Q&A: John Gill, DT, Northwestern

Former Northwestern Wildcat defensive tackle John Gill was not invited to this year's NFL Combine. However, after an impressive Pro Day, Gill seems to have improved his draft stock by putting up numbers that would have competed with the top ten defensive tackles at the Combine. How has Gill been preparing for the Draft? How does he reflect on his college career under Coach Pat Fitzgerald and the Cats' strong 2008 season?

This, and more, on Player Spotlight with John Gill, hosted by John Sears.

Where are you calling from today?

Gill: I am calling from my house in Evanston. I’m still at school at Northwestern so I am living in the same house.

Are you finishing up your degree?

Gill: I am going to graduate this quarter. I am taking four classes and will graduate in June.

Your last classes—are they 600-level physical chemistry and physics?

Gill: [laughs] No, not that hard. I am just a communications major, so I am taking three communications classes and one elective.

Your elective must be ballroom dancing, but you don’t have to admit it.

Gill: [laughs]

Looking at your 2008 statistics, it seems like you had a lot of tackles per game. How did you do that from the interior of the defensive line?

Gill: I do that by just trying to stay as active as I can, trying to get off blocks as fast as I can and just running to the ball. At Northwestern, we pride ourselves on everybody getting to the ball.

What was your best game in 2008?

Gill: I’d probably say the Michigan game. I had quite a few tackles...I think a sack and a couple tackles-for-loss.

Tell me about your Pro Day—give me your measurements and how you think they compared to those who did attend the Combine.

Gill: First of all, my 40 I ran a 4.90, which was a good time for a guy my size as I weigh in at 302. It was a good time compared to other defensive tackles…it was a time I was happy with. I got a 4.4 or something in the 20-yard shuttle. It was a good time, I think to get. I think it would have been the fastest time at the Combine for the tackles and it was a good time compared to other tackles in other Pro Days. Same with the three-cone—I ran a 7.14, which I think would have been the fastest time at the Combine for the tackles. I got 29 reps in the bench, which was kind of average I think. One guy got 37 reps. So it was nothing too special there. And I got 31.5” in the vertical, which would have been decent; I think it would have been average. So my two best were the 3-cone and the 20-yard shuttle. Everything else was good, but nothing spectacular.

Terrance Taylor, the defensive tackle from Michigan, was the guy you were referring to who got 37 reps down at the Combine. But at Michigan’s Pro Day, Will Johnson did 47 reps.

Gill: Wow.

Last time I could bench 225 once was about five years ago…

Gill: [laughs]

When was the last time you could bench 225 only once?

Gill: I don’t even know. A long time ago.

I see you as 6’3”, 302, right?

Gill: Yeah.

Your favorite pre-game ritual is listed as “eating”. I thought that was a little redundant for a 300-lb man to say.

Gill: [laughs] Well we pretty much have the same meals before games. It’s some really good beef—I eat a lot of that. And then I have clam chowder in a bread bowl and finish off with some cheesecake. That’s my favorite meal the night before a game. And right before the game I eat a small breakfast.

Oh, that was dinner the night before. I thought this was your pre-game meal. There’s no way you would hold that down the day of a game, right?

Gill: [laughs] I actually tried doing that once when I was a freshman and it didn’t work out too well—I threw up during the game.

[laughs] How do you see yourself projecting in the draft—mid-rounds or later rounds?

Gill: Right now it sounds like a late round pick, if even a pick at all. I am just being honest. But probably, realistically, I would say 4th round or later just from what I have heard.

Any particular team you would want to play for?

Gill: I grew up a 49er fan just because I am from that area. But in terms of playing for a team, I’ll go anywhere for a team that will give me a chance.

I have heard comparisons made between you and Luis Castillo and Barry Cofield. Are you similar to them or anyone else in the NFL?

Gill: I have heard the comparisons to Luis and Barry. I just hope that I could have careers like them in the NFL. They are both doing really well. I am not them though; I am just trying to give myself the best chance to be successful. It’s an honor to be compared to them.

Walk me through your bowl game with Missouri. It looked like you had some chances to put them away and fell short.

Gill: As a defense, we just wanted to slow them down as much as possible. We had a couple of chances to win that game, but a couple of mistakes here and there late in the game cost us the game. I give all the credit in the world to them [Missouri], they played really well when it counted. But it was a close game. Just late in the game, we didn’t make a couple of plays and it cost us.

Jeremy Maclin’s punt return was a turning point it seemed. Did you feel the wind knocked out of you after that play?

Gill: We tried not to think about it as a defense. We weren’t on the field, so we couldn’t control it. But as a punt team, we pride ourselves on not giving up big returns. But for some reason…he [Maclin] is an incredibly fast guy…we just couldn’t contain him on that one play. That was kind of a turning point in the game. Our whole team was playing well up until that point and there seemed to be a change in momentum.

What do you like to do outside of football?

Gill: [laughs] I know this is kind of about football, but I really like working out. I work out when I don’t really have to…Other than football and school right now, I really don’t do too much.

I guess that’s a good thing for people to know though, that you enjoy working out and you have that work ethic. I guess that’s why you are 300-pound boy.

Gill: [laughs]

What are you most looking forward to heading toward the NFL?

Gill: Just a chance to be able to play football again. You go through a lot of stuff to try and get into the NFL and a lot of it is not football. A lot of it is testing, interviews…I’m just looking forward to playing football again.

Probably tired of talking to people like us.

Gill: [laughs] No, no, no, not that. Just…

I would be, so don’t worry about it. That’s ok.

Gill: [laughs]

Photo Credit: Stephen J. Carrera

Player Profile: Josh Freeman QB Kansas St.

Pros: Freeman has the size, athletic ability, and the type of huge arm NFL teams salivate over. At close to 6’6’’ and 250 pounds, he is the biggest quarterback among the top quarterbacks in this class. For being as big as he is, he moves very well when there is space in front of him. He is tough for defenders to bring down and will break arm tackles. Besides his running ability, Freeman is impressive throwing the ball. He has the arm to make all of the NFL throws. He improved a lot between his sophomore year and junior year. Durability was not an issue in college and he has the size of a classic pocket passer.

Cons: Freeman definitely has the physical ability, but what isn’t as obvious as his cannon arm is whether or not he also possesses the intangibles needed to be consistent or great at the NFL level. He make some poor decisions and forced throws as a Wildcat. He also needs to work at his ability to read coverages, his touch and be more consistent with his accuracy. Freeman is very raw and will need coaching up when it comes to his mechanics, at times failing to do simple things like set his feet or square his shoulders when throwing. If these problems aren’t corrected, turnovers will be an issue at the next level.

