If you check ESPN's current 2010 recruiting ranks, you'll see something quite familiar by now. The Gators are seated atop the polls. The class that Meyer is bringing in is superb once again. Since there's a by week this week, I figured now would be a good time to take a look into our bright future.
First up is Trey Burton. Burton is a 6'3 204 pound "athlete" out of Venice High in Florida. I put athlete in quotations because I really can't see this kid playing any other position but QB. Yea he's big and elusive, but the man has got an arm. This is something that can readily be seen when watching one of his highlight reels.
Speaking of highlight reels, here's a highlight tape of Trey Burton from last season.
I really hope he stays with the number 22 and stays at QB. How great would it be to see a throwback like Burton rocking a number 22 while slinging the ball all over the place. He'd definitely look better than this guy.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Weekly Picks
Early game this week, so my weekly picks are early. Deal with it.
Southern Miss @ UAB
Virginia Tech @ Duke
Clemson @
South Florida @
East Carolina @
Tulane @ Army
Northwestern @ Purdue
LSU @
UCLA @ Stanford
NC State @
Central Michigan @
Air Force @ Navy
Western Michigan @
FIU @ UL-Monroe
UNLV @
Ole Miss @ Vanderbilt
SC State @
Georgia Tech @ Mississippi St.
UC Davis @ Boise St.
USC @
SMU @ TCU
Monday, September 28, 2009
Which Side Are You On?
There are two types of people in this world, Beatles people and Elvis people. - Mia, Pulp Fiction 1994.
Good 'ol Coke snortin' Mia was up to something when she uttered those words to a bloated John Travolta in one of the greatest movies ever made. 15 years later, this quote needs to be ammended somewhat. You see, nowadays there are still only two kinds of people in the world: Those who like and respect Tebow, and douchebags.
With Tebow's recent injury, the divide has become clearer than ever between the two camps. I have always known of the strong anti-Tebow movement in the country today. I have always been kind enough to respectfully disagree with their position on the matter and move on in the past. However, these people have become ever more vocal after Tebow's injury which is what makes their group known collectively as the douchebags.
These baggers are quick to point out that Tebow is a product of a system, is a mediocre QB, only scores from the 1 yard line, is surrounded by NFL talent at every position, has an uncanny relationship with Coach Urb, is shoved down our throats by the media conglomerate. As I said, in the past I just shrugged these comments off. Now, I guess you can call me kind of jaded. I'm a little fed up with these morons. They always seem to forget the actual stats and performances that point to Tebow's greatness.
I decided to search around the internet and gather the comment I could find both good and bad from all of Florida's rival fan bases in response to Tebow's injury. There are representatives from Tennessee, LSU, Georgia, Ohio St., Florida St. and many more.
For your convenience, I've separated them into two groups. Also, I decided not to post the thousands of redundant posts by the douchebag contingent that went along the lines of, "The Gaytors suck! Teblow got what he deserved! Gayturds are going down! Urban Crier sucks Teblow's cock!." There was a surprising amount of these posts.....
The Good
Gator fans, I feel for you. I'm not a big fan of any team from Florida but this kid is an absolute class act. Hope he gets well soon. - zorich88 espn.com (Notre Dame fan)
Why is everyone bashing Tebow on here? he has done more for college football than (Pat) White and (Vince) Young combined...he plays with more heart than anyone out there...he doesn't trash talk before the game...even though he's the only one that has really earned the rite as a player...no one in the game has done what he has both professionally and domestically...hes a good guy. - keenan1990 espn.com (allegiance unknown)
Im a Bama fan but I will say that Tebow has class (more players in NCAA should have such class). I hope that he recovers quickly. - CapnB SI.com
As much as I dislike him as the Gator QB, I think he's a fine young man with good Christian values. - Cooleyvol volnation.com
When I saw him laying there, obviously knocked out cold, I was extremely concerned for Tebow. I know everyone outside of Gator Nation gets sick and tired of hearing about "superman", there is NOWAY that any of us (at least the REAL college football fans) wish him any kind of injury. Tebow is a great human being and one of the best college players of all time. - BuckeyeVols volnation.com
Gator fans, here's to a quick recovery to one of the most passionate and best leaders to ever play the game of football. As a note, I have come to admire and at the same time despise Timmy. You admire his leadership qualities and determination, but at the same time want to see him lose if hes not on your team...Some of you need to do a little soul searching if you are wishing death or injury because of a football game. - Nole55 rivals.com
I don't know why, but I have the tendency to not like very many really good players form other teams. However, Tebow is a guy that almost makes you like him with his style of play, attitude, and the way he acts off the field as well. - tiger_rag rivals.vom
I'm no Tebow fan, but how can ANYONE hate him? I repset him, greatly, and I wish him a swift recovery. - Seven Heismans rivals.com (USC fan)
...As a side note, even with the ineptitude our team displayed I did take some satisfaction in knowing that I witnessed seeing arguably the best college football player in a long, long time. - Sam K wildcatnation.com
...NOTHING about sports should have fans so whipped up into hatred for the other team that they want a guy seriously injured...especially a class act like Tim Tebow. We need more not fewer Tim Tebows in this world. - Dr. H Lecter wildcatnation.com
Now time for the douchebags. You're warned before you read this can get vulgar and pretty idiotic....
