CFI: The Next 25 (26-50) Plus 18 Bowl Teams

Seven Teams On the Cusp:

Atlantic Coast: Miami Hurricanes: Randy Shannon is doing a nice job of replenishing the ‘Canes talent pool. It will be fun watching youngsters such as quarterback Jacory Harris, linebacker Sean Spence, defensive tackle Marcus Fortson, defensive end Marcus Robinson, cornerback Brandon Harris, as well as wide outs Aldarius Johnson, LaRon Byrd and Travis Benjamin—octuplets who flashed ability as true freshmen—grow into stars.

Big East: South Florida Bulls: For the past two seasons the Bulls have been knocking on the door of the national scene—cracking the top ten each season—only to fall short of claiming their first Big East title. They are as talented as any team in the conference, but breaking in four new starters along the offensive line means they will have to settle for making their fifth straight (non-BCS) bowl trip.

Big Ten: Illinois Fighting Illini: With the likes of quarterback Juice Williams and wide out Arrelious Benn leading a deep stable of pass catchers, the Fighting Illini could have the most explosive offensive attack in the Big Ten. If they can find some semblance of consistency and some defense they will crash the top 25 and maybe make a second New Year’s Day bowl in three seasons.

Big XII: Kansas Jayhawks: With senior quarterback Todd Reesing set to pick apart Big XII defenses with his dynamic duo at receiver (junior Desmond Briscoe and senior Kerry Meier) and what should be an improved defense, Kansas hopes to win their first Big XII North crown. They host Nebraska, but must play Oklahoma, Texas, and Texas Tech from the South.

Pac-10: Oregon St. Beavers: Coach Mike Reilly has quietly been one of the most consistent head coaches in college football and despite a difficult schedule, he will have the Beavers among the better teams in the Pac-10. The Rodgers Boys—sophomore running back Jacquizz and junior wide out James—solidify the offense, but eight starters must be replaced on defense.

Southeastern Conference: Arkansas Razorbacks: If headman Bobby Petrino can harness Ryan Mallett’s vast potential—he may have the strongest arm in all of college football—the Razorbacks could be among the nation’s most improved teams this season. Tailback Michael Smith and tight end D. J. Williams are dynamic playmakers and the defense will be better for the lumps suffered in 2008.

Independents: Notre Dame Fighting Irish: The skill position talent is there—particularly at receiver (Golden Tate and Michael Floyd)—and Jimmy Clausen may actually live up to the hype, making the Irish a team on the rise. The biggest concerns come in the trenches, which are often where football games are won and lost. The O-Line is inconsistent, while the D-Line is unproven.

BCS Busters: TCU Horned Frogs: The young Horned Frogs (only 15 seniors) are likely a year a way from being BCS Bowl contenders, but should not be counted out this season, not with balance on both sides of the ball. Andy Dalton provides experience at quarterback, while end Jerry Hughes and linebacker Daryl Washington headline a speedy defense.

Rounding Out the Top 50 - The Best of the Rest:

Arizona Wildcats: The ‘Cats should continue to get better on the defensive side of the ball and there are several talented skill players ready to step up offensively, beginning with all-everything junior tight end Rob Gronkowski. As long as headman Mike Stoops can find a replacement for quarterback Willie Tuitama, Arizona should build on last season’s success.

Arizona St. Sun Devils: A six-game losing streak buried the Sun Devils in year two of the Dennis Erickson era. A talented front seven means they will make a bowl this season, but the fact they must replace Rudy Carpenter and are still searching for a winning combination along the offensive line means they will not reach double digits in wins as they did in 2007.

BYU Cougars: BYU is not far behind TCU or Utah in the race for the Mountain West crown and a BCS bowl. This group of Cougars is looking to become the first in school history to reach double figures in victories four years in a row. If the offensive line and wide receivers gel quickly, coupled with an improved defense, BYU will be dangerous.

Cincinnati Bearcats: In quarterback Tony Pike and wide receiver Mardy Gilyard, the Bearcats possess the offensive firepower to repeat as Big East Champs. However with only one starter returning on the defensive side of the ball, it will be an uphill climb. Chip Kelly is the conference’s best headman so they cannot be counted out, even in what amounts to a rebuilding year defensively.

East Carolina Pirates: With veteran quarterback Patrick Pinkney and strength in the trenches on both sides of the ball, the Pirates figure to be one of the most dangerous BCS Busters once again. There is not shortage of skill players on offense or the defensive backfield. Retaining head coach Skip Holtz was also a coup for the program.

Kentucky Wildcats: The ‘Cats had an explosive offense in 2007 led by quarterback Andre Woodson, but last season it was more of a defensive-minded squad which took them to a third straight bowl game. To make it four in a row, Rich Brooks hopes to find some balance. The offense has gained experience with stud linebacker Micah Johnson and corner Trevard Lindley on defense.

Maryland Terrapins: The Terps are led by an experienced senior signal caller in Chris Turner, but will be one of the youngest teams in the ACC in 2009. That, of course, doesn’t mean they lack talent. With no Georgia Tech or North Carolina on the docket their schedule is favorable and if they can gel sooner rather than later, Ralph Friedgen’s boys could surprise.

Missouri Tigers: After winning consecutive Big XII South titles, the Tigers figure to take a step back with the loss of quarterback Chase Daniels, wide receiver Jeremy Maclin, tight end Chase Coffman, defensive tackle Ziggy Hood, and safety William Moore. A home game versus Nebraska could set up a showdown with border rival KU for a spot in the conference championship game.

Nebraska Cornhuskers: The Cornhuskers won six of their final seven games in 2008, which is why they are being picked by many to regain their status as top dog of the Big XII North. Bo Pelini does appear to be the man to get them back on top, but that doesn’t mean they have to do it this season—not with only ten starters back from a nine-win team.

Nevada Wolf Pack: Which quarterback rushed for 1,130 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2008? No it wasn’t Tim Tebow, it was Wolf Pack junior Colin Kaepernick, one of the most exciting players in the nation. They also bring back the WAC rushing champs from 2008 (junior Vai Taua) and 2007 (senior Luke Lippincott).

North Carolina St. Wolfpack: Tom O’Brien appears to have the Wolfpack headed in the right direction and year three in Raleigh should be the first of many winning seasons to come (6-7 in 2008). Led by sophomore signal caller Russell Wilson the offense should be explosive, if they can get the defense turned around—a big if particularly in light of Nate Irving’s injury—NC State could be a sleeper in the ACC.

Northwestern Wildcats: With Pat Fitzgerald leading the program it should be no surprise the ‘Cats possess one of the top defenses in the Big Ten with a potential Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in senior end Corey Wootton, and one of the nation’s top secondaries (all four starters return, including three All-Big Ten performers). If skill players emerge on offense, watch out.

