BCS Buster: Week Three Preview

By KENNY FRANEK

Game of the Week: Florida State @ BYU

BYU gets their first home game of the season against a Florida State team that survived a scare against Jacksonville St. Max Hall will attempt to add his name to the short list of Heisman Trophy candidates by beating a second storied program in three weeks. He has thrown for more than 300 yards in his first two games of the season and will look to continue that streak against an inexperienced Seminoles’ secondary that has given up more than 200 yards passing in both of their games this season. It will be running backs Bryan Kariya, J.J. Di Luigi and hopefully Harvey Unga who will need to get the ground game going to control the clock and wear down the solid run defense of the 'Noles, who have yet to allow either team they have faced to rush for more than 100 yards. Although the Seminoles looked rusty in their second game, they are not a team to be taken lightly. They have enough offensive firepower to put points on the board with veteran quarterback Christian Ponder and wide receiver Richard Goodman breaking out of his shell. The Cougars will also have to contain Florida State’s explosive return man Greg Reid, who can be a Devin Hester-like game changer. If the Cougs’ defense can be as strong as they have shown in their first two games, then the offense will do the rest. If they fail to contain the Seminoles’ offense, this could turn into a shoot-out. I believe the defense will come through again.

Players to Watch - BYU: QB Max Hall, TE Dennis Pitta, RB Bryan Kariya, RB J.J. Di Luigi

Players to Watch - FSU: QB Christian Ponder, WR Richard Goodman, CB/KR Greg Reid

Prediction: BYU 26, FSU 19

Other Games to Watch:

Boise State @ Fresno State:

Kellen Moore leads the Blue Turf Darlings to Fresno for their first road game of the season. He has turned into the leader of this team in the season’s early going and will be the key to a Boise St. victory. Meanwhile, the Bulldogs look to get back on track after letting a 14-point lead slip away and losing in overtime at Camp Randall against the Badgers. This will be a fun match-up to watch as the high-powered Bulldog offense looks to put a dent in the physical Broncos’ defense.
Prediction: Boise State 34, Fresno State 24

Tulsa @ Oklahoma:

In-state rivals collide as the Sooners look to make it two straight wins after the injury to Sam Bradford. Red-shirt freshman quarterback Landry Jones will try to repeat his performance of last week where he was 18-of-32 for 286 yards, three touchdowns and one interception. The Sooners’ defense will have its hands full against the high-powered Tulsa offense, which has led the nation in total offense the past two seasons. They have averaged 450 yards in their first two games this season and this battle will come down to the Golden Hurricane offense versus the Oklahoma defense.
Prediction: Oklahoma 45, Tulsa 31

TCU vs. Texas State:

The Frogs’ defense looked sharp in their season opener in Virginia and will hope to build on that momentum. Their offense looked stagnant at times and will try and get it together against a Texas State defense that allowed 28 points to Angelo State in their season opener.
Prediction: TCU 30, Texas State 10

Utah @ Oregon:

The Utes will take the nation’s longest current winning streak to Eugene to take on the Ducks. Quarterback Terrance Cain and running back Matt Asiata look to get the offense back on track after a mediocre performance last week against San Jose St. The task will not be easy, though, as the Ducks are 5-0 against ranked opponents at Autzen Stadium since 1995.
Prediction: Utah 27, Oregon 23

Photos Courtesy of Jaren Wilkey/BYU, Boise St. University

CFI Countdown: #2 Oklahoma Sooners

2008 Record: 12-2 (Big 12: 7-1)
Bowl Game: Lost BCS Championship Game to Florida 24-12
Location: Norman, Oklahoma
Stadium: Oklahoma Memorial Stadium (82,112)
Head Coach: Bob Stoops
Overall: 109-24 (11th season)
@ Oklahoma: 109-24 (11th season)
Link to OU Football Page

Boomer Sooner overcame a loss to Texas to win their sixth Big XII title under Coach Bob Stoops (in 10 seasons), including their third straight (no other team has consecutive conference titles). Oklahoma also made their fourth BCS Championship game in the Stoops era, but fell for the third time in a row (Stoops won a title in 2000, his second season at OU). The 2008 edition—led by Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford—was an offensive juggernaut, but expect the 2009 version to get back to basics with the defense leading the way, just as it did at the start of the decade.

When the Sooners Have the Ball

Offensive Coordinator: Kevin Wilson (8th season)
Scheme: No Huddle Spread Offense (Multiple Sets)
Starters Returning: Five
Key Losses: WR Juaquin Iglesias, WR Manuel Johnson, OT Phil Loadholt, OG Duke Robinson, C Jon Copper, OG Brandon Walker

Bradford returns after his splendid sophomore season, giving up the chance to potentially be the number one overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. Bradford has exceptional touch and accuracy on his passes, and one of the quickest releases in the game. The Sooner signal caller makes great decisions and knows how lead his receivers with the ball, allowing them to make things happen after the catch. He can beat you underneath, over the top, and everywhere in between. Their top receivers from a year ago are gone, so look for sophomore Ryan Broyles to step in as the number one target. Broyles has the speed to burn teams deep, as well as take a short pass and work his magic in the open field. This is the last chance for 6’ 4” senior Adron Tennell to fulfill his potential, and he gives Bradford a big target. There will be several other talented players competing for playing time with former tailback Mossis Madu, a very intriguing backup. Of course in crunch time, don’t be surprised if Bradford looks for senior tight end Jermaine Gresham who, like his quarterback, looked away from NFL riches in order to wear the OU on the side of his helmet for one more season. Gresham moves like a wide receiver, owning impressive athleticism and good hands. The 6’ 6” playmaker also checks in at nearly 260 pounds—a small man he is not. At tailback, senior Chris Brown and junior DeMarco Murray give Oklahoma a classic one-two punch—each went over 1,000 yards last season. The shifty Brown excels between the tackles and has a nose for the end zone, while the powerful and speedy Murray is as explosive as they come. Losing four starters from the offensive line makes that unit the biggest question mark in Norman, bar none. They should be set at left tackle where potential All-American Trent Williams takes over. The ability is there, but they need to gain the continuity last year’s unit had when they were among the best in the nation.

