There was an interesting piece on former Steelers coach Chuck Noll on ESPN.com this week.
Since the Steelers are appearing in their seventh Super Bowl in a little more than seven days, it is fitting someone tries to talk with the one coach that has four rings.
Noll was not available, as it indicates in the story. He seemingly has moved on from football and is concentrating on his other interests during his retirement.
I agree Noll is one of the most underrated football coaches of all time. I believe he is overlooked because he had nine Hall of Famers on his teams in the late 1970s, when he won four titles in six years. Noll had to take all that talent and point it in the right direction. It's easy to have a lot of talent and still lose.
But I wonder whether the Steelers of that era could have been better. My father, a long-time Steelers season ticket holder and witness to the Immaculate Reception, second-guesses Noll all the time. He argues the Steelers could have won the Super Bowl in 1976, the year most experts believe the Steel Curtain defense was at its best.
Running backs Franco Harris and Rocky Bleier got injured in the divisional playoffs when the game was over. In the AFC Championship, the Steelers couldn't handle the Raiders with no running game. My dad argues, the team should not have been in a position to loose two starting running backs.
I wonder why Noll could not put together another great team after that six-year stretch. Of course, no one could expect him to draft another nine Hall of Famers. But the Steelers never competed on that high a level again during his tenure, appearing in only one AFC Championship after 1980 -- a loss to the Miami Dolphins in 1984.
I'm really nit-picking what is a great legacy. I could make similar arguments about the legacy of Bill Cowher, Noll's successor. He made only two Super Bowl appearances despite six AFC Championship appearances. And five of those games were at home.
Noll was a great coach, no question. One of the best ever. He was not the offensive genius like Bill Walsh. He also wasn't flamboyant like Bill Parcells or Mike Ditka. Noll was a great judge of talent. And maybe most important, he was exactly what that team needed. He determined how the Steelers could play their best and then got out of the way. He wanted the focus on the players.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Friday, January 23, 2009
The other game in town
When I was an IU student, men's basketball was the only full-time thought for most people once football season ended. Actually it probably was the only thought for most people during football season, too. Even national championship-calibre teams like the men's soccer team took a back seat to men's basketball.
There also is a women's basketball team on campus. While this team doesn't have the history or tradition as Hoosier men's basketball, four NCAA tournament appearances and no national championships, it happens to be playing better than the men's team this season.
The women's team is in first place in the Big Ten and has a 14-3 overall record. Its 7-1 conference mark is the team's best start ever. Yet this team is playing in front of almost nobody. On Jan. 19, when IU knocked off Purdue in Assembly Hall to take over first place, there were 4,112 fans at the game. It was the largest crowd of the season.
The Lady Hoosiers clearly are a Bloomington gem waiting to be discovered. 4,112 people fill 23.5 percent of the Assembly Hall seating capacity, which is more than 17,400. You could probably hear the ball bouncing on the floor the entire game. This is a first-place team.
A loss to Xavier on Nov. 16 brought 506 fans. The smallest crowd for a men's basketball game this season, which includes the current 8-game losing streak, is 10,701 for the Dec. 22 loss to Northeastern.
Am I calling for 17,000 fans to show up for every game? No. But isn't it time someone jumped on this bandwagon? And as the IU athletic department works to fight revenue issues, women's basketball may be another opportunity.
A boisterous home crowd also likely will lead to more wins. More wins lead to better coaches and recruits, which leads to more post-season appearances. Purdue built its women's basketball program into a power and managed to win a national championship.
I don't think IU women's basketball can become the next Tennessee or UConn, but I think the program can become a consistent winner and NCAA tournament participant.
There also is a women's basketball team on campus. While this team doesn't have the history or tradition as Hoosier men's basketball, four NCAA tournament appearances and no national championships, it happens to be playing better than the men's team this season.
The women's team is in first place in the Big Ten and has a 14-3 overall record. Its 7-1 conference mark is the team's best start ever. Yet this team is playing in front of almost nobody. On Jan. 19, when IU knocked off Purdue in Assembly Hall to take over first place, there were 4,112 fans at the game. It was the largest crowd of the season.
The Lady Hoosiers clearly are a Bloomington gem waiting to be discovered. 4,112 people fill 23.5 percent of the Assembly Hall seating capacity, which is more than 17,400. You could probably hear the ball bouncing on the floor the entire game. This is a first-place team.
A loss to Xavier on Nov. 16 brought 506 fans. The smallest crowd for a men's basketball game this season, which includes the current 8-game losing streak, is 10,701 for the Dec. 22 loss to Northeastern.
Am I calling for 17,000 fans to show up for every game? No. But isn't it time someone jumped on this bandwagon? And as the IU athletic department works to fight revenue issues, women's basketball may be another opportunity.
A boisterous home crowd also likely will lead to more wins. More wins lead to better coaches and recruits, which leads to more post-season appearances. Purdue built its women's basketball program into a power and managed to win a national championship.
I don't think IU women's basketball can become the next Tennessee or UConn, but I think the program can become a consistent winner and NCAA tournament participant.
Monday, January 19, 2009
39 little words
Unless you've been living under a rock, you should know that Barack Obama will be inaugurated President of the United States tomorrow.
While there will be lots of ceremony, a speech and a parade, the most important item will last a handful of seconds. Obama will say 39 words:
My wife and spent nearly an hour reading and signing papers to complete the purchase of our house once we spent days negotiating the price. I have spent several hours filling out and reading paperwork for a job once I managed to convince the company to hire me.
I suppose it's fitting the person taking over probably the toughest job ever conceived takes less than a minute to be installed.
But these words Obama and his 43 colleagues have spoken say volumes about what Americans expect from their leader. Obama will be expected no just to do his job, but do it to the best of his ability. As a media member, I can attest Americans spend a lot of time arguing over whether the president is in top form.
He also is expected to uphold the Constitution and its principals, the framework of the U.S. government. Obama will not be allowed to act as he chooses, he must obey the rules we have given him. That's not easy as we have seen with his immediate predecessor and others.
The president is an instrument of our government, not the master of it, and the oath is a testament to it. He is filling a job Americans open every four years. Tomorrow, we'll be reminded of exactly what we expect of our new employee with 39 words.
While there will be lots of ceremony, a speech and a parade, the most important item will last a handful of seconds. Obama will say 39 words:
"I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States. So help me God."Once the election is decided, that's all it takes to become the most powerful man in the world, commander-in-chief of the most well-equipped and trained military in the world and hold the keys to enough nuclear weapons to destroy the planet.
My wife and spent nearly an hour reading and signing papers to complete the purchase of our house once we spent days negotiating the price. I have spent several hours filling out and reading paperwork for a job once I managed to convince the company to hire me.
I suppose it's fitting the person taking over probably the toughest job ever conceived takes less than a minute to be installed.
But these words Obama and his 43 colleagues have spoken say volumes about what Americans expect from their leader. Obama will be expected no just to do his job, but do it to the best of his ability. As a media member, I can attest Americans spend a lot of time arguing over whether the president is in top form.
He also is expected to uphold the Constitution and its principals, the framework of the U.S. government. Obama will not be allowed to act as he chooses, he must obey the rules we have given him. That's not easy as we have seen with his immediate predecessor and others.
The president is an instrument of our government, not the master of it, and the oath is a testament to it. He is filling a job Americans open every four years. Tomorrow, we'll be reminded of exactly what we expect of our new employee with 39 words.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Championship Sunday
There will be a lot of these waving in Pittsburgh tonight. It's game day. Finally.
After listening to previews, analysis and predictions, we finally get to see a game between the Steelers and Ravens. This game has all the makings of a classic. In fact it reminds me of the mid-1970s, when the Steelers and Raiders played some classic AFC Championships.
This was one of the best, from the 1975 game at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh. This clip is a touchdown by Franco Harris.
Another clip from the game, this one a touchdown catch by John Stallworth.
The best part about both rivalries has been the quality of the play. Both teams hit hard and were successful. This year, the Steelers won both regular season games, but each was close. It is fitting both are back for a third match-up.
Expect few points to be scored in the cold Pittsburgh weather. I may be biased, but I think the Steelers can get it done. The game will be close again, but I think the Steelers can make the plays when the game is on the line.
Hopefully they'll be lots of celebrating tonight in Heinz Field.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
When will it pay off?
As I watch the IU-Penn State game, I keep hearing a lot about effort.
"Nobody will work as hard as (Coach Tom Crean's) Hoosier team," the analyst says.
At some point, shouldn't we expect something from all that effort? When will the Hoosiers finally get a break? When will the other team not make a 3-pointer on every possession in the first half? When will the Hoosiers get a win as some tangible evidence for all this effort I hear so much about?
The Hoosiers have lost seven straight games. Most of those losses have been ugly and painful. IU is last in the Big Ten in field goal percentage and three-point shooting percentage and scoring average. The team is ninth in free throws made and last in three pointers made, a full 15 shots by 10th place Michigan State.
The team does play hard and I appreciate it. Maybe I'm a little frustrated with the Hoosier mistakes, with how opponents always seem to play like national champions.
I just hope they can put it all together sometime this season. I'm already sick of the analyst talk as the Hoosiers fall farther behind:
"You better get your shots in now," they say. "This team will be back."
Update: The Hoosiers hung tough and had a chance to win, but ultimately lost to Penn State 65-55.
"Nobody will work as hard as (Coach Tom Crean's) Hoosier team," the analyst says.
At some point, shouldn't we expect something from all that effort? When will the Hoosiers finally get a break? When will the other team not make a 3-pointer on every possession in the first half? When will the Hoosiers get a win as some tangible evidence for all this effort I hear so much about?
The Hoosiers have lost seven straight games. Most of those losses have been ugly and painful. IU is last in the Big Ten in field goal percentage and three-point shooting percentage and scoring average. The team is ninth in free throws made and last in three pointers made, a full 15 shots by 10th place Michigan State.
The team does play hard and I appreciate it. Maybe I'm a little frustrated with the Hoosier mistakes, with how opponents always seem to play like national champions.
I just hope they can put it all together sometime this season. I'm already sick of the analyst talk as the Hoosiers fall farther behind:
"You better get your shots in now," they say. "This team will be back."
Update: The Hoosiers hung tough and had a chance to win, but ultimately lost to Penn State 65-55.
Friday, January 2, 2009
The NFL playoffs are upon us...
Yet our friends in Minneapolis don't seem to have got the message. The Vikings are desperately trying to move the remaining tickets so the game will not be blacked-out in Minneapolis.
Did I miss something? Are Vikings fans spoiled from too many playoff appearances? This year, the team secured its first playoff berth since 2004 and first division title since 2000. If the team can sell out eight regular-season games, it surely can sell out one post-season game. These are the games fans wait all year to attend.
I was at the 2001 Bears game when the team clinched its first playoff appearance in what seemed like forever with a win over the Buccaneers. The announcement came over the loud speaker and the place went nuts. There was no question the playoff tickets would be gone in a heart beat, even though the team lost to the Eagles.
The Vikings face a good team in the Eagles, but they still have a good chance to win. Running back Adrian Peterson can beat teams by himself.
The Arizona Cardinals also risked black-out until Friday, when they finally sold all their playoff tickets. That team has been a perennial doormat for most of the decade, last appearing in the post-season since 1998. This year, the Cardinals won their first division title since 1975.
