It is time to begin playing hoops in the west. I anticipate a good year before we head to conference realignments for next year. BYU will be good and everyone in the MWC will be trying to beat them. Not only because BYU is joining the WCC next year, but because Jimmer Ferdette predicted that the Cougars will go unbeaten. Personally, I will believe it when I see it. But the Cougars should have 24 to 26 wins going into their conference tournament. You just can't expect too much in this conference.
Big Sky Conference Power Rankings:
Pre-season player of the year: Weber State PG Damien Lillard
1. Weber State
2. Montana
3. Northern Arizona
4. Northern Colorado
5. Montana State
6. Eastern Washington
7. Idaho State
8. Portland State
9. Sacramento State
WAC Power Rankings
Pre-season player of the year: Utah State F Tai Wessley
1. Utah State
2. Nevada
3. New Mexico State
4. Boise State
5. Fresno State
6. San Jose State
7. Louisiana Tech
8. Idaho
9. Hawaii
MWC Power Rankings
Pre-season Player of the Year: BYU SG Jimmer Ferdette
1. San Diego State
2. BYU
3. UNLV
4. New Mexico
5. Colorado State
6. Utah
7. Wyoming
8. Air Force
9. TCU
Sunday, October 31, 2010
College Power Rankings for 10.31.2010
Big Sky Conference
So my friend and loyal reader of this blog says to me, "Hey Ben, why are you so big on Northern Arizona, they always tank at this time of year?" That question I will leave for the Lumberjacks to answer.
Offensive Player of the Week: Eastern Washington RB Taiwan Jones
Defensive Team of the Week: Weber State
Game of the Week: My prediction was Montana at Weber State. Actual game of the week was: Weber State 30 Montana 21
Power Rankings:
1. Eastern Washington
2. Montana State
3. Weber State
4. Montana
5. Northern Arizona
6. Sacramento State
7. Portland State
8. Idaho State
9. Northern Colorado
WAC
Utah State spotted Nevada 35 first half points, but made it a little bit interesting at the end. But the Wolfpack still won.
Offensive Player of the Week: Utah State QB Diondre Borel
Defensive Team of the Week: Hawaii
Game of the Week: My prediction: Idaho at Hawaii. Actual Game of the Week: Nevada 56 Utah State 42
Power Rankings:
1. Boise State
2. Nevada
3. Hawaii
4. Fresno State
5. Louisiana Tech
6. Idaho
7. Utah State
8. New Mexico State
9. San Jose State
Mountain West Conference
Utah survives their first real test...now comes the game of the year in the MWC. Something has got to give. Game day is coming. It will be the most anticipated game of the week.
Offensive Player of the Week: San Diego State QB Ryan Lindley
Defensive Team of the Week: Utah
Game of the week: My prediction: Utah at Air Force. Actual Game of the Week: Utah 28 Air Force 23
Power Rankings:
1. TCU
2. Utah
3. San Diego State
4. Air Force
5. BYU
6. Colorado State
7. Wyoming
8. UNLV
9. New Mexico
So my friend and loyal reader of this blog says to me, "Hey Ben, why are you so big on Northern Arizona, they always tank at this time of year?" That question I will leave for the Lumberjacks to answer.
Offensive Player of the Week: Eastern Washington RB Taiwan Jones
Defensive Team of the Week: Weber State
Game of the Week: My prediction was Montana at Weber State. Actual game of the week was: Weber State 30 Montana 21
Power Rankings:
1. Eastern Washington
2. Montana State
3. Weber State
4. Montana
5. Northern Arizona
6. Sacramento State
7. Portland State
8. Idaho State
9. Northern Colorado
WAC
Utah State spotted Nevada 35 first half points, but made it a little bit interesting at the end. But the Wolfpack still won.
Offensive Player of the Week: Utah State QB Diondre Borel
Defensive Team of the Week: Hawaii
Game of the Week: My prediction: Idaho at Hawaii. Actual Game of the Week: Nevada 56 Utah State 42
Power Rankings:
1. Boise State
2. Nevada
3. Hawaii
4. Fresno State
5. Louisiana Tech
6. Idaho
7. Utah State
8. New Mexico State
9. San Jose State
Mountain West Conference
Utah survives their first real test...now comes the game of the year in the MWC. Something has got to give. Game day is coming. It will be the most anticipated game of the week.
Offensive Player of the Week: San Diego State QB Ryan Lindley
Defensive Team of the Week: Utah
Game of the week: My prediction: Utah at Air Force. Actual Game of the Week: Utah 28 Air Force 23
Power Rankings:
1. TCU
2. Utah
3. San Diego State
4. Air Force
5. BYU
6. Colorado State
7. Wyoming
8. UNLV
9. New Mexico
WAC Expansion Update--Wither Montana
Earlier this week, the San Jose Mercury News reported that the WAC has invited Texas State and UTSA, but there was no news about Montana. Now there are reports that Montana has been invited to the WAC, but is still considering the option. There is concern about how to pay for the multiple new scholarships involved in the move and the cost of adding two new sports. Some sources are saying Montana will join the WAC later and remain Big Sky Conference for now.
Many news reports state that Montana is the best option for the WAC, but the WAC may not be the best option for Montana. I have written several blogs about this already, and feel like I am rehashing old news. The news reports today seem to indicate that the ball is actually in Montana's court right now. The invitation has been made, but the school is still considering their options. Montana is a good fit for the WAC, but they should move when they are ready, and not a year earlier.
Many news reports state that Montana is the best option for the WAC, but the WAC may not be the best option for Montana. I have written several blogs about this already, and feel like I am rehashing old news. The news reports today seem to indicate that the ball is actually in Montana's court right now. The invitation has been made, but the school is still considering their options. Montana is a good fit for the WAC, but they should move when they are ready, and not a year earlier.
Big Sky Expansion News...Update
Big Sky adds Southern Utah...and the University of North Dakota...It is official!
The Thunderbirds are a natural fit for the conference and some will argue that the Big Sky was foolish to choose Northern Colorado over SUU years ago. They have two natural rivals in the BSC. The first is in-state rival Weber State, nestled in the hub of Northern Utah. In addition, they have a rivalry with their Painted Desert border buddy Northern Arizona. It also adds another point to the Big Sky Compass, who can add Southern Utah to Eastern Washington, Northern Colorado, and Northern Arizona. (mmm...too bad Western Washington dropped football.)
It is also official, as announced this afternoon, that North Dakota is also a member of the Big Sky Conference. North Dakota will be a natural travel partner for Northern Colorado as both were once members of the same conference in Division II. The Fighting Sioux have been a consistent growth program since moving up to the FCS in the last decade. A move to the Big Sky Conference will give North Dakota the opportunity to have all of their sports programs in the same conference and to build other natural geographical rivalries with the neighboring state of Montana.
This will be official next season as the Great West Conference will no longer sponsor football. As it now stands, the Big Sky will be at 13 programs for football and 11 full time institutions. The details about how the divisions will divide will come later.
Maybe a 14th program will come later this week, or maybe an existing program, namely Montana, will be lost to the WAC. I have found nothing from a reliable source that confirms that Montana is WAC bound or is staying. If you perform a twitter search you are likely to find just as much information on either camp.
However, let me speculate that with North Dakota on board, a north/south division seems more likely
North Division
Eastern Washington
Montana
Montana State
North Dakota
Northern Colorado
Portland State
South Division
Cal Davis
Cal Poly
Idaho State
Northern Arizona
Sacramento State
Southern Utah
Weber State
If Montana leaves, then Idaho State moves to the North.
The Thunderbirds are a natural fit for the conference and some will argue that the Big Sky was foolish to choose Northern Colorado over SUU years ago. They have two natural rivals in the BSC. The first is in-state rival Weber State, nestled in the hub of Northern Utah. In addition, they have a rivalry with their Painted Desert border buddy Northern Arizona. It also adds another point to the Big Sky Compass, who can add Southern Utah to Eastern Washington, Northern Colorado, and Northern Arizona. (mmm...too bad Western Washington dropped football.)
