May 7, 2008
Mr. College Football's Pre-Season Top 30
Tony Barnhart (a.k.a. "Mr. College Football") of the Atlanta Constitution-Journal has compiled his early pre-season look at the 2008 college football top 30.
A lot has happened since the BCS championship game on Jan. 7. Guys have turned pro early. Guys (like LSU's Ryan Perrilloux) have been kicked off the team. A lot of coaches have changed addresses. The college football landscape has undergone a significant change in the past four months.But nothing has changed my mind about who should be the nation's No. 1 team going into the summer of 2008. And it is:
1. Georgia (11-2 last season, 8 offense, 9 defense): There is no question about the talent in Athens because the Bulldogs have it at every position. They have a veteran quarterback (Matt Stafford) who is going to have a big year. They have tons of talent at running back (Knowshon Moreno, Caleb King). They have more speed on defense than any Georgia team in recent memory. There are, however, some red flags. They could use a little more depth on the offensive line, a proven place-kicker, and a schedule that doesn’t look like the Bataan Death March. Will it be difficult, if not impossible, to go undefeated against that schedule? You bet. But until somebody beats the Dawgs, they have to be No. 1.
2. Southern Cal (11-2, 4 offense, 7 defense)
3. Missouri (12-2, 6 offense, 10 defense)
4. Florida (9-4, 8 offense, 8 defense)
5. Ohio State (11-2, 9 offense, 9 defense)6. Oklahoma (11-3, 8 offense, 6 defense): Here’s another talented team that has something to prove after losing in the Fiesta Bowl the past two seasons. If sophomore QB Sam Bradford (3,121 yards passing, 36 TD, 8 int) continues to play well, Oklahoma will win the Big 12 South and play Missouri for the conference championship. There are no scary games on the non-conference schedule and if the Sooners beat Texas on Oct. 13 they could be undefeated when they play in the Big 12 championship game on Dec. 6. If they beat Mizzou, the maybe Bob Stoops and his troops get in the BCS mix.
7. Clemson
8. Illinois
9. West Virginia
10. Auburn
11. Texas12. LSU (12-2, 7 offense, 5 defense): The dismissal of QB Ryan Perrilloux won’t help in the short term, but if LSU finds a pair of reliable cornerbacks, the defense might carry this team back to the SEC championship game. But the road trips to Auburn (Sept. 20) and Florida (Oct. 11) look a little scary.
13. BYU (11-2, 10 offense, 3 defense): The Cougars will likley be this year’s Coalition conference entry into the BCS. Junior quarterback Max Hall (3,848 yards passing in 2007) threw for over 300 yards five times last season. Yes, there is work to do on defense but the schedule, which includes weak Pac-10 teams UCLA and Washington, is set up for a run at the BCS.
14. Arizona State
15. Tennessee
16. Wisconsin
17. Texas Tech18. Pittsburgh (5-7, 8 offense, 7 defense): After closing last season with the stunning upset of No. 2 West Virginia, this is finally going to be the breakout season at Pittsburgh under coach Dan Wannstedt. Bill Stull returns as the starting quarterback after missing almost all of 2007 with a thumb injury. His experience combined with RB LeSean McCoy (1,328 yards as a freshman) should put the Panthers in position to challenge for the Big East title.
19. Virginia Tech
20. Kansas
21. Wake Forest
22. Oregon State
23. Penn State
24. Oregon25. Fresno State (9-4, 8 offense, 7 defense): The Bulldogs have the talent to become the third straight team from the WAC to reach the BCS. The problem is a non-conference schedule that includes games with Rutgers, Wisconsin, and UCLA. QB Tom Brandstater completed 62.6 percent of his passes for 2,654 yards and 15 touchdowns last season.
26. Connecticut
27. Michigan State28. Florida State (7-6, 8 offense, 7 defense): If the Seminoles can get some stability on the offensive line then they may surprise some folks. Offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher will not be afraid to play more than one quarterback in order to spice things up this season. It would have helped the cause if WR Preston Parker had not been arrested on gun charges.
29. Alabama
30. Cincinnati
TEN WHO ALMOST MADE ITBoston College (11-3): QB Matt Ryan is not the only hole in the Eagles’ lineup.
Boise State (10-3): The Broncos return RB Ian Johnson, but they need a new QB.
East Carolina (8-5): Pirates have to replace first-round draft choice Chris Johnson at RB.
Kentucky (8-5): Wildcats lost too much firepower on offense.
Michigan (9-4): It’s going to be an ugly transition year under Rich Rodriguez.
Miss. State (8-5): Bulldogs still need some offensive firepower.
North Carolina (4-8): Tar Heels return 18 starters under second-year coach Butch Davis.
Rutgers (8-5): Scarlet Knights have to prove they can replace RB Ray Rice.
South Florida (9-4): Bulls return QB Matt Grothe, but defense took a hit.
Virginia (9-4): Losing QB Jameel Sewell will be huge for Cavaliers.
Ahh... preseason. The times when every team is equal and BYU is cracking the top... wait. WHAT?! The BYU Cougars are in Tony Barnhart's top ((gulp)) fifteen?? BYU making a BCS run??
Who would have ever thought it?!?! Heh-heh.
DISCUSS!
Comments:
TampaGator said:
posted on May 7, 2008 10:36 AM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
Whhhooooaaaa Nelly!!!!
...I've skimmed over the list 3 times....
