Tuesday afternoon Quarterback...
Not much time to look back and frankly, not much to talk about. Michigan struggled - again. Ohio State struggled? Hmmm, how does that bode for this weekend? Minnesota is either a lot better than we thought, or Pittsburgh really sucks. Everyone else looked the part for the weekend.
Ordinarily, I'd get into who's hot and not, players of the week, etc. but I just don't have the time!
So, let's get to Get Gamm. mayo170 was a perfect 11-0 this past week so he'll be picking the SECOND half of the games listed below. Dan Meyer won week two and will pick the top half. Sometime before Friday, please and thank you.
Florida Atlantic at Michigan State
Louisiana-Lafayette at Illinois
Montana State at Minnesota
Southern Illinois at Northwestern
Iowa State at Iowa
Oregon at Purdue
Penn State at Syracuse
Michigan at Notre Dame
Ohio State at USC
Wisconsin at Fresno State
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Friday, September 05, 2008
Get Gamm - Week Two
Hard to believe it's almost Saturday. Told you I've been busy. I've had football thoughts swirling my head all week but no time to share! Predictably, last week was a pretty even week for picking the games. Dan was closest on the Mizzou - Illinois tiebreaker and holds the lead. If I can catch my breath, Dan and this week's winner will spilt the games next week and predict on the blog.
For now, here are the games and my quick thoughts as well as the predictions from BigTen.org. Picks are due by kick of the first game.
Eastern Illinois at Illinois - The Illini offense was on full display last week, especially through the air. Problem is, the defense was more full of holes than Swiss cheese! Redemption this week, albeit against a far inferior foe. Illinois 45 - EIU 17
Murray State at Indiana - Indiana never really put Western Kentucky away last week but it wasn't Kellen Lewis' fault. He was almost as amazing as Juice Williams. Indiana needs to find a runner other than Lewis, games like this help. Indiana 38 - Murray State 7
Florida International at Iowa - Iowa looked strong last week against Maine, and while FIU won't pose a threat, it'll be a progressively tougher test. Iowa should cruise easily. Iowa 34 - FIU 13
Miami-OH at Michigan - The Red Hawks might be just what the doctor ordered for Michigan. The Wolverines struggled offensively against Utah and the defense didn't come to play until the second half. This should be a much easier game for RichRod and the maize and blue, but we'll see if the improvements are enough to satisfy expectant Michigan fans. Michigan 31 - Miami-OH 9
Eastern Michigan at Michigan State - Eastern Michigan is an improved football team. Michigan State is young and coming off its seventh loss in two seasons of 7 points or less. Are the Spartans mature enough to jam the throttle to the floor and not let up? Look for much more out of the ground game from Ringer and company and while EMU might hang for a half, they'll wear down late. Michigan State 40 - Eastern Michigan 16.
Minnesota at Bowling Green - Okay, I picked this one before the season and after BGSU's beating of Pitt, at Pitt last week, and the Gophers' struggle with middle-tier MAC squad Northern Illinois, I feel even more confident. Minnesota is getting better, and is gutsy to hit the road, but they'll wish they hadn't with this one. Bowling Green makes it 2-fer over BCS foes. BGSU 30 - Minnesota 23.
Northwestern at Duke - Ah the battle of the intellectuals! A horrid Duke team beat NU in Evanston last season, with Hurricane Hanna approaching, and conditions looking to be dismal, can they do the same? Paybacks are hell. Northwestern 27 - Duke 17.
Ohio at Ohio State - Chump two in the warm-up campaign for the trek to Southern Cal. Ohio State looked awfully good last week but will see how it can run without Beanie Wells. Look for Pryor to get more time and for the Bucks to roll. Ohio State 41 - Ohio 10.
Oregon State at Penn State - Perhaps the only decent match-up on the slate. Penn State suspended three for this game but the Beavers come cross-country after a rough loss to Stanford last week. It'll be a game most of the way, but Penn State is too good to lose this one at Beaver Stadium. Penn State 33 - Oregon State 17.
Northern Colorado at Purdue - The Boilers got their bye in week one and have to be chomping at the bit to hit someone else. Painter should have a field day. Purdue rolls. Purdue 48 - Northern Colorado 14.
Marshall at Wisconsin - Not a bad test for the home field dominant Badgers but not a test a la Michigan/Utah, Illinois/Missouri or Michigan State/Cal either. Step up from the Zips who played UW tough. Wisconsin 35 - Marshall 17.
Hard to believe it's almost Saturday. Told you I've been busy. I've had football thoughts swirling my head all week but no time to share! Predictably, last week was a pretty even week for picking the games. Dan was closest on the Mizzou - Illinois tiebreaker and holds the lead. If I can catch my breath, Dan and this week's winner will spilt the games next week and predict on the blog.
For now, here are the games and my quick thoughts as well as the predictions from BigTen.org. Picks are due by kick of the first game.
Eastern Illinois at Illinois - The Illini offense was on full display last week, especially through the air. Problem is, the defense was more full of holes than Swiss cheese! Redemption this week, albeit against a far inferior foe. Illinois 45 - EIU 17
Murray State at Indiana - Indiana never really put Western Kentucky away last week but it wasn't Kellen Lewis' fault. He was almost as amazing as Juice Williams. Indiana needs to find a runner other than Lewis, games like this help. Indiana 38 - Murray State 7
Florida International at Iowa - Iowa looked strong last week against Maine, and while FIU won't pose a threat, it'll be a progressively tougher test. Iowa should cruise easily. Iowa 34 - FIU 13
Miami-OH at Michigan - The Red Hawks might be just what the doctor ordered for Michigan. The Wolverines struggled offensively against Utah and the defense didn't come to play until the second half. This should be a much easier game for RichRod and the maize and blue, but we'll see if the improvements are enough to satisfy expectant Michigan fans. Michigan 31 - Miami-OH 9
Eastern Michigan at Michigan State - Eastern Michigan is an improved football team. Michigan State is young and coming off its seventh loss in two seasons of 7 points or less. Are the Spartans mature enough to jam the throttle to the floor and not let up? Look for much more out of the ground game from Ringer and company and while EMU might hang for a half, they'll wear down late. Michigan State 40 - Eastern Michigan 16.
Minnesota at Bowling Green - Okay, I picked this one before the season and after BGSU's beating of Pitt, at Pitt last week, and the Gophers' struggle with middle-tier MAC squad Northern Illinois, I feel even more confident. Minnesota is getting better, and is gutsy to hit the road, but they'll wish they hadn't with this one. Bowling Green makes it 2-fer over BCS foes. BGSU 30 - Minnesota 23.
Northwestern at Duke - Ah the battle of the intellectuals! A horrid Duke team beat NU in Evanston last season, with Hurricane Hanna approaching, and conditions looking to be dismal, can they do the same? Paybacks are hell. Northwestern 27 - Duke 17.
Ohio at Ohio State - Chump two in the warm-up campaign for the trek to Southern Cal. Ohio State looked awfully good last week but will see how it can run without Beanie Wells. Look for Pryor to get more time and for the Bucks to roll. Ohio State 41 - Ohio 10.
Oregon State at Penn State - Perhaps the only decent match-up on the slate. Penn State suspended three for this game but the Beavers come cross-country after a rough loss to Stanford last week. It'll be a game most of the way, but Penn State is too good to lose this one at Beaver Stadium. Penn State 33 - Oregon State 17.
Northern Colorado at Purdue - The Boilers got their bye in week one and have to be chomping at the bit to hit someone else. Painter should have a field day. Purdue rolls. Purdue 48 - Northern Colorado 14.
Marshall at Wisconsin - Not a bad test for the home field dominant Badgers but not a test a la Michigan/Utah, Illinois/Missouri or Michigan State/Cal either. Step up from the Zips who played UW tough. Wisconsin 35 - Marshall 17.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Get Gamm - Week One
In the blink of an eye, summer is gone and college football season is upon us. The only bad news is that the crooked sticks will soon give way to shovels and snow blowers. But, rather than mope about it, let's just fire up another season of Get Gamm. I've been busier than ever the past six months, but I will get the games up here weekly. Sometimes I might not have much commentary, but that's life - right?
Without further ado...
Akron at Wisconsin - The Big Ten is usually full of these MAC match-ups in week one, but this is one of just two. Wisconsin has some questions and Akron is decent, but the Badgers don't lose games like this at home. Wisconsin 38 - Akron 13.
Coastal Carolina at Penn State - Not even worth my time. A glorified scrimmage. Penn State 48 - CC 7.
Maine at Iowa - Ferentz gets to go against an old employer. A good warm up for Iowa. Iowa 30 - Maine 6.
Syracuse at Northwestern - One of the better games in the Big Ten this weekend. I like the 'cats to be able to score, and score often. Northwestern 42 - Syracuse 37.
Western Kentucky at Indiana - see Coastal Carolina at Penn State! Indiana 41 - WKU 17.
Youngstown State at Ohio State - um, see ... never mind, you get the idea. Ohio State 52 - YSU 3.
Utah at Michigan - this will be a real test for Michigan. Some how, some way, the maize and blue get it done. Michigan 24 - Utah 23.
Northern Illinois at Minnesota - can the Gophers make progress? This is a must win, right out of the gate. Minnesota 31 - NIU 17.
Illinois vs. Missouri - great game of the week part 1. I picked Illinois to win this in my preview, but can they overcome the loss of Mendenhall? Illinois 34 - Mizzou 31.
