Wednesday, October 5, 2011
The Continuing Saga of Struggle
Gopher football head coach Jerry Kill took the podium today at his weekly press conference in attempt to explain the embarrassing 58-0 defeat his team suffered at the hand of the Michigan Wolverines Saturday in Ann Arbor. Watching the entire game this week was very tough, but you have to truly feel for what Coach Kill is attempting to do here. To put some things into perspective, many fans of the program thought that things couldn't get any worse after a terrible 2010 campaign under fire. Kill inherited an even more atrocious team that lost their 4 year starting quarterback Adam Weber and 4 starting lineman to graduation on top of that. Kill is not the type of guy to make excuses, so I will be the one to make them for him. First and foremost, the aftermath of the Tim Brewster era has not yet run its full course, which is typical for many collegiate teams who hire new coaches to turn around a program. In many circumstances, Tim Brewster can be considered the worst hire in the history of Minnesota sports. Going back four years to Brewster's first year with the program, he also had a terrible inaugural campaign going 1-11 overall and 0-8 against the Big Ten. As a recruiter, Brewster then began to lobby hard for players to join the turnaround movement at Minnesota, and he was clearly successful in this aspect. The problem with this was the fact that Brewster had no previous experience in the college coaching profession, which doomed him when he was clearly unable to "coach up" the higher end recruits he brought in. People may not credit Athletic Director Joel Maturi for improving anything here at the U, but one thing he did realize was his mistake in hiring Brewster, and he went out and hired the guy who could do what Brewster couldn't. Our current head coach Jerry Kill is known for his ability to get the most out of his players, even when the odds are stacked against them. One thing that I have not seen out of Jerry Kill that separates him from that Brewster guy has to do with the fact that Jerry Kill never stops coaching. For example, not once did I see Brewster confront a player for a mistake he made on the field in attempt to provide a teaching moment. Not once did I see Brewster address the whole team immediately after a bad half of play, in order to establish some control over the situation. These are the things that give me hope for the near future, but patience may be the main key to that point. Although Jerry Kill still has to make due with the lackluster players he was left with at the close of the Brewster era, he knows that the greatest lessons come in defeat. The panic will continue to grow as the Gophers make their way through a difficult Big Ten schedule, but I assure you one thing, Jerry Kill will not stop coaching. Things have to get worse before they can ultimately get better, but we may have just hit rock bottom this week against Michigan. Those who criticize Kill for what has happened thus far in the young season are ignorant and simply placing the blame on the wrong person. I am impatient myself at times when I get cheered out of my own stadium by a herd of NDSU Bison fans after a road win, but the level of impatience that lives in the fans of Minnesota is simply disheartening. I realize it is disappointing to see the millions of dollars poured into a program that is falling faster than a California landslide, but the uniform fall and rise of college programs cannot be avoided, the Gophers are no exception. So in terms of the outlook going forward this season, be smart and ignore the losses and margin of victory by the opposing team, because that will only produce a negative feeling. Instead, look deeper than the box score and highlight the positives going forward. As Kill said himself, at one time on Saturday, 8 Freshman were on the field. These are Kill's newest guys that are gaining valuable experience and playing time that can only benefit the team as a whole. Even Jerry Kill himself realizes the situation at hand, "We have an empty roster. Young players, that's all we have." Teaching those young guys how to play tough and ultimately win is Jerry Kill's forte, but the unfair pressure that comes from impatience should not be the reason for doubt in this man. In perspective, Gopher football is attempting to make a very wide U-turn, we have a brand new driver with tons of experience with these situations, but the main problem comes in dealing with all of the other aspects working against this drastic change. The current state of the program can be found in the middle of the intersection, simply waiting for the opportunity to make the 180 degree turn toward success.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Injury Plagued Mauer (leaves huge decision)
Yesterday afternoon, Twins superstar catcher Joe Mauer met with a specialist at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, where the team started a series last night against the Orioles. Mauer met with the same doctor who worked and treated his inflamed sacroiliac joint in 2009. This exam is publicly being considered an annual follow-up appointment for that repaired joint, but it also comes at a time when Mauer finds himself ailing from a bi-lateral leg weakness. Mauer himself doesn't think that the two injuries are related in any way, which could come as a huge concern for Twins fans hoping for a quick return. Exam results will be know soon enough.
This meeting warrants many other questions surrounding our $184 million dollar investment. Maybe Joe Mauer should consider changing positions? How much longer can Joe Mauer catch? With Mauer only 2.5 weeks into his 8-year historic contract, what can we expect from our huge out-standing paycheck?