It is also official, as announced this afternoon, that North Dakota is also a member of the Big Sky Conference. North Dakota will be a natural travel partner for Northern Colorado as both were once members of the same conference in Division II. The Fighting Sioux have been a consistent growth program since moving up to the FCS in the last decade. A move to the Big Sky Conference will give North Dakota the opportunity to have all of their sports programs in the same conference and to build other natural geographical rivalries with the neighboring state of Montana.
This will be official next season as the Great West Conference will no longer sponsor football. As it now stands, the Big Sky will be at 13 programs for football and 11 full time institutions. The details about how the divisions will divide will come later.
Maybe a 14th program will come later this week, or maybe an existing program, namely Montana, will be lost to the WAC. I have found nothing from a reliable source that confirms that Montana is WAC bound or is staying. If you perform a twitter search you are likely to find just as much information on either camp.
However, let me speculate that with North Dakota on board, a north/south division seems more likely
North Division
Eastern Washington
Montana
Montana State
North Dakota
Northern Colorado
Portland State
South Division
Cal Davis
Cal Poly
Idaho State
Northern Arizona
Sacramento State
Southern Utah
Weber State
If Montana leaves, then Idaho State moves to the North.
Friday, October 29, 2010
College Preview...a little late
Mountain West Conference
Game of the Week: Utah at Air Force
Troy Calhoun knows how to talk up an opponent, or lay proper expectations for Air Force fans. This could be a blowout, but it could be Utah's first real test of the year. Air Force is good enough to put a scare into the Utes on Halloween. Utah native Tew should have a good game, provided the offensive line can open some holes. But Jordan Wynn and company should pull it out in the end.
Utah 33 Air Force 30.
Other games:
TCU at UNLV (45-10)
New Mexico at Colorado State (17-21)
San Diego State at Wyoming (45-25)
WAC
Boise State and Louisiana Tech played a Tuesday game on the Blue. Doug Martin had 21 carries for 150 yards and set the bar high for player of the week honors.
Game of the Week: Idaho at Hawaii
If this was last year's Idaho taking on last year's Hawaii, this game would not even be close. The Warriors have found their swagger but Idaho is still a team to fear. The running game has not been present for the Vandals this season, however. There will be a lot of passes and likely a lot of scoring...the kind of game that could force me to watch Jon Hamm on Saturday Night Live on Hulu.com on Sunday.
Hawaii 45 Idaho 41
Other games:
San Jose State at New Mexico State (10-24)
Utah State at Nevada (13-45)
Big Sky
Game of the Week:
Montana at Weber State
The Big Sky Conference could have four playoff teams at the end of this season, but not if Montana can't pull it off at Weber State where they are expecting the biggest crowd of the year. Montana has that kind of draw at the FCS level. They are the team that people love to hate, and Wildcat fans are hoping to burst their bubble. Realistically, Montana can overcome the home-field advantage by giving Weber State a lot of "Chase."
Montana 35 Weber State 28
Other Games:
Montana State at Idaho State (28-10)
Northern Colorado at South Dakota (21-35)
Sacramento State at Northern Arizona (17-47)
Eastern Washington at Portland State (41-30)
Game of the Week: Utah at Air Force
Troy Calhoun knows how to talk up an opponent, or lay proper expectations for Air Force fans. This could be a blowout, but it could be Utah's first real test of the year. Air Force is good enough to put a scare into the Utes on Halloween. Utah native Tew should have a good game, provided the offensive line can open some holes. But Jordan Wynn and company should pull it out in the end.
Utah 33 Air Force 30.
Other games:
TCU at UNLV (45-10)
New Mexico at Colorado State (17-21)
San Diego State at Wyoming (45-25)
WAC
Boise State and Louisiana Tech played a Tuesday game on the Blue. Doug Martin had 21 carries for 150 yards and set the bar high for player of the week honors.
Game of the Week: Idaho at Hawaii
If this was last year's Idaho taking on last year's Hawaii, this game would not even be close. The Warriors have found their swagger but Idaho is still a team to fear. The running game has not been present for the Vandals this season, however. There will be a lot of passes and likely a lot of scoring...the kind of game that could force me to watch Jon Hamm on Saturday Night Live on Hulu.com on Sunday.
Hawaii 45 Idaho 41
Other games:
San Jose State at New Mexico State (10-24)
Utah State at Nevada (13-45)
Big Sky
Game of the Week:
Montana at Weber State
The Big Sky Conference could have four playoff teams at the end of this season, but not if Montana can't pull it off at Weber State where they are expecting the biggest crowd of the year. Montana has that kind of draw at the FCS level. They are the team that people love to hate, and Wildcat fans are hoping to burst their bubble. Realistically, Montana can overcome the home-field advantage by giving Weber State a lot of "Chase."
Montana 35 Weber State 28
Other Games:
Montana State at Idaho State (28-10)
Northern Colorado at South Dakota (21-35)
Sacramento State at Northern Arizona (17-47)
Eastern Washington at Portland State (41-30)
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
WAC Expansion update for November 5 -- No Montana.
Here is a report from the San Jose Mercury News stating that the WAC is ready to invite UTSA and Texas State. They are expected to join in 2012. The WAC and MWC have worked out a deal for Fresno State and Nevada to remain in the WAC for 2011 and join the MWC in 2012 and pay only 1 million to leave instead of 5 million. There will not be invitations for Denver nor Seattle. These schools are not a strong enough draw in Basketball to make up for not having a football team. This will leave the WAC with 8 schools.
What about Montana?
I read through this article a couple of days ago and missed what Montana Athletic director Jim O'Day had to say.
From the Missoulian...
It's something I think the Big Sky has to do," O'Day said. "It's similar to what the WAC is going to do in the next few days, when they announce an expansion. It will not include Montana - we're not to that point yet - but they have to do their due diligence."
Montana will not be part of the upcoming WAC expansion!
What about Montana?
I read through this article a couple of days ago and missed what Montana Athletic director Jim O'Day had to say.
From the Missoulian...
It's something I think the Big Sky has to do," O'Day said. "It's similar to what the WAC is going to do in the next few days, when they announce an expansion. It will not include Montana - we're not to that point yet - but they have to do their due diligence."
Montana will not be part of the upcoming WAC expansion!
Monday, October 25, 2010
FCS Playoff Picture 10.25.2010
We are seeing things turn out closer to where the season will end up, baring upsets. Big Sky and CAA both have four in the latest projections. But these four teams can only afford a combined 1 loss for this to happen...meaning that someone will lose when Montana plays Montana State. Otherwise, the four Big Sky schools need to win out.
First Round Games:
Game 1: Lehigh at Montana
Game 2: Bethune-Cookman at Wofford
Game 3: Liberty at South Alabama
Game 4: Robert Morris at Northern Iowa
Second Round Games:
Game 4 Winner at 1. Delaware
9. Northern Arizona at 8. Montana State
Game 1 Winner at 4. Appalachian State
12. James Madison at 5. William and Mary
Game 3 Winner at 2. Stephen F Austin
10. Western Illinois at 7. Eastern Washington
11. Chattanooga at 6. Jacksonville State
Game 2 Winner at 3. Villanova
1. Delaware
2. Stephen F Austin*
3. Villanova
4. Appalachian State*
5. William and Mary*
6. Jacksonville State*
7. Eastern Washington*
8. Montana State
9. Northern Arizona
10. Western Illinois
11. Chattanooga
12. James Madison
13. Montana
14. Wofford
15. South Alabama
16. Northern Iowa*
17. Robert Morris*
18. Liberty*
19. Bethune-Cookman*
20. Lehigh*
First Round Games:
Game 1: Lehigh at Montana
Game 2: Bethune-Cookman at Wofford
Game 3: Liberty at South Alabama
Game 4: Robert Morris at Northern Iowa
Second Round Games:
Game 4 Winner at 1. Delaware
9. Northern Arizona at 8. Montana State
Game 1 Winner at 4. Appalachian State
12. James Madison at 5. William and Mary
Game 3 Winner at 2. Stephen F Austin
10. Western Illinois at 7. Eastern Washington
11. Chattanooga at 6. Jacksonville State
Game 2 Winner at 3. Villanova
Saturday, October 23, 2010
MWC, WAC and Big Sky Power Rankings for 10.23.2010
Big Sky Power Rankings...