Michigan State at Cal - great game part 2. Best opening road test for the Spartans in years. Questions in the air on both sides. I like Michigan State to be good this year, but this is a tall task. Cal 27 - Michigan State 23.
In the blink of an eye, summer is gone and college football season is upon us. The only bad news is that the crooked sticks will soon give way to shovels and snow blowers. But, rather than mope about it, let's just fire up another season of Get Gamm. I've been busier than ever the past six months, but I will get the games up here weekly. Sometimes I might not have much commentary, but that's life - right?
Without further ado...
Akron at Wisconsin - The Big Ten is usually full of these MAC match-ups in week one, but this is one of just two. Wisconsin has some questions and Akron is decent, but the Badgers don't lose games like this at home. Wisconsin 38 - Akron 13.
Coastal Carolina at Penn State - Not even worth my time. A glorified scrimmage. Penn State 48 - CC 7.
Maine at Iowa - Ferentz gets to go against an old employer. A good warm up for Iowa. Iowa 30 - Maine 6.
Syracuse at Northwestern - One of the better games in the Big Ten this weekend. I like the 'cats to be able to score, and score often. Northwestern 42 - Syracuse 37.
Western Kentucky at Indiana - see Coastal Carolina at Penn State! Indiana 41 - WKU 17.
Youngstown State at Ohio State - um, see ... never mind, you get the idea. Ohio State 52 - YSU 3.
Utah at Michigan - this will be a real test for Michigan. Some how, some way, the maize and blue get it done. Michigan 24 - Utah 23.
Northern Illinois at Minnesota - can the Gophers make progress? This is a must win, right out of the gate. Minnesota 31 - NIU 17.
Illinois vs. Missouri - great game of the week part 1. I picked Illinois to win this in my preview, but can they overcome the loss of Mendenhall? Illinois 34 - Mizzou 31.
Michigan State at Cal - great game part 2. Best opening road test for the Spartans in years. Questions in the air on both sides. I like Michigan State to be good this year, but this is a tall task. Cal 27 - Michigan State 23.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Big Ten Football Previews - Part VIII - XI
Editor's Note: These are the last four in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Due to a lack of time, these are abbreviated - no breakdowns, just the basics. Next up? GET GAMM! Want to play, pick all the winners on the comments section. Schedule available here...
Team: Michigan State Spartans
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th), Insight / 7-6, 3-5 (T-7th), Champs
2006 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (5th), Champs / 4-8, 1-7 (T-10th)
2005 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 5-3 (4th), Sun / 5-6, 2-6 (9th)
2004 Prediction / actual: 7-5, 4-4 (T-5th), Sun / 5-7, 4-4 (T-5th)
2003 Prediction / actual: 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 8-5, 5-3 (T-4th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (T-1st) / 4-8, 2-6 (T-8th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 8-3, 6-2 (T-1st) / 7-5, 3-5 (T-8th)
Returning Starters: 7 offense, 5 defense, 2 kickers
2008 Prediction:
3-1 OOC (loss at California)
5-3 Big Ten (wins over Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Wisconsin and Purdue)
8-4 Overall, T-2nd - Outback Bowl berth
Team: Illinois Fighting Illini
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-10th) / 9-4, 6-2 (T-2nd) - Rose Bowl
2006 Prediction / actual: 5-7, 2-6 (8th) / 2-10, 1-7 (T-10th)
2005 Prediction / actual: 4-7, 2-6 (10th) / 2-9, 0-8 (11th)
2004 Prediction / actual: 4-7, 1-7 (T-10th) / 3-8, 1-7 (T-10th)
2003 Prediction / actual: 5-7, 3-5 (T-7th) / 1-11, 0-8 (11th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-6th) / 5-7, 4-4 (T-5th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 6-5, 3-5 (T-7th) / 10-2, 7-1 (1st)
Returning Starters: 7 offense, 7 defense, 1 kicker
2008 Prediction:
4-0 OOC (big win over Mizzou)
5-3 Big Ten (wins over Minnesota, Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa & Northwestern)
9-3 Overall, T-2nd - Capital One Bowl berth
Team: Penn State Nittany Lions
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 9-3, 5-3 (T-4th), Outback / 9-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Alamo
2006 Prediction / actual: 9-3, 6-2 (T-3rd), Capital One / 9-4, 5-3 (T-4th), Outback
2005 Prediction / actual: 6-5, 3-5 (T-7th), Music City / 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), Orange
2004 Prediction / actual: 6-5, 4-4 (T-5th), Music City / 4-7, 2-6 (9th)
2003 Prediction / actual: 7-5, 4-4 (T-5th) / 3-9, 1-7 (T-9th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 9-3, 6-2 (T-1st) / 9-4, 5-3 (4th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 5-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 5-6, 4-4 (T-4th)
Returning Starters: 7 offense, 7 defense, 2 kickers
2008 Prediction:
4-0 OOC (no real tests here)
5-3 Big Ten (wins over Illinois, Michigan, Iowa, Indiana and Michigan State)
9-3 Overall, T-2nd, BCS Bowl Berth (JoePa's last hurrah)
Team: Ohio State Buckeyes
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (3rd) - Captial One / 11-2, 7-1 (1st), BCS Title Game
2006 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), BCS / 12-1, 8-0 (1st), BCS Title Game
2005 Prediction / actual: 8-3, 6-2 (T-1st), Capital One / 10-2, 7-1 (T-1st), Fiesta
2004 Prediction / actual: 10-1, 7-1 (T-1st), Rose / 8-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Alamo
2003 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 7-1 (1st) / 11-2, 6-2 (T-2nd)
2002 Prediction / actual: 11-2, 6-2 (T-1st) / 14-0, 8-0 (T-1st), National Champs
2001 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th) / 7-5, 5-3 (3rd)
Returning Starters: 9 offense, 9 defense, 2 kickers
2008 Prediction:
3-1 OOC (tough loss at USC)
8-0 Big Ten (no one will get in the way, let along put up much of a fight)
11-1 Overall, 1st - BCS Title Game berth - third time is the charm
Editor's Note: These are the last four in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Due to a lack of time, these are abbreviated - no breakdowns, just the basics. Next up? GET GAMM! Want to play, pick all the winners on the comments section. Schedule available here...
Team: Michigan State Spartans
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th), Insight / 7-6, 3-5 (T-7th), Champs
2006 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (5th), Champs / 4-8, 1-7 (T-10th)
2005 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 5-3 (4th), Sun / 5-6, 2-6 (9th)
2004 Prediction / actual: 7-5, 4-4 (T-5th), Sun / 5-7, 4-4 (T-5th)
2003 Prediction / actual: 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 8-5, 5-3 (T-4th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (T-1st) / 4-8, 2-6 (T-8th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 8-3, 6-2 (T-1st) / 7-5, 3-5 (T-8th)
Returning Starters: 7 offense, 5 defense, 2 kickers
2008 Prediction:
3-1 OOC (loss at California)
5-3 Big Ten (wins over Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Wisconsin and Purdue)
8-4 Overall, T-2nd - Outback Bowl berth
Team: Illinois Fighting Illini
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-10th) / 9-4, 6-2 (T-2nd) - Rose Bowl
2006 Prediction / actual: 5-7, 2-6 (8th) / 2-10, 1-7 (T-10th)
2005 Prediction / actual: 4-7, 2-6 (10th) / 2-9, 0-8 (11th)
2004 Prediction / actual: 4-7, 1-7 (T-10th) / 3-8, 1-7 (T-10th)
2003 Prediction / actual: 5-7, 3-5 (T-7th) / 1-11, 0-8 (11th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-6th) / 5-7, 4-4 (T-5th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 6-5, 3-5 (T-7th) / 10-2, 7-1 (1st)
Returning Starters: 7 offense, 7 defense, 1 kicker
2008 Prediction:
4-0 OOC (big win over Mizzou)
5-3 Big Ten (wins over Minnesota, Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa & Northwestern)
9-3 Overall, T-2nd - Capital One Bowl berth
Team: Penn State Nittany Lions
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 9-3, 5-3 (T-4th), Outback / 9-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Alamo
2006 Prediction / actual: 9-3, 6-2 (T-3rd), Capital One / 9-4, 5-3 (T-4th), Outback
2005 Prediction / actual: 6-5, 3-5 (T-7th), Music City / 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), Orange
2004 Prediction / actual: 6-5, 4-4 (T-5th), Music City / 4-7, 2-6 (9th)
2003 Prediction / actual: 7-5, 4-4 (T-5th) / 3-9, 1-7 (T-9th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 9-3, 6-2 (T-1st) / 9-4, 5-3 (4th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 5-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 5-6, 4-4 (T-4th)
Returning Starters: 7 offense, 7 defense, 2 kickers
2008 Prediction:
4-0 OOC (no real tests here)
5-3 Big Ten (wins over Illinois, Michigan, Iowa, Indiana and Michigan State)
9-3 Overall, T-2nd, BCS Bowl Berth (JoePa's last hurrah)
Team: Ohio State Buckeyes
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (3rd) - Captial One / 11-2, 7-1 (1st), BCS Title Game
2006 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), BCS / 12-1, 8-0 (1st), BCS Title Game
2005 Prediction / actual: 8-3, 6-2 (T-1st), Capital One / 10-2, 7-1 (T-1st), Fiesta
2004 Prediction / actual: 10-1, 7-1 (T-1st), Rose / 8-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Alamo
2003 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 7-1 (1st) / 11-2, 6-2 (T-2nd)
2002 Prediction / actual: 11-2, 6-2 (T-1st) / 14-0, 8-0 (T-1st), National Champs
2001 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th) / 7-5, 5-3 (3rd)
Returning Starters: 9 offense, 9 defense, 2 kickers
2008 Prediction:
3-1 OOC (tough loss at USC)
8-0 Big Ten (no one will get in the way, let along put up much of a fight)
11-1 Overall, 1st - BCS Title Game berth - third time is the charm
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Big Ten Football Previews – Part VII
Editor's Note: This is the seventh in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...