...do my eyes deceive me, or is MIAMI really, and rather conspicuosly, missing from any mention whatsoever??
Miami is at least better than:
BYU
ASU
Texas Tech
Wisconsin
Pittsburgh
West Virginia
Virginia Tech
Wake Forest
Oregon State
Penn State
Oregon
Fresno F$%&N State??????????
Connecticut
Michigan State
and Cincinnati,...not to mention virtually every school mentioned in the "almost made it" group (coin flip with fsu).
Yeah, they've fallen, but they ain't homecoming fodder yet.
Did you mean MRS. CFB???
...or might the ommission be attribuateble to an acute case of cerebral flatulance?
GO GATORS!!TampaGator said:
posted on May 7, 2008 10:39 AM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
Whhhooooaaaa Nelly!!!!
...I've skimmed over the list 3 times....
...do my eyes deceive me, or is MIAMI really, and rather conspicuosly, missing from any mention whatsoever??
Miami is at least better than:
BYU
ASU
Texas Tech
Wisconsin
Pittsburgh
West Virginia
Virginia Tech
Wake Forest
Oregon State
Penn State
Oregon
Fresno F$%&N State??????????
Connecticut
Michigan State
and Cincinnati,...not to mention virtually every school mentioned in the "almost made it" group.
Yeah, they've fallen, but they ain't homecoming fodder yet.
Did you mean MRS. CFB???
...or might the ommission be attribuateble to an acute case of cerebral flatulance?
GO GATORS!!TampaGator said:
posted on May 7, 2008 10:45 AM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
Sorry for quasi-double post; tried to edit FSU comment out, and didn't realize 1st one took.
...though the FSU comment is actually quite fair, I thought it might be open to misinterpretation. (not intended as a comment on where FSU stand vis a vis other schools mentioned; just Miami).
GO GATORS!!
TampaGator said:
posted on May 7, 2008 10:46 AM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
Sorry for quasi-double post; tried to edit FSU comment out, and didn't realize 1st one took.
...though the FSU comment is actually quite fair, I thought it might be open to misinterpretation. (not intended as a comment on where FSU stand vis a vis other schools mentioned; just Miami).
GO GATORS!!
AUTigerFan08 said:
posted on May 7, 2008 12:06 PM — 74.239.251.222 — link — abuse?
Hope you are feeling better Kevin.
It's about time we had one of these pre season threads.
Can't really argue to much with the list except for maybe Illinois in the #8 spot I think that is way to high for a team that got blown out in the Rose Bowl. And Kansas maybe alittle low at #20 after that great win over VT last year. Other that that I see it as a pretty good list.But here's my top 25 list for next season
1. Georgia
2. Oklahoma
3. USC
4. Florida
5. Ohio State
6. West Virgina
7. Missouri
8. Clemson
9. Auburn
10. Texas
11. LSU
12. ASU
13. Illinois
14. BYU
15. VT
16. Kansas
17. Pitt
18. Tennessee
19. Oregon
20. Wisconsin
21. Cal
22. Texas Tech
23. South Florida
24. Penn State
25. anybody you want to plug in hereTE
posted on May 7, 2008 2:40 PM — 204.68.245.11 — link — abuse?
said:
LSU's going to finish 12-2, losing to UF twice...in Gainesville, and in the SECCG...
We found the corners, and the new Co-DC's like to blitz way, way, WAY more than Pelini did. Our safeties that replace Steltz are more athletic and far better in pass coverage, which means between over the top help and blitzing more often, we won't lean on the new corners early.
On offense, we're going to granulate people...
But, Florida's going to mark the game against us on their calendars...They owe us for that epic loss last year, though they have themselves to blame for that one more than us, in all honesty...
Having said that, I think we're going to hurt the conferences rep nationally when we punk out UGA with a backup QB.
Make no mistake, folks...We were huge threats to repeat with Perrilloux...and with our defense, and a stacked offensive line (two 1st team All-SEC'ers back and four returning starters, three of whom are going to play on Sundays, for awhile...), addition by the subtraction of a 3rd round draft pick at RB in Hester, and a 1st round draft pick in Byrd, surrounded by other elite level quality at WR, QB is going to be the least of our opponents worries...
We will go back to Atlanta...Book it.
RazzMaTazz said:
posted on May 7, 2008 3:42 PM — 70.137.149.238 — link — abuse?
I guess that's about as good a guess as any.
Hurricane fans: I think that Miami will surprise a lot of people this year. And I wouldn't be surprised if they win the Coastal Division of the ACC (hopefully to get beat by my Tigers in the ACCCG). But considering last year's performance, I don't think you can expect any of the pundits to rank them in the preseason polls.
FSU just lost ANOTHER starter (Wright) today due to academic inelligibity. I no longer think they'l make the Top 30.
Pitt ranked higher than Penn State? I have a hard time with that. I wish those two teams would renew their in-state rivalry game which used to be one of the great rivalries in college football. Who is Penn State's rival now, Temple? Pathetic.
posted on May 7, 2008 4:22 PM — 68.211.176.49 — link — abuse?War Eagle Atlanta
said:
I wish they'd leave Auburn off the radar screen for a while. We do much better when we don't have the spotlight shining on us.
TE: what's the status on Holiday, the little truckster? Is he going to play or will he be in the Olympics or both?
dawgfan said:
posted on May 7, 2008 4:48 PM — 72.243.121.177 — link — abuse?