Scouts take: It’s easy to fall in love with Freeman’s big frame and huge arm—he possesses arguably the most upside of any signal caller in this draft. He is viewed as one of the top three quarterbacks in the class and considering he has yet to hit his full potential as a game manager, he could end up at the head of the class when all things are said and done. But Freeman is nowhere ready to start for an NFL team. If he is thrown out on the field next year he could really struggle and it could hurt his ability for the future. One more year at K-State to work on his mechanics wouldn’t have hurt his future as a pro at all. Freeman is not a “product of the system” he played in, unlike most Big XII teams, the Wildcats didn’t rely on the spread alone and he wasn’t surrounded by the same type of weapons that a Graham Harrell or Sam Bradford were. Freeman lined up under center and in shotgun. Despite only playing three years, he has a lot of experience having played virtually since day one and has showed enough potential to land in the first round. Freeman is far from ready to lead an NFL offense, however no less so than 2007 No. 1 overall pick JaMarcus Russell was when he came into the league following his junior season.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Kansas St.)

Q&A: LB Wesley Woodyard, Denver Broncos

Transcription from Wesley Woodyard's appearance on All Access Football Radio's Football Friday Show with Daniel Mogollon, Ralph Mancini and Rodney Towe on February 20, 2009.

We have been talking about the combine and a lot of the different drills that guys do. You made our all-NFL combine team last year because you showed good speed, explosiveness in your broad jump, good quickness with your shuttle time, and you also showed the ability to maintain speed with your 60-yard shuttle. Talk about the different drills...

Woodyard: The 40 (yard dash) is the biggest drill of the combine, but to me, one of the most important drills is the L-drill, because that shows your change-of-direction speed and how fast you can pick up your speed. To me, that is one of the most important ones there.

What was the combine experience like as a whole? Was it kind of surreal? I mean, you check in and weigh in, then they measure you, you get poked and prodded by doctors, you get on the field and run, you take a psychology test, you interview with teams...was it a whirlwind experience?

Woodyard: It was kind of overwhelming. When we first got down to Indy we immediately went over to the doctors, spent a few hours over there, then we came back and had meetings with the coaches. To a lot of players, we weren’t really expecting all of that to happen so fast. It was strictly business from the time we got there to the time we left.

Did you have any fun, or was it all business, all the time ?

Woodyard: The only fun we had was competing against the other linebackers. To me, that was the most fun. Anytime I get a chance to compete and do something with football I have a lot of fun. One of my training partners was up there, Jerod Mayo. We trained together to prepare for the combine, so we were competing at everything we did. I had a lot of fun just seeing the other linebackers and competing against them.

Fast forward to the NFL. Your first pre-season game for the The Denver Broncos-walk us through what you were experiencing in your first game, your first NFL experience...what was going through your mind, and what really shocked you or amazed you?

Woodyard: The first time I got a chance to go in, some of the vets came up and told me, “let’s go youngster, it’s your time to show everybody what you can do.” The first play I got on the field, I ran down on the kickoff, busted the wedge, and made a tackle. I was like, “Wow, I’m really getting a chance to play in the NFL!” It really didn’t sink in until the next week, the next game. Just getting a chance to go out there, it meant a whole lot to me.

The NFL is called the “Not For Long” league sometimes, for a reason. As a 2nd-year player who made a very positive impact-especially given that you were an undrafted free agent-what is your mindset going into your second season, now that you have a season under your belt?

Woodyard: My mindset is the same as it was coming in as an undrafted rookie. I still have a lot to prove. I would like to get credit for a whole season starting in the NFL. It is deemed “Not For Long” sometimes, but that’s due to injuries and some people just not having a chance to make it out onto the football field. My mindset is to go out there and compete in the summer camp just like I don’t have a shot at making the team, so I am just going to give it my all every time I’m out there.

You’ve been around the NFL for a year now-is it more physically demanding or more mentally demanding? Do you have to do more work in the film room, or is it more physically demanding for you?

Woodyard: To me it is a combination of both, but I can say I spent a lot more time watching film this year than I did in college. I watched a lot of film in college, but when you are getting ready to play against some of the best coaches and players the game has ever seen, you have to make sure you are at your best and you have to understand what they can do. I would say we spend more time watching film than I have ever done in my life.

As you mentioned, you were an undrafted guy last year. We were all pretty surprised when your name didn’t get called that weekend-what was your reaction and how quickly were you able to bounce back and say, “Hey, I have to put that behind me and focus on making happen what I can make happen.”?

Woodyard: It was a big shock to me that I didn’t get drafted, but right after the draft the thing that got me...Coach Shanahan called me. He didn’t call me once, he called me twice to make sure that I understood everything was for real . When I went up there I realized that God gave me another chance to play football and I am the type of guy that loves to compete. Anytime I get a chance to compete and I can show my skills, I’m going to give it my all and make sure I turn some heads.

When your name wasn’t called in the first six rounds, are you hoping you won't be drafted? If you go undrafted, you have a certain degree of control over where you can go-were you getting calls from other teams trying to get you to go to their team?

Woodyard: That was one of the things when it gets late, everybody wants to hear their name called. But once you’re in those later rounds, it's better that you go undrafted because you get a chance to choose a team that doesn’t have a lot of depth at your position, or one that really didn’t draft anyone at your position. For me it, came down to two teams-the Broncos and the Chiefs. I looked at the Broncos' roster and figured I had a better chance to make the team there and I had a better chance at showing myself on the football field early.

Can you give us the highlight of your rookie season? You had a strong second half of the season. I believe you had three games with ten tackles in a game and please, before you answer, you're talking to three Jet fans here, so don’t tell us it was coming to the Meadowlands and beating the Jets.

Woodyard: (Laughs) I don’t want to say beating Brett Favre wouldn’t be one of them. I’ll just hold that one down as the second one, but I would have to say when we were playing the Atlanta Falcons. The week before the game, my special teams coach was taking me out for the special teams and I told him I could still play special teams, you don’t have to take me out. He told me when we need to put our guys in there, you’re going to be in there. He called on me to go make a special teams play to seal the victory on the kickoff . He put me in the game and it was funny, it was kind of crazy how all the veterans were looking for me to make plays, so I just ran down the field, made a tackle, and gave Atlanta bad field position going into their final drive.

You brought up coach Shanahan. How shocked were you when you heard that he was no longer going to be the coach?

Woodyard: Everybody was really shocked. It was something that no one really expected. Things happen for a reason. I think everybody’s pretty excited to get back to Denver and get a chance to workout with their teammates and meet the new coaching staff.

Talk about your coaching staff. I understand your defensive coordinator is Mike Nolan who formerly coached the San Francisco 49ers, what are your first impressions of the defensive coordinator? Also, we understand that Denver has released a number of players, so they are looking to revamp this defense. What are your impressions of the new coaching staff and what lies ahead for this defense?

Woodyard: I actually got a chance to play for Coach Nolan down at the Senior Bowl. He was a guy that demanded intensity and respect from everybody. He seemed like he was a very knowledgeable coach who loves the game of football. I think if you are going to be a defensive coach, you have to have that fire and he definitely has that fire.