Four games and four nail-biters. Four games that went down to the final minutes. Reminds me of the day when Idaho, Nevada and Boise State were still in the league and the Big Sky had the nickname, "Football on Ice." The good news for the conference is that Montana beat Northern Arizona, and perhaps if the Lumberjacks win out, the conference could get four playoff teams. The only hitch left is that Montana and Montana State have to play each other.
Offensive Players of the Week: Portland State RB Cory McCaffrey and Montana State QB Denarios McGhee
Defensive Team of the Week: Montana
Game of the Week: Weber State 44 Portland State 41 (1148 yards of total offense)
Power Rankings
1. Eastern Washington
2. Montana State
3. Montana
4. Northern Arizona
5. Weber State
6. Sacramento State
7. Northern Colorado
8. Portland State
9. Idaho State
WAC
It was a light week in the WAC this week which featured 3 lopsided games. Too bad the USU Aggies did so poorly on Merlin Olsen day. Perhaps Hawaii is for real and not just taking out their frustrations on WAC defectors. Look out Boise State
Offensive Player of the Week: Hawaii RB Alex Green
Defensive Team of the Week: Hawaii
Game of the Week: None Selected
Power Rankings (Bowl Projection):
1. Boise State (Rose)
2. Nevada (Kraft Fight Hunger)
3. Hawaii (Hawaii)
4. Fresno State (Humanitarian)
5. Idaho (New Mexico)
6. Louisiana Tech
7. Utah State
8. New Mexico State
9. San Jose State
Mountain West Conference
I thought the BYU/Wyoming game would go down to the wire. They are too schools with struggling offenses that feature talent at quarterback but not enough support otherwise. Reminds me of Randy Johnson when he pitched for the Expos.
Offensive Player of the Week: TCU RB Ed Wesley
Defensive Team of the Week: TCU
Game of the Week: BYU 25 Wyoming 20
Power Rankings (Bowl Projection):
1. TCU (Las Vegas)
2. Utah (Armed Forces)
3. San Diego State (Poinsettia)
4. Air Force (Independence)
5. BYU (New Mexico)
6. Wyoming
7. Colorado State
8. UNLV
9. New Mexico
Four games and four nail-biters. Four games that went down to the final minutes. Reminds me of the day when Idaho, Nevada and Boise State were still in the league and the Big Sky had the nickname, "Football on Ice." The good news for the conference is that Montana beat Northern Arizona, and perhaps if the Lumberjacks win out, the conference could get four playoff teams. The only hitch left is that Montana and Montana State have to play each other.
Offensive Players of the Week: Portland State RB Cory McCaffrey and Montana State QB Denarios McGhee
Defensive Team of the Week: Montana
Game of the Week: Weber State 44 Portland State 41 (1148 yards of total offense)
Power Rankings
1. Eastern Washington
2. Montana State
3. Montana
4. Northern Arizona
5. Weber State
6. Sacramento State
7. Northern Colorado
8. Portland State
9. Idaho State
WAC
It was a light week in the WAC this week which featured 3 lopsided games. Too bad the USU Aggies did so poorly on Merlin Olsen day. Perhaps Hawaii is for real and not just taking out their frustrations on WAC defectors. Look out Boise State
Offensive Player of the Week: Hawaii RB Alex Green
Defensive Team of the Week: Hawaii
Game of the Week: None Selected
Power Rankings (Bowl Projection):
1. Boise State (Rose)
2. Nevada (Kraft Fight Hunger)
3. Hawaii (Hawaii)
4. Fresno State (Humanitarian)
5. Idaho (New Mexico)
6. Louisiana Tech
7. Utah State
8. New Mexico State
9. San Jose State
Mountain West Conference
I thought the BYU/Wyoming game would go down to the wire. They are too schools with struggling offenses that feature talent at quarterback but not enough support otherwise. Reminds me of Randy Johnson when he pitched for the Expos.
Offensive Player of the Week: TCU RB Ed Wesley
Defensive Team of the Week: TCU
Game of the Week: BYU 25 Wyoming 20
Power Rankings (Bowl Projection):
1. TCU (Las Vegas)
2. Utah (Armed Forces)
3. San Diego State (Poinsettia)
4. Air Force (Independence)
5. BYU (New Mexico)
6. Wyoming
7. Colorado State
8. UNLV
9. New Mexico
NBA Contraction--Which Franchises are Likely to Get The Axe?
Leaving the world of college football behind for a moment, I found the story on ESPN.com about possible NBA contraction to save money. Something many Utahans would be concerned about. Would the Jazz be one of the teams that would get the axe? There are, after all, some good reasons to cut the Jazz. First, we are one of the smallest markets in all of professional sports. Second, we've had some well publicized stories about players not wishing to come here or get out of here. (Re: Carlos Boozer)
But the Jazz are also consistently profitable and are well supported in the community. Everyone around here knows how difficult tickets are to come by. The Jazz own their own arena and do not pay a lease. That Jazz are a middle of the road team in most valuable NBA franchises and would be sold for a lot of money should the Miller family decide to part with the team, provided they could find a buyer willing to keep the team in Salt Lake. (The Jazz are worth about 350 million, close to the median value of an NBA franchise.) Finally, even though Salt Lake is a small market, it is a good sports town. The Jazz are joined by Real Salt Lake, who are becoming another small-market success story. Also consider that if Salt Lake was a poor sports market, the PAC-10 would never have come calling for the Utes.
The NBA, if they have to contract, would likely go from 30 teams to 28 and cut two of the least popular and least profitable teams. Smaller markets and teams which are not well supported should be considered. Here is my short list.
1. Milwaukee Bucks. Wisconsin has been hit hard by the latest recession and has been loosing population. The Buck are in one of the smaller markets and are in the bottom third in attendance. They are the least valuable franchise in the league and would be the easiest to buy-out. They are also in an out-of-date, but not-so-old arena. Finally, Milwaukee is relatively close to Chicago and fans could be well served by the surging Bulls. The main reason to keep them is contraction would end 50 years of NBA history in Milwaukee.
2. Memphis Grizzlies. They are one of the newer franchises in the league and have been a consistent lottery team. They have only three playoff appearances in their 15-year history and have never won a playoff game. Their fans are losing interest in the team. They are third worst in home attendance as a percentage of available seats. They are the second least-valuable NBA franchise, according to Forbes. It could be an easy decision to let Memphis go.
3. New Orleans Hornets. The Hornets have been struggling at the gate since Hurricane Katrina, and would be the least missed of the cities sports franchises, if you use attendance as a guide. This is a surprise considering they have one of the premier players in the league even if he does not have the players around him to get deep into the playoffs. That may be a sign that this franchise can not succeed and the home fans sense it. Maybe the owners do not think they could make money if they brought in some front court talent. Seems NBA history in New Orleans is repeating itself. It's all adds to one of two conclusions, this franchise should go to a city where they can succeed or they should just go.
4. Minnesota Timberwolves. There are two stories to this franchise, and they both involve the name of Kevin Garnett. This franchise won with him and can not win without him. The fans are rewarding this success by staying home. As a result, you have one of the least valuable franchises in the league and an easy choice for NBA contraction. Minnesota sports fans who are tired of hearing all of this contraction talk, first with baseball and now with basketball, should respond and get to the game.
Of course, CBA time is not a good time to talk about expansion or contraction, and the Union will fight for every team in they league they can get, however. Also, if you goal is to reduce salaries, contraction may have no effect. From an economic standpoint, it may not have an effect. There will be less demand for players, but the demand for great players, as that demand is fueled by fans, will still be a strong.
But the Jazz are also consistently profitable and are well supported in the community. Everyone around here knows how difficult tickets are to come by. The Jazz own their own arena and do not pay a lease. That Jazz are a middle of the road team in most valuable NBA franchises and would be sold for a lot of money should the Miller family decide to part with the team, provided they could find a buyer willing to keep the team in Salt Lake. (The Jazz are worth about 350 million, close to the median value of an NBA franchise.) Finally, even though Salt Lake is a small market, it is a good sports town. The Jazz are joined by Real Salt Lake, who are becoming another small-market success story. Also consider that if Salt Lake was a poor sports market, the PAC-10 would never have come calling for the Utes.
