I'm back in the man-cave, next to my radio, after a week off. A surprising South Florida team, ranked 23rd this week, is playing North Carolina on ESPN. The deuce has West Virgina and East Carolina.
A momentary delay in the radio call ... the man-cave has been invaded by a female who is using a hairdryer.
Kick-off momentarily...
Saturday, September 22, 2007
IU-Illinois statistical comparison
Check out the numbers for Indiana and Illinois side-by-side. Maybe that's why the odds-makers have this game so close. Interesting...both teams are in the top ten in rushing yards per game at 258.7 (IU) and 258 (Ill.) yards per game. IU is averaging about 12 more points per game, however.
Scoring fact: Since 2001, IU is 6-0 when scoring 40 or more points, Illinois is 9-0.
Kick-off expected in less than 30 minutes...
Scoring fact: Since 2001, IU is 6-0 when scoring 40 or more points, Illinois is 9-0.
Kick-off expected in less than 30 minutes...
Friday, September 21, 2007
IU v. Illinois Game Day
Let conference play begin. The Hoosiers are three games short of a bowl, but few people are thinking about that now. The more important thing is IU is 3-0 and faces a very winnable game at noon tomorrow in Bloomington. The game is on Big Ten Network, so get to your local satellite-enabled television.
Looking at its two games against BCS teams (Missouri and Syracuse) Illinois seems susceptible to the pass. During it's opening weekend loss to the Tigers, Mizzou QB Chase Daniel threw for 359 yards and three touchdowns. And Syracuse QB Andrew Robinson threw for 208 yards in a 41-20 Illini victory. Of the 286 yards, Syracuse gave up, 223 came through the air. That means IU QB Kellen Lewis and receiver James Hardy should have some room to throw and catch the ball.
Illinois has been successful running the ball. Against Missouri, then rolled up 119 yards and against Syracuse they amassed 378 yards and four touchdowns. Most of IU's defensive problems have come through the air, but some of that has to do with IU running out to big leads early. And IU took over last week's game against Akron in the second half, forcing the Zips to throw.
Illinois QB Juice Williams has a 109.1 passer rating so far this year, with 279 yards and one TD. He also has rushed for 117 yards in three games. Lewis, by comparison, has a 151.4 rating, with 643 yards and nine TDs.
The Hoosiers have home-field advantage and the line is close. I think they take this game.
Looking at its two games against BCS teams (Missouri and Syracuse) Illinois seems susceptible to the pass. During it's opening weekend loss to the Tigers, Mizzou QB Chase Daniel threw for 359 yards and three touchdowns. And Syracuse QB Andrew Robinson threw for 208 yards in a 41-20 Illini victory. Of the 286 yards, Syracuse gave up, 223 came through the air. That means IU QB Kellen Lewis and receiver James Hardy should have some room to throw and catch the ball.
Illinois has been successful running the ball. Against Missouri, then rolled up 119 yards and against Syracuse they amassed 378 yards and four touchdowns. Most of IU's defensive problems have come through the air, but some of that has to do with IU running out to big leads early. And IU took over last week's game against Akron in the second half, forcing the Zips to throw.
Illinois QB Juice Williams has a 109.1 passer rating so far this year, with 279 yards and one TD. He also has rushed for 117 yards in three games. Lewis, by comparison, has a 151.4 rating, with 643 yards and nine TDs.
The Hoosiers have home-field advantage and the line is close. I think they take this game.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Finish them Part II
Third down and three. Sears runs for less than a yard. Fourth and three. IU keeps the offense on the field and Lewis gives it to Sears again. It's not even close and IU turns it over on downs. Less than 2 minutes to go.
WMU completes a pass at the 35 and the receiver gets out of bounds. It's a gain of two. Second and eight is an incomplete pass. Third down. 1:41 to go.
Simmons makes the catch on third down for a first down in IU territory. The radio guys say the officials missed offensive pass interference. First down is an incompletion. Second down is incomplete. Third and 10. The catch is made at the IU 19 for a first down. 1:10 to go.
First down ... another catch at the 13 yard line. 47 seconds. Second down pass is incomplete. Third down ... pass is knocked away. Holding is called on WMU. IU took the penalty. Third down and long.
The Hoosiers get a sack to force fourth down. That should end the game. Last snap throw in the end zone ... incomplete!!! IU gets the ball back with 2 seconds. They take a knee and the victory.
IU wins it 37-27 over Western Michigan. IU is 2-0, but still has some work to do. The second half was anything but pretty, especially after the big time first half. But I loved the defensive effort. They came up with all the big plays in this game and that is a good omen for the future.
Akron is next. It's 12:18 a.m. Sunday. That game lasted about 4 hours. I'm going to bed.
WMU completes a pass at the 35 and the receiver gets out of bounds. It's a gain of two. Second and eight is an incomplete pass. Third down. 1:41 to go.
Simmons makes the catch on third down for a first down in IU territory. The radio guys say the officials missed offensive pass interference. First down is an incompletion. Second down is incomplete. Third and 10. The catch is made at the IU 19 for a first down. 1:10 to go.
First down ... another catch at the 13 yard line. 47 seconds. Second down pass is incomplete. Third down ... pass is knocked away. Holding is called on WMU. IU took the penalty. Third down and long.
The Hoosiers get a sack to force fourth down. That should end the game. Last snap throw in the end zone ... incomplete!!! IU gets the ball back with 2 seconds. They take a knee and the victory.
IU wins it 37-27 over Western Michigan. IU is 2-0, but still has some work to do. The second half was anything but pretty, especially after the big time first half. But I loved the defensive effort. They came up with all the big plays in this game and that is a good omen for the future.
Akron is next. It's 12:18 a.m. Sunday. That game lasted about 4 hours. I'm going to bed.
Finish them...
On first down, the Hoosiers get a sack for a big loss. Another HUGE defensive play. On second down, the pass is complete at the 36. Third and long. The pass is almost picked. It's fourth and 12. WMU has to go for it. The pass is almost picked-off again, but IU holds!!!
Big defensive plays all over the place tonight. My score was off -- I said IU wins 24-21, but I was close on the spread.
IU has the ball with 2:45 to go. WMU has one time-out left. On second and seven, Sears runs up the middle to the WMU 29. WMU calls time out. Third down and three. A first down here should end it.
Big defensive plays all over the place tonight. My score was off -- I said IU wins 24-21, but I was close on the spread.
IU has the ball with 2:45 to go. WMU has one time-out left. On second and seven, Sears runs up the middle to the WMU 29. WMU calls time out. Third down and three. A first down here should end it.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Run some clock...
I'm not used to saying this ... the defense is carrying the Hoosiers in this half. On first down, IU runs it for a gain of three. A WMU injury stops the clock. Second down. Clock is running again. Lewis gives to Thigpen who gets caught from behind trying to turn the corner. WMU calls time out. 4:52 to go.
Third and nine. Lewis hands to Thigpen and he gets a couple yards. Fourth down, but the clock is running. IU will punt. The Hoosiers are running the play clock down to nearly 0 before doing anything.
The punt is downed at the WMU 38. 4 minutes to go.
Third and nine. Lewis hands to Thigpen and he gets a couple yards. Fourth down, but the clock is running. IU will punt. The Hoosiers are running the play clock down to nearly 0 before doing anything.
The punt is downed at the WMU 38. 4 minutes to go.
Start to worry
IU needs a long drive here to run some clock and preferably get some points.
The kick-off goes out of bounds. IU takes it at its 35.
First down is a run to McCray who gets through the hole and gets a first down at its 47. McCray runs again, but loses a yard. Second and 11. Lewis throws to Fisher, who gets two yards. Third and nine. He stayed in bounds. Clock is running...
IU is called for false start on third down. Now it's third and 14. Lewis throws an interception. WMU gets the ball at the 48 yard line. James Bailey is down. He made the tackle on the pick. He's limping...
IU has been outscored 20-6 in the second half. On first down IU gets a sack. Nice play. Second and 12 after the two-yard loss. The pass is incomplete after the receiver couldn't hold the ball. Third down.
Big play coming up ... Huge play. And WMU is flagged for delay of game. Third and 17. Not the direction they want to go. The pass is overthrown. Fourth down. WMU punts. They down it at the IU 32 yard line. 5:35 to go.
The kick-off goes out of bounds. IU takes it at its 35.
First down is a run to McCray who gets through the hole and gets a first down at its 47. McCray runs again, but loses a yard. Second and 11. Lewis throws to Fisher, who gets two yards. Third and nine. He stayed in bounds. Clock is running...
IU is called for false start on third down. Now it's third and 14. Lewis throws an interception. WMU gets the ball at the 48 yard line. James Bailey is down. He made the tackle on the pick. He's limping...
IU has been outscored 20-6 in the second half. On first down IU gets a sack. Nice play. Second and 12 after the two-yard loss. The pass is incomplete after the receiver couldn't hold the ball. Third down.
Big play coming up ... Huge play. And WMU is flagged for delay of game. Third and 17. Not the direction they want to go. The pass is overthrown. Fourth down. WMU punts. They down it at the IU 32 yard line. 5:35 to go.
Finish strong Part III
WMU has it first and 10. It's a hand-off for a gain of seven. Second down. No huddle. They get the first down. Shotgun ... the pass is incomplete. Second and 10. Pass is caught by Simmons over the middle for another first down. A gain of 14 and WMU now is at the IU 41. On first down, the hand-off goes for no gain. Second down and 10. The pass is incomplete, too high for Simmons. 9:06 to go in the game.
Third and 10. The tight end makes the catch for the first down. He was wide open. First down is pass into the end zone for a TOUCHDOWN. He may not have gotten his feet down. WMU inches closer... WMU is going for two. The pass is almost intercepted. Try is no good. IU leads 37-27. Under 9 minutes to go.
Third and 10. The tight end makes the catch for the first down. He was wide open. First down is pass into the end zone for a TOUCHDOWN. He may not have gotten his feet down. WMU inches closer... WMU is going for two. The pass is almost intercepted. Try is no good. IU leads 37-27. Under 9 minutes to go.
Finish strong Part II
Tech finally scores with 4:38 to go in the third quarter. They trail LSU 27-7. There are a ton of Tech fans in bayou country. They finally have something to cheer about. Auburn continues to lead 17-14 with five minutes left in the third.
That was a big series for the IU defense. Now the offense has to run some clock. They start at their 39 yard line. Lewis throws down field and out of bounds. Not the way you run the clock out.
Second and 10. Lewis throws in the flat to Fisher, who rolls out of bounds near the 46. A flag is down ... unsportsmanlike conduct on Fisher. Not smart...
Third and 17. Aren't we trying to run the clock? Lewis gives to Thigpen who runs to the 39. Another flag is down ... it's holding on IU. That's declined. Fourth and 10. IU will punt.
WMU gets it at 34 yard line. 10:55 to go.
That was a big series for the IU defense. Now the offense has to run some clock. They start at their 39 yard line. Lewis throws down field and out of bounds. Not the way you run the clock out.
Second and 10. Lewis throws in the flat to Fisher, who rolls out of bounds near the 46. A flag is down ... unsportsmanlike conduct on Fisher. Not smart...
Third and 17. Aren't we trying to run the clock? Lewis gives to Thigpen who runs to the 39. Another flag is down ... it's holding on IU. That's declined. Fourth and 10. IU will punt.
WMU gets it at 34 yard line. 10:55 to go.
Finish strong...
Virginia Tech is down 27-0 to LSU now with 7 minutes to go in the third quarter.
Western Michigan only has 37 yards rushing. They have been in come-back mode most of the night. IU is pretty balanced -- 197 rushing, 210 passing.
The kick-off goes to the one yard line and WMU takes it to the 24 yard line. First down is a deep ball, but it's dropped. The radio guys at first thought it was a catch. Second down is another incompletion. Third and 10. Another incompletion. WMU is flagged for holding, but IU declines it. Fourth down and WMU will punt. 12:13 to go in the game.
IU takes it at the 38 yard line.
Western Michigan only has 37 yards rushing. They have been in come-back mode most of the night. IU is pretty balanced -- 197 rushing, 210 passing.
The kick-off goes to the one yard line and WMU takes it to the 24 yard line. First down is a deep ball, but it's dropped. The radio guys at first thought it was a catch. Second down is another incompletion. Third and 10. Another incompletion. WMU is flagged for holding, but IU declines it. Fourth down and WMU will punt. 12:13 to go in the game.