He will go down as the most overrated qb in college football history. If hes the greatest qb ever then why won't he be the 1st player drafted in april? Because he's not a qb, he's a system player. - lazarre11 espn.com (village idiot)
This isn't 1950!!! He's not Ghandi!!! This is 2009 and in these days there will never, and i mean NEVER have one person go to other countries and make a "change" or "difference". If Tebow wants to do something good, do it in this country, not in some third world country where no one gives a flying fuuuuck about the USA! Tebow=loser! - jsanders78 espn.com (avid isolationist)
i pray he's gone for the season - ga82 SI.com (The smartest Georgia fan in the world)
Thats what having a Douche bag of a coach will get ya...can't believe Timmy t went down...thought he was superman! - bigorange#1 volnation.com (Secret identity of Lane Kiffin)
This just adds to the drama! Of course he was already sick, right? Someone change his feminine hygiene product in the ambulance and move on... - DawgnLA dawgs.com (funniest man alive)
I'm glad Tebow wasnt paralyzed or severly hurt. I do, however, hope he plays again, and here is why. I am not sold on his abilities at quarterback. He has the best supporting cast in college football. Who knows how many athletes could step in his spot and achieve similar results. For sure, the director of propaganda at UF deseves a pat on the back....Besides, he wears jean shorts! BubmcUGA dawgs.com (World-renowned Fashionista)
A sensible Tebow thread is still a Tebow thread Love him or Hate him ESPN will hype someone else you will be forced to move on. I am so glad ESPN has chosen Barkley to be the next Tebow hoever deserving/undeserving he maybe so that the Gators can get a taste of what the rest of the country is going thru for the next 3 years. - Trojanlaker rivals.com (Stuck in 2002)
I cheered when he got hit. I cheered when he went down. I high fived numerous people when he didn't get up. And I'm still cheering on the inside today. I'm sick and tired of St. Tebow...You are darn right I cheered. I'd do it again, and again, and again, if I had the chance. -Copland wildcatnation.com (Karma's next victim)
Gay as frick and not his kid. Tebow is $$$$$ in Urban's eyes. it was more like a broker watching his stock dro. fricking douche gator fags. - jfortenberrylsu tigerdroppings.com (LSU intellectual)
You Gaytor fans are delusional. Wait till next year when Tebow is gone. RedShirt tigerdrtopings.com (displaced Buffalo Bills fan)
Tebow should go back to playing with kids weiners as a missonary because he's a pansie -
Jon Logan facebook.com (Jealous that he's not circumcized)
boo fucking hoo tebow is hurt big deal I wish the fag was crippled so everyone would snap outta their little fantasy of him being just the "greatest person in the world" fuck him and hope he gets fucked up in the NFL....GO FSU - Bret Yelvington facebook.com (Upset his team can't beat USF)
tebow isnt the greatest player of all time. oh and 4 all the UF fans on here, you dont win chamionships, in fact u dont even have a history before spurrios. ur not even the best in fla. u have 3. miami has 5. in fact you rank 21st for championships, congrats on your 4 years of success. keep drinking your tebow kool-aid. you guys suck. - Adam Indermuehle facebook.com (The bestest math man in the world! Congrats Adam)
For what it's worth, there were more good comments on the message boards than bad ones. Except for Georgia forums. Dawg fans were overwhelmingly on the douche side. LSU fans were probably the next worse. Kentucky, and surprisingly, Tennessee fans were probably the most respectful.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Ultimate Fantasy League Update
SEC
East
1.Florida 4-0 (4-0)
2.
3.
4. Clemson 2-2 (0-2)
5. Georgia Tech 1-3 (1-2)
6.
West
1.
2. Ole Miss 4-0 (2-0)
3. Auburn 3-1 (2-1)
4. LSU 2-2 (2-1)
5.
6.
Big XII
North
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
South
1.
2.
3.
4. TCU 2-2 (1-2)
5.
6.
PAC 10
North
1.
2.
3.
4. Stanford 2-2 (1-2)
5.
6.
South
1.
2. USC 2-2 (2-1)
3. UCLA 2-2 (2-1)
4.
5.
6.
Big Ten
East
1.
3. Northwestern 2-2 (2-2)
4.
5.
6. Purdue 0-4 (0-3)
West
1.
2.
3.
5. Notre Dame 2-2 (2-2)
6.
ACC
1. Virginia Tech 4-0 (2-0)
2.
3.
4.
6.
Coastal
1.
2.
4.
5.
6. Duke 0-4 (0-1)
Big East
North
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6. Army 0-4 (0-3)
South
1.
2.
3. Navy 2-2 (1-2)
4. Vanderbilt 2-2 (1-2)
5.
6. Central Florida 1-3 (1-2)
1. Baylor 4-0 (3-0)
2. Southern Miss 3-1 (2-1)
3.
4. Air Force 2-2 (2-1)
5.
6.
West
1.
2.
3. BYU 2-2 (1-2)
4.
5. UNLV 0-4 (0-3)
6.
CFB 365's Top 25
There was a lot of shake ups in this week's poll. There are 3 new teams to replace Florida St., North Carolina and Washington, who were all upset this weekend. None of the teams that upset those schools cracked my top 25 this week. The top 10 also looks completely different after a week of upsets.
1. Florida Gators - The Gators dominated an undefeated Kentucky team on Saturday. Of course, everyone is talking about the Tebow injury. This shouldn't affect Florida too much as they get a bye week before their epic showdown with LSU in two weeks.
2. Texas Longhorns - Texas and Colt McCoy played their first complete game of the season on Saturday. Granted is was against a pretty bad UTEP team. The Longhorns are just biding their time until the Red River Shootout.
3. Alabama Crimson Tide - The Tide leapfrog LSU in this week's poll after their very impressive victory over Arkansas. I almost slid Bama into the number 2 slot, but Texas was impressive as well. It seems that Nick Saban's bunch is getting better with every game.
4. LSU Tigers - While Alabama was dominating a SEC West opponent, LSU was struggling mightily against one. The Tigers needed a goal line stand late in the game to hold off Mississippi St. The Bulldogs would be celebrating a victory right now if it wasn't for the outstanding play of Chad Jones.
5. Boise St. Broncos - Boise St. finally cracks the top 5. Several things worked in their favor on Saturday. The Broncos dominated a good Bowling Green team that took Missouri to the limit 2 weeks ago. Also, Oregon, which lost to Boise St. in week 1, absolutely destroyed California. That makes the Broncos look pretty good right about now.