@ TE #10 - I'm fine w/ you saying LSU is going to punk out UGA w/ a backup qb. However I don't understand your logic behind LSU losing to UF twice. UGA dominated UF this past year and returns more. Had UF not been on the good side of all those UGA penalties, then the score in that one would have been really ugly. UF was a good team this past year and wil be good this year, don't get me wrong. I just don't understand. Last year they started out preseason #3 and lost 4 games. Tebow is unbelievable, but unless their D gets a lot better real, real quick...they just aren't going to be as good as people are saying, although they will be good. Winner in jacksonville will represent the East in the Dome.
dawgfan said:
posted on May 7, 2008 4:49 PM — 72.243.121.177 — link — abuse?
@ TE #10 - I'm fine w/ you saying LSU is going to punk out UGA w/ a backup qb. However I don't understand your logic behind LSU losing to UF twice. UGA dominated UF this past year and returns more. Had UF not been on the good side of all those UGA penalties, then the score in that one would have been really ugly. UF was a good team this past year and wil be good this year, don't get me wrong. I just don't understand. Last year they started out preseason #3 and lost 4 games. Tebow is unbelievable, but unless their D gets a lot better real, real quick...they just aren't going to be as good as people are saying, although they will be good. Their D was avg at best last year...at best. Winner in jacksonville will represent the East in the Dome.
TE
posted on May 7, 2008 5:25 PM — 204.68.245.11 — link — abuse? said:
Dawgfan, I'm a bigger believer in Meyer than you are...They have been without question the most physically talented team that we've gone up against, every single year since Saban got here in 2000...
They just have better athletes...
They're also going to have a big upgrade from guys like Castonehands Moore with Moody becoming eligible, and the overall familiarity level with quarterbacks in an offense from year one to year two usually indicates a quantum leap in performance. Which means Tebow's got two things going for him next year on offense:
1.) A running game, which means he's going to be a little more sturdy than last year, especially as the strain of the season gets to him (after the LSU game, he broke down physically, which was apparent).
2.) A scheme that will force defenders to respect more than just the backfield now that Harvin can go back out to wide receiver where he belongs (Which based on the health question for Harvin isn't a guarantee).
On the other side of the ball, UF broke in two young but talented corners last year who will-like Tebow-make marked improvements from Year 1 to Year 2 in the scheme. The Florida defense was also a unit that broke down as the season went on due to youth and inexperience, which put even more pressure on the offense, which-in turn-put more pressure on Tebow.
That team's loaded for a run at a national title...People can talk Jawja all they want, but I've said it multiple times...Stafford's got no one to throw it to, and Knowshon Moreno's going to get stoned against our defensive front 7...and you guys are wearing a bigger target for the Gators than even LSU is...They owe you for the disrespect you & Richt orchestrated last year at the TWLOCP...
TampaGator said:
posted on May 7, 2008 5:37 PM — 64.12.116.136 — link — abuse?
Dawgfan/#14:
"...UGA dominated UF this past year and returns more. Had UF not been on the good side of all those UGA penalties, then the score in that one would have been really ugly..."
You should really watch that game again. If that's "domination", you ain't gonna' like how things play out in J'ville this year.
GO GATORS!!Big Tide said:
posted on May 7, 2008 7:23 PM — 12.208.88.211 — link — abuse?
TE, one thing's for sure, we will find out what kind of coach Meyer really is this season. He's a full season removed from the NC year and returns the best QB in the country. Can he get it done?
If this was a horse race I'd pick Oklahoma just because they HAVE to be playing with a chip on their shoulder. Stoops has a lot of pride and he's got to be putting a lot of personal pressure on himself to get the job done this season.
Final thought, I think this will be another season where parity will rear its big monster head. If you are a fan of the playoff system (count me in that column) then you can't wait to see some of these teams that are getting no love in May jump up and shock the front runners.....
BallDogs3 said:
posted on May 7, 2008 8:03 PM — 69.238.93.113 — link — abuse?
Now, let's see if I have this right. TampaGator wants to know if MIAMI is missing from the list. The answer is yes. He also mocks number 25 Fresno State. The best way to compare the two teams right now is like this. Last year Georgia Tech played both teams. Tech beat Miami, in Miami, 17-14. Fresno State beat Tech 40-28. Beat them soundly and without the use of their best running back, true freshman Ryan Mathews. The Dogs will play anybody, anytime, anywhere, like the number one rated team in the nation at the time USC. Play them tough and not give any excuses. That's how they roll. MIAMI vs. Fresno State? Bring it GatorGuy.
dawgfan said:
posted on May 7, 2008 9:14 PM — 12.206.159.207 — link — abuse?
@TampaGator # 16 - We'll just have to agree to disagree on last years game. UF will be a dang good team this year. However if thier defense doesn't get a lot better real quick then they are going to lose 3 or 4 games again.
U. of S. C. 1978 said:
posted on May 8, 2008 9:47 AM — 97.82.175.124 — link — abuse?
Georgia looks ok, but certainly not strong enough to emerge unscathed from an SEC schedule. Last year I felt certain the Cocks had an excellent chance to derail the dogs, and they did. This year, I feel good about our chances, I suspect Mr. Spurrier is not getting quite the quality of recruits that he wants. I will be patient, I believe that a school that is fortunate enough to retain a top coach, should give him complete control, and wait. And wait some more if necessary. A top coach giving me competitive teams, is earning his pay. I would rather my team always be a threat, and a contender, than inconsequential.
