November 26, 2006
BCS Guessing Game
OK everybody, here's your chance to guess the BCS game selections. I'm not talking about what you would *like* to see, but rather what you think you *will* see for the BCS lineup. I'll get the ball rolling:
BCS Title Game: Ohio State vs Southern Cal
The Buckeys are the lock for the #1 spot in the polls, regardless of what anyone else does/says. They are the consensus #1 team. Southern Cal is the current number 2, and --assuming they don't overlook UCLA-- look to be a lock for the championship game. If USC falters, they would still be the Pac10 BCS rep and would fall to the Rose Bowl.
Rose Bowl: Michigan vs. LSU
By virtue of losing both its teams to the national championship game, the Rose gets two picks up front. Picking Michigan seems like a no-brainer, as UM fans will travel, provide good ratings and ensure a closer-to-traditional feel to the game. Whom the Wolverines will play is really the question. The nation suffered through one Michigan - Notre Dame game, so you have to think that the Irish - despite their ability to draw ratings & tickets - will not be invited to the Rose. I submit that the Rose does not want to take its chances with Louisville's travel history and low TV audience relative to some other available options. The "best" choice would be an at large SEC team, such as LSU, that will travel and would draw substantial ratings. Of course, Florida could also be a sexy at-large pick if the Gators tank in the SEC title game.
Sugar Bowl: Florida vs Notre Dame
As SEC champ (presumably), the Gators get the Sugar Bowl. If Notre Dame is available, the Sugar will take Notre Dame. A Florida - UND matchup is interesting and should ensure good ratings and ticket sales for the Sugar.
Orange Bowl: Georgia Tech vs Louisville
The Orange gets the ACC champ no questions asked, so it's a matter of whom to pair them with. I can't imagine the Orange Bowl not taking the Big East champ over an at large team. Boise State is an automatic qualifier for the BCS, so the Orange will have to choose between Louisville/Rutgers and Boise State. They choose the Cardinals every day and twice on Sundays.
Fiesta Bowl: Oklahoma vs Boise State
It's as if the Fiesta drew the short straw. They get the Big XII champ, presumably OU, and whatever's left - in this case the automatic qualifier Boise State. An Oklahoma - Boise State matchup appeals to forty thousand people in Idaho and about four dozen die-hard Sooner fans, but... there ya go, as they say in Oklahoma. The only way things get worse for the Fiesta would be if Nebraska beat Oklahoma. (I'm kidding, Husker fans!!) (OK, no I'm not. No one really wants to watch Nebraksa - Boise State... ever.)
What's your take?? What are your guesses at the BCS games??
Comments:
posted on November 26, 2006 8:47 PM — link — abuse?Kevin Donahue said:
You could be right, J Thomas. I guess we'll find out soon enough, huh? So... what are your projections?
Luke said:
posted on November 26, 2006 8:56 PM — 24.250.217.142 — link — abuse?
I know one thing. Florida is certainly better than Notre Dame. Notre Dame's been blown out twice this season, once in a home game. They shouldn't even been given a BCS invite. Beat a ranked team and then people will give ND more respect.
J Thomas said:
posted on November 26, 2006 9:29 PM — 70.178.147.205 — link — abuse?
Well I like your projections except for the Florida in the Sugar Bowl. If they get beat I think they will be out of the BCS altogether. And while LSU is flexing its muscles late in the year I don't know if the late push will be strong enough to jump FLorida in the polls. Although I am biased, the Hogs are pissed and will take revenge on the Gators, as long as the coaches pull their heads out of there asses and use the weapons they have(Darren & Felix).
Rich in LA said:
posted on November 26, 2006 9:53 PM — 72.207.224.49 — link — abuse?
Even if Arkansas wins the SEC championship game, it still will not leap LSU and Florida will fall below LSU. The only way Arkansas or Florida will go to a BCS Bowl will be to win the SEC championship. LSU is almost guaranteed to go to the Rose or Orange Bowl.
posted on November 26, 2006 10:18 PM — link — abuse?
Rich - You're pretty much stating the obvious there, bro. Either Florida or Arkansas WILL go to a BCS bowl because they won the SEC. The only question in the SEC is a) will they get two teams in and b) who is the second team?
I don't think a the SEC champ loser gets in, so it's Florida/Arkansas winner and LSU. I'm not saying the SEC deserves two slots, but who else are you going to put in? They Big 10 is tapped with two teams in (sucks to be 11-1 Wisconsin). And then as you go down the list, you have to go a long way to find someone else to put in. I don't think you get as far as putting Rutgers or VaTech in the BCS ahead of LSU.
Aaron said:
posted on November 26, 2006 10:34 PM — 67.183.239.139 — link — abuse?
BCS Title Game: Ohio State vs. USC
Rose Bowl: Michigan vs. LSU
Sugar Bowl: Arkansas vs. Notre Dame
Orange Bowl: Wake Forest vs. Rutgers
Fiesta Bowl: Oklahoma vs. Boise StateOhio State vs. USC is a toss-up and will go down to the wire. I say it's too close to call. LSU will defeat Michigan and the media will claim Michigan just wasn't focused because they should have been in a title game rematch. Arkansas will run Notre Dame out of Louisiana and still be called "lucky." Rutgers will beat Wake Forest in a close and entertaining game, then their coach will be offered millions to come to Miami. Boise State will upset Oklahoma and fuel the "we deserved a shot" talk.
GatorMatt said:
posted on November 26, 2006 10:35 PM — 71.49.226.208 — link — abuse?
Everyone is seeming to count out the Gators in this SEC title game. Arkansas has a great running game, and from what we saw on Friday, a horrible passing game. May I remind everyone that Florida is in the top 5 (I'm pretty sure) when it comes to rush defenses in the country. If you guys haven't noticed, it's their defense and special teams that win the games, not the offense. As for Casey Dick throwing the ball, he's gonna have to look out for Reggie Nelson back there. You don't become a Bronko Nagurski finalist by playing like Notre Dame's defensive backs
Aaron said:
posted on November 26, 2006 11:06 PM — 67.183.239.139 — link — abuse?
GatorMatt: I give you guys a lot of credit. Have always loved Florida fans, but your own message boards have your fans picking the Hogs. LSU's defense was even better than yours and McFadden/Jones destroyed them. We will not have the same level of ineptness in the passing game, I can almost gaurantee that. I definitely think it'll be a great game, but in the end we win 34-24.
So where does everyone rate McFadden nationally? My biased opinion says he's the best all-around player in college football. But I'm willing to drop him to #2 in favor of the great story that is Troy Smith.
GatorFan Eric said:
posted on November 27, 2006 1:31 AM — 138.32.80.20 — link — abuse?
Kevin
I have to agree with all your picks. I dont see Arkansas beating the Gators in the SEC championship game, I the think the Florida defence will be the difference.
As for LSU getting a BCS bid even if Florida loses in the SEC champ. game is crazy. If the Gators do lose they would then be the #2 team in the SEC, which is better than LSU and they beat LSU. I really dont understand that one.
GO GATORS!!!GATORGreg said:
posted on November 27, 2006 10:02 AM — 70.152.53.129 — link — abuse?