You mentioned the intensity of a defensive coach. If I remember correctly, you were coached by Mike Singletary at the Senior Bowl as well and I don’t think there many more intense coaches than him. Can you talk about playing for him, even though it was only a couple of days, what was that like?

Woodyard: That was amazing. The first time I saw him, I felt like a little kid. My mouth dropped open. I ran up to him and introduced myself. His intensity and passion for the game...you just have to respect that. Just being around him made me want to come to practice every day and work hard, just so that I didn’t disappoint him. He was one of the great linebackers of the NFL and you just had to show respect every time you were around him.

It's time for "three and out". First down: Mixed martial arts or boxing?

Woodyard: Boxing.

Second down: Your favorite superhero of all time?

Woodyard: The Incredible Hulk. His characteristics remind me of a linebacker's.

Third down: What was your first big purchase when you got that NFL contract?

Woodyard: I paid out some bills for my mom. I like to see my mom happy, so I helped my mom out.

Decision Time: DE Corey Wootton, Northwestern

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

Why Wootton Should Play on Saturdays:

1. Recovery from his knee injury in the Alamo Bowl – Wootton’s success came crashing down on a freak play during the Alamo Bowl as his knee seemingly folded without contact while he pursued quarterback Chase Daniel. Full details of his injury have not yet been disclosed, but this certainly raises huge concern for a potential NFL team. Wootton needs time to recover.

2. One more year to develop physically – Wootton is considered a raw talent with the physical gifts to make most NFL teams drool – size and speed (6’7”, 270 lbs). With his size, a bit more polish will help Wootton develop in to a splendid strong-side end if he can demonstrate better pass defense capabilities. Right now, he stands as a work-in-progress pass rusher until he develops further.

3. Northwestern’s on the rise – The Wildcats were a few breaks away from solidifying the best season in the history of their program with a win in the Alamo Bowl versus Missouri. Has the team peaked in its short experience with Pat Fitzgerald as head coach? Probably not, and football is much more fun when you are winning.

Why Wootton Should Play on Sundays in 2009:

1. Northwestern will be depleted on offense – The Wildcats will hit the reset button on offense, losing their quarterback, running back and receiving corps. This could spell disaster for the 2009 season and may strain the defense’s ability to be successful as they will face increased pressure to carry the team while (likely) being on the field longer.

2. Big year, time to go – Wootton came off a tremendously successful season, adding a Big Ten Second Team award to his resume. He finished fourth in the Big Ten in sacks with 10 and sixth in tackles-for-loss (16).

3. He may not be the same after his knee injury – Wootton’s injury may be serious. If so, his best bet for an NFL payoff would be to take this time rehabbing and hope a team takes a chance on him, rather than running of the risk of a hobbled return to Northwestern.

Sears’s Take: Wootton’s injury came at the worst possible time – just as he was tidying up a wonderful regular season and demonstrating pro-like abilities in the bowl game. Even without the injury, the word on the street was that he was being asked to return in order to develop a bit more physically. Statistically, he has improved on a yearly basis, but one more season of consistency could solidify him as an early-round selection in 2010.

Decision Time: OT Eben Britton

By ANDREW GARDA - PAC-10 INSIDER

Why Britton made the right decision to come out

1. On top of his game: While the 6’5”, 310-pounder is leaving a Wildcat team that could be on the verge of becoming a contender in the Pac-10, there is very little left for him to do or prove. Britton had a solid season – he ended up on the 2008 All-Pac 10 Conference First Team a year after he was named to the second team. He has been a part of the best offensive line that Arizona has had in some time and ended up with an iron-man like 37 consecutive starts at tackle. He’s an outstanding pass blocker with very good balance and footwork, and is also pretty solid in the run game.

2. Why Risk it: With Tuitama leaving, there is a chance this offense could take a step back and Britton’s stock would take a dip if it does. So while he could always get a little out of another year, the reward doesn’t outweigh the risk. There is also the possibility of an injury that should not be discounted.

3. Power Vacuum: One of the biggest stories of the 2008 Draft was the tremendous number of offensive linemen taken in round one. Many of those linemen had a positive impact for the teams that drafted them in their first season – Jake Long in Miami, Ryan Clady in Denver, Sam Baker in Atlanta before his injury, and Gosder Cherilus in Detroit. As we all know, NFL teams will follow trends and while they won’t gorge themselves like they did last season, teams will likely look to fill the positions early. Britton will likely find himself drafted earlier than he might have been in another year by a team in need of a solid offensive tackle. He’s good enough to be drafted on the first day either way, but there’s a good chance he’ll get taken in the first by a team not wanting to risk missing out in another year of top end linemen.

Garda’s Take: Clearly given the title here, I think Britton is making a fine decision by leaving Arizona a year early. He’s received accolades from the coaches within his own conference as well as the scouting community. With a constant hunger for good, pass blocking linemen in the NFL, Britton is poised to be drafted in a good spot, perhaps better than he might even have been able to do had he waited a year and worked on his game.

Liberty Bowl: East Carolina vs. Kentucky

By J.J. PESAVENTO

Memphis, TN * January 2, 2009 * 5:00 PM * ESPN

The East Carolina Pirates began the season 3-0 and in the process knocked off a pair of bowl teams in Virginia Tech and West Virginia. But they lost their next three games before winning six of their final seven contests including an upset win over Tulsa to win the Conference USA title and finish 9-4 on the season. Kentucky also got off to a fast start by winning their first four games but then faced a losing battle - SEC play. The Wildcats went 2-6 in against conference foes and dropped their final four to finish 6-6 on the season.

When the Pirates Have the Ball

East Carolina will throw a two back attack at Kentucky with Norman Whitley and Brandon Simmons doing the work. Whitley led the club in rushing yardage with 667 yards (four touchdowns) and Simmons led the team in rushing touchdowns with six. The pair will be running behind an offensive line that is led by Sean Allen, an All-Conference performer this season. The Pirates don't run the ball exceptionally well but they ran more than they threw during the season. Quarterback Patrick Pinkney will lead the passing attack after throwing for 2,379 yards and 12 touchdowns during the season. His primary targets during the season were Dwayne Harris (who missed the last three games of the season), Davon Drew and Alex Taylor. Simmons also plays a key role in the passing attack as he is third on the team in receptions (24) and tied for the team lead with three touchdown receptions (three) with Drew and Jamar Bryant. While their record doesn't show it, Kentucky has a better than average defense. Linebackers Micah Johnson, who led the team in solo tackles (57) and tackles for loss (11.5), Braxton Kelley and defensive lineman Myron Pryor lead the defense. The Wildcats also possess two fine defensive backs in Trevard Lindley and Marcus McClinton, each of who have four picks on the season and have combined for 19 pass breakups.

