Q&A: Mike Leach, Head Coach, Texas Tech

Last season, did you ever want to pull a “Network” and open the window and say, “Hey, what about us?” when it came to all the hype of Oklahoma and Texas vying to play Florida in the National Championship?

Leach: We had as much of a claim to play Florida as anyone else. I look at it this way—the rules were set up before the season started and so there’s really nothing to be done about that. I think a good tie breaker would be graduation rate. I think that when you have a tie like that, I think a good blending of athletics and academics would be fantastic. Of course our graduation rate is 79 percent, Texas’ is 50 percent, and Oklahoma’s is 40 percent so we would have gone to the big game and that would have suited me tremendously. I think it would be wise if that change took place immediately, but I don’t look for that to happen. The thing is, ultimately, you had three great teams who really had good years and I think all of them deserved a lot of distinction and things like that. But I think all three had really great seasons.

Do you get into the NCAA Basketball Tournament or are you too busy preparing for spring football to really get involved?

Leach: I guess a little of both. Of course Pat Knight does a great job and we have a young team and they are fighting through some hard times and building up right now, but I thought they did a great job of coaching so I've always rooted for them to win. Right now I'm pretty well focused on spring football I guess, that’s really the priority, it’s the second most exciting part of the year and I’m really thrilled about that.

Speaking of Pat Knight, Bobby Knight was the former basketball coach there. While he was there, did you get a chance to talk to him or learn anything from him? As a coach are you always trying to learn from other coaches, regardless of the sport?

Leach: Well, Bobby Knight is a huge presence in athletics without question. He is the most successful and has the most wins of any basketball coach and I think that speaks for itself. The thing with coach Knight is, he is a great observer of people and his experiences and things like that. Just listening to him talk is fascinating. Don’t worry about the direction the conversation is going to go, just get him talking on a subject, hold on and listen, and it’s all worthwhile. Every time I ever had the opportunity to listen to him talk, I thought it was fascinating. He’s been out of town more than he’s been in town so I haven’t had the opportunity to do any of that lately, but he’s a fascinating individual.

Is it fair to call Graham Harrell a “system quarterback” considering that other quarterbacks that have come from Texas Tech have not been great NFL quarterbacks? And do you think any of those quarterbacks should be mentioned when talking about Graham Harrell?

Leach: Well, Kingsbury hasn’t done much except play every season at some different level of professional football since he left (Texas Tech). Sonny Cumbie was the franchise guy of LA’s Arena team. I think the other thing about it, in regards to quarterbacks, is that there’s only 30-some teams who are going to have a starting quarterback, so the notion that they’re not successful I think is false. Anybody that uses the word “system” right off the top, you know you’re talking to a bad football coach. Because anybody who says anything like that doesn’t understand the point of coaching. Anybody who calls plays has a system, so I assume their team calls plays, if they don’t they probably ought to start. I can’t think of any team that doesn’t call plays, so right there you have a system. This system quarterback stuff, all the guy is doing is acknowledging that he’s not a very good football coach because his quarterback doesn’t have the success that maybe (Cody) Hodges does or Graham Harrell or whoever; they want to call him a system quarterback and actually what they’re saying is they’re a bad football coach. The other thing that amazes me about it is in the NFL, most of the quarterbacks are playing in an offense that's similar to ours. They spread out, they throw it most of the time, and they operate from the shotgun, which is similar to what we do. So that immediately fits with the NFL model better than most of the quarterbacks from other systems. My favorite cop-out is those coaches that say, “Well, I don’t know if he can take a snap or drop back”. First of all, he’s (Harrell) done plenty of that. Second of all, how big of an insecurity that is as a coach, to feel like you don’t have the ability to teach somebody to take a snap and step backwards three, five, seven steps. We’re talking about a coach who is 30-50 years old dealing with a skill he can do himself and yet he doesn’t think he can teach it to a world class athlete?

So you’re saying you can’t be a college professor and say you can’t teach elementary school?

Leach: I would think. Send me a pile of nine-year olds and I'll have them taking drops and taking snaps from under center and I'll get it done in a couple of hours.

Your point of being in the shotgun formation seems to be trickling down to the NFL more and more. Even looking at the Patriots putting up record setting numbers, they were in shotgun more often than not.

Leach: Well Peyton Manning, how often is he under center? How about Denver? How about Seattle? How about Green Bay? How about Philadelphia? You can go on and on. It’s a bunch of foolishness. It's people afraid to think for themselves is what it is, and so what they do is they sit around and parrot what’s been infused in their head. I think just by definition, if you’re going to coach something you’re required to think, you’re required to teach. I think that failure to do that, how can you possibly call yourself a very good coach or a very good organization if you can't understand things that fundamental?

Another one of your players, Michael Crabtree is being scrutinized and you’re hearing things like, “He isn’t fast enough” or “He isn’t as tall as we thought”. Is that more foolishness to you?

Leach: Of course it's foolishness. The leading receiver in the NFL last year was Wes Welker, who came from our quote/unquote system. Two years in a row he’s led the league in receiving. He runs around a 4.8 and just had a happy experience at the Pro Bowl. And the fact that Michael Crabtree is only five or six inches taller and faster that means somehow he’s magically going to be a failure? I guess I’m not buying that either. And if our system is so flawed, you tell me how it is that simultaneously, for two years in a row, we had the leading receiver in the NFL and the leading receiver in college football.

Louis Vasquez, a guard, is starting to make a name for himself. Talk about him playing with those wide splits and do you think that will help him go into the next level?

Leach: Well, I think he’s got great technique, he’s real strong and he led the Combine in bench press. The thing is, he’s a great pass protector and that’s what’s required in the NFL. So yeah, I think he’ll do very well.

What are your thoughts on Brandon Williams' potential as a pass rusher at the next level?

Leach: Well we wish him the very best even though I think it was a mistake for him to leave early. I think he had more work to do and he could have improved his viability, but I think he’s a good player and has a lot of skills and I think if he continues to improve, he has the opportunity to do well.

Do your players normally come to you when they are in the process of deciding to leave early for the Draft or stay in college, or is that usually something they discuss with their agent or their family?

Leach: It varies a great deal. We never advised Brandon to leave and we stand behind that. As a matter of fact, I think the longer a guy stays the better off he is because I think that your chance of making the team is higher the more experience you have. A long story short, I think with rare exception you’re better off staying in school and then, certainly, the education aspect of school factors in there as well.

Would that apply to somebody like a Crabtree, who could be a potential top ten pick, or is he in fact that rare exception?

Leach: I think he’s somewhere around there. There’s personal choice in the matter too because everybody is going to be pressuring the kids and they have to decide which route they want to go and which way they want their life to proceed. Do they want to improve their chance of sticking in the NFL by staying put, or are they ready to roll the dice? The other thing is, with rare exception, players like the achievement of going to the NFL; they like the money in the NFL. Most of them cherish their college memories a little more than their NFL memories because the NFL has a business quality to it. So if you’re good enough, you’re going to eventually get to the NFL, so I don’t think there’s any real hurry. Sometimes the parents get stuff in their head and jump to silly conclusions and sometimes that’s aided by agents or friends or relatives or whoever, and I just think that people need to try to be smart and think first about the player that’s involved. There’s a certain amount of people out there that are thinking about themselves before the guy that’s doing the playing; all they want is the golden eggs, they don’t care about the goose.

Crabtree seemed to do such a great job at fighting to come back to the football and not letting the defender get through him to get to the ball. Is that something that was coached or is it just a natural instinct that he has?

Leach: I think all the above. Crabtree is one of the most competitive people I have ever dealt with. He believes he can get the ball and wants the ball virtually every play and we teach and encourage those types of things. The amazing knack that Crabtree had was continuing to finish plays and when they appeared to be over, making something happen.

What can you tell us about Taylor Potts, the expected successor to Graham Harrell? Is this his job to lose and how important is this spring for him being that he doesn’t have that much experience?

Leach: Well he’s got a little more than you think, he’s thrown a lot of balls. When he went in against Oklahoma State, he went 12-for-12 and had some very impressive throws and threw for over 100 yards in that stint. So I think he’s really good, I think he just needs to continue to improve like everybody. I think it’s important that he goes out and has a good spring, but I have a lot of confidence in him, too.

So does he have to earn the job in the spring?

Leach: You always have to earn the job and we will compare him with the others and obviously the guy that’s the best is going to start, but when we left the fall, he was ahead.

As far as recruiting, do you look for quarterbacks who run a similar offense you guys run at Tech or do you just go out and try and get the best football players you can get, regardless?

Leach: Well, I can’t talk about any commitments, but when it comes to recruiting quarterbacks in general, we look for guys who have some experience throwing the football.