8 years is a very long time for the Twins to worry about harnessing the talents of their hometown hero. Mauer sacrificed millions to remain in Minnesota, so the Twins should do the same to protect Mauer, right? For the organization, this could mean moving Mauer into a less strenuous position on the field, or making him a permanent designated hitter, which would present many other problems that I won't delve into. The Twins will attempt to get the most that they can out of their large investment, and all that remains to be had is time. So just how long can Joe Mauer remain a catcher? Recent events would suggest that his time as a catcher should have been cut short as soon as he stepped foot into the big leagues, but the Twins refused to learn from previous examples, and allowed Mauer to suffer from injury. Mauer's bat is the most important asset to the Twins organization at this point in time, and it does not make matters any better, when he is seeking opinions from doctors instead of stepping up to the plate. The biggest contract signed by a catcher in the history of professional baseball immediately called for a bit of caution, the second largest to be signed behind that one guy who plays 3rd base for the Damn Yankees. In my opinion, this is one of those things that must keep manager Ron Gardenhire up late at night, other than the thought of having to decide who to pitch in the 9th inning these days.
I can speak for the entire organization when I say that Joe Mauer should not be playing catcher, every fan knows this. The issue lies in what Joe Mauer wants to do, which is different from what he should do. When will the time come when he realizes what the Twins have been thinking ever since he touched pen to paper. It is obvious that Joe Mauer is able to catch and bat at an outstanding frequency, we have seen that before, but the real question is whether Joe can keep those games coming for the next eight years. If this happens, there is no question that he is worth every penny of that $184 million, but I have a feeling it may be a bit more complicated than that. If Mauer remains physically up to catching the majority of games for the next eights years, then I have no problem with the Twins logic behind his contract, but the odds of him stepping up to that task are not leaning in his favor.
This meeting warrants many other questions surrounding our $184 million dollar investment. Maybe Joe Mauer should consider changing positions? How much longer can Joe Mauer catch? With Mauer only 2.5 weeks into his 8-year historic contract, what can we expect from our huge out-standing paycheck?
8 years is a very long time for the Twins to worry about harnessing the talents of their hometown hero. Mauer sacrificed millions to remain in Minnesota, so the Twins should do the same to protect Mauer, right? For the organization, this could mean moving Mauer into a less strenuous position on the field, or making him a permanent designated hitter, which would present many other problems that I won't delve into. The Twins will attempt to get the most that they can out of their large investment, and all that remains to be had is time. So just how long can Joe Mauer remain a catcher? Recent events would suggest that his time as a catcher should have been cut short as soon as he stepped foot into the big leagues, but the Twins refused to learn from previous examples, and allowed Mauer to suffer from injury. Mauer's bat is the most important asset to the Twins organization at this point in time, and it does not make matters any better, when he is seeking opinions from doctors instead of stepping up to the plate. The biggest contract signed by a catcher in the history of professional baseball immediately called for a bit of caution, the second largest to be signed behind that one guy who plays 3rd base for the Damn Yankees. In my opinion, this is one of those things that must keep manager Ron Gardenhire up late at night, other than the thought of having to decide who to pitch in the 9th inning these days.
I can speak for the entire organization when I say that Joe Mauer should not be playing catcher, every fan knows this. The issue lies in what Joe Mauer wants to do, which is different from what he should do. When will the time come when he realizes what the Twins have been thinking ever since he touched pen to paper. It is obvious that Joe Mauer is able to catch and bat at an outstanding frequency, we have seen that before, but the real question is whether Joe can keep those games coming for the next eight years. If this happens, there is no question that he is worth every penny of that $184 million, but I have a feeling it may be a bit more complicated than that. If Mauer remains physically up to catching the majority of games for the next eights years, then I have no problem with the Twins logic behind his contract, but the odds of him stepping up to that task are not leaning in his favor.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Bracket Madness
Hello everyone, and welcome to the Lukas Peterson Bracket Selection Special. You're probably reading this for one of two reasons: either you need help making selections on your tournament bracket, or you plan on laughing in my face when none of my picks pan out in the end. Whichever excuse it may be, I am proud to bring you my picks for the round of 64 during all of this March Madness. Going through each region, I will present to you my winners and an explanation as to why I feel that way. Before I begin, I would like to point out that by no means am I a so called bracketologist, but I spend way too much time watching college basketball to not give my opinion to my followers. My overall thesis for this tournament is simple: Ohio State is the best team in the tournament, after that, it is about making your bracket unique from others and hoping that those picks work out for you. So with that, let us begin this crazy journey....
