End of June Top 25 from ESPN + Notes
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The Ancient Enemy
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End of June Top 25 from ESPN + Notes
I unfortunately read Mark Schlabach's top 25 on ESPN.com, and he is apparently going to keep his foot on the stupidity throttle from seasons past. Sometimes I wonder how a few of these ESPN guys actually passed an interview process.
1. Georgia Bulldogs
Bulldogs coach Mark Richt has some lingering personnel issues as preseason camp approaches. Starting fullback Brannan Southerland, one of the country's best lead blockers, will miss the first five games with a foot injury. Possible starting defensive end Jeremy Lomax and offensive lineman Clint Boling have pending legal problems; Lomax was arrested on concealed weapons charges and Boling was charged with DUI. But QB Matthew Stafford and RB Knowshon Moreno keep the expectations high in Athens.
THE TRUTH: Their secondary is terrible. They play the toughest schedule in the country. And on top of that, they are not the best team in the nation even on paper during the preseason. Georgia has been getting tons of hype, and once again they will disappoint everyone.
2. Ohio State Buckeyes
Starting quarterback Todd Boeckman better stay healthy after backup Antonio Henton transferred to Division I-AA Georgia Southern. Henton's departure opens the door for highly regarded freshman Terrelle Pryor, who might be utilized like Florida's Tim Tebow was used as a freshman.
THE TRUTH: That's all he had to say about Ohio State? A back-up QB transfers, and all there is to talk about is the QB depth? How about the fact that they have a Heisman candidate running-back? Best WR's in the nation? 9 returning offensive starters, and the replacements are 1 lineman and a fullback? 9 defensive starters returning with the replacements being one LB and one DL? How about the fact that they have all-americans on both sides of the ball? This is the best team in the country going into 2008.
3. Oklahoma Sooners
Sooners coach Bob Stoops spent much of the spring talking to boosters about his team's 5-1 record in Big 12 championship games. But many OU boosters still want to know what went wrong in Oklahoma's 1-4 record in its past five bowl games. Oklahoma's players are reminded of their 48-28 loss to West Virginia in the Fiesta Bowl each time they walk into the school's football complex. A banner displays a quote from Mountaineers quarterback Patrick White, who said his team "wanted it more."
THE TRUTH: I agree that OU should be third.
4. USC Trojans
A video of USC assistant coach Brennan Carroll putting walk-ons through a tryout was yanked off YouTube after some viewers objected to the coach's foul language. Trojans coach Pete Carroll said the video was a spoof and his program was only trying to have fun. What's not funny: The NCAA is poking around alleged rules violations involving former Trojans basketball star O.J. Mayo -- and is still trying to get to the bottom of the Reggie Bush scandal.
THE TRUTH: 4th is a stretch, buddy. 4 starters return on offense: 2 underachieving WR's, a Guard, and FB. That's enough to get you 4th in the nation? On defense 7, return. This is a classic example of ranking teams based on media perception.
5. Florida Gators
Bad news for Florida's opponents: Speedy junior receiver Percy Harvin is ahead of schedule in his recovery from offseason heel surgery. Gators coach Urban Meyer believes his offense might be better than it was a year ago, when Florida led the SEC in scoring with 42.5 points per game. Just don't ask Meyer if quarterback Tim Tebow will run the football less often in 2008; that subject remains taboo in Gainesville.
THE TRUTH: How this team slips to 5 is beyond me. Only problem I see for FLA is another doggone RB issue. Can't a national powerhouse find a freaking RB? How long is this gonna go on? Meyer had better success with RB's at Utah and Bowling Green than he had at Florida! Looking at schedules, I'm guessing this team plays Ohio State for a national title.
6. Clemson Tigers
Tigers coach Tommy Bowden can begin feeling the pressure from his new $1.83 million contract. Clemson will try to win its first ACC title under Bowden without starting middle linebacker Cortney Vincent, who was dismissed from the team in May. Vincent started 12 of 13 games and had 68 tackles and seven tackles for loss. The Tigers will now be without their top four linebackers from last season.
THE TRUTH: I have no idea why the national media is so in love with this program, or this quarterback. Tommy Bowden received an insane contract extension, and there is never more of an example of getting rewarded for mediocrity. The world has been waiting for Clemson... and waiting... and waiting... and will continue to wait. Good thing we didn't hold our breaths. So let me get this straight: lost all 4 LB's, they have what is honestly the worst offensive line in the nation (14 sacks in spring game, to their own team), and they've shown nothing but let-downs during Bowden's tenure. Yet this team is in your top 10?
7. West Virginia Mountaineers
Mountaineers coach Bill Stewart dismissed safety Charles Pugh from the team following his arrest for allegedly using a stolen credit card. Pugh is the fourth West Virginia player -- and third potential defensive starter -- to be dismissed from the team by Stewart. Linebacker John Holmes and defensive lineman James Ingram were kicked off the team following their arrests for possession of marijuana. Stewart allowed former running back Jason Gwaltney to rejoin the team, but he won't be eligible to play during the 2008 season.
THE TRUTH: It is baffling how someone can type that and then rank a team in the top 10. They lost their best offensive player, and the reason this is worth mentioning is because they run a 3-player offense. They have 4 defensive starters returning. Rich Rodriguez took every member of the WVU staff with him to Michigan except ONE guy: new head coach Bill Stewart, who, objectively speaking, never rose any higher in 7 years than "position coach". They'll rebound, but not in 2008.
8. Texas Tech Red Raiders
The battle for the starting tailback job got a little thinner when Red Raiders coach Mike Leach suspended junior Kobey Lewis from the team for an unspecified violation of team rules. Lewis, who ran 50 times for 189 yards and two touchdowns in 2007, left spring practice in a four-player battle for the starting job. Shannon Woods, Baron Batch and Aaron Crawford will continue the competition during preseason camp. Safety Steven Harris, a special-teams standout, also was suspended for the 2008 season.
THE TRUTH: I like Tech a lot, but this is a big reach. They're another let-down team. I need to see the results before I magically think that this season is the one where they get it done.
