College Football Insiders Radio - Week 11

The voice of college football is here as CFI Founder Daniel Mogollon brings you coast-to-coast coverage of all the football action from across the nation, every Thursday at 5:00pm ET. 60 min.

Special Guests:

* HC Pat Fitzgerald, Northwestern - Northwestern’s Pat Fitzgerald is one of the best young head coach in the country. He is 25-22 overall and 6-4 this season coming off an impressive 17-10 upset over BCS #4 Iowa last Saturday in Iowa City. With the win, the Wildcats are now bowl eligible for a third straight season under Coach Fitzgerald.

* CB Kareem Jackson, Alabama - A key player to the number two team in the BCS, Jackson talks about Alabama's big win over LSU, in addition to opening up about himself off the field. He loves shopping and is the class clown of the 'Bama locker room. Even Coach Saban isn't off limits!!

* RB Noel Devine, West Virginia - West Virginia's junior tailback has already topped 1,000 yards and reached 10 touchdowns as he leads the #25 BCS ranked Mountaineers. Devine talks about his big runs, maturing as player and a leader, as well as penchant for having big games under the lights.

* RB John Clay, Wisconsin - This bruising runner joins College Football Insiders radio to talk about the long line of Wisconsin running backs, his running style and why he wears number 32. Hint...it's for a running back, but not from Wisconsin.

* Those topics and more in this week's edition of College Football Insiders Radio.

CLICK TO LISTEN

Call-in Number: (347) 945-6275

Photo Courtesy of Alabama Media Relations

BCS Busters Week Two Preview

Game of the Week: East Carolina @ West Virginia

The first test for the Pirates will be a hard one. Morgantown is one of the toughest places to play in all of college football. Quarterback Patrick Pinkney needs to get over his week one performance and play the way a veteran quarterback of his caliber can play if ECU is to beat a good West Virginia team. They will also need to stop the Mountaineers’ potent rushing attack led by running back Noel Devine, who rushed for 112 yards and one touchdown on just 17 attempts against Liberty. Mountaineer quarterback Jarrett Brown will be hard to contain due to his ability to get out of the pocket and run. He rushed for 69 yards and a touchdown while going 19-of-26 for 243 yards. If they can contain these two playmakers of West Virginia and limit their turnovers on offense, they should leave Morgantown with a win.

Players to Watch: East Carolina: QB Patrick Pinkney, RB Dominique Lindsay, DE C.J. Wilson

Players to Watch: West Virginia: QB Jarrett Brown, RB Noel Devine, CB Robert Sands

Prediction: West Virginia 27, East Carolina 20

Other Games to Watch:

TCU @ Virginia: The Frogs get a lowly ACC opponent in Virginia who is coming off a loss to William & Mary. This should be a good way for the Frogs to get into the swing of things to start their season. Look for Jerry Hughes to get into the backfield and disrupt the offense of Virginia.
Prediction: TCU 24, Virginia 17

Fresno State @ Wisconsin: Fresno State is coming off an offensive outburst against UC Davis, led by a number of backs who are able to carry the ball effectively. They now have to get the ground game going against a much tougher Wisconsin defense if they want to emerge victorious.
Prediction: Wisconsin 35, Fresno State 21

Colorado @ Toledo: After carrying the ball only 22 times and throwing 69 times against Purdue, the Rockets will need to find their run game if they are to have a chance against Colorado.
Prediction: Colorado 39, Toledo 14

Kansas @ UTEP: The Miners will need to slow down the Jayhawks’ offense and succeed in their balanced attack—as they did against Buffalo—in order to come out of this one with a win.
Prediction: Kansas 31, UTEP 20

Photos Courtesy of East Carolina University Athletic Media Relations, TCU Athletics Media Relations

Big Ten: “Mark” My Words

By JOHN SEARS

Here is a team-by-team list of statistics that will indicate how well the conference performed by season’s end. Let’s re-visit these after November 21st to see how wrong I was.

Key Statistical Markers of Successful Season

Penn State: Pass defense must average less than 200 yards/game: This is obviously a nod to the depleted secondary, which must re-tool all four positions. The front seven will be solid against the run. Losing edge rushers will compromise the pass defense further. Since 2005, Penn State’s return to the top of the conference, they have given up an average of 203 yards/game through the air, including the 2006 season where they reloaded all four secondary positions. The pass defense can help solidify this team’s identity as a stifling, smash-mouth rush defense.

Iowa: Must finish in top four (Big Ten) in rush defense and at least top six in total offense: Nothing fancy here for the Hawkeyes, just good old Iowa City football–strong defense and solid offense. There’s no need to excel per se on either side of the ball for Iowa to win the prize, but there is a desperate need to reload the defensive interior. The pass defense will be there this year and, just like Penn State, if they can shore up the potential weakness (against the run) in their defense, Iowa will have a shot every week this season. Top half in total offense will indicate that the running game was established, despite the absence of the injured Jewel Hampton. If so, quarterback Ricky Stanzi’s job gets much easier, and the offense will click enough to put up solid, not sexy, offensive numbers.

Illinois: Must finish at least even in turnover margin and +10 in sacks: This will indicate to that the offense took care of the ball and more importantly, that Juice Williams continued to improve upon his touchdown to interception ratio. The +10 in sacks will show that 1) Williams’ blind side is protected well by Corey Lewis, a sophomore who emerged last year after dropping his red-shirt status and 2) that the Illini defense plays opportunistic enough to make plays. Altogether, this gives more opportunities for Illinois’ offense to be in better field position and eventually put up more points.

Ohio State: Rush defense must average less than 125 yards/game: We all realize that Terrelle Pryor is a tremendously gifted athlete, but it sure would help if the defense steps up and relieves some pressure from the offense. We’ve seen this as a classic recipe for the Buckeyes’ success in the past; it’s no surprise that Ohio State has held opponents under 100 yards/game five of the last seven years and coincidently has been in conference title contention (or champions). If the Buckeyes put up this kind of rush defense, they will have a much better shot at making another title run.

Northwestern: Must finish in top five in passing offense: Northwestern insists they plan on passing the ball this season, despite the fact that starting quarterback Mike Kafka’s strongest showing last year was as a running quarterback and the team lost 80 percent of its receiving offense from last year. Northwestern’s defense is already slated to be very strong, so the offense needs to step it up. If Kafka leads Northwestern to a top-five passing offense, it will convince me that the Wildcats will be complete on both sides of the ball.

Minnesota: Total offense must be split close to even: 55 percent pass, 45 percent rush yardage: Simple statistic, nuanced reasoning. As Minnesota shifts away from the spread and into a physical rushing attack, the rushing yards MUST be there. If so, this statistic will indicate that the newly installed offensive game plan was well adopted and that the defense held up its end of the bargain (there potentially wouldn’t be a need to pass, pass, pass if they fell behind).

Michigan State: The Spartans running backs must average over four yards a carry: Michigan State’s strength certainly lies on the defensive side of the ball. Led by Javon Ringer last year, the Spartans averaged only 3.3 yards/carry. A significantly higher rushing average will indicate that enough pressure was taken off the inexperienced quarterbacks, giving them more time to develop and then excel. This will also indicate more balance strategically, as the Spartans will be returning much experience at the receiver position, led by junior Mark Dell. This will force the opposition to come up with better game plans to stop Michigan State’s offense.

Indiana: Must lead the conference in sacks and win time of possession battle: It’s tough to find ways to indicate a successful season when you’re positioned at the bottom of the conference. However, Indiana returns their top-three sack masters from last year (DEs Jammie Kilrew 10.5 and Greg Middleton 4.0, and LB Matt Mayberry 5.0). Kilrew and Middleton have combined for 35 sacks the last two seasons, and stand to be the two biggest playmakers for the Hoosiers this year. Without having standout talent on the offensive side of the ball and moving to the pistol offense and a downhill physical running style, the offense will slow to a more ball-control style–quite fitting for the qualities Ben Chappell possesses taking snaps. These statistics will indicate the playmakers made plays and that the offense was able to take control of the game.

