CFI Countdown: #14 Penn St. Nittany Lions

2008 Record: 11-2 (Big Ten 7-1)
Bowl Game: Lost Rose Bowl to USC 38-24
Location: University Park, Pennsylvania
Stadium: Beaver Stadium (107,282)
Head Coach: Joe Paterno
Overall: 381-129-3 (44th season)
@ Penn St. 381-129-3 (44th season)
Link to PSU Football Page

The Nittany Lions are coming off a season in which they won 11 games and a Big Ten title and although it didn’t end quite the way they wanted—a Rose Bowl loss to USC—Joe Paterno silenced any doubts his critics had. He proved—as if he had to—that he can still recruit and can still coach ’em up. With only nine starters back, this might be one of Paterno’s tougher coaching jobs considering the always-high expectations in Happy Valley.

When the Nittany Lions Have the Ball

Offensive Coordinator: Galen Hall (6th season)
Scheme: Spread HD
Starters Returning: Five
Key Losses: WR Deon Butler, Derrick Williams, WR Jordan Norwood, OT Gerald Cadogan, C A. Q. Shipley, OG Rich Ohmberger, K Kevin Kelly

Not many teams can rival what the Nittany Lions bring in the offensive backfield with senior signal caller Daryll Clark and junior tailback Evan Royster, a pair of likely All-Big Ten performers. Clark is an ideal quarterback for the spread offense as he is a capable thrower and runner. He is accurate, efficient, and possesses a strong arm, with excellent decision-making skills. He doesn’t run that much, instead picking his spots to tuck and run when the Nittany Lions need to move the chains or cross the goal line. Royster isn’t the biggest or the fastest, but he knows how to make opposing tacklers miss and uses his excellent vision to find holes. Backing him up is blazer Stephfon Green, who is still more potential than production. Look for Green to break off some big runs after Royster has worn the defense down. The offensive line and wide receiving corps is not as sound. Gone are three first-team All-Big Ten performers along the offensive line and three of their top-four all-time pass catchers. The center position is solid, with junior Stefen Wisniewski moving over from guard, but they must replace their left tackle and break new guards into the starting lineup. At receiver the feeling is they have talent, but it is unproven. Helping out the passing game could be a talented duo at tight end—Andrew Quarless has a lot of potential and Mickey Shuler is as solid as they come.

Top Pro Prospects: 1) C/OG Stefen Wisniewski (JR), 2) RB Evan Royster (JR), 3) TE Andrew Quarless (SR)

When the Other Team Has the Ball

Defensive Coordinator: Tom Bradley (10th season)
Scheme: 4-3
Starters Returning: Four
Key Losses: DE Aaron Maybin, DE Maurice Evans, DE Josh Gaines, LB Cameron Wake, CB Lydell Sargeant, CB Tony Davis, S Anthony Scirrotto, S Mark Rubin

They must replace three productive defensive ends and the entire back four—both the last line of defense as well as key components to the front line—no easy task for any defense. They are solid up the middle, with tackles Jared Odrick and Ollie Ogbu. Odrick in particular is a difference-maker—a 300-pounder with the ability to clog the middle and enough quickness to make plays. The ends are not as secure, where Aaron Maybin’s explosiveness will surely be missed. There is talent, but as is the case at receiver, it is mostly unproven. The entire secondary is brand new, which wasn’t helped by corner A. J. Wallace missing classes and looking at a suspension. The senior is the most experienced of the defensive backs and has some playmaking skills. There are high hopes for sophomore safety Drew Astorino. The strength of the defense should be the linebacking corps where they return starters Navorro Bowman and Josh Hull, as well as Sean Lee from his injury-induced red-shirt season. According to all accounts, Lee is healthy and should be back to his productive self. Both Lee and Bowman have the ability to be disruptive forces and first-team all conference performers. Even so, this unit has already suffered a major loss, as projected starter Michael Mauti is out for the season. He was slated to take over at one outside linebacker spot and allow Lee to slide over to the MIKE (instead of Hull).

Top Pro Prospects: 1) DT Jared Odrick (SR), 2) LB Navorro Bowman (JR), 3) LB Sean Lee (SR)

The Schedule

The out of conference schedule is not impressive, not in the least bit. PSU plays Eastern Illinois, Akron, Syracuse, and Temple—and they play them all at home! Last season Syracuse was 3-9, both Akron and Temple finished 5-7 in the MAC, the same record as Eastern Illinois, a FCS school. What, The Little Sisters of the Poor were busy? In conference the schedule breaks their way as well, not that missing Purdue is a good thing. (They also miss Wisconsin this season.) Their two toughest games, Iowa and Ohio St., should be white-outs in Happy Valley. They do play a quartet of potentially dangerous road contests at Michigan St., Illinois, Northwestern, and Michigan.

Pivotal Point

Player development. Before last season, Aaron Maybin and Navorro Bowman weren’t exactly household names, yet they emerged as the key pieces to a defense that finished eighth in scoring, total, and rushing defense. Bowman led the team in tackles and tackles for a loss against the run, while Maybin paced the conference in sacks. They will need similar progress on their offensive line, at defensive end, wide receiver, and in the secondary. If tackle DeOn’tae Pannell, wide out Chaz Powell, and defensive end Jack Crawford become recognizable names, a second straight Big Ten title might in the stars.

CFI Final Analysis

The fact that they open the season with Akron, Syracuse, and Temple at home before hosting the Iowa Hawkeyes to open up the Big Ten season gives Paterno and his staff three games to work in the 13 new starters. This team can really go either way in the Big Ten and it’s hard to rank them any higher until we know more about their blockers, who their pass rushers will be, and how they replace four starters in the secondary, not to mention three of the best receivers in school history. They won’t take a major step back, but don’t expect another Big Ten crown either.


College Football Insiders Top 25 Countdown:
The Next 25 (26-50) Plus 18 Bowl Teams
#25 West Virginia Mounainteers
#24 Tennessee Volunteers
#23 Clemson Tigers
#22 Pittsburgh Panthers
#21 Michigan St. Spartans
#20 Utah Utes
#19 Oregon Ducks
#18 Florida St. Seminoles
#17 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
#16 Boise St. Broncos
#15 North Carolina Tar Heels

Maurice Evans Eager To Put Past Behind Him

By John Sears

The defensive end from Penn State has left school early to start his professional career. “I just feel real confident I’m ready…the decision I made was with my coaches and family.” When questioned about his run-in with the law on marijuana charges, and if he's tired of answering questions Evans states, “It’s old. I’ve learned my lesson and am ready to put that behind me. I now know I never want to be in a situation that would put my NFL career in danger.“

Evans sounds excited about any opportunity to play in any defense, whether it be in an odd- or even-man front, although he states he feels more natural with his hand on the ground. Later on, he admitted being a little smaller would potentially sway him in to a stand up position, but felt confident in doing so.

Speaking of his “smallness”, Evans has bulked up significantly from training. He was listed in the 250-255 range at Penn State and weighed in at 274 at the combine. At 6’1”, his frame is looking a lot like Lamarr Woodley's (6’2”, 265). Woodley, another former Big Ten defensive end and current Steeler, is currently celebrating a Super Bowl victory after an impactful season for the Steeltowners. Speaking of the Steelers, that is one of the teams Evans listed as having contact (unofficial) with. Cleveland, Atlanta, New England, New York Jets, San Diego, Carolina, Tampa Bay and the New York Giants were among the others. There seemed to be a bigger smile when Evans mentioned the Giants which was not surprising considering he's a Brooklyn native. He repeatedly mentioned playing for the home team would be the only rival to his experiences playing in Happy Valley.

So the “Brooklyn Brawler” says he's ready to play anywhere in any system. Evans seems to have his future figured out. Evans' former Head Coach Joe Paterno likes to needle his former player about their shared hometown of Brooklyn. Evans chuckles, “He always tells me [being a Brooklyn guy] how he used to run Brooklyn back when he was younger, and how I’m not really from Brooklyn.”

According to Paterno, Evans may not know how to run Brooklyn, but he’ll be running down quarterbacks in the NFL soon enough.

Stay tuned for more from the NFL combine.

Q&A: Aaron Maybin, Penn St. - Walter Camp On Location

Penn St. All-American Aaron Maybin sits down with All-Access Football Radio
at the Yale University Commons in New Haven prior to the Walter Camp 42nd Annual National Awards Diner on January 17, 2009.

You had a break out season, what does it mean to be a Walter Camp All-American?