9. Missouri Tigers
The defending Big 12 North champions started voluntary summer workouts a week earlier for the second year in a row. The Tigers are without junior receiver Danario Alexander, who caught 37 passes for 417 yards and two touchdowns last season. Alexander underwent surgery earlier this month to repair damage in his left knee. There is good news for Missouri coach Gary Pinkel. Tight end Chase Coffman is fully recovered from surgery to remove bone spurs from his ankle.
THE TRUTH: I don't like this coaching staff, I don't like Chase Daniel, I think this program is real overrated, but I guess 9th is a decent spot for them.
10. Auburn Tigers
New offensive coordinator Tony Franklin still hasn't settled on a starting quarterback, so offseason workouts will be very important for Chris Todd and Kodi Burns. Todd, a JC transfer, seems to have a better understanding of Franklin's spread offense, but he was plagued by shoulder problems during spring practice. Burns is a better runner, but Franklin wants to see more consistency from the sophomore.
THE TRUTH: It'll never make sense no matter how you spin it: new offensive coordinator with new system, new defensive coordinator with bad track record, new quarterback, brutal conference.
11. Texas Longhorns
Backup quarterback John Chiles will spend the summer trying to get a better grip of the offense. With the Longhorns trying to replace tailback Jamaal Charles, coach Mack Brown said he intends to use starting quarterback Colt McCoy and Chiles on offense. Look for Texas to be more creative on offense, incorporating some of the trick plays it used in a 52-34 victory over Arizona State in the Holiday Bowl.
THE TRUTH: Most underachieving and overrated program in the nation. Texas has become the new Michigan. The University of Texas should never have to use trick plays or incorporate MORE OF THEM into the offense. They have no backfield, a very inconsistent QB, no WR's, and this team might honestly lose 5 games.
12. LSU Tigers
All eyes are on LSU's quarterbacks this summer, after heir apparent Ryan Perrilloux was dismissed from the team during the spring. Tigers coach Les Miles hinted during speaking engagements this spring that junior Andrew Hatch, a Harvard transfer, might have the edge over redshirt freshman Jarrett Lee. Highly regarded freshman Jordan Jefferson joins the competition during preseason camp.
THE TRUTH: Probably going to be a rough one for LSU in 2008. They have 4 back on O, 5 on D, and they play in the toughest conference in football. 9 wins plus a bowl win might be realistic.
13. BYU Cougars
The Cougars have their sights set on a BCS bowl invitation, but they'll have to do it without top fullback Manase Tonga. The senior was ruled academically ineligible and will miss the 2008 season. Tonga ran for 305 yards and eight touchdowns and caught 27 passes for 248 yards last season. He also was a great lead blocker for Harvey Unga, who last year became the first BYU freshman to run for more than 1,000 yards in a season.
THE TRUTH: Should be a BCS buster. But they only have 3 guys returning on defense. Non-conference schedule has Washington and UCLA, and those should both be wins. Biggest game is Utah, again, last game of the year.
14. Tennessee Volunteers
New starting quarterback Jonathan Crompton is throwing again after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow in late April. Crompton and the Volunteers' returning receivers will need summer workouts to iron out the offense installed by new offensive coordinator Dave Clawson. The Vols are holding their collective breath while waiting to see if junior running back Montario Hardesty fully recovers from a stress fracture in his lower leg.
THE TRUTH: Eh, they're Tennessee, they'll hover around 15th.
15. Arizona State Sun Devils
Sun Devils coach Dennis Erickson said quarterback Rudy Carpenter has fully recovered after undergoing surgery on his right thumb following spring practice. Erickson said Carpenter is in better physical condition and showed better mobility. Michael Jones, the Sun Devils' most experienced receiver, was selected in the 29th round of the amateur baseball draft by the New York Yankees earlier this month.
THE TRUTH: I guess they're 15th, because they are better than the teams below them.
16. Wisconsin Badgers
Kansas State transfer Allan Evridge wasn't named the Badgers' starting quarterback after spring practice, but the fifth-year senior has the edge over less experienced candidates. Coach Bret Bielema hopes Evrdige will take control of the team during voluntary summer workouts, but junior Dustin Sherer remains in the hunt for the starting job. Sherer has spent three seasons in the Wisconsin program, attempting only three passes.
THE TRUTH: Here's another team everyone in the media salivates all over. Just like usual, they'll lose to everyone ranked ahead of them in the conference.
17. Kansas Jayhawks
Juco running back Jocques Crawford arrived in Lawrence for summer school and immediately turned heads. Crawford ran for nearly 2,000 yards and 19 touchdowns at Cisco (Texas) Junior College. The national JC player of the year is expected to share carries with junior Jake Sharp in the Jayhawks' spread offense this coming season.
THE TRUTH: I am not at all sold on this program.
18. Illinois Fighting Illini
Senior receiver Kyle Hudson, who caught 12 passes for 127 yards and one touchdown last season, will forgo his final season of eligibility. Hudson, a two-sport star, was selected by the Baltimore Orioles in the fourth round of the amateur baseball draft earlier this month.
THE TRUTH: The only thing worth talking about was an average WR who wants to play baseball? That kid wasn't even a starter. What should have been said was how the Illinois offense will continue to give Big ten teams fits for a few more seasons until the evolution is complete conference-wide.
19. Pittsburgh Panthers
Sophomore Maurice Williams, the Panthers' most impressive receiver during spring practice, has been ruled academically ineligible for the 2008 season. Williams, who caught five passes for 100 yards last season, was battling Oderick Turner for the starting split end job. Williams plans to remain in school and would have three seasons of eligibility remaining.
THE TRUTH: Nineteen is a reach to start a season. Who is the quarterback?
20. Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies are hoping redshirt freshman Darren Evans has a better summer than their previous starting tailback did. Evans, a former Indiana Mr. Football, emerged as the leading contender to start at tailback after Branden Ore was dismissed from the team. Evans had a slight edge over redshirt freshman Josh Oglesby after spring practice. Juniors Kenny Lewis Jr. and Jahre Cheeseman were sidelined by injuries during the spring.
THE TRUTH: This program is irrelevant. I guess they're 20th.