Top Pro Prospects: 1) QB Sam Bradford (JR), 2) TE Jermaine Gresham (SR), 3) TE Trent Williams (SR)

When the Other Team Has the Ball

Defensive Coordinator: Brent Venables (11th season)
Scheme: 4-3
Starters Returning: Eight
Key Losses: S Nic Harris, S Lendy Holmes

The defense has a chance to be the best in the nation and the best in the Stoops era, which is saying something. It begins with junior tackle Gerald McCoy who at his best is simply unblockable. McCoy can hold the fort with his 6’ 4”/297-pound frame and use his quickness to be a penetrating force—in a word, he’s gifted. If senior DeMarcus Granger can ever get it together, watch out. On the outside, senior Auston English joins junior Jeremy Beal, and the Oklahoma bookends form what is arguably the top pass-rushing duo in the Big XII. Both bring length and are impressive athletes who excel at getting into the backfield. They have two of the fastest linebackers around in sophomore Travis Lewis and senior Keenan Clayton. Lewis had as much impact as any freshman defender in the nation last season—he flies all over the field and is a big time hitter, while Clayton is a former safety who still runs like a defensive back. If senior Ryan Reynolds and sophomore Austin Box recover from their injuries this is the best front seven in America. Both Dominique Franks and Brian Jackson are back after stepping into the starting cornerback roles a year ago. Franks is the better cover man with excellent speed, while Jackson brings a little more size. The only question mark they have is at safety, where they must replace both starters from 2008.

Top Pro Prospects: 1) DT Gerald McCoy (JR), LB Travis Lewis (SO), 3) CB Dominique Franks (JR)

The Schedule

Unlike their rivals from across the border, the Sooners actually play a decent non-conference schedule, even taking on a ranked foe in BYU. They open up the season this Saturday with the pass happy Houston Cougars in Dallas and make a trip to Miami beach to take on the ‘Canes in a classic 80’s matchup (Barry Switzer versus Jimmy Johnson anyone?) before they begin conference play. Like every year this decade, the Sooners’ biggest game comes when they make the annual trip to Dallas to take on the ‘Horns in the third Saturday in October. A third journey to the Lone Star state is one of three challenging Big XII road games as they visit Texas Tech. They also make road trips to the top two teams in the North, traveling to Lawrence (Kansas) and Lincoln as they renew their rivalry with Nebraska (Barry Switzer versus Tom Osborne?). They close the season with a visit from one of the most dangerous Oklahoma St. teams in years.

Pivotal Point

With a team that is stacked with NFL prospects at every position, the one unit that could derail a return trip to the BCS Championship game is the offensive line. Everyone knows what Bradford, Broyles, Brown, Murray, and Gresham can do. It will be the job of the O-Line to make sure the offense doesn’t take a step back—Bradford and his backs can’t block for themselves. Even the one “sure thing”, Williams, is entering new territory as he shifts from right tackle to protecting Bradford’s blindside. Center Brody Eldridge is a senior and junior guard Brian Simmons has experience with sophomore guard Jarvis Jones, an LSU transfer, and junior tackle Cory Brandon manning the right side of the line. They have five games to get ready for Texas.

CFI Final Analysis

“Paging Big Game Bob…paging Big Game Bob.” The offensive line is the unit with the spotlight on them, but the responsibilities of how the Sooners play in big games fall on Coach Stoops. Early in his career the Sooners knocked off top ten teams at will, owned Mack Brown and the Longhorns, and won a National Championship, earning Stoops the “Big Game Bob” moniker. While their Big XII dominance continues, Big Game Bob has been missing. Oklahoma has dropped three of four to Texas and some of their BCS performances have been downright ugly. It’s time to turn that around and 2009 could leave many saying Big Game Bob is back.

College Football Insiders Top 25 Countdown:
The Next 25 (26-50) Plus 18 Bowl Teams
#25 West Virginia Mounainteers
#24 Tennessee Volunteers
#23 Clemson Tigers
#22 Pittsburgh Panthers
#21 Michigan St. Spartans
#20 Utah Utes
#19 Oregon Ducks
#18 Florida St. Seminoles
#17 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
#16 Boise St. Broncos
#15 North Carolina Tar Heels
#14 Penn St. Nittany Lions
#13 Mississippi Rebels
#12 Oklahoma St. Cowboys
#11 California Golden Bears
#10 Iowa Hawkeyes
#9 Virginia Tech Hokies
#8 Georgia Bulldogs
#7 USC Trojans
#6 LSU Tigers
#5 Ohio St. Buckeyes
#4 Alabama Crimson Tide
#3 Texas Longhorns

Photos Courtesy of OU Athletics Department

BCS Busters Week One Preview

Game of the Week * #19 Oregon Ducks @ #16 Boise State *

Thursday September 3rd * ESPN * 10:15 PM EST

Players to Watch: Oregon: Jeremiah Masoli (QB), Oregon; LeGarrette Blount (RB), Oregon; Walter Thurmond (CB); Boise St.: Kellen Moore (QB), Boise St.; Ryan Winterswyk (DE), Boise St.; Kyle Wilson (CB)

What a terrific game to the start the season. Oregon will need great performances from quarterback Jeremiah Masoli and running back LeGarrette Blount to win this game. Boise State’s blue turf field can be a rude awakening for some teams because it plays so fast. Some teams tend to over-compensate as they’re used to playing on grass fields, which can be slippery and play slow at times. If the Ducks’ defense can adjust to the turf, then they will come out victors. On the flip side, the Broncos need to have an outstanding performance by quarterback Kellen Moore to have a chance in this matchup. He needs to have good protection from his veteran offensive line; which will allow him to keep making smart decisions as he did in 2008. The defense will also have to have a great performance. This will be a big test for the inexperienced defensive line and should be a good measuring stick as to how far they have come during fall practices. They will have a hard task at hand in stopping “The Wrecking Ball”, Blount, who has a punishing running style. This should be a fun one to watch, with stars on both sides of the ball for each team looking to get off to a fast start.