East Region:
1 Ohio State vs. 16 TBD- The real question here isn't whether Ohio State will lose to either of the two possible opponents in their first round game, it has to do with how impressive the #1 overall seed performs and impresses their supporters. In my opinion, Ohio State got shafted with the most difficult bracket possible, but they are the best team in the tournament and my eventual champion.
8 George Mason vs. 9 Villanova- At one point in the season, George Mason won 16 in a row, while Villanova has fallen off the map and has no momentum coming into the tournament. I like George Mason in this one.
5 West Virginia vs. 12 Clemson- Clemson looked like a team that belongs last night in their First Four game against UAB. I feel like the Tigers have a real shot against over-seeded West Virginia, even though they will be playing two games in under 48 hours. My first upset pick is the Tigers over West Virginia.
4 Kentucky vs. 13 Princeton- Princeton won their automatic bid by beating Harvard on a last second shot in the Ivy League Championship. I don't see any sort of heroics happening for the Tigers in this game. Kentucky worked their way through the SEC Tournament impressively, and dismantled Florida in the championship game. I feel as though the Wildcats are destined for a date with Ohio State in the Sweet 16, so give me Kentucky in this one.
6 Xavier vs. 11 Marquette- A trendy upset pick so far, but I feel the opposite. The Big East was very strong this season, claiming 11 bids in the tournament, but Marquette is not one of the stronger representatives. Tu Holloway of Xavier is a wonderful talent, and Xavier as a team played well in the surprisingly good Atlantic 10 this season. I like Xavier's athletes more in this matchup.
3 Syracuse vs. 14 Indiana State- Many people filling out brackets nowadays look for the most vulnerable 3 seed to go down in their first game, but Syracuse is not that team. I like the Orange, and it shouldn't be close.
7 Washington vs. 10 Georgia- Washington is primed for a tourney run for a few reasons: they won 2 games in the tournament last year, and they are champions of the Pac-10 tournament. Having momentum going into the tournament will help teams like the Huskies. I like Washington to advance.
2 North Carolina vs. 15 Long Island- The Tar Heels have improved greatly over the course of this season, Harrison Barnes is finally playing like an All-American, and they will win their opening game of the tournament.
West Region:
1 Duke vs. 16 Hampton- Duke won the ACC Tournament, they may be getting Kyrie Irving back, and they are the defending champion. Sorry Hampton, your season ends here.
8 Michigan vs. 9 Tennessee- My Volunteers have looked great at times this season, and also looked downright awful, but I like them here because Michigan has never looked anything other than mediocre in the Big Ten. Give me the Vols.
5 Arizona vs. 12 Memphis- Not used to seeing Memphis as a lower seed, but they do make a strong 12 seed. Memphis isn't what they used to be, so I will take the Pac-10 regular season champs in Arizona.
4 Texas vs. 13 Oakland- Not only was Texas badly under-seeded, but they were given a matchup with one of the strongest 13 seeds I have ever seen in Oakland. Oakland has a legitimate NBA prospect in Keith Benson, but I really like Texas in a tournament setting with all of their talent. It will be a good game, but I think the Longhorns survive.
6 Cincinnati vs. 11 Missouri- Cincinnati is another one of those mediocre Big East teams that I feel are over-seeded at a 6. Missouri was a ranked team for much of the season, and they like to get out and run the court. I like Missouri in a mild upset.
3 UConn vs. 14 Bucknell- Kemba Walker has been my player of the year for a while now, and he only helped his case with stellar performances at MSG, but how will 5 games in 5 days affect the Huskies? It won't affect them enough to make a difference in this round. UConn advances.
7 Temple vs. 10 Penn State- Not the most exciting matchup, but I like what I have seen from Penn State all season, because they have Talor Battle and they can shoot the lights out when they need to. I have the Nittany Lions advancing.
2 San Diego State vs. 15 No. Colorado- The Aztecs are part of an elite group, a higher seed from a non-power conference. Between them and their battles with BYU during the regular season, we really have no idea what they are made of. I know that they are made of enough to get by Northern Colorado, advance the Aztecs.
Southwest Region:
1 Kansas vs. 16 Boston U- I think Kansas is the second best team in the tournament, and they have an array of talent around the twins, Marcus and Markeef Morris. Jayhawks breeze by in their first game.
8 UNLV vs. 9 Illinois- UNLV has tournament experience and also has had their share of challenges in the Mountain West this year, while Illinois doesn't impress me in the least. Like I said before with Michigan, Illinois is a power conference team that just doesn't have it in my eyes.
