible scenario. The thought of losing to Virginia has entered everyone's mind, and it's mainly because of last year's game.

People were shocked when Hall took the majority of the snaps, and shocked that the game was won by only three points. A close call, but the Hokies won.

Last year's game leaves many fans wondering what Virginia could throw at the Hokies in this year's game. Even if Virginia runs the same offense they've been running all season, they've done a good job of putting doubt in Virginia Tech's mind.

Whether the coaches admit to it or not, I don't know, but you would have to think last year's game has put a little bit of doubt in their minds.

It's normal to get a little anxious for a game against your biggest rival because no matter how bad they are, you know they're going to give you their best shot.

This rivalry is still very big around campus, but the football part of it has fallen a bit, mainly because Virginia has been so bad for so many years. I honestly think that's why the two schools decided to make a "Commonwealth Cup Challenge" instead of giving the "Commonwealth Cup" to the winner of the football game.

The two schools are pretty competitive with each other in all of the other sports, such as basketball, soccer, and baseball, but football is the polar opposite.

It's senior day for Virginia, but it's also the last time Virginia Tech seniors will be playing against their biggest rival. This game could be good, or it could be a blowout. Either way, Virginia Tech is the better team, and they should be able to control the pace of the game.

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It's Hate Week!: Week 13 College Football Predictions

Alex Ferguson — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 05:16:00 -0500

It's always a bummer for us at the VFA that Penn State really has no natural rivals. Sure, the Lions played Pitt, USC, and Notre Dame a bunch of times back in the "independent days," but now that the Big Ten's here, Penn State have got nobody they can truly lift the finger to.

If I was Penn State AD Tim Curley, I'd stop scheduling trash and go for a 30-year home and home series against Pitt or Notre Dame. Penn State Nation needs it.

Anyway, back from all that talk, because it's Thanksgiving Weekend, which means that we're all getting our hate on this weekend (and the weekend after, if you're an Oregon or Oregon State fan, who battle it for the Pac-10 title in a week's time).

So here we go.

The "Saw Varsity's Horns Off" Game: Texas vs. Texas A&M

Texas is going to walking into a world of hate at Kyle Field. Aggies fans have had this pencilled in since January, and the Longhorns, who are playing as well as anyone this year, have to come to play a Texas A&M which has been fun to watch AND inconsistent this year. How else do you explain dumping 50 on Texas Tech on the road? We watch with bated breath while munching turkey.

Prediction: Texas wins, but in a squeaker.

Bedlam: Pittsburgh vs. West Virginia

Stoke up the coal and get the couches ready, people, because Pittsburgh's coming into Morgantown. These two Big East rivals really, really dislike each other, and this should be Friday fun for all.

Prediction: Go to Ikea and get a couch! West Virginia in the upset.

"Good Ole Fashioned Hate": Georgia vs. Georgia Tech

Georgia can't stop the run, and Georgia Tech are run specialists. Sound like a recipe for disaster for Bulldogs fans? Does to us. The "high school stadium," as Georgia fans rudely—and rightly—refer to Bobby Dodd Stadium, will be rocking.

Prediction: Georgia Tech. By 21.

The Baja Georgia Game: Florida State vs. Florida

Now that the 'Noles are bowl eligible for 27 straight years, Bobby Bowden's shut up the critics yet again. Greg Reid is an incredible defensive back/punt returner and could cause trouble for the Gators on Saturday. But really, this one's about Tim Tebow and running through a Florida State defense that's not a lot better than Florida International's.

Prediction: Good job you beat Maryland, Bobby, because you ain't beatin' the Gators, dadgummit! Florida by 28.

The "Go to Hell" Bowl: Alabama vs. Auburn

"Rammer Jammer Yellow Hammer Let's Go Alabama/ Go to Hell Alabama!" If anyone's dumb enough to get married in the State of Alabama this Friday, then don't expect many people to be attending. Even the groom. Or the bride. Or the priest. Game-wise, Mark Ingram and the Crimson Tide defense should shut down Auburn, but Auburn can pride themselves on a pretty good season.

Prediction: Alabama wins by 10 and starts chanting their version of the song. Which I'm not going to go into.

