August 3, 2007
USA Today Pre-Season Top 25 College Football Poll
2007 Pre-Season USA Today College Football Coaches Poll
Yes, it's a pre-season poll, but before you write it off completely, USA Today points out that the last five pre-season #1s have reached a BCS bowl game (although they're only 1-4 in those games).
Rank Team (first-place votes) 2006 Record Points Final 2006 rank
1. Southern California (45) 11-2 1,481 4
2. LSU (4) 11-2 1,372 3
3. Florida (9) 13-1 1,278 1
4. Texas 10-3 1,231 13
5. Michigan (2) 11-2 1,218 9
6. West Virginia 11-2 1,205 10
7. Wisconsin 12-1 1,114 5
8. Oklahoma 11-3 1,026 11
9. Virginia Tech
10-3 1,005 18
10. Ohio State 12-1 919 2
11. Louisville 12-1 836 7
12. California 10-3 763 14
13. Georgia 9-4 604 NR
14. Auburn 11-2 595 8
15. Tennessee 9-4 583 23
16. Rutgers 11-2 466 12
17. UCLA 7-6 454 NR
18. Penn State 9-4 440 25
19. Nebraska 9-5 388 NR
20. Arkansas 10-4 360 16
21. Florida State 7-6 301 NR
22. TCU 11-2 233 21
23. Boise State 13-0 222 6
24. Hawaii 11-3 214 24
25. Texas A&M 9-4 209 NR
Others receiving votes (with 2006 records)
Boston College (10-3) 150; Georgia Tech (9-5) 150; Miami (Fla.) (7-6) 91; Notre Dame (10-3) 90; South Carolina (8-5) 90; Wake Forest (11-3) 71; Missouri (8-5) 58; Oregon State (10-4) 52; Brigham Young (11-2) 47; Clemson (8-5) 30; Oregon (7-6) 30; South Florida (9-4) 26; Texas Tech (8-5) 20; Alabama (6-7) 16; Oklahoma State (7-6) 15; Southern Mississippi (9-5) 14; Iowa (6-7) 12; Kansas State (7-6) 8; Memphis (2-10) 5; Houston (10-4) 4; Arizona (6-6) 1; Duke (0-12) 1; Kentucky (8-5) 1; Washington State (6-6) 1.
Coaches Poll Participants 2007:
Frank Beamer, Virginia Tech; Mike Bellotti, Oregon; Bret Bielema, Wisconsin; Larry Blakeney, Troy; Bobby Bowden, Florida State; Tommy Bowden, Clemson; Jeff Bower, Southern Mississippi; Art Briles, Houston; Mack Brown, Texas; Bill Callahan, Nebraska; Neil Callaway, UAB; Lloyd Carr, Michigan; Mario Cristobal, Florida International; Sylvester Croom, Mississippi State; Bill Cubit, Western Michigan; Mark Dantonio, Michigan State; Butch Davis, North Carolina; Bill Doba, Washington State; Randy Edsall, Connecticut; Dennis Franchione, Texas A&M; Phillip Fulmer, Tennessee; Jeff Genyk, Eastern Michigan; Joe Glenn, Wyoming; Jim Grobe, Wake Forest; Dan Hawkins, Colorado; Pat Hill, Fresno State; Steve Kragthorpe, Louisville; Mike Leach, Texas Tech; Rocky Long, New Mexico; Sonny Lubick, Colorado State; Bill Lynch, Indiana; Doug Martin, Kent State; Les Miles, LSU; Shane Montgomery, Miami (Ohio); Hal Mumme, New Mexico State; Joe Novak, Northern Illinois; Houston Nutt, Arkansas; Tom O'Brien, North Carolina State; George O'Leary, Central Florida; Gary Patterson, TCU; Chris Petersen, Boise State; Mark Richt, Georgia; Mike Riley, Oregon State; Rich Rodriguez, West Virginia; Greg Schiano, Rutgers; Howard Schnellenberger, Florida Atlantic; Mark Snyder, Marshall; Frank Solich, Ohio; Steve Spurrier, South Carolina; Rick Stockstill, Middle Tennessee State; Bob Stoops, Oklahoma; Jeff Tedford, California; Joe Tiller, Purdue; Bob Toledo, Tulane; Dick Tomey, San Jose State; Jim Tressel, Ohio State; Tommy Tuberville, Auburn; Charlie Weis, Notre Dame; Tyrone Willingham, Washington; Ron Zook, Illinois.
Comments:
cardman steve said:
posted on August 3, 2007 5:00 PM — 74.131.212.190 — link — abuse?
My, my, my!!!! I ? the top 25 already. All that fire power OHIO ST. lost and LSU must break a new qb in. The sooners,i just don,t know. I ? these teams as top 25. S.FLORIDA not in the top 25 is a joke. Anyway, i feel like a junkie and wish the season will start.
TrojanHorse said:
posted on August 3, 2007 5:54 PM — 75.75.86.11 — link — abuse?
Florida, OU, Auburn, TN, Arky Boise and RU all appeared to be a bit higher than I ever imagined while Hawaii, UGLY, VT and WVU all came in a bit lower than I thought
although I love it that WV wasn't in the top five.. I just thought with their easy schedule that they would be put at 2 or no lower than 3
Regan said:
posted on August 3, 2007 6:45 PM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
No real surprises - no one has a clue what's going to happen this year, which is great.
Last year was that way, and with no disrespect to Southern California or Texas from 2005's season, that's the way it should be.
I certainly don't believe the ACC will have as bad a season as they did last year; this poll assumes they will. We'll have to see.
IBleedOrange said:
posted on August 3, 2007 7:00 PM — 71.52.46.154 — link — abuse?
Not that they're real far down the line, but I think Texas has a good chance to do big things this year. Two of the three teams in front of them have QBs that are going to be starters for the 1st time. I know they've both played in some big games and done well, but I would think that the inconsistancy that could be expected of a QB with that little experience will lead to a loss or two. That would leave Texas in good shape to jump into a NC appearance behind Colt McCoy who looked great last year.
What's the story with Wisconsin? Are they returning a lot of talent from last year or are they going to have to replace a lot of key guys?
Clinton Walker III said:
posted on August 3, 2007 8:31 PM — 71.82.1.172 — link — abuse?
As usual you really can't predict the outcome of the season. Florida with lose 4 games with an overated quarterback this season.
goodolnuma5 said:
posted on August 3, 2007 10:05 PM — 65.24.221.145 — link — abuse?
Ahhh, me likey.
Just to look at a poll, its,...............................refreshing.
tech said:
posted on August 3, 2007 10:42 PM — 75.111.194.134 — link — abuse?
i really dont care about the rankings. 1/3 to 1/2 of those teams will not finish in the top 25 and all of them will not finish where they predict. im glad my school isnt up there. we do better when we are not ranked at the beginning of the season.
WB said:
posted on August 3, 2007 10:57 PM — 66.191.165.116 — link — abuse?
"War Eagle Atlanta says:
No poll should be published until mid-October. Period!"I could not agree more, War Eagle Atlanta. Early season polls simply give the pre-season favorites an advantage over teams that may be just as good, but start out unranked or low in the early polls.
Just wait and let everything shake out for a month, and then decide where teams should be ranked.
james higgs said:
posted on August 4, 2007 1:00 AM — 12.213.80.59 — link — abuse?
I just don't beleive they have polls this early. its not fair to have teams ranked before a season is started. let teams ply two or three games before ranking them. that way you get a better idea on who should actually be 1-25 and not who you think should be. you are correct war eagle atlanta.
Gator Boys said:
posted on August 4, 2007 1:51 AM — 66.231.138.222 — link — abuse?
War Eagle: I sort of agree with you, but its pretty cool to have a 1 vs 2 OSU vs Texas game. Or osmething like a UF-UT game with 2 top 10 teams. If they were all unranked you couldnt really tell how important the game is. You know?
CommonManCommonSense said:
posted on August 4, 2007 3:27 AM — 68.104.43.164 — link — abuse?