TampaGator said:
posted on May 8, 2008 12:09 PM — 71.100.203.247 — link — abuse?
Dawgfan/#20:
I took my own advice, and watched the game again. UGA looked damn good in that game--hitting on all cylinders. Tebow didn't have much time to throw all game, compliments of a DL that was on fire; Knowshon looked as awesome as I recall; Stafford threaded the needle time and again; the Dawgs were fired up, got in the Gators' heads, and had them off balance; Florida bumbled, fumbled, and stumbled...
...and for all of UGA's excellence in that game, and UF's bumbling--an astonishing 12 point margin of victory (42-30). Not quite domination in my book.
Which brings to mind the socond part of your statement:
"...UGA dominated UF this past year AND RETURNS MORE..."
Actually, UGA lost a pile of talent--especially on the defensive side of the ball--5 starters if I recall. UF returns basically everyone, save Tony Joiner and Derrick Harvey--with grossly needed experience. Make particular note of 3 names on D: Carlos Dunlap; Major Wright (who, b/t/w, didn't play in last year's FL-GA game); and Will Hill (new guy).
So I remain bullish on UF's prospects going into this season--and the FL-GA game--and not quite convinced about Georgia's--particularly if you look at our respective schedules...
...though however things do pan out, UGA football will be very exciting this year--and I plan to tune in to at least a few of their games!
GO GATORS!!AUTigerFan08 said:
posted on May 8, 2008 12:16 PM — 74.239.251.222 — link — abuse?
TE
I wouldn't count the Auburn game as a win at this time or a lose either. The last several years have seen this game become one of the Best in the SEC with the winner having the inside shot at the SECCG. I will not call this game right now but both teams have good defenses and new quaterbacks. It's sure to be another epic game in a growing rivalry between the two Tigers in the SEC.AUTigerFan08 said:
posted on May 8, 2008 3:18 PM — 74.239.251.222 — link — abuse?
TE
Thanks for the remarks but I still don't see it. Either way it's going to be a great game but remember you don't have Matt Flynn to toss a last second TD to save your a$$es this time and you won't be playing in Death Valley. Jordan-Hare will be rockin that day for sure. Hope to send ya'll back to the bayou's sulking about what might have been.TE
posted on May 8, 2008 4:09 PM — 204.68.245.11 — link — abuse? said:
AUTigerFan08,
We also won't have the same Matt Flynn that threw a few picks, as well as Jo Jo Lafell, who literally basket-tossed your Safety an interception after catching what would've been a touchdown pass...
Spare me the talk...the talent disparity was on full display against us. You had TWO drives during the entire game, at the very beginning, and at the very end, and we were inexplicably not pressuring a poor quarterback-a philosophy that got us beat twice down the stretch last year.
Our offense moved the ball at will, and only a lack of execution and inexplicable turnovers prevented us from scoring. I can count at least two picks, and a fumble on the part of Ryan Perrilloux as easy takeaways for your defense.
We shot ourselves in the foot-all night-and will you PLEASE ease up on the talk about luck? The clock replay shows (and we're not NBA refs, they would've gone back and reset the clock without fail) there would've been :04 on the clock, which was about :03 more than necessary to still kick a field goal to win that game.
Your offense is breaking in not a new coordinator...But an entirely new offensive system. Your quarterback is also new. Your Defensive Coordinator is being broken in, as well, and you lose Quentin Groves, who in and of himself was a game changer.
I'm not naive enough to sit here and say you don't have talent on both sides of the ball returning. Your running game alone would give most teams in D-1 cause for concern.
LSU isn't a team like most in D-1.
Just remember milk baths do wonders for the numerous bruises you need to be expecting from the pummelling about the head and neck area LSU's going to serve up to you all this fall.
**-->My name is TigerEducated, and I approved this message.
AUTigerFan08 said:
posted on May 8, 2008 4:57 PM — 74.239.251.222 — link — abuse?
TE
I will agree that our offense was on the weak side last year with Brandon Cox at QB but as you said we have a new OC and a new system with QB's that ran the same offense in HS and in college. Quenton Groves was a game changer but so is Antonio Coleman,Sen Derrick Marks and Trey Blackmon all of which will be on the field this year. With a DC that is already broken in that he had a better year last year than Will Muschamp did the best DC in the SEC. Our new offense will not only take advantage of the strong running game we have but allow the talents our QB's to shine like never before.
You call it a win and that's ok. I won't make that prediction yet and will just wait and see if you end up eating your own words.I hear they taste better with Catsup!!!!lol
Good luck in the fall.
I approved this messageBevo Boy said:
posted on May 8, 2008 5:05 PM — 64.12.116.136 — link — abuse?
No love for the Big XII? The SEC only got one more team on the list and I don't think Alabama should have made it. Head to head comparison, if the top 5 from each conference played each other.
UGA vs. Mizzou: UGA, seems to me that Mizzou is too reliant on Chase Daniels.
UF vs. OU: OU, Stoops is one of the best coaches, just had some bad luck in the BCS the last couple of years.
Auburn vs. Texas: Texas, they are loaded on offense and Muschamp should greatly improve the D.
LSU vs. TTU: LSU, TTU is too reliant on throwing the ball 50+ times a game. However, it would stay close because of LSU's young corners.
Tenn. vs. Kansas: Kansas (do they still have Reesing?) If not, change my answer.