Rutgers Scarlet Knights: Two years ago the Scarlet Knights’ identity was running back Ray Rice (Rutgers’ all-time leading rusher). Last season it was the passing game, led by quarterback Mike Teel (Rutgers’ all-time leading passer) and wide out Kenny Britt (Rutgers’ all-time leading receiver). Who will step up to be the face of the 2009 team? With a lack of proven playmakers, RU isn’t ready to contend for the conference crown—maybe next year for these Jersey Boys.

South Carolina Gamecocks: It is absolutely stunning the struggles that South Carolina has had finding a quarterback under Steve Spurrier. Despite losing junior defensive backs Captain Munnerlyn and Emanuel Cook, the defense will be staunch once again. However unless junior signal caller Stephen Garcia begins to fulfill some of the promise many had for him, it might not matter.

Southern Miss Golden Eagles: With quarterback Austin Davis, running back Damion Fletcher, and wide receiver DeAndre Brown, as well as an experienced offensive line and a year under their belt in Larry Fedora’s system, the Golden Eagles should have the top offense in the East Division. If the defense catches up, this team will make some noise.

Texas Tech Red Raiders: Losing record-setting quarterback Graham Harrell and star receiver Michael Crabtree was expected, but losing the 22 sacks that junior ends Brandon Williams and McKinner Dixon recorded was not. The strong-armed Taylor Potts should flourish in the shotgun for Tech, who will be hard pressed to repeat their 11 wins of last season.

Wisconsin Badgers: Close losses, poor special teams play, and turnover margin did the Badgers in last season. If they don’t find some answers on defense and quarterback Dustin Sherer doesn’t improve, none of that will matter. The talent is there to stop the downward trend (12 wins in ’06, nine in ’07 & seven in ’08) since Brett Bielema took over, but they’re probably not looking at a top-25 finish.

Others Going Bowling:

Air Force Falcons: Sophomore Tim Jefferson gives the Falcons the type of dynamic presence at quarterback that their best teams have had. They will run the ball well—that is a given—whether or not they have an impact on the Mountain West race will be determined by Jefferson’s development as a passer and the defense. They will be better than last year’s eight-win squad.

Auburn Tigers: Gene Chizik’s first season in Auburn could be a rocky one. They still have questions at quarterback, a lack of playmakers on offense, and little depth in the front seven. While they will be looking up at Alabama once again—way up—there is enough talent with stars like end Antonio Coleman and tackle Lee Ziemba for Auburn to return to a bowl.

Baylor Bears: How do you not root for second-year headman Art Briles and sophomore quarterback Robert Griffin? For the first time since joining the Big XII, look for the Bears to post a winning season—or at least a non-losing regular season—and make a bowl. They have weapons on offense and a defense that should improve with the addition of defensive tackle Phil Taylor.

Buffalo Bulls: The class of the MAC East should again challenge for the conference title after pulling off the upset over Ball St. last season. Quarterback Drew Willy is gone, but stellar tailback James Starks and explosive pass catcher Naaman Roosevelt are back, as is headman Turner Gill who has led the turnaround. A strong back seven could make them better in 2009.

Central Michigan Chippewas: The passing game (quarterback Dan LeFevour, wide receivers Bryan Anderson and Antonio Brown) and a solid front seven (defensive end Frank Zombo, linebacker Nick Bellore) make the Chippewas the favorite in the MAC. However, an equally shaky offensive line and defensive backfield make them vulnerable to challengers.

Colorado Buffaloes: Season four of the Dan Hawkins era is a big one in Boulder. The Buffaloes regressed last season, due in part to rash of injuries. Quarterback play and how quickly the defense adjusts to a new scheme will decide how far they go in 2009—they could go anywhere from struggling to make a bowl to challenging for the Big XII North.

Connecticut Huskies: They must replace running back Donald Brown and quarterback Tyler Lorenzen on the offensive side of the ball. That won’t be easy, leaving the defense to lead the way. The Huskies are stacked at linebacker with a troika of starters returning in Scott Lutrus, Lawrence Wilson, and Greg Lloyd—all juniors.

Houston Cougars: Headman Kevin Sumlin had a solid debut in Houston and with quarterback Case Keenum, tailback Bryce Beall and wide receiver Tyron Carrier all back they should be just as good, if not better, in year two. Like many others in Conference USA, their defense needs work. Nevertheless, they are the team to beat in the West Division.

Memphis Tigers: With five bowl appearances in the past six seasons, headman Tommy West has earned some benefit of the doubt. The Tigers have a very solid defense and skill players galore—see running back Kevin Steele and wide out Carlos Singleton. If they can get improved play from the quarterback position, Memphis could be the surprise of Conference USA East.

Michigan Wolverines: With uncertainty at quarterback and a transition on defense (new defensive coordinator Greg Robinson), the Wolverines are still a year away from being “Michigan” again. Defensive end Brandon Graham, linebacker Obi Eze, and cornerback Donavan Warren are solid building blocks, and there are enough skill players on offense to make a bowl.

Navy Midshipmen: They lose offensive linchpins in quarterback Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada, slotback Shun White, and fullback Eric Kettani, but you can still expect the Midshipmen to possess one of the top rushing attacks in the nation. What will be different is this season, it could be the defense that leads the way to a seventh straight bowl appearance.

Northern Illinois Huskies: He’s not at the level of Dan LeFevour or Tim Hiller, but Huskies’ sophomore signal caller Chandler Harnish flashed ability as a freshman while leading NIU to a bowl game. Harnish is more LeFevour in that he can hurt you with his arm and legs. A strong offensive line means the Huskies will boast a balanced offense.

Troy Trojans: There is little doubt the Trojans will once again be the class of the Sun Belt. Larry Blakeney continues to churn out stellar defensive units (and NFL prospects) led by senior ends Brandon Lang and Cameron Sheffield. This year with the return of quarterback Levi Brown, running back DuJuan Harris, and wide out Jerrel Jernigan, they could be just as good on offense.

Tulsa Golden Hurricane: As long as Todd Graham leads the Golden Hurricane, Tulsa will bring one of the nation’s most explosive offenses. For the third time in three years they will be breaking in a new quarterback, but there will be no shortage of weapons to throw to. An improved defense could help counter the losses of quarterback David Johnson and running back Tarrion Adams.

UTEP Miners: If you’re looking for a sleeper in Conference USA, the Miners are it. The combination of Trevor Vitattoe (quarterback) to Kris Adams (wide receiver)—both juniors—might be the best you haven’t seen. What held back Mike Price’s club in 2008 was defense, something they must overcome…again. The secondary has potential and could make UTEP a surprise in ’09.

Vanderbilt Commodores: They are not the most exciting team in the country—heck, punter Brett Upson was the MVP of their Music City Bowl victory—but Bobby Johnson’s squad is sound as they come. If they could just get some semblance of an offense to go along with their stellar defense, the ‘Dores could really make some noise in 2009.