Team: Wisconsin Badgers
Tidbits … Coach Bret Bielema's 21-5 two season record is tied for the second best start in conference history (Jim Tressel went 21-5 as well). The Badgers are the first team ever to draw Michigan, Ohio State and Penn State - in succession - to start league play.
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), Rose / 9-4, 5-3 (4th), Outback
2006 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-6th), Alamo / 12-1, 7-1 (T-2nd), Capital One
2005 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Alamo / 10-3, 5-3 (T-3rd), Capital One
2004 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Alamo / 9-3, 6-2 (3rd), Outback
2003 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (T-2nd) / 7-6, 4-4 (T-7th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-5, 4-4 (T-6th) / 8-6, 2-6 (T-8th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (4th) / 5-7, 3-5 (T-8th)
*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.
Returning Starters: 8 offense, 9 defense
Key Returnees: RB P.J. Hill, TE Travis Beckum, OL Kraig Urbik, DE Matt Shaughnessy, LB Jonathan Casillas, CB Aaron Henry
Key Losses: QB Tyler Donovan, WR Luke Swan, WR Paul Hubbard, DT Nick Hayden, CB Jack Ikegwuonu, P Kenny DeBauche, PK Tyler Mehlhaff
Looking Back ... Wisconsin got off to a tremendous start in 2007, winning five straight before back to back road setbacks. For that matter, after the two slip-ups, the Badgers won four of five before a disappointing loss in the Outback Bowl. Despite the nine wins, it was seen as a disappointing season in Madison. A far cry from any era pre Barry Alvarez for certain. Wisconsin had its share of ups and downs but continues to be a mainstay among the top of the league. Post season interviews with all returning players turned up a common theme - disappointment in the way the season went when expectations were running high. A far cry from the days when Camp Randall was perhaps the easiest place to play in the conference...
Outlook - Offense ... Is there a team around the country returning as many offensive starters (8) that is as uncertain about what to expect as Wisconsin? Tyler Donovan may not have been spectacular, but he certainly was serviceable - a heady leader that provided the team with a spark when called upon. Now that he's gone, questions abound. Transfer Allan Evridge was thought to be a guy who might win the job last season, but that never happened. Between he and Dustin Sherer, someone needs to take the bull by the horns. The backfield is as loaded as any in the nation, led by P.J. Hill. Hill needs to get better at avoiding the big hits, though, in order to stay healthy and on the field. The Badger front five is always good, so no worries there. Tight end Travis Beckum is a phenom and will have to carry the load for a young, albeit talented receiving corps. It all rests on the QB. If Evridge or Sherer can take the reigns and provide steady play, the sky is the limit. The problem? Right now that appears to be a big IF.
Outlook - Defense ... Wisconsin returns a load of defenders but this group gave up a load of points at times last season. A load of those players also spent the spring on the shelf. With injury questions still looming large, there are some concerns here. The good news is, those that return are experienced and can make big plays. Three seniors return up front, a pair of seniors and a junior make up the linebacker level and the secondary should be good albeit a little less experienced. Matt Shaughnessy, Jonathan Casillas and Shane Carter lead this defense with the ability to make big plays from defensive end, linebacker and free safety respectively. If this defense can patch up the injuries and avoid a stretch like last season, the sky is also the limit. In fact, if it all comes together, last year's prediction will be more likely than this year's...
Outlook - Special Teams ... It seemed like DeBauche and Mehlhaff were in the cardinal and white of Wisconsin forever. Not so this year and the departure of the pair leaves a noticeable gap in the special teams area. The return game should be strong, with plenty of quick athletes available to make plays, but the development of consistent, reliable kickers could spell the difference between games won or lost...
Schedule:
8/30 - AKRON
9/6 - MARSHALL
9/13 - at Fresno State
9/27 - at Michigan
10/4 - OHIO STATE
10/11 - PENN STATE
10/18 - at Iowa
10/25 - ILLINOIS
11/1 - at Michigan State
11/8 - at Indiana
11/15 - MINNESOTA
11/22 - CAL-POLY
Key Games:
9/13 - at Fresno State, 9/27 - at Michigan, 10/4 - Ohio State, 10/11 - Penn State, 11/15 - Minnesota
Prediction ... No secret here - the Badgers have potential - A LOT of potential, but I have plenty of questions and concerns as well. The gauntlet run of Michigan, OSU and PSU is huge, though Michigan is down and the latter two are at home. The back end of the schedule - after a tricky trip to East Lansing - is cupcake city. If the pieces and parts all come together and don't fall apart due to the injury bug, I'll eat my words. But for now, I'm going with the prediction I seem to make most every year with this team...
OOC: 3-1 (Road loss to Fresno State, the other three? Who called Minny for scheduling help?)
B10: 5-3 (wins over Michigan, Penn State, Iowa, Indiana and Minnesota)
Overall: 8-4, T-2nd in the conference, Alamo Bowl
Editor's Note: This is the seventh in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...
Team: Wisconsin Badgers
Tidbits … Coach Bret Bielema's 21-5 two season record is tied for the second best start in conference history (Jim Tressel went 21-5 as well). The Badgers are the first team ever to draw Michigan, Ohio State and Penn State - in succession - to start league play.
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), Rose / 9-4, 5-3 (4th), Outback
2006 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-6th), Alamo / 12-1, 7-1 (T-2nd), Capital One
2005 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Alamo / 10-3, 5-3 (T-3rd), Capital One
2004 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Alamo / 9-3, 6-2 (3rd), Outback
2003 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (T-2nd) / 7-6, 4-4 (T-7th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-5, 4-4 (T-6th) / 8-6, 2-6 (T-8th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (4th) / 5-7, 3-5 (T-8th)
*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.
Returning Starters: 8 offense, 9 defense
Key Returnees: RB P.J. Hill, TE Travis Beckum, OL Kraig Urbik, DE Matt Shaughnessy, LB Jonathan Casillas, CB Aaron Henry
Key Losses: QB Tyler Donovan, WR Luke Swan, WR Paul Hubbard, DT Nick Hayden, CB Jack Ikegwuonu, P Kenny DeBauche, PK Tyler Mehlhaff
Looking Back ... Wisconsin got off to a tremendous start in 2007, winning five straight before back to back road setbacks. For that matter, after the two slip-ups, the Badgers won four of five before a disappointing loss in the Outback Bowl. Despite the nine wins, it was seen as a disappointing season in Madison. A far cry from any era pre Barry Alvarez for certain. Wisconsin had its share of ups and downs but continues to be a mainstay among the top of the league. Post season interviews with all returning players turned up a common theme - disappointment in the way the season went when expectations were running high. A far cry from the days when Camp Randall was perhaps the easiest place to play in the conference...
Outlook - Offense ... Is there a team around the country returning as many offensive starters (8) that is as uncertain about what to expect as Wisconsin? Tyler Donovan may not have been spectacular, but he certainly was serviceable - a heady leader that provided the team with a spark when called upon. Now that he's gone, questions abound. Transfer Allan Evridge was thought to be a guy who might win the job last season, but that never happened. Between he and Dustin Sherer, someone needs to take the bull by the horns. The backfield is as loaded as any in the nation, led by P.J. Hill. Hill needs to get better at avoiding the big hits, though, in order to stay healthy and on the field. The Badger front five is always good, so no worries there. Tight end Travis Beckum is a phenom and will have to carry the load for a young, albeit talented receiving corps. It all rests on the QB. If Evridge or Sherer can take the reigns and provide steady play, the sky is the limit. The problem? Right now that appears to be a big IF.
Outlook - Defense ... Wisconsin returns a load of defenders but this group gave up a load of points at times last season. A load of those players also spent the spring on the shelf. With injury questions still looming large, there are some concerns here. The good news is, those that return are experienced and can make big plays. Three seniors return up front, a pair of seniors and a junior make up the linebacker level and the secondary should be good albeit a little less experienced. Matt Shaughnessy, Jonathan Casillas and Shane Carter lead this defense with the ability to make big plays from defensive end, linebacker and free safety respectively. If this defense can patch up the injuries and avoid a stretch like last season, the sky is also the limit. In fact, if it all comes together, last year's prediction will be more likely than this year's...
Outlook - Special Teams ... It seemed like DeBauche and Mehlhaff were in the cardinal and white of Wisconsin forever. Not so this year and the departure of the pair leaves a noticeable gap in the special teams area. The return game should be strong, with plenty of quick athletes available to make plays, but the development of consistent, reliable kickers could spell the difference between games won or lost...