Post #12 War Eagle:
Really???? Then why did you read this article? Polls are great for creating interest and discussion. Without a playoff, college football is just politics anyway. The lack of a playoff and need to win every game just to be considered is killing the game. Great match-ups are quickly becoming a thing of the past while powerhouses play D-1AA schools just to preserve their ranking.
At least the polls give us something to discuss during a meaningless regular season.
SEMINOLE_NATION said:
posted on August 4, 2007 10:13 AM — 71.14.108.232 — link — abuse?
Yeah, I'm aware TB has had a little run at the Noles lately and Kudos to him.
This time his defense isn't whipping up on little bros offense. Now he's facing a man who is used to exploiting some of the best defenses in the country - SEC defenses. Not to mention one hard nosed o-line coach who has instilled an attitude in the FSU line. This is a completely different Noles team from game planning, to preparation, to being better coached, to being in better shape, more disciplined, & there will be stronger game plans in place.
Kudos for Clemson's 3 outta 4 victories over FSU but, that's really the only hook to hang their hat on.
Tampa Hurricane said:
posted on August 4, 2007 11:13 AM — 24.96.199.254 — link — abuse?
They need to take away Spurrier's voting rights. These preseason polls can never be taken seriously when there are idiots voting for terrible teams.
posted on August 4, 2007 11:36 AM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?War Eagle Atlanta said:
The only thing substantive the polls are based on is who's coming back from the previous year. Never mind that the whole dynamic of the team changes year to year. For me, there's too much of the 'hype' factor in there. The only reason I could conceive for rankings this early would be if SOS was calculated by the ranking of the opponent at the time of the game. But officially, it's not. Sure, people are going to remember that #1 played #3 early in the season, but they all forget about #10 playing #12.
Let a team get a few games under it's belt before you really decide to rank them. I think that's more fair. Besides, if Auburn is ever hyped early, it's doomsville for us!
Common Man: I may read some of these type threads, but my comments are ALWAYS limited to a discussion of the substance of the topic, the ways and means of it. For example, you're not going to find me extolling the virtues of any team on here, or complaining that they're over-rated. I'm just talking about the subject matter in general. I don't like these purely subjective types of threads--who's the best QB in the conference, or which is the best team.
I'm with you on a playoff, but I'm not for entirely legislating the human polls out of existence, either.
timmytomtom said:
posted on August 4, 2007 2:08 PM — 68.82.177.211 — link — abuse?
First...it wonders me why JoePa isn't one of the voters. It appears that you don't have to be a very successful coach or coach at a very successful school in order to be one of the select.
2nd...ND not ranked? It must be part of the Big Ten's efforts to force ND to join. (I love conspiracy theories...they're fun!)
3rd...If QB Morelli plays the way he did against Tenn, then Penn State will be the Big Ten champ.
(and if Connor isn't confused by his new position and if Williams stops worrying about getting injured and if Chad Henne has to move to Mexico and the price of corn comes down)JESSI said:
posted on August 4, 2007 2:21 PM — 74.211.44.55 — link — abuse?
Would someone please start giving BOISE STATE their props. They will always lose no more than one game a year in that conference, so they will always end up being ranked in the top 10 so they might as well put them their. PAC 10 invite UTAH, BOISE STATE, and FRESNO STATE in so you guys can have more than 2 powerful teams.
OU Fan said:
posted on August 4, 2007 2:22 PM — 84.146.44.57 — link — abuse?
TrojanHorse and cardman steve, I noticed you guys had question marks about the Sooners, and I'm curious, why?? I will first state that I agree preseason polls really don't mean much, especially at the end of the season. But back to the Sooners. You guys are questioning Oklahoma's preseason rank, but I do not see your motives. OU went 11-3 last season. You know, going 11-3 is really not too bad. Hell, the Texas Longhorns who were in the top 5 of last years preseason polls went 10-3. And OU lost to Oregon and Boise State last season by a total of 2 points. And yes, I'm aware and agree that a loss is a loss. But Oklahoma pretty much returns their whole entire team from last season. Oklahoma will also have some of the nations best defensive backs, one of the nations best offensive lines, some of the nations best Tight Ends, the best Kicker, and the Sooners will have 3 talented RB's to share the rock. And not to mention OU's receivers are no rookies. So to sum it up once again, Oklahoma pretty much returns their whole entire team from last season. Now, the big question mark for the Sooners this season is obviously the QB position. But I'm not too worried because Oklahoma will alot of great talent surrounding this new QB. Does any of this make sense? This is my opinion. BOOK EM HORNS! BOOMER SOONER!
Mc Duck said:
posted on August 4, 2007 2:32 PM — 63.230.172.173 — link — abuse?
Okay, so Oregon State at 10-4 is not ranked in the Top 25...but FSU who went 7-6 is ranked #21 in the Nation? What's even worse is that UCLA is ranked 17th! Maybe the Ducks at 7-6 should also have been ranked! Trust me, I'm no fan of the Beavers...but c'mon!
BlueGold95 said:
posted on August 4, 2007 2:53 PM — 24.7.238.54 — link — abuse?
War Eagle Atlanta, what would you think of letting the season-ending polls carry over into the next season? I've always thought that would lend more credibility to bowl games, and it seems at least as valid as guessing which team's personnel and coaching changes will help/hurt them most.
I'm no Spurrier fan, but I do like the message that his Duke vote sends -- who knows who's the best at this point in the (pre)season?
gatorhippy said:
posted on August 4, 2007 3:01 PM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse?
Semi_Nat (#28):
"This is a completely different Noles team from game planning, to preparation, to being better coached, to being in better shape, more disciplined, & there will be stronger game plans in place."
I'll believe it when I see it...
Cain said:
posted on August 4, 2007 3:06 PM — 65.9.173.145 — link — abuse?
Re: #24,
I don't understand your "common sense." You say "polls are great for creating interest and discussion" but complain at the fact that teams "need to win every game just to be considered is killing the game." If "great match-ups are quickly becoming a thing of the past while powerhouses play D-1AA schools just to preserve their ranking", then why defend polls in the first place?
Anyway, I agree with #12. The preseason poll should be abolished. Almost everyone could pick a team that will end up in the BCS Championship, but the rest of the bunch is too subjective. Ranking in the pre-season gives a baseless advantage/disadvantage to teams seeking the national championship.
gatorstud said:
posted on August 4, 2007 4:39 PM — 71.115.89.34 — link — abuse?
g-hippy.....i would agree that fla. is ranked a little high with what was lost....i was thinking more around the 7 or 8 spot.....a lot better or equal teams out there but tthey are reigning champs....
i would of though that michigan should of been a little higher....i don't think people are giving michigan any thought this year....but, with all the people they have returning....they are my pick to win the big ten.....
but other than that...it really doesn't matter.....it's like what sem. nation said #18...it is where you finish....this year, we will see teams explode and we will see teams...implode......
it all comes down to where you are at in middle november....that's when it gets interesting....jmho....
go gators...and hokies....
Mc Duck said:
posted on August 4, 2007 6:20 PM — 63.230.172.173 — link — abuse?
Jessi (#33)...the Pac 10 should stay the Pac 10. What I like about the Pac 10 is that the schools play each other every year. And the Pac 10 is tougher than you might think. USC is without question the creme de le creme of the Pac 10...but Cal, UCLA, Oregon and Oregon State are no slouches either. Arizona (under Mike Stoops) and Arizona State (under Dennis Erickson) are getting stronger every season...As a matter of fact, ASU could make things very difficult for the rest of the Pac 10 this season...thanks in large part to the hiring of Erickson as Head Coach. Fresno State and Oregon have developed into a nice rivalry. Boise State is a team I have nothing but the greatest respect for...and you are right, they deserve to be ranked higher than this pre-season poll would indicate. But if Boise State left the WAC, then who would be the power in the Western Athletic Conference?
posted on August 4, 2007 7:31 PM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
BlueGold95: I don't think that would work. If you had no players graduating or otherwise losing eligibility, it would be fine, but we know that's not the case. Some teams lose half their starters from year to year. If we had a decent playoff in 1-A, I wouldn't care about the early rankings.