IU takes it at the 38 yard line.
The kick is up...
It's a 47-yard attempt. It's good!! The longest of kicker Austin Starr's career. That makes it 37-21 Hoosiers. They have a little more breathing room now. But touchdowns are much better than field goals.
IU has it again
Thigpen gets a good kick-off return. He goes 37-yards and gives IU good field position.
First and 10 from the IU 44. Thigpen takes the hand-off and gains about four yards. Second and six. Lewis fakes the hand-off and throws the Sears who takes it to the WMU 30 yard line for a first down. Another big play for the offense.
Five wide receivers on first down. Lewis' pass is deflected and incomplete. Second and 10. Lewis runs and gains only a yard. Third and long. Lewis has to run again and gets to the 30 for another yard or two. Fourth down and IU is going for it. It's too far for a field goal. Timeout is called by IU and now it looks like a field goal attempt.
First and 10 from the IU 44. Thigpen takes the hand-off and gains about four yards. Second and six. Lewis fakes the hand-off and throws the Sears who takes it to the WMU 30 yard line for a first down. Another big play for the offense.
Five wide receivers on first down. Lewis' pass is deflected and incomplete. Second and 10. Lewis runs and gains only a yard. Third and long. Lewis has to run again and gets to the 30 for another yard or two. Fourth down and IU is going for it. It's too far for a field goal. Timeout is called by IU and now it looks like a field goal attempt.
Third and goal from deep in IU territory
Fourth quarter is underway.
Illinois beat Western Illinois 21-0. Wisconsin is down 7-6 to UNLV, but in the red zone with 10 seconds before halftime.
Third and goal. WMU gets the touchdown. Simmons makes the catch. Extra point is good ... IU leads 34-21.
We need one more good long drive and touchdown to put this game away. We should have given the knock-out blow early in the third quarter...
Illinois beat Western Illinois 21-0. Wisconsin is down 7-6 to UNLV, but in the red zone with 10 seconds before halftime.
Third and goal. WMU gets the touchdown. Simmons makes the catch. Extra point is good ... IU leads 34-21.
We need one more good long drive and touchdown to put this game away. We should have given the knock-out blow early in the third quarter...
Officials are reviewing the play...
Virginia Tech still hasn't scored and now the third quarter is under way. Auburn continues to hold on to a 3-point lead over South Florida early in the third quarter.
Radio guys are saying the IU offense has been sloppy in the third quarter and I have to agree. This game should be over. The play is reversed after a review. No fumble.
WMU has it at the IU 7 and its third and goal. That's the end of the third quarter. IU leads 34-14.
Radio guys are saying the IU offense has been sloppy in the third quarter and I have to agree. This game should be over. The play is reversed after a review. No fumble.
WMU has it at the IU 7 and its third and goal. That's the end of the third quarter. IU leads 34-14.
More defense, WMU deep in its own territory
WMU gets a four-yard pass on first down. A pass out of the backfield goes for a big play. They get to the IU 43.
First down is a pass to no one in the end zone. Second and 10. Pass is caught at the IU 32 for a first down. Broncos are back in the no-huddle. A hand-off goes for three yards.
The defense has to step up here. WMU is working on a momentum change. Second down is a pass deep again, but it's knocked away. Third and eight. Simmons catches a pass and gets to the eight after IU forces the WMU QB to scramble and he makes something out of nothing again.
First and goal. WMU loses two on a QB sneak. It's second and goal from the 10. WMU fumbles again on the seven yard line after a quick run up the middle. IU recovers. Another HUGE defensive play. WMU has six turnovers.
First down is a pass to no one in the end zone. Second and 10. Pass is caught at the IU 32 for a first down. Broncos are back in the no-huddle. A hand-off goes for three yards.
The defense has to step up here. WMU is working on a momentum change. Second down is a pass deep again, but it's knocked away. Third and eight. Simmons catches a pass and gets to the eight after IU forces the WMU QB to scramble and he makes something out of nothing again.
First and goal. WMU loses two on a QB sneak. It's second and goal from the 10. WMU fumbles again on the seven yard line after a quick run up the middle. IU recovers. Another HUGE defensive play. WMU has six turnovers.
Offense back once again
IU gets the ball at the 20 after the kick-off goes into the end zone. But there is a flag on IU for holding. IU now gets the ball at the 10. First and 10. Lewis throws to Hardy, who looked like he would catch it, but is hit hard and drops it. Second and 10. Lewis runs to the 15 and another flag is down. It's a late hit on Western Michigan -- a 15-yard penalty to the 31 yard line.
Lewis throws it away on first down. On second and 10, Thigpen gets to the 35 on a quick run. It's third and six. Lewis throws it at Brandon Walker-Roby, who can't make the catch. But thanks to a pass interference call (How many is that now?) It's a first down. That's 10 penalties on WMU. IU has nine.
Lewis runs for about a yard on first down. Second down and Lewis throws to Means, but he is whacked and its incomplete. Third down. Lewis throws it to Bailey, who can't catch it. The crowd is unhappy about something ... IU has to punt.
WMU takes it at the 11 yard line.
Lewis throws it away on first down. On second and 10, Thigpen gets to the 35 on a quick run. It's third and six. Lewis throws it at Brandon Walker-Roby, who can't make the catch. But thanks to a pass interference call (How many is that now?) It's a first down. That's 10 penalties on WMU. IU has nine.
Lewis runs for about a yard on first down. Second down and Lewis throws to Means, but he is whacked and its incomplete. Third down. Lewis throws it to Bailey, who can't catch it. The crowd is unhappy about something ... IU has to punt.
WMU takes it at the 11 yard line.
Kick off
Are we nearing garbage time? WMU takes the kick-off back for a touchdown. 98 yards. That was ugly. Extra point is good, in spite of a delay of game call. IU leads 34-14.
The Hoosiers have to keep their heads in the game here. There's still just under 5 minutes left in the third quarter. A long way to go yet...
The Hoosiers have to keep their heads in the game here. There's still just under 5 minutes left in the third quarter. A long way to go yet...
Red zone problems
IU is one for three in the red zone this half. If the game was close that would be a big problem. Two of red zone drives includes chances from inside the five. Those have to be converted almost every time. If WMU did not turn the ball over so many times, this game may be a lot different right now.
It should be closer to 52-7 right now.
It should be closer to 52-7 right now.
Offense needs to get going
McCray takes the hand-off and runs all the way to the 30 of WMU, but fumbles. IU recovers it.
Thigpen takes the hand-off on first down and loses one. Second down. Lewis swings it to Ray Fisher who runs to the WMU 20 for a first down. Thigpen takes the hand-off again and still can't get going. Second and 13. Lewis throws to Bailey, but he drops it. He appears hurt, according to the radio guys. Third down. Lewis throws to Fisher on a quick sideline pass and he runs it inside the 10. Another first down. A WMU player is injured, so there is a stop in play. It's raining again, 6:13 to go in the third quarter.
Both ESPN games are at halftime. I'm watching the NASCAR race now. Less than 85 laps to go, Jimmy Johnson is leading.
First and goal from the seven yard line. Thigpen still can't get a decent gain. A flag is down. Its on IU, first and goal from the 18. Lewis hits Fisher at the five yard line. Second and goal. Lewis throws to Hardy, but he can't catch it. It sounds like the defender made a good play.
Third and goal. Lewis throws to Hardy again. He catches it, but is out of bounds. Another field goal attempt. This one is good from 24 yards. IU leads 34-7.
Thigpen takes the hand-off on first down and loses one. Second down. Lewis swings it to Ray Fisher who runs to the WMU 20 for a first down. Thigpen takes the hand-off again and still can't get going. Second and 13. Lewis throws to Bailey, but he drops it. He appears hurt, according to the radio guys. Third down. Lewis throws to Fisher on a quick sideline pass and he runs it inside the 10. Another first down. A WMU player is injured, so there is a stop in play. It's raining again, 6:13 to go in the third quarter.
Both ESPN games are at halftime. I'm watching the NASCAR race now. Less than 85 laps to go, Jimmy Johnson is leading.
First and goal from the seven yard line. Thigpen still can't get a decent gain. A flag is down. Its on IU, first and goal from the 18. Lewis hits Fisher at the five yard line. Second and goal. Lewis throws to Hardy, but he can't catch it. It sounds like the defender made a good play.
Third and goal. Lewis throws to Hardy again. He catches it, but is out of bounds. Another field goal attempt. This one is good from 24 yards. IU leads 34-7.
Defense is on the field
James Hardy had only 27 yards receiving in the first half on three catches. But two were for touchdowns. Kellen Lewis threw for 136 yards and three touchdowns and ran for 40 yards. Thigpen had 54 yards rushing.
WMU is trying to move the ball. They are going without a huddle now. On third and one, WMU can't complete the pass. WMU is going to punt again ... it goes into the end zone for a touchback.
Auburn just took the lead against South Florida. Its 17-14 with 29 seconds left in the first half.
WMU is trying to move the ball. They are going without a huddle now. On third and one, WMU can't complete the pass. WMU is going to punt again ... it goes into the end zone for a touchback.
Auburn just took the lead against South Florida. Its 17-14 with 29 seconds left in the first half.
Good field position for the offense
IU needs to get a TD here. First down at the WMU 27. James Hardy is back in the game. Hoosierland signs with relief...
Lewis gives to Thigpen, he runs outside and can't go anywhere. Second and 12. Lewis hits Bailey on a quick pass to the outside. He takes it to the 19, third and two. Lewis throws at Bailey in the end zone, but its incomplete on a fade route. Fourth down.
The rain has stopped. IU misses a 37-yard field goal attempt. It's still 31-7 and IU has no scored after having the ball on the goal line for three chances and now inside the 30. That is not a good habit to get into, especially with Akron and conference season upcoming.
Lewis gives to Thigpen, he runs outside and can't go anywhere. Second and 12. Lewis hits Bailey on a quick pass to the outside. He takes it to the 19, third and two. Lewis throws at Bailey in the end zone, but its incomplete on a fade route. Fourth down.
The rain has stopped. IU misses a 37-yard field goal attempt. It's still 31-7 and IU has no scored after having the ball on the goal line for three chances and now inside the 30. That is not a good habit to get into, especially with Akron and conference season upcoming.
On the goal line...
Second down ... Lewis tries a QB sneak, but doesn't get in. Third down. Lewis sneaks again, this time to the right side. No TD signal again. He gets to the one-foot line. Fourth down.
They need to go for it. This is the knock-out blow. They're going for it. Lewis sneaks a third time and he still can't get in. Turnover on downs. UGH!!! How can you not get a foot? And what happened to all those running backs the Hoosiers had in the game?
WMU takes over. They try to surprise IU with a long bomb, but the pass is overthrown. The WMU QB rotation is complete, their starter is back in. Second down and WMU runs it out to about the three yard line. That brings up third down and eight.
WMU throws down field again ... incomplete. Here comes a punt from the back of the end zone. Looking for good field position here. Tracy Porter takes it at the WMU 39 and gets it to the 27 yard line.
They need to go for it. This is the knock-out blow. They're going for it. Lewis sneaks a third time and he still can't get in. Turnover on downs. UGH!!! How can you not get a foot? And what happened to all those running backs the Hoosiers had in the game?
WMU takes over. They try to surprise IU with a long bomb, but the pass is overthrown. The WMU QB rotation is complete, their starter is back in. Second down and WMU runs it out to about the three yard line. That brings up third down and eight.
WMU throws down field again ... incomplete. Here comes a punt from the back of the end zone. Looking for good field position here. Tracy Porter takes it at the WMU 39 and gets it to the 27 yard line.
Defense back in
First down and WMU fumbles again. IU recovers it!!! Another turnover recovered by the Hoosiers. And this one is deep in WMU territory.
I'm giving the defense the game ball this week. First down and Thigpen runs inside the five to the two yard line. There's a flag down ... its holding against the Hoosiers. First down again, this time at the 23 yard line. Lewis throws it to Hardy, who can't catch it. But pass interference is called.
Hardy is limping off the field, according to the radio guys. They say it may be a cramp. Hoosierland is holding its breath.
First down after the flag. Lewis gives to McCray who runs to the goal line and fumbles into the end zone. It's recovered by center Benn Wyss for the TOUCHDOWN!!!.
The play is reviewed ... McCray is ruled down at the one, making it second and goal. No TD yet...