When the Wildcats Have the Ball

The Wildcats are not a juggernaut on the offensive ball to say the least. Their leading rusher, Tony Dixon, had 341 yards this season. Dixon and quarterback Randall Cobb (316 yards) each scored seven rushing touchdowns to lead the team. Cobb had taken over the duties at quarterback but is doubtful for the bowl game after undergoing knee surgery following the Tennessee game. This means Mike Hartline, who started the first eight games for the Wildcats, will get the call for Kentucky. Hartline threw for 1,462 yards with eight touchdowns. The Kentucky offense may not be threatening, but they do protect the quarterback well, allowing only 12 sacks all season to lead the SEC. This is good considering they will be facing an East Carolina defense that had several players receive all conference honors in 2008. Defensive lineman C.J. Wilson led Conference USA with 18.5 tackles for loss. He also led his team with 10.5 sacks. Linebackers Pierre Bell and Nick Johnson and defensive back Van Estridge all were around 90 tackles this year. Estridge and super freshman Emanuel Davis both had four picks with in 2008 and each returned one for a touchdown.

Final Analysis

This game will likely be a battle of two defenses. Neither team has a great offense as both Kentucky and East Carolina average around 23 points per game. One difference is that Kentucky does not allow many sacks, whereas East Carolina ranks around the middle of the pack. Kentucky also has an edge on punt returns but they will be facing Matt Dodge, who is one of the best punters in the country for East Carolina. The Pirates are coming in sky high after winning their conference title and in the end, they'll be the better team.

CFI Prediction: East Carolina 24, Kentucky 17

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media, East Carolina University Athletic Media Relations

LISTEN NOW! CFI Radio - Alamo Bowl

MONDAY - DECEMBER 29, 2008
12:30 PM EASTERN * Bowl Preview Special
30 Minutes

*** Click to Listen ***

CFI Co-Founder DANIEL MOGOLLON & Big Ten Insider JOHN SEARS preview the Alamo Bowl, which pits the surprising Northwestern Wildcats against the Missouri Tigers and their explosive attack. Special guests: Wildcats' HC PAT FITZGERALD. Find out which players to watch and who will win.

Players to Watch - Missouri:

1. WR Jeremy Maclin, Sophomore – No. 9
2. FS William Moore, Senior – No. 1
3. TE Chase Coffman, Senior – No. 45
4. LB Sean Weatherspoon, Junior – No. 12
5. QB Chase Daniel, Senior – No. 10

Players to Watch - Northwestern:

1. QB C.J. Bacher, Senior – No. 18
2. RB Tyrell Sutton, Senior – No. 19
3. DE Corey Wootton, Junior – No. 96
4. DT John Gill, Senior – No. 70
5. S Brendan Smith, Junior – No. 4

Photo Credit: Mizzou Media Relations

Alamo Bowl - Missouri vs. Northwestern

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

December 29, 2008 * 8:00 * ESPN
Alamodome * San Antonio, Texas

Missouri certainly expected better results this year with the return of 2007 Heisman finalist quarterback Chase Daniel. Their misfortune this season may simply be a result of their existence in the Big 12, which has yielded four top-13 BCS teams – three of which handed the Tigers loss. Northwestern is a bowl win away from posting their best season ever.

When the ‘Cats Have the Ball

To better understand Northwestern’s success this year, look no further than three-year letterman quarterback C.J. Bacher. Due to his leadership and injuries to the rushing game, the signal caller was vital to the team’s success: in two of the three losses, Bacher combined for one touchdown and four interceptions and was scratched before their final loss (against Ohio State). Bacher demonstrates the ability to command the spread offense and to appropriately audible – eight different receivers have at least 10 receptions this year and eight different receivers have caught a touchdown pass. Distributing the ball evenly is certainly a Northwestern hallmark, but Ross Lane, Eric Peterman and Rasheed Ward led the spread, combining for 151 receptions. A healthy Tyrell Sutton displays the qualities of a quintessential Big Ten spread-offense running back – he’s tough between the tackles, quick enough to bounce runs outside, and has soft hands in the receiving game. If Sutton can get cleared to play, Northwestern may offer an offensive pop Missouri may not be prepared to slow.

When the Tigers Have the Ball

Speaking of commanding quarterbacks, Daniel did nothing but pass for over 4,000 yards and 37 touchdowns. He holds exceptional command of the spread offense and over the past three years may have single-handedly put Mizzou football in the spotlight. Six receivers have grabbed at least 20 balls this year and another impressive receiver trio has emerged -- Daniel’s favorite target, speedy, all-purpose Jeremy Maclin, likely to break 100 receptions (95) is accompanied by tight end Chase Coffman and Tommy Saunders. Together they racked up just under 250 receptions, 3,000 yards and 30 touchdowns. Couple that with eventual 1,000-yard rusher Derrick Washington, who churned out 17 touchdowns and it’s difficult to see how the Tigers failed to outscore everyone.

Final Analysis

Northwestern seems to hold a bend-not-break defensive philosophy – ranked 53rd with 343 yards/game against but 23rd in the FBS in scoring defense (19/game). Further, they led the Big Ten in sacks 33, and were second in red zone defense (77 percent). Northwestern held its own against the elite passers, limiting Curtis Painter (Purdue) and Juice Williams (Illinois) to one touchdown, four interceptions and an average of 243 yards. Conversely, the Tigers faced Williams and surrendered 451 yards and five touchdowns through the air. For Missouri, rushing may be the key to success – first to prevent the Cats’ defense from getting sack-happy and second to keep down Daniel’s interceptions. A lack of quality wins, a back-breaking conference-championship loss and turnovers will not only prevent Missouri from running away with this one, but it will also keep them from winning.

Missouri Tigers (9-4, 5-3)
Pass: Chase Daniel – 4,135 yards, 37 TDs
Run: Derrick Washington – 992 yards, 17 TDs
Catch: Jeremy Maclin – 1,221 yards, 12 TDs

Northwestern Wildcats (9-3, 5-3)
Pass: C.J. Bacher – 2,128 yards, 14 TDs
Run: Tyrell Sutton – 776 yards, 6 TDs
Catch: Eric Peterman – 654 yards, 5 TDs

The CFI Prediction: Northwestern 35, Missouri 28

Photo Credits: Mizzou Media Relations

Holiday Bowl Notes: Arizona 31, BYU 21

Spread Offense:

Arizona quarterback and Holiday Bowl MVP Willie Tuitama – 24-of-35, 325 yards, two touchdowns, no interceptions – spread the wealth against BYU in the Las Vegas desert. For the last two seasons, slot receiver Mike Thomas has been Tuitama’s top target with sophomore tight end Rob Gronkowski’s 672 receiving yards second on the team and his 10 touchdown receptions leading the way.

Naturally Thomas and Gronkowski were the receiving stars of the game, right? Not so much.