6. Virginia Tech Hokies - Va Tech is easily the best one loss team in the country right now. They took Bama to the wire in their lone defeat, and since then have been on a tear. Their dismantling of Miami was the second straight victory over a ranked opponent.
7. Ohio St. Buckeyes - Ohio St. moves up after all the upsets. I can't say a big win over Illinois really blows me away. As a matter of fact, while I'm typing this, I;m wondering why I have them ranked so high...
8. Oklahoma Sooners - The Sooners climb back into the top 10 after a bye week. They can really solidify their status as a top 10 team once again if they can knock off Miami next week. Sam Bradford may also be returning next week.
9. Cincinnati Bearcats - Cincy moves into the top ten after another great performance against a solid team. The Bearcats have had little trouble in knocking off Rutgers, Oregon St. and Fresno St. this season. Outside of Alabama, they have been the most consistent team of the season.
10. USC Trojans - Only in a week of upsets can a team move back into the top ten after beating Washington St. The Trojans still have a lot to prove.
11. Houston Cougars - The Cougars are the second best team in the Big XII South right now. Their victories over Oklahoma St. and Texas Tech have earned them all kinds of respect across the country. You have to think if both Houston and Boise St. go undefeated, that Houston will get the BCS bid due to their schedule.
12. Kansas Jayhawks - Kansas held off a very feisty Southern Miss team to remain undefeated. Todd Reesing has quietly been one of the best quarterbacks in the nation this season. KU gets a chance to rest this week as they have a bye week before resuming play.
13. TCU Horned Frogs - Well, the Frogs proved me wrong. I thought for sure they were going to falter in a tough environment like Death Valley. However, the defense was just too much. TCU may have the best pass rush in the nation.
14. Oregon Ducks - The Ducks reappear in the top 25 after being knocked out in week 1. The past two weeks Oregon has defeated two ranked opponents. Utah and California have both fallen victim to Autzen Stadium.
15. Iowa Hawkeyes - Iowa makes it's first appearance in my top 25 this season. For the second straight season, the Hawkeyes have crushed the national title hopes of Penn St. This win was more impressive than last years, as the Hawkeyes were able to do it in Happy Valley.
16. California Golden Bears - Cal slide big time after being decleated by Oregon on the road. The only thing that keeps them from sliding even farther is Jahvid Best. The Bears will have plenty of chances to redeem themselves this season.
17. Georgia Bulldogs - The Dawgs finally move out of my number 23 slot this week. It wasn't their slim victory over Arizona St. that moved them up. It was the victory of South Carolina, a team that UGA defeated, over Ole Miss, that improved their stock.
18. Penn St. Nittany Lions - Penn St. slides 11 spots after falling to Iowa at home. Much like California, the Nittany Lions will have plenty of chances to redeem themselves later in the year.
19. South Carolina Gamecocks - SC makes their debut in my top 25 this week. The Gamecocks looked pretty impressive Thursday night against Ole Miss. Almost as impressive as my weekly picks and upset alerts this week. Almost.
20. Oklahoma St. Cowboys - Oklahoma St. stays pat at number 20 this week. They'll need more than a victory over Grambling to move up in the poll. The win of Houston over Texas Tech makes the Cowboys' loss look a little better.
21. Miami (FL) Hurricanes - Miami slide after being throttled by Virginia Tech on the road. Their victories over FSU and Georgia Tech are impressive enough to keep them ranked this week.
22. BYU Cougars - The Cougars remain at number 22 after an impressive victory over Colorado St. this weekend. FSU's loss to South Florida hurts them a little bit. TCU and Utah still loom on their schedule.
23. Ole Miss Rebels - The Rebels barely hang on in the top 25 after their loss Thursday night to the Gamecocks. They slide so far in my poll because they looked absolutely horrible Thursday. On top of that, I wasn't exactly blown away in their two previous victories.
24. Auburn Tigers - Nothing new here. A victory over Ball St. is about as impressive as a bye week.
25. Missouri Tigers - Once again, Mizzou hangs on to their 25th spot. South Florida and Wisconsin are both nipping at their heels.
1. Florida Gators - The Gators dominated an undefeated Kentucky team on Saturday. Of course, everyone is talking about the Tebow injury. This shouldn't affect Florida too much as they get a bye week before their epic showdown with LSU in two weeks.
2. Texas Longhorns - Texas and Colt McCoy played their first complete game of the season on Saturday. Granted is was against a pretty bad UTEP team. The Longhorns are just biding their time until the Red River Shootout.
3. Alabama Crimson Tide - The Tide leapfrog LSU in this week's poll after their very impressive victory over Arkansas. I almost slid Bama into the number 2 slot, but Texas was impressive as well. It seems that Nick Saban's bunch is getting better with every game.
4. LSU Tigers - While Alabama was dominating a SEC West opponent, LSU was struggling mightily against one. The Tigers needed a goal line stand late in the game to hold off Mississippi St. The Bulldogs would be celebrating a victory right now if it wasn't for the outstanding play of Chad Jones.
5. Boise St. Broncos - Boise St. finally cracks the top 5. Several things worked in their favor on Saturday. The Broncos dominated a good Bowling Green team that took Missouri to the limit 2 weeks ago. Also, Oregon, which lost to Boise St. in week 1, absolutely destroyed California. That makes the Broncos look pretty good right about now.
6. Virginia Tech Hokies - Va Tech is easily the best one loss team in the country right now. They took Bama to the wire in their lone defeat, and since then have been on a tear. Their dismantling of Miami was the second straight victory over a ranked opponent.
7. Ohio St. Buckeyes - Ohio St. moves up after all the upsets. I can't say a big win over Illinois really blows me away. As a matter of fact, while I'm typing this, I;m wondering why I have them ranked so high...
8. Oklahoma Sooners - The Sooners climb back into the top 10 after a bye week. They can really solidify their status as a top 10 team once again if they can knock off Miami next week. Sam Bradford may also be returning next week.