Wisconsin: Must finish at least 5th in the conference in total defense: Wisconsin is very difficult to predict. Their offense carries so much firepower...but only if newly designated starting quarterback Scott Tolzien, gives them consistency. Running back John Clay is ready to have a monster year running, and Wisconsin returns tight end Garrett Graham, David Gilreath, and Nick Toon as their veteran receiving unit. The yards and points will be there, but can they stop anyone? Last year, their 26.5 points/game against were the worst the Badgers have put up in their last seven years. They return five starters on defense, but the front seven seems awfully inexperienced on paper. A top-five total defense indicates, well, that the defense gave the offense the chance to win games.

Michigan: Must finish season with a positive turnover ratio: The Wolverines’ -10 turnover ratio was the only ratio in the red the last seven years, and was a difference of -24 versus their best turnover margin season, which came in 2006. A positive turnover ratio will indicate tons: the quarterback play will be improved, special teams won’t fork over the ball on every other attempted return, and the defense will be flying around the ball. Quite simply, losing the turnover battle loses games to begin with, and Michigan gave themselves no chance last year with the number of giveaways they committed.

Purdue: Must finish mid-conference in passing offense and rushing defense: Purdue’s strength lies in their pass defense, which last year gave up a conference-leading 183 yards/game through the air. They look as strong or stronger in the defensive backfield this year. However, they were dead last against the rush, averaging 175 yards/game against. So it’s obvious where the improvement needs to be for them to have a successful overall defense. On offense, not much experience returns at quarterback with senior Joey Elliott. Furthermore, Purdue lost most of their receiving playmakers (Desmond Tardy, Greg Orton), so the stage is not set well for Purdue to make a splash passing the ball.

Photos Courtesy of Mike Dickbernd, IU Athletics & Iowa Sports Information

Pro Day Rewind: Week Three

By ANDREW GARDA

Two weeks in the books and Pro Day season is proving to be just as exciting and intriguing this year as it is every year. With Ohio State, Boston College and Alabama taking center stage next week, it shows no signs of slacking off anytime soon.

But before we glance at the new week, let’s take a look at the week that was.

As will be the case from here until the first week in April, there were tons of schools trotting out athletes for Pro Days. Below are some of the schools whose players made the biggest impact or impression last week.

Baylor: Scouts and staff from 15 NFL teams came to Baylor’s workout, and it shouldn’t be surprising to most folks that three were offensive line coaches given that offensive tackle Jason Smith was scheduled to work out. Smith, projected by many to be a top ten pick this April, did position drills but let his Combine numbers stand for everything else. He did struggle some in the push and pull, but overall likely did nothing to dissuade any team thinking about taking him in the first round. He and fellow lineman Dan Gay stayed after the event to work out for the three line coaches representing Jacksonville, Cincinnati and Seattle. St. Louis is slated to work out Smith in private on March 12th.

TCU: Every NFL team was represented at TCU this year and got a bit of a shock when linebacker prospect Jason Phillips revealed he had a torn meniscus in his left knee. Phillips believes the injury was suffered at the Scouting Combine. He underwent surgery on Wednesday and understandably did not workout on Friday and could be sidelined for up to 12 weeks.

With that out of the way, the Scouts settled down to business and were met with another, much nicer surprise. Center Blake Schueter had an eye-opening workout which many are saying may have vaulted him into the latter part of April’s Draft.

Measuring a super-sized 6' 2 3/8”, 290 pounds, Schueter ran the 40 in an impressive 4.7 seconds and jumped a 35-inch vertical as well as killing the long jump, short shuttle and three-cone. For a big man, he can move and while he seems over-sized for an NFL center, he definitely made people sit up and take notice.

Wisconsin: Twenty-eight teams came by the Badgers’ Pro Day, including an offensive line coach from Carolina and a tight end coach from Jacksonville. As I mentioned last week, P. J. Hill needed to have a big day and it’s questionable whether he did that or not. Running a 4.65 and a 4.63 in the 40 didn’t catch him up to an already slower class from the Combine, though he had a nice 37-inch vertical and a respectable 4.24 in the short shuttle. Meanwhile, tight end Travis Beckum ran an outstanding 4.61 and 4.63 in the 40 and added a 38.5 inch vertical and a 9 foot 10 inch broad jump. Top guard prospect Kraig Urbik also put on a solid performance, improving upon his times across the board, improving his 40 by at least seven tenths of a second (5.30 and 5.25) and shaving fourteen tenths of a second off his short shuttle (4.75). Fellow guard Andy Kemp also improved, running a 5.35 and a 5.38, besting his Combine 40 time of 5.48. All in all, it was a great day for the Badgers who did a good job improving upon their numbers and showing the scouts what they had.

Texas A&M: Several players had to step up on the Aggies’ Pro Day and while I was looking forward to hearing some more on running back Mike Goodson, it was quarterback Stephen McGee who really impressed the 17 scouts who showed up. Jaguars quarterback coach Mike Shula showed up as well and ran McGee through his paces. All indications are that he did very well in the positional drills. While he may be a longshot right now, this workout certainly put him on some people’s radar. As for Goodson, he ran a crisp 4.43 and 4.47 in the 40, which bettered his already-fast Scouting Combine time. However, the Aggies are one of three teams that lay a rubber surface over the indoor field turf for players to run on and that tends to reduce the 40 times just a bit. Still, Goodson continues to move up some charts and this Pro Day could solidify him as a late second day pick. Defensive end Michael Bennett also had a solid day, improving upon his Combine numbers in the 40 and the vertical jump.

Missouri: As expected, quarterback Chase Daniel, tight end Chase Coffman, and wide receiver Jeremy Maclin did not work out for attending scouts. Maclin is still nursing a knee injury suffered in Indianapolis but should be ready to go on the second Mizzou Pro Day on March 19th.


Instead it was the defense’s time to shine, and safety William Moore led the way with some excellent positional drills, solid 4.51 and 4.49 times in the 40, and a 6.94 in the three-cone. He also posted a 10 foot, six inch broad jump. Moore continues to be one of the top safety prospects in the Draft. Defensive end Evander Hood also did very well and his 4.45 shuttle, 7.32 three-cone and 35 reps in the bench press keep him at the top of many scouts' and analyst’s list of defensive tackles.

Troy: The group at Troy was led by cornerback Sherrod Martin, who built on his solid Scouting Combine with a great group of positional and workout drills. He was watched by 15 teams, including a pair of defensive back coaches.

Western Illinois: Fourteen teams showed up to watch 11 players, but the focus was largely on linebacker Jason Williams who did well overall on the wooden gym floor where the event was held. His 4.49 and 4.52 40 times were solid, but the slippery floor hurt his shuttle times which hopefully won’t cost him too much given the location and situation.

UNLV: The standout at UNLV’s Pro Day was running back Frank Summers, who ran a 4.63 and a 4.64 40 yard dash as well as a 4.35 short shuttle and benched 30 reps on the bench press.

Liberty: Everyone was talking about running back Rashad Jennings post Scouting Combine and six teams sent staff to check him out again. Jennings topped his 4.58 Combine 40-time with a 4.52 and bested his three cone time by .05 seconds with a 6.79 time. A second guy who took the opportunity to impress the visiting scouts was quarterback Brock Smith who had a very nice workout, including a 4.87 and 4.84 40 and a decent showing in position drills.

Even after that long week, there’s no rest for the scouting groups as another voluminous list of Pro Days await them this week. Here are some of the days and players to keep an eye on:

Alabama (March 11): There are several interesting prospects to watch here, but none will be under more scrutiny than offensive tackle Andre Smith. Smith has to prove that the disaster at the NFL Scouting Combine – the admission he hadn’t been working, the disappearance on Saturday – were mere hiccups and not a trend. If he says the wrong thing in a brief interview or does not look prepared, he could be in for a fall in April.

Boston College (March 12): In an interview on NFLDraftbible’s All Access Football, top defensive tackle prospect B. J. Raji said he would only be doing positional drills at BC’s Pro Day, standing on the numbers from his outstanding Combine performance. Why mess with perfection? Instead, scouts can check out strong safety Kevin Akins and defensive tackle Ron Brace, amongst other players.

