The Official 2011 NCAA College Football Thread

[Telionis]

I know it seems early, but the four major (non-AP) preseason rankings are out, and I'm already getting psyched!
__________________________________________________

Here are the 2011 Consensus Preseason rankings (a composite of the rankings by TSN, Lindy's, Athlon Sports, and Phil Steele).

Stassen - 2011 Preseason Consensus (http://preseason.stassen.com/consensus/2011.html)

Since Phil Steele has been the most accurate among all his competitors over the last ten seasons, I made the following list by doubling the weight of Phil's rankings versus those of the other sporting news outlets.

Alabama
Oklahoma
Oregon
Boise State
Louisiana State
Florida State
Virginia Tech
Texas A&M
Nebraska
Notre Dame
Stanford
Ohio State
Arkansas
Oklahoma State
Texas Christian
Georgia
South Carolina
Southern Cal
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Texas
Michigan State
Mississippi State
Penn State
Florida
Southern Miss
Arizona State
Northwestern
Houston
Auburn
Miami-Florida
Missouri
Utah
South Florida

Consensus Championship Games:

ACC: Florida State v Virginia Tech
Big Ten: Nebraska v Ohio State
C-USA: So. Miss or UCF v Houston
MAC: Ohio v Toledo
PAC 12: Oregon v Arizona State
SEC: Georgia v Alabama

National Title Prediction: Alabama v Oklahoma or Oregon

[AdamVR4]

#21 may be optimistic for Texas. I think we're all just hoping for 6-8 wins and then 11+ in 2012.

[Telionis]

#21 may be optimistic for Texas. I think we're all just hoping for 6-8 wins and then 11+ in 2012.

Steele thinks you guys will be #18. Athlon is the only other outlet that has you ranked, but you should still win 8+ games IMHO. I think #7 is extremely optimistic for VT also, but Steele has a very solid track record.

[Telionis]

Opening weekend will have some great games. We start with neutral field games between:
Oregon v. LSU
Boise State v. Georgia
The next weekend (9/10) we'll get to see
Alabama at Penn State
Nevada at Oregon
Then September 17th will be a very interesting day, especially for the ACC.
Oklahoma at Florida State
West Virginia at Maryland
Auburn at Clemson
Ohio State at Miami
Then 9/24 we get to see
LSU at West Virginia
and on 10/1 will get to see
Texas A&M at Arkansas

Am I missing any great OOC match-ups?

[AdamVR4]

Opening weekend will have some great games. We start with neutral field games between:
Oregon v. LSU
Boise State v. Georgia
The next weekend (9/10) we'll get to see
Alabama at Penn State
Nevada at Oregon
Then September 17th will be a very interesting day, especially for the ACC.
Oklahoma at Florida State
West Virginia at Maryland
Auburn at Clemson
Ohio State at Miami
Then 9/24 we get to see
LSU at West Virginia
and on 10/1 will get to see
Texas A&M at Arkansas

Am I missing any great OOC match-ups?

These should both be interesting...
Texas vs BYU Sept 10
Texas @ UCLA Sept 17 (UCLA curb-stomped us in Austin last season)

[HilbillyHomeboy]

WTF? The conferences for the B10 are bullshit, talk about a slant for Ohio State. Wow...

The SEC will be very exciting this year, ridiculous talent. No clue where to go with that. Bama looks amazing, but LSU might have something to say about that. LSU's schedule is very impressive. The East is a total toss up to me, UGA, USC, UF...who knows?

I wouldn't even venture a guess at the MNC for this year. There's way too many teams with a legit shot.

The Big East will be much improved this year. Not world beaters by any stretch, but it won't be the disaster that was last year. Can not wait to hang 70 on Marsha come Sept. 4, pukes are talking so much smack. Oh and F-U sPitt, not even in the top 34, lol.

Jeremy

[AdamVR4]

WTF? The conferences for the B10 are bullshit, talk about a slant for Ohio State. Wow...

Guess I'm not really seeing it?

Leaders Division
Illinois, Indiana, Ohio State, Penn State, Purdue, Wisconsin

Legends Division
Iowa, Michigan, Michigan State, Minnesota, Nebraska, Northwestern

[HilbillyHomeboy]

Guess I'm not really seeing it?

Leaders Division
Illinois, Indiana, Ohio State, Penn State, Purdue, Wisconsin

Legends Division
Iowa, Michigan, Michigan State, Minnesota, Nebraska, Northwestern

Really? Hmm, this is what I'm thinking. When's the last time Illinois, Indiana or Purdue have been relevant in college football? Those are basketball schools. Penn State loves to choke when it's balls out time. So, really, whiskey is about all tOSU has to sweat, IMO. There's no perenially weak team on the Legends side, perhaps Northwestern(though not recently) and maybe Minnesota. Looks lopsided to me. I know I sure as hell wouldn't want to have to make my run through Michigan, Sparty, Nebraska, and Iowa.

Jeremy

[AdamVR4]

Really? Hmm, this is what I'm thinking. When's the last time Illinois, Indiana or Purdue have been relevant in college football? Those are basketball schools. Penn State loves to choke when it's balls out time. So, really, whiskey is about all tOSU has to sweat, IMO. There's no perenially weak team on the Legends side, perhaps Northwestern(though not recently) and maybe Minnesota. Looks lopsided to me. I know I sure as hell wouldn't want to have to make my run through Michigan, Sparty, Nebraska, and Iowa.

Jeremy

Okay... I was pretty interested, so I threw the W-L records for all the B10 teams since 2002 into a spreadsheet. I thought the results were interesting...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/adamvr4/legendsvsleaders.jpg

[HilbillyHomeboy]

That's ambiguous without SOS and other factors being involved, but I'll bite. I see my point within your spreadsheet. Why do the leaders get the two shit teams?? And, Ohio State has no one to sweat but whiskey(which those two are the primary reason the division is above .500, they paired the two best with the two worst). PSU, if/when they don't choke, but beyond that there is zero competition. The Legends side, as your spreadsheet shows, is a much more balanced division.

What I would have done: Osu, Ind, Psu, Nw, Iowa, Minn / Neb, Ill, Pur, Wisc, Msu, Mich which comes out to .585 and .586. Or something to that effect(probably even better to switch MSU to the other side for more Michigan rivalry). I just think, at a minimum, the two shit teams should be split.

I doesn't bother me if you don't agree; that spreadsheet definitely doesn't sway me. :) Annnnd, I really don't care anout the B10 anyway, lol(go Huskers!). Just thought it odd that Osu looks to have a fairly easy path in(IMO). *shrug*

Jeremy

[Telionis]

Okay... I was pretty interested, so I threw the W-L records for all the B10 teams since 2002 into a spreadsheet. I thought the results were interesting...

That's a really good idea! I'm going to do the same with the ACC. However, I think that you're forgetting how significantly OSU and Wisconsin strengthen the leaders side. There is much more variation on the leaders side, which means that the strongest team on that side will have a much easier road to the championship than anyone on the legends side (one or two big games, versus tough games every single week).

Legends Average = 0.575, SD = 0.081
Leaders Average = 0.568, SD = 0.208

[AdamVR4]

That's ambiguous without SOS and other factors being involved, but I'll bite. I see my point within your spreadsheet. Why do the leaders get the two shit teams?? And, Ohio State has no one to sweat but whiskey(which those two are the primary reason the division is above .500, they paired the two best with the two worst). PSU, if/when they don't choke, but beyond that there is zero competition. The Legends side, as your spreadsheet shows, is a much more balanced division.

What I would have done: Osu, Ind, Psu, Nw, Iowa, Minn / Neb, Ill, Pur, Wisc, Msu, Mich which comes out to .585 and .586. Or something to that effect(probably even better to switch MSU to the other side for more Michigan rivalry). I just think, at a minimum, the two shit teams should be split.

I doesn't bother me if you don't agree; that spreadsheet definitely doesn't sway me. :) Annnnd, I really don't care anout the B10 anyway, lol(go Huskers!). Just thought it odd that Osu looks to have a fairly easy path in(IMO). *shrug*

Jeremy


Oh yeah, I'm certainly not very opinionated on this subject. I just thought it was interesting to see how these teams have performed for roughly a decade and I can see and understand your point about separating illinois and indiana. It will be interesting to see which of the "legends" rise to the top and which sink to the bottom.

[HilbillyHomeboy]

Yeah, what Alex said is what I was getting at. :)

Hopefully, the BE will someday get to enough teams to have divisions and a championship game. I'd like to pick up Houston(for TCU), UCF(for USF), and....?

Jeremy

[Telionis]

Yeah, what Alex said is what I was getting at. :)

Hopefully, the BE will someday get to enough teams to have divisions and a championship game. I'd like to pick up Houston(for TCU), UCF(for USF), and....?

Jeremy

You should steal back BC so we can steal Vandy and SEC can steal TAMU. Vandy is a much better fit for the ACC than the SEC, very high academic prestige, great basketball, OK football. BC is great too, don't get me wrong, but they are SOOOO far from anyone else in the conference.

Actually, you'd be foolish not to pickup East Carolina. They are perennially a decent team with a solid fan base and a share of the Carolina TV market.

[HilbillyHomeboy]

East Carolina, YES. Big time up and comer right there. Can't believe I forgot them! I knew there was someone else I wanted, but I went blank. :Doh:

Jeremy

[BigTyla]

I'm not sold on Bama's QB. I think they lose at least two.

It's always nice to see Auburn unranked or barely ranked in the preseason. They traditionally play their best football when they are disrespected. When's the last time the defending national champions have started the next season unranked? Lots of disrespect there if you ask me. That's not to say I expect a lot out of Auburn this year, but I've always said (and you can go back to my posts on 3si to confirm if you desire) that the defending champions should be #1 in the next season's poll until someone beats them.

LSU is my favorite to represent the SEC in the MNC this year. I think Jefferson will finally step up and be an above-average quarterback this year. If LSU doesn't represent the SEC, no SEC team will. This year might be the year the SEC MNC streak is broken and it might be because no SEC team goes without 2 losses.

I think the most likely MNC matchup is Oregon vs Oklahoma or Boise St.

PS: what the hell is Notre Dame doing in the top 10? How many shitty seasons does that team have to have before people stop making the same stupid mistake of overrating that terrible school every year?

[Telionis]

Anyone understand all this talk about Pryor in the CFL? Is he ineligible for the NFL for some reason?

[BigTyla]

He can enter the NFL as a free agent but the lockout is creating a lot of uncertainty, not to mention he missed the combine and team workouts, so the CFL would be a logical choice for him.

[stealthee]

Not to mention he would not be a good NFL QB.

[TonyM]

Well the "leaders" conference just opened up wide with the complete derailing of OSU.

GO BLUE!

I think Michigan is going to be very competitive this year if we can kind a kicker. Brady Hoke is the man.

[Mikes2nd]

rofl Michigan... seriously have you looked at the damage Rich Rod your guys previous saviour did?

Hoke cant do any worse so its a win win for him. You guys might be able to beat Indiana but your going to be real teams b*tches again this year... Sad but true. Maybe I won't fall asleep through your game vs OSU this year.

Notre Dame? everyone dreams of the days of Notre Dame being a real team again and being relevent. GL with that.

Pryor going with Drew Rosenhaus? Hah... We will see how much he can demand, Im suprised he didnt pick Lebrons company. Pryor needed another year in college to get trained to see if he is actually a passer. His "quick dumps" left something to be desired, his downfield passed were very iffy also. He will get killed in the NFL if he runs. He should switch to reciever.

[TonyM]

rofl Michigan... seriously have you looked at the damage Rich Rod your guys previous saviour did?

Hoke cant do any worse so its a win win for him. You guys might be able to beat Indiana but your going to be real teams b*tches again this year... Sad but true. Maybe I won't fall asleep through your game vs OSU this year.

DickRod wasn't my savior haha, but I digress.

Yes he damaged the program, but never underestimate the drive of a young, hungry coach who wants it. Hoke has that potential, but we'll see how the season goes.

One thing's for sure, I'm really looking forward to the 3rd weekend in November . . .

[Telionis]

http://i.imgur.com/miu7l.jpg

[HilbillyHomeboy]

^LOL!!

Here's highlights from WVU spring game, if anyone cares.

Mountaineer TV (http://www.msnsportsnet.com/frameVideoPlayer.cfm?streamID=629)

[AdamVR4]

What's the format of that game, J? 2nd string D vs 1st team O?

[AdamVR4]

Oh, LOL...

Canzano: Fans need to demand an explanation from Oregon football program | OregonLive.com (http://www.oregonlive.com/sports/oregonian/john_canzano/index.ssf/2011/06/canzano_fans_need_to_demand_an.html)

[HilbillyHomeboy]

What's the format of that game, J? 2nd string D vs 1st team O?

Yes. 1st time they've done it this way, plus the scoring system was a little odd too. The O could earn points for 1st downs. Whenever Mallard was in, that was 2nd string O vs. 1st team D. I like what I see. :)

I love the tempo. No pissing around waiting for a play to develop, or milling around deciding the next play. Should be exciting to watch this offense this year.

Jeremy

[AdamVR4]

Alrighty, looks like Oregon is fucked to me.

Scout details relationship with Oregon, Kelly - College Football - Rivals.com (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/news?slug=ys-robinson_scout_details_deal_oregon_kelly_070111)

[BigTyla]

Pretty big bombsell for sure. Will be interesting to see where this goes.

[Mikes2nd]

Pretty big bombsell for sure. Will be interesting to see where this goes.

OMG goodbye Chip Kelly!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8HWubSaqB9U

[BigTyla]

I'm pretty sure Kelly won't be canned. He's done a lot with the program in such a short time that I think he will be given a pass for this one. We will have to wait and see all the evidence that comes forward.

[Mikes2nd]

If its true... ncaa lays down the law... everyone thought tress was safe

[BigTyla]

60 days until football season!

[stealthee]

If its true... ncaa lays down the law... everyone thought tress was safe

You're the only one who thought Tressel was safe. It was in his contract that he couldn't hide the things he hid. He was fired (forced resignation) by the school. The NCAA only imposed suspensions on him.

[AdamVR4]

An absolutely amazing piece on street agents and racism.

