Alright I'm splitting the picks up again because it's tough to read all 12 at once and I know my bigger NFL fans would prefer it separate so they don't have to scroll. But here they are and I'm usually not that bad with these, won four last week.
1. Redskins (4-2) over Patriots (7-0)- Yeah I am the only one picking the 4-2 Skins over the 7-0 Patriots. This is nothing to take away from the Pats, who look amazing, but the Skins actually could do this. Belichick and his boys haven't seen a stifling D like the Skins and Brady himself complimented Sean Taylor and his improved coverage. Its up to the front four on D to get stops and keep the offense on the field. Skins by 3.
2. Buccaneers (4-3) over Jaguars (4-2)- In this battle of the decent Florida teams the Buccaneers will look to take advantage of the Jaguars coming off an unimpressive loss to the Jags. Garrard may have a bad ankle and Tampa Bay will definitely go hard after whoever is taking the snaps. Bucs by 7 in a low scoring affair.
3. Steelers (4-2) over Bengals (2-4)- This Bengals team that was supposed to be one of the hot teams in the league can't even get along with each other. Pittsburgh's always tough defense will play smart and not overlook Cincinnati's potential for the big play. Pittsburgh by 7.
4. Bills (2-4) over Jets (1-6)- This one is really a toss-up because they both look pathetic. Together with the no-win Dolphins these two are just making it that much easier for the Patriots to cruise to what could be a 15-1 season (the one loss will be against the Skins). I like the Bills Marshawn Lynch to be the x-factor and move the Bills offense toward a 13 point win.
5. Colts (6-0) over Panthers (4-2)- The defending Super Bowl champs still look in top-form with all the offensive weapons. The Panthers will have one of the better defenses that Indy will face all year, but Coach Fox hasn't named a starter at QB with Delhomme still out. Colts in typical high-scoring fashion by 14.
6. Vikings (2-4) over Eagles (2-4)- Both teams are cellar-dwellers in their respective division and haven't played too well defensively. The edge goes to the Vikings though who have the top rusher in the NFC in rookie Adrian Peterson. McNabb has little options around him and has only led the offense over 20 points once. Vikings win by 10.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Please Tell Me This Will Get Better, Part 1: NCAA
Alright, if you're reading this I'll assume it is for your own amusement and not for my great skills (or lack-there-of) as a pigskin prognosticator. Yes I am currently in last place for the Breeze picks of the week. After going 5-7 last week I dropped to 52% on the season. Well here's what I think about this weeks games for what it's worth.
1. No.6 JMU (6-1) over No.14 Richmond (5-2)- The Dukes have had a chance to rest up some sore starters in anticipation of not only the Homecoming game, but for in-state rival Richmond. The Spiders have the leading rusher in the CAA in senior Tim Hightower (1,099 yards), but the Dukes are deeper on both sides of the ball and junior quarterback Rodney Landers has become near-unstoppable in the last six games. It should be close, but JMU should pull away late and take it by 10 or 13. (Rankings for this game are in the FCS or D 1-AA)
2. No.2 Boston College (7-0) over No.8 Virginia Tech (6-1)- Even though the game tonight is at Lane Stadium, B.C. has an abundance of experience on its veteran squad and should handle Tech. Sean Glennon might be at the helm again with an ailing Tyrod Taylor, so don't expect anything big from the Hokies on offense, not that anyone ever does. B.C. and Heisman hopeful quarterback Matt Ryan will take care of the always overrated Hokies by about 14.
3. Rutgers (5-2) over No. 7 West Virgina (6-1)- Rutgers has become a tough place to play over the last two seasons, just ask South Florida. The Scarlet Knights handed the surprise program its only loss of the year last Thursday in New Jersey, and running back Ray Rice looks like he has this two-loss team back on track. It could be a shoot-out with all the weapons these teams have on offense, but RU will take it by
three.
4. No. 4 Arizona State (7-0) over No. 21 California (5-2)- After beating a then No.11 Oregon team, Cal has lost two straight to a struggling Pac-10 opponent, Oregon State, and 5-2 UCLA who gave Notre Dame its only win. Don't expect the Sun Devils to lighten up at home; they have been crushing opponents and deserve their rank in the highly competitive Pac-10. ASU by 21.
5. No. 5 Oregon (6-1) over No. 12 USC (6-1)- The Trojans have won the last three matches between the teams, but Oregon is rolling after losing to Cal three weeks ago. Despite losing their starting tailback Jeremiah Johnson, backup Jonathan Stewart exploded for 251 yards last week against Washington State. USC comes off a dominant shut-out victory at South Bend, but didn't exactly get a tune-up for the explosive Ducks' offense as the Irish managed to gain only 165 total yards. Oregon breaks the streak in Eugene with a 14 point victory.
6. No. 11 Florida (5-2) over No. 18 Georgia (5-2)- SEC games get tougher to pick every week. With arguably the toughest schedules the Southeastern teams have beaten up on each other. Georgia does have a quality loss to South Carolina, but a 21-point loss to Tennessee, a team the Gators dominated 59-20, doesn't lead me to believe they have the defense to even keep it close. Tim Tebow will be playing in his home town of Jacksonville as the game is held annually at a neutral site. Tebow will have a big game through the air and on the ground in a 21 point win.