21. Oregon Ducks
Can Oregon's quarterback competition get any more crowded? The Ducks figure to have at least six players battling for the right to replace Dennis Dixon when preseason camp opens. Sophomore Nate Costa, who had knee surgery last fall, left spring practice as the favorite. Sophomore Justin Roper, who starred in the Sun Bowl victory over South Florida, is probably his closest competitor. Two freshmen -- Darron Thomas and Chris Harper -- enrolled at Oregon before spring drills, and JC transfer Jeremiah Masoli joins the battle this summer. Junior walk-on Cade Cooper also is competing for the job.
THE TRUTH: Purdue and Boise might actually beat this team in the non-conference games, but other than that they only have USC and ASU. Still though, this might be a 4-5 loss team.
22. Wake Forest Demon Deacons
How much have expectations changed in Winston-Salem, N.C.? The Demon Deacons are again considered to be ACC championship contenders after posting consecutive winning seasons, which included the 2006 ACC title. Since the ACC was formed in 1953, the Demon Deacons have never had three straight winning seasons.
THE TRUTH: No way in hell is this team in the top 25. Athlon has Baylor and Ole Miss pegged as guarantees for Wake Forest, and both of them will give the Deacons a huge run for their money. What helps is how wide-open the ACC is, but still, I just don't see them being the team who emerges.
23. Fresno State Bulldogs
The Bulldogs open the season at Rutgers on Sept. 1, but coach Pat Hill is calling the Sept. 13 home game against Wisconsin the biggest game in Bulldog Stadium history. With 16 starters back from a team that finished 9-4 in 2007, Fresno State is a popular choice to unseat Boise State and Hawaii in the WAC and contend for a spot in a BCS bowl game.
THE TRUTH: I'm taking them over Wisconsin in that game, and I really think we're going to see a Fresno team being unleashed this season. They are probably going to a BCS game.
24. Penn State Nittany Lions
Penn State's five senior captains vow the off-field problems that plagued the Nittany Lions before the 2007 season are a thing of the past. During a news conference in Happy Valley earlier this month, senior linebacker Sean Lee told reporters, "If you want to be on this team, you have to be with us. If not, get out." One thing that won't go away: speculation about 81-year-old coach Joe Paterno's future at Penn State.
THE TRUTH: Clemson loses 4 LB's and they are 8th. Penn State loses 2 (Sean Lee and Connor) and drop to 24th. 9 returning starters on defense, including the best d-line in the country. 8 starters return on offense, including the second best WR corps in the Big Ten, and a top 5 corps in the nation. Only real question mark is QB, and if Clark imporved his accuracy, this team might win 10 or 11 games. Still think OSU is out of reach on the road, and I figure they'll lose one to Illinois or Michigan State. Probably Michigan State.
25. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Athletic director Kevin White leaving Notre Dame for Duke might have been a sign of impending doom for the Fighting Irish, but NBC thought enough of their future to renew its TV contract another five years. Notre Dame returns 17 starters, including quarterback Jimmy Clausen. The Irish schedule includes four home games in the first five weeks of the season, and Charlie Weis might have the right mix to get Notre Dame back into a bowl game.
THE TRUTH: In perspective: Athlon has ND at 60, behind Cincinnati, UNC, Arizona, Tulsa, TCU, Miss State, UCONN, Houston, Georgia Tech, Kentucky, and East Carolina. I'm saying 6 losses, and if you want to consider it a "win" to get 6 tallies and a bowl berth after playing that garbage schedule, then you're a much more optimistic person than I'll ever be.
1. Georgia Bulldogs
Bulldogs coach Mark Richt has some lingering personnel issues as preseason camp approaches. Starting fullback Brannan Southerland, one of the country's best lead blockers, will miss the first five games with a foot injury. Possible starting defensive end Jeremy Lomax and offensive lineman Clint Boling have pending legal problems; Lomax was arrested on concealed weapons charges and Boling was charged with DUI. But QB Matthew Stafford and RB Knowshon Moreno keep the expectations high in Athens.
THE TRUTH: Their secondary is terrible. They play the toughest schedule in the country. And on top of that, they are not the best team in the nation even on paper during the preseason. Georgia has been getting tons of hype, and once again they will disappoint everyone.
2. Ohio State Buckeyes
Starting quarterback Todd Boeckman better stay healthy after backup Antonio Henton transferred to Division I-AA Georgia Southern. Henton's departure opens the door for highly regarded freshman Terrelle Pryor, who might be utilized like Florida's Tim Tebow was used as a freshman.
THE TRUTH: That's all he had to say about Ohio State? A back-up QB transfers, and all there is to talk about is the QB depth? How about the fact that they have a Heisman candidate running-back? Best WR's in the nation? 9 returning offensive starters, and the replacements are 1 lineman and a fullback? 9 defensive starters returning with the replacements being one LB and one DL? How about the fact that they have all-americans on both sides of the ball? This is the best team in the country going into 2008.
3. Oklahoma Sooners
Sooners coach Bob Stoops spent much of the spring talking to boosters about his team's 5-1 record in Big 12 championship games. But many OU boosters still want to know what went wrong in Oklahoma's 1-4 record in its past five bowl games. Oklahoma's players are reminded of their 48-28 loss to West Virginia in the Fiesta Bowl each time they walk into the school's football complex. A banner displays a quote from Mountaineers quarterback Patrick White, who said his team "wanted it more."
THE TRUTH: I agree that OU should be third.
4. USC Trojans
A video of USC assistant coach Brennan Carroll putting walk-ons through a tryout was yanked off YouTube after some viewers objected to the coach's foul language. Trojans coach Pete Carroll said the video was a spoof and his program was only trying to have fun. What's not funny: The NCAA is poking around alleged rules violations involving former Trojans basketball star O.J. Mayo -- and is still trying to get to the bottom of the Reggie Bush scandal.
THE TRUTH: 4th is a stretch, buddy. 4 starters return on offense: 2 underachieving WR's, a Guard, and FB. That's enough to get you 4th in the nation? On defense 7, return. This is a classic example of ranking teams based on media perception.