The "Hot Bowl": Arizona vs. Arizona State

We've renamed this epic desert classic because there's so much eye candy on show in this one. Arizona and Arizona State constantly battle each other to be Playboy's top party/co-ed/Pac-10/cheerleaders school (Arizona won the cheerleader battle last week, we'd like to note), and the Tempe-Phoenix-Scottsdale area is going to be jumping. We can't wait. Oh, and there's a football game on too, which has been great over the past few years.

Prediction: Arizona wins by seven in a classic.

The "Disappointing Bowl": Oklahoma State vs. Oklahoma

Both teams have been disappointing this year. The Sooners have been plagued by injury and horrible defense, while the Cowboys have been plagued by Dez Bryant and his ghost. The Sooners will be coming off an ass-handing by Texas Tech, while O-State has got to stop laughing and reload.

Prediction: Oklahoma State in a high-scoring, Oklahoma-style shootout.

The "Al Just Go" Bowl: Virginia Tech vs Virginia

If all things are right, this should be Al Groh's last game in charge of the Cavaliers after an undistinguished tenure. We don't see a lot of hope for his Virginia side - even if they are at home in front of the UVA hotties in Charlottesville, although if we're honest and thinking of Penn State's BCS chances, we're hoping for a UVA victory.

Prediction: Virginia Tech by 31.

The "Cockfight": Clemson vs. South Carolina

This deeply felt South Carolina rivalry is a throwdown every year—including the game where both sets of players brawled it out! South Carolina haven't been bad this year, but will they be able to deal with C.J. Spiller?

Prediction: South Carolina in a monster upset.

The "Hollywood Bowl": USC vs. UCLA

With USC on its knees, the time could not be riper for UCLA to score an upset on their Los Angeles neighbours. It's strange, because at the VFA we've hardly mentioned Rick Neuheisel's side this season apart from the (still laughing!) win over Tennessee this year.

Prediction: USC gets it done.

The "Hate Bowl": Missouri vs. Kansas

Missouri HATES Kansas, and Kansas HATES Missouri. Mark Mangino might be the inspiration , but a loss to the Jayhawks' biggest rival might be inspiration enough for the Jayhawks administration to boot Mangino's rotund behind out of Lawrence.

Prediction: Roll out, Mike. Missouri by 14.

The "Charlie Weis Bowl": Notre Dame vs. Stanford

No game will be more intriguing than this one, people. The Irish are on their knees. Jimmy Clausen was cold-cocked after the Irish lost to UConn. Charlie Weis will probably get fired on Monday.

Stanford needs to win to have any hope of a BCS/high Jan. 1 bowl/high ranking after losing "The Big Game" to California in a loss that was basically their fault. Toby Gerhart is the best running back in college football (we think he's better than Alabama's Mark Ingram), and Notre Dame is poor at stopping the run. Oh dear Charlie?

Prediction: Stanford wins by 10. And Charlie Weis hands in his notice. With a little shove from "Irish Universe."

And very quickly...Ole Miss will beat Mississippi State; BYU will win a tight one against Utah; Cincy will thrash Illinois; LSU will beat Arkansas in a track meet; North Carolina will win the battle of Tobacco Road against North Carolina State; and if Miami lost to South Florida we'd laugh, and then laugh some more.

If you didn't think Rammer was loud...

And the Auburn version:

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BCS Nightmare: Three Upsets That Will Devastate the System

Brian Nelson — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 02:42:55 -0500

Every year at this time the BCS hinges its hopes that the elite teams will distinguish themselves from the pack, creating clear, crisp champions and compelling match-ups. While controversy and calamity do cause a stir and drive a lot of intrigue to the College Football and the Bowls themselves, the BCS does not need to draw further attention and scrutiny to their ridiculous system. Thus far, it's already been a rough go for the BCS. Sure-fire teams that travel well and drive ratings such as USC, Notre Dame and Miami are likely out of the picture. It's very possible only one Big 12 team will participate in a BCS Bowl while two non-BCS teams TCU and Boise State could both enter. Not only would two non-AQ teams pose a ratings and possible ticket sales nightmare for the BCS, but the possibility that both could win could give congress the ammo it needs to take down the entire system. Assuming that the BCS is entirely about money, power, greed and control (I know that's a stretch, that could never be possible) these are three highly likely upsets that will devastate the BCS.