5 Vanderbilt vs. 12 Richmond- Those who know me, know that I am skeptical about the SEC as a basketball conference. This is a matchup of an over-seeded SEC team against one of my sleepers in the mid-major category, Richmond. Vandy doesn't have a great history with powerful sleepers, which is why I see the Richmond Spiders advancing.
4 Louisville vs. 13 Morehead State- Louisville has largely overachieved this season in the Big East, and I feel that Morehead State presents a tricky test for the Cardinals, but Louisville will play well enough to slide by Morehead.
6 Georgetown vs. 11 USC/VCU- The two 11 seeds play each other tonight in Dayton, but many feel that USC will advance from that mismatch. Georgetown is another streaky Big East team that has struggled without Chris Wright, but I feel that they are superior to either USC or VCU, whether they have Chris Wright or not. I am taking the Hoyas.
3 Purdue vs. 14 St. Peter's- Purdue has a very rare situation in college basketball these days, their two best players are also their undeniable Senior leaders, who provide a large amount of their team's points. E'twaun Moore and Jajuan Johnson will boost Purdue in the tournament, simply because they don't want their college careers to end, which is why Purdue will beat St. Peter's.
7 Texas A&M vs. 10 Florida St.- Two teams that play defense will present an interesting outcome. Florida State is banking on the return of their scoring leader Chris Singleton, while A&M doesn't shoot well at all. I would rather have the Aggies though because they aren't depending on a return from injury.
2 Notre Dame vs. 15 Akron- Notre Dame has flown under the radar of the nation all year, but these guys play like a team, and don't depend on one guy. When they do need a shot, Ben Hansbrough will play that role. They shouldn't have a problem with the Zips.
Southeast Region:
1 Pittsburgh vs. 16 UNC Asheville- This region will give you headaches, and could be the key to winning your whole pool. Top seed Pittsburgh survived the Big East as best they could, which is why they find themselves as a 1. Past tournament troubles are what make others question their performance, but they will have no problem here. Panthers advance.
8 Butler vs. 9 Old Dominion- Butler is tested, and almost played Cinderella all the way to a championship last year. The Bulldogs will take care of a pesky Old Dominion team in a very close affair.
5 Kansas State vs. 12 Utah State- A trendy upset pick in Utah State, but I think that Kansas State will find some magic that they didn't have early in the season, when they opened the season ranked 3rd in the country. Jacob Pullen is the guy that does it for K-State, and he will not say die. Kansas State pushes forward.
4 Wisconsin vs. 13 Belmont- Belmont has only lost 4 times all year, which makes you wonder why they are a 13 seed, while Wisconsin scored 33 points in their previous game. I feel like teams that shoot the 3 well, find their stroke in the tournament, which is why I think Belmont pulls the upset against the Badgers. I also should mention that I HATE the Badgers.
6 St. Johns vs. 11 Gonzaga- The Johnnies have seemed to me like a very tough team throughout the season, even though they lost a key piece recently. Gonzaga isn't the Gonzaga of old, which is why I think St. John's will advance.
3 BYU vs. 14 Wofford- Many say that BYU isn't the same team after losing Brandon Davies to violations, but the thing for me is that they still have Jimmer Fredette. They will not lose to a mediocre Wofford Terrier team in the first round, not with the Senior leadership of Jimmer Fredette.
7 UCLA vs. 10 Michigan State- Izzo wins tournament games, and although his team hasn't looked the same this year, they are playing their best basketball at the right time. Kalin Lucas will put his stamp on the tournament before his team loses, I don't think he will let UCLA end his career. I like Sparty.
2 Florida vs. 15 UC Santa Barbara- My disliking for SEC teams is much debated, but Florida got a very easy draw by being selected as the 2 seed in the Southeast. They should not be a 2 seed at all, and their position will help them advance farther than they should, but they shouldn't have much problem with UCSB.
East Region:
1 Ohio State vs. 16 TBD- The real question here isn't whether Ohio State will lose to either of the two possible opponents in their first round game, it has to do with how impressive the #1 overall seed performs and impresses their supporters. In my opinion, Ohio State got shafted with the most difficult bracket possible, but they are the best team in the tournament and my eventual champion.
8 George Mason vs. 9 Villanova- At one point in the season, George Mason won 16 in a row, while Villanova has fallen off the map and has no momentum coming into the tournament. I like George Mason in this one.
5 West Virginia vs. 12 Clemson- Clemson looked like a team that belongs last night in their First Four game against UAB. I feel like the Tigers have a real shot against over-seeded West Virginia, even though they will be playing two games in under 48 hours. My first upset pick is the Tigers over West Virginia.