9. Cincinnati Bearcats - Cincy moves into the top ten after another great performance against a solid team. The Bearcats have had little trouble in knocking off Rutgers, Oregon St. and Fresno St. this season. Outside of Alabama, they have been the most consistent team of the season.
10. USC Trojans - Only in a week of upsets can a team move back into the top ten after beating Washington St. The Trojans still have a lot to prove.
11. Houston Cougars - The Cougars are the second best team in the Big XII South right now. Their victories over Oklahoma St. and Texas Tech have earned them all kinds of respect across the country. You have to think if both Houston and Boise St. go undefeated, that Houston will get the BCS bid due to their schedule.
12. Kansas Jayhawks - Kansas held off a very feisty Southern Miss team to remain undefeated. Todd Reesing has quietly been one of the best quarterbacks in the nation this season. KU gets a chance to rest this week as they have a bye week before resuming play.
13. TCU Horned Frogs - Well, the Frogs proved me wrong. I thought for sure they were going to falter in a tough environment like Death Valley. However, the defense was just too much. TCU may have the best pass rush in the nation.
14. Oregon Ducks - The Ducks reappear in the top 25 after being knocked out in week 1. The past two weeks Oregon has defeated two ranked opponents. Utah and California have both fallen victim to Autzen Stadium.
15. Iowa Hawkeyes - Iowa makes it's first appearance in my top 25 this season. For the second straight season, the Hawkeyes have crushed the national title hopes of Penn St. This win was more impressive than last years, as the Hawkeyes were able to do it in Happy Valley.
16. California Golden Bears - Cal slide big time after being decleated by Oregon on the road. The only thing that keeps them from sliding even farther is Jahvid Best. The Bears will have plenty of chances to redeem themselves this season.
17. Georgia Bulldogs - The Dawgs finally move out of my number 23 slot this week. It wasn't their slim victory over Arizona St. that moved them up. It was the victory of South Carolina, a team that UGA defeated, over Ole Miss, that improved their stock.
18. Penn St. Nittany Lions - Penn St. slides 11 spots after falling to Iowa at home. Much like California, the Nittany Lions will have plenty of chances to redeem themselves later in the year.
19. South Carolina Gamecocks - SC makes their debut in my top 25 this week. The Gamecocks looked pretty impressive Thursday night against Ole Miss. Almost as impressive as my weekly picks and upset alerts this week. Almost.
20. Oklahoma St. Cowboys - Oklahoma St. stays pat at number 20 this week. They'll need more than a victory over Grambling to move up in the poll. The win of Houston over Texas Tech makes the Cowboys' loss look a little better.
21. Miami (FL) Hurricanes - Miami slide after being throttled by Virginia Tech on the road. Their victories over FSU and Georgia Tech are impressive enough to keep them ranked this week.
22. BYU Cougars - The Cougars remain at number 22 after an impressive victory over Colorado St. this weekend. FSU's loss to South Florida hurts them a little bit. TCU and Utah still loom on their schedule.
23. Ole Miss Rebels - The Rebels barely hang on in the top 25 after their loss Thursday night to the Gamecocks. They slide so far in my poll because they looked absolutely horrible Thursday. On top of that, I wasn't exactly blown away in their two previous victories.
24. Auburn Tigers - Nothing new here. A victory over Ball St. is about as impressive as a bye week.
25. Missouri Tigers - Once again, Mizzou hangs on to their 25th spot. South Florida and Wisconsin are both nipping at their heels.
Surreal Sights in Gator Victory
Three years ago when Kentucky came to the Swamp to play the eventual National Champion Florida Gators, there were several firsts. Urban Meyer's coaching scheme came under fire for the first time. Kentucky actually showed up to play the Gators for the first time, and probably most famously, Chris Leak was booed for replacing his back-up Tim Tebow midway through the game.
Last night there were 2 even more surreal sights in the Gators' 41-7 victory over Kentucky. We all know what one of those sights were, and I'll get to that in a bit. However, halfway through the second quarter something happened that went unnoticed by the broadcast booth. Tim Tebow took a snap under center. Granted the play resulted in a no gain run from Chris Rainey, but we saw Tebow take a snap under center! Mel Kiper just improved Tebow's draft stock by two rounds.
Now for the other surreal sight. Tim Tebow lying motionless on the ground after a sack. This was truly one of those moments when I was absolutely speechless. It was crazy to see "Superman" just laying there like he was taking a nap. Watching his offensive linemen stand over him and trying to wake him by tapping on his chest made me realize that this was a serious incident. It was also surreal to see the entire Gator and Wildcat team on the field watching the Florida medical staff work on the G.O.A.T. I'm sure all 200 of them couldn't believe what they were seeing. The constant camera cut aways to Tebow on the sideline turned the actual game into a secondary concern. We got to see Tebow filling a bag to the brim with vomit as he was being carted off the field. Then, to see Tebow being driven off by an ambulance to the local hospital made me reminisce of the days I used to watch the WWF. I half expected Stone Cold to pop out of the cab and hear good 'ol J.R. proclaim, "Stone Cold is driving the ambulance! The Rattlesnake strikes again!" Along with seeing Jerry Rice lying on the ground after tearing up his knee (which I saw live and in person) this ranks as one of the more concerning moments of my football fanhood.
Now, as for the actual game that was played. Before the injury, Tebow was his usual dominating self. Timmy was inching closer and closer to his career high rushing yardage mark before getting his dome scrambled. The most impressive part about Tebow's performance, was that his runs were not the typical bruising, run you over, type of runs. Tebow was shaking and juking and spinning all through the Wildcats' D. The running game in general was on for the entire game. The fact that the Gators only completed 9 passes and still won by 34 shows you how great their running game was.
The disappointing part of the game is that if you take away Kentucky shooting themselves in the foot throughout the first quarter, this is another close game. I'm not sure if the Gators just lost focus after jumping out to a 31-0 first quarter lead, but for the rest of the game it was a struggle for the offense.