1. No.6 JMU (6-1) over No.14 Richmond (5-2)- The Dukes have had a chance to rest up some sore starters in anticipation of not only the Homecoming game, but for in-state rival Richmond. The Spiders have the leading rusher in the CAA in senior Tim Hightower (1,099 yards), but the Dukes are deeper on both sides of the ball and junior quarterback Rodney Landers has become near-unstoppable in the last six games. It should be close, but JMU should pull away late and take it by 10 or 13. (Rankings for this game are in the FCS or D 1-AA)
2. No.2 Boston College (7-0) over No.8 Virginia Tech (6-1)- Even though the game tonight is at Lane Stadium, B.C. has an abundance of experience on its veteran squad and should handle Tech. Sean Glennon might be at the helm again with an ailing Tyrod Taylor, so don't expect anything big from the Hokies on offense, not that anyone ever does. B.C. and Heisman hopeful quarterback Matt Ryan will take care of the always overrated Hokies by about 14.
3. Rutgers (5-2) over No. 7 West Virgina (6-1)- Rutgers has become a tough place to play over the last two seasons, just ask South Florida. The Scarlet Knights handed the surprise program its only loss of the year last Thursday in New Jersey, and running back Ray Rice looks like he has this two-loss team back on track. It could be a shoot-out with all the weapons these teams have on offense, but RU will take it by
three.
4. No. 4 Arizona State (7-0) over No. 21 California (5-2)- After beating a then No.11 Oregon team, Cal has lost two straight to a struggling Pac-10 opponent, Oregon State, and 5-2 UCLA who gave Notre Dame its only win. Don't expect the Sun Devils to lighten up at home; they have been crushing opponents and deserve their rank in the highly competitive Pac-10. ASU by 21.
5. No. 5 Oregon (6-1) over No. 12 USC (6-1)- The Trojans have won the last three matches between the teams, but Oregon is rolling after losing to Cal three weeks ago. Despite losing their starting tailback Jeremiah Johnson, backup Jonathan Stewart exploded for 251 yards last week against Washington State. USC comes off a dominant shut-out victory at South Bend, but didn't exactly get a tune-up for the explosive Ducks' offense as the Irish managed to gain only 165 total yards. Oregon breaks the streak in Eugene with a 14 point victory.
6. No. 11 Florida (5-2) over No. 18 Georgia (5-2)- SEC games get tougher to pick every week. With arguably the toughest schedules the Southeastern teams have beaten up on each other. Georgia does have a quality loss to South Carolina, but a 21-point loss to Tennessee, a team the Gators dominated 59-20, doesn't lead me to believe they have the defense to even keep it close. Tim Tebow will be playing in his home town of Jacksonville as the game is held annually at a neutral site. Tebow will have a big game through the air and on the ground in a 21 point win.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Defending My Poor Performance: Part 2 (NFL Edition)
Of course I'm in my usual hole down 0-1 because South Florida couldn't handle Rutgers last night. But everyone else picked that too and we should have known considering the unpredictability of this 2007 season. I usually do better in my NFL picks in the Breeze, so here's what went through my mind this week.
1. Redskins over the Cardinals- I don't pick against the Skins, but this one seems pretty simple. Washington's third overall defense should have few problems with a mediocre Cardinals offense. Expect less drops from the receivers and a big game from a healthier Antwan Randel El. The final could be similar to the Detroit game two weeks ago. (See more from my blog on Tuesday.)
2. Vikings over the Cowboys- The Cowboys gave up 448 yards and 48 points in their match up with the Patriots, while the Vikings put up 34 points on a traditionally tough Bears defense. The Vikings get in done on the ground and the Cowboys haven't faced an explosive back like Adrian Peterson who ran for 224 yards and three touchdowns on 20 carries last week.
3. Patriots over the Dolphins- Home-field advantage in Miami will have no bearing on this game just like it didn't last weekend for Dallas. The Patriots look primed for a fourth Super Bowl this decade and won't stumble over an 0-6 Dolphins team that look primed to be the first franchise to have a undefeated season and a winless one.
4. Titans over the Texans- Alright I forgot to factor in Vince Young's questionable status when I made the pick. But if VY can go he will remind Houston again about the playmaker they passed over in the 2006 Draft. Young beat the Texans in overtime last year on a long scramble and could be the difference-maker in another close win.
5. Eagle over the Bears- The Bears look pathetic this year. Despite beating then 4-0 Green Bay, they followed it up with a 34-31 loss at home to the Vikings. Brian Westbrook is likely to have a similar performance on the ground to Adrian Peterson's and Philly's stout defense and consistent play in their secondary should disrupt the Bears inconsistent offense that ranks 28th in the league.
6. Colts over the Jaguars- 5-0 Indy heads to 4-1 Jacksonville for an intriguing Monday night match-up between the AFC south rivals. ESPN's power rankings have the team's ranked second and fifth, respectively, so it should be close, but I like Peyton Manning's poise and experience to help grind one out.