Im sick and tired of everyone ruling out a Gator victory this coming weekend. I mean damn, ESPN does a rundown of top NC contenders talking about USC,Michigan, Arkansas,WVU, etc and never even mention the word Florida in there. The media is going to get a big suprise this weekend when we shove it down Arkansas throat and put to rest all their hype. Their a decent team but dont finish at all. The Gator D is gonna spank Dick(no pun intended) on any passing game and their running game will be held to 100 yards. My score Florida wins 21-10. We will have 3 TD's and 3 missed field goals because Meyer is too stupid to pull the damn kicker. I also think that if UF does lose that we will still get a BCS invitation.
Dale said:
posted on November 27, 2006 10:46 AM — 206.149.136.30 — link — abuse?
"No one really wants to watch Nebraksa - Boise State... ever."
News to me. I have dreamed of a BSU - Nebraska game my entire adult life. But then I graduated from BSU and a couple thousand relatives in Nebraska. . . " Probably a statistically insignificant demographic now that I think about it (g).
BTW, just about everyone I know in Idaho is figuring out how to get to Arizona Jan. 1. Rich or poor -- doesn't matter.
Dale
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on November 27, 2006 11:03 AM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
I want to see Boise State play Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl. I would have to favor Boise by about +6 in that one. I certainly do not want to see a rematch of Michigan/Notre Dame in the Rose Bowl. We do not need to witness that kind of carnage again. If Notre Dame needs a rematch with somebody - how about Georgia Tech in the Orange Bowl if they make it. Or, maybe Notre Dame could play Wake Forest. Those might be fairer games for Notre Dame. I don't think they can play with any of the "Big Boyz".
Tommie T
Ed said:
posted on November 27, 2006 11:34 AM — 63.164.130.2 — link — abuse?
Your BCS picks look like a winner. ND, for the readers information, beat Georgia Tech and Penn State this year. Both of which will be going to Bowl games on January 1st. I agree, they don't have the speed of USC and Michigan, but at 10-2, who else can attract and draw like ND? Exactly, noone. Try putting Boise State in the Rose or Sugar...ND draws even if they were 0-12. Sorry, guys, this is all about money and attraction. Keep rooting for the smaller guys. ND will always prevail in both academics and athletics.
DonnaJ said:
posted on November 27, 2006 1:33 PM — 64.26.103.20 — link — abuse?
Wait a second...in the Orange Bowl you have Georgia Tech...Perhaps you haven't looked at the latest rankings, but Wake Forest is ranked above GT. I saw them play on Saturday and have to admit, the ACC championship game will be a very good one and I would not discount Wake Forest. I personally would LOVE to SEE WAKE play ND, what an upset to have the BLESSED IRISH LOSE to the DEMON DEACONS!!!
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on November 27, 2006 1:56 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
DonnaJ:
I don't see where anyone has Georgia Tech "penciled in" to the Orange Bowl. Won't surprise me or anyone else if Wake Forest hammers that team. Personally, I'm just being a little antagonistic toward all the Notre Dame faithful. I think that Wake would give Notre Dame fits.
Tommie T
Aaron said:
posted on November 27, 2006 4:16 PM — 192.207.114.20 — link — abuse?
GATORGreg: You must not watch much college football outside the state of Florida. Hold Arkansas to 100 yards? You mean the same way that LSU's defense did, right? That defense averaged only 76 yards on the ground against them before we torched them for over 350 yards. Dick will not have the worst game of his life two games in a row. Your Gators are toast.
geauxtigers0107 said:
posted on November 27, 2006 5:05 PM — 68.222.8.139 — link — abuse?
GatorFan Eric:
Just pray that your team takes care of business against Arkansas. I think they will. I'm pulling for the Gators in that one. But Ark will come in with a chip on its shoulder and McFadden ran his a$$ off against us. Gonna be a sweet one to watch. I would definetly LOVE to play a talented team like Michigan in the Rose. LSU is allotted 22,000 tickets for the game and following the win in Arkansas, snatched up over 15,000 in no time. I know I'm going!!!! Also would like to see the Demon Deacons v. ND. Nice picks on the games though Kev.
Geaux TigersChris said:
posted on November 27, 2006 7:25 PM — 71.29.89.240 — link — abuse?
Nebraska is the most underestimated team in the country. They will rock the Sooners. And next year, Sam Keller will be a whole new level from Zac Taylor (who has done an amazing job leading the team this year). The Huskers biggest weakness this year is obviously the defensive secondary and there are tons of younger bigger faster tougher players slated for those positions next year. NU will finish a top 10 team this year and dominate the Big 12 next year!
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on November 27, 2006 7:50 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
Kevin:
If Florida tanks in the SEC Championship game - then Florida will be left out in the cold. Would not kill me the way that Urban Meyer has been cryin'. LSU is a lock and Arkansas would be also. Either one of these two would be an outstanding match for Michigan in the Rose and fill the seats.
Only two SEC teams are gonna get in. You seem to be presuming lots. USC still has to play UCLA, who has had two weeks to prepare, and is a rivalry game. Georgia Tech will have their hands full of Wake Forest. Oklahoma might have a slight edge over Nebraska - but real close to call. And, of course the Florida/Arkansas game is a toss up. Also, Rutgers has to lose to West Virginia in order for Louisville to claim to be the BE representative.But, I'll go with:
BCS Championship: Ohio State vs USC
Rose Bowl: Michigan vs LSU
Sugar Bowl: Arkansas vs Notre Dame
Orange Bowl: Wake Forest vs Rutgers
Fiesta Bowl: Oklahoma vs Boise State
Winners will be: USC, LSU, Arkansas, Rutgers and Oklahoma.
Tommie Trojan
Tom Stevens said:
posted on November 27, 2006 9:55 PM — 24.218.208.81 — link — abuse?
Hey here;
Tommie Trojan and Aaron, you guys must be geniuses!
I agree with you 100%. Your picks are right on.
I'd like to point out several things:
Call me crazy, but I think Louieville is toast thanks to Rutgers beating WV for the first time ever in Morgantown.Notre Dame may be a fine school, but The Fighting Irish Football Team just plain sucks. They are incredibly boring to watch in big games; God forgive me, I'm Catholic.
I like Boise State, but to watch them play Nebraska would be a bore. I'd rather see them against Rutgers in the Fiesta Bowl. There is alot of money in New Jersey and many fans would travel to the Fiesta. In addition, I think Boise and Rutgers is a better match and victory could go either way.
Barring devine intervention, Wake Forrest would be smoked by Rutgers in the Gator Bowl. I just don't think Wake is worthy, in fact, the whole ACC was a bomb this year. Gt and Rutgers would be nice; but again, RU would punish GT.
Florida beats Arkansass, for sure. The Gators will rise to the occasion because they have history and SEC know-how behind them. Those southern boys know each other too well and the Razorbacks are the Gators' bitch. In this case, the Gators have too much experience in championship games. That's what will decide the match.
Here are my dramatic picks:
1. Deamon Decons defeat GT. Watch and see.
2. USC beats Ohio State, no dought. USC looks like a pro team!
3. LSU is always dangerous. Michigan beware.
4. Notre Dame should not play in a BCS Bowl at all. Some lower bowl, most definitely; but a BCS Bowl, definitely not good enough. In addition, I think they are not even within the top ten ranking. They rely too much on big names and history, as well as the Irish lemmings whom follow them over cliffs. Not too smart, I'd say. If your're a true believer in the Irish, PUT MONEY ON THEM! This will be an education and if ND fans are as academically advanced as claimed, it'll be a mistake made only once.