Wake Forest Demon Deacons: With senior quarterback Riley Skinner and an experienced front five, Wake’s offense could the best they’ve had in years. With the likes of linebackers Aaron Curry and Stanley Arnoux, as well as defensive backs Alphonso Smith and Chip Vaughn off to the NFL, they will certainly need that offense to come through. One thing is for sure—Jim Grobe’s teams should never be underestimated.

Western Michigan Broncos: A solid offensive line—perhaps the best in the MAC—returns to block for strong-armed quarterback Tim Hiller and the shifty runner Brandon West. The senior duo will need to be at their playmaking best as Butch Jones is rebuilding the entire defense. A home game against Central Michigan gives them a chance to win the West.

Photo Credit: University of Miami Sports Media Relations Office, Mark A. Philbrick/BYU, Brian Utesch, Baylor University Athletics, University of Houston, Wake Forest Athletics Media Relations

Q&A: Mike Riley, HC, Oregon St.

Coach Riley is 56-42 at Oregon St., including 48-28 since his return from the NFL in 2003, including a 5-0 Bowl record with a stint in between coaching the San Diego Chargers. As a player, Coach Riley won four SEC titles with Alabama Crimson Tide.

CLICK TO LISTEN

Hi coach, how are you doing today?

Coach Riley: I’m doing very well, thanks for having me.

You are halfway through spring football at Oregon St., with seven practices under your belt and seven remaining before the Spring Game. How have things gone so far?

Coach Riley: Well it feels good. The work is good. The work-ethic is good. We are getting, I think, a lot of good preparation for the season. You know, spring ball is such a great time for teaching skills and spending time with individual players without a ‘game-prep’, right-on-top-of-you. So it’s a great time of year and I think our team is working hard. We have a lot of holes to fill, but it’s all good work.

Would you say teaching is your main objective in spring ball?

Coach Riley: It’s all about skill development really, you know, we run a bunch of plays and we’ll even tweak some stuff, but if we can get a guy to run a better out-route during spring ball then we’ve made some progress. We really try to focus on the little things because they’ll all fit into packages that go into game plans later. But you just don’t get a lot of time to do this kind of thing later on, so you have to take advantage of skill development.

Is that a constant or does it vary from team-to-team depending on who is coming back?

Coach Riley: Well that is well said, because I think you have to balance that out between seniors and freshmen. We've got a senior quarterback that we can hit the ground running with, but we’ve got some freshmen receivers that don’t know where the ground is (laughs). You have to try and balance that out and bring those guys up to speed so they can make an impact in the fall.

You mentioned working on those specific skills. I read that you were working with the stellar running back Jacquizz Rogers on his route running in yesterday’s practice, so is that a point of emphasis with him? Should we expect to see his role as a pass catcher expand come this fall?

Coach Riley: You know Dan, that is something that he can do very well. I mean, he’s got very good hands and of course he’s got great quickness coming out of the backfield. I think he caught 30-something balls last year--he probably can catch 50 with the screen passes we’ll throw him and some of the stuff we can do with him coming out of the backfield. I’d like to expand that a little bit, but it also--right now for him--is one of those areas that can keep him out of contact and let him get healed-up for fall camp. There are also some things that we can work on that don’t put any burden on his shoulder, so he can get some running in and catch the ball. Then we do some ball-handling with him besides that, running tracks of our running plays, but if we can get some of that accomplished in spring ball then we’ll be ahead of the game.

What’s the status on his shoulder and the rehab there--is he getting any contact, and will he get any contact at all this spring?

Coach Riley: Probably not. I don’t think I’m being overly cautious, but I am being cautious with it. He’s basically had a big time positive report from his last appointment with the doctors, so we feel really, really good about him being 100 percent for fall camp.

What’s the status of quarterback Lyle Moevao? When do you expect him to be able to start throwing the football again?

Coach Riley: Well, it will probably be another six weeks. He spent the first six weeks in a sling. Yesterday was his first day out of that sling, so that was good news, and I know, much more comfortable for him. He feels very good. I think the big deal with Lyle, that will keep him paying attention to the protocol, is that he has to go through and not try to do too much too early. But I expect him to be throwing the ball this summer and being ready for fall camp.

Now coach, is there a way you can spin this in a positive way. You know what you have with those two guys...now this gives more opportunities to unproven players to show what they can do and to get some experience?

Coach Riley: That’s absolutely what we’re doing. We have to try and make lemonade out of lemons sometimes. I’d much rather have Lyle practicing with us, but the silver lining is that Sean (Canfield) is having a great spring and is basically ready to take command of this thing. He's playing the role of a ‘good senior quarterback’ and then we have a red-shirt freshman, Ryan Katz, that is really benefiting from all the extra work that he has been getting. So there is a silver lining; we are able to get him some turns that are very visible for his development, so I hope in the long run it all balances out. Lyle’s healthy, Sean’s healthy, and we can start the season with two senior quarterbacks and a younger guy who’s really got good preparation through spring ball.

Offensive lineman Michael Philip was your top recruit according to scouting services. Do you expect him, or any of the true freshmen, to make an impact from day one?

Coach Riley: You know Dan, we really like to red-shirt guys if we can. We red-shirted 25 kids last year, including some of our walk-ons, so in my mind being in a program going on seven years, it’s really about development and having that extra year to work with guys. However, we have had freshmen play--usually there are a couple every year that find their way in--and physically a guy like Michael Philip can do it. You know, whether or not we do it with him, we’ll go into fall camp and find out for sure. We got a receiver, Markus Wheaten, coming in here that ability-wise can play right away. But we’ll play that out, probably two weeks into fall camp before we make any decisions like that.

From a coach's perspective, when spring ball comes you must be pretty excited and pumped up after doing recruiting and all that stuff. You actually get to go back on the football field and do a little football?

Coach Riley: It’s really fun to get back on the field and work with these kids. They’ve been through what I think is one of their hardest, most tedious times of the year--and that’s the off-season program--with a lot of running and lifting, so there’s a new spirit. It’s a new phase of the year, you get to start spring ball and put on the pads. You get to go out there and do what you like to do, so it is always fun. Footballs are in the air…summer is starting to come around a little bit, so it all feels good right now.

So with all this stuff going on...you have the bowl games finishing up at the end of the year, you have a lot of recruiting, spring practice. Do you get any time off, do you do any traveling, or do you have to wait until the summertime?

Coach Riley: That pretty much waits for us. You know, one thing about being in Corvallis, you might be able to appreciate, is it’s a small town and so we’re close to home. We have a fairly balanced life which I will never forget. I’m very thankful for that.

Let’s switch a little bit to guys that are leaving the program and moving on to the NFL. Let’s start with your cornerbacks--what can you tell us about Keenan Lewis and Brandon Hughes, a of couple guys who I think are getting a little underrated in this evaluation process…

Coach Riley: You know, I think they might be but I’ve gotten quite a few phone calls on those guys, which might mean something. You probably realize that more than most. I think they are very, very good players and they are really solid guys. They played a ton of football for us; Brandon started three and a half years, Keenan four years. They played that position for a long time and got great experience against a lot of great receivers. They have good size for playing that position. I think that they will get good opportunities and it will be up to them to make the most of it.