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ACC Predictions for Nov 28: Miami, UNC, VT, BC, Wake All Win

ACC SEC Blog — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 00:08:49 -0500

Before I get to the big games of the weekend where the ACC will take on the SEC, lets take a look at some of the undercard games in the conference.

Miami Hurricanes at South Florida Bulls
Saturday 3:30PM ET TV: ABC/ESPN

Line: Miami -1

An interesting note about this game is that it is off most boards; I had to dig to find a line on it.

Despite the close proximity, these teams will be meeting for just the second time ever on Saturday. Miami defeated USF in the only other meeting in 2005.

The Bulls have played much better at home this season, but those numbers are skewed with two contests coming against 1-AA competition early on.

Miami is playing better on both sides of the ball in their last three games after a brief mid season slump.

I like an improving Hurricanes run defense to slow down BJ Daniels and South Florida enough to gut out a win.

Miami Wins
Miami Covers -1

Virginia Tech Hokies at Virginia Cavaliers
Saturday 3:30PM ET TV: ABC/ESPN

Line: Va Tech -16

The swan song for Al Groh begins at 3:30 in Charlottesville when his Cavalier team takes on arch rival Virginia Tech. It is hard to imagine a scenario where the ninth year coach keeps his job unless he beats the Hokies for just the second time.

Now that I have basically told you I think Va Tech will win lets see if they will cover a pretty big spread of 16 points. Last season, UVA came into Blacksburg seven point underdogs and nearly pulled off the upset.

The problem this year is that UVA's offense and defense has gotten seemingly worse down the stretch.

Meanwhile, the Hokies have righted the ship on defense and have found a punishing offensive weapon in leading ACC rusher Ryan Williams.

I think the only way Virginia has a chance to keep this one close is to come out with something VT hasn't seen. Oh yeah, they did that last year with Vic Hall at QB.

Never mind, Virginia Tech rolls.

Virginia Tech Wins
Virginia Tech Covers -16

North Carolina Tar Heels at NC State Wolfpack
Saturday Noon ET TV: ESPN2

Line: UNC -5.5

The Tar Heels hope to break a two year losing streak against NC State, but continue their own streak of four straight wins. UNC has made an appearance back in some top 25 pools by pushing their record to 8-3.

Things could not be more opposite down the road in Raleigh where the Wolfpack are in a deep slide having lost six of their last seven.

The team that has won the rushing battle has won 16 of the last 17. This year the two are very close in rushing yards per game, but UNC has gotten better as the season has gone on while State has gotten worse.

Also, UNC's rush defense ranks at the top of the ACC allowing just 94 ypg on the ground.

I like North Carolina to exact revenge for the 31 point beat down they suffered last year by covering this 5.5 point spread.

North Carolina Wins
North Carolina Covers -5.5

Boston College Eagles at Maryland Terrapins
Saturday 3:30PM TV: ESPNU

Line: BC -6.5

Boston College hopes to stop their losing streak at one just like they have all year bouncing back after a loss. Maryland has not won since beating Atlantic Division champ Clemson back on October 3rd.

BC QB Dave Shinskie had a rough game last week, but just like his team he has bounced back the following week.

The Eagles don't have flashy statistics, but are winning by capitalizing on their opportunities. BC ranks second in the league in red zone offensive and defensive efficiency.

But I did see some improvement last week in Maryland who should have beaten FSU. And Boston College has not been the same team away from Chesnut Hill this season needing a late touchdown to over come Virginia for their only road win of the season.

I think BC pulls this one out, but closer than Vegas thinks.

Boston College Wins
Maryland Covers +6.5

Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Duke Blue Devils
Saturday Noon ET TV: Raycom

Line: WF -4.5

Wake looks for their 10th straight win in this series when they travel to Durham to face the Blue Devils. After a fast start by Duke standards, David Cutcliffe's club has dropped their past three and is out of bowl contention.

The Deacons have had some close calls against them this season losing five games by three points or less.

I think this game goes right down to the wire with two senior QBs wrapping up their careers in what amounts to a bowl game for both teams.