Prediction: Oregon 37, Boise State 24

Other Games to Watch:

BYU vs. Oklahoma: BYU quarterback Max Hall will look to match Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford throw for throw, as the Sooner takes his first step at making a second run at the title game. This game will be played at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas so home field advantage is taken away, which should make for an entertaining matchup even though there will be more red in the stands than blue.
Prediction: Oklahoma 47, BYU 20

**Upset Special**
Nevada @ Notre Dame: The high-powered Nevada offense takes aim at one of the most storied programs in college football. Led by quarterback Collin Kaepernick and tailback Via Taua, the Wolf Pack will look to get the ground game going early in this one and will need to if they have a chance at winning in South Bend.
Prediction: Nevada 40, Notre Dame 33

Western Michigan @ Michigan: There's a classic drop back passer who will have NFL scouts watching closely in this one-but he's not wearing Maize and Blue, it's Western quarterback Tim Hiller. The senior takes on a perennial power in Michigan, with Rich Rodriguez looking to bring them back after a disappointing 2008 campaign.
Prediction: Michigan 42, Western Michigan 17

Florida Atlantic @ Nebraska: The Owls quarterback Rusty Smith will need to avoid turning the ball over against a tenacious Cornhusker’s defense. Wide receiver Cortez Gent will have to play like the No.1 wideout he was in 2007 when he eclipsed the 1,000 yard receiving mark if they have a chance at winning in Lincoln.
Prediction: Nebraska 34, Florida Atlantic 13

Central Michigan @ Arizona: Dan LeFevour will need time in the pocket to pick the underachieving Wildcat secondary apart and move the chains. Ball control will be a key factor in this game and LeFevour has two great wideouts to keep drives alive in Antonio Brown and Bryan Anderson.
Prediction: Arizona 28, Central Michigan 14

Mississippi @ Memphis: The Tigers look to down the one team that beat national champion Florida last season. They will need to rely heavily on running back Curtis Steele to eat up some clock and have quarterback Arkelon Hall be better than he was a year ago if they have a chance at taking down the Rebels.
Prediction: Mississippi 30, Memphis 17

Photos Courtesy of Media Relations Boise St. University and Jaren Wilkey/BYU

College Football Insiders Preview: Big XII

The Big 12 will once again look to rival the SEC as the top conference in the nation. While they may lack depth, the Big 12 is powerful at the top. Both in regards to teams—see Oklahoma and Texas—and players. The top quarterback, wide receiver, tight end, offensive linemen, defensive tackle and pass rusher may all reside in the conference.

The Favorites: Texas vs. Oklahoma: This battle will focus on the quarterback play as Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford and Heisman trophy finalist Colt McCoy both decided to return for one more season. With both teams being from the Big 12 South, the conference will likely be determined when they meet on October 17th. The 104th Red River Rivalry game will be played in Dallas, as it has been since 1912, so there will be no home field advantage in this, one of the must-see games of the year. Oklahoma will not lack firepower on offense. Junior DeMarco Murray is an explosive back, while Jermaine Gresham, arguably the top tight end in college football last year, returns for his senior season. The one question mark will be the offensive line. They have two underclassmen starting in sophomores Ben Habern and Stephen Good at center and guard respectively. If they can protect Bradford and open up some holes for Murray, this should be a very potent offense yet again. Texas will not be lacking in the offensive category, either. McCoy will have the pleasure of choosing between wideouts Jordan Shipley and Malcolm Williams. Running back Vondrell McGee looks to help out the offense by keeping opposing defenses honest and running with speed and quickness. The determining factor in this battle will be the defense. Texas boasts an outstanding veteran defense which includes six returning starters. Linebackers Sergio Kindle and Roddrick Muckelroy can be game changers and will impose their dominance at will. However, Oklahoma’s defenders are no slouches. The Sooners boast two of college football’s best defensive linemen in Gerald McCoy and Auston English—a pair of run-stopping big men that can also get after the quarterback. Two rivals should be neck and neck heading into the October 17th tilt, where the winner will likely take the Big 12 title.

The Contenders: Oklahoma State, Nebraska, Kansas: Like Texas and Oklahoma, the Cowboys of Oklahoma State also have a solid 1-2 punch on offense. Senior quarterback Zac Robinson is a great pocket passer and possesses a high football IQ. He may be one of the best decision makers in all of college football. That skill set matches perfectly for the “new” best wide out in football, Dez Bryant. At 6’2” and 220 pounds, Bryant can use his outstanding leaping ability and strong hands to go get poorly thrown balls; or balls where the defender seems to have position. The Cowboys’ offensive line will be filled with veterans, giving Robinson time to stand and deliver. This offense will be as scary, if not if not scarier, than that of rivals Oklahoma and Texas. They play a fairly soft schedule after hosting Georgia for their season opener. They then play host to Texas on Halloween, which should be a “scary” good game, and then finish off the season traveling to Norman to play the Sooners. Look for them to scratch and claw for the Big 12 title all season long. The Cornhuskers look as though they are starting to regain their early 90’s form with a tough defense combined with playmakers on offense. They have great balance on offense. They have all upper-classmen starting on both sides of the ball, which will make this team tough to beat in close games. Ndamukong Suh is the leader of the defense and should make everyone around him better. The Huskers lucked out and only have to play one of the two favorites this season, Oklahoma, and they get that one at home. The Jayhawks should be jumping for joy that they are in the Big 12 North and not the beastly South. Their one major hurdle will be Nebraska in getting to the Big 12 title game. They weren’t as lucky as the Huskers on the schedule, though, and will have to face both Texas and Oklahoma during the season. Their extremely soft non-conference schedule will allow them to build up confidence going into their conference gauntlet run. They do have the offense to run with anyone in the conference, led by senior quarterback Todd Reesing. Reesing is coming off a 3,888 yard, 32 touchdown season and will be throwing to a set of tall wide receivers, all about 6’3”. Dezmon Briscoe and Kerry Meier are both coming off of 90+ catch, 1,000+ yard receiving seasons and should be able to match, if not exceed, those numbers this year. Their passing attack will be a concern for opposing defenses, but it is their own defense that may cause Kansas fits. They have only one senior on their defensive line and senior playmaking safety Darrell Stuckey can only be so many places at once. If the Jayhawks’ pass rush proves feeble, then their defense will be picked apart by opposing quarterbacks. If they can get to the quarterback, then their offense should be able to produce enough wins to take them to the Big 12 title game. Only time will tell if the Jayhawks will “rock chalk”.

