There can be no doubt that plenty of pundits see the 6th-ranked USC Gamecocks football team as anything but a team that should be ranked so high. Even Coach Steve Spurrier agrees his team probably isn't the sixth-best team in the nation.
It all has to do with the weak performance of the USC offense so far this season, particularly the inability of the offensive line to perform up to expectations. And there's no guarantee the O-line will grow up in time for big tilts against Tennessee, Arkansas, Florida, and Clemson to close out the regular season.
All of which sounds possibly very foreboding. A fall is in store, and Gamecock fans everywhere are going to be mighty disappointed in the coming weeks, after a 6-1 start (hopefully 7-1 after this weekend's Vanderbilt game).
But is the glass really half empty? Technically, a half empty glass is just as empty as it is full. But there are plenty of reasons for USC fans to think positively now, perhaps more than ever about a program that has worn the "mediocre" label for most of its existence.
Yes, it is entirely possible South Carolina could lose every one of those final four games and end with a thud at 7-5. That's a killer gauntlet this team must run through. How about a 1-3 finish? That amounts to an 8-4 record, and still no SEC East title. Even at a 2-2 finish, the result would be a 9-3 record, and probably no SEC East title. A 3-1 finish would be great; 10-2, and maybe, just maybe, a rematch with LSU in the SEC title game. 4-0? Are you kidding me?
Just how many times have Gamecock fans felt terrible about a 7-5 record? 8-4? 9-3? We aren't that far removed from being overjoyed with such results.
The facts, as the record stands on October 18, 2007, this South Carolina team is 6-1, and off to as good a start ever, outside of 1984's team that started 9-0, in an 11 or 12 game schedule. USC is ranked higher than at anytime since that 1984 team rose to second in the polls. The Gamecocks might have done it ugly, but win they have for the most part, and it is possible they can continue to do so against the upcoming stiff competition. The USC football program is in the best shape in the entire history of the school, under Spurrier. And, with so many young players, so many returning players in 2008, and with great recruiting, this team is poised to be legitimate Top Ten material and a top SEC contender when the curtain is raised on that 2008 season. And 2007 could yet hold magic untold for this team.
Half empty, or half full?
If it's all the same, I'll take half full.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Gamecocks Survive, But Questions Abound
To paraphrase the late great President Ronald Reagan, "There they go again."
As has become painful habit, the USC Gamecocks football team is at it again.
They're getting good at winning ugly. But if the latest "good" ugly win is any example, there's heartache ahead in the swirling, dangerous waters of the SEC.
Saturday's 21-15 win over North Carolina in Chapel Hill was just about as ugly as a win could be. After a dominating first half performance built a comfortable 21-3 lead, there was little reason to believe this game wouldn't be over for all intents and purposes about midway through the third quarter. Instead, Gamecocks fans were forced to chew their fingernails to the quick through the final play of the game, as UNC -- the OTHER Carolina -- held USC scoreless in the second half, and was one Hail Mary completion away from a stunning comeback win.
An incompletion to end the game, and one collective Gamecock Nation sigh of relief later, and the 7th-ranked Gamecocks were winners yet again. But do not be fooled. The Gods of College Football will not allow such gridiron blasphemy to continue much longer. The odds of winning ugly will diminish rapidly for USC after this Saturday, when they should beat Vanderbilt in Columbia to move their record to 7-1, and an SEC East-leading 4-1. Let me say right here and now, I have come to expect ugly wins for USC, and I don't doubt Vandy will play the Gamecocks tough. Of course, USC will win.
If my calculations are correct, Kentucky will lose to Florida, and Tennessee will fall at Alabama Saturday, leaving South Carolina with a full one game lead over every other team in the East. On paper, it looks like a great set-up. But if you're a Gamecock fan, that doesn't leave you resting easy at night. Just be glad you're not Steve Spurrier.
If that scenario plays out, it leaves USC to "only" have to win against Tennessee in Knoxville, Arkansas on the road the next week, then Florida at home to win the East. IF Florida loses to Kentucky Saturday, there will be no SEC Championship possibilities this season in Gainesville. IF Kentucky beats Florida, will they also beat Georgia on the road and Tennessee at the end of the season? If not, they're in trouble in the SEC East race. IF Tennessee loses to Alabama Saturday, and then to USC October 27th, their title hopes are down the drain, too, with three league losses. Georgia, already with two league losses should lose to Florida October 27th to take them out of contention. All of that to say this: The SEC East is South Carolina's to lose. The problem is, with an offense that disappears at times, that's exactly what will happen if that offense doesn't find high gear. And fast. No more time for excuses after this week.
Should they win ugly against Vandy Saturday, the now-6th-ranked Gamecocks will have the table set for an epic SEC division game at Tennessee. Win, and USC will prove something to all of the doubters, and they will give themselves just a small bit of breathing room at the top of the division. Lose, and visions of playing LSU again in the SEC Championship Game will begin to disintegrate.
For sure, after seven games, this is one of the greatest USC seasons EVER, on the Win-Loss ledger. But the lack of an offense that can deliver a knockout punch -- or sometimes look like it might not even answer the bell in the second half -- will continue to hound South Carolina until it either just wins out ugly, or wins big against a Tennessee, Arkansas,or Florida.