5. Florida Gators
Bad news for Florida's opponents: Speedy junior receiver Percy Harvin is ahead of schedule in his recovery from offseason heel surgery. Gators coach Urban Meyer believes his offense might be better than it was a year ago, when Florida led the SEC in scoring with 42.5 points per game. Just don't ask Meyer if quarterback Tim Tebow will run the football less often in 2008; that subject remains taboo in Gainesville.
THE TRUTH: How this team slips to 5 is beyond me. Only problem I see for FLA is another doggone RB issue. Can't a national powerhouse find a freaking RB? How long is this gonna go on? Meyer had better success with RB's at Utah and Bowling Green than he had at Florida! Looking at schedules, I'm guessing this team plays Ohio State for a national title.
6. Clemson Tigers
Tigers coach Tommy Bowden can begin feeling the pressure from his new $1.83 million contract. Clemson will try to win its first ACC title under Bowden without starting middle linebacker Cortney Vincent, who was dismissed from the team in May. Vincent started 12 of 13 games and had 68 tackles and seven tackles for loss. The Tigers will now be without their top four linebackers from last season.
THE TRUTH: I have no idea why the national media is so in love with this program, or this quarterback. Tommy Bowden received an insane contract extension, and there is never more of an example of getting rewarded for mediocrity. The world has been waiting for Clemson... and waiting... and waiting... and will continue to wait. Good thing we didn't hold our breaths. So let me get this straight: lost all 4 LB's, they have what is honestly the worst offensive line in the nation (14 sacks in spring game, to their own team), and they've shown nothing but let-downs during Bowden's tenure. Yet this team is in your top 10?
7. West Virginia Mountaineers
Mountaineers coach Bill Stewart dismissed safety Charles Pugh from the team following his arrest for allegedly using a stolen credit card. Pugh is the fourth West Virginia player -- and third potential defensive starter -- to be dismissed from the team by Stewart. Linebacker John Holmes and defensive lineman James Ingram were kicked off the team following their arrests for possession of marijuana. Stewart allowed former running back Jason Gwaltney to rejoin the team, but he won't be eligible to play during the 2008 season.
THE TRUTH: It is baffling how someone can type that and then rank a team in the top 10. They lost their best offensive player, and the reason this is worth mentioning is because they run a 3-player offense. They have 4 defensive starters returning. Rich Rodriguez took every member of the WVU staff with him to Michigan except ONE guy: new head coach Bill Stewart, who, objectively speaking, never rose any higher in 7 years than "position coach". They'll rebound, but not in 2008.
8. Texas Tech Red Raiders
The battle for the starting tailback job got a little thinner when Red Raiders coach Mike Leach suspended junior Kobey Lewis from the team for an unspecified violation of team rules. Lewis, who ran 50 times for 189 yards and two touchdowns in 2007, left spring practice in a four-player battle for the starting job. Shannon Woods, Baron Batch and Aaron Crawford will continue the competition during preseason camp. Safety Steven Harris, a special-teams standout, also was suspended for the 2008 season.
THE TRUTH: I like Tech a lot, but this is a big reach. They're another let-down team. I need to see the results before I magically think that this season is the one where they get it done.
9. Missouri Tigers
The defending Big 12 North champions started voluntary summer workouts a week earlier for the second year in a row. The Tigers are without junior receiver Danario Alexander, who caught 37 passes for 417 yards and two touchdowns last season. Alexander underwent surgery earlier this month to repair damage in his left knee. There is good news for Missouri coach Gary Pinkel. Tight end Chase Coffman is fully recovered from surgery to remove bone spurs from his ankle.
THE TRUTH: I don't like this coaching staff, I don't like Chase Daniel, I think this program is real overrated, but I guess 9th is a decent spot for them.
10. Auburn Tigers
New offensive coordinator Tony Franklin still hasn't settled on a starting quarterback, so offseason workouts will be very important for Chris Todd and Kodi Burns. Todd, a JC transfer, seems to have a better understanding of Franklin's spread offense, but he was plagued by shoulder problems during spring practice. Burns is a better runner, but Franklin wants to see more consistency from the sophomore.
THE TRUTH: It'll never make sense no matter how you spin it: new offensive coordinator with new system, new defensive coordinator with bad track record, new quarterback, brutal conference.
11. Texas Longhorns
Backup quarterback John Chiles will spend the summer trying to get a better grip of the offense. With the Longhorns trying to replace tailback Jamaal Charles, coach Mack Brown said he intends to use starting quarterback Colt McCoy and Chiles on offense. Look for Texas to be more creative on offense, incorporating some of the trick plays it used in a 52-34 victory over Arizona State in the Holiday Bowl.
THE TRUTH: Most underachieving and overrated program in the nation. Texas has become the new Michigan. The University of Texas should never have to use trick plays or incorporate MORE OF THEM into the offense. They have no backfield, a very inconsistent QB, no WR's, and this team might honestly lose 5 games.
12. LSU Tigers
All eyes are on LSU's quarterbacks this summer, after heir apparent Ryan Perrilloux was dismissed from the team during the spring. Tigers coach Les Miles hinted during speaking engagements this spring that junior Andrew Hatch, a Harvard transfer, might have the edge over redshirt freshman Jarrett Lee. Highly regarded freshman Jordan Jefferson joins the competition during preseason camp.
THE TRUTH: Probably going to be a rough one for LSU in 2008. They have 4 back on O, 5 on D, and they play in the toughest conference in football. 9 wins plus a bowl win might be realistic.
13. BYU Cougars
The Cougars have their sights set on a BCS bowl invitation, but they'll have to do it without top fullback Manase Tonga. The senior was ruled academically ineligible and will miss the 2008 season. Tonga ran for 305 yards and eight touchdowns and caught 27 passes for 248 yards last season. He also was a great lead blocker for Harvey Unga, who last year became the first BYU freshman to run for more than 1,000 yards in a season.
THE TRUTH: Should be a BCS buster. But they only have 3 guys returning on defense. Non-conference schedule has Washington and UCLA, and those should both be wins. Biggest game is Utah, again, last game of the year.
14. Tennessee Volunteers
New starting quarterback Jonathan Crompton is throwing again after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow in late April. Crompton and the Volunteers' returning receivers will need summer workouts to iron out the offense installed by new offensive coordinator Dave Clawson. The Vols are holding their collective breath while waiting to see if junior running back Montario Hardesty fully recovers from a stress fracture in his lower leg.