What a great year for college ball!
smilesid said:
posted on November 27, 2006 11:01 PM — 71.36.8.226 — link — abuse?
Kevin Donahue reveals more than he realizes when he says that the Fiesta Bowl gets the short straw because they have to take Boise State.
BSU is the underdog that is crashing the big boys' party, that's true. They aren't as well known and their players don't drive Hummers and wear big gold chains.
They are a great team with only five losses in three years. They're solid on offense and defense. Nebraska or Okie will overlook them at their peril.Those 40,000 pitiful Boise fans will be in Glendale in force. And the rest of the country will get an entertaining game.
America is the land of the underdog. The team no one else respects that takes on the big rich team, and beats em! The real reason why the USCs and Oklahomas of the world don't want Boise State crashing their party is greed. They don't want to share the big bucks and the power ratings.
Please, Kevin, keep disrespecting Boise, your comments will probably be posted in the Bronco locker room. That's exactly what they need!
AUtigerman said:
posted on November 27, 2006 11:15 PM — 68.1.33.227 — link — abuse?
Hey BCS
Grow a pair and put Boise State and Notre Dame in the fiesta Bowl. Notre Dame dosent even deserve a bid but since the almighty buck pushes the BCS cart they will play somewhere. I for one would watch that game just to watch Ian johnson rack up 150 and 2 scores. Oh by the way they did beat the fire out of oregon state and Ian, well he put up 240 yards and five touchdowns. Who is Oregon State you ask, well they only beat the almighty USC. But since its the lowly WAC we cant say that too loud.And all this coming from an Auburn fan.Guess ill never get over 2004spud said:
posted on November 27, 2006 11:45 PM — 74.32.215.113 — link — abuse?
regardless of who will be in the bowls michigan should be going up against ohio not usc thier record is the same but michigan smoked nd right from the get go where as usc took 3 quarters to take um out of the game, if we could actually see the best match up for the money we would see hart running all over ohio's d
Ira Wheeler said:
posted on November 28, 2006 12:24 AM — 207.200.116.69 — link — abuse?
Yes I'm a long time BSU fan and am very delighted in seeing them get a chance at a BCS bowl against anyone that the BCS can find that will play them. Yes Rutgers or Oklahoma or the Gators or ND. I feel Boise have earned the right to be there just as much as any other team has. But Rutgers or ND would be the top two on my list to be there. I think Rutgers and BSU have earned that right this year and to show their best to us all in one final show down of the best two teams!!
Ed said:
posted on November 28, 2006 8:45 AM — 63.164.130.2 — link — abuse?
I can see many Anti-domers here. I just have a few questions for all of you. Who put college football on the map? Why does Notre Dame's football team "suck" as one writer said? They are 10-2;It just so happens this year their schedule was very favorable for them. Remember, these are made 10 years in advance and I'll bet when these schedules were made 10 years ago, Stanford, NC, Purdue, Michigan State, UCLA, etc were all winning teams. Remember the 1993 season? I'll refresh your memory. ND played Florida State in the regular season and won. Bothe teams finished 11-1. FSU won the national title. How can that be when the first tie-breaker is head to head competition. I get tired of hearing all these complaints about ND. You want to see college football at its' best? Go to a home ND game. Sorry, ND will be in a BCS game.
M GO BLUE said:
posted on November 28, 2006 12:51 PM — 216.46.208.201 — link — abuse?
hey ed,I watched one of your home games,from the great state of Michigan,and I watched Notre Dame get smeared all over the field,and if Michigan and ND play in the Rosebowl your pitiful team will get torched AGAIN!
Michigan vs LSU would be a great game!
And hey TOMMIE,last time LSU,played a Big Ten,team was 2 years ago in the Capital one Bowl,against Iowa,and Iowa,won that game,also the last time Michigan,won a bowl game was against the Florida Gators,and Also Wisconsin,took Auburn,to the woodshed last year,so I am REEAAL scared of those HUGE,FAST,UNBEATABLE SEC TEAMS,the SEC shows more respect for the BIG TEN than any other conference!
Ed said:
posted on November 28, 2006 3:11 PM — 63.164.130.2 — link — abuse?
I do have to say Michigan is stronger than I thought they were. I were pulling for them to beat OSU. Actually, I don't want to see a Mich ND rematch. No need for that. Michigan proved it once they are faster than ND. I was at the big house in 1989 when Rocket Ishmail ran back 2 kickoffs,and the year before when ND won 19-17 due to Mike Gillette missing a long field goal. And last year I was in Ann Arbor and saw ND win again. We won't see a rematch. Will be LSU and Mich in the Rose. Will be a great game.
Scott 51 said:
posted on November 28, 2006 3:36 PM — 216.135.81.2 — link — abuse?
West Virgina doesn't drop two consecutive games at home. Rutgers loses to WVU, Louisville wins the Big East and goes to the Orange Bowl and WVU might squeak into the BCS scenario, but more likely heads to the Gator Bowl.Zac said:
posted on November 28, 2006 4:25 PM — 209.36.193.14 — link — abuse?
I too am surprised at the negative rhetoric toward FL. I admit to having my criticism of the Gators, but I don't see AR taking the SEC title as a foregone conclusion. I expect to see a battle. No matter who wins, it'll be close.
Donna: I too am glad to see the success Wake is enjoying this year. About that ND/Demon jibe... You're scaring me. (I like that!)
As for Rutgers playing in a BCS bowl, not to mention being picked as the winner, they still have to get past my Mountaineers. Can Rutgers do it? If they play WVU the way they played Louisville, and WVU plays Rutgers the way they played S FL, you bet they can. Personally, I think the Mountaineers are pissed at themselves even more than they were after Louisville. A at least that loss was away to a Top-10 team. In S FL, they let arguably a lesser team come into their house and make them look real bad. I wouldn't want to be the next team going into Morgantown following the S FL loss. That having been said, if there's a team in the Big East that can do it, it's Rutgers.
pip said:
posted on November 28, 2006 4:29 PM — 70.232.41.193 — link — abuse?
I know this isn't the propper board.. but does anyone else think that the only people who think Florida is good are people from Florida? One bad day by Dick and all of the sudden the 100-140 yards passing we get per game doesn't matter anymore? We'll be passing just enough to back you guys off Florida.. and we will pound you on the ground.. but at least you got to think about the NC game for a little bit right?
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on November 28, 2006 4:47 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
Let me get this out on the table. I know that some will not get this. When great "intersectional clashes" do happen: both teams are completely new to each other. Teams that play each other every year are very familar with the different teams that they go up against. These scores tend to be tighter. The SEC is a prime example of this phenomena. Alot of pretty close games - although one team may be much better than another. These games happen like this in all conferences for the most part.
What happens when OOC games happen between a good team and a pretty good team? USC 50 Arkansas 14, LSU 45 Arizona 3, Auburn 40 Washington St. 14, Boise State 42 Oregon State 14. If these teams all played each other every year - then these scores would not be so frequent. The reason they happen is: 1.) physical ability and team speed 2.) particular coaching techniques.