Fans in Phoenix don't seem to have an excuse, since the only post-season action that has happened there in recent memory is last year's Super Bowl, which was a neutral field. It has been mentioned Cardinals faithful may not be interested in seeing the team lose to the Atlanta Falcons this weekend. What kind of rationale is that? If that were the case, no one would buy playoff tickets to watch the Cubs play anyone in the MLB divisional playoffs.
Let's show a little faith, or, dare say it, a little heart. Somebody out there has to remind Minnesota and Arizona that "You gotta believe."
Did I miss something? Are Vikings fans spoiled from too many playoff appearances? This year, the team secured its first playoff berth since 2004 and first division title since 2000. If the team can sell out eight regular-season games, it surely can sell out one post-season game. These are the games fans wait all year to attend.
I was at the 2001 Bears game when the team clinched its first playoff appearance in what seemed like forever with a win over the Buccaneers. The announcement came over the loud speaker and the place went nuts. There was no question the playoff tickets would be gone in a heart beat, even though the team lost to the Eagles.
The Vikings face a good team in the Eagles, but they still have a good chance to win. Running back Adrian Peterson can beat teams by himself.
The Arizona Cardinals also risked black-out until Friday, when they finally sold all their playoff tickets. That team has been a perennial doormat for most of the decade, last appearing in the post-season since 1998. This year, the Cardinals won their first division title since 1975.
Fans in Phoenix don't seem to have an excuse, since the only post-season action that has happened there in recent memory is last year's Super Bowl, which was a neutral field. It has been mentioned Cardinals faithful may not be interested in seeing the team lose to the Atlanta Falcons this weekend. What kind of rationale is that? If that were the case, no one would buy playoff tickets to watch the Cubs play anyone in the MLB divisional playoffs.
Let's show a little faith, or, dare say it, a little heart. Somebody out there has to remind Minnesota and Arizona that "You gotta believe."
Thursday, January 1, 2009
A hard lesson for a Michigan fan
It's New Year's Day, a day that always is circled for Michigan football fans. Too much drinking the night before is not advised, because you would not be in the proper condition. The Wolverines almost always had a bowl game on New Year's Day. Until this year's debacle, they had appeared in 30-some straight post-season games. But this year, they are sitting at home and some fans may be hoping they see a good prospect announce he will head to Ann Arbor in the High School All-American Game this weekend.
For me, and all Indiana football fans, watching New Year's Day football without the Hoosiers is common, and frankly, expected. But I remain interested in most of the games, particularly those involving Big Ten teams. Like now, I'm watching Iowa dominate South Carolina early in the Outback Bowl. I'm interested not because I'm an Iowa fan, but because I'm a Big Ten fan. If our conference does well in the bowl season, we all gain a little more respect. And in my mind, maybe I can rationalize some of the Hoosiers' 9 losses. Like now ... Iowa thumped IU 45-9 in Bloomington and now they're beating an above-average South Carolina team, maybe we weren't as bad as I thought.
If Penn State can upset USC later today in the Rose Bowl, then the IU 34-7 loss to the Nittany Lions appears justified and their first half performance in that game looks all the more impressive. The Hoosiers trailed 10-7 at halftime.
This is a new concept for my wife, who is a Michigan alum. She is used to looking forward to a big bowl game, the last few years the Rose Bowl, on New Year's Day. I had to explain why I root for the Big Ten during bowl season and I think it's starting to rub off. When the Hawkeyes scored a touchdown, I heard a "Go Big Ten" from the couch next to me.
She won't root for Ohio State during the Fiesta Bowl, however. I guess I can allow that.
For me, and all Indiana football fans, watching New Year's Day football without the Hoosiers is common, and frankly, expected. But I remain interested in most of the games, particularly those involving Big Ten teams. Like now, I'm watching Iowa dominate South Carolina early in the Outback Bowl. I'm interested not because I'm an Iowa fan, but because I'm a Big Ten fan. If our conference does well in the bowl season, we all gain a little more respect. And in my mind, maybe I can rationalize some of the Hoosiers' 9 losses. Like now ... Iowa thumped IU 45-9 in Bloomington and now they're beating an above-average South Carolina team, maybe we weren't as bad as I thought.
If Penn State can upset USC later today in the Rose Bowl, then the IU 34-7 loss to the Nittany Lions appears justified and their first half performance in that game looks all the more impressive. The Hoosiers trailed 10-7 at halftime.
This is a new concept for my wife, who is a Michigan alum. She is used to looking forward to a big bowl game, the last few years the Rose Bowl, on New Year's Day. I had to explain why I root for the Big Ten during bowl season and I think it's starting to rub off. When the Hawkeyes scored a touchdown, I heard a "Go Big Ten" from the couch next to me.
She won't root for Ohio State during the Fiesta Bowl, however. I guess I can allow that.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
More perspective on last year's team
Eric Gordon may not be playing for the Hoosiers, but he is making news about them today in the Indianapolis Star.
If what he said is true, it changes the way I viewed that team and adds to the reasons for its downfall. Maybe placing all the blame on Kelvin Sampson is a mistake?
If what he said is true, it changes the way I viewed that team and adds to the reasons for its downfall. Maybe placing all the blame on Kelvin Sampson is a mistake?
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Finding a silver lining
The Hoosiers didn't look all that impressive in a 18-point loss at Kentucky. However, I still think I would pay to see this team.
The game was won within the first 10 minutes of the game. After going nearly 7 minutes before scoring a point, IU found itself down 23 points at halftime, 36-13. It was the second half where the Hoosiers showed me something.
How many times have we seen a team go into halftime down a ton of points and just packed it in going into the second half? The Hoosiers came out with more grit and began to chip away at the huge Wildcat lead. It was helped by UK falling into a general malaise that led to sloppy play. The Wildcats shot 57 percent in the first half, but it decreased to 42 percent in the second half. IU was able to up its shooting percentage from 23 percent to 48 percent in the second half. So it appeared they improved their offense and defense.
The Hoosiers never closed the deficit to less than 15 points. It was clear there were chances for them to get a lot closer had a few more shots fallen, over even some free throws. IU shot 8 for 17 from the free-throw line, a 47-percent rate. Kentucky shot 73 percent from the line, making 16 out of 20.
There may be no moral victories, but the Hoosiers can take some positive things away from this game. They did win the second half, 41-36 and outscored Kentucky in the paint. The Hoosiers also won the points-off-turnovers battle.
For the game, IU was out-rebounded by 8, but it could have been a lot worse. They had 20 turnovers, which is not stellar, but UK had 23.
Is it possible to call this a good loss? I didn't turn this game off thinking the Hoosiers were destitute. I think they may be getting better.
Notes from the game are here.
The game was won within the first 10 minutes of the game. After going nearly 7 minutes before scoring a point, IU found itself down 23 points at halftime, 36-13. It was the second half where the Hoosiers showed me something.
How many times have we seen a team go into halftime down a ton of points and just packed it in going into the second half? The Hoosiers came out with more grit and began to chip away at the huge Wildcat lead. It was helped by UK falling into a general malaise that led to sloppy play. The Wildcats shot 57 percent in the first half, but it decreased to 42 percent in the second half. IU was able to up its shooting percentage from 23 percent to 48 percent in the second half. So it appeared they improved their offense and defense.
The Hoosiers never closed the deficit to less than 15 points. It was clear there were chances for them to get a lot closer had a few more shots fallen, over even some free throws. IU shot 8 for 17 from the free-throw line, a 47-percent rate. Kentucky shot 73 percent from the line, making 16 out of 20.
There may be no moral victories, but the Hoosiers can take some positive things away from this game. They did win the second half, 41-36 and outscored Kentucky in the paint. The Hoosiers also won the points-off-turnovers battle.
For the game, IU was out-rebounded by 8, but it could have been a lot worse. They had 20 turnovers, which is not stellar, but UK had 23.
Is it possible to call this a good loss? I didn't turn this game off thinking the Hoosiers were destitute. I think they may be getting better.
Notes from the game are here.
I think I would pay money to see these Hoosiers
As I wait through the final hour before the annual Indiana-Kentucky game, I began thinking about why I have come to enjoy watching these 5-4 Hoosiers.
I didn't start out all that excited about the team. I watched the blow-out by Notre Dame and Wake Forest and thought I would only be interested in maybe the first few minutes of an IU game this year. But then I saw them beat Cornell, hang with Gonzaga and then take apart TCU and became a little more optimistic.
This team appears to be improving. The first two blow-outs I mentioned, there was almost no rebounding. But against TCU, the team was all over the boards. My only complaint now is they miss too many lay-ups for my taste.
The key thing for me is I can see the effort the players give each night. And it appears other fans can as well. After a 16-point loss to Gonzaga (don't kid yourself, that game was a lot closer that the final score), the team got a standing ovation from the Lucas Oil Stadium crowd. They may not the most-talented team, but these Hoosiers appear to give the winning effort for 40 minutes a game. I'm not sure we could say that about previous years' Hoosiers.
Terry Hutchens in today's Indianapolis Star wonders whether this year's team could emulate the early 90's Kentucky teams. Then UK coach Rick Pitino inherited a team banned from the post-season with a bunch of young players. The rebuilding job was complete by 1992, when UK got to the regional finals of the NCAA tournament and lost what is considered one of greatest college basketball games ever played.
I don't think these Hoosiers have that much potential, but I still applaud the effort. As another friend of mine said this morning, people want to see them play this year because they appreciate the underdog. I hope they can get maybe one or two quality wins this year to boost their confidence.
And hopefully I'll be able to witness that big effort this year, because it won't be long before tickets will be hard to come by again.
I didn't start out all that excited about the team. I watched the blow-out by Notre Dame and Wake Forest and thought I would only be interested in maybe the first few minutes of an IU game this year. But then I saw them beat Cornell, hang with Gonzaga and then take apart TCU and became a little more optimistic.
This team appears to be improving. The first two blow-outs I mentioned, there was almost no rebounding. But against TCU, the team was all over the boards. My only complaint now is they miss too many lay-ups for my taste.
The key thing for me is I can see the effort the players give each night. And it appears other fans can as well. After a 16-point loss to Gonzaga (don't kid yourself, that game was a lot closer that the final score), the team got a standing ovation from the Lucas Oil Stadium crowd. They may not the most-talented team, but these Hoosiers appear to give the winning effort for 40 minutes a game. I'm not sure we could say that about previous years' Hoosiers.
Terry Hutchens in today's Indianapolis Star wonders whether this year's team could emulate the early 90's Kentucky teams. Then UK coach Rick Pitino inherited a team banned from the post-season with a bunch of young players. The rebuilding job was complete by 1992, when UK got to the regional finals of the NCAA tournament and lost what is considered one of greatest college basketball games ever played.
I don't think these Hoosiers have that much potential, but I still applaud the effort. As another friend of mine said this morning, people want to see them play this year because they appreciate the underdog. I hope they can get maybe one or two quality wins this year to boost their confidence.
And hopefully I'll be able to witness that big effort this year, because it won't be long before tickets will be hard to come by again.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
A new story
I have completed a short story. It is one of my first real attempts at fiction.
I called it "A Familiar Scene from a Bar."
Enjoy, and let me know what you think.
I called it "A Familiar Scene from a Bar."
Enjoy, and let me know what you think.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Root for Mizzu and Florida today
If you are a true college football fan, you should be rooting for Missouri and Florida to win their conference championships today.
Missouri plays BCS No. 2 Oklahoma today in the Big 12 title game, while BCS No. 4 Florida plays No. 1 Alabama in the SEC championship. A win by Florida leaves all the contenders with a loss, forcing a complicated computer and pollsters formula to decide which two teams deserve a to play for the national championship.