THE TRUTH: Eh, they're Tennessee, they'll hover around 15th.
15. Arizona State Sun Devils
Sun Devils coach Dennis Erickson said quarterback Rudy Carpenter has fully recovered after undergoing surgery on his right thumb following spring practice. Erickson said Carpenter is in better physical condition and showed better mobility. Michael Jones, the Sun Devils' most experienced receiver, was selected in the 29th round of the amateur baseball draft by the New York Yankees earlier this month.
THE TRUTH: I guess they're 15th, because they are better than the teams below them.
16. Wisconsin Badgers
Kansas State transfer Allan Evridge wasn't named the Badgers' starting quarterback after spring practice, but the fifth-year senior has the edge over less experienced candidates. Coach Bret Bielema hopes Evrdige will take control of the team during voluntary summer workouts, but junior Dustin Sherer remains in the hunt for the starting job. Sherer has spent three seasons in the Wisconsin program, attempting only three passes.
THE TRUTH: Here's another team everyone in the media salivates all over. Just like usual, they'll lose to everyone ranked ahead of them in the conference.
17. Kansas Jayhawks
Juco running back Jocques Crawford arrived in Lawrence for summer school and immediately turned heads. Crawford ran for nearly 2,000 yards and 19 touchdowns at Cisco (Texas) Junior College. The national JC player of the year is expected to share carries with junior Jake Sharp in the Jayhawks' spread offense this coming season.
THE TRUTH: I am not at all sold on this program.
18. Illinois Fighting Illini
Senior receiver Kyle Hudson, who caught 12 passes for 127 yards and one touchdown last season, will forgo his final season of eligibility. Hudson, a two-sport star, was selected by the Baltimore Orioles in the fourth round of the amateur baseball draft earlier this month.
THE TRUTH: The only thing worth talking about was an average WR who wants to play baseball? That kid wasn't even a starter. What should have been said was how the Illinois offense will continue to give Big ten teams fits for a few more seasons until the evolution is complete conference-wide.
19. Pittsburgh Panthers
Sophomore Maurice Williams, the Panthers' most impressive receiver during spring practice, has been ruled academically ineligible for the 2008 season. Williams, who caught five passes for 100 yards last season, was battling Oderick Turner for the starting split end job. Williams plans to remain in school and would have three seasons of eligibility remaining.
THE TRUTH: Nineteen is a reach to start a season. Who is the quarterback?
20. Virginia Tech Hokies
The Hokies are hoping redshirt freshman Darren Evans has a better summer than their previous starting tailback did. Evans, a former Indiana Mr. Football, emerged as the leading contender to start at tailback after Branden Ore was dismissed from the team. Evans had a slight edge over redshirt freshman Josh Oglesby after spring practice. Juniors Kenny Lewis Jr. and Jahre Cheeseman were sidelined by injuries during the spring.
THE TRUTH: This program is irrelevant. I guess they're 20th.
21. Oregon Ducks
Can Oregon's quarterback competition get any more crowded? The Ducks figure to have at least six players battling for the right to replace Dennis Dixon when preseason camp opens. Sophomore Nate Costa, who had knee surgery last fall, left spring practice as the favorite. Sophomore Justin Roper, who starred in the Sun Bowl victory over South Florida, is probably his closest competitor. Two freshmen -- Darron Thomas and Chris Harper -- enrolled at Oregon before spring drills, and JC transfer Jeremiah Masoli joins the battle this summer. Junior walk-on Cade Cooper also is competing for the job.
THE TRUTH: Purdue and Boise might actually beat this team in the non-conference games, but other than that they only have USC and ASU. Still though, this might be a 4-5 loss team.
22. Wake Forest Demon Deacons
How much have expectations changed in Winston-Salem, N.C.? The Demon Deacons are again considered to be ACC championship contenders after posting consecutive winning seasons, which included the 2006 ACC title. Since the ACC was formed in 1953, the Demon Deacons have never had three straight winning seasons.
THE TRUTH: No way in hell is this team in the top 25. Athlon has Baylor and Ole Miss pegged as guarantees for Wake Forest, and both of them will give the Deacons a huge run for their money. What helps is how wide-open the ACC is, but still, I just don't see them being the team who emerges.
23. Fresno State Bulldogs
The Bulldogs open the season at Rutgers on Sept. 1, but coach Pat Hill is calling the Sept. 13 home game against Wisconsin the biggest game in Bulldog Stadium history. With 16 starters back from a team that finished 9-4 in 2007, Fresno State is a popular choice to unseat Boise State and Hawaii in the WAC and contend for a spot in a BCS bowl game.
THE TRUTH: I'm taking them over Wisconsin in that game, and I really think we're going to see a Fresno team being unleashed this season. They are probably going to a BCS game.
24. Penn State Nittany Lions
Penn State's five senior captains vow the off-field problems that plagued the Nittany Lions before the 2007 season are a thing of the past. During a news conference in Happy Valley earlier this month, senior linebacker Sean Lee told reporters, "If you want to be on this team, you have to be with us. If not, get out." One thing that won't go away: speculation about 81-year-old coach Joe Paterno's future at Penn State.
THE TRUTH: Clemson loses 4 LB's and they are 8th. Penn State loses 2 (Sean Lee and Connor) and drop to 24th. 9 returning starters on defense, including the best d-line in the country. 8 starters return on offense, including the second best WR corps in the Big Ten, and a top 5 corps in the nation. Only real question mark is QB, and if Clark imporved his accuracy, this team might win 10 or 11 games. Still think OSU is out of reach on the road, and I figure they'll lose one to Illinois or Michigan State. Probably Michigan State.
25. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Athletic director Kevin White leaving Notre Dame for Duke might have been a sign of impending doom for the Fighting Irish, but NBC thought enough of their future to renew its TV contract another five years. Notre Dame returns 17 starters, including quarterback Jimmy Clausen. The Irish schedule includes four home games in the first five weeks of the season, and Charlie Weis might have the right mix to get Notre Dame back into a bowl game.