The NBA, if they have to contract, would likely go from 30 teams to 28 and cut two of the least popular and least profitable teams. Smaller markets and teams which are not well supported should be considered. Here is my short list.
1. Milwaukee Bucks. Wisconsin has been hit hard by the latest recession and has been loosing population. The Buck are in one of the smaller markets and are in the bottom third in attendance. They are the least valuable franchise in the league and would be the easiest to buy-out. They are also in an out-of-date, but not-so-old arena. Finally, Milwaukee is relatively close to Chicago and fans could be well served by the surging Bulls. The main reason to keep them is contraction would end 50 years of NBA history in Milwaukee.
2. Memphis Grizzlies. They are one of the newer franchises in the league and have been a consistent lottery team. They have only three playoff appearances in their 15-year history and have never won a playoff game. Their fans are losing interest in the team. They are third worst in home attendance as a percentage of available seats. They are the second least-valuable NBA franchise, according to Forbes. It could be an easy decision to let Memphis go.
3. New Orleans Hornets. The Hornets have been struggling at the gate since Hurricane Katrina, and would be the least missed of the cities sports franchises, if you use attendance as a guide. This is a surprise considering they have one of the premier players in the league even if he does not have the players around him to get deep into the playoffs. That may be a sign that this franchise can not succeed and the home fans sense it. Maybe the owners do not think they could make money if they brought in some front court talent. Seems NBA history in New Orleans is repeating itself. It's all adds to one of two conclusions, this franchise should go to a city where they can succeed or they should just go.
4. Minnesota Timberwolves. There are two stories to this franchise, and they both involve the name of Kevin Garnett. This franchise won with him and can not win without him. The fans are rewarding this success by staying home. As a result, you have one of the least valuable franchises in the league and an easy choice for NBA contraction. Minnesota sports fans who are tired of hearing all of this contraction talk, first with baseball and now with basketball, should respond and get to the game.
Of course, CBA time is not a good time to talk about expansion or contraction, and the Union will fight for every team in they league they can get, however. Also, if you goal is to reduce salaries, contraction may have no effect. From an economic standpoint, it may not have an effect. There will be less demand for players, but the demand for great players, as that demand is fueled by fans, will still be a strong.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
College Preview--Not enough room for both of us.
Mountain West Conference
Game of the week:
Wyoming at BYU--Normally I would ignore a game between two 2-5 schools, but this match-up is intriguing. Two young, but talented quarterbacks with offenses that are struggling. Both quarterbacks lack the receivers to support them. Both teams rely way to much on the running game to make this one a shoot-out, but it should be a close defensive chess match. The team with the better defense and the home crowd should rule the day. The winner will resurrect their season. The loser will get to make other plans for the holidays.
17-12 Cougars.
Other Games:
Colorado State at Utah (10-42)
Air Force at TCU (10-28)
San Diego State at New Mexico (50-7)
WAC
Game of the Week: Hawaii at Utah State
It's a light snack this week in the WAC, but the goings on in Logan make for a interesting match-up. Hawaii, however, may be on a let down after taking revenge on WAC defectors Fresno State and Nevada. The same sort of let down that Utah State experienced in Rushton two weeks ago. And they have the bye week to think about it. Bryant Moniz has been tearing the field up this year. Hopefully, the Aggies learned their lesson and will make this a good game. If not, USU will spend another Christmas in Logan. Hawaii could still make a bowl game if they lose.
35-31 Aggies
Other games:
New Mexico State at Idaho (10-35)
Fresno State at San Jose State (28-3)
Big Sky Conference
Game of the Week: Northern Arizona at Montana
The pollsters did not know what to make of Northern Arizona after last week's big win in Flagstaff against the Bobcats. The computers looooove the Lumberjacks, but they did not crack to coaches poll and are ranked in the lower end of that other poll. Should not matter much after this game. Eastern Washington is in the drivers seat, and Montana State likely has a playoff seed almost sewed up. The Big Sky could get four into the playoffs, but there is still some football to play. Either NAU will be the ones to burst Montana's bubble, or the they will be one step closer to having their bubble burst. This should be one worth the price of admission. Montana needs to win for the Big Sky to get four playoff teams. NAU is still alive if they lose. It's a pipe dream anyway.
42-35 (OT) Lumberjacks
Other Games:
Portland State at Weber State (35-17)
Northern Colorado at Montana State (10-42)
Sacramento State at Eastern Washington (17-28)
Game of the week:
Wyoming at BYU--Normally I would ignore a game between two 2-5 schools, but this match-up is intriguing. Two young, but talented quarterbacks with offenses that are struggling. Both quarterbacks lack the receivers to support them. Both teams rely way to much on the running game to make this one a shoot-out, but it should be a close defensive chess match. The team with the better defense and the home crowd should rule the day. The winner will resurrect their season. The loser will get to make other plans for the holidays.
17-12 Cougars.
Other Games:
Colorado State at Utah (10-42)
Air Force at TCU (10-28)
San Diego State at New Mexico (50-7)
WAC
Game of the Week: Hawaii at Utah State
It's a light snack this week in the WAC, but the goings on in Logan make for a interesting match-up. Hawaii, however, may be on a let down after taking revenge on WAC defectors Fresno State and Nevada. The same sort of let down that Utah State experienced in Rushton two weeks ago. And they have the bye week to think about it. Bryant Moniz has been tearing the field up this year. Hopefully, the Aggies learned their lesson and will make this a good game. If not, USU will spend another Christmas in Logan. Hawaii could still make a bowl game if they lose.
35-31 Aggies
Other games:
New Mexico State at Idaho (10-35)
Fresno State at San Jose State (28-3)
Big Sky Conference
Game of the Week: Northern Arizona at Montana
The pollsters did not know what to make of Northern Arizona after last week's big win in Flagstaff against the Bobcats. The computers looooove the Lumberjacks, but they did not crack to coaches poll and are ranked in the lower end of that other poll. Should not matter much after this game. Eastern Washington is in the drivers seat, and Montana State likely has a playoff seed almost sewed up. The Big Sky could get four into the playoffs, but there is still some football to play. Either NAU will be the ones to burst Montana's bubble, or the they will be one step closer to having their bubble burst. This should be one worth the price of admission. Montana needs to win for the Big Sky to get four playoff teams. NAU is still alive if they lose. It's a pipe dream anyway.
42-35 (OT) Lumberjacks
Other Games:
Portland State at Weber State (35-17)
Northern Colorado at Montana State (10-42)
Sacramento State at Eastern Washington (17-28)
Big Sky Conference Men's Pre-Season Picks.
Here are the men's basketball pre-season picks from media day for the 2010-2011 Big Sky Conference.
1. Weber State
2. Northern Colorado
3. Montana
4. Northern Arizona
5. Montana State
6. Eastern Washington
7. Portland State
8. Idaho State
9. Sacramento State
1. Weber State
2. Northern Colorado
3. Montana
4. Northern Arizona
5. Montana State
6. Eastern Washington
7. Portland State
8. Idaho State
9. Sacramento State
Monday, October 18, 2010
New Look at the FCS Playoff Picture...10.18.2010
I have a real dilemma on my hands. That is Northern Arizona. They are not even ranked in the Coaches Poll, but Sagarin has them ranked at 2nd, and Eastern Washington is likely going to be the Big Sky Champion. What do you think? Is NAU over rated or under rated. I split the difference. The other anomaly is that I have SE Missouri in the bracket as they are the current OVC conference leader. Most doubt that they can beat Jacksonville State. If the expected plays out...you could have a 5th Big Sky Conference Team or a 6th CAA school in the playoffs.
Last 4 in: Wofford, Sam Houston State, Montana and New Hampshire
First 4 out: Sacramento State, Chattanooga, South Alabama and U-Mass
Next 4 out: South Dakota State, Northern Iowa, Portland State and Jacksonville
Burst bubble for the week: Cal-Poly.