I'm giving the defense the game ball this week. First down and Thigpen runs inside the five to the two yard line. There's a flag down ... its holding against the Hoosiers. First down again, this time at the 23 yard line. Lewis throws it to Hardy, who can't catch it. But pass interference is called.
Hardy is limping off the field, according to the radio guys. They say it may be a cramp. Hoosierland is holding its breath.
First down after the flag. Lewis gives to McCray who runs to the goal line and fumbles into the end zone. It's recovered by center Benn Wyss for the TOUCHDOWN!!!.
The play is reviewed ... McCray is ruled down at the one, making it second and goal. No TD yet...
Second half starting
IU takes the kick-off to about the 24 yard line. First down and Thigpen runs for a one-yard loss. Second down and 11. Lewis runs it to the 39 yard line for a first down. A gain of 16. Lewis can't get hurt, he accounts for almost all the offense.
First down. Lewis runs again. He wanted to throw, but couldn't find anyone. Second down 15. Lewis throws to Andrew Means, who runs to the 44. Third and five from near mid-field. Lewis throws over the middle, but it's knocked down. IU decides to punt.
The punt goes to the 15 and the radio guys think it hit an IU player. No return. WMU starts at its 15 yard line.
First down. Lewis runs again. He wanted to throw, but couldn't find anyone. Second down 15. Lewis throws to Andrew Means, who runs to the 44. Third and five from near mid-field. Lewis throws over the middle, but it's knocked down. IU decides to punt.
The punt goes to the 15 and the radio guys think it hit an IU player. No return. WMU starts at its 15 yard line.
Halftime scoreboard
Iowa is beating Syracuse 28-0 at halftime, Illinois continues to lead Western Illinois 21-0 with two minutes to go. Wisconsin and UNLV are just getting started.
TV watch: South Florida is leading Auburn 14-10 at the start of the second quarter. Virginia Tech has yet to show up for the game against LSU ... the tigers lead it 24-0 early in the second quarter.
It's hard to fault the Hoosiers much in the first half. And for the first time in a long time, the defense has taken over the game. They forced four turnovers, including 21 points over three turnovers right at the end of the half. That was really impressive. Stats should be updated here soon...
The radio guys just said it has started raining in Kalamazoo. That may affect things in the second half.
TV watch: South Florida is leading Auburn 14-10 at the start of the second quarter. Virginia Tech has yet to show up for the game against LSU ... the tigers lead it 24-0 early in the second quarter.
It's hard to fault the Hoosiers much in the first half. And for the first time in a long time, the defense has taken over the game. They forced four turnovers, including 21 points over three turnovers right at the end of the half. That was really impressive. Stats should be updated here soon...
The radio guys just said it has started raining in Kalamazoo. That may affect things in the second half.
On to halftime...
WMU takes the kick-off, but doesn't do anything with it. It's halftime. IU leads Western Michigan 31-7 after 28 unanswered points.
The radio guys just said someone is streaking. I have no response to that.
The radio guys just said someone is streaking. I have no response to that.
On the goal line...time for one more play
On third and goal from the 11. Lewis hits Hardy over the middle again in the end zone. TOUCHDOWN!!! Two catches, two TDs. That sounds familiar... The extra point is good. IU leads 31-7 with three seconds left in the half. Three turnovers, 21 points.
How about the defensive display?
That's 14 straight points off turnovers. Why did WMU switch quarterbacks? And what about James Hardy? He has three touchdown catches on the year now.
Austin Thomas is out for the game with a concussion.
The kick-off is taken by WMU to its 24 yard line. The Broncos changed QBs again. The new guy throws for a gain of three to the 27. Second down is a completion that moves WMU out to the 37 and a first down. The next throw is another IU INTERCEPTION. Mitchell Evans gets his second of the game.
IU can get another score before the half... Lewis gives the ball to McCray on first down, who takes it a few yards to the WMU 38. Second and six. McCray runs again, but is hit in the backfield and loses three. Third and nine. Lewis runs for it ... and gets the first down. 1:14 to go in the half.
IU is at the WMU 32. Lewis throws complete to Andrew Means to the 26. Second and three is a completion to Hardy for a first down. IU has one timeout left.
Lewis throws to James Bailey who makes the catch and runs out of bounds at the 12 yard line. Second and one. 27 seconds. Lewis throws at Means, but it's incomplete. 22 seconds.
Thigpen gets the hand-off and runs inside the five. First and goal at the four. IU false starts and moves back to the nine yard line. 15 seconds to go in the half.
Lewis throws into the end zone, but it's incomplete. Second and goal.
IU has six penalties in the half.
Lewis has to take a sack and IU calls time out with seven seconds left. Third and goal.
Austin Thomas is out for the game with a concussion.
The kick-off is taken by WMU to its 24 yard line. The Broncos changed QBs again. The new guy throws for a gain of three to the 27. Second down is a completion that moves WMU out to the 37 and a first down. The next throw is another IU INTERCEPTION. Mitchell Evans gets his second of the game.
IU can get another score before the half... Lewis gives the ball to McCray on first down, who takes it a few yards to the WMU 38. Second and six. McCray runs again, but is hit in the backfield and loses three. Third and nine. Lewis runs for it ... and gets the first down. 1:14 to go in the half.
IU is at the WMU 32. Lewis throws complete to Andrew Means to the 26. Second and three is a completion to Hardy for a first down. IU has one timeout left.
Lewis throws to James Bailey who makes the catch and runs out of bounds at the 12 yard line. Second and one. 27 seconds. Lewis throws at Means, but it's incomplete. 22 seconds.
Thigpen gets the hand-off and runs inside the five. First and goal at the four. IU false starts and moves back to the nine yard line. 15 seconds to go in the half.
Lewis throws into the end zone, but it's incomplete. Second and goal.
IU has six penalties in the half.
Lewis has to take a sack and IU calls time out with seven seconds left. Third and goal.
On the goal line...
Sears takes the hand-off and loses two yards on first and goal. Second down from the five yard line. Lewis throws a lob pass to Hardy, who catches it, but he was out of bounds. Third and goal.
On third down, Lewis throws it to Hardy for the TD, but IU is flagged for illegal shift. Third down and goal from the 10. Coach Lynch doesn't like the call...
Lewis throws into the end zone again and its incomplete. But there's another flag. WMU is offsides and IU gets the ball at the five yard line. It's third down for a third time. Less than 4 minutes to go in the half.
Lewis from the shotgun takes the snap, but IU is flagged for illegal procedure. Third down from the 10 yard line again. Lewis hits Hardy over the middle for a TOUCHDOWN!!! And with no flags. How about that. The extra point is good. Its IU-24, WMU-7.
On third down, Lewis throws it to Hardy for the TD, but IU is flagged for illegal shift. Third down and goal from the 10. Coach Lynch doesn't like the call...
Lewis throws into the end zone again and its incomplete. But there's another flag. WMU is offsides and IU gets the ball at the five yard line. It's third down for a third time. Less than 4 minutes to go in the half.
Lewis from the shotgun takes the snap, but IU is flagged for illegal procedure. Third down from the 10 yard line again. Lewis hits Hardy over the middle for a TOUCHDOWN!!! And with no flags. How about that. The extra point is good. Its IU-24, WMU-7.
Following the big fumble return...
With the Penn St. win complete, ESPN switches to LSU-Virginia Tech. Still no score early.
Auburn already is down 7-0 to South Florida early in the third quarter.
IU kicks and WMU and they take the kick-off into IU territory.
First down is a QB sneak for a loss of four. WMU already has replaced QBs. Now a freshman is in. On second down, the pass is incomplete. Third and 14. Under six minutes to go in the half.
The freshman takes the snap on third down and FUMBLES!! Will Patterson recovers for the Hoosiers and the offense is back in business. How about all this defense. That's at least three turnovers already and four sacks.
From the WMU 47. Lewis throws to Bailey for nine yards. Second and short. Thigpen runs for the first down on a gain of about five to the WMU 35. Thigpen runs again for a short gain, but WMU is flagged for a late hit. That's a 15-yard personal foul penalty. Now IU is at the WMU 16 yard line.
Lewis keeps and runs to the three yard line. First and goal.
Auburn already is down 7-0 to South Florida early in the third quarter.
IU kicks and WMU and they take the kick-off into IU territory.
First down is a QB sneak for a loss of four. WMU already has replaced QBs. Now a freshman is in. On second down, the pass is incomplete. Third and 14. Under six minutes to go in the half.
The freshman takes the snap on third down and FUMBLES!! Will Patterson recovers for the Hoosiers and the offense is back in business. How about all this defense. That's at least three turnovers already and four sacks.
From the WMU 47. Lewis throws to Bailey for nine yards. Second and short. Thigpen runs for the first down on a gain of about five to the WMU 35. Thigpen runs again for a short gain, but WMU is flagged for a late hit. That's a 15-yard personal foul penalty. Now IU is at the WMU 16 yard line.
Lewis keeps and runs to the three yard line. First and goal.
After the punt...
WMU takes the ball at its 18 yard line. Time out for TV, which I can't see...
Early stats are available here, but they're very old.
South Carolina is trying to hang on ... Georgia has the ball down four with less than a minute to go. The gamecocks win it in a big upset.
Penn St. just beat ND 31-10.
WMU's QB can only go for one yard on first down. Second and nine and the Hoosier know the pass down at the line of scimmage. Third down and WMU makes a huge play again. It's a pass out to midfield. He was trying to avoid a sack and turns nothing into something. WMU on first down fumbles and D-lineman Greg Middleton runs it back for an IU TOUCHDOWN!!!. We're cashing in on turnovers! The extra point is good and its 17-7 Hoosiers.
Early stats are available here, but they're very old.
South Carolina is trying to hang on ... Georgia has the ball down four with less than a minute to go. The gamecocks win it in a big upset.
Penn St. just beat ND 31-10.
WMU's QB can only go for one yard on first down. Second and nine and the Hoosier know the pass down at the line of scimmage. Third down and WMU makes a huge play again. It's a pass out to midfield. He was trying to avoid a sack and turns nothing into something. WMU on first down fumbles and D-lineman Greg Middleton runs it back for an IU TOUCHDOWN!!!. We're cashing in on turnovers! The extra point is good and its 17-7 Hoosiers.
Start of the second quarter
WMU finished the first quarter with a good run to the near mid-field for a first down.
On first down, WMU runs for a good gain. Austin Thomas is down. The radio guys say it looks like he took a hit in the head. He didn't move for several seconds, but he is sitting up now. Now he walks off the field on his own.
Another throw, another pass to Simmons. He makes the catch near the IU 35. WMU runs again to the 32. A run to the 29 brings up third down and two. IU forces a loss of two on a QB sneak to make it fourth down. WMU is going for it again, but they call time out before the play.
Penn St. is up 31-10 now with six minutes to go. South Carolina leads Ga. 16-12 with under five minutes left. But USC has the ball.
Fourth and four, and WMU converts again. IU nearly gets a sack, but the pass is good enough to get to the IU 21.
WMU throws into the end zone on first down, but the tight end drops it. Second and 10 is a hand-off for about a gain of one. Third and nine. IU gets a HUGE interception in the end zone and returns it to the 11 yard line. Brian Fairs makes the big play.
IU gets the ball back. Demetrius McCray runs for about five on first down. Thigpen gets the first down on second and five. He comes in motion and gets the hand-off as he passes by the center.
First down at the IU 25. Lewis throws to Fisher for seven yards. Lewis throws to Fisher, who takes it to the 38 yard line for a first down. Lewis throws incomplete, he was looking for James Hardy, who doesn't have a catch yet.
Second and 10, McCray runs for two yards. Third and eight. Lewis throws to James Bailey. He doesn't make the catch, but there is a flag for pass interference. That gives IU a first down at mid-field.
First down is an incomplete pass. It was a lateral, which is a loss of five. Second and 15. Five wide receivers ... Lewis throws incomplete. Another flag for holding on the Hoosiers. WMU declines it to make it third and 15. Lewis throws incomplete again, looking for Hardy. IU decides to punt on fourth down.
On first down, WMU runs for a good gain. Austin Thomas is down. The radio guys say it looks like he took a hit in the head. He didn't move for several seconds, but he is sitting up now. Now he walks off the field on his own.
Another throw, another pass to Simmons. He makes the catch near the IU 35. WMU runs again to the 32. A run to the 29 brings up third down and two. IU forces a loss of two on a QB sneak to make it fourth down. WMU is going for it again, but they call time out before the play.