Lanky junior Terrell Turner, who had just one 100-yard game his season, hauled in four balls for 111 yards, including a 71-yard catch-and-run on the opening drive. Tuitama hit Turner in stride as he ran down the seam, allowing the Texas native to register the longest reception of his career. It wasn’t a perfect day for Turner--he allowed a potential 60-yard touchdown pass to sail through his hands later in the game on a perfectly thrown ball by Tuitama — but he had to be happy with his performance. Sophomore Delashaun Dean caught a season-high seven passes and his 88 receiving yards were the second most in his young career.

Meanwhile, Rob Gronkowski wasn’t even the most productive Gronkowski. Older brother Chris caught passes of 19 and 24 yards out of his fullback position to bookend a 65-yard touchdown drive which put the ‘Cats up 24-14 late in the third quarter.

Overall, Tuitama looked sharp, taking what the defense gave him most of the night. The senior did a nice job stepping up in the pocket to avoid pressure – pocket presence is still something he’s working on. The strong-armed signal caller will be remembered in Tucson for bringing home the Wildcats’ first bowl win in 10 years.

"This was five years in the making. It all came together in the last month of the season," Arizona coach Mike Stoops said afterwards. "I couldn't be more proud of these seniors who brought Arizona back."

Defensive Notes:

* You have to love the way Ronnie Palmer (8 tackles) plays football. The senior linebacker was flying all over the field, laying big hits on BYU quarterback Max Hall when asked to blitz. Against the run, he was able to penetrate the backfield, and delivered a big hit in coverage to break up a pass play. Simply put, he just loves to hit. At 6’3” and 245 pounds, the senior linebacker has good size but may lack the speed to play at the next level.

* Fellow linebacker Xavier Kelly does have the speed. Built more like a safety than a linebacker (5’11”/215 pounds), the junior out of Texas covered the most ground of any defender, recording a game-high 15 stops, including a sack and strip of Hall, one of three fumbles the ‘Cats forced.

* Senior Marquis Hundley had some nice coverage on the day, including covering everybody’s All-American Austin Collie one-on-one at times. He made a great interception by running with Collie stride-for-stride, turning when Collie looked for ball and finishing the play with a nice two-handed snag, showing off his ball skills. Watching, you got the feeling that Hall was used to completing that kind of pass in Mountain West play, particularly when throwing it to his favorite target, Collie.

* Filling in for Hundley after the senior got dinged up was freshman Trevin Wade, who almost had a pick of his own. His play should come as no surprise for anyone who follows Arizona football--Wade had four interceptions in a backup role and should be ready to take on more responsibility next season.

Record Setters:

Austin Collie turned in his 11th straight game with at least 100 receiving yards – an FBS record – wow! That’s serious consistency at a very high level for the BYU junior. What else can you say? Arizona’s Mike Thomas set the all-time Pac-10 receiving record with career grab number 257. It came when Arizona called a time out to throw a short route to Thomas on the game’s final play to pass Derek Hagan, who attended rival Arizona St. I understand why Coach Mike Stoops did it…not sure if I would have.

In-Defensible:

It appeared Arizona was taking advantage of busted coverages and missed assignments all game long by BYU. The Cougars’ DBs were often fooled by simple hesitations in the Wildcats’ routes, leaving targets wide open. A couple of times BYU defenders were caught peaking in at the quarterback as well. Play-action fakes left fullback Chris Gronkowski uncovered on both of his receptions.

All around shoddy tackling by BYU was also a factor in this contest. Not to be outdone, the offense was sloppy as well. A third-and-one at the Arizona 19-yard line turned into third-and-16 after the Cougars committed three straight penalties. Adding insult to injury, kicker Mitch Payne missed a 40-yard field goal attempt.

Photo Credit: Mark A. Philbrick/BYU

Senior Spotlight: Bowl Week - December 20-21

QB Willie Tuitama/WR Mike Thomas, Arizona - Las Vegas Bowl vs. BYU

The spread attack brought over from Texas Tech by Sonny Dykes last season has agreed with the Wildcats’ signal caller and top receiver. As a junior, Willie Tuitama saw a boost in his numbers, leading the Pac-10 in both touchdown passes and passing yards. While his touchdown passes (28 to 21) and yards (3,683 to 2,763) have dipped as a senior, the California native has been more efficient in his final campaign in the desert leading the ‘Cats to their first bowl appearance under Mike Stoops. His completion percentage is a career-high 64.6 percent and he is averaging 7.59 yards per pass, up from 7.03 last season. Tuitama has a strong arm and is a good athlete, but lacks ideal size and bulk. Mike Thomas was also a Pac-10 leader a year ago when he led the conference with his 83 receptions as a junior and racked up 1,038 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns (an Arizona single season record). Like his partner Tuitama, Thomas saw a drop in production in 2008 (70 receptions, 796 yards, four touchdowns), but should not be overlooked, as he is as dangerous as ever. The wide out has very reliable hands and is stronger than he appears, with quickness and speed being his biggest strengths. The Texas native has improved significantly since his freshman campaign, becoming a more polished receiver and a better route runner. His lack of length and bulk limit his potential, but he has the ideal skill set as a slot receiver. Thomas is also a dynamic return man and dangerous on reverses, end-arounds…or whenever he touches the pigskin.

CB Alphonso Smith, Wake Forest - Eagle Bank Bowl vs. Navy

A pure coverman, Smith has the type of speed, quickness and fluid hips that allow him to stay with even the best wide receivers. Smith gets a good read on the ball and his hands are receiver quality, as evidenced by his 20 career interceptions, which ties him with Dre’ Bly as the Atlantic Coast Conference’s all-time leader. Once he gets the ball in his hands Smith is dynamic – simply put, he’s a playmaker. He is also a sure tackler who can be aggressive against the run (23.5 career TFLs) and a solid blitzer (9 career sacks). He can even lay the wood despite his lack of ideal size. Smith is also durable – he hasn’t missed a game during his four years at Wake Forest and will put on the pads for the 50th time as a Demon Deacon. Smith has the swagger and cover skills to be a lockdown cover corner at the next level.

QB Tom Brandstater, Fresno St. - New Mexico Bowl vs. Colorado St.

The Bulldog has shown improvement throughout his career, which is not all that uncommon for quarterbacks at Fresno State. Brandstater’s development as a decision maker, in his accuracy and at throwing the ball down field, speaks to both his coachabilty and work ethic. He’s not a scrambler, but Brandstater has good speed and can move the chains or find the goal line with his legs if necessary. Brandstater is an impressive athlete for a man of his size, but could use some more bulk. In his lone bowl experience, which came last season, Brandstater earned the Humanitarian Bowl MVP Award in their 40-28 victory over Georgia Tech. The 6’5 signal caller completed 23-of-30 passes for 285 yards and a touchdown, adding another 40 yards on the ground, including a 24-yard scoring scamper. The 24-year old is also regarded as a leader and is very bright, as he was a Draddy Trophy semifinalist.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Wake Forest University)

GOW: Las Vegas Bowl - BYU VS. Arizona

By ANDREW GARDA - PAC-10 INSIDER

December 20, 2008 * 8:00 * ESPN
Sam Boyd Stadium (71,500) *
Las Vegas, Nevada

THIS SEASON THE Pac-10 has squared up with the Mountain West Conference seven times with the MWC going an impressive 6-1. Included in that group is two wins by BYU (over UCLA and Washington), as well as a loss by Arizona (to New Mexico. Will the trend continue?