First Round Games:
Game 1: 20. Colgate at 13. Sam Houston State
Game 2: 19. Bethune-Cookman at 14. Montana
Game 3: 18. SE Missouri at 15. New Hampshire
Game 4: 17. Liberty at 16. Robert Morris
Second Round Games:
Game 4 winner at 1. Delaware
9. Jacksonville State at 8. Villanova
12. Wofford at 5. Montana State
Game 1 winner at 4. Appalachian State
11. James Madison at 6. Eastern Washington
Game 2 winner at 3. Western Illinois
10. William and Mary at 7. Northern Arizona
Game 3 winner at 2. SFA
1. Delaware*
2. Stephen F. Austin*
3. Western Illinois*
4. Appalachian State*
5. Montana State
6. Eastern Washington*
7. Northern Arizona
8. Villanova
9. Jacksonville State
10. William and Mary
11. James Madison
12. Wofford
13. Sam Houston State
14. Montana
15. New Hampshire
16. Robert Morris*
17. Liberty*
18. SE Missouri*
19. Bethune-Cookman*
20. Colgate*
Last 4 in: Wofford, Sam Houston State, Montana and New Hampshire
First 4 out: Sacramento State, Chattanooga, South Alabama and U-Mass
Next 4 out: South Dakota State, Northern Iowa, Portland State and Jacksonville
Burst bubble for the week: Cal-Poly.
First Round Games:
Game 1: 20. Colgate at 13. Sam Houston State
Game 2: 19. Bethune-Cookman at 14. Montana
Game 3: 18. SE Missouri at 15. New Hampshire
Game 4: 17. Liberty at 16. Robert Morris
Second Round Games:
Game 4 winner at 1. Delaware
9. Jacksonville State at 8. Villanova
12. Wofford at 5. Montana State
Game 1 winner at 4. Appalachian State
11. James Madison at 6. Eastern Washington
Game 2 winner at 3. Western Illinois
10. William and Mary at 7. Northern Arizona
Game 3 winner at 2. SFA
Mid-Season Football Report
Mountain West Conference:
Biggest Surprise: San Diego State
Biggest Dissapointment: BYU/Jake Heaps
Player of the Year: TCU QB Dalton
Coach of the Year: Hoke, SDSU
Team that struggled early that will finish strong: BYU
Team that did well early that will struggle: Air Force
WAC:
Biggest Surprise: Hawaii
Biggest Disappointment: Idaho
Player of the Year: BSU QB Moore
Coach of the Year: Ault, Nevada
Team that struggled early that will finish strong: Utah State
Team that did well early that will fade to the finish: Idaho
Big Sky
Biggest Surprise: Northern Arizona
Biggest Disappointment: Weber State
Player of the Year: EWU RB Jones
Coach of the Year: Ash, MSU
Team that struggled early that will finish strong: Portland State
Team that did well early that will fade to the finish: Montana State
Biggest Surprise: San Diego State
Biggest Dissapointment: BYU/Jake Heaps
Player of the Year: TCU QB Dalton
Coach of the Year: Hoke, SDSU
Team that struggled early that will finish strong: BYU
Team that did well early that will struggle: Air Force
WAC:
Biggest Surprise: Hawaii
Biggest Disappointment: Idaho
Player of the Year: BSU QB Moore
Coach of the Year: Ault, Nevada
Team that struggled early that will finish strong: Utah State
Team that did well early that will fade to the finish: Idaho
Big Sky
Biggest Surprise: Northern Arizona
Biggest Disappointment: Weber State
Player of the Year: EWU RB Jones
Coach of the Year: Ash, MSU
Team that struggled early that will finish strong: Portland State
Team that did well early that will fade to the finish: Montana State
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Power Rankings 10.28.2010
My postings have been inconsistent this week. Just sticking to what my readers seem interested in. No word on WAC expansion or on BYU's 2011 schedule that we do not already know. Here are the power rankings for the week.
MWC
San Diego State has been the real surprise this year. If Brady Hoke can continue on this line of improvement, look out.
Offensive Player of the Week: San Diego State RB Ronnie Hillman
Defensive Team of the Week: TCU
Game of the Week: San Diego State 27 Air Force 25
Power Rankings (Projected Bowl Game)
1. TCU (Las Vegas)
2. Utah (Armed Forces)
3. San Diego State (Poinsettia)
4. Air Force (Independence)
5. BYU (New Mexico)
6. Wyoming
7. Colorado State
8. UNLV
9. New Mexico
WAC
I thought that Hawaii's win over Fresno last week was just Pat Hill's typical mid-season swoon. Now Hawaii has just beaten a ranked team. Perhaps Hawaii is just sending a message to the WAC defectors and will be back to their old selves Saturday in Logan.
Offensive Player of the Week: Louisiana Tech RB Lennon Creer
Defensive Team of the Week: Hawaii
Game of the Week: Hawaii 27 Nevada 21
Power Rankings (Bowl Projection)
1. Boise State (Rose)
2. Nevada (Kraft Fight Hunger)
3. Fresno State (Humanitarian)
4. Hawaii (Hawaii)
5. Louisiana Tech (New Mexico)
6. Idaho
7. Utah State
8. New Mexico State
9. San Jose State
Big Sky
Just when everyone in the US begins to believe in you, a team that has been playing in the shadow of their sister school until now blows it big time in Flagstaff. Sure, the Big Sky Conference could get four playoff teams, but now could end up with just one. Someone needs to step up and take charge of this conference race. It is anyone's game now...no it is actually a 7 team race. Northern Colorado and Idaho State are the only teams out of the running. Fasten your safety belts and clench your bottoms, it is going to be a bumpy ride. The power rankings this week were determined by a lottery.
Offensive Player of the Week: Eastern Washington RB Taiwan Jones
Defensive Team of the Week: Northern Arizona
Games of the Week: The three games not involving Montana State at Northern Arizona
Power Rankings:
1. Eastern Washington
2. Northern Arizona
3. Montana State
4. Montana
5. Weber State
6. Sacramento State
7. Portland State
8. Northern Colorado
9. Idaho State
MWC
San Diego State has been the real surprise this year. If Brady Hoke can continue on this line of improvement, look out.
Offensive Player of the Week: San Diego State RB Ronnie Hillman
Defensive Team of the Week: TCU
Game of the Week: San Diego State 27 Air Force 25
Power Rankings (Projected Bowl Game)
1. TCU (Las Vegas)
2. Utah (Armed Forces)
3. San Diego State (Poinsettia)
4. Air Force (Independence)
5. BYU (New Mexico)
6. Wyoming
7. Colorado State
8. UNLV
9. New Mexico
WAC
I thought that Hawaii's win over Fresno last week was just Pat Hill's typical mid-season swoon. Now Hawaii has just beaten a ranked team. Perhaps Hawaii is just sending a message to the WAC defectors and will be back to their old selves Saturday in Logan.
Offensive Player of the Week: Louisiana Tech RB Lennon Creer
Defensive Team of the Week: Hawaii
Game of the Week: Hawaii 27 Nevada 21
Power Rankings (Bowl Projection)
1. Boise State (Rose)
2. Nevada (Kraft Fight Hunger)
3. Fresno State (Humanitarian)
4. Hawaii (Hawaii)
5. Louisiana Tech (New Mexico)
6. Idaho
7. Utah State
8. New Mexico State
9. San Jose State
Big Sky
Just when everyone in the US begins to believe in you, a team that has been playing in the shadow of their sister school until now blows it big time in Flagstaff. Sure, the Big Sky Conference could get four playoff teams, but now could end up with just one. Someone needs to step up and take charge of this conference race. It is anyone's game now...no it is actually a 7 team race. Northern Colorado and Idaho State are the only teams out of the running. Fasten your safety belts and clench your bottoms, it is going to be a bumpy ride. The power rankings this week were determined by a lottery.
Offensive Player of the Week: Eastern Washington RB Taiwan Jones
Defensive Team of the Week: Northern Arizona
Games of the Week: The three games not involving Montana State at Northern Arizona
Power Rankings:
1. Eastern Washington
2. Northern Arizona
3. Montana State
4. Montana
5. Weber State
6. Sacramento State
7. Portland State
8. Northern Colorado
9. Idaho State
Monday, October 11, 2010
What if the FCS Playoffs were held Today? 10.12.2010
Seedings:
First 4 out: Sacramento State, Chattanooga, North Dakota State, Furman
Next 4 out: Ga Southern, Sam Houston, Northern Iowa, Portland State
Why the big jump for Montana State and Northern Arizona? Strength of Schedule. Washington State and Arizona State, respectively opponents for the Bobcats and Lumberjacks, had big wins on Saturday. Helps Montana State and Northern Arizona look good. Montana would have no problem if they had scheduled a PAC-10 team and lost to them.