The Sleeper: Missouri: One rule of thumb for college football should be “never count out the Tigers of Missouri”. They have an extremely young and inexperienced football team with only nine returning starters on both offense and defense combined, along with 10 underclassmen total starting on both sides of the ball. Mizzou’s quarterback is young and inexperienced and has to play in Chase Daniels’ shadow. They lost big play wideout Jeremy Maclin and Mackey Award winner Chase Coffman. In addition, they have a brutal schedule in the heart of the season, playing host to Nebraska, traveling to Oklahoma State, and then hosting Texas. However, they are very well coached and disciplined which can take you a long way in this game. They also have the team athleticism and speed to keep up with powerhouse schools like Oklahoma and Texas. Plus, they play in the Big 12 North. They have as good a chance as anyone to represent the North in the Big 12 Championship Game. The swing games for them will be when they host Nebraska on October 8th and Kansas on November 28th. If they can win those games, then you will be watching them play for the Big 12 Championship.

Offensive Player of the Year: QB Colt McCoy (UT) vs. QB Sam Bradford (OU): As if you didn’t see this one coming. Both are likely to be Heisman Trophy candidates again this season based on their amazing stats last year. Both quarterbacks have terrific arms and great decision-making skills, but only one can run with the best of them…and that is Colt McCoy. Considering the fact that the 6’2” signal caller led his team in rushing last season, and did so without having the big play running back that Sam Bradford had in DeMarco Murray, the Longhorn has a leg up in the competition—literally. But if Bradford can utilize his running back to his advantage and keep defenses honest, he may be able to put up prolific passing numbers that even McCoy can’t touch. This race could come down to which team ends up in the Big 12 Championship Game; allowing one quarterback to showcase their skills and pad their stats for one extra game. This should be the race to keep an eye on in the Big 12.

Honorable Mention: QB Zac Robinson (Oklahoma State), QB Robert Griffin (Baylor), QB Todd Reesing (Kansas), RB Kendall Hunter (Oklahoma State), RB DeMarco Murray (Oklahoma), WR Dez Bryant (Oklahoma State), WR Kerry Meier (Kansas)

Defensive Player of the Year: Sergio Kindle (UT) vs. Gerald McCoy (OU): You’ve got to love a battle between players who both come from powerhouse schools playing in the same side of the conference. Both Kindle and McCoy possess speed and strength to go along with incredible agility. This battle will come down to who can wreak the most havoc on opposing offenses. Sergio Kindle was a stat stuffer all year long in 2008; totaling 46 tackles, 12.5 for loss, 10 sacks, two pass breakups, one forced fumble, and one blocked punt. He was also a first-team All Big 12 selection by the coaches and was All-America honorable mention by SI.com. Gerald McCoy was named AP second-team All-America and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year by several publications. He also led all interior linemen in tackles. It will definitely be fun to watch both players go after opposing quarterbacks with a potential BCS National Championship birth on the line.

Honorable Mention: DT Ndamukong Suh (Nebraska), DE Auston English (Oklahoma), LB Travis Lewsis (Oklahoma), LB Sean Weatherspoon (Missouri), FS Darrell Stuckey (Kansas)

Breakout Seasons: QB Taylor Potts (Texas Tech), QB Blaine Gabbert (Missouri), WR Ryan Broyles (Oklahoma): Taylor Potts is the heir apparent to Graham Harrell and has some big shoes to fill. He doesn’t have Michael Crabtree to throw to, but he still does have the spread offense run by Mike Leach. In his brief appearances in 2007 and 2008, he posted respectable numbers in 2007 by completing 32 for 49 of his passes for 409 yards with three touchdowns and one pick; in 2008, he completed 23 of 36 passes for 260 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. If he can learn this offense quickly and garner a good rapport with his wide receivers, then he will have a very solid statistical season with a Red Raiders offense that looks to pass first and run second. Another player with big shoes to fill is Missouri’s Blaine Gabbert, who takes over the starting quarterback role after the departure of Chase Daniels. Like Potts, he lost his number one playmaker in Jeremy Maclin, but he does have some up and coming talent in running back Derrick Washington and wide receiver Jared Perry. Gabbert has had minimal playing time in his lone season as a backup quarterback, making only 13 pass attempts. He is a smart player, though, and should be able to take the reins and make this Tiger offense go. After playmaker Juaquin Iglesias left for the NFL, Ryan Broyles steps in as Sam Bradford’s new number one receiver. He and Bradford have already had time last season to build a connection in the passing game. Broyles caught 46 passes for 687 yards and six touchdowns as a freshman. With that experience and one of the premier quarterbacks in all of college football throwing to him, he should be one of the top receivers in the Big 12.

Best Pro Prospect: Dez Bryant (OSU): Dez Bryant is one of the most athletically gifted players in college football. He is very similar to Michael Crabtree in his style of play. He has great hands and can go up and fight for any ball that comes his way, a la Steve Smith or Larry Fitzgerald. Size is something you can’t teach and he has it at 6’2” and 220 pounds. He could, in fact, be a Plaxico Burress type of player at the next level. His route running is the one area he needs to polish up if he decides to enter the draft in 2010. Look for him to showcase his abilities this season and possibly establish himself as the best playmaker in college football. It should be noted that Sam Bradford, Trent Williams, Jermaine Gresham, Gerald McCoy and Ndamukong Suh are all potential top 10 picks.

College Football Insiders' Picks:

Conference Champion: Texas Longhorns: It’s hard to ignore the Longhorns’ defense and the fact their toughest game will be at a neutral site, not on the road. The rest of their schedule is fairly soft and the Longhorns will be playing with a chip on their shoulder after being snubbed out of last year’s Big 12 Championship Game (and the right to play for the BCS National Championship). Colt McCoy will save his best for last and will bring the Horns a conference championship, even if he has to put the team on his shoulders and run with them.