Penn St. is up 31-10 now with six minutes to go. South Carolina leads Ga. 16-12 with under five minutes left. But USC has the ball.
Fourth and four, and WMU converts again. IU nearly gets a sack, but the pass is good enough to get to the IU 21.
WMU throws into the end zone on first down, but the tight end drops it. Second and 10 is a hand-off for about a gain of one. Third and nine. IU gets a HUGE interception in the end zone and returns it to the 11 yard line. Brian Fairs makes the big play.
IU gets the ball back. Demetrius McCray runs for about five on first down. Thigpen gets the first down on second and five. He comes in motion and gets the hand-off as he passes by the center.
First down at the IU 25. Lewis throws to Fisher for seven yards. Lewis throws to Fisher, who takes it to the 38 yard line for a first down. Lewis throws incomplete, he was looking for James Hardy, who doesn't have a catch yet.
Second and 10, McCray runs for two yards. Third and eight. Lewis throws to James Bailey. He doesn't make the catch, but there is a flag for pass interference. That gives IU a first down at mid-field.
First down is an incomplete pass. It was a lateral, which is a loss of five. Second and 15. Five wide receivers ... Lewis throws incomplete. Another flag for holding on the Hoosiers. WMU declines it to make it third and 15. Lewis throws incomplete again, looking for Hardy. IU decides to punt on fourth down.
More offense
Iowa already is up 14-0 on Syracuse about half way through the first quarter. South Carolina continues to lead Georgia 16-9.
Ray Fisher takes the kick-off. He runs it to the 26.
On first down, Lewis goes into the shortgun. It's a hand-off to Thigpen, and he loses three yards. Second and 13. Lewis throws to Fisher for a gain of nine ... third and four. Lewis throws deep to Andrew Means who makes the catch inside the WMU 35. It's a 35-yard gain and a first down.
Lewis gives to Thigpen, who runs for about five yards to the WMU 29 yard line. Second and six. Thigpen runs again for no gain. Third and six is a Lewis run close to the first down. They spot it about a foot short. The Hoosiers appear to be going for it, but call time-out first.
Fourth and one ... Lewis throws to Sears for a TOUCHDOWN!!! It was a fake hand-off. The extra point is good. IU leads 10-7.
Ray Fisher takes the kick-off. He runs it to the 26.
On first down, Lewis goes into the shortgun. It's a hand-off to Thigpen, and he loses three yards. Second and 13. Lewis throws to Fisher for a gain of nine ... third and four. Lewis throws deep to Andrew Means who makes the catch inside the WMU 35. It's a 35-yard gain and a first down.
Lewis gives to Thigpen, who runs for about five yards to the WMU 29 yard line. Second and six. Thigpen runs again for no gain. Third and six is a Lewis run close to the first down. They spot it about a foot short. The Hoosiers appear to be going for it, but call time-out first.
Fourth and one ... Lewis throws to Sears for a TOUCHDOWN!!! It was a fake hand-off. The extra point is good. IU leads 10-7.
Goal line defense
From the IU 16...Simmons makes the catch, but it is a short gain. It's third down at the IU 7.
WMU scores a touchdown after the tight-end goes uncovered on a fake hand-off. The extra point is good. WMU leads 7-3.
The penalty on fourth down hurt. But settling for a field goal on the previous drive hurts more.
WMU scores a touchdown after the tight-end goes uncovered on a fake hand-off. The extra point is good. WMU leads 7-3.
The penalty on fourth down hurt. But settling for a field goal on the previous drive hurts more.
Defense is back on the field
Illinois has gone up 7-0 nearing with less than four minutes to go in the first half. Penn St. is up 24-10 now.
The kickoff is a touchback. WMU starts at its 20.
First down--WMU throws for a gain of nine. Second and short. The IU defense looked confused on the play, according to the radio. A run for a four gives WMU a first down. WMU receiver Jamarko Simmons takes a pick away from IU for a 20-yard gain. Expect to hear his name a lot.
First down from the shotgun. It's a pass for a 4-yard gain to the Hoosiers 44 yard line. Second down is another sizable gain for third and short. WMU goes no-huddle and runs for the first down after a three-yard gain.
The ball is deep in IU territory now. WMU throws a screen pass that is knocked away. Second and 10 at the IU 37. It's another pass complete, but a good tackle to keep the gain to about two yards. Third and eight. WMU false starts again. Third and 13. WMU's QB takes it himself, but he runs for two yards. It's fourth down, but WMU is going for it. It's too far for a field goal.
It's a quick kick and IU fair-catches it at the 16. IU is called for a 5-yard penalty for offsides and WMU's offense comes back on the field. They are going to go for it on 4th and 7. Simmons makes a one-handed catch for a first down at the IU 24. The penalty killed the Hoosiers there.
On first down, the defense makes a great play on a swing pass for a loss of three. That makes it second and 13. WMU runs the ball on second down for about six. It's third and seven from the IU 21. The Hoosiers get some pressure on WMU's QB on third down, but he runs for a first down.
On the 14th play of the drive, IU gets a sack. Second and long.
The kickoff is a touchback. WMU starts at its 20.
First down--WMU throws for a gain of nine. Second and short. The IU defense looked confused on the play, according to the radio. A run for a four gives WMU a first down. WMU receiver Jamarko Simmons takes a pick away from IU for a 20-yard gain. Expect to hear his name a lot.
First down from the shotgun. It's a pass for a 4-yard gain to the Hoosiers 44 yard line. Second down is another sizable gain for third and short. WMU goes no-huddle and runs for the first down after a three-yard gain.
The ball is deep in IU territory now. WMU throws a screen pass that is knocked away. Second and 10 at the IU 37. It's another pass complete, but a good tackle to keep the gain to about two yards. Third and eight. WMU false starts again. Third and 13. WMU's QB takes it himself, but he runs for two yards. It's fourth down, but WMU is going for it. It's too far for a field goal.
It's a quick kick and IU fair-catches it at the 16. IU is called for a 5-yard penalty for offsides and WMU's offense comes back on the field. They are going to go for it on 4th and 7. Simmons makes a one-handed catch for a first down at the IU 24. The penalty killed the Hoosiers there.
On first down, the defense makes a great play on a swing pass for a loss of three. That makes it second and 13. WMU runs the ball on second down for about six. It's third and seven from the IU 21. The Hoosiers get some pressure on WMU's QB on third down, but he runs for a first down.
On the 14th play of the drive, IU gets a sack. Second and long.
Nearing the goal line...
Thigpen runs for three yards to the 7 on first down. On second down, Sears gets two or three to about the three yard line. It's the power look, I formation, Lewis throws incomplete in the endzone. It's fourth down and IU is moving to attempt a field goal.
It's a 22-yard attempt and it is good. IU leads 3-0.
The offense probably should have gotten six points there. But they did move the ball nicely into the red zone. Especially that conversion on 3rd and 10.
It's a 22-yard attempt and it is good. IU leads 3-0.
The offense probably should have gotten six points there. But they did move the ball nicely into the red zone. Especially that conversion on 3rd and 10.
Offense first drive
Kellen Lewis begins the series with a pass to Ray Fisher for about five yards. WMU's big safety is not playing tonight. Second down...the pass is incomplete. Third and five is a false start against IU. Third and 10. Lewis runs for a big gain to the WMU 37 yard line. It's a gain of 19.
Marcus Thigpen runs for 18 on first down inside the 20. Thigpen runs again, but for about a half a yard on first down. On second down Thigpen makes another good run for 9 yards, near a first down. On third and short, Josiah Sears goes over the top for a first down at the 10.
IU has called time-out, but is knocking on the door.
Marcus Thigpen runs for 18 on first down inside the 20. Thigpen runs again, but for about a half a yard on first down. On second down Thigpen makes another good run for 9 yards, near a first down. On third and short, Josiah Sears goes over the top for a first down at the 10.
IU has called time-out, but is knocking on the door.
Here we go...
IU kicks off to start the game. Let's go big D...
Western Michigan begins at the 20 after a touchback. There is no wind, WMU is moving left to right on my radio dial.
First down is a false start. First and 15. And then another false start. First and 20. WMU certainly is going in the right direction. Finally, a play. It's a quick pass for six yards. On second down, an incomplete pass. Third and 14. Almost a sack, but the pass is completed near the first down marker, but about a yard short of the first down.
WMU punts to Tracy Porter who runs it back to the IU 43.
Western Michigan begins at the 20 after a touchback. There is no wind, WMU is moving left to right on my radio dial.
First down is a false start. First and 15. And then another false start. First and 20. WMU certainly is going in the right direction. Finally, a play. It's a quick pass for six yards. On second down, an incomplete pass. Third and 14. Almost a sack, but the pass is completed near the first down marker, but about a yard short of the first down.
WMU punts to Tracy Porter who runs it back to the IU 43.
Kick off
Penn St. just kicked a field goal...it's 17-7 now. Georgia is driving into South Carolina territory about half way through the third quarter. Carolina stopped them and is driving now inside the Georgia 30.
Stand up for the national anthem...
By the way, anyone out there know why Penn St. paints their goal lines yellow? Is that so it's easier for the players to see or something?
Texas A&M beat Fresno State in 3 overtimes. It looks like Fresno scored what would have been the tying touchdown, but missed the two-point conversion. A&M made its 2-pointer in the first possession of the third overtime.
Waiting for the starting line-ups now...
Stand up for the national anthem...
By the way, anyone out there know why Penn St. paints their goal lines yellow? Is that so it's easier for the players to see or something?
Texas A&M beat Fresno State in 3 overtimes. It looks like Fresno scored what would have been the tying touchdown, but missed the two-point conversion. A&M made its 2-pointer in the first possession of the third overtime.
Waiting for the starting line-ups now...
Back in the "Man Cave" ready for football
I'm back at my post, ready for another IU game via the radio. My Man Cave is once again ready. Georgia-South Carolina on one channel, Penn St.-Notre Dame on the other. Just FYI:
- Penn St. is up 14-7 at halftime
- South Carolina continues to lead Georgia 10-3 in the third quarter
Other Big Ten scores:
- Illinois and Western Illinois are scoreless after the first quarter
- Minnesota beat Miami, Ohio 41-35
- Ohio State beat Akron 20-2 (Yes, OSU gave up a safety)
- Purdue whitewashed Eastern Illinois 52-6
- Northwestern beat Nevada 36-31
- Michigan State beat Bowling Green 28-17
- Oregon thumped Michigan 39-7 (I'm still talking someone into remaining somewhat positive about the football season)
Hoosier Game Day
IU is in Kalamazoo, Mich. today for an evening game against Western Michigan. This is an important game. It is a chance for the Hoosiers to show the Big Ten they are not a doormat this year. Western Michigan is a tough team, even though they don't play in a BCS conference. And don't be fooled by last week's score -- West Virginia beat the Broncos 62-24 -- this team has some talent and can score points. They were 8-5 last year and have 15 seniors.
My concern, like those who cover IU football day-to-day, is the defense. The odds-makers are expecting a lot of scoring, and it is going to fall on the defense to get some stops late. This game may end up similar to an Arena Football game, where one stop will be enough to win the game. Case in point? Last week. Western Michigan ran up 277 total yards on the road against a top 5 team. Nearly all of those yards, 245, came through the air. Receiver Jamarko Simmons had 145 yards receiving and two touchdowns. The IU secondary will have some work to do.
But the Hoosier offense, clearly its strength, should flourish. West Virginia ran up 542 yards of total offense against the Broncos, including 316 yards rushing, an average of 7 yards per rush. Heisman candidate Steve Slaton had 109 of those yards and three touchdowns. West Virginia QB Pat White, another Heisman candidate, rushed for 97 yards and threw for 192. IU quarterback Kellen Lewis, receiver James Hardy and the core of running backs should have room to run.
I think the game will be close, but I think IU can pull this one out. IU will win it 35-31.
Some other previews are here, here and here.
The game begins at 8 p.m. on ESPNU. That's another channel I don't get on my cable, so I'll be next to my radio with the computer gamecasts on my screen. And of course, live blogging.
My concern, like those who cover IU football day-to-day, is the defense. The odds-makers are expecting a lot of scoring, and it is going to fall on the defense to get some stops late. This game may end up similar to an Arena Football game, where one stop will be enough to win the game. Case in point? Last week. Western Michigan ran up 277 total yards on the road against a top 5 team. Nearly all of those yards, 245, came through the air. Receiver Jamarko Simmons had 145 yards receiving and two touchdowns. The IU secondary will have some work to do.