Is The Term ‘Street Agent’ Racist? Are Barking Carnival & The Recruitocosm!? Bomani Jones Thinks So. | Barking Carnival (http://barkingcarnival.fantake.com/2011/07/08/is-the-term-street-agent-racist-are-barking-carnival-the-recruitocosm-bomani-jones-thinks-so/)

[Mikes2nd]

I love the comments... OSU haters abound... I didnt know how many there were.

I mean I think we should kill the entire team and put a lifetime ban on OSU :)

BuckeyeGrove.com - Bucks vacate 2010 season, take probation (http://ohiostate.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1238412)

[BigTyla]

I love the comments... OSU haters abound... I didnt know how many there were.

I mean I think we should kill the entire team and put a lifetime ban on OSU :)

BuckeyeGrove.com - Bucks vacate 2010 season, take probation (http://ohiostate.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1238412)

You know what this means? tOSU has STILL never beaten an SEC team! :D

[onebadmollafolla]

Speaking of NCAA football. Look who I ran into last night. (That's my pup Brian)

http://www.imgur.com/OpQ6T.jpg

[stealthee]

I don't know who that is. And why did you name your dog after me? :p

[onebadmollafolla]

I don't know who that is. And why did you name your dog after me? :p

It's Taylor Martinez, Huskers QB. Also, he was already named Brian when I adopted him from the pound. ;)

[AdamVR4]

PLEASE tell me you asked him how he feels about Pelini?!?!?!?


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdqUD5PBWnE

Geeze. Fuck Pelini.

[onebadmollafolla]

Nah, I didn't. We talked a little football but I don't want to start hassling with questions I'm sure he gets from the media all the time. Very nice guy, though.

[Mikes2nd]

You know what this means? tOSU has STILL never beaten an SEC team! :D

i know what the score was at the end of that game :)

[HilbillyHomeboy]

The NCAA accepted our self-imposed sanctions. I think we handled it very classy by going the summary disposition route. We told them "yes, you're right, we broke the rules and whatever you decide is our punishment is what we will take without question".

Moving on... :)



Rich Rodriguez and Bill Stewart were both charged with failure to monitor compliance with NCAA legislation while at West Virginia in findings released Friday afternoon.

The case was decided via summary disposition, an NCAA process when all sides agree on the facts. The review is then submitted in written form. The NCAA said West Virginia exceeded the permissible limit of the number of coaches and staff members engaged in on- and off-field coaching activities. Both Rodriguez and Stewart agreed with the facts, according to the five-page report.

Rodriguez was not penalized. West Virginia proposed two years' probation, took away two scholarships for 2010-11 and one scholarship for 2011-12. Other internal restrictions were imposed upon football staff members.

Statement from athletic director Oliver Luck | NCAA news release

"Coach Rodriguez is pleased that the NCAA agreed with the findings that he and West Virginia proposed," said Scott Tompsett, Rodriguez's attorney. "He's looking forward to doing television work in the fall and resuming coaching next year."

Rodriguez will be an analyst for CBS Sports Network.

CBSSports.com was able to obtain a letter to Rodriguez from the NCAA that stated, "Although the committee did not impose sanctions upon you, your involvement in these violations will be available for review by any member institution ..." Specifically, Rodriguez' and Stewart's involvement stretched from 2005-06 to the fall semester of 2009 (Stewart only).

West Virginia received a notice of allegations in August, charging the school and coaches with five major and one secondary violation. Mountaineers' AD Oliver Luck said previously as a result of the case the school had implemented changes in compliance and NCAA rules adherence.

[TonyM]

Rodriguez will be an analyst for CBS Sports Network.

Hahaha, of course he will . . .

Matt Millen and Rich Rod as "analysts". I guess when fuck shit up like those two have you've got a pretty good idea on what doesn't work . . .

[AdamVR4]

Hahaha, of course he will . . .

Matt Millen and Rich Rod as "analysts". I guess when fuck shit up like those two have you've got a pretty good idea on what doesn't work . . .

LOL! That's a team I would NEVER wish upon anyone's football game.

[HilbillyHomeboy]

http://buenojoe.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/slingblade-001-150x150.jpg

I like the way you talk...

Jeremy

[TonyM]

Hey Mikes2nd . . .

Ohio State Buckeyes 2012 recruit Kyle Kalis now headed to Michigan Wolverines - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/6757559/ohio-state-buckeyes-2012-recruit-kyle-kalis-now-headed-michigan-wolverines)


Ohio State has lost its top 2012 football recruit to Michigan, as offensive tackle Kyle Kalis switched his commitment to the Wolverines last weekend.

I love it.

[BigTyla]

LOL! That's a team I would NEVER wish upon anyone's football game.

Agreed. I'd rather listen to the token woman announcer than that trashy combo.

[Alan92RTTT]

Hey Mikes2nd . . .

Ohio State Buckeyes 2012 recruit Kyle Kalis now headed to Michigan Wolverines - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/6757559/ohio-state-buckeyes-2012-recruit-kyle-kalis-now-headed-michigan-wolverines)


My favourite quote from that
[quote]"I can't go there (Ohio State) and take penalties for something I never did," Kalis told ESPN.com on Monday. "Ohio State is a great program. I'm just not sure how long it will take them to recover. I want a solid, grounded coaching staff with a safe environment. Where there aren't such tough questions."

[HilbillyHomeboy]

^No doubt, the backlash starting already.

6'5' 306...that's a big SOB, especially for that age! Dayum, nice score! Stolen from Ohio State...well done UofM.

Jeremy

[BigTyla]

I can't say he would have made the same move if RichRod were still there. Seems he got canned at just the right time.

Actually, that's not true. He should never have been hired in the first place. :D

[AdamVR4]

Much to the surprise of Auburn fans -

N.C.A.A. Inquiry of Auburn Isn’t Over, Exchange Reveals (http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/14/sports/ncaafootball/ncaas-investigation-of-auburn-isnt-over-yet.html?_r=2)

[Mikes2nd]

LSU busted, Mike Leech sounds like he was screwed...

I like the play for pay talk... SEC, PAC-10... Big 10 talking about seceding from the NCAA?

Playoffs!

[HilbillyHomeboy]

Re: LSU busted.


unauthorized transportation and free and discounted lodging. There were also violations regarding impermissible telephone calls

Oh noes!!

Seceding from the NCAA? ROFL.

Jeremy

[Mikes2nd]

sorry to dissapoint all the OSU haters.... Today the Ohio State University recieved a stay of execution...

Ohio State dodges a bullet | BuckeyeXtra (http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/local_news/stories/2011/07/23/osu-dodges-a-bullet.html?sid=101)

[stealthee]

Its not over yet. They can still receive further sanctions.

[Alan92RTTT]

Thats not a stay of execution. It just means that they will not be brought up on 2 of the charges against them.

They are far from free and clear(as the article points out).

[HilbillyHomeboy]

LOL, screw you BC. pwn3d by hillbillies. This is why we have NO use for your snobby asses.

The Decider? - Southern Pigskin: The Leading Name in Southern College Football Coverage (http://www.southernpigskin.com/SEC/view/the-decider)


All college sports fans should know the site The Business of College Sports: Which Football and Basketball Programs Produce the Largest Profits? « (http://businessofcollegesports.com/2011/06/20/which-football-and-basketball-programs-produce-the-largest-profits/)

It is the site for sports numbers crunching geeks, and while the average half tipsy fan may not get it, finances make it all possible. There is no free lunch; either somebody pays, or it dies.

The list in the link is to the most profitable athletics programs in the country. The bottom list on the page is the full slate of schools in BCS AQ conferences, with each school's football and basketball ranked, most profitable to least.

There are many surprises on the list, especially for those who persist in fancying that basketball matters much at all and for people like the BC blogger who get economics turned upside down and see their schools as rich and schools like WVU as welfare cases their liberalism does not want to support.

WVU football is #24 in profit, which is ahead of any ACC school in either sport.

Let's repeat that: WVU football, stuck in the bland Big East and playing nothing programs like UConn and Syracuse and Cincinnati annually, is more profitable than UNC or Duke basketball, more profitable than Virginia Tech or Miami or Florida State or Clemson football.

In addition, WVU basketball is #57. Only three ACC basketball programs are more profitable than WVU's: Duke, UNC, and NCSU.

In contrast, BC football is #120, and BC basketball is #129.

WVU basketball is almost six times more profitable than BC's two 'revenue' sports combined. WVU football is nearly 15 times more profitable than BC's two 'revenue' sports combined.

ACC sports are about sports. And in sports finances, without which no games are played, BC is a welfare case that the rest of the ACC supports.

If the ACC is going to end its slide falling ever farther behind the SEC and Big Ten, and now Pac, in money and prestige, it requires more profitable athletics departments. To secure that, the ACC requires: (1) at least one more school with a sizable football fan base that also travels well; (2) at least one more blood rivalry in each revenue sport, preferably with the good prospect of building another three or four such rivalries in football; (3) at least one more school with respectable football history; (4) a new fertile football recruiting ground within ACC boundaries.

The only realistically possible move the ACC could make to secure all that is to add WVU and Pitt.

[AdamVR4]

Football #1, Basketball #60 -- not too shabby.

With regard to A&M leaving for the SEC...


Judging from the initial reaction to my earlier post on the threat being floated that Texas A&M and OU would consider bolting for the SEC if some of their concerns related to the LHN persist, we might benefit from a fresh round of discussion about Texas and its position with respect to realignment.

First, there's no question that Texas is in a position of tremendous strength, a fact that was on full display throughout last summer's events. That much everyone understands, but there is an accompanying point that seems to be widely overlooked -- namely, that the objective is to maximize the value you extract from those advantages. Put another way: the value is not in the advantages themselves, but in their potential to facilitate value creation.

Understanding that point is essential to understanding why it is insufficient to point to Texas's viability in any number of realignment scenarios as a basis for acting cavalierly, or with relative indifference, towards those various outcomes. Think of it this way: There are a number of ways that realignment could play out, each with a different end position for Texas. Although we might be able to conclude that all of the possibilities would be acceptable, among those endgames, not only would some would be decidedly better than others but the range between the best- and worst-case scenarios for Texas would be substantial. That is, the best-case scenario would be a lot better than the worst.

That, really, is why Texas fans should be careful not to flippantly blow off today's story with bravado. No, Texas doesn't "need" Texas A&M and/or OU, and yes, Texas's position of strength means that there a number of quality options involving partnerships with one, both, or neither of those schools. But returning to that range of realignment outcomes for Texas, the event defining the far end of the worst-case scenario side of the spectrum arguably is: Texas A&M and Oklahoma bolt for the SEC, and do so on an accelerated timeline (in the next 1-2 years).



Of all the ways realignment could play out, that's the worst case scenario for Texas, and even if it doesn't mean Texas can't land on its feet -- in a relatively good position, even -- that scenario: (1) neuters a host of Texas's advantages, and just as importantly, (2) knocks Texas out of the driver's seat and onto its heels. There is an enormous difference to Texas between that situation and the best case scenario, which would involve (generally speaking) Texas methodically lining up all its pieces and strategically crafting the most advantageous, nurturing environment for itself. Moreover, for those clamoring that Texas flip everyone the bird and go it alone, independence is least viable for UT in a landscape where A&M and OU bolt to anchor the formation of an SEC super-conference.

The Value Of Bluffing

I haven't been shy about chastising Aggies for injudiciously evaluating their options, but Texas's being in a stronger position in this realignment game does not make us immune from, or any less foolhardy for, handicapping ourselves with myopic bravado. Teasing our rivals with arrogance is great fun, but limiting our own opportunities is serious business.

And that's why it is no less imprudent for Texas fans to urge Deloss Dodds to embrace a reckless "Bring 'em on!" attitude than it is for Aggie fans to urge their administration to bolt unilaterally for the SEC. Quite the opposite, we should hope that our administration proceeds in a way that maximizes our advantages and, by extension, the potential value we might draw from them. The good news, as far as I'm concerned, is that our administration understands this exceptionally well, which is why I expect we will see Texas tap the brakes a bit with the Longhorn Network, and to be as cooperative as they can be while still forging ahead with the long-term advantage/value optimization plans.

That's also why it will be interesting to see what Texas A&M and Oklahoma take from this episode. For all we know, today's rumor came from a source without any official affiliation with either of the universities -- some other interested party, such as a politician or well-connected booster -- and though the reality of Texas A&M and Oklahoma's ability/interest/willingness to bolt prematurely for the SEC may be every bit as suspect as it was before today, there was real value in getting the threat of an accelerated tandem departure into the conversation.

For one, it got the media involved, which will have the effect of disallowing Texas from getting everything it could possibly want from the LHN with quiet incrementalism -- call it the boiling frog strategy, which is out now that Texas has to proceed with media spotlights on. Second, the threat revolves around the single most dangerous outcome to Texas, which however unlikely actually to occur is nonetheless just dangerous enough to get Texas to react. And third, even if it is nothing more than an empty threat, there's very real value to A&M and OU just in getting to evaluate Texas's reaction to the bluff. If UT ignores their demands, they know something valuable about where they stand, which helps inform an analysis of how best to proceed. And if UT backs down, then they've gotten something they wanted.

Eyes on the Prize

What about Texas's perpsective, though? Are fans mistaken for confidently concluding that the threat is a bluff? Based on the facts and realities -- both present and as existed a year ago when Big 12-2 was formed -- I hardly think so. But that's not the real issue; the important question is whether Texas should call it. And it's here that I diverge with those who would have Texas call our opponents' hands.

Why? Ironically, for the very same reasons that make it so likely that A&M and OU are bluffing in the first place: the facts and realities both present and as existed a year ago when Big 12-2 was formed. As a placeholder for Texas as it develops its advantages and thinks through/begins developing its long-term strategy, the Big 12-2 was and is tremendously valuable. Whether or not our long-term, best-case scenario involves a conference with A&M, OU, both, or neither, the present configuration serves Texas exceptionally well -- providing sufficient present value while giving Texas time and opportunity to develop and retain maximal control over its long-term plans.

In that light, calling this bluff fails Texas because: (1) all the downside is in the actions being threatened, (2) all the upside is in the long-term value of preserving the present arrangement (at least for a while), and (3) the price to be paid for folding is minimal and limited entirely to the short-term.