Schedule:
8/30 - AKRON
9/6 - MARSHALL
9/13 - at Fresno State
9/27 - at Michigan
10/4 - OHIO STATE
10/11 - PENN STATE
10/18 - at Iowa
10/25 - ILLINOIS
11/1 - at Michigan State
11/8 - at Indiana
11/15 - MINNESOTA
11/22 - CAL-POLY
Key Games:
9/13 - at Fresno State, 9/27 - at Michigan, 10/4 - Ohio State, 10/11 - Penn State, 11/15 - Minnesota
Prediction ... No secret here - the Badgers have potential - A LOT of potential, but I have plenty of questions and concerns as well. The gauntlet run of Michigan, OSU and PSU is huge, though Michigan is down and the latter two are at home. The back end of the schedule - after a tricky trip to East Lansing - is cupcake city. If the pieces and parts all come together and don't fall apart due to the injury bug, I'll eat my words. But for now, I'm going with the prediction I seem to make most every year with this team...
OOC: 3-1 (Road loss to Fresno State, the other three? Who called Minny for scheduling help?)
B10: 5-3 (wins over Michigan, Penn State, Iowa, Indiana and Minnesota)
Overall: 8-4, T-2nd in the conference, Alamo Bowl
Monday, August 11, 2008
Big Ten Football Previews – Part VI
Editor's Note: This is the sixth in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...
Team: Purdue Boilermakers
Tidbits … This is Coach Joe Tiller's last hurrah with the old gold and black. When he came aboard, Purdue was mired in a stretch of 12 straight losing seasons. Go bowling in 2008 and that will make 11 of 12 with bowl berths for Purdue. Curtis Painter could become the Big Ten's all time leading passer this season.
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-6th), Alamo / 8-5, 3-5 (T-7th), Motor City
2006 Prediction / actual: 8-5, 4-4 (T-6th), Insight / 8-6, 5-3 (T-4th), Champs
2005 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Outback / 5-6, 3-5 (8th)
2004 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 5-3 (4th), Outback / 7-5, 4-4 (T-5th), Sun
2003 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (T-2nd) / 9-4, 6-2 (T-2nd)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (T-4th) / 7-6, 4-4 (T-5th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 9-2, 6-2 (T-1st) / 6-6, 4-4 (T-4th
*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.
Returning Starters: 6 offense, 6 defense, 1 kicker
Key Returnees: QB Curtis Painter, WR Greg Orton, RB Kory Sheets, RB Jaycen Taylor, DT Alex Magee, LB Anthony Heygood, S Brandon King
Key Losses: WR Dorien Bryant, TE Dustin Keller, G Jordan Grimes, C Robbie Powell, DE Cliff Avril, LB Stanford Keglar
Looking Back ... 2007 got off to a rip-roarin' start in West Lafayette but once the big boys came calling, the Ls start to pile up. Purdue was torrid in September but that was against but one team that ended up with a winning D1 record (Central Michigan). Curtis Painter improved by leaps and bounds between his sophomore and junior campaigns and got himself into the preseason Heisman conversations heading into 2008. Despite only two wins in its last seven regular season games, Purdue backed into a bowl and got a second win over a CMU team that was much better the second time around. Will that momentum carry into 2008, particularly with Joe Tiller on the way out? Time will tell...
Outlook - Offense ... While some of the top performers of a very potent offensive attack return, Curtis Painter and company have some things to prove. A year ago, only one win came against a team with a winning record at the D1 level - that was CMU, twice. The good news is, Kyle Orton and his 125 grabs over the past two seasons returns. The one-two punch of Taylor and Sheets is back. The bad news? There isn't anyone else with appreciable experience at the wide out position. The offensive line is in decent shape but has to replace two mainstays. It should be a record breaking season for Painter, but it is going to take some big wins for Painter to be mentioned in the same breath as Drew Brees and maybe even Kyle Orton. The OOC slate is much more difficult and a third game versus CMU in the last 13 might prove to be the toughest yet. Purdue will need to be firing on all cylinders if it hopes to send Tiller out a big winner...
Outlook - Defense ... There is little doubt that the offense will pull its weight this fall in West Lafayette. But what about the defense? There are some play-makers but depth is a big question at defensive end and linebacker and will the myriad players coming back from serious injury hold up over the long season? If it become a battle to outscore, Purdue will not have the season it hopes for. The good news is that six starters return and a few guys, like Torri Williams, offer hope that a return to form could mean big things for this defense. Look for the Boilers to be tough up the gut, with four solid defensive tackles in the rotation. If Purdue's secondary can stay healthy and the linebacking corps can find help for Keglar, the defense has the potential to be good if not quite good. The defense will spell the difference between middle of the pack and upper tier finish...
Outlook - Special Teams ... Chris Summers is the lone returning special teamer and comes off of a very solid sophomore campaign. Purdue is faced with replacing its punter but the most critical replacement is of Dorien Bryant. Bryant could flat out fly and was a tremendous weapon over his career. Replacing him will be almost as critical to Purdue's success as the development of the defense...
Schedule:
9/6 - NORTHERN COLORADO
9/13 - OREGON
9/20 - CENTRAL MICHIGAN
9/27 - at Notre Dame
10/4 - PENN STATE
10/11 - at Ohio State
10/18 - at Northwestern
10/25 - MINNESOTA
11/1 - MICHIGAN
11/8 - at Michigan State
11/15 - at Iowa
11/22 - INDIANA
Key Games:
9/13 - Oregon, 9/27 - at Notre Dame, 10/4 - Penn State, 10/11 - at Ohio State, 11/8 - at Michigan State, 11/22 - Indiana
Prediction ... Okay, I've been pretty consistent with my predictions when it comes to Purdue so let's see what happens this go around. The non conference slate is MUCH tougher than a season ago and the trip to Columbus will be no picnic. Purdue does get Penn State and Michigan at home and misses Wisconsin, but there are very few "sure things" on the table. It will be critical to get off to a good start with early wins to build momentum - though come to think of it, that didn't help much last year. It will be another winning season in W.L. but there will be plenty of "we could, shoulda, woulda done better" talk yet again...
OOC: 3-1 (Road loss to Notre Dame, though Oregon and CMU are no picnic)
B10: 4-4 (wins over Penn State, Minnesota, Michigan and Indiana)
Overall: 7-5, 6th in the conference, Insight Bowl
Editor's Note: This is the sixth in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...
Team: Purdue Boilermakers
Tidbits … This is Coach Joe Tiller's last hurrah with the old gold and black. When he came aboard, Purdue was mired in a stretch of 12 straight losing seasons. Go bowling in 2008 and that will make 11 of 12 with bowl berths for Purdue. Curtis Painter could become the Big Ten's all time leading passer this season.
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-6th), Alamo / 8-5, 3-5 (T-7th), Motor City
2006 Prediction / actual: 8-5, 4-4 (T-6th), Insight / 8-6, 5-3 (T-4th), Champs
2005 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Outback / 5-6, 3-5 (8th)
2004 Prediction / actual: 7-4, 5-3 (4th), Outback / 7-5, 4-4 (T-5th), Sun
2003 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (T-2nd) / 9-4, 6-2 (T-2nd)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (T-4th) / 7-6, 4-4 (T-5th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 9-2, 6-2 (T-1st) / 6-6, 4-4 (T-4th
*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.
Returning Starters: 6 offense, 6 defense, 1 kicker
Key Returnees: QB Curtis Painter, WR Greg Orton, RB Kory Sheets, RB Jaycen Taylor, DT Alex Magee, LB Anthony Heygood, S Brandon King
Key Losses: WR Dorien Bryant, TE Dustin Keller, G Jordan Grimes, C Robbie Powell, DE Cliff Avril, LB Stanford Keglar
Looking Back ... 2007 got off to a rip-roarin' start in West Lafayette but once the big boys came calling, the Ls start to pile up. Purdue was torrid in September but that was against but one team that ended up with a winning D1 record (Central Michigan). Curtis Painter improved by leaps and bounds between his sophomore and junior campaigns and got himself into the preseason Heisman conversations heading into 2008. Despite only two wins in its last seven regular season games, Purdue backed into a bowl and got a second win over a CMU team that was much better the second time around. Will that momentum carry into 2008, particularly with Joe Tiller on the way out? Time will tell...
Outlook - Offense ... While some of the top performers of a very potent offensive attack return, Curtis Painter and company have some things to prove. A year ago, only one win came against a team with a winning record at the D1 level - that was CMU, twice. The good news is, Kyle Orton and his 125 grabs over the past two seasons returns. The one-two punch of Taylor and Sheets is back. The bad news? There isn't anyone else with appreciable experience at the wide out position. The offensive line is in decent shape but has to replace two mainstays. It should be a record breaking season for Painter, but it is going to take some big wins for Painter to be mentioned in the same breath as Drew Brees and maybe even Kyle Orton. The OOC slate is much more difficult and a third game versus CMU in the last 13 might prove to be the toughest yet. Purdue will need to be firing on all cylinders if it hopes to send Tiller out a big winner...
Outlook - Defense ... There is little doubt that the offense will pull its weight this fall in West Lafayette. But what about the defense? There are some play-makers but depth is a big question at defensive end and linebacker and will the myriad players coming back from serious injury hold up over the long season? If it become a battle to outscore, Purdue will not have the season it hopes for. The good news is that six starters return and a few guys, like Torri Williams, offer hope that a return to form could mean big things for this defense. Look for the Boilers to be tough up the gut, with four solid defensive tackles in the rotation. If Purdue's secondary can stay healthy and the linebacking corps can find help for Keglar, the defense has the potential to be good if not quite good. The defense will spell the difference between middle of the pack and upper tier finish...