THE TRUTH: In perspective: Athlon has ND at 60, behind Cincinnati, UNC, Arizona, Tulsa, TCU, Miss State, UCONN, Houston, Georgia Tech, Kentucky, and East Carolina. I'm saying 6 losses, and if you want to consider it a "win" to get 6 tallies and a bowl berth after playing that garbage schedule, then you're a much more optimistic person than I'll ever be.
Last edited by The Ancient Enemy on September 20th, 2011, 12:34 am, edited 1 time in total.
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Re: End of June Top 25 from ESPN + Notes
Not sure how ESPN justifies placing teams where they do. For example they do not use how teams finished last year for justification of placing teams: ND is 25th , Pitt is 19th, and LSU is 12th. They also do not use talent returning to place teams for example: Wisconsin won 9 games and returns 17 yet still gets ranked 16th, Penn State won 9 also returns everything they need except a QB and DB and gets ranked 24th only one ahead of ND, also Wake and Oregon got absolutely nothing but yet find the Top 25. Not to mention a way, way overrated Kansas team. Also USC at 4 with no one returning. What has Clemson ever done, I could go on all day.
Last edited by abpk2903 on September 20th, 2011, 12:34 am, edited 1 time in total.
Re: End of June Top 25 from ESPN + Notes
ESPN also posted its "Bowl Predictions". Quite laughable this time of year, especially given how many #2 teams went down last year...
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/columns/s ... id=3458435
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/columns/s ... id=3458435
Last edited by frostlion on September 20th, 2011, 12:34 am, edited 1 time in total.
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deliverance
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Re: End of June Top 25 from ESPN + Notes
THE TRUTH: Most underachieving and overrated program in the nation. Texas has become the new Michigan. The University of Texas should never have to use trick plays or incorporate MORE OF THEM into the offense. They have no backfield, a very inconsistent QB, no WR's, and this team might honestly lose 5 games.
They won a National Championship in 2005. They have won at least 10 games for 7 years in a row. I do not know how that is underachieving? They need to use trick plays because they have John Chiles and would prefer that he doesn't transfer. He will have to be used as a WR to keep him around, which makes the use of trick plays necessary. No backfield? How closely do you follow Texas football? Yes, they lost Jamaal Charles, but he was an all or nothing back. Kind of like Fozy Whitaker, whom will be the #2 or #3 back this season. He has 4.4 speed just like Charles. A complete gamebreaker. I am sure you have never heard of him. The #1 back McGee also has 4.4 speed and more size than Fozy. Throw those two backs in with Ogbonnaya and that's a nice looking backfield. None are proven, but neither was Charles until last year. Just remember that. I agree that Colt is inconsistent, but he was also being mentioned as a Heisman winner as a Freshman until he was injured. Then he flopped last year, so inconsistent is correct on him. No WRs? They have multiple talented 4-star WRs. Shipley will have a break out year since he is finally healthy. They are missing the tall threat at WR unless they utilize a few freshman. If Malcolm Williams can become a threat this year, look out. After everything you said TAE, you pointed out some good question marks on Texas' team, but you obviously don't know enough about the team. On defense, Kindle will be back and healthy, so he should live up to his 5 star billing. Rumor down in Texas is that he is tearing the field up in 7 on 7 drills. He will fit nicely in Muschamp's defense. Now Texas is playing in the best conference in College Football this season, so I won't say that this is a 10 win team. They are definitely not a 5 loss team.
They won a National Championship in 2005. They have won at least 10 games for 7 years in a row. I do not know how that is underachieving? They need to use trick plays because they have John Chiles and would prefer that he doesn't transfer. He will have to be used as a WR to keep him around, which makes the use of trick plays necessary. No backfield? How closely do you follow Texas football? Yes, they lost Jamaal Charles, but he was an all or nothing back. Kind of like Fozy Whitaker, whom will be the #2 or #3 back this season. He has 4.4 speed just like Charles. A complete gamebreaker. I am sure you have never heard of him. The #1 back McGee also has 4.4 speed and more size than Fozy. Throw those two backs in with Ogbonnaya and that's a nice looking backfield. None are proven, but neither was Charles until last year. Just remember that. I agree that Colt is inconsistent, but he was also being mentioned as a Heisman winner as a Freshman until he was injured. Then he flopped last year, so inconsistent is correct on him. No WRs? They have multiple talented 4-star WRs. Shipley will have a break out year since he is finally healthy. They are missing the tall threat at WR unless they utilize a few freshman. If Malcolm Williams can become a threat this year, look out. After everything you said TAE, you pointed out some good question marks on Texas' team, but you obviously don't know enough about the team. On defense, Kindle will be back and healthy, so he should live up to his 5 star billing. Rumor down in Texas is that he is tearing the field up in 7 on 7 drills. He will fit nicely in Muschamp's defense. Now Texas is playing in the best conference in College Football this season, so I won't say that this is a 10 win team. They are definitely not a 5 loss team.
Last edited by deliverance on September 20th, 2011, 12:34 am, edited 1 time in total.
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The Ancient Enemy
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Re: End of June Top 25 from ESPN + Notes
Muschamp is an upgrade but UT is soft all over the field. They have the worst linebackers in the Big 12, O-line is real bad, 3/4 of a weak secondary must be replaced, no WR's, an inconsistent QB, a new RB, and play 9 bowl teams.
Here's games I see UT losing or should lose: OU, Missouri, Tech this year, Kansas, and probably Colorado. Oklahoma State is on everyone's list as a huge sleeper team, the A&M rivalry is well documented, and actually so is the Arkansas rivalry. You don't think this team can lose 5 games?
The University of Texas should never lose 1 game in a decade with the talent they have down here. Sure, they won the title in '05, how long was it before then? It'll probably be another 20+ years until they are close to winning another.
It's easy to get sucked into the trap, with your favorite teams. "If this guy does this, or this guy does that, then we can win the title." Well, Penn State probably has the best collective Line (o and d, together on one team) in the nation going into the season. So what is stopping me from saying that if Clark does well we can expect a BCS game?