1st round games:
Game 1: Bethune-Cookman at Liberty
Game 2: Colgate at Cal-Poly
Game 3: SE Missouri at Villanova
Game 4: Robert Morris at Montana
2nd Round
Game 4 Winner at 1. Delaware
9. Eastern Washington at 8. William and Mary
12. Jacksonville State at 5. Western Illinois
Game 1 Winner at 4. SFA
Game 2 Winner at 3. Montana State
11. Wofford at 6. Appalachian State
10. Northern Arizona at 7. U-Mass
Game 3 Winner at 2. James Madison
1. Delaware*
2. James Madison
3. Montana State*
4. SFA*
5. Western Illinois*
6. Appalachian State*
7. U-Mass
8. William and Mary
9. Eastern Washington
10. Northern Arizona
11. Wofford
12. Jacksonville State
13. Liberty*
14. Cal Poly
15. Villanova
16. Montana
17. Robert Morris*
18. SE Missouri*
19. Colgate*
20. Bethune-Cookman*
16. Montana
17. Robert Morris*
18. SE Missouri*
19. Colgate*
20. Bethune-Cookman*
First 4 out: Sacramento State, Chattanooga, North Dakota State, Furman
Next 4 out: Ga Southern, Sam Houston, Northern Iowa, Portland State
Why the big jump for Montana State and Northern Arizona? Strength of Schedule. Washington State and Arizona State, respectively opponents for the Bobcats and Lumberjacks, had big wins on Saturday. Helps Montana State and Northern Arizona look good. Montana would have no problem if they had scheduled a PAC-10 team and lost to them.
1st round games:
Game 1: Bethune-Cookman at Liberty
Game 2: Colgate at Cal-Poly
Game 3: SE Missouri at Villanova
Game 4: Robert Morris at Montana
2nd Round
Game 4 Winner at 1. Delaware
9. Eastern Washington at 8. William and Mary
12. Jacksonville State at 5. Western Illinois
Game 1 Winner at 4. SFA
Game 2 Winner at 3. Montana State
11. Wofford at 6. Appalachian State
10. Northern Arizona at 7. U-Mass
Game 3 Winner at 2. James Madison
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Power Rankings 10.10.10
Happy Binary Day!
MWC--Utes and Frogs continue to roll and are on a collision course.
Scores
Offensive Player of the Week: BYU RB JJ DiLuigi
Defensive Team of the Week: TCU
Game of the Week: BYU 24 San Diego State 21
1. TCU
2. Utah
3. Air Force
4. San Diego State
5. BYU
6. Wyoming
7. UNLV
8. Colorado State
9. New Mexico
WAC
Scores
What did I say about Fresno State?
Offensive Player of the Week: Nevada RB Via Taua
Defensive Team of the Week: Louisiana Tech
Game of the Week: None Selected
1. Boise State
2. Nevada
3. Idaho
4. Hawaii
5. Fresno State
6. Louisiana Tech
7. Utah State
8. New Mexico State
9. San Jose State
Big Sky
Scores
Offensive Players of the Week: Sacramento State RB Bryan Hilliard, Montana State RB Leo Davis
Defensive Team of the Week: Eastern Washington
Game of the Week: Eastern Washington 21 Northern Arizona 14
Power Rankings:
1. Montana State
2. Montana
3. Eastern Washington
4. Sacramento State
5. Northern Arizona
6. Weber State
7. Northern Colorado
8. Portland State
9. Idaho State
MWC--Utes and Frogs continue to roll and are on a collision course.
Scores
Offensive Player of the Week: BYU RB JJ DiLuigi
Defensive Team of the Week: TCU
Game of the Week: BYU 24 San Diego State 21
1. TCU
2. Utah
3. Air Force
4. San Diego State
5. BYU
6. Wyoming
7. UNLV
8. Colorado State
9. New Mexico
WAC
Scores
What did I say about Fresno State?
Offensive Player of the Week: Nevada RB Via Taua
Defensive Team of the Week: Louisiana Tech
Game of the Week: None Selected
1. Boise State
2. Nevada
3. Idaho
4. Hawaii
5. Fresno State
6. Louisiana Tech
7. Utah State
8. New Mexico State
9. San Jose State
Big Sky
Scores
Offensive Players of the Week: Sacramento State RB Bryan Hilliard, Montana State RB Leo Davis
Defensive Team of the Week: Eastern Washington
Game of the Week: Eastern Washington 21 Northern Arizona 14
Power Rankings:
1. Montana State
2. Montana
3. Eastern Washington
4. Sacramento State
5. Northern Arizona
6. Weber State
7. Northern Colorado
8. Portland State
9. Idaho State
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Knee-Jerk Reactions 10.9.10
BYU 24 San Diego State 21
San Diego State has just cut the lead to three, and BYU gets a first down, I am happy that Bronco Mendenhall when he had a freshman quarterback did not say, "I want to win this game by 10." The most impressive drives of the game were the last three.
Utah 68 Iowa State 27
Whoa Nellie!
Louisiana Tech 24 Utah State 6
Looks like some one spent way too much time celebrating last week's win and forgot about preparing for this week's game.
San Diego State has just cut the lead to three, and BYU gets a first down, I am happy that Bronco Mendenhall when he had a freshman quarterback did not say, "I want to win this game by 10." The most impressive drives of the game were the last three.
Utah 68 Iowa State 27
Whoa Nellie!
Louisiana Tech 24 Utah State 6
Looks like some one spent way too much time celebrating last week's win and forgot about preparing for this week's game.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Stadium Expansion Revisited
One of the most popular posts on this blog has been about the potential to expand the football stadiums in the Beehive State. I have updated information on the expansion of Rice Eccles Stadium.
Shortly after it was announced that Utah would join the PAC-10, the issue was brought up. It was mentioned by athletic director Hill that expansion is in the master plan, and that they can add another 30,000 seats and keep the stadium within it's current footprint. This will involved doing what I suspected back when I wrote the original blog. The south end-zone seats would be demolished and the "bowl" will be completed. Doing just this will add another 8,000 seats, bringing the capacity to around 60,000. The other 20,000 seats involved adding a deck to the east side.
Shortly after it was announced that Utah would join the PAC-10, the issue was brought up. It was mentioned by athletic director Hill that expansion is in the master plan, and that they can add another 30,000 seats and keep the stadium within it's current footprint. This will involved doing what I suspected back when I wrote the original blog. The south end-zone seats would be demolished and the "bowl" will be completed. Doing just this will add another 8,000 seats, bringing the capacity to around 60,000. The other 20,000 seats involved adding a deck to the east side.
College Preview for 10/9/2010
Mountain West Conference
Utah at Iowa State
This is one of the weaker teams in the Big XII, but that does not mean that Utah can afford to look past them. This is a chance for Kyle's boys to impress the voters before the first BCS poll comes out.
31-17 Utah
Colorado State at Air Force
The Rams have yet to hit rock bottom. Air Force has not yet hit their mid-season fade.
27-7 Air Force
UNLV at West Virginia
Different coach, same ol' UNLV. Is there a chance that the Moutaineers are looking past the Rebels? No way!
30-17 West Virginia
Wyoming at TCU
Wyoming's offense is MIA this season. Not a good sign going into Fort Worth.
45-6 TCU
New Mexico at New Mexico State
ESPN has made this game the pillow fight of the week. It should be close.
35-28 NMSU
Game of the Week:
San Diego State at Brigham Young
This is a match-up between two programs going in opposite directions. Bronco has taken over the defensive duties, but the offense is still the same. I do not expect immediate results nor a Cougar victory. This is not the team that Jake Heaps will have his breakout against.
17-10 San Diego State
WAC
New Mexico at New Mexico State
See above
Utah State at Louisiana Tech
The Aggies are riding high after their win over BYU last week. Time to get back to Earth if you expect to go bowling.