The pundits say South Carolina is a pretender, not a true contender. It stings proud Gamecock fans, but the truth is, nobody really knows yet. But as the season enters the stretch run, the answer SHALL be given.
The won-loss record says USC is a contender; the pure ugliness of the way they've arrived at that record suggests the pundits could be right. But regardless of whether you agree or disagree, winning against all, two, or even one of the Big Three of Tennessee, Arkansas, and Florida is highly unlikely unless this team can establish a real offensive threat that's better than has been shown to this point this season.
In other words, Coach Spurrier can no longer afford to play conservative football like his team displayed at the beginning of the second half against North Carolina. "Nursing" a lead -- a shocking thought of a Spurrier team in any case, although Spurrier himself admitted that's the curious approach he took with a big lead -- in the upcoming SEC schedule is surely a recipe for disaster.
There's no way that no offense will equal three wins, two, or even one win in those big three games. If what happened Saturday happens on any of those upcoming Saturdays, South Carolina's SEC dream will finally begin to disintegrate.
How will USC suddenly find a killer instinct on offense when it hasn't been seen yet this year? I frankly don't have a clue. But I do know this: If anybody CAN figure it out, it is one Stephen Orr Spurrier.
If they can find the missing "it," this team will be a bona fide player on the national scene THIS year. If not, it will simply be another building year under Spurrier, although one that should set the stage for lofty Top Ten expectations for 2008.
Thus far, the Gamecocks have been able to survive the close ones, en route to the top spot in the SEC East. But that option is about to end (after Vanderbilt this weekend), and USC has no choice but to come of age right before our eyes.
No offense, Coach Spurrier, but...that's exactly the problem. Here's hoping you can give us what your reputation is all about. We'll find out soon enough.
As has become painful habit, the USC Gamecocks football team is at it again.
They're getting good at winning ugly. But if the latest "good" ugly win is any example, there's heartache ahead in the swirling, dangerous waters of the SEC.
Saturday's 21-15 win over North Carolina in Chapel Hill was just about as ugly as a win could be. After a dominating first half performance built a comfortable 21-3 lead, there was little reason to believe this game wouldn't be over for all intents and purposes about midway through the third quarter. Instead, Gamecocks fans were forced to chew their fingernails to the quick through the final play of the game, as UNC -- the OTHER Carolina -- held USC scoreless in the second half, and was one Hail Mary completion away from a stunning comeback win.
An incompletion to end the game, and one collective Gamecock Nation sigh of relief later, and the 7th-ranked Gamecocks were winners yet again. But do not be fooled. The Gods of College Football will not allow such gridiron blasphemy to continue much longer. The odds of winning ugly will diminish rapidly for USC after this Saturday, when they should beat Vanderbilt in Columbia to move their record to 7-1, and an SEC East-leading 4-1. Let me say right here and now, I have come to expect ugly wins for USC, and I don't doubt Vandy will play the Gamecocks tough. Of course, USC will win.
If my calculations are correct, Kentucky will lose to Florida, and Tennessee will fall at Alabama Saturday, leaving South Carolina with a full one game lead over every other team in the East. On paper, it looks like a great set-up. But if you're a Gamecock fan, that doesn't leave you resting easy at night. Just be glad you're not Steve Spurrier.
If that scenario plays out, it leaves USC to "only" have to win against Tennessee in Knoxville, Arkansas on the road the next week, then Florida at home to win the East. IF Florida loses to Kentucky Saturday, there will be no SEC Championship possibilities this season in Gainesville. IF Kentucky beats Florida, will they also beat Georgia on the road and Tennessee at the end of the season? If not, they're in trouble in the SEC East race. IF Tennessee loses to Alabama Saturday, and then to USC October 27th, their title hopes are down the drain, too, with three league losses. Georgia, already with two league losses should lose to Florida October 27th to take them out of contention. All of that to say this: The SEC East is South Carolina's to lose. The problem is, with an offense that disappears at times, that's exactly what will happen if that offense doesn't find high gear. And fast. No more time for excuses after this week.
Should they win ugly against Vandy Saturday, the now-6th-ranked Gamecocks will have the table set for an epic SEC division game at Tennessee. Win, and USC will prove something to all of the doubters, and they will give themselves just a small bit of breathing room at the top of the division. Lose, and visions of playing LSU again in the SEC Championship Game will begin to disintegrate.
For sure, after seven games, this is one of the greatest USC seasons EVER, on the Win-Loss ledger. But the lack of an offense that can deliver a knockout punch -- or sometimes look like it might not even answer the bell in the second half -- will continue to hound South Carolina until it either just wins out ugly, or wins big against a Tennessee, Arkansas,or Florida.
The pundits say South Carolina is a pretender, not a true contender. It stings proud Gamecock fans, but the truth is, nobody really knows yet. But as the season enters the stretch run, the answer SHALL be given.
The won-loss record says USC is a contender; the pure ugliness of the way they've arrived at that record suggests the pundits could be right. But regardless of whether you agree or disagree, winning against all, two, or even one of the Big Three of Tennessee, Arkansas, and Florida is highly unlikely unless this team can establish a real offensive threat that's better than has been shown to this point this season.