Photo Credit: Texas Tech Athletics

SENIOR BOWL – NORTH PRACTICE NOTES

Quarterback: Of all the quarterbacks, Rhett Bomar has the most potential, but he needs a lot of work in terms of his mechanics and consistency. Don’t expect him to be an instant impact rookie a la Joe Flacco regardless of the similarities. Like Flacco, Bomar transferred from a FBS school (Oklahoma) to a FCS school (Sam Houston St.) before earning a Senior Bowl invite. (Flacco ended up at Delaware after starting his college career at Pittsburgh) In addition to having the best arm of this group, Bomar is the most athletic quarterback of the North threesome. He had some issues taking the ball from under center, making the transition from a shot-gun quarterback.

Going under center, Graham Harrell did a nice job dropping back and talking the ball. He didn’t look like a quarterback who spent his entire career (high school and college) in shot-gun spread offenses. Too bad he wasn’t as impressive when asked to throw the football – his ball flutters. Even on the rare occasion when he threw a tight spiral, Harrell simply didn’t have the arm on the deep comeback throws.

Nathan Brown had some issues under center and fumbled a couple of snaps. He is short and doesn’t have the strongest arm, which makes his lack of crisp mechanics and side-arm delivery even more concerning. Like Harrell, Brown didn’t show the arm strength to make sideline throws. Brown looks his best in “game situations” – in the 11-on-11 he was able to settle in and make some solid throws. Thursday was Brown’s best day as he ran the 11-on-11 very well.

Running Backs: Jeremiah Johnson stood out among this group. He has very good lateral quickness – simply put, he can make you miss. Coming out of the backfield, this former Duck is a tough cover and while he is not a feature back, he will make somebody very happy with his ability as a number two.

Cedric Peerman looks like a natural route runner. He should land somewhere as a third down back.

Syracuse product Tony Fiametta had a stellar week. Fearless and physical as a blocker, he also looked good as a receiver coming out of the backfield. At this point, he is the odds-on favorite to be the first fullback off the board come April.

Wide Receivers: Brian Robiskie has terrific hands, maybe the best of this group. He also has no peers in terms of his route running skills. A true technician who plays like his father is a receiver’s coach in the NFL…which he is (Terry Robiskie coaches wide receivers for he Minnesota Vikings).

Ramses Barden had trouble adjusting to playing against a higher level of competition. Even with his big school size, Barden had some trouble getting off jams at the line of scrimmage.

Juaquin Iglesias showed good quickness and the ability to change direction. He plays faster than his 40-time.

None of these defensive backs on the North – and there were some good ones – were able to stay with Derrick Williams in terms of his speed/quickness. After making most of his yardage at Penn St. on screen and junk passes, Williams showed he can in fact run routes and get down the field.

Before he was injured, UNC’s Brooks Foster flashed the ability to stretch the field, but he can also be pushed around. He needs to get tougher and more physical.

In addition to displaying skills as a pass catcher, Brandon Gibson laid an impressive crack back block on defensive end Will Davis in 11-on-11 drills. Gibson showed great hands and could not be held in check – he always found a way to get open.

Malcolm Johnson was a late (injury) addition but quickly became a favorite target of the North quarterbacks, seeing a lot of action in 11-on-11, flourishing in the Red Zone.

Tight End: Brandon Pettigrew pushed Scott McKillop out with relative ease in one-on-one blocking drills. He is a man at tight end, one of the few legitimate in-line blockers at the position.

Big man John Phillips is known as much for his blocking as he is his pass catching, if not more so, but he displayed excellent hands in 11-on-11 drills. He doesn’t necessarily get a lot of separation so he won’t be an explosive pass receiver but appears to be a safe/reliable option.

Offensive Tackles: One of the more intriguing prospects is UConn tackle William Beatty. He needs to do a better job of keeping his back upright and bending his knees, but you have to love the upside he possesses. He got better as the week went on, which is how his pro career will likely go. He needs to put on weight or he’ll be vulnerable to a bull rush, but he has the frame to do so and he’s got the athleticism and footwork to protect the quarterback’s blindside.

Early on, the weakest offensive tackle on the North team was Illinois product Xavier Fulton, who was beaten pretty regularly in one-on-one situations. I did like that he improved throughout the week, rather than hanging his head after his early struggles.

Phil Loadholt was very inconsistent in one-on-one pass blocking drills. The problem is his footwork and lack of lateral mobility. When he gets his hands on pass rusher, it’s game over. The size and length (excellent wingspan) are there for him to play left tackle, but in all likelihood his lack of footwork will prevent him from playing the marquee position. He will shift to the right side on Sundays. Against some of the lesser talent, Loadholt was able to block them, but when he had to block the premier pass rushers on the North, he couldn’t handle them – yet another sign he belongs on the right side.

Guards: Wisconsin guard Craig Urbik was the most consistent interior lineman all week. How do you not love this guy? While most of the centers and guards were getting outplayed by a strong group of defensive tackles, Urbik held his own on almost every snap. He anchors well and even showed excellent footwork when the opposition changed direction. You're not going to overpower Urbik

Andy Levitre is making the move inside after playing tackle at Oregon St. He simply lacks the length to play in the perimeter as his short arms prevent him from pushing linemen away and knocking them off their moves. Levitre had trouble when asked to block speed rushers but has good technique and uses his hands well.

Centers: Max Unger had some trouble handling the faster/quicker players and powerful linemen. When matching up with a noseman like Ron Brace, he was pushed right back into the pocket – the same happened when he was asked to block B.J. Raji. He does a better job when the opposition tries to out-quick him – he’s more athletic than your typical center.

Alex Mack is tougher than Unger, but he had troubles with Ziggy Hood’s spin moves. He was also overpowered by B.J. Raji (in 11-on-11), putting in doubt whether he will be able to handle premier defensive tackles one-on-one. Mack has a nasty streak and does a good job of maintaining leverage.

Defensive Tackles: At his best, B.J. Raji was dominant, pushing around most guards and centers throughout the week. He displayed both the quickness to get around offensive linemen as well as the strength to overpower them. Raji can be so disruptive – at one point breaking up a hand-off in 11-on-11, pushing Alex Mack back into the quarterback.

The other Boston College defensive tackle, Ron Brace, is a one-trick pony. He’s not trying to trick anybody – it’s a straight power bull rush every time. At times he comes out of his stance too high, a no-no for man expected to make his living over the center. It was disappointing to see Brace get handled on back-to-back plays by Virginia Tech’s Ryan Shuman, a borderline draftee. He easily had the most false starts in one-on-one drills. Brace will get solid push from time-to-time, but rarely will flat out beat his blocker.

If you’re looking for moves, Mizzou’s Ziggy Hood had the O-Line baffled with his spin move. While he typically put the offensive linemen through the spin cycle, Hood also busted out an occasional swim move to beat his man. He is tough to block one-on-one.

Mitch King blew by several offensive linemen using his quickness on inside moves, as well as speed off the edge. He also uses hands well. The one-on-one scenarios play to his strengths. When he tried to use a power move, he was cut off at the path – he had no chance to get into the backfield. He is explosive, but simply lacks the size NFL teams are looking for, which doesn’t mean he can’t create a niche for himself as a role player at the next level.

Alex Magee who was added to the roster on Tuesday, exploded by Andy Levitre, using his hands to get by the former Beaver. Magee displayed a speed rush and showed a nice combination move when he powered outside to set up with spin move back inside. I really like his quickness.

Defensive Ends: Larry English showed some glimpses as an edge pass rusher. It looks like he put on some weight for Senior Bowl week, but has he robbed himself of some quickness? He picked up his play as the week went on, displaying a variety of pass rush moves, which is how he’s going to make his money on the next level. English looked solid when asked to cover. He is an ideal candidate to move to outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme.

Tim Jamison had some moments, but often goes too wide, always trying to beat his man on the perimeter. He looks like a ‘tweener – to small to play on the line of scrimmage, not long enough to be an outside pass rusher.

Cody Brown plays a little too upright. He could not get by Phil Loadholt on numerous one-on-one opportunities. Brown responded later in the week, at times attacking the blocker – he knocked both Xavier Fulton and college teammate William Beatty on their rear ends.

After spending most of his time at tight end, Connor Barwin did get an opportunity to show what he could do as a pass rusher. He was able to drop his inside shoulder and go around the pass blocker and also showed his natural instincts and quickness setting up linemen with a hesitation move.

Linebackers: Tyrone McKenzie, out of USF, looks like a solid three-down linebacker. He’s not very explosive but he can cover and there is something to be said for not having to leave the field. He did a great job sticking with Brandon Pettigrew and knocked some balls away.