I have written in this blog before that I want a playoff in the college football bowl subdivision. And later this month I will stage my fantasy college football tournament. For the health of college football, the BCS needs to be thrown in to chaos and put more pressure on the powers-that-be to create a playoff system.
Assuming the Tigers and Gators win today, it would give a lot of teams a claim to a title-game spot. And the arguments aren't as long-winded as you might think.
Missouri plays BCS No. 2 Oklahoma today in the Big 12 title game, while BCS No. 4 Florida plays No. 1 Alabama in the SEC championship. A win by Florida leaves all the contenders with a loss, forcing a complicated computer and pollsters formula to decide which two teams deserve a to play for the national championship.
I have written in this blog before that I want a playoff in the college football bowl subdivision. And later this month I will stage my fantasy college football tournament. For the health of college football, the BCS needs to be thrown in to chaos and put more pressure on the powers-that-be to create a playoff system.
Assuming the Tigers and Gators win today, it would give a lot of teams a claim to a title-game spot. And the arguments aren't as long-winded as you might think.
- Florida should into the title game by knocking off the No. 1 team, and they likely would deserve a spot. But the loss to Ole Miss, at home no less, still weighs on me.
- A Missouri win would knock Oklahoma out of the discussion. Texas, BCS No. 3, has one loss and beat Oklahoma in the regular season, but how can you put a team in the national championship game that couldn't win their conference division? Texas beat Oklahoma and Missouri during the regular season. That should count for something.
- Texas Tech, BCS No. 7, also has a claim, because they beat Texas. But are you really going to put a run-and-shoot football team in the national championship after they gave up 60-plus points to Oklahoma?
- USC, BCS No. 5, clinches the PAC 10 title today with a win over UCLA. The Trojans' only loss is to Oregon State on the road. But the lack of quality competition in the PAC 10 has kept them out in the past. It seems to me they would have a beef if they are kept out of the game.
- Nobody believes Penn State, BCS No. 8, should be included in the national championship discussion because the Nitnany Lions didn't play anyone except Ohio State and Oregon State. I am a Big Ten fan, an Indiana alum, but rationally it's hard to say Penn State doesn't have a shot at the national championship. The lions beat Ohio State on the road and their only loss was to Iowa on the road on a last-second field goal. Florida's only loss was a home.
- Utah and Boise State, BCS Nos. 6 and 9, respectively, are undefeated. If I root for those teams, I would feel a little cheated. They beat everyone on their schedule. Both are faulted by their lack of competition in conference. How do you solve that problem?
In this scenario, there are arguments against EVERY potential national champion. The key problem is the voters and computers are forced to make a decision. If they would settle it on the field with a tournament, the teams make the decision for them. There are no beefs, no politicking, no complaints about writers changing votes.
When will college football wake up? Institute a playoff.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Are the Hoosiers the Big Ten's worst football team?
I began thinking about this yesterday after watching (thankfully only bits and pieces) another IU beating, this time at the hands of Purdue. For a while I thought it was a no-brainer, the Hoosiers and Boilermakers had the worst conference records going into the game, and the Boilers won. So IU clearly was the worst team in the Big Ten. But then I watched Michigan lay another egg against Ohio State and I thought there may be another contender.
Michigan's offensive struggles were legendary, as were IU's defensive struggles. Michigan and Indiana didn't play each other. So I began to wonder who was worse.
Indiana finished 3-9 with one conference win over Northwestern. That included non-conference losses to Ball State and Central Michigan. Michigan also was 3-9, but tallied two conference wins over Wisconsin and Minnesota. Their non-conference losses included Toledo, Utah and Notre Dame.
In terms of quality wins, Michigan gets the nod. One win was on the road and another was against a bowl-bound team. One of IU's wins came against a team with less wins than it (Western Kentucky) and another was against a non-FBS school. The third came against a bowl-bound team.
Offensively, the Hoosiers get the nod. The two teams averaged about 21 points per game, but IU was better in total offense than Michigan, 348 to 291 yards per game. The Hoosiers had almost 40 yards passing per game and 20 yards rushing per game more than Michigan.
Defensively, the Wolverines were much better. Michigan gave up 367 yards per game in total defense, while the Hoosiers gave up 432 yards per game.
According to the statistics compiled at Bigten.org, the Hoosiers were worst in the conference in 12 categories: scoring defense, pass defense, total defense, pass defense efficiency, opponent first downs, fourth down conversions, opponents fourth down conversions, red zone offense, opponents third down conversions, sacks against, field goals, and time of possession.
Michigan was the conference worst in seven categories: scoring offense, pass offense, turnover margin, total offense, pass efficiency, first downs, and third down conversions.
I would say settle this on the field or the XBox, but would you really want to see this game? Unfortunately, I suspect the IU defense would not be able to contain the Rich-Rod spread and the Wolverine defense would keep Kellen Lewis and Co. in check.
My fantasy prediction: Michigan wins 17-14.
Michigan's offensive struggles were legendary, as were IU's defensive struggles. Michigan and Indiana didn't play each other. So I began to wonder who was worse.
Indiana finished 3-9 with one conference win over Northwestern. That included non-conference losses to Ball State and Central Michigan. Michigan also was 3-9, but tallied two conference wins over Wisconsin and Minnesota. Their non-conference losses included Toledo, Utah and Notre Dame.
In terms of quality wins, Michigan gets the nod. One win was on the road and another was against a bowl-bound team. One of IU's wins came against a team with less wins than it (Western Kentucky) and another was against a non-FBS school. The third came against a bowl-bound team.
Offensively, the Hoosiers get the nod. The two teams averaged about 21 points per game, but IU was better in total offense than Michigan, 348 to 291 yards per game. The Hoosiers had almost 40 yards passing per game and 20 yards rushing per game more than Michigan.
Defensively, the Wolverines were much better. Michigan gave up 367 yards per game in total defense, while the Hoosiers gave up 432 yards per game.
According to the statistics compiled at Bigten.org, the Hoosiers were worst in the conference in 12 categories: scoring defense, pass defense, total defense, pass defense efficiency, opponent first downs, fourth down conversions, opponents fourth down conversions, red zone offense, opponents third down conversions, sacks against, field goals, and time of possession.
Michigan was the conference worst in seven categories: scoring offense, pass offense, turnover margin, total offense, pass efficiency, first downs, and third down conversions.
I would say settle this on the field or the XBox, but would you really want to see this game? Unfortunately, I suspect the IU defense would not be able to contain the Rich-Rod spread and the Wolverine defense would keep Kellen Lewis and Co. in check.
My fantasy prediction: Michigan wins 17-14.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Refections on a forgettable season
After another beating, this time at the hands of Penn State, the Hoosiers head to Purdue this weekend. Most of us Hoosier football fans are hoping this game goes quickly so we can wake up from this nightmare.
The funny thing about this match-up, is that it's not a mismatch. Purdue has struggled just as much as IU has this year. If the Hoosiers can put together some defense and get some quality quarterback play, this game could be tight.
There are no bowl games on the line this year, just the Old Oaken Bucket. Unfortunately, it also is Purdue coach Joe Tiller's last game. That means the players will be emotionally up for this one.
The Boilers also are second in the Big Ten in passing yards per game, averaging 229 a game, which could pose a problem for the depleted IU secondary. But Purdue is last in points per game.
IU isn't much better in that department, at less than point per game better. But their offense is more balanced than Purdue. If the IU defense can stop or slow down the Purdue passing game, namely quarterback Curtis Painter, they could have a shot.
IU has not won on the road this year and I don't think that will change this week. Tiller goes out in style and IU finishes the season in last place in the Big Ten.
Soon, I'll be able to put all my energy into IU basketball. Is that such a good thing?
The funny thing about this match-up, is that it's not a mismatch. Purdue has struggled just as much as IU has this year. If the Hoosiers can put together some defense and get some quality quarterback play, this game could be tight.
There are no bowl games on the line this year, just the Old Oaken Bucket. Unfortunately, it also is Purdue coach Joe Tiller's last game. That means the players will be emotionally up for this one.
The Boilers also are second in the Big Ten in passing yards per game, averaging 229 a game, which could pose a problem for the depleted IU secondary. But Purdue is last in points per game.
IU isn't much better in that department, at less than point per game better. But their offense is more balanced than Purdue. If the IU defense can stop or slow down the Purdue passing game, namely quarterback Curtis Painter, they could have a shot.
IU has not won on the road this year and I don't think that will change this week. Tiller goes out in style and IU finishes the season in last place in the Big Ten.
Soon, I'll be able to put all my energy into IU basketball. Is that such a good thing?
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Badgered and tortured
The IU defense was run over this week. Wisconsin thumped the Hoosiers 55-20. The second half was the back-breaker. Wisconsin scored 31 points, the Hoosiers none.
I've said it for several weeks: teams cannot win without at least a little defense. IU has a couple defensive linemen who are playing well, namely Jammie Kirlew, but a sack here and there is not enough. The IU defense gave up 601 total yards, including 443 yards rushing. Wisconsin rushed for almost twice as many yards than the entire IU offense.
The lack of offense can be attributed to injury once again. Ben Chappell was hurt on a QB sneak late in the first half. He was near the goal line, took a hard hit and fumbled. Instead of the Hoosiers taking the lead (they were down one point at the time), they gave up a field goal and trailed by four at halftime.
Wisconsin running back David Gilreath averaged 21 yards per rush, including a 90-yard run in the third quarter that really ended the game. He ran for 168 yards on 8 carries and P.J. Hill ran for another 127 yards, scoring three touchdowns.
Now the Hoosiers have allowed 400 total yards or more in six of their seven losses. Hopefully the coaching staff knows what to look for on the recruiting trail.
I've said it for several weeks: teams cannot win without at least a little defense. IU has a couple defensive linemen who are playing well, namely Jammie Kirlew, but a sack here and there is not enough. The IU defense gave up 601 total yards, including 443 yards rushing. Wisconsin rushed for almost twice as many yards than the entire IU offense.
The lack of offense can be attributed to injury once again. Ben Chappell was hurt on a QB sneak late in the first half. He was near the goal line, took a hard hit and fumbled. Instead of the Hoosiers taking the lead (they were down one point at the time), they gave up a field goal and trailed by four at halftime.
Wisconsin running back David Gilreath averaged 21 yards per rush, including a 90-yard run in the third quarter that really ended the game. He ran for 168 yards on 8 carries and P.J. Hill ran for another 127 yards, scoring three touchdowns.
Now the Hoosiers have allowed 400 total yards or more in six of their seven losses. Hopefully the coaching staff knows what to look for on the recruiting trail.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Where is the love?
When I was an IU student 14 years ago, I had to get in line to get my season tickets for men's basketball. We marked our calendars for the day we could pick them up. I even remember jumping for joy in 1995 when learned I would be sitting on the floor for a game against Michigan. By the way, I even appeared on ESPN. I was signaling a three-pointer when the now infamous Neil Reed made in the first half. ESPN used the shot in their lead-in to a commercial break during halftime.
Imagine my surprise when I saw a commercial on the IU Web site advertising student tickets for men's basketball. And this story appeared in today Indiana Daily Student. Four thousand student ticket packages are unsold and now available to the general public.
We all know the Hoosiers are going to struggle this year and may not have a winning record. But that is not a reason for students to abandon the team. IU basketball is not inconsistent like IU football. Five national championships, nine final fours, more NCAA tournament berths than I can count. The tradition is there. And Assembly Hall is what makes it really special.
The students are who make it tough to play in Assembly Hall. Get out there and buy some tickets.