Maybin: It means a whole lot. It’s been a good year and a good career. I’ve really enjoyed myself at this wonderful event. I’ve had a chance to meet a whole lot of people and make some good connections, so overall it’s been a very good experience.

How tough of a decision was it to declare for the draft?

Maybin: It was a very tough decision. I had to do a lot of praying and consulting with my family and people who were very close to the situation who gave me a pretty good description of where I would go in the draft. It was probably one of the toughest decisions I’ve ever had to make, but I think in the end I was able to make a very smart decision – the best decision for me and my family.

What are you hearing from the people in the league, what type of grade are you hearing from them?

Maybin: I haven’t really disclosed what that grade was. But it was something that definitely I felt was too good of an opportunity to pass up. Of course nothing is guaranteed in this league, but it was something that gave me the confidence to make sure that this was a good decision for me.

It was good enough for you to make the decision, so it was a positive one?

Maybin: Very positive.

Did you talk to your teammate Maurice Evans about declaring for the draft?

Maybin: I tried to really stay out of his process as much as possible so that he could make a very sound decision for himself, but I tried to talk to him as much as I could just to lend support and provide a support system for him if he needed any help gathering information or just talking to certain people to make sure he made the right decision for himself.

Did you speak to former Penn State corner Justin King who declared last season or any other guys in the league about coming out early?

Maybin: Yeah I basically talked to as many guys that were at Penn State that have gone on to the league as possible and really talked to them about their experiences; what the highs and lows were and what were some of the good things and bad things they encountered during their time. It really helped me out a lot as far as making my decision.

If you were sitting down with an NFL scout or GM and they wanted to know what you could bring to their team, what would you say?

Maybin: They’re going to get a tireless worker. They’re going to get somebody that will come in every day and bust my butt for their team. I’m going to bring my hard hat to work and going to work extremely hard; I’m a guy that plays with everything I have inside me and it’s something that has been in me since I started playing the game. I absolutely love the game and I am very passionate about it. That’s just something I play with; it’s something that was instilled in me when I was younger. So they are going to get somebody that is going to give 110 percent of everything that he has to that program and is going to do anything possible to make sure that he helps to bring a lot of victories and a lot of success.

Have you selected an agent yet and have you started the workout process?

Maybin: I have started the workout process; I haven’t yet declared who my agent is going to be. I’m still in the process of narrowing some things down with that. But right now, as far as my mindset, I’m training, working out several times a day at a spot in Pennsylvania. I’m really getting the most out of my workouts; everything has been going extremely well and I’m very pleased with the progress I’ve made so far. Really I’m just waking up every day trying to get better, trying to learn as much as possible, and trying to make sure by the time the draft comes around I’m prepared to bring everything the team needs to the table that looks to draft me.

What’s something that you look to work on the most? In terms of becoming a better football player and preparing for the combine.

Maybin: I’m preparing for the combine, preparing to make sure that I turn in an all around performance, something that opens up a lot of eyes and proves to everybody that I’m the type of player that a team would want to spend a high draft pick on. Overall, I’m just trying to make sure that I’m as complete a player as I can be. I want to make sure I leave no doubt and make sure that everybody that has a chance to watch me, whether that be on film or in person at my workouts, that they’re confident that I’m the type of player that can really help turn a franchise around.

Any sneak peak as to what kind of measurables you can put up, what kind of vertical, 40 time, or bench press?

Maybin: Not going to get that out of me. It’s going to be a big surprise, but I’m going to say this – I’m working really hard and I’m looking to open up a whole lot of eyes with the performance I put out.

Tell me what it's like to play for Joe Paterno.

Maybin: It’s been a wonderful experience. Joe is the type of guy where everyday you’re learning something. He’s the type of guy that has helped to shape me as a man and as a player, and he teaches you a lot and he really helps to build you up as a man and a guy in society where you can really be successful in any and every endeavor that you pursue. I’m really thankful to Joe for the lessons he’s taught me and the type of man he’s helped to make me into.

What do you like to do in your off time?

Maybin: I really enjoy relaxing and spending time with my family. I enjoy going to the movies and sitting down and working on some artwork because I do have the artistic bug in me.

What is your favorite movie?

Maybin: My favorite movie of all time would have to be Gladiator.

What type of artist are you?

Maybin: I’m into painting and drawing. Pretty much anything that catches my eye I like to pursue and just try to fine tune my skills a little.

If you do put up a stellar performance at the combine I want you to look up to the scouts and say, “Are you not entertained?”

Maybin: (Laughs)

Can you do that for us?

Maybin: I can definitely do that for you…

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Penn St.)

Rose Bowl Picks

Pac-10 Insider Andrew Garda Says USC will win because....

For sure, both the Penn State Nittany Lions and the University of Southern California Trojans bring potent offenses and powerful defenses to the 2009 Rose Bowl. USC’s offense is ranked 14tt in total yards with Penn State right behind them at 15th. The Nittany Lions are ranked 10th in total points with 40.2 per game and while USC is a few spots behind with 37.5, they have been on a tear the last eight weeks, routing opponents 342 to 56. Both defenses are ranked high and stingy with points to the opposing team.

It’s the intangibles that may make the difference and only USC brings to the table a tremendous amount of experience in big games. USC has played in the national spotlight often--not just this season but seemingly every season this group has played for Coach Carroll. This will be the fourth straight BCS Bowl game this Trojan squad has been to – all Rose Bowls. This will be the seventh year in a row that USC has gone to a major Bowl game, including several for the National Championship.

Yes, Penn State Coach Joe Paterno has coached big games many times before, but it’s his players who will have to be the ones to perform under the pressure of a national spotlight, something they just have not done as often as the athletes on USC’s sideline.

When two teams are as close as USC and Penn State are on the field, it’s the intangibles that can make the difference in winning and losing. As I see it, many of the most important ones will land on USC’s side of the field and that will make all the difference in the end.

Plus, John Sears is picking Penn St. and he thought Northwestern was going to beat Missouri.

Big Ten Insider John Sears Says Penn State Will Win Because...

The Trojans’ only loss this year came at the hands of Oregon State, two weeks after Penn State had their way with the Beavers in a 45-14 romp. USC proved vulnerable when their between the tackles running was contained and when they were unable to control the time-of-possession (TOP) battle…both of those areas happen to be where Penn State thrives (first in the Big Ten in 32:02 TOP and rushing 212 yards/game). Unlike Ohio State, Penn State has complementary (and healthy) rushers with Royster and Green inside, as well as Daryll Clark and Derek Williams outside. Yes, the Trojans may be fast, but if the Nittany Lions can spread the field horizontally, they may find enough passing creases for their senior receiving corps to move the ball methodically. The question mark for Penn State will be their defense’s reaction to the Trojans’ run/pass balance and speed at the skill positions. Despite being built similarly to Ohio State defensively in their 4-3 scheme with strength at the linebacker position, Penn State can have success getting pass pressure without needing to blitz their linebackers (unlike Ohio State). So if Aaron Maybin, Josh Gaines and Maurice Evans are in Mark Sanchez’s earhole, Penn State will be in great position to maintain discipline with their linebackers and safeties in pursuit of USC’s talented backfield and receivers.

Easy call – while USC is already pushing the snooze button before kickoff, the all-time winningest coach is ready to tally one more victory onto his already-brilliant legacy.

Plus, Andrew Garda is picking USC and he thought Boise St. was going to beat TCU.

Photo Credit: College Press Box, USC, Penn St.

Rose Bowl: Penn State at USC

By JOHN SEARS/BIG TEN INSIDER & ANDREW GARDA/PAC-10 INSIDER

January 1st 2009* 4:30pm EST * ABC

In this year’s New Years Day match-up, #5 USC welcomes #6 Penn State to Pasadena for the 2009 Rose Bowl. Penn State hasn’t been here since 1995 while USC has played in the "Granddaddy of Them All" five times in the last six years. Both teams had overall great seasons, but fell short due to a single disappointing loss on the road and the fact that neither the Pac-10 nor the Big Ten were perceived as top conferences.