Marcus Freeman had trouble shedding blockers, although he did avoid Brandon Pettigrew in 11-on-11 as the former Cowboy was trying to block him. He will be a productive pro, but is likely limited to being a weakside linebacker in a 4-3 defense. Freeman is at his best playing in space, whether he is trying to avoid a block or make a tackle. He may be the best linebacker in coverage – so smooth and natural when dropping back.

Clint Sintim is trying to prove he can play in a 4-3 defense after flourishing in a 3-4 system at Virginia. He might be able to play the strongside, but is probably better suited to be a rush linebacker. On that note, he struggled in one-on-one coverage when asked to stay with running backs.

Cornerbacks: Darius Butler displayed good footwork throughout the week. He’s a little undersized, but his hips are as fluid as any corner playing this week. At times, Butler disappointed a bit with his speed – does his 40-time translate to the field? For a corner who lacks ideal size, he needs to show more closing speed. He did impress with his physical play at the line of scrimmage, at one point spinning Brooks Foster completely around right at the line. He looks like he has the skills to play bump-and-run.

Coming out of Oregon St. Kennan Lewis is a physical corner, not at all afraid to mix it up.

I believe Macho Harris had a better week than he’s being given credit for. He’s never going to be an on the island corner, but will find a place in the NFL. He was very physical with Ohio St.’s Brian Robiskie, simply not allowing the former Buckeye to go where he wanted to go (by most accounts, Robiskie was one of the tougher receivers to cover). He also showed the ability to play off-man coverage, which is not his strength.

Safeties: William Moore lacks the fluid hips to be effective in coverage, which is why some scouts are speculating he may have to make the move to linebacker, like Oklahoma’s Nic Harris. He seemed to get pushed back step-by-step by Brandon Gibson in coverage and then was completely turned out of position.

Coming out of Western Michigan Louis Delmus also struggled as a coverman. On one drill, he gave Derrick Williams a ton of cushion only to see the Penn St. product run right by him anyway. This Bronco is at his best running down hill and will flourish against the run. Delmus will get caught peeking into the offensive backfield on play-action.

One safety who was solid when asked to cover wide receivers one-on-one was Oregon’s Patrick Chung, who surely helped his stock this week.

Photo Credit: Mizzou Media Relations; OU Athletics Department; David Knachel, Virginia Tech Athletics Communications; USF Athletics Communications; OSU Athletics; Sam Houston State Athletics, College Press Box

Teams Have Questions, Do They Have Answers?

1. Graham Harrell, Texas Tech – The Red Raiders’ signal caller is coming off back-to-back 5,000-yard/40 touchdown seasons…yet NFL scouts still have questions regarding his ability to throw the football. Is it fair? To answer a question with a question – how have Kliff Kingsbury (5,017 yards, 45 touchdowns in 2002), B.J. Symons (5,883 yards, 52 touchdowns in 2003), Sonny Cumbie (4,742 yards, 32 touchdowns in 2004) and Cody Hodges (4,197 yards, 31 touchdowns in 2005) fared in the NFL? While Harrell is a far better pro prospect than any of his predecessors, the fact they have done absolutely nothing in the league where they play for pay doesn’t help the Texas native. Most of Harrell’s passes travel 10 yards or less and he will have to adjust to playing under center after playing in the spread offense not only in his entire college career, but in high school as well.

2. Pat White, West Virginia – Pat White wishes he had Harrell’s problems…as he has to prove to NFL personnel people that he is in fact a quarterback, otherwise he is headed to wide receiver. While Harrell was reaching the 400-yard mark on a regular basis the past two seasons, the Mountaineers’ leader in the huddle didn’t turn in his first 300-yard performance until his career finale. White is a winner – he is the first quarterback ever with four bowl wins as a starter – but did as much damage with his legs as he did with his arm at the college level, if not more. White’s Meineke Car Care performance (26-of-32 passing, 332 yards, three touchdowns) opened some eyes and proved he deserves at least the opportunity to prove he is a quarterback. Thus far, White is sticking to his guns and playing exclusively at quarterback in Mobile. It says here that in all likelihood when White lines up in shut-gun on Sundays, it will be in some sort of “Wildcat” package, not as a traditional quarterback.

3. Nic Harris, Oklahoma – While this Boomer Sooner got to keep his No. 5, Harris isn’t playing his customary safety position this week at the Senior Bowl. Instead, the First Team All-Big 12 defensive back is lining up at linebacker. At 6’3 and 230 pounds Harris is bigger than many college linebackers and even saw some time there when Oklahoma suffered a rash of injuries at the middle linebacker position. Harris is at his best playing in the box and moving towards the line of scrimmage with the speed to cover ground. His move to linebacker is clearly a sign scouts are not impressed with his cover skills. Now he must prove that he can play in the front seven or he could be in danger of being labeled a ‘tweener – not quick or rangy enough to play safety and not big or physical enough to be a linebacker.

4. Connor Barwin, Cincinnati – Like Pat White, this Big East product has scouts arguing about where he should play. In fact, many teams differ as to which side of the ball best suits this Bearcat. So far he has played predominately at tight end, with a few reps sprinkled in at defensive end towards the end of day two. Tight end was where Barwin lined up during his first three seasons at Cincinnati and he recorded 31 receptions for 399 yards and two touchdowns in 2007. As a senior, he made the switch to defense and made a major impact despite being a neophyte at the position. Taking to his new position with relative ease, Barwin turned in 10 sacks this past season. At 6’4/255 pounds he has the build, as well as the athleticism, to either get after the quarterback or catch passes from one. Only the team that will call his name on the last weekend April will know where Barwin will ultimately play on Sundays.

5. Ramses Barden, Cal-Poly – The only thing small about this wideout is the competition he played against in college. At over 6’5 and 225 pounds with mittens for hands, Barden is among the biggest and longest receivers in the class of 2009 and the Football Championship Subdivision stud is as productive as any wide receiver not named Michael Crabtree. He will pass the eye test for sure, but how will he fare on the field against big-school competition? This week of practice at the Senior Bowl and the game on Saturday is Barden’s best opportunity to show NFL scouts that he belongs with the big boys. With former FCS stars Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (Arizona), Tim Hightower (Arizona) and Joe Flacco (Baltimore) helping their teams advance deep into the playoffs in the NFL, you can be sure Barden will be given every opportunity to prove just that.

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department, College Press Box (Texas Tech), Matt Brown Photography

Cotton Bowl: #8 Texas Tech vs. #20 Ole Miss

By J.J. PESAVENTO

Dallas, TX * January 2, 2009 *2:00PM * FOX

In Texas Tech and Ole Miss, you have two teams who experienced very different fortunes in 2008. Texas Tech was among the best teams in the country the entire season and the Red Raiders were making a case for a shot at the national title until Oklahoma pummeled them in week eleven. Ole Miss was 3-4 at one point then ran off five straight wins to get into the Cotton Bowl.

When the Red Raiders have the Ball

Look for an aerial assault by the Red Raiders led by quarterback Graham Harrell with the primary target being Biletnikoff Award winner Michael Crabtree. Crabtree is far from the sole weapon in the Tech arsenal. Detron Lewis, Eric Morris and Tramain Swindall all had over 500 yards receiving and combined for 13 touchdowns for the Red Raiders. For the Ole Miss defense, it starts with pressure up front from Greg Hardy and All-American Peria Jerry. The Rebels led the SEC with 37 sacks in 2008 and getting to Harrell is key to disrupting the high-powered Tech offense. Obviously, Tech does not run the ball a great deal but when they do, it will be either Baron Batch or Shannon Woods toting the rock. But the going won't be easy against an Ole Miss defense led by Jamarca Sanford and Kendrick Lewis that ranks sixth in the nation against the run.

When the Rebels have the Ball

One player to keep an eye on is wide receiver Dexter McCluster, who does it all for the Rebels. McCluster rushed for 558 yards with five touchdowns and hauled in 38 passes for 542 yards with one score this season. Cordera Eason is the primary back for Ole Miss but McCluster and Brandon Bolden also fit into the mix. The backs will be running behind an offensive line led by All-American tackle Michael Oher. Tech isn't all that bad against the run led by Brandon Williams, McKinner Dixon and Brian Duncan. Quarterback Jevan Snead has had a solid season throwing for 23 touchdowns and rushing for three. When he looks to pass, in addition to McCluster, he'll look for Mike Wallace and Shay Hodge, who combined for 14 touchdowns in 2008. Again, Dixon and McKinner will be the players on defense bringing the heat up front with Darcel McBath, who tied for the Big 12 lead in picks (6) and Dan Charbonnet, who had five interceptions in the secondary.