The defense, once again, was stellar. This was perhaps their best all around game. Brandon Spikes heeded my advice and finally showed up, as did Carlos Dunlap. I always knew those guys took the time out to read my blog. 2 interceptions and 3 sacks helped to fill up the stat sheet for Charlie Strong and Dan McCarney's bunch.
The best news is that the Gators have an off week before traveling to Baton Rouge in what is shaping up to be their toughest game of the season. That means plenty of rest time for Tebow and his noggin, as well as time for all the sickies to get that damn virus out of their system.
Here are the vitals.
Passing
Tim Tebow 5-10 103 yds 1 td
John Brantley 4-6 30 yds 1 td
Rushing
Tim Tebow 16 rushes 123 yds 2 tds
Jeff Demps 12 rushes 97 yds
Emmanuel Moody 5 rushes 57 yds
Mike Gillislee 6 rushes 39 yds
Chris Rainey 9 rushes 36 yds
Receiving
Aaron Hernandez 3 recs 54 yds 1 td
Riley Cooper 2 recs 30 yds 1 td
David Nelson 2 recs 27 yds
Tackles
Brandon Spikes 10 tckls
Dustin Doe 8 tckls
Brandon Hicks 5 tckls
Ahmad Black 5 tckls
Sacks
Brandon Hicks 1 sack
Joe Haden 1 sack
Carlos Dunlap 1 sack
Interceptions
Janoris Jenkins 1 int
Major Wright 1 int
Misc.
Chris Rainey 1 blocked punt 1 td
Player of the Game
Tim Tebow - The ConcussedAs I said earlier, Tebow was on his game before the injury. 103 yards passing and 123 yards rushing made Tebow's stats sheet look really, really good. The way Tebow was breaking off big runs made this game even more impressive than his Troy performance from two weeks ago. Let's hope Timmy has a speedy recovery and is ready to deliver some punishment to the Bayou Bengals in two weeks.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Florida - Kentucky Preview
Finally Tennessee week has come and gone. Now we can finally be rid of that ass clown Lane Kiffin, right? Well, maybe not. Laney is still running his mouth over in Knoxville. I'm starting to think there may be a hint of jealousy on some of Kiffin's comments lately. I think I've dedicated enough space on this blog to this douche bag so I will now turn my attention to where it belongs: The Florida Gators' next opponent.
The Kentucky Wildcats are coming into this affair with a 2-0 record. The Wildcats have knocked off semi-rival Miami(OH) at a neutral site, as well as an actual rival in Louisville. Two things that Kentucky does well: run the football and rush the quarterback. Two things they don't do well: pass the ball and beat the Gators.
Kentucky is the only SEC East team that the Gators have not lost to since 1990. The winning streak even dates back further than that. In fact, the last time Kentucky beat Florida, Billy Gillespie only had 2 DUI's.
There has been a surprising amount of talk coming from Lexington this week. This article does a good job of explaining why Kentucky has a significant hatred for us Gators. Some of the comments suggest that the Wildcat fans are hoping for an upset. Good luck with that.
5 Keys to the Game
1. Throw the deep ball - Last week against Tennessee, the Gators passing attack did not attack down field once all game long. I don't care what Urban says about the flu or the other team's game plan, there is no excuse for that lack of productivity. There is too much talent and way too much speed to take a shot down field at least a handful of times a game. Kentucky gets after the QB so throwing the deep ball can help slow the rush a bit.
2. Avoid Trevard Lindley - If and when the Gators feel like attacking down field, they need to make sure it is to the opposite side of the field of Trevard Lindley. Lindley is a monster at CB. He is probably the lone player in the Wildcat secondary that could crack the Orange and Blue's two deep. He's even touted by some as the first CB taken in next year's draft.
3, Stop the run - As I've said previously, Kentucky runs the ball very well. It will be imperative that the Gators are able to establish a good defense against the run on Saturday. Against the Vols last week, Monterio Hardesty and Bryce Brown pretty much gashed the Gators' D all game long. If the Wildcats can't run the ball, Rich Brooks and company will be in for a very long day.
4. Give the freakin' ball to Moody - Manny got nice with it the only time he touched the ball against the Vols. Going to Moody early in the game showed that Meyer still has confidence in the USC transfer despite his fumble against Troy the previous week. You know what would be an even better way of showing you still have confidence in the guy? Give him the ball 10-15 times against Kentucky!
5. Pack plenty of hand sanitizer - Our recent struggles with the flu coupled with the overall dirtiness of Kentucky should equal a bus load of hand sanitizer for the Gators. We don't need to lose anyone else to illness.
5 Gators that need to step up
1. Aaron Hernandez - I'm starting to get a little tired of this whole "Aaron Hernandez is the greatest thing to hit the field not named Tebow since the forward pass." I like Hernandez and I know that he has the potential to be one of the best to ever wear the Orange and Blue. Lately, however, Hernandez has resembled Markell Thompson more closely than CI.
2. Jeff Demps - We saw how much the Gators offense can struggle when Demps isn't 100 percent. The funny thing is, Demps was one of the few bright spots on the offensive side of the ball despite his illness. It would be nice for Demps to have a repeat performance of last season's game vs. Kentucky
3. Brandon Spikes - Like Hernandez, Spikes has not played up to his capabilities fully this season. Some of that has to do with the Gator's weaker schedule as well as Spikes' own health issues. However, Spikes should be the main presence for the Gators when he's on the field, no matter what condition. That has not been the case thus far. There have been times when I wouldn't see Spikes for several series because he simply did not stand out.
4. Carlos Dunlap - Dunlap was just named to the Ted Hendricks Top Defensive End Award list on Wednesday. Time for Los to take a step in the direction of taking the award home.