Head Coach Joe Paterno, already brandishing a legendary post-season legacy, visits Pasadena for the second time in his 43rd season with his sights set on an unprecedented 24th bowl game victory. But Penn State’s (11-1) decorated regular season as Big Ten co-champions somehow feels tarnished after a heart-breaking loss at Iowa, which all but eliminated the Nittany Lions’ hopes for a National Championship. If a Rose Bowl bid could ever be considered a wounded season, USC’s camp is finding its way to bring a little salt to the table, citing their desires to face steeper competition in the bowl season (eg, not the Big Ten). So this bowl game pits the Nittany Lions against an 11-1 USC in a classic Big-Ten/Pac-10 showdown – with both teams steeped in the tradition of winning (especially the big game) and coached by two college greats. And for Penn State, a little additional pressure is slowly converting into the 800-pound elephant in the room, which the Trojans attempted to address already on their own – the Big Ten’s diminishing reputation.

When the Trojans Have the Ball

Led by junior quarterback Mark Sanchez, the USC passing offense was 32nd in the nation in passing yards. Rumors abound that Sanchez may throw his name into the ring for this April’s NFL Draft and a good performance on this nationally televised stage would make his decision to depart a bit easier, and a lot more lucrative. Sanchez has played well this year but will need to bring his ‘A’ game against the 22nd ranked Nittany Lions defense, which has 16 interceptions to date. The Trojan quarterback is 11th in the nation with 30 touchdowns. His leading target is sophomore Arkansas transfer Damian Williams, who has 48 receptions for 707 yards with eight touchdowns. Senior wide receiver Patrick Turner is not far behind him with 45 catches for 667 yards and ten touchdowns. When USC isn’t moving the ball through the air, they'll be just fine utilizing the 17th ranked rushing offense in the nation. Lacking one single stud back, USC rotates tailbacks, often rolling with the hot hand. Sophomores Joe McKnight, CJ Gable and junior Stafon Johnson-all of whom totaled over 600 yards—are a formidable trio of toters. Gable has made some remarks about leaving USC for the NFL (Gable is a red-shirt sophomore and can enter the draft as he has been out of high school for three years) and like Sanchez, his decision may hinge upon putting forth a solid performance on a national stage. But with so many backs, USC’s run game sometimes seems to slip out of rhythm since no single back gets the bulk of the carries. Still, they move the ball well enough on the ground that Penn State’s solid defense will be unable to focus solely on the pass game. Given enough time, Sanchez and the offense can cut an opposing secondary to pieces and have outscored their opponents 342-56. Penn State coach Joe Paterno will need to make sure he keeps the adjustments coming in order to slow this offense down.

This year’s lesson learned for Penn State can come from Ohio State’s early season devastating loss at the hands of the Trojans. It was evident that USC held a superior advantage in team speed, which seems to be concentrated in their backfield. To this end, Penn State boasts the 9th ranked rush defense (98 yards/game) in the FBS, coming out of the run-focused Big Ten conference. The Nittany Lions’ front seven is anchored by playmaking defensive end (and Chuck Bednarik Award finalist) Aaron Maybin. Maybin obviously terrorizes offenses with his pass-rushing abilities, but also notched 19 tackles-for-loss and three forced fumbles. The best depth certainly comes from the end position, as Maybin was backed up by Maurice Evans and complemented on the left side by senior Josh Gaines. But Penn State’s 4-3 style defense tactically funnels runners to their ball-hawking linebacking corps -- the top three tacklers are the starting linebackers. Linebacker Navorro Bowman held mop up duty well, leading Penn State in tackles with 98 while stopping runners in the backfield with 11.5 tackles-for-loss. The captain of the secondary is undoubtedly senior free safety Anthony Scirrotto, placing fourth in tackles, but senior Lydell Sargeant leads the defense with four interceptions. The Nittany Lions’ secondary plays second-fiddle to the line and linebackers, and in order for defense to take control of USCs balanced pro-style offense, the front seven must be successful bringing down the Trojans’ ball carriers close to the line of scrimmage and pressuring Mark Sanchez with their front four.

When the Nittany Lions have the Ball

Penn State’s perfect storm of player development and seniority has led to an offensive as explosive as their celebrated 1994 campaign. The Nittany Lions took home number one honors in the Big Ten in scoring (11th in FBS), rushing (13th in FBS) and total offense (14th in FBS). Any preseason quarterback uncertainty quickly converted into production and efficiency right from Daryll Clark’s week one start. Clark’s development from athlete to passer was timely, and he has more than proved his efficiency with 26 total touchdowns versus only four interceptions. His ally has certainly been the ability of Evan Royster and Stephon Green to churn out over 1,700 yards on the ground, keeping defenses off balance. Royster’s style is based on consistency and slippery running between the tackles whereas Green is the home-run, breakaway vertical speed back. When Clark is charged with passing, his targets are plenty: the senior receiving crew consists of all-time school leader in receptions Deon Butler, the dependable route-runner Jordan Norwood, and the do-it-all playmaker Derrick Williams. Williams lines up at every skill position on offense, and provides game-breaking ability returning kickoffs and punts. Notwithstanding the playmakers and passing ability, the offense is still founded on solid rushing – if they can win without making a pass, despite lining up in the spread, they probably would.

USC’s defense is no slouch however—they've had three shutouts and have allowed more than ten points only once in the last nine games. The linebacker corps is led by Rey Maualuga and Brian Cushing who are both likely to be top picks in the NFL Draft this April, not to mention fellow senior Clay Matthews, one of the natino's most improved players. This trio will be a tough match-up for Royster and Clark. Not only does the USC defense smother the run, but they can also be tough on the pass game. However Clark’s ability to effectively run the ball as well as pass, might give USC some troubles and if they fail to adjust, could open things up for the Nittany Lions. Not many teams can throws safeties the ilk of junior free safety Taylor Mays, a Thorpe Award finalist and senior strong safety Kevin Ellison. Both check in at 230 pounds, can run and lay the lumber. Leading the line in the trenches is senior
Fili Moala, an immovable force who can also make plays with his ability to penetrate.

Final Analysis

These two teams will both come in with a chip on their shoulders as both feel they had a legitimate shot at the title game and have been hampered by the perception their conferences are nowhere near as good as the SEC and Big XII. In the end, though they are pretty evenly matched, USC has far more big game and major bowl experience and will likely find a way to stand up under pressure and come away with the win. Or... has USC is already pushing the snooze button before kickoff, the all-time winningest coach is ready to tally one more victory onto his already-brilliant legacy.

Penn State Nittany Lions (11-1, 7-1)
Pass: Daryll Clark – 2,319 yards, 17 TDs
Run: Evan Royster – 1,202 yards, 12 TDs
Catch: Deon Butler – 713 yards, 7 TDs

USC Trojans (11-1, 8-1)
Pass: Mark Sanchez – 2,794 yards, 30 TDs
Run: Joe McKnight – 646 yards, 2 TDs / Stafon Johnnson 642 yards, 9TDs
Catch: Damian Williams – 707 yards, 8 TDs

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Penn St. University, USC), Kirby Lee

NINE FINALISTS NAMED FOR 2008 EDDIE ROBINSON AWARD

DALLAS (FWAA) - The Football Writers Association of America has announced nine finalists for the 2008 Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award to be voted upon by the entire membership.

With the 2008 regular season completed, the FWAA, in conjunction with the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, has tabbed the following finalists: Texas' Mack Brown, USC's Pete Carroll, Texas Tech's Mike Leach, Florida's Urban Meyer, Penn State's Joe Paterno, Boise State's Chris Petersen, Alabama's Nick Saban, Oklahoma's Bob Stoops and Utah's Kyle Whittingham.

The finalists will be placed on a ballot which will be sent to the entire FWAA membership.

Two of the finalists, Boise State's Petersen and Utah's Whittingham, have directed their teams to unbeaten regular seasons, while seven of the nine coaches have led their teams to Bowl Championship Series games.

Of the nine finalists, four have previously been named the FWAA's National Coach of the Year, led by Penn State's Joe Paterno, who has been honored by the FWAA three times (1978, '82 and '86). Paterno has been a finalist on two other occasions (1997 and 2005). Florida's Urban Meyer (2004), Alabama's Nick Saban (2003) and Oklahoma's Bob Stoops (2000) are the other previous winners. Saban is trying to become the second coach to win the honor at two different schools after earning the award at LSU five seasons ago.

While USC's Pete Carroll has never won the award, he has been a finalist three times in three consecutive years (2003-05). This also is the third time Texas' Mack Brown has been named a finalist, the second time at Texas (2005). In 1997, he was a finalist for the award at North Carolina. Boise State's Petersen is a finalist for the second time in three years, while Texas Tech's Leach and Utah's Whittingham are the only two first-time finalists. The FWAA began naming its coaching award in honor of the late Robinson, the legendary Grambling State University coach, in 1997.