Offensive Player of the Year: Colt McCoy, Texas: With 45 total touchdowns last season (34 passing, 11 rushing) it’s hard to look away. He amassed 3,859 yards passing with only eight interceptions. Not to mention the fact that he had a 76.7 completion percentage and a quarterback rating of 173.75. He could very well lead the team in rushing yet again this season, and when you stack up these stats and throw in the fact he plays on the best team in the conference, it’s very hard to not consider him the frontrunner.

Defensive Player of the Year: Sergio Kindle, Texas: Too much size, strength, speed, and experience here to shy away from this pick. He had 10 sacks and 46 tackles last season at the linebacker position, and it’s hard to believe he can’t mimic or surpass those numbers this season whether he lines up at linebacker or defensive end. He will show that he is the best defensive player in the conference as well.

* Click To Read CFI’s ACC Preview
* Click To Read CFI’s Big East Preview
* Click To Read CFI's Big Ten Preview

Photo Credit: Mizzou Media Relations, OU Athletics Department, University of Texas Athletics, College Press Box

Don't Sleep On Small School Transfers

In the last few years, there have been several small school players that have achieved a success in the NFL. Many of them were transfers. Names like Joe Flacco, the former Pittsburgh Panther who transferred to Delaware, or Brandon Jacobs, the former Auburn Tiger who moved to Southern Illinois.

Flacco wanted to start and didn’t want to wait on Tyler Palko, while Jacobs was stuck behind Cadillac Williams and Ronnie Brown. But in the NFL landscape, being from Pitt or Auburn as opposed to Delaware or Southern Illinois greatly affects how you're judged.

I think the first step is to realize that these players were at top schools in the nation. Then, for whatever reason, they decided to move on.

This year the NFL Draft Bible took a look at some of the guys who were at high profile schools when entering college but—like the names mentioned above—ended up moving to smaller schools. In the process, I think they sort of fell off the radar; you can bet your bottom dollar that for the most part, a player from Florida is going to get a closer look than a kid from Southern Illinois.

Rashad Jennings from Liberty was originally at Pittsburgh but transferred to be closer to his father due to his battle with diabetes. When one thinks of Liberty, they think of justice for all, not a tiny school in Lynchburg, Virginia. Jennings did play at Pittsburgh, he was one of only four true freshmen to start a opener for the Panthers. He sort of reminds me of a poor man's Chris Wells. This 6’1 231-pound back possesses the skill set to make a big impact at the next level. During the NFL Scouting Combine, Jennings' results in the 3-cone drill were off the charts for a man his size and he proved to have the muscle as well, logging 29 reps on the bench. Jennings will be lucky to be a day one back, but like Brandon Jacobs who was selected in the fourth round, he's going to be yet another example of how the name of the school affects the ranking of the player.

Having captured the last three Big 12 Championships, the Oklahoma Sooners football program takes a back seat to no one. Could it have been Rhett Bomar instead of Sam Bradford holding the Heisman Trophy if he wasn’t dismissed after breaking NCAA rules? Bomar was recruted to play at Sam Houston State, where he ended up. He was also recruited to play for a team that has gone 102-22 since Bob Stoops took over the program. Bomar broke the rules and now his Draft stock is feeling the effects of those mistakes. Think about it—do you really think Bomar would be ranked where he is now if he was still with Oklahoma? He stands 6’2 and 225 pounds, brings good arm strength and a competitive attitude to the huddle, and is a presence on the field, as a Bearkat or Sooner.

Even though his college career was marred by injuries, former Miami Hurricane Andrew Johnson, who transferred to Akron, is really the super sleeper of the three. At the time when Johnson was recruited by Miami, Larry Coker was the coach and the ‘Canes were a force in college football. They produced elite talent from all positions, maybe none more so than running back, where names like Edgerrin James, Clinton Portis, Willis McGahee and Frank Gore echo in the halls of the U. But like a high-end night club, not just anybody was getting in. For Johnson, the future never turned out like the others—he never made it behind the velvet rope. Johnson has 4.3 speed to go along with size at 5’11 and 215. Time will tell if this former Hurricane will go unnoticed as a Zip before showing up, and lighting it up, in the pros.

Many talented players share the same situation as Jennings, Bomar and Johnson and they'll each be seeking to make a big impact as second day selections.

Photo Credit: Sam Houston State Athletics, Mark Campbell, UD Athletics Media Relations Photo

Player Profile: Oklahoma OT Phil Loadholt

Pros: Loadholt is 6’8, around 335pounds—with that huge frame and overall toughness, he does not shy away from anyone and goes for the pancake every chance he gets. With his huge side kick and long arms, he does a very good job in pass protection against most of the competition he faces. The mountain of a man shows good athleticism for a man of his size. After spending two years playing JUCO, he did not struggle making the transition to the Big XII, turning in two strong years at Norman.

Cons: Loadholt is not very quick and is often beaten by speed rushers he can’t push around. He did not have a strong week at the Senior Bowl practices, as he was constantly outplayed by good defensive ends that were able to get to the edge. Despite his Second Team All-Big XII year as a left tackle, he will likely be moved to the right side on Sundays due to his inability to handle speed rushers. He also does not appear to have a high football IQ and can lose concentration, which often results in penalties. He also has some off-the-field issues, which will cause some concern for NFL teams.

Scouts Take: Loadholt has first-round size and strength but will likely fall to late in the second round, or even to day two because of his struggles against good pass rushers and his immature mindset. He has the potential to succeed as on the right side if he can learn to calm down and stick to his assignments during the game. He could really benefit from good coaching and playing with experienced linemen that can show him what it takes to play at the NFL level. His value is decreased if teams view him purely as right tackle, but he has a ton of upside and could be a second day steal.

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department

Player Profile: Oklahoma OG Duke Robinson

Pros: Robinson dominated most of the competition he faced in his career at Oklahoma. He has good size at 6’5, 329 pounds and excels at driving his man back and finishing with a pancake. Robinson came up huge, time after time for OU in short yardage situations. He is extremely powerful at the point of attack. The former Sooner understands the game very well and knows what he needs to do for his team to pick up the first down or score from the goal line. When pass blocking, the guard shows good leverage and balance.

