Thursday, December 23, 2004
Majerus and Utah Hoop schedule
Friday, December 17, 2004
Dec 17, 2004 : Sports Mumblings...
Sports Mumbling....
Rick Majerus.....the former University of Utah basketball coach, will be the next coach at USC. Apparently he is going to finish the year at ESPN and then coach the Trojans next year. I cannot pretend to be neutral on this issue. I think its great news and I'm one of those people who thinks college basketball is better with Rick involved. I hope Rick is healthy, as it was his health that led to the decision to leave Utah last season. Knowing how much he loves the game, I understand why he couldn't stay away. Hopefully his body will hold out and allow him to do what he loves. Good luck Rick! And for those of you wondering....Yes Majerus has continued his trend of living in hotels since leaving Salt Lake City. Gotta love never having to make your bed or mow your lawn. Majerus has recently stated an intent to get a house in the coming year and finally unpack that suitcase. We'll see.
The Jazz.... are struggling and Wednesday's loss in Phoenix dropped them to 10-13 with four more road games before Christmas. Being young, injured, and playing in the difficult Western Conference is proving to be a brutal combination. Coach Sloan won't let them quit, and will make them better as they go along. Hopefully they get healthy and begin to gel before they lose sight of the playoff chase.
Sloan still in charge.... In Tuesday nights game, Jazz PG Carlos Arroyo and coach Sloan had a few words. Carlos spoke back just a bit too much. Result? Arroyo spent the rest of the game on the bench and didn't start tonight. Because of injury, the Jazz needed Arroyo and allowed him to start the 2nd half. Sloan doesn't carry grudges and will allow guys to get out of his dog house, but at the same time will leave zero doubt about who is in charge and where respect is warranted. I believe Carlos is getting impatient and isn't personally happy with how he is playing and I think its boiling over. I think everyone, including Arroyo, expected bigger and better things from this season, given the strong showing he had in the Olympics.
How do I say this nicely......Kobe you need to be quiet! Kobe might be playing well, but who really knows. Seriously, I have no idea what he is doing on the court. I do know 'in court' Kobe is just getting over the whole rape charge situation. I do know there are rumors that in the GM's office 'near the court' Kobe made sure his star was the brightest one on the team and ran Phil Jackson and Shaquille O'Neal out of town. Now on Kobe's 'home court' he is creating a big Karl Malone controversy over some alleged comments between Karl and Mrs. Bryant. Did Karl say something to Kobe's wife that he didn't like? Who knows? Who cares? Only Kobe would let this turn into national news. She is only like 19 or 20 years old and is undoubtedly getting more than she bargained for when married the Laker Superstar. This is the same Karl Malone that stood by the accused rapist last year when many people wouldn't. I guess we should be glad that Kobe is actually paying some attention to his wife? More news today was that Kobe wants to apologize to Shaq. Uhh...Kobe, call him. This doesn't belong in the news, so please spare us of the soap opera for once.
Payton Manning might....... be the only player ever to be better in real life than he is on a video game. He is certain to break Marino's record for most TDs in a season in the next week or two. While Marino was known for TDs, Isotoner gloves, and for being the best QB without a Superbowl Ring, heres hoping that Payton gets a shot to wear the ring instead of just the Isotoners.
Rick Majerus.....the former University of Utah basketball coach, will be the next coach at USC. Apparently he is going to finish the year at ESPN and then coach the Trojans next year. I cannot pretend to be neutral on this issue. I think its great news and I'm one of those people who thinks college basketball is better with Rick involved. I hope Rick is healthy, as it was his health that led to the decision to leave Utah last season. Knowing how much he loves the game, I understand why he couldn't stay away. Hopefully his body will hold out and allow him to do what he loves. Good luck Rick! And for those of you wondering....Yes Majerus has continued his trend of living in hotels since leaving Salt Lake City. Gotta love never having to make your bed or mow your lawn. Majerus has recently stated an intent to get a house in the coming year and finally unpack that suitcase. We'll see.
The Jazz.... are struggling and Wednesday's loss in Phoenix dropped them to 10-13 with four more road games before Christmas. Being young, injured, and playing in the difficult Western Conference is proving to be a brutal combination. Coach Sloan won't let them quit, and will make them better as they go along. Hopefully they get healthy and begin to gel before they lose sight of the playoff chase.
Sloan still in charge.... In Tuesday nights game, Jazz PG Carlos Arroyo and coach Sloan had a few words. Carlos spoke back just a bit too much. Result? Arroyo spent the rest of the game on the bench and didn't start tonight. Because of injury, the Jazz needed Arroyo and allowed him to start the 2nd half. Sloan doesn't carry grudges and will allow guys to get out of his dog house, but at the same time will leave zero doubt about who is in charge and where respect is warranted. I believe Carlos is getting impatient and isn't personally happy with how he is playing and I think its boiling over. I think everyone, including Arroyo, expected bigger and better things from this season, given the strong showing he had in the Olympics.
How do I say this nicely......Kobe you need to be quiet! Kobe might be playing well, but who really knows. Seriously, I have no idea what he is doing on the court. I do know 'in court' Kobe is just getting over the whole rape charge situation. I do know there are rumors that in the GM's office 'near the court' Kobe made sure his star was the brightest one on the team and ran Phil Jackson and Shaquille O'Neal out of town. Now on Kobe's 'home court' he is creating a big Karl Malone controversy over some alleged comments between Karl and Mrs. Bryant. Did Karl say something to Kobe's wife that he didn't like? Who knows? Who cares? Only Kobe would let this turn into national news. She is only like 19 or 20 years old and is undoubtedly getting more than she bargained for when married the Laker Superstar. This is the same Karl Malone that stood by the accused rapist last year when many people wouldn't. I guess we should be glad that Kobe is actually paying some attention to his wife? More news today was that Kobe wants to apologize to Shaq. Uhh...Kobe, call him. This doesn't belong in the news, so please spare us of the soap opera for once.
Payton Manning might....... be the only player ever to be better in real life than he is on a video game. He is certain to break Marino's record for most TDs in a season in the next week or two. While Marino was known for TDs, Isotoner gloves, and for being the best QB without a Superbowl Ring, heres hoping that Payton gets a shot to wear the ring instead of just the Isotoners.
Thursday, December 16, 2004
More Honored Utes
More honors for those Utes!
Utah QB, Alex Smith, finished 4th in the Heisman voting and was named to the 2nd team AP All American team. Who woulda thunk it when the season first started? I'm not sure how I have the nerve to complain, but I don't get Matt Leinart being ahead of Alex Smith. In fact, when USC named their own MVP it wasn't even Leinart, but teammate Reggie Bush getting the honor (click for story). I think Leinart was voted by default. If I am Joe Average...urr, I mean Joe Wayaboveaverage with my Heisman vote, here is how I would of landed on Leinart:
"Hmm, Jason White is good, but he won last year and no way is he worth two in a row and being in the same company as Archie Griffin. Adrian Peterson is a freshman so he has to wait. Alex Smith, well I hear he is awesome and I like that cool red helmet, but I've never seen him play and besides his team is stealing some BCS money from 'our fraternal order of big schools'. Reggie Bush barely had more rushing yards than that Smith kid who is a QB. If Bush was so fast and so great why didn't he get the ball more? Okay, who is left, uhhh, yeah Leinart from USC. He is on a BCS team, has good smile for the cameras and statistics at least almost as good as White and that Smith guy."
Still, what an incredible year for Alex and a wonderful way he has been honored.
Congrats to Saftey Morgan Scalley and OL Chris Keomoeatu on joining Alex Smith on the 2nd team AP All American team. Keomoeatu will be playing on Sundays next year and Morgan should at least get a tryout. Morgan finished 3rd in the country in interceptions, scored TDs on fumble and kick returns and posted a 3.953 GPA! Alex on the other hand better stay in school. After all, he isn't done with his degree yet. Well, his MBA that is (Alex already has his under grad degree). See the complete list of AP All Americans by clicking HERE.