Outlook - Special Teams ... Chris Summers is the lone returning special teamer and comes off of a very solid sophomore campaign. Purdue is faced with replacing its punter but the most critical replacement is of Dorien Bryant. Bryant could flat out fly and was a tremendous weapon over his career. Replacing him will be almost as critical to Purdue's success as the development of the defense...
Schedule:
9/6 - NORTHERN COLORADO
9/13 - OREGON
9/20 - CENTRAL MICHIGAN
9/27 - at Notre Dame
10/4 - PENN STATE
10/11 - at Ohio State
10/18 - at Northwestern
10/25 - MINNESOTA
11/1 - MICHIGAN
11/8 - at Michigan State
11/15 - at Iowa
11/22 - INDIANA
Key Games:
9/13 - Oregon, 9/27 - at Notre Dame, 10/4 - Penn State, 10/11 - at Ohio State, 11/8 - at Michigan State, 11/22 - Indiana
Prediction ... Okay, I've been pretty consistent with my predictions when it comes to Purdue so let's see what happens this go around. The non conference slate is MUCH tougher than a season ago and the trip to Columbus will be no picnic. Purdue does get Penn State and Michigan at home and misses Wisconsin, but there are very few "sure things" on the table. It will be critical to get off to a good start with early wins to build momentum - though come to think of it, that didn't help much last year. It will be another winning season in W.L. but there will be plenty of "we could, shoulda, woulda done better" talk yet again...
OOC: 3-1 (Road loss to Notre Dame, though Oregon and CMU are no picnic)
B10: 4-4 (wins over Penn State, Minnesota, Michigan and Indiana)
Overall: 7-5, 6th in the conference, Insight Bowl
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Big Ten Football Previews – Part V
Editor's Note: This is the fifth in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...
Team: Michigan Wolverines
Tidbits … The last losing season in Ann Arbor was 1967. The last time the maize and blue failed to go bowling was 1975. Rich Rodriguez is the first coach to lead Michigan without previous ties to the program in 39 years (Bo Schembechler, 1969).
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), BCS / 9-4, 6-2 (T-2nd), Capital One
2006 Prediction/ actual: 9-3, 6-2 (T-3rd), Outback / 11-2, 7-1 (T-2nd), Rose
2005 Prediction / actual: 9-2, 6-2 (T-1st), BCS / 7-5, 5-3 (T-3rd), Alamo
2004 Prediction / actual: 10-1, 7-1 (T-1st), BCS / 9-3, 7-1 (T-1st), Rose
2003 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (T-2nd) / 10-3, 7-1 (1st)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (T-4th) / 10-3, 6-2 (3rd)
2001 Prediction / actual: 8-3, 6-2 (T-1st) / 8-4, 6-2 (2nd)
*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.
Returning Starters: 3 offense, 7 defense, 2 kickers
Key Returnees: WR Greg Mathews, RB Brandon Minor, OT Stephen Schilling, DT Terrance Taylor, DE Brandon Graham, LB Obi Ezeh, CB Morgan Trent
Key Losses: QB Chad Henne, WR Mario Mannigham, RB Mike Hart, OT Jake Long, LB Shawn Crable, S Jamar Adams
Looking Back ... 2007 marked the end of an era in Ann Arbor. Michigan fans and the media alike wondered aloud for a few years when Carr's time would come and the Wolverines would push away from 40 years of success under Bo Schembechler and his students. Well, they got what they wished for in a turmoil filled hiring that may have brought in the best, young(ish) football mind in the business. Still, 2007 left a little to be desired, with back to back losses to start the season - including what some will say is the biggest upset since the Miracle on Ice - Appalachian State's stunning win in the Big House. It also ended with another loss to Tressel's hated Buckeyes with a nice win over Florida the saving grace.
Outlook - Offense ... Hands down, the biggest question mark heading into this season. No doubt, Rodriguez will bring a style that thrills but there is one little problem this season - who can run the offense the way it is designed to be run? Not only is Henne gone, the only other quarterback with appreciable - albeit non applicable - experience (Ryan Mallett) has transferred. Also departed are standout WRs Mario Mannigham and Adrian Arrington. Toss in the loss of number one NFL pick Jake Long and heart and soul Mike Hart, and you can see why Michigan might struggle at times this fall. Steven Threat is the likely leader of the offense and Brandon Minor will get some spotlight, as will an always talented bunch of receivers. The key will be Threat and the offensive line. Look for struggles early but for the team to round into shape by seasons end.
Outlook - Defense ... The old adage that defense wins games will have to be true in Ann Arbor this season. With eight starters returning, including a veteran front four and a rock solid secondary, the defense just might be the Wolverines' ticket to the top this season. Taylor and Johnson are space eaters inside while Jamison and Graham have the ability to get after the quarterback. Obi Ezeh is the lone returning starter at linebacker but he's about as good as they get in the Big Ten. Michigan's style will be attack-attack-attack and the success of the team overall depends almost entirely on the defense for at least the first quarter of the season. Is this D up to the task? It might be and it might make my prediction way off base...
Outlook - Special Teams ... Michigan's kicking game looks to be in good shape heading into fall camp, but your guess is as good as mine as to who will handle the return duties. No worries here though, with the athletes Rodriguez brought in with his first class, there is bound to be at least one game breaker.
Schedule:
8/30 - UTAH
9/6 - MIAMI-OH
9/13 - at Notre Dame
9/27 - WISCONSIN
10/4 - ILLINOIS
10/11 - TOLEDO
10/18 - at Penn State
10/25 - MICHIGAN STATE
11/1 - at Purdue
11/8 - at Minnesota
11/15 - NORTHWESTERN
11/22 - at Ohio State
Key Games:
9/13 - at Notre Dame, 9/27 - Wisconsin, 10/18 - at Penn State, 10/25 - Michigan State, 11/22 - at Ohio State
Prediction ... I can hear the "what the ...'s" flying already but I am not telling anyone anything shocking. Michigan is in a rebuilding mode. It might well last only one year or less than this entire season, but if ever the maize and blue are ripe for the picking, the time is now. Michigan will not get trampled this year, but until the offense can catch up with the defense, it might be a struggle at times. No worries, Wolverine fans, this temporary downturn will long-term produce a team that is entertaining to watch and nearly impossible to beat. Don't sleep on the first two games - neither is as easy as they look. But it will be more in the league that Michigan takes a few lumps...
OOC: 4-0 (I don't buy that ND is back and Michigan will be fired up for the opener - a potential trap otherwise)
B10: 3-5 (wins over Illinois, Minnesota and Northwestern)
Overall: 7-5, T-7th in the conference, Champs Sports Bowl
Editor's Note: This is the fifth in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...
Team: Michigan Wolverines
Tidbits … The last losing season in Ann Arbor was 1967. The last time the maize and blue failed to go bowling was 1975. Rich Rodriguez is the first coach to lead Michigan without previous ties to the program in 39 years (Bo Schembechler, 1969).
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), BCS / 9-4, 6-2 (T-2nd), Capital One
2006 Prediction/ actual: 9-3, 6-2 (T-3rd), Outback / 11-2, 7-1 (T-2nd), Rose
2005 Prediction / actual: 9-2, 6-2 (T-1st), BCS / 7-5, 5-3 (T-3rd), Alamo
2004 Prediction / actual: 10-1, 7-1 (T-1st), BCS / 9-3, 7-1 (T-1st), Rose
2003 Prediction / actual: 10-2, 6-2 (T-2nd) / 10-3, 7-1 (1st)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 5-3 (T-4th) / 10-3, 6-2 (3rd)
2001 Prediction / actual: 8-3, 6-2 (T-1st) / 8-4, 6-2 (2nd)
*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.
Returning Starters: 3 offense, 7 defense, 2 kickers
Key Returnees: WR Greg Mathews, RB Brandon Minor, OT Stephen Schilling, DT Terrance Taylor, DE Brandon Graham, LB Obi Ezeh, CB Morgan Trent
Key Losses: QB Chad Henne, WR Mario Mannigham, RB Mike Hart, OT Jake Long, LB Shawn Crable, S Jamar Adams
Looking Back ... 2007 marked the end of an era in Ann Arbor. Michigan fans and the media alike wondered aloud for a few years when Carr's time would come and the Wolverines would push away from 40 years of success under Bo Schembechler and his students. Well, they got what they wished for in a turmoil filled hiring that may have brought in the best, young(ish) football mind in the business. Still, 2007 left a little to be desired, with back to back losses to start the season - including what some will say is the biggest upset since the Miracle on Ice - Appalachian State's stunning win in the Big House. It also ended with another loss to Tressel's hated Buckeyes with a nice win over Florida the saving grace.
Outlook - Offense ... Hands down, the biggest question mark heading into this season. No doubt, Rodriguez will bring a style that thrills but there is one little problem this season - who can run the offense the way it is designed to be run? Not only is Henne gone, the only other quarterback with appreciable - albeit non applicable - experience (Ryan Mallett) has transferred. Also departed are standout WRs Mario Mannigham and Adrian Arrington. Toss in the loss of number one NFL pick Jake Long and heart and soul Mike Hart, and you can see why Michigan might struggle at times this fall. Steven Threat is the likely leader of the offense and Brandon Minor will get some spotlight, as will an always talented bunch of receivers. The key will be Threat and the offensive line. Look for struggles early but for the team to round into shape by seasons end.