Any thing to lessen the 'hype' in college football is fine with me. Play it out on the field.
Eye of the Tiger said:
posted on August 4, 2007 8:00 PM — 138.163.0.36 — link — abuse?
Can You Smell It!!! Football is definitely in the air again. Get ready!
Can't complain too much with the poll. First time in a while that I can remember the SEC not having at least three in the top ten, but I think it's about right.
SEMINOLE_NATION said:
posted on August 4, 2007 8:00 PM — 71.14.108.232 — link — abuse?
gatorhippy #37:
You'll see plenty of it when FSU makes a war path to the lovely town of Clemson, SC.
I'm not saying FSU is going to rack up 500 yards and 50 points obviously. However, you will see more creative play calling/strategy, discipline, toughness, better shape (there's already a great deal of proof of that in summer work outs), and confidence. The main thing that will be lacking in the first few games will be execution by the players - which is expected for a new offense. Even though the play probably won't be pretty, it will still be recognizable that the offense will improve. You won't see 3 and out series that go something like this: RB draw stuffed for a 6 inch gain, RB swing pass for 2 yard again, 30 yard incomplete jump ball to Greg Carr, & punt - and repeat on the next series.
The offense will at the very least be able to keep the defense guessing.
Once the execution improves (and it will) then the FSU offense will be very formidable come the end of the season.
USC National Champions Again said:
posted on August 5, 2007 12:59 AM — 75.82.92.28 — link — abuse?
The Real Top 25
#1 USC (Defense could be one of the best ever)
#2 Michigan(Henne&Hart make em contenders again)
#3 West Virginia(Dynamic duo & easy schedule)
#4 LSU(Very talented but new QB keeps from N.C)
#5 Florida(Key losses on D keep em out top 3)
#6 Texas(Possible BCS game its on Colt McCoy)
#7 Louisville(Brohm gave up NFL for a reason)
#8 Oklahoma(Strong D & Stoops gets em this high)
#9 Auburn(If Cox is healthy could be dangerous)
#10 California(Athletic as anyone in the country)
#11 Wisconsin(Very underrated could make noise)
#12 Ohio St.(Just to many losses on O 2 overcome)
#13 Va. Tech(Will be Americas team and win ACC)
#14 Nebraska(Should win Big 12 North)
#15 Rutgers(Run Ray Run)
#16 Tennesse(Could have big year depends on Ainge
#17 Boise St.(Could ride momentum of last year)
#18 Oregon(Extremly talented but must keep focus)
#19 Texas A&m(Could contend with the big boys)
#20 Oklahoma St.(Will have great QB WR duo)
#21 Clemson(Need to aviod second have melt down)
#22 UCLA(Will have good D but wont win Pac 10)
#23 Miami(Shannon will have them improved)
#24 Notre Dame(Will struggle w/out Quinn)
#25 Hawaii(High powered offense has them in top 25hokie_06 said:
posted on August 5, 2007 1:00 AM — 68.201.0.188 — link — abuse?
OU Fan:
i don't have the perspective that you have on OU football, i just know they are consistently a good team. who knows if their ranking at 8 is justified, but i definitely laughed out loud when i read this:
"So to sum it up once again, Oklahoma pretty much returns their whole entire team from last season."
minus one adrian peterson, of course. what was he, the #7 overall pick? he was "pretty much" ya'lls running game last season...so i'm gonna guess you're thinking the RB-by-committee OU will replace his production? how experienced are these RB's anyway?
like i said, don't know much about OU football, you guys may have a hell of a season, but i just had to point out that comment.
TrojanHorse said:
posted on August 5, 2007 7:59 AM — 75.75.86.11 — link — abuse?
OU, #34, I was saying that I didn't think that the poll would rate them that high and my thoughts were due to the QB issue; from my vantage point I thought that OU doesn't have a QB that they believe will lead them to a #8 ranking. From everything I've read none of these guys have taken charge, none seem to be the all world QB's or even at Paul Thompson's level. I think OU is in a situation where the QB can lose games (sort of like VT).. if I thought you guys had even a servicable QB I'd actually think you could run the table b/c as you say, the rest of the team seems pretty much awesome. I do think this is the one position that can really cost you a few games
soonerfanatic28 said:
posted on August 5, 2007 9:55 AM — 64.136.27.227 — link — abuse?
hokie_06 apparently you've forgoten AP... Allen Patrick yeah who do you think carried the load without AD? And MR.Murray #1 HS RB in nation can do some amazing things! Not to mention our strong O line will protect our QB whoever that will be. And our quarterback will have plenty of targets!!!
OU-Ron said:
posted on August 5, 2007 11:15 AM — 72.198.24.199 — link — abuse?
# 48 hokie-06
the unknown for OU is the QB, AD was out most of the season last year, the backup RB was Allen Patrick and did a great job, plus we have two more RB's in Brown and Murray that is probably as good as any RB in the country. Our coach will will choose the right QB---IN Stoops we trust.
GO SOONERSTomcat said:
posted on August 5, 2007 2:26 PM — 70.249.41.46 — link — abuse?
Right now at this point all teams including Duke and OU have 0 losses.Later on these stats will change.OU's schedule is very favorable with no Nebraska and A&M at home.The Sooners face Miami and travel to Tulsa early on and we will find out more about the team after these games.
Some of the Best QB-WR combos are going to face the Sooners D.
Texas McCoy to Sweed
Iowa State Meyer to Blythe
Ok State Reid to Bowman
Texas Tech Harrel to everybody
They also Face
Missouri 8-5
Texas A&M 9-4
Both of these teams have great running games
Not to let any wind out of yalls sails,But this pre-season ranking is very generous
Stoops is a great coach and leader but, he is not a miracle worker. With the two decent OCC opponents, their annual matchup in Dallas with UT and a trip to Lubbock the Sooners could end up a 3 or 4 loss team at best.
Miami, Texas Tech and Texas A&M's rankings should improve after playing OU
Hookem-HornsMc Duck said:
posted on August 5, 2007 3:02 PM — 63.230.172.173 — link — abuse?
USC-NC-Again (post#47) your poll appears more believable than the USA Today Coaches Poll...good of you to place Oregon at 18...(Phil Steele would agree with you there)...and yes, the biggest problem for the Ducks is not talent...they have loads of that...it is a lack of focus! The only placements I question are Louisville and Wisconsin (I would flipflop those two) and I would have inserted Oregon State in the 20 hole instead of Oklahoma State. Other than that it's a good poll!
OU-Ron said:
posted on August 5, 2007 3:22 PM — 72.198.24.199 — link — abuse?
Tomcat, Texas was a 3 loss team last year and you had McCoy and Sweed. The only reason Texas is ranked as high as they are is because you have a proven QB. I'm not saying OU is ranked too high or too low, I don't know. I also think Texas schedule looks pretty favorable with ARK ST--TCU--UCF--RICE. To me, it looks like OU has a tougher schedule than Texas. Who's to say, Texas may be ranked too high--time will tell.........
GO SOONERSCUTotalTiger said:
posted on August 5, 2007 11:17 PM — 68.59.7.45 — link — abuse?
Semi Nation.... There you go again.... and the rest of the Criminals.... you hire a new offensive coach and suddenly all is better.... Well i guess every offense you play will simply give up as well.... You had problems on both sides of the ball last year. Before you go winning the conference you better address things like a 7 point win over Troy, an 8 point win over Central Michigan and a thrashing by Wake.