The winner of the FWAA/Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award will be announced and honored at a reception on Jan. 6 in Miami sponsored by the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl and presented in conjunction with the FedEx BCS Championship Game.

The Football Writers Association of America, a non-profit organization founded in 1941, consists of more than 1,000 men and women across North America who cover college football for a living. The membership includes journalists, broadcasters and publicists, as well as key executives in all the areas that involve the game. The FWAA works to govern areas that include game day operations, major awards, a national poll and its annual All-America team.

For more information on the Eddie Robinson Award, visit eddierobinsonaward.com.

LIBERTY MUTUAL INSURANCE AND ARCHIE MANNING ANNOUNCE 2008 LIBERTY MUTUAL COACH OF THE YEAR AWARD FINALISTS

College Football Fans Invited to Vote for Winners at www.CoachoftheYear.com Dec. 12 - Dec. 22

NEW YORK (December 9, 2008) - Today Liberty Mutual Insurance and Archie Manning, chair of the National Football Foundation and College Football Hall of Fame, announced the 25 finalists for the 2008 Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award. The finalists represent standout college football coaches across the four NCAA divisions who best exemplify excellence in coaching - on and off the field - as determined by a combination of hundreds of thousands of fan votes at www.CoachoftheYear.com and an objective scoring model endorsed by the College Football Hall of Fame.

Each Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year finalist will have an opportunity to receive recognition in the permanent College Football Hall of Fame display in South Bend, Ind., $50,000 to support personal civic and charitable activities, and a $20,000 scholarship donation for his alumni association. After this season, the total Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year charitable and scholarship contributions will reach $680,000. The Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award was introduced in 2006.

"I've had the opportunity to observe these coaches and their teams throughout the season and this lineup of finalists tells me that fans embraced what is unique about this award by voting for their favorite coach," said Manning who helped Liberty Mutual announce the finalists at the National Football Foundation Annual Awards press conference in New York City. "Being a successful college football coach is a balancing act that requires the ability to inspire a team to win on the field while developing responsible student-athletes off the field."

2008 Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award Finalists The 25 award finalists represent 10 coaches from the Football Bowl Subdivision (formerly Division I-A) and five coaches each from the Football Championship Subdivision (formerly Division I-AA), Division II and Division III. To qualify as a finalist, a coach had to be among the top 25 fan vote getters in his division at www.CoachoftheYear.com and then be scored by an objective model that considers, among other criteria: wins, team penalties, on-field comportment, academic achievement by the student-athletes, and civic and philanthropic commitments.

The Football Bowl Subdivision (Division I-A) finalists are, in alphabetical order: Mack Brown, University of Texas; Brady Hoke, Ball State University; Pat Fitzgerald, Northwestern University; Urban Meyer, University of Florida; Joe Paterno, Pennsylvania State University; Chris Petersen, Boise State University; Nick Saban, University of Alabama; Bob Stoops, University of Oklahoma; Jim Tressel, Ohio State University; and Kyle Whittingham, University of Utah.

The Football Championship Subdivision (Division I- AA) finalists are, in alphabetical order: Mike Ayers, Wofford College; Henry Frazier III, Prairie View A&M University; Mickey Matthews, James Madison University, Jerry Moore, Appalachian State University; and Danny Rocco, Liberty University.

The Division II finalists are, in alphabetical order: Chuck Broyles, Pittsburg State University; David Dean, Valdosta State University; Danny Hale, Bloomsburg University; Chuck Martin, Grand Valley State University; and Bill O'Boyle, Chadron State College.

The Division III finalists are, in alphabetical order: Greg Debeljak, Case Western Reserve University; John Gagliardi, St. John's University; Larry Kehres, Mount Union College; Dan MacNeill; SUNY Cortland; and Mark Speckman, Willamette University.

"These finalists represent what is great about college football," said Greg Gordon, Liberty Mutual senior vice president of Consumer Marketing. "Today we recognize 25 coaches who understand that how you win is every bit as important as winning itself, and who are revered by their fans for exhibiting characteristics of sportsmanship, integrity and responsibility."

2008 Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Winner Selection Between Dec.12 and Dec. 22 college football fans are once again invited back to www.CoachoftheYear.com to cast their vote for the winner. On the site, fans have the opportunity to review bios and fan testimonials supporting each finalist before they make their selection and enjoy episodes of "Coach's Corner" which offer Archie Manning and Kirk Herbstreit's perspectives on the latest topics in college football.

To ensure candidates are evaluated fairly and measured against the specific values of responsibility and integrity, a Selection Committee composed of College Football Hall of Fame players and coaches and the national media will also cast votes for the winners. Fan votes account for 20 percent of each coach's final score while the College Football Hall of Famers and national college football media account for 55 percent and 25 percent, respectively.

The 2008 Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award winners will be announced on ESPN during halftime of the Music City Bowl on Dec. 31.

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media

Between the Hashes: Trick or Treat?

MACK BROWN AND the Longhorns most certainly did not understand the question when they answered “trick”.

The college football gods were more than happy to oblige Bevo with a trick for the ages—beat four teams ranked No. 11 or higher over a 22-day stretch, a quartet that entered their contest against Texas with an aggregate record of 25-1.

Texas won their first five games by a combined score of 236-57, winning three times by the score of 52-10. But respect was not easily earned, not in the post-Vince Young Era in Austin. That would not come until they knocked off the then top-ranked Oklahoma Sooners in the Red River Rivalry in Dallas.

Colt McCoy, the Heisman Trophy frontrunner, embodies the perfection that is Texas football in 2008. The quarterback from Tuscola, Texas owns a ridiculous 81.8 completion percentage. Every deep pass seems to have just enough touch to get past the defender, whether it hits the outstretched 6’3” Malcolm Williams in the hands (versus Missouri) or lands softly in the waiting arms of a tumbling Quan Cosby (versus Oklahoma St.). Heck, even when he fumbles the snap, McCoy simply scoops it up and completes the pass, as if the fumble was part of the harmonic series.

Last week against Oklahoma St., for the first time all season, McCoy missed a note.

The junior signal caller threw his first interception of the season in Texas Memorial Stadium. It was the second time in the third quarter he found a member of the Cowboys. An interception on the previous possession was negated because of a personal foul penalty. On the ensuing drive, McCoy fumbled the football with the Longhorns in field goal range.

Was this just a blip in their run to a second national championship under Mack Brown? Will it be a character builder they can flash to when facing adversity again? Or is it a sign they are vulnerable this week when they travel to Lubbock to take on the Red Raiders of Texas Tech?

NO TEAM HAS received a sweeter treat this fall than the Penn St. Nittany Lions. Did anyone leave last week’s game in Columbus believing Penn St. was the best team in the country? They took advantage of an offensively challenged Buckeyes squad led by a true freshman quarterback, whose fourth quarter fumble was a season saver for Joe Paterno’s bunch.

This was Penn St.’s first win in Columbus since joining the Big Ten, and it was preceded by their first win over the Michigan Wolverines in nine tries dating back to 1997.

Michigan of course is going to miss a bowl for the first time since 1974. The one up and coming team in the Big Ten, 7-1 Minnesota, isn’t even on docket for the Nittany Lions.

Joe Pa need not apologize. The Hall of Fame coach has led four teams that finished undefeated and never got the opportunity to compete for a championship (1968, 1969, 1973, 1994). So, we won’t ask Paterno about fair.

GOING ON THE road in the SEC has never been a treat. That will be an understatement when it comes to Alabama’s Nick Saban making his much anticipated return to Baton Rouge to take on the LSU Tigers. How do you say “trick or treat” in Cajun?

The Crimson Tide started out the season by knocking out the No. 9 Clemson Tigers for the season and went “between the hedges” and took care of the Georgia Bulldogs. They have defeated hated rival Tennessee on the road and survived tough tests from Mississippi and Kentucky. But the deed, which in ‘Bama is always win a national championship, is far from done. Even if they survive their trip to the Bayou, the Tide will roll into the SEC Championship game with a one-loss Georgia or a one-loss Florida standing in their way.