Oklahoma State (March 12): Brandon Pettigrew is a guy to watch here, considered by many to be the top tight end prospect. He could benefit by bettering his 40 if he can, but this guy shines on tape so positional drills could be the place for him to lock his ranking up.

Ohio State (March 13): A bevy of talented players will show off for scouts on Friday the 13th, led by running back Chris Wells, linebacker James Laurinaitis and Combine hot-shot wide receiver Brian Robiskie. All three have questions about them and all three will have to come prepared to leave scouts satisfied they know the answers.

Oregon (March 12): I am very interested to see what running back Jeremiah Johnson can do to try and gain some ground on the top ten backs. Johnson is not outstanding in any one area, but might be able to impress scouts by showcasing his versatility.

Of course that’s not all this week holds. Check back next week and every week as we cover the surprises, shocks, and disappointments that Pro Days always bring.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Baylor, TCU, Missouri), SEC Sports Media, Texas A&M Media Relations Office, OSU Athletics

Pro Day Preview: Wisky, A&M & Mizzou

By ANDREW GARDA

Here are some players to keep an eye on this coming week:

Wisconsin (March 4): P. J. Hill needs to allay some fears caused by his decision not to work out at the NFL Scouting Combine. Hurt or not, he needs to nail this audition if he wants to have a shot at being drafted. It’s not an incredible ‘home run’ running back draft class but there are some good project-type backs. If Hill wants to earn a chance, he’s going to have to have a very good day. Hill surprised many when he checked in at a svelte 222 pounds, now let's see if translates to faster 40-time.

Texas A&M (March 4): Keep an eye on Mike Goodson, a running back who could also play wide receiver. He had a solid Combine, finishing in the top ten in multiple categories. Another good workout could bump him up in the running back rankings.

Missouri (March 5): Some players will work out on the 19th, but the group who could show up on the 5th includes Jeremy Maclin and Chase Daniel. Maclin is hot off a Combine effort-some sites have him among the top three wide receiver prospects-while Daniel has seen his stock fall due to his lack of size and the fact that he worked out of the shotgun quite a bit. A good Pro Day could go a long way for both players, though Daniel needs it more. Chase Coffman, who could not participate in the NFL Scouting Combine due to a leg injury, will not be ready for the first of two Missouri Pro Days. The senior tight end tells the NFL Draft Bible he hopes to be ready for Pro Day No. 2 on the 19th.

We’ll talk about all of these players and many more each week as we move closer to the 2009 NFL Draft.

Photo Credit: Mizzou Media Relations

On Location: On The Down Low

Running back PJ Hill played at Wisconsin under the “brats and cheddar” diet and was often criticized that his shape through the hips wasn’t exactly running back-friendly. Hill admitted almost sheepishly that by season’s end he was approaching 240 pounds, and eventually resisted the ill-fated label of “fat kid at camp” when he arrived at his pro workout facility Performance Management Professionals.

“That’s a big surprise for a lot of people,” Hill joked as he announced his size, which is now down to a cruiser-weight of 222 pounds. “My agent told me a lot of teams were saying I was coming in big and lazy…I was always a big back. I just wanted to show them [teams] that…I was a hard worker, I can get toned, I can work hard, lose weight.” If all works out according to plan, Hill expects his 40-time to be in the low 4.5’s or in the 4.4’s. That would be the right type of gain for Hill.

Michigan defensive end Tim Jamison weighed in at 256 pounds, a number that clearly surprised some. His playing weight exiting Ann Arbor was 263 pounds so this could be a potential sticking point as we march towards the draft. Is he defensive end or an outside linebacker? Or a ‘tweener? Where will he be in April and will teams know enough in advance to gauge him appropriately as a future NFL baller?

Champs Sports Bowl: Florida St. 42, Wisconsin 13

They’re Back…

Since winning the National Championship in 1999, Bobby Bowden’s team has finished the season ranked lower than they began every year but one – in 2003 they started at #13 and finished at #11. The benefit of the doubt the second all-time winningest coach in FBC history built throughout the decade of the 90’s has run out – this year was the first time since 1982 that his ‘Noles were not in the pre-season AP poll.

However, for the first time in three years Florida St. should finish the season ranked. They were ranked 28th in the final poll leading into the bowls, and with their impressive showing they should crack the top 25 after opening up 31st in the nation.


Year-AP Pre-Season Ranking-AP Final Ranking
2007-#19-NR
2006-#11-NR
2005-#14-#23
2004-#5-#15
2003-#13-#11
2002-#3-#21
2001-#6-#15
2000-#2-#5

Here’s Why They Will Be Even Better in 2009:

* Quarterback: At quarterback, Christian Ponder did not put up spectacular numbers in the Champs Sports Bowl, but the sophomore did show moxie, toughness and playmaking ability, something the ‘Noles have lacked throughout most of the last decade. He probably saw the field a year too soon – 2008 was supposed to see either Drew Weatherford or Xavier Lee leading the way – but unlike previous FSU quarterbacks (read Weatherford/Chris Nix), Ponder may end up being better for being thrown into the fire early. Ponder is a playmaker and could leave Tallahassee a winner.

* Running Back: He will no longer have Antone Smith in the backfield, however with freshmen Jermaine Thomas and Carlton Jones returning, as well as fullback Marcus Sims, Florida St. should feature their best running game in years in 2009. Thomas, who only touched the ball three times in the Champs Sports Bowl, averaged 7.0 yards per carry on the season and could be a special back. Jones led Florida St. with his 55 rushing yards on just four carries against Wisconsin, displaying good strength bouncing off would-be tacklers and the burst to break off a big run. Sims came through with a solid block on Jones’ 14-yard touchdown run which put Florida St. ahead, 28-6, in the third quarter.

* Offensive Line: Maybe the biggest reason Florida St. could be a top-10 team a year from now is their offensive line. All five starters against the Badgers were either freshmen or sophomores. Center Ryan McMahon and left guard Rodney Hudson – the best of the bunch – were freshmen All-Americans in 2007, an honor bestowed upon left tackle Andrew Datko this season. The right side featured two true freshmen in guard David Spurlock and tackle Zebrie Sanders. None of the five weighs even 290 pounds, so another off-season of strength and conditioning should make this bunch one of the strongest, most experienced units in college football next season. As much as any other part of the game, a porous offensive line has played a significant role in Florida St.’s down seasons. Now it will be a major reason for their return to prominence.

* Wide Receiver: Gregg Carr, like Smith, has used up all his eligibility, but that does not mean Ponder will have to search for a big target to throw the ball to. Enter 6’6” freshman Cameron Wade who made his second and third career receptions against Wisconsin. Another seldom-used wide out who had an impact on their bowl win was sophomore Louis Givens, who did a great job picking up yards after the catch to set his team up in the red zone. Neither will be guaranteed any playing time in 2009, as junior Preston Parker and the freshman duo of Taiwan Easterling and Bert Reed are all scheduled to return.

* Defense: Defensively, even with junior Everette Brown expected to declare for the NFL draft, Florida St. should have six starters returning from a strong unit, with youngsters such as freshman linebacker Nigel Bradham ready to step up into bigger roles.

Besides, defense hasn’t been the problem over the last five years. They have averaged a 17.8 ranking in total defense during that span, including 16th this year. Last season’s 34th ranking was the only time they were outside the top 20 in total defense over the last five campaigns.

It’s Graham Gano Don’t Ya Know

The Seminoles’ offense did not put up any points until the final minute of the first half – a defensive score gave them a 7-0 lead – with kicker/punter Graham Gano as the pre-intermission MVP.

The senior’s first punt sailed 46 yards, leaving the Wisconsin Badgers at their three-yard line. On his second effort, Gano’s punt was a little bit shorter, 44 yards. However, that’s because he only had 45 yards to work with--the football was downed at the one-yard line. His third punt went out of bounds – at the one-yard line! Are you kidding me?

That’s three punts with a gross of 45 yards, a NET of 45 yards, and the Badgers starting drives at an average of their own 2-yard line after the first stanza.

Ironically, Gano won the Lou Groza Award, given to the nation’s best place kicker, but fell short when it came to being named the best punter in the land. With apologies to Oklahoma St.’s Matt Fodge, maybe the people at the Ray Guy Award selection committee should rethink their choice.