Here's games I see UT losing or should lose: OU, Missouri, Tech this year, Kansas, and probably Colorado. Oklahoma State is on everyone's list as a huge sleeper team, the A&M rivalry is well documented, and actually so is the Arkansas rivalry. You don't think this team can lose 5 games?
The University of Texas should never lose 1 game in a decade with the talent they have down here. Sure, they won the title in '05, how long was it before then? It'll probably be another 20+ years until they are close to winning another.
It's easy to get sucked into the trap, with your favorite teams. "If this guy does this, or this guy does that, then we can win the title." Well, Penn State probably has the best collective Line (o and d, together on one team) in the nation going into the season. So what is stopping me from saying that if Clark does well we can expect a BCS game?
Last edited by The Ancient Enemy on September 20th, 2011, 12:34 am, edited 1 time in total.
"I can and will be hard anytime with or without my boyz!!!" - Hollywood
"Their jerseys make me want to run through the desert and tackle a terrorist." - nLions1
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deliverance
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Re: End of June Top 25 from ESPN + Notes
I'm not sucked into it because they are my favorite team. You said it yourself Texas shouldn't lose with the talent they have. Penn State doesn't quite get the same talent as Texas. Close, but not that close. Also, PSU's coach is just a little over the hill. The linebackers have been weak in years past. I am telling you wait until you see Kindle. You probably have never even heard of this 5-star linebacker that has been injured. Also, it matters what you have done for me lately. They won a National Title 3 years ago. I guess winning 10 games a year for 7 years means nothing? Who else has done that lately? Did you watch them play Arizona State in the bowl game last year? I can't imagine you did or you would not think their OL is "real bad". To think PSU is even close to being on the same level as Texas, you must be smoking some good stuff. I said nothing about winning a title. You are trashing a good team. If you want to make a wager on those 5 losses, I will be glad to take your money. Feel free to PM me. You can write the check now. I see you changed your opinion on the running back position from "no" running back to "new" running back. Yeah, two 4.4 running backs could be a little better than "no" running back. I will give them losses to OU and Missouri. Maybe a loss to Kansas. They lost to aTm the last two years. It won't happen again this season. Arkansas lost their team in Run DMC and Felix Jones. Oklahoma State is on everyone's list as a sleeper team because their coach is a man and he's 40. I agree Texas has a tough schedule, but 5 losses isn't going to happen. They play in a great conference, actually the best in College Football this year. I wish they could play in the Little 10 and win 11 games, but some conferences actually recruit well and play good football. Like I said if you would like to wager on this, let me know.
Last edited by deliverance on September 20th, 2011, 12:34 am, edited 1 time in total.
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The Ancient Enemy
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Re: End of June Top 25 from ESPN + Notes
I never heard of Kindle? I was the one who told YOU about Kindle, when he played at Wilson!
Feb. 2nd, 06:
I think Sergio Kindle is ****ing ridiculous, pardon my French. He's a machine. That kid will be in the NFL. He'll probably start ...
I don't know what the hell are you smoking with this Big 12 vs. Big 10 recruiting smack. Ohio State recruits better than virtually everybody on a yearly basis, and Michigan isn't really all that far behind. Over the past however many years, who in the Big 12 has consistently recruited better than Penn State other than Texas and Oklahoma? Michigan is already getting kids from Texas. The Oklahoma raids are probably making you cry yourself to sleep at night. When's the last time Texas got a kid from outside the state?
And I never once compared Texas and Penn State. What I said was that PSU has probably the best line, overall and combined, going into the 2008 season. All I asked was what is keeping me from saying PSU is a BCS team if Daryl Clark plays well?
There's a lot of "If's" on this Texas team, Deliverance. You're smart enough to know that. You have to remember that I see every Texas game every week, and I hear about UT all day long on the radio and from my amigos. Half the kids on that team I have seen play HS football. I know you're fired up for a new season, but look at it for what it is. Right now, this Texas team has got a lot of holes that need filled. They have a new coordinator, which is never an ultra-smooth transition, and usually takes a year or so.
When I said they were underachieving, I don't think that was an exaggeration. Take a look at their recruiting classes and then explain to me how this team doesn't finish every season in the top 3. This year, there's a good chance OU will be overrated per usual, and maybe Texas even ends up winning the South, but when I, right now in the preseason, look at the schedule and the question marks, this team is not winning 9 games. They legitimately might lose 5 or 6 games.
The thing that also is going to hurt UT is how every team in the Big 12 South should be good this year. Yes, even Baylor will be better.
And for those RB's, deliverance, you have to be able to block. They gave up 25 sacks last year. Obviously, they'll be at least a little better. But you can't go by a 1 bowl game as to how the team fares the next season.
One last thing, because we're going to have to just agree to disagree about this again. Texas A&M is going to be a lot better than you think!
Feb. 2nd, 06:
I think Sergio Kindle is ****ing ridiculous, pardon my French. He's a machine. That kid will be in the NFL. He'll probably start ...
I don't know what the hell are you smoking with this Big 12 vs. Big 10 recruiting smack. Ohio State recruits better than virtually everybody on a yearly basis, and Michigan isn't really all that far behind. Over the past however many years, who in the Big 12 has consistently recruited better than Penn State other than Texas and Oklahoma? Michigan is already getting kids from Texas. The Oklahoma raids are probably making you cry yourself to sleep at night. When's the last time Texas got a kid from outside the state?
And I never once compared Texas and Penn State. What I said was that PSU has probably the best line, overall and combined, going into the 2008 season. All I asked was what is keeping me from saying PSU is a BCS team if Daryl Clark plays well?
There's a lot of "If's" on this Texas team, Deliverance. You're smart enough to know that. You have to remember that I see every Texas game every week, and I hear about UT all day long on the radio and from my amigos. Half the kids on that team I have seen play HS football. I know you're fired up for a new season, but look at it for what it is. Right now, this Texas team has got a lot of holes that need filled. They have a new coordinator, which is never an ultra-smooth transition, and usually takes a year or so.
When I said they were underachieving, I don't think that was an exaggeration. Take a look at their recruiting classes and then explain to me how this team doesn't finish every season in the top 3. This year, there's a good chance OU will be overrated per usual, and maybe Texas even ends up winning the South, but when I, right now in the preseason, look at the schedule and the question marks, this team is not winning 9 games. They legitimately might lose 5 or 6 games.