4 Kentucky vs. 13 Princeton- Princeton won their automatic bid by beating Harvard on a last second shot in the Ivy League Championship. I don't see any sort of heroics happening for the Tigers in this game. Kentucky worked their way through the SEC Tournament impressively, and dismantled Florida in the championship game. I feel as though the Wildcats are destined for a date with Ohio State in the Sweet 16, so give me Kentucky in this one.
6 Xavier vs. 11 Marquette- A trendy upset pick so far, but I feel the opposite. The Big East was very strong this season, claiming 11 bids in the tournament, but Marquette is not one of the stronger representatives. Tu Holloway of Xavier is a wonderful talent, and Xavier as a team played well in the surprisingly good Atlantic 10 this season. I like Xavier's athletes more in this matchup.
3 Syracuse vs. 14 Indiana State- Many people filling out brackets nowadays look for the most vulnerable 3 seed to go down in their first game, but Syracuse is not that team. I like the Orange, and it shouldn't be close.
7 Washington vs. 10 Georgia- Washington is primed for a tourney run for a few reasons: they won 2 games in the tournament last year, and they are champions of the Pac-10 tournament. Having momentum going into the tournament will help teams like the Huskies. I like Washington to advance.
2 North Carolina vs. 15 Long Island- The Tar Heels have improved greatly over the course of this season, Harrison Barnes is finally playing like an All-American, and they will win their opening game of the tournament.
West Region:
1 Duke vs. 16 Hampton- Duke won the ACC Tournament, they may be getting Kyrie Irving back, and they are the defending champion. Sorry Hampton, your season ends here.
8 Michigan vs. 9 Tennessee- My Volunteers have looked great at times this season, and also looked downright awful, but I like them here because Michigan has never looked anything other than mediocre in the Big Ten. Give me the Vols.
5 Arizona vs. 12 Memphis- Not used to seeing Memphis as a lower seed, but they do make a strong 12 seed. Memphis isn't what they used to be, so I will take the Pac-10 regular season champs in Arizona.
4 Texas vs. 13 Oakland- Not only was Texas badly under-seeded, but they were given a matchup with one of the strongest 13 seeds I have ever seen in Oakland. Oakland has a legitimate NBA prospect in Keith Benson, but I really like Texas in a tournament setting with all of their talent. It will be a good game, but I think the Longhorns survive.
6 Cincinnati vs. 11 Missouri- Cincinnati is another one of those mediocre Big East teams that I feel are over-seeded at a 6. Missouri was a ranked team for much of the season, and they like to get out and run the court. I like Missouri in a mild upset.
3 UConn vs. 14 Bucknell- Kemba Walker has been my player of the year for a while now, and he only helped his case with stellar performances at MSG, but how will 5 games in 5 days affect the Huskies? It won't affect them enough to make a difference in this round. UConn advances.
7 Temple vs. 10 Penn State- Not the most exciting matchup, but I like what I have seen from Penn State all season, because they have Talor Battle and they can shoot the lights out when they need to. I have the Nittany Lions advancing.
2 San Diego State vs. 15 No. Colorado- The Aztecs are part of an elite group, a higher seed from a non-power conference. Between them and their battles with BYU during the regular season, we really have no idea what they are made of. I know that they are made of enough to get by Northern Colorado, advance the Aztecs.
Southwest Region:
1 Kansas vs. 16 Boston U- I think Kansas is the second best team in the tournament, and they have an array of talent around the twins, Marcus and Markeef Morris. Jayhawks breeze by in their first game.
8 UNLV vs. 9 Illinois- UNLV has tournament experience and also has had their share of challenges in the Mountain West this year, while Illinois doesn't impress me in the least. Like I said before with Michigan, Illinois is a power conference team that just doesn't have it in my eyes.
5 Vanderbilt vs. 12 Richmond- Those who know me, know that I am skeptical about the SEC as a basketball conference. This is a matchup of an over-seeded SEC team against one of my sleepers in the mid-major category, Richmond. Vandy doesn't have a great history with powerful sleepers, which is why I see the Richmond Spiders advancing.
4 Louisville vs. 13 Morehead State- Louisville has largely overachieved this season in the Big East, and I feel that Morehead State presents a tricky test for the Cardinals, but Louisville will play well enough to slide by Morehead.
6 Georgetown vs. 11 USC/VCU- The two 11 seeds play each other tonight in Dayton, but many feel that USC will advance from that mismatch. Georgetown is another streaky Big East team that has struggled without Chris Wright, but I feel that they are superior to either USC or VCU, whether they have Chris Wright or not. I am taking the Hoyas.