But the Hoosier offense, clearly its strength, should flourish. West Virginia ran up 542 yards of total offense against the Broncos, including 316 yards rushing, an average of 7 yards per rush. Heisman candidate Steve Slaton had 109 of those yards and three touchdowns. West Virginia QB Pat White, another Heisman candidate, rushed for 97 yards and threw for 192. IU quarterback Kellen Lewis, receiver James Hardy and the core of running backs should have room to run.
I think the game will be close, but I think IU can pull this one out. IU will win it 35-31.
Some other previews are here, here and here.
The game begins at 8 p.m. on ESPNU. That's another channel I don't get on my cable, so I'll be next to my radio with the computer gamecasts on my screen. And of course, live blogging.
High school file
Another of my alma matres, Carmel High School in Mundelein, Ill., took care of business last night on the football field. They beat conference foe Marian Catholic 29-7. The only points Carmel gave up in the game were on a fumble returned for a touchdown with less than 2 minutes to play.
Also, notice who covered the game ... one my Lake Affected colleagues, T.J. Brown.
Also, notice who covered the game ... one my Lake Affected colleagues, T.J. Brown.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
IU-Western Michican two days away...
The latest odds indicate IU and Western Michigan are a toss-up this week. The line opened at with Western Michigan a 2-point favorite. The over-under is big ... 60 1/2. Apparently Vegas is expecting a lot of offense.
And for you Michigan fans out there, the Wolverines are an 8-point favorite against Oregon in the Big House this weekend. So much for a tail-spin after the big loss last weekend. The over-under is 64 1/2.
And for you Michigan fans out there, the Wolverines are an 8-point favorite against Oregon in the Big House this weekend. So much for a tail-spin after the big loss last weekend. The over-under is 64 1/2.
Sunday, September 2, 2007
IU post-game
Here is a link to the Indianapolis Star's photo array from last night's victory. And here is the box score from Indiana University. The link also has some photo galleries.
Next week's game at Western Michigan is at 8 p.m. Saturday on ESPNU. It looks like I'll either be listening on the radio or watching at the bar. I don't have that station in my cable package.
Next week's game at Western Michigan is at 8 p.m. Saturday on ESPNU. It looks like I'll either be listening on the radio or watching at the bar. I don't have that station in my cable package.
Saturday, September 1, 2007
It's over
IU beats Indiana State 55-7. A thorough thrashing.
In other news:
In other news:
- Auburn beats Kansas State 23-13
- Minnesota and Bowling Green are tied at 24 and going to overtime, according to CBS Sportsline.
- USC is now up 21-0 on Idaho.
I'm signing off. Enjoy the win and the rest of the weekend. Western Michigan is next.
Counting down to 1-0
Back in the real world...Hurricane Felix now is in the Caribbean.
Auburn just took the lead on Kansas State with less than 2 minutes to go. It's 16-13. With 1:11 left, Auburn is up 22-13.
IU continues to rush on just about every play. They score again with about 5 minutes to go to make it 54-7. The extra point is good and its 55-7.
Auburn just took the lead on Kansas State with less than 2 minutes to go. It's 16-13. With 1:11 left, Auburn is up 22-13.
IU continues to rush on just about every play. They score again with about 5 minutes to go to make it 54-7. The extra point is good and its 55-7.
More garbage time
ESPN stats have Kellen Lewis with 292 yards passing and 50 yards rushing. He threw for 3 touchdowns and rushed for another. Lewis also had one interception. Maybe he should be considered for a game ball. Hopefully that will scare some other teams when they see the game film.
The IU defense has given up 117 yards passing and 30 net rushing yards. That's pretty impressive. Only giving up one touchdown is probably the best stat, at least for the first team. ISU still has its first team in the game against the IU second team defense.
ISU is driving deep into IU territory early in the fourth quarter. IU picks it off near the endzone and runs it back to near mid-field. Joe Kleinsmith runs it to the 47 yard line, but steps out of bounds after suffering an injury.
Tennessee is within 7 of Cal now, 38-31 with 14 minutes to go.
The IU defense has given up 117 yards passing and 30 net rushing yards. That's pretty impressive. Only giving up one touchdown is probably the best stat, at least for the first team. ISU still has its first team in the game against the IU second team defense.
ISU is driving deep into IU territory early in the fourth quarter. IU picks it off near the endzone and runs it back to near mid-field. Joe Kleinsmith runs it to the 47 yard line, but steps out of bounds after suffering an injury.
Tennessee is within 7 of Cal now, 38-31 with 14 minutes to go.
Garbage time
IU gets the ball again on an interception, but there's a penalty after the IU player spikes the ball.
Minnesota just tied the game against Bowling Green, 21-21, with less than 9 minutes to go in the fourth quarter. The gophers have the ball in the red zone again...
There's a timeout...on the field as they say at Soldier Field.
Minnesota just tied the game against Bowling Green, 21-21, with less than 9 minutes to go in the fourth quarter. The gophers have the ball in the red zone again...
There's a timeout...on the field as they say at Soldier Field.
Second team in the game...
That means find something else to talk about. Here are some scores...
- Cal continues to lead Tennessee 38-28 nearing the end of the third quarter.
- USC just scored again, and now is up 14-0 on Idaho.
- Georgia beat Oklahoma State 35-14.
On the way to 1-0
IU recovers a fumble on the kick-off and gets it at the ISU 21.
The Hoosiers continue to pound the ball...Kellen Lewis comes out and Ben Chappell, a red-shirt freshman from Bloomington South High School takes over. The second team offense is in the game now and they go nowhere. IU kicks a 41-yard field goal, making it 48-7 with about 2 minutes to go in the third quarter.
Texas beat Arkansas State 21-13, not very impressive in my book. Kansas State still hanging on 13-9 over Auburn.
Purdue won 52-24.
The Hoosiers continue to pound the ball...Kellen Lewis comes out and Ben Chappell, a red-shirt freshman from Bloomington South High School takes over. The second team offense is in the game now and they go nowhere. IU kicks a 41-yard field goal, making it 48-7 with about 2 minutes to go in the third quarter.
Texas beat Arkansas State 21-13, not very impressive in my book. Kansas State still hanging on 13-9 over Auburn.
Purdue won 52-24.
IU running some clock...
The Hoosiers have the ball and are working on their rushing attack. Sears is in there now, with Lewis still at QB. On third and short, Lewis throws incomplete and its a quick three-and-out.
Minnesota is down 21-14 against Toledo in the fourth quarter.
ISU gets the ball back on its own 37. The team moves to about the 42, then has to punt.
Southern Cal has just started its game against Idaho in the Coliseum. It took them a little more than 6 minutes to score a TD.
IU is on the move again. A completion by Lewis on a busted play gets the ball to the 47 yard line. Then Lewis is caught in the backfield on a designed running play. ISU got called for a face mask penalty and IU Left Tackle Roger Saffold was down, but leaves the field under his own power, according to the radio call. After the penalty, IU fumbles the ball, but Lewis picks it up and runs it back to the line of scrimmage. Under 6 minutes to go in the third quarter now.
Lewis runs for another first down to about the ISU 20 yard line. After a couple runs for a few yards, Lewis hits tight end Nick Sexton for a first and goal. Then Bryan Payton runs for a 7-yard TD. Extra point is good. That makes it 45-7 Hoosiers.
Minnesota is down 21-14 against Toledo in the fourth quarter.
ISU gets the ball back on its own 37. The team moves to about the 42, then has to punt.
Southern Cal has just started its game against Idaho in the Coliseum. It took them a little more than 6 minutes to score a TD.
IU is on the move again. A completion by Lewis on a busted play gets the ball to the 47 yard line. Then Lewis is caught in the backfield on a designed running play. ISU got called for a face mask penalty and IU Left Tackle Roger Saffold was down, but leaves the field under his own power, according to the radio call. After the penalty, IU fumbles the ball, but Lewis picks it up and runs it back to the line of scrimmage. Under 6 minutes to go in the third quarter now.
Lewis runs for another first down to about the ISU 20 yard line. After a couple runs for a few yards, Lewis hits tight end Nick Sexton for a first and goal. Then Bryan Payton runs for a 7-yard TD. Extra point is good. That makes it 45-7 Hoosiers.
The rout is on...
My prediction for this game was 42-17 and it looks like IU is going to eclipse that. IU has 312 total yards now. Let's hope no one gets hurt. We're nearing garbage time.
ISU returns the kick to its 32 yard line after receiving it around the 3. K-State is up 13-9 on Auburn...Cal has taken a 38-21 lead on Tennessee.
ISU moves the ball to about mid-field, but the IU defense stiffens and punts on 4th and 17. A delay of game penalty makes it 4th and 22. ISU punts, but the Hoosiers are called for illegal block in the back. That starts the IU offense at the 19 yard line.
Purdue is up 52-17 with about 9 minutes to go.
ISU returns the kick to its 32 yard line after receiving it around the 3. K-State is up 13-9 on Auburn...Cal has taken a 38-21 lead on Tennessee.
ISU moves the ball to about mid-field, but the IU defense stiffens and punts on 4th and 17. A delay of game penalty makes it 4th and 22. ISU punts, but the Hoosiers are called for illegal block in the back. That starts the IU offense at the 19 yard line.
Purdue is up 52-17 with about 9 minutes to go.
The second half
IU gets the ball to start the second half. After a great kick return to the Indiana State 35, IU begins pounding the ball. Marcus Thigpen eventually runs the ball inside the 5. Sears takes the next hand-off for about a yard, making it 2nd and goal. Lewis takes it on a naked bootleg for a TD. The extra point is good...its 38-7 Hoosiers.
Halftime...IU is looking good
Stats are being updated and available here even though it says IU is winning 25-7. Kellen Lewis is having a monster game, and he still has 30 minutes to go. He's 10 for 17 for 243 yards, 3 TDs and an interception. Two of those touchdowns came on one-play wonders to James Hardy. He has 3 catches for 153 yards.
I really liked how the Hoosier defense tightened following the first couple Indiana State drives. They figured out the no-huddle and now are looking for the quick shovel passes out of the spread formation. The last offensive drive wasn't all that stellar, but that may have been because they were in hurry-up mode. Either way, they still scored 31 points in the first half.
The rushing game has to get on track. Lewis is the only player with more than 6 yards rushing (he has 23), but I suspect that has to do with the quick strikes to Hardy. If the game gets out of hand, I think they need to work on that.
ESPN just gave notice...the Red Sox have a no-hitter going into the 9th inning. Clay Buchholtz throws a nasty curve for strike three to get the last out. He's the first Red Sox rookie to throw a no-hitter.
Kansas State also is up 10-6 on Auburn about half way through the third quarter. Purdue is up 38-14 now in the fourth quarter.
I really liked how the Hoosier defense tightened following the first couple Indiana State drives. They figured out the no-huddle and now are looking for the quick shovel passes out of the spread formation. The last offensive drive wasn't all that stellar, but that may have been because they were in hurry-up mode. Either way, they still scored 31 points in the first half.
The rushing game has to get on track. Lewis is the only player with more than 6 yards rushing (he has 23), but I suspect that has to do with the quick strikes to Hardy. If the game gets out of hand, I think they need to work on that.
ESPN just gave notice...the Red Sox have a no-hitter going into the 9th inning. Clay Buchholtz throws a nasty curve for strike three to get the last out. He's the first Red Sox rookie to throw a no-hitter.
Kansas State also is up 10-6 on Auburn about half way through the third quarter. Purdue is up 38-14 now in the fourth quarter.
Nearing halftime...
Here comes the kick-off...ISU takes it at the 39 yard line. ISU downs it to end the half. IU leads 31-7.
On the goal line with a few seconds left...
The radio says IU still has one more timeout. I thought they said there were only two. Maybe they didn't call one two plays ago like I thought...
Lewis throws to Bailey in the endzone, but it's incomplete. Third down, with 21 seconds left. Lewis throws a timing pass at Hardy, but he is hit early and the flag comes out. First and goal from the 2. 18 seconds left.
I-formation on first down...Lewis gives to Sears who gets into the endzone. The extra point is good. IU leads 31-7 with 14 seconds to go.
Cal kicked a field goal and now leads Tennessee 31-21 at halftime.