35-24 Utah State
Toledo at Boise State
Any chance that BSU is looking past the Rockets?
42-10 Boise
Hawaii at Fresno State
This is the point of the season where Pat Hill's Bulldogs lay an egg. Will it be this week?
24-17 Fresno
San Jose State at Nevada
On paper, this game looks like a big mis-match. It looks that way on the field as well. The Wolfpack should roll.
52-3 Nevada
Big Sky
Idaho State at Montana
Another mis-match on paper. The home fans will not let the Grizzlies look past this one this year. Remember last year where Idaho State almost won? Yea, that was a good one!
52-5 Montana
Portland State at Montana State
The Vikings could pull of the upset this week, if they can get past the cold weather. With the scare the Bobcats got last week, I don't they will come unprepared.
35-21 Montana State
Northern Arizona at Eastern Washington
Bo Levi had a breakout game last week. And the Eagles should have Taiwan Jones back this week. Don't look past the Lumberjacks.
35-28 Northern Arizona
Northern Colorado at Sacramento State
This should be a close game between two much improved teams. Should be a close came.
28-27 Northern Colorado
Utah at Iowa State
This is one of the weaker teams in the Big XII, but that does not mean that Utah can afford to look past them. This is a chance for Kyle's boys to impress the voters before the first BCS poll comes out.
31-17 Utah
Colorado State at Air Force
The Rams have yet to hit rock bottom. Air Force has not yet hit their mid-season fade.
27-7 Air Force
UNLV at West Virginia
Different coach, same ol' UNLV. Is there a chance that the Moutaineers are looking past the Rebels? No way!
30-17 West Virginia
Wyoming at TCU
Wyoming's offense is MIA this season. Not a good sign going into Fort Worth.
45-6 TCU
New Mexico at New Mexico State
ESPN has made this game the pillow fight of the week. It should be close.
35-28 NMSU
Game of the Week:
San Diego State at Brigham Young
This is a match-up between two programs going in opposite directions. Bronco has taken over the defensive duties, but the offense is still the same. I do not expect immediate results nor a Cougar victory. This is not the team that Jake Heaps will have his breakout against.
17-10 San Diego State
WAC
New Mexico at New Mexico State
See above
Utah State at Louisiana Tech
The Aggies are riding high after their win over BYU last week. Time to get back to Earth if you expect to go bowling.
35-24 Utah State
Toledo at Boise State
Any chance that BSU is looking past the Rockets?
42-10 Boise
Hawaii at Fresno State
This is the point of the season where Pat Hill's Bulldogs lay an egg. Will it be this week?
24-17 Fresno
San Jose State at Nevada
On paper, this game looks like a big mis-match. It looks that way on the field as well. The Wolfpack should roll.
52-3 Nevada
Big Sky
Idaho State at Montana
Another mis-match on paper. The home fans will not let the Grizzlies look past this one this year. Remember last year where Idaho State almost won? Yea, that was a good one!
52-5 Montana
Portland State at Montana State
The Vikings could pull of the upset this week, if they can get past the cold weather. With the scare the Bobcats got last week, I don't they will come unprepared.
35-21 Montana State
Northern Arizona at Eastern Washington
Bo Levi had a breakout game last week. And the Eagles should have Taiwan Jones back this week. Don't look past the Lumberjacks.
35-28 Northern Arizona
Northern Colorado at Sacramento State
This should be a close game between two much improved teams. Should be a close came.
28-27 Northern Colorado
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
What if the FBS had a 20-team playoff?
Don't you wish your girlfriend was hot like me? Don't you wish there was a playoff for the top division of college football? This is probably one of, perhaps, dozens you will see this year. I doubt that it is even the first. But here is a look at all of the big money that ESPN and other TV networks are losing because of the bowls.
Seedings:
1. Alabama* (SEC)
2. Oregon* (PAC-10)
3. Boise State* (WAC)
4. Florida (SEC)
5. Oklahoma* (Big 12)
6. Ohio State* (Big 10)
7. LSU (SEC)
8. TCU* (MWC)
9. Arizona (PAC-10)
10. Miami (Fla.)* (ACC)
11. Florida State (ACC)
12. Stanford (PAC-10)
13. Utah (MWC)
14. Auburn (SEC)
15. Iowa (Big 10)
16. Nebraska (Big 12)
17. Syracuse* (Big East)
18. Houston* (C-USA)
19. Miami (Ohio)* (MAC)
20. Middle Tennessee State* (Sun Belt)
*Denotes current conference leader--automatic bid.
Last 4 in: Stanford, Utah, Auburn, Iowa
First 4 out: Virginia Tech, Nevada, Oklahoma State, Texas
Next 4 out: Arkansas, USC, Michigan, South Carolina
By Conference:
4-SEC
3-Pac 10
2-MWC, ACC, Big 12, Big 10
1-Big East, WAC, C-USA, MAC, Sun Belt
First round games (Play-in games)
Game 1: Middle Tennessee at Utah
Game 2: Miami (Ohio) at Auburn
Game 3: Houston at Iowa
Game 4: Syracuse at Nebraska
Second round games:
Game 4 winner at 1. Alabama
9. Arizona at 8. TCU
Game 1 winner at 4. Florida
12. Stanford at 5. Oklahoma
Game 2 winner at 3. Boise State
11. Florida State at 6. Ohio State
Game 3 winner at 2. Oregon
10. Miami (Fla) at 7. LSU
Games that would be worth A ton of TV money from big advertisers
First round:
The first round has some good potential. Two games look good. Syracuse at Nebraska and Houston at Iowa. This is a good as any middle-tier bowl game.
Second round:
First, assuming Utah can beat MTSU at home, you can look forward to the Urban Meyer bowl featuring the team that Urban Meyer used to coach taking on the team he coaches now.
Auburn, assuming they can get past Miami of Ohio could find out all about the blue turf in Boise.
The other Miami gets a shot at LSU in death valley
Florida State would travel to the Horseshoe to take on Ohio State
Arizona/TCU looks like a good defensive battle.
Potential third round games would also be at the home of the higher seeded team:
Arizona or TCU could take on Alabama
Oklahoma vs Florida
Florida State or Ohio State vs Boise State
Miami (Fla) or LSU taking on Oregon
Would make some network executive very rich. Very rich indeed.
Seedings:
1. Alabama* (SEC)
2. Oregon* (PAC-10)
3. Boise State* (WAC)
4. Florida (SEC)
5. Oklahoma* (Big 12)
6. Ohio State* (Big 10)
7. LSU (SEC)
8. TCU* (MWC)
9. Arizona (PAC-10)
10. Miami (Fla.)* (ACC)
11. Florida State (ACC)
12. Stanford (PAC-10)
13. Utah (MWC)
14. Auburn (SEC)
15. Iowa (Big 10)
16. Nebraska (Big 12)
17. Syracuse* (Big East)
18. Houston* (C-USA)
19. Miami (Ohio)* (MAC)
20. Middle Tennessee State* (Sun Belt)
*Denotes current conference leader--automatic bid.
Last 4 in: Stanford, Utah, Auburn, Iowa
First 4 out: Virginia Tech, Nevada, Oklahoma State, Texas
Next 4 out: Arkansas, USC, Michigan, South Carolina
By Conference:
4-SEC
3-Pac 10
2-MWC, ACC, Big 12, Big 10
1-Big East, WAC, C-USA, MAC, Sun Belt
First round games (Play-in games)
Game 1: Middle Tennessee at Utah
Game 2: Miami (Ohio) at Auburn
Game 3: Houston at Iowa
Game 4: Syracuse at Nebraska
Second round games:
Game 4 winner at 1. Alabama
9. Arizona at 8. TCU
Game 1 winner at 4. Florida
12. Stanford at 5. Oklahoma
Game 2 winner at 3. Boise State
11. Florida State at 6. Ohio State
Game 3 winner at 2. Oregon
10. Miami (Fla) at 7. LSU
Games that would be worth A ton of TV money from big advertisers
First round:
The first round has some good potential. Two games look good. Syracuse at Nebraska and Houston at Iowa. This is a good as any middle-tier bowl game.
Second round:
First, assuming Utah can beat MTSU at home, you can look forward to the Urban Meyer bowl featuring the team that Urban Meyer used to coach taking on the team he coaches now.