Photo Credit: University of Texas Athletics, SEC Sports Media

Big Ten Power Rankings - Week Nine

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

1. Penn State (1) 9-0 W: 13-6 at Ohio State
The good – Penn State overcame adversity in a hostile environment to come away with the victory against a ranked opponent. They are sitting pretty on top of the conference undefeated. Their defense shut down Ohio State’s bread and butter rushing attack and caused key turnovers at key parts of the game. The bad – their offense was defused early and could not get really anything going, passing or rushing, and the usually sure-footed Kevin Kelly missed a key field goal. The ugly – nothing really, but quarterback Daryll Clark getting knocked out with a head injury should raise concern in Happy Valley. Back-up Pat Devlin is more than competent (scored the winning touchdown on a goal line dive), but this is Clark’s offense to carry to the national championship. The bye week will help to this end, but they will look flat in Iowa City the following week and will have a tough time avoiding the loss column. Watch out white-out nation!

2. Ohio State (2) 7-2 L: 13-6 vs. Penn State
The good – had the lead into the fourth quarter against a favored team. The bad – turnovers down the stretch from a freshman quarterback that put the game out of reach. The ugly – well, none really. As much as they obviously didn’t want to lose, Ohio State showed defensively they are comparable to the nation’s elite and withstood the biggest blows the Lions tried to lay on them. Penn State could only compile 281 yards (actually out-gained by the Buckeyes) of total offense. On the flip side, Pryor is still young, but having the ball punched out of hands on a third and short sneak led to Penn State’s only touchdown. Beanie Wells couldn’t get much going either (22, 55 yards). That being said, Ohio State is still the second best team in the conference.

3. Minnesota (4) 7-1 W: 17-6 at Purdue
Minnesota quarterback Adam Weber was impressive once again (21-34, 212, one touchdown, one interception). He is making smart reads consistently and is showing the ability to run or pass for scores – scoring the only two touchdowns of the game. What was more impressive was his command in the fourth quarter with the game in the balance. Hats off to a tremendous Minnesota defense, ripping the ball out of the hands of the Boilermakers to the tune of four turnovers and holding Purdue to 226 total yards. I think we’ve found a glass slipper…

4. Michigan State (3) 7-2 W: 35-21 at Michigan
The Spartans stated that this was the most important game of their season (maybe knowing that a week and a half ago would have helped us pick the winner of their game against Ohio State last Saturday). They absolutely exploited every weakness their little brothers have shown – lack of tackling, terrible third-down defense, etc. Running back Javon Ringer (37, 194 yards, two touchdowns) put a nice stamp on his season, nearly eclipsing 200 yards while bringing the Paul Bunyan Trophy back to East Lansing. Brian Hoyer looked solid too (17-29, 282 yards, three touchdowns), but at this point Ursinus College’s Nick Dye could put up huge numbers against Michigan’s porous secondary.

5. Iowa (6) 5-3 BYE
Iowa was able to hold onto the ball this week, unlike so many of their conference counterparts. Great call on the BYE week here. With the conference falling in to place, it looks like the Hawkeyes may not go gently in to that good night. But the schedule gets tough down the stretch (at Illinois, Penn State, Purdue, at Minnesota). Rage! Rage against the dying of the light!

6. Wisconsin (8) 4-4 W: 27-17 vs. Illinois
The Badgers may have a quarterback moving forward. Unexpectedly, it seems to be junior Dustin Sherer (12-22, 174 yards, two touchdowns) rising to the top, throwing his first two career touchdown passes while leading the Badgers to their first conference win. It was a classic Wisconsin victory – balanced rush versus pass (163 vs. 174 yards) and their top receiver in catches and yards was tight end Garrett Graham (6 catches, 79 yards). There will be a classic conference clash of smash-mouth football next week with Javon Ringer and the Spartans playing host to the Badgers.

7. Northwestern (5) 6-2 L: 21-19 at Indiana
I have a very efficient strategy to offer up my [TURNOVER] analysis of this [TURNOVER] game. But for some reason, I cannot seem to get my message [TURNOVER] across clearly due to something [TURNOVER] getting in the way of my goal [TURNOVER]. Bad loss against a bad team. Period.

8. Illinois (7) 4-4 L: 27-17 at Wisconsin
What is there to say? This really was a must-win for Illinois if they were going to make some noise in the conference. It was a tale of two quarterbacks: Surprisingly, it was Wisconsin’s back-up quarterback who outplayed Juice Williams (17-32, 221, two touchdowns, three interceptions). Williams tossed three interceptions (two of which were back-breakers) and could find star wide receiver Arrelious Benn only twice for 47 yards. As they have gone L, W ,L ,W, L the last five games, Illinois is seems due for a W next week, so they have that going for them…which is nice.

9. Indiana (11) 3-5 W: 21-19 vs. Northwestern
Backin’ it up: Sophomore back-up signal caller Ben Chappell looked cool most of the game (21-34, 219 yards, two total touchdowns), coordinating three riverboat gambler scoring drives. Indiana seemed to know they would be outmatched if they were to stand toe-to-toe with the Wildcats so they used reverse passes and play-action reverses to put up two tricky long touchdown passes. Five takeways for the Hoosiers’ defense helped keep Northwestern playing from behind. A nice game to build on moving forward.

10. Purdue (9) 2-6 L: 17-6 vs. Minnesota
Purdue extended their losing streak to five games dating back to September 27 at Notre Dame. This week’s problems? Four turnovers and a 226 total yards. The good news? For the long term, running back-turned-quarterback Justin Siller looks promising managing the spread. In the short term, the self-destructing Michigan Wolverines come to town next.

11. Michigan (10) 2-6 L: 35-21 vs. Michigan State
Promises? Guarantees? I guarantee Michigan is no better than they were at week one. In fact, with all the injuries and veteran players getting removed from the secondary in place of freshmen (seriously?), one could argue they are now worse on Saturdays. This season will be historical for sure – they’ve already blown long winning streaks against Penn State and Michigan State, will likely lose all three rivalry games (Ohio State left), and the winning record and consecutive bowl streaks will be snapped since the last economic crisis (wait, not the one last month, the one that happened when our currency was still dependent on the shilling).

PENN STATE IS TOSTITOS FIESTA BOWL NATIONAL TEAM OF THE WEEK

DALLAS (FWAA) - With their 13-6 win at 9th-ranked Ohio State, the Penn State Nittany Lions (9-0) are the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl National Team of the Week for games of the weekend of Oct. 25.

Reserve quarterback Pat Devlin came off the bench and led the Nittany Lions to 10 unanswered points in the fourth quarter. His one-yard run capped off a 38-yard drive that gave Penn State the lead for good.

Penn State had not won in Columbus since joining the Big Ten and the win was their first at Ohio State since 1978. It came in front of a record crowd of 105,711.

Other Tostitos Fiesta Bowl Bowl National Team of the Week nominees for the weekend of Oct. 25 included:

· Minnesota (7-1): The Golden Gophers forced four turnovers and recorded five sacks in a 17-6 win at Purdue, their first win in West Lafayette since 1990.

· Rutgers (3-5): Mike Teel threw a school-record six touchdown passes in a 54-34 rout at Pittsburgh.

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.

Members of the FWAA board of directors and All-America committee decide the weekly honor. Each Monday during the 2008 college football season, the FWAA will name the Tostitos Bowl National Team of the Week through Dec. 1.

Since 1971, the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl has hosted six games that have decided the college football national championship, including three Bowl Championship Series title games. This season the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl game will be played on Jan. 5, 2009 at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz., and the Insight Bowl will be played on Dec. 31, 2008 at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Ariz.

For more information on the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl National Team of the Week, go to footballwriters.com or fiestabowl.org.

2008 Tostitos Fiesta Bowl National Teams of the Week
· Weekend of Aug. 30: Alabama
· Weekend of Sept. 6: East Carolina
· Weekend of Sept. 13: USC
· Weekend of Sept. 20: Boise State
· Weekend of Sept. 27: Oregon State
· Weekend of Oct. 4: Vanderbilt
· Weekend of Oct. 11: Oklahoma State/Texas
· Weekend of Oct. 18: TCU
· Weekend of Oct. 25: Penn State

This Date in College Football History

October 27, 1984: West Virginia defensive back Larry Holley picks off Penn State quarterback John Shaffer with 35 seconds left in the game, securing a 17-14 win over the Nittany Lions in Morgantown and the Mountaineers' first win over PSU in almost 30 years.

Credit: The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame

Game of the Week: Penn St. @ Ohio St.