With a little more room to work with, his last two punts went for 48 yards (fair catch) and 58 yards (three-yard return to the Wisconsin seven-yard line) respectively, leaving him with 48.2 yard average on the day and four of five punts dropped inside the 10-yard line. That’s simply outstanding work by Gano.

Photo Credit: College Press Box; Florida St. University

Champs Sports Bowl: Wisconsin vs. Florida St.

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

December 27, 2008 * 4:30 * ESPN
Florida Citrus Bowl * Orlando, Florida

Florida State started with wins in six of their first seven, only to stumble down the stretch, losing three out of five. The Badgers climbed as high as ninth in the polls and had lofty expectations after a 3-0 start. But the scheduling of Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State and Iowa in consecutive weeks (all losses) brought Wisconsin’s year-end hopes from National Champions down to mere bowl eligibility. They did manage to regroup, winning four of five to close out the season.

When the Badgers Have the Ball

It was easy to point fingers at the quarterback when Wisconsin pulled up lame out of the gates, opening their Big Ten schedule with four losses. Then-starter Allan Evridge struggled mightily, but that doesn’t override the under-performance of the Badgers’ bread-and-butter rushing attack. When P.J. Hill and John Clay were off, so was the team; they averaged 50 yards less and scored only three times in those three losses. Eventually, they became a powerful duo, both finishing in the top ten in the Big Ten in rushing (1,866) and touchdowns (21). Dustin Sherer replaced Evridge and eventually commanded the offense to four wins in their last five. There will continue to be no secret where the Badgers plan to go against the Seminoles – straight ahead, on the ground.

When the Tide Have the Ball

Florida State enters the bowl game with worries about their quarterback’s lack of consistency. Throwing as many interceptions as touchdowns is an unfortunate statistic Christian Ponder must live with. But the athleticism he demonstrates throwing and passing will be extremely helpful against a Wisconsin team that struggled all season with dual threat quarterbacks. Florida State is balanced (182 yards rushing, 186 passing) and Ponder is third on the team in rushing yards (404) and second in rushing touchdowns (four) behind senior Antone Smith (14). “Having the ball” should also include special teams, where the Seminoles hold a significant edge: look for FBS leader Michael Ray Garvin (33 yards/return) to prove his game-breaking ability one more time.

Final Analysis

It’s easy to see how turnovers have plagued both teams in their losses (combined 31 giveaways in nine games). With that equalized, Wisconsin brings to the table an in-your-face rushing attack (14th in FBS) and a hefty offensive line averaging 320 pounds. Fresno State, like Florida State will be, was severely undersized against the Badgers, but kept Wisconsin contained. Furthermore, Florida State boasts the 32nd best rush defense (182 yards/game) and the Badgers have shown they fall short running against strong defenses (Ohio State, Penn State, Iowa). But in three of the Seminoles’ losses, they have surrendered an average of 260 yards on the ground. Which Florida State defense will show up? It’s tough to say. Offensively, the Seminoles can keep the Badgers off balance just enough under Ponder and the kicker will be, well, the Seminoles’ kicker Graham Gano (Lou Groza Award recipient) – his 93% field goal percentage will be plenty to be sure the game-winning field goal does not sail “wide-right”.

Inside the Numbers – Pass, Run & Catch

Wisconsin Badgers (7-5, 3-5)
Pass: Dustin Sherer – 1,257 yards, 5 TDs
Run: P.J. Hill – 1,021 yards, 13 TDs
Catch: David Gilreath – 515 yards, 3 TDs

Florida St. Seminoles (8-4, 5-3)
Pass: Christian Ponder – 1,807 yards, 12 TDs
Run: Antone Smith – 753 yards, 14 TDs
Catch: Greg Carr – 464 yards, 3 TDs

The CFI Prediction: Florida St. 24, Wisconsin 21

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Florida St. University)

CFI Radio Tailgate Show - Bowl Previews

FRIDAY * DECEMBER 26, 2008 * 5:00 PM EASTERN

** CLICK TO LISTEN OR DOWNLOAD **

CFI Co-Founder Daniel Mogollon previews this weekend's bowl games with special guests ZACK FOLLETT of Cal, RYAN STANCHECK of West Virginia, RUSTY SMITH of FAU and Central Michigan Head Coach BUTCH JONES. 1 HR.

BOWL GAMES:

December 26:

Motor City Bowl: FAU vs. Central Michigan

December 27:

Meineke Car Care Bowl: WVU vs. UNC
Champs Sports Bowl: Wisconsin vs. FSU
Emerald Bowl: Miami vs. Cal

December 28:

Independence Bowl: NIU vs. La. Tech

Photo Credit: WVU Sports Communication

Big Ten - Best Clutch Performance

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

1c. Penn State versus Ohio State: Penn State needed a win in Columbus to keep their undefeated season alive, but they hadn’t won there since a year after I was born (long enough). Daryll Clark suffered a second half concussion and was not allowed to return to the field. After a huge defensive stop, Pat Devlin took the offense down the field and put the Buckeyes away with a quarterback keeper for a touchdown.

1b. Iowa versus Penn State: Penn State’s only loss came at the hands of their nemesis – Iowa…with assists from Kinnick Stadium and Mother Nature. With winds whipping up to 30 mph, Penn State could have sealed the victory with a late fourth quarter touchdown, but an interception breathed life back into the Hawkeyes. Cool and collected (and wind-burned), they were able to march down the field and leave a chip shot for Daniel Murray to steal the night, 24-23.

1a. Ohio State versus Wisconsin: Freshman quarterback Terrelle Pryor gained his first starting experience in the Big Ten at Camp Randall Stadium, an intimidating place to most. Late in the fourth quarter with a touchdown needed to win, Pryor led the troops down the field, converting two third downs and surviving two fumbles. On the last play of the drive, Pryor took an option keeper to the corner of the end zone, reducing the “Jump Around” faithful to a heaping slump of red silence. Unbelievable.

Bonus - Best Atmosphere:

3. Penn State at Ohio State: The Horseshoe battle for conference supremacy; a night game between storied programs and a rabid fan base which clung to hope right until Pryor’s last pass.

2. Illinois at Penn State: Happy Valley’s Big Ten opener was against Illinois. The Lions’ fans never fail to give us a show--the white out is one of the best sites in college football, and Penn St. one of the top home field advantages in the nation.

1. Ohio State at Wisconsin: Camp Randall fortifies for the Buckeye invasion, crescendos after P. J. Hill’s fourth quarter touchdown, and is finally silenced by Pryor winning score.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Iowa)

Big Ten - Biggest Team Turnaround

4. Indiana: No doubt the 2007 campaign by the Hoosiers was in honor of their late coach Terry Hoeppner. They finished the season bowl eligible and took the Old Oaken Bucket with a last-second field goal victory against rival Purdue. They finished 7-6. This year the magic was gone and injuries took their toll on the team’s record as they finished a paltry 3-9

3. Michigan: By far and away the worst turnaround season on the losing front. Forget last year. This year Michigan lost to rivals Michigan State, Notre Dame and Ohio State, lost their consecutive bowl streak, failed to register back-to-back wins all season, and wound up with an obscene nine losses. It was a forgettable season to say the least.

1b. Minnesota: Last season they were 1-11. This season, they have notched at least seven wins, which is fantastic. A late season four-game losing streak tarnished their Disney movie season, but it was a formidable one nonetheless.

1a. Northwestern: 9-3 for 2008 in Pat Fitzgerald’s third season. He was 4-8 his first year, then 6-6, and now his Cats are eyeing the best season in Northwestern history – 10 wins, including the bowl game.