In other words, Coach Spurrier can no longer afford to play conservative football like his team displayed at the beginning of the second half against North Carolina. "Nursing" a lead -- a shocking thought of a Spurrier team in any case, although Spurrier himself admitted that's the curious approach he took with a big lead -- in the upcoming SEC schedule is surely a recipe for disaster.
There's no way that no offense will equal three wins, two, or even one win in those big three games. If what happened Saturday happens on any of those upcoming Saturdays, South Carolina's SEC dream will finally begin to disintegrate.
How will USC suddenly find a killer instinct on offense when it hasn't been seen yet this year? I frankly don't have a clue. But I do know this: If anybody CAN figure it out, it is one Stephen Orr Spurrier.
If they can find the missing "it," this team will be a bona fide player on the national scene THIS year. If not, it will simply be another building year under Spurrier, although one that should set the stage for lofty Top Ten expectations for 2008.
Thus far, the Gamecocks have been able to survive the close ones, en route to the top spot in the SEC East. But that option is about to end (after Vanderbilt this weekend), and USC has no choice but to come of age right before our eyes.
No offense, Coach Spurrier, but...that's exactly the problem. Here's hoping you can give us what your reputation is all about. We'll find out soon enough.
SC Football Today Blog Is Back
The Good News: After experiencing technical difficulties, and then working my blog on another site, SC Football Today is back in place.
The Bad News: I cannot transport the interim blogs back to this one, so there is a timeline gap on this blog. For that, I apologize.
Now back to the business at hand.
The Bad News: I cannot transport the interim blogs back to this one, so there is a timeline gap on this blog. For that, I apologize.
Now back to the business at hand.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Gamecocks Face Uphill Battle In Baton Rouge
The 12th-ranked (AP) USC Gamecocks are 16 point underdogs going into Saturday afternoon's game against #2 LSU in Baton Rouge.
Justifiably so. The Gamecocks are a shaky Number 12 at best, partially on the strength of their road win against then-11th-ranked Georgia, and because some Top 25 teams are early losers. Wins over Louisiana-Lafayette and South Carolina State help to make the Gamecocks 3-0, as good as the record could possibly be. But USC coaches are troubled about the personality of this team, especially on offense.
The defense performed admirably against Georgia. Some people believe USC sandbagged against Louisiana-Lafayette, and didn't play all that well last Saturday against S.C. State. But even if the defense plays as hard and well as it did against Georgia (and we believe it will), the balanced LSU offensive attack will be hard to stop.
But it's the offense that leaves the most question marks at this point. Blake Mitchell has looked like a deer in the headlights some of the time, despite being a fifth-year senior. As Coach Spurrier deftly pointed out this week, Mitchell isn't throwing well, isn't thinking well, and isn't reacting well. "He's waiting until receivers become open, and you can't wait that long. You have to have the timing down that you throw it where the receiver is going to be, and let him go to it."
If Mitchell doesn't even have that down, and if he still can't call audibles against LSU, the Gamecocks could be in for a world of trouble. The only way USC has proven it can really move the ball is by running it. But the LSU defense is giving up barely a yard per carry, and that doesn't bode well for USC.
I'm not saying South Carolina can't beat LSU Saturday afternoon; but I am saying South Carolina will have to play its best, and the QB play will have to be not only good, but exceptional. But mostly, the biggest reason South Carolina has a chance is because the Head Ball Coach is on the sidelines.
If USC can keep it close, Spurrier might be enough the win it. The question remains, however, whether the Gamecocks will even still be in the game come the start of the fourth quarter.
Justifiably so. The Gamecocks are a shaky Number 12 at best, partially on the strength of their road win against then-11th-ranked Georgia, and because some Top 25 teams are early losers. Wins over Louisiana-Lafayette and South Carolina State help to make the Gamecocks 3-0, as good as the record could possibly be. But USC coaches are troubled about the personality of this team, especially on offense.
The defense performed admirably against Georgia. Some people believe USC sandbagged against Louisiana-Lafayette, and didn't play all that well last Saturday against S.C. State. But even if the defense plays as hard and well as it did against Georgia (and we believe it will), the balanced LSU offensive attack will be hard to stop.
But it's the offense that leaves the most question marks at this point. Blake Mitchell has looked like a deer in the headlights some of the time, despite being a fifth-year senior. As Coach Spurrier deftly pointed out this week, Mitchell isn't throwing well, isn't thinking well, and isn't reacting well. "He's waiting until receivers become open, and you can't wait that long. You have to have the timing down that you throw it where the receiver is going to be, and let him go to it."
If Mitchell doesn't even have that down, and if he still can't call audibles against LSU, the Gamecocks could be in for a world of trouble. The only way USC has proven it can really move the ball is by running it. But the LSU defense is giving up barely a yard per carry, and that doesn't bode well for USC.
I'm not saying South Carolina can't beat LSU Saturday afternoon; but I am saying South Carolina will have to play its best, and the QB play will have to be not only good, but exceptional. But mostly, the biggest reason South Carolina has a chance is because the Head Ball Coach is on the sidelines.