Tell me where I'm off and we'll see how it plays out come Sunday.
Check out my read of the day on the difficulties of having a high school football program in Alaska. It's kind of old now, but a great piece if you've never seen it.
1. Redskins over the Cardinals- I don't pick against the Skins, but this one seems pretty simple. Washington's third overall defense should have few problems with a mediocre Cardinals offense. Expect less drops from the receivers and a big game from a healthier Antwan Randel El. The final could be similar to the Detroit game two weeks ago. (See more from my blog on Tuesday.)
2. Vikings over the Cowboys- The Cowboys gave up 448 yards and 48 points in their match up with the Patriots, while the Vikings put up 34 points on a traditionally tough Bears defense. The Vikings get in done on the ground and the Cowboys haven't faced an explosive back like Adrian Peterson who ran for 224 yards and three touchdowns on 20 carries last week.
3. Patriots over the Dolphins- Home-field advantage in Miami will have no bearing on this game just like it didn't last weekend for Dallas. The Patriots look primed for a fourth Super Bowl this decade and won't stumble over an 0-6 Dolphins team that look primed to be the first franchise to have a undefeated season and a winless one.
4. Titans over the Texans- Alright I forgot to factor in Vince Young's questionable status when I made the pick. But if VY can go he will remind Houston again about the playmaker they passed over in the 2006 Draft. Young beat the Texans in overtime last year on a long scramble and could be the difference-maker in another close win.
5. Eagle over the Bears- The Bears look pathetic this year. Despite beating then 4-0 Green Bay, they followed it up with a 34-31 loss at home to the Vikings. Brian Westbrook is likely to have a similar performance on the ground to Adrian Peterson's and Philly's stout defense and consistent play in their secondary should disrupt the Bears inconsistent offense that ranks 28th in the league.
6. Colts over the Jaguars- 5-0 Indy heads to 4-1 Jacksonville for an intriguing Monday night match-up between the AFC south rivals. ESPN's power rankings have the team's ranked second and fifth, respectively, so it should be close, but I like Peyton Manning's poise and experience to help grind one out.
Tell me where I'm off and we'll see how it plays out come Sunday.
Check out my read of the day on the difficulties of having a high school football program in Alaska. It's kind of old now, but a great piece if you've never seen it.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Defending My Poor Performance
For Breeze readers out there I will make an attempt to defend my weekly picks as I try to salvage the season. I currently sit in next-to-last place with a rising 53 percent. (Compare my thoughts with Matt McGovern's at the McSportsReport).
1. No.2 South Florida over Rutgers- With high ranked teams falling week after week, one could expect Rutgers to pull off the upset at home. But USF is poised considering they have exploded from the Big East cellar to the top 5. Rutgers explosive back has picked defenses apart on his way to 818 yards and 13 TDs, but the Bulls held Central Florida's national leading rusher Kevin Smith to 55 yards last week. Expect similar numbers for the Scarlet Knight's Ray Rice in a loss.
2. No. 7 Kentucky over No. 15 Florida- Quarterback Andre Woodson and the Wildcats did what Florida couldn't by grinding out a high scoring game against a higher-ranked SEC rival in LSU. Kentucky will keep stride and continue to work towards the conference title with another big win.
3. Notre Dame over No. 14 USC- Okay well maybe this is why I'm losing because I can't pick against the Irish, but if they can get up for one game all year it will be against the Trojans at home.
4. Maryland over No. 19 UVA- Call me a hater, but I'm just never sold on a UVA team no matter how well they start. They are typically a softer team and the Terps will be a far more formidable ACC opponent than Duke, UNC, or Georgia Tech.
5. Colorado over No. 13 Kansas- The Buffalo are always tough at home and it seems like they always knock off high-ranked opponents in Boulder, including this year's win over then No. 3 Oklahoma. Kansas is also 0-5 in its last five at Colorado.
6. No. 4 LSU over No. 17 Auburn- Auburn is on a four-game win-streak and I wish I had looked that up before we printed today's issue. But I'll stand by the pick and believe that the Tigers will bounce back from their first loss with a big win back at home in the Bayou.
NFL games coming tomorrow. But check out my top read of the day in an ESPN special by Ron Borges on Joe Frazier and his forever-lingering contempt toward Muhammad Ali.
1. No.2 South Florida over Rutgers- With high ranked teams falling week after week, one could expect Rutgers to pull off the upset at home. But USF is poised considering they have exploded from the Big East cellar to the top 5. Rutgers explosive back has picked defenses apart on his way to 818 yards and 13 TDs, but the Bulls held Central Florida's national leading rusher Kevin Smith to 55 yards last week. Expect similar numbers for the Scarlet Knight's Ray Rice in a loss.
2. No. 7 Kentucky over No. 15 Florida- Quarterback Andre Woodson and the Wildcats did what Florida couldn't by grinding out a high scoring game against a higher-ranked SEC rival in LSU. Kentucky will keep stride and continue to work towards the conference title with another big win.