Even a former Ute, QB Brett Elliott, received a national honor. Brett was the quarterback who got hurt, thereby opening the door for Alex Smith, and he never got his job back. As a result he transferred to Division III Linfield College, and led them to a 12-0 record. Brett was named by the AP, to their Little All-American team for the best players in Division II, III and NAIA. You want jaw dropping? Elliott has 4,313 yards and 59 TDS, in this season alone.
Utah QB, Alex Smith, finished 4th in the Heisman voting and was named to the 2nd team AP All American team. Who woulda thunk it when the season first started? I'm not sure how I have the nerve to complain, but I don't get Matt Leinart being ahead of Alex Smith. In fact, when USC named their own MVP it wasn't even Leinart, but teammate Reggie Bush getting the honor (click for story). I think Leinart was voted by default. If I am Joe Average...urr, I mean Joe Wayaboveaverage with my Heisman vote, here is how I would of landed on Leinart:
"Hmm, Jason White is good, but he won last year and no way is he worth two in a row and being in the same company as Archie Griffin. Adrian Peterson is a freshman so he has to wait. Alex Smith, well I hear he is awesome and I like that cool red helmet, but I've never seen him play and besides his team is stealing some BCS money from 'our fraternal order of big schools'. Reggie Bush barely had more rushing yards than that Smith kid who is a QB. If Bush was so fast and so great why didn't he get the ball more? Okay, who is left, uhhh, yeah Leinart from USC. He is on a BCS team, has good smile for the cameras and statistics at least almost as good as White and that Smith guy."
Still, what an incredible year for Alex and a wonderful way he has been honored.
Congrats to Saftey Morgan Scalley and OL Chris Keomoeatu on joining Alex Smith on the 2nd team AP All American team. Keomoeatu will be playing on Sundays next year and Morgan should at least get a tryout. Morgan finished 3rd in the country in interceptions, scored TDs on fumble and kick returns and posted a 3.953 GPA! Alex on the other hand better stay in school. After all, he isn't done with his degree yet. Well, his MBA that is (Alex already has his under grad degree). See the complete list of AP All Americans by clicking HERE.
Even a former Ute, QB Brett Elliott, received a national honor. Brett was the quarterback who got hurt, thereby opening the door for Alex Smith, and he never got his job back. As a result he transferred to Division III Linfield College, and led them to a 12-0 record. Brett was named by the AP, to their Little All-American team for the best players in Division II, III and NAIA. You want jaw dropping? Elliott has 4,313 yards and 59 TDS, in this season alone.
Friday, December 10, 2004
Heisman Trophy: Comparing the QBs
Heisman Trophy: Comparing the QBs and a compelling case for Alex Smith.
Focusing my review on the three QBs: Alex Smith of Utah, Matt Leinart of USC, and Jason White of Oklahoma.
Two Arguments that offset in my opinion:
Level of competition. Its hard to argue against this other than Alex shined against the two toughest teams the Utes played (North Carolina and Texas A&M). He didn’t even play a complete game against either team because the Utes were throttling each opponent.
Supporting Cast. Both White and Leinart have other first team All-American’s (based upon the Sporting News) and even Heisman finalists on their teams in Adrian Peterson and Reggie Bush. In fact depending who you talk to, Peterson and Bush can be argued to be more valueable to their respective teams. Alex carried the load and was the featured guy to stop against every opponent.
I hearby call the two items, Level of Competition and Supporting Cast as a wash.
Looking at the Statistical Argument, it isn’t very close:
QB Rating;
Smith 174.9
White 162.9
Leinart 154.5
TDs:
White 33
Smith 28
Leinart 28
NOTE: Alex only played 11 games, while White and Leinart both played 12.
TDs per Pass Attempt:
Smith 10.0
White 10.7
Leinart 13.46
Yard per Pass Attempt:
Smith 9.4
White 8.4
Leinart 7.9
Interceptions:
Smith 4
White 6
Leinart 6
Rushing Yards:
Smith 562
Leinart -33
White -48
Rushing TDs:
Smith 10
Leinart 3
White 0
Total Yards
Smith 3187
Leinart 2957
White 2913
Points Accounted For per game
Smith 20.7
White 16.5
Leinart 13.46
Other points:
Leinart deserves enormous credit for directing his team to an undefeated season, while USC wore a bulls-eye as defending national champion. He is a worthy candidate, but I’d vote no higher than 3rd.
White deserves credit as being the defending Heisman trophy winner and having the pressure that goes along with those expectations. I vote him 2nd.
Smith deserves credit for directing arguably the most complex offense in the country. If people saw the Ute offense last year and this year, they would see how much better it was and how technical and diverse it was over last season. Most people assume Utah to be a wide open heavy passing team, and therefore Smith’s amazing passing statistics were generated while pummeling lower quality opponents with a relentless passing attack. Not True. However, the Utes were actually ranked higher nationally for their rushing game (9th) than their passing game (24th). Smith’s numbers were derived from a balanced attack that saw him throw many fewer passes (280) than Leinart (377) or White (354). Alex’s percentage is so high because he doesn’t throw the ball down the field like White and Leinart. Not True. As the above statistics show, Alex’s yards per attempt were actually higher than both other QBs. Lastly, the Utes were so dominating this year, that Alex rarely played the 4th quarter of his games, and therefore had little to no chance to ‘pad’ his stats.
In conclusion, Alex Smith is not the favorite to win the award and it’s really an honor for him to be a finalist and even be invited to New York. The Heisman folks probably will feel like they did a good deed to invite the guy from the smaller school to the big time party. The only problem with this view, is that it sounds remarkably similar to the BCS approach on the bowl games. They make it darn near impossible for a non BCS school to make it to the bowl games, and if they do, they get saddled with a lessor team like Pittsburgh. So like Alex, a non BCS school can sometimes crash the big party, but they can’t really take away the top honor (National Championship).
Focusing my review on the three QBs: Alex Smith of Utah, Matt Leinart of USC, and Jason White of Oklahoma.
Two Arguments that offset in my opinion:
Level of competition. Its hard to argue against this other than Alex shined against the two toughest teams the Utes played (North Carolina and Texas A&M). He didn’t even play a complete game against either team because the Utes were throttling each opponent.
Supporting Cast. Both White and Leinart have other first team All-American’s (based upon the Sporting News) and even Heisman finalists on their teams in Adrian Peterson and Reggie Bush. In fact depending who you talk to, Peterson and Bush can be argued to be more valueable to their respective teams. Alex carried the load and was the featured guy to stop against every opponent.
I hearby call the two items, Level of Competition and Supporting Cast as a wash.
Looking at the Statistical Argument, it isn’t very close:
QB Rating;
Smith 174.9
White 162.9
Leinart 154.5
TDs:
White 33
Smith 28
Leinart 28
NOTE: Alex only played 11 games, while White and Leinart both played 12.
TDs per Pass Attempt:
Smith 10.0
White 10.7
Leinart 13.46
Yard per Pass Attempt:
Smith 9.4
White 8.4
Leinart 7.9
Interceptions:
Smith 4
White 6
Leinart 6
Rushing Yards:
Smith 562
Leinart -33
White -48
Rushing TDs:
Smith 10
Leinart 3
White 0
Total Yards
Smith 3187
Leinart 2957
White 2913
Points Accounted For per game
Smith 20.7
White 16.5
Leinart 13.46
Other points:
Leinart deserves enormous credit for directing his team to an undefeated season, while USC wore a bulls-eye as defending national champion. He is a worthy candidate, but I’d vote no higher than 3rd.