If USC can keep it close, Spurrier might be enough the win it. The question remains, however, whether the Gamecocks will even still be in the game come the start of the fourth quarter.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
SC Game Day Picks For September 15
1. South Carolina State at South Carolina
An easy tune-up for the Gamecocks in their first-ever matchup against the Bulldogs, or against a MEAC opponent, for that matter. USC fans can use this week to focus on various units and players to see how well they execute, and to see if some new young receivers emerge. For Coach Steve Spurrier, the task is to win easily, get those young receivers in a little bit of a groove in anticipation of next week's big game against LSU in Baton Rouge, and yet give Tigers coaches as little as possible to prepare for...South Carolina 35, South Carolina State 0.
2. Furman at Clemson
Another easy win goes into the books for Clemson. If Furman had been able to beat Hofstra last week, the Paladins would be able to think upset a little bit more. But if they can't beat Hofstra, they sure as heck won't topple the Tigers in Tigertown. Furman might hang early, but not past midway through the first half, as the Tigers look to improve...Clemson 41 Furman 14.
3. Georgia Southern at Coastal Carolina
Coach David Bennett is one of the best head coaches in the Southeast, and Coastal fans better enjoy him while he's in Conway, because at some point an offer is going to come that he just can't refuse. We wouldn't be surprised if he's wearing a Clemson cap one day. But after some spectacular seasons, especially reaching last year's playoffs in Division 1-AA, the Chanticleers are going to take some lumps this season. Georgia Southern may still be a little down, but they are showing signs of being a Top 25 FCS team this season. Saturday night's results will find Coastal Carolina off to a rough 1-2 start with Furman and James Madison looming on the horizon...Georgia Southern 34 Coastal Carolina 24.
4. The Citadel at Wisconsin
Last week, the Bulldogs torched a no-name team for 76 points, but this week, it's back to reality in a big kind of way. The Badgers are big and bad, and perhaps the class of the Weak 10 -- ahem, Big 10. The Bulldogs' Appalachian State imitation might be good enough early to throw a quick jab, but the Badgers will eventually wear them out...Wisconsin 45 The Citadel 10.
SEC GAMES
5. Tennessee at Florida
After Saturday, we'll see who the national media will re-adjust their picks to win the SEC East. Many pundits are still skeptical of USC, and that's understandable. It will take some time -- and more big South Carolina wins -- for them to believe. With Georgia having lost to USC already, the prognosticators are already saying this could be a "down" Georgia season. Just because they lost to USC. Since they don't believe USC is "there" yet, and they don't believe Kentucky or Vanderbilt are viable contenders, that really leaves only Florida and Tennessee as possible SEC East winners in their eyes. After tonight, the "experts" will be saying...Florida. The Gators are not good enough to win another National Championship this season, but they are still better than Tennessee. Better than South Carolina? We'll see. This week, we see Tebow being effective against Tennessee, although the defense is somewhat suspect. In a close one...Florida 30 Tennessee 27.
6. Arkansas at Alabama
Houston Nutt is one of the most enigmatic coaches in all of college football. He's proven to be one of the top coaches in the top conference in all the land. His record proves it. Now comes Nick Saban to guide the Crimson Tide into the SEC Holy Land. I'm buying for the long haul, but the short term is way too clouded to tell for 2007. LSU is by far the best of the SEC West, but Arkansas and 'Bama's game today will tell us a whole bunch about who has the best shot at spoiling the Bayou Tigers' party. Despite the great 1-2 RB punch in MdFadden and Jones for the Hogs, we like Alabama to pull out a close win with defense...Alabama 20 Arkansas 17.
7. Louisville at Kentucky
Two of the nation's best QB's will be showcased in Lexington tonight, but the real key is going to be which DEFENSE can step up and make big plays. Neither team has a good "D", so it may come down to which defense makes the biggest play to preserve a win late. If Kentucky doesn't win this one, it will take a lot of steam from the enthusiasm on the Wildcats team...Louisville 38 Kentucky 31.
8. Mississippi State at Auburn
Why is Sylvester Croom still the head coach at Mississippi State? Don't even get me started. In his fourth season at MSU, Croom is a pitiful 10-25. Do they simply want to accept dungeon-level performance in the name of keeping a coach in place because it is the politically correct thing to do? Does anybody remember when Mississippi State had a football team that actually put fear into the hearts of opponents? Well, it's been a while, but there is a record of it happening. We call it ancient history now, and that's the way it will stay for Bulldogs faithful until several years after a change is made at the top...Auburn 34 Mississippi State 17.
ACC GAMES
9. Boston College at Georgia Tech
I never thought Chan Gailey would be this good at Georgia Tech, but I was flat-out wrong. Gailey has brought in excellent talent, and has this team primed for a huge season. In fact, right now, Georgia Tech is THE class of the whole league! Florida State's comeback year? Fuhgettaboutit! Miami? Don't make me laugh. Virginia Tech? Too much emotion spent on remembering the on-campus strategy early on? Wake Forest? Don't count them out in any way yet, but the experts still don't want to believe. Clemson? Good, but not good enough. Which leaves Boston College. Everybody else seems to be on the bandwagon, but we're not buying yet. BC is a strong program, relying on the strength of their big uglies up front and a very good college QB. But we simply think Georgia Tech is more athletic, and will win with that tonight...Georgia Tech 24 Boston College 20.