Yes you should win this year.... but it has more to do with 14 starters and 61 letterman coming back....If you lose the opener your dreams will be shot.Cock'n'Fire South Carolina 101 said:
posted on August 5, 2007 11:23 PM — 70.63.74.52 — link — abuse?
no comments on south carolina? they may have gone 8-5 but the only loss that was by more than a touchdown was against georgia...i have no fucking clue what happened there anyway because seems like everytime we scored the officials tried to come up with some kind of penalty...but anyways i think this year spurrier will go further because ever since he came to sc its all been going uphill and we dont deserve a top 10 spot or nothin but i can see south carolina around 20-25
Cock'n'Fire South Carolina 101 said:
posted on August 5, 2007 11:28 PM — 70.63.74.52 — link — abuse?
also post #47 i just have to say clemson has no bussiness in the top 25...u need a quarterback to have a good football team which that is something they do not have...and their star gaines adams is out of the question
jessi said:
posted on August 6, 2007 12:08 AM — 74.211.44.55 — link — abuse?
McDuck#41. All I'm saying is the PAC 10 needs a 12 team quality conference. The reason us SEC fans dont like the teams over there is becuase 11 games and they are done. However if you go undefeated in the regular season in the SEC you have a chance to get knocked off by some powerhouse in the other division. It makes for great college football as well. Also some heartache seeing LSU do it twice to my Vols. As far as who will be the WAC powerhouse who cares. These teams dont join these conferences for a long time commitment, they all want to get better and get invited to a bigger conference. Louisville darn sure is not complaining after leaving C-USA and going to the BIG EAST. I believe the 3 teams before mentioned are ready for big time college football. What good does it do go 11-0 in the WAC and get invited to DOUBLE D TIRE BOWL when you could go 8-3 and possibly get a BCS bid playing in a big time conference.
Tomcat said:
posted on August 6, 2007 11:26 AM — 70.243.161.107 — link — abuse?
OU Ron This afterall is a pre-season poll and right now nobody really knows anything.The Horns start practice today and I'm sure Brown and his staff are ready to get to work after all the bad off the feild issues.I heard Coach Brown speak on the radio this morning.He has two former players kicked off the team, who are currently residing in Travis County Jail. He has also suspended two players who were arrested for DWI.
These two guys Melton & Kindle are also having to spend time with a woman who's child was crippled by a drunk driver.
These off the feild issues by five different guys had Coach Brown apoligizing on the Radio to the university and the public.The actions of these guys shed alot of negitive press upon the other 95 guys who have to earn their right to wear the white helmet.
Your right about last years Texas team having three losses.Oklahoma had three losses as well with one of those to Texas.
When comparing Schedules Texas will play against probably 5 top 25 teams.
TCU is a top 25 opponent with a top ten defense, they are coming off back to back 11 win seasons and have defeated four big XII opponents.Oklahoma---Dallas
Nebraska
Texas A&M-----College Station
XII champ-----Either Neb or Missu
Ok State and Texas Tech maybe top 25 on some polls, who knows, both teams won their bowl games and should be tough quality opponents.
Texas does not have an easy schedule at all.
Every game will be very important and you can never overlook K-State, Baylor, Iowa St or UCF.
Rice had a 7-6 season and has Chase Clement back at QB and Jarret Dillard at Wide Receiver.
The only real cupcake on UT's schedule would probably be Ark St, which is about the same as OU playing N-Tex.
Hookem-HornsMECU said:
posted on August 6, 2007 11:38 AM — 162.18.107.12 — link — abuse?
Spurrier should be banned for voting Duke #25. The poll should be open so we can see how all the coaches voted, so we can get rid of Spurrier type votes. How do we know if Bellotti didn't give Washington State a #25 to help out the conference? Coaches are biased since their votes affect their jobs and teams.
Fans should be allowed to vote. There's a new site trying to get a fan voting component as part of the BCS forumula where you can submit your top 25 poll: BCS Fan Poll
BayouBengal said:
posted on August 6, 2007 11:57 AM — 72.149.254.106 — link — abuse?
Sorry to tell all the haters out there, but LSU's Matt Flynn is more than ready to lead the Tigers to the NC!
He does not need to prove himself b/c he already did that by dismantling the Nations best deffense (Miami) in 2005
OU-Ron said:
posted on August 6, 2007 12:46 PM — 216.201.209.146 — link — abuse?
Tomcat, I give it up to Coach Brown for doing the right thing, just goes to show you that it’s not always the Coaches—University—or remaining players fault when a few bad eggs cause the problems, and you know what I’m referring to!.
Now back to the subject, games that Texas and OU play that aren’t in the Big 12
Texas
Ark St
TCU
UCF
RiceOU
N Tex
Miami
Utah St
TulsaNow what is it in the teams that Texas plays that makes them tougher that the teams that OU plays that would make you believe that OU has an easier schedule. Anyone else, give me your thoughts
wveersfan said:
posted on August 6, 2007 1:28 PM — 216.230.70.238 — link — abuse?
#7 Trojan Horse.......
Pre-season rankings only help you get to the top. Don't worry about WVU, we'll be there to play LSU for all the marbles.
You guys won't even win the P10. Booty is the worst returning starting QB in the top 25. very average for a Pete Carroll team.
Cock'n'Fire South Carolina 101 said:
posted on August 6, 2007 2:58 PM — 70.63.74.52 — link — abuse?
all of yall talking about how tough yalls schedule im just wondering...have you even looked at how tough south carolinas schedule is? playing # 2 # 3 # 13 # 15 # 20 and also the battle of the palmetto state against clemson...that isnt even close to an easy schedule...just think of how interesting this schedule will be
OU Fan said:
posted on August 6, 2007 4:33 PM — 84.146.58.240 — link — abuse?
Trojanhorse post 49, I understand what you're saying. And obviously being that OU has a new QB taking the snaps makes their chances really low of making it to New Orleans. Last season, OU had a new QB-the Sooners finished with 3 losses. Texas had a new QB-they had 3 losses. USC had a new QB-they had 2 losses. Now, we also both know that not all of those games were lost due to the QB's fault. I was just giving an opinion. Now, what does this mean about the mighty LSU Tigers?? No national championship and definately a 2 loss season. I know LSU fans, you're just ready to fire away at me. Its all for fun. BOOMER SOONER!
OU Fan said:
posted on August 6, 2007 4:35 PM — 84.146.58.240 — link — abuse?
Marko post #59, I couldn't agree with you more. The Gators lost way too many defensive starters. This season will be interesting. My opinion is that the Gators will be like Oklahoma State. An awesome offense, but a poor defense. BOOMER SOONER!
OU Fan said:
posted on August 6, 2007 4:47 PM — 84.146.58.240 — link — abuse?
hokie_06 post #48 and TrojanHorse post #49, I forgot to mention the running game. Peterson went out during the sixth game of last season. The game was against Iowa State. After that game, the Sooners won the next 7 games without Peterson. And even though more than one running back shared the load after the loss of Peterson i.e. mainly RB's Allen Patrick and Chris Brown, those RB's finished the season with more yards than Peterson. Now there is a new, young talented player by the name of DeMarco Murray. He played outstanding during the spring, so I guess we'll have to see how he does come game time. BOOMER SOONER!
OU Fan said:
posted on August 6, 2007 4:58 PM — 84.146.58.240 — link — abuse?
Tomcat post #52, you're right about the Big 12. There will be a ton of great Quarterbacks' and Wide Receivers. Keller, Daniel, McGee, Reid, and Harrel are all good QB's, and whats scary is 3 of them are in the Big 12 south. Now, I will say Colt McCoy is a good QB, and he proved that last season. However, after this season, he'll start to look more and more like Sims did against the Sooners. BOOMER SOONER!
gatorhippy said:
posted on August 6, 2007 5:24 PM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse?
OU Fan (#71):
Maybe read the posts above you next time...
Tune into #39 for my take on UF and their current ranking...
I'm just saying that great offense and not so great defense is more WVU than OSU...
OSU has not so great O & D...