White deserves credit as being the defending Heisman trophy winner and having the pressure that goes along with those expectations. I vote him 2nd.
Smith deserves credit for directing arguably the most complex offense in the country. If people saw the Ute offense last year and this year, they would see how much better it was and how technical and diverse it was over last season. Most people assume Utah to be a wide open heavy passing team, and therefore Smith’s amazing passing statistics were generated while pummeling lower quality opponents with a relentless passing attack. Not True. However, the Utes were actually ranked higher nationally for their rushing game (9th) than their passing game (24th). Smith’s numbers were derived from a balanced attack that saw him throw many fewer passes (280) than Leinart (377) or White (354). Alex’s percentage is so high because he doesn’t throw the ball down the field like White and Leinart. Not True. As the above statistics show, Alex’s yards per attempt were actually higher than both other QBs. Lastly, the Utes were so dominating this year, that Alex rarely played the 4th quarter of his games, and therefore had little to no chance to ‘pad’ his stats.
In conclusion, Alex Smith is not the favorite to win the award and it’s really an honor for him to be a finalist and even be invited to New York. The Heisman folks probably will feel like they did a good deed to invite the guy from the smaller school to the big time party. The only problem with this view, is that it sounds remarkably similar to the BCS approach on the bowl games. They make it darn near impossible for a non BCS school to make it to the bowl games, and if they do, they get saddled with a lessor team like Pittsburgh. So like Alex, a non BCS school can sometimes crash the big party, but they can’t really take away the top honor (National Championship).
Tuesday, December 07, 2004
Fiesta Time: Honoring the Utes
It's official, the Utes and their fans will be starting the New Year with a big Fiesta party on Jan 1st in Tempe, Arizona. The 5th ranked University of Utah Utes will battle the Big East Conference chamption, Pittsburgh Panthers, in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl. There will be plenty of time to break down the game in coming days, but for now, lets kicking off "Fiesta Season" by looking at a few Utes receiving national honors.
Heisman candidate? Who wins that award? The best player? The most valuable? It seems to go to the most popular player on the most popular team. If that holds true, then the USC or OU Quarterback will be given the award. Basically, the Heisman doesn't go to the best player, but much like the BCS system, rewards the top player on the highest ranked BCS team. Luckily, The Sporting News is not so influenced by such politics and has announced The Player of the Year for college football is none other than Utah's Alex Smith. Alex has the passing stats to match USC's Leinart and OU's White, but in addition he has 10 rushing TDs and over 500 rushing yards that they can't match. Like Leinart and White, Smith has led his team to an undefeated season, but he has done so without as many highly acclaimed teammates as OU and USC. Oklahoma has 5 players on the The Coach of the Year, sponsored by Home Depot, and voted by ESPN and ABC college football analysts, was given to Urban Meyer. Another honor might be forthcoming, as the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) has selected Urban as one of six finalists for the Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award that will be announced later in the month of December. Urban in only 4 years of being a head coach has always been honored among his peers. In addition to this years award, in 2001 he was Mid-American Conference Coach of the year, in 2003 and 2004 was the Mountain West Conference Coach of the year, and 2003 was the Sporting News Coach of the year. One bad thing for the Utes is that when your coach is that much ahead of his peers, he is in huge demand. Therefore, Urban has succombed to the demand, left the University of Utah, and continued his march toward National coaching greatness and has been named Head Coach of the University of Florida. Best of luck Urban. In Fiesta style, we say "Via Con Dios, Good luck, We wish you well".
Heisman candidate? Who wins that award? The best player? The most valuable? It seems to go to the most popular player on the most popular team. If that holds true, then the USC or OU Quarterback will be given the award. Basically, the Heisman doesn't go to the best player, but much like the BCS system, rewards the top player on the highest ranked BCS team. Luckily, The Sporting News is not so influenced by such politics and has announced The Player of the Year for college football is none other than Utah's Alex Smith. Alex has the passing stats to match USC's Leinart and OU's White, but in addition he has 10 rushing TDs and over 500 rushing yards that they can't match. Like Leinart and White, Smith has led his team to an undefeated season, but he has done so without as many highly acclaimed teammates as OU and USC. Oklahoma has 5 players on the The Coach of the Year, sponsored by Home Depot, and voted by ESPN and ABC college football analysts, was given to Urban Meyer. Another honor might be forthcoming, as the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) has selected Urban as one of six finalists for the Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award that will be announced later in the month of December. Urban in only 4 years of being a head coach has always been honored among his peers. In addition to this years award, in 2001 he was Mid-American Conference Coach of the year, in 2003 and 2004 was the Mountain West Conference Coach of the year, and 2003 was the Sporting News Coach of the year. One bad thing for the Utes is that when your coach is that much ahead of his peers, he is in huge demand. Therefore, Urban has succombed to the demand, left the University of Utah, and continued his march toward National coaching greatness and has been named Head Coach of the University of Florida. Best of luck Urban. In Fiesta style, we say "Via Con Dios, Good luck, We wish you well".
Friday, December 03, 2004
Urban's Dad confirms Florida Decision
Urban Meyer's father, Bud, confirmed today that his son had decided to accept the position of head coach at the University of Florida. This was reported by Mark Long, AP Sports writer and posted on yahoo sports. The article also states that Meyer has called a team meeting for 7am Saturday, December 4th, and will meet with the media at 10:00 am.
Here is the article: Meyer to Florida
Sunday the BCS will hand out party invitations!!
Here is the article: Meyer to Florida
Sunday the BCS will hand out party invitations!!
Urban-gate Update - Bitten by Gators
ESPN is reporting that Urban Meyer is the next head coach for the University of Florida. Well I've been bitten hard by Gator I thought was sleeping. I was completely convinced Notre Dame was his choice and Florida was just a good school making a valiant effort at a worthwhile coach. Among my thoughts...
- My ND source, The Backer, I still believe to have good info. But I think given the parties involved, and the fact that there were two big players in this mess, besides the Notre Dame, who were not showing there cards. The ND source, like the University itself, was convinced Meyer was theirs. Urban Meyer was out to get the best deal and best situation and therefore not leaking or leaning any direction publicly. Florida had the capital and the position to compete and aggressively did so. Thanks for all the info Backer, I'm not disappointed to have run with it.
- The hard reality of the Florida decision is not fun. When we thought Urban going to ND, it was sad, but understood. After all, it was his dream job and people in Utah could classify it as that, rather than we got stepped over purely for a bigger school with more money. Urban going to Florida is simply that: Bigger football school, BCS school, More money. Its obvious, but its much less fun and less sentimental.
- The amazing Bernie does it again. The President of the University of Florida is Dr. Bernie Machen, who was the University of Utah President at the time Urban was hired by Utah. Bernie's relationship was obviously a big thing in this decision. Apparently even bigger than Meyer's relationship with Notre Dame and his South Bend destiny. Two previous comments by Urban now make more sense. First, when he commented a day or so ago about the clauses in his contract that allowed him to freely go to Notre Dame, he said something to the effect that we shouldn't make a bigger deal out of it than it was. Simply he grew up there and used to coach there. Meaning, when he did his Utah deal he left some logical doors open, but we shouldn't over stress the importance of that. Uhh..too late, Urban we decided its your dream job. Oops. The second comment that should have meant more was when Urban basically said it wasn't just about where you coach, but also about who you coach under. This ties back into the Bernie Machen relationship.
- This isn't a good day in Utah, but at least we knew Urban wasn't coaching here next year. Notre Dame however, fired it's coach T. Willingham, because they wanted Urban. I think they believed he was theirs whenever they came calling. It seemed to be the right assumption. Notre Dame's 2nd choice unfortunately, despite being the number immediately following one, isn't really in the same world as their first choice. Snagging some guy from Iowa, or another up and comer won't suffice. Maybe the problems in South Bend speak more about the the overall program management and the parity in college football, than they do about the in ability of the coach on the field to get the desired results. Urban no doubt examined the whole picture and didn't like some of the details behind the Golden Dome.