What would you say is the strength of their game? Lewis to me seems like a physical kid who is not afraid to mix-it-up, and I think Brandon Hughes surprised some people with his speed at the Combine…

Coach Riley: You know, I think you said it right. Keenan is lanky and has long arms, which everybody likes at that position. He gets his hands on people. I thought he had a great year, he had his best year…very, very solid, also ran very well. Brandon ran very well also. When people start testing after their season is over, those are the kinds of things they’re looking for. Then you put that together with their film and I think they’re both pretty good prospects.

Another guy who could be a day-one selection is Ande Levitre, your offensive lineman who played some offensive tackle for you. I think he’s more projected as a guard at the next level. What does he bring to the table? If an NFL team called you to ask about him, what would you tell them?

Coach Riley: Well, you know, Ande is really a good football player, one of the best linemen we’ve ever had. He has played everywhere from guard to tight end. He settled in the last two years at tackle, but you’re right on, I think he’s more of an NFL guard, but I think he’ll play for 10 years. He’s very, very smart, very tough, very competitive and athletic. He’ll be able to go in and technically be very sound, then you add that in with who he is as a person and what he brings in that regard, and I think he’ll be a real-solid pick for somebody.

Coach let me ask you about guys that you faced--I know that it’s a tough question just to pluck one or two guys out--you guys faced a lot of good teams, obviously, with a tough Pac-10 schedule. You played Penn State, Hawaii, and Utah out of conference. Can you throw maybe one or two guys at me that kind of stood out to you, guys that you faced?

Coach Riley: Well I could start off naming USC’s team (laughter) that would be pretty easy. I’m really a big fan of Mark Sanchez, you know, I think that he brings it all there. He’s a very smart guy, can throw all the balls, and I think has been well-schooled at USC in the types of things that they’ll ask him to do in the NFL. He’s great. Then the linebacking corps: (Clay) Matthews and (Brian) Cushing and Rey Maualuga. All those guys are going to be really good players and will be great additions to whatever teams they end up with.

We like to close things out here with a segment we call ‘Three-and-out’, with three quick questions so…First down: What do you miss most about being in the NFL?

Coach Riley: I think it’s…the day-to-day football was outstanding and being around those guys. People like Junior Seau and Rodney Harrison, Jim Harbaugh when he was quarterbacking…I could go on-and-on…John Parilla. I just watched those guys that played at such a high level for such a long time and I appreciated that a ton.

Second down: What do you miss least about coaching in the NFL?

Coach Riley: Well, you know I really...there’s nothing really. I don’t miss losing (laughter). We lost a lot of games and it was hard. And that part of it, if I looked back at it with any regrets--which I try not to--it was just that we didn’t do well enough.

Third down: If you had the first pick in the Draft what would you do?

Coach Riley: Oh boy…I would probably…you know, I don’t know Stafford very well, but I would look hard at Sanchez. I think he will be a good quarterback for a long time.

You would lean toward that quarterback position though?

Coach Riley: Yeah, you know, it depends on my team. But if we needed a guy, I’d look at one of those guys for sure.

Alright coach, thanks a lot for joining us and giving us some time. We wish you luck with the rest of this spring and we’ll be looking forward to that game. I believe the spring game is May 2, is that right?

Coach Riley: That is right. We’ll be heading off into our spring game, and then it won’t be long before (laughter) we’ll be headed into our fall camp. The older we get, the faster these years go by.

I hear that. I’m starting to learn that myself as I head into my mid-30’s. Coach, try and find some time over the summer where you can kick back and relax a little as well…

Coach Riley: Thank you for saying that, I will do that for sure. Thanks for having me on.

Photo Credit: Oregon St.

Sun Bowl: Pittsburgh vs. Oregon St.

By CHRISTOPHER MOGOLLON - BIG EAST INSIDER

December 31, 2008 * 2:00 * CBS
Sun Bowl * El Paso, Texas

The hope was this year’s Sun Bowl would feature two of the youngest and brightest running backs in the country. LeSean McCoy followed up his outstanding freshman season with an even better sophomore year by gaining more yards, scoring more touchdowns and leading Pittsburgh – at long last – to a bowl game. Unfortunately, Oregon St. freshman Jacquizz Rodgers, who became a household name after his 186-yard performance led the Beavers to an upset win over USC will not be available. A late season injury kept him out of the Civil War and might have cost his team a trip to the Rose Bowl.

When the Panthers Have the Ball

The Panther offense relies heavily on the success of their star running back McCoy. He was unanimously named first team All Big East, ranked 10th in the nation in rushing with 1,403 yards, and was the nation’s second leading scorer with 21 touchdowns. Oregon State's rush defense, ranked 46th in the country, will have trouble keeping McCoy, who has scored a touchdown in every game this season, from reaching the end zone. The problem with the Pittsburgh offense is their pass protection and the decision making of their quarterback, Bill Stull. The junior has had a solid season throwing for 2,304 yards and has improved his completion percentage. However, Stull throws far too many interceptions and takes unnecessary chances. Senior wide out Derek Kinder can be the go-to guy at times catching a team leading 35 balls, but he’s struggled against better competition. Keep an eye out for freshman Jonathan Baldwin and junior Oderick Turner, they haven't put up superb numbers but are deep threats. The big mismatch in this game is the Oregon State defensive line versus the Pittsburgh offensive line. The Panthers have had trouble protecting the quarterback all year and are ranked 81st in the nation in allowing sacks while the Beavers have put up the 10th most sacks in the nation. Their senior ends Slade Norris and Victor Butler are strong pass rushers. Norris leads the team with nine total sacks. Linebacker Keaton Kristick, who finished the season with 14.5 tackles for loss, may also play a significant role. He could be the key to containing the Pittsburgh rushing attack.

When the Beavers Have the Ball

It was obvious how important Rodgers is to the Oregon State offense when he was out in their loss to Oregon and only touched the ball four times in their near loss against Arizona. What makes the freshman so valuable is his ability to gain yards in bunches (averaging 4.8 yards per carry). The game could come down to the play of quarterback Lyle Moevao. The junior missed some action, including two games down the stretch, but looked healthy in his five-touchdown performance against Oregon. Moevao keeps his completion percentage fairly high and is always a threat to beat the defense deep. Senior receiver Sammie Stroughter – 64 catches for 952 yards – will be tough to stop. The all-conference wide out finished the season strong posting 116 yards at Arizona and 145 yards versus Oregon, turning in four games this season with 100-plus receiving yards. He is a deadly threat averaging 14.9 yards per catch. The Panthers have had trouble defending the big pass play and lost games against passing teams Cincinnati and Rutgers. The secondary wasn't able to handle the depth Rutgers had at receiver and may have trouble containing Stroughter and Shane Morales. The speedy James Rodgers, Quizz’s big brother, is also out for this contest. Freshman tailback Ryan McCants and senior wide out Chris Johnson could end up playing big roles. The key to the Pitt defense is Scott McKillop – if the linebacker can make OSU a passing team, the Panthers will have a fighting chance.