Cons: Robinson has the size to play tackle but he probably lacks the athleticism and quickness to make the transition. He often struggles with quick defenders and doesn’t do well in space with linebackers or defensive backs. If Robinson’s first punch doesn’t slow down the defender he is often beaten at the line of scrimmage, potentially leading to a negative play.

Scouts take: Robinson was a two time All-American at OU and he is probably the most dominating run blocker in this class. Known for his physical play and mean demeanor, Robinson shows a lot of promise at the next level. The Big XII star should be able to start immediately in the NFL, and if he works at his pass blocking and stays in shape he could be in the Pro Bowl for many years to come. Guards aren't usually taken in the first round but if a team towards the end of round one feels he would be a great fit, he could sneak in late in the round and find a home with a team that loves to pound the ball. Don’t be surprised if this Boomer Sooner is the first interior lineman off the board come the final weekend in April.

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department

All Access Football Radio: All-Star Game Special

ALL ALL STAR GAME SPECIAL! JANUARY 28th, 2008 * 10:00-11:00 PM EST

Powered by All Access Football Radio Channel, in affiliation with Blog Talk Radio.

The One Hour show will be co-hosted by Daniel Mogollon (College Football Insiders Founder/NFL Draft Bible President) and NFL Draft Bible/CFI Senior Writer Ralph Mancini

WHAT'S ON TAP:
• Former Oklahoma Sooner NIC HARRIS who played in the last week.
• Live from the El Paso, Texas vs. The Nation participants for The Nation team QB CURTIS PAINTER from Purdue and San Jose St. CB CHRISTOPHER OWENS, who is representing Texas
• Draft Guy SIGMUND BLOOM on location from the Texas vs. The Nation game
• The Fantasy Five: Which All-Star Game Participants can help your fantasy team in 2009

*** LISTEN HERE ***

*Join our chat-room or call-in with your questions: 347.945.6275

*Missed It Live? Shows are archived 15 minutes upon conclusion of each episode here

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department

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

Boomer Sooners Say Later to the NFL

Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford has decided he will play at least one more season in Norman. Many had Bradford slotted as a sure-fire top five pick, if not the number one overall choice. However, at the Heisman Trophy presentation Oklahoma headman Bob Stoops told the NFL Draft Bible that anyone who believes Bradford is a consensus top five pick wasn’t talking to the same NFL people he was.

"I've dreamed about playing at Oklahoma since I was little,” Bradford said earlier today at a press conference. “My three years here have been probably three of the best years of my life, and I really feel that there's no need to cut this experience short."

Bradford threw for 4,721 yards and 50 touchdown passes while completing 67.9 percent of his passes on his way to the Heisman Trophy. Bradford, 21, was a red-shirt sophomore. Perhaps making his decision to stay an easier one is the fact he will have tight end Jermaine Gresham to throw to and offensive tackle Trent Williams to block for him. Gresham and Williams were both juniors, who many believed would forgo their finals season in Norman for an NFL payday. Gresham, the 6’6/261 pound tight end caught 66 passes for 950 yards and 14 scores, while many believed the 6’5 Williams had a better season than either left tackle Phil Loadholt or left guard Duke Robinson – a pair of potential day one selections.

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department

Big 12 Tackles Say, We'll Be Back

According to reports, a pair of Big 12 defensive tackles with first round potential have decided to return to school for the 2009 campaign. Oklahoma’s Gerald McCoy, a red-shirt sophomore, would have likely been rated as the top defensive in the 2009 Draft had he decided to forgo his final two seasons as a Sooner. McCoy, a 6’4/295 defensive demon, registered 30 tackles, including 11 tackles for a loss and 6.5 sacks, which were second on the team. McCoy recorded a sack and an interception of Tim Tebow in the BCS National Championship Game.

Also coming back to the Big 12 is Nebraska Cornhusker Ndamukong Suh. The junior led the Big 12 North school in tackles (76), tackles for a loss (19) and sacks (7.5), while picking off two passes and blocking a pair of kicks this season. Like McCoy, Suh had a brilliant bowl game (Gator Bowl win over Clemson) with a team-high eight tackles and two sacks. Suh was voted to the All-Big 12 Second Team, McCoy was a First Team selection.

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department

All Access Staff BCS Championship Picks

FedEx BCS National Championship Game Oklahoma vs. Florida

By RALPH MANCINI

January 8, 2009 * 8:15 * FOX

Coach Bob Stoops and his Oklahoma Sooners will be marching into Miami’s Dolphin Stadium to capture the program’s eighth national championship, but to do so they must rein in a high-powered Florida squad known as the “fastest team in America.” Both offenses can light up the scoreboard in the blink of an eye. While Urban Meyer’s crew leads the Southeastern Conference in scoring (45.2 ppg) and total offense (442.4 ypg), the Sam Bradford-led Sooners are a point-a-minute machine that has produced 18 scoring drives of 60 seconds or less during the regular season and is riding a five-game streak in which their offense has scored 60 or more points.

When Boomer Sooner Has the Ball

Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford has the perfect blend of size, arm strength, accuracy and on-field intelligence. The 6’4” signal caller completed 68 percent of his passes in 2008 for 4,464 yards with a ridiculous 48-to-6 touchdown-to-interception ratio. But for all his throwing skills, Bradford’s ability to move in the pocket and side step pressure make him nearly impossible to contain. The 21-year-old’s job is made that much easier by his fearsome group of bodyguards led by mammoth left tackle Phil Loadholt. The 6’8”, 338-pounder regularly engulfs defenders with his long arms and powerful hands that also allow him to steamroll all those who dare cross his path. Playing alongside Loadholt is guard Duke Robinson, who at 6’5, 335 lbs. is a road grater in the running game, but is also versatile enough to move over to tackle if necessary. Robinson’s athleticism as a pull blocker and the quickness with which he fires off the line make him arguably the best player at his position. Center Jon Cooper may not be as big as his gargantuan line-mates, but the Colorado native always plays with a high motor and has tremendous foot speed, which allows him to perform as an effective drive blocker. Oklahoma’s 1,000-yard rushing duo of DeMarco Murray and Chris Brown was instrumental in supporting Bradford this season with consistent production that took some pressure off the quarterback. Brown may not be as flashy as his backfield partner, but he often uses his balance and good feet to get around tacklers and run to daylight. Despite his lack of bulk, the 190-lb. back is very reliable as a short-yardage runner. The fast and agile Murray, on the other hand, won’t be seeing any action versus Florida due to a partially ruptured hamstring that will reportedly take months to heal. All purpose back Mossis Madu will be filling in for the hobbled star. The unheralded backup showed his wares by rushing for 115 yards and three scores in the Big 12 Championship game versus Missouri. In addition to being able to make people miss, Madu is an excellent receiver that can also line up in the slot, as well as return kicks. Juaquin Iglesias, Manuel Johnson, Ryan Broyles and Quentin Chaney make up OU’s top-notch receiving corps. Iglesias, in particular, is especially quick off the line of scrimmage. The senior wide out combines his silky-smooth route running with the willingness to make catches in traffic. Defensive backs often fall prey to Iglesias’ head nods and quick double moves. Tight end Jermaine Gresham’s size, speed and penchant for hauling in spectacular catches make covering the 6’6” tight end a Herculean task.