OU Fan said:
posted on August 6, 2007 5:52 PM — 84.146.58.240 — link — abuse?
gatorhippy post 73, I usually don't read and haven't had the time lately to read every post. Usually, I read and respond to what catches my eye. I however did go back to read your post and do agree. I however disagree with you about the Oklahoma State. I don't like the Pokes being that their the Oklahoma's in state rival, but OSU I believe was in the top ten last season for total offense. Correct me if I'm wrong. BOOMER SOONER!
SEMINOLE_NATION said:
posted on August 6, 2007 7:36 PM — 71.14.108.232 — link — abuse?
CUTotalTiger #55:
Thanks for your concern but FSU will be fine. FSU has only had problems on ONE side of the ball. Offense. The FSU defense has remained stout and will be a force next year as well. Last year FSU's defense was full of freshmen and sophomores, over came very key injuries, and was in the top 20 nationally. Trust me, the defense will be ready with everyone healthy and with a year more experience.
We're pretty confident and the offense has down well so far in the off-season.
Again, thanks for the concern from Tiger Town but we'll be fine.
:-)
BlueGold95 said:
posted on August 6, 2007 8:04 PM — 24.7.238.54 — link — abuse?
jessi #58 -- my two cents, and I'm not a Pac Ten fan: the SEC and other 12-team conferences CHOOSE to play title games because of the money. I think that the main reason it's tough to play in a conference is that you're pretty much guaranteed that some teams will have strong seasons while others are down, and you'll have to play all of them. While that's true in the Pac Ten, it's not true in the Big Ten or 12-team conferences. Thus, the "powerhouse in the other division" would have already appeared on the regular-season schedule in the Pac Ten. I think conference title games have been bad for college football, and I think every team in a conference should play every other team. Just my opinion.
TrojanHorse said:
posted on August 6, 2007 9:31 PM — 208.54.35.229 — link — abuse?
OU fan, I can't recall all of your or UT's losses but I know that the two SC losses were due to QB play..
Oregon state had some bad special teams play and some bad picks by JDB as well as the batted down 2 pt conversion attempt
UCLA, well JDB was lousy as was the run game or the entire offense..
UT, losing Colt McCoy sure must have hurt the horns in a couple of their losses.. I think the OSU game, they just got beat plain and simple..
as for you guys.. I can't blame your QB for the bowl game, I don't recall how you lost the RRS and the 3rd loss well you can thank our wonderful P10 refs
CUTotalTiger said:
posted on August 6, 2007 11:48 PM — 68.59.7.45 — link — abuse?
Cock and misfire........ i promoise you there is not conspiracy by SEC officals to cost you games.... of course you and your featherd friends have been complaining about that since Holtz put into your minds.... But with what you have coming back this year you should do quite well and deserving of a top 20 nod. This is the year for you to shine.....
Semi Nation.... i just get tired of hearing how good you are going to be good becasue of new OC.
posted on August 7, 2007 4:59 PM — link — abuse?
I'd love to do the Fanblogs XIV again. I'll talk with the programming gurus and see if we can get a totally open system for every fan.
SEMINOLE_NATION said:
posted on August 7, 2007 6:16 PM — 71.14.108.232 — link — abuse?
CUTotalTiger #78:
I can understand that. As Seminole fans we have experienced something the past six years we haven't experienced in decades - mediocrity. I'll just say, I have a new found respect for fans of "middle of the road" programs because frankly, the past 6 years have been miserable. Has FSU been spoiled and blessed for a long time? Yes. Does it suck to experience such a rapid and drastic decent back to planet earth? Yes, especially when you have no airbag.
Is Seminole Nation excited about the changes? Of course so people are talking about them.
Assistant coaches are equally a important (probably even MORE important) then the HC. Why? Because it's the assistant coaches working and teaching the players on a more personal and 1-on-1 basis for the most part. The assistant coaches we have no are looking great.
Sorry if you're tired of hearing about it but, that's inevitable when a major program makes major changes. You think this is bad? Wait until Bobby retires lol.
Anyway, I find it humorous fans of a few ACC schools are trying to downplay the changes. Best of luck come Labor Day.
:-)
Cock'n'Fire South Carolina 101 said:
posted on August 7, 2007 6:34 PM — 96.10.98.113 — link — abuse?
i am beyond confusion now...i cant tell if post 78 was a positive or negative post against my gamecocks? cock and misfire sounded like a negative greeting but that rest didnt sound too negative...but i do agree this is our yeer to shine...spurier said last year 2007 would be our yeer and said he wasnt ready last yeer but now he is and even though we are without sidney rice who probably would be winning a heisman soon considering he was a rising sophomore...we still have the potential to win the sec and who knows maybe spurrier has what it takes to go all the way to a NC
CUTotalTiger said:
posted on August 7, 2007 8:37 PM — 68.59.7.45 — link — abuse?
Semi-Nation....
Totally understand the importance of assistance coaches.... i wish we had the money to maintain the ones that got away from us. But you are implying that a new coach is the answer to all of your problems.... .Simply not true. Other teams and their athletes were your main problem. This is the first year in the last four that i feel we do not match up well with you. If you could turn it over 4 or 5 times we have a chance.Cock'n'Fire South Carolina 101 said:
posted on August 8, 2007 2:49 PM — 96.10.98.113 — link — abuse?
ENOUGH MR TOTAL TIGER
im bad when it comes to sarcasm so i cant really understand what ur trying to say...alls i know is im gonna be there to support my gamecocks i got tickets to all the games but 4 and those four ill be watching on tv...and im goin to baton rouge this year and im not coming home in dissapointment...theres a kazillion tiger schools but my best guess is that ur a clemson fan so what are they gonna do to stop us...miss feild goals?
U. OF S.C. 1978 said:
posted on August 8, 2007 5:18 PM — 97.82.188.250 — link — abuse?
Ok TampaHurricane you said, "They need to take away Spurrier's voting rights. These preseason polls can never be taken seriously when there are idiots voting for terrible teams."
Let's assume you are correct and Mr. Spurrier did vote for Duke. That doesn't make him an idiot, it does demonstrate that he has a strong sense of loyalty. I like that.SEMINOLE_NATION said:
posted on August 8, 2007 7:45 PM — 71.14.108.232 — link — abuse?
CUTotalTiger #83:
I'm not saying the new coaches are miracle workers. I'm just saying FSU still has elite talent - it just wasn't developed in the past (by the former assistant coaches). So production in games was miserable - hence we lost - a lot. Why do I think FSU still has talent? Just look at the NFL draft the past couple years.
Will the coaches fix everything? No, not instantly. Will they hurt the team even more then the previous coaches? 99.99% sure they won't. Will they improve the team? 99.99% sure they WILL.
CuToalTiger said:
posted on August 8, 2007 10:24 PM — 68.59.7.45 — link — abuse?
Cock n Misfire...
no sarcasn.... i hate USC/Columbia and i think Williams Brice Industrial Complex is a joke. What, you come running out the the theme song of Lincoln/Mercury.... but you may be too young to rembember that.
i will take one loss out of five.... And not sweet Lou with his two national titles or the OBC with his one are going to change that.
so Go Dawgs... ruf ruf rufsoonerfanatic28 said:
posted on August 9, 2007 3:31 PM — 64.136.49.227 — link — abuse?
OU Fan 67-74 lol...you sure had a lot to say,but to the point I totally agree with every post. To all the texass,USC,and MIAMI fans who doubt us sept.1 and 8 thats all I gotta say.BTW Gatorhippy OU fan is absolutely correct your defense will be a weak part in your game and u sure won't make a national championship and for that reason SEC championship with a (subpar) defense
sooner for lifeBleed Crimson said:
posted on August 9, 2007 5:29 PM — 74.230.29.72 — link — abuse?
JUST WANTED TO GLOAT A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE CURRENT RECRUITING SITUATION AT RIVALS.COM
Alabama #9
LSU #14
Arkansas #15
Ole Miss #22
MISSISSIPPI STATE #38
AUBURN #42!!!!
war eagle??? HAHAHAHAHAHAHAthe barn couldnt buy a commitment from alabama right now. they do have one however, but hes rated at zero stars hahaa.
look whos comin back up in the west!!!!!