Final Analysis

With a more balanced offensive attack and a ferocious pass rush – not to mention Coach Mike Riley’s perfect 4-0 bowl record – the Beavers are the team beat in the 2008 Sun Bowl.

Oregon St. Beavers (8-4, 7-2)
Pass: Lyle Moevao – 2,341 yards, 19 TDs
Run: Jacquizz Rogers – 1,253 yards, 11 TDs
Catch: Sammie Stroughter – 952 yards, 7 TDs

Pittsburgh Panthers (9-3, 5-2)
Pass: Bill Stull – 2,304 yards, 9 TDs
Run: LeSean McCoy – 1,403 yards, 21 TDs
Catch: Derek Kinder – 410 yards, 3 TDs

The CFI Prediction: Oregon St. 23, Pittsburgh 20

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

Pac-10 Preview - Week Fourteen

By ANDREW GARDA - PAC-10 INSIDER

#24 Oregon at #16 Oregon State

The Civil War is rejoined for the 112th time, as the two rivals clash in Corvallis with a ton on the line. Regardless of circumstance both teams play for pride, but for the Oregon State Beavers there is more at stake than that – the Pac-10 Conference. It would be OSU’s first Rose Bowl appearance in 44 years.

The Beavers had a rough start to the season, dropping their first two contests, including a drubbing to their would be Rose Bowl opponent Penn State. But the team turned it around and has been on a tear. Much of their success has been due to the spectacular play of freshman running back Jacquizz Rodgers, who will not be available for this game. It will be a challenge to overcome his loss. His older brother, wide receiver James, was able to step in as a replacement tailback last week to the tune of 102 yards and a touchdown. Handing him the ball should be quarterback Lyle Moevao, who missed last week with a shoulder injury. James Rodgers was key in last season’s double overtime victory at Oregon.

The Ducks’ offense isn’t too shabby, with their two-headed backfield of Jeremiah Johnson and LeGarrette Blount Oregon. Quarterback Jeremiah Masoli is coming off of the best game of his career, a 298-yard, two-touchdown performance versus the Arizona Wildcats.

Either offense is capable of putting up some points and it will be up to the defenses to step up. The team that is able to make plays on defense side of the ball will likely be on the winning side of this battle.

Notre Dame @ #5 USC

Once upon a time, this was one of THE biggest rivalries in college football. This is the 80th meeting between the two teams and while a long list of critical, hard-fought and exciting games can be compiled with Notre Dame struggling so badly and USC’s recent domination – the game has certainly lost some of its luster. Charlie Weiss’ team has had a rough season coming off a horrid loss to Syracuse at home last week.

Mark Sanchez, who threw for four touchdowns in last year’s meeting, is healthy and playing solid ball. The run game has been firing on all cylinders again, led by Stafon Johnson (115 yards and a pair of touchdowns last week). With USC it’s just as likely that CJ Gable or one of the other backs in the stable might break free for a big game.

USC’s defense is dominant – arguably the best in college football. Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen, who has played well for stretches this season, will need to be mistake-free again against a USC defense that excels at bringing heat and forcing turnovers. Only able to muster 41 yards on the ground against the Orange, the Irish will struggle to have a balanced offense against USC.

Washington State @ Hawaii

With two wins under their belt, the Cougars can at least take solace in the fact that they end their season in the gorgeous state of Hawaii. Coming off a tight win over in-state rival Washington, could Washington State forge a short win streak to finish out their otherwise miserable season.

Junior quarterback Kevin Lopina has yet to throw a touchdown, but has no problem finding members of opposing teams (11 interceptions). He has to take care of the ball better and find a way to get it to talented receivers Brandon Gibson and Jeshua Anderson.

Hawaii quarterback Inoke Funaki has had a rough season himself, taking over for Colt Brennan with a touchdown-to-interception ratio of 6-12. While Wazzu doesn’t have much to play for, a seventh win for Hawaii could have bowl implications.

Photo Credit: Kirby Lee (USC)

Fan's Weekend Guide - Week Fourteen

The Conference Title is on the Line When…
Oregon @ Oregon St. (November 29, 7:00, Versus): Coming into this game, the Beavers have rolled off six straight wins, keeping control of their Pac-10 destiny via their upset win over the Trojans back on September 15th. Their lone conference loss came in the final seconds at Stanford in the season opener; otherwise they would have a trip to Pasadena already locked up. A seventh straight victory would match their winning streak from 2000, which also happens to be the last time the Beavers made a BCS game (41-9 win over Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl). However, OSU has not played in the Rose Bowl since 1965. Standing in their way are the hated Ducks, as Oregon makes the trip to Corvallis to play the 112th rendition of the Northwest’s version of the “Civil War”. The Beavers are banged up with both Lyle Moevao (who didn’t play last week) and Jacquizz Rogers (left last week’s game) nursing injuries. They overcame it last week at Arizona, but the Beavers would be best served with Moevao (1,967 yards, 14 touchdowns, 61.9 percent) and his 10-3 record as a starter handing off to their freshman phenom (1,253 yards, 11 touchdowns). Rogers is listed as doubtful. Oregon is led by sophomore signal caller Jason Masoli, who is coming off the best game of his young career (298 yards and two touchdowns passing; 89 yards and three touchdowns rushing). Joining Masoli in one of the Pac-10’s most talented backfields are tailbacks Jeremiah Johnson and LeGarrette Blount. A senior, Johnson leads the club with 863 yards (11 touchdowns), while the junior college transfer Blount has found the end zone a team-high 15 times (816 yards), while boasting a whopping 7.2 yards per carry average. There is no shortage of artillery in this “Civil War”.

Don’t Call it an Upset When…
LSU Visits Arkansas (November 28, 2:30, CBS): With the type of quarterback (17 touchdown passes and 18 interceptions) play the Bayou Bengals have been getting, it is hard to say they are supposed to beat anybody at this point in the season, particularly in SEC play. LSU has lost their last three conference games.

The Team That Can’t Afford to Look Ahead is…
Florida Visiting Florida St. (November 29): Not many teams have something to look ahead to beyond this week, so we’ll go with the Gators. Florida is already slotted into the SEC Championship game against Alabama next week, a virtual national semi-final. They have also dominated the Seminoles of late, winning four straight including a 45-12 thumping last season. Florida St. does possess a speedy defense that may have enough athletes to slow the Gators down, as much as any team can.

