Saturday, December 31, 2005
Peach Bowl was ugly
It had all the makings of a great game. Last night's Peach Bowl was the first to have two Top 10 teams facing off: No. 9 Miami and No. 10 LSU.
What resulted was a disappointing and downright ugly bowl game. Instead of a tight matchup, we saw LSU blow away Miami 40-3. After the game, both sides got into a brawl in the LSU tunnel. Two Miami players were knocked unconscious. State troopers had to break up the scuffle.
Apparently, the brawl started when some Miami players took exception to trash-talking by LSU. The Hurricanes have a rep for being thugs and criminals. Last night's brawl, while entertaining, will only keep the stereotype alive. If the Hurricanes showed that much fight during the game, the result would've been far different. Miami coach Larry Coker seems to be a classy guy; it's too bad his demeanor hasn't rubbed off on his players.
What resulted was a disappointing and downright ugly bowl game. Instead of a tight matchup, we saw LSU blow away Miami 40-3. After the game, both sides got into a brawl in the LSU tunnel. Two Miami players were knocked unconscious. State troopers had to break up the scuffle.
Apparently, the brawl started when some Miami players took exception to trash-talking by LSU. The Hurricanes have a rep for being thugs and criminals. Last night's brawl, while entertaining, will only keep the stereotype alive. If the Hurricanes showed that much fight during the game, the result would've been far different. Miami coach Larry Coker seems to be a classy guy; it's too bad his demeanor hasn't rubbed off on his players.
Friday, December 30, 2005
Oregon effort uninspiring
After all the chatter that Oregon should've received a BCS bid, the Ducks couldn't beat Oklahoma in the Holiday Bowl. Does that bolster the argument that Oregon wasn't worthy of the BCS? Not exactly.
Imagine you're playing for a team that went 10-1 in the regular season, and you were hoping to play in a BCS game on January 1. Instead, you wind up far away from center stage in the Holiday Bowl. Not quite as exciting? In that situation, I'd probably find it hard to get psyched up to play in a bowl game on December 29.
With a more inspired effort, Oregon would probably have blown Oklahoma away. Instead, the Ducks had to mount a late go-ahead drive, which was botched when the second coming of Ryan Leaf (his little brother, in fact) threw an interception.
Imagine you're playing for a team that went 10-1 in the regular season, and you were hoping to play in a BCS game on January 1. Instead, you wind up far away from center stage in the Holiday Bowl. Not quite as exciting? In that situation, I'd probably find it hard to get psyched up to play in a bowl game on December 29.
With a more inspired effort, Oregon would probably have blown Oklahoma away. Instead, the Ducks had to mount a late go-ahead drive, which was botched when the second coming of Ryan Leaf (his little brother, in fact) threw an interception.
Thursday, December 29, 2005
Alamo Bowl was dismal for Michigan
Fans often rip Michigan football coach Lloyd Carr for being a whiner. However, Carr was justified for taking issue with officials during last night's Alamo Bowl. The officiating was amazingly bad.
For example: Why did Carr have to burn two time outs just so he could get calls reviewed? On top of that, a potentially game-winning drive for Michigan late in the game ended with a pass interference no-call.
Michigan really got hosed. But, even so, that doesn't fully justify the Wolverines blowing an 11-point fourth quarter lead.
Happy Birthday, Anne!
For example: Why did Carr have to burn two time outs just so he could get calls reviewed? On top of that, a potentially game-winning drive for Michigan late in the game ended with a pass interference no-call.
Michigan really got hosed. But, even so, that doesn't fully justify the Wolverines blowing an 11-point fourth quarter lead.
Happy Birthday, Anne!
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
Big Ten needs to represent
Even though I graduated from Michigan, I don't root for the Wolverines very often. That's because I also have a degree from Ohio State, and I consider myself a Buckeye.
Earlier this season, I did pull for Michigan to beat Penn State. I'll be sort-of rooting for the Wolverines tonight when they take on Nebraska in the Alamo Bowl (no free corporate sponsor plug here).
I've always felt the Big Ten was the strongest conference in football. This year, it's sending seven teams to bowl games, and two of those squads are going to BCS contests. Of course, how well those Big Ten teams fare in bowls will really determine how strong the conference is.