I like Wake to come out on top and finally win a close one.

Wake Forest Wins
Duke Covers +4.5

This article and many others is at The ACC & SEC Blog

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College Football's Unlucky Week 13?: Anything Goes in a Rivarly

David Hedlind — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 22:20:59 -0500

It’s week 13. Will 13 prove to be unlucky for some teams?

It’s Thanksgiving week. What will these teams have to be thankful for?

It’s rivalry week. Everything goes out the window when you are playing a rival.

Tuesday Nov. 24

Ball State at Western Michigan: It is already the second half. By the time this is published the game will likely be over. WMU is just trying not to have a losing season. Ball State just wants a W.

Thursday Nov. 26

Texas at Texas A&M: Texas is still undefeated and is trying to make the BCS National Championship game. A win here is the first step followed by the Big XII title game.

Friday Nov. 27

Temple at Ohio: The winner of this game goes to the MAC title game to represent the East. Temple has been the hot team and is undefeated in MAC play. Ohio only has one conference loss.

Illinois at Cincinnati: The Bearcats are undefeated and could lose here but still make a BCS bowl since it is out of conference. Winning against a Big Ten conference team will help the reputation and staying undefeated will keep the hopes of more than just any BCS bowl alive.

Alabama at Auburn: Alabama is undefeated and already playing in the SEC championship game, the winner of which people expect will play for the National Championship. Auburn would love to kill its rival's dreams by pulling the upset in the Iron Bowl.

Nebraska at Colorado: Nebraska is set to play for the Big XII title in another week and will use this as a momentum builder.

Pitt at West Virginia: Pitt still has a chance at the Big East title but first must battle through the Back Yard Brawl. Pitt will meet Cincinnati next week for no less than a share of the Big East.

Nevada at Boise State: Boise State still has a game after this one but this is basically for the WAC title. Both teams are undefeated in league play. Boise is still hoping to make the BCS.

Saturday Nov. 28

Wake Forest at Duke: Only real thing to say here is that if Duke wins it will be bowl eligible.

Clemson at South Carolina: Clemson is already headed for the ACC title game. South Carolina would love to take some of the wind out of Clemson’s sails.

Oklahoma State at Oklahoma: Oklahoma State could still make a BCS bowl but the Cowboys would definitely need a win here. Oklahoma simply wants to have a better season than just 6-6.

Southern Miss at East Carolina: The winner will play in the Conference USA championship game. The representative from the West is yet to be determined.

Arizona at Arizona State: Arizona is playing for bowl position and to show it can rebound from back to back losses with the last one being a draining emotional overtime loss.

Florida State at Florida: This rivalry has been pretty one sided in recent years with Florida winning and winning and winning. Florida still has National Championship hopes which, like in any rivalry, FSU would love to dash.

Miami at South Florida: USF already beat Florida State this season and would love to notch a win over Miami. The state’s big three is inching toward a big four.

Middle Tennessee at ULM: Did you know that if a conference is unable to fill all of its bowls then those bowls must take a 7-5 team before a 6-6 team no matter what? What does that mean? It means that if ULM wins it will be 7-5 and a bowl must take the Warhawks at large before teams like Arizona, UCLA, Tennessee, or South Carolina.

Utah at BYU: The Holy War doesn’t have the same luster as it has in the last few years when the conference and more were on the line. It will still be a big game for both teams, though, as it is for second place in the conference. The only game with two ranked teams this week.

Washington State at Washington: Another Sour Apple Cup game. Washington isn’t as bad as it was last season but the Huskies are still low in the Pac 10. Washington State is just as bad, maybe worse, as last season.

Troy at ULL: Same story as the ULM game. ULL is eligible and could steal a spot from a more prestigious name team if they can get another win.

Georgia at Georgia Tech: I don’t know what to say here since Georgia is having its worst year in, well, let's just say a long time. Georgia Tech on the other hand is rolling right along with a great year.

Notre Dame at Stanford: Notre Dame is not having the year the Irish expected and even with a win change is likely going to happen. Stanford is exceeding the expectations of most and change may happen due to the success.

UCLA at USC: I don’t even really know what they call this rivalry. The battle for LA? Simply for bragging rights and bowl position with no impact on the conference title.