Taking everything in this post together, then, Texas fans need to be as realistic and focused on the long-term strategy as do A&M fans. Just as they would stand to gain the most by developing a strategy that optimizes the strengths of their own position (i.e. rising up with UT, and to the exclusion of as many others as possible, to maximize the enormous value of the state's advantages/resources), so too does Texas need to forge ahead with its focus on nurturing and growing its advantages. Texas's priority should be maximizing its control over how future events unfold, and the timeline on which they occur.

That, ultimately, is why Texas should and will play it safe and conciliatory in a showdown such as this -- to minimize the risk of having to deal with a situation that detracts from Texas's advantages and greatly diminishes its control over realignment and its timeline. In that context, this episode is more of a win-win than it might seem. It is a win for Texas A&M and Oklahoma as a positive step in strengthening their present position, and an opportunity to develop the relationship among these parties in a competitive, but mutually beneficial manner. And it is a win for Texas, by allowing it to pay a very modest, entirely acceptable, cost to preserve an arrangement that serves both its short- and long-term interests.

We may not need A&M and Oklahoma, but they can absolutely help us (and themselves), if we allow a workable present partnership to enable us to develop an ideal long-term position... And they can very much hurt us, by blowing everything up with a near-future defection -- forcing us to develop our next position on their terms and their timeline, before we're fully, optimally ready.

Keep your eyes on the prize, Longhorns fans. Keep your eyes on the prize.

Conference Realignment: Texas, Its Strengths, and the Long Play - Burnt Orange Nation (http://www.burntorangenation.com/2011/7/21/2286168/conference-realignment-texas-longhorns-aggies-oklahoma-sec-big-12)

[BigTyla]

Texas is really going to have to back down on this LHN deal, because some key players smartened up and realized just how advantageous it would be for Texas to broadcast Texas HS games on that network. Texas already has a recruiting advantage over most schools, but this would only serve to tighten their grip even further, affecting all FBS schools but putting severe harm on schools in the immediate region. I think OU and TaM are very justified in their complaints, but I don't think them bolting for the SEC is a prudent threat. The SEC is plenty strong on its own. Does it really have room for two more perennial top 25 teams? Personally I think acquiring OU and TaM would only hurt the SECs MNC dominance.

[AdamVR4]

Texas is really going to have to back down on this LHN deal, because some key players smartened up and realized just how advantageous it would be for Texas to broadcast Texas HS games on that network.

For now, agreed. In the long term, I think a lot of schools will have networks and they will all televise HS games.


Texas already has a recruiting advantage over most schools, but this would only serve to tighten their grip even further, affecting all FBS schools but putting severe harm on schools in the immediate region.

Obviously I'd love to see the stranglehold, but there's nothing wrong with the way we're recruiting without the LHN televising HS games. It would have been really cool to see our top recruits during their senior years but oh well.



I think OU and TaM are very justified in their complaints, but I don't think them bolting for the SEC is a prudent threat. The SEC is plenty strong on its own. Does it really have room for two more perennial top 25 teams? Personally I think acquiring OU and TaM would only hurt the SECs MNC dominance.

I don't think A&M or OU even has the option of leaving for the SEC. Even if the SEC would take them, the Texas and Oklahoma legislatures wouldn't allow the SEC to take A&M and OU without Texas, Tech, Baylor, and Oklahoma State. Since Texas will never go to the SEC, the whole thing was a bluff, but the media eats it up.

[BigTyla]

I don't think A&M or OU even has the option of leaving for the SEC. Even if the SEC would take them, the Texas and Oklahoma legislatures wouldn't allow the SEC to take A&M and OU without Texas, Tech, Baylor, and Oklahoma State. Since Texas will never go to the SEC, the whole thing was a bluff, but the media eats it up.

...and now you are feeling first-hand what the overzealous media can do to make your team look like the bad guy. :D

[Mikes2nd]

OU is getting screwed... Seriously the "Longhorn" network? rofl...

[AdamVR4]

OU is getting screwed... Seriously the "Longhorn" network? rofl...

Can always count on mike to bring nothing whatsoever to the discussion.

[BigTyla]

Shallow and pedantic.

[Mikes2nd]

get a room you 2...

[AdamVR4]

get a room you 2...

From the concealed carry thread where mike ran his mouth, then had only this to say when he was questioned:


why don't you 2 get a room already... hah

If you're not even interested in defending your opinions, why do you post them in the first place?

[TonyM]

If you're not even interested in defending your opinions, why do you post them in the first place?

A fool and his thoughts are soon parted . . . or probably never should have gotten together in the first place.

[stealthee]

Who said Mike even thinks?

[onebadmollafolla]

Why am I not surprised?

http://blogs-images.forbes.com/kiriblakeley/files/2011/08/TMZ-screengrab.jpg

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/99808/caseya_medium.jpg

Who'd have guessed she's an OSU fan? :lol:

[Mikes2nd]

http://www.funnyforumpics.com/forums/Id-Hit-It/3/fistangrygodwe4.jpg

[AdamVR4]

^^^ Funniest thing mike has ever said ^^^

[TonyM]

Who'd have guessed she's an OSU fan? :lol:

Not that criminals have ever been associated with that school in Ohio . . .

[AdamVR4]

Speaking of criminals. This is HILARIOUS:

Police Offer Fake Auburn-Alabama Tix to Arrest Deadbeat Parents (Video) | AthlonSports.com (http://www.athlonsports.com/college-football/police-offer-fake-free-tix-auburn-alabama-game-arrest-deadbeat-parents-video)

[AdamVR4]

College Football Offseason in Review - IN MS PAINT (http://www.shaggybevo.com/board/showthread.php/94610-College-Football-Offseason-in-Review-IN-MS-PAINT)

[HilbillyHomeboy]

THujone is a genius. Pure gold, as usual. :lmao:

Jeremy

[Mikes2nd]

Texas is all butthurt A&M is thinking of leaving them...

That would hurt the ol Texas division... I say we let them in the big 10... make all those texans pay for the big 10 network :)

[eljefefx]

Texas is all butthurt A&M is thinking of leaving them...

That would hurt the ol Texas division... I say we let them in the big 10... make all those texans pay for the big 10 network :)


Meh, OSU still sucks.

[AdamVR4]

Texas is all butthurt A&M is thinking of leaving them...

That would hurt the ol Texas division... I say we let them in the big 10... make all those texans pay for the big 10 network :)


This wasn't even a good troll attempt -- A&M leaving for the SEC is so laughable, and they've been talking about it non-stop for so long, that at this point, I want it to happen.

Check out how A&M has done against the SEC the last several years. It's ugly. They'll get face-raped every game and every other year they'll manage to beat Arkansas, Vandy, and Mississippi State.

A&M hates us so much that they honestly want to go from being a top 3 program in a conference to being like... #6? #7? in the SEC. It's the most extreme example of an inferiority complex I've ever seen. I will laugh so hard if A&M leaves and Texas' response is to quit playing them. Virtually all of A&M's traditions are based around beating Texas (Texas owns them all time, 75-37-5). If Texas schools quit playing A&M like they did Houston (EDIT, this should have said Arkansas), after the novelty has worn off, and A&M goes 6-6 every year, A&M recruiting will dry up. They will fall, balls first, to rock bottom.

All because they didn't think the Longhorn Network would work and they didn't want to be partners in it. Stupid fucking Aggy.

[Mikes2nd]

This wasn't even a good troll attempt -- A&M leaving for the SEC is so laughable, and they've been talking about it non-stop for so long, that at this point, I want it to happen.

.

be careful what you wish for, sounds like A&M will be voting to leave the "texas network"... SEC will pay them so much more... Texas can come to the Big 10 and oklahoma also. I don't think A&M will fare that bad in the SEC, SEC teams are flaky, one year they are NC, the next struggling to make a bowl.

Texas just had to call it the longhorn network and take all the money... what do you expect?

Then you guys are like "we want to show Texas High School games guys!" heh...

[Echo419]

be careful what you wish for, sounds like A&M will be voting to leave the "texas network"... SEC will pay them so much more... Texas can come to the Big 10 and oklahoma also. I don't think A&M will fare that bad in the SEC, SEC teams are flaky, one year they are NC, the next struggling to make a bowl.

...
the price you pay for taking your turn beating the dog squeeze out of tOSU in the MNC. it's a sorta not so secret agreement we have down here. "Ok, guise, you can pound tOSu in front of millions this year but next year it's someone else's turn. umm kay?"
but fear not. tOSU will be so bad this year they'll be lucky to even make the Clairtin Barely Breathing Bowl this year

[Mikes2nd]

A&M is out... rofl maybe texas can invite some division 2 schools to play...

we got room in the big 10 for texas, could be in the plains division...

now SEC says not this year... hah... A&M is leaving anyways?

big 10 would be funny but too far away I guess... A&M is the top 22nd school in the country... 7th largest school...

[AdamVR4]

A&M is out... rofl maybe texas can invite some division 2 schools to play...

we got room in the big 10 for texas, could be in the plains division...


Texas could join the B10, PAC12, go independent, expand the B12, or even go to the SEC. I can't wait to see how DeLoss plays this.

And ROFL if A&M leaves the B12 and is then rejected by the SEC.

[BigTyla]

Texas could join the B10, PAC12, go independent, expand the B12, or even go to the SEC. I can't wait to see how DeLoss plays this.

And ROFL if A&M leaves the B12 and is then rejected by the SEC.

I can't see the SEC taking another team west of Auburn, but only because I would hate for two Iron Bowls in one year to be a possibility.

[Mikes2nd]

Texas could join the B10, PAC12, go independent, expand the B12, or even go to the SEC. I can't wait to see how DeLoss plays this.

And ROFL if A&M leaves the B12 and is then rejected by the SEC.

sec already said no for now... but that can change next week. Or tommorow, SEC is stupid... thats huge money for a division to get the texas subscribers... Pac 10 has to be waiting and even the big 10 would be like "hey now, lets think about this"...

add rutgers and A&M would be insane money for the big 10 network...

nebraska, a&m, illinois, indiana, iowa... osu? wisconson?

[BigTyla]

sec already said no for now... but that can change next week. Or tommorow, SEC is stupid... thats huge money for a division to get the texas subscribers... Pac 10 has to be waiting and even the big 10 would be like "hey now, lets think about this"...

add rutgers and A&M would be insane money for the big 10 network...

nebraska, a&m, illinois, indiana, iowa... osu? wisconson?

SEC is probably thinking about this from a conference strength perspective. They are already the best conference in the nation. If you add two more perenially good teams to the conference, what does that do to your conference's chances at an MNC? Is decreasing your MNC chances but adding viewership in Texas monetarily superior to basically being a shoe-in for the MNC every year without those extra viewers? And would adding two more teams ruin the rivalries that make the SEC so interesting to viewers outside the geographic region?

[AdamVR4]

Based on what I've gathered, the SEC wants A&M to make proper arrangements to leave the B12 first in order to avoid law suits.

[AdamVR4]

Garrett Gilbert threw a couple more picks in the Saturday scrimmage (1st of the fall)... David Ash, true freshman, continues to hit tight windows and make plays with his feet.

That's 3 picks (should have been 4) in the last 2 scrimmages for GG. I'm ready to see Ash start and accept having 3 QB's transfer.

[Mikes2nd]

youve got a bigger QB mess that Ohio State...

I am waiting for Mack to start that scrub then bail on him like Tressel did when he gave up on Todd Boekman to put Troy Smith in...

They are all loyal to their signed highly recruited qb for years until they can't stand it anymore and bail on the kid... We all watched the pain(like you guys did last season) or watching a coach keep praying the kid learns how to throw under pressure... Mean while the fans are screaming to ditch the kid... Tough spot for a coach sure but thats why they are paid millions.

Its funny to watch the NFL do it too... Coaches gamble on QB's(north carolina/cam, 49ers/Alex smith(rofl))... The browns struggled with Brady Quinn for a while until they realized he simply can't throw... But the players make millions to suck... until they finally get cut.

Yeah the SEC want's to lessen the "penalties" like the Big 10 did with Nebraska(still cost 9 mill to leave)... Big 10 can afford it and so can the SEC.

[AdamVR4]

youve got a bigger QB mess that Ohio State...

I am waiting for Mack to start that scrub then bail on him like Tressel did when he gave up on Todd Boekman to put Troy Smith in...

They are all loyal to their signed highly recruited qb for years until they can't stand it anymore and bail on the kid... We all watched the pain(like you guys did last season) or watching a coach keep praying the kid learns how to throw under pressure... Mean while the fans are screaming to ditch the kid... Tough spot for a coach sure but thats why they are paid millions.

Its funny to watch the NFL do it too... Coaches gamble on QB's(north carolina/cam, 49ers/Alex smith(rofl))... The browns struggled with Brady Quinn for a while until they realized he simply can't throw... But the players make millions to suck... until they finally get cut


Alex Smith is a starter and Vince Young isn't -- LOL. Some teams just like to lose, it seems.

And it will be interesting to see how loud the student section voices their disapproval when GG turns the ball over. We've heard nothing but great things about Ash since he stepped on campus (he enrolled early). He will be given play packages, but who knows how bad GG will have to be for Ash to start.

[AdamVR4]

http://i.imgur.com/k7F2e.gif

[AdamVR4]

Good summary of why Miami is about to get the death penalty:

http://barkingcarnival.fantake.com/2011/08/16/the-u-just-got-yahoo-sportsed/

[BigTyla]

This whole Miami thing sounds like it's about to get VERY interesting.

[BigTyla]

Pretty funny tweet concerning the UM scandal:


Using Cam Newton Logic: UF, UGA & UT players turned down $$$ & girls @ UM, so that means UF, UGA & UT gave them more right?

My sentiments exactly!

[Mikes2nd]

makes tressel look like an angel huh?

anyways the ncaa just needs to shut its doors... its pathetic and just a hindrance.

Yes this goes on all over im sure... some are better at hiding it... there is huge money in college football... start paying the players something so this doesnt happen.

Miami could get 2 years of death? Meh not such a big deal. They don't really matter anymore. Their QB's are interception machines right now, its gonna hurt the recruiting though :/

[Echo419]

Miami vs Ohio State 2011 The Ineligibowl!