The Teams on the Cusp are…
Boston College Hosting Maryland (November 29, 3:30, ABC)/Virginia Tech Hosting Virginia (November 29, 12:00, ESPN): Finally, the ACC is easy to figure out…it’s win and they’re in.

Photo Credit: College Press Box

This Date in College Football History

Nov. 24, 1956: In California coach Pappy Waldorf's (1966 College Football Hall of Fame inductee) last game, the Golden Bears upset Stanford 20-18 in Berkeley. Cal strikes early, scoring two touchdowns in the first 11 minutes. Despite the loss, Stanford quarterback John Brodie (1986 College Football Hall of Fame inductee) sets a Pacific Coast Conference record with 137 completions in a single season.

Credit: The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame

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.

Fans' Weekend Guide - Week Thirteen

The Conference Title is on the Line When…
BYU @ Utah (November 22, 6:00, The MTN): The Utes enter the “Holy War” undefeated and 60 minutes away from a likely BCS bowl. Standing in their way is in-state rival BYU. How apropos! Utah, coached by BYU alum Kyle Whittingham, has their defense playing well – they have allowed just 11.4 points per game over the second half of the season. Since suffering their lone loss of the campaign, the Cougars are averaging 41.5 points per game. If state pride, a conference title and a BCS bid are not enough drama for you, tune in because of the quarterbacks. BYU’s Max Hall, a Davey O’Brien Semifinalist has thrown three game-winning touchdown passes in the final four minutes of games this season, while Johnny Unitas Finalist Brian Johnson of Utah has led three game-winning drives in the final minute. Hopefully you have the Mountain Network.

Don’t Call it an Upset When…
Michigan St. Visits Penn St. (November 22, 3:30, ABC): The Nittany Lions have been out in front of the Big Ten pack. However, heading into the final week of the season, Penn St. is in a three-way tie with pre-season favorite Ohio St. and surprise contender Michigan St. The Spartans are led by Javon Ringer (1,548 yards, 20 touchdowns) on the offensive side of the ball, with a solid bend-but-don’t-break defense, which is the Big Ten’s best in the red zone.

The Team That Can’t Afford to Look Ahead is…
Oregon St. Visiting Arizona (November 22, 7:00, FSN): The Beavers are two wins away from smelling the roses, with their hated rival Oregon waiting in the wings. However, before they think about the future, they should take a look at the past. Last season, it was Oregon who strolled into Tucson as the Pac-10 leaders, only to lose their quarterback Dennis Dixon and control of their own destiny in a 34-24 loss in the desert. That marked the fourth straight year the ‘Cats knocked off a ranked opponent in November. Can they do it again? With the number two scoring offense and number four scoring defense in the Pac-10, this wouldn’t even be an upset.

The Team on the Cusp is…
Cincinnati Hosting Pittsburgh (November 22, 7:00, ESPN2): With a 4-1 conference mark and three straight wins heading into this contest, the Bearcats are in position to claim their first ever Big East Title and BCS birth. A win over the Panthers and the lone obstacle would be the Syracuse Orange – in other words…people of Cincinnati get out your BCS bowling shoes. What is most remarkable is that Brian Kelly has put his team in this position despite having to play four different quarterbacks. Cincinnati’s stellar run defense – they’ve allowed a Big East low eight rushing touchdowns – will be tested by the conference’s most talented back in LeSean McCoy (1,043 yards, 16 touchdowns).

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Utah)

Inside the Pac-10 - Week Twelve

By ANDREW GARDA - PAC-10 INSIDER

#6 USC 45 - Stanford 23
Four three quarters, USC had themselves another scare as the Stanford Cardinal kept pace up until the last frame when the Trojans ran off with the game.

USC again seemed to come out disjointed and undisciplined, compiling penalty after penalty as they did last season. Stanford dominated the line of scrimmage on both offense and defense, frustrating USC even further.

But as the game went on, the Trojans calmed down, cut the penalties out and wore the Cardinal defense down with a very effective rushing attack led by Stafon Johnson’s 115 yards and two touchdowns.

Both teams were keenly aware of last year’s upset in Los Angeles, despite the best efforts of Coach Carroll and Coach Harbaugh to downplay its significance or the significance of this game.

In the end, Stanford was unable to win the game needed to become Bowl Eligible for the first time since 2001. USC was able to keep pace with Oregon State, who still owns the Pac-10 conference lead.

Oregon State 34 - California 21
With this win over Cal, the Oregon State Beavers have once again found their way into the tail end of the BCS Top 25. However, that is likely not half as enjoyable as the continued lead they have over the USC Trojans in the Pac-10. Oregon State has only to hold serve for two more games in order to lock up the title, traveling to Arizona and then facing the Oregon Ducks in their yearly showdown.

The tale of Oregon State’s victory over the California Golden Bears once again centered around the Rodgers brothers, Jacquizz and James.

Younger brother Jacquizz put on another display of rushing prowess, compiling 144 yards and a touchdown while running the ball with the elusiveness Pac-10 fans have marveled at for the entire season. Older brother James was a frequent target of quarterback Lyle Moeveo but also added two touchdowns, one on the ground and one on an 86-yard kickoff return right after Kevin Riley threw his only touchdown.

California had their own weapons on display as running back Jahvid Best had his most effective outing since October 25th against UCLA, rushing for 116 yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Kevin Riley threw for 117 yards but found himself sacked five times.

Oregon State kept that pressure up all game and it was definitely a factor in the pair of turnovers California had, and in the Bears’ inability to get up from the mat in the fourth quarter.

Arizona State 31 - Washington State 0
Rudy Carpenter and the Sun Devils continued their solid play as Carpenter threw for 213 yards and a trio of touchdowns in the shutout of the hapless Cougars.

While Carpenter was on his back three times in this match-up, he was able to keep the offense moving through the air. The success of the aerial attack in turn created room for the running game to compile 141 total yards, which in turn created even more room and time for Carpenter to get the ball to his receivers--offensive rhythm indeed.

The Cougars were unable to get anything going, compiling just 123 total yards and only seven yards on the ground. Washington State almost scored midway through the first quarter, but missed a field goal and barely sniffed the Sun Devil side of the field again.

With his three touchdowns, Carpenter now has 80 for his career, placing him third in Pac-10 history in total touchdown passes.

Oregon 55 - Arizona 45
In what became a wild shootout, Oregon ran out to a big first half lead, only to see the Wildcats surge back late… then fade again as Duck’s running back LeGarrette Blount made a 40-yard dash to the house with just under four minutes left in the game.

But for the Ducks, the story was quarterback Jeremiah Masoli, who had a tremendous night. Masoli threw for a career high 298 yards and two touchdowns and ran for 89 yards and a trio of touchdowns—a solid all around game to say the least

Arizona had a tremendous comeback led by freshman Keola Antolin’s four touchdowns, three of which came during the fourth quarter surge. Quarterback Willie Tuitama continued his recent trend of turning the ball over, doing it twice. The turnovers almost overshadowed an otherwise great game, as the senior complied 328 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

But in the end, the game was sealed by Blount’s fourth quarter touchdown which not only won the game but allowed Blount to tie the Oregon record for touchdowns in a single season at 15.