Imagine my surprise when I saw a commercial on the IU Web site advertising student tickets for men's basketball. And this story appeared in today Indiana Daily Student. Four thousand student ticket packages are unsold and now available to the general public.
We all know the Hoosiers are going to struggle this year and may not have a winning record. But that is not a reason for students to abandon the team. IU basketball is not inconsistent like IU football. Five national championships, nine final fours, more NCAA tournament berths than I can count. The tradition is there. And Assembly Hall is what makes it really special.
The students are who make it tough to play in Assembly Hall. Get out there and buy some tickets.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Print is dead, right?
Not after last night's election. According to this post from Poynter.org, you couldn't find a copy of the Chicago Tribune, Washington Post or New York Times in their respective cities.
Journalism may be shifting to the Internet, but newspapers still provide permanency. Our words will be remembered, and cherished, because they can be kept in shoe boxes, closets and basements.
I don't think too many people are saving Web pages that appeared this morning.
Journalism may be shifting to the Internet, but newspapers still provide permanency. Our words will be remembered, and cherished, because they can be kept in shoe boxes, closets and basements.
I don't think too many people are saving Web pages that appeared this morning.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
No bowling date this year
I don't have to hope any more this year.
The Hoosiers lost to Central Michigan 37-34. The Hoosiers stand at 3-6 with three games to go. A .500 record still is possible, but consecutive wins over Wisconsin, Penn State and Purdue seem highly unlikely, if not impossible.
It was another embarrassing display for the IU defense. Big-time CMU QB Dan LeFevor didn't even play, but the back-up rolled up 485 yards passing. CMU accumulated 522 total yards for the game. The Hoosiers now have allowed more than 400 yards in five of their six losses. It is the second time in three games the Hoosiers have allowed more than 500 total yards.
What's worse is IU was winning the game in the fourth quarter, and after holding CMU to two field goals, gave up the game-winning touchdown. The Hoosiers also spent most of the game running the ball (43 attempts for 272 yards), a move to keep the CMU offense off the field, and still could not control the time of possession battle. CMU held the ball for 33:19, IU for 26:41.
The fix is becoming increasingly clear. Better defense, check that, any defense, will lead to more wins. The magic number for total yards allowed appears to be 400. More and its usually a loss, less and it could be a win.
Next week: Wisconsin is in town, smarting from a last-second loss to Michigan State. But you know what the best medicine for that is, right?
The Hoosiers lost to Central Michigan 37-34. The Hoosiers stand at 3-6 with three games to go. A .500 record still is possible, but consecutive wins over Wisconsin, Penn State and Purdue seem highly unlikely, if not impossible.
It was another embarrassing display for the IU defense. Big-time CMU QB Dan LeFevor didn't even play, but the back-up rolled up 485 yards passing. CMU accumulated 522 total yards for the game. The Hoosiers now have allowed more than 400 yards in five of their six losses. It is the second time in three games the Hoosiers have allowed more than 500 total yards.
What's worse is IU was winning the game in the fourth quarter, and after holding CMU to two field goals, gave up the game-winning touchdown. The Hoosiers also spent most of the game running the ball (43 attempts for 272 yards), a move to keep the CMU offense off the field, and still could not control the time of possession battle. CMU held the ball for 33:19, IU for 26:41.
The fix is becoming increasingly clear. Better defense, check that, any defense, will lead to more wins. The magic number for total yards allowed appears to be 400. More and its usually a loss, less and it could be a win.
Next week: Wisconsin is in town, smarting from a last-second loss to Michigan State. But you know what the best medicine for that is, right?
Friday, October 31, 2008
Studs Terkel -- RIP
Chicago literary giant Studs Terkel died today at 96.
Aside from being a popular radio and TV personality, he also was a Pulitzer Prize winning writer. I had one of his books signed when he came to speak in Woodstock, Ill., but I was not able to talk to him. My friend Dan was able to get a couple seconds with him.
Dan asked if he had any advice for a young reporter: "Yes. Keep giving 'em hell," he said. I think Terkel inspired him.
Studs now is reunited with his wife Ida, who died in 1999. Rest in peace.
Here is the official Studs Terkel Web site.
Aside from being a popular radio and TV personality, he also was a Pulitzer Prize winning writer. I had one of his books signed when he came to speak in Woodstock, Ill., but I was not able to talk to him. My friend Dan was able to get a couple seconds with him.
Dan asked if he had any advice for a young reporter: "Yes. Keep giving 'em hell," he said. I think Terkel inspired him.
Studs now is reunited with his wife Ida, who died in 1999. Rest in peace.
Here is the official Studs Terkel Web site.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
What's that? IU won?
Yes, the Hoosiers squeaked past No. 22 Northwestern, 21-19 in Bloomington.
This will go down as an upset on paper, but Northwestern probably didn't deserve a ranking. They have won six games, but haven't beaten anybody. The Wildcats biggest win was at Iowa, a team that now is 5-3.
The Hoosiers played well in the game, especially on the defensive side. After giving up more than 400 yards four of the last five weeks, the defense gave up 316 this week. They got two interceptions and recovered three fumbles.
The offense out-gained Northwestern, amassing 319 total yards with no turnovers. Nearly all of that came through the air, with Ben Chappell throwing for 219 yards.
It's easy to say win will help the Hoosiers get back on track, especially after I predicted no more wins after last week's loss to Illinois. There may be one or two wins left this season. Next week is home against Central Michigan, which is a potential win. CMU 6-2 after beating Toledo by one today. They did lose to Purdue, so it is possible with a quality defensive effort IU could get win number four.
Wisconsin is playing bad enough lately to keep IU in the game on Nov. 8, but Penn State is going to spank the Hoosiers and I just don't see IU beating Purdue on the road in Joe Tiller's last game.
It was a nice win this week over a good team, but this will not turn the season around. IU's fate has been sealed.
This will go down as an upset on paper, but Northwestern probably didn't deserve a ranking. They have won six games, but haven't beaten anybody. The Wildcats biggest win was at Iowa, a team that now is 5-3.
The Hoosiers played well in the game, especially on the defensive side. After giving up more than 400 yards four of the last five weeks, the defense gave up 316 this week. They got two interceptions and recovered three fumbles.
The offense out-gained Northwestern, amassing 319 total yards with no turnovers. Nearly all of that came through the air, with Ben Chappell throwing for 219 yards.
It's easy to say win will help the Hoosiers get back on track, especially after I predicted no more wins after last week's loss to Illinois. There may be one or two wins left this season. Next week is home against Central Michigan, which is a potential win. CMU 6-2 after beating Toledo by one today. They did lose to Purdue, so it is possible with a quality defensive effort IU could get win number four.
Wisconsin is playing bad enough lately to keep IU in the game on Nov. 8, but Penn State is going to spank the Hoosiers and I just don't see IU beating Purdue on the road in Joe Tiller's last game.
It was a nice win this week over a good team, but this will not turn the season around. IU's fate has been sealed.
Friday, October 24, 2008
The truth hurts
The game of the weekend (surprise!) doesn't involve the Hoosiers. It is No. 3 Penn State v. No. 9 Ohio State. There is more on the line here than the lead in the Big Ten football race.
There is national significance, not just because Penn St. needs to win to keep pace with Texas and Alabama, Nos. 1 and 2, respectively, but to show the Big Ten is more than a doormat, also ran conference.
Already, the pundits are talking about how Penn St. could lose this game and how they'd be forced to consider Ohio State for the BCS title game again. After two straight blow-out losses, the Buckeyes don't have much clout left as a national championship contender. But yet after five straight wins, the word is Ohio State could make it back to the big game again. It is getting so bad that ESPN.com writer Ivan Maisel was compelled to write this column.
The IU season is over, so I am becoming a Big Ten fan. That means rooting for Penn State this weekend. Pundits, and more importantly writers and voters, tired of the Buckeyes getting spanked in big games. If the Nittany Lions stay undefeated, they may be able to gain a little more respect for the conference and will have a better shot at getting in the national championship game.
If there is only one undefeated team and two one-loss teams to chose from, there is no way Ohio State gets the nod over say, Texas or Alabama. But a one-loss Penn State team (with a win over Ohio State) has a much better chance. On the flip side, an undefeated Penn State team would hold a lot more weight in the remaining weeks of the season over two one-loss teams.
For once, the eyes of the Midwest won't be fixated on the Ohio State-Michigan game as we near Thanksgiving. Instead, we will be watching Penn State-Michigan State game, and wondering whether 1994 will repeat itself.
Yes, that Penn State team also went undefeated, including a convincing win in the Rose Bowl. But they did not get a piece of the title. Nebraska was the consensus No. 1 team. I saw them play IU in Bloomington that year. That team was special, even if they couldn't blow out the Hoosiers.
I just hope the Lions get some respect from the voters this year. It would be a crime to see them run the table twice in the Big Ten and get nothing both times.
There is national significance, not just because Penn St. needs to win to keep pace with Texas and Alabama, Nos. 1 and 2, respectively, but to show the Big Ten is more than a doormat, also ran conference.
Already, the pundits are talking about how Penn St. could lose this game and how they'd be forced to consider Ohio State for the BCS title game again. After two straight blow-out losses, the Buckeyes don't have much clout left as a national championship contender. But yet after five straight wins, the word is Ohio State could make it back to the big game again. It is getting so bad that ESPN.com writer Ivan Maisel was compelled to write this column.
The IU season is over, so I am becoming a Big Ten fan. That means rooting for Penn State this weekend. Pundits, and more importantly writers and voters, tired of the Buckeyes getting spanked in big games. If the Nittany Lions stay undefeated, they may be able to gain a little more respect for the conference and will have a better shot at getting in the national championship game.
If there is only one undefeated team and two one-loss teams to chose from, there is no way Ohio State gets the nod over say, Texas or Alabama. But a one-loss Penn State team (with a win over Ohio State) has a much better chance. On the flip side, an undefeated Penn State team would hold a lot more weight in the remaining weeks of the season over two one-loss teams.
For once, the eyes of the Midwest won't be fixated on the Ohio State-Michigan game as we near Thanksgiving. Instead, we will be watching Penn State-Michigan State game, and wondering whether 1994 will repeat itself.
Yes, that Penn State team also went undefeated, including a convincing win in the Rose Bowl. But they did not get a piece of the title. Nebraska was the consensus No. 1 team. I saw them play IU in Bloomington that year. That team was special, even if they couldn't blow out the Hoosiers.
I just hope the Lions get some respect from the voters this year. It would be a crime to see them run the table twice in the Big Ten and get nothing both times.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Looking to the future ... IU football
Another week, another loss. This time at Illinois, 55-13. But this time it begs another question, one that has been lingering the last 10 years:
Where is the IU defense?
Out of 14 possessions, Illinois scored on 8 of them. Two of the possessions where they didn't score were the end of the first and second halves. That means the defense stopped Illinois only four times out of 14.
During the five-game losing streak, the IU defense has given up a ridiculous amount of yards:
I still don't understand how a team could recruit so much offensive talent year after year, but not find enough on defense to keep the Hoosiers in the game consistently. I didn't watch much of the game against Illinois Saturday, but what I saw was Illinois running and throwing the ball all over the lot. It seemed every completion was to a wide-open receiver. Juice Williams didn't have many difficult throws to make because the defenders were never around his receivers.
I'm not a football coach, so I don't understand the problem. Is this a problem with the defensive system ... the players ... the coaches?
The above numbers are unacceptable for a high school football team.