[Mikes2nd]

Miami vs Ohio State 2011 The Ineligibowl!

yeah because your team has never been in trouble (rolls eyes)

hah wait your own player was involved... Let me know when Georgia isn't having a 6-7 season :)

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/808778-college-football-2011-can-miami-investigation-affect-orson-charles-eligibility

uh oh more SEC troubles... fighting, underage drinking.. out after curfew... im sure the bar provided drinks and perks? oh yeah thatll be swept under the rug pretty fast

http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/6880319/lsu-tigers-les-miles-says-players-behavior-bar-was-unacceptable

[Echo419]

yeah because your team has never been in trouble (rolls eyes)

hah wait your own player was involved... Let me know when Georgia isn't having a 6-7 season :)

College Football 2011: Can Miami Investigation Affect Orson Charles' Eligibility | Bleacher Report (http://bleacherreport.com/articles/808778-college-football-2011-can-miami-investigation-affect-orson-charles-eligibility)

uh oh more SEC troubles... fighting, underage drinking.. out after curfew... im sure the bar provided drinks and perks? oh yeah thatll be swept under the rug pretty fast

LSU Tigers' Les Miles says players' behavior at bar was 'unacceptable' - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/6880319/lsu-tigers-les-miles-says-players-behavior-bar-was-unacceptable)

" As of this moment I do not see anything that would keep Orson Charles from being eligible. Orson is mentioned as having been brought to meet Nevin Shapiro by current Alabama staff member Joe Pannunzio. However, Shapiro has declined to speak of his relationship with Pannunzio.

Being that Orson Charles chose to play for Mark Richt at the University of Georgia, I do not believe Shapiro's tactics worked on him.

It is most likely that nothing will come of this because Orson did nothing out of line in going on a recruiting trip. Unless he actually took benefits, he has nothing to worry about at all.“
So nothing. Good job.

And you can let me know know what tOSU beats "ANY" SEC team ;)

[Mikes2nd]

last year OSU beat Arkansas :)

[Alan92RTTT]

Mike not OSU. tOSU

[BigTyla]

last year OSU beat Arkansas :)

That's funny. I don't see a win on tOSU's record regarding that game. Could you help me out?

[stealthee]

How fitting

Terrelle Pryor to Oakland Raiders in supplemental draft - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/6885024/terrelle-pryor-oakland-raiders-supplemental-draft)

[TonyM]

How fitting

Terrelle Pryor to Oakland Raiders in supplemental draft - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/6885024/terrelle-pryor-oakland-raiders-supplemental-draft)

Took the words from my mouth . . . from one ghetto to the next, hahahaha.

[Mikes2nd]

Took the words from my mouth . . . from one ghetto to the next, hahahaha.

http://www.commentdude.com/comments/cat/funny/thats_racist.gifhttp://www.commentdude.com/comments/cat/funny/jay_and_silent_bob.gif

[HilbillyHomeboy]

AP top 25.

Associated Press Top 25 Poll - NCAA Rankings - College Football - SI.com (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/ncaa/polls/ap/?utm_source=bleacherreport.com&utm_medium=referral)

[Mikes2nd]

AP top 25.

Associated Press Top 25 Poll - NCAA Rankings - College Football - SI.com (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/ncaa/polls/ap/?utm_source=bleacherreport.com&utm_medium=referral)

rofl... :) Those guys take the safe road every year, pick alabama... a handful of SEC teams, over rate ND... can't believe michigan isnt in the top 15 now :) where the heck is Texas? no love for Mac and a whole team of 5 star recruits?

What did those idiots pick Auburn last year?

Last years preseason... Stanford comes out of nowhere... Texas,TCU, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Miami,USC drop off the face of the earth... Great pics guys...

RK TEAM RECORD PTS
1 Alabama (54) 0-0 1491
2 Ohio State (3) 0-0 1400
3 Boise State (1) 0-0 1336
4 Florida 0-0 1237
5 Texas (1) 0-0 1223
6 TCU 0-0 1160
7 Oklahoma (1) 0-0 1104
8 Nebraska 0-0 1033
9 Iowa 0-0 1007
10 Virginia Tech 0-0 973
11 Oregon 0-0 870
12 Wisconsin 0-0 822
13 Miami (FL) 0-0 785
14 USC 0-0 590
15 Pittsburgh 0-0 516
16 Georgia Tech 0-0 511
17 Arkansas 0-0 496
18 North Carolina 0-0 397
19 Penn State 0-0 382
20 Florida State 0-0 379
21 LSU 0-0 300
22 Auburn 0-0 296
23 Georgia 0-0 206
24 Oregon State 0-0 198
25 West Virginia 0-0 184

Final
2010 NCAA Football Rankings - Postseason
RK TEAM RECORD PTS
1 Auburn (56) 14-0 1472
2 TCU (3) 13-0 1392
3 Oregon 12-1 1379
4 Stanford 12-1 1300
5 Ohio State 12-1 1220
6 Oklahoma 12-2 1108
7 Wisconsin 11-2 1055
8 LSU 11-2 1051
9 Boise State 12-1 1031
10 Alabama 10-3 961
11 Nevada 13-1 866
12 Arkansas 10-3 863
13 Oklahoma State 11-2 833
14 Michigan State 11-2 696
15 Mississippi State 9-4 578
16 Virginia Tech 11-3 577
17 Florida State 10-4 502
18 Missouri 10-3 477
19 Texas A&M 9-4 359
20 Nebraska 10-4 334
21 UCF 11-3 225
22 South Carolina 9-5 169
23 Maryland 9-4 144
24 Tulsa 10-3 128
25 North Carolina State 9-4 119

[AdamVR4]

where the heck is Texas? no love for Mac and a whole team of 5 star recruits?

I think Texas being unranked is perfect and deserved. With that said, this appears to be the most impactful freshman class of the Mack Brown era. Here are the true freshman that are going to play right away:

QB - David Ash in special packages
RB - Malcolm Brown (one of 2-3 primary rushers), Joe Bergeron (short yardage & FB)
WR - Jaxon Shipley (Jordan Shipley's brother), Miles Onyegbule
MLB - Steve Edmond (should see a lot of playing time against quality rushing)
CB - Quandre Diggs (Quentin Jammer's brother)

What we're hearing about the offense is very encouraging. Play makers like DJ Monroe who busted off a long TD run against OU (5'9", 175, 4.3 40) that almost never saw the field last year because Greg Davis was incompetent, have been given their own packages. The play book has been tailored to suit the needs of each player. Shipley, for instance, struggles some with contact at the line of scrimmage, so he's in motion pre-snap a lot. There will be wild cat formations (up to 5 players will take snaps this season) and they've installed a number of trick plays already. TE's are in motion pre-snap virtually every play -- this is the Boise State offense that is so hard to prepare for, that probes the defense and creates mis-matches pre-snap.

There's a lot of optimism about our front 7 on D, but I think we're still going to be weak against the run. The good news it that we will be better at rushing, so our O won't put the D in so many terrible positions.

I won't be surprised by anything from 7-5 to 10-2. All I really demand is week to week improvement, which was not the case last season.

[BigTyla]

What did those idiots pick Auburn last year?

They were picked at exactly the same ranking last year - 22.

Auburn is almost perennially disrespected in preseason polls, and I'm okay with that. It lights a fire under our team. :) Too bad it ended up costing us the 2004 BCS game. Preseason polls need to go away.

[HilbillyHomeboy]

^AUburn's schedule is intense this year, holy shit.

Jeremy

[AdamVR4]

Better not overlook that Samford game! ;) haha

[HilbillyHomeboy]

:lol: But Yeah, I was looking at the @LSU, @USC, @UGA, @ARK....yikes!

Jeremy

[AdamVR4]

:lol: But Yeah, I was looking at the @LSU, @USC, @UGA, @ARK....yikes!

Jeremy

It would be so funny to watch A&M get their shit shoved in ;) by that schedule... please please please...

[Mikes2nd]

Notre Dame Stays Competitive, Falls Short In Intra-Squad Scrimmage | The Onion Sports Network (http://www.onionsportsnetwork.com/articles/notre-dame-stays-competitive-falls-short-in-intras,21170/)

notre dame loses its first game already...

[BigTyla]

:lol: But Yeah, I was looking at the @LSU, @USC, @UGA, @ARK....yikes!

Jeremy

Well we have to play three of those four every year, so we are used to playing a tough schedule, but not this gauntlet in October with all good teams back to back to back to back to back.

Sat, Oct 1 @ #12 South Carolina TBD
Sat, Oct 8 @ #15 Arkansas TBD
Sat, Oct 15 vs #22 Florida TBD
Sat, Oct 22 @ #4 LSU 8:00 PM ET
Sat, Oct 29 vs Ole Miss TBD

If we go 3-2 in that gauntlet I'll be more than happy.

[Mikes2nd]

one more week!

[AdamVR4]

No matter how you feel about Texas, this is one of the best sports stories I've ever seen...

The Long Road Back (http://texas.247sports.com/Article/The-Long-Road-Back-36942)

I don't recommend it, but if you google "Blaine Irby injury" you can find the video. I can't watch it without involuntarily jerking and wanting to throw up.

[onebadmollafolla]

Wanted to give everyone a heads up on this. Finish Line is doing a deal where you can get two NCAA hoodies for $50. I got a promo deal from a coworker of mine for $20 off purchase. With this you can get two NCAA hoodies of your college team for $30 shipped. Not trying to advertise for Finish Line. Just sayin'...that's a hell of a deal.

The email my coworker sent me:

At the very end if you put in the coupon "SAVEME20" it give you an additional $20 off. Free shipping




Ncaa Fleece Online at FinishLine.com (http://www.finishline.com/store/shop/_/N-/Ns-P_BestSellers%7C1/Ntt-ncaa+fleece?sourceid=affiliate&cid=k54384&lid=j5617196k54384)

[BigTyla]

Wanted to give everyone a heads up on this. Finish Line is doing a deal where you can get two NCAA hoodies for $50. I got a promo deal from a coworker of mine for $20 off purchase. With this you can get two NCAA hoodies of your college team for $30 shipped. Not trying to advertise for Finish Line. Just sayin'...that's a hell of a deal.

The email my coworker sent me:

At the very end if you put in the coupon "SAVEME20" it give you an additional $20 off. Free shipping




Ncaa Fleece Online at FinishLine.com (http://www.finishline.com/store/shop/_/N-/Ns-P_BestSellers%7C1/Ntt-ncaa+fleece?sourceid=affiliate&cid=k54384&lid=j5617196k54384)

Looks like a pretty good deal. Might get an AU one for me and an AL one for my wife for a Christmas gift.

[AdamVR4]

Looks like a pretty good deal. Might get an AU one for me and an AL one for my wife for a Christmas gift.

:ohnoes: Did she poison the trees in your backyard?

:duckhunt: This would have been fitting if Oregon had won, haha...



:bullshit:



:Towelie:

[BigTyla]

:ohnoes: Did she poison the trees in your backyard?

:duckhunt: This would have been fitting if Oregon had won, haha...



:bullshit:



:Towelie:

A few trees in our back yard fell down, but I attributed it to the three tornadoes that came within half a mile of our house! Maybe I should investigate further... :D

[stealthee]

Thirteen Miami Hurricanes players ineligible, must be reinstated by NCAA, source says - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/6894959/thirteen-miami-hurricanes-players-ineligible-reinstated-ncaa-source-says)

[HilbillyHomeboy]

Just got two tix to the WV opener against Marshall(for free). These are executive/corporate tickets, possibly skybox(not sure just yet). Been chasing these for a while and it happened today. Next Sunday can't get here soon enough!!

:)

Jeremy

[Mikes2nd]

thats because big east games are well...

I bet you get a free bowl of soup with that right?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzPsdkTCufs

[HilbillyHomeboy]

Coming from a guy whose team had a worse record than Rutgers last year. rofl. :)

Jeremy

[AdamVR4]

Coming from a guy whose team had a worse record than Rutgers last year. rofl. :)

Jeremy


Ohio State (12-1) ... Rutgers (4-8) ... I'm confused.

[HilbillyHomeboy]

Ohio State (12-1) ... Rutgers (4-8) ... I'm confused.

Ohio State is 0-13 last year. I figure troll logic is easier for Mike to understand.

Jeremy

[BigTyla]

Ohio State is 0-13 last year. I figure troll logic is easier for Mike to understand.

Jeremy

Actually, vacated wins don't count as losses. So really they were 0-1. Still a worse record in terms of wins though!

[AdamVR4]

Dur duh dur... I forgot.

[HilbillyHomeboy]

Actually, vacated wins don't count as losses. So really they were 0-1. Still a worse record in terms of wins though!

http://media1.break.com/dnet/media/2008/11/89%20A%20Real%20Life%20Troll.jpg

Melvin!! :p

[BigTyla]

Cannot see picture at work but I can only assume it has something to do with "fucking Melvin." :D

[HilbillyHomeboy]

Your assumptions are quite astute, old chap!

Jeremy

[Mikes2nd]

Coming from a guy whose team had a worse record than Rutgers last year. rofl. :)

Jeremy

I'm sorry the big east is awesome!!!

What about the other 13 LSU players out drinking, after curfew, dragging the guy out of a truck to be beaten?

LSU players turn themselves in after arrest warrants issued - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/6898211/lsu-players-turn-arrest-warrants-issued)

typical SEC... "ignore it until it goes away"...

[BigTyla]

I'm sorry the big east is awesome!!!

What about the other 13 LSU players out drinking, after curfew, dragging the guy out of a truck to be beaten?

LSU players turn themselves in after arrest warrants issued - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/6898211/lsu-players-turn-arrest-warrants-issued)

typical SEC... "ignore it until it goes away"...

Did you see they confiscated 50 pairs of shoes from Jordan Jefferson? :D

They are thinking of renaming LSU "Lotsa Shoes University."

[HilbillyHomeboy]

I hate that LSU shit. I want a top 5 ranked, 3-0, LSU to roll into Morgantown, WV come week 4.

Jeremy

[Mikes2nd]

yeah its like OSU... Miami is "devestated" :)

LSU is going down like flames also... I would expect more suspensions but who knows.