3. Notre Dame over No. 14 USC- Okay well maybe this is why I'm losing because I can't pick against the Irish, but if they can get up for one game all year it will be against the Trojans at home.
4. Maryland over No. 19 UVA- Call me a hater, but I'm just never sold on a UVA team no matter how well they start. They are typically a softer team and the Terps will be a far more formidable ACC opponent than Duke, UNC, or Georgia Tech.
5. Colorado over No. 13 Kansas- The Buffalo are always tough at home and it seems like they always knock off high-ranked opponents in Boulder, including this year's win over then No. 3 Oklahoma. Kansas is also 0-5 in its last five at Colorado.
6. No. 4 LSU over No. 17 Auburn- Auburn is on a four-game win-streak and I wish I had looked that up before we printed today's issue. But I'll stand by the pick and believe that the Tigers will bounce back from their first loss with a big win back at home in the Bayou.
NFL games coming tomorrow. But check out my top read of the day in an ESPN special by Ron Borges on Joe Frazier and his forever-lingering contempt toward Muhammad Ali.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
If they want to win, the Skins need to SELL that to the fans
At the urging of a good friend from Richmond, I have decided to try and dissect what went wrong during Sunday's Redskins and Packers game.
The game definitely had some similarities to the fourth quarter melt-down against the Giants; running when they should have passed and passing when they should have run. If we can look at a couple of plays from the game at Lambeau one thing will become clear, that the personnel on the field is often wrong or under-utilized.
In the fourth quarter with the Skins already down 17-14 — the eventual final score — the offense faced a third-and-one at its own 36 yard-line with under 13 minutes to go. With any already injury-plagued offensive line that was getting little push against a Green Bay defensive front, that weighs on average more than 301 pounds, offensive coordinator Al Saunders decides to run Clinton Portis. Don't get me wrong Portis is as tough a back as there is in the NFL, but he's 5-foot-11 and weighs 223 lbs. That size matters when you have a fullback in Mike Sellers who stands at 6'3" and weighs a whopping 284 lbs., 14 heavier than the Packers left end Aaron Kampman who anchors that left side Portis ran to.
It must have just slipped the minds of Saunders and head coach Joe Gibbs that Sellers converted two of three one-yard conversion attempts just one week earlier against Detroit. Oh and he gave them a rushing and receiving touchdown, apparently not indication enough that he is definitely a top play maker on a team with maybe too many.
Another instance happened in that same quarter against the Packers, just two possessions later. Portis had fumbled on the first possession after the failed third-and-one, but Green Bay couldn't get any offense going and gave Washington ample opportunity to equalize the score or take the lead.
After two first downs and Campbell finding the reliable veteran hands of recent free agent pick-up, Keenan McCardell, the Redskins had the ball on the Green Bay 41 yard-line. On first down Portis picked up four, but instead of keeping it on the ground or moving the ball on mid-range passes that were working, Campbell looks deep and overthrows Brandon Lloyd, who has caught one ball all year. This brings up third-and-six and Campbell finds Cooley for four yards on a route that should have been called the play before. So in what Sam Huff and Sonny Jurgensen described as a long fourth-and-1 on the radio, the Redskins once again don't utilize the size of their bruiser, Sellers. Instead Ladell Betts runs his route in front of the sticks and is stopped shy. At least if you want to give Betts the ball, for goodness sake run him behind the lead block of Sellers.
But then again who knows where Betts would have gone. Flashback three weeks to the Giants game and when the Skins ran on fourth-and-1 on the goal line, Betts neglected to follow the lead block of Sellers and decided to cut back the opposite way. The result the same as Sunday; no first down, no touchdown and another squandered opportunity for the Redskins.
This team has a plethora of playmakers, but the coaching staff needs to decide quickly who the go-to guys are going to be. Following the Detroit game Gibbs spoke of how Sellers is always asking for the ball. When they gave it to him good things happened, just ask Lions' defensive back Kenoy Kennedy who was absolutely leveled by the Walla Walla Community College alum. Sure Portis and Betts are your every down backs, but Sellers needs to be the man with the ball in short yardage situations because if the Redskins continue to play in close NFC battles, they can't afford to be miscalling plays late in the game.
Take a look at the play by play from this season's games and tell me the Redskins aren't looking at a serious problem when it comes to play calling and personnel.
The game definitely had some similarities to the fourth quarter melt-down against the Giants; running when they should have passed and passing when they should have run. If we can look at a couple of plays from the game at Lambeau one thing will become clear, that the personnel on the field is often wrong or under-utilized.
In the fourth quarter with the Skins already down 17-14 — the eventual final score — the offense faced a third-and-one at its own 36 yard-line with under 13 minutes to go. With any already injury-plagued offensive line that was getting little push against a Green Bay defensive front, that weighs on average more than 301 pounds, offensive coordinator Al Saunders decides to run Clinton Portis. Don't get me wrong Portis is as tough a back as there is in the NFL, but he's 5-foot-11 and weighs 223 lbs. That size matters when you have a fullback in Mike Sellers who stands at 6'3" and weighs a whopping 284 lbs., 14 heavier than the Packers left end Aaron Kampman who anchors that left side Portis ran to.