GO NICK SABAN GO!!!
GO CROOM GO!!! hahaCUTotalTiger said:
posted on August 10, 2007 12:27 AM — 68.59.7.45 — link — abuse?
Semi-Nation
Look for us to spread the field out and force you to try to cover all the speed guys one on one. We can not drop back and pass. perhaps next year we will be able to do that. I suspect you will see a lot of bubble screens, swing passes and slants. Look for Spiller, Ford and Taylor in quick hitting plays.
on the other side i think our only prayer is to use our two corners, to lock you down and force the run. We have the secondary to to that this year. We did not last year.Cock'n'Fire South Carolina 101 said:
posted on August 10, 2007 1:07 AM — 96.10.98.113 — link — abuse?
to post 92
AMEN
to post 88
im not too young to remember holtz and i certainly am not to young to remember football games...i respect holtz but i dont think he was as good as we could get...why would i be talking on here if i dont go to football games anyway?...i may be just a teenager but im not stupid...also williams brice has wonderful facalities...and within the next few years is expected to be built bigger to seat around 88,000 but ill only need 4 of those anyway
SEMINOLE_NATION said:
posted on August 10, 2007 9:58 AM — 71.14.108.232 — link — abuse?
Last year (at the beginning of the year at least) Clemson had just enough of a passing to keep defenses off balance. Plus, they had a SR at QB who didn't make many mistakes and managed the game well.
Also, if you look at the FSU defense last year, there were many key injuries - particularly to the DL. FSU struggled stopping the run of Clemson last year at times.
This year FSU will have one of the top 3 DL's in the nation with everyone healthy. The DL goes 3 deep this year with not much separation between 1st string and 3rd. This will be a very, very strong defensive unit for the Noles and their specialty will be stopping the run with that dominant DL and fast LBs.
Clemson's running game will be a force this year and they'll get their yards. However, unless Clemson can throw the ball around to keep FSU from stacking the box, it'll be tough for Clemson to move the ball. Fortunately for FSU, every single starter in the secondary returns from last year. The secondary also goes 2-3 deep so it'll be tough for Clemson to establish a consistent passing game - especially if Willy Korn starts as a true freshmen his very first game.
SEMINOLE_NATION said:
posted on August 10, 2007 10:25 AM — 71.14.108.232 — link — abuse?
Well my friend, you've seen it. I don't recall in recent memory seeing an FSU defense being a pushover or soft defense. I only seem to remember the FSU defense pumping guys into the NFL like none other the past couple years.
:-)
gatorhippy said:
posted on August 10, 2007 10:36 AM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse?
Semi_Nat (#96):
Wake 33 FSU 0...
There sure wasn't much Nole defense in that one...
Looking at the rest of the games, the Nole defense looked plenty pourous against teams like BC, Maryland, Clemson in losses...
But even in wins...
Duke hung 24 points on the Noles D...
W. Mich. broke twenty...
Even UCLA slapped down 27...
Defense just hasn't been there to support the struggling O...
I do hope it comes together for FSU...
Well, ok...
Actually I don't...
;-]
SEMINOLE_NATION said:
posted on August 10, 2007 10:59 AM — 71.14.108.232 — link — abuse?
The entire team quit in the WF game. Everyone, the team showed no heart and they laid down to die.
Although, I loved every moment of the WF game in a twisted way last year. I knew after that game JB would get the boot and, the following Tuesday he resigned. Best thing to happen to FSU football in a long time. We take heat for that loss but it was a blessing in disguise. That's another discussion though.
"Defense just hasn't been there to support the struggling O..."
Listen, there's only so much a defense can do when they're on the field all day. If anything, the offense needed to support the defense more by staying on the field and not going 3 and out every other possession. That tired a defense, demoralizes a defense, and puts a ton of pressure on the defense - not just to stop the other team but, to actually SCORE.
Also, it's important to note the injuries, but more so the youth. In fact, FSU didn't have a single upper class men in the secondary last year. You couple youth, exhaustion, and the other factors the FSU defense had to endure - teams are going to score on you.
However, the bottom line is simple.
Despite everything either one of us has said...
FSU was 18th in total defense last year. While it's not at the best on earth, it's certainly nothing to scoff at. I'm just glad everyone is coming back healthy and we didn't lose a lot of guys from last year.
gatorhippy said:
posted on August 10, 2007 1:14 PM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse?
Semi_Nat (#98):
The unfortunate part is that at this point all reports I have seen are indicating that the FSU QB situation is still wide open with the freshman coming on in the mix...
I believe it was just two days ago that Jimbo banished both Wetherford and Lee to the lockeroom in the middle of practice because both looked so bad...
If that's any indication of what's going on, it could be another LONG season for the Nole defense by your description...
SEMINOLE_NATION said:
posted on August 10, 2007 1:35 PM — 71.14.108.232 — link — abuse?
Christian Ponder is really pushing for the starting QB spot. He's been very consistent and has grasped Fisher's game plan well.
As far as XL and DW, they're doing OK. Fisher hasn't "banished XL & DW to the locker room" but he has allowed Ponder to take quite a few reps with the 1st team offense. Right now it seems DW and XL are trying to press but Ponder has just played consistent, smart football.
All 3 QBs have made big plays in Fall Camp and in 7-on-7 drills the offense has actually unleashed an aerial assault on the defense.
Right now, XL & DW are still the top two guys but Ponder is pushing them. I think it's motivating both XL & DW to improve.
I've never known competition at the QB position to be a bad thing.
gatorhippy said:
posted on August 10, 2007 1:43 PM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse?
Semi_NAt (#100):
My bad, it wasn' to the LR...
Jimbo just booted them from his drill...
http://tallahassee.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070809/FSU03/708090362/1026
I can se Fisher out there now...
"You two dumb @$$ M*ddrF@kers..."
"Get the eff outta my drill..."
Where's that GD smart kid freshman?!?!? Get his @$$ in here now?!?!?!"
;-}
gatorstud said:
posted on August 10, 2007 1:47 PM — 69.95.111.248 — link — abuse?
i will just say this.....the only way a gator fan can think that the seminoles are sparce on defense is if this gator fan has never lived in florida.....if your a floridian and a gator, seminole, or hurricane fan...you just know how it is in florida reguarding defense....the big three in the state of florida has ALWAYS had good defenses....no matter what....the reason the seminole defense looked flat the last couple of years is because of the sputtering offenses....you can't blame the defense for giving up a t-down just after it was taken away from the offense....once jumbo has a leader at quarteback and can get the o-line to come together..the seminole will be a tough team again....
jmho
go gators....and hokies
gatorhippy said:
posted on August 10, 2007 1:49 PM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse?
G-Stud (#102):
Easy...
UF's defense ain't gonna be pretty this year...
However, Major Wright is starting to look like the second coming of Reggie "Freakin'" Nelson...
Did you see the clip of the POW he laid down on Chris "Waterbug" Rainey?
SEMINOLE_NATION said:
posted on August 10, 2007 1:51 PM — 71.14.108.232 — link — abuse?
LOL
Yeah, I can see Fisher doing that too. Wow, that's perfect lol.
Yeah I read that article. I'm pleased with what Fisher's doing - he won't tolerate mistakes, especially stupid ones. I don't think we've had that mental toughness from QBs since Richt left. Poor Chris Rix was a damn head job.
Personally, I don't care what QB starts. It could be a redshirt freshmen or redshirt Jr, as long as they move the ball down field and play consistent football and make wise choices. If they give the team a chance to win - I'm all for it.
May the best PERFORMER win.
I've heard mixed emotions on how Tebow is doing in fall camp. Some say he's struggling, some say he's fine - I personally don't have a clue. I was wondering if you could provide some insider insight on Tebow?
SEMINOLE_NATION said:
posted on August 10, 2007 1:55 PM — 71.14.108.232 — link — abuse?
I think the UF defense will be more stout then people give them credit for.