When the ‘Cats Have the Ball

Quarterback Willie Tuitama has had an outstanding year, throwing for 2,763 yards with 21 touchdowns and just eight interceptions. He will face a BYU defense that can be scored on at times – the Cougars have allowed 32 or more points in four of their last six games. BYU has also had trouble pressuring and containing opposing quarterbacks, especially off the edges. This defense is not especially fast and that will also be an advantage for Wildcat running back Nic Grigsby. The sophomore back had his first 1,000-yard season and had an impressive 5.5 yards per carry average. Grigsby can move the chains and while he has not blown the opposition away, he is a threat and scored a touchdown in nine of twelve games. If he can get around the edges, or if the defense is caught over-committing, he could put together some big runs. An effective ground game will set up the Wildcats’ pass offense nicely. Even without it, Tuitama should be able to find his receivers against this defense, but with the run game rolling, the defense would open up more and couldn’t concentrate on simply one phase of Arizona’s offensive game. Tuitama tends to look most often for senior wideout Mike Thomas and like Grigsby and Tuitama, Arizona will need a good game from him if they are to win in the Las Vegas desert. They can also look to red zone target Rob Gronkowski, who leads the receiving corps with 10 touchdowns.

When the Cougs Have the Ball

This is BYU’s fourth consecutive trip to the Vegas Bowl and the Cougars have won the first three. If they want a fourth, they’ll need a big time performance from their star player… the guy they have depended upon all season long. That is, of course, quarterback Max Hall. Hall has been terrific this season, with 3,629 yards and 34 touchdowns with only 13 interceptions. He has thrown for more than 300 yards in three of his last four games, including a five-touchdown game against Colorado State. His favorite target is Austin Collie, who leads the nation with 118.25 receiving yards per game and has a total of 1,419 yards and 15 touchdowns. If the Wildcats are able to slow the Cougars through the air, they’ll still have to contend with the ground attack. While Harvey Unga isn’t quite having the success he did in 2007, he’s still had quite the season. His second consecutive 1,000-yard is supplemented by another 41 receptions and 303 yards through the air. BYU ranks 17th in the nation offensively and Arizona will be hard pressed to contain them, even with a defense which has not performed terribly. The Wildcats have some opportunistic players in their defensive squad and they have been able to grab a total of 15 interceptions, led by Trevin Wade’s four. Hall has turned the ball over on occasion, but not with such frequency that the Cougars should be worried. In all likelihood, the Cougars will just have too much firepower for the Wildcats.

Final Analysis

EXPECT AN EXPLOSIVE offensive showdown, with the Cougars continue their domination over the Pac-10 and winter their third straight bowl.

Inside the Numbers– Pass, Run & Catch:

Arizona Wildcats (7-5, 5-4)
Pass: Willie Tuitama – 2,763 yards, 21 touchdowns
Run: Nic Grigsby – 1,066 yards, 12 touchdowns
Catch: Mike Thomas – 796 yards, 5 touchdowns

Brigham Young Cougars (10-2, 6-2)
Pass: Max Hall – 3,629 yards, 34 touchdowns
Run: Harvey Unga – 1,061 yards, 10 touchdowns
Catch: Austin Collie – 1,419 yards, 15 touchdowns

The CFI Prediction: BYU 38, Arizona 27

Photo Credit: Jaren Wilkey, BYU

This Date in College Football History

December 15, 1962: Heisman Trophy winner Terry Baker (1982 College Football Hall of Fame inductee) records the longest run in bowl history with a 99-yard scamper, as Oregon State blanks Villanova 6-0 at the Liberty Bowl in Philadelphia's Municipal Stadium.

Credit: The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame

On Location: Fitzgerald Made Proud By Seniors

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

EVANSTON, Illinois – The Sweet Sioux Tomahawk has been retired for good to the Northwestern trophy case in a 27-10 victory over Illinois. The symbol exchange started over 60 years ago, and Wildcats’ head coach Pat Fitzgerald reminded us of its first and final resting place, “In 1945, 13-7 Northwestern won, [it’s] very special to our football program to have it here now permanen-tly. We couldn’t be more proud to win one on our last oppor-tunity.”

And win they did. The Wildcats took the lead on their second possession, driving 77 yards with crisp passing by C.J. Bacher (22-of-33, 230 yards, two touchdowns, one interception), capped by a one-yard run by Stephen Simmons (22 carries, 69 yards, one touchdown). The defense ensured they would never look back and Illinois’ ensuing possession was a microcosm of their afternoon: sack, quarterback sneak by Juice Williams, sack, punt. The official tally of sacks was five by the Wildcats (lead by 2.5 from defensive end Kevin Mims) and zero for the Illini.

Ready to take control, North-western scored again, this time on a throw by Bacher, who rolled right and threw left to senior receiver Ross Lane (six receptions, 57 yards, one touchdown). The offense kept an athletic Illini defense off balance with great run-pass play-calling (34 rush, 33 pass for the game) and crisp execution by Bacher. “We usually take what the defense gives us. We took them head on. C.J. played an outstanding football game,” Coach Fitzgerald said.

Illinois looked to turn around a first half owned by the home team (213 yards to 86), deter-mined to get Williams more mobile, either with the option or rolling him out of the pocket to evade the pass rush by the Cat’s front four. They were successful taking the ball 80 yards on 11 plays into the end zone on a Jason Ford (six carries, 12 yards, one touchdown) dive over the goal line to put the game back in reach at 13-7. But Fitzgerald’s defense reinvented themselves in preparation for how Illinois would come out the second half. “Being up 13-0, we knew they were going to make some adjustments, Fitzgerald said. “They actually went to the option where we thought they were going to go. The key is to keep them out of the end zone. You have to rise up in the red zone and that’s what they [defense] did today.”

Williams (20-of-36, 212 yards, one interception) was contained, while still out-gaining Northwestern’s ground game (113 total yards) on his own with 135 yards.

After trading field goals to make it 16-10, the game swung quickly back in Northwestern’s favor as Brendan Smith took a punt 51 yards down to the Illinois 20. This set up the short field and within two plays, Bacher found senior Eric Peterman (eight receptions, 111 yards, one touchdown) in the end zone on an 18-yard strike. Along with a successful two-point conversion, the Wildcats were back in control at 24-10. “All three of our receivers played well. Looks like Ross, Eric, and Rasheed played their best game collectively. To see those 23 young men and those three receivers before the game, they have really stepped up. I couldn’t be more proud of those guys.” Fitzgerald remarked about his veteran receivers and senior squad.