UCLA 27 - Washington 7
The Bruins got the job done on the ground and on the defensive side of the ball, racking up 157 yards on the ground and forcing five turnovers in Coach Rick Neuheisel’s triumphant return to Husky Stadium.

However, it wasn’t all fun and games for Neuheisel, who must be frustrated overquarterback Kevin Craft’s continued inability to protect the football. Craft threw three interceptions but fortunately for him and the Bruins, Washington only scored as a result of the first and then lapsed into its usual mistake filled and inept brand of football.

Washington couldn’t mount anything resembling an offense, barely putting together 135 total yards. The passing game couldn’t amass more than 39, a true mark of just how futile this team’s time on offense often is.

For the Bruins, senior running back Kahlil Bell ran for 97 yards and a pair of touchdowns, leading a ground attack that totaled 157 yards in the game. Craft was able to rebound as well, putting together a solid 92-yard drive to close the third quarter out, setting up Bell’s touchdown on the first play of the fourth quarter.

Still, one of Neuheisel’s first jobs of the off-season will be to insure that he has a signal-caller who can protect the ball better. If he fails to do so, the Bruins will be facing more 4-6 seasons like the one they are going through now.

Photo Credit: Collegiate Images, John Pyle (Brian Cushing)

A Football Fan’s Four-Pack - Week 12

By JOHN GARRETT

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

Super Senior: Zack Follett, LB, California

Star of Tomorrow: Jacquizz Rogers, RB, OSU

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

Super Senior: DeAndre Levy, LB, Wisconsin

Star of Tomorrow: Kyle Theret, DB, Minnesota

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

Super Senior: Ryan Walters, FS, Colorado

Star of Tomorrow: Kendall Hunter, RB, OSU

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

Super Senior: Paul Anderson, SS, Boston College

Star of Tomorrow: Everette Brown, DE, FSU

Photo Credit: University of Minnesota Athletic Communications

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)

Oregon State (4-1, 5-3) @ UCLA (2-3, 3-5)

By ANDREW GARDA - PAC-10 INSIDER

The Bruins have been a very streaky team. Sometimes they can be very efficient and sometimes Rick Neuheisel’s squad looks like they haven’t played a down together in weeks. They’ll need all their ‘i’s dotted and ‘t’s crossed if they are to slow down a very potent Beavers team, which can smell the Pac-10 title.

The biggest challenge for the Bruins is slowing down freshman sensation Jacquizz Rodgers, who is athletic, agile, able to make tacklers miss and is very dangerous in space. His brother James Rodgers can run the ball as well, and is also an effective target for quarterback Lyle Moevao.

It will incredibly difficult to slow – much less stop – the Beavers’ potent offense, but UCLA will have to find a way to do it if they have any chance of pulling off the upset. One way would be to keep them off the field and that will require not only a solid game from Bruin quarterback Kevin Craft, but a solid ground game. That’s been almost nonexistent, as their lead runners, Derrick Coleman and Kahlil Bell, haven’t even reached 200 yards for the season. Bell has five touchdowns.

If they can’t, the Oregon State offense will have an excellent chance to go 2-0 against teams from Southern California.

Inside the Pac-10 - Week Ten

By ANDREW GARDA - PAC-10 FOOTBALL

Washington (0-8, 0-5 Pac-10) @ #5 USC (7-1, 5-1 Pac-10)

USC stomped all over the Huskies as expected. They pretty much did everything right--they ran the ball for 297 yards, and quarterback Mark Sanchez moved the ball through the air with ease before Coach Pete Carroll chose to sit him down rather than risk an injury in a game that was well in hand. The Trojans committed some undisciplined penalties, but from whistle to whistle, they did everything within their power to move up in the BCS rankings. However, with the Pac-10 continuing to feast upon itself, their strength of schedule keeps dropping and so did their ranking. Despite the shutout, USC fell two spots to #7 in the BCS rankings. USC is unlikely to jump up again as their competition does not get more impressive going forward. All they can do is work towards another BCS Bowl bid and hope those in front of them stumble along the way.

Meanwhile the woeful Washington Huskies continue to find new ways to struggle and are now the only FBS team without a win. There isn’t a lot to say about the team that is positive. They have heart and a young core that will get better over time. A fresh attitude and a new coach may spark some life into these players but for this season, they just need to keep their heads up and keep fighting.

There was no letdown for the Trojans this weekend as they never took their foot off the gas. Perhaps a bigger win might have made a difference in the polls, but USC cannot get wrapped up in the computers, reporters and coaches who rank them. Their focus must be on winning the Pac-10 and getting themselves ready to finish the season strong.

#24 Oregon (6-3, 4-2 Pac-10) @ California (6-2, 4-1 Pac-10)

The conditions were awful this Saturday during the Golden Bears’ 26-16 win against the Ducks, but that didn’t stop California quarterback Nate Longshore, who replaced starter Kevin Riley and led the team to victory. The rain didn’t make either team look particularly attractive, though both teams were able to move the ball on the ground to some extent. For a large part of the game, the play was as bad as the weather as there were numerous turnovers, missed snaps and field goals for both teams.

Senior Duck running back Jeremiah Johnson ran for 117 yards and a touchdown while quarterback Jeremiah Masoli had a better day on the ground than he did through the air. Masoli threw two picks which certainly offset the advantage he gave the team with his 97 yards and a touchdown on the ground.

California running back Jahvid Best continued to play well in his second game back from injury, compiling 93 yards for the Golden Bears.

But it was truly Longshore’s day to shine. He and Masoli have been rotated in and out of the lineup during the season, but when California coach Jeff Tedford called on him, the senior stepped up and led his team to victory.

The Golden Bears have now won four of the last five meetings between these teams.

Washington State (1-8, 0-6 Pac-10) @ Stanford (5-4, 4-2 Pac-10)

The Cardinal made sure there was no letdown in Saturday’s game against the Cougars, trouncing them 58-0.

Junior running back Toby Gerhart put Stanford’s offense on his back and carried them to victory, posting an astounding four touchdowns to go with his 132 rush yards.

Washington State didn’t help themselves, turning the ball over five times and floundering in the run game, unable to top even 80 yards on the ground.

Washington State has now set a single-season record for most points allowed in Pac-10 play at 350. The previous owners of that dubious record – a California Golden Bear team that coughed up 333 points – will likely be sending them a thank you note.

Stanford kept its hopes for a share of the Pac-10 title alive as they stay one win behind USC along with the Oregon schools and #21 California.