3 Purdue vs. 14 St. Peter's- Purdue has a very rare situation in college basketball these days, their two best players are also their undeniable Senior leaders, who provide a large amount of their team's points. E'twaun Moore and Jajuan Johnson will boost Purdue in the tournament, simply because they don't want their college careers to end, which is why Purdue will beat St. Peter's.
7 Texas A&M vs. 10 Florida St.- Two teams that play defense will present an interesting outcome. Florida State is banking on the return of their scoring leader Chris Singleton, while A&M doesn't shoot well at all. I would rather have the Aggies though because they aren't depending on a return from injury.
2 Notre Dame vs. 15 Akron- Notre Dame has flown under the radar of the nation all year, but these guys play like a team, and don't depend on one guy. When they do need a shot, Ben Hansbrough will play that role. They shouldn't have a problem with the Zips.
Southeast Region:
1 Pittsburgh vs. 16 UNC Asheville- This region will give you headaches, and could be the key to winning your whole pool. Top seed Pittsburgh survived the Big East as best they could, which is why they find themselves as a 1. Past tournament troubles are what make others question their performance, but they will have no problem here. Panthers advance.
8 Butler vs. 9 Old Dominion- Butler is tested, and almost played Cinderella all the way to a championship last year. The Bulldogs will take care of a pesky Old Dominion team in a very close affair.
5 Kansas State vs. 12 Utah State- A trendy upset pick in Utah State, but I think that Kansas State will find some magic that they didn't have early in the season, when they opened the season ranked 3rd in the country. Jacob Pullen is the guy that does it for K-State, and he will not say die. Kansas State pushes forward.
4 Wisconsin vs. 13 Belmont- Belmont has only lost 4 times all year, which makes you wonder why they are a 13 seed, while Wisconsin scored 33 points in their previous game. I feel like teams that shoot the 3 well, find their stroke in the tournament, which is why I think Belmont pulls the upset against the Badgers. I also should mention that I HATE the Badgers.
6 St. Johns vs. 11 Gonzaga- The Johnnies have seemed to me like a very tough team throughout the season, even though they lost a key piece recently. Gonzaga isn't the Gonzaga of old, which is why I think St. John's will advance.
3 BYU vs. 14 Wofford- Many say that BYU isn't the same team after losing Brandon Davies to violations, but the thing for me is that they still have Jimmer Fredette. They will not lose to a mediocre Wofford Terrier team in the first round, not with the Senior leadership of Jimmer Fredette.
7 UCLA vs. 10 Michigan State- Izzo wins tournament games, and although his team hasn't looked the same this year, they are playing their best basketball at the right time. Kalin Lucas will put his stamp on the tournament before his team loses, I don't think he will let UCLA end his career. I like Sparty.
2 Florida vs. 15 UC Santa Barbara- My disliking for SEC teams is much debated, but Florida got a very easy draw by being selected as the 2 seed in the Southeast. They should not be a 2 seed at all, and their position will help them advance farther than they should, but they shouldn't have much problem with UCSB.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Sunday Sound Off 2/21
College Hoops Hysteria
Roadblock week sure didn't disappoint when it came down to it. Lesser opponents proved to be the definition of failure for the top 4 teams in the country this week. Kansas, Texas, Ohio State, and Pittsburgh all suffered tough road losses throughout the course of the week, setting up a wide open poll coming into President's Day Monday. As the top teams surely stumbled this week, the college basketball seems to get more interesting each day, as more and more teams make their case for a tournament bid or play themselves off the bubble. There are also a few things we can take away from the struggles of top teams this week: It is extremely difficult to win road games in conference play and even dominant teams find trouble down the stretch. This harsh trend unfortunately doesn't stop with the top 4 teams in the nation, because 7 of the AP top 10 teams lost at some point this week. Many thought that after Saturday, Ohio State would come out on Sunday afternoon and take a tight grasp of the top ranking, but they faltered in one of the toughest atmospheres anywhere in Mackey Arena. I myself find it hard to believe that there are any great teams in college hoops this year, even after witnessing the Buckeyes first hand at the Barn. It may be that no matter how well a team has played and looked during most of the year, in conference road games prove to be a fitting kryptonite. For now, we can happily say that a cluster of top teams exists right now, and only time will separate them. The coming weeks should prove important for all top teams, due to the fact that there are likely to be 6 legitimate teams vying for 4 top seeds in the tournament. The seeding remains a mystery, but one thing is sure, we just don't know. The thing about great college basketball teams is that they aren't made at the beginning of the season, they are developed throughout the season, which is what makes collegiate basketball so unique.