Any other thoughts?gOSU27 said:
posted on May 8, 2008 6:26 PM — 207.74.25.36 — link — abuse?
Does anyone here thing that Missouri is better than Florida? Not a chance that Florida is ranked behind them.
Bevo, with Crabtree and Harrell TTU might have a chance against a slow LSU offense.....doubtful.
Yeah Kansas has Reesing and they could beat Tennessee w/out him anyway
Tomcat said:
posted on May 8, 2008 8:17 PM — 69.150.213.9 — link — abuse?
Right now every team is 0-0
I honsetly beleive that the polls should start after week 5 like F.O.G. suggessted.
There are some teams that consistantly feild tough teams, however every year is different.
seems like USC,OU,tOSU always start high
Pre-season polls are like opinions everybodys got one.
posted on May 9, 2008 2:07 AM — 67.166.241.225 — link — abuse? said:
Golf clap for BallDogs3! That's the kind of analogies that we like to see here on fanblogs for green horns. That's the penal-system equivilant of coming onto the yard and smacking the biggest m*therf*cker you can find right in the mouth. Bravo! Hope you stick around long enough to give us a little west-coast non-BCS flavor in the mix here...
TE: Gotta agree. Zebras would have put enough time back on the clock after the incompletion to have your token football player named Colt to have trotted onto the field and kicked an easy chip shot to win the game.
Look, this year, you fly into Atlanta and I'll pick you up on Saturday, and we'll make it down to the Plains and watch this year's match. If you fly in early enough, we'll go harass the College Gameday Crew and see which Tiger head Corso puts on--just be prepared to start drinking around 7am...
Zac said:
posted on May 9, 2008 2:50 AM — 209.36.193.14 — link — abuse?
Post 3, WOA, Nelly, yourself there, TampaG. I, for one, expected last season for Miami to be a considerable improvement over the prior season. It didn’t happen. That’s not to say the Hurricanes won’t do considerably better this year than last. Hell, 7-5 would be a considerable improvement over 5-7! So, to say they’re at least better than half the teams you listed, that my friend is a stretch at this point. Sure, they’ve put some players in the draft, but they haven’t had the chemistry we’ve come to know of the “U” in way too long. They’ll have to earn their way back.
Now, I don’t really care all that much where WVU ranks pre-season. They have a few things to prove as far as I’m concerned. (Though, I don’t think they’re hurting as badly on defense as BYU.) What surprises me is the ranking of Clemson & IL above WVU, not to mention Auburn, TX, & LSU ranked below them. The other thing that surprises me is OSU at 5th. Many of you are gonna say, rank em lower. I say, given the past 2 seasons plus 18 returning starters, they should be ranked no lower than 3rd.
Missu is too high. I know; they kicked a$$ in their bowl, and they return 10 on defense. Look at who they played, and look against whom their defense got manhandled last season, even in wins. OK: All they need to do is increase the speed and sure-footedness of their offensive linemen, and they’d be just fine as #1. For now… As for Penn St being ranked below Wake Forest, Pitt, Tx Tech, or BYU, I don’t know about that either.
Normally, I would complain over the lack of love for the Big East, but how do you rank Pitt 18th, UConn 26th, Cincinati 30th, and S FL farther below? Yes, I know; Pitt beat WVU in Morgantown during one of the wackiest seasons ever. Pitt still only won 5 games!!! UConn got lucky in at least 2 games. Cinci, on the other hand returns 16 starters, 8 on each side of the ball. Yes, they lost Ben Maulk, but they return Dustin Grutza, who’s arguably better. As for S FL, yeah, go ahead and throw them in that thar brier-patch. Mark me; they’ll be above the radar before long. JMO.
There is one thing in which I think we all agree. If GA gets through that schedule, they belong where they are.
dawgfan said:
posted on May 9, 2008 7:38 AM — 72.243.121.177 — link — abuse?
@ TampaGator #22 - UGA lost 3 starters on O (bailey at wr and 2 ol). The 2 linemen provided more leadership than anything. It remains to be seen if someone will step up and take that role. On D they only lost 2 starters (3 if you count brandon miller who started several games at sam-backer, but ended the year in the DE rotation. I don't like to talk bad about college kids on public boards, but seeing as how he was a 5 star out of HS, we'll just say he didn't live up to his the potential many thought he had. UF very well may return more...I'll admit I just assumed that UGA was returning more b/c they are returning 17 of 22 starters. Really 18 in my opinion b/c last years SS is being replaced by a stud in redshirt soph Reshad Jones. That was one of those situations where everyone on the planet knew Jones had far more ability, but Johnson was a senior leader and very smart player. I don't see this as a loss at all here. So essentially UGA returns 10 on D and 8 on O. I've been saying it since the day after the sugar bowl, but if UF and UGA can both get into J'ville undefeated it will be the biggest regular season SEC game in over a decade. I'm looking forward to it in a big way. Go Dawgs!
TampaTiger said:
posted on May 9, 2008 10:26 AM — 24.96.199.254 — link — abuse?
I love college football! Here I am sitting at my desk (suppose to be working) and I'm getting pumped up about about football!! I can almost smell the BBQ & beer now!!
TE--I want to thank you for continuing to remind me why I look foward to the LSU Auburn game just as much as I do the Iron Bowl. My hatred (sportsman-like of course) of Alabama will never be replaced, but I applaud you and LSU for giving it a run for its money! But then again, what would the SEC be like without the fierce rivalries and unbridled hatred? Cheers to you my fellow tiger of a different breed, we'll see you on 9/20!