Final Analysis

It goes without saying that the Ole Miss defense will be under fire the entire game and how they handle the pressure will have the biggest impact on the outcome. The Rebels are aggressive and not letting Harrell have the time to pick them apart is paramount. If Texas Tech plays the way they have most of the season, the Rebels cannot stay with them. And the Rebels will also have to put together some offense of their own to keep Harrell on the sidelines where he cannot hurt them. While the Tech defense doesn't rank all that well defending the pass, that can be misleading since most teams were forced into strictly passing after falling behind the Red Raiders. Still, we think Tech just has too much firepower and will outlast the Rebels.

CFI Prediction: Texas Tech 37, Ole Miss 24

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

Texas Tech Red Raiders (11-1, 7-1)
Pass-Graham Harrell (4,747 yards, 41 TDs)
Run--Baron Batch (742 yards, 7 TDs)
Catch--Michael Crabtree (93-1,135 yards, 18 TDs)

Ole Miss Rebels (8-4,5-3)
Pass--Jevan Snead (2,470 yards, 23 TDs)
Run--Cordera Eason (35-644 yards, 3 TDs)
Catch--Mike Wallace (704 yards, 6 TDs)


Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media, College Press Box, Texas Tech Athletics

FIVE QUARTERBACK MATCH-UPS TO WATCH

1. Sam Bradford (Oklahoma) vs. Tim Tebow (Florida): The last two Heisman winners play for the National....um BCS Championship – enough said.

2. Graham Harrell (Texas Tech) vs. Jevon Snead (Ole Miss): Graham Harrell has topped 40 touchdowns once again and needs just 253 yards in the Cotton Bowl for his second 5,000-yard season. Jevan Snead is coming home after transfering from Texas, having led his club to five straight wins to close out the season with 13 touchdowns (two interceptions) over that span.

3. Nate Davis (Ball St.) vs. David Johnson (Tulsa): If you like flamethrowers, this is the game for you. Nate Davis has always had a plus fastball and this season he has added control to his resume, while not many can throw a pass farther or prettier than David Johnson’s deep ball. The GMAC Bowl (Jan. 6) is a tasty appatizer for college football fans waiting for OU/Forida.

4. Dan LeFevour (Central Michigan) vs. Rusty Smith (FAU): Last season, Dan LeFevour accounted for over 400 yards of total offense in the Motor City Bowl versus Purdue and Rusty Smith tossed five touchdown passes on his way to a 336-yard day against Memphis in the New Orleans Bowl making the 2008 Motor City Bowl a must watch.

5. Colt McCoy (Texas) vs. Terrelle Prior (Ohio St.): While Colt McCoy has supassed many of Vince Young’s accomplishments, no one is more reminiscint of the former Longhorn than Ohio St. freshman Terrell Pryor.

Photo Credit: College Press Box, OU Athletics Department

Heisman - The Best of the Rest

Texas Tech teammates quarterback Graham Harrell and wide receiver Michael Crabtree – pass or catch 2008 – finished fourth and fifth in the voting. There is little doubt Harrell should have been extended an invitation to the selection show – a belief most agreed with at the presentation – and received more respect from voters – his 213 points were 1,391 points less than Colt McCoy. Didn’t Harrell beat McCoy head-to-head with the best “Heisman moment” to boot?

Heck, Crabtree should have been invited as well. The Heisman should go back to the days of inviting five players to the City that never sleeps. If not Crabtree, why not bring Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year Shonn Greene of Iowa or the lone defensive player in the top ten USC’s Rey Maualuga? Although, it says here Aaron Curry was the nation’s best defensive player and may have warranted an invite. Rounding out the top ten were WVU quarterback Pat White (snubbed last year), signal caller Nate Davis of Ball St. (whom many consider a better pro prospect than either Tim Tebow or McCoy) and Michigan St.’s senior running back Javon Ringer.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Texas Tech University)

It's A Quarterback's Game

By KENNY FRANEK

Everyone knows that the quarterback position is the hardest position to play in all of sports. It shows when it comes to the Heisman trophy. With Sam Bradford taking home the award on Saturday, eight of the nine Heisman Trophy winners since 2000 have been quarterbacks. This year, not only did a quarterback win it, but the top four Heisman contenders were quarterbacks; with Tim Tebow, Graham Harrell, and Colt McCoy joining Bradford. So dominant were the quarterbacks that the top three vote getters – Bradford, McCoy and Tebow – accounted for 90.4 percent of the points tabulated.

Running backs are taking a back seat in the Heisman running. The decade of the 90's saw four running backs (Rashaan Salaam, Eddie George, Ricky Williams and Ron Dayne) win the award but these days, backs don't account for enough of the offense compared to the top quarterbacks – even if your name is Adrian Peterson or Darren McFadden. A big reason why is they also don't account for the majority of victories achieved by top tier football teams. Again, that is the role of today’s quarterback. If you notice, especially this year, all top-five teams have a quarterback that can truly lead their team to victory and have offenses geared around their quarterback (the one exception may be Alabama with Glenn Coffee).

This dominance is due to the development and athleticism that seems to increase every year at the quarterback position — all of today’s signal callers seem to be living up to the hype. The college game is getting that “NFL feel” to it. It has been said that you need a quarterback to make the key plays….or you will never climb to the top of the NFL. The same can now be said of college football. No longer can teams rely on their defense or running game (like Nebraska did in the 90’s). The quarterback must be in place and have a great hold on the offense to achieve college football supremacy. As the game evolves, so does every position…but none of them are as important as the one that gets dissected and placed under the microscope more than any other – the quarterback.

Photo Credit: University of Texas Athletics

Five Heisman Thoughts

1. Expect A Close Race

On Thursday night, at The Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards, Tim Tebow won the Maxwell Award given to the most “outstanding player”, Colt McCoy was selected as the “player of the year” by winning the Walter Camp Award and Sam Bradford took home the Davey O’Brien Award which is the “national quarterback award”.

Confused yet? Don’t look to the A.P. voters for help.

The same group of 20 that voted Bradford to the First-Team All- Big 12 and McCoy to the Second-Team, tabbed McCoy as the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year.

2. What About Graham?

Despite winning the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, given to the most “outstanding senior quarterback” (Tebow and McCoy are juniors, Bradford is a sophomore), the Texas Tech signal caller was not invited to the Heisman Trophy Presentation.

The Red Raiders head coach Mike Leach was not pleased, and I for one don’t blame him:

"If Graham is not invited to the Heisman, they ought to quit giving out the award. It is a shameless example of politics ruling over performance."

Here are how Harrell’s numbers stack with the rest:

Harrell: 4,747 Yards, 71.5 Percent, 41 Touchdowns, 7 Interceptions
Bradford: 4,464 Yards, 68.3 Percent, 48 Touchdowns, 6 Interceptions
McCoy: 3,445 Yards, 77.6 Percent, 32 Touchdowns, 7 Interceptions
Tebow: 2,515 Yards, 64.9 Percent, 28 Touchdowns, 2 Interceptions

* Harrell should not be labeled a “system quarterback” because all four play in spread offenses geared towards prolific numbers.
* If you want “more than just numbers” – Harrell’s Red Raiders were 11-1, the same exact regular season record that Bradford, Tebow and McCoy led their respective teams to. (P.S. He plays in the SAME conference as McCoy and Bradford.)
* New Heights: Unlike Texas, Oklahoma and Florida – one national championship each since 2000 – this is new territory for Texas Tech. That should count for something, no?

3. Too Exclusive?


Since 2000, seven quarterbacks have won the award with USC’s Reggie Bush (2005) the lone non-signal caller to claim the famous trophy. Unless your name is Tim Tebow, it would also behoove you to be on a top five team and lose no more than two games (Florida was No. 9 last year with three losses heading into Heisman week).

Here is the list (with A.P. Rankings):

2000: Chris Weinke, No. 3 Florida St. 11-1
2001: Eric Crouch, No. 4 Nebraska 11-1
2002: Carson Palmer, No. 5 USC, 10-2
2003: Jason White, No. 3 Oklahoma 12-1
2004: Matt Leinhart, No. 1 USC 12-0
2006: Troy Smtih, No. 1 Ohio St. 12-0

So, is the award for the most “outstanding player” or the best quarterback on a top five team?

Thanks to our friends at 50 Years of Football and the College Football Encyclopedia for the numbers.