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Charlie Weis and Al Groh - Pink Slips Ahead?: The VFA Week 12 Awards

Alex Ferguson — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:43:00 -0500

It's Thanksgiving out there people, and most of us are already thinking about turkey rather than football. Actually, that's not true...we're all thinking about turkey. AND football.

For Penn State Nation, the [add word here] 10-2 season is over, with the good hammerin' of Michigan State. Gosh we played well. Life is good at last. We'll take the Land Grant Trophy. Thanks, Staters!!

Anyway, here are some awards we are handin' out.

The Pink Slip Award for Hapless Coaching

1. Charlie Weis (Notre Dame): Cry all you want Charlie, it probably won't save your job. If you do stay another year, it'll be the greatest resurrection since (Touchdown) Jesus.

2. Al Groh (Virginia): Goodbye already!

3. Mark Mangino (Kansas): If the racist remarks are worse than they appear, then it won't matter what we think. Big man is going to get his butt kicked out of hippieville.

4. Mark Richt (Georgia): We know the fate of Georgia's defensive coordinator Willie Martinez, but after the Kentucky game, could we be saying goodbye to Richt in the shock firing of the year? If we do, you heard it here first!

5. Joe Paterno (Penn State): Just joking. Really—he'll leave when he wants to.

Games Of The Week

1. Oregon 44, Arizona 41: What an atmosphere and what a game. Oregon wasn't at its best, but it survived. Oh, but Arizona won the best cheerleader award. Sorry Ducks.

2. UConn 33, Notre Dame 30: It wasn't the win that moved us, it was the tears of both Weis and Randy Edsall. Football's about emotion, and regardless of the result, this was pretty emotional.

3. Ole Miss 25, LSU 23: Late LSU comeback fails. We're still exhausted watching this one.

4. Penn State 42, Michigan State 14: Because at last the Nittany Lions brought the wood out. A great performance on both sides of the ball.

5. Northwestern 33, Wisconsin 31: After getting their Big 10 hopes shredded last week, Wisconsin then loses to a loser-ish team (sorry Wildcats!). But we're all sad it's over.

Best Two-Tool Player in the Nation

1. CJ Spiller (Clemson): Can run, throw, and catch. The kid's the real deal.

2. Jordan Shipley (Texas): He might be 85, but his punt returns are second to none and we love his wide receiving skills.

3. Tim Tebow (Florida): He's Superman. He's Jesus. He's Florida's quarterback. His walking on water skills might be needed if the FSU game on Saturday is as wet as last week's.

The Unexpected Award for Stunning Results, Turnarounds and Events

1. Northwestern beating Wisconsin. Mike Kafka. Future Big Ten legend. You heard it here, er, third.

2. Cal beating Stanford. We know it's 'The Game' and all that, but after Stanford savaged Oregon AND USC, we expected Cal to take a beating. Maybe Jeff Tedford can coach.

3. Georgia blowing a monster lead and losing to Kentucky. It's not even getting funny now.

4. Florida State going bowling. Didn't expect this after a string of horrible performances. The last-ditch win over Maryland was exciting - but who holds hope for them against the GateShow? Not us!

And the Richard Fuld Award for Bad Management goes to....

1. LSU's Les Miles. A lot of Tigers fans want 17 seconds back.

2. Stanford's Jim Harbaugh. Going for it with three minutes to go. The throws from Andrew Luck - the so-called best quarterback in the Pac-10 - weren't much better. Both will have better days. But not on Week 12 of the 2009 season.

3. Georgia and it's defensive co-ordination team. Goodbye, and thanks for nothing.

4. Charlie Weis' defensive co-ordinators John Tenuta and Corwin Brown both deserve to be fired after the Irish's defensive efforts. Can't tackle a UConn running back? Not going to be easy against Toby Gerhardt of Stanford, either.

5. Rich Rodriguez. Should have pulled Tate Forcier earlier in the game. Four interceptions? We think Denard Robinson could have done better.

Congratulations to...

1. Connecticut's Randy Edsall: Finally gets a win for Jasper Howard, who passed away earlier in the season. Not a dry eye in the house.