Bonus - Biggest Surprise:

5. Michigan State fell just short, losing to Penn State in their effort to gain a share of the Big Ten title.

4. Ohio State losing convincingly to USC 35-3

3. Michigan at 3-9 and losing to Toledo

2. Indiana topping Northwestern (the Wildcats’ only other losses were to Michigan State and Ohio State)

1. Wisconsin ranked as high as ninth then falling, falling, falling.

Tomorrow: Best Clutch Performance

Photo Credit: University of Minnesota Athletic Communications

Big Ten - Just For Kicks

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

Honorable Mention: Michigan vs. Utah (opening day) – It was indeed a woeful season for Michigan, but who would have known that 1) Utah would be BCS-bound and 2) the Wolverines’ season could have had a dramatically different outcome (OK, at least four wins) if Utah’s Louie Sakoda didn’t blast four field goals from 28, 43, 41 and 53 (the eventual game winner). As if that wasn’t enough, Sakoda moonlighted by placing punt after punt deep in Michigan territory averaging 40 yards a boot.

3. Illinois vs. Iowa: Iowa made the game interesting by clawing back with two touchdowns late in the fourth. Then Juice Williams led his offense down field, setting up a 46-yard game-winning field goal attempt for Matt Eller, which he nailed for the win.

2. Michigan State vs. Wisconsin: Michigan State’s Brett Swenson saved the day in a mid-season clash with the Badgers, hammering home a 44-yarder as time expired to finish the Spartans’ fourth-quarter comeback.

1. Iowa vs. Penn State: The shot heard ‘round the world, or more likely, mostly in Happy Valley and some BCS computer microprocessors. Freshman Daniel Murray took down the mighty Lions from 31 yards out in 31-mph winds -- Penn State’s only loss. Iowa, baby…Iowa.

Tomorrow: Best Turnarounds/Surprises

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Utah)

Big Ten - Best 1-2 Punch: Offense

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

5. Adam Weber to Eric Decker (Minnesota): Decker was on top of the conference in receptions (76) and second in touchdowns (6) and yards (925). The two combined to catalyze their offense’s early season success, which suffered once Decker went down with an ankle injury. In the last two years, this tandem has connected for 143 receptions 1,834 yards and 15 touchdowns and will have one more year together.

4. Greg Orton and Desmond Tardy [and Keith Smith] (Purdue): Orton (69 receptions, 720 yards, five touchdowns) and Tardy (67 receptions, 876 yards, five touchdowns) combined for 136 catches for 1,596 yards and 10 touchdowns. Throw in Keith Smith as a third option (49 receptions, 486 yards, two touchdowns) and you have a trio that was as good or arguably better statistically as Penn State’s Big Three.

3. Evan Royster and Derrick Williams (Penn State): These teammates finished in the top ten in all-purpose yards combining for 2,689 yards, 19 total touchdowns, and big contributions to the Spread HD. Land, air or sea, Royster and Williams helped catalyze the conference’s best scoring and total offenses.

2. Juice Williams and Daniel Dufrene (Illinois): Williams had a splendid year in total yards accumulated with 3,892 (3,173 passing). But he (719 yards, five touchdowns) and Dufrene (663 yards) hold the 8th and 9th spots as Big Ten rushing leaders. Altogether you have 4,555 yards between the two.

1. P.J. Hill and John Clay (Wisconsin): The quintessential 1-2 punch in the backfield. Hill finished sixth in yards (1,021) and fourth in touchdowns (12) while Clay, as a freshman, finished seventh in yards (845) and eighth in touchdowns (9). That’s 1,866 yards and 21 touchdowns combined. And both are likely to be back next year.

Tomorrow: Best 1-2 Punch: Defense

Photo Credit: University of Minnesota Athletic Communications

Best Video Game Performance

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

Performances that can only be believed if they were played out on a controller with too many buttons:

5. Terrelle Pryor scrambling, against Northwestern: It’s interesting how comparisons between college football players and video games have hit the mainstream media (see Kirk Herbstreit on various occasions). But sometimes it’s fitting when superior athletes such as Terrelle Pryor make the improbable look routine just by hitting their mental circle button to spin out of a tackle, right joystick right juke, now back, R2 to sprint left, right joystick juke again, now connect on a touchdown strike -- 45-10 over 9-3 Northwestern.

4. Mike Kafka rushing, against Minnesota: Here’s another video game classic – you knock out the star starting quarterback (in this instance C.J. Bacher) and the back-up (Mike Kafka) comes in and starts moving the ball downfield like he’s Joe Montana in Super Bowl XXIII. In this instance, nobody but the Northwestern defensive practice squad saw Kafka’s Big Ten quarterback rushing record of 214 yards coming.

3. Juice Williams doing everything, against Michigan: How about when the computer walks into one of the stadiums you have built as one of the “toughest places to play” (Michigan Stadium) and the opposing quarterback simply breaks the stadium record for total yards? Williams cashed in with 431 (310 passing, 121 rushing) to be exact and ran up the score with two scores rushing and two passing. Not bad for a road game in a “tough place to play”.

2. Wisconsin rushing, against Indiana: Another video game classic – where you are expected to put up monstrous numbers, like 400 yards offense against the computer, and somehow it just doesn’t work out. But for the Badgers it did – Hill, Clay and Gilreath combine for 406 yards rushing and six touchdowns.

1. Iowa, against Penn State: The “There’s no way in hell you are beating the computer” game where everything goes wrong (I certainly acknowledge Bill Simmons for describing this circumstance in his past columns). Severe winds so your offense can’t move the ball in the air, the computer’s (Iowa’s) defense making all the right calls at the right times, making big play after big play, then taking away the ball late in the fourth quarter with an interception and capping it all off with a suddenly unstoppable offense that finds just enough room to get in field goal range and kick the winning field goal with almost no time left. Where’s the *bleeping* reset button?!

Tomorrow: Best One-Two Punches

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Iowa)

Big Ten Preview - Rivalry Week

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

And down the stretch they come! The chase for the Big Ten crown looks like a three horse race – Penn State (6-1), Michigan State (6-1, loss to Ohio State) and Ohio State (6-1, loss to Penn State) neck-and-neck…and-neck. Penn State’s road to the Rose Bowl is most straight-forward: win and they pack for Pasadena as they will have beaten the other two. Ohio State needs Michigan State to beat Penn State, but that’s not all. The Buckeyes then need to avoid slipping over distractions in Columbus to take care of business against the sickly Wolverines (Ohio State then owns the tie-breaker with their head-to-head win over the Spartans). Michigan State has the biggest battle on their hands: beat Penn State on the road after Michigan beats Ohio State after a reversal of the magnetic north and south poles. Where are we when Ohio State needs to root for a team from Michigan (the Spartans) to win, while Michigan State will become the Wolverines’ biggest supporters as their in-state rivals try and knock off the Buckeyes? And by the way, five other teams are jockeying for bowl positioning. How’s that for the last week of the season in the Big Ten?

On to the games…

Michigan State (6-1, 9-2) at Penn State (6-1, 10-1) [Battle for the Land Grant Trophy]: Penn State is looking for their 800th win, all under Joe Paterno. OK, yes, I exaggerate…Michigan State is looking for their first win in Happy Valley since Lucky Debonair took first place in the Kentucky Derby back in 1965.

The keys to the game:
1. Penn State’s Clydesdales versus Michigan State’s Clydesdale: Michigan State star and heart of the offense, Javon Ringer (1,548 yards, 20 touchdowns) needs to show up big to have a chance. Penn State boasts the number one overall (259 yards/game) and rushing defense (102 yards/game). On the other side, Evan Royster (1,123 yards, 12 touchdowns) leads the Nittany Lions’ rushing charge (first in the conference, 218 yards/game). However, Royster’s rushing between the tackles has been less successful compared to earlier in the year—he’s broken 100 yards only once in the last five games (Michigan, 174 yards). Further, coaches seem to be holding Daryll Clark back, perhaps due to the concussion he suffered in the Ohio State game. Clark hasn’t scored on the ground since, well, Michigan (two touchdowns rushing). The team with more rushing yards has the best chance of winning because…

2. Air Clark and Air Hoyer have lost their wings lately: Clark has not thrown for 200+ yards since Wisconsin (244), and that was five games ago. His last two outings have included interceptions, doubling his total from the previous nine games combined. Nitpicky? Maybe. But Penn State has, like most teams, shown they struggle when they turn the ball over. Brian Hoyer, on the other hand, has thrown touchdown passes only once in his last four games (against…Michigan, three) and tossed two interceptions to Purdue last week. Further, Hoyer’s completion percentage has surpassed 60% only twice this season (at Northwestern October 11th and against Eastern Michigan, September sixth). Championship caliber play comes with mistake-free football, which means being smart through the air. The quarterback who makes the least amount of mistakes regardless of yards or touchdowns will give his team the best chance to win.