5. Jaye Howard - Howard is someone who has been impressing me all season long. I hope that continues this week as Howard will be vital in the Gators' effort to stop the Kentucky rushing attack. Let's just hope that if he does stop the run, he won't get penalized for excessive celebration, deserving or not.
Here's some highlights from last season's thrilling, fight to the finish victory. It was also Mr. Two-Bits' last game.
Apparently Kentucky fans feel that Monte Kiffin showed them the way. They have seen the light. Sort of.
My Prediction
Florida - 34
Kentucky - 14
The Kentucky Wildcats are coming into this affair with a 2-0 record. The Wildcats have knocked off semi-rival Miami(OH) at a neutral site, as well as an actual rival in Louisville. Two things that Kentucky does well: run the football and rush the quarterback. Two things they don't do well: pass the ball and beat the Gators.
Kentucky is the only SEC East team that the Gators have not lost to since 1990. The winning streak even dates back further than that. In fact, the last time Kentucky beat Florida, Billy Gillespie only had 2 DUI's.
There has been a surprising amount of talk coming from Lexington this week. This article does a good job of explaining why Kentucky has a significant hatred for us Gators. Some of the comments suggest that the Wildcat fans are hoping for an upset. Good luck with that.
5 Keys to the Game
1. Throw the deep ball - Last week against Tennessee, the Gators passing attack did not attack down field once all game long. I don't care what Urban says about the flu or the other team's game plan, there is no excuse for that lack of productivity. There is too much talent and way too much speed to take a shot down field at least a handful of times a game. Kentucky gets after the QB so throwing the deep ball can help slow the rush a bit.
2. Avoid Trevard Lindley - If and when the Gators feel like attacking down field, they need to make sure it is to the opposite side of the field of Trevard Lindley. Lindley is a monster at CB. He is probably the lone player in the Wildcat secondary that could crack the Orange and Blue's two deep. He's even touted by some as the first CB taken in next year's draft.
3, Stop the run - As I've said previously, Kentucky runs the ball very well. It will be imperative that the Gators are able to establish a good defense against the run on Saturday. Against the Vols last week, Monterio Hardesty and Bryce Brown pretty much gashed the Gators' D all game long. If the Wildcats can't run the ball, Rich Brooks and company will be in for a very long day.
4. Give the freakin' ball to Moody - Manny got nice with it the only time he touched the ball against the Vols. Going to Moody early in the game showed that Meyer still has confidence in the USC transfer despite his fumble against Troy the previous week. You know what would be an even better way of showing you still have confidence in the guy? Give him the ball 10-15 times against Kentucky!
5. Pack plenty of hand sanitizer - Our recent struggles with the flu coupled with the overall dirtiness of Kentucky should equal a bus load of hand sanitizer for the Gators. We don't need to lose anyone else to illness.
5 Gators that need to step up
1. Aaron Hernandez - I'm starting to get a little tired of this whole "Aaron Hernandez is the greatest thing to hit the field not named Tebow since the forward pass." I like Hernandez and I know that he has the potential to be one of the best to ever wear the Orange and Blue. Lately, however, Hernandez has resembled Markell Thompson more closely than CI.
2. Jeff Demps - We saw how much the Gators offense can struggle when Demps isn't 100 percent. The funny thing is, Demps was one of the few bright spots on the offensive side of the ball despite his illness. It would be nice for Demps to have a repeat performance of last season's game vs. Kentucky
3. Brandon Spikes - Like Hernandez, Spikes has not played up to his capabilities fully this season. Some of that has to do with the Gator's weaker schedule as well as Spikes' own health issues. However, Spikes should be the main presence for the Gators when he's on the field, no matter what condition. That has not been the case thus far. There have been times when I wouldn't see Spikes for several series because he simply did not stand out.
4. Carlos Dunlap - Dunlap was just named to the Ted Hendricks Top Defensive End Award list on Wednesday. Time for Los to take a step in the direction of taking the award home.
5. Jaye Howard - Howard is someone who has been impressing me all season long. I hope that continues this week as Howard will be vital in the Gators' effort to stop the Kentucky rushing attack. Let's just hope that if he does stop the run, he won't get penalized for excessive celebration, deserving or not.
Here's some highlights from last season's thrilling, fight to the finish victory. It was also Mr. Two-Bits' last game.
Apparently Kentucky fans feel that Monte Kiffin showed them the way. They have seen the light. Sort of.
My Prediction
Florida - 34
Kentucky - 14
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Weekly Picks
Ole Miss @ South Carolina
Missouri @ Nevada
LSU @ Mississippi St.
Fresno St. @ Cincinnati
South Florida @ Florida St.
Southern Miss @ Kansas
North Carolina @ Georgia Tech
Indiana @ Michigan
Rhode Island @ Connecticut
Minnesota @ Northwestern
Buffalo @ Temple
Michigan St. @ Wisconsin
Marshall @ Memphis
Wake Forest @ Boston College
San Diego St. @ Air Force
Tennessee Tech @ Kansas St.
UNLV @ Wyoming
UTEP @ Texas
Arkansas @ Alabama
California @ Oregon
Miami(FL) @ Virginia Tech
Illinois @ Ohio St.
TCU @ Clemson
Rutgers @ Maryland
UCF @ East Carolina
Pittsburgh @ NC State
Akron @ Central Michigan
Western Kentucky @ Navy
Idaho @ Northern Illinois
McNeese St. @ Tulane
UL-Monroe @ Florida Atlantic
Troy @ Arkansas St.
Florida @ Kentucky
Colorado St. @ BYU
Boise St. @ Bowling Green
Grambling @ Oklahoma St.
Arizona St. @ Georgia
UL-Lafayette @ Nebraska
Ball St. @ Auburn
Army @ Iowa St.
UNC Central @ Duke
Maine @ Syracuse
Sam Houston St. @ Tulsa
Northwestern St. @ Baylor
UAB @ Texas A&M
Middle Tennessee @ North Texas
Toledo @ FIU
Miami(OH) @ Kent St.