10. Virginia at North Carolina
Al Groh is another coach I have to scratch my head and wonder about. Grugg, hateful, and another smoke-and-mirrors guy who has somehow managed to hold onto his job despite less-than-glorious achievement. Most of the pundits don't seem to agree, but I say North Carolina's defense will pick it up enough this week to beat Virginia in a game that will be a statement of sorts for both Groh and Tar Heels first-year coach Butch Davis...North Carolina 27 Virginia 21.
An easy tune-up for the Gamecocks in their first-ever matchup against the Bulldogs, or against a MEAC opponent, for that matter. USC fans can use this week to focus on various units and players to see how well they execute, and to see if some new young receivers emerge. For Coach Steve Spurrier, the task is to win easily, get those young receivers in a little bit of a groove in anticipation of next week's big game against LSU in Baton Rouge, and yet give Tigers coaches as little as possible to prepare for...South Carolina 35, South Carolina State 0.
2. Furman at Clemson
Another easy win goes into the books for Clemson. If Furman had been able to beat Hofstra last week, the Paladins would be able to think upset a little bit more. But if they can't beat Hofstra, they sure as heck won't topple the Tigers in Tigertown. Furman might hang early, but not past midway through the first half, as the Tigers look to improve...Clemson 41 Furman 14.
3. Georgia Southern at Coastal Carolina
Coach David Bennett is one of the best head coaches in the Southeast, and Coastal fans better enjoy him while he's in Conway, because at some point an offer is going to come that he just can't refuse. We wouldn't be surprised if he's wearing a Clemson cap one day. But after some spectacular seasons, especially reaching last year's playoffs in Division 1-AA, the Chanticleers are going to take some lumps this season. Georgia Southern may still be a little down, but they are showing signs of being a Top 25 FCS team this season. Saturday night's results will find Coastal Carolina off to a rough 1-2 start with Furman and James Madison looming on the horizon...Georgia Southern 34 Coastal Carolina 24.
4. The Citadel at Wisconsin
Last week, the Bulldogs torched a no-name team for 76 points, but this week, it's back to reality in a big kind of way. The Badgers are big and bad, and perhaps the class of the Weak 10 -- ahem, Big 10. The Bulldogs' Appalachian State imitation might be good enough early to throw a quick jab, but the Badgers will eventually wear them out...Wisconsin 45 The Citadel 10.
SEC GAMES
5. Tennessee at Florida
After Saturday, we'll see who the national media will re-adjust their picks to win the SEC East. Many pundits are still skeptical of USC, and that's understandable. It will take some time -- and more big South Carolina wins -- for them to believe. With Georgia having lost to USC already, the prognosticators are already saying this could be a "down" Georgia season. Just because they lost to USC. Since they don't believe USC is "there" yet, and they don't believe Kentucky or Vanderbilt are viable contenders, that really leaves only Florida and Tennessee as possible SEC East winners in their eyes. After tonight, the "experts" will be saying...Florida. The Gators are not good enough to win another National Championship this season, but they are still better than Tennessee. Better than South Carolina? We'll see. This week, we see Tebow being effective against Tennessee, although the defense is somewhat suspect. In a close one...Florida 30 Tennessee 27.
6. Arkansas at Alabama
Houston Nutt is one of the most enigmatic coaches in all of college football. He's proven to be one of the top coaches in the top conference in all the land. His record proves it. Now comes Nick Saban to guide the Crimson Tide into the SEC Holy Land. I'm buying for the long haul, but the short term is way too clouded to tell for 2007. LSU is by far the best of the SEC West, but Arkansas and 'Bama's game today will tell us a whole bunch about who has the best shot at spoiling the Bayou Tigers' party. Despite the great 1-2 RB punch in MdFadden and Jones for the Hogs, we like Alabama to pull out a close win with defense...Alabama 20 Arkansas 17.
7. Louisville at Kentucky
Two of the nation's best QB's will be showcased in Lexington tonight, but the real key is going to be which DEFENSE can step up and make big plays. Neither team has a good "D", so it may come down to which defense makes the biggest play to preserve a win late. If Kentucky doesn't win this one, it will take a lot of steam from the enthusiasm on the Wildcats team...Louisville 38 Kentucky 31.
8. Mississippi State at Auburn
Why is Sylvester Croom still the head coach at Mississippi State? Don't even get me started. In his fourth season at MSU, Croom is a pitiful 10-25. Do they simply want to accept dungeon-level performance in the name of keeping a coach in place because it is the politically correct thing to do? Does anybody remember when Mississippi State had a football team that actually put fear into the hearts of opponents? Well, it's been a while, but there is a record of it happening. We call it ancient history now, and that's the way it will stay for Bulldogs faithful until several years after a change is made at the top...Auburn 34 Mississippi State 17.
