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.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
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.
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