Speaking of unacceptable, the second half last night ridiculous. When the game is out of hand (IU was down 34-7 and then 48-10), why would you kick field goals of 23 yards and 31 yards? This team has major offensive problems. Why not go for the touchdown?
To me it looked like the team and everyone else gave up? I don't think much of losing by 42 instead of 48. It was almost laughable.
Where is the IU defense?
Out of 14 possessions, Illinois scored on 8 of them. Two of the possessions where they didn't score were the end of the first and second halves. That means the defense stopped Illinois only four times out of 14.
During the five-game losing streak, the IU defense has given up a ridiculous amount of yards:
- 563 (Illinois)
- 422 (Iowa)
- 333 (Minnesota)
- 497 (Michigan State)
- 463 (Ball State)
I still don't understand how a team could recruit so much offensive talent year after year, but not find enough on defense to keep the Hoosiers in the game consistently. I didn't watch much of the game against Illinois Saturday, but what I saw was Illinois running and throwing the ball all over the lot. It seemed every completion was to a wide-open receiver. Juice Williams didn't have many difficult throws to make because the defenders were never around his receivers.
I'm not a football coach, so I don't understand the problem. Is this a problem with the defensive system ... the players ... the coaches?
The above numbers are unacceptable for a high school football team.
Speaking of unacceptable, the second half last night ridiculous. When the game is out of hand (IU was down 34-7 and then 48-10), why would you kick field goals of 23 yards and 31 yards? This team has major offensive problems. Why not go for the touchdown?
To me it looked like the team and everyone else gave up? I don't think much of losing by 42 instead of 48. It was almost laughable.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Enjoy your basketball holiday
Happy Midnight Madness all you IU fans. Although, that is pretty much where the joyous part of the official start to basketball season ends.
If you can get an A on this quiz by Fort Wayne Journal Gazette reporter LaMond Pope (Part 1, and Part 2), you are a much bigger IU fan than I am.
As you might recall, last spring's coaching change led to a mass exodus of players. Only Kyle Taber was a scholarship player last year. And with most of the other Big Ten teams returning or reloading with top talent, the prospects of winning season are dim. New coach Tom Crean has been preaching patience throughout the offseason, which also doesn't inspire much confidence.
I remain somewhat hopeful. Bob Knight started four freshman in the 1994-95 season (my freshman year in Bloomington) and was able to get to the NCAA tourney. Stranger things happened.
The good news is these guys could buy into Crean's system fast and play well together quickly. And with no expectations around the country, they could sneak up on a lot of teams. This season may not be as bad as most people think.
The 2008-09 IU Men's Basketball prospectus is available here.
If you can get an A on this quiz by Fort Wayne Journal Gazette reporter LaMond Pope (Part 1, and Part 2), you are a much bigger IU fan than I am.
As you might recall, last spring's coaching change led to a mass exodus of players. Only Kyle Taber was a scholarship player last year. And with most of the other Big Ten teams returning or reloading with top talent, the prospects of winning season are dim. New coach Tom Crean has been preaching patience throughout the offseason, which also doesn't inspire much confidence.
I remain somewhat hopeful. Bob Knight started four freshman in the 1994-95 season (my freshman year in Bloomington) and was able to get to the NCAA tourney. Stranger things happened.
The good news is these guys could buy into Crean's system fast and play well together quickly. And with no expectations around the country, they could sneak up on a lot of teams. This season may not be as bad as most people think.
The 2008-09 IU Men's Basketball prospectus is available here.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
A revised prediction for IU football
I admit it. I made a HUGE mistake before the season started in predicting a 6-6 record for the Hoosiers. So now, after an embarrassing 45-9 loss at home to Iowa, it is time to revise my thoughts.
Here is the bold statement for the rest of the year: IU will not win another game. That would result in a 2-10 record, not bad coming off a bowl bid and all kinds of optimism, right?
Here is the remaining schedule:
Here is the bold statement for the rest of the year: IU will not win another game. That would result in a 2-10 record, not bad coming off a bowl bid and all kinds of optimism, right?
Here is the remaining schedule:
- At Illinois Oct. 18 -- The Illini offense is just too good for the IU defense. Even if Kellen Lewis and the Hoosiers get their offense in gear, the likelihood of outscoring Illinois on the road is low. Should be a double-digit loss.
- against Northwestern Oct. 25 -- The Wildcats have surprised everyone this year, but lost some luster after losing to Michigan State at home yesterday. In the loss, the Wildcats still ran up 459 total yards. That is a bad sign for the Hoosiers. This game may be close, but I think Northwestern will pull it out.
- against Central Michigan Nov. 1 -- I said in my pre-season prediction that the Hoosiers would lose this game. CMU has not disappointed this season. They are 4-2 and undefeated in the MAC. Their losses came at Georgia and at Purdue. QB Dan LeFevour has thrown for nearly 1,400 yards and 9 touchdowns. They are giving up more points than they are scoring, but the IU defense seems to be the remedy for offensive troubles. Another close loss as the criticism of the Hoosiers grows.
- against Wisconsin Nov. 8 -- Wisconsin was a Big Ten title contender until they lost three straight. There is a reason the Badgers were highly thought-of. They have the talent and are able to run the football, ranking second in the Big Ten in rushing yards. That is bad news for the Hoosier defense. Big loss, invoke the 21-point rule early.
- at Penn State Nov. 15 -- My heart wants to say trap game for the Lions, but my head says no way. Penn State maybe looking to secure a BCS National Championship game berth with wins the last two weeks. They will be focused. Invoke the 21-point rule.
- at Purdue Nov. 22 --It's a rivalry game, that likely will mean little except for who will get the Old Oaken Bucket. It's in West Lafayette, and is coach Joe Tiller's last game. It will be an emotional game for the Boilers, which should take care of business.
That is 2-10, the worst record for an IU team since 2003 and the first time the team does not win a Big Ten game since 1995.
A side note: How can this team be third in the Big Ten in yards per game (410.7) and 9th in points per game (23.5)? The two teams ahead of the Hoosiers in yards are Penn State, which is averaging 45.3 points per game, and Illinois, which is averaging 33 points per game.
Monday, September 29, 2008
One more game...
The White Sox beat the Tigers today in game 162, 8-2. That means they must play game 163 tomorrow in the stadium formerly known as Comiskey Park.
I was close to throwing things at the TV in the sixth inning, when a throwing error by pitcher Gavin Floyd caused a run to score. It was 2-1 Tigers in the bottom of the sixth, when a bunch of walks and a wild pitch tied the game.
Then Alexei Ramirez, the presumptive AL rookie of the year, came to the plate. The result was a grand slam and a Sox win.
One more win and the Sox are in the dance.
I was close to throwing things at the TV in the sixth inning, when a throwing error by pitcher Gavin Floyd caused a run to score. It was 2-1 Tigers in the bottom of the sixth, when a bunch of walks and a wild pitch tied the game.
Then Alexei Ramirez, the presumptive AL rookie of the year, came to the plate. The result was a grand slam and a Sox win.
One more win and the Sox are in the dance.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Swimming in quicksand
IU losses to Michigan State 42-29.
The good news: Javon Ringer didn't get 200 yards for the third straight game. He only got 196.
Last week's loss was embarrassing. This one was just painful. IU easily could have won this game and I venture to say they SHOULD have won this game. But it seemed for every good play that was made, there were two bad plays.
The microcosm of the whole game: Third quarter, 4:12 to go. Third down and 8 at the IU 3 yard line. Kellen Lewis throws a 97 yard touchdown pass that gives IU the lead. But it's negated by a holding penalty. And it occurred in the end zone, which is a safety and Michigan State goes up by 7.
IU had nine penalties for 89 yards and it seemed a lot of them came at the worst possible time. Personal foul penalties were called to killed first-down gains. A holding call in the end zone. You name it, every time IU tried to get back in the game a crippling penalty was called.
The Hoosiers slipped to 2-2 and head to Minnesota next week. The Gophers are playing much better, in spite of a loss today at Ohio State. I'm not feeling very good about a bounce-back next week.
The good news: Javon Ringer didn't get 200 yards for the third straight game. He only got 196.
Last week's loss was embarrassing. This one was just painful. IU easily could have won this game and I venture to say they SHOULD have won this game. But it seemed for every good play that was made, there were two bad plays.
The microcosm of the whole game: Third quarter, 4:12 to go. Third down and 8 at the IU 3 yard line. Kellen Lewis throws a 97 yard touchdown pass that gives IU the lead. But it's negated by a holding penalty. And it occurred in the end zone, which is a safety and Michigan State goes up by 7.
IU had nine penalties for 89 yards and it seemed a lot of them came at the worst possible time. Personal foul penalties were called to killed first-down gains. A holding call in the end zone. You name it, every time IU tried to get back in the game a crippling penalty was called.
The Hoosiers slipped to 2-2 and head to Minnesota next week. The Gophers are playing much better, in spite of a loss today at Ohio State. I'm not feeling very good about a bounce-back next week.
Memorize this phrase...
Actually, Hoosier fans probably won't have to, but they likely will not forget it until well after this week's game against Michigan State: "Ringer gets the carry."
Spartan running back Javon Ringer is a Heisman Trophy candidate. And the Hoosier defense had trouble stopping the run against Ball State last week. The Cardinals' top back rushed for 166 yards last week. Expect Ringer to get a lot of carries and a ton of yards, maybe more than 200. Hopefully the IU offense will be able to keep up, otherwise it will be a long day.
Michigan State is an 8-point favorite. Kick-off on ESPN is in 20 minutes.
I'm hoping I don't have to invoke the 21-point rule this week. It was the unofficial football rule when I was a student: when the Hoosiers went down by 21 points or more, you left. Sometimes it was in the fourth quarter, sometimes it was in the first quarter. In either case, it was strictly followed by hundreds of fans.
Spartan running back Javon Ringer is a Heisman Trophy candidate. And the Hoosier defense had trouble stopping the run against Ball State last week. The Cardinals' top back rushed for 166 yards last week. Expect Ringer to get a lot of carries and a ton of yards, maybe more than 200. Hopefully the IU offense will be able to keep up, otherwise it will be a long day.
Michigan State is an 8-point favorite. Kick-off on ESPN is in 20 minutes.
I'm hoping I don't have to invoke the 21-point rule this week. It was the unofficial football rule when I was a student: when the Hoosiers went down by 21 points or more, you left. Sometimes it was in the fourth quarter, sometimes it was in the first quarter. In either case, it was strictly followed by hundreds of fans.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Finally, a win
Phil Mickelson didn't deliver in his singles match, but the Americans still won the Ryder Cup 16.5-11.5, thanks to some great shots made by the young guns of the U.S. team.
I watched almost the entire six hours of coverage on Sunday without changing the channel, except for updates on the Bears and White Sox games. Almost every match was close throughout and for the most part the play was outstanding.
It was amazing drama to see. I found myself yelling "Boo!!" whenever Boo Weakley made a great shot, or siting on the edge of my coach watching Hunter Mayhan, J.B. Holmes and Anthony Kim make big putt after big putt.
It was a great weekend. Congratulations to Captain Paul Azinger. Now let's keep it in 2010.
Update (Sept. 22): The European press was not impressed with losing Captain Nick Faldo.
I watched almost the entire six hours of coverage on Sunday without changing the channel, except for updates on the Bears and White Sox games. Almost every match was close throughout and for the most part the play was outstanding.
It was amazing drama to see. I found myself yelling "Boo!!" whenever Boo Weakley made a great shot, or siting on the edge of my coach watching Hunter Mayhan, J.B. Holmes and Anthony Kim make big putt after big putt.