By RALPH MANCINI -
CFI SENIOR WRITER

IN A MUCH-ANTIICIPATED showdown that could determine who ultimately wins the Big Ten conference title, the Nittany Lions of Penn State (8-0, 4-0) face off against the Buckeyes of Ohio State (7-1, 4-0) at Ohio Stadium in Columbus. Coach Joe Paterno and his high-flying offense are out to prove that they’re the elite team of their conference, and what better way to accomplish that feat than by ousting the team that’s won two straight undisputed titles? In the year preceding their two-year run as conference champs, the Buckeyes and Nittany Lions actually shared the rights to the coveted honor in 2005. While Penn State may be the more prolific team on paper, the blue and white have yet to beat Ohio State in their seven trips to Columbus since joining the Big Ten in 1993. The Buckeyes lead the series 12-11 going in to their 24th matchup on Saturday.

When the Cats Have the Ball

RUNNING BACK EVAN Royster is the unsung hero of this offense, and has increasingly grown into being the focal point of Penn State’s attack despite the presence of a plethora of playmakers at wide receiver. The sophomore tailback is a disciplined runner who waits for his blockers to set up the play and always keeps his legs churning. The 212-lb. workhorse shows exceptional burst once he gets past the first level of defenders and his second gear has enabled him to record 10 carries of over 20 yards. Penn State’s ability to beat teams in a variety of ways is due in large part to quarterback Darryl Clark. As the ringleader of the team’s new “Spread HD” offense, the Youngstown, Ohio native not only utilizes his athleticism to run the option, but is also quite capable of reading defenses from the pocket. Clark’s weekly improvement as a passer has manifested itself in his ability to spread the ball to a multitude of receiving weapons. Seniors Derrick Williams, Jordan Norwood and Deon Butler form a lethal trio of downfield threats. Williams is the most explosive of the three, as evidenced by his quickness off the line and the way he instantly reaches top speed, allowing him to make plays as a runner, receiver and return man. Norwood is Clark’s go-to guy on shorter routes and has tremendous leaping ability, but must avoid dropping catchable passes. Butler is a quick and crafty route runner with soft hands. Center A.Q. Shipley is a force in the running game along with left tackle Gerald Cadogan, who does an excellent job of pulling on counter plays. Kicker Kevin Kelly is a Lou Groza Award candidate, who is three field goals away from becoming the Big Ten’s all-time leader.

WHILE OHIO STATE’S defense faces a tall task in stopping the Nittany Lion running attack, JoePa’s big uglies aren’t as formidable in pass protection. To that end, the scarlet and gray must utilize linebackers James Laurinaitis and Marcus Freeman to get to the quarterback due to a lack of explosive edge rushers, such as defensive end Lawrence Wilson, who suffered a season-ending injury. Laurinaitis has great instincts, which he puts to good use with his sideline-to-sideline speed. Fellow senior Freeman is a 6’2, 236-lb. strongside linebacker, who’s an athletic open-field tackler and coverage man. Coming off a Michigan State victory in which star runner Javon Ringer was held to 67 rushing yards, defensive tackles Cameron Heyward, Doug Worthington and Nader Abdallah hope to duplicate their success by generating interior pressure to keep Royster in check. Earlier in the season Ironhead’s boy was moved inside to shore up the team’s run defense. Cornerback Malcolm Jenkins headlines a talented secondary. The fourth-year starter usually lines up all over the field to match-up with the opponent’s best receiver. His instincts, speed and quickness make him a natural in man-to-man coverage. Against Penn State’s big three, Jenkins will occasionally be shifted to a center-field position on passing downs with Donald Washington entering the game. The 6’0” Washington is an intelligent player with big-play potential in both man-to-man and zone packages. The 188-lb. Chimdi Chekwa isn’t as physically imposing as Jenkins, but he makes up for that with his sound coverage technique. Chewka suffered an injured shoulder versus the Spartans last week, but is said to be healthy enough to suit up this Saturday. At safety, Kurt Coleman is a heat-seeking torpedo, but is prone to the missed tackle when looking to make the big hit. His partner, Anderson Russell, is a much-more disciplined player with cornerback skills. The energetic safety is typically among the team leaders in tackles, and also has a penchant for forcing the key fumble and notching the important sack.

When the Buckeyes Have the Ball

DYNAMIC FRESHMAN QUARTERBACK Terrelle Pryor adds a new dimension to a run-oriented attack with his ability to run bootlegs out of the pocket or faking oncoming defensive ends to buy himself enough time for his receivers to get open. What’s most impressive in Pryor’s development is his improvement in recognizing defensive alignments. The electric 19 year-old was masterful last week in directing four scoring drives in the game’s first 25 minutes. The Buckeyes hope to get another strong performance out of their offensive line this week that would allow the Buckeyes to establish long, slow drives behind their meal ticket Chris “Beanie” Wells. The immensely gifted back got off to a slow start this season with a well-chronicled toe injury, but has bounced back in grand fashion and shown no visible signs of wearing down. In fact, Wells carried the ball a season-high 31 times last week for 140 yards and two scores. The 6’1” 237-lb. bruiser is a sustaining back, who has the added zip to break free on long runs. The aforementioned offensive line is led by outspoken senior left tackle Alex Boone, who specializes in blowing defenders off the ball on running plays. Jim Tressel’s group hopes to expose Penn State’s back seven in pass coverage by allowing Pryor to buy extra time with his feet and hook up with receivers Brian Robiskie, Brian Hartline and Ray Small. While none of the three is a speed merchant, they certainly have enough in their bag of tricks. Following the return of Wells, the Buckeyes’ passing game has become an afterthought for the most part—leading receiver Robiskie has only two receptions in each of his last three games. Look for the 6’3” senior to be a factor in short-yardage and red zone situations if the home team is forced to pass more than they normally would. Hartline, who leads the team in receiving yards, is more of a deep threat who typically gets open on sideline throws or crossing routes over the middle. Rory Nicol and Jake Ballard are the tight ends who may be used on play action and goal line scenarios.

PENN STATE’S SUCCESS in pass defense can be attributed to their ability to consistently generate a pass rush. No one defender has been more of a difference maker in that department than defensive end Aaron Maybin. Fourth in the nation with 10 sacks, the 6’4, 236-lb. hellraiser has been unstoppable. His tremendous burst and hand skills make him one tough nut to crack. Fellow end Josh Gaines shows good quickness, which helps him gain penetration and stop running backs dead in their tracks, often behind the line of scrimmage. PSU’s defensive line has been fortified by the return of their standout lineman Maurice Evans (previously suspended). The Brooklyn boy is a complete player that can get to the quarterback with his combination of moves, in addition to his pure speed. Against the run, Evans is capable of holding his edge and powerful enough to push tackles back when necessary. Sophomore linebacker Navarro Bowman has led the team in tackles six times this season, and is among the leaders in the Big Ten. Outside linebacker Tyrell Sales has the tools to be tackling machine himself, provided he gets the support of his two defensive tackles Jared Odrick and Ollie Ogbu. Bani Gbadyu and Michael Mauti add speed to the linebacker corps. Safety Anthony Scirrotto is a limited, yet an instinctive competitor who’ll make his share of big plays in pass coverage. Mark Rubin covers the other half of the field, while cornerbacks Tony Davis and A.J. Wallace bring good size to the table.

Final analysis
PENN STATE’S BALANCED attack will be too much for the Buckeyes. Expect Penn State to jump out to an early lead and watch Evan Royster punish Ohio State’s defense on the ground behind the blocking of fullback Dan Lawlor and tight end Mickey Shuler, Jr., who’ll both be called upon to fend off linebackers Laurinaitis and Freeman. On the other side of the ball, Ohio State will put up decent yardage, but be limited to settling for field goals against a Nittany Lion defense giving up a paltry 11.8 points per game.

Prediction: Penn State 35 Ohio State 19

Photo Credit: Collegiate Images

Between the Hashes: Royster’s Role Crystal Clear

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER


PENN STATE HEAD Coach Joe Paterno has continued to evolve his team’s look offensively, now dubbed the “Spread HD” by the players. How fitting the name has become – nationally, their offense is seventh in scoring (45 PPG), 11th in total yards (482 YPG, and 10th in rushing (235 YPG). What is surprising is how quietly running back Evan Royster is putting together a statistical resume worthy of some serious post-season accolades. Maybe a closer breakdown of the Spread HD can bring clarity to the importance of Royster as the offensive catalyst.

In order for a television to be considered “HD” it needs to be dramatically superior (against standard analog televisions) in the following specifications: aspect ratio, frame rate and resolution. How does the sophomore back fare in these categories?