Roadblock week sure didn't disappoint when it came down to it. Lesser opponents proved to be the definition of failure for the top 4 teams in the country this week. Kansas, Texas, Ohio State, and Pittsburgh all suffered tough road losses throughout the course of the week, setting up a wide open poll coming into President's Day Monday. As the top teams surely stumbled this week, the college basketball seems to get more interesting each day, as more and more teams make their case for a tournament bid or play themselves off the bubble. There are also a few things we can take away from the struggles of top teams this week: It is extremely difficult to win road games in conference play and even dominant teams find trouble down the stretch. This harsh trend unfortunately doesn't stop with the top 4 teams in the nation, because 7 of the AP top 10 teams lost at some point this week. Many thought that after Saturday, Ohio State would come out on Sunday afternoon and take a tight grasp of the top ranking, but they faltered in one of the toughest atmospheres anywhere in Mackey Arena. I myself find it hard to believe that there are any great teams in college hoops this year, even after witnessing the Buckeyes first hand at the Barn. It may be that no matter how well a team has played and looked during most of the year, in conference road games prove to be a fitting kryptonite. For now, we can happily say that a cluster of top teams exists right now, and only time will separate them. The coming weeks should prove important for all top teams, due to the fact that there are likely to be 6 legitimate teams vying for 4 top seeds in the tournament. The seeding remains a mystery, but one thing is sure, we just don't know. The thing about great college basketball teams is that they aren't made at the beginning of the season, they are developed throughout the season, which is what makes collegiate basketball so unique.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Sunday Sound Off 1/23
Historic Franchises Prevail On Championship Sunday
If you have an appreciation for football history and dominant franchises, then the outcome of Championship Sunday was all too familiar for you. If your like me and you cannot stand familiar faces in the same places, then you shouldn't watch the Super Bowl in Dallas two weeks from now. With wins by the Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, Dallas is sure to see another historic franchise add a title to it's already sterling reputation. Due to these outcomes, I have verbally committed to go without watching Super Bowl XLV. Although I am sure this won't follow through, I feel that if there were any Super Bowl I would not watch, it would be this one. With my own reasons for disliking each of these franchises, it may be best to separate myself from a television on February 6th. First and foremost, history shows us that these teams make use of their trips to the Super Bowl, with each of them having stellar win percentages in the big game. Now that they will face one another in two weeks, at least I can sleep at night knowing that one of them has to lose. Super Bowl XLV may be a battle of Goliaths, but it seems like a terrible culmination of a dismal NFL season to me. Anybody know any good television to watch on the 6th?
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Looking Ahead-Football
As the calendar turns to a new year, the football season begins to turn into a culmination of bowls and playoff games. The first weekend of 2011 could prove to be one of the most exciting football weekends of the year. With Wildcard playoff games and the BCS National Championship coming on Monday night, football fans will have plenty to talk about come Tuesday morning. To give you a better understanding for this weekend's match-ups, I will outline each game and give you my winner.
Seahawks vs. Saints
The opening game of Wildcard weekend pits the 7-9 Seahawks against the defending Super Bowl Champion Saints. Seattle is arguably the worst playoff team in the history of the NFL, but also is one of the toughest places to play in the league. Statistics would suggest that New Orleans wins in a laugher, but other factors could contribute to a better game than the experts suggest. Quarterback inexperience will be the determining factor, as Drew Brees will outplay Charlie Whitehurst, and the Saints will win in Seattle.
Colts vs. Jets
A rematch of last year's AFC Championship, I see a similar result coming this year. Peyton Manning had his way at home against the Jets secondary throwing for over 300 yards and 3 touchdowns. However, the Colts look more vulnerable than ever with the lack of a running attack and uncharacteristic mistakes by Manning. The Colts defense also adds Gary Brackett, a key piece to their playoff success in the past, I like the Colts at home.
Chiefs vs. Ravens
The first of the Sunday games features experience versus inexperience, as the Ravens bring their road playoff success into Arrowhead, which hasn't hosted a playoff game since 2003. To me, the Ravens provide the greatest threat to New England in the AFC playoff picture, and the experience on that team cannot be denied. The Chiefs on the other hand have looked rather mediocre over the second half of the season, and I don't see them being able to keep up with the Ravens. Give me the Ravens in this one.