Lewis throws to Bailey in the endzone, but it's incomplete. Third down, with 21 seconds left. Lewis throws a timing pass at Hardy, but he is hit early and the flag comes out. First and goal from the 2. 18 seconds left.
I-formation on first down...Lewis gives to Sears who gets into the endzone. The extra point is good. IU leads 31-7 with 14 seconds to go.
Cal kicked a field goal and now leads Tennessee 31-21 at halftime.
After the turnover...
ISU gets it at its 18. The first down run goes for 9 yards. On second and short, the run goes for a loss. It's third and three now. The third down pass falls incomplete and ISU has to punt again. The pass was too high. Less than 2 minutes to go in the half. IU has 2 timeouts.
Porter returns the punt to the ISU 45 yard line. its a 17-yard return. Lewis fumbles the snap, but recovers and runs for 5 yards. Lewis throws to Bailey on second down for a first down near the ISU 31. He stepped out of bounds to stop the clock. 1:07 to go.
Lewis throws to Ray Fisher who gets to the 19 yard line. It's a first down, 53 seconds to go. Lewis in the shotgun, throws it away with pressure coming. 49 seconds to go, IU still has 2 timeouts.
Lewis throws to Fisher who gets to the 6 yard line and IU calls time-out. Lewis fumbles the ball, but recovers it and IU calls its last timeout. 25 seconds to go.
Porter returns the punt to the ISU 45 yard line. its a 17-yard return. Lewis fumbles the snap, but recovers and runs for 5 yards. Lewis throws to Bailey on second down for a first down near the ISU 31. He stepped out of bounds to stop the clock. 1:07 to go.
Lewis throws to Ray Fisher who gets to the 19 yard line. It's a first down, 53 seconds to go. Lewis in the shotgun, throws it away with pressure coming. 49 seconds to go, IU still has 2 timeouts.
Lewis throws to Fisher who gets to the 6 yard line and IU calls time-out. Lewis fumbles the ball, but recovers it and IU calls its last timeout. 25 seconds to go.
We're getting closer to halftime...
The kick-off is returned to the ISU 23 yard line.
It's 21-0 Bowling Green over Minnesota, and Cal just scored again to make it 27-21 with the extra point coming. Pitt beat Eastern Michigan. My dad will be happy.
On first down, an incomplete pass. On second down, ISU tries that shovel pass, but it's almost intercepted. The D is learning as we move along in the half. That makes it third down. Another shovel pass, but he is short of a first down. ISU has to punt again. Under 5 minutes to go in the half.
The punt is not fielded and downed inside the IU 30. Lewis runs on first down for about 6 yards, making it second and 4. Second down...a hand-off for about a yard. Third and 3. Lewis makes a quick pass to Bryan Payton for a first down at the ISU 43.
Lewis went deep on first down, and it's intercepted. He threw into double-coverage.
It's 21-0 Bowling Green over Minnesota, and Cal just scored again to make it 27-21 with the extra point coming. Pitt beat Eastern Michigan. My dad will be happy.
On first down, an incomplete pass. On second down, ISU tries that shovel pass, but it's almost intercepted. The D is learning as we move along in the half. That makes it third down. Another shovel pass, but he is short of a first down. ISU has to punt again. Under 5 minutes to go in the half.
The punt is not fielded and downed inside the IU 30. Lewis runs on first down for about 6 yards, making it second and 4. Second down...a hand-off for about a yard. Third and 3. Lewis makes a quick pass to Bryan Payton for a first down at the ISU 43.
Lewis went deep on first down, and it's intercepted. He threw into double-coverage.
Great field position for IU
IU starts at the ISU 17 and Lewis runs for about 1 on first down. Lewis throws incomplete, he was trying to hit Hardy. It's third and 9 now.
Lewis throws to Hardy again, but it is overthrown. IU decides to go for a field goal. Lewis has missed four passes in a row now, after starting 6 for 6. The field goal is good. Its 24-7 Hoosiers with less than 7 minutes to go in the half.
Not the best offensive series there. I bet the coaches wanted 7 points there instead of 3.
Lewis throws to Hardy again, but it is overthrown. IU decides to go for a field goal. Lewis has missed four passes in a row now, after starting 6 for 6. The field goal is good. Its 24-7 Hoosiers with less than 7 minutes to go in the half.
Not the best offensive series there. I bet the coaches wanted 7 points there instead of 3.
ISU begins a drive deep in its own end again...
On first down, an ISU fumbled the ball forward and out of bounds for a loss of 6. It's second down and real long now at the ISU 3 yard line. The Hoosier D makes the play on a QB sneak for no-gain. Third down and real long...an ISU catch, but its short. ISU decides to punt on 4th and 1 on the ISU 18. The catch is being reviewed...officials say the ISU receiver didn't catch the ball. The punt is coming from their endzone.
The punt is shanked and it is marked at the ISU 17 yard line. It's a 14-yard punt.
No wonder the Hoosier D is having trouble with the ISU offense, they have been going with no huddle most of the game, according to the radio.
If you haven't noticed, I don't have satellite TV, which means I don't have Big Ten Network. And I'm not at the bar watching the game.
Purdue is up 31-14 on Toledo now. Bowling Green just scored to make it 20-0 over Minnesota.
The punt is shanked and it is marked at the ISU 17 yard line. It's a 14-yard punt.
No wonder the Hoosier D is having trouble with the ISU offense, they have been going with no huddle most of the game, according to the radio.
If you haven't noticed, I don't have satellite TV, which means I don't have Big Ten Network. And I'm not at the bar watching the game.
Purdue is up 31-14 on Toledo now. Bowling Green just scored to make it 20-0 over Minnesota.
A quick-strike offense...
would be an under-statement at this point in the game. There are "well over 30,000" in the house for the game. And the student section is almost full, according to the radio call.
Less than 10 minutes to go in the half. I wonder whether the offense can sustain this kind of pace.
On first down, a pass to Thigpen for no gain. On second down, the throw is to James Bailey for a first down. Lewis just misses on another long bomb to Nick Polk, it's his first incompletion. On second and long, the pass is deflected and incomplete. Third and 10, Lewis runs to the 49, but it is short of the first down. The Hoosiers punt and ISU takes the ball at their 9 yard line.
Auburn is leading Kansas St. 6-3 at halftime.
Less than 10 minutes to go in the half. I wonder whether the offense can sustain this kind of pace.
On first down, a pass to Thigpen for no gain. On second down, the throw is to James Bailey for a first down. Lewis just misses on another long bomb to Nick Polk, it's his first incompletion. On second and long, the pass is deflected and incomplete. Third and 10, Lewis runs to the 49, but it is short of the first down. The Hoosiers punt and ISU takes the ball at their 9 yard line.
Auburn is leading Kansas St. 6-3 at halftime.
The defense is going to get tired...
because the offense only needs one play to score.
ISU can't cover James Hardy. He's got two long touchdown catches and 153 yards receiving with three total catches. The kick-off went out of bounds again, ISU starts at the 35.
First down is a pitch outside for a gain of one. Maybe the defense is starting to figure these guys out. On second down, ISU is penalized for false start. It's second and 14. ISU gains almost nothing again on a quick pass. Third down and long...IU flushes the QB, who throws incomplete. ISU punts and the Hoosiers take the ball at the 34.
Cal just went up 21-14 on Tennessee on a punt return for a TD, I think. I just saw the replay of the Cal receiver running by a bunch of defenders for a TD.
ISU can't cover James Hardy. He's got two long touchdown catches and 153 yards receiving with three total catches. The kick-off went out of bounds again, ISU starts at the 35.
First down is a pitch outside for a gain of one. Maybe the defense is starting to figure these guys out. On second down, ISU is penalized for false start. It's second and 14. ISU gains almost nothing again on a quick pass. Third down and long...IU flushes the QB, who throws incomplete. ISU punts and the Hoosiers take the ball at the 34.
Cal just went up 21-14 on Tennessee on a punt return for a TD, I think. I just saw the replay of the Cal receiver running by a bunch of defenders for a TD.
IU offense back...that was quick
First quarter stats are available here.
First down for Kellen Lewis and the Hoosiers. He's thrown for 96 yards on 3 for 3 passing. Hardy makes the catch at the 30 for another TOUCHDOWN!!! He's got three catches, two for long touchdowns. The extra point is good...IU's up 21-7. Lewis is 4-4 for 175 yards passing.
First down for Kellen Lewis and the Hoosiers. He's thrown for 96 yards on 3 for 3 passing. Hardy makes the catch at the 30 for another TOUCHDOWN!!! He's got three catches, two for long touchdowns. The extra point is good...IU's up 21-7. Lewis is 4-4 for 175 yards passing.
Second quarter underway
ISU starts the quarter on its own 38 yard line. A stop here would be nice...
On first down a swing pass goes for about four yards. Second and six...another pass and catch for another first down on the ISU 49.
It wouldn't be good to get into a shoot-out with these guys. ISU loses 4 after a sack. Second and 14...another sack for a loss of 10. On third and long, ISU gets back to its 42, which forces a punt. IU takes the punt at the IU 21 yard line on a fair catch.
That was a good series for the defense. Just what they needed. Now the offense needs a good drive for a touchdown.
On first down a swing pass goes for about four yards. Second and six...another pass and catch for another first down on the ISU 49.
It wouldn't be good to get into a shoot-out with these guys. ISU loses 4 after a sack. Second and 14...another sack for a loss of 10. On third and long, ISU gets back to its 42, which forces a punt. IU takes the punt at the IU 21 yard line on a fair catch.
That was a good series for the defense. Just what they needed. Now the offense needs a good drive for a touchdown.
ISU starts deep in its own end
ISU goes for no gain on first down. A three-and-out here would be good for the defense and give the offense good field position. But ISU gains 7 or 8 on a second down pass. It's third and short, the crowd is getting louder, but ISU runs for a short gain and a first down.
The IU defense seems to be having problems with the speed of the ISU offense. They seem to be taking advantage of it by out-quicking the Hoosiers.
ISU has another first down and is nearing IU territory. The first quarter is over. IU 14-ISU 7.
The IU defense seems to be having problems with the speed of the ISU offense. They seem to be taking advantage of it by out-quicking the Hoosiers.
ISU has another first down and is nearing IU territory. The first quarter is over. IU 14-ISU 7.
The next Hoosier drive
Cal is back up on Tennessee 14-7.
IU takes the kick-off to the 25 after a mix-up on the kick-off. Two IU players ran into each other trying to catch it. The radio call indicates the kick was going out of bounds.
IU has the ball...first down is a run of 3 yards by Marcus Thigpen. Second down is a slant route pass, but a flag is down. It's pass interference against ISU and an IU first down. Now the ball is at the 43. First quarter nearing its end, we're under 4 minutes.
Thigpen gains 2 yards on a first down run. IU gets into ISU territory on a run for 6 by Josiah Sears. On third down Sears is stopped for no gain. It's fourth down and IU will punt. ISU gets the ball inside the 15 yard line after a 43-yard punt.
IU takes the kick-off to the 25 after a mix-up on the kick-off. Two IU players ran into each other trying to catch it. The radio call indicates the kick was going out of bounds.
IU has the ball...first down is a run of 3 yards by Marcus Thigpen. Second down is a slant route pass, but a flag is down. It's pass interference against ISU and an IU first down. Now the ball is at the 43. First quarter nearing its end, we're under 4 minutes.
Thigpen gains 2 yards on a first down run. IU gets into ISU territory on a run for 6 by Josiah Sears. On third down Sears is stopped for no gain. It's fourth down and IU will punt. ISU gets the ball inside the 15 yard line after a 43-yard punt.
The defense didn't get much rest...
IU has to kick-off from the 20-yard line after the penalty. ISU takes the kick to the 44, even though the ball landed inside the 20.
Scoreboard update:
Purdue leading Toledo 28-14
Bowling Green leading Minnesota 14-0
ISU starts the drive with an end-around and it gains 8. A hand-off up the middle gets them the first down. The defense is getting some pressure on the ISU quarterback. They forced him to throw it away on first down. ISU is trying to combat the pressure with little shovel passes out of spread sets. Another one of them gets the Sycamores inside the IU 30.
Another run gets ISU inside the 10 on a gain of 16. The IU defense knocks away a pass into the end-zone on first and goal from the 9. A QB sneak gets ISU to the 1 yard line. But it's third down. ISU quick counts...there's a fumble, but ISU picks it up and gets the TD. Extra point is good. It's 14-7.