It was a great weekend. Congratulations to Captain Paul Azinger. Now let's keep it in 2010.
Update (Sept. 22): The European press was not impressed with losing Captain Nick Faldo.
The Ryder Cup, Mickelson's dream chance
The U.S. has the lead heading into the final day of the Ryder Cup. After two consecutive beatings, and five losses in the last six competitions, the Americans have a chance to win the cup for the first time since 1999.
For Phil Mickelson, this is his chance to make a name for himself and cement his career legacy. Tiger Woods is not at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Ky. after suffering a knee injury that required surgery. Meaning, the world's best golfer is not leading the U.S. charge. That leaves Mickelson as the U.S. team leader.
While Mickelson has won several majors, he has lived in Woods' shadow the last 10 years. But even Woods has not been able to bring multiple Ryder Cup victories. The U.S. has been the underdog in this event almost since Woods announced after the U.S. Open he wouldn't play the rest of the year.
Mickelson said each of the five matches feel like the final round of a major, all jammed into three days. If the Americans can handle the pressure and hold on in the singles matches to win the cup, much of that praise will rest on Mickelson's shoulders. While not playing brilliantly at times, he has done well, accounting for 2 full points in his four foursome matches, the second highest total on the American squad.
Mickelson, with a U.S. win, will be able to say he led a U.S. team to a victory over a better European team, without the best player in the world. Woods hasn't been able to lead U.S. teams to victory that were better than Europe on paper.
Mickelson will play Justin Rose in the fourth match of the day today, to help set the American tone. Winning The Masters may have been Mickelson's greatest golf moment, but winning this Ryder Cup may be his career-cementing moment.
For Phil Mickelson, this is his chance to make a name for himself and cement his career legacy. Tiger Woods is not at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Ky. after suffering a knee injury that required surgery. Meaning, the world's best golfer is not leading the U.S. charge. That leaves Mickelson as the U.S. team leader.
While Mickelson has won several majors, he has lived in Woods' shadow the last 10 years. But even Woods has not been able to bring multiple Ryder Cup victories. The U.S. has been the underdog in this event almost since Woods announced after the U.S. Open he wouldn't play the rest of the year.
Mickelson said each of the five matches feel like the final round of a major, all jammed into three days. If the Americans can handle the pressure and hold on in the singles matches to win the cup, much of that praise will rest on Mickelson's shoulders. While not playing brilliantly at times, he has done well, accounting for 2 full points in his four foursome matches, the second highest total on the American squad.
Mickelson, with a U.S. win, will be able to say he led a U.S. team to a victory over a better European team, without the best player in the world. Woods hasn't been able to lead U.S. teams to victory that were better than Europe on paper.
Mickelson will play Justin Rose in the fourth match of the day today, to help set the American tone. Winning The Masters may have been Mickelson's greatest golf moment, but winning this Ryder Cup may be his career-cementing moment.
A real test? A real failure
Hoosier fans were waiting for a measuring stick of how good this year's team is and we got it. Instead of taking a step forward by beating a quality team, they took two back with an embarrassing loss to Ball State 42-20.
Ball State is undefeated, but there was no reason the Hoosiers should not have won this game. The Cardinals, a pass-happy team running the spread offense, ran the ball all over the lot, amassing 224 yards. And they also put up 239 yards passing. The Hoosier offense couldn't keep up and didn't score in the second half.
The worst part of this game may be that 41,349 people were in the stadium to see it. IU football boosters, me included, have been crying for more fans to show up and watch this team as it has improved. We could win even more games and recruit better players if the fans created a better home field advantage. But who wants to play for IU after this game? And how many IU fans left Memorial Stadium Saturday night saying this team was no better than previous incarnations. How many left thinking last year was a fluke?
I said before the season started IU needed to beat one of the Big Ten's elite to take the next step. But that step also means winning games its supposed to win. The Hoosiers won't be taken seriously until they can do those two things.
Up next: Michigan State next Saturday. After this defensive performance, a win next week is becoming less likely.
Ball State is undefeated, but there was no reason the Hoosiers should not have won this game. The Cardinals, a pass-happy team running the spread offense, ran the ball all over the lot, amassing 224 yards. And they also put up 239 yards passing. The Hoosier offense couldn't keep up and didn't score in the second half.
The worst part of this game may be that 41,349 people were in the stadium to see it. IU football boosters, me included, have been crying for more fans to show up and watch this team as it has improved. We could win even more games and recruit better players if the fans created a better home field advantage. But who wants to play for IU after this game? And how many IU fans left Memorial Stadium Saturday night saying this team was no better than previous incarnations. How many left thinking last year was a fluke?
I said before the season started IU needed to beat one of the Big Ten's elite to take the next step. But that step also means winning games its supposed to win. The Hoosiers won't be taken seriously until they can do those two things.
Up next: Michigan State next Saturday. After this defensive performance, a win next week is becoming less likely.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
The Ball State game, a real test
The Hoosiers take on Ball State tonight at Memorial Stadium. This game is expected to be close, because both teams have high-powered offenses. Even ESPN's Big Ten blogger picked IU to lose in overtime. The line on this game is IU by 3 points.
I was able to watch Ball State's win over Navy two weeks ago and I saw some potential weaknesses that IU can exploit. Navy rushed for 346 yards rushing, an enormous number. Certainly Kellen Lewis and company should be able to chew up some yards on the ground, which would keep the Ball State offense off the field.
Ball State is a passing team, they ran up 326 yards passing. That could be a problem for IU, which comes into the game with safety Austin Thomas questionable. Cardinals quarterback Nate Davis and receiver Dante Love will get their yards. But the key will be not letting them control the game. The Hoosiers should be able to do that.
Kickoff is at 7 p.m. tonight. I'm still expecting an IU win.
I was able to watch Ball State's win over Navy two weeks ago and I saw some potential weaknesses that IU can exploit. Navy rushed for 346 yards rushing, an enormous number. Certainly Kellen Lewis and company should be able to chew up some yards on the ground, which would keep the Ball State offense off the field.
Ball State is a passing team, they ran up 326 yards passing. That could be a problem for IU, which comes into the game with safety Austin Thomas questionable. Cardinals quarterback Nate Davis and receiver Dante Love will get their yards. But the key will be not letting them control the game. The Hoosiers should be able to do that.
Kickoff is at 7 p.m. tonight. I'm still expecting an IU win.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
An interesting question
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports had an interesting column this morning about what is now known as the "Great Home Run Chase of 1998." He apologized for basically getting caught up in the hype.
Rosenthal said almost no one is marking the 10-year anniversary of No. 62 going over the fence because of what we now know about the kinds of drugs the players were using at the time, including Andro and steroids.
He brings up a point I think most of us were victims of -- we were more enamored with the McGwire and Sosa hitting the ball out of the park than we were what it (allegedly) took for them to do it. I got my first job in journalism during the chase. We had a front-page graphic every day detailing whether McGwire or Sosa hit a home run the night before.
ESPN had live cut-ins during their at-bats. That never happened before, and not again until Barry Bonds was chasing 755 home runs.
I think all baseball fans should consider apologizing. We forgot about clean play and embraced excitement. We wanted baseball to "matter" again in American culture. Baseball does matter again, but a big reason is because of the alleged and admitted drug-use.
Rosenthal said almost no one is marking the 10-year anniversary of No. 62 going over the fence because of what we now know about the kinds of drugs the players were using at the time, including Andro and steroids.
He brings up a point I think most of us were victims of -- we were more enamored with the McGwire and Sosa hitting the ball out of the park than we were what it (allegedly) took for them to do it. I got my first job in journalism during the chase. We had a front-page graphic every day detailing whether McGwire or Sosa hit a home run the night before.
ESPN had live cut-ins during their at-bats. That never happened before, and not again until Barry Bonds was chasing 755 home runs.
I think all baseball fans should consider apologizing. We forgot about clean play and embraced excitement. We wanted baseball to "matter" again in American culture. Baseball does matter again, but a big reason is because of the alleged and admitted drug-use.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
A beat-down, but expected
The Hoosiers beat up on Murray State tonight, taking a 45-3 lead in the third quarter. The first two offensive drives were nothing much to speak of, but after that things started to click. I was particularly pleased to see the IU running backs play so well. That had been a mentioned point of emphasis for the team on many pre-game shows and throughout the media.
The idea is Kellen Lewis is not going to single-handedly beat a quality team. You need a couple running backs that can get tough yards on third down and move the chains. Today we got that, from Marcus Thigpen, who had 100 yards rushing. According to the ESPN box score, Lewis had one rush for -2 yards in the game, which is really surprising. Ben Chappell is in the game now and has already led the team on a two TD drives.
Unfortunately, this win doesn't really show much about how good the Hoosiers really are. Next week, we'll know a little more. Ball State (2-0) comes to town after beating Navy on Friday night. The Cardinals can score points. It will be a good test for the Hoosier defense.
Note: It's now final: IU wins 45-3. It was a pretty impressive game statistically -- only 149 total yards allowed, including 27 yards rushing. The offense ran up 475 total yards, 261 on the ground.
The idea is Kellen Lewis is not going to single-handedly beat a quality team. You need a couple running backs that can get tough yards on third down and move the chains. Today we got that, from Marcus Thigpen, who had 100 yards rushing. According to the ESPN box score, Lewis had one rush for -2 yards in the game, which is really surprising. Ben Chappell is in the game now and has already led the team on a two TD drives.
Unfortunately, this win doesn't really show much about how good the Hoosiers really are. Next week, we'll know a little more. Ball State (2-0) comes to town after beating Navy on Friday night. The Cardinals can score points. It will be a good test for the Hoosier defense.
Note: It's now final: IU wins 45-3. It was a pretty impressive game statistically -- only 149 total yards allowed, including 27 yards rushing. The offense ran up 475 total yards, 261 on the ground.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Are you ready for some football?
The NFL season gets underway for almost everyone on Sunday, including the Steelers and Bears.
The Steelers play the Houston Texans here.
I like the Steelers in this game. They are a 6 1/2-point favorite and I think the Texans just don't have enough defense or offense to stay in this one. I also have fantasy issues, as Willie Parker is one of my starting running backs. So I'm hoping the Steelers run the ball a lot.
The Bears on the other hand, visit the Colts in the first game at Lucas Oil Stadium. As much as I would like to see the Bears take care of business, I suspect the Colts will tear the Bears a new one. The line is 9 1/2 in favor of the Colts, and I have to think Peyton Manning (my fantasy QB), Joseph Addai (my other fantasy RB) and Marvin Harrison (my fantasy receiver) will have a good day.
The Steelers play the Houston Texans here.
I like the Steelers in this game. They are a 6 1/2-point favorite and I think the Texans just don't have enough defense or offense to stay in this one. I also have fantasy issues, as Willie Parker is one of my starting running backs. So I'm hoping the Steelers run the ball a lot.
The Bears on the other hand, visit the Colts in the first game at Lucas Oil Stadium. As much as I would like to see the Bears take care of business, I suspect the Colts will tear the Bears a new one. The line is 9 1/2 in favor of the Colts, and I have to think Peyton Manning (my fantasy QB), Joseph Addai (my other fantasy RB) and Marvin Harrison (my fantasy receiver) will have a good day.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
A good win
The Hoosiers beat WKU 31-13. Offensively it was a good day for the most part, thanks to two big plays by Kellen Lewis. But I was a little concerned about the sputtering at the start of the second half. They let WKU get back into the game and if two WKU field goals had been touchdowns, who knows what would have happened.