Outlook - Defense ... The old adage that defense wins games will have to be true in Ann Arbor this season. With eight starters returning, including a veteran front four and a rock solid secondary, the defense just might be the Wolverines' ticket to the top this season. Taylor and Johnson are space eaters inside while Jamison and Graham have the ability to get after the quarterback. Obi Ezeh is the lone returning starter at linebacker but he's about as good as they get in the Big Ten. Michigan's style will be attack-attack-attack and the success of the team overall depends almost entirely on the defense for at least the first quarter of the season. Is this D up to the task? It might be and it might make my prediction way off base...
Outlook - Special Teams ... Michigan's kicking game looks to be in good shape heading into fall camp, but your guess is as good as mine as to who will handle the return duties. No worries here though, with the athletes Rodriguez brought in with his first class, there is bound to be at least one game breaker.
Schedule:
8/30 - UTAH
9/6 - MIAMI-OH
9/13 - at Notre Dame
9/27 - WISCONSIN
10/4 - ILLINOIS
10/11 - TOLEDO
10/18 - at Penn State
10/25 - MICHIGAN STATE
11/1 - at Purdue
11/8 - at Minnesota
11/15 - NORTHWESTERN
11/22 - at Ohio State
Key Games:
9/13 - at Notre Dame, 9/27 - Wisconsin, 10/18 - at Penn State, 10/25 - Michigan State, 11/22 - at Ohio State
Prediction ... I can hear the "what the ...'s" flying already but I am not telling anyone anything shocking. Michigan is in a rebuilding mode. It might well last only one year or less than this entire season, but if ever the maize and blue are ripe for the picking, the time is now. Michigan will not get trampled this year, but until the offense can catch up with the defense, it might be a struggle at times. No worries, Wolverine fans, this temporary downturn will long-term produce a team that is entertaining to watch and nearly impossible to beat. Don't sleep on the first two games - neither is as easy as they look. But it will be more in the league that Michigan takes a few lumps...
OOC: 4-0 (I don't buy that ND is back and Michigan will be fired up for the opener - a potential trap otherwise)
B10: 3-5 (wins over Illinois, Minnesota and Northwestern)
Overall: 7-5, T-7th in the conference, Champs Sports Bowl
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Big Ten Football Previews – Part IV
Editor's Note: This is the fourth in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...
Team: Indiana Hoosiers
Tidbits … Indiana’s bowl berth last season ended a 14-year drought. The Hoosiers’ last winning season before last year came in 1994. IU is one of only three programs not to win at least a share of the Big Ten title in the last decade. Indiana was last in the Rose Bowl in 1968.
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th), Motor City / 7-6, 3-5 (T-7th), Insight
2006 Prediction / actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-9th) / 5-7, 3-5 (T-6th)
2005 Prediction / actual: 3-8, 1-7 (11th) / 4-7, 1-7 (10th)
2004 Prediction / actual: 3-8, 1-7 (T-10th) / 3-8, 1-7 (T-10th)
2003 Prediction / actual: 3-9, 1-7 (T-10th) / 2-10, 1-7 (T-9th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 3-9, 1-7 (T-10th) / 3-9, 1-7 (T-10th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 4-7, 2-6 (T-10th) / 5-6, 4-4 (T-4th)
*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.
Returning Starters: 6 offense, 7 defense, 1 kicker
Key Returnees: QB Kellen Lewis, RB Marcus Thigpen, WR Andrew Means, WR Ray Fisher, DE Greg Middleton, LB Will Patterson, FS Nick Polk
Key Losses: WR James Hardy, C Ben Wyss, DT Joe Kremer, LB Adam McClurg, CB Tracy Porter, CB Leslie Majors,
Looking Back ... 2007 marked perhaps the most emotional season in Indiana football history. Beloved coach Terry Hoeppner passed away in the summer and the team rallied around their lost leader, with a winning season and bowl berth - both firsts in over a decade. Kellen Lewis burst onto the scenes in combination with James Hardy, arguably the most dangerous receiver in the conference last fall. While the season ended with a tough loss to Oklahoma State in the Insight Bowl and the off season had its turmoil (suspension of Lewis), the cream and crimson hope to use last year as a spring board and avoid another long spell of losing seasons...
Outlook - Offense ... Kellen Lewis has served his time (suspension not jail) and looks poised to prove that last year was no fluke. While he won't have the tall, sure-handed James Hardy in his arsenal, he has plenty of options, notably Fisher and Means. IU isn't all pass no run though. Lewis ran for more than 1000 yards last year and could do so again this year and his backfield mates - Thigpen and Bryan Payton return. The key will be the offensive front. Two starters return but the unit is young, even if very talented. The Hoosiers will not sneak up on people this year but should still be able to rack up the yards and points against the easiest schedule in the Big Ten conference.
Outlook - Defense ... Indiana will be able to score, but will they be able to stop people from scoring? Only in the season opener last year - a romp over 1-AA Indiana State - did the Hoosiers allow less than 20 points. Ouch. With both starting corners gone from that defense, how will this year's version fare? The strength should be the front seven, led by end Greg Middleton, and all Big Ten performer that led the nation with 16 sacks. Four others return to start in the front seven, notably Will Patterson, the team's second leading tackler. The key lies in the secondary. Nick Polk is back but replacing seasoned corners is not an easy task in a conference that is no longer all about three yards and a cloud of dust.
Outlook - Special Teams ... Indiana is arguably the best of the Big Ten in this area. Austin Starr is among the best place kickers in the nation and Marcus Thigpen is a game breaker on the return side. Teams got smart and kicked away from him last year, after he led the nation with over 30 yards per return. Oh and he also managed three returns for scores. If games come down to a big kick, look for Starr to shine brightly...
Schedule:
8/30 - WESTERN KENTUCKY
9/6 - MURRAY STATE
9/20 - BALL STATE
9/27 - MICHIGAN STATE
10/4 - at Minnesota
10/11 - IOWA
10/18 - at Illinois
10/25 - NORTHWESTERN
11/1 - CENTRAL MICHIGAN
11/8 - WISCONSIN
11/15 - at Penn State
11/22 - at Purdue
Key Games:
9/27 - Michigan State, 10/18 - at Illinois, 11/8 - Wisconsin, 11/22 - at Purdue
Prediction ... If ever a schedule was sent from Heaven, this might be it. Eight home games. EIGHT! No Michigan or Ohio State. No BCS league foes out of conference. Eight of the first ten at home. Anything less than a bowl eligible final record will frankly be an embarrassment for the Hoosiers. IU has enough weapons back and enough rising talent to make some serious noise - if not in the title chase, in the upper levels of the league. The season won't end pretty and that will be all that stands between IU and one heck of a follow up to 2007...
OOC: 4-0 (Who went to the Minnesota school of scheduling?)
B10: 3-5 (win over Minnesota, Iowa and Northwestern)
Overall: 7-5, T-7th in the conference, Motor City Bowl
Editor's Note: This is the fourth in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...
Team: Indiana Hoosiers
Tidbits … Indiana’s bowl berth last season ended a 14-year drought. The Hoosiers’ last winning season before last year came in 1994. IU is one of only three programs not to win at least a share of the Big Ten title in the last decade. Indiana was last in the Rose Bowl in 1968.
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction / actual: 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th), Motor City / 7-6, 3-5 (T-7th), Insight
2006 Prediction / actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-9th) / 5-7, 3-5 (T-6th)
2005 Prediction / actual: 3-8, 1-7 (11th) / 4-7, 1-7 (10th)
2004 Prediction / actual: 3-8, 1-7 (T-10th) / 3-8, 1-7 (T-10th)
2003 Prediction / actual: 3-9, 1-7 (T-10th) / 2-10, 1-7 (T-9th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 3-9, 1-7 (T-10th) / 3-9, 1-7 (T-10th)
2001 Prediction / actual: 4-7, 2-6 (T-10th) / 5-6, 4-4 (T-4th)
*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.
Returning Starters: 6 offense, 7 defense, 1 kicker
Key Returnees: QB Kellen Lewis, RB Marcus Thigpen, WR Andrew Means, WR Ray Fisher, DE Greg Middleton, LB Will Patterson, FS Nick Polk
Key Losses: WR James Hardy, C Ben Wyss, DT Joe Kremer, LB Adam McClurg, CB Tracy Porter, CB Leslie Majors,
Looking Back ... 2007 marked perhaps the most emotional season in Indiana football history. Beloved coach Terry Hoeppner passed away in the summer and the team rallied around their lost leader, with a winning season and bowl berth - both firsts in over a decade. Kellen Lewis burst onto the scenes in combination with James Hardy, arguably the most dangerous receiver in the conference last fall. While the season ended with a tough loss to Oklahoma State in the Insight Bowl and the off season had its turmoil (suspension of Lewis), the cream and crimson hope to use last year as a spring board and avoid another long spell of losing seasons...
Outlook - Offense ... Kellen Lewis has served his time (suspension not jail) and looks poised to prove that last year was no fluke. While he won't have the tall, sure-handed James Hardy in his arsenal, he has plenty of options, notably Fisher and Means. IU isn't all pass no run though. Lewis ran for more than 1000 yards last year and could do so again this year and his backfield mates - Thigpen and Bryan Payton return. The key will be the offensive front. Two starters return but the unit is young, even if very talented. The Hoosiers will not sneak up on people this year but should still be able to rack up the yards and points against the easiest schedule in the Big Ten conference.