The thing that also is going to hurt UT is how every team in the Big 12 South should be good this year. Yes, even Baylor will be better.
And for those RB's, deliverance, you have to be able to block. They gave up 25 sacks last year. Obviously, they'll be at least a little better. But you can't go by a 1 bowl game as to how the team fares the next season.
One last thing, because we're going to have to just agree to disagree about this again. Texas A&M is going to be a lot better than you think!
Last edited by The Ancient Enemy on September 20th, 2011, 12:34 am, edited 1 time in total.
"I can and will be hard anytime with or without my boyz!!!" - Hollywood
"Their jerseys make me want to run through the desert and tackle a terrorist." - nLions1
"Their jerseys make me want to run through the desert and tackle a terrorist." - nLions1
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deliverance
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Re: End of June Top 25 from ESPN + Notes
Ohio State does recruit well and always does. Tressell is a beast. Michigan lost all my respect when they hired Rodriguez. They are just another Little 10 school now. That hiring had to make the LIttle 10 fans smile and think there's an easier game. I know you see a lot of guys in Texas play. I respect that, TAE. I am just saying that you are wrong. I know the ifs are in a lot of places, but you said it yourself they should be at the top of College Football every year. They have 25 losses in the last 10 years. That's pretty good. Those were all the years Mack Brown has been there. I don't think you can say that's underachieving. 2.5 losses a season over 10 years is not underachieving. In fact, I do believe that is the best record in College Football over the last 10 years. One National Championship is nothing to brag about since a neighboring state LSU has two, but I'm not complaining. It was 35 years before that one, so you take what you can get. Oklahoma doesn't quite have the same raids that you are talking about lately. You have to remember these kids from Texas are growing up in the National Championship Era for Texas. If you look at the LSR Top 15, Texas has around 10 of them. I'll take 10 out of 15 of the top kids from the state. Shephard is in there and we didn't offer him as a QB, so of course we weren't getting him. The line will block. Trust me on this. That line cannot be as bad again. They have too much talent not to. I like arguing about this with you because you do have some information that I can appreciate. I can actually live with your prediction. I just think you're wrong. One last thing, what team finishes top 3 every season? USC has the best recruiting class every year and the best talent on their team every year based on Scouts and Rivals. It's not that easy. You have to actually go out and prove yourself. A perfect example that you will understand is Morelli. Also, Texas is starting to recruit OOS more than ever. I think it's up to 7 offers OOS right now. They may not get any of the recruits, but they are trying. Kirkpatrick and Kendall I believe are possiblities.
Last edited by deliverance on September 20th, 2011, 12:34 am, edited 1 time in total.
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The Ancient Enemy
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Re: End of June Top 25 from ESPN + Notes
The raids are as bad as ever, though. 5 of the top 9 kids in Texas in the 2008 class went to OU, including the 2 best. Of those other 4 kids, 1 went to OSU and one went to Stanford. Other two went to Texas.
2009, so far:
7 5-star kids. Number 1 to Clemson (dont ask me why), Number 2 to LSU, Cody Green is down to Nebraska and A&M (I'm saying A&M), 4 and 5 are going to Texas, McFarland is undecided and down to LSU, OU, and UT, Number 7 is also going to Texas. So of those 7 5-star players, 3 are committed to UT, 2 elsewhere, and I don't think McFarland is going to UT.
The Big 12 south, to me, is the the most interesting section of football this season. Someone has to lose those games, right? But who? Probably Baylor and Oklahoma State, but who knows. I think every team in this division will be better than they were last season. This A&M team has a lot of good players and had bad coaching. There's no doubt in my mind that Jorvorskie Lane is one of the very best RB's in college football, but they never used him properly. That offense was a joke. If A&M fixes some of those problems, they might just upset UT or OU. I'm excited about this division.
2009, so far:
7 5-star kids. Number 1 to Clemson (dont ask me why), Number 2 to LSU, Cody Green is down to Nebraska and A&M (I'm saying A&M), 4 and 5 are going to Texas, McFarland is undecided and down to LSU, OU, and UT, Number 7 is also going to Texas. So of those 7 5-star players, 3 are committed to UT, 2 elsewhere, and I don't think McFarland is going to UT.
The Big 12 south, to me, is the the most interesting section of football this season. Someone has to lose those games, right? But who? Probably Baylor and Oklahoma State, but who knows. I think every team in this division will be better than they were last season. This A&M team has a lot of good players and had bad coaching. There's no doubt in my mind that Jorvorskie Lane is one of the very best RB's in college football, but they never used him properly. That offense was a joke. If A&M fixes some of those problems, they might just upset UT or OU. I'm excited about this division.
Last edited by The Ancient Enemy on September 20th, 2011, 12:34 am, edited 1 time in total.
"I can and will be hard anytime with or without my boyz!!!" - Hollywood
"Their jerseys make me want to run through the desert and tackle a terrorist." - nLions1
"Their jerseys make me want to run through the desert and tackle a terrorist." - nLions1
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deliverance
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Re: End of June Top 25 from ESPN + Notes
As I said in my post on the PSU players, you use Scouts whereas I use Rivals. McFarland is #1 in Texas on Rivals. Gilbert is #2. I do think McFarland will go to LSU, but it's going to be a tough decision for him. Loston that committed to Clemson was not offered a scholarship by Texas. My guess was because of grades. On Rivals, Texas has received a commitment from 10 of the top 20 kids in the state. That's pretty good. Especially, when they are still in the running for the top overall kid in the state. I believe they did not even offer 5 out of the other 9. So, they were not exactly interested in the ones that did not end up committing. I agree that the Big 12 South is going to be a great division to watch this season. It's going to be a tough season for the Longhorns. I just think they find a way to at least get 9 wins. On Lane, I could not believe he didn't transfer. He was so upset during that Bowl game. I felt terrible for the kid. All this talk about College Football makes me want to watch some, so I am going to throw in the 2005 National Championship DVD until the Mets game comes on. Take care, TAE.
Last edited by deliverance on September 20th, 2011, 12:34 am, edited 1 time in total.