WAR EAGLE!
TampaGator said:
posted on May 9, 2008 11:09 AM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
Dawgfan/#35:
Counting Brandon Miller, there's also Charles Johnson, Marcus Howard, and Kelin Johnson. Apparently you're not counting someone else besides Miller (ok, the number isn't quite the 5 I recalled, either...).
As for KJ being replaced by R. Jones; I can appreciate that; we lost Tony Joiner but gain Will Hill; not exactly a net gain off the bat, but not too steep a step off either.
Going back to one of your prior comments: you're right about this: IF UF's defense--particularly our run defense--doesn't improve markedly, we're in for a long season.
...but I believe it has.
I'll also concur that FL-GA undefeated--after last year's prelude--would be a monster game.
GO GATORS!!TampaGator said:
posted on May 9, 2008 11:28 AM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
Balldogs3/#18:
I Like your spunk.
UF would gladly welcome Fresno State for homecoming; that's the way we roll...
...cupcakes for Homecoming!
re. Miami? Let me put it this way; Miami is on our schedule; the date is circled, hi-lighted and underscored with all kind's of colorful markings.
...if 9/6 were occuppied by the mighty bulldogs of Fresno State--it would be viewed as a typical warm up game. Sorry, I'm just not sold on Fresno State.
Sure, App'y state beat Michigan last year in the big house. Appy state is not better than Michigan (at least not last year; maybe this year, due to adjustment/RR, and a boatload of defections). Fresno State may play a lot of teams tough, but that's probably because those teams are expecting a cupcake--maybe they get a mouthful of spicy, picante jalepeno instead--it still goes down...(mas tequila, right?).
As for Miami v. Fresno State head to head? My $$$ would be on the U. (Lot$ and lot$, if I could get a straight up taker).
Nothing personal against Fresno State--though I will confess to a slight aversion to all things California (not to mention a blood lust for USC!).
GO GATORS!!TE
posted on May 9, 2008 12:05 PM — 204.68.245.11 — link — abuse? said:
Florida fans...C'mon...Are you SERIOUS?
This guy is sick, twisted, and demented...This poor dead girl's family has been getting credit card statements for six months after her death with new charges...
They finally caught the guy, and you guessed it...He's a Gator...
TampaGator said:
posted on May 9, 2008 12:20 PM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
TE:
"...Florida fans..."
WTF??? Are you suggesting this is our fault? That we somehow condone that sort of behavior?
...should we then project Ryan Perriloux's indiscretions and stupidity to LSU Fan at large, as well?
Come on yourself; are YOU serious?
GO GATORS!!TE
posted on May 9, 2008 1:52 PM — 204.68.245.11 — link — abuse? said:
That was an absolutely spectacular amount of assumptions and inferences packed into a 43 word response...
In answer to your questions, chronologically:
I thought I posted that in the original response...I mean, I know I just CTRL-C & CTRL-V'd it down here, but maybe I'm the one taking crazy pills...
2.) Are you suggesting this is your fault? No.
3.) That we somehow condone that sort've behaviour? I didn't hear your fans scream and scowl furiously over the DL you suspended in '06 only to reinstate for the LSU game, and then cut loose altogether just after the game. I also didn't hear too much of a fuss raised by Grand Theft Auto: Tony Joiner, last year...You know...The guy that somehow got his case of Grand Theft expedited so quickly by the Florida Attorney General that he was cleared of wrongdoing, and reinstated to the team quickly enough to play against LSU? All that accomplished-crime, arrest, charges filed, charges reviewed, charges dropped, reinstatement, all falling in less than a 6 day period...
To answer your question...Yeah, I don't think you mind that sort've behaviour a single bit...Because you never stopped cheering for guys that exhibit this level of dumbness before. What's different now?
4.) ...should we then project Ryan Perriloux's indiscretions and stupidity to LSU Fan at large, as well? Our reaction to the bad eggs is that we give them a chance to do better, and then we cut bait. We're not afraid to cut starters. Backups. Or SEC Championship Game MVP's...
Notice the difference?
I'm not expecting you to...But, try really, REALLY hard...
TampaGator said:
posted on May 9, 2008 5:02 PM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
TE/#42:
Are you really so pathetic as to count the words in a post? Whatever...
What a spectacular number of unfounded and unjustified assumptions you read into my small fly-by post (I was running out the door when I posted it). "WTF" wasn't questioning what was your post about; it was questioniong your directing your righteous indignation AT UF FANS--as if we were even tacitly culpuble.
Your reply to that aspect is grossly lacking, and more reflective of your piss-poor reading skills, than it was successful at projecting same onto me. Had you waited, and Gator Fan came out and defended the guy--you'd have a point. Haven't caught the slightest wiff of that; we're duly embarrassed, and creating separation.
As for relating that to Tony Joiner--ridiculous. TJ went to retrieve his friend's car, at her request--she gave him her key, remember?. Using a decedent's credit card is far more egregious--the fraudulent intent is essentially inescapable; his only defense would necesarily be that it wasn't him.
As for LSU giving RP "a chance"--Let's just say that is such a generous application of the singular tense as to compromise your own cred.
Finally, let me take this opp'y to thank you for one hell of a laugh:
LSU as moral guidepost...
LMAO!!!