It must have just slipped the minds of Saunders and head coach Joe Gibbs that Sellers converted two of three one-yard conversion attempts just one week earlier against Detroit. Oh and he gave them a rushing and receiving touchdown, apparently not indication enough that he is definitely a top play maker on a team with maybe too many.
Another instance happened in that same quarter against the Packers, just two possessions later. Portis had fumbled on the first possession after the failed third-and-one, but Green Bay couldn't get any offense going and gave Washington ample opportunity to equalize the score or take the lead.
After two first downs and Campbell finding the reliable veteran hands of recent free agent pick-up, Keenan McCardell, the Redskins had the ball on the Green Bay 41 yard-line. On first down Portis picked up four, but instead of keeping it on the ground or moving the ball on mid-range passes that were working, Campbell looks deep and overthrows Brandon Lloyd, who has caught one ball all year. This brings up third-and-six and Campbell finds Cooley for four yards on a route that should have been called the play before. So in what Sam Huff and Sonny Jurgensen described as a long fourth-and-1 on the radio, the Redskins once again don't utilize the size of their bruiser, Sellers. Instead Ladell Betts runs his route in front of the sticks and is stopped shy. At least if you want to give Betts the ball, for goodness sake run him behind the lead block of Sellers.
But then again who knows where Betts would have gone. Flashback three weeks to the Giants game and when the Skins ran on fourth-and-1 on the goal line, Betts neglected to follow the lead block of Sellers and decided to cut back the opposite way. The result the same as Sunday; no first down, no touchdown and another squandered opportunity for the Redskins.
This team has a plethora of playmakers, but the coaching staff needs to decide quickly who the go-to guys are going to be. Following the Detroit game Gibbs spoke of how Sellers is always asking for the ball. When they gave it to him good things happened, just ask Lions' defensive back Kenoy Kennedy who was absolutely leveled by the Walla Walla Community College alum. Sure Portis and Betts are your every down backs, but Sellers needs to be the man with the ball in short yardage situations because if the Redskins continue to play in close NFC battles, they can't afford to be miscalling plays late in the game.
Take a look at the play by play from this season's games and tell me the Redskins aren't looking at a serious problem when it comes to play calling and personnel.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
JMU Survives Rhode Trip
For the second straight week James Madison went on the road, and for the second straight week they escaped with a win. It hasn't been pretty for the Dukes after a four game home-stand in September. Although they are riding a six game win streak, some serious questions have arisen.
1.) With an already banged up offense, why was Rodney Landers running the ball on the Dukes' last offensive series?
They already had a 17-point lead and risking further injury to an already bruised wrist could be suicide for the Dukes' season. Mickey Matthews does have a strong back-up in redshirt freshman Drew Dudzik, but he has little experience. Unfortunately, Landers usually accounts for half of the team's total offense. This week against Rhode Island he briefly left the game in the first half nursing his wrist and he had trouble holding the ball fumbling the ball twice. He still ran for 170 and threw for 168 proving that the offense relies heavily on the junior. Maybe when they have that much cushion in the fourth they should think about using Dudzik or just running the ball out with one of the healthier running backs. It wont be every week that they'll be able to run their quarterback 26 times and expect him to stay healthy. A new dominant back needs to assert himself to replace injured starter Eugene Holloman and allow Landers to stay out of harm's way a little more.
2.) Can the defense really continue to give up this many points going into the stretch of the final four CAA games?
The Dukes gave up 27 points to a one-win Rhode Island team and tackled poorly in week seven. Mental lapses this deep into the season and not using the proper technique are not characteristic of a championship-caliber team. Even three-time All-American Tony LeZotte missed two or three tackles against the Rams. The Dukes still have to play the top-two and three ranked offenses in the conference in Richmond and Delaware. Richmond's running back Tim Hightower already has 1,003 yards to lead the CAA. Delaware's Omar Cuff is third with 863 yards and the capability of running for over 200 in a game (Sept. 30 vs. William and Mary, he had 244 yards and seven touchdowns). Towson and William & Mary have struggled this year but have experienced quarterbacks in Sean Schaefer and Jake Phillips. To keep the pressure off Landers and the offense the defense will need to tackle more consistently and not give up as many big plays on what Matthews often refers to as "blown assignments."
3.) How good is this JMU?
Besides the one loss to division 1-A opponent North Carolina the Dukes haven't needed to respond to much adversity. They have been tested against New Hampshire and Northeastern, but even UNH has looked shaky times this season and are in jeopardy of going from a top-5 team to not even making the playoffs. Against Northeastern JMU struggled against Maurice Murray and the rushing attack and surely teams like Delaware and Richmond will look to expand upon what worked for the Huskies. The Dukes have improved against the pass though which could help them when it comes to putting pressure on the run. Offensively, Landers continues to impress opponents with his accuracy with both the short and long ball. Built more like a linebacker than a quarterback he isn't afraid of lowering his shoulders when he tucks it and runs for the first down. Depth at receiver will be key, as a number of freshman and sophomores continue to improve. Tight end Mike Caussin has been reliable on mid-range routes and could prove vital as a possession receiver with big-play threat L.C. Baker trying to overcome nagging hamstring injuries. Healthy though this team appears to be really strong and deep and at this point anything short of a CAA title and berth in at least the NCAA quarterfinals would be a disappointment for the No. 9 ranked Dukes.