2. The College Gameday guys: They finally picked a game that they would actually show. And boy, was it great. The "student shots" made you want to sign up and take another four years of college in Tuscon...Mama! I'm comin' home!

3. Nebraska (Big XII North Champs): The title's coming home to Lincoln. Children of the Corn, it's coming home!

4. Clemson (ACC Coastal Champs): We have to say that after the Georgia Tech game it all looked a little unlikely, but well done!

5. Florida and Alabama: Because one of you will end up in the National Championship. And one of you will end up in the Sugar Bowl. And you'll win both games.

Quote of the day

"Jordan Shipley had a senior day with Tommy Nobis," Rece Davis, College Football Final. We laughed anyway. By the way, CFF had a picture of Colt McCoy hugging his family on Senior Day. Did anyone else noticed that his mother is smoking hot? How did he come to look like such a, well, alien?

Wish we were...

In Tuscon last week for the Arizona game. Hot girls, lovely temperatures, and an atmosphere in Arizona Stadium that was to die for. We ask you to go to your recording of the U of A game and watch for the crowd shots in the fourth quarter for the reasons why.

And finally...

Best Cheerleaders

1. Arizona
2. Oregon
3. Ole Miss
4. Florida
5. Arizona State (We can't WAIT until the Arizona-Arizona State game)

Had this song in my head...

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Buying Out Ralph Friedgen Is No Small Bill for Maryland

Jarrett Carter — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:14:37 -0500

I wrote yesterday that Ralph Friedgen should remain the coach of the Maryland Terrapins football team because he’s brought more recruiting and positive coverage than any coach since the days of Bobby Ross.

While most would say his time as a game planner and motivator has worn thin, the invoice for his dismissal says otherwise:

A buyout of any sort—even in the form of a loan from the school’s endowment—would raise questions in the current economic climate, said former U.S. Rep. Tom McMillen, a member of the Board of Regents, which governs the University System of Maryland.

“As a normal practice we don’t get involved in the day-to-day,” said McMillen, a former Terrapins basketball star and NBA player. “But as a fiduciary, to take on a $4 million liability plus hiring a new coach? Given the economic times we’re in, there would have to be an awfully compelling case.”

Indeed, UMD would have a difficult time justifying to the Baltimore Sun and Washington Post why the State of Maryland has to shell out $4 million to buy out Friedgen, $1 million to get rid of his successor James Franklin, and somewhere between $2-4 million to name a suitable replacement.

If there’s anyone who should come under scrutiny for firing, it’s UMD athletic director Debbie Yow. Not because she’s done a particularly bad job, but because her two major money-making programs are annually under fan and media siege for questions about recruiting and how competitive Maryland should be, at least in the ACC.

Both Friedgen and Gary Williams, truth be told, should’ve been fired two years ago. Both were in the throes of underachievement, and both coaches had not legitimate explanation for the sudden downturn.

Sure, there would’ve been brushback from Terrapin Nation, but most fans would rather begin the rebuilding process than wonder every year about what could’ve been, and who they could’ve had besides Teflon Gary and Ralph.

So yeah, Ralph is staying for a while. His contract demands it. But if Maryland was smart, the school would recognize that the architect of these bulletproof contracts is slightly more expendable and consider cutting ties with Debbie Yow.

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Scout's Notebook: Offensive Review For Week 12

Wes Bunting — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 07:58:38 -0500

Observations and analysis from Week 12 of the college football season, including thoughts about some of the nation’s top offensive prospects.

Texas Tech offensive linemen don’t meet NFL standards

Brandon Carter, OG, 6-6, 344

AP Texas Tech OG Brandon Carter (76)

Please, make no mistake. I have nothing personal against Carter, the mammoth-sized guard from Texas Tech. I love the guy’s passion, and it’s obvious he enjoys playing the role of intimidator on the Red Raiders’ offense. However, Carter simply lacks the type of athleticism to hold up in space, and although he has the girth and power to anchor at the point of attack, he’s heavy-footed and is slow to slide his feet laterally in pass protection. He struggled mightily all game trying to match up with Oklahoma’s athletic defensive tackle tandem and gives up too much penetration inside. On top of that, he lacks a burst off the ball in the run game, seems content to lean on opposing blockers and doesn’t consistently drive his man out of the play. There’s no denying his size and power, but I can’t say I’ll grade him out any higher than a backup-type interior lineman.