PREDICTION: Penn State is better equipped for this type of game – better defense, more options on offense, better leadership at quarterback. White roses signify purity, innocence, and sympathy--sorry Michigan State.

Penn State 30, Michigan State 17

Michigan (2-5, 3-8) at Ohio State (6-1, 9-2): So “The Game” billed up as the greatest rivalry in all of sports is on fall break this year as the Wolverines’ season was put out to stud after their bad loss to Toledo…or Penn State…or Michigan State…The Buckeyes, on the other hand, play host while playing their best football to date.

The keys to the game:
1. Michigan’s arms vs. Michigan’s hips: The tackling by Michigan’s defense outside of the Minnesota and perhaps Wisconsin games has been egregious. Attempting to arm tackle 6’1” 237 lbs of Chris “Beanie” Wells or the slippery 6’6” 235 lb Terrelle Pryor will only lead to bad things in the yards after contact statistic. The Wolverines need to tackle solidly to have any chance of preventing small plays from turning in to big gains, something they’ve been unable to avoid this season.

2. The safety dance: In the same vein, Michigan’s safeties must realize their “safety dance” is a series of maneuvers best executed when there is no partner behind them. Stevie Brown, Brandon Harrison and company may have the most simplistic recipe for success – keep everyone in front of them, hug your “partner” and do not let go.

3. Trench Warfare: Ohio State is ranked third in rushing offense (188 yards/game) and defense (115 yards/game) and second in total defense (287 yards/game). Furthermore, the time of possession battle sways heavily in the Buckeyes’ favor (31:55 vs. 27:29). Controlling the line of scrimmage typically is and will be paramount for either team’s success in the “Big Game”; it looks like the scarlet and gray carry significant advantages in the trenches, in case you needed any statistics to show the lopsided nature of this year’s contest.

PREDICTION: My prediction? Painnnn…in a Clubber Lang sort of way.
Ohio State 37, Michigan 13

Iowa (4-3, 7-4) at Minnesota (3-4, 7-4) [Battle for the Floyd of Rosedale Trophy]: Certainly the under-card, but a contest that will help separate those teams jockeying for higher bowl bids. With a Northwestern loss, Iowa can jump the Wildcats and finish fourth in the conference if they beat the struggling Gophers. If Minnesota prevails, they will hop Iowa in the standings but can only secure fifth place (Northwestern owns the head-to-head tiebreaker over Minnesota). The Gophers’ magical season came to a screeching halt in November and they’re winless in their last three tries. Galloping toward a January bowl game has quickly turned in to a limp towards the finish line. An eight-win season would be nothing less than magical after a single-win season last year, but it will take some heavy lifting against a hot Iowa squad. The Hawkeyes have won four of their last five, including the stunner over Penn State, and it all starts (and finishes) with tough running (Shonn Greene -1,585 yards, 15 touchdowns) and tough defense (third in scoring defense and total defense, second in rushing and red zone defense). Iowa wins a close contest, which will be in their control most or all of the game

PREDICTION: Iowa 27, Minnesota 21

Illinois (3-4, 5-6) at Northwestern (4-3, 8-3) [Battle for the Sweet Sioux Tomahawk Trophy]: This is a meeting between two teams moving in opposite directions. Illinois is a win shy of bowl eligibility, having failed in their last two attempts (Western Michigan, Ohio State) to reach their sixth win. The big talk from the Illini camp after the Iowa win seems like it happened many moons ago as players and coaches alike seemed optimistic about the last three weeks of the season. Well, so much for that. Northwestern stands in the way (20 points/game against) defensively, led by junior defensive end Corey Wootton. No one seems to be discussing Coach Pat Fitzgerald’s job in his third year in charge of the Wildcats--four wins in 2006, followed by six last year, and now at least eight and possibly 10 this year speaks volumes for the coach’s mettle (and if Iowa loses, they secure fourth place in the conference). Northwestern wins this one old-school, middle linebacker style – with defense and grit.

PREDICTION: Northwestern 27, Illinois 23

Indiana (1-6, 3-8) at Purdue (1-6, 3-8) [Battle for the Old Oaken Bucket]: So as it breaks down here, if Purdue wins and Michigan loses…wait…whatever.

PREDICTION: Purdue - Old Oaken Bucket, Indiana – the comfort of last place in the Big Ten again.

Cal Poly (8-1) at Wisconsin (6-5, 3-5): Cal Poly’s undefeated season was dashed early in the year by none other than Montana (30-28), but the Mustangs have steadily improved and now hold the third spot in the FCS polling (James Madison first, Appalachian State two). Short of those aforementioned magnetic poles reversing Saturday afternoon, the Badgers will tidy up their record and finish with a seven-win season.

PREDICTION: Winner - Wisconsin, Losers – Cal Poly and college football fans tired of seeing fat cat FBS schools filling in their 12th game with FCS opponents.

Photo Credit: Michigan State Athletic Communications

Big Ten Power Rankings - Week Twelve

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

1. Penn State (1) 10-1 W: 34-7 vs. Indiana
It took a while--half of a game to be exact--for Penn State to shake the ill-effects of their disappointing loss last week. Indiana hung around and trailed only 10-7 at half-time, but salvaged only one first down in the second half against the tightened up Nittany Lions’ defense. The offense has been less than impressive two weeks running now, but Deon Butler still managed to break the school record of receptions (167) and Derek Williams added two scores of his own. The Penn State hog mollies up front need to shore up their game if they plan on celebrating a Big Ten championship and trip to the Rose Bowl.

2. Ohio State (2) 9-2 W: 30-20 at Illinois
By far and away the Big Ten’s hottest team put away memories of last year’s upset win by Illinois in Columbus, which dashed the Buckeyes’ undefeated season. As predicted under blustery winter conditions, Ohio State took to the ground and ran through, around, and over Illini defenders. Beanie Wells and Terrelle Pryor cashed in on rushing scores while gaining 143 and 110 yards on the ground, respectively. “The Game” is what’s left for Ohio State to complete their season turnaround and hopes for a share of the Big Ten crown.

3. Michigan State (3) 10-2 BYE
Michigan State is holding strong during the bye week; they cannot afford what teams have grown accustomed to this year – the post-bye week blues--as they head into their “Big Ten Championship Game”, rivalry game, and capstone to a brilliant Spartan season. Onward to Happy Valley.

4. Iowa (4) 7-4 W: 22-17 vs. Purdue
Rushing and defense. That’s the Hawkeye recipe and it continues to work. This week, Shonn Greene did not reach the 100-yard rushing plateau; he eclipsed 200 (211 yards, two touchdowns) en route to Iowa’s 248-yard rushing performance. Defensive tackle Mitch King sacked Curis Painter late, and safety Pat Angerer’s interception help stave off a late Purdue charge. After a three-game skid, Iowa has won four of its last five, including the upset over then third-ranked Penn State. With a win at Minnesota and a Northwestern loss, the Hawkeyes can finish their season on a great upswing and sole possession of fourth place in the conference.

5. Northwestern (5) 8-3 W: 21-14 at Michigan
Snow, wind, cold, the Big House, whatever. Down 14-7 at the half, Northwestern posted touchdowns on their next two possessions to finish off the scoring and the Wolverines. The Wildcats can now celebrate their first eight-win season since 2000, the last time they beat Michigan. If Northwestern holds off Illinois next week, they will take over fourth in the conference with a nine-win season.

6. Wisconsin (7) 6-5 W: 35-32 vs. Minnesota
Surprisingly, Minnesota limited the Badgers’ backfield to only 116 yards, but Wisconsin was still able to punch it in on the ground three times (Hill two, Clay one) in their come from behind victory. The defense clamped down on Minnesota, forcing two safeties and allowing only two scoring drives (one touchdown, one field goal) in the second half. The Badgers can congratulate themselves for becoming bowl eligible and scheduling Cal Poly to end the year for a seven-win season.