Of course all of this is easier said than done, but it will definitely being interesting to see how it all plays out. If you weigh in any differently feel free to express it in my comments.
1.) With an already banged up offense, why was Rodney Landers running the ball on the Dukes' last offensive series?
They already had a 17-point lead and risking further injury to an already bruised wrist could be suicide for the Dukes' season. Mickey Matthews does have a strong back-up in redshirt freshman Drew Dudzik, but he has little experience. Unfortunately, Landers usually accounts for half of the team's total offense. This week against Rhode Island he briefly left the game in the first half nursing his wrist and he had trouble holding the ball fumbling the ball twice. He still ran for 170 and threw for 168 proving that the offense relies heavily on the junior. Maybe when they have that much cushion in the fourth they should think about using Dudzik or just running the ball out with one of the healthier running backs. It wont be every week that they'll be able to run their quarterback 26 times and expect him to stay healthy. A new dominant back needs to assert himself to replace injured starter Eugene Holloman and allow Landers to stay out of harm's way a little more.
2.) Can the defense really continue to give up this many points going into the stretch of the final four CAA games?
The Dukes gave up 27 points to a one-win Rhode Island team and tackled poorly in week seven. Mental lapses this deep into the season and not using the proper technique are not characteristic of a championship-caliber team. Even three-time All-American Tony LeZotte missed two or three tackles against the Rams. The Dukes still have to play the top-two and three ranked offenses in the conference in Richmond and Delaware. Richmond's running back Tim Hightower already has 1,003 yards to lead the CAA. Delaware's Omar Cuff is third with 863 yards and the capability of running for over 200 in a game (Sept. 30 vs. William and Mary, he had 244 yards and seven touchdowns). Towson and William & Mary have struggled this year but have experienced quarterbacks in Sean Schaefer and Jake Phillips. To keep the pressure off Landers and the offense the defense will need to tackle more consistently and not give up as many big plays on what Matthews often refers to as "blown assignments."
3.) How good is this JMU?
Besides the one loss to division 1-A opponent North Carolina the Dukes haven't needed to respond to much adversity. They have been tested against New Hampshire and Northeastern, but even UNH has looked shaky times this season and are in jeopardy of going from a top-5 team to not even making the playoffs. Against Northeastern JMU struggled against Maurice Murray and the rushing attack and surely teams like Delaware and Richmond will look to expand upon what worked for the Huskies. The Dukes have improved against the pass though which could help them when it comes to putting pressure on the run. Offensively, Landers continues to impress opponents with his accuracy with both the short and long ball. Built more like a linebacker than a quarterback he isn't afraid of lowering his shoulders when he tucks it and runs for the first down. Depth at receiver will be key, as a number of freshman and sophomores continue to improve. Tight end Mike Caussin has been reliable on mid-range routes and could prove vital as a possession receiver with big-play threat L.C. Baker trying to overcome nagging hamstring injuries. Healthy though this team appears to be really strong and deep and at this point anything short of a CAA title and berth in at least the NCAA quarterfinals would be a disappointment for the No. 9 ranked Dukes.
Of course all of this is easier said than done, but it will definitely being interesting to see how it all plays out. If you weigh in any differently feel free to express it in my comments.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Surreal Skins Experience = Best Day of My Life
I think it happens to every aspiring journalist early in his or her career when they get to cover something they never could have dreamed of. Well yesterday it happened to me.
Not only did I get to watch the Redskins stomp the Detroit Lions from the press box, but I went down on the field to interview JMU and Washington legend Gary Clark. Although I kept my composure, wanting to be as professional as possible, my inner-child was absolutely ecstatic. Yeah I want to cover professional sports and the novelty will wear off, but I'm only 19 and I'm gonna soak this one in. Alright well as my thoughts are racing all over the place as I try to remember every minute detail of the day, i'll try to let you in on the itinerary.
10:25- Leave for the game with my photographer for the day, freshman David Lonnequest and my little brother and his friend who had tickets.
12:00- Get to the stadium and check in with the Redskins public relations desk and find my way up to the press box. On the way I passed by Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice, former Redskin Ray Brown, Mitch Albom of the Sports Reporters, columnist Mike Wise of the Washington Post, and a bunch of rich-looking important people.
1:00- Kickoff. Just before the action got under way I spoke with the head of Washington's PR folks, Chris Helein. Chris told me I could follow him down to the field before the Ring of Fame ceremony and then interview Gary afterwards. Until then I took in the game with some of the best writers in Washington and around the country.
2:30ish- I step on the grass at FedEx Field for the first time in my life. Chris introduces me to Gary and he is as nice a guy as there is. He simply said "Anything for the Dukes" when asked if he'd have a second for The Breeze. For the next few minutes I stand around the 5 yard-line on the Skins sideline, taking in the goal line rushing touchdown by Mike Sellers. Oh and the Redskinettes were right in front of me and well, we'll just leave it at that.