Maybe they will be like Notre Dame and "redshirt" them all...

so now how can Miami think they aren't getting the death penalty? This was a decade of abuse of the whole team
for years and the guy was fricking on the team practically...

Miami is like "well suspend a couple, everything is cool!" later guys. OSU should have been like "whatever let us know"...

[Echo419]

I'm sorry the big east is awesome!!!

What about the other 13 LSU players out drinking, after curfew, dragging the guy out of a truck to be beaten?

LSU players turn themselves in after arrest warrants issued - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/6898211/lsu-players-turn-arrest-warrants-issued)

typical SEC... "ignore it until it goes away"...

Ignore? You should buy a tv. It's on sports center every 5 minutes between yankees v. Red sox highlights for the eleventy billionth time and the obligatory Zomg is brett favre coming back?! Stories

[HilbillyHomeboy]

I don't like the "we'll suspend our players, and then immediately force the NCAA to rule on eligibility". IMO, they're gaming the system and not allowing proper investigation.

Jeremy

[BigTyla]

I don't like the "we'll suspend our players, and then immediately force the NCAA to rule on eligibility". IMO, they're gaming the system and not allowing proper investigation.

Jeremy

To an extent, but what ever happened with innocent until proven guilty? What if a team sits their players out and they end up not having done anything wrong? It's a slippery slope.

[HilbillyHomeboy]

To an extent, but what ever happened with innocent until proven guilty? What if a team sits their players out and they end up not having done anything wrong? It's a slippery slope.

Very slippery indeed, I agree.

Jeremy

[onebadmollafolla]

http://media1.break.com/dnet/media/2008/11/89%20A%20Real%20Life%20Troll.jpg

Melvin!! :p

http://i.imgur.com/kCFXW.jpg

[Mikes2nd]

Sorry Adam... hey maybe he got "alot" better over the break?

Texas Longhorns' Garrett Gilbert to start Saturday's opener vs. Rice Owls - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/6906247/texas-longhorns-garrett-gilbert-start-saturday-opener-vs-rice-owls)

[AdamVR4]

The last week we've been totally in the dark... No idea how the last scrimmage went.

But in the first one, GG was awful. He threw 2 picks and got 1 first down.

In the 2nd, he was apparently perfect and he had a great week following that.

But really, GG starting is no surprise. If he comes out and struggles, his career at Texas is done and it will be the Case McCoy / David Ash show. The running game will be good enough that we won't need a QB to carry the load like we saw with Colt. I'm really impressed with Harsin and the Boise offense thus far.

[Mikes2nd]

wait a minute?

can't the OSU players simply pay back for their tattoos? and be able to play? WTF! the NCAA is a joke...

NCAA: 12 current Miami players accepted benefits - Investigations - Yahoo! Sports (http://sports.yahoo.com/investigations/news?slug=ys-wetzel_miami_suspensions_083011)

glad to see the ncaa is getting tough...

[AdamVR4]

The divorce is official...

News Release: Texas A&M to Seek New Conference Affiliation - Texas A&M University - College Station, TX (http://www.tamu.edu/athletics/conferenceChange.html)

[AdamVR4]

And the A&M fan response:

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_CmUZGvfh5c0/TVQrCYqT09I/AAAAAAAAAEI/2UugiqIYBD4/s1600/RandyMarshJizz-772726.jpg

[Mikes2nd]

Hah you angry Texans... just can't stand it your 300 million deal might be going away... Just pay A&M their fair share and they will stay.

Big 10 will take you but you will have to learn the meaning of "share"... which might be tough :)

[AdamVR4]

Hah you angry Texans... just can't stand it your 300 million deal might be going away... Just pay A&M their fair share and they will stay.

Big 10 will take you but you will have to learn the meaning of "share"... which might be tough :)


Lay off the meth, mike.

$300M deal is going no where.

A&M's fair share? Of what? They can start their own network.

Texas isn't going to the B10. If I had to guess, Texas will end up independent or in a conference that's friendly to individual networks. We've apparently been talking with Notre Dame and BYU a great deal. The foundation of the conference would be OU/ND/BYU/UT... Not too shabby.

I don't expect A&M's departure to immediately kill the B12, but the LHN can't reach its potential in the B12... So nothing would surprise me.

[HilbillyHomeboy]

I don't forsee OU hanging around the B12 too much longer, they've got their own network they're working on and everything I have read says they are growing very disconcerted with UT(namely over the LHN). The B12 has waited too long to (seriously) look at expansion; I think the conference is effed in the a, at this point. (Honestly, I think we're about 10 years from two super-conferences and a playoff system anyway, so I'm not sure it really matters in the long run)

No way ND joins any conference as long as they can hold out. Why would they? They are the golden child of the NCAA...

Jeremy

[AdamVR4]

I don't forsee OU hanging around the B12 too much longer, they've got their own network they're working on and everything I have read says they are growing very disconcerted with UT(namely over the LHN). The B12 has waited too long to (seriously) look at expansion; I think the conference is effed in the a, at this point. (Honestly, I think we're about 10 years from two super-conferences and a playoff system anyway, so I'm not sure it really matters in the long run)

No way ND joins any conference as long as they can hold out. Why would they? They are the golden child of the NCAA...

Jeremy


I remember OU letting it known that they didn't want the LHN showing HS games, but otherwise, all I've heard is that they're in very close cooperation with us. Like I implied and you mentioned, they're forming their own network, but if you look around the country... Where are they going to go that will let them keep it? ...Exactly.

The ND stuff is hard for me to believe too, but there's at least some discourse.

And of course, BYU has its own network too.

[BigTyla]

Texas isn't going to the B10. If I had to guess, Texas will end up independent or in a conference that's friendly to individual networks. We've apparently been talking with Notre Dame and BYU a great deal. The foundation of the conference would be OU/ND/BYU/UT... Not too shabby.

Bring back the SWAC.

[AdamVR4]

Missouri Tigers Athletics :: Mizzou College Sports :: TigerBoard.com :: Mondo Expects Missouri to Notify B12 by Tuesday (http://www.tigerboard.com/boards/missouri-tigers.php?message=8809292)

Mizzou is #14?

[HilbillyHomeboy]

Dave Sittler: Texas' arrogance at heart of Big 12 drama | Tulsa World (http://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/article.aspx?subjectid=202&articleid=20110830_202_B1_Whatif864434)


The Big 12's A-list reportedly includes Notre Dame, Arkansas, Arizona, Arizona State, Pittsburgh, BYU, West Virginia, Louisville and Air Force.

"They've looked at all those options and many others," said a source familiar with the Big 12's expansion committee.

The first four schools apparently wouldn't come even if Texas was handing out millions to league members instead of trying to hoard it all for itself.

And it's a stretch to A-list the other five. B-list (as in bearable) is probably where you'd find them, although Pittsburgh and West Virginia could bring A-games.

http://www.fastcodesign.com/multisite_files/codesign/imagecache/inline-large/post-inline/tumblr_lex3s2CgQN1qe0eclo1_r9_500.gif

[HilbillyHomeboy]

Missouri Tigers Athletics :: Mizzou College Sports :: TigerBoard.com :: Mondo Expects Missouri to Notify B12 by Tuesday (http://www.tigerboard.com/boards/missouri-tigers.php?message=8809292)

Mizzou is #14?

#14 to join the SEC is what they're getting at, not national rank.

Jeremy

[AdamVR4]

Dave Sittler: Texas' arrogance at heart of Big 12 drama | Tulsa World (http://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/article.aspx?subjectid=202&articleid=20110830_202_B1_Whatif864434)



http://www.fastcodesign.com/multisite_files/codesign/imagecache/inline-large/post-inline/tumblr_lex3s2CgQN1qe0eclo1_r9_500.gif


LOL @ that gif.

But Dave Sittler is either totally ignorant or a fucking retard... Texas chased off CU, NU, and A&M?

CU has wanted to be in the PAC for years, they saw an opportunity to protect themselves from the assumed consolidation of conferences, and above all else, they went from $8M/yr to $20M/yr in TV revenue. It's a good cultural fit, they've been awful in the B12 lately, this all makes sense and none of it has anything to do with Texas.

NU resented the B12 being Texas-centric from the very beginning (11-1 vote against partial qualifiers that NU apparently depended on), but again, they saw an opportunity to improve their brand image, play more marquee games, and bring in twice as much TV revenue. Good cultural fit for NU and long term stability... Win-win that has virtually nothing to do with Texas or the LHN.

As of 2009:


School..........Revenue Dist. '08-09
Oklahoma..........$12.20
Texas ..........$11.80
Kansas..........$11.50
Missouri..........$10.40
Texas A&M..........$10.20
Oklahoma State..........$10.00
Colorado..........$9.77
Nebraska..........$9.73
Texas Tech..........$9.20
Baylor..........$9.10
Iowa State..........$8.90
Kansas State..........$8.40

Obviously it's all because of Texas' arrogance and greed!!!!!11


And in the B12-2, the revenue sharing is (or would have been) more even than ever before... And for the record, only ONE team voted against unequal revenue sharing.
Big 12's new revenue-sharing plan levels playing field, raises incentives | Tulsa World (http://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/OU/article.aspx?subjectid=92&articleid=20110610_92_B1_CUTLIN123162)

A&M athletics has been totally broke in recent years. They took a $16M loan from the school and continued to operate in the red... A&M was eyeing the SEC when CU and NU left. That fell through, but their fan base has been crying about it ever since. Again, the SEC presents a better cultural fit and when TV deals are renegotiated, the SEC is going to be filthy fucking rich. A&M has done everything it can to make it look like this is all in response to the LHN... After all, they're throwing away over 100 years of tradition with Texas and Baylor... And it looks like some of the lazy journalists are really eating it up.

[AdamVR4]

#14 to join the SEC is what they're getting at, not national rank.

Jeremy


I'll just assume you were clarifying that for Mike because uh, no shit.

[HilbillyHomeboy]

I'll just assume you were clarifying that for Mike because uh, no shit.

Then wtf was the point of your question? :rolleyes:

Jeremy

[AdamVR4]

Then wtf was the point of your question? :rolleyes:

Jeremy


To summarize the link I dropped.

[HilbillyHomeboy]

To summarize the link I dropped.

Uh, you can't summarize an article with a question.


sum·ma·rize   /ˈsʌməˌraɪz/
[suhm-uh-rahyz]

–verb (used with object), -rized, -riz·ing.
1. to make a summary of; state or express in a concise form.
2. to constitute a summary of.

Jeremy

[TonyM]

A&M has done everything it can to make it look like this is all in response to the LHN...

Speaking of LHN, what's the deal? Checked with Dish Network and U-Verse, no dice here in Houston.

[Mikes2nd]

LOL @ that gif.

But Dave Sittler is either totally ignorant or a fucking retard... Texas chased off CU, NU, and A&M?

CU has wanted to be in the PAC for years, they saw an opportunity to protect themselves from the assumed consolidation of conferences, and above all else, they went from $8M/yr to $20M/yr in TV revenue. It's a good cultural fit, they've been awful in the B12 lately, this all makes sense and none of it has anything to do with Texas.

NU resented the B12 being Texas-centric from the very beginning (11-1 vote against partial qualifiers that NU apparently depended on), but again, they saw an opportunity to improve their brand image, play more marquee games, and bring in twice as much TV revenue. Good cultural fit for NU and long term stability... Win-win that has virtually nothing to do with Texas or the LHN.

As of 2009:

Obviously it's all because of Texas' arrogance and greed!!!!!11

thanks for quoting old numbers...

Yes A&M is a big school... It would have been very big to the "longhorn" network...

Texas gets 93 million, Baylor gets 14 million...

Here is your Texas fan response "F dos dicks, were WINNERS MAN! WE deserve all da money! Yehaaawww!"

I mean its nice for Texas to make the big 12 give up a little more(57% went evenly, now due to the attempts to leave that went to 76%)...

But Texas still makes a ton more than anyone

http://www.tulsaworld.com//articleimages/2011/b3big12bigmoney061011.jpg

How does it perpetuate this? It controls the big 12 is how... So you have 1 team who basically takes all the money... Whats laughable is Texas folks are like "We F EM! thats fair!, why should we share our darn money! We're Texas!"...

This guys goes into the whole greed thing.

Dan Treadway: Bitter Orange Kool-Aid: The Problem With the Longhorn Network (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/daniel-treadway/bitter-orange-koolaid-the_b_941760.html)

I'll be damned if I am watching the Buckeyes on the Wolverine network... and I bet Michigan wouldnt be happy watching on the Buckeye Network... Seriously the fact that you guys argue about what A&M is doing is funny.

We all hated the big 10 network when it came up... But at least its fair and our teams enjoy much more money(instead of ESPN/Cable companies getting it, the cable companies WHINED and spread all kinds of lies, squealed like pigs), Texas gets a much larger share of money and the longhorn network just makes it worse so there you go. At least in the SEC, A&M will get a fair shot.

I don't blame you guys for cashing in, just don't expect others to enjoy it. Have fun with ND being an independant. The big 12 is officially over.

[AdamVR4]

Uh, you can't summarize an article with a question.

Jeremy


I do what I want.

http://www.terrariaonline.com/attachments/demotivational-posters-come-at-me-bro-jpg.1447/

[Mikes2nd]

Speaking of LHN, what's the deal? Checked with Dish Network and U-Verse, no dice here in Houston.

if your a cable provider its now a "wait and see" game... The SEC network is the new sherriff in town...

2 fricking texas games does not make a network so goodluck.

Its the same game they played with the Big 10 network, eventually they might sign but its for alot less money if Texas doesnt play A&M(or anybody else) on it...
Oh wait if Texas ends up beating the crap out of Notre Dame every year its not worth it either...

No big 12 = no big money on the "longhorn network"... ESPN has first rights also. Basically its a total mess.

[AdamVR4]

thanks for quoting old numbers...

The numbers I posted were all reasonably accurate.


Texas gets 93 million, Baylor gets 8 million...

Yeah, in terms of TV revenue, it's Texas gets $12M and Baylor gets $9M. Everything else comes from...