ACC GAMES
9. Boston College at Georgia Tech
I never thought Chan Gailey would be this good at Georgia Tech, but I was flat-out wrong. Gailey has brought in excellent talent, and has this team primed for a huge season. In fact, right now, Georgia Tech is THE class of the whole league! Florida State's comeback year? Fuhgettaboutit! Miami? Don't make me laugh. Virginia Tech? Too much emotion spent on remembering the on-campus strategy early on? Wake Forest? Don't count them out in any way yet, but the experts still don't want to believe. Clemson? Good, but not good enough. Which leaves Boston College. Everybody else seems to be on the bandwagon, but we're not buying yet. BC is a strong program, relying on the strength of their big uglies up front and a very good college QB. But we simply think Georgia Tech is more athletic, and will win with that tonight...Georgia Tech 24 Boston College 20.
10. Virginia at North Carolina
Al Groh is another coach I have to scratch my head and wonder about. Grugg, hateful, and another smoke-and-mirrors guy who has somehow managed to hold onto his job despite less-than-glorious achievement. Most of the pundits don't seem to agree, but I say North Carolina's defense will pick it up enough this week to beat Virginia in a game that will be a statement of sorts for both Groh and Tar Heels first-year coach Butch Davis...North Carolina 27 Virginia 21.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Bowden Takes Foot Out Of Mouth
Clemson football coach Tommy Bowden doesn't know quite when to shut up.
Earlier this week, Bowden told reporters that he is considering using true freshman quarterback Willy Korn in some "critical" game situations to see how he will perform.
Starting quarterback Cullen Harper, told of the comments later, questioned why the team would consider platooning quarterbacks if he is healthy, and performing at a high level.
Bowden almost immediately gained some politically correct coaching religion, apparently in an attempt to apply some salve to Harper's wounded feelings. When Bowden was asked about all of this after Harper had responded to his earlier Korn Plan, he tried to blow off the whole issue. "Why would I discuss some hypothetical that may or may not happen later this year?"
We don't know, Tommy, we don't know. After all, you're the one who said it in the first place.
As those who have observed him over the years have come to know, Bowden's bedside manner with reporters sometimes lands foot promptly in mouth. This is one of those cases. Now you can be sure Harper has a chip on his shoulder -- but towards his own head coach, and Bowden is trying to once again back-door his way out of a negative situation of his own doing.
Regardless of what Bowden meant, or just what he was thinking when he played the Korn card again, he stirred up the stink in his own pot.
One of these days all of that shoe-leather soup is going to sour on Bowden.
Earlier this week, Bowden told reporters that he is considering using true freshman quarterback Willy Korn in some "critical" game situations to see how he will perform.
Starting quarterback Cullen Harper, told of the comments later, questioned why the team would consider platooning quarterbacks if he is healthy, and performing at a high level.
Bowden almost immediately gained some politically correct coaching religion, apparently in an attempt to apply some salve to Harper's wounded feelings. When Bowden was asked about all of this after Harper had responded to his earlier Korn Plan, he tried to blow off the whole issue. "Why would I discuss some hypothetical that may or may not happen later this year?"
We don't know, Tommy, we don't know. After all, you're the one who said it in the first place.
As those who have observed him over the years have come to know, Bowden's bedside manner with reporters sometimes lands foot promptly in mouth. This is one of those cases. Now you can be sure Harper has a chip on his shoulder -- but towards his own head coach, and Bowden is trying to once again back-door his way out of a negative situation of his own doing.
Regardless of what Bowden meant, or just what he was thinking when he played the Korn card again, he stirred up the stink in his own pot.
One of these days all of that shoe-leather soup is going to sour on Bowden.
Not So Fast, My Friends!
It's understandable that many USC Gamecock football fans are spending lots of energy these days hating on ESPN Game Day clown/commentator Lee Corso. Since Lou Holtz left the head coaching slot after he failed to establish a strong SEC East program, Corso has been a Gamecock critic more often than not.
His comments about USC and Steve Spurrier after Spurrier was hired as Holtz' successor in Columbia stung the USC Nation, and Spurrier was none too happy, either. Corso said South Carolina's mediocre program could not be lifted to a championship-calibre level, even by a Hall-Of-Fame-bound, National Championship ball coach named Spurrier. Corso said USC couldn't win an SEC Championship even if Spurrier had 400 years to get the job done.
That was enough to cast him into the USC Lake of Hate. Gamecock fans everywhere now love to despise the little washed-up former college coach. And Spurrier stepped into the fray several times in 2005 and 2006, conjuring up Corso's name for some added inspiration, and then reminding the nation of that after wins over Florida and Tennessee.
Before the Louisiana-Lafayette opener this season, a message to the Gamecock Nation from Spurrier played on the big screen over the field at Williams-Brice Stadium. The video featuring Spurrier commenting on the rise of USC football fortunes mentioned Corso specifically to add more fuel to the anti-Corso fire.
When the video was played during last week's Saturday morning Game Day show on ESPN, the cameras showed a fuming Corso afterwards, getting a little aid and comfort from Kirk Herbstreit. His reply? "All that doesn't have anything to do with what happens on the field. Georgia will run all over South Carolina." To which Herbstreit added that because Louisiana-Lafayette rushed for 252 yards against what was supposed to be the strength of USC's defense, Georgia would have their way. In Herbstreit's words, "Georgia will win, and win handily."