As the game drew toward its conclusion, it was only fitting that Northwestern’s defense stepped up one last time, forcing a fumble. Senior tackle John Gill burst through the Illinois’ front line and sacked Williams. He forced the ball out, which was recovered by linebacker Quentin Davie. The home team tacked on a field goal to make it 27-10.

“They are mentally exhausted, physically exhausted, we’ve been that way nine times, that’s what it takes to win a Big Ten football game. You need to lay it all on the line and not be afraid to trust yourself. And what I’m most proud of was to see those seniors have stayed the course and when you do that you have the opportunity to get better and I think collectively as a team this was our best performance of the year,” Fitzgerald concluded.

Pac-10 Preview - Week Thirteen

Oregon State (7-3, 6-1) @ Arizona (6-4, 4-3)
The road to the Rose Bowl for Oregon State continues through Arizona and the Wildcats are not ones to be taken lying down.

Quarterback Willie Tuitama has played well this season compiling 2,321 yards and 18 touchdowns to only seven interceptions. Sophomore running back Nic Grigsby has been streaky, one week topping 180 yards and the next unable to get more than 50 or finding himself benched. The Wildcats will need to their ‘A’ game if they are to keep up with the dynamic Beaver offense.

The Oregon St. offense is led by the Rodgers brothers, with freshman running back Jacquizz getting it done on the ground to the tune of 1,233 yards and 11 touchdowns and his older brother wide receiver James is a threat both through the air (603 yards and four touchdowns) and on the ground (250 yards and four touchdowns). Between the two of them, the Wildcats’ defense will certainly have its hands full. Jacquizz Rodgers has topped 100 yards in seven of his last eight games.

If the ‘Cats can knock off the Beavers, they may get a nice note and a Rose bouquet from the Los Angeles area.

Washington (0-10, 0-7) @ Washington State (1-10, 0-8)
It’s been a rough year for the lovely state of Washington, with both schools struggling badly throughout the season. While the Cougars have managed a single victory, neither team has put one in the “W” column in conference play.

Washington has been unable to get much going in the way of offense in part because of their issues at quarterback position. Neither offense is effective – it won’t be pretty. But expect the passion to be as high as ever.

Stanford (5-6, 4-4) @ California (6-4, 4-3)
The Cardinal need just one more win to become bowl eligible, however there is no guarantee they will get it against their rival Bay Area school. Stanford quarterback Tavita Pritchard continues to struggle protecting the ball, which not only hurts the offense, but the defense as well – too often the opposing team finds itself with good field position.

If they turn the ball over to the Cal offense they will surely regret it. Running back Jahvid Best has played well since he returned from a one game absence due to injury, topping 100 yards in three out of his last five games. Nate Longshore and Kevin Riley have split starts at quarterback for the Golden Bears to middling effect with Riley getting the last start against Oregon State. Both signal callers have had their troubles protecting the ball just like Pritchard and as is often the case with the Stanford Cardinal of late, this game will likely turn on who can protect the ball best.

Rob Gronkowski of Arizona Named John Mackey Tight End of the Week

Manhasset, N.Y. (November 19, 2008) - Rob Gronkowski of Arizona was named John Mackey Tight End of the Week by the Nassau County Sports Commission. The Pac-10 Conference sophomore had his best game of the season recording 12 receptions for 143 yards and two touchdowns as Arizona lost to Oregon 55-45. Mark Hafner of Houston was also in consideration for the weekly honor.

The John Mackey Tight End of the Week is an honor distinct and different from the annual John Mackey Award. This weekly honor was started in 2004 to draw attention to individual play by Tight Ends during the active season. The Tight End of the Week acknowledgment does not have a direct bearing on the final John Mackey Award selection process.

The Nassau County Sports Commission, a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization created to enhance quality of life of Nassau County residents through sports, is responsible for the administration of the John Mackey Award and the John Mackey Award Selection Committee. The 2008 recipient of "The Mackey" will be announced at the Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards Show live December 11, 2008 on ESPN and presented at the Nassau County Sports Commission Annual Awards Dinner on April 27, 2009.


For additional information, please visit www.johnmackeyaward.org or www.nassausports.org.

This Date in College Football History

Nov. 20, 1976: For the first time in 12 years, Kentucky beats Tennessee 7-0 in Knoxville. Wildcat quarterback Derrick Ramsey passes to running back Greg Woods who takes the ball 68 yards for the winning touchdown, as Kentucky (8-4) earns its first bowl bid since 1952.

Credit: The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame

HOUSTON IS TOSTITOS FIESTA BOWL NATIONAL TEAM OF THE WEEK

DALLAS (FWAA) - With their 70-30 win over Tulsa, the Houston Cougars (6-4) are the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl National Team of the Week for games of the weekend of Nov. 15.

Case Keenum threw six touchdown passes - five in the first half - and ran for another score as the Cougars raced to a 42-17 halftime lead.

Houston's Loyce Means intercepted three passes, including one he returned 69 yards for a touchdown.

The win moves Houston into a three-way tie for first place in Conference USA's West division with Rice and Tulsa.

Other Tostitos Fiesta Bowl Bowl National Team of the Week nominees for the weekend of Nov. 15 included:

· Florida (9-1): Percy Harvin ran for a career-high 167 yards to pace the Gators in their 56-6 rout of South Carolina.

· Northwestern (8-3): C.J. Bacher threw a pair of second-half touchdown passes as the Wildcats beat Michigan for just the fifth time since 1905, 21-14.

· Vanderbilt (6-4): D.J. Moore caught two touchdown passes and had a pair of interceptions as Vanderbilt became bowl eligible for the first time since 1982 with a 31-24 win at Kentucky.

The FWAA has named a national team of the week since the 2002 season. This is the fifth season that the award has been sponsored by the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl.

Inside the Pac-10 - Week Eleven

USC 17, California 3
Defense was the word of the day as the only two top 25 teams in the Pac-10 clashed at the Los Angeles Coliseum with the Trojans prevailing. USC forced one turnover, but had two more overturned due to penalties. In fact, if there is one phase of the game USC continues to struggle with, it is penalties.

USC kept up its average of nine plus penalties per game with ten for 105 total yards. It is a bizarre problem for a Pete Carroll led team. Normally Carroll is able to keep his teams disciplined, but then again, that was part of the issue in the Trojans’ loss to Oregon State. A lack of focus has plagued USC in the last few seasons and nearly did them in again in this game.

But while there were stretches where the Golden Bears dominated the clock, they were unable to punch the ball in on any of their drives. In part it was because the USC defense was able to completely smother the Bears’ running game, holding Jahvid Best to just 30 yards and the overall the California run game to 27 total yards.

Mark Sanchez continued to play well and compiled 238 yards and a pair of touchdowns, though his first score to wide receiver Patrick Turner was bobbled. However, USC didn’t give anyone time to review the touchdown and kicked the extra point quickly.