4. The Best Non-Quarterbacks:

1. Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech, WR (Biletnikoff Award)
2. Andre Smith, Alabama, OT
(Outland Trophy)
3. Aaron Curry, Wake Forest, LB (Butkus Award)
4. Shonn Greene, Iowa, RB
(Doak Walker Award)
5. Rey Maualuga, USC, LB
(Chuck Bednarik Award)

5. Our 2008 Heisman Picks:

John Murphy:
1. Tim Tebow, Florida, QB
2. Colt McCoy, Texas, QB
3. Sam Bradford, Oklahoma, QB
4. Shonn Greene, Iowa, RB
5. Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech, WR

Daniel Mogollon:
1. Sam Bradford, Oklahoma, QB
2. Colt McCoy, Texas, QB
3. Tim Tebow, Florida, QB
4. Graham Harrell, Texas Tech, QB
5. Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech, WR

Rick Serritella:
1. Sam Bradford, Oklahoma, QB
2. Colt McCoy, Texas, QB
3. Graham Harrell, Texas Tech, QB
4. Tim Tebow, Florida, QB
5. John Parker Wilson, Alabama, QB

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Oklahoma, Texas, Texas Tech, Davey O'Brien Award)

Oklahoma's Sam Bradford named 2008 O'Brien Winner

FORT WORTH, Texas (December 11, 2008) - The Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award® (The O'Brien) today proudly announced Sam Bradford as the 2008 O'Brien Winner. Bradford, a sophomore, competed against O'Brien Finalists Graham Harrell, senior, of Texas Tech and Colt McCoy, junior, of Texas for the award honoring the nation's best quarterback. The announcement was made earlier this evening by 1981 O'Brien Winner, Jim McMahon, on The Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards Show which aired live from Orlando, Fla.

Bradford led the Oklahoma Sooners to a 12-1 record, Big 12 Conference Championship and No. 1 (BCS) ranking this season, as well as a berth in the 2008 National Championship. Bradford and the Sooners will face the Florida Gators and 2007 O'Brien Winner, Tim Tebow, when they head to Miami, Fla., for the Orange Bowl on January 8, 2009.

The signal caller from Oklahoma City, Okla., threw for 4,464 yards with just six interceptions this season, completing more than 68 percent of his passes. He is the nation's leader in both touchdowns (48) and quarterback rating (186.29). After only his second season as a Sooner starter, Bradford's 84 career touchdowns established a new school record, breaking the previous one held by 2003 and 2004 O'Brien Winner, Jason White.

"In the midst of fierce competition at the quarterback position, Bradford raised the bar for quarterback talent across the country," said Verne Lundquist, chairman of the Davey O'Brien National Selection Committee. "He stepped up as a tremendous leader for his team, exemplifying all of the traits The O'Brien seeks in its winner while leading the Sooners to an outstanding season."

Bradford was selected by The O'Brien National Selection Committee, comprised of journalists, broadcasters and commentators from coast to coast, in addition to former O'Brien Winners. College football fans across the country also had a say in the vote with five percent of the final voting tally coming directly from the Fan Vote. The O'Brien is proud to announce that it had 100 percent participation from its National Selection Committee in determining the 2008 award recipient. When voting, members of the committee are asked to evaluate each candidate on his quarterback skills, athletic ability, academics, character, leadership, sportsmanship and reputation as a team player.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Oklahoma)

2008 Home Depot College Football Award Winners

The 2008 Home Depot College Football Awards were handed out tonight in Orlando, FL. The college football season is coming to an end and it's time to find out who is the best of the best. From the Bednarik Award, given to the nation's best defensive player, to the Davey O'Brien Award, given to the nation's best quarterback, we have it covered.

Bednarik Award Winner - Rey Maualuga (1st player from the Pac-10 to win this award)
(Outstanding Defensive Player)

The winner of this award will be in good company -- Dan Connor (2007), Paul Posluszny (2006 and 2005), David Pollack (2004), Teddy Lehman (2003), EJ Henderson (2002), Julius Peppers (2001), Dan Morgan (2000).

Award Finalists
James Laurinaitis, Ohio State, LB: 121 tackles, 4 sacks, 2 INT.
Rey Maualuga, USC, LB: 68 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 2 INT.
Aaron Maybin, Penn State, DE: 45 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, 12 sacks.

Biletnikoff Award Winner - Michael Crabtree (2 years in a row)
(Wide Receiver)

The Biletnikoff trophy weighs 56 pounds, has won several national awards for design excellence, and is the largest of all the college football position awards. Previous winners include Michael Crabtree (2007), Calvin Johnson (2006), Mike Hass (2005), Braylon Edwards (2004), Larry Fitzgerald (2003) and Charles Rogers (2002).

Award Finalists
Dez Bryant, Oklahoma State: 74 REC, 1,313 YDS, 18 TD.
Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech: 93 REC, 1,135 YDS, 18 TD.
Jeremy Maclin, Missouri: 88 REC, 1,175 YDS, 11 TD.

Lou Groza Award Winner - Graham Gano
(Kicker)

The Lou Groza Award is named for NFL Hall-of-Fame kicker Lou "The Toe" Groza, who played 21 seasons with the Cleveland Browns. Groza won four NFL championships with Cleveland and was named NFL Player of the Year in 1954. He is regarded as the first kicker to be truly considered an offensive weapon. In 2007 the award was won by Thomas Weber of Arizona State.

Award Finalists
Josh Arauco, Arkansas State: 89.5 FG%, long of 44 YDS, 87 PTS.
Graham Gano, Florida State: 92.3 FG%, 5-7 from 50+, long of 53 YDS.
Louie Sakoda, Utah: 91.3 FG%, 2-3 from 50+, long of 53 YDS.

Ray Guy Award Winner - Matt Fodge
(Punter)

Candidates for the Ray Guy Award are evaluated on their overall statistics and contribution to their team with emphasis placed on the following categories: net average, percentage of total punts inside the 20, average return yardage and percentage not returned. In 2007 Durant Brooks of Georgia Tech won the award.

Award Finalists
Matt Fodge, Oklahoma State: 31 punts for 1,366 YDS. Average: 44.1. Long 71.
Pat McAfee, West Virginia: 55 punts for 2,457 YDS. Average: 44.7. Long: 65.
Louie Sakoda, Utah: 50 punts for 2,086 YDS. Average. 41.7. Long: 81.

Maxwell Award Winner - Tim Tebow (first 2-time winner since 1953)
(Outstanding Player)

The Maxwell Award is given to the most outstanding player in college football. The following candidates led their respective teams through their astonishing play on the field and their leadership. The 2007 recipient of the Maxwell Award was Florida quarterback Tim Tebow.

Award Finalists
Graham Harrell, Texas Tech, QB: 115.4 RAT, 4,747 YDS, 41 TD, 7 INT.
Colt McCoy, Texas, QB: 125.6 RAT, 77.6 CMP%, 32 TD, 7 INT.
Tim Tebow, Florida, QB: 125.7 RAT, 65.0 CMP%, 25 TD, 2 INT.

Davey O'Brien Award Winner - Sam Bradford
(Quarterback)

The Davey O'Brien Award is named after the All-American football player at Texas Christian University who was named to thirteen All-American teams and became the only college football player to win the Heisman, Maxwell, and Walter Camp trophies in the same year. The 2007 recipient of the Davey O'Brien Award was Florida quarterback Tim Tebow.

Award Finalists
Sam Bradford, Oklahoma: 134.8 RAT, 4,080 YDS, 46 TD, 6 INT.
Graham Harrell, Texas Tech, QB: 115.4 RAT, 4,747 YDS, 41 TD, 7 INT.
Colt McCoy, Texas, QB: 125.6 RAT, 77.6 CMP%, 32 TD, 7 INT.

Outland Trophy - Andre Smith
(Interior Lineman)

The 2007 recipient of the Outland Trophy was defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey of LSU. This award is available to either offensive or defensive lineman, you just have to be the best in the trenches to win it.

Award Finalists
Michael Oher, Mississippi: Running backs averaged 4.6 YDS per carry.
Duke Robinson, Oklahoma: Offense ranked third in the nation.
Andre Smith, Alabama: Given up only one sack all season.

Jim Thorpe Award - Malcolm Jenkins
(Defensive Back)

The Thorpe Award has been presented since 1986, based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character. Recent winners include Antoine Cason of Arizona (2007), Aaron Ross of Texas (2006), Michael Huff of Texas (2005), Carlos Rogers of Auburn (2004), Derrick Strait of Oklahoma (2003), Terence Newman of Kansas State (2002) and Roy Williams of Oklahoma (2001).

Award Finalists
Eric Berry, Tennessee, SS: Leads the nation with 7 INT, two returned for TD, 3 sacks.
Malcolm Jenkins, Ohio State, CB: 3 INT, 3 forced fumbles and 2 blocked kicks.
Taylor Mays, USC, S: 48 tackles, 7 pass breakups, for USC's No. 1 ranked defense.