After awhile, even the weakest teams, can get some kinda handle on the more talented teams. In the "great clashes" - someone might not be able to adjust. If they can't do it during the game - then they get "blown out". This is what happens. So, whoever has the most talent is usually gonna catch the other team off guard. Notre Dame could not adjust to the Trojan team speed immediately - and found themselves down 21-3 like right now. They never did figure it out. Ohio State has looked very impressive so far this year. The Trojans could not adjust to the speed of Vince Young last year. The Ohio State/USC game will come down to who has the most talent all over the field - and who has the versatility to adjust to all of that going on. And, there will be lots going on in that game. So, to sit there and say that this team or that team is better - that is just nonsense. It will probably come down to which team has the most overall athletic talent. Thinking that either QB for instance, is gonna single-handedly win this game, is not in reality. Chances could be that the QB's aren't even the story. It may end up being a total defensive struggle like 10-7. These things do happen.Tommie T
scarletavenger47 said:
posted on November 28, 2006 5:50 PM — 70.177.227.36 — link — abuse?
response to 26 and 27;
Give me your game break down on how the trojans will beat the buckeyes. It's not how you "look" against average teams. It's how you diagnose one's running game and offensive line (in the big ones).
Do your research then get back to me.
Go Bucks!
Huck the Fuskers said:
posted on November 28, 2006 6:47 PM — 72.129.187.171 — link — abuse?
With out a doubt, the Fiesta Bowl will be the worst BCS game to watch this bowl season. Boise vs. anybody is bad. But could you imagine if they played Nebraska? Oh my god! most boring game ever!
USC will beat Ohio State with their speed at every position. something that Ohio St. doesn't see to much of playing in the Big Ten. And with the way Smith and Jarrett are playing right now. USC wins it 3 out of 4 years!scarletavenger47 said:
posted on November 28, 2006 7:52 PM — 70.177.227.36 — link — abuse?
For all you f'in trojan fans out there.
I sincerely hope you guys get the Nod. Unfortunatly (if you're old school) we can't play it at the rose bowl. (the BCS sucks in that respect).
However, it's great to see a deserving opponent at this point of the year. (You guys are playing great).
I'm not an analyst, but expect to see Jimbo go "old school" on you. The power "I" will be a major factor, and 3 yards and a cloud of dust will prevail...guarantee it.
You can't beat a team that beats you between the Tackles....Woody hayes
Go Bucks
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on November 28, 2006 7:54 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
ScarletAvenger47:
I'll size it up for you as simply as possible. USC is going to physically "beat down" Ohio State. This is why. See if you can connect the dots.
Below is how many players were recruited at each university since 2002, what their average rating was, and what the average team rating was. There are still many RS Seniors on all of these teams this year.
USC 115 players, 3.76 rating, #4 average rank
Oklahoma 121 players, 3.64 rating, #6 avr rank
Ohio St. 105 players, 3.48 rating, #16 avr rank
Notre Dame 101 players, 3.29 rating, #23 avr rankOhio State has been badly outrecruited by USC over the last five years. They're overall team ability falls somewhere between where Oklahoma and Notre Dame are today. I think that I have Oklahoma at #15 and Notre Dame at #21. That seems to correlate pretty well with Ohio State's recruiting rank.
Some scores over the last three years involving mediocre PAC 10 schools, Oklahoma and Notre Dame. Well, we know that USC doesn't seem to have too much trouble with PAC 10 teams or Notre Dame, don't we?
2004 Notre Dame 23 Stanford 15
2004 USC 41 Notre Dame 10
2004 Oregon State 38 Notre Dame 21
2004 USC 55 Oklahoma 19
2005 Oklahoma 17 Oregon 14
2005 UCLA 41 Oklahoma 24
2005 USC 34 Notre Dame 31
2005 Ohio State 34 Notre Dame 20
2006 Oregon 34 Oklahoma 33
2006 Notre Dame 20 UCLA 17
2006 USC 44 Notre Dame 24The point here is that Notre Dame and Oklahoma have struggled mightily against PAC 10 competition. USC beat Notre Dame by more points this year than Ohio State did last year. With fairly high rated recruiting classes - these teams are struggling with decent PAC 10 teams. Ohio State rates somewhere in the middle of these two teams, but they are not going to be playing against "upper echelon" PAC 10 teams. They are going to be playing against the "Best Team in the Country" which has never struggled with PAC 10 teams. The overall talent of USC will overwhelm Ohio State just as surely as it did to Oklahoma in 2004. That's all that I can tell you. You'll have to watch the game to see if I'm full of it.
Tommie T
scarletavenger47 said:
posted on November 28, 2006 8:23 PM — 70.177.227.36 — link — abuse?
Damn .. your quick Tommie. Is this all you do with your life?
Yes USC has had some fine recruiting classes as of late.
Ohio State recruits "in state". Many times they recruit kids from an Ohio town of 10K (-) people that do not ordinarily get any recruiting look across the nation. (1 star , 2 star, no star...)
Therefore they are not the "Scout .com" 5 star players. However, they have the same 40 times (avr: 4.5-), and they are some of the finest athletes in the land.
Bottom-line is they don't get the exposure that the recruiting hot beds of California and South Florida kids do, but these farm boys are quick, strong, and they can play football.
The proof will be in the pudding come Jan 8th, and if I we're a betting man those "farm boys" will physically beat the hell out of your "hollywood" boys. BY A LOT!
Go Bucks
terzo22 said:
posted on November 28, 2006 8:35 PM — 65.80.240.166 — link — abuse?
Tommy,
Come on now are you serious? Are you sure you want to go with that post? I'll let you take it back if you want, go ahead.
Really though,
You’re throwing recruiting class rankings at me on why USC will prevail? Let's just say I did agree that might be a interesting aspect to consider, you didn’t provide the correct information to compare the to teams accurately. It insignificant what the over all ranking of a recruiting class or the average ranking of the players that make it up (averages can be effected greatly by just one player) was. No, to compare them correctly please give me a side by side comparison of each starting position and what their ranking was. That’s what is significant if you want to bring those kind of numbers into this discussion. I know you will have fun trying to look up that info, I don’t even now if it's possible. Good Luck.And because I know how you love numbers here’s some I like for ya.
Total Offense
OSU #7 – USC #15Total Defense
OSU #2 – USC #13
posted on November 28, 2006 8:42 PM — link — abuse?
In the great (and growing) Ohio State - USC debate, I'll take the Bucks.
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on November 28, 2006 8:56 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
Kevin,
Your just doin' that cause your a Gator fan. I understand that everyone would like parity - but it just can't happen yet. There are alot of programs on the way though - Florida included. It's gonna get really interesting over the next several years what with: the Big East teams, LSU, Auburn and Florida, Ohio State and Michigan, Texas, Oklahoma and maybe Nebraska. Some good coaching changes have brought about some outstanding work on some real big time football programs. It's gonna be great seasons for a long time.
Terzo22: Yes, I'm stickin' with the numbers. There is a reason that every big time school will chase these players around. And BTW - they exist at every single position about 3-4 deep. The amount of five-star players (that's pro if you don't know) on USC far exceeds the amount on Ohio State. And, yes, we have many 3-4 star players who play like fives today also. Ohio State doesn't have any patent on that either. That is just great coaching. I would expect for Tressel to get the most out of his players. He is a great coach.