Eagles vs. Packers
This will be the best game of the weekend, as the surging Packers travel to Philly and hope to stop the Michael Vick Experience very early in the Playoffs. Traditionally, I tend to split my decisions between home and away teams, picking two winners from each category. This year is very tough due to the caliber of the teams and lack of dominance in either conference. Although the Packers could be the most dangerous 6th seed in recent history, I see Michael Vick as the most valuable player to his team, and he will not disappoint in this one. I will stick to tradition and pick the Eagles behind a sensational crowd in Philadelphia. In a very close game, give me the Eagles.
BCS National Championship: Auburn vs. Oregon
The Battle between the two best teams in college football on Monday night provides everything you could hope for out of a National Championship game. Two undefeated teams playing for immortality will not disappoint. The SEC has won four straight National Championships and Auburn also hopes to keep that streak alive as they battle the best in the Pac-10 on Monday. Cameron Newton and LaMichael James bring star power to this game also. With the Heisman Trophy winner and candidate on their respective sides, there should be no shortage of stardom in this game. When you think about it, Auburn and Oregon are nearly mirror images of each other. Both of these teams score a lot of points and rely on their rushing attack to move the ball. Oregon leads the nation in scoring, and many are pitting the entire Oregon offense against the Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton. A season full of highlights for each team comes down to which team will create the most plays in a championship game. The determining factor for me is size on both sides of the ball for Auburn. Cam Newton and Nick Fairley are two crucial players that have too much size and power for Oregon to deny. The Oregon defense will not stop the size of Cam Newton, and Nick Fairley will create problems for the smaller and less physical Ducks offense. I see Auburn winning 35-28.
Seahawks vs. Saints
The opening game of Wildcard weekend pits the 7-9 Seahawks against the defending Super Bowl Champion Saints. Seattle is arguably the worst playoff team in the history of the NFL, but also is one of the toughest places to play in the league. Statistics would suggest that New Orleans wins in a laugher, but other factors could contribute to a better game than the experts suggest. Quarterback inexperience will be the determining factor, as Drew Brees will outplay Charlie Whitehurst, and the Saints will win in Seattle.
Colts vs. Jets
A rematch of last year's AFC Championship, I see a similar result coming this year. Peyton Manning had his way at home against the Jets secondary throwing for over 300 yards and 3 touchdowns. However, the Colts look more vulnerable than ever with the lack of a running attack and uncharacteristic mistakes by Manning. The Colts defense also adds Gary Brackett, a key piece to their playoff success in the past, I like the Colts at home.
Chiefs vs. Ravens
The first of the Sunday games features experience versus inexperience, as the Ravens bring their road playoff success into Arrowhead, which hasn't hosted a playoff game since 2003. To me, the Ravens provide the greatest threat to New England in the AFC playoff picture, and the experience on that team cannot be denied. The Chiefs on the other hand have looked rather mediocre over the second half of the season, and I don't see them being able to keep up with the Ravens. Give me the Ravens in this one.
Eagles vs. Packers
This will be the best game of the weekend, as the surging Packers travel to Philly and hope to stop the Michael Vick Experience very early in the Playoffs. Traditionally, I tend to split my decisions between home and away teams, picking two winners from each category. This year is very tough due to the caliber of the teams and lack of dominance in either conference. Although the Packers could be the most dangerous 6th seed in recent history, I see Michael Vick as the most valuable player to his team, and he will not disappoint in this one. I will stick to tradition and pick the Eagles behind a sensational crowd in Philadelphia. In a very close game, give me the Eagles.
BCS National Championship: Auburn vs. Oregon
The Battle between the two best teams in college football on Monday night provides everything you could hope for out of a National Championship game. Two undefeated teams playing for immortality will not disappoint. The SEC has won four straight National Championships and Auburn also hopes to keep that streak alive as they battle the best in the Pac-10 on Monday. Cameron Newton and LaMichael James bring star power to this game also. With the Heisman Trophy winner and candidate on their respective sides, there should be no shortage of stardom in this game. When you think about it, Auburn and Oregon are nearly mirror images of each other. Both of these teams score a lot of points and rely on their rushing attack to move the ball. Oregon leads the nation in scoring, and many are pitting the entire Oregon offense against the Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton. A season full of highlights for each team comes down to which team will create the most plays in a championship game. The determining factor for me is size on both sides of the ball for Auburn. Cam Newton and Nick Fairley are two crucial players that have too much size and power for Oregon to deny. The Oregon defense will not stop the size of Cam Newton, and Nick Fairley will create problems for the smaller and less physical Ducks offense. I see Auburn winning 35-28.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)