Thursday, December 02, 2004
Urban-gate Update - My source says deal is done
At about 10 minutes until 9:00 PM MST I rec'd an email message:
"urban is south bend bound ... annoucement tomorrow". source: The Backer
The Notre Dame recruiting team (their AD and President) didn't need much time to perform surgery and remove the heart of Ute fans. Sounds like these guys were back on their plane with-in four hours of arriving in town. Either these big BCS schools are very talented and efficient, or their recent swoon has left them a little low on cash and could only rent the plane for a few hours. Seeing how their logo was painted on the plane, lets assume the pockets are deep, these guys are good, and their man didn't need a lot of convincing.
I guess its time to end the denial and accept that Urban was offered his dream job and its time for him to go see if its all that he thought it would be. Will he lead them back to the promised land? In this day and age of parity and their brutal schedule, is it reasonable to think that the Irish will be back in the national hunt on a regular basis? I'd say if they give this guy the tools, they'll be in good shape to compete again with the best. Urban won't be ouch coached. He was worth the effort and quick movement by Notre Dame. The have taken heat early this week, but perhaps they should get more credit. They didn't have much time to decide to make a bold move, but knowing that Florida was working hard to get their man, they had to take aggressive and decisive action. With all apologies to a very good man in T. Willingham, who certainly could have earned a little more time, the Irish had a shot to make a serious upgrade and took it. I have no doubts they will instantly be better.
For now though, it's the University of Utah Utes playing on Jan 1. The Irish will have to wait for dates like that. Its the Utes ranked #5 in the country. The Irish will hve to wait for a ranking like that. Urban may be their man, and they may be giving him the job he dreamed of, but its the 2004 Utes who are having a season even the Irish are dreaming about. Imagine playing every game up to your potential. No bad games. No loses. No close games. One more to go. Bring on the Panthers!
"urban is south bend bound ... annoucement tomorrow". source: The Backer
The Notre Dame recruiting team (their AD and President) didn't need much time to perform surgery and remove the heart of Ute fans. Sounds like these guys were back on their plane with-in four hours of arriving in town. Either these big BCS schools are very talented and efficient, or their recent swoon has left them a little low on cash and could only rent the plane for a few hours. Seeing how their logo was painted on the plane, lets assume the pockets are deep, these guys are good, and their man didn't need a lot of convincing.
I guess its time to end the denial and accept that Urban was offered his dream job and its time for him to go see if its all that he thought it would be. Will he lead them back to the promised land? In this day and age of parity and their brutal schedule, is it reasonable to think that the Irish will be back in the national hunt on a regular basis? I'd say if they give this guy the tools, they'll be in good shape to compete again with the best. Urban won't be ouch coached. He was worth the effort and quick movement by Notre Dame. The have taken heat early this week, but perhaps they should get more credit. They didn't have much time to decide to make a bold move, but knowing that Florida was working hard to get their man, they had to take aggressive and decisive action. With all apologies to a very good man in T. Willingham, who certainly could have earned a little more time, the Irish had a shot to make a serious upgrade and took it. I have no doubts they will instantly be better.
For now though, it's the University of Utah Utes playing on Jan 1. The Irish will have to wait for dates like that. Its the Utes ranked #5 in the country. The Irish will hve to wait for a ranking like that. Urban may be their man, and they may be giving him the job he dreamed of, but its the 2004 Utes who are having a season even the Irish are dreaming about. Imagine playing every game up to your potential. No bad games. No loses. No close games. One more to go. Bring on the Panthers!
Urban Meyer: The latest rumors, truths, and wishes
BREAKING NEWS: Urban Meyer WILL COACH against Pittsburgh!!! The Utes are destined to play Pittsburgh in the Fiesta bowl on Jan 1 so that's good news. But, guess who Notre Dame opens the season with next year? Yep, Pittsburgh. So Urban will likely coach against Pittsburgh in his next game as head coach, but where??
I've read rumors from ESPN, Yahoo sports, the Utefans board, and a good summary from the Irish Trojan (recommended viewing: http://www.brendanloy.com/).
Here are the things being said, with some classified as true, rumor, or wish.
- Urban's family is so happy in Salt Lake City and so tired of moving, that Urban has given them a 5 year promise to stay in Utah. Well, they are happy here, I believe that. However, the idea that their desire to settle down as a priority over Urban's dream job is merely a wish. Besides...the family of a football coach is sort of destined to have Uhaul on the speed dial.
- Urban visited South Bend today. He met with the AD Kevin White, toured the the campus and was greeted by old friends. Rumor! Meyer was in Salt Lake last night and has been confirmed at practice today.
- Notre Dame AD Kevin White and the president of the university are headed to Utah with designs on skiing the greatest snow on earth this weekend. The university plane just happened to be available. Ok, skiing aside, this seems to be legit and therefore I vote truth. I first learned this via the Irish Trojan, and it was just confirmed by a local TV Station (Wesley Ruff). A good summary of this info at the Washington Post that includes the FAA details:(http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A29143-2004Dec2.html). And to further verify this one, "The Backer" must have been on the scene with his camera: http://thebacker.blogspot.com/2004/12/are-we-stepping-into-realm-of-insanity.html
- Urban Meyer was offered the Notre Dame job last night. This is only being reported by various people with a source of a source. I vote Rumor on this as the extent of the 'offer' was probably just a phone call from Kevin White offering to come to Utah Thursday night for dinner and discussions. Note: This could also be a classified as a wish (of all Golden Domers), alas job offers issued by Notre Dame alumni using telekinesis don't count. Relax Domers, its coming soon, this is just a discussion of timing.
- Rick Majerus called Urban, recommended that he stay at Utah and just have fun with the media circus for a few years. RM also suggested Urban move his family into a hotel, not only for the heated pool and free breakfast buffet, but that the appearance of such a liquid and moving living arrangement only adds fuel the fire. Okay, this isn't exactly a rumor, maybe a twisted wish.
- Truth according to Urban: He met with the team a few hours ago and confirmed that he has narrowed his coaching future to three schools. Notre Dame, Florida, and Utah. He stated that no decision has been made and he is making every effort to be upfront and straight with these guys.
In a nutshell: Wishes are for Urban to stay; Rumors are that he is already gone; The Truth is, while it may happen quick, he'll take enough time to shrewdly get the right deal from Notre Dame.
I've read rumors from ESPN, Yahoo sports, the Utefans board, and a good summary from the Irish Trojan (recommended viewing: http://www.brendanloy.com/).
Here are the things being said, with some classified as true, rumor, or wish.
- Urban's family is so happy in Salt Lake City and so tired of moving, that Urban has given them a 5 year promise to stay in Utah. Well, they are happy here, I believe that. However, the idea that their desire to settle down as a priority over Urban's dream job is merely a wish. Besides...the family of a football coach is sort of destined to have Uhaul on the speed dial.
- Urban visited South Bend today. He met with the AD Kevin White, toured the the campus and was greeted by old friends. Rumor! Meyer was in Salt Lake last night and has been confirmed at practice today.