GO GATORS!!
PS--last word's all yours; I'm checking out for the weekend; social event to attend...Bevo Boy said:
posted on May 10, 2008 12:03 PM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
Is there any way for me to get a thread to talk about the Big XII without gettting the the entire state of Oklahoma (and Lennie, since he's in Austin) mad at me? Man, this is like trying to teach a five year old how to play golf; it always ends up sword fighting with the clubs.
Bevo Boy said:
posted on May 10, 2008 9:21 PM — 64.12.116.136 — link — abuse?
Some info on Ole Miss might help me here since I don't follow them much, but that doesn't seem like much of a mistake to me. I've heard some talk of them as a dark horse for the SEC West, but aren't dark horses supposed to come out of nowehere?
BallDogs3 said:
posted on May 12, 2008 4:21 PM — 206.78.213.254 — link — abuse?
WarEagleAtlanta #33
Thanks for the props, I think.
I'm looking forward to this coming season.
We (Fresno State) open up against Rutgers.
In their back yard, just where a Bulldog belongs.
I'll do my best to keep you all posted on the West coast non-BCS happenings. Last thing, what's a green horn?BallDogs3 said:
posted on May 12, 2008 4:29 PM — 206.78.213.254 — link — abuse?
TampaGator #39
interesting analogy GatorGuy....this is what
I propose: I'll keep track for everybody, free of
charge...on how MIAMI does and how Fresno
State does week to week. The team at the end
of the season will not be considered to be better than the other just possess a better
record........Agreed?TampaGator said:
posted on May 12, 2008 4:59 PM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
BallDogs3/#52:
You're a good sport; I hope you do stick around.
Fresno State wouldn't ordinarily register on the radar out here, unless they pulled off a big upset, or otherwise penetrated the upper range of the polls--so keeping me--and us, since obviously I won't be the only one reading your posts--will be an appreciated service.
So yeah, agreed--please do keep us posted.
Fresno State v. The U, game by game.
Glad you came back.
GO GATORS!!
PS--I vaguely recall seeing Fresno State once in person; red uni's with a bulldog on helmet, right? According to Data warehouse though, they never played UF, so it couldn't have been in G'ville. If I remember who I saw them play against, where, when, etc., I'll post it.
posted on May 12, 2008 5:32 PM — 72.145.94.138 — link — abuse? said:
Balldawgs: I'll be pulling for Fresno to win the Pac 10 this year...
Ahhhh! Almost had you guys there...
Back in 1996, Fresno came down to Auburn to play, and Lee Corso picked them in an upset over the Tigers. We beat them 62-0, and everytime Corso comes down to the Plains for a Gameday or does one with Auburn in it, it never fails for him to be met with signs saying "62-0".
Corso admitted in a 60 minutes interview a while back that he thought that was pretty funny. So do we, Lee, so do we...
OU-Ron
posted on May 12, 2008 7:44 PM — 68.12.216.68 — link — abuse? said:
BallDogs3, I went to Rivals site for Fresno St, I have a 6 month old English Bulldog that looks just like their mascot, if I knew how to post a picture on here, I would post it-----I guess I'm an instant fan, not knowing anything about your program.......
BallDogs3 said:
posted on May 12, 2008 8:21 PM — 75.3.221.172 — link — abuse?
Here is some more fodder
to chew on...yes I understand
they are just polls and
someones opinion but I assure
you just as Shanaynay was ugly
that color analysis comes with
the game:
Rivals.com ranks Fresno State as
having the 58th best recruiting
class...58th not so good you say
but they have the best ranking in
the WAC, which is all I'm really
concerened about. Better than Virginia,
Purdue and Boise State.
Athlon has them ranked at #25.
I could go on and on, but for what?
111 more days 'til kick-off.
Go Dogs
posted on May 12, 2008 9:35 PM — 67.166.241.225 — link — abuse? said:
That story about Corso wasn't meant to slam your team. The slam was on Corso. Your team was just the backdrop. Sorry if you thought otherwise.
Yes, the John Heisman-coached Techsters really laid it on us in 1917, 68-7, when all our boys had left school to head to France. I guess it was payback for the 94-0 shellacking we gave Tech in 1894, one year before Heisman became our coach.
Seems that Heisman was part of the biggest lopsided victory and loss in Auburn's history, albeit coaching for two different sides. Seems only fitting though, since Auburn is the only school to date that Heisman coached at to have won a Heisman trophy (2).
Your lesson for today. That will be $1.00 please...
Zac said:
posted on May 13, 2008 1:19 AM — 209.36.193.14 — link — abuse?
Balldogs3, Rutgers will be the perfect barometer for your team to gage the rest of its season, as will your Bulldogs be the perfect barometer for Rutgers to gage their season. Given they were originally to begin against the likes of Howard or Morgan St, Fresno represents a substantial step up. I’m glad to see them do it; I’m glad it worked out for your school as well.
Rutgers' defense shouldn’t be too bad. However, with the departure of RB, Ray Rice, their offense will be one-dimensional with QB, Mike Teal, pulling the trigger on almost every down. If your guys can harass Teel throughout the game, they may wind up pulling it out in Piscataway. If not, given what Fresno brings back, Rutgers may be a little better than I anticipated. Personally, I don’t think it’ll be a good year for the Scarlet Knights. Now that Fresno’s on the schedule, it could be as much due to your Bulldogs as anyone. I guess we’ll just have to wait and find out. (GOD! I hate waiting!!!!!!!!!)