IU ran up 450 net yards, including nearly 300 yards rushing, according to the IUHoosiers.com gametracker. The one ugly stat: 7 penalties for 63 yards.
The defense played surprisingly well in the first half, giving up no points and not much in terms of yardage. It was the 210 net yards they gave up in the second half that was a problem. WKU seemed to find a rhythm and the no-huddle seemed to tire the Hoosier defense.
Next week: Murray State comes to town. Kick-off is at 7 p.m. Sept. 6.
IU ran up 450 net yards, including nearly 300 yards rushing, according to the IUHoosiers.com gametracker. The one ugly stat: 7 penalties for 63 yards.
The defense played surprisingly well in the first half, giving up no points and not much in terms of yardage. It was the 210 net yards they gave up in the second half that was a problem. WKU seemed to find a rhythm and the no-huddle seemed to tire the Hoosier defense.
Next week: Murray State comes to town. Kick-off is at 7 p.m. Sept. 6.
Second half sputter?
The second half did not start well, but the Hoosier offense appears to be back on track. The score is 31-13 with eight minutes to go, after a 65-yard Lewis run for a touchdown. It was a similar play to the 75-yard score in the first half. Lewis ran the entire way up the middle almost untouched.
The Hoosiers had to be shaken to wake up, however. Western Kentucky closed to 24-13 before Lewis's run. The Hilltoppers have been moving the ball in the second half. That may have to do with the IU defense tiring somewhat (WKU is running a no-huddle offense) and the lack of some starters, who were suspended.
The Hoosiers could put them away with another score on the upcoming drive, especially if it takes some time off the clock.
By the way, there are some stats available at iuhoosiers.com if you click on gametracker.
Note: My dad's alma mater, Pitt, is on the ropes at home against Bowling Green. They have the ball down 3 points with 13 minutes to go.
The Hoosiers had to be shaken to wake up, however. Western Kentucky closed to 24-13 before Lewis's run. The Hilltoppers have been moving the ball in the second half. That may have to do with the IU defense tiring somewhat (WKU is running a no-huddle offense) and the lack of some starters, who were suspended.
The Hoosiers could put them away with another score on the upcoming drive, especially if it takes some time off the clock.
By the way, there are some stats available at iuhoosiers.com if you click on gametracker.
Note: My dad's alma mater, Pitt, is on the ropes at home against Bowling Green. They have the ball down 3 points with 13 minutes to go.
The Hoosier season is underway
That is a picture of the IU game. On my TV. And its not on ESPN, ESPN 2, Versus, ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox or another traditional college football network. It is Big Ten Network. Did I mention it's on my TV?
It's halftime and IU leads 17-0. I liked Kellen Lewis' 75-yard TD run in the first quarter. He outran four defenders the last 30 yards or so. The defense is looking good too. Western Kentucky is not doing much in terms of running the ball. I'm not crazy about some of the big penalties, but that problem should be fixed as they shake off the rust.
For some reason, the stats on the ESPN.com, CBS Sportsline and Big Ten Network sites are not available. But IU needs to come out in the second half and deliver the knock-out blow.
Another alma mater wins
We talk a lot about Indiana University, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bears at this blog. But there also is a high school football powerhouse that I am proud of. The Carmel Corsairs in Mundelein, Ill. (I'm class of 94) were ranked No. 7 in the Chicago Tribune pre-season poll. Last night was the season opener against No. 12, and arch-rival, Joliet Catholic. Carmel took care of business, winning 24-12, but may have lost a star fullback.
Next week, the Corsairs take on rival Libertyville. It may seem like a home game, however, because the campus is about a mile away.
The Corsairs are looking for their second trip to the state finals. I was at the game in Champaign, Ill. in 2003 when the team won it all and finished ranked No. 1 in the state.
Next week, the Corsairs take on rival Libertyville. It may seem like a home game, however, because the campus is about a mile away.
The Corsairs are looking for their second trip to the state finals. I was at the game in Champaign, Ill. in 2003 when the team won it all and finished ranked No. 1 in the state.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Don't stop believin'
An interesting story in today's Chicago Tribune by baseball writer Phil Rogers. He argues the worst-case scenario for the Cubs is an all-Chicago World Series -- a match-up with the White Sox.
Sure it would be great for Chicago to be the center of the baseball universe. But the Cubs would have to play up to four "away" games across town on the south side. Rogers said the Sox would have nothing to lose in such a series. I agree. If the Sox lose, that means the Cubs will have won and and broke the curse, and the team that is clearly favored in Chicago will finally have something to celebrate.
If the Sox win, well, the Cubs are once again leave expectations unfulfilled. All the pressure clearly would be on the north side, not the south side.
Rogers said Cub fans should pray the Sox are eliminated early. Are you sweating TJ? And Cubs Nation?
Sure it would be great for Chicago to be the center of the baseball universe. But the Cubs would have to play up to four "away" games across town on the south side. Rogers said the Sox would have nothing to lose in such a series. I agree. If the Sox lose, that means the Cubs will have won and and broke the curse, and the team that is clearly favored in Chicago will finally have something to celebrate.
If the Sox win, well, the Cubs are once again leave expectations unfulfilled. All the pressure clearly would be on the north side, not the south side.
Rogers said Cub fans should pray the Sox are eliminated early. Are you sweating TJ? And Cubs Nation?
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Finally ... a starting QB
In what may be the "Duh" moment of the week, IU Coach Bill Lynch named Kellen Lewis the starter over Ben Chappell.
Lewis led the Hoosiers to a bowl game last year. He was an All Big Ten selection and led the team in rushing and passing. IU's spread offense was implemented with him in mind.I know Chapel looked good in spring practice, but really ... Did anyone expect Lewis would not be taking snaps this season? Did Western Kentucky's coaches develop a defensive game plan for Ben Chappell and not Kellen Lewis? I supposed Chappell got enough reps with the first team offense that he could step in more easily if Lewis gets hurt. But I think every Hoosier fan knows who must be under center if we are to expect wins.
On a side note, Terry Hutchens, the Indianapolis Star's IU beat writer, shows me up and predicts the Hoosiers will go 8-4 this year and plan Wake Forest in the Champs Sports Bowl. Go figure.
Lewis led the Hoosiers to a bowl game last year. He was an All Big Ten selection and led the team in rushing and passing. IU's spread offense was implemented with him in mind.I know Chapel looked good in spring practice, but really ... Did anyone expect Lewis would not be taking snaps this season? Did Western Kentucky's coaches develop a defensive game plan for Ben Chappell and not Kellen Lewis? I supposed Chappell got enough reps with the first team offense that he could step in more easily if Lewis gets hurt. But I think every Hoosier fan knows who must be under center if we are to expect wins.
On a side note, Terry Hutchens, the Indianapolis Star's IU beat writer, shows me up and predicts the Hoosiers will go 8-4 this year and plan Wake Forest in the Champs Sports Bowl. Go figure.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
The Hoosier Season ... Big Ten
The key to the Big Ten season for the Hoosiers will be to win the games they should win. There are probably four games that even the most optimistic fans would say would end up in losses.
Game 4 -- Michigan State
The Hoosiers' first conference home game should be a tough one. The Spartans are picked to be among the best in the conference this year and typically play well in the first two months of the season before dropping off. The Spartans will be coming off, potentially, a big win over Notre Dame the previous week and should be ready. I don't think the IU defense will have enough to keep the Spartans at bay.
The game should be close, but MSU pulls this one out. IU drops to 3-1.
Game 5 -- Minnesota
This game is on the road, but IU should have enough offense to hammer the Gophers. The team had one of the worst defenses in the conference last year and doesn't have much in the way of returning talent. The problem here is IU thinking they win in a romp. A few mistakes and Minnesota is in this game at the end. The Hoosiers remain focused and move to 4-1.
Game 6 -- Iowa
This is possibly an even match-up, but the game is in Bloomington, giving IU the edge. Iowa is well coached by Kirk Ferentz and will be ready for this game. But I think Kellen Lewis will take over and the Hawkeyes will fall. IU moves to 5-1.
Game 7 -- Illinois
The Illini are facing some of the same issues at the start of the season as the Hoosiers: validate an outstanding 2007, which included a berth in the Rose Bowl. This game will be in Champaign, where Illinois plays well. While both teams run the spread offense, I don't think the IU defense will be able to contain Juice Williams. In a high-scoring affair, the Hoosiers fall to 5-2.
Game 8 -- Northwestern
Homecoming in Bloomington is a wonderful time. And just like the leaves, the fortunes of the Hoosier football team are changing. The Wildcats likely don't have enough to hang with the Hoosiers. It's a happy homecoming and IU avenges last year's lost in Evanston, moving to 6-2. That ensures a second straight .500 season.
Game 9 -- Central Michigan
This doesn't seem like much of a game, but it is another trap. Central Michigan QB Dan LeFevour is getting a lot of pub as one of the top QBs in the conference. He through for nearly 3,700 yards and 27 TDs last year. He also rushed for 1,100 yards and 19 TDs. He is as much of a force as Kellen Lewis.
While the Chippewas averaged 34 points a game, they gave up 36. This game may come down to who has the ball last. The Hoosiers are due for a head-scratching loss, and this may be it. IU losses and drops to 6-3.
Game 10 -- Wisconsin
The Badgers are expected to compete with Ohio State for the Big Ten title. Even though this game is at home, I don't think the Hoosiers can stop the Badgers power game. It's a two-game losing streak. IU is now 6-4.
Game 11 -- Penn State
A trip to Happy Valley can never end well. The Nittany Lions may not be a Big Ten title contender, but they will play well at home. IU may put up a fight, but they lose this game too. Now the Hoosiers are reeling at 6-5.
Game 12 -- Purdue
It's not looking good for the Hoosiers. They enter the Bucket Game in the same situation as last season, needing a win to secure a bowl bid. This time the game is in West Lafayette and it is Purdue Coach Joe Tiller's last game. Put aside the rivalry. The Boilers will be playing for Tiller. They win it. IU finishes on a four-game losing streak and ends at 6-6.
There should be a bowl spot available for a 6-6 team. The question will be should IU get it? They will be able to score points, which will impress bowl committee members. But they will have lost four in a row, which may turn them off. I think they squeak into the Motor City Bowl. Book your tickets for Detroit now.
Game 4 -- Michigan State
The Hoosiers' first conference home game should be a tough one. The Spartans are picked to be among the best in the conference this year and typically play well in the first two months of the season before dropping off. The Spartans will be coming off, potentially, a big win over Notre Dame the previous week and should be ready. I don't think the IU defense will have enough to keep the Spartans at bay.
The game should be close, but MSU pulls this one out. IU drops to 3-1.
Game 5 -- Minnesota
This game is on the road, but IU should have enough offense to hammer the Gophers. The team had one of the worst defenses in the conference last year and doesn't have much in the way of returning talent. The problem here is IU thinking they win in a romp. A few mistakes and Minnesota is in this game at the end. The Hoosiers remain focused and move to 4-1.
Game 6 -- Iowa
This is possibly an even match-up, but the game is in Bloomington, giving IU the edge. Iowa is well coached by Kirk Ferentz and will be ready for this game. But I think Kellen Lewis will take over and the Hawkeyes will fall. IU moves to 5-1.