Marlon Winn, OT, 6-5, 290

As I’ve stated in the past and still believe, if an offensive tackle lacks base strength, he will make every opposing defensive end he faces look like a good pass rusher. That’s exactly the case with Winn, who struggles to play with any kind of a pad level off the edge and consistently gets bullied at the point of attack. He was routinely rag-dolled in the pass game this weekend vs. Oklahoma and fails to bend his knees, sit into his stance and anchor on contact. He’s a decent athlete who can get his feet around defenders and seal in the run game. However, he lacks the type of power to hold his own at the next level and isn’t nearly ready to compete for an NFL roster spot.

Some size inside

Mike Iupati, Idaho, OG, 6-5, 330

AP Idaho OG Mike Iupati (77)

Believe it or not, if you want to see one of the most dominant offensive linemen in the country right now, you need to travel to Idaho. Offensive guard Mike Iupati is a massive interior lineman who not only has the ability to engulf opposing defenders at the point of attack; he’s also a gifted athlete in his own right. Iupati does a great job keeping his pad level down, generating impressive power as a run blocker, and can smoothly slide laterally in pass protection. He does a great job getting under the pads of opposing defenders and has been absolutely dominating for the most part this season. He isn’t the most technically sound lineman and isn’t quite the type of Velcro player you’d expect for a guy his size, but I can see him maturing quickly with good NFL coaching and nailing down a starting spot in the NFL early in his career.

John Jerry, Ole Miss, OG/RT, 6-5, 350

Ole Miss RB Dexter McCluster has been absolutely brilliant in recent weeks running the football effectively between the tackles and creating big plays once he reaches the second level. But none of McCluster’s success would be possible without the Rebels offensive line, especially the play of OG John Jerry. Jerry was absolutely dominant at times this weekend vs. LSU, not only sealing defenders away from the play but also consistently creating a great initial push off the ball and driving opponents down the field. His ability to routinely open up run lanes as an in-line blocker is one of the main reasons I think the guy is an ideal fit at offensive guard at the next level. However, he’s also shown an ability to play right tackle as well, and it wouldn’t surprise me to see him starting there at next level. Either way, Jerry looks like a Leonard Davis type of player to me and has the ability to be effective in both the run and pass game in the NFL.

Experiment paying off

One guy to keep an eye on as draft time approaches is Pittsburgh offensive guard John Malecki. Malecki is a former defensive tackle who made the switch to offensive guard in 2008 and ended up starting 13 games for the Panthers last season. Now in his second season of playing on the O-line, Malecki has shown quite an improvement from a year ago. He’s a bit undersized at 6-2, 285 pounds but showcases a good first step and plays a lot stronger than his frame indicates because of his ability to gain consistent leverage. He does a good job getting into blocks quickly and displays the type of nasty demeanor you would expect from a former defensive lineman. He still has a way to go and is far from a finished product, but Malecki has come a long way in two years and looks like a guy who could definitely draw some interest as a high-upside, developmental-type prospect.

AP North Carolina DT Marvin Austin met his match in Boston College C Matt Tennant.

Battle of the best

One matchup I really enjoyed breaking down was North Carolina defensive tackle Marvin Austin vs. Boston College center Matt Tennant. Austin had a good day, finishing with three tackles, 1½ tackles for loss and a sack, but for the most part, whenever he matched up with Tennant one on one inside, it was Tennant who was the victor. Austin looked more explosive off the line and did a great job initially getting into the body of Tennant, but, it was the taller, thinner Tennant who did a better job getting his hands under the pad level of Austin, anchoring in the run game and using his length to stay on his blocks through the play. Tennant wasn’t real powerful initially at the point, but he did a great job quickly gaining inside leverage and sealing Austin away from the ball. Plus, Tennant plays with a real mean streak and took pleasure working till the whistle and finishing his blocks. In what looked like a big test for Tennant, he faired quite well vs. the caliber of athlete he’ll be facing on a weekly basis in the NFL.

Follow me on Twitter: WesBunting

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