Aspect Ratio (TV: larger ratio in HD) – consider the football version, defined as yards per attempt ratio. It’s eight games into the season and Royster has accrued 893 rushing yards on a paltry 116 carries, breaking down to 14.5 rushes and 111 yards per game and a whopping 7.7 yards per carry. Projected that out to the full 12 game season, and he’d finish with 1,350 yards on only 175 rushes. Compare that to Michigan State’s Heisman candidate Javon Ringer, who has already racked up 1,249 yards but has done so on 263 rushes (33/game) for 4.5 yards per attempt. Take a look back to Reggie Bush’s 2005 Heisman campaign at USC and you’ll see he averaged 8.7 yards per carry (200 rushes, 1,740 yards). Ramp up Royster’s rushes to 200 this year and he would finish with just under 1,550 yards.

Frame rate (TV: frequency it creates a complete picture on the screen every second) – a complete picture every cycle (or second) in football can loosely translate to attempts per touchdown (APT). Again, through eight games Royster has scored 10 touchdowns on 127 total touches, giving him a “frame rate” of 12.7 APT. His teammate and quarterback Daryll Clark, a Heisman candidate in his own right, checks in with a 12.0 APT on 227 attempts (180 pass, 47 rush) for 19 total touchdowns (11 passing, eight rushing). However, five of Clark’s rushing scores have come from goal line sneaks from two yards or closer. Factor them out of the quarterback’s APT (now down to 16) and add them to the running back, Royster’s APT now checks in at an incredible 8.5 touches per touchdown. Further, Royster’s 12.7 APT blows away the Big Ten’s rushing leaders: Purdue’s Kory Sheets (15.5 APT, 10 touchdowns), Iowa’s Shonn Greene (18.3, 10 touchdowns) and Ringer (19.9, 14 touchdowns) and beats out ’05 Heisman Reggie Bush again (13.2, 18 touchdowns).

Resolution (TV: more pixilation impacts clarity) – translating to football, resolution seems to represent the impact Royster carries for his offense. Consider the following games: opening the season, Royster scored PSU’s first two touchdowns against both Coastal Carolina (66-10) and Oregon State (45-14). Against No. 22 Illinois and at Purdue, Royster rushed for a combined 280 yards and a touchdown. And during their last two conference games, the running back scored the Lions’ first touchdown of both games (along with a combined 234 yards) en route to pull away blowouts against Wisconsin (48-7) and Michigan (46-17).

There’s no doubt that Penn State’s great start has been a team effort on both sides of the ball as they strive towards another National Champion-ship. But even Daryll Clark acknowledges that the offense all starts with his running back. When asked whether Royster’s rushing during the Wisconsin game was the catalyst to set up their offensive scheme, he remarked, “Absolutely. He ran the ball real consistently… there were a couple of plays after we hand off the ball and carry through the fake…if he keeps his feet he might be gone…with him running the way he does, it opens things up down field for us.”

So it seems that Royster’s teammates recognize his importance to the success of the offense. It won’t be surprising if we continue to watch the running back pile up big numbers right through a BCS bowl game. That’s a picture coming in nice and clear.

Big Ten Preview - Sink or Swim

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

The Big Ten standings are continuing to take shape; however, many of the teams are either sinking or swimming on their way to season’s end. Let’s see who is staying afloat and who is in need of an S.O.S.
Penn State (walking on water) at Ohio State (speed boating)

Key Match-ups:

1. Running back Evan Royster vs. middle linebacker James Laurinaitis – Royster catalyzes the combustion of the Nittany Lions’ offense. He is averaging a stellar 7.7 yards per carry and 111 yards per game . This no doubt sets up the play-action pass for quarterback Daryll Clark or at least keeps the offense in favorable down-and-distance. Laurinaitis is pacing in at just under 10 stops per game, taking down everything in site. The Buckeyes defense needs to limit Royster’s effectiveness if they have a chance to slow down the “Spread HD”. No team has shown they can do so yet.
Advantage: Penn State

2. Quarterback Terrelle Pryor vs. safety Anthony Scirrotto – Penn State’s defense is too tough and disciplined to run straight at them with Beanie Wells. Pryor needs to have the game of life in his early career, escaping to the edges picking up yards on scrambles or on broken-play passes. For the Lions, Scirrotto especially needs to play a disciplined game either breaking down at the point of attack and limiting Pryor’s elusiveness on runs or maintaining center field coverage against Ohio State’s talented receivers. Scirrotto was concussed last week in the Michigan game, so it will be telling early on in the game if he still feeling any of the haze from last week’s injury. Penn State’s team defense has been stellar, and it seems implausible that Pryor will knock the defense off balance enough to move the ball consistently.
Advantage: Penn State

Penn State comes in with a long history of losing against the Buckeyes, but the Nittany Lions showed they can overcome their ghosts of football past by beating Michigan last time. The Buckeyes are certainly more of a challenge than Michigan, but are too inconsistent offensively drown out the Nittany Lions.

PREDICTION: Penn State 27, Ohio State 17

Michigan State (tugboat with an overheating engine) at Michigan (wooden raft a la “Cast Away”…after the final storm): I have a strange feeling about this game. I think the Wolverines, on their wooden planks and all, find a way to win this one. Despite Penn State pulling away last week, Michigan had a solid first half they can build upon, and I think the seniors will implore the team to save the season now that there are really backed in to a corner. To make matters worse for Michigan State (who are licking their wounds from an embarrassing loss last week to Ohio State), their offensive scheme falls right in to the teeth of Michigan’s defense (power running, see Wisconsin four weeks ago). Mark my words…unless the Spartans roll…

PREDICTION: Michigan 24, Michigan State 23

Minnesota (30-foot sailboat on a gusty afternoon on Lake Superior) at Purdue (rusty pontoon in the middle of the Bering Sea in “The Perfect Storm”): The Gophers and Boilermakers could not be moving in opposite directions any more than now – the Black and Old Gold have lost four straight and Minnesota has rattled of six wins in seven tries. Due to their time of possession edge (32:05 vs. 27:36 for Purdue) and FBS leading +12 turnover margin, look for Minnesota to challenge Purdue’s conference worst rushing defense (185 yards/game) conservatively rushing often with freshman DeLeon Eskridge and short, quick passing from Adam Weber to Erick Decker (59 catches, 782 yards, five touchdowns). The boo-birds may be out at Ross-Ade as quarterback Curtis Painter heaves up some questionable passes that get picked off in a scramble to make this a closer game.

PREDICTION: Minnesota 29, Purdue 15

Illinois (keelboat overrun by 11 Indians) at Wisconsin (steer clear of that starboard-side iceberg!): One thing is for sure, Illinois’ eleven on offense came to play this year, averaging a conference second-best average of 36 points/game. But the eleven on the other side of the ball have not panned out yet, surrendering an eighth best 27 points/game. The Illini may be safe as the Badgers have slid offensively. And there is a mathematical equation that defines how bad the offense has been lately: y = -22x +124, which is the plot of the Badgers first quarter total yards decline (96, 87, 59, 31) for the four games leading up to their “offensive explosion” against Iowa (62 first quarter yards). Illinois’ offense takes it to the Badgers’ defense, which may need another equation depicting the upward trend of points surrendered.

PREDICTION: Illinois 32, Wisconsin 16

Northwestern (20-foot sailboat on a gusty afternoon on Lake Michigan) at Indiana (inflatable life raft with several football-sized punctures and no Coast Guard in site)


(visit http://morsecode.scphillips.com/jtranslator.html and copy in the code for the translation)
- .... . / .... --- --- ... .. . .-. ... / ... . .- ... --- -. / -.-. --- -. - .. -. ..- . ... / .. - ... / ..-. .-.. .- - / ... .--. .. -. / .- -. -.. / - .... .. ... / .-- . . -.- / -. --- .-. - .... .-- . ... - . .-. -. / --. . - ... / - .... . / --- .--. .--. --- .-. - ..- -. .. - -.-- / - --- / .--. .-.. ..- -- .--. / ..- .--. / - .... . / .-- .. -. / -.-. --- .-.. ..- -- -. / .-- .. - .... / .- / ...- .. ... .. - / - --- / -... .-.. --- --- -- .. -. --. - --- -. .-.-.- / -... .- .-. .-. .. -. --. / .- -. / .. -. - . .-. ...- . -. - .. --- -. / ..-. .-. --- -- / - .... . / .-- .- - . .-. / --. --- -.. / -. . .--. - ..- -. . / .... .. -- ... . .-.. ..-. --..-- / .. -. -.. .. .- -. .- / .-- .. .-.. .-.. / .- --. .- .. -. / --. --- / -.. --- .-- -. / .-- .. - .... / - .... . / ... .... .. .--. .-.-.-

PREDICTION: Northwestern 37, Indiana ... --- ... (SOS)

On Location: Penn St. @ Wisconsin

Penn State quarterback Daryl Clark is still feeling like his team is the underdog or the worst-of-the-best of the country’s elite, despite his team continuing to pounce on the opposition. He said Quarterback Coach Jay Paterno uses internet fodder downplaying Penn State’s strong start to keep his team focused. Saturday’s convincing 48-7 victory against Wisconsin solidifies that not only are the Nittany Lions the class of the Big Ten but may be the best all-around team in America.