Tommie T
NDisoverrated said:
posted on November 28, 2006 9:54 PM — 163.151.2.10 — link — abuse?
How does ND get ranked where they are, and still considered for a BCS Bowl? Time has past old ND by. They beat no one. The teams they beat were under .500 (way under) and those teams played and beat such football powerhouses as Furman, VMI (most high school teams would give them a game), Kent St., Stamford (no not Stanford), Troy, Youngstown State, and Massachusetts).
Also six of their ten wins came against the likes of Army, Air Force, Navy, Purdue, North Carolina and STANFORD. Are you kidding? Replace those teams with the middle of the pack teams in the SEC, Big Ten or the Big East for that matter and they drop 3 of the 6.
It has been so long that I forgot, when is the last time ND won a bowl game? Finally the tell all, during the Weiss era ND has only beaten one ranked team.
Collectively can we are say OVER-RATED! The BCS should make a rule that to be in a BCS Bowl you have to be in a conference. ND will resist for a year or two and the BCS Bowls will lose a little money but this isn't the 70's anymore and Knute is dust.
Mike ND said:
posted on November 28, 2006 9:55 PM — 152.163.100.196 — link — abuse?
Your all haveing fun bashing ND "keep going".
You are the one that makes them what they are today. They are the Mike Tyson of football even if they fall short and dont deserve what they get still people love them. They either love to follow them or they love to hate them. I see ND mentioned all over in these notes more than anyone. Can you imagine what's going to happen when Charlie Weise gets the job done. With his own hand picked guys, there will not be any room left on this page for you guys. Notre Dame!!!!!Tom Stevens said:
posted on November 29, 2006 1:14 AM — 24.218.208.81 — link — abuse?
Hey Zac:
I agree with you about WV. They are mean and nasty. I wouldn't want to follow them into Morgantown after a home loss. But you must admit, USF is a really good team. As for Rutgers, they beat Louisville and USF. They could possibly beat WV especially since WV seems injured within the ranks.
You know I'm a Rutgers man, but I respect the hell out of WV. I can just see those crazy hillbillies freaking out in the stands. I do believe RU will win. I surely might be crazy though.
Best of luck to you!
Oh yeah, Mike ND. Your football team sucks.
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on November 29, 2006 12:36 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
It's real tough on the BEast this year. I agree that it would be a shame if Louisville was left out at 11-1 - with the only loss to an 11-1 Rutgers team (would be BE Champion). That is what really blows about this system. I can't get either Georgia Tech or Wake Forest into my Top 30 - and yet one of these two crappy teams is gonna get an automatic invite to the Orange Bowl. It's a joke. Same thing happened last year with the 8-4 Florida State squad.
The PAC-10 has had two one loss teams left out recently. Wisconsin, at 11-1 (only loss to Michigan), is also gonna fall by the wayside. One of the three really good SEC teams is gonna be left out also - it might even be Florida (current rank #4).
What do we have for sure that is deserving: Ohio State, Michigan, USC, Boise State and Big East winner. That is only five. We could have a two-loss SEC team or two, a three loss Big 12 team, the crappy winner of the ACC. There is only one spot left probably. Here is what really blows. It's a choice between Notre Dame and possibly Louisville. That is a tough spot for Louisville. The whole country knows that Notre Dame does not deserve to be here with their two "blow out" losses. They certainly do not deserve to get in ahead of a one loss Louisville team or a two loss SEC team. No way!Tommie T
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on November 29, 2006 1:17 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
Just a little more banter on this BCS bullcr_p. I really don't dig this automatic invite stuff. Or, the automatic invite to Notre Dame.
I list my ratings each week, based on how well each team has done in head to head competition, and then subtracted from what the #1 team would be projected to do against that same opponent. I go from Ohio State being #1 all the way down to #30 Arizona State which is rated as a -17.40.
Wake Forest (10-2) is rated -21.78 and Georgia Tech (9-3) is rated -22.38 points below Ohio State. This means that Ohio State will beat Georgia Tech by 22 points on a neutral field. I have Nebraska ranked 20th at -13.56 and Notre Dame ranked 21st at -13.70 points. It is gonna be a dang shame if any of these teams play in a BCS game.
Currently, there are seven teams from the SEC that rate higher than Wake Forest, and Alabama the 8th at -21.83, is better than Georgia Tech. There are nine PAC-10 teams better than Wake Forest with #9 Arizona rated at -21.55 points. This is how "bad" the ACC is this year. The two best teams over there are Virginia Tech and Clemson.
I am hoping that Florida will take out Arkansas. That will get Florida and LSU in, I hope. I know it will open up the door for Florida (and all the rest of the SEC'ers) to yap about being "robbed" of the National Title. But, I would rather a 12-1 Florida team and a 10-2 LSU squad show up in the BCS picture. I would like to see West Virginia knock out Rutgers so that 11-1 Louisville gets an automatic invite. I have them ranked 3rd overall. This might help West Virginia also at 10-2 and rated 7th overall. Also, I hope that Oklahoma takes down Nebraska and finishes up at 11-2. I currently, have them ranked 15th and they could move up some. That would not be too bad.
So, I hope the ten teams end up like this based on who I think is the most deserving:
Ohio State (12-0)
Michigan (11-1)
USC (11-1)
Florida (12-1)
LSU (10-2)
Wake Forest (11-2)
Boise State (12-0)
Oklahoma (11-2)
Louisville (11-1)
West Virginia (10-2)These would be the best ten teams, excluding Wake Forest, that could be put into the ten slots for BCS competition. And, if it weren't for the ACC representative, I'd stick BYU at 10-2 in there - as I have them pegged as the 10th best team in the country right now. But, we all know that Notre Dame is gonna "steal" somebody's spot.
Tommie T
Ed.ND 80 said:
posted on November 29, 2006 2:59 PM — 63.164.130.2 — link — abuse?
All I can say is GO IRISH! People here need to get their fact right about them. Tommy Trojan, I could give you some facts that would make your head swim. Be careful to make sure you have all your facts before posting. Yeah, your Trojans are hot, agreed. Let's talk about last year's game for instance. Didn't Pete Carroll call a time out when he had none left? Penalty time...Didn't Reggie Bush PUSH him in for the TD? Case Close. ND haters continue...Sorry to say, but, all haters will continue to cry and whine. Get used to it: ND will be among the elite year after year.
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on November 29, 2006 4:57 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
Duck:
I'll stick with the recruiting numbers - if you don't mind. That is what has gotten USC where they are. Ohio State happens to recruit pretty well. Stanford does not. Can you find a correlation? Why isn't Stanford any better than they are?
Ed.ND 80:
Please sir, spin my head, I'm always willing. Give me the numbers that says that Notre Dame is one of the ten best teams in America. If Cal has been dropped to 18th, and only lost by 14, then how does Notre Dame only drop to 10th when they lost by 20. And, Cal was definately "in the game" all the way into the 4th quarter. Notre Dame was never "in the game" at any time. I only go "by the numbers", and for the "whole season", Notre Dame is ranked about 20th IMHO. You are entitled to your opinion - and I am entitled to mine.