7. Minnesota (6) 7-4 L: 35-32 at Wisconsin
After their brilliant 7-1 start, the Gophers have stumbled in their last three. Football is a team sport, but wide receiver Eric Decker’s miss on a Weber pass (returned for a touchdown by Northwestern) followed by getting knocked out of the next two games with an ankle injury has seemed to coincide with Minnesota’s demise. The Gophers (3-4) can redeem themselves by knocking off Iowa (4-3), who sits just above them in the conference standings, pushing up their bowl eligibility.

8. Illinois (8) 5-6 L: 30-20 vs. Ohio State
Illinois mistakes piled up too high against the wrong team. Poor special teams and two costly turnovers from Juice Williams stunted any chances for the underdogs to take down Ohio State. The offense put up 455 total yards (214 rushing, 241 passing), but the defense couldn’t stop the will of the Buckeyes rushing attack. The Illini must now fight to stave off bowl elimination next week against in-state rival Northwestern to finish off the season on a higher note.

9. Purdue (9) 3-8 L:22-17 at Iowa
The upside – Curtis Painter looked like he still has a little fight left in him (24-30, 190 yards, two touchdowns, one interception), throwing for a pair of touchdown passes in a game for the first time since Purdue took on Notre Dame, September 27th. The downside – their defense is what we thought it was – terrible stopping the run (248 yards). Purdue is one more loss away from the cellar of the Big Ten.

10. Michigan (10) 3-8 L: 21-14 vs. Northwestern
A season without back-to-back wins, the bowl and winning record streaks snapped, the game fumbled away in South Bend, the abysmal Toledo game, the lost winning streak against Penn State, a humbling loss to Michigan State and now their first ever eight loss season (thanks to Northwestern) can be redeemed…, maybe. It would be an improbable achievement—one that even a #2 ranked Michigan team could not accomplish–to beat Ohio State. Just win, Richy.

11. Indiana (11) 3-8 L: 34 -7 at Penn State
Simply overpowered by Penn State, Indiana tried their best to make the game interesting. Marcus Thigpen is credited with the Hoosiers’ only score of the game, a 57-yard scamper in the second to tie the game 7-7. But the defense then surrendered 27 straight to the Spread HD, defending a short field for most of the afternoon. On the bright side, the defense sacked Daryll Clark three times and forced three turnovers Indiana will try to o salvage something from the season as they close out at Purdue for their battle for the Old Oaken Bucket, defending it for only the third time this millennium.

Big Ten Preview - Redemption-packed match-ups

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

The penultimate week of the season brings the chill, the snow, the flu and the redemption in the Big Ten. A closer look at this week’s action proves that teams are playing for a little more than an extra notch in the win column.

Ohio State at Illinois: Mr. Juice Williams, welcome back to the Ohio State defense you single-handedly scorched in a clutch performance (four touchdowns, 60 minute drive to seal the game in the end) to stifle the Buckeyes’ undefeated run. Mr. Laurinaitis and Mr. Jenkins are waiting. If a 6-4 Illinois team coming off a convincing victory over Western Michigan were playing host, this game would have even more, well, juice to it. As it stands, the Illini will be very motivated to redeem themselves after last week’s loss and the Buckeyes will certainly be ready to avenge last year’s loss.

Last week, Buckeyes’ quarterback Terrelle Pryor (9-14, 197 yards, three touchdowns) and running back Beanie Wells (28-140, two touchdowns) helped light up Northwestern’s vaunted defense (16 points/game scoring defense before Ohio State’s 45 last week) and showed the conference the potential of their dual-threat offense. Illinois is mostly a one-sided team--the offense is tops in passing (278 yards/game) and total offense (448 yards/game) and second in scoring (31 points/game). Their defense has stacked up a conference-leading 32 sacks so far. If Illinois has more sacks than giveaways they have a chance, but Ohio State looks to be strong [as usual] down the stretch, outscoring opponents 90-17 in their last two wins. The Buckeyes best chance at winning is if Wells and Pryor combine for at least 200 yards on the ground in tough Midwest fall conditions (rain/snow/wind, high in the 30s). Buckeyes roll.
PREDICTION: Ohio State 30, Illinois 17

Northwestern at Michigan: Northwestern is in desperate need of redemption themselves, coming off a bad loss to Ohio State last week 45-10. They showed that teams having their number in the recent past are able to continue their dominance over the injury-plagued Wildcats. Not good news for those favoring purple – Northwestern has also taken their historically recent shots from Michigan. The Wildcats still seek their eighth win of the season, a tally unattainable since 2000 (Michigan had outscored them in 5 straight wins 161-66 since) which was when they last beat Michigan, in a wild 54-51 shootout. Michigan’s redemption is not directed towards Northwestern and is rather evident at this point in the season. They played like “the Michigan of old” against Minnesota last week and will continue to prove the team is on the rise.

Sloppy conditions are predicted for the Wolverines’ last home game of the season. Due to injuries for both teams at their starting quarterback and running back positions, this contest will likely come down to who gets the lucky bounce of the ball
(off the turf). Whoever holds onto the ball will have the best shot at winning. I am hesitant to give the edge to Michigan on that factor alone, but I believe the seniors on defense will carry themselves to victory in front of their home crowd.
PREDICTION: Michigan 25, Northwestern 20

Minnesota at Wisconsin: The Gophers are in need of redemption after their stunning loss of the Little Brown Jug last week against Michigan. On offense, they couldn’t move the ball (188 total yards) sans an injured Eric Decker and surrendered 435 yards to the anemic Wolverines…with their backup quarterback. In order to prove their success this season was not a gift from the scheduling gods, Minnesota must stop a two-game skid against the much-improved Badgers. If that does not motivate Minnesota, perhaps a recap of the last 35 seconds of their shocking 2005 defeat at the hands of the Badgers will do (38-34 on a punt block for touchdown). Wisconsin needs redemption from the beginning their season when they were ranked as high as ninth…now they’re clawing for bowl eligibility.

Wisconsin has steadily improved after their Michigan/October implosion, winning two of their last three. Last week, the offense ran and ran and ran for over 400 yards versus Indiana, so expect similar things this week. Minnesota is eighth against the rush (142 yards/game), but still tops in takeaways (27) and turnover margin (+15). Thus, if the Gophers can force Wisconsin in to passing situations, where they are second in interceptions (14), Minnesota may give themselves some short field situations to put up some points. But my feeling is that they will not, as they have managed on average just 17 points/game against Big Ten foes.
PREDICTION: Wisconsin 27, Minnesota 20

Purdue at Iowa: Iowa seeks redemption after last year’s 31-6 thrashing at the hands of three Curtis Painter touchdown passes in West Lafayette. Purdue seeks redemption on behalf of Coach Joe Tiller’s quite forgettable closing season. Iowa’s defense stifles Purdue and Shonn Greene (1,374 yards and 13 touchdowns) and runs wild on Purdue’s abysmal rush defense (175 yards/game), leading the Hawkeyes’ quest towards a major post-season bowl bid.
PREDICTION: Iowa 27, Purdue 10

Indiana at Penn State: Redemption? Practice? We’re talking about redemption? No need here.
PREDICTION: Penn State 41, Indiana 14

Photo Credit: Illinois Sports Information

A Football Fan’s Four-Pack - Week 12

By JOHN GARRETT

California @ Oregon St. (November 15, 3:30, ABC): Over the past four seasons the road team has come out victorious in this series. The Beavers are currently one-half game behind USC for the lead in the Pac-10, while the Bears are tied for fourth. The winner of this contest will look to have an inside track for an appearance in one of the top-tier bowl games in the conference. Cal comes in ranked sixth in the country in pass efficiency defense and tied for second in interceptions with 17. Three Cal players have earned Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Week honors this fall: linebacker Zack Follett - one of the 15 semifinalists for the Chuck Bednarik Award as best defensive player, defensive end Cameron Jordan and linebacker Mike Mohamed.