The offensive statistics were far from gaudy (377 total yards) compared to previous weeks, but big yardage was unnecessary after jumping on Wisconsin early 17-0 and converting scores in short-field situations. Clark (16-25, 244 yards, one touchdown, one interception, two rushing touchdowns) passed his toughest litmus test of the year by making smart decisions consistently against a conference foe on the road (his only misfire was a 4th quarter interception after, which came after Penn State had cushioned their lead at 41-7). He distributed the ball well by connecting with seven Nittany Lion receivers.

What was probably most surprising was the aerial assault Penn State deployed starting the third quarter, already up 24-7. The opening drive started with five of the first six plays as passes, punctuated by a Clark sneak up the middle for his second rushing score of the night. During the post-game interviews the Penn State signal caller stated that the gameplan in the second half was to come out passing and to keep pushing offensively. Coach Joe Paterno echoed these sentiments in his interview by reminding us of many games he has coached that looked in control and was suddenly lost when letting up.

Defensively, the Badgers were contained to 313 yards total offense and turned the ball over four times. Wisconsin’s first pass completion did not come until almost halfway through the second quarter. The defensive front for Penn State was causing fits for Wisconsin’s scheme, meeting Badger runners or quarterback Allan Evridge in the backfield on several occasions. Defensive tackle Ollie Ogbu ended a Wisconsin drive with a third down sack and defensive end Aaron Maybin and linebacker Navorro Bownman notched tackles-for-loss in the second quarter alone. The defensive play in the second quarter really stalled Wisconsin’s momentum, driving a wedge between the teams’ scoring opportunities.

On special teams, Kevin Kelly started the scoring for Penn State with a 50-yard field goal (finished 2-2 on attempts) and Derrick Williams rattled off a 63-yard punt return for a touchdown. Punter Jeremy Boone rounded out the clean special teams play with solid punting, averaging just under 45 yards per boot. Kick and punt coverage was strong as well, surrendering on average less than 20 yards per kickoff.

What is left for Penn State now is control of their post-season destiny, facing the only other undefeated teams left in the conference [Ohio State (6-1, 3-0) in two weeks and Michigan State (6-1, 3-0) to close the season]. Outside of those two weeks, Michigan (2-4), Iowa (4-3) and Indiana (2-4) are all that are left standing in the way of potential national championship contention. Is the team looking ahead of Michigan with their eminent clash against Ohio State proceeding? No indication from the players or coaches. Paterno, Clark and wide receiver Deon Butler stressed the importance of beating Michigan in their own right – Penn State has not won in their last seven chances against the Wolverines, and by extension, Butler recognized that no one on their current team has beaten Michigan period.

We oftentimes hear that teams who play-up the “no one believed in us” mantra tend to overcome their perceived odds and end up winning the big game (see: New York Giants, 2007). Penn State continues to bill itself as the school that no one believes in and they are responding accordingly. It looks like Jay Paterno’s tactic is working well.

Big Ten Preview - Week Seven: Shout-outs and Call-outs

By JOHN SEARS - BIG TEN INSIDER

This week dichotomizes teams in to those who are getting a shout-out or a call-out for their recent play.

1. Penn State at Wisconsin: Shout out…to the Nittany Lions for being first in the conference in scoring offense and defense, rushing offense and defense, total offense and total defense, and holding the 6th slot nationally. Call out…to the Badgers who started 3-0, ranked as high as 8th in the polls before suffering back-to-back second half losses to Michigan and Ohio State and tumbling almost out of the Top 25.

Key Match-up – Penn State offense vs. Wisconsin defense: Penn State offers one of the best receiving corps in the nation (Derrick Williams, Jordan Norwood, Deon Butler) who combine for 56 catches, 869 yards and seven touchdowns. They will line up against a Badgers pass defense that has allowed only four scores through the air and 186 yards per game. Furthermore, the Nittany Lions are first in the Big Ten averaging over 250 yards per game rushing. Wisconsin has surrendered breakaway runs on the ground in consecutive weeks from quarterbacks and tailbacks alike. Wisconsin does not have the offensive firepower to trade scores with Penn State, so they must tune down the HD-spread to have a chance.

A Penn State fan dared me to pick Wisconsin here. So I will. It’s hard to think that Wisconsin will fall flat three games in a row (twice at home at night) considering their pre-season potential and veteran squad. The fifth quarter celebration returns even if the band doesn’t.

PREDICTION: Wisconsin 23, Penn State 20

2. Michigan State at Northwestern: Shout out…to the Spartans for rattling off five straight victories after a road loss to Cal to start the season and for rushing so well behind the legs of Javon Ringer (988 yards, 12 touchdowns). Ringer accounts for a whopping 86 percent of Michigan State’s rushing yards, 46 percent of their total offense and 66 percent of their touchdowns. Shout out…to Northwestern, who has started the season undefeated (5-0), their best start since 1962. Surprisingly, the school that brought the spread offensive attack to the Big Ten is mostly stalling on offense this season. Thankfully, the Wildcats have relied on a stifling defense to pull out their wins: third in the Big Ten in scoring defense (12 points per game), tied for first in sacks (17) and second in red zone defense. Certainly no one predicted at the open of the season this game would have bowl implications, but the Spartans and Wildcats are both a victory away from becoming bowl eligible. The big key will be how Ringer moves the ball and if he can convert red zone trips into touchdowns for Michigan State. Northwestern shut down Iowa’s Shonn Greene on the ground in their last game and will step-up similarly this week.

PREDICTION: Northwestern 17, Michigan State 13

3. Minnesota at Illinois: Shout out…to Minnesota and the steady leadership of quarterback Adam Weber (124-183, 1428 yards, eight touchdowns, two interceptions), starting 5-1 in his sophomore campaign. Shout out…to Juice Williams (431 total yards and three touchdowns) and Illinois for coming back with authority against Michigan (45-20) after losing big to Penn State. This game comes down to one simple statistic – turnovers. Whoever wins the turnover battle, wins. Illinois wins the turnover battle.

PREDICTION: Illinois 31, Minnesota 24

4. Ohio State at Purdue: Shout out…to Ohio State for regrouping after a devastating loss to USC, walking out of Camp Randall with a big win and remaining undefeated in the Big Ten with freshman Terrelle Pryor at quarterback. Call out…to Purdue for posting a 1-3 mark in their last four and playing completely uninspired football. This is an awful stretch for the Boilermakers to roll over: as Ohio State, Northwestern (5-0) and Minnesota (5-1) head up the next three weeks. What happened? Unless a sudden infusion of character and leadership arrives suddenly, Purdue continues their landslide.

PREDICTION: Ohio State 30, Purdue 17

5. Iowa at Indiana: Call out…to Iowa for losing its last three games after starting undefeated (3-0). Call out…to Indiana for losing its last three games after starting undefeated (2-0). Is it possible that both teams continue their losing streak? Give it to Iowa with their strong defense.

PREDICTION: Iowa 10, Indiana 7

6. Toledo at Michigan: This game’s outcome will rest solely on what Michigan team comes out of the tunnel. Is it the exuberant squad that championed a historic comeback against ninth ranked Wisconsin? Is it the sloppy team that coughed up eight turnovers against Notre Dame? How about the defenseless defensive-lapsing team that embarrassed the Big House by surrendering 45 points to Illinois? Who knows? But when you’re a team with the excellence and tradition that Michigan carries and is being called out by your coach half-way through the season, you better respond. I think they will...or won’t. As “Shoeless” Joe Jackson says to “Moonlight” Graham in Field of Dreams, “Look low and away…but watch out for in your ear.”

PREDICTION: Michigan 22, Toledo 17

Photo Credit: Illinois Sports Information