If Michigan loses tonight, it would be interesting to hear everyone call for coach Lloyd Carr's head. But, how impressive is it to say OSU beat Michigan, if the Wolverines lose to a lackluster Nebraska team?
How bad would it look for OSU to have lost to PSU, if the Nittany Lions can't beat a four-loss Florida State team that's not really worthy of a BCS bowl?
Earlier this season, I did pull for Michigan to beat Penn State. I'll be sort-of rooting for the Wolverines tonight when they take on Nebraska in the Alamo Bowl (no free corporate sponsor plug here).
I've always felt the Big Ten was the strongest conference in football. This year, it's sending seven teams to bowl games, and two of those squads are going to BCS contests. Of course, how well those Big Ten teams fare in bowls will really determine how strong the conference is.
If Michigan loses tonight, it would be interesting to hear everyone call for coach Lloyd Carr's head. But, how impressive is it to say OSU beat Michigan, if the Wolverines lose to a lackluster Nebraska team?
How bad would it look for OSU to have lost to PSU, if the Nittany Lions can't beat a four-loss Florida State team that's not really worthy of a BCS bowl?
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
Stars behaving badly
San Antonio Spurs guard Tony Parker got into a little trouble over the Christmas weekend. Police cited him for impeding traffic and failing to produce a valid driver's license during a traffic stop. His girlfriend, Desperate Housewives co-star Eva Longoria, was a passenger in Parker's car.
According to published reports, the couple screamed at the officer in a "verbally abusive and demeaning manner". Parker also nearly hit a man when trying to drive away.
Longoria allegedly said the officer was just a Mexican cop asking for an autograph. Then, through a publicist, she denied making that comment. Making a racial crack is weak, and so is speaking to the media through someone else.
Don't you just love how celebrities think they're entitled to special treatment wherever they go? If any regular person yelled at an officer during a traffic stop, you could only imagine what would happen next.
According to published reports, the couple screamed at the officer in a "verbally abusive and demeaning manner". Parker also nearly hit a man when trying to drive away.
Longoria allegedly said the officer was just a Mexican cop asking for an autograph. Then, through a publicist, she denied making that comment. Making a racial crack is weak, and so is speaking to the media through someone else.
Don't you just love how celebrities think they're entitled to special treatment wherever they go? If any regular person yelled at an officer during a traffic stop, you could only imagine what would happen next.
Monday, December 26, 2005
Damon not a traitor
When the Boston Red Sox won the World Series in 2004, it was hard to imagine star player Johnny Damon crossing over to what some people would call "the dark side". However, the unimaginable is now reality as Damon is a New York Yankee.
To some Red Sox fans, Damon is a traitor. I don't see it that way. Loyalty, as we think of it, doesn't exist in today's sports world.
Players and teams are willing to commit to each other for some period of time. But, if either side has something to gain, that relationship can end quickly. Loyalty is not to a person or team, but to the bottom line.
To some Red Sox fans, Damon is a traitor. I don't see it that way. Loyalty, as we think of it, doesn't exist in today's sports world.
Players and teams are willing to commit to each other for some period of time. But, if either side has something to gain, that relationship can end quickly. Loyalty is not to a person or team, but to the bottom line.
Saturday, December 24, 2005
Merry Christmas!
Back on Monday, December 26.
Friday, December 23, 2005
USC needs to be careful
USC quarterback Matt Leinart was declared ineligible earlier this month; however, he's now free and clear to play in the Rose Bowl, having been reinstated.
He appeared in a spot on ESPN, saying "SportsCenter is next" after the Trojans beat UCLA on December 3. This violated an NCAA rule, and led the school to declare Leinart ineligible.
"Whenever we are aware that media outlets ask student-athletes to do these kinds of tags, we immediately cut them off," USC's sports information director said in published reports. "Unfortunately, this one slipped by."
USC has too much at stake for something like this to slip by. With a 34-game winning streak and a shot at another national championship, the team can't afford a distraction like this. And, it certainly can't afford to monkey around and lose a star player.
He appeared in a spot on ESPN, saying "SportsCenter is next" after the Trojans beat UCLA on December 3. This violated an NCAA rule, and led the school to declare Leinart ineligible.
"Whenever we are aware that media outlets ask student-athletes to do these kinds of tags, we immediately cut them off," USC's sports information director said in published reports. "Unfortunately, this one slipped by."