UF has a TON of talent. Plus, I think a lot of UF's defensive players got a fair amount of playing time last year in spot duty.
I think last year OSU replaced 10 guys on defense and they did pretty well - until the NC game.
UF's defense may surprise some people this year.
CUTotalTiger said:
posted on August 10, 2007 9:11 PM — 68.59.7.45 — link — abuse?
Cock n Misfire,
if you thing the Industiral Complex is a wonderful facility then you have never been to the hedges in Athens, travled to Death Valley in Clemson, made a trip to the Doak, been to Jordan-Hair Stadium, travelled to Kyle Field, been to see Tiger Stadium on a Saturday night, or to Chapel Hill, made a trip to Newland Stadium. I do not care if you are 80 or 18, Williams Brice Industrial Comples is a joke... and your own coach knows it.. why else we he demand upgrades and pledge so much money?
CUTotalTiger said:
posted on August 10, 2007 9:20 PM — 68.59.7.45 — link — abuse?
Semi Nation,
if you stop the Clemson running attack you will beat us by 20 points... i do not care if you are two deep or three deep.. JIMBO, your saviour, does not coach the defense. I have told you before other teams are not going to lay day and die because, the OC, who won the conference title in 2005, was fired.
you should have a good season this year. But what happens if you finish 8-4, losing to the Gators and do not win the Division? Are you going to hang JIMBO or Bobby? What if you lose to Miami, Va. Tech, Maryland and Florida? Is that acceptable.
What is acceptable? You have 61 letterman coming back and 14 starters!!!! Heck i could coach that to 8 wins.SEMINOLE_NATION said:
posted on August 10, 2007 10:45 PM — 71.14.108.232 — link — abuse?
My personal prediction is 9-3, I think 8-4 or 10-2 is possible. The FSU schedule is year is simply brutal (2nd toughest according to ESPN, 3rd according to Rivals) - we only play FIVE games @ Doak. We travel to: Colorado, Clemson, BC, VT, & UF - not an easy thing to do.
As I've said, the new coaches aren't saviors and this is only their first year trying to install their system. I think the team will be much improved even though it may not reflect as much in their win/loss column.
I personally won't be "blaming" anyone if we lose 3-4 games this year. However, I think 2008 will set up to be a monster year for FSU. In 2008 I think it'd be reasonable to expect two loses - tops. As of right now, 9-3 would be a very successful season with our schedule.
Gatorboy 40 said:
posted on August 11, 2007 4:08 AM — 220.150.40.19 — link — abuse?
SEMINOLE_NATION 107. I think Gator D will be ok, not as good as last year but ok. Been saying this all along, They have played some games.
I also feel that UM, and Fl-ST will go back to owning the ACC. Either team lacks talent, not even last year. UM had a serious discipline problem, and the Noles could'nt find themselves, along with some serious poor calls in the coaching area. But never short on overall talent. Truely believe UM is a real sleeper this year.
PopsMich said:
posted on August 11, 2007 12:33 PM — 71.77.24.80 — link — abuse?
Was in Vegas this week. One thing that won't stay there from the trip is these odds at the "house" I stayed at.
USC 12/5
Michigan 4/1
LSU 6/1
Florida 7/1
West Virginia 8/1
Texas 10/1
Wisconsin 12/1
Oklahoma 15/1
Louisville 15/1Everyone else is at 20/1 or higher.
CUTotalTiger said:
posted on August 11, 2007 3:57 PM — 68.59.7.45 — link — abuse?
Gatorboy 40
Miami is not going to own anybody... they have NEVER owned the ACC. They do not have an ACC title and have not even gotten to the championship game! The winning percentage for the Canes in ACC play is 58%.
They have a new head coach, without question the worst facilites in college football, and a program that is sprialing down.
If the Canes can turn it around this year with 8 wins, and they should...(they play Duke, Marshal, Florida Int., UNC and Virginia.) then perhaps they can look to a conference title in 2009. This year they return 16 starters and 61 letterman. But this players are 9-7 in conference play the last two years. So what do you really have?CUTotalTiger said:
posted on August 11, 2007 4:09 PM — 68.59.7.45 — link — abuse?
SemiNation,
8 wins would be good! But would the average fan accept that? JIMBO has so much hype that if the NOLES get 8 wins, is that enough? Clemson fans are the worst when it comes to being satisfied. We had an 8 win season and that is not enough.
2008, if we leave Tommy alone is going to be a monster year for Clemson as well. On defense we return 18 players on the 2 deep roster. On offense, the receivers, we have Ford, Taylor, Kelly, Grisham, Dye, Robinson and Palmer back in 2008. The running backs both Davis and Spiller are back in 2008 and the qb... do not know who will start this year but they will all be back in 2008. The kickers and punters will all be back in 2008.
the o-line, we had 4 seniors starting in 2006 and have 3 starting in 2007. so this could be an area of concern. We only return 5 on the two deep depth chart here.
The game at the Doak in 2008 could be A LOT OF FUNCock'n'Fire South Carolina 101 said:
posted on August 11, 2007 4:13 PM — 96.10.98.113 — link — abuse?
total(hehe sounds like cereal) tiger:
to go to away games you have to have alot of money...its hard enough to get enough money for all the home games...however ive been to the vols stadium and that place was HUGE i have to admit...in fact i went in 2003 and the gamecocks lost in overtime but even though the stadium was huge the seats we sat in didnt have backs on them and there was so little space for each seat we were crammed in unlike williams brice...and last yeer the 2006 south carolina/florida game i have to say that stadium was incredible...although we lost i had a great time but they were so loud all i could hear for the next day was "ORANGE" "BLUE" "ORANGE" "BLUE" and in 2005 i went to the independence bowl and that stadium is what you would say is a joke very small...and as for 2006 liberty bowl i say that stadium was ok but not as good as williams brice...and ill get back to you after sept 22 when i get back from baton rouge...so yeh i have seen some great stadiums
PeNNstateTEEN said:
posted on August 11, 2007 6:49 PM — 74.135.145.70 — link — abuse?
hey its pretty fair this year lets see how longer this plays out.
im glad to see PENN STATE at #18 but i honestly think they should have been atleast #12 you have to remember the quarterback anthony morellie is now a seasoned senior along with some great down field targets and play makers in Derrick williams, deon butler, and jordan norwood. i dont see why they couldnt take the big ten title and into a BCS bowl game. . . and lets not start on there deffense
gatorhippy said:
posted on August 11, 2007 8:24 PM — 70.121.185.56 — link — abuse?
Actually, Doak is a horrible stadium...
Small concourses, insufficient bathrooms and concessions, cramped seating...
However, the brick facade was a good addition to cover up the Erector Set look it had before...
But that's all it was...
A coverup; no real renovation was done...
You can build gold walls around an outdoor toilet...
It's still an outhouse...
Ron Zook field is real nice, though...
;-}
Zac said:
posted on August 12, 2007 12:16 AM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
Pre-season polls are like opinions: Everybody's got one. As most of you've aluded to, they don't mean a thing; it's the final poll in any given season that counts. It's all the speculating, the guessing, the predicting, and yes, even the updated polls that keep us coming back for more.
Take FL for instance. Few (Many are FL fans.) are giving them a shot at repeating, what with all the losses on "D" and a new QB. Odd thing: Last season, OSU replaced 7 starters on "D" and went all the way to the NC game. Now, they did have a veterine offense, not to mention the Heissman winner. However, if Tebow hits his stride, he won't be the 1st new QB to take his team to great hights.
Take FL St: They're coming off a bad year, but ended on a solid note. They got new coaches but wouldn't be the 1st team to do well following such a major coaching change.
Take LSU: This one surprises me. What is it with some people regarding Matt Flynn? He's proven himself in a big game; he's proven himself as an able back-up; he's a senior and has spent a lot of time with the Tiger "O"; he knows it front to back. Will somebody please explain to me why he won't be successful.