Of the $82 million generated by the team last season, $30 million came from donations by alumni and fans to get in line for season tickets. Another $33 million came from ticket sales to seven home games at the newly expanded Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, which now fits 101,000 fans. Sponsorship agreements with Coca-Cola ( KO - news - people ) and PepsiCo's ( PEP - news - people ) Gatorade fed the team another $842,000. Nike ( NKE - news - people ) paid $1 million to adorn Longhorns jerseys with its swoosh logo.

It's an unfortunate fact that when we play Baylor half of their stadium is burnt orange...



I mean its nice for Texas to make the big 12 give up a little more(57% went evenly, now due to the attempts to leave that went to 76%)...

You mean it's nice for Texas and Oklahoma to give up more. Ironically, A&M was the only school that opposed equally splitting the exit penalties imposed on NU and CU.



But Texas still makes a ton more than anyone

http://www.tulsaworld.com//articleimages/2011/b3big12bigmoney061011.jpg

How does it perpetuate this? It controls the big 12 is how...

This is hilarious coming from an Ohio State fan. It's almost like you forget that just a couple years ago Ohio State was #2, just behind Texas in revenue.

The 12 Most Valuable Teams in NCAA Football | Business Pundit (http://www.businesspundit.com/the-12-most-valuable-teams-in-ncaa-football/)

Please, explain how Texas has "controlled the B12" and forced the $66M+ in ticket sales and alumni donations to happen. All that alumni money is what makes Texas so valuable to ESPN and advertisers.



So you have 1 team who basically takes all the money... Whats laughable is Texas folks are like "We F EM! thats fair!, why should we share our darn money! We're Texas!"...

Uh... Which schools share ticket sales and donation revenues? Why the fuck should Texas?



what even funnier is you guys have no shame about going "F those aholes, we're calling it the Longhorn network! yEEEEHHAAAWW!"

Should we have called it something other than what it is? There's going to be 1 or 2 football games on it this season. The rest of the time it will be basketball, baseball, volleyball, etc, and all kinds of non-sports (but still Longhorn) content. I love how willing you are to go OFF on topics you know nothing about.



This guys goes into the whole greed thing(I don't blame Texas for cashing in but don't whine about it when your little plan goes kaput).

Dan Treadway: Bitter Orange Kool-Aid: The Problem With the Longhorn Network (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/daniel-treadway/bitter-orange-koolaid-the_b_941760.html)

ROFL!! He sees the LHN as the end of the student-athlete? He's mad that Texas is taking advantage of its situation while cutting spending on (GASP) liberal arts?! LOL, thanks for that link.



I'll be damned if I am watching the Buckeyes on the Wolverine network... and I bet Michigan wouldnt be happy watching on the Buckeye Network... Seriously the fact that you guys argue about what A&M is doing is funny.

Well then one day you may end up damned. The LHN is obviously experimental, but if it works, I won't be surprised to see tOSU, UM, and PSU follow suit...


We all hated the big 10 network when it came up...

We being the t-shirt fans? I guarantee the schools LOVE IT.


But at least its fair and our teams enjoy much more money(instead of ESPN getting it), Texas gets a much larger share of money and the longhorn network just makes it worse so there you go. At least in the SEC, A&M will get a fair shot.

ESPN is taking a risk ($300M over 20 years to UT). They may not make any money on this business venture. They might make a shit load.

You seem to keep forgetting that Texas brings in that money directly.



I don't blame you guys for cashing in, just don't expect others to enjoy it. Have fun with ND being an independant. The big 12 is officially over.

I never said A&M should "enjoy" the LHN. I think they should follow UT and OU and make their own network.

[AdamVR4]

if your a cable provider its now a "wait and see" game... The SEC network is the new sherriff in town...

2 fricking texas games does not make a network so goodluck.

Its the same game they played with the Big 10 network, eventually they sign but its for alot less money if Texas doesnt play A&M(or anybody else) on it...
Oh wait if Texas ends up beating the crap out of Notre Dame every year its not worth it either...

No big 12 = no big money on the "longhorn network"... ESPN has first rights also. Basically its a total mess.

a) Rice @ Texas is the only game that is guaranteed on LHN. ESPN has been trying to get KU or KSU on board.

b) A&M vs Texas on the LHN hasn't ever been expected.

c) Notre Dame vs Texas on Thanksgiving would be matching up the 2 most valuable programs in the country. The ratings would dwarf A&M vs Texas.

d) You REALLY need to read this: Billion Dollar Bevo, Part I: Inside the UT/ESPN Longhorn Network Deal | Barking Carnival (http://barkingcarnival.fantake.com/2011/08/25/billion-dollar-bevo-part-i-inside-the-utespn-longhorn-network-deal/)

[stealthee]

LMAO

Report: Terrelle Pryor scores a 7 on Wonderlic IQ test - NFL - Sporting News (http://aol.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2011-08-31/report-terrelle-pryor-scores-a-7-on-wonderlic-iq-test?icid=maing-grid7%7Cmain5%7Cdl4%7Csec3_lnk3%7C91703)

Funny how ESPN is completely ignoring this. I cant seem to find a word about it there.

[Mikes2nd]

LMAO

Report: Terrelle Pryor scores a 7 on Wonderlic IQ test - NFL - Sporting News (http://aol.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2011-08-31/report-terrelle-pryor-scores-a-7-on-wonderlic-iq-test?icid=maing-grid7%7Cmain5%7Cdl4%7Csec3_lnk3%7C91703)

Funny how ESPN is completely ignoring this. I cant seem to find a word about it there.

maybe ESPN actually doesnt post bullshit like you do :)

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/early-lead/post/report-raiders-qb-terrelle-pryor-scores-7-on-wonderlic-iq-test/2011/08/31/gIQAYyJSsJ_blog.html

[stealthee]

Read the article. He actually did score a 7 at first. His overall score if that is accurate is 14. He's still stupid.

[Mikes2nd]

Read the article. He actually did score a 7 at first. His overall score if that is accurate is 14. He's still stupid.

1. It matters... (not really...)
2. you didn't read the end...


If the report is indeed true...

[stealthee]

He's still not as dumb as you.

[Telionis]

Terrelle Pryor scores a 7 on Wonderlic IQ test

Jamarcus Russell scored a 24, I'm not sure I trust this test to accurately gauge intelligence. Furthermore did we really need a test to determine that Terrelle Pryor is not a polymath? :p Somehow I doubt he will wisely invest the money he makes while active in the NFL.

Edit: admittedly, a 7 is amazingly low, that gives him an IQ of 74, which is literally borderline mentally retarded. The official title is "borderline intellectual functioning". The Raiders sound like a better match by the minute. :D J/K

Am I the only one who imagined him giving the Chris Rock response of "pfft, I don't know that sh-t" every time the test administrator asked him a question?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3PJF0YE-x4&feature=player_detailpage#t=193s
________________________

In other news, VT is considering a female kicker! She's reliable at 40 yards too, I'd be very proud if our team was the first one to feature a female FG kicker (even as a backup); so far all women in the NCAA were point after kickers only. It is a mixed blessing though, it also has the possibility to humiliate our entire university if our guys get all "rapey" like the Colorado team [allegedly] did with their female kicker.

Female kicker tries out for Virginia Tech football team - Hokies Journal - The Washington Post (http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/hokies-journal/post/female-kicker-tries-out-for-virginia-tech-football-team/2011/08/30/gIQAoOn0pJ_blog.html)

[AdamVR4]

According to wiki, Dan Marino scored a 16 on that wonderlic test too... There's no correlation between wonderlic score and passer efficiency; at some positions a high wonderlic score has actually been detrimental... According to wiki.

[TonyM]

if your a cable provider its now a "wait and see" game... The SEC network is the new sherriff in town...

2 fricking texas games does not make a network so goodluck.

Its the same game they played with the Big 10 network, eventually they might sign but its for alot less money if Texas doesnt play A&M(or anybody else) on it...
Oh wait if Texas ends up beating the crap out of Notre Dame every year its not worth it either...

No big 12 = no big money on the "longhorn network"... ESPN has first rights also. Basically its a total mess.

BTN was picked up pretty quick by most providers. I remember having it first season it was available. And being a Michigan fan, it certainly helps that if we're not on ABC/ESPN for whatever reason, we'll be on BTN.

I agree that it will take a little time for LHN to catch on, but I figured with ESPN money behind it, they would have at least locked up 2-3 distribution channels. Right now I can't even get it through Comcast (yuck). Doesn't really matter, even though the GF is a huge Longhorn fan she doesn't care to see our satellite bill go up just so she can watch the Rice game.

[TonyM]

c) Notre Dame vs Texas on Thanksgiving would be matching up the 2 most valuable programs in the country. The ratings would dwarf A&M vs Texas.

Yeah but then it's a battle of networks and contracts. NBC owns the rights to ND games . . . would be an interesting dick measuring contest between ABC/ESPN/LHN and NBC Sports though.

[AdamVR4]

BTN was picked up pretty quick by most providers. I remember having it first season it was available. And being a Michigan fan, it certainly helps that if we're not on ABC/ESPN for whatever reason, we'll be on BTN.

I agree that it will take a little time for LHN to catch on, but I figured with ESPN money behind it, they would have at least locked up 2-3 distribution channels. Right now I can't even get it through Comcast (yuck). Doesn't really matter, even though the GF is a huge Longhorn fan she doesn't care to see our satellite bill go up just so she can watch the Rice game.


I've heard all along that the major providers will negotiate until some time tomorrow. If our rates go up for a ~40 cent channel I'm going to be fucking pissed.



Yeah but then it's a battle of networks and contracts. NBC owns the rights to ND games . . . would be an interesting dick measuring contest between ABC/ESPN/LHN and NBC Sports though.

Perhaps they would agree to let whichever team hosted it have the broadcast rights..?

[TonyM]

I've heard all along that the major providers will negotiate until some time tomorrow. If our rates go up for a ~40 cent channel I'm going to be fucking pissed.

Wouldn't surprise me in the least. U-verse routinely sent me little notes a few times last year to inform of price increases to my plan due to the contract renegotiation of networks x, y, and z. They'll put LHN into a premium tier sports package, bundle it with a few others, charge $9.99/mo for it, or at least they'll try.


Perhaps they would agree to let whichever team hosted it have the broadcast rights..?

Would make sense but that's not how ND's contract is structured right now and NBC pays really good money to teams playing ND for those rights.

[AdamVR4]

From the mouth of A&M's Athletic Director, Bill Byrne:



Many of you have asked me, “What has changed since last year when you said we should stay in the Big 12?” Those things I said last year are still true. But understand that the Big 12 is considerably different than it was a year ago since the departures of Nebraska and Colorado.

There have also been other developments during the past several months that have caused a great deal of uncertainty within the Big 12. You all know the landscape of the Big 12 Conference was altered by the creation of the Longhorn Network.

So here we see Bill Byrne blaming the LHN for his team going to the SEC (pretending like the financial incentive isn't the driver)... But wait...




Some of you have asked me, “Isn’t it true you had a chance to join Texas in the ESPN venture and would have had a joint channel?”

Three or four years ago we talked about doing a joint flagship channel. I liked the idea, but our fans should know me better than to think I would pass on a $150 million deal for Texas A&M. That never happened.

Source: Bill Byrne's Wednesday Weekly - Texas A&M Official Athletic Site - AggieAthletics.com (http://www.aggieathletics.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=27300&ATCLID=205264518)


So he admits there was talk of the joint network (Lone Star Network) and says that it wasn't going to be a 50/50 deal... Shocking, considering that Texas had done all of the leg work, research, analysis and is (by far) the more desirable commodity.

Bill over-estimated his own university's relative value, thought the network would never work..... now he thinks it's a threat.

A&M is trying so damn hard to win the public opinion war that they won't admit they see an opportunity to earn more money in the SEC. They’re willing to look petty and foolish to those of us that pay attention in order to convince idiots (like mike) that they’re battling the greed of ESPN/UT.

[AdamVR4]

Wouldn't surprise me in the least. U-verse routinely sent me little notes a few times last year to inform of price increases to my plan due to the contract renegotiation of networks x, y, and z. They'll put LHN into a premium tier sports package, bundle it with a few others, charge $9.99/mo for it, or at least they'll try.

This network will not be successful if you have to have a sports package to watch it in Texas. That's undoubtedly a big part of the hold-up with the negotiations.

Several smaller providers already have the LHN in their basic package. Some dude on a Longhorn forum posted these videos he shot:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YZHQ-MPdSM&feature=player_embedded


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-FbCOW2W7Q&feature=player_embedded

I'd probably never change the channel... LOL

[Mikes2nd]

eh the first year of the big 10 bored me... it was all the same commercials... only the scrub games where on it.

after football was over, field hockey and volleyball was okay :)

But one thing thats different, the big 10 network was able to FORCE the cable providers to all carry the b10 network on the base tier. That was huge and brought in tons of cash. Two games would never force the providers to do that so the longhorn network is forever screwed.

ND vs texas on the lgn network will never happen... lets get real. It think its a good idea and they can make a little extra cash but it not going to go beserk or anything... I don't know why Texas had to give espn a cut... it dumb. Espn's presentation out of the box is alot better, but the Big 10 network caught up quick.

Mack better win this year or this is going to get nasty real quick... Its going to pretty boring watching Mack go "well... these guys felt entitled again this year, whoops"...

I think the longhorn network is going to be having TONS of reruns... playing the same clip of mack over and over... yawn.

And you can just watch it on the internet anyways... like justin.tv or some other tv viewer sites.

[AdamVR4]

eh the first year of the big 10 bored me... it was all the same commercials... only the scrub games where on it.

after football was over, field hockey and volleyball was okay :)

But one thing thats different, the big 10 network was able to FORCE the cable providers to all carry the b10 network on the base tier. That was huge and brought in tons of cash. Two games would never force the providers to do that so the longhorn network is forever screwed.

ND vs texas on the lgn network will never happen... lets get real. It think its a good idea and they can make a little extra cash but it not going to go beserk or anything... I don't know why Texas had to give espn a cut... it dumb. Espn's presentation out of the box is alot better, but the Big 10 network caught up quick.

Mack better win this year or this is going to get nasty real quick... Its going to pretty boring watching Mack go "well... these guys felt entitled again this year, whoops"...

I think the longhorn network is going to be having TONS of reruns... playing the same clip of mack over and over... yawn.