- Notre Dame AD Kevin White and the president of the university are headed to Utah with designs on skiing the greatest snow on earth this weekend. The university plane just happened to be available. Ok, skiing aside, this seems to be legit and therefore I vote truth. I first learned this via the Irish Trojan, and it was just confirmed by a local TV Station (Wesley Ruff). A good summary of this info at the Washington Post that includes the FAA details:(http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A29143-2004Dec2.html). And to further verify this one, "The Backer" must have been on the scene with his camera: http://thebacker.blogspot.com/2004/12/are-we-stepping-into-realm-of-insanity.html
- Urban Meyer was offered the Notre Dame job last night. This is only being reported by various people with a source of a source. I vote Rumor on this as the extent of the 'offer' was probably just a phone call from Kevin White offering to come to Utah Thursday night for dinner and discussions. Note: This could also be a classified as a wish (of all Golden Domers), alas job offers issued by Notre Dame alumni using telekinesis don't count. Relax Domers, its coming soon, this is just a discussion of timing.
- Rick Majerus called Urban, recommended that he stay at Utah and just have fun with the media circus for a few years. RM also suggested Urban move his family into a hotel, not only for the heated pool and free breakfast buffet, but that the appearance of such a liquid and moving living arrangement only adds fuel the fire. Okay, this isn't exactly a rumor, maybe a twisted wish.
- Truth according to Urban: He met with the team a few hours ago and confirmed that he has narrowed his coaching future to three schools. Notre Dame, Florida, and Utah. He stated that no decision has been made and he is making every effort to be upfront and straight with these guys.
In a nutshell: Wishes are for Urban to stay; Rumors are that he is already gone; The Truth is, while it may happen quick, he'll take enough time to shrewdly get the right deal from Notre Dame.
Wednesday, December 01, 2004
In pursuit of Urban
Ever since Notre Dame announced that Coach Willingham was gone, its been chaos. You would expect it to be nuts in South Bend, but its equally crazy in Salt Lake City. Every university with a job opening seems to be in hot pursuit of Urban Meyer. Rumors are abound. Here is the latest...I share this, knowing full ware that it will be obsolete within in 24 hours.
For the latest in South Bend, you need to check out The Backer's Blog: www.thebacker.blogspot.com
The latest from Urban Meyer is based upon a very honest interview he just had with a local radio station (4:20 pm MST). He didn't dodge a question, and I think was pretty straight with where things are.
For the latest in South Bend, you need to check out The Backer's Blog: www.thebacker.blogspot.com
The latest from Urban Meyer is based upon a very honest interview he just had with a local radio station (4:20 pm MST). He didn't dodge a question, and I think was pretty straight with where things are.
- He confirmed for the first time that he has been contacted about coaching openings. By many schools in fact. So, surely its Notre Dame, Washington, Florida, Illinois, and perhaps several of the other 15 or schools with head coach openings.
- When asked if he has had discussions with anyone, he replied that it was "common knowledge" and expected those discussions to continue. Uh-oh. How detailed could it be? How hard? "Urban, this is Mr. Golden Domer, we want you to come home son. We want to pay you about $2.0 Million per year for 5 years if you would be so kind as to just come home" People here love Urban. People here would miss him. People here respect his career goal and may even help the guy pack.
- He is still focused on preparing the Utes. So much that the team is being put through very rigorous conditioning drills. I'm sure its normal, but they are responding so well that he was gushing with pride. He was clear in his opinion that the Utes are one of the top teams in the country.
- Talk about prep. Their bowl opponent isn't finalized, nor is the location, but Urban already has the Utes breaking down Pittsburgh. In fact, yesterday they had the scout team running Pittsburgh stuff already. Impressive. The Panthers are going to be the next team to get runover by this Utah train. When they lose by 14 or more, Utah will become only the 2nd team in NCAA history to beat every opponent during the entire season by 14 or more points. Nebraska in the 80s was the other.
- Urban stated he was "No Question" planning on being in Tempe. Said he loves Utah, loves this team, and there are some unique things at play here. I interpret that to mean, I am really really going to miss this great place, when I go fulfill my dream.
- I loved a comment he made about the difference between being an assistant and being a coach. An assistant makes suggestions, a head coach makes decisions.
- Lastly, I felt he was campaigning a little for Kyle Whittingham, the current defensive coordinator. It wasn't blatant but he got his point across.
We'll keep watching this situation. The next big thing (barring coaching annoucement), will be the BCS final bowl pairings show on Sunday. It will be a great day for the Utah program. Go Utes.
Monday, November 29, 2004
Pittsburgh looks to win Big East Fiesta lotto
The University of Utah football team is un-defeated and poised for its first BCS bowl game ever. They are most likely to play in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl against the Big East Conference Champion. It is still possible for the Utes to play in the Rose or Sugar bowls, but there would have to be a few upsets in college football this week. Now a smart man, would be quiet and wait to see how things pan out before making projections or comments about what is likely to happen. Sorry, I can't do it.
I predict Utah to beat the Pittsburgh Panthers 45-21 in the Fiesta Bowl. Since on a national radio show this weekend I heard a Pittsburgh fan start trash talking the Utes a little early, I thought I would forward a response letter to the Panthers that while not really written by the Fiesta Bowl committee, should have been. (Note: assumptions made that things go as predicted over the final week of college football and the two teams actually meet)
Dear Pittsburgh Panthers,
We thank you for your interest in the Tostitos Fiesta bowl. We politely decline the extension of an invitation to your school. We did a quick review of your resume and offer a few points of note:
I predict Utah to beat the Pittsburgh Panthers 45-21 in the Fiesta Bowl. Since on a national radio show this weekend I heard a Pittsburgh fan start trash talking the Utes a little early, I thought I would forward a response letter to the Panthers that while not really written by the Fiesta Bowl committee, should have been. (Note: assumptions made that things go as predicted over the final week of college football and the two teams actually meet)
Dear Pittsburgh Panthers,
We thank you for your interest in the Tostitos Fiesta bowl. We politely decline the extension of an invitation to your school. We did a quick review of your resume and offer a few points of note:
- At 7-3, with only a pending game against South Florida, your record seems adequate for a mid major school in a under-performing conference. However, the BCS bowls are generally reserved for teams that have played up to their potential and established themselves among their peers.
- As nice as your 7-3 record seems, we honestly thought you were 2-8. Our mistake. Upon further review we noticed that you scored late or in overtime to beat Furman (Division 1-AA), Temple (2 wins all year), Boston College, Notre Dame, and West Virginia. Congratulations on that. Instead of being an embarrassment to your conference and families, you rallied to win both your pride and the title of the best team in a conference filled with almost-woulda-coulda-shouldas.
- It should be noted in all 3 of your losses you were beaten by 7 or more points.
Oh wait, never mind. We just received a phone call on your behalf. Please disregard the above notes and any comments we may have made that seem to slight you and your fine institution. We hereby accept your RSVP for the Tostitos party. Please forgive the confusion, we weren't initially aware that you were invited, nor after looking at your credentials were we sure that you were qualified to attend. However, your Daddy, Mr. BCS has personally called to get you on the invitee list. It seems you belong to the right fraternity of big schools and conferences that have guaranteed themselves invitations to all the big parties and a lion share of the cover charges generated by such parties. So...Congratulations and welcome to the Fiesta Bowl. If your alumni and fans need directions to Tempe, we suggest heading west and away from the east coast bias. Find I-40 and drive until you smell our delicious nachos and southwestern appetizers.
Sincerely,
U. R. Whelkum
Fiesta Bowl Director
Okay, silly letter aside. I don't see the Utes being challenged by the Panthers. I'll spend the weekend hoping that the Utes fall into another opponent or that the BCS will realize they CAN have their cake and eat it too, by making Auburn and Utah play, while relegating Pitt to play Texas or another "we almost did it" team.
Monday, November 22, 2004
Stock rising to the roof
Tonight the Utah Jazz will hoist John Stockton's #12 jersey to the rafters at the Delta Center.
That means, not only will we never see a player who could fill his shoes, or his void in the league, but certainly not his jersey. It is a bit cliche to say he was one of a kind, but there isn't much other way to put it.