Here is what I don't understand. As a Trojan fan, I can't imagine trying to argue that my team was Top Ten, when is was very clear that we were not that good at all. I will argue the difference between 2-6 or 7 or even #1. But, I mean, I'm at least in the ballpark. Why would I even bother to get all worked up over a lousy Trojan team and "feel the need" to beat a more deserving school out of the BCS spot? That's what I don't understand about Irish fans. Why don't you guys wait until Charlie fields you a real good team? He has done a great job, with the lack of talent overall, in the last two years. What is the problem? Who cares if your all that great right now? Back in 2001, Pete's 1st year, we were 6-6 overall. We lost to Utah 6-3 in the "Toilet Bowl". Man, we were glad to get that. Next year we started being competitive with some good teams. Lost a couple and won out. Got to the Orange Bowl and won big. We couldn't even believe that our team was that good - let alone get on here and babble about it then. Well, now we can talk some. But, you guys have not won anything at all yet, except for a win last year over a 7-5 Michigan squad. Come on - you have just got to get real. Your day will come. I promise you this, if you go up against another Top Ten team this year, you will be thoroughly thrashed once again. Your team is not ready for "prime time". Why do you need to witness the "beatdown" of your beloved players? I can't understand this. Maybe it's because I'm not Irish or Catholic. Is it some form of pentinence? Is it like when the guy had to carry his suit of armour around for five years because he committed crimes against humanity? What is it?Tommie T
Trav said:
posted on November 29, 2006 5:04 PM — 24.168.253.159 — link — abuse?
Okay Ed.ND 80 - Post #60
I've got some facts for you. Since you think that ND will be among the elite year after year.. what has happened the past 11 years in bowl games? In 1994, lost in the Fiesta. In 1995, lost in the Orange. Years 1997 - last year, 2005 - lost in the Independence, Gator, Fiesta, Gator, Insight, and Fiesta bowls. ND seems real elite, don't they? Sure, they were among the elite every year in the PAST - but guess what? The century mark has turned and ND is TRYING to work its way back into the elite. Because of its history, it will get a BCS bowl bid even though it shouldn't. Who has ND played this year? It's toughest opponent has been Penn State, which isn't saying much. ND's ten wins have come off powerhouses such as Stanford, Army, UNC, Air Force, and Purdue. ND's two losses have come from the two REAL teams they have played - Michigan and USC (who, by the way, drilled y'all). Needless to say, ND does not deserve a BCS bowl bid.
NDisoverrated said:
posted on November 29, 2006 6:31 PM — 163.151.2.10 — link — abuse?
Ed.ND 80,
The Carol fake timeout, and the Bush push makes up for the 12 inch grass that day. Did ND's mowers break down? You see what happened to the irish on the fast track this past weekend!
Weiss has beaten one rated team since his arrival. Last ND bowl game win was?
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on November 29, 2006 7:52 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
Did anyone ever here Charlie's lame excuse for why that grass was so high? He said something to the affect of, "Well if you cut it that late in the season it'll never grow back". Say what? When was that, October in Indiana? Doesn't it rain back there? Puleeeaaazzzeee!
P.S. - I didn't get to catch the next game played on that field but I'll bet my wife and kids that it was mowed by then.
Tommie Trojan
The Mayor said:
posted on November 29, 2006 8:10 PM — 67.174.192.148 — link — abuse?
Smilesid,
I can't wait for BSU to shine in the Fiesta Bowl and would love to see them clean up on The Sooners.
It's too bad they moved the Fiesta Bowl out to Phoenix College Stadium in Glendale. Sun Devil Stadium isn't that bad and Tempe is a great place to hang out before and after the game. Glendale, not much going on out there...
Best of luck in The Fiesta Bowl!!!
shpankey said:
posted on November 30, 2006 1:18 PM — 72.192.72.164 — link — abuse?
BCS Title Game: Ohio State vs Michigan
Rose Bowl: Wisconsin vs. Arkansas
Sugar Bowl: LSU vs Notre Dame
Orange Bowl: Florida vs Louisville
Fiesta Bowl: Oklahoma vs Boise State
Winners will be: Michigan, Arkansas, LSU, Louisville, and Oklahoma [in an amazing game, a squeeker for OU].
USC looks ahead to BCS title game and gets beat by UCLA (an instate rival game is very hard to beat) knocking them out of the whole shebang.Mike said:
posted on November 30, 2006 2:16 PM — 195.112.33.193 — link — abuse?
Ed,
You are a jerk. Just because ND draws fans does not mean they should be in a BCS. 8 losses in a row for bowl games is disgusting and an embarrassment. Get a real program and a real team. Charlie Weis has played USC worse than either Ty W or Bob D. Figure that one out.
Ed.ND 80 said:
posted on November 30, 2006 4:43 PM — 63.164.130.2 — link — abuse?
Mike,
Keep talking...Why cause I have gone to a school who is known for scholastics and academics? Get Real!! Where did you go?ND last won a bowl game in 1994. So, what does all that prove? I have not done the research but at least they have gone to a bowl with a winning record...I see teams going at 6-6 now which is an absolute dissgrace..
Tommy J,
The trojans, Mich and OSU are definately in a league of their own. I consider all 3 aboive everyone else. Florida is there too, but, will lose Saturday.IrishJT said:
posted on November 30, 2006 4:53 PM — 71.207.226.16 — link — abuse?
Tom Stevens & the rest of you ND haters,
First of all, since you're new, I won't correct your grammar...but next time try and pay attention. No 10-2 "sucks." That is just an ignorant statement made by an ignorant person OR a person sounding ignorant (your choice). Notre Dame has played more teams this season that were ranked in the Top 25 than any Big East or SEC team (in fact, they played more ranked teams than the Big East after week 3). Notre Dame has lost three games in 2006...to Ohio State, Michigan and USC.Say what you want, there is no other team that can say all of those things. And oh by the way, Notre Dame is a pretty good academic institution as well, with only 7000+ students. Our football team does it with class, with standards and without skimping on tradition against Western Carolina, Central Michigan or Louisiana-Monroe. My guess is that all of you who hate ND hate the Irish for these reasons. It's not the networks' love affair with our ratings, our personal Saturday afternoon broadcasts or that no one team is spoken of during the football season than Notre Dame. It is that you hate what is better than you, your school and your institution.
Sorry boys. Had to be said. Even Tommy Trojan shows respect to "some" degree for the Irish traditions. The rest of you need to grab your ankles, yank really hard and remove your add from arse!!!
Sugar Bowl is gonna be SWEEEET!! Sorry Louisville. Big East teams that win their conference don't deserve a BCS bid. If you lose that conference, I think you should lose 10 scholarships and have to forfeit a season.
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on November 30, 2006 7:56 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
So Cal USMC:
The 'what?!'-value of it better be that Miami gets this one. If they don't - I can't even imagine it. Actually, Nevada was rollin' pretty well there for awhile until Boise smoked em'. It'll be an interesting situation for sure.
Tommie T
C-DOGG said:
posted on November 30, 2006 8:12 PM — 76.188.148.131 — link — abuse?
IrishJT,
Re: post#70Here is why I hate Notre Dame.
#1) I am a Miami fan. We inherit you as an enemy. Remember Catholic vs. convicts? probably not if you are not at least 27 years old.
#2) They have been overrated every year since Lou Holtz left.