Doak Walker Award Winner - Shonn Greene
(Running Back)

The Doak Walker Award is the only major collegiate football award that requires all candidates to be in good academic standing and on schedule to graduate within one year of other students of the same classification. It recognizes the nation's premier running back for his accomplishments on the field, achievement in the classroom and citizenship in the community. The 2007 recipient of the Doak Walker Award was Darren McFadden of Arkansas.

Award Finalists
Shonn Greene, Iowa: 1,729 rush YDS, 17 TD. Long: 75 YDS.
Knowshon Moreno, Georgia: 1,338 rush YDS, 16 TD. Long: 68 YDS.
Javon Ringer, Michigan State: 1,590 rush YDS, 21 TD. Long: 64 YDS
Other Award Winners:

Walter Camp Award (Player of the Year): Colt McCoy, QB, Texas

Dick Butkus Award (Nation's Best Linebacker): Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest

Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (Nation's Best Sr. Quarterback): Graham Harrell, QB, Texas Tech

Home Depot Coach of the Year Award: Nick Saban, Alabama

Bronco Nagurski Award (Defensive player of the Year): Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas

Vince Lombardi/Rotary Award (Outstanding Lineman): Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas

Ted Hendricks Award (Defensive End of the Year): Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas

Rimington Award (Most Outstanding Center): A.Q. Shipley, C, Penn State

John Mackey Award (Most Outstanding Tight End): Chase Coffman, TE, Missouri

Frank Broyles Award (Top Assistant Coach): Kevin Wilson, Oklahoma

Disney Spirit Award (Most Inspirational Player or Team): Tim Tebow, QB, Florida

Contributions to College Football Award: Bobby Bowden, Florida State

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Ohio St., Florida)

15 Finalists Vie for National Football Foundation's Draddy Trophy

Winner to be announced Tuesday, December 9 at approximately 8:40 p.m. ET

DALLAS, December 4, 2008 - As the 2008 college football season comes to a close, the 15 NFF Draddy Trophy Finalists will head to New York City next week, where each will claim an $18,000 scholarship, while the nation's top scholar-athlete from among the finalists will be announced as the 19th recipient of the coveted NFF Draddy Trophy, presented by HealthSouth.

The Draddy Trophy is one of college football's most sought after and competitive awards, recognizing an individual as the absolute best in the country for his combined academic success, football performance and exemplary community leadership.

"The Draddy represents excellence in all aspects of one's life," said NFF President & CEO Steven J. Hatchell. "Past recipients have gone on to become lawyers, doctors and some of the best players in the NFL. Football truly does build leaders, and this year's 15 finalists are no exception."

The announcement will be made between 8:15 - 9 p.m. during the NFF Annual Awards Dinner at the Waldorf=Astoria on Tuesday, December 9.

The class members combine to average a 3.71 GPA, and all have been named Academic All-Conference athletes. Twelve serve as team captains, while ten have been named to All-Conference teams and four have been chosen as All-America picks. Six have been named Academic All-Americas, including one Rhodes Scholar finalist. Seven finished the season as members of nationally ranked teams.

The centerpiece to the NFF's scholar-athlete program, which has awarded over $8.9 million to 708 top athletes, the Draddy Trophy honors former NFF Chairman Vincent dePaul Draddy, a Manhattan College quarterback who developed the Izod and Lacoste brands. The award, college football's most prestigious academic honor, comes with a 24-inch, 25-pound bronze trophy and increases the winner's scholarship by $7,000 to $25,000.

Launched in 1959, the NFF scholar-athlete program became the first initiative in history to credit a player for both academic and athletic accomplishments. The Draddy, first awarded in 1990, adds to the program's mystique. Past Draddy winners, including two Rhodes Scholars, a Rhodes Scholar finalist, a Heisman winner and a 3.7 average GPA, are: Chris Howard (Air Force, 1990 - Leader in Higher Education); John B. Culpepper (Florida, 1991 - Attorney); Jim Hansen (Colorado, 1992 - MIT Professor); Thomas Burns (Virginia, 1993 - Ph.D. Nuclear Engineer); Robert Zatechka (Nebraska, 1994 - Physician); Bobby Hoying (Ohio State, 1995 - Real Estate Developer); Danny Wuerffel (Florida, 1996 - Nonprofit Director); Peyton Manning (Tennessee, 1997 - NFL Player); Matt Stinchcomb (Georgia, 1998 - Television Broadcaster); Chad Pennington (Marshall, 1999 - NFL Player); Kyle Vanden Bosch (Nebraska, 2000 - NFL Player); Joaquin Gonzalez (Miami, 2001 - Entrepreneur); Brandon Roberts (Washington University- Mo., 2002 - Medical Student); Craig Krenzel (Ohio State, 2003 - Real Estate Investment Analyst); Michael Munoz (Tennessee, 2004 - Nonprofit director and political candidate); Rudy Niswanger (LSU, 2005 - NFL Player); Brian Leonard (Rutgers, 2006 - NFL Player); and Dallas Griffin (Texas, 2007 - MBA Candidate).

Listed in alphabetical order, the 2008 Draddy Finalists are:

Andrew Berry, CB - Harvard: Named First Team All-Ivy League corner for third year, amassing 43 tackles, three interceptions and six pass breakups in 2008... Led Crimson to 2008 Ivy League title... Named a John Harvard Scholar, ranking among Harvard's top five percent in grade point average... One of five finalists (among all college athletes) for the Coach Wooden Citizenship Cup... Director of the Cambridge Youth Enrichment Program.

Ryan Berry, QB - South Dakota State: Leads Missouri Valley Conference in total offense (3,009) and passing yards (3,106)... Set SDSU career marks for completions (477) and touchdowns (52)... Two- time Academic All-Great West Football Conference selection... Named to ESPN The Magazine's Academic All-District Team in 2008... Member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and has participated in reading programs at local elementary schools.

Chase Daniel, QB - Missouri: Led Missouri to back-to-back Big 12 North Division titles... Holds 27 school records and was a 2007 Heisman Trophy finalist... Named a 2008 finalist for the Manning Award, Wuerffel Trophy and the Unitas Golden Arm Award, completing 331 passes for 3,880 yards and 34 touchdowns this season... Two-time Academic All-Big 12 selection... Volunteered for hospital visits and the Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl for Kids Sake charity.

Brian Freeman, OT - Carnegie Mellon (Pa.): Named to All-University Athletics Association First Team for second straight year... Vital part of CMU offense that has led the UAA on the ground for the third straight season, amassing 223.3 yards per contest... Three-time ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America selection... Member of the Chemical Engineering Association and the Student Athlete Advisory Council.

Casey Gerald, CB - Yale: Rhodes Scholar finalist and Gates Millennium Scholar... Named 2008 Honorable Mention All-Ivy League, recording 25 tackles, one interception, three pass breakups and four pass deflections this season... Recipient of the New England Football Writers Association's Jerry Nason Award for senior achievement... Co-founder and president of the Yale Black Men's Union, establishing a mentoring program for young men.

Graham Harrell, QB - Texas Tech: Nation's leading passer and the NCAA's active career leader in passing yards (15,429) and passing touchdowns (130)... Named a 2008 finalist for the Manning Award, Walter Camp Player of the Year Award, Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award, Maxwell Award, Wuerffel Trophy and Unitas Golden Arm Award... Academic All- Big 12 selection, graduating in only three-and-a-half years... Participated in visits to local children's hospitals and nursing homes.

Quin Harris, LB - Louisiana Tech: Named a 2008 finalist for the Wuerffel Trophy... Registered a perfect 4.0 GPA five of his last six quarters of his undergraduate studies, graduating magna cum laude with a degree in kinesiology last May... Team captain and four-year starter, garnering Louisiana Sports Writers Association All-Louisiana Team recognition in 2006 and '07... Member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the three-year vice president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.

Jeff Horinek, LB - Colorado State: Led CSU to its first bowl-eligible season in three years... Started 37 consecutive games for the Rams, one of the nation's longest streaks... Tallied 84 tackles, including 4.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks this season... Two-time ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District selection... Three-time Academic All- Mountain West pick... Four-year participant in the Ram Jam Children's Community Event and has tallied numerous hours of service at Timberline Church.

Ryan Kees, DE - St. Cloud State (Minn.): Ranks fourth in SCSU history with 34.5 career tackles for loss and is tied for sixth with 15 career sacks... Two-time First Team ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District pick... Named to 2008 NSIC North Division All-Conference First Team... Member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineering (ASME) and volunteers for a youth football program on Saturday mornings.