Florida’s cohesive all-for-one and one-for-all defense uses a straight-up 4-3 scheme that primarily relies on individuals winning one-on-one match-ups up front. While there’s no one standout along the defensive line, the 6’6” Carlos Dunlap is a freakish competitor with long arms and 4.7 speed that he uses to disengage from blockers and run down plays from the backside. A bit of consistency is all that’s preventing Dunlap from being one of the elite defensive ends in college football. Playing opposite the sophomore is defensive end Jermaine Cunningham, who also gets off the line very quickly and confounds blockers by changing directions very well. Some added bulk to his 250-lb. frame should help this pass rusher overpower offensive linemen, not just outmaneuver them. Interior linemen Terron Sanders and the much-improved Lawrence Marsh have helped hold down the fort versus the run despite injury to the front four. Middle linebacker Brandon Spikes sets the tone for the Gator defense with his toughness and instincts, which often put him in the right position to disrupt the opposition. While the 6’3”, 245-lb. Spikes is a bigger linebacker that can drop back into coverage, it’s his ability to inspire his teammates and urge them to work harder that makes him a special athlete. Brandon Hicks is a hard-hitting linebacker with blazing speed. The workout warrior took over for the injured A.J. Jones in mid-November and forced South Carolina into two first-quarter interceptions during Florida’s 56-6 whitewash of Steve Spurrier’s group. Red-shirt junior Ryan Stamper is versatile enough to play all three linebacker positions and is an all-out hustler. Backup Dustin Doe keeps Stamper on his toes with his athleticism and aggressive pursuit of ball carriers. Strong safety Ahmad Black is a whiz at reading quarterbacks, as evidenced by his six interceptions. Free safety Major Wright is a heat-seeking missile, always ready to deliver the knockout blow, while over at corner, freshman Janoris Jenkins is a confident, if not cocky, impact player with superior anticipatory skills.

When the Gators Have the Ball

Florida’s athleticism at multiple positions gives them the upper hand over most defenses, and it all starts with quarterback Tim Tebow--the perfect fit for Urban Meyer’s spread-option attack. The sturdy passer is a dual threat who can pound the ball between the tackles like a fullback, or put the ball in the hands of one of his many playmakers. Jeff Demps, Chris Rainey and Percy Harvin are all blessed with mesmerizing speed and all three can catch the ball, as well as run it out of a variety of formations. Freshman running backs Demps and Rainey, in particular, have been the driving force behind Florida, averaging 263.6 rushing yards per game and 6.6 yards per carry. Harvin is technically a wide out, but he can also be seen lining up at quarterback. The 5’11” speed merchant is a dynamic weapon who specializes in making defenders miss, and is very dangerous in the red-zone. Louis Murphy is Robin to Harvin’s Batman at wide receiver with his ability to use his own speed on both downfield routes and shallow gadget plays. Complementary wide out Deonte Thompson can also flash track-star velocity when given the opportunity and his acceleration off the ball is hard to contain. One component who’s frequently overlooked is Bristol, Connecticut’s own Aaron Hernandez, who ranked third on the team in receptions with 29 this season. The solid tight end combines an aggressive demeanor with the ability to produce big yardage after the catch. The Gator offensive line features the superb run blocking of the Pouncey twins, Maurkice and Michael, at center and guard. Maurkice is a drive-blocking center who explodes out of his breaks. He usually takes his defender out of the play when he keeps a solid base and keeps his feet moving. Maurkice’s brother, Mike, also packs a punch by moving his adversaries off the ball. New Jersey native Phil Trautwein is an excellent technician at left tackle.

Oklahoma’s strategy on defense will be to create pre-snap confusion and force Tebow to throw more often than he wants to. In order to accomplish that feat, the Sooners will need to apply constant pressure with similarly-built defensive ends Frank Alexander and Jeremy Beal. Alexander has proven to be lethal at times off the edge, while the 6’3”, 253-lb. Beal is the team sack leader (8.5), who defensive coordinator Brent Venables often employs as a chess piece by lining him up in a three-point stance, as well as dropping him in underneath coverage. End Auston English should also be active in this year’s title game with numerous reports indicating that he has fully recovered from a mid-season knee injury. English is arguably OU’s fastest lineman. Defensive tackle Gerald McCoy is the glue of the unit with the way he ties up blockers and frees up teammates. The sophomore combines with nose tackle Adrian Taylor to push the pocket and disrupt offenses all game long. McCoy is always drawing comparisons to former Sooner interior lineman Tommie Harris, who was probably the best, if not quickest, OU player of all time at his position. Oklahoma’s linebackers may not be as big as they’ve been in the past, but they more then compensate for that with quickness and playmaking ability. Austin Box has done yeoman’s work in his replacement of injured middle linebacker Ryan Reynolds. The former quarterback is smart enough to read the play in front of him, and quick enough to cover plenty of ground defending the run. Box sprained his knee late in the season, but is expected to play. If he doesn’t, the hard-hitting 250-lb. Mike Balogun will take his place. Weakside linebacker Travis Lewis is the most athletic OU performer at the position. The 235-lb. former running back is extremely quick to the ball, a fundamentally sound tackler, and reliable in pass coverage. The 6’3” Nic Harris headlines the secondary due to his hitting prowess and on-field smarts which allow him to constantly be around the ball. Corner Dominique Franks joins the senior safety as being a difference-making performer. The sophomore has shutdown or contained some of the best receivers in the country this year. OU’s ability to generate pressure with its front four has also played a role in preventing the Sooner secondary from getting torched too often.