The latest volley had Gamecock fans spitting nails again. How did Spurrier respond? I'm sure his players had a chance to see the predictions before they tackled the 11-th-ranked Georgia Bulldogs Saturday night. Spurrier once again showed why he is called the "Evil Genius." He pushed Corso to act on emotion, and in turn, used the resulting verbal assault to motivate his players to a stirring upset victory over the Bulldogs.
Gamecock Nation fans showed take a page from Spurrier's notebook. Don't let Corso's losing verbal rampage weigh too heavily on your stress level. Understand that this little battle between Corso and Spurrier & Company is national publicity, and that it only motivates Spurrier to motivate his players even more.
Don't curse, spit on, or act otherwise untowardly toward Mr. Corso. Use the controversy for your own motivation as a fan, have fun with it, and enjoy the best times ever rising for Gamecocks football.
The alternative, when Lou Holtz was using smoke and mirrors and getting "ups" from Corso, was that while we felt good about the warm and fuzzy Corso coverage, the result on the field was much more disappointing.
I'll take a mad Corso and a great coach and great team today.
Enjoy the ride. Those 400 years will pass just like it's only a year or two.
His comments about USC and Steve Spurrier after Spurrier was hired as Holtz' successor in Columbia stung the USC Nation, and Spurrier was none too happy, either. Corso said South Carolina's mediocre program could not be lifted to a championship-calibre level, even by a Hall-Of-Fame-bound, National Championship ball coach named Spurrier. Corso said USC couldn't win an SEC Championship even if Spurrier had 400 years to get the job done.
That was enough to cast him into the USC Lake of Hate. Gamecock fans everywhere now love to despise the little washed-up former college coach. And Spurrier stepped into the fray several times in 2005 and 2006, conjuring up Corso's name for some added inspiration, and then reminding the nation of that after wins over Florida and Tennessee.
Before the Louisiana-Lafayette opener this season, a message to the Gamecock Nation from Spurrier played on the big screen over the field at Williams-Brice Stadium. The video featuring Spurrier commenting on the rise of USC football fortunes mentioned Corso specifically to add more fuel to the anti-Corso fire.
When the video was played during last week's Saturday morning Game Day show on ESPN, the cameras showed a fuming Corso afterwards, getting a little aid and comfort from Kirk Herbstreit. His reply? "All that doesn't have anything to do with what happens on the field. Georgia will run all over South Carolina." To which Herbstreit added that because Louisiana-Lafayette rushed for 252 yards against what was supposed to be the strength of USC's defense, Georgia would have their way. In Herbstreit's words, "Georgia will win, and win handily."
The latest volley had Gamecock fans spitting nails again. How did Spurrier respond? I'm sure his players had a chance to see the predictions before they tackled the 11-th-ranked Georgia Bulldogs Saturday night. Spurrier once again showed why he is called the "Evil Genius." He pushed Corso to act on emotion, and in turn, used the resulting verbal assault to motivate his players to a stirring upset victory over the Bulldogs.
Gamecock Nation fans showed take a page from Spurrier's notebook. Don't let Corso's losing verbal rampage weigh too heavily on your stress level. Understand that this little battle between Corso and Spurrier & Company is national publicity, and that it only motivates Spurrier to motivate his players even more.
Don't curse, spit on, or act otherwise untowardly toward Mr. Corso. Use the controversy for your own motivation as a fan, have fun with it, and enjoy the best times ever rising for Gamecocks football.
The alternative, when Lou Holtz was using smoke and mirrors and getting "ups" from Corso, was that while we felt good about the warm and fuzzy Corso coverage, the result on the field was much more disappointing.
I'll take a mad Corso and a great coach and great team today.
Enjoy the ride. Those 400 years will pass just like it's only a year or two.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Gamecocks In Unusual Position
Steve Spurrier has been here before.
The Gamecocks? Not so fast, my friend, as the University of South Carolina's latest favorite villain would say.
Spurrier knows what it takes to raise a program from the depths of mediocrity or worse (see Duke football), and take it to a league championship. The Gamecocks have never made it to the top of such a steep hill, save the 1969 ACC Championship season. For all practical purposes, that might as well have been 1869.
The Gamecocks were doubted after a lackluster performance in their 2007 opening win over Louisiana Lafayette, 28-14. Critics wouldn't have been happy with anything less than a thrashing of, oh, about 56-7 proportions.
After an impressive 16-12 win over the 11th-ranked Georgia Bulldogs last Saturday, the Gamecocks have silenced much of the early criticism that focused on a defense that didn't appear to be as good as advertised.
It wasn't as much a case of underachieving in the Louisiana-Lafayette game as much as it was vintage Spurrier gamesmanship. The Ole Ball Coach -- true to his own form -- used his available resources to gain an advantage over Georgia by sandbagging against the inferior opening opponent, and saving the hot pepper sauce to spice the meal in Athens. Spurrier didn't lay the groundwork with a formerly predictable flash of artillery in the distant light; he simply saved the real offensive (with defense) for the Southern advance a week later.