Outlook - Defense ... Indiana will be able to score, but will they be able to stop people from scoring? Only in the season opener last year - a romp over 1-AA Indiana State - did the Hoosiers allow less than 20 points. Ouch. With both starting corners gone from that defense, how will this year's version fare? The strength should be the front seven, led by end Greg Middleton, and all Big Ten performer that led the nation with 16 sacks. Four others return to start in the front seven, notably Will Patterson, the team's second leading tackler. The key lies in the secondary. Nick Polk is back but replacing seasoned corners is not an easy task in a conference that is no longer all about three yards and a cloud of dust.
Outlook - Special Teams ... Indiana is arguably the best of the Big Ten in this area. Austin Starr is among the best place kickers in the nation and Marcus Thigpen is a game breaker on the return side. Teams got smart and kicked away from him last year, after he led the nation with over 30 yards per return. Oh and he also managed three returns for scores. If games come down to a big kick, look for Starr to shine brightly...
Schedule:
8/30 - WESTERN KENTUCKY
9/6 - MURRAY STATE
9/20 - BALL STATE
9/27 - MICHIGAN STATE
10/4 - at Minnesota
10/11 - IOWA
10/18 - at Illinois
10/25 - NORTHWESTERN
11/1 - CENTRAL MICHIGAN
11/8 - WISCONSIN
11/15 - at Penn State
11/22 - at Purdue
Key Games:
9/27 - Michigan State, 10/18 - at Illinois, 11/8 - Wisconsin, 11/22 - at Purdue
Prediction ... If ever a schedule was sent from Heaven, this might be it. Eight home games. EIGHT! No Michigan or Ohio State. No BCS league foes out of conference. Eight of the first ten at home. Anything less than a bowl eligible final record will frankly be an embarrassment for the Hoosiers. IU has enough weapons back and enough rising talent to make some serious noise - if not in the title chase, in the upper levels of the league. The season won't end pretty and that will be all that stands between IU and one heck of a follow up to 2007...
OOC: 4-0 (Who went to the Minnesota school of scheduling?)
B10: 3-5 (win over Minnesota, Iowa and Northwestern)
Overall: 7-5, T-7th in the conference, Motor City Bowl
Monday, July 28, 2008
Big Ten Football Previews – Part III
Editor's Note: This is the third in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...
Team: Northwestern Wildcats
Tidbits … The Wildcats are one of eight different teams to claim at least a share of the Big Ten title in the last decade (2000). Northwestern won two of its last three games in 2006.
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction/actual: 5-7, 2-6 (9th) / 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th)
2006 Prediction/actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-9th) / 4-8, 2-6 (T-8th)
2005 Prediction/actual: 5-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 7-5, 5-3 (T-3rd) – Sun Bowl
2004 Prediction/actual: 5-7, 2-6 (9th) / 6-6, 5-3 (4th)
2003 Prediction/actual: 3-9, 0-8 (11th) / 6-7, 4-4 (T-7th) – Motor City Bowl
2002 Prediction/actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-6th) / 3-9, 1-7 (T-10th)
2001 Prediction/actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th) / 4-7, 2-6 (T-10th)
*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.
Returning Starters: 7 offense, 7 defense, 2 kickers
Key Returnees: QB C.J. Bacher, RB Tyrell Sutton, WR Eric Peterman, DE Corey Wootton, DT Adam Hahn, CB Sherrick McManis, K Amando Villareal
Key Losses: OT Dylan Thiry, WR Kim Thompson, LB Adam Kadela, FS Reggie McPherson
Looking Back ... One game was the difference between a bowl berth and home for the holidays again - Duke. A flabbergasting home loss to Duke early in the season kept this potent offense home and wondering what might have been. Despite that disappointment, the Wildcats showed a flair for the dramatic in thrilling, back to back overtime wins over Michigan State and Minnesota and painted a picture of what we might expect to see in 2008. If the defense can come around and the offense can fire on all cylinders all year long, the disappointing end to '07 could be erased...
Outlook - Offense ... Northwestern can rack up yards and points in a hurry. Need proof? Look at the shootout wins over Michigan State and Minnesota. The 'cats also put up over 30 in two other wins. The good news? All of the leaders are back. C.J. Bacher is the unheralded leader of this attack. Tyrell Sutton seems to have been totting the rock for the purple and black for a decade, but he's back and ready to lead this team back to a bowl berth. There is plenty of talent and depth at wide receiver as well. The only potential roadblock to success is the front five. The line is young and thin, having lost three mainstay starters. If this group can gel early, watch out. If not, this fast horse may never get out of the gates...
Outlook - Defense ... Being able to rack up the yards and points is fun and all, but if this team wishes to go bowling, it must - MUST get a better performance out of the defense. The old read and react style has been replaced with a more attack oriented set of schemes, which often sees big plays allowed for every big play made. One thing is for sure, John Gill and Corey Wootton make up a solid left side of the defensive front. In fact, the entire front four is back and that is a huge plus for the Wildcats. It's the back seven where NU will need to make up ground. A few starters and players with experience return but no matter who is back there, this group MUST make plays and hold opposing offenses at bay in order for there to be success.
Outlook - Special Teams ... Northwestern has both kickers returning and a good option for either in the fold in Kyle Daley. The Wildcats are almost always strong in the return game and this year should be no different with McManis and Peterman back to build on last season's solid performances.
Schedule:
8/30 - SYRACUSE
9/6 - at Duke
9/13 - SOUTHERN ILLINOIS
9/20 - OHIO
9/27 - at Iowa
10/11 - MICHIGAN STATE
10/18 - PURDUE
10/25 - at Indiana
11/1 - at Minnesota
11/8 - OHIO STATE
11/15 - at Michigan
11/22 - ILLINOIS
Key Games:
9/6 - at Duke, 10/11 - Michigan State, 11/8 - Ohio State, 11/15 - at Michigan, 11/22 - Illinois
Prediction ... On one hand, I want to pick this team to burst into the top half of the league. On the other, I just don't see the all offense, very little defense style working out all that often in the Big Ten these days. There are plenty of toss ups along the way, and NU could certainly win a few more than I am predicting, but I'm generally pretty close with this squad from year to year.
OOC: 4-0 (no one here strikes fear into anyone!)
B10: 2-6 (win over Michigan State and Purdue)
Overall: 6-6, T-9th in the conference, potential AT LARGE bowl berth
Editor's Note: This is the third in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...
Team: Northwestern Wildcats
Tidbits … The Wildcats are one of eight different teams to claim at least a share of the Big Ten title in the last decade (2000). Northwestern won two of its last three games in 2006.
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction/actual: 5-7, 2-6 (9th) / 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th)
2006 Prediction/actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-9th) / 4-8, 2-6 (T-8th)
2005 Prediction/actual: 5-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 7-5, 5-3 (T-3rd) – Sun Bowl
2004 Prediction/actual: 5-7, 2-6 (9th) / 6-6, 5-3 (4th)
2003 Prediction/actual: 3-9, 0-8 (11th) / 6-7, 4-4 (T-7th) – Motor City Bowl
2002 Prediction/actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-6th) / 3-9, 1-7 (T-10th)
2001 Prediction/actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th) / 4-7, 2-6 (T-10th)
*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.
Returning Starters: 7 offense, 7 defense, 2 kickers
Key Returnees: QB C.J. Bacher, RB Tyrell Sutton, WR Eric Peterman, DE Corey Wootton, DT Adam Hahn, CB Sherrick McManis, K Amando Villareal
Key Losses: OT Dylan Thiry, WR Kim Thompson, LB Adam Kadela, FS Reggie McPherson
Looking Back ... One game was the difference between a bowl berth and home for the holidays again - Duke. A flabbergasting home loss to Duke early in the season kept this potent offense home and wondering what might have been. Despite that disappointment, the Wildcats showed a flair for the dramatic in thrilling, back to back overtime wins over Michigan State and Minnesota and painted a picture of what we might expect to see in 2008. If the defense can come around and the offense can fire on all cylinders all year long, the disappointing end to '07 could be erased...
Outlook - Offense ... Northwestern can rack up yards and points in a hurry. Need proof? Look at the shootout wins over Michigan State and Minnesota. The 'cats also put up over 30 in two other wins. The good news? All of the leaders are back. C.J. Bacher is the unheralded leader of this attack. Tyrell Sutton seems to have been totting the rock for the purple and black for a decade, but he's back and ready to lead this team back to a bowl berth. There is plenty of talent and depth at wide receiver as well. The only potential roadblock to success is the front five. The line is young and thin, having lost three mainstay starters. If this group can gel early, watch out. If not, this fast horse may never get out of the gates...
Outlook - Defense ... Being able to rack up the yards and points is fun and all, but if this team wishes to go bowling, it must - MUST get a better performance out of the defense. The old read and react style has been replaced with a more attack oriented set of schemes, which often sees big plays allowed for every big play made. One thing is for sure, John Gill and Corey Wootton make up a solid left side of the defensive front. In fact, the entire front four is back and that is a huge plus for the Wildcats. It's the back seven where NU will need to make up ground. A few starters and players with experience return but no matter who is back there, this group MUST make plays and hold opposing offenses at bay in order for there to be success.
Outlook - Special Teams ... Northwestern has both kickers returning and a good option for either in the fold in Kyle Daley. The Wildcats are almost always strong in the return game and this year should be no different with McManis and Peterman back to build on last season's solid performances.