Stockton is loved by most, and is often labeled as 'Old School' and remembered for the length of his shorts. I guess he was 'old school', but did it in a way that was un-matched by any other. Perhaps he should be titled Dean or President of the Old School. And thinking about Old School, I think you could argue that many of the new generation of players should be called "No School". Players of today skip college, skip fundamentals, and basically skip the idea that playing with respect for the game is a core value. Mr. Old School is the NBA's all-time assist and steals leader. With regard to the length of his shorts, like any other aspect of fashion, if you wait long enough those too will come back 'in'.
This ceremony tonight isn't really for John. I think he cares, but doesn't seek this type of attention. This ceremony is for the fans, giving us another reason to warrant his appearance back in Arena, and a chance to remember him (and remember those great teams). Perhaps next year we'll get him back into the spotlight long enough to unveil the Stockton and Malone statues outside the Delta Center. Then in a few years we'll host a Hall of Fame inductee celebration. After that we are just going to have to wait for one of his sons to get into the NBA.
A few things you of interest about about John:
That means, not only will we never see a player who could fill his shoes, or his void in the league, but certainly not his jersey. It is a bit cliche to say he was one of a kind, but there isn't much other way to put it.
Stockton is loved by most, and is often labeled as 'Old School' and remembered for the length of his shorts. I guess he was 'old school', but did it in a way that was un-matched by any other. Perhaps he should be titled Dean or President of the Old School. And thinking about Old School, I think you could argue that many of the new generation of players should be called "No School". Players of today skip college, skip fundamentals, and basically skip the idea that playing with respect for the game is a core value. Mr. Old School is the NBA's all-time assist and steals leader. With regard to the length of his shorts, like any other aspect of fashion, if you wait long enough those too will come back 'in'.
This ceremony tonight isn't really for John. I think he cares, but doesn't seek this type of attention. This ceremony is for the fans, giving us another reason to warrant his appearance back in Arena, and a chance to remember him (and remember those great teams). Perhaps next year we'll get him back into the spotlight long enough to unveil the Stockton and Malone statues outside the Delta Center. Then in a few years we'll host a Hall of Fame inductee celebration. After that we are just going to have to wait for one of his sons to get into the NBA.
A few things you of interest about about John:
- The Jazz trainer said at one point his body fat was 2.4% and his resting heart rate was 36.
- UCLA legend coach John Wooden said John was the one player he'd pay to watch.
- John was cut the first time he tried out for the US Olympic team. In addition, Karl Malone and Charles Barkley were cut during the same tryout. He later went on to star on the Dream Team and collect a gold medal. That was in the days when the best players wanted to play in the Olympics.
- Not only is John the all time assist leader at 15,806, but he has 5,463 more than 2nd place.
- No active NBA player has more than 8,100. Of the 9 times that an NBA player has posted 1,000 assists in a season, John has 7.
- No Days off. John played in 1,504 of 1,526 games in his career, and in 17 seasons he played every game. He obviously played with countless illnesses and sprains, but felt his duty to play. In today's NBA, some guys miss games because they are tired from pushing their own CDs.
- A security guard once pointed out Karl Malone to John and said, "I don't know if you're a basketball fan, young man, but that's Karl Malone".
- Once when Stockton was a free agent, he re-signed with the Jazz for less money than he could have received on the open market. When questioned why he turned down the bigger money offer, he replied "How much is enough?" He'd likely get banished from the league today, as the guys think they are entitled to the crazy salaries.
- John is married to Nada, has six children, and now lives in his hometown of Spokane.
Rather than closing with a flashy, clever line, I'll keep it simple and straight like Stockton himself. Thank you for wearing #12 so well and so often John.
Thursday, November 18, 2004
Utes look for 11-0 on Rivalry week
The Utah Utes play BYU, a.k.a. the TDS (Team Down South) or BYWho, in the one of the most anticipated games in years. To accurately write words that capture the emotions this week around the city is hard to do, but...I'm up for the challenge.
The things swirling in the air...
The things swirling in the air...
- People are absolutely nuts over Urban Meyer right now. Urban is rumored to be going to Florida next season. I refuse to focus too much on that right now. Think of it like a great date and enjoy it while it lasts. Even if we are thinking a long-term marriage, its impossible to say what he is thinking. Florida might have $2 Million reasons why he would be interested in dating them for a while, and it would be hard to blame him. He is for now our coach and he is awfuly good. Similar situation to Rick Marjerus, who used to coach the Utes Basketball team to prominance. People were always interested in Rick, and while he entertained them, he didn't let their desire or money effect ultimately effect where he coached college baseketball.
- BCS. Assuming the Utes beat the TDS this week then they should be a lock for the #6 spot in the BCS rankings and a big time bowl. That said, there will still be alot of attention on the Auburn/Alabama, Cal/Stanford, and Michigan/OhioSt. A victory by any of the 2nd teams listed in that group would not only cement Utah's place, but possibly allow them to move up in rankings. Of that group, Michigan is most vulnerable, but who knows.
- ESPN Gameday did the national morning show outside Rice Eccles stadium. Thousands of Utah fans showed up at 8am to carry on and go nuts, even though it was about 30 degrees, with a few snow flurries. Nevermind, Utah's game doesn't start until 5pm local time. Many Ute fans participated in Operation Sombrero, in honor of a hopeful fiesta bowl appearance. It's definately not every Saturday you see hundreds of sombrero wearing guys on the streets of Salt Lake City. It was a great showing and there were even a few Cougar fans there to offer a contrast for the rivalry.
- Fans on both sides have talked alot of Smack. Utah's players have been pretty quick, but a couple of BYU's younger players have offered up opinions of "put a hurt on 'em" and "should be able to run well on them" that I'm sure won't go un-noticed.
- Couple of links to also note: http://www.usatoday.com/sports/columnist/lopresti/2004-11-18-lopresti_x.htm (Called, Get to Know the Utes) and for all the crazyness http://utefans.net (popular Utah fan forum).
I, like most logical and sane people, expect the Utes to win this game. However, I think Vegas is a little too agressive with a 21 1/2 point spread. I see turnovers by BYU being a key to how close it will be. No turnovers and this could be really tight, but with a couple turnovers, I'd expect Utah to win 31-17. If the weather stays good and BYU doesn't hold onto the ball, then the Cougars will get steamrolled.
FUN Stat to consider - In College football history there have been over 80 teams go undefeated for a whole season. Until now, only one team, Nebraska (in the 80s) was able to win every game on its schedule by 14 or more points. The Utes so far are in line to be only the 2nd team ever to accomplish this feat.
Go Utes!!!
Friday, November 12, 2004
Utes taking the sports car onto the icy Wyoming track
The Utes are in Laramie, Wyoming today seeking to improve to 10-0. The thought of playing in sub-freezing weather with a chance of snow is hardly fun. It could be worse, you could play for Wyoming and know that you chose to play in this weather several times a year!
Things to consider: Wyoming is 6-3, and 5-0 at home this year. The Utes are only 3-2 in their last 5 visits to the frozen rodeo arena in Laramie. Wyoming's offense looks finely tuned as they have averaged 48 points per game the last two weeks and have scored over 50 twice this year. Okay, before I sound like Lou Holtz trying to pump-up McNeese St. and why they are undoubtedly the fiercest team in the country, I should note that the oddmakers say its Utah favored by 23. Utah will win this game, but I have a hard time not thinking it could be their closest game of the year (under 14 pts).
On a warm day, or even just a decent day for football, I would see something along the lines of 50-28 for this game. There is definitely the argument that Utah could blow the doors off the Cowboys well running truck. After all, Utah has one of the top offenses in the country, and Wyoming's defense in near last in the conference against the run and the pass. Despite Wyoming's perfect home season, the Utes have won their last nine road games, a streak that nearly covers the last two seasons. Urban Meyer hasn't allowed the Utes to look past anyone this year.