USC has too much at stake for something like this to slip by. With a 34-game winning streak and a shot at another national championship, the team can't afford a distraction like this. And, it certainly can't afford to monkey around and lose a star player.
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Team Canada makes questionable choice
Canada has announced its hockey team for the Olympic Games in Turin, Italy. Vancouver Canucks forward Todd Bertuzzi is a member of Team Canada, but Pittsburgh Penguins rookie sensation Sidney Crosby is not.
I can understand the decision not to include Crosby, because the players on the Olympic roster are more experienced and proven. However, I have a problem with Bertuzzi being on the team.
He'll always be remembered for his vicious, blindside hit that broke a few bones in Steve Moore's neck. I believe in forgiveness, but Bertuzzi isn't the kind of person I'd want representing my country.
I can understand the decision not to include Crosby, because the players on the Olympic roster are more experienced and proven. However, I have a problem with Bertuzzi being on the team.
He'll always be remembered for his vicious, blindside hit that broke a few bones in Steve Moore's neck. I believe in forgiveness, but Bertuzzi isn't the kind of person I'd want representing my country.
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
USC's Carroll overlooked
Penn State's Joe Paterno is the 2005 Associated Press college football Coach of the Year. This season, he turned around a PSU program many assumed was dead, leading it to the Bowl Championship Series and a share of the Big Ten championship.
This news isn't very surprising, but I think USC's Pete Carroll has been shafted. In fact, he only got three votes in this year's contest. Because he has superstars and he wins, he's dismissed as "doing what he should be doing."
It's amazing that Carroll hasn't won a Coach of the Year award, despite two straight national championship seasons, a great shot at a third, and 34 straight wins.
This news isn't very surprising, but I think USC's Pete Carroll has been shafted. In fact, he only got three votes in this year's contest. Because he has superstars and he wins, he's dismissed as "doing what he should be doing."
It's amazing that Carroll hasn't won a Coach of the Year award, despite two straight national championship seasons, a great shot at a third, and 34 straight wins.
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
No excuses for OSU hoops squad
Most Ohio State fans are thinking about the Fiesta Bowl, but for a change of pace, we'll take a look at basketball, where the Bucks are No. 24 in the latest Associated Press poll.
Last season, the Buckeyes were on self-imposed punishment for the team's misdeeds during the Jim O'Brien era. Despite that, the Bucks had a solid season, winning 20 games, including a dramatic victory over then-undefeated, No. 1 Illinois.
Here in the 2005-06 campaign, OSU is off to a fast start (7-0) under second-year Buckeye coach Thad Matta. Anything less than a berth in the NCAA Tournament would have to be considered a disappointment. Matta has enough experienced players around, as only two members of the roster are freshmen. By now, this group should know how to win, and be able to improve on past successes.
Last season, the Buckeyes were on self-imposed punishment for the team's misdeeds during the Jim O'Brien era. Despite that, the Bucks had a solid season, winning 20 games, including a dramatic victory over then-undefeated, No. 1 Illinois.
Here in the 2005-06 campaign, OSU is off to a fast start (7-0) under second-year Buckeye coach Thad Matta. Anything less than a berth in the NCAA Tournament would have to be considered a disappointment. Matta has enough experienced players around, as only two members of the roster are freshmen. By now, this group should know how to win, and be able to improve on past successes.
Monday, December 19, 2005
Loss could help Colts
The first line of a published report sums it up very well: "The [Indianapolis] Colts now can turn all of their attention to winning the Super Bowl."
Just hours ago, the San Diego Chargers became the first team to defeat the Colts this season. The loss does not spell disaster for the Colts. It can even be a blessing.
The quest for an undefeated season will no longer be a distraction. While going undefeated is very impressive, every team's goal at the start of the season is winning the Super Bowl. It's all about being the last team standing.
As expected, some members of the 1972 Miami Dolphins are happy about the Colts loss. This is petty and ridiculous. The '72 Dolphins accomplished something special, going 17-0. Why can't they be happy about that, and let other people have their day in the sun?
Just hours ago, the San Diego Chargers became the first team to defeat the Colts this season. The loss does not spell disaster for the Colts. It can even be a blessing.
The quest for an undefeated season will no longer be a distraction. While going undefeated is very impressive, every team's goal at the start of the season is winning the Super Bowl. It's all about being the last team standing.