Ohio @ Tennessee
Hofstra @ Western Michigan
Louisville @ Utah
Arizona @ Oregon St.
Iowa @ Penn St.
Cal Poly @ San Jose St.
Vanderbilt @ Rice
Southern Utah @ Utah St.
Notre Dame @ Purdue
Washington @ Stanford
Texas Tech @ Houston
New Mexico St. @ New Mexico
Washington St. @ USC
Upset Picks
South Carolina v. Ole Miss - For some reason I just like Carolina in this game. SOS is usually good for one upset a season. I'm predicting it will come early.
Michigan St. v. Wisconsin - I don't see Michigan St. losing 3 games in a row. After losing to Central Michigan and Notre Dame, I think the Spartans can get back on track this week in Madison.
Oregon v. California - Perhaps no one has been higher on Cal this season than I have been. I think the Golden Bears have been the most consistently good team in the top 20 all season long. All that being said, it's hard to pick an away team to get the win at Autzen Stadium. No matter how good they are.
Clemson v. TCU - Opposite of Cal, no one has been more critical of TCU than I have been this season. I just haven't bought into the Horned Frogs hype quite yet. I think Clemson can pull off the upset at home this week.
Missouri @ Nevada
LSU @ Mississippi St.
Fresno St. @ Cincinnati
South Florida @ Florida St.
Southern Miss @ Kansas
North Carolina @ Georgia Tech
Indiana @ Michigan
Rhode Island @ Connecticut
Minnesota @ Northwestern
Buffalo @ Temple
Michigan St. @ Wisconsin
Marshall @ Memphis
Wake Forest @ Boston College
San Diego St. @ Air Force
Tennessee Tech @ Kansas St.
UNLV @ Wyoming
UTEP @ Texas
Arkansas @ Alabama
California @ Oregon
Miami(FL) @ Virginia Tech
Illinois @ Ohio St.
TCU @ Clemson
Rutgers @ Maryland
UCF @ East Carolina
Pittsburgh @ NC State
Akron @ Central Michigan
Western Kentucky @ Navy
Idaho @ Northern Illinois
McNeese St. @ Tulane
UL-Monroe @ Florida Atlantic
Troy @ Arkansas St.
Florida @ Kentucky
Colorado St. @ BYU
Boise St. @ Bowling Green
Grambling @ Oklahoma St.
Arizona St. @ Georgia
UL-Lafayette @ Nebraska
Ball St. @ Auburn
Army @ Iowa St.
UNC Central @ Duke
Maine @ Syracuse
Sam Houston St. @ Tulsa
Northwestern St. @ Baylor
UAB @ Texas A&M
Middle Tennessee @ North Texas
Toledo @ FIU
Miami(OH) @ Kent St.
Ohio @ Tennessee
Hofstra @ Western Michigan
Louisville @ Utah
Arizona @ Oregon St.
Iowa @ Penn St.
Cal Poly @ San Jose St.
Vanderbilt @ Rice
Southern Utah @ Utah St.
Notre Dame @ Purdue
Washington @ Stanford
Texas Tech @ Houston
New Mexico St. @ New Mexico
Washington St. @ USC
Upset Picks
South Carolina v. Ole Miss - For some reason I just like Carolina in this game. SOS is usually good for one upset a season. I'm predicting it will come early.
Michigan St. v. Wisconsin - I don't see Michigan St. losing 3 games in a row. After losing to Central Michigan and Notre Dame, I think the Spartans can get back on track this week in Madison.
Oregon v. California - Perhaps no one has been higher on Cal this season than I have been. I think the Golden Bears have been the most consistently good team in the top 20 all season long. All that being said, it's hard to pick an away team to get the win at Autzen Stadium. No matter how good they are.
Clemson v. TCU - Opposite of Cal, no one has been more critical of TCU than I have been this season. I just haven't bought into the Horned Frogs hype quite yet. I think Clemson can pull off the upset at home this week.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Ultimate Fantasy League Update
SEC
East
1.Florida 3-0 (3-0)
2. Georgia 2-1 (1-0)
3. South Carolina 2-1 (0-1)
4. Clemson 2-1 (0-1)
5. Georgia Tech 1-2 (1-2)
6. Tennessee 1-2 (1-2)
West
1. Alabama 3-0 (1-0)
2. Ole Miss 3-0 (1-0)
3. Kentucky 2-1 (1-1)
4. Auburn 2-1 (1-1)
5. LSU 1-2 (1-1)
6. Mississippi St. 1-2 (0-2)
Big XII
North
1. Kansas 3-0 (2-0)
2. Missouri 3-0 (1-0)
3. Nebraska 2-1 (2-1)