And you can just watch it on the internet anyways... like justin.tv or some other tv viewer sites.

In one breath, you think the LHN is screwed because "they can't force cable providers to carry it on the base tier".

In the next breath, you wonder why Texas is letting ESPN do the heavy lifting.

...;)

[HilbillyHomeboy]

Wow, brain-fucking-dead in Columbus, OH. :lo5l:

OSU says 3 more players took improper benefits | Comcast.net (http://xfinity.comcast.net/articles/sports-cfb/20110901/T25-Ohio.St-More.Violations/)

[stealthee]

And we wonder why Mike is so dumb.

[Mikes2nd]

yeah because OSU is reporting every single thing... other teams ignore this crap... please.

Texas is having to defend itself? That looks petty and pointless... seriously

Texas: Aggies had chance to partner in network - College Football - Rivals.com (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/news?slug=ap-big12-texassquabble)

You talked about inviting them 4 years ago, they said "hey lets talk" a year ago and you said F off, A&M... and you want to defend(first of all whats the point) your self for being the cause of the death of the big 12? Meanwhile nebraska is making double the money in the big 10... so much for "sharing" in the big 12...

Oklahoma and Ok state are looking... its over...

mean while wisconson beats up on poor old unlv

[HilbillyHomeboy]

Oklahoma*leaving Big 12 too? Sooners say they'll decide soon - NCAA Football - SI.com (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/football/ncaa/09/02/oklahoma.realignment.ap/)



NORMAN, Okla. (AP) -- University of Oklahoma president David Boren says multiple conferences have shown interest in the Sooners recently and he expects to decide whether to leave the Big 12 or not within the next three weeks.

[Mikes2nd]

yeah stoops is already "remembering the good old days"... dreaming of the 10 team automatic bid conference...

Dave Sittler: Bob Stoops pondering life without a Big 12 | Tulsa World (http://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/article.aspx?subjectid=202&articleid=20110831_202_B1_NORMAN365879)

you big 12 teams, thank TEXAS for destroying your automatic bid conference GUYS! What a bunch of greedy dumb dummies!!! Thanks guys!! :)

baylor beats up little sisters of the poor TCU... Whats with all the TCU fans doing "double quotes" :) has to one of the gayest finger football signs.

All the "christians" were going "SHIT!" when the cameras panned to them, hah.

so much for that "preseason" ranking.

[onebadmollafolla]

Auburn is losing to Utah State currently...

[Echo419]

Auburn is losing to Utah State currently...

SURRENDER DAMN PIGEON!!!!!!!!! Lol!

[Mikes2nd]

SURRENDER DAMN PIGEON!!!!!!!!! Lol!

auburns back to being auburn...

brian kelly is back to sceaming at his players... rofl way to coach.

I'm sure screaming at them like a raving maniac is helping.

I will laugh if ND loses right out of the gate... Michigans not a threat their defense is still horrible... They can't even line up correctly...

[Echo419]

auburns back to being auburn...

brian kelly is back to sceaming at his players... rofl way to coach.

I'm sure screaming at them like a raving maniac is helping.

I will laugh if ND loses right out of the gate... Michigans not a threat their defense is still horrible... They can't even line up correctly...
damn, auburn won on the scoreboard but they might as well have list imo.

Then ND takes it to the goal line and my dog wants to go out so I figure it was a gimme given a 1st and 10. But when I return 0. Now a bubbled point USF recovers. This is comedy gold

[AdamVR4]

TCU vs Baylor was one of the best games I've ever seen... I'm so glad I recorded it and watched it this morning. Robert Griffin III absolutely torched TCU with the deep ball.

Per Barking Carnival's Baylor preview, this wasn't much of a surprise:


Griffin III tallied a gaudy stat line of 3501 passing and 635 rushing yards, with 67% completion for a total of 30 TDs / 8 INTs. I hate the overrated/underrated arguments but I’ll indulge it here – I think Griffin’s legs are generally overrated and his arm is usually underrated. Granted, he runs like a gazelle in Nikes, but he is different on the ground than say Pat White. Conversely, He throws a perfect deep ball and makes good decisions under pressure in the pocket. Perhaps his most impressive stat: RGIII had ten TDs on the year on passing plays over 40 yards and five over 60 yards.

Just an amazingly fun game to watch with like 8 or 9 lead changes.

And mike finally made my ignore list. He's either brain dead or a troll and I'm just not going to put up with it this season.

[Mikes2nd]

winning!

why can't i be both?


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzhnMiB_Dro

[BigTyla]

Everybody got trolled by Auburn today. This has been the most hilarious opening week in a long time.

[Mikes2nd]

Rice is moving the ball on Texas...

Indiana choked... wow... ND goes down... Boise is beating Georgia... LSU/Oregon is a battle.

the sun belt division is everyones byatch...

usc sqeaks by minnesota??? hah

[Echo419]

Richt has to go.

[Telionis]

Richt has to go.

Welcome to the club. -Oklahoma, Oregon & Virginia Tech

[BigTyla]

Richt has to go.

If he doesn't win the East, he will be gone.

[AdamVR4]

Richt has to go.

Heh, I'm really glad we took their (Boise's) offensive coordinator.

Texas started extremely vanilla, and the game stayed close deep into the 3rd. As expected, David Ash came in briefly on several critical drives and we used him to run a spread option offense. For the first time ever, we managed to successfully run wildcat (in the red zone). We found a way to get the ball into the hands of our fastest player (DJ Monroe, who spent all of last year on the sidelines due to OC incompetence) on fly sweeps, spread option runs, and true screens. Jaxon Shipley had a great TD catch on a double-reverse WR pass (John Harris, FR) ... Malcolm Brown our bad ass FR RB went 16-86 (5.4/carry). Garrett had a very solid game - 13/23, 239, TD ... He threw 2 perfect deep balls for big gains and 2 others that were extremely close. He had one totally bone-headed play where he tried to lateral a ball when he was getting sacked.

All in all, I'm really pleased with everything I saw. There are freshman play makers everywhere, particularly on offense, and the offense is no longer 1 dimensional. You can prepare to stop certain parts of the offense, but you can't stop all of it and our OC, finally, knows what the fuck he is doing. The red zone use of the wildcat, the Ash-package, the trick plays -- it all takes the pressure off Gilbert. After a slow start, they put up 506 yards of offense against a Rice squad that is much better than they were at this time last year.

[stealthee]

WVU plays Marshall today in the annual rivalry game. We'll see how the offense takes to the "new" style. Defense scares me though because we lost so much after last year.

[AdamVR4]

Mizzou is beginning their own network using the LHN as a model.

Missouri Tigers to roll out Internet-based school network - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/college-sports/story/_/id/6930781/missouri-tigers-roll-internet-based-school-network)


Missouri is the latest Big 12 member to join the digital realm, alongside Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas State. The Mizzou Network will be an Internet-based channel with live, multi-camera broadcasts of the school's Olympic sports along with behind-the-scenes glimpses into previously off-limits activities such as football practices or basketball locker rooms. The network will carry applications for smart phones, tablet computers and Internet-capable TV.

The channel will roll out on Dec. 1

Perhaps it's looking more likely that the B12 will survive and be the school network friendly conference.

[Mikes2nd]

good luck with that b12(Big 9, 8 , 7....) thing surviving...

[Danube_3KGT]

Good week for me, all of Oklahomas teams won, not that they played anyone tough, LSU got their win.. If only ND would have won it would have been an awesome week

[stealthee]

I saw what I saw in the WVU game. The delays and eventual truncation of the game made it hard to really see how the team will do under Holgorsen's new look offense. Geno Smith started to show some signs of life. The running game left a little to be desired. They kept going for the inside runs and Marshall's D line kept stuffing it. West Virginia's D looked okay other than over persuing on the delayed handoffs allowing Marshall's running backs to get 20 yards at a time.

Next week won't really show me much either as they are playing more of the "warm up" game the second week in. I have hope for a decent season, I just hope I am not disappointed.

[BigTyla]

Good week for me, all of Oklahomas teams won, not that they played anyone tough, LSU got their win.. If only ND would have won it would have been an awesome week

On the contrary; ND's loss just sealed the awesomeness of this first week of football.

[stealthee]

On the contrary; ND's loss just sealed the awesomeness of this first week of football.

I have to agree with that. I don't even necessarily hate ND, I just hate the fact that people (read: the media) think since they were great long ago that they will be great this year and overrate them.

[Mikes2nd]

On the contrary; ND's loss just sealed the awesomeness of this first week of football.

I just love to see Brian Kelly blow a gasket screaming and all red faced and the poor qb who just threw an INT looks like "oh no I have to listen to this ahole yell at me" as he comes off the field... Its just classic.

I would fire this guy on the spot.... ND has stooped to a new low hiring this moron... He drops "ARE YOU FING! KIDDING ME!!!!" like 100 times that game... I mean as a recruit I would be like "heck yeah I want yelled and spit on!"...

Once he is done yelling at the reciever he goes and yells at the QB...

VIDEO: Brian Kelly's Team Hates Him, Causes His Face To Become A Volcano - From Our Editors - SBNation.com (http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-football/2011/9/3/2403376/notre-dame-vs-usf-brian-kelly-angry-video)

He reminds me of a middle aged dike gym teacher...

the Rice band F'ing with Texas at halftime was funny...

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/704679/21xqh.jpg

[stealthee]

I'd rather have a caoch that gets fired up, red-faced, and spits fire and venom than have Mr Rogers.

[Mikes2nd]

I'd rather have a caoch that gets fired up, red-faced, and spits fire and venom than have Mr Rogers.

Id rather have one that acts like an adult, one who can remain calm and supports his players... one who doesn't bellittle them in front of millions.

Tressel punks the nfl "suspension" game... gets his buddy to hire him for a schlub job so he can serve his suspension :)

Ex-Ohio State Buckeyes coach Jim Tressel won't start Indianapolis Colts job until seventh game - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/6932597/ex-ohio-state-buckeyes-coach-jim-tressel-start-indianapolis-colts-job-seventh-game)

[Telionis]

Is there any safe and legal way to place bets online today? There is no way Stanford will not cover the 22 point spread over Duke.

[Mikes2nd]

Ive never actually bet but I know people who have. I know the govt hates it but

Offshore Betting - A Guide to betting offshore (http://www.docsports.com/offshore-betting.html)

NCAA College Football Betting and NCAA Odds at Bodog Sportsbook (http://sports.bodog.eu/sports-betting/ncaa-college-football.jsp)

the banks make it hard to play but the big sites handle it pretty well.

http://vegasclick.com/online/legal.html

[BigTyla]

Is there any safe and legal way to place bets online today? There is no way Stanford will not cover the 22 point spread over Duke.

Especially after getting beat by Richmond. SMH.

If you're betting by last week's performances you might want to bet on the Miss St at Auburn game as well. Miss St is only favored by a touchdown right now.

[TonyM]

Some good games this weekend. TCU/Baylor was awesome, as was the Auburn/Utah St game.

Glad my boys in maize and blue pulled it out. They looked a bit shaky at first and the defense wasn't solid at stopping the oppostion's offensive progress, but they forced turnovers and returned them for TDs so I'll take that any day. Denard Robinson looks potent in the new system, I like it.

[AdamVR4]

Tyla, what's your season out look? 8-4? 7-5? 6-6 or worse?

[Mikes2nd]

Lou Holtz is getting crazier... Mark May got his panties in a bunch and didnt respond :)


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZU9oBJrAmc0&feature=related

[HilbillyHomeboy]

The only person that came out of that looking stupid was May. Holtz owned him.

Jeremy

[Mikes2nd]

May got owned, not saying that Lou did, May was way overplaying his "bad OSU cop" and Lou called him on it :)

According to the typical script though Lou isn't supposed to call him an idiot(thusly him getting crazier), I think Mark got flustered and was like hey thats not on the script!

[HilbillyHomeboy]

It's an old saying that Lou twisted slightly, which is typical Lou Holtz comedy. Funny, yep. Crazy, nah.

As much crap as May gives Holtz, it's nice to see him get in a solid jab.

Jeremy

[BigTyla]

Tyla, what's your season out look? 8-4? 7-5? 6-6 or worse?

Before the season began I though 8 wins was realistic. I said that we would lose a couple of games we should win due to our lack of experience but probably win a couple of games we should lose due to our talent. Last Saturday's game seems to be an indication that my comments on our inconsistency were correct. Winning a close game against Utah St (and having to get a little luck to do it) is certainly troubling as is our lack of rushing yards, but I think we ought to be able to rebound and at least be bowl eligible this season.

Even with Cam gone, teams will still be stacking the box like Utah State did. We've always been a run first team with Malzahn and teams are now daring us to pass. I expect us to see a lot more passing from Trotter against Miss St. They're going to have to put their trust in him to pass the ball if we're going to succeed in the SEC. I thought he did a great job against Utah State. No turnovers was a huge plus for us. One turnover and we would have lost that game.

Our defense is terrible. Lots of new guys in there playing their first game but that's still no excuse for giving up almost 500 yards against Utah State. I honestly cannot recall a more embarassing defensive perfomance from ANY Auburn team.

[Mikes2nd]

yeah you guys were looking "michiganesce"... :)

[TonyM]

yeah you guys were looking "michiganesce"... :)

Yeah, because beating up on Akron is definitely a sign that your team is back to prominence, hahahaha . . .

By the way, how are those Indians doing? My Tigs are mopping the floor with them . . .

[Mikes2nd]

methinks I do'th struck a nerve... :) Akron was a "scrimmage practice" and Utah isn't going to any national championships real soon either...

Indians/Smindians.... Tigers nor Indians are going anywhere this year...

[AdamVR4]

So Baylor (and the rest of the B12 basically) has refused to waive their rights to sue over A&M leaving the conference they committed to just a few months ago. Why should they? Baylor (as well as K-State and Iowa State) stands to lose a HUGE amount of money and prestige if the B12 collapses. It's the responsibility of the heads of those universities to do everything they can to prevent A&M from leaving.

Hilarious... A&M has absolutely no control over where it ends up at this point.

http://i54.tinypic.com/15roc39.gif

[HilbillyHomeboy]

From what I've read (on espn.com as of late last night) the "(and the rest of the B12 basically)", is everyone BUT Oklahoma.