Scoreboard update:
Purdue leading Toledo 28-14
Bowling Green leading Minnesota 14-0
ISU starts the drive with an end-around and it gains 8. A hand-off up the middle gets them the first down. The defense is getting some pressure on the ISU quarterback. They forced him to throw it away on first down. ISU is trying to combat the pressure with little shovel passes out of spread sets. Another one of them gets the Sycamores inside the IU 30.
Another run gets ISU inside the 10 on a gain of 16. The IU defense knocks away a pass into the end-zone on first and goal from the 9. A QB sneak gets ISU to the 1 yard line. But it's third down. ISU quick counts...there's a fumble, but ISU picks it up and gets the TD. Extra point is good. It's 14-7.
A one-play wonder
Tennessee just tied the game...it's 7-7.
The offense needs only one play, it's a 58-yard TD pass from Lewis to Hardy. IU gets flagged for excessive celebration after James gives some love to Coach Hep. He puts a knee down and lifts his hands toward the sky. Now it's 14-0.
The penalty will come on the kick-off.
The offense needs only one play, it's a 58-yard TD pass from Lewis to Hardy. IU gets flagged for excessive celebration after James gives some love to Coach Hep. He puts a knee down and lifts his hands toward the sky. Now it's 14-0.
The penalty will come on the kick-off.
Defense back on the field
IU's first drive took less than 3 minutes. ISU has the ball again. They start the drive around the 25 yard line. The first two plays yield 6, it's 3rd and 4. The pass is incomplete, and IU forces the punt.
Tracy Porter picks it up at the 40 and gets to the IU 42. The offense is back on the field.
Tracy Porter picks it up at the 40 and gets to the IU 42. The offense is back on the field.
Away we go...
I'm in college football heaven...I'm listening to the Hoosiers on the radio and there are a ton of games on cable that I'm watching at the same time. Georgia-Oklahoma State is on ESPN2 and Kansas State-Auburn is on ESPN. And Tennessee-Cal is now underway.
We're ready for kick-off. IU is kicking after ISU won the toss and took the ball. IU is wearing crimson jerseys and crimson pants.
Hep's widow and children appeared before the game as part of the tribute. According to the radio call, the scene was very emotional.
Here's the kick...it goes out of bounds. ISU takes the ball at the 35.
The first play for ISU is a gain of 6 on a four-wide-out formation. On second down, ISU false starts. The IU defense stopped them with no damage.
A phone call caused a delay, for which I apologize.
In the meantime, the Hoosiers took the ball back down the field, thanks in part to a pass interference penalty on a long pass intended for James Hardy. Marcus Thigpen ends up catching a TD pass from the Kellen Lewis. It's now 7-0.
We're ready for kick-off. IU is kicking after ISU won the toss and took the ball. IU is wearing crimson jerseys and crimson pants.
Hep's widow and children appeared before the game as part of the tribute. According to the radio call, the scene was very emotional.
Here's the kick...it goes out of bounds. ISU takes the ball at the 35.
The first play for ISU is a gain of 6 on a four-wide-out formation. On second down, ISU false starts. The IU defense stopped them with no damage.
A phone call caused a delay, for which I apologize.
In the meantime, the Hoosiers took the ball back down the field, thanks in part to a pass interference penalty on a long pass intended for James Hardy. Marcus Thigpen ends up catching a TD pass from the Kellen Lewis. It's now 7-0.
Let's play 13...
It all starts in about 90 minutes. The road to 13 begins with Indiana State at Memorial Stadium in Bloomington. Expect some updates here once the game begins. You can find the Internet gamecast here. Click on "2007 Gameday" on the right side of the page.
Hopefully the Hoosiers will fare better than Michigan.
Hopefully the Hoosiers will fare better than Michigan.
How could this happen?
Michigan did not start the season well today. They lost to Appalachian State, a D-1AA team, 34-32. Probably the worst part was they had a field goal attempt to win the game and had it blocked. Or maybe it was that they lost the game at home in the Big House. Looking at the box score, it's hard to see how Michigan lost. They ran up 479 total yards, including 188 from running back Mike Hart. Chad Henne threw for 233 with a touchdown and interception. Appalachian State was the D-1AA champ the last two years, so Michigan shouldn't have been considering this a blow-out game.
No rest for the weary, the Wolverines play Oregon next week in Ann Arbor.
No rest for the weary, the Wolverines play Oregon next week in Ann Arbor.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Big Ten opening day
All the Big Ten teams open their season Saturday. About half of the games will be one some network other than the Big Ten Network. The fun begins at noon: Michigan State plays UAB on ESPN2. Wisconsin will play Washington State at 3:30 p.m. on ABC and Illinois will play Missouri on ESPN2. ESPNU, the ESPN college sports channel, will have the Iowa-Northern Illinois and Purdue-Toledo games, scheduled for 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m., respectively.
The other six games, including Indiana-Indiana State, will be on Big Ten Network, which still is not available on Comcast cable. The new channel launched Thursday.
Those of you who are outside Indiana and don't have access to the radio, I am planning some live blogging of the IU game. I don't have satellite TV, so I'm going to need some help from the Internet and radio broadcasts.
The other six games, including Indiana-Indiana State, will be on Big Ten Network, which still is not available on Comcast cable. The new channel launched Thursday.
Those of you who are outside Indiana and don't have access to the radio, I am planning some live blogging of the IU game. I don't have satellite TV, so I'm going to need some help from the Internet and radio broadcasts.
Are you ready...Part II
ESPN.com put it another installment of its NFL preview Thursday, this one about game film. Another decent read, it describes Matt Hasselbeck's routine, which includes film study with the team, and when he is at home in Seattle, with his TiVo.
There is an interesting anecdote the Seahawks' QB mentioned about how he noticed something about the Carolina defence that helped him in the 2006 NFC Championship game. By the way, the Seahawks won that game, but lost Super Bowl XL to the Steelers.
There is an interesting anecdote the Seahawks' QB mentioned about how he noticed something about the Carolina defence that helped him in the 2006 NFC Championship game. By the way, the Seahawks won that game, but lost Super Bowl XL to the Steelers.
The View from Fort Wayne
My office just got a web cam to show the downtown skyline. It also happens to be what I look at everyday when I'm not staring at the computer screen or talking on the phone. Today is such a perfect day (upper 70s, sunny and clear) that I thought you might like to see the view from Fort Wayne. The picture is refreshed every 15 seconds or so.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Are you ready...
The NFL season is nearing ever closer and ESPN.com has started its preview coverage. They had an interesting story today about the playbook, its importance to rookies and veterans as well as its complexity. It's an interesting read, but my favorite part was the pdf file of a snippet from the 2004 Arizona Cardinals playbook. The story challenged readers to read it and understand it, and I failed. Most of it, I'm sure, was because of the symbols and lingo that NFL insiders know and laypeople like me don't.
Enjoy...
Enjoy...
Monday, August 27, 2007
The 13th game
At 8-4, with a 4-4 conference record, IU should be in the middle of the Big Ten pack. Last year, it would have been 6th place. That means the Insight, Champs Sports, or Alamo Bowl. Who will they play? Who knows, but at least we'll have a game to watch in late December. The Alamo Bowl matched Big Ten and Big 12 last year, Champs Sports was ACC-Big Ten, and the Insight Bowl was Big 12-Big Ten.
Play 13? I think so... Part II-conference play
After a 3-0 start, the Hoosiers begin Big Ten play. We're halfway to a December or January game...
- Week 4 IU v. Illinois: Illinois was rated near the bottom of Division IA and Indiana should have no trouble exposing that. The game is at home and Illinois is not very good, but expected to be improved over last year's 2-10 effort. Ron Zook is a capable coach, but IU should have the edge in this game. IU 28, IL 14
- Week 5 IU v. Iowa: This will be IU toughest game of the season so far. The Hawkeyes are a tough team this year, and even tougher at home. ESPN prediced Iowa would bounce back from a 6-7 season to finish 10-2. Iowa will be too tough for the Hoosiers, even without Drew Tate. IU 17, Iowa 27.
- Week 6 IU v. Minnesota: It is the fourth home game of the first six. Minnesota is expected to be better this year as well. IU is going to have a chip on its shoulder after last year's embarassment. IU 35, Minn. 24. The team is 5-1.
- Week 7 IU v. Michigan State: The Hoosiers aren't ready for prime time yet, and I don't think a win in East Lansing is likely, even though Michigan State is expected to be down lower than they were last year. It's too much to hope for an MSU meltdown like against Notre Dame. IU 21, MSU 31.
- Week 8 IU v. Penn State: It's Homecoming and IU enters the game against the highly touted Nitnany Lions 5-2, one win from bowl eligibility. The sexy pick will be an upset here, but Joe Paterno is too good a coach. IU loses a heartbreaker 34-31. The bowl game will have to wait a week or two.
- Week 9 IU v. Wisconsin: IU is on a two-game losing streak and there is no help upcoming. The Hoosiers must travel to Madison to face the Badgers, who are expected to be a Rose Bowl contender and start the season #7. IU has had Wisconsin's number in before (upsets in 2001 and 2002) Unfortunately, the Hoosiers' losing streak hits three in a row. IU 14, Wisconsin 31.
- Week 10 IU v. Ball State: IU has dropped to 5-4 and there is some doubt in B-town. Enter our friends from Muncie, who have served as a wondeful season-opening whipping boy in the past. This team is different, with a hot quarterback that gave Michigan all it wanted last year. The Hoosiers take the game, and the bowl game invitation. Students storm the field as IU wins 35-21 and moves to 6-4.
- Week 11 IU v. Northwestern: The problem here is IU has to travel to Evanston, Ill. The good news is there are a lot of IU grads in the Chicago area. Northwestern is expected to be a bowl-eligible team this year because of a soft schedule, but that is a mask of their real talent. IU wins another surprisingly close game 28-21.
- Week 12 IU v. Purdue: The Battle for the Old Oaken Bucket. IU is looking for some revenge after losing in West Lafayette last year. And an 8th win would be the most since the Hoosiers last bowl appearance in 1993. Purdue is a good team and should have six or seven wins going into this game. In this game you throw out the records. The IU grad in me says IU will win it 31-28.
IU will finish 8-4, more than enough to get a bowl bid.
Play 13? I think so...
While we're waiting a few months for basketball season to start, the attention now turns to football. I enjoy college football and sometimes I enjoy Hoosier football, but since I started my freshman year at IU (1994), the team has finished with a winning record once --6-5 in 1994, but no bowl game. This is in stark contrast to my fiance, who went to Michigan. She sat in a stadium that fits TWO Memorial Stadiums in it and is part of a fan base that wants the coach fired because he can't beat Ohio State and has lost the Rose Bowl three years in a row. IU has only been to one Rose Bowl EVER.
IU has a lot of catching up to do. And this year is expected to be a step forward, at least in Bloomington. The death of Coach Hoeppner aside, the team still is talented and should have a shot at winning 6 games and qualifying for the post-season. Here is my prediction for what could be a fall to remember in Bloomington.
The key will be for the Hoosiers to win the games they are supposed to win. No hiccups like last year against Minnesota -- a 63-26 loss in Minneapolis. The Hoosiers were 5-4, one game away from the all-important 6th win, and would not get it. There also has to be some defense this year. Kellen Lewis and James Hardy will put a lot of points on the board, but the Hoosiers have to be able to hold them now and then.
IU has a lot of catching up to do. And this year is expected to be a step forward, at least in Bloomington. The death of Coach Hoeppner aside, the team still is talented and should have a shot at winning 6 games and qualifying for the post-season. Here is my prediction for what could be a fall to remember in Bloomington.
The key will be for the Hoosiers to win the games they are supposed to win. No hiccups like last year against Minnesota -- a 63-26 loss in Minneapolis. The Hoosiers were 5-4, one game away from the all-important 6th win, and would not get it. There also has to be some defense this year. Kellen Lewis and James Hardy will put a lot of points on the board, but the Hoosiers have to be able to hold them now and then.