BallDogs3 said:
posted on May 13, 2008 3:31 PM — 206.78.213.254 — link — abuse?
Not so hot off the press,
but recent...http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-spw-duf3apr03,1,3001904.story
Jeff said:
posted on May 14, 2008 6:02 PM — 12.47.224.8 — link — abuse?
Guess I can understand why Michigan isn't in this edition of the "mythical" preseason poll...
I will say this though: Your grandfather's brand of Michigan football is out the door!!!
9-4 (my 2008-08 prediction), with a top 5 recruiting class the following year has us who bleed maize & blue up here going crazy!!! Finally, some new blood infused into our program!!!!
GO BLUE!!!
(had to sneak in a little Big Ten love on this blog, outside of tOSU)Jeff said:
posted on May 14, 2008 6:03 PM — 12.47.224.8 — link — abuse?
Guess I can understand why Michigan isn't in this edition of the "mythical" preseason poll...
I will say this though: Your grandfather's brand of Michigan football is out the door!!!
9-4 (my 2008-08 prediction), with a top 5 recruiting class the following year has us who bleed maize & blue up here going crazy!!! Finally, some new blood infused into our program!!!!
GO BLUE!!!
(had to sneak in a little Big Ten love on this blog, outside of tOSU)Zac said:
posted on May 16, 2008 1:41 AM — 205.188.116.136 — link — abuse?
Jeff (Post 68 & "Hic" 69), do yourself a favor. Don't expect great things this season. That's not to say some great things won't happen, but it's way too early to say how MI's existing personnel will adapt to the world according to Rich Rodriguez.
His issues with WVU aside, he will likely bring exciting new times to MI football, but it's not going to happen over-night. His spread offense is not easy to learn. The entire line has to learn complex blocking schemes. RB's & WR's alike are expected to block on every play. Much of the success of his system depends upon aggressive, down-field blocking. Once the offense has learned it, and bought into it, and Rich Rod is more able to recruit to it; then, watch the sparks fly.
AND, that's just the offense. We haven't even discussed the defense yet.
I won't lie; I'm none too fond of the man. I don't like the circumstances in which he left WVU. By the same token, there are a couple of folks at WVU of whom I'm none too fond, either. In all honesty, he will bring good things to MI...eventually. He only went 3-8 in his 1st season at WVU. The following season he went 9-4 with practically the same personnel. So, rest assured; it's gonna happen.
Rest assured, also, he won't fall asleep against the Appy St's of the world. He certainly will have the Wolverines up for the likes of IA, Mi St, ND, OSU, WI, even IL. But, be careful; he just might slip up against the likes of IN, or Purdue. The point is good things are coming. You just may have to wait a little while for them to get here. All the best to you and yours.
Jeff said:
posted on May 16, 2008 7:00 PM — 12.47.224.8 — link — abuse?
(#70) Zac,
It's not really me expecting "great" things this year. My prediction is reflective of our schedule, moreso than my expectations (which are low). We will win the games we're supposed to & lose most of our rivalry games, which are mostly on the road. Our early schedule will allow for our team to endure its growing pains. Our defense will have to carry us & since it returns the most experienced & our best players, that's where we will hang our hat.
As for your WVU reference, noting it's 3-8 humble beginnings for RR... Not here, pal. I humbly reference the schedule again for that. Besides, we're Michigan (no elitism, but hey...) & not WVU. Talent runs a bit more rampant around these parts. I'm sure RR could expunge on the difference between Morgantown and AA.
Thanks & all the best to you as well....
Please note that all comments are subject to the Fanblogs Comment Policy.
FanoftheGame said:
posted on May 7, 2008 10:19 AM — 198.211.223.194 — link — abuse?Here we go! There's nothing like a preseason poll to help dilute the rankings as the season begins. Take any side of the arguement you like, but ranking anyone before the first snap of the season makes sense only to the wanna be prognosticators who think they know more than anyone else. Any ranking system based on theory alone rather than actual performance is laughable. It does give us debate material for the next few months though so its entertainment value has to be acknowledged.
I look at it this way: The College football season is a race and the goal for every team is to finish first with the current system allowing the top 2 finishers to play one another for the championship. In a normal race, the competitors would all have to start from the same spot. It wouldn't be fair to give certain individuals a head start just because we think they are better than some of the other runners. How is that fair? Its not! So why do we do it in college football?
A pre-season ranking means that some teams are getting the benefit of the doubt and getting a head start. A loss by the preseason #1 will only drop them down a few notches. After all, we're giving them a headstart so only a few teams will be in position to overtake the lead. The preseason rankings make it just as hard for the top teams to fall out of contention as it does for lower ranked teams to get into contention. Last year showed that the only way some teams can overcome the preseason rankings is to have the top teams lose on a weekly basis. Even so, I'm not sure the 2 best teams in the country played for the NC. I give LSU and Ohio State all the credit inthe world for having great seasons and being great teams- but in my opinion Georgia and USC looked to be as strong if not stronger. But that was last year- what can you do? Oh, here's an idea- rank Georgia and USC 1 and 2 in the preseason polls. Better late than never, right? Wrong! Polls should start after week 5. At least they would be based on performance more so than theory.
We poke fun at the "mythical national championship" (no caps for effect, lol), but the truth of the matter is that we start the season with a "mythical ranking". What else should we expect?
my $ .02