As expected, some members of the 1972 Miami Dolphins are happy about the Colts loss. This is petty and ridiculous. The '72 Dolphins accomplished something special, going 17-0. Why can't they be happy about that, and let other people have their day in the sun?
Sunday, December 18, 2005
Debate over USC three-peat chance
On several sports message boards, fans are arguing over whether USC would three-peat if it wins the national championship this season. At the center of the disagreement: USC won the AP title in '03, and the AP and BCS championships in '04.
So, if you're a purist, and your definition of a three-peat is winning three straight BCS crowns, then USC cannot three-peat this year. It can only do so if it wins the Rose Bowl and next year's BCS title.
Basically, USC is going for a three-peat because a Rose Bowl victory means three straight years of winning some sort of national championship (BCS, AP, or both).
I think this whole argument is unnecessary, and just gives fans something to do while awaiting the Rose Bowl. The debate was started, and has been perpetuated, by people who want to tear down what USC has done.
So, if you're a purist, and your definition of a three-peat is winning three straight BCS crowns, then USC cannot three-peat this year. It can only do so if it wins the Rose Bowl and next year's BCS title.
Basically, USC is going for a three-peat because a Rose Bowl victory means three straight years of winning some sort of national championship (BCS, AP, or both).
I think this whole argument is unnecessary, and just gives fans something to do while awaiting the Rose Bowl. The debate was started, and has been perpetuated, by people who want to tear down what USC has done.
Saturday, December 17, 2005
Owens selfish, disrespectful
Here's something that gives me a laugh: Terrell Owens claims his former Philadelphia Eagles teammates disrespected him. That comment and others can be found in the January issue of GQ.
Owens claims that his ex-mates ripped him, calling him selfish for trying to overcome an ankle injury and play in last season's Super Bowl.
I don't think it's selfish to want to live a childhood dream by being part of the biggest game in football. However, it would be selfish if Owens was doing it just so he could grab all the glory and draw attention to himself.
The most important thing to remember about T.O. is that it's all about T.O. If the Eagles had won the Super Bowl, and Owens was a major contributor, he would've been talking smack much worse than Muhammad Ali ever did.
Speaking of respect: When was the last time T.O. showed respect to a teammate?
Owens claims that his ex-mates ripped him, calling him selfish for trying to overcome an ankle injury and play in last season's Super Bowl.
I don't think it's selfish to want to live a childhood dream by being part of the biggest game in football. However, it would be selfish if Owens was doing it just so he could grab all the glory and draw attention to himself.
The most important thing to remember about T.O. is that it's all about T.O. If the Eagles had won the Super Bowl, and Owens was a major contributor, he would've been talking smack much worse than Muhammad Ali ever did.
Speaking of respect: When was the last time T.O. showed respect to a teammate?
Friday, December 16, 2005
Wouldn't want Clemens back
Are New York Yankee fans so hungry for a world championship that they'd willingly embrace a player who basically slapped them in the face? If I was a Yankee fan, the answer would be "no".
Pitcher Roger Clemens is a free agent, and word on the street is that the Yankees are interested in bringing him back. The Houston Astros declined to give Clemens salary arbitration last week, so he can't sign with them until after May 1.
It wasn't too long ago that Clemens said he was retiring, and went through all the farewell ceremonial B-S with the Yankees. Then, he announced he was coming back, and playing close to home with the Houston Astros.
I've always thought Clemens was evil, and that opinion won't change, regardless of what uniform he puts on in 2006.
Pitcher Roger Clemens is a free agent, and word on the street is that the Yankees are interested in bringing him back. The Houston Astros declined to give Clemens salary arbitration last week, so he can't sign with them until after May 1.
It wasn't too long ago that Clemens said he was retiring, and went through all the farewell ceremonial B-S with the Yankees. Then, he announced he was coming back, and playing close to home with the Houston Astros.
I've always thought Clemens was evil, and that opinion won't change, regardless of what uniform he puts on in 2006.
Thursday, December 15, 2005
Colorado making good choice
The University of Colorado is apparently a big step closer to making its football team respectable again.
Boise State head coach Dan Hawkins told the Associated Press today that he'll go to Colorado to finalize negotiations to be CU's next coach.
This looks a good move for the following reasons:
1) Hawkins is a proven winner. His record at BSU is 53-10.