Now, on to WVU and that "weak" schedule, one that was recently rated in the top 25. I guess if you don't have a top 10 schedule, you're not playing anybody, but since the USC guys brought it up, twice (posts 7 & 47), let's talk about it.
W MI - Bowl team, 8-5, 16 starters return.
@Marshall - 15 starters return; WVU is the visitor for the 1st time in both schools' histories, an emotional rivalry.
@MD - 5 days later, bowl team, 9-4, 13 starters return.
ECU - Bowl team, 7-6, 12 starters return; more often than not, gives WVU fits.
@S FL - 6 days later, bowl team, 9-4, 16 starters return including Matt Grohe, last season's top freshman QB in all of college football; upset WVU in Morgantown.
@Syracuse - a team considered to be part of the reason Washington has one of the top 10 toughest schedules. I don't expect them to be at the bottom of the B.E. like many predicted.
MS St - OK, you got me there.
@Rutgers - Bowl team, 11-2, 13 starters return including Heissman candidate, Ray Rice; they were arguably a dropped pass in the endzone away from defeating WVU in Morgantown last season.
Louisville - BCS bowl team, 12-1, reigning B.E. Champ, 12 starters return including Heissman candidate, Brian Brohm (arguably the best QB this coming season), not to mention his 2 favorite targets in Douglas & Urrutia.
@Cincy - Bowl team, 8-5, 15 starters return; Rutgers lost there.
UConn - In case you were wondering, this is what an easy schedule looks like; well, the 1st half anyway.
Pitt - The longest existing rivalry in WVU football history. This is the B.E. version of FL/FL St, MI/OSU, OK/TX, UCLA/USC, et. al.
So, there you have it: 7 Bowl teams, a key game on 5 days rest, another on 6 days rest, no Div-2 oponents, only 6 home games; with the exception of Louisville & arguably Pitt, the toughest games are away.
If WVU gets through this schedule unscathed, they're ranked too low. I'm guessing another 11-2 season, a bowl victory, and a #10 ranking. Now, what's wrong with that?
husker Dennis said:
posted on August 12, 2007 5:14 PM — 70.59.171.246 — link — abuse?
I Feel that the polls should carry over it dosen't seem fair you work your way up say from, about #20, to #8 then neax year get pushed back to #20 or21 and have to wait till everyove in front of you to lose and run out of season again as long as its pre season why not carry over it will evently work it's self out. cream always rises to the top. go big red
soonerfanatic28 said:
posted on August 12, 2007 9:02 PM — 64.136.49.227 — link — abuse?
zac#120 WVU and PITT Big East version of MICHIGAN/OSU, OU/TEX...? not quite. Apparently you have'nt seen 2 many ou texas games. WVU-PITT I'm guessing 28-10 WVU. Michigan-OSU 27-20 Michigan. OU-texas 31-28 OU...(probably) a lot closer than WVU-PITT.
State2003 said:
posted on August 13, 2007 12:00 PM — 71.170.157.252 — link — abuse?
To all the 0U fans (that's a zero Oklahoma people), figure out your quarterback situation before you post your rediculous predictions.
Watch out for Penn State this year. Could finish at the top of the Big Ten this year with all the first year quarterbacks in the conference!
Go Lions!!Sooner Since 55 said:
posted on August 13, 2007 1:23 PM — 69.152.221.91 — link — abuse?
Oklahoma made a mistake by scheduling Miami,if we had to play them I would rather it had been in a bowl game at the end of the year. By that time our quarterback would have been up to the task. We won't win the Big 12 South because of that very reason. Being a sooner fan since 1955 has taught me to be realistic. My prediction for this year, 8-4, maybe 9-3 at best.
Zac said:
posted on August 13, 2007 11:36 PM — 64.12.116.136 — link — abuse?
soonerfanatic28, sadly, your correct. I haven't seen every matchup between OK & TX, mores the pitty. Clearly, you've missed a couple of the Pitt/WVU games as well. Had you seen them, you just might recant the "not quite" attitude. Even if you kept it, you'd have to be pleased`with the entertainment, not to mention be currious over the following season's outcome.
Consider the game scores over the past 5 years (beguins with most recent):
WVU/Pitt: 45/27, 45/13, 13/16, 52/31, 24/17
OK/TX: 10/28, 12/45, 12/0, 65/13, 35/24
Other than WVU having won 1 more game in their series with Pitt in the past 5 years, there really isn't all that much difference. Pitt led at the half last year; came back to take the lead late 3 seasons ago, was tied at the half 4 season ago, and led at the half 5 seasons ago. The only 2 games in the OK/TX series that were at all exiting in the past 5 years occurred 3 & 5 years ago. The others weren't all that competative. Now, I know for a fact there have been some epic, down right classic, match-ups between OK & TX over the years. If you take the time to look, you'll see similar results between Pitt & WVU. By the way, Pitt still leads the series by a bunch. But worry not; WVU will catch up.
soonerfanatic28 said:
posted on August 14, 2007 2:15 PM — 64.136.49.227 — link — abuse?
State2003 PENN STATE?...ranked #18 If you didn't notice.And OU is #8. As far as finding a QB, a WR came in and won the BIG XII. So to be talking smack to the sooner fans you should at least be in the top 10.
Not to worry we have 3 awesome QB's competing we'll have our QB.
AP and Demarco Murray will definately take the pressure off of whoever it will be.Not to mention our OL and WR core will be one of the best in the nation so just sit down and shut up. btw you won't win the big ten because Michigan will dominate P state.And SOONER SINCE 55 you've been around a lot longer than I have,but 9-3 ain't happening! I'M sayin 13-1 big XII champs we're not losing to Miami!!!
M GO BLUE said:
posted on August 14, 2007 9:49 PM — 216.46.213.227 — link — abuse?
Penn State taking the Big Ten........Let me remind all 2 of you Penn State fans that Michigan is 8-0 in our last 8 games vs Penn State, and lets not talk about the Michigan D that stomped the heck out of three yes three Penn State QB's........And let's not talk about our fourth year starter at QB and RB.
You want to set some lofty goals.......try not getting embarressed by Notre Dame this year.
Go Blue.......UofM THE ONLY BLUE
D-man said:
posted on August 16, 2007 5:17 PM — 63.237.133.200 — link — abuse?
The Big Ten Sucks! By Far The most over-rated conference in football. Hey Regan...You enjoyed last football season? It was one of the most boring seasons in years...The most enjoyable part of the season was watching Ohio State get embarrassed by a far better footballteam in the Gators, after listening to you ridiculous brain washed Big Ten fans talk about how they didnt deserve to be there with 1 loss, Michigan did. By the way...How'd Michigan do in their Bowl game?? Im from central PA, surrounded by idiots who actually believe that PSU has a chance to win it all this year(and every year for that matter). I love REAL college Football(SEC, ACC)Thank god for direct TV !
Regan said:
posted on August 20, 2007 8:07 PM — 64.12.116.136 — link — abuse?
D-man (#134):
LOL, you are absolutely hilarious.
Seriously - but where on earth did you get the impression I was a Big Ten fan?
My Teams are: Clemson, Tennessee, and Miami (FL). I have lived in the state of South Carolina all 29 years of my life and bleed three shades of orange every Saturday, every Autumn.
All I was saying about last year was that I liked there not being any massively dominant teams and the race being wide open.
If you like everything being predetermined before the first snap, and 1-2 teams with enough overhype to choke a camel, more power to ya :-)
Please note that all comments are subject to the Fanblogs Comment Policy.
c-dogg said:
posted on August 3, 2007 4:30 PM — 76.188.187.195 — link — abuse?Fortunately for Miami....we can climb the polls by picking off #8,#9,#21,#25.
This poll reminds me of about 8 yrs ago when Miami was unranked with Butch Davis doing the rebuilding. Then we played the Hurricane makeup game against undefeated UCLA. The rest was history. That game set up THE U for a great run. I fully expect the same this year.
Go Canes!!......(In 2008 ;o)