Even with all the talk about the BCS, Urban's coaching future, and the big game against BYU next week, I expect the Utes will be focused. However, I expect the weather to have some impact and look for more like 35-21. That is about as pessimistic as I can get. Barring a complete blizzard in Wyoming tonight, I just can't see the Utes getting slowed down enough for the Pokes to get passed them.
Speaking about the Urban Meyer coaching future. I know a guy, who knows a guy, who's sister's brother's friend's dad's uncle, delivered a Pizza to his house. Apparently, there are no moving boxes in sight around the Meyer house. So there, its official. He stays in Utah for at least another year. Okay, perhaps my inside source isn't so 'real', but given the comments I've heard this week I'd say the Pizza guy inside my head is right. He stays and is here at least another year of love in Salt Lake City.
Speaking of traditions....the call "Utah by 5" has forever been a mantra shouted by the Ute fans when asked about an upcoming game. In these days however, the expectations are so high, people would be disappointed with such a weak prediction.
Things to consider: Wyoming is 6-3, and 5-0 at home this year. The Utes are only 3-2 in their last 5 visits to the frozen rodeo arena in Laramie. Wyoming's offense looks finely tuned as they have averaged 48 points per game the last two weeks and have scored over 50 twice this year. Okay, before I sound like Lou Holtz trying to pump-up McNeese St. and why they are undoubtedly the fiercest team in the country, I should note that the oddmakers say its Utah favored by 23. Utah will win this game, but I have a hard time not thinking it could be their closest game of the year (under 14 pts).
On a warm day, or even just a decent day for football, I would see something along the lines of 50-28 for this game. There is definitely the argument that Utah could blow the doors off the Cowboys well running truck. After all, Utah has one of the top offenses in the country, and Wyoming's defense in near last in the conference against the run and the pass. Despite Wyoming's perfect home season, the Utes have won their last nine road games, a streak that nearly covers the last two seasons. Urban Meyer hasn't allowed the Utes to look past anyone this year.
Even with all the talk about the BCS, Urban's coaching future, and the big game against BYU next week, I expect the Utes will be focused. However, I expect the weather to have some impact and look for more like 35-21. That is about as pessimistic as I can get. Barring a complete blizzard in Wyoming tonight, I just can't see the Utes getting slowed down enough for the Pokes to get passed them.
Speaking about the Urban Meyer coaching future. I know a guy, who knows a guy, who's sister's brother's friend's dad's uncle, delivered a Pizza to his house. Apparently, there are no moving boxes in sight around the Meyer house. So there, its official. He stays in Utah for at least another year. Okay, perhaps my inside source isn't so 'real', but given the comments I've heard this week I'd say the Pizza guy inside my head is right. He stays and is here at least another year of love in Salt Lake City.
Speaking of traditions....the call "Utah by 5" has forever been a mantra shouted by the Ute fans when asked about an upcoming game. In these days however, the expectations are so high, people would be disappointed with such a weak prediction.
Monday, November 08, 2004
Absol-UTE-ly dominating and 9-0
The University of Utah Utes are now 9-0 and running over opponents like a runaway train. In making a case for the Utes to make an appearance in a BCS bowl, I offer the following review. As of today, the Utes are only 7th in the BCS rankings and therefore not guaranteed a big bowl birth. (disclaimer: I apologize in advance if I missed any statistics and for any bias related to my Ute Alumni status)
First, Utah features a High-Octane offense that has burned every opponent. Examine the amazing numbers.
First, Utah features a High-Octane offense that has burned every opponent. Examine the amazing numbers.
- The Utes have had only 6 scoreless quarters this season. That is in 9 full games. Keep in mind 3 of those scoreless quarters were the 4th quarters of games they had in hand. At this point, they have scored in 15 of the last 16 quarters.
- The Utes have 10 Quarters this season in which they have scored 20 or more points.
- The Utes average 45.8 points per game and have scored 41 or more in 7 of their 9 games. In addition, they have scored 63, 51, and 63 in their last three conference games.
- Though odds makers continue to throw large point spreads out there, the Utes have beaten the spread 7 of 8 weeks in which numbers were posted.
- How quick do they strike? Saturday against Colorado St., Utah had a scoring drive that lasted just over five minutes (I think 5:08). That was reported as their longest scoring drive of the season.
Second, arguing against their schedule. It's true the Utes don't play in a BCS conference and therefore don't play that type of opponent every week. However, they have played three BCS schools this year and beaten all three by a combined 110-43. Sure the schedule isn't the toughest, but they have controlled the only thing they can, and that is hammered each opponent. No off games for the Utes, no squeakers on a bad night. No overtime flukes. Average margin of victory is 25.5 points and the closest game was a 14 point margin. In fact, only twice have they not won their game by 20 or more points. Let's look at a few of their opponents and how the Utes have handled them....
- Texas A&M is the 22nd ranked team in the country. The Utes beat the Aggies by 20 points and the 41 points they scored are 2nd only to the 42 that Oklahoma scored on the Aggies. The Aggies challenged OU, led most of the game, and nearly won. In fact, not counting the blowout by the Utes, the Aggies other two losses were by a combined 8 points. More? The Aggies offense, led by Reggie McNeil, has scored 27 or more points in every game this year except one. The one? The Utes, of course, only allowed 21 pts.
- Arizona is the pansy of the Pac 10. However, keep in mind #4 Wisconsin only managed to beat the Wildcats 9-7. The Utes handled the Aggies 23-6, in game that wasn't that close. As far as the Pac 10 goes, the Utes have tried to challenge them every year. Last year the Utes beat both Cal and Oregon.
- New Mexico while not a great team, was predicted by many to beat the Utes. The score was 28-7 and while that doesn't seem overly impressive you must look further. The 28 points the Utes scored are the most given up by the Lobos this year. Also, the 5-4 Lobos may have lost to the Utes by 21 points, but they've only lost by a combined 19 points in their other 3 losses.
- North Carolina is a BCS school and was throttled by 30 points in Salt Lake City a few weeks back. Everyone said that while it was a impressive win by the Utes, it didn't mean much because North Carolina is awful. Maybe not. Since that beating, the Tar Heels have beat then #4 ranked Miami, and narrowly lost to #16 ranked Virginia Tech by 3 points.
- UNLV rec'd a 63-28 throttling by the Utes. Only noteworthy when you note that the #4 Wisconsin Badgers only beat the Rebels 18-3, and needed a late touchdown to do that. The Utes had their 63 points in only 3 quarters, which is also the most points given up by the Rebels this year.
- San Diego State was another team set to challenge the Utes with their strong defense. The Utes posted 51 points, which were the most points allowed by the Aztecs this year, and left me wondering how the Aztecs played #9 ranked Michigan to a near dead heat on the road in Ann Arbor. Michigan won 24-21, but the Aztecs led at half-time and missed two 4th quarter field goals.
- Colorado State claimed to be able to hang with the Utes. Stating last year's close game proved to them that the Utes weren't unbeatable. At the end of the game, the scoreboard showed 63-31 in a game that wasn't even that close. That is the most points by a Ram opponent this year, and only the 2nd opponent to score more than 34 points (USC scored 49).
In conclusion, the 9-0 Utes are not just another small conference team that is beating lesser opponents. The are running over everyone in their path. Are they due for a bad game that could cause them to stumble? Maybe, but I wouldn't count on it. In the words of Urban Meyer, we'll just keep focusing on the next game. 9-0 only means that you get a chance to go to 10-0. Surely this week's opponent, Wyoming, wishes the Utes would focus on something else besides the next bump in the road. Chances are Urban's focus will mean steamrolling yet another bump.
Thursday, November 04, 2004
Old traditions and curses are falling like mad.