Super Senior: Zack Follett, LB, California

Star of Tomorrow: Jacquizz Rogers, RB, OSU

Minnesota @ Wisconsin (November 15, 3:30, ABC): Get ready for the most-played rivalry in FBS football, as the Golden Gophers (7-3, 3-3) will travel to Camp Randall. Awaiting them, are the Badgers (5-5, 2-5) who hope to take the 118th meeting – and the Paul Bunyan axe – in what should be an entertaining Big Ten match-up. Despite a four-game losing streak midway through the season, Wisconsin is one win away from bowl eligibility, so look for them to throw caution-to-the-wind in an already heated rivalry. Minnesota, who is currently the No. 3 team in the nation in turnover margin, is a ball-hawking unit that will look to take advantage.

Super Senior: DeAndre Levy, LB, Wisconsin

Star of Tomorrow: Kyle Theret, DB, Minnesota

Oklahoma St. @ Colorado (November 15, 8:00, ABC): The Buffaloes (5-5, 2-4) look to close out their last home game of the season on a positive note, but the No. 9 Cowboys (8-2, 4-2) ride into town with something to say about that. OSU, who is 6-14 all-time at Boulder, should look to put Colorado away early, and not let them hang around. In their past three conference games against ranked teams, the Buffs have lost by a combined margin of 126-28, so home-field advantage may not be enough this time...

Super Senior: Ryan Walters, FS, Colorado

Star of Tomorrow: Kendall Hunter, RB, OSU

Boston College @ Florida St. (November 15, 8:00, ABC): No. 21 Florida State (7-2, 4-2) will try and keep its title hopes alive when the Eagles (6-3, 2-3) head into Tallahassee. But don’t think for a minute that Boston College forgot about last year’s meeting, in which the Seminoles came into Chestnut Hill and upset the then No. 2 ranked Eagles. This year, BC’s defense has helped the cause by holding three opponents scoreless and leading the nation in interceptions with 18. If Boston College can run the table – the Eagles will represent the Atlantic Division in the ACC Championship Game for the second-straight season.

Super Senior: Paul Anderson, SS, Boston College

Star of Tomorrow: Everette Brown, DE, FSU

Photo Credit: University of Minnesota Athletic Communications

Big Ten Power Rankings - Week Eleven

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

1. Penn State (1) 9-1 L: 24-23 at Iowa
Not the Nittany Lions’ best effort. A 30-mph headwind did not help matters, but seemed to bother Penn State more than Iowa. With the wind at their back in the third quarter, Penn State could not pull away; in the fourth quarter, Daryll Clark’s (9-23, 86 yards, one interception) third and long pass to Derrick Williams sailed high and was intercepted by Iowa, setting up their game-winning drive. All is not lost — just the Lions’ national championship hopes and an undefeated season…the Rose Bowl now looms as a disappointing consolation prize.

2. Ohio State (2) 8-2 W: 45-10 at Northwestern
Quarterback Terrelle Pryor looked calm and determined coming off the loss to Penn State. He kept plays alive with his feet and notched three scores with his arm. He was complemented nicely by the powerful running of Beanie Wells (28, 140 yards, two touchdowns) and a stout defense that gave up 294 yards and 10 points while taking the ball away three times. The Buckeyes are staring down another ten-win season (at Illinois, Michigan).

3. Michigan State (3) 9-2 W: 21-7 at Purdue
The Spartans handled Purdue for almost the game’s entirety, surrendering the sole Boilermaker touchdown with just under a minute left in the game. Michigan State, with Penn State’s loss and an extra game played, actually holds a half-game lead in the conference; their fate will likely be determined in their showdown with Penn State to end the season. Meanwhile, running back Javon Ringer (32, 121 yards, two touchdowns) should rest up after logging his 353rd carry of the season and FBS-leading 20th touchdown. Thumbs up to the defense for holding Purdue under 200 total yards.

4. Iowa (7) 6-4 W: 24-23 vs. Penn State
They did it. Coach Kirk Ferentz said before the game they needed to play perfect football to beat Penn State. It wasn’t quite perfect, but it was good enough. The Hawkeyes punched Penn State in the mouth immediately; pressuring Penn State’s passing attack and containing their rushing. Iowa limited Penn St. to almost half of their average offensive output (289 total yards). Daniel Murray ignored the gusty conditions and became the Iowa City hero, booting the game-winning field goal from 31 yards to seal the upset. Game balls go to Shonn Greene (tenth consecutive 100-yard rushing [28, 117 yards, two touchdowns]) and mother nature.

5. Northwestern (4) 7-3 L: 45-10 vs. Ohio State
The battle of quarterbacks between freshman Terrelle Pryor and back-up Mike Kafka (260 total yards, one touchdown) undoubtedly goes to the Buckeye. The Wildcats’ defense simply did not have an answer to Pryor’s fleet feet or Beanie Wells’ power running. Northwestern just looked outmatched against Ohio State (again), but can rebound next week on the road against Michigan.

6. Minnesota (5) 7-3 L: 29-6 vs. Michigan
Minnesota lost their leading receiver Eric Decker early in the game and could not find a way to recover offensively. Scoring in the first half certainly would have kept Minnesota in the game as their defense limited the Wolverines to five field goals in their first six scoring drives. Adam Weber had a tough go at it (13-24, 105 yards, one interception) and the Gophers were out-rushed 232-83.

7. Wisconsin (8) 5-5 W: 55-20 at Indiana
The three-headed monster of P.J. Hill, John Clay and David Gilreath combined for 406 yards and six touchdowns on the ground and the Badgers totaled 441 total rushing yards, tying the Memorial Stadium record. Wisconsin will host Minnesota and Cal Poly to finish off the season, both winnable games. Dustin Sherer (64-122, 770 yards, three touchdowns, four interceptions) and Allan Evridge (71-132, 949 yards, five touchdowns, five interceptions) have similar numbers at quarterback, so it seems the Badgers live and die by the run game. Run, Bucky, run!

8. Illinois (7) 5-5 L: 23-17 vs. Western Michigan
A bad hiccup on Illinois’ path toward bowl eligibility. Juice Williams threw two costly interceptions, which led to 14 Western Michigan points. A Toledo-Michigan replay? Like Michigan against Toledo’s Nick Moore, Illinois was unable to stop big, shifty receiver JeMarko Simmons, who gashed the Illini defense with 11 catches, 174 yards and a touchdown. Illinois now has two shots (Ohio State, at Northwestern) left at bowl eligibility, but may very well need both victories to find their way into the post-season.

9. Purdue (10) 3-7 L:21-7 vs. Michigan State
Purdue’s success against the Michigan team from Ann Arbor last week was squashed by the Michigan team from East Lansing this week. Dustin Siller and Kory Sheets combined for 182 yards and zero touchdowns (compared to last week – 461 yards, six touchdowns). They could not take advantage of four Spartans’ turnovers, while giving up a back-breaking interception returned for a score just before halftime. Bowl eligibility has now officially been squandered, so Purdue is left playing for Coach Joe Tiller, whose coaching pulse is down to two beats in 120 minutes.

10. Michigan (11) 3-7 W: 29-6 at Minnesota
Michigan sails up the rankings this week after keeping the Little Brown Jug in a surprising, yet impressive win over Minnesota. The defensive line implored the coaches to shift them back to a four-man front, which worked like a charm. After all this “change”, Michigan’s traditional base 4-2-5 contained Minnesota to six points (first half shutout), 83 yards rushing and 105 yards passing. Nick Sheridan took the offensive reins like a veteran (18-30, 203 yards, two touchdowns), but the Wolverines kept Minnesota off balance with 232 rushing yards. Third-string quarterback Justin Feagin lost his red-shirt but showed flashes of his running ability with 49 yards on seven carries. Potential energy yields kinetic energy in the presence of a catalyst. Was this Michigan’s catalyst?

11. Indiana (9) 3-7 L: 55-20 vs. Wisconsin
Holding onto conference’s worst slot is shaping up to be quite the battle. This week’s three-way scuffle leaves Indiana picking up the pieces after getting blown out by Wisconsin. The Hoosiers were unable to stop the Wisconsin ground attack, and needed a MASH unit to deal with their quarterback injuries. Thankfully, Purdue and Indiana square off at season’s end to settle this log-jam at the bottom of the conference on the field.