2) Heard any negative news about BSU lately or Hawkins? I haven't. His ability to avoid negative publicity is desperately needed in Boulder.
3) Heard about BSU at all before Hawkins was coach? Didn't think so. If he can take an unknown program and make it successful, imagine what he could do at CU.
Boise State head coach Dan Hawkins told the Associated Press today that he'll go to Colorado to finalize negotiations to be CU's next coach.
This looks a good move for the following reasons:
1) Hawkins is a proven winner. His record at BSU is 53-10.
2) Heard any negative news about BSU lately or Hawkins? I haven't. His ability to avoid negative publicity is desperately needed in Boulder.
3) Heard about BSU at all before Hawkins was coach? Didn't think so. If he can take an unknown program and make it successful, imagine what he could do at CU.
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Tigers should've improved already
For Detroit Tigers owner Mike Ilitch, desperation is starting to set in.
"I'm running out of time with the Tigers -- we're in our 13th year," Ilitch said in an interview with The Associated Press. "If we hit the 15-year mark, I'll be very concerned."
Why should it take so long? Does he really need 15 years to make the Tigers competitive?
Nothing against Ilitch; I love his Little Caesars pizzas. But, he should've been able to make the Tigers successful already, considering that he had the business savvy to build a pizza empire, and he has the money from that venture.
"I'm running out of time with the Tigers -- we're in our 13th year," Ilitch said in an interview with The Associated Press. "If we hit the 15-year mark, I'll be very concerned."
Why should it take so long? Does he really need 15 years to make the Tigers competitive?
Nothing against Ilitch; I love his Little Caesars pizzas. But, he should've been able to make the Tigers successful already, considering that he had the business savvy to build a pizza empire, and he has the money from that venture.
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Pacers better off without Artest
Ron Artest has had enough of the Indiana Pacers. And, you could say the same holds true the other way around.
Artest said he wants out and that his past will continue to haunt him in Indianapolis. He missed most of last season for starting a brawl with fans in Detroit. Artest also said the team would be better off without him.
Yeah, no kidding. What Artest doesn't seem to realize is that he's to blame for his misery. After his suspension was announced, he did a television interview, in which he spent most of the time pimping his new rap CD. How are fans supposed to be forgiving in the face of such shameless self-promotion? So, Artest shouldn't complain that people aren't forgetting about the past.
We can only hope he's learned something and he'll fly right in his new surroundings.
Artest said he wants out and that his past will continue to haunt him in Indianapolis. He missed most of last season for starting a brawl with fans in Detroit. Artest also said the team would be better off without him.
Yeah, no kidding. What Artest doesn't seem to realize is that he's to blame for his misery. After his suspension was announced, he did a television interview, in which he spent most of the time pimping his new rap CD. How are fans supposed to be forgiving in the face of such shameless self-promotion? So, Artest shouldn't complain that people aren't forgetting about the past.
We can only hope he's learned something and he'll fly right in his new surroundings.
Monday, December 12, 2005
Colts chasing history
The Indianapolis Colts became the fourth team in NFL history to start a season 13-0, following their 26-18 win against the Jacksonville Jaguars yesterday. The Colts locked up a division title and home field advantage throughout the playoffs.
The most important goal is winning the Super Bowl -- which the Colts could do even if they lost the next three regular-season games -- but I'd like to see them go undefeated.
I think it would be cool to see such a feat in my lifetime. On top of that, it would irritate the hell out of the 1972 Miami Dolphins, who went through an entire season without losing and don't want anyone else to do the same.
The most important goal is winning the Super Bowl -- which the Colts could do even if they lost the next three regular-season games -- but I'd like to see them go undefeated.
I think it would be cool to see such a feat in my lifetime. On top of that, it would irritate the hell out of the 1972 Miami Dolphins, who went through an entire season without losing and don't want anyone else to do the same.
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Didn't root against Leinart
One of the most burning questions in college football has been answered, as USC Trojan Reggie Bush won the Heisman Trophy just hours ago.
I wonder if some of my fellow Ohio State fans were rooting against last year's winner, USC quarterback Matt Leinart, wanting to see former Buckeye Archie Griffin remain the only two-time winner.
If so, I think that's poor sportsmanship. It reminds me of when members of the 1972 Miami Dolphins -- the last NFL team to go undefeated -- break out the champagne after a previously-undefeated team gets its first loss. That's just weak.