In any event, hurry the hell up, I'm tired of all this rumor of WV to the SEC. If they take aTm, they'll have to take another according to ncaa bylaws for a round robin conference championship. I'm happy where we are, but I'm positive we would leap at the chance for a SEC invite. I would not be mad, bro.

Jeremy

[HilbillyHomeboy]

Baylor Bears won't budge on waiving legal rights until Oklahoma Sooners decide on future, source says - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/college-sports/story/_/id/6944518/baylor-bears-budge-waiving-legal-rights-oklahoma-sooners-decide-future-source-says)


Meanwhile, Texas and Texas Tech made clear Thursday that each has waived its legal right to sue the SEC and Texas A&M over the Aggies' pending departure, per the SEC's request. Oklahoma and Oklahoma State have waived their rights as well.

An Oklahoma State official said the school "has no intention of suing the SEC or A&M."

"Speculative reports using unnamed sources implying Oklahoma State University would join others in a lawsuit against the SEC and Texas A&M were incorrect," said director of communications Gary Shutt.

On the other side, Kansas associate athletic director Jim Marchiony told ESPN.com that Kansas hasn't waived its rights to sue. Iowa State has not waived it's rights either.

"We are not aware of any SEC demand directed at Iowa State University," Iowa State spokesman John McCarroll said.

So much rumor talk right now...confusing as hell.

I don't blame Baylor, and the other small fish for raising hell. They stand to lose a lot. The thing I keep coming back to is it really makes it look like the SEC is meh about aTm. Basically, we'll take you, but only on this condition and we won't do squat to help you. If you can't get it done, that's not our fault(save face).

Jeremy

[Mikes2nd]

oh yeah... well this isnt rumor...


Earlier this evening, Notre Dame and Texas jointly presented the Big Ten Conference with their proposed terms of entry into the conference. These terms resulted from lengthy discussions among both schools and the Big Ten over the past several months.

The major items include:
1. The preservation of an eight game (plus championship) conference football schedule. Both ND and Texas wish to preserve rivalries with non-Big Ten universities on a regular basis. This would require the Big Ten to abandon its current plans of a 9 game conference schedule.
2. The staggering of the schedule to allow for mid-season scheduling with non-conference football opponents.
3. The preservation of the status quo conference makeup until approximately 2014, unless the Big XII fails to retain key (NOT including A&M) conference members. This will provide the member schools, acting in unison, with the greatest leverage negotiating ongoing television contracts, particularly with ESPN.
4. Should Texas depart the conference for the Big Ten before ND due to the further disintegration of the Big XII, ND will remain independent until approximately 2014
5. The Longhorn Network would remain independent until approximately 2014, at which point the network would become a part of an expanded Big Ten Network (specifically referred to as "BTN2"), likely either in partnership with Fox, NBC, or less likely ABC

The Big Ten just wrapped up a meeting to initially consider all of the terms presented by the schools, including the aforementioned.

Notably, there is a general discontent with the reporting of the situation by ESPN with specific regard to Texas. ESPN has, for self-serving purposes, drastically exaggerated the lean of Texas to the Pac12 conference in nearly all commentary. ESPN has essentially waged a propaganda campaign to drive support among the Texas stakeholders to the Pac12 conference. ESPN has gone so far as to attempt to accelerate the disintegration of the Big XII to pressure Texas into making an immediate conference change decision. Texas has steadfastly resisted change, and will do so until the appropriate time occurs for Texas to stand in a strong position to renegotiate television contracts, including with ESPN.

In reality, the preference expressed by Texas' relevant leadership is to depart the Big XII for the Big Ten at the time that gives Texas the greatest leverage in negotiating a new television rights deal. The Big Ten and Texas agreed that Texas should do what is best for Texas, which they also both agree is a move by Texas to join the Big Ten Conference. Delaney's top priority has been to create an environment for Texas and Notre Dame to join the conference on mutually benefical terms.

Notre Dame has an interest in preserving its traditional rivalries, three of which occur already in the Big Ten, and creating a new national rivalry with a traditional powerhouse. The Big Ten believes that ND prefers independence, but realizes that it will soon have no choice but to join a conference. The Big Ten also believes that ND is trying to position itself so that if it must join a conference, it does so on the most favorable terms possible. Hence the return to the 8 game schedule and a protected game with national power Texas. The Big Ten will attempt to create a mutually beneficial environment for ND that allows it to preserve a great deal of independence to retain all its traditional rivalries within the conference context.

The initial mood at the Big Ten to the terms provided by the two schools is "receptive."

http://p.twimg.com/AY19qsbCEAAFGm5.png

[AdamVR4]

Baylor Bears won't budge on waiving legal rights until Oklahoma Sooners decide on future, source says - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/college-sports/story/_/id/6944518/baylor-bears-budge-waiving-legal-rights-oklahoma-sooners-decide-future-source-says)



So much rumor talk right now...confusing as hell.

I don't blame Baylor, and the other small fish for raising hell. They stand to lose a lot. The thing I keep coming back to is it really makes it look like the SEC is meh about aTm. Basically, we'll take you, but only on this condition and we won't do squat to help you. If you can't get it done, that's not our fault(save face).

Jeremy


Exactly. The SEC wants Texas in their already rich recruiting territory in order to strength their MNC monopoly, but they don't need it.

The funniest thing about this whole situation to me is that there's nothing preventing every team in the SEC from launching their own "LHN" to show case their schools and broadcast 1-2 games a season.

And just for lulz, I've got NCAA 2012 for the xbox and in my 2nd season, I threw A&M and Mizzou into the SEC. They combined to go 1-15 (or was it 1-17?) in conference play.

[HilbillyHomeboy]

Post your source, Mike. I don't see anything about that, anywhere.

Jeremy

[Mikes2nd]

speculation, but it all over the boards... wierd actually. its on bleacher they are talking about the postings. I think its funny but theres been some "anti tweets"

but I would have to think other teams are shoring up their options due to A&M leaving(one way or another)... It up to oklahoma and I'm sure they are not sitting on their hands(they are probably on the phone right now)

[stealthee]

So basically you are saying its some blogger with no credibility? Yep, that doesn't sound like a rumor at all.

[Mikes2nd]

Some signs point to yes for Notre Dame and Texas to the Big Ten. Some also point to no. - Corn Nation (http://www.cornnation.com/2011/9/8/2412627/some-signs-point-to-yes-for-notre-dame-and-texas-to-the-big-ten-some)

like i said if you dont think other teams aren't checking out their options, your nuts...

[AdamVR4]

Just wanna thank you guys for not quoting him. Much appreciated :)

[Mikes2nd]

God is punishing Texas for Bush/Perry and the Longhorns for their greed :)

[Echo419]

God is punishing Texas for Bush/Perry and the Longhorns for their greed :)

makes sense. since clearly the same holds true for the Cubs and Bears sucking because of B.O.

[AdamVR4]

I just want to point out that half way through the 3rd quarter, Toledo is beating Ohio State 22-21.

Iowa State is giving Iowa a fight, down 10-13 with 5 to go in the 3rd.

[AdamVR4]

Great game, great win in triple OT for Iowa State and the B12 :)

[Mikes2nd]

I just want to point out that half way through the 3rd quarter, Toledo is beating Ohio State 22-21.

Iowa State is giving Iowa a fight, down 10-13 with 5 to go in the 3rd.

meh i want pryor back, or play Braxton miller... our qb sucks... wisconson game is going to be scary plus two great players got carted off today...

[DK77]

I hope Texas doesn't join the Big 10.

[Mikes2nd]

why not?

[AdamVR4]

Alabama is making Penn State look really bad. Wisconsin appears to be the best team in the B10 by a wide margin.

[Echo419]

Richt is as good as fired now. no way in hell any other coach in the confrence could get this many top prospects to consistently under perform like this. 1-10 against his last 11 ranked opponents. Saban, Miles, Meyer would have gone undefeated the last 6 years at least with these players. I'm fed up

[BigTyla]

Auburn just keeps winning and making a lot of people look very dumb.

ThUGA sucks. Richt is gone for sure.

McCoy-Shipley 2.0 looks impressive. Little Shipley is a beast in the making.

Mike Dyer is the most underrated player in college football.

[Mikes2nd]

hah the Michigan/ND was entertaining at least. Neither one has a pass defense...

I dunno Brian Kelly wasnt screaming like a madman... I was flip flopping over which was better; watching him go insane over a loss vs 100k crying michigan fans...

Brady hoke has giant fatballs for earlobes... Texas game wow... Gilbert is horrible, but he was SOOO bad you stuck in another guy.

Penn State needs a real QB... Ohio State I wish would go with their new QB but we are going to have to lose games with the current sucky qb until the coaches hand is forced ...
The new guy (Braxton should be getting the experience, not our current scrub Joe...).

ND needs a real qb also. Just a ton of horrible QB's from what I see.... Yes Georgia is officially cooked. USC almost loses to Utah?

[HilbillyHomeboy]

The slow starts are going to catch up to WV. We've got @ Maryland this week, and LSU @ home the next week. We play like we have been and we're going to get our asses handed to us by both of them. Hopefully getting to play a whole game was what we needed.

Jeremy

[AdamVR4]

McCoy-Shipley 2.0 looks impressive. Little Shipley is a beast in the making.

Agreed. I expect McCoy to start the next game and have Ash come off the bench as the change of pace QB (we will continue to groom him because he likely has higher upside than McCoy 2.0).

I'm loving all of our young talent, but I'm most pleased by the fact that Mack Brown appears to be letting Harsin and Applewhite make the personnel choices on O. If Greg Davis were our coach, Garrett Gilbert would have stayed out there after the 2nd terrible INT and we would have abandoned the running game. We would have lost 45-17 or so.

It was a great manufactured win over a really tough BYU squad. Next week, @ UCLA to see if we can stop the run :)

[TonyM]

Wow at this Saturday's games, just awesome.

-Toledo really had me excited for a bit, unfortunate they couldn't pull it out, but oh well.
-Texas' play calling had me irate at my TV. Why did the continue to have Gilbert throw bombs into double coverage time and again? Ash is awesome and should get the nod. Although I do like Case McCoy, it'd be good to see Texas develop a true freshman.

-And for the icing on Saturday's cake - Michigan - ND was just ridiculous. I don't think I've ever gone from emotional highs to lows and back and forth in such a short period of time. 21 points scored in 72 seconds (could have been 27 if we would've gotten the ball settled in the end zone on the kickoff, just for good measure). Awesome game, worthy of 114k attendance. Denard's accuracy needs to improve, our defense really came alive in the 2nd half but we need to not let teams jump out 14 points in the 1st.

All in all, great weekend to be a Michigan sports fan (UM, Lions, Tigers all dominant).

[AdamVR4]

-Texas' play calling had me irate at my TV. Why did the continue to have Gilbert throw bombs into double coverage time and again?

...What? GG threw 1 deep ball into double coverage -- It was his 2nd pick, but the 1st pick was ~8 yards from the LoS. He was immediately yanked after having thrown only 8 passes.



Ash is awesome and should get the nod. Although I do like Case McCoy, it'd be good to see Texas develop a true freshman.

While I agree that Ash is awesome, what he showed against BYU was toughness and leadership, not necessarily a great passing ability (26 of his 35 passing yards came on a screen to DJ Monroe that was very nearly picked). You start McCoy and let him manage the game while continuing to expand Ash's package of plays. GG comes in during mop-up.

[TonyM]

...What? GG threw 1 deep ball into double coverage -- It was his 2nd pick, but the 1st pick was ~8 yards from the LoS. He was immediately yanked after having thrown only 8 passes.

As he should've been, two picks in 8 passes is god awful. My beef with the play calling was a couple mid-long range pass attempts when they were not needed, especially given Gilbert's poor accuracy. And don't worry, I had the same beef with Borges for calling a 30-yd pass play for us with 4:30 to go when all we needed was a FG to tie. 30-yd endzone pass resulted in a pick, poor choice of play given Denard's poor accuracy.


While I agree that Ash is awesome, what he showed against BYU was toughness and leadership, not necessarily a great passing ability (26 of his 35 passing yards came on a screen to DJ Monroe that was very nearly picked). You start McCoy and let him manage the game while continuing to expand Ash's package of plays. GG comes in during mop-up.

Case hooked up on some nice passes as well so it's a wash to me. I'd let either Case or Ash start, anybody but Gilbert, he sucks. Reminds me of the Tate Forcier boondoggle we dealt with a couple years ago.

[AdamVR4]

As he should've been, two picks in 8 passes is god awful. My beef with the play calling was a couple mid-long range pass attempts when they were not needed, especially given Gilbert's poor accuracy. And don't worry, I had the same beef with Borges for calling a 30-yd pass play for us with 4:30 to go when all we needed was a FG to tie. 30-yd endzone pass resulted in a pick, poor choice of play given Denard's poor accuracy.

Case hooked up on some nice passes as well so it's a wash to me. I'd let either Case or Ash start, anybody but Gilbert, he sucks. Reminds me of the Tate Forcier boondoggle we dealt with a couple years ago.

Gilbert just makes poor decisions and collapsed under the pressure. I would expect him to transfer ASAP and he may have a helluva senior season for some smaller school. I feel bad for the guy being booed -- perhaps some of that was due to the coaching decisions with him last year. Either way, I wish him the best.

And for the record, I have the utmost confidence in Harsin's play calling. Dude is a genius.

[AdamVR4]

Here's a great break down of what GG was seeing and doing... Just not seeing open receivers. The decision to throw the deep ball to Darius White was OK (I'd forgotten about this play), but the throw was poor.

BYU was a good test for our offense (pics included) (http://www.shaggybevo.com/board/showthread.php/96678-BYU-was-a-good-test-for-our-offense-(pics-included))

*edit* Loving this pic of Malcolm Brown :)

http://alt.coxnewsweb.com/cnishared/tools/shared/mediahub/05/22/00/slideshow_1002258719_rgz_UT_BYU_16.jpg

[AdamVR4]

Pretty much sums it up for UGA, huh?

http://www.abload.de/img/woofwoofx88p.gif

[Alan92RTTT]

MI still has issue so far this year. But damn the last half was fun to watch.