Alex Mack, C - California: Graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor's degree in legal studies... Four-time Academic All-Pac-10 selection.... One of only three players to be named a unanimous 2007 First Team All-Pac-10 selection, earning the Morris Trophy as the conference's top offensive lineman... Named First Team All-America by The Sporting News in 2007 and a projected first-round NFL Draft pick... Member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.

Ryan McDonald, OL - Illinois: Named Second Team All-Big Ten selection in 2008, while tying the school record for career starts (48)... Two-time First Team ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America selection... Honors graduate of Illinois' prestigious aerospace engineering program, which is ranked among the top five in the country... Four-year starter... Member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and organized a team for the 2008 MS Walk, raising$1,500 for the charity.

Greg Micheli, QB - Mount Union (Ohio): Named First Team All-Ohio Athletic Conference pick for second straight year... Led Mount Union to outright OAC title and No. 1 ranking in Division III... Named the 2008 ESPN The Magazine College Division Academic All-American of the Year... Division III's top-rated QB, throwing only two interceptions in 179 completions (215.77 passer rating)... Member of the Physics Society and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.

Darryl Richard, DT - Georgia Tech: Led Georgia Tech to No. 15 national ranking and upset of intrastate rival Georgia... 32 career tackles for loss ranks 12th in school history... Three-time ACC Academic Honor Roll selection... Three-year starter and team captain, registering 34 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and four sacks this season... President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Board and selected to the university's Presidential Search Committee and the NCAA Certification Committee.

Brian Robiskie, WR - Ohio State: Led Buckeyes to a share of the 2008 Big Ten title... OSU's leading receiver for the second year, catching 37 passed for 419 yards and eight touchdowns... Two- time First Team ESPN The Magazine Academic All- America selection... One of three male finalists for the 2008 Arthur Ashe Sports Scholar Award... Active in projects through the Student-Athlete Activities Board, and participates in hospital visits and speaks to local elementary and middle school students.

Louie Sakoda, K/P - Utah: Only second player in history to be named a finalist for both the Ray Guy and the Lou Groza awards... Led Utes to an undefeated 2008 regular season and No. 6 national ranking... Only dual punter/kicker in the country ranked in the top 10 nationally in both punting average (41.72 yards) and field goal percentage (91.0)... Three-time MWC Special Teams Player of the Year... 2008 First Team Academic All-America selection... Organizes recess activities for at-risk children.

Photo Credit: Mizzou Media Relations, OSU Athletics

Heisman Watch

Colt McCoy is the most valuable player in college football. The question is – does MVP necessarily mean Heisman? If you took McCoy off Texas, the Longhorns might be the fourth or fifth best team in the Big 12. He does not have the complementary receivers that Oklahoma’s Sam Bradford has. Texas beat Oklahoma on a neutral field so the slight edge goes to McCoy. The junior quarterback not only threw two touchdowns last week against rival Texas A&M, but also ran two in. He has 4,021 yards of total offense and 42 touchdowns. It is unfortunate that McCoy will not be playing this Saturday.

Ahead: TBD

Sam Bradford had his greatest game of the year on a national stage last week against Oklahoma State. Bradford not only led his team to eight straight scoring drives, but led the Sooners to the Big 12 title game. He was 30-for-44 for 370 yards and four touchdowns and has thrown for 46 scoring strikes and only six interceptions on the season. Since the loss to Texas, he has 23 touchdowns to just one interception. He will most likely get his chance to play in the BCS Championship.

Ahead: vs. Missouri – A third straight marquee game for Bradford to sway voters.

Tim Tebow does not have the numbers to match McCoy and Bradford (or Harrell), but is the only one with a National Championship. Tebow faces number one Alabama and one of the nation’s best defenses with a trip to the BCS Championship on the line. He is just as valuable to Florida as McCoy is to Texas and unlike the Big 12’s big three, he owns his region. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner destroyed in-state rival Florida State by completing 12-of-21 passes for 185 yards and three touchdowns. He also ran for 80 yards and a score as the Gators rolled to a 45-15 win. Tebow is not having the record setting campaign he did a year ago, but could actually be a more completely player in 2008

Ahead: vs. Alabama – He joins Bradford, as the two Heisman frontrunners with one more chance to campaign in front of the electorate. A big game versus the vaunted Tide defense could provide Tebow with a major boost.

Graham Harrell- showed what leaders are made of when he led Texas Tech to victory while playing with nine separate breaks in the first two fingers in his left hand. Harrell completed 41 of 50 passes for 309 yards and two touchdowns. He has thrown for a ridiculous 4,747 yards and 41 touchdowns on the season.

Ahead: TBD

Heisman Watch Prediction
1. Colt McCoy
2. Sam Bradford
3. Tim Tebow
4. Graham Harrell
5. Shonn Greene
6. Michael Crabtree

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Texas)

NFF: Chalktalk

2008 NFF Draddy Trophy Finalists Garner National Accolades

Four 2008 NFF National Scholar-Athlete were named to the ESPN the Magazine /CoSIDA Academic All-America First Team (University Division), including Harvard's Andrew Berry, Illinois' Ryan McDonald, Ohio State's Brian Robiskie and Utah's Louie Sakoda. Carnegie Mellon's (Pa.) Brian Freeman and Mount Union's (Ohio) Greg Micheli were named to the First Team in the College Division, with Micheli honored as the College Division Academic All-American of the Year.

Graham Harrell (Texas Tech) was named a finalist for the Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award as well as the Maxwell Award.

Louie Sakoda (Utah) is the only player in the nation to be a finalist for both the Lou Groza National Place-Kicker and the Ray Guy Awards. He is only the second player in college football history to hold this distinction (Purdue's Travis Dorsch, 2001).

Chase Daniel (Missouri), Graham Harrell (Texas Tech), Quin Harris (Louisiana Tech) and Louie Sakoda (Utah) were named finalists for the Wuerffel Trophy.

Casey Gerald of Yale has captured the New England Football Writers Association's Jerry Nason Award for senior achievement, leadership and character. Nominees come from a five- state region and all NCAA and NAIA divisions.

Greg Micheli of Mount Union (Ohio) was named a finalist for the Gagliardi Trophy awarded to Division III's national player of the year. Micheli has also led the Purple Raiders to the Division III quarterfinals.

Missouri's Chase Daniel and Texas Tech's Graham Harrell were named finalists for the Unitas Golden Arm Award.

BCS Notes

For the first time in BCS history, the BCS standings broke a tiebreaker to determine the Big 12's South Division representative in the Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Championship in Kansas City. Oklahoma is No. 2 in this week's BCS standings ahead of No. 3 Texas and No. 7 Texas Tech. All closed with identical 7-1 conference marks and 11-1 overall records. Texas Tech nabbed its first share of a Big 12 football divisional crown in the process.

This week's conference championship games: Friday, Dec. 5 - Mid-American Conference, Ball State vs. Buffalo, 8 p.m. (EST), Detroit, Mich.; Saturday, Dec. 6 - Dr Pepper ACC Championship, Boston College vs. Virginia Tech, 1 p.m. (EST), Tampa, Fla.; Dec. 6 - Conference USA Championship, East Carolina vs. Tulsa, noon (CST), ESPN2; Dec. 6 - Southeastern Conference Championship, 4 p.m. (EST), Atlanta, Ga., Alabama vs. Florida; Dec. 6 - Dr Pepper Big 12 Championship, Missouri vs. Oklahoma, 7 p.m. (CST), Kansas City.

Florida and Alabama are meeting for the sixth time in 17 years in the Southeastern Conference Championship game. The Gators have a 3-2 edge, and this is the first time in history that two SEC teams have met as No. 1 (Alabama) and No. 2 (UF) in the Associated Press national poll... Cincinnati has clinched its first Big East Conference football crown. The Bearcats are the eighth different school to win the Big East since 1991... Ohio State's four-year run of outright or shared Big Ten Conference titles is tied for third in league history. The Buckeyes 1972-77 squads won or tied for a record six consecutive conference crowns.

There are four remaining FBS schools (Alabama, Ball State, Boise State and Utah) with undefeated records on the week after the seventh Bowl Championship Series standings. Alabama has appeared at No. 1 in BCS standings for five consecutive weeks - the most since Ohio State closed 2007 with five consecutive No. 1 positions. The record is 15 straight No. 1 placements by Southern California in 2004 and '05. The Crimson Tide is the first team since Oklahoma (six consecutive standings in 2000) to appear five weeks in a row in its debut year atop the BCS.