- Week 1 IU v. Indiana State: The game is in Bloomington and Indiana State isn't even a Division 1A team. They are a D-1AA team, a member of the Gateway Conference. This game should be a laugher. The Sycamores won one game last year. They lost to Purdue that year 60-35. This game will be emotional, Hoep will be honored before the game. IU 42, ISU 17
- Week 2 IU v. Western Michigan: The Hoosiers begin their annual tour of the Mid-American Conference. This one will be tougher. It is on the road, and Western Michigan is coming off an 8-5 season. IU could have an advantage in this game. WMU plays #3 West Virginia on the road in its opener. That should be a thorough thrashing that could leave them in the dumps. Or it could be a rallying cry -- the team is expected to be among the best in the conference. WMU is experienced with 15 seniors, but IU beat this team in Bloomington last year. I'll give the edge to the Hoosiers, but it's a tight game. The defense will have to come to play. IU 24, WMU 21.
- Week 3 IU v. Akron: The Hoosiers are 2-0, and back at home after a big win against Western Michigan. The Zips can play too. But they will stumble into Bloomington after an expected beat down in Columbus against Ohio State. Akron was 5-7 last year will have 15 seniors and any Michigan fan will tell you they can play football in Ohio. The Hoosiers should win this game by a decent margin. IU 28, Akron 10.
Conference season is next...
Advice for the aspiring college athlete
If you want to play serious college basketball, you have to go to class...and study. That is the price you pay for the scholarship and a real shot at the NBA.
This news came out of Indiana University over the weekend, from the Indianapolis Star:
Ratliff to miss 1st part of season
Not the best thing to do when the best recruiting class in many years is beginning to practice and you are trying to secure a starting role in your senior season. Ratliff is a guard, which is prized freshman Eric Gordon's position. At least he still can practice.
Remember, it's about getting your education. You can't play basketball and shirk the academics.
GO TO CLASS. GO TO CLASS. GO TO CLASS.
This news came out of Indiana University over the weekend, from the Indianapolis Star:
Ratliff to miss 1st part of season
Not the best thing to do when the best recruiting class in many years is beginning to practice and you are trying to secure a starting role in your senior season. Ratliff is a guard, which is prized freshman Eric Gordon's position. At least he still can practice.
Remember, it's about getting your education. You can't play basketball and shirk the academics.
GO TO CLASS. GO TO CLASS. GO TO CLASS.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Offense, offense, take that football all the way up the field
John Madden says there's nothing like a confluence, while speaking of the three rivers. It was a real show-stopper.
After a 6-yard run and bomb that is incomplete, it is 3rd and 4. The incompletion is tipped and Cedric Wilson has a chance at it, but it drops. Fourth down. The second punt is much better, about 40 yards, but the Eagles will start in Steelers territory.
Sorry fans, but I have to sign off. I need to hand over the computer. Enjoy the game. If you need a game-cast, you can get it here.
After a 6-yard run and bomb that is incomplete, it is 3rd and 4. The incompletion is tipped and Cedric Wilson has a chance at it, but it drops. Fourth down. The second punt is much better, about 40 yards, but the Eagles will start in Steelers territory.
Sorry fans, but I have to sign off. I need to hand over the computer. Enjoy the game. If you need a game-cast, you can get it here.
I would like to point out...
The NCAA still does not allow live blogging at its events. Why is that?
I'm having fun doing this. It is sort of an experiment for me. I may not go much longer though. My fiance is looking at me weird, like she wants the computer.
I'm having fun doing this. It is sort of an experiment for me. I may not go much longer though. My fiance is looking at me weird, like she wants the computer.
The second quarter is underway...
Ike Taylor limped off the field and is trying to walk it off.
The Eagles are moving the ball somewhat. It's 3rd and 4 after a 6-yard run, but the Eagles false start again. Now it's 3rd and 9. The penalties really have to hurt the play-calling in this situation.
The Eagles run it, but are 3 yards short. The punting unit comes out.
The punt is muffled and the Steelers start from the five.
The Eagles are moving the ball somewhat. It's 3rd and 4 after a 6-yard run, but the Eagles false start again. Now it's 3rd and 9. The penalties really have to hurt the play-calling in this situation.
The Eagles run it, but are 3 yards short. The punting unit comes out.
The punt is muffled and the Steelers start from the five.
First quarter stats...
are available here.
I'm not impressed with the offense. Two promising drives are thwarted by turnovers. Parker has five carries for 8 yards, not exactly stellar, especially from a fantasy perspective.
The defense, however, has looked good in spite of being backed up in their own end. McNabb has thrown for 75 yards and the team has 17 yards rushing. The two Steelers turnovers were killers. They should have at least 7 points, probably 10 or 14 if the first drive is allowed to continue. And the Eagles field goal came because a turnover.
I'm not impressed with the offense. Two promising drives are thwarted by turnovers. Parker has five carries for 8 yards, not exactly stellar, especially from a fantasy perspective.
The defense, however, has looked good in spite of being backed up in their own end. McNabb has thrown for 75 yards and the team has 17 yards rushing. The two Steelers turnovers were killers. They should have at least 7 points, probably 10 or 14 if the first drive is allowed to continue. And the Eagles field goal came because a turnover.
After the fumble...
A Steelers player hit the official.
From the two, McNabb looks for the big play, but it is thrown too far.
My fiance just handed me a piece of beer bread. It is wonderful. Pretty good for her first attempt. I love bread that is still warm when you eat it.
Second down...a run to the six. It's a gain of four yards.
Third down and 6 ... a pass to Reggie Brown for about 8. First down.
On first down, Eagles are called for unnecessary roughness. Half the distance to the goal. The first quarter is over.
From the two, McNabb looks for the big play, but it is thrown too far.
My fiance just handed me a piece of beer bread. It is wonderful. Pretty good for her first attempt. I love bread that is still warm when you eat it.
Second down...a run to the six. It's a gain of four yards.
Third down and 6 ... a pass to Reggie Brown for about 8. First down.
On first down, Eagles are called for unnecessary roughness. Half the distance to the goal. The first quarter is over.
Offense knocking on the door...
The first quarter is almost over. On first down, Ben fakes the hand-off and gets forced to throw toward Miller. The rush was on that time.
Second down, Parker gets stood up at the goal line. The Eagles run an apparent fumble back about 30 yards and an official is pummelled. As Parker is hit, he drops the ball. The Eagles get it inside the five.
Second down, Parker gets stood up at the goal line. The Eagles run an apparent fumble back about 30 yards and an official is pummelled. As Parker is hit, he drops the ball. The Eagles get it inside the five.
Steelers offense is back for drive three
This drive starts well, with Ben hitting Krieder for a big gain of about 20. Ben hits Parker on a screen for about four. Ben seems a little sharper on this drive, but they are in much better field position than on the last drive. A run for a yard makes it third and five. Ben from the shotgun hits Heinz Ward for 13 yards and the first down.
From the Eagles 34...the Steelers false start. That makes it first and 15.
Heath Miller makes a great catch for a 38 yard gain and is tackled at the one. He fumbles the ball, but is ruled down. Miller looks great on the play, he makes the catch as the defender hits him hard and bounces off. Miller watched as the smaller defender hits the ground, then turns and runs to the goal line.
From the Eagles 34...the Steelers false start. That makes it first and 15.
Heath Miller makes a great catch for a 38 yard gain and is tackled at the one. He fumbles the ball, but is ruled down. Miller looks great on the play, he makes the catch as the defender hits him hard and bounces off. Miller watched as the smaller defender hits the ground, then turns and runs to the goal line.
Steelers-Eagles...defense second drive
The Eagles end up with a chip shot field goal. That could be considered sort of a victory. It's 3-0 Eagles now.
Steelers-Eagles...offense second drive
Three runs equal a net loss of 4 yards. And the punt was awful. The Eagles are inside the 20 after a couple runs.
Steelers-Eagles...defense first drive
McNabb zips one out to the outside for about 11 yards on first down. They were giving the receiver a big cushion.
Westbrook doesn't get much on the second play of the drive. On 2nd and 8, another pass--looks like a screen, which goes for 9.
First down again, and the Eagles run for about 4 yards. On second down, Clark Haggans forces a fumble on a near sack, but the Eagles recover it. Nice pass rush that time, and it's 3rd and long.
Eagles false start to make it 3rd and 18. Polamalu and two other Steelers blitz and get the sack, taking the Eagles out of field goal range. Nice play and nice recovery following the lousy start.
Eagles punt and it is fair-caught at the 5. But the Eagles are flagged for an illegal formation and must re-kick. This time, another flag, this time the Steelers are offsides. The Eagles decline the penalty and the Steelers start at their 9 yard line.
Westbrook doesn't get much on the second play of the drive. On 2nd and 8, another pass--looks like a screen, which goes for 9.
First down again, and the Eagles run for about 4 yards. On second down, Clark Haggans forces a fumble on a near sack, but the Eagles recover it. Nice pass rush that time, and it's 3rd and long.
Eagles false start to make it 3rd and 18. Polamalu and two other Steelers blitz and get the sack, taking the Eagles out of field goal range. Nice play and nice recovery following the lousy start.
Eagles punt and it is fair-caught at the 5. But the Eagles are flagged for an illegal formation and must re-kick. This time, another flag, this time the Steelers are offsides. The Eagles decline the penalty and the Steelers start at their 9 yard line.
Steelers-Eagles...defense first drive
Coach Tomlin challenged whether the Eagles could advance the ball on the interception. The call is reversed and the ball is spotted near mid-field. It looks like on the replay that Ben's throwing hat was hit as he tried to throw it. Steelers defense is now on the field.
Steelers-Eagles...first drive continued
Ben's first pass is a check-down to Parker. He is free for a big gain because the linebacker slipped. A good-looking play.
Ben make a HUGE HUGE mistake on first down. Ben is under pressure and nearly in the grasp, tries to throw it away and it goes right to the Eagles.
Ben make a HUGE HUGE mistake on first down. Ben is under pressure and nearly in the grasp, tries to throw it away and it goes right to the Eagles.
Steelers-Eagles...first drive
Steelers offense on the field first...starting from the 20. Ben is expected to play about a half.
First play--end around the Cedric Wilson for 9 yards. Not bad, but the play was almost blown up in the backfield. Parker runs for up the middle about 7 to get the first down.
First play--end around the Cedric Wilson for 9 yards. Not bad, but the play was almost blown up in the backfield. Parker runs for up the middle about 7 to get the first down.
Greatest ever?
Does the Aaron Boone home run to beat the Red Sox in the 2003 ALCS rank among the greatest home runs in MLB history? I don't think so.
It got the Yankees to the World Series, which they lost to the Marlins. I don't think it carried the significance of the others on the list, such as Kirk Gibson in the 1988 World Series or Roger Maris hitting number 61.
It looked like that one was a tip to the Red Sox-Yankees rivalry more than it was a significant home run. I'm not even sure the Buckey Dent home run deserves to be on the list. Can you think of any that are more deserving?
One I could think of:
--Joe Carter wins the 1993 World Series over the Phillies
--Scott Podsednik homers to win Game 2 of the 2004 World Series, his second of the season
It got the Yankees to the World Series, which they lost to the Marlins. I don't think it carried the significance of the others on the list, such as Kirk Gibson in the 1988 World Series or Roger Maris hitting number 61.
It looked like that one was a tip to the Red Sox-Yankees rivalry more than it was a significant home run. I'm not even sure the Buckey Dent home run deserves to be on the list. Can you think of any that are more deserving?
One I could think of:
--Joe Carter wins the 1993 World Series over the Phillies
--Scott Podsednik homers to win Game 2 of the 2004 World Series, his second of the season
Coming up...
The Steelers play the Eagles at 8 p.m. You can watch it on NBC or here if you are confined to the Internet. I'll be offering some opinions while the starters are in.
NFL Experiment solved
Here is a response from Lake Affected on the infamous green dot:
The green dot is the in-helmet communication link between the QB and the offensive coordinator.I heard it was brought about because the Seahawks also used backup QB Seneca Wallace as a wide-out on occasion and when they did, both he and Hasselback had in-helmet communications on the field at the same time.Only one player is allowed to have the earpiece on the field at a time.Thanks for the tip Jason.
A new NFL experiment?
Maybe I just missed the explanation on this...What is with the green dot on the back of the NFL quarterback's helmet? It is easy to spot if you watch the TV coverage. In most cases it is just above the bottom of the rear of the QB's helmet. All QBs seem to have them, even the back-ups and third stringers, and I haven't seen any other position players (running backs, receivers) with them.
My guess is the dot is supposed to show up on video for some reason. But I have yet to see a broadcast where they have explained it.
Can anyone help me with this?
My guess is the dot is supposed to show up on video for some reason. But I have yet to see a broadcast where they have explained it.
Can anyone help me with this?
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