First the Redsox break the curse of the bambino. The sports world will have to look for a new team to be the forever bridesmaid. Actually, it wasn't so much Boston's inability to win the title as it was their real ability to lose it. Getting close now and then only served to highlight, just how well they could really lose it. How did they break it? I think getting Schilling and a bunch of loose guys in their lockerroom who didn't believe in the curse and just went out and played.
Another long term tradition/curse that went bust was the Washington Redskins and their ability to pick the president. Since like 1936, if Washington won their last home game before the election, the encumbent won the office. If the lost, of course the opposite occured. Imagine the predictions when the Redskins lost their last home game. Could it be Kerry? Well, that tradition went bust I think largely because the tradition was exposed and bantered all over the media. It became just too big and too impossible to continue. Its over. Now we don't have to watch or care much about those Redskins except for the weeks they play the Cowboys (How 'bout them Cowboys!).
Bottom line, while it may be good to look back in sports (and life), you can't overstate the impact the past will have on the current days. Especially if there is desire for a different outcome. The past can grip only as tight as you allow it.
Another long term tradition/curse that went bust was the Washington Redskins and their ability to pick the president. Since like 1936, if Washington won their last home game before the election, the encumbent won the office. If the lost, of course the opposite occured. Imagine the predictions when the Redskins lost their last home game. Could it be Kerry? Well, that tradition went bust I think largely because the tradition was exposed and bantered all over the media. It became just too big and too impossible to continue. Its over. Now we don't have to watch or care much about those Redskins except for the weeks they play the Cowboys (How 'bout them Cowboys!).
Bottom line, while it may be good to look back in sports (and life), you can't overstate the impact the past will have on the current days. Especially if there is desire for a different outcome. The past can grip only as tight as you allow it.
Tuesday, October 26, 2004
A look back and a look ahead...
Looking back...
Saturday night at Rice-Eccles Stadium, in Salt Lake City. It poured. It came down hard, it came down early, and it kept pouring until the final gun sounded. That was of course the Utah intensity I speak of. The weather? yeah it rained the whole game too. The scoreboard showed a 63-28 final tally, and despite your assumption, it was not a case of a team trying to run it up on another. Utah's starting QB, Alex Smith, sat down halfway into the 3rd quarter and the Utes took their foot off the throttle. The soon to be retired coaching legend, John Robinson, was given a parting gift by the Utes, as they knelt on the ball when on the one yard line at the end of the game, rather than letting the 3rd string QB get a TD.
New polls are out and have placed the Utes at #9 & 10 in the coaches and media polls, and all the way up to #6 in the BCS. If they can stay there, they would be guaranteed an invitation to a BCS bowl.
Up next, San Diego St. on the road. An early preview says that 2-5 Aztecs won't be much of a challenge. However, looking deeper you see they 0nly lost by 3 this year at #12 Michigan, and only one team has scored more than 24 points on them this year (UCLA 33). I think the game could be Utah's closest this year, but that isn't saying much as Air Force's 14 point loss is the only time an opponent has stayed closer than 17 points to the Utes. Vegas has Utah a 16 1/2 favorite at this point. I don't have a prediction other than I do not believe Urban will allow these guys to overlook the Aztecs.
Red Sox winning a world series? Don't engrave the trophy yet. I am not convinced. I do think Schilling is amazing and worthy, but I think the Red Sox are almost in the position they are naturally accustomed to residing. That is the perfect place to choke. Choking isn't as good if you do it early and easy, but doing so when it looks like you should and could win, is what makes Boston special. The NY Mets won a world title after loosing the first two games to the Red Sox. I think a couple of games in St. Louis are just what the doctor ordered to get the Redbirds flying.
More mumbling later...
Saturday night at Rice-Eccles Stadium, in Salt Lake City. It poured. It came down hard, it came down early, and it kept pouring until the final gun sounded. That was of course the Utah intensity I speak of. The weather? yeah it rained the whole game too. The scoreboard showed a 63-28 final tally, and despite your assumption, it was not a case of a team trying to run it up on another. Utah's starting QB, Alex Smith, sat down halfway into the 3rd quarter and the Utes took their foot off the throttle. The soon to be retired coaching legend, John Robinson, was given a parting gift by the Utes, as they knelt on the ball when on the one yard line at the end of the game, rather than letting the 3rd string QB get a TD.
New polls are out and have placed the Utes at #9 & 10 in the coaches and media polls, and all the way up to #6 in the BCS. If they can stay there, they would be guaranteed an invitation to a BCS bowl.
Up next, San Diego St. on the road. An early preview says that 2-5 Aztecs won't be much of a challenge. However, looking deeper you see they 0nly lost by 3 this year at #12 Michigan, and only one team has scored more than 24 points on them this year (UCLA 33). I think the game could be Utah's closest this year, but that isn't saying much as Air Force's 14 point loss is the only time an opponent has stayed closer than 17 points to the Utes. Vegas has Utah a 16 1/2 favorite at this point. I don't have a prediction other than I do not believe Urban will allow these guys to overlook the Aztecs.
Red Sox winning a world series? Don't engrave the trophy yet. I am not convinced. I do think Schilling is amazing and worthy, but I think the Red Sox are almost in the position they are naturally accustomed to residing. That is the perfect place to choke. Choking isn't as good if you do it early and easy, but doing so when it looks like you should and could win, is what makes Boston special. The NY Mets won a world title after loosing the first two games to the Red Sox. I think a couple of games in St. Louis are just what the doctor ordered to get the Redbirds flying.
More mumbling later...
Wednesday, October 20, 2004
Yanks, Soxs, and Christian Athlete
Yankees and Redsox game 7 tonight has nothing to do with the curse of the bambino. In fairness to the guys on the field right now, the curse has no impact. It's sports, its competition, getting there and winning is hard to do period. Better teams with bigger payrolls might do it more often, but recent World Series winners: Angels, Marlins, and Diamondbacks speak to the fact that the best team on a roll can win it all without respect to curses, payrolls, major market bias, or team history. This game tonight is fun because of the rivalry, the personalities, and the history the two teams share. The winner gets bragging rights and maybe a chance at Roger Clemens.
Schilling was amazing last night by the way. Pitching on that leg and doing that well was amazing. Did you see the blood on the sock? One of the things people are talking about today was his statement after the game. The statement that God was with him. I for one get it, but the sports radio guys are missing it today. It's not that God was for Schilling and for no one else, but a Christian can definitely make it through trials by relying on faith. In Schilling's case, reliance on God to help with the pain, the pressure, and performing to his best ability makes perfect sense. Even in a loss, Schilling could have received the same benefits. Christian athletes, or regular Joe's for that matter, can give the glory for the good things in their life to God.
What I expect tonight: I feel like one of the offenses will wake up and post 8+ runs. I think the other team will be stuck around 3 runs. That said, I'll pick the Yanks 8, Sox 3; A-Rod will be big tonight and the Sox will leave a bunch of runners on base.
Schilling was amazing last night by the way. Pitching on that leg and doing that well was amazing. Did you see the blood on the sock? One of the things people are talking about today was his statement after the game. The statement that God was with him. I for one get it, but the sports radio guys are missing it today. It's not that God was for Schilling and for no one else, but a Christian can definitely make it through trials by relying on faith. In Schilling's case, reliance on God to help with the pain, the pressure, and performing to his best ability makes perfect sense. Even in a loss, Schilling could have received the same benefits. Christian athletes, or regular Joe's for that matter, can give the glory for the good things in their life to God.
What I expect tonight: I feel like one of the offenses will wake up and post 8+ runs. I think the other team will be stuck around 3 runs. That said, I'll pick the Yanks 8, Sox 3; A-Rod will be big tonight and the Sox will leave a bunch of runners on base.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)