Game 7 -- Illinois
The Illini are facing some of the same issues at the start of the season as the Hoosiers: validate an outstanding 2007, which included a berth in the Rose Bowl. This game will be in Champaign, where Illinois plays well. While both teams run the spread offense, I don't think the IU defense will be able to contain Juice Williams. In a high-scoring affair, the Hoosiers fall to 5-2.
Game 8 -- Northwestern
Homecoming in Bloomington is a wonderful time. And just like the leaves, the fortunes of the Hoosier football team are changing. The Wildcats likely don't have enough to hang with the Hoosiers. It's a happy homecoming and IU avenges last year's lost in Evanston, moving to 6-2. That ensures a second straight .500 season.
Game 9 -- Central Michigan
This doesn't seem like much of a game, but it is another trap. Central Michigan QB Dan LeFevour is getting a lot of pub as one of the top QBs in the conference. He through for nearly 3,700 yards and 27 TDs last year. He also rushed for 1,100 yards and 19 TDs. He is as much of a force as Kellen Lewis.
While the Chippewas averaged 34 points a game, they gave up 36. This game may come down to who has the ball last. The Hoosiers are due for a head-scratching loss, and this may be it. IU losses and drops to 6-3.
Game 10 -- Wisconsin
The Badgers are expected to compete with Ohio State for the Big Ten title. Even though this game is at home, I don't think the Hoosiers can stop the Badgers power game. It's a two-game losing streak. IU is now 6-4.
Game 11 -- Penn State
A trip to Happy Valley can never end well. The Nittany Lions may not be a Big Ten title contender, but they will play well at home. IU may put up a fight, but they lose this game too. Now the Hoosiers are reeling at 6-5.
Game 12 -- Purdue
It's not looking good for the Hoosiers. They enter the Bucket Game in the same situation as last season, needing a win to secure a bowl bid. This time the game is in West Lafayette and it is Purdue Coach Joe Tiller's last game. Put aside the rivalry. The Boilers will be playing for Tiller. They win it. IU finishes on a four-game losing streak and ends at 6-6.
There should be a bowl spot available for a 6-6 team. The question will be should IU get it? They will be able to score points, which will impress bowl committee members. But they will have lost four in a row, which may turn them off. I think they squeak into the Motor City Bowl. Book your tickets for Detroit now.
The Hoosier Season ... Pre-conference
We're less than a week from kick-off. Most fans know this season is important for the future of the program, maybe more important than last season's drive to play 13. This is the validation year, the chance to prove last year was no fluke. The full schedule is here, and here are my predictions, game by game:
Game 1 -- Western Kentucky
The Hilltoppers are known more for basketball than football. But this team could surprise the Hoosiers, especially in week one. The team is coming off a 7-5 season and has 14 returning starters. ESPN thinks WKU will scare someone this year, but in their seven wins last season, the Hilltoppers beat no one of consequence. They lost to Ball State and Indiana State, teams IU took care of with relative ease. I think the Hoosiers will win this game.
Game 2 -- Murray State
The Racers play in Division I-AA and really shouldn't be in the Hoosiers league. They were 2-9 last year and have a new coach this year. The Hoosiers offense should overpower this team, taking them to 2-0.
Game 3 -- Ball State
This match-up has trap game written all over it. The Hoosiers had trouble with the Cardinals last year (I was at the game). The teams traded scores in the first half before IU pulled away. Ball St. QB Nate Davis was impressive running their spread offense. Davis passed for nearly 3,700 yards and accounted for 30 touchdowns.
IU Coach Bill Lynch should have the team ready, however, and barring injury, the IU defense should make the difference here. IU wins and goes to 3-0.
And now on to Big Ten season.
Game 1 -- Western Kentucky
The Hilltoppers are known more for basketball than football. But this team could surprise the Hoosiers, especially in week one. The team is coming off a 7-5 season and has 14 returning starters. ESPN thinks WKU will scare someone this year, but in their seven wins last season, the Hilltoppers beat no one of consequence. They lost to Ball State and Indiana State, teams IU took care of with relative ease. I think the Hoosiers will win this game.
Game 2 -- Murray State
The Racers play in Division I-AA and really shouldn't be in the Hoosiers league. They were 2-9 last year and have a new coach this year. The Hoosiers offense should overpower this team, taking them to 2-0.
Game 3 -- Ball State
This match-up has trap game written all over it. The Hoosiers had trouble with the Cardinals last year (I was at the game). The teams traded scores in the first half before IU pulled away. Ball St. QB Nate Davis was impressive running their spread offense. Davis passed for nearly 3,700 yards and accounted for 30 touchdowns.
IU Coach Bill Lynch should have the team ready, however, and barring injury, the IU defense should make the difference here. IU wins and goes to 3-0.
And now on to Big Ten season.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Thoughts on the upcoming football season
We're less than a week away from the start of the IU football season and I've been reading a lot Hoosier previews talking about the next step. Can the Hoosiers take the next step after the big step forward last year (winning seven games, appearing in a bowl for the first time since 1993) and become relevant in the Big Ten?
The schedule this year is filled with many games we should win. There are eight home games, an automatic advantage, and four non-conference games against teams that should be below Big Ten caliber. So the Hoosiers should win seven games again this year and should get to another bowl game.
What I'm looking for is the win we're not supposed to get. The upset no one thought would happen. Last year, (in conference play) it was Illinois beating Ohio State in Columbus. The Illini were talented and went to the Rose Bowl, but OSU was a national championship contender and ranked No. l at the time. It was a game where Illinois coach Ron Zook earned a lot of respect around the country, and the Illinois program was thought to have taken a major step up in the college football landscape.
It is a game where your team plays over its head and their team plays down just enough. A game where the students storm the field. Where the highlights make it to SportsCenter at the top of the show instead of on the ticker.
There are two games this season I would count as true upset, completely unexpected, wins: Wisconsin (at home) and at Penn State. Both are BCS contenders and should be favorites against IU.
In my mind, that is the one thing missing from this football program -- the ability to beat a team no one ever thought they could.
Any thoughts out there? Did I miss the "milestone" victory?
The schedule this year is filled with many games we should win. There are eight home games, an automatic advantage, and four non-conference games against teams that should be below Big Ten caliber. So the Hoosiers should win seven games again this year and should get to another bowl game.
What I'm looking for is the win we're not supposed to get. The upset no one thought would happen. Last year, (in conference play) it was Illinois beating Ohio State in Columbus. The Illini were talented and went to the Rose Bowl, but OSU was a national championship contender and ranked No. l at the time. It was a game where Illinois coach Ron Zook earned a lot of respect around the country, and the Illinois program was thought to have taken a major step up in the college football landscape.
It is a game where your team plays over its head and their team plays down just enough. A game where the students storm the field. Where the highlights make it to SportsCenter at the top of the show instead of on the ticker.
There are two games this season I would count as true upset, completely unexpected, wins: Wisconsin (at home) and at Penn State. Both are BCS contenders and should be favorites against IU.
In my mind, that is the one thing missing from this football program -- the ability to beat a team no one ever thought they could.
Any thoughts out there? Did I miss the "milestone" victory?
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Favre to the Jets
So Brett Favre now is out-of-sight and out-of-mind.
The news broke late last night to the football-speaking world that the Green Bay Packers traded the future-Hall-of-Fame QB to the New York Jets late last night. It allows the Packers to move on with their new guy, Aaron Rodgers, and ends the media circus surrounding training camp.
The Packers even get a Favre break for the rest of the season. The Jets will not play the Packers this season. But is anyone wondering whether the NFL is penciling that match-up into next year's schedule maker?
The news broke late last night to the football-speaking world that the Green Bay Packers traded the future-Hall-of-Fame QB to the New York Jets late last night. It allows the Packers to move on with their new guy, Aaron Rodgers, and ends the media circus surrounding training camp.
The Packers even get a Favre break for the rest of the season. The Jets will not play the Packers this season. But is anyone wondering whether the NFL is penciling that match-up into next year's schedule maker?
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Sox acquire big bat Jr.?
The White Sox reportedly have made a deal to bring Ken Griffey Jr. to town, according to a report on FoxSports.com.
Griffey still must approve the deal, and the story also did not mention what the Sox would give up to get him.
Junior has been with the Reds for several years and fought numerous injuries during that time. But he has been more consistent the last couple years and this year hit his 600th career home run.
plays first base, but Swisher played there this season while I wonder where he is going to play. The story mentions center field, but that is where Nick Swisher and Brian Anderson play. Carlos Quentin and Jermaine Dye play left and right, respectively. He can't DH, because Jim Thome takes that spot. Manager Ozzie Guillen would have to sit someone and the Fox Sports story indicates that may be Paul Konerko. KonerkoKonerko was hurt.
Konerko could go to the bench (or see less time), Swisher to first and Griffey to center, according to the Fox story.
The deal is not done yet and the trade deadline is this afternoon, so maybe some more moves are coming. This could be an offensive upgrade, but I don't know about a defensive improvement.
Update (1:104 p.m.): Griffey accepted the trade, according to a new FoxSports.com story. The Sox will give up Nick Masset and Danny Richar, the story said, citing CBS Sportsline.
Griffey still must approve the deal, and the story also did not mention what the Sox would give up to get him.
Junior has been with the Reds for several years and fought numerous injuries during that time. But he has been more consistent the last couple years and this year hit his 600th career home run.
plays first base, but Swisher played there this season while I wonder where he is going to play. The story mentions center field, but that is where Nick Swisher and Brian Anderson play. Carlos Quentin and Jermaine Dye play left and right, respectively. He can't DH, because Jim Thome takes that spot. Manager Ozzie Guillen would have to sit someone and the Fox Sports story indicates that may be Paul Konerko. KonerkoKonerko was hurt.
Konerko could go to the bench (or see less time), Swisher to first and Griffey to center, according to the Fox story.
The deal is not done yet and the trade deadline is this afternoon, so maybe some more moves are coming. This could be an offensive upgrade, but I don't know about a defensive improvement.
Update (1:104 p.m.): Griffey accepted the trade, according to a new FoxSports.com story. The Sox will give up Nick Masset and Danny Richar, the story said, citing CBS Sportsline.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
The Jello Stapler
My wife and I are fans of The Office, and on occasion we like to imitate some of jokes from the show. That includes the now famous stapler-in-jello prank. Someone will be getting this one on July 30 ... but who?
There is even a Web site devoted to the stapler-in-jello prank. Here is a link to the recipe.
And here is the video of the very first stapler-in-jello prank, from the British version of The Office. The NBC show was adapted from it.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Hoosier football begins anew
Football season once again is upon us. Today is Big Ten media day in Chicago, where reporters will be asking all the tough questions of the top returning players and voting for their pre-season favorites. New coaches (aka Michigan's Rich Rodriguez) also will be on the hot seat. IU coach Bill Lynch also should face some scrutiny, at least from the Indiana media, about how he's going to follow up on last year's bowl berth, the new no-huddle offense and the Kellen Lewis suspension.
At the very least, someone will say something quotable that will make all the newspapers and TV shows tonight.
The media votes for pre-season conference champ (Ohio State) and offensive and defensive player of the year already were released. ESPN's Big Ten blog, which I really enjoy, should be updating throughout the day.
Game one for the Hoosiers is Aug. 30 against Western Kentucky, only five weeks away.
At the very least, someone will say something quotable that will make all the newspapers and TV shows tonight.
The media votes for pre-season conference champ (Ohio State) and offensive and defensive player of the year already were released. ESPN's Big Ten blog, which I really enjoy, should be updating throughout the day.
Game one for the Hoosiers is Aug. 30 against Western Kentucky, only five weeks away.
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