Auburn, assuming they can get past Miami of Ohio could find out all about the blue turf in Boise.
The other Miami gets a shot at LSU in death valley
Florida State would travel to the Horseshoe to take on Ohio State
Arizona/TCU looks like a good defensive battle.
Potential third round games would also be at the home of the higher seeded team:
Arizona or TCU could take on Alabama
Oklahoma vs Florida
Florida State or Ohio State vs Boise State
Miami (Fla) or LSU taking on Oregon
Would make some network executive very rich. Very rich indeed.
Monday, October 4, 2010
What if the FCS playoffs were held today! 10.5.2010
Here is the way the FCS playoffs would stack up if held today...based on Sagarin rankings:
Seedings (Conference) (LW):
*Denotes current conference leader.
Last 4 in: Richmond, Montana, SFA and Eastern Washington
First 4 out: Cal Poly, SC State, Northern Arizona and Northern Iowa
Next 4 on the outside looking in: North Dakota State, Furman, New Hampshire and Wofford
Still in the Hunt: Texas State
Dropped off the bracket: North Dakota State, Furman, Cal Poly, New Hampshire, Illinois State, Liberty, Georgetown, Bethune-Cookman
Dropped out of contention: Sacramento State, Weber State, Youngstown State
By Conference
6-Colonial
3-Big Sky
2-Southern Conference, Ohio Valley, Southland
1-Missouri Valley, Big South, Patriot, Notheast and Mid-East
First Round Games
Game 1: Hampton at Eastern Washington
Game 2: Robert Morris at Western Illinois
Game 3: Colgate at VMI
Game 4: McNeese State at SE Missouri State
Second Round Games
Game 4 Winner at 1. Delaware
9. Richmond at 8. Georgia Southern
Game 1 Winner at 4. William and Mary
12. SFA at 5. U-Mass
11. Montana State at 6. Appalachian State
Game 2 Winner at 3. Villanova
10. Montana at 7. Jacksonville State
Game 3 Winner at 2. James Madison
The Big Sky Conference was the big winner in their version of separation Saturday. However, Montana State goes from hosting a first round game to getting a first round bye and going on the road in the second round. It is debatable as to whether or not this is an improvement. Especially if you have to play at Appalachian State.
Seedings (Conference) (LW):
1. Delaware* (CAA) (2)
2. James Madison (CAA) (1)
3. Villanova (CAA) (3)
4. William and Mary (CAA) (7)
5. U-Mass (CAA) (4)
6. Appalachian State* (SoCon) (5)
7. Jacksonville State (OVC) (9)
8. Georgia Southern (SoCon) (10)
9. Richmond (CAA) (11)
10. Montana (BSC) (--)
11. Montana State* (BSC) (13)
12. SFA (Southland) (12)
13. Eastern Washington (BSC) (--)
14. Western Illinois* (MVC) (--)
15. VMI* (Big South) (--)
16. SE Missouri* (OVC) (--)
17. McNeese State* (Southland) (--)
18. Colgate* (Patriot) (--)
19. Robert Morris* (NEC) (19)
20. Hampton* (MEAC) (--)
Last 4 in: Richmond, Montana, SFA and Eastern Washington
First 4 out: Cal Poly, SC State, Northern Arizona and Northern Iowa
Next 4 on the outside looking in: North Dakota State, Furman, New Hampshire and Wofford
Still in the Hunt: Texas State
Dropped off the bracket: North Dakota State, Furman, Cal Poly, New Hampshire, Illinois State, Liberty, Georgetown, Bethune-Cookman
Dropped out of contention: Sacramento State, Weber State, Youngstown State
By Conference
6-Colonial
3-Big Sky
2-Southern Conference, Ohio Valley, Southland
1-Missouri Valley, Big South, Patriot, Notheast and Mid-East
First Round Games
Game 1: Hampton at Eastern Washington
Game 2: Robert Morris at Western Illinois
Game 3: Colgate at VMI
Game 4: McNeese State at SE Missouri State
Second Round Games
Game 4 Winner at 1. Delaware
9. Richmond at 8. Georgia Southern
Game 1 Winner at 4. William and Mary
12. SFA at 5. U-Mass
11. Montana State at 6. Appalachian State
Game 2 Winner at 3. Villanova
10. Montana at 7. Jacksonville State
Game 3 Winner at 2. James Madison
The Big Sky Conference was the big winner in their version of separation Saturday. However, Montana State goes from hosting a first round game to getting a first round bye and going on the road in the second round. It is debatable as to whether or not this is an improvement. Especially if you have to play at Appalachian State.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Power Rankings for 10.3.2010
Mountain West Conference...
Air Force finally beat Navy. Wyoming found some offense and held off Toledo. Just about everything else went according to script.
Offensive Player of the Week: UNLV WR Phillip Payne
Defensive team of the Week: Air Force
Game of the Week: Air Force 14 Navy 6
1. TCU
2. Utah
3. Air Force
4. San Diego State
5. Wyoming
6. UNLV
7. BYU
8. Colorado State
9. New Mexico
WAC
Other than Utah State's blowout win over BYU, nothing else was a big surprise.
Offensive Player of the Week: Hawaii QB Bryant Moniz
Defensive Team of the Week: Idaho
Game of the Week: None Selected
1. Boise State
2. Nevada
3. Fresno State
4. Idaho
5. Utah State
6. Hawaii
7. Louisiana Tech
8. New Mexico State
9. San Jose State
Big Sky Conference
A late 3-pointer in overtime at the Worthington Arena in Bozeman led the Bobcats over Sacramento State 64-61...wait this was a football game??? Looks like the wild days of the Big Sky Conference may be back.
Offensive Player of the Week: Eastern Washington QB Bo Levi Mitchell
Defensive Player of the Week: Montana
Game of the Week: Montana State 64 Sacramento State 61
1. Montana State
2. Montana
3. Eastern Washington
4. Northern Arizona
5. Sacramento State
6. Northern Colorado
7. Weber State
8. Portland State
9. Idaho State
Air Force finally beat Navy. Wyoming found some offense and held off Toledo. Just about everything else went according to script.
Offensive Player of the Week: UNLV WR Phillip Payne
Defensive team of the Week: Air Force
Game of the Week: Air Force 14 Navy 6
1. TCU
2. Utah
3. Air Force
4. San Diego State
5. Wyoming
6. UNLV
7. BYU
8. Colorado State
9. New Mexico
WAC
Other than Utah State's blowout win over BYU, nothing else was a big surprise.
Offensive Player of the Week: Hawaii QB Bryant Moniz
Defensive Team of the Week: Idaho
Game of the Week: None Selected
1. Boise State
2. Nevada
3. Fresno State
4. Idaho
5. Utah State
6. Hawaii
7. Louisiana Tech
8. New Mexico State
9. San Jose State
Big Sky Conference
A late 3-pointer in overtime at the Worthington Arena in Bozeman led the Bobcats over Sacramento State 64-61...wait this was a football game??? Looks like the wild days of the Big Sky Conference may be back.
Offensive Player of the Week: Eastern Washington QB Bo Levi Mitchell
Defensive Player of the Week: Montana
Game of the Week: Montana State 64 Sacramento State 61
1. Montana State
2. Montana
3. Eastern Washington
4. Northern Arizona
5. Sacramento State
6. Northern Colorado
7. Weber State
8. Portland State
9. Idaho State
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Knee Jerk Reactions
Utah State beats BYU and BYU fires Hill.
BYU is having problems on both sides of the football. Did not look good against USU on either side of the football. But I did not expect them to fire an assistant mid-season. If this does not turn the team around, if BYU does not finish better that 4-8, Bronco will be gone as well.
Weber State loses to Eastern Washington.
Perhaps coach Hill will only have to move some 75 miles north. Weber State is also struggling.
BYU is having problems on both sides of the football. Did not look good against USU on either side of the football. But I did not expect them to fire an assistant mid-season. If this does not turn the team around, if BYU does not finish better that 4-8, Bronco will be gone as well.
Weber State loses to Eastern Washington.
Perhaps coach Hill will only have to move some 75 miles north. Weber State is also struggling.
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