2:40- With a flurry of cameras and media I follow Gary to the field as he is introduced by the public address announcer and former NFL MVP and Redskin kicker Mark Mosley. Then Gary gives a rousing speech that really did give me goosebumps. He pumped up the 88,944 strong by expressing his discontent that Art Monk isn't in the HOF and by telling the fans that they are the most important element to the team.
2:45- I interview Gary for the next 5-8 minutes as we walk towards the south tunnel with a number of videographers back-pedaling in front of us. He expresses his appreciation to JMU and former Dukes coach Challace McMillin and reminisces about the glory days with the "Posse" of Monk, Ricky Sanders, and himself. I then whispered that I hated having to be so professional and that "I bleed burgandy and gold" when not on the job and how much I appreciated what he did for the Redskins and JMU.
4:00ish- Headed back down to the field and watched Carlos Rogers punch in a pick-six for the Redskins final score in the 34-3 thrashing. As the game ends I walked around the field observing the media frenzy as reporters tried to catch various players. Chris Samuels showed his softer side, by leading the group prayer between members of both teams. Mike Sellers, the hands-down player of the game, was goofing around with teammates on the way back to the locker room.
4:30- Listen to the postgame press conference Coach Gibbs delivered while sitting next to Mike Wise. I actually introduced myself and told him I like his writing and it was kind of awkward, but he asked for my name, so kind of cool. Then I chickened out and didn't even ask Gibbs a question.
4:45- David and I then walked into the locker room and saw the players soaking in the win. First time really being in a locker room where they don't care if we are in there and they just walk around stark naked, but hey they're Redskins so what the heck.
4:50- I get up the courage to interview Hall of Famer, quarterback, Sonny Jurgenson. Sonny sheds some light on the HOF situation with Monk and Clark.
4:55- We take a Gatorade from the team fridge and thus ends an amazing day at FedEx.
Sorry if there's typos, but its 2:26 and I'm exhausted and still a little numb from the whole thing. But you can check out my articles on www.dnronline.com and in the Breeze on Thursday.
The only way to end this behemoth of a blog would be to say that sports writing is great and so is my life.
Not only did I get to watch the Redskins stomp the Detroit Lions from the press box, but I went down on the field to interview JMU and Washington legend Gary Clark. Although I kept my composure, wanting to be as professional as possible, my inner-child was absolutely ecstatic. Yeah I want to cover professional sports and the novelty will wear off, but I'm only 19 and I'm gonna soak this one in. Alright well as my thoughts are racing all over the place as I try to remember every minute detail of the day, i'll try to let you in on the itinerary.
10:25- Leave for the game with my photographer for the day, freshman David Lonnequest and my little brother and his friend who had tickets.
12:00- Get to the stadium and check in with the Redskins public relations desk and find my way up to the press box. On the way I passed by Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice, former Redskin Ray Brown, Mitch Albom of the Sports Reporters, columnist Mike Wise of the Washington Post, and a bunch of rich-looking important people.
1:00- Kickoff. Just before the action got under way I spoke with the head of Washington's PR folks, Chris Helein. Chris told me I could follow him down to the field before the Ring of Fame ceremony and then interview Gary afterwards. Until then I took in the game with some of the best writers in Washington and around the country.
2:30ish- I step on the grass at FedEx Field for the first time in my life. Chris introduces me to Gary and he is as nice a guy as there is. He simply said "Anything for the Dukes" when asked if he'd have a second for The Breeze. For the next few minutes I stand around the 5 yard-line on the Skins sideline, taking in the goal line rushing touchdown by Mike Sellers. Oh and the Redskinettes were right in front of me and well, we'll just leave it at that.
2:40- With a flurry of cameras and media I follow Gary to the field as he is introduced by the public address announcer and former NFL MVP and Redskin kicker Mark Mosley. Then Gary gives a rousing speech that really did give me goosebumps. He pumped up the 88,944 strong by expressing his discontent that Art Monk isn't in the HOF and by telling the fans that they are the most important element to the team.
2:45- I interview Gary for the next 5-8 minutes as we walk towards the south tunnel with a number of videographers back-pedaling in front of us. He expresses his appreciation to JMU and former Dukes coach Challace McMillin and reminisces about the glory days with the "Posse" of Monk, Ricky Sanders, and himself. I then whispered that I hated having to be so professional and that "I bleed burgandy and gold" when not on the job and how much I appreciated what he did for the Redskins and JMU.
4:00ish- Headed back down to the field and watched Carlos Rogers punch in a pick-six for the Redskins final score in the 34-3 thrashing. As the game ends I walked around the field observing the media frenzy as reporters tried to catch various players. Chris Samuels showed his softer side, by leading the group prayer between members of both teams. Mike Sellers, the hands-down player of the game, was goofing around with teammates on the way back to the locker room.