In Saturday's game against Georgia, the USC defense was as good as we've seen in these parts since perhaps the 1984 Fire Ants defense. Not that that defense was overwhelming, but it was exciting, hard-hitting, and opportunistic. Saturday night's defense was from the same mold, and is exactly the kind of "D" this team needs to succeed in the toughest division in the toughest conference in all the land.
Folks, its been a long time since we've seen something like this. Count the years -- close to a quarter of a century. There's something different in the air at USC, and it doesn't revolve around an All Star quarterback, running back, or wide receiver.
The offense is average at best at this point, but it will get better. Much better. That's the beautiful thing about this team's metamorphosis. We are seeing it emerge from the cocoon, defensive legs first, and offensive teeth last, but we are seeing it happen, and we are seeing it right now. The defense has arrived, and you can bet your bottom dollar Steve Spurrier won't rest until he has a high-octane offense in overdrive.
The Gamecocks rolled a top 11 team Saturday Between The Hedges in Athens, Georgia, and they were clearly the better team, although to Georgia's credit, the Bulldogs did have a chance to win late. Yet, despite being the clearly better team on the field -- they flat out wanted it more -- the Gamecocks did not give us a "great" overall performance. This team will be much better in late October. Too late maybe to take down LSU in Baton Rouge on September 22, but in plenty of time to take out Tennessee and Florida again. All of which shapes up as setting the table for a possible USC-LSU rematch in Atlanta in the SEC Championship game!
Spurrier said before the season that this team is ready to challenge for the SEC Championship, and the critics like Lee Corso laughed at the prospect. But ask people in places like Tuscaloosa, Gainesville -- and certainly Athens -- today, and you'll see less smiling, and a glint of concern in the eyes of those same critics.
The Gamecocks are indeed in an unusual position today. They lead the SEC East, they've beaten Georgia, and they will look Tennessee and Florida dead in the eye without flinching this time around.
And the best is still yet to come.
The Gamecocks? Not so fast, my friend, as the University of South Carolina's latest favorite villain would say.
Spurrier knows what it takes to raise a program from the depths of mediocrity or worse (see Duke football), and take it to a league championship. The Gamecocks have never made it to the top of such a steep hill, save the 1969 ACC Championship season. For all practical purposes, that might as well have been 1869.
The Gamecocks were doubted after a lackluster performance in their 2007 opening win over Louisiana Lafayette, 28-14. Critics wouldn't have been happy with anything less than a thrashing of, oh, about 56-7 proportions.
After an impressive 16-12 win over the 11th-ranked Georgia Bulldogs last Saturday, the Gamecocks have silenced much of the early criticism that focused on a defense that didn't appear to be as good as advertised.
It wasn't as much a case of underachieving in the Louisiana-Lafayette game as much as it was vintage Spurrier gamesmanship. The Ole Ball Coach -- true to his own form -- used his available resources to gain an advantage over Georgia by sandbagging against the inferior opening opponent, and saving the hot pepper sauce to spice the meal in Athens. Spurrier didn't lay the groundwork with a formerly predictable flash of artillery in the distant light; he simply saved the real offensive (with defense) for the Southern advance a week later.
In Saturday's game against Georgia, the USC defense was as good as we've seen in these parts since perhaps the 1984 Fire Ants defense. Not that that defense was overwhelming, but it was exciting, hard-hitting, and opportunistic. Saturday night's defense was from the same mold, and is exactly the kind of "D" this team needs to succeed in the toughest division in the toughest conference in all the land.
Folks, its been a long time since we've seen something like this. Count the years -- close to a quarter of a century. There's something different in the air at USC, and it doesn't revolve around an All Star quarterback, running back, or wide receiver.
The offense is average at best at this point, but it will get better. Much better. That's the beautiful thing about this team's metamorphosis. We are seeing it emerge from the cocoon, defensive legs first, and offensive teeth last, but we are seeing it happen, and we are seeing it right now. The defense has arrived, and you can bet your bottom dollar Steve Spurrier won't rest until he has a high-octane offense in overdrive.
The Gamecocks rolled a top 11 team Saturday Between The Hedges in Athens, Georgia, and they were clearly the better team, although to Georgia's credit, the Bulldogs did have a chance to win late. Yet, despite being the clearly better team on the field -- they flat out wanted it more -- the Gamecocks did not give us a "great" overall performance. This team will be much better in late October. Too late maybe to take down LSU in Baton Rouge on September 22, but in plenty of time to take out Tennessee and Florida again. All of which shapes up as setting the table for a possible USC-LSU rematch in Atlanta in the SEC Championship game!
Spurrier said before the season that this team is ready to challenge for the SEC Championship, and the critics like Lee Corso laughed at the prospect. But ask people in places like Tuscaloosa, Gainesville -- and certainly Athens -- today, and you'll see less smiling, and a glint of concern in the eyes of those same critics.
The Gamecocks are indeed in an unusual position today. They lead the SEC East, they've beaten Georgia, and they will look Tennessee and Florida dead in the eye without flinching this time around.
And the best is still yet to come.
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