#3) NBC gives them a big TV contract, as if the entire country cares to be forcefed Notre Dame football.
Other than that.....Go Irish!
Trav said:
posted on November 30, 2006 10:16 PM — 24.168.253.159 — link — abuse?
IrishJT Post #70
Heh okay.. first off you need to get your facts straight. Notre Dame has NOT played more teams that were ranked in the Top 25 than any Big East or SEC team. I don’t know what schedule you were looking at, but the likes of Navy, Army, Air Force, UCLA, or Michigan State are not ranked in the top 25. Notre Dame has played 3 teams that are currently in the top 25 – Georgia Tech at #22, Michigan at #3, and USC at #2. Penn State was ranked when you played them but not anymore. Let me think of some Big East or SEC teams that have played more than 3 top 25 teams… Florida with 4, Tennessee with 5, Georgia with 4, Kentucky with 4, South Carolina with 6, Vanderbilt with 4, Arkansas with 5, LSU with 4, Alabama with 4, Mississippi with 4, and Mississippi State with 4. OMG did I just pretty much name the entire SEC that has played more top 25 teams than Notre Dame? As for the Big East… Louisville tied with 3, South Florida tied with 3, Cincinnati has 5, Pittsburgh tied with 3, Connecticut tied with 3, and Syracuse has 4. Wow, I don’t know where you were getting your info from, but something went wrong there. According to you, no team from the SEC or Big East has played more top 25 teams than Notre Dame has, yet I just named 17 out of 20 teams in both conferences? And PLEASE tell me how Notre Dame is better than the rest of us – I’d really like to hear your made up answer to that as well. How does having 7000 students affect Notre Dame being a “pretty good academic institution?” And skimping on tradition? How about the “powehouses” that y’all play? The only two real teams on your schedule you LOST to. Notre Dame doesn’t deserve to be in any BCS bowl bid.
SD-KD said:
posted on November 30, 2006 10:50 PM — 72.130.155.23 — link — abuse?
The thing that makes ND a questionable BCS pick is that they are being picked based upon the fact that they have tradition. See the Irish played and lost to three great teams (OSU, Michigan, USC) in 2006 and those were the only true tests they had. When the rest of your schedule includes all the armed forces, Stanford and North Carolina how awe-inspiring is the 10-2 record? Likewise, they barely beat weak teams like Michigan State and UCLA. The only real statement victory was when they put up big numbers on Penn State (who also did not look overly strong this year). No doubt we will probably see Notre Dame in a BCS bowl game, but any true college football fan has to wonder with all the other one loss teams out there is there not a more deserving team?
Zac said:
posted on December 1, 2006 1:31 PM — 209.36.193.14 — link — abuse?
IrishJT: Nice try, but nobody's buying it, except for those who're kidding themselves. As the season comes to a close, it turnss out ND has played all of 3 Top-25 teams. Bless my soul; there are 3 Top-25 teams in the Big East, which means at least 5 teams in the Big East played at least 3 Top-25 teams. So, your argument is weak at best. Now, ND did play two Top-5 teams; ND also lost to both; to one by 20, to the other by 26. As for GA Tech, currently ranked 22nd, ND barely won that game. (ND did handily beat PA St, when the Lions were ranked. Then again, a depleted Louisville handily beat Miami, when the “U” was ranked.)
Consider a different argument: Opponent's records. ND's opponents have a combined record of 75-65. (By the end of this weekend it'll be 77-67.) Louisville's opponents have a combined record of 76-65. With two conference games left (Louisville plays in one of them.), their combined opponents’ record will likely be 77-67. Identical, but here are a couple deltas that should count for something. Like ND, Louisville (at one time) also played a Top-5 team, then #5 WV (currently ranked 15th). Louisville won that game, where following two stabs at Top-5 teams, ND lost. Louisville's only loss was at Rutgers, ranked at the time & currently ranked 13th; it wasn't a blow-out. Louisville did have a lucky game against Cincy, a team which turned out to be better than advertised. ND got lucky against MI St, not to mention GA Tech & UCLA. Yes, Louisville played 1-10 Temple; ND played 1-10 Stanford.
Now, if Louisville looses this weekend at home to UConn, I could see where ND might be favored for a BCS bowl over the Big East champion. However, if Louisville wins out, they will have earned the right to a BCS game, where ND will have not. That's not being biased; that's just being fair.
IrishJT said:
posted on December 1, 2006 2:12 PM — 65.83.54.4 — link — abuse?
Trav,
Please try to pay attention. Sometimes when people write words down for others to read, there actually was a deliberate attempt to convey a specific message.The quote you referred to in #70 above:
"Notre Dame has played more teams this season that were ranked in the Top 25 than any Big East or SEC team (in fact, they played more ranked teams than the Big East after week 3). Notre Dame has lost three games in 2006...to Ohio State, Michigan and USC."
Notre Dame has played EIGHT teams that were ranked by either the AP or BCS this season. They are GaTech, Penn State, Michigan, Michigan State, Purdue (that was ND's first five opponents), then UCLA, Navy and USC. They will play a ninth, likely the SEC champion, in the Sugar Bowl. They played a 10th in last year's Fiesta Bowl...the #1 ranked Buckeyes. They are the only team to play the current #1, #2, and #3 BCS teams this calendar year.
You can't dispute fact. However, I can read. Trav, can you?
IrishJT said:
posted on December 1, 2006 2:12 PM — 65.83.54.4 — link — abuse?
Trav,
Please try to pay attention. Sometimes when people write words down for others to read, there actually was a deliberate attempt to convey a specific message.The quote you referred to in #70 above:
"Notre Dame has played more teams this season that were ranked in the Top 25 than any Big East or SEC team (in fact, they played more ranked teams than the Big East after week 3). Notre Dame has lost three games in 2006...to Ohio State, Michigan and USC."
Notre Dame has played EIGHT teams that were ranked by either the AP or BCS this season. They are GaTech, Penn State, Michigan, Michigan State, Purdue (that was ND's first five opponents), then UCLA, Navy and USC. They will play a ninth, likely the SEC champion, in the Sugar Bowl. They played a 10th in last year's Fiesta Bowl...the #1 ranked Buckeyes. They are the only team to play the current #1, #2, and #3 BCS teams this calendar year. They will play #4 in the Sugar Bowl.
So your little rant about SEC teams playing ranked teams kinda gets flushed with your OOC schedules...DON'T IT!!!!!!
You can't dispute fact. However, I can read. Trav, can you?
Tommie Trojan said:
posted on December 1, 2006 2:37 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
Not tryin' to knock Notre Dame here. But, there are other powers that be. Namely, television and big advertising. It had been predicted that the Rose Bowl would not want to risk Notre Dame - as Southern California fans are fickle and not real large on Notre Dame to begin with. So, it really looks like it's gonna be LSU in the Rose Bowl. The Rose Bowl has a very prestigious image to uphold. An LSU-Michigan or LSU-USC matchup more fits the idea of "Grand Daddy of them all".
That being said: I believe that there will be a push to get Notre Dame a win in a Bowl game. Notre Dame is no longer worth their weight in gold if they can't shake their long losing streak in Bowl games. I do not believe that they will send Notre Dame forth towards the Lions this year. There has been two shellings already that have damaged their image. I am positive that Notre Dame is lobbying for a game in the Orange Bowl against the ACC representative. That is the only game that Notre Dame could win.