Final Analysis

In a battle of high-flying offenses, Florida’s firepower will prove to be too much for OU to keep under wraps. With a healthy Harvin in the fold, the 65th ranked Sooner defense is no match for Urban Meyer’s spread-option attack. OU has allowed 5.06 yards a play and a total of 42 touchdowns to the opposition this season and will be hard pressed to hold the Gators to under 40 points. In addition, Florida holds a sizable edge in the special teams department as top-ten team in punt returns and net punting. Combine all of that with the supernatural powers of Tebow, and the Blue and Orange will bring home their second national title in three seasons.

Prediction: Florida 48 Oklahoma 33

Photo Credit: College Press Box, OU Athletics Department, SEC Sports Media

O'Brien Quarterback Award National Championship Match-up

FORT WORTH, Texas (January 6, 2009) - The 2009 BCS National Championship game will feature a match-up between the current and previous Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award® (The O'Brien) Winners. Sam Bradford, the 2008 O'Brien Winner, and the Oklahoma Sooners will square off against the Florida Gators led by the 2007 O'Brien Winner, Tim Tebow, Thursday night in Miami, Fla.

Oklahoma Sooners vs. Florida Gators
Thursday, Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. (CST) on FOX

Bradford was named the 2008 O'Brien Winner on The Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards Show which aired live from Orlando, Fla. on December 11, 2008. He is only the second sophomore to win the award after Tebow won The O'Brien in 2007. The Oklahoma signal caller threw for 4,464 yards and 48 touchdowns this season and only six interceptions, leading the Sooners to a 12-1 record and Big 12 Conference Championship Title. In addition to completing more than 68 percent of his passes, Bradford led the nation in passing touchdowns (48) and quarterback rating (186.29). After only his second season as a Sooner starter, his 84 career touchdowns established a new school record, breaking the previous record held by 2003 and 2004 O'Brien Winner, Jason White.

Tebow was named The O'Brien Winner in 2007, becoming the second Florida Gator to win the award after Danny Wuerffel received back-to-back honors in 1995 and 1996. Tebow and the Gators also enter the National Championship game with a 12-1 record and SEC Championship Title. Thursday's game will not be the first National Championship experience for Tebow, as Florida won the 2006 National Championship Title during his freshman season. Tebow accounted for 3,079 yards (2,515 passing, 564 rushing) and 40 touchdowns (28 passing, 12 rushing) this season. He is the SEC's season leader in passing touchdowns (28) and quarterback rating (176.74). As a junior, his 43 career rushing touchdowns top the Florida record books.

Thursday's game will be hosted by the Orange Bowl at Dolphin Stadium in Miami, Fla. The Sooners enter the match-up with the No. 1 (BCS) ranking, while Florida holds the No. 2 position. These two O'Brien quarterbacks will battle head-to-head as their seasons culminate in the year's most-anticipated game.

About The Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award®
The O'Brien honors the nation's best college quarterback of the year and inspires student-athletes to triumph both on and off the field. By recognizing and honoring athletes who excel in both sports and academics while exhibiting strong character and leadership, The O'Brien aims to help instill a lifelong moral fiber in each candidate. The O'Brien is overseen by the Davey O'Brien Foundation, which was founded in 1977 and is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. The Foundation has given away more than $750,000 in scholarships and university grants to help high school and college athletes transform leadership on the field into leadership in life. For more information, visit www.DaveyOBrien.org.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Oklahoma), SEC Sports Media

All Access Football Radio Doubleheader Tonight!

Join us tonight for a daily double, as we breakdown the hottest topics in the world of football:

College Football Insiders Weekly: Championship Game Edition - LIVE @ 6:00 - 8:00PM EST
We dive into the BCS Championship game with special guests:
* Dari Nowkhah, ESPN
* Richard Cirminiello, NFL Network
* Dick Weiss, New York Daily News
* Doug Lesmerises, Cleveland Plain Dealer
* Stan Parrish, New Head Coach of Ball State who will make his debut in the GMAC Bowl vs. Tulsa
LISTEN LIVE

Season Premiere: Monday Night Lights - LIVE @ 9:30 - 11:00PM EST
All Access Football Radio launches a new show with NFL Draft Bible Founder Rick Serritella. Get the latest news on the chase for the Vince Lombardi Trophy, more special guests and the road to the 2009 NFL Draft as we count you down every step of the way!
LISTEN LIVE

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Ball St.)

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 - Barrier Shattered

While Tim Tebow did not become the second player to win a second Heisman Trophy, Sam Bradford made it back-to-back sophomores taking home the hardware. A year after Tebow broke through by becoming the first sophomore to win the illustrious trophy, “underclassmen winning” was not even a topic of discussion. Expect the trend to continue.

Players are coming in better prepared to play and contribute at a high level from day one and many of the top would-be seniors are already playing in the league where they play for pay.

Top Sophomore Candidates for 2009:

1. Terrelle Pryor, Ohio St. QB – The Buckeyes’ signal caller got his feet wet this season and the Vince Young clone appears ready to flourish next season.

2. Caleb King, Georgia, RB – Assuming Knowshon Moreno leaves early for the NFL, it will open the door for King to be the man, running behind an improved offensive line.

3. Robert Griffin, Baylor, QB – If he were at a bigger school, Griffin may be at number one. He is every bit the two-way talent that TP is.

4. Ryan Mallett, Arkansas, QB – Bobby Petrino knows how to coach up his quarterbacks, so expect the Michigan transfer to put up some big numbers next season.

5. Jacquizz Rogers, Oregon St., RB – The “Quizz Show” is already a household name among voters and will be the returning Pac-10 rushing champ.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (University of Oklahoma), SEC Sports Media