4:30- Listen to the postgame press conference Coach Gibbs delivered while sitting next to Mike Wise. I actually introduced myself and told him I like his writing and it was kind of awkward, but he asked for my name, so kind of cool. Then I chickened out and didn't even ask Gibbs a question.
4:45- David and I then walked into the locker room and saw the players soaking in the win. First time really being in a locker room where they don't care if we are in there and they just walk around stark naked, but hey they're Redskins so what the heck.
4:50- I get up the courage to interview Hall of Famer, quarterback, Sonny Jurgenson. Sonny sheds some light on the HOF situation with Monk and Clark.
4:55- We take a Gatorade from the team fridge and thus ends an amazing day at FedEx.
Sorry if there's typos, but its 2:26 and I'm exhausted and still a little numb from the whole thing. But you can check out my articles on www.dnronline.com and in the Breeze on Thursday.
The only way to end this behemoth of a blog would be to say that sports writing is great and so is my life.
Friday, October 5, 2007
Yesterday was another day of rousing football action at JMU's practice, but there was one thing that took my eye off of the long snapping drills. Strolling around the turf with Mickey Matthews was an Indianapolis Colts' Super Bowl XLI championship ring. No, the Dukes football coach wasn't wearing it, but rather an NFL scout from the reigning World Champs. There was also a scout representing the Detroit Lions — surely only in town because the big cats from Motown will be losing in Washington on Sunday — and it got me wondering about the likelihood of JMU's top prospects playing on Sunday next year.
We'll start with the most decorated of JMU's seniors in safety Tony LeZotte. The 6-foot, 200-pounder has started every game so far in his career and moved to tenth all-time in tackles against VMI and needs just 11 more to be JMU's all-time leading tackler among defensive backs. He is a three-time All-American and three-time All-conference and is on the watchlist for this year's Buck Buchanon as the nation's top defender. He has a high football IQ and Matthews and his staff can count on him to call out any pre-snap adjustments. He has the average size of an NFL safety and the strength to lay the big hit. LeZotte would fit in well with a team like Philadelphia that has an aging defensive backfield and is probably the best bet of any Duke.
Defensive tackle John Baranowsky has raised eyebrows after a strong effort in 2006 as a first year player with the Dukes. At 6' 3" and 290 pounds he is solid against the run, forcing opponents to run the ball on the outside. Although most pro linemen on both sides of the ball weigh upwards of 300, Baranowsky succeeded at putting on muscle and brawn when he was moved from defensive end to tackle during his two seasons at Connecticut. The Sudbury, Mass. native is also the mouth of the team and shows lots of energy which could definitely help him if he's competing for a last roster spot. He was second-team All-A-10 last season.
Forget about the height for a second and go check him out if you haven't already. You might only have a second to see him though as he is usually the fastest player on the field. His 5' 7", 155-pound frame could turn some teams away, but Baker should take comfort in the fact that another short, quick and elusive JMU receiver is being inducted into the Redskins Ring of Fame this weekend. Gary Clark played a similar game and had to work his way to the NFL but every team needs a speedster at least on special teams. He's shown his versatility this season with a running touchdown to go with three receiving TDs and has to be accounted for on all plays. In both 2005 and 2006 he was first team All-conference as a punt returner and made second team as a receiver last season.
Oh and here's a picture of that rock I spoke of
We'll start with the most decorated of JMU's seniors in safety Tony LeZotte. The 6-foot, 200-pounder has started every game so far in his career and moved to tenth all-time in tackles against VMI and needs just 11 more to be JMU's all-time leading tackler among defensive backs. He is a three-time All-American and three-time All-conference and is on the watchlist for this year's Buck Buchanon as the nation's top defender. He has a high football IQ and Matthews and his staff can count on him to call out any pre-snap adjustments. He has the average size of an NFL safety and the strength to lay the big hit. LeZotte would fit in well with a team like Philadelphia that has an aging defensive backfield and is probably the best bet of any Duke.
Defensive tackle John Baranowsky has raised eyebrows after a strong effort in 2006 as a first year player with the Dukes. At 6' 3" and 290 pounds he is solid against the run, forcing opponents to run the ball on the outside. Although most pro linemen on both sides of the ball weigh upwards of 300, Baranowsky succeeded at putting on muscle and brawn when he was moved from defensive end to tackle during his two seasons at Connecticut. The Sudbury, Mass. native is also the mouth of the team and shows lots of energy which could definitely help him if he's competing for a last roster spot. He was second-team All-A-10 last season.
Forget about the height for a second and go check him out if you haven't already. You might only have a second to see him though as he is usually the fastest player on the field. His 5' 7", 155-pound frame could turn some teams away, but Baker should take comfort in the fact that another short, quick and elusive JMU receiver is being inducted into the Redskins Ring of Fame this weekend. Gary Clark played a similar game and had to work his way to the NFL but every team needs a speedster at least on special teams. He's shown his versatility this season with a running touchdown to go with three receiving TDs and has to be accounted for on all plays. In both 2005 and 2006 he was first team All-conference as a punt returner and made second team as a receiver last season.
Oh and here's a picture of that rock I spoke of
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