With the victory, USC eliminated one of the threats to its Pac-10 Championship hopes, although Oregon State still controls its own destiny and has the conference lead.

Oregon 35, Stanford 28
Stanford nearly overcame an early two touchdown deficit, but a last second touchdown by Duck running back LaGarrette Blount won the game for the Oregon and likely ended Stanford’s hope for a major bowl bid.

Oregon won despite turning the ball over four times. While Stanford was able to move the ball both on the ground and through the air, they were unable to keep up with the Oregon offense.

Oregon had 451 total yards and while Stanford ate the clock up (their total time of possession was 39 minutes to Oregon’s 20 minutes) Oregon scored almost at will on the ground and was able to minimize the time of possession gap with a quick strike offense.

Near the end of the game, the score teetered back and forth with Stanford gaining the lead with 2:18 left on an Anthony Kimble touchdown run, only to see Oregon score the game winner on Blount’s second score of the day.

Arizona 59, Washington State 28
Arizona rebounded from its crushing loss against USC with a blowout of visiting Washington State, compiling 531 total yards of offense, 189 of them from running back Nic Gigsby.

The Wildcats poured it on all game scoring early and often, almost exclusively via the run game which the Cougars had no answer for. Five different backs and quarterback Willie Tuitama scored on the ground.

Washington State scored all of their touchdowns on the ground as well, but could not keep pace with the Wildcat attack.

With the win, Arizona keeps its hopes alive for a bowl bid, although any dreams of the Rose Bowl are long gone.

Oregon State 34, UCLA 6
The first half was a scare for Oregon State, as they entered the break tied with UCLA, 3-3. But the Beavers exploded in the second half, led by Jacquizz Rodgers’ 144 yards and touchdown. Teams still lack an answer to Rodgers’ speed, elusiveness and athleticism and it was all on display again Saturday.

When they weren’t pounding the ball on the ground, the offense moved the ball efficiently through the air, with junior quarterback Sean Canfield’s 222 yards and two touchdowns.

Bruins quarterback Kevin Craft had been able to protect the ball better the last few games, but reverted back to form, turning the ball over twice against Oregon St. The UCLA running game was completely ineffective, barely able to scrape 48 yards together despite using five different running backs.

With the win, the Beavers continue to lead the Pac-10, keeping pace with USC but owning the tie breaker over the Trojans by virtue of their head to head victory.

Arizona State 39 - Washington 19
For three quarters, the Washington Huskies hung with ASU and even briefly held the lead.

However, Arizona State quarterback Rudy Carpenter led his team on two key scoring drives and extended Washington’s losing streak to 11, a school record.

Carpenter looked much more like the quarterback we saw early in the season and all of last year in the second half, and the Sun Devils finally gave him a rushing attack. Senior running back Keegan Herring finished the night with a 29-yard touchdown run midway through the fourth quarter, but it was their senior quarterback who truly engineered the win, keeping cool under pressure and guiding his team downfield.

The Huskies pulled out all the stops, including a blocked punt, reverses, direct snaps-- everything but smoke bombs--to try and end their skid. But the offense fell apart during the second half, as quarterback Ronnie Fouch lost his touch and started having his throws going everywhere but to his receivers. At one point, Fouch missed nine throws in a row. The rest of the offense wasn’t much better as Washington reverted back to form and failed to score touchdowns on three trips inside the Sun Devils’ five yard line.

The Huskies did play well for parts of the contest, but in the end they watched their win slip away due to the steady hands and cool demeanor of Rudy Carpenter and his offense.

Photo Credit: Collegiate Images; Chris McGuire (Patrick Turner)

Arizona (3-2, 5-3) @ Washington State (0-6, 1-8)

By ANDREW GARDA - PAC-10 INSIDER

Once a potential contender for the conference title, Arizona has fallen on hard times after losses to Stanford and USC, but a bowl appearance is still within reach. Arizona quarterback Willie Tuitama is an efficient signal caller who will keep the chains moving, but he needs help from the ground game.

Washington State’s defense shouldn’t be too much trouble for the Wildcats. Neither will the Cougar offense. Both Marshall Lobbestael and Kevin Lopina have struggled. Either quarterback will find it very tough going against an Arizona team looking to reboot their season and finish strong with their first bowl appearance under Coach Mike Stoops.

A Football Fan’s Four-Pack…

By JOHN GARRETT

Notre Dame @ Boston College (November 8, 8:00, ESPN): In a battle between the only two Catholic universities in the nation that sponsor FBS football programs, the Eagles will look for their sixth-straight win over the Irish. Notre Dame should be heading into Chestnut Hill with a chip on its shoulder after a 36-33, four-overtime loss at home last week to Pittsburgh. The Irish will also have something to play for, as they look to prevent the Eagles from becoming the fourth school to register a winning streak of six games or greater against them.

Super Senior: B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College

Star of Tomorrow: Michael Floyd, WR, ND

Cal @ USC (November 8, 8:00, ABC): In the 96th meeting between these Pac-10 rivals, much is on the line in addition to bragging rights. Both schools have only one blemish on their records, and both boast two of the better defensive squads in the country–-a rarity in the Pac-10. The Trojans are tops in total defense (211.6 ypg), pass efficiency defense (82.33 rating) and scoring defense (7.13 ppg). Entering the contest, the Bears find themselves tied for the national lead with 17 interceptions, three of which have been returned for scores.

Super Senior: Zack Follett, LB, California

Star of Tomorrow: C.J. Gable, RB, USC


Florida @ Vanderbilt (November 8, 8:00, ESPN2): In 42 all-time meetings between the Gators and Commodores, Florida holds a 30-9-2 advantage and has won the last 17 contests. However, three of the last six meetings in Nashville have been decided by seven points or less. The No. 4 Gators (7-1, 5-1) are the only SEC team that doesn’t have a senior starting on defense. Despite the lack of senior leadership, the Gators still rank fifth in scoring, and 16th overall defensively.

Super Senior: Reshard Langford, S, Vanderbilt

Star of Tomorrow: Joe Hayden, CB, Florida

Ohio St. @ Northwestern (November 8, 12:00, ESPN2): Looking to keep their Rose Bowl hopes alive following a 13-6 loss to No. 3 Penn State on Oct. 25, the Buckeyes (7-2, 4-1) hope to get right-down-to-business as they head to Ryan Field. Awaiting them, the Wildcats (7-2, 3-2) will be riding high on the wave of emotion after their stunning 24-17 victory at Minnesota last week. Safety Brendan Smith’s miraculous 48-yard interception return for a touchdown with 12 seconds left secured the triumph, but the defense will have its hands full with Terrelle Pryor and Beanie Wells coming to town.

Super Senior: James Laurinaitis, LB, Ohio State

Star of Tomorrow: Jeremy Elbert, WR, N’Western

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media