Arizona State (2-6, 1-4 Pac-10) @ Oregon State (5-3, 4-1 Pac-10)

It was a closer game than the Beavers would have liked, but a late touchdown by ASU quarterback Rudy Carpenter showed the Sun Devils still have some fire left in them despite a rough season.

Arizona State surged late but came up short when Carpenter’s two-point conversion attempt was intercepted, sending the Devils home with their fourth Pac-10 loss, 27-25.

ASU junior running back Shaun DeWitty finally gave the offense a ground attack, rushing for 110 yards on 16 carries and the positive effect his effort had on the Sun Devils’ passing attack was obvious. Carpenter had his best game in some time, throwing the ball 27 times and completing 15 for 217 yards and a touchdown despite being sacked a season high five times.

The senior quarterback led an 11-play, 72- yard drive, capped off by a three-yard touchdown pass to Andrew Pettes with 21 seconds left. On the ensuing two point conversion attempt, Carpenter was flushed from the pocket and forced to throw the ball up for grabs. Oregon State picked it off and that was the game.

The Sun Devils often looked undisciplined and were flagged for 10 penalties, totaling 80 yards.

For the Beavers, the win came with the cost of a second quarter injury to starting quarterback Lyle Moevao. Junior backup Sean Canfield was a bit of a revelation though, as he threw for 218 yards and a pair of touchdowns. He didn’t come without mistakes and his one interception was brought back for touchdown by Sun Devil safety Troy Nolan just moments into the second half.

Still as caretakers go, Canfield did an able job keeping things moving with some help from freshman running back monster Jacquizz Rodgers who continued his assault on Pac-10 run defenses, posting 133 yards on ASU.

Oregon State controls its own destiny--if the Beavers can sweep the rest of their conference games, they will win the Pac-10 Championship as they hold the tiebreaker over USC due to their upset of the Trojans earlier in the season.

Collegiate Images: Collegiate Images

Pac-10 Preview - Week Ten

By ANDREW GARDA - PAC-10 INSIDER

Washington (0-7, 0-4 Pac-10) @ #5 USC (6-1, 4-1 Pac-10)

Two teams on opposite sides of the spectrum meet in the Los Angeles Coliseum this Saturday when the fifth ranked Trojans welcome the winless Huskies to another destination on the road to imperfection.

It’s hard to imagine things getting worse for Washington, but USC head coach Pete Carroll’s squad is 23-0 in games in November. The Huskies don’t run the ball well, don’t score often and can only move the ball through the air marginally well.

Oh, and the Huskies are now coached by a lame duck, as the school announced Monday that this would be Coach Ty Willingham's last season with the team. That doesn’t mean he or the team will quit working hard, but it continues to be an uphill battle. A hill that is nearly vertical, by the way, with few handholds and it’s been greased by oil for the last month.

Expect USC to run away with this one and it’s really just a matter of which poison the Trojans decide to administer. Will they have quarterback Mark Sanchez throw the ball against a reeling secondary or will they have the tailback core of McKnight, Johnson and Gable grind it out on the ground?

One word of caution to the Trojans, though. The last two times these teams have met, it was closer than expected (27-24 last season and 26-20 in 2006).

This is a game the Trojans shouldn’t lose. But that doesn’t mean they won’t find it tougher than expected. USC is desperate for big wins if they want back in the National Title hunt. Even if they win, they cannot allow the Huskies to stay close.

#24 Oregon (6-2, 4-1 Pac-10) @ California (5-2, 3-1 Pac-10)

The Oregon Ducks have fought their way back into the Top 25 BCS rankings, but won’t get a chance to rest on their laurels as a tough Golden Bears team awaits them in Memorial Stadium. The Ducks will not only be defending their ranking, but the Pac-10 conference lead they share with No. 5 USC.

Oregon will look to quarterback Jeremiah Masoli to lead them to a third straight win. Masoli, a sophomore transfer from City College of San Francisco, wasn’t even slated to be a factor this year, but finds himself in the driver’s seat after knee injuries took out Nate Costa and Justin Roper. Masoli took over and never looked back.

California has had its share of quarterback issues as well. Sophomore Kevin Riley took the job, then lost it to senior Nate Longshore for a pair of games, only to regain it last week in their 41-20 drubbing of UCLA. Riley will need to remain consistent and protect the ball against a Duck defense that can be opportunistic.

Oregon’s offense also features a pair of dangerous running backs in Jeremiah Johnson and LeGarrette Blount who lead a rush attack that totaled 300 plus yards three times in the last four games. However, the Ducks’ unstoppable force meets the Golden Bears’ immovable objects this week. California’s defense has held opposing runners to less than 100 yards per game, so it will certainly be very interesting to see which side blinks.

Both teams are within sight of the Pac-10 lead (or at least a share of it) and both need to win in order to keep pace with USC. This will be one of the most competitive games in college football this weekend and is far and away the most intriguing game in the Pac-10.

Washington State (1-7, 0-5 Pac-10) @ Stanford (4-4, 3-2 Pac-10)

Stanford still has to be trying to figure out what happened in their loss to UCLA on October 18, as they managed to collapse late in the fourth quarter. The defense couldn’t finish the game, allowing the Bruins to drive down the field, score and burn nearly all the time left on the clock.

Cardinal quarterback Tavita Pritchard needs to start protecting the ball better and cut down on his interceptions, five of which have come in the last three games. In their last game he was abysmal, barely cresting 51 yards. He should against the terrible Cougar defense.

Even if Pritchard struggles, the Cardinal can turn to junior running back Toby Gerhart, who has been having a solid season, topping 100 yards five times in eight games Stanford. Gerhart will be the focus of this offense and it is unlikely Washington State will be able to stop him even if they know where the play is being run.

Arizona State (2-5, 1-3 Pac-10) @ Oregon State (4-3, 3-1 Pac-10)

Oregon State has played very well in conference, not dropping a game in Pac-10 play since losing the opener to Stanford 36-28.

This is a team not to be underestimated. Led by freshman running back Jacquizz Rodgers (812yards, nine touchdowns) and junior quarterback Lyle Moevao (1,779 yards, 13 touchdowns to eight interceptions), Oregon State has multiple weapons to move the ball against an underwhelming Sun Devil team which can’t keep it’s best weapon – quarterback Rudy Carpenter – upright long enough to return from any real deficit.

Arizona State needs to do something to protect Carpenter and fast. The offensive line has to find a way to not only give him time to get the ball off, but cut down on the hits he takes even after he has released the rock. It would also be a big help if the ground game could get going again. Last week they tipped past 100 yards total rushing for the first time since they did it against UNLV way back on September 19.

If the Sun Devils cannot get the run going, defenses can either blanket Carpenter’s receivers or blitz the heck out of the line and that has been exactly what opponents have done. It’s no wonder Carpenter has been hurt the last few seasons. It’s amazing he’s still alive.

Oregon State is trying to make a run at the Pac 10 title and maybe a ranking. Arizona State is just trying to get back to respectable.