Seven additional teams became bowl eligible last week to bring the total to 71 for the 68 contracted positions in 34 FBS postseason games: Bowling Green, Florida Atlantic, Memphis, Southern Miss, NC State, Hawaii and Arkansas State. There are four additional schools (Arizona State, Louisiana-Lafayette, Louisville and Middle Tennessee) with five overall victories and at least one game remaining.

The 34 postseason games in the FBS are being played in 28 different cities/metro areas and will attract more than 6,800 student-athletes, over 1,100 coaches and administrative personnel, and in excess of 1.7 million fans by projected ticket sales.

Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Voting

Whether building houses for the homeless or starting charities to help neighbors in need, today's college football coaches are making a meaningful impact in their communities. If your favorite coach is a community leader, you can help him win $50,000 for his favorite charities through the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award. Just Visit www.coachoftheyear.com, cast your vote, and encourage members of your community to do the same by clicking on "Spread the Word," located on the upper right hand corner of the website's front page. A brief e-mail form will appear, allowing you to tell family, friends and fellow alumni to cast their votes.

Since its 2006 debut, Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award winners have donated a total of $400,000 in prize money to 12 charities and their schools' alumni associations, for scholarships. This year, four more coaches - one from each NCAA football division - will win a collective total of $280,000 in charitable donations. By spreading the word in your community, you can help decide who should win this valuable support.

NFF News

The NFF's Greater Atlanta Chapter will be awarding 37 scholar-athlete scholarships and 12 scholar-manager scholarships on Dec. 30 at the Texaco Scholarship Luncheon and Chalk Talk, presented by The Atlanta Journal Constitution.

To become a member of the National Scholar- Athlete Alumni Association, please contact NFF Director of Special Projects Hillary Jeffries at 800-486- 1865 or via email at hjeffries@footballfoundation.com.

To become an NFF member, please contact NFF Director of Membership Ron Dilatush at 800-486- 1865 or via email at rdilatush@footballfoundation.com. Worldwide membership now is at 12,000-plus in 119 chapters.

For the weekly College Football Insiders newsletter, the NFF's College Football Viewer Guide complete with broadcast teams, Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) announcements and more information on the NFF and college football, please visit www.footballfoundation.com.

Two-Minute Drill

Texas passed Notre Dame on the all- time FBS wins' chart and trails only Michigan in total victories... Penn State (800th all-time football victory) and Wake Forest (400th triumph in history) each notched milestone team wins in 2008... Texas coach Mack Brown netted his 200th career win last Thursday vs. Texas A&M... Missouri and Kansas have extended their season series at Arrowhead Stadium through 2012... Rice's Bayou Bucket win over Houston drew the largest home crowd in eight years to Rice Stadium. The Owls' nine wins this seasons are the most since 1949... Boston College has scored a non- offensive touchdown in seven consecutive contests... Ohio State student-athletes and fans have sent 5,700-plus personal care packages to U.S. military personnel stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan through Operation Buckeye... New Mexico State's "Tough Enough to Wear Pink" fundraising through athletics has helped raise $284,000 for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation... Tennessee has pledged athletics department funding for turfgrass and grass growth research on campus... Returning Kansas State coach Bill Snyder is making a six-city tour of Kansas Tuesday... The Reno-Tahoe Airport has added a "Wolf Pack Den" display to promote Nevada athletics... magicJack Inc. has signed a one- year agreement as title sponsor of the St. Petersburg Bowl. Former Purdue standout Mike Alstott will serve as honorary bowl chairman.

Lamar's (Texas) football stadium for its 2010 return to the gridiron will be named Provost Umphrey Stadium to recognize a $3 million contribution from a law firm and $1 million from Walter and Sheila Umphrey... Charlotte has received 5,000-plus pledges for FSLs (49er Seat Licenses) for the university's upcoming football program... Retired Mississippi State director of athletics Larry Templeton has been honored with the naming of the Templeton Athletics Academics Center on campus.

Lane Kiffin was named head coach at Tennessee... Wyoming named Dave Christensen head coach... Missouri head coach Gary Pinkel had his contract extended through the 2015 season... Yale's Jack Siedlecki is retiring as head coach to become an assistant director of athletics for the Bulldogs... Tim Davis has been tabbed as Minnesota's new running game coordinator/offensive line coach.

The National College Football Awards Association's Contributions to College Football Award will be presented in Orlando on Dec. 12 to 2006 College Football Hall of Fame coach Bobby Bowden... 2004 NFF High School National Scholar-Athlete QB Chris Pizzotti of Harvard was named the 2008 Ivy League Asa Bushnell Cup Player of the Year... The Big Ten Conference led all FBS circuits with eight first or second team choices on the ESPN the Magazine/CoSIDA Academic All-America entries... The Walter Camp Foundation has denoted its three legends' awards for 2008: Alumnus of the Year Tim Brown (Notre Dame); Man of the Year Morten Andersen (Michigan State); and Distinguished American Len Dawson (Purdue).

Finalists have been announced for the following postseason awards to be presented live at the ESPNU Home Depot Awards Show on Dec. 12 in Orlando: Chuck Bednarik Award - James Laurinaitis (Ohio State), Ray Maualuga (Southern California) and Aaron Maybin (Penn State); Biletnikoff Award - Dez Bryant (Oklahoma State), Michael Crabtree (Texas Tech), and Jeremy Maclin (Missouri); Lou Groza National Place- Kicker Award - Josh Arauco (Arkansas State), Graham Gano (Florida State), and NFF Draddy Trophy finalist Louie Sakoda (Utah); Ray Guy Award - Matt Fodge (Oklahoma State), Pat McAfee (West Virginia) and Sakoda (Utah). Maxwell Award - NFF Draddy Trophy finalist Graham Harrell (Texas Tech), Colt McCoy (Texas) and Tim Tebow (Florida); Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award - Sam Bradford (Oklahoma), Harrell (Texas Tech) and McCoy (Texas); Outland Trophy - Michael Oher (Mississippi), Duke Robinson (Oklahoma) and Andre Smith (Alabama); Jim Thorpe Award - Eric Berry (Tennessee), Malcolm Jenkins (Ohio State) and Taylor Mays (Southern California); Doak Walker Award - Shonn Greene (Iowa), Knowshon Moreno (Georgia) and Javon Ringer (Michigan State).

Rhodes Scholarship recipient Myron Rolle (Florida State), Aaron Curry (Wake Forest), James Laurinaitis (Ohio State) and Brian Orakpo (Texas) were named as finalists for the fifth annual Lott Trophy... The John Mackey Award has selected Chase Coffman (Missouri), Jermaine Gresham (Oklahoma), and Brandon Pettigrew (Oklahoma State) as its 2008 tight end of the year finalists... Two Ole Miss standouts - Michael Oher and Peria Jerry - join Millsaps QB Juan Joseph as finalists for the Cellular South Conerly Trophy for the top collegiate standout in Mississippi. The trophy memorializes Ole Miss QB and late College Football Hall of Famer Charlie Conerly... The Sports Network has designated 20 finalists for the Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award in the Football Championship Subdivision... The 10 finalists have been designated for the Division III Gagliardi Trophy to honor excellence in athletics, academics and community service, including NFF Draddy Trophy finalist Greg Micheli from Mount Union (Ohio).

The Nov. 12 Ball State-Central Michigan game on ESPN was the highest-rated telecast in Mid-American Conference history with a 1.6 or a viewing audience of 1,605,001 homes... The third annual Gridiron Classic between Jacksonville of the Pioneer League and Albany of the Northeast Conference was aired nationally last Saturday on the YES Network, DirecTV and AT&T cable.

Murray Armstong, 71, assistant coach and administrator for Memphis football from 1962- 2008, died last Saturday in Somerville, Tenn. He starred as an end at Tennessee... Leo Seal, former Mississippi State football student-athlete and benefactor for the Leo Seal End Zone facility at MSU, died in Gulfport, Miss.... Goble Bryant, former Army offensive and defensive tackle from 1945-47, passed away on Nov. 23.

Key NFF Dates

Dec. 9: NFF Annual Awards Dinner at the Waldorf=Astoria - New York, N.Y.
Jan. 5, 2009: National Hall of Fame Salute at the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl - Glendale, Ariz.
Jan. 9, 2009: Presentation of MacArthur Trophy to BCS champion - Miami, Fla.

2009 BCS Schedule

Jan. 1: Rose Bowl presented by Citi - Pasadena, Calif., ABC
Jan. 1: FedEx Orange Bowl - Miami Gardens, Fla., Fox
Jan. 2: Allstate Sugar Bowl - New Orleans, La., Fox
Jan. 5: Tostitos Fiesta Bowl - Glendale, Ariz., Fox
Jan. 8: FedEx BCS National Championship - Miami Gardens, Fla., Fox