By any means now: the Sugar Bowl should take Notre Dame to play the SEC representative. It won't happen. They will not throw Notre Dame into that arena. Sorry, SEC guys, you're not gonna get what you crave. It's gonna be Notre Dame against the ACC in the Orange Bowl. They will not even risk sending them to the Fiesta to play Oklahoma/Nebraska - as that is too risky. They will move heaven and earth to try and make sure that Notre Dame gets a BCS victory this year. Let's see if I'm wrong.Tommie T
volstrike3 said:
posted on December 1, 2006 2:49 PM — 216.103.178.34 — link — abuse?
IrishJT,
I don't know why I bother being annoyed by you but I cannot help myself.
When you consider ranked teams, You can only count currently ranked teams. Penn State, Michigan State, Purdue, UCLA, and Navy are not currently ranked. You have played three ranked teams and lost to two of them by 20+ points. You beat Ga Tech 14-10, they may or may not be ranked after this week.
Your program is moving in the right direction but Notre Dame is not an elite program at this point in time. They have not be relevent in the national title picture for several year. Just accept it and move on and pray you get matched up with the ACC or Big East bowl representative. That way you will only lose by 2 touchdowns.
anna greulich said:
posted on December 1, 2006 6:45 PM — 12.44.119.4 — link — abuse?
For all you Buckeyes- I just wanted to give you the heads up about a really cool contest that Taco Bell is doing for the BCS National Championship on Jan. 8th. One lucky fan can win the chance to actually take the field and pick up the kicking tee after a kickoff.
Fans can log on to www.tacobell.com from December 3 through December 17 for their chance to win. Four semi-finalists will be chosen to win a trip to Phoenix, Arizona with a friend, two tickets to the BCS Championship Game and an opportunity to be on the field. To win the pick up the tee contest, they will compete in a simulated pick up the tee competition the day before the BCS Championship Game. The fastest, most creative at picking up the kicking tee will earn the chance to do it during the BCS National Championship Game.
boifromtroy said:
posted on December 1, 2006 9:13 PM — 68.233.235.234 — link — abuse?
IF USC and Arkansas win, here is my Bowl lineup:
BCS: USC-Ohio State
Rose: Florida-Notre Dame
Sugar: Arkansas-Michigan
Orange: Georgia Tech-Louisville
Fiesta: Oklahoma-Boise StateTommie Trojan said:
posted on December 1, 2006 9:17 PM — 64.32.153.19 — link — abuse?
BoiFromTroy:
Okay, your some what in the know. Why have you left LSU out of the Rose Bowl and BCS altogether. What's up with that? I heard that the Rose Bowl was skeptical of Notre Dame and wanted LSU? What is the deal.
Tommie T
Gatorswami said:
posted on December 2, 2006 12:02 AM — 128.227.73.87 — link — abuse?
Florida will be in the national championship game by Sunday. They played 10 bowl eligible teams this year. More than Ohio State, USC or Michigan. When we beat Arkansas, USC loses (they haven't been impressive two weeks in a row)we'll gain the .30 we need against Michigan. With the SEC Championship, 12-1 record and another victory over a top 10 team we'll pass Michigan. Who by the way hasn't even won their conference). They did beat Notre Dame and BAll State. (Who should be playing each other in a bowl game). GO gators.
cardman steve said:
posted on December 2, 2006 1:29 AM — 74.140.228.76 — link — abuse?
thanks! ND is over rated and only their past history keeps this program in the lime light and the sports pundits help the irish out. the ville from c-usa onto the big east gets less love than rutgers and w va let alone the irish. i consider w va and rutgers from the old ruling class and louisville is view as somewhat lucky with less quality players and so forth. listen to the pundits. i know better.
Racer said:
posted on December 2, 2006 10:27 AM — 207.69.137.43 — link — abuse?
I think that college football (Division 1A) is by far, the most exciting of all sports, and that includes the NFL, MLB, NBA and college basketball and the reason is that there is no "formal" playoffs in college football. From the very first weekend in September through the first weekend in December, there are "big games", and the games are "big" because everyone across the country knows that if a team loses, it's chances for playing in the BCS championship game go down considerably, but they are not out of it completely, i.e. as shown by USC this year. This makes for an incredibly exciting three months regular season, again, because every game counts. This current "regular" season we have had as close to a "playoff" as you could want, a couple of weeks ago, #1 OSU played #2 Michigan and then a week later #3 USC played #5 ND, and there were a number of other top ten matchups like Louisville and West Virginia etc.
You will never have a perfect system, but to me a playoff system like the NFL has ruins the regular season, there is never a "big game" during the NFL regular season, because everybody knows that it does not make any difference if you win or lose any particular game, all that matters is that you get into the playoffs. Consequently the four month NFL regular season from September through December is incredibly boring, it is basically a 16 game preseason, the real season starts in January, when the playoffs begin. A couple of years ago there were two 8 - 8 teams that "qualified" for the playoffs. It is pathetic when a team can lose 50% of it's regular season games and still be "qualified" to be the champion of the NFL, by maybe getting "hot" for four games during the playoffs.
The BCS system provides for three months of great, exciting regular season football and then a great round of BCS bowl games and a championship game. It may not be perfect, but in my opinion it is far better than anything else going in sports.Trav said:
posted on December 2, 2006 11:00 AM — 24.168.253.159 — link — abuse?
IrishJT post #79
The reason I ignored your poor wording is because who cares if Notre Dame played teams there were ONCE ranked in the top 25? Look at those teams you named. What is Purdue now? How about UCLA? Michigan State? Navy?? Are you serious? But let's say for a second that you stop being delusional and look at the facts.
Purdue: They are currently 8-5. Their victory's have come against such powerhouses as Indiana State, Ball State, Minnesota, Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan State. Their losses have come to the decent teams they have played, such as Iowa, Wisconsin, Penn State, and Hawaii.
UCLA: They are currently 6-5. Their victory's have come to the likes of Utah, Rice, Stanford, Arizona State, and Arizona. Their losses, once again, have come to the decent tmeas they have played - Oregon, California, Washington, and Washington State.
Michigan State: They are currently 4-8. I love this part. Their victory's? Against Idaho, Eastern Michigan, Pittsburgh, and BARELY Northwestern. Thats a quality team that Notre Dame beat, isn't it? But hey, they WERE ranked at one time weren't they IrishJT?
Navy: A good team win-wise, but lets break down their wins. They have defeated East Carolina, Massachesetts, Stanford, UConn, Air Force, Duke, Eastern Michigan, and Temple. Now if that doesn't scream competive, I don't know what does. Clearly being ranked at the BEGINNING of the season has nothing to do with how good a team really is, wouldn't you say? Notra Dame has played and beat one decent mid-major team this year - Georgia Tech (and that was by 4 points). And who cares about a calendar year? So you got beat by Ohio State last season - this is a new season with new players, so last year's game are irrelevant. I hope that you can read, and that you quit looking at Notre Dame's stats how you want them to be, instead of how they really are.
J Thomas said:
posted on November 26, 2006 7:54 PM — 70.178.147.205 — link — abuse?Florida is not going to win the SEC, your presumptions are incorrect. Florida is not as good as there ranking.