4. Colorado 0-3 (0-1)
5. Kansas St. 0-3 (0-2)
6. Arkansas 0-3 (0-3)
South
1. Texas 3-0 (2-0)
2. Oklahoma St. 3-0 (1-0)
3. Oklahoma 2-1 (2-0)
4. TCU 2-1 (1-1)
5. Texas Tech 1-2 (1-1)
6. Texas A&M 0-3 (0-3)
PAC 10
North
1. Boise St. 3-0 (2-0)
2. Oregon St. 2-1 (2-0)
3. Oregon 1-2 (1-1)
4. Washington 1-2 (1-1)
5. Stanford 1-2 (0-2)
6. Washington St. 0-3 (0-1)
South
1. California 3-0 (1-0)
2. USC 2-1 (2-0)
3. UCLA 2-1 (2-1)
4. Arizona 2-1 (1-1)
5. Arizona St. 0-3 (0-2)
6. San Diego St. 0-3 (0-3)
Big Ten
East
1. Wisconsin 3-0 (2-0)
2. Northwestern 2-1 (2-1)
3. Ohio St. 2-1 (1-1)
4. Minnesota 1-2 (0-2)
5. Illinois 0-3 (0-1)
6. Purdue 0-3 (0-2)
West
1. Michigan 2-1 (1-0)
2. Notre Dame 2-1 (2-1)
3. Iowa 2-1 (1-1)
4. Indiana 2-1 (1-1)
5. Iowa St. 2-1 (0-1)
6. Michigan St. 1-2 (1-1)
ACC
Atlantic
1. Miami 3-0 (3-0)
2. Virginia Tech 3-0 (2-0)
3. North Carolina 1-2 (1-1)
4. Louisville 1-2 (1-1)
5. Virginia 0-3 (0-1)
6. North Carolina St. 0-3 (0-2)
Coastal
1. South Florida 2-1 (1-1)
2. Maryland 1-2 (1-1)
3. East Carolina 1-2 (1-1)
4. Wake Forest 1-2 (1-1)
5. Florida St. 1-2 (1-2)
6. Duke 0-3 (0-1)
Big East
North
1. Penn St. 3-0 (3-0)
2. Boston College 2-1 (1-0)
3. Connecticut 1-2 (1-0)
4. Syracuse 1-2 (1-2)
5. Rutgers 0-3 (0-2)
6. Army 0-3 (0-3)
South
1. Cincinnati 3-0 (2-0)
2. Navy 2-1 (1-1)
3. Pittsburgh 2-1 (1-1)
4. West Virginia 1-2 (1-0)
5. Central Florida 1-2 (1-1)
6. Vanderbilt 1-2 (0-2)
Mountain West
Mountain
1. Baylor 3-0 (3-0)
2. Colorado St. 3-0 (2-0)
3. Air Force 2-1 (2-0)
4. Southern Miss 2-1 (2-1)
5. Louisiana Tech 1-2 (1-1)
6. Troy 0-3 (0-2)
West
1. Houston 3-0 (1-0)
2. Tulsa 2-1 (1-0)
3. BYU 1-2 (0-2)
4. UNLV 0-3 (0-2)
5. Utah 0-3 (0-2)
6. Wyoming 0-3 (0-3)
East
1.Florida 3-0 (3-0)
2. Georgia 2-1 (1-0)
3. South Carolina 2-1 (0-1)
4. Clemson 2-1 (0-1)
5. Georgia Tech 1-2 (1-2)
6. Tennessee 1-2 (1-2)
West
1. Alabama 3-0 (1-0)
2. Ole Miss 3-0 (1-0)
3. Kentucky 2-1 (1-1)
4. Auburn 2-1 (1-1)
5. LSU 1-2 (1-1)
6. Mississippi St. 1-2 (0-2)
Big XII
North
1. Kansas 3-0 (2-0)
2. Missouri 3-0 (1-0)
3. Nebraska 2-1 (2-1)
4. Colorado 0-3 (0-1)
5. Kansas St. 0-3 (0-2)
6. Arkansas 0-3 (0-3)
South
1. Texas 3-0 (2-0)
2. Oklahoma St. 3-0 (1-0)
3. Oklahoma 2-1 (2-0)
4. TCU 2-1 (1-1)
5. Texas Tech 1-2 (1-1)
6. Texas A&M 0-3 (0-3)
PAC 10
North
1. Boise St. 3-0 (2-0)
2. Oregon St. 2-1 (2-0)
3. Oregon 1-2 (1-1)
4. Washington 1-2 (1-1)
5. Stanford 1-2 (0-2)
6. Washington St. 0-3 (0-1)
South
1. California 3-0 (1-0)
2. USC 2-1 (2-0)
3. UCLA 2-1 (2-1)
4. Arizona 2-1 (1-1)
5. Arizona St. 0-3 (0-2)
6. San Diego St. 0-3 (0-3)
Big Ten
East
1. Wisconsin 3-0 (2-0)
2. Northwestern 2-1 (2-1)
3. Ohio St. 2-1 (1-1)
4. Minnesota 1-2 (0-2)
5. Illinois 0-3 (0-1)
6. Purdue 0-3 (0-2)
West
1. Michigan 2-1 (1-0)
2. Notre Dame 2-1 (2-1)
3. Iowa 2-1 (1-1)
4. Indiana 2-1 (1-1)
5. Iowa St. 2-1 (0-1)
6. Michigan St. 1-2 (1-1)
ACC
Atlantic
1. Miami 3-0 (3-0)
2. Virginia Tech 3-0 (2-0)
3. North Carolina 1-2 (1-1)
4. Louisville 1-2 (1-1)
5. Virginia 0-3 (0-1)
6. North Carolina St. 0-3 (0-2)
Coastal
1. South Florida 2-1 (1-1)
2. Maryland 1-2 (1-1)
3. East Carolina 1-2 (1-1)
4. Wake Forest 1-2 (1-1)
5. Florida St. 1-2 (1-2)
6. Duke 0-3 (0-1)
Big East
North
1. Penn St. 3-0 (3-0)
2. Boston College 2-1 (1-0)
3. Connecticut 1-2 (1-0)
4. Syracuse 1-2 (1-2)
5. Rutgers 0-3 (0-2)
6. Army 0-3 (0-3)
South
1. Cincinnati 3-0 (2-0)
2. Navy 2-1 (1-1)
3. Pittsburgh 2-1 (1-1)
4. West Virginia 1-2 (1-0)
5. Central Florida 1-2 (1-1)
6. Vanderbilt 1-2 (0-2)
Mountain West
Mountain
1. Baylor 3-0 (3-0)
2. Colorado St. 3-0 (2-0)
3. Air Force 2-1 (2-0)
4. Southern Miss 2-1 (2-1)
5. Louisiana Tech 1-2 (1-1)
6. Troy 0-3 (0-2)
West
1. Houston 3-0 (1-0)
2. Tulsa 2-1 (1-0)
3. BYU 1-2 (0-2)
4. UNLV 0-3 (0-2)
5. Utah 0-3 (0-2)
6. Wyoming 0-3 (0-3)
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