I wonder if some of my fellow Ohio State fans were rooting against last year's winner, USC quarterback Matt Leinart, wanting to see former Buckeye Archie Griffin remain the only two-time winner.
If so, I think that's poor sportsmanship. It reminds me of when members of the 1972 Miami Dolphins -- the last NFL team to go undefeated -- break out the champagne after a previously-undefeated team gets its first loss. That's just weak.
Saturday, December 10, 2005
Stats can't be compared
You know you love college football when you watch two teams you never heard of face off in the NCAA Division I-AA playoffs.
Last night, I caught part of Northern Iowa's overtime victory against Texas State. One of the commentators compared a quarterback's stats to those of Texas star and Heisman Trophy finalist Vince Young. The broadcaster seemed to suggest the I-AA QB outperformed Young.
At best, the comparison is interesting; however, it's apples-oranges. To be sure, Division I-AA is very competitive. But, Young faces tougher opposition. He'd probably break every record in I-AA.
Last night, I caught part of Northern Iowa's overtime victory against Texas State. One of the commentators compared a quarterback's stats to those of Texas star and Heisman Trophy finalist Vince Young. The broadcaster seemed to suggest the I-AA QB outperformed Young.
At best, the comparison is interesting; however, it's apples-oranges. To be sure, Division I-AA is very competitive. But, Young faces tougher opposition. He'd probably break every record in I-AA.
Friday, December 09, 2005
Blue Jays make wrong move
The Toronto Sun is reporting that the Blue Jays have said they're not interested in Mike Piazza as a designated hitter and backup catcher.
I think, offensively, Piazza has a few good years left, and he'd be a great addition to the Jays as a DH. On top of that, the team would really benefit from his experience.
I'm sure Piazza wouldn't come cheap. But, passing on players like Piazza is going to keep the Jays behind teams like the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox for a very long time.
I think, offensively, Piazza has a few good years left, and he'd be a great addition to the Jays as a DH. On top of that, the team would really benefit from his experience.
I'm sure Piazza wouldn't come cheap. But, passing on players like Piazza is going to keep the Jays behind teams like the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox for a very long time.
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
Barnett deserves to go
According to published reports, Colorado has seen enough of football coach Gary Barnett and will not be inviting him back for next season.
The Buffaloes won the Big 12 North title for the fourth time in five years, but lost their last three games by a combined score of 130-22. That included a 70-3 loss to Texas last weekend in the Big 12 championship game.
Why did it take so long to get rid of him? This is the same guy who made rude comments about a female kicker who said a teammate raped her. As if that wasn't bad enough, the program was accused of providing prostitutes to recruits.
All of that generated far more negative publicity than losing three straight games to end the regular season. He should've been shown the door a long time ago.
The Buffaloes won the Big 12 North title for the fourth time in five years, but lost their last three games by a combined score of 130-22. That included a 70-3 loss to Texas last weekend in the Big 12 championship game.
Why did it take so long to get rid of him? This is the same guy who made rude comments about a female kicker who said a teammate raped her. As if that wasn't bad enough, the program was accused of providing prostitutes to recruits.
All of that generated far more negative publicity than losing three straight games to end the regular season. He should've been shown the door a long time ago.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Military shout-out
I keep track of who's visiting SeeperSports, and I'm always thankful to those who take time to check out the site.I just wanted to send a special shout-out to our friends in the military who have been visiting. I know people in the Armed Forces don't have a ton of time for leisure activities, such as surfing the Web. So, I'm glad you've spent a little time here, and hope you'll be back.
Monday, December 05, 2005
Oregon deserved a little better
As you'd expect, I'm very thrilled to see Ohio State going to the Fiesta Bowl. However, I can't help feeling a little bad for Oregon.
Instead of getting an at-large BCS bid, the Ducks will be playing in the Holiday Bowl on December 30. This was probably the best outcome possible because certain bowls are aligned with certain conferences. But, that really sucks for Oregon.
I do think Ohio State and Notre Dame are more deserving of a BCS bowl, even though each team has lost twice. OSU lost close games to Texas and Penn State, two BCS teams. On top of that, the Buckeyes play in a stronger conference than Oregon does. Notre Dame nearly beat USC, which blew Oregon away. The only knock against the Irish is that they lost to Michigan State. But, that was a close game which took place before the Spartans' tank job.
Instead of getting an at-large BCS bid, the Ducks will be playing in the Holiday Bowl on December 30. This was probably the best outcome possible because certain bowls are aligned with certain conferences. But, that really sucks for Oregon.
I do think Ohio State and Notre Dame are more deserving of a BCS bowl, even though each team has lost twice. OSU lost close games to Texas and Penn State, two BCS teams. On top of that, the Buckeyes play in a stronger conference than Oregon does. Notre Dame nearly beat USC, which blew Oregon away. The only knock against the Irish is that they lost to Michigan State. But, that was a close game which took place before the Spartans' tank job.
Sunday, December 04, 2005
USC had more quality wins
Many college football fans think No. 1 USC had a relatively easy path to the Rose Bowl. They say the Pac 10 is a weak conference. Some fans think No. 2 Texas should be slotted above USC, in part because the Longhorns went on the road to beat Ohio State.
However, upon further examination, USC's schedule looks more impressive than many thought. The Trojans have beaten four teams that are currently ranked. As a road team, they blew away Oregon and narrowly beat Notre Dame. At home, they had a tough time with Fresno State, then toyed with UCLA.
Besides Ohio State, Texas only defeated one team currently in the Top 25 (Texas Tech).
However, upon further examination, USC's schedule looks more impressive than many thought. The Trojans have beaten four teams that are currently ranked. As a road team, they blew away Oregon and narrowly beat Notre Dame. At home, they had a tough time with Fresno State, then toyed with UCLA.
Besides Ohio State, Texas only defeated one team currently in the Top 25 (Texas Tech).
Saturday, December 03, 2005
BCS nightmare avoided
The people who run the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) have to be some of the luckiest people on Earth. They dodged a lot of outrage today.
No. 1 USC and No. 2 Texas remained undefeated, so they'll face off in the Rose Bowl for the national title. A loss by either team - or both - would've led to a lot of arguing over who deserves to play in Pasadena.
Texas slammed Colorado 70-3 to win the Big 12 Championship. Pac 10 Champion USC coasted to a 66-19 victory over crosstown rival No. 11 UCLA.
Some fans are probably asking: Why run up the score so much? Wasn't it enough for USC and Texas to win their games and advance to the Rose Bowl?
Not exactly. Today was basically "Make a Statement Saturday". USC and Texas wanted to win convincly in order to show each other, and the college football world, that they are tough to beat, and worthy of playing in the Rose Bowl.
No. 1 USC and No. 2 Texas remained undefeated, so they'll face off in the Rose Bowl for the national title. A loss by either team - or both - would've led to a lot of arguing over who deserves to play in Pasadena.
Texas slammed Colorado 70-3 to win the Big 12 Championship. Pac 10 Champion USC coasted to a 66-19 victory over crosstown rival No. 11 UCLA.
Some fans are probably asking: Why run up the score so much? Wasn't it enough for USC and Texas to win their games and advance to the Rose Bowl?
Not exactly. Today was basically "Make a Statement Saturday". USC and Texas wanted to win convincly in order to show each other, and the college football world, that they are tough to beat, and worthy of playing in the Rose Bowl.
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Ball dispute ridiculous
You'd think winning the 2004 World Series would be enough to keep the Boston Red Sox happy for a while.
According to the Boston Globe, they filed a lawsuit, seeking a court order to keep the ball Doug Mientkiewicz caught for the final out of the Series. He had put the ball in a safe deposit box and claimed ownership. Later, he agreed to lend the ball to the Red Sox for a year so fans could see it.
Is all of this really necessary? I know the ball is a hot commodity, but I don't remember a team and player fighting over a ball like this before. I don't think Gary Carter and the New York Mets argued over the ball he caught to end the 1986 Series.
According to the Boston Globe, they filed a lawsuit, seeking a court order to keep the ball Doug Mientkiewicz caught for the final out of the Series. He had put the ball in a safe deposit box and claimed ownership. Later, he agreed to lend the ball to the Red Sox for a year so fans could see it.
Is all of this really necessary? I know the ball is a hot commodity, but I don't remember a team and player fighting over a ball like this before. I don't think Gary Carter and the New York Mets argued over the ball he caught to end the 1986 Series.