Schedule:
8/30 - SYRACUSE
9/6 - at Duke
9/13 - SOUTHERN ILLINOIS
9/20 - OHIO
9/27 - at Iowa
10/11 - MICHIGAN STATE
10/18 - PURDUE
10/25 - at Indiana
11/1 - at Minnesota
11/8 - OHIO STATE
11/15 - at Michigan
11/22 - ILLINOIS
Key Games:
9/6 - at Duke, 10/11 - Michigan State, 11/8 - Ohio State, 11/15 - at Michigan, 11/22 - Illinois
Prediction ... On one hand, I want to pick this team to burst into the top half of the league. On the other, I just don't see the all offense, very little defense style working out all that often in the Big Ten these days. There are plenty of toss ups along the way, and NU could certainly win a few more than I am predicting, but I'm generally pretty close with this squad from year to year.
OOC: 4-0 (no one here strikes fear into anyone!)
B10: 2-6 (win over Michigan State and Purdue)
Overall: 6-6, T-9th in the conference, potential AT LARGE bowl berth
Monday, July 21, 2008
Big Ten Football Previews – Part II
Editor's Note: This is the second in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...
Team: Iowa Hawkeyes
Tidbits ... Iowa's six-year bowl run - the second longest in school history - ended last season thanks mostly to a shocking, season-ending loss to Western Michigan. The Hawkeyes are a stingy 32-7 in their last 39 home games but included in those losses are Western Michigan, Northwestern and Indiana. Over the last five years, Iowa has the 17th best winning percentage at home in college football.
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction/actual: 8-4, 5-3 (T-4th), Champs/ 6-6, 4-4 (T-5th)
2006 Prediction/actual: 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), Rose / 6-7, 2-6 (T-8th), Alamo
2005 Prediction / actual: 9-2, 6-2 (T-1st), BCS / 7-5, 5-3 (T-3rd), Outback
2004 Prediction / actual: 9-2, 6-2 (3rd), Capital One / 10-2, 7-1 (T-1st), Capital One
2003 Prediction / actual: 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 10-3, 5-3 (T-4th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-6th) / 11-2, 8-0 (T-1st)
2001 Prediction / actual: 5-6, 2-6 (T-10th) / 7-5, 4-4 (T-4th)
*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.
Returning Starters: 8 offense, 5 defense, 2 kickers
Key Returnees: QB Jake Christensen, WR Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, TE Tony Moeaki, DT Mitch King, DT Matt Kroul, LB A.J. Edds
Key Losses: RB Albert Young, DE Ken Iwebema, DE Bryan Mattison, LB Mike Humpal, DB Charles Godfrey
Looking Back ... Last season was a roller coaster ride, with two wins, followed by four straight losses, another win and loss, an overtime comeback win for the ages that revived the season and led to three straight Ws before a total collapse against MAC foe Western Michigan to close the season and even .500 and home for the holidays. Youth, injuries and off-field trouble were the headliners all season long. It was the second straight sub-par season for an Iowa program that had been on fire of late...
Outlook - Offense ... The Hawkeyes return eight starters on the offensive side of the ball, but none of them represent the sort of sure thing coaching staffs like to have in their back pocket heading into a season. There is experience, but the overall talent is in question and depth at quarterback and tailback is in critical mode. Jake Christensen looks to make strides after an up and down 2007 but there is no one of note behind him. 97% of Iowa's rushing yards from last season are gone, leaving it to Nate Guillory and Jevon Pugh to carry most of the load. Wide receiver is a deep position for the black and gold and when is the last time Iowa didn't find a way to put together a very good offensive line? Iowa will need to be more consistent on offense in order to improve, and that's in the hands of Christensen.
Outlook - Defense ... Iowa hopes it begins and ends with its pair of four-year starting tackles Mitch King and Matt Kroul. If everything could just be forced to go inside to this duo, send the Hawkeyes to the Rose Bowl! In all seriousness, the Iowa defense could be good. There is just enough senior leadership to match with a lot of youth. A.J. Edds is the next in a long line of great Hawkeye linebackers. Sophomore safety Brett Greenwood is also a rising star. Success will come down to the emergence of a play maker at cornerback and support on the outside of the defensive line and at linebacker.
Outlook - Special Teams ... Iowa returns all of its kickers and while strong at punter, the place-kicking needs to improve on four, yes FOUR, missed PATs last season. The return game is also longing for a game breaker. It's been since the 2003 Orange Bowl that Iowa has returned a kickoff for a score.
Schedule:
8/30 - MAINE
9/6 - FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL
9/13 - IOWA STATE
9/20 - at Pittsburgh
9/27 - NORTHWESTERN
10/4 - at Michigan State
10/11 - at Indiana
10/18 - WISCONSIN
11/1 - at Illinois
11/8 - PENN STATE
11/15 - PURDUE
11/22 - at Minnesota
Key Games:
9/13 - Iowa State, 10/18 - Wisconsin, 11/8 - Penn State, 11/22 - at Minnesota
Prediction ... Many are predicting a turnaround for Iowa. While part of me wants to believe that, I have not read enough to convince me. The running game is a huge question mark, the defense has some stars but is overall quite youthful. It helps to avoid Michigan and Ohio State, but then again, Michigan is due for a down season. Kirk Ferentz might be kicking himself after this season for continually turning down offers from the NFL...
OOC: 3-1 (only loss to Pittsburgh)
B10: 2-6 (win over Northwestern and Purdue)
Overall: 5-7, T-9th in the conference
Editor's Note: This is the second in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...
Team: Iowa Hawkeyes
Tidbits ... Iowa's six-year bowl run - the second longest in school history - ended last season thanks mostly to a shocking, season-ending loss to Western Michigan. The Hawkeyes are a stingy 32-7 in their last 39 home games but included in those losses are Western Michigan, Northwestern and Indiana. Over the last five years, Iowa has the 17th best winning percentage at home in college football.
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction/actual: 8-4, 5-3 (T-4th), Champs/ 6-6, 4-4 (T-5th)
2006 Prediction/actual: 11-1, 7-1 (T-1st), Rose / 6-7, 2-6 (T-8th), Alamo
2005 Prediction / actual: 9-2, 6-2 (T-1st), BCS / 7-5, 5-3 (T-3rd), Outback
2004 Prediction / actual: 9-2, 6-2 (3rd), Capital One / 10-2, 7-1 (T-1st), Capital One
2003 Prediction / actual: 6-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 10-3, 5-3 (T-4th)
2002 Prediction / actual: 8-4, 4-4 (T-6th) / 11-2, 8-0 (T-1st)
2001 Prediction / actual: 5-6, 2-6 (T-10th) / 7-5, 4-4 (T-4th)
*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.
Returning Starters: 8 offense, 5 defense, 2 kickers
Key Returnees: QB Jake Christensen, WR Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, TE Tony Moeaki, DT Mitch King, DT Matt Kroul, LB A.J. Edds
Key Losses: RB Albert Young, DE Ken Iwebema, DE Bryan Mattison, LB Mike Humpal, DB Charles Godfrey
Looking Back ... Last season was a roller coaster ride, with two wins, followed by four straight losses, another win and loss, an overtime comeback win for the ages that revived the season and led to three straight Ws before a total collapse against MAC foe Western Michigan to close the season and even .500 and home for the holidays. Youth, injuries and off-field trouble were the headliners all season long. It was the second straight sub-par season for an Iowa program that had been on fire of late...
Outlook - Offense ... The Hawkeyes return eight starters on the offensive side of the ball, but none of them represent the sort of sure thing coaching staffs like to have in their back pocket heading into a season. There is experience, but the overall talent is in question and depth at quarterback and tailback is in critical mode. Jake Christensen looks to make strides after an up and down 2007 but there is no one of note behind him. 97% of Iowa's rushing yards from last season are gone, leaving it to Nate Guillory and Jevon Pugh to carry most of the load. Wide receiver is a deep position for the black and gold and when is the last time Iowa didn't find a way to put together a very good offensive line? Iowa will need to be more consistent on offense in order to improve, and that's in the hands of Christensen.
Outlook - Defense ... Iowa hopes it begins and ends with its pair of four-year starting tackles Mitch King and Matt Kroul. If everything could just be forced to go inside to this duo, send the Hawkeyes to the Rose Bowl! In all seriousness, the Iowa defense could be good. There is just enough senior leadership to match with a lot of youth. A.J. Edds is the next in a long line of great Hawkeye linebackers. Sophomore safety Brett Greenwood is also a rising star. Success will come down to the emergence of a play maker at cornerback and support on the outside of the defensive line and at linebacker.
Outlook - Special Teams ... Iowa returns all of its kickers and while strong at punter, the place-kicking needs to improve on four, yes FOUR, missed PATs last season. The return game is also longing for a game breaker. It's been since the 2003 Orange Bowl that Iowa has returned a kickoff for a score.
Schedule:
8/30 - MAINE
9/6 - FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL
9/13 - IOWA STATE
9/20 - at Pittsburgh
9/27 - NORTHWESTERN
10/4 - at Michigan State
10/11 - at Indiana
10/18 - WISCONSIN
11/1 - at Illinois
11/8 - PENN STATE
11/15 - PURDUE
11/22 - at Minnesota
Key Games:
9/13 - Iowa State, 10/18 - Wisconsin, 11/8 - Penn State, 11/22 - at Minnesota
Prediction ... Many are predicting a turnaround for Iowa. While part of me wants to believe that, I have not read enough to convince me. The running game is a huge question mark, the defense has some stars but is overall quite youthful. It helps to avoid Michigan and Ohio State, but then again, Michigan is due for a down season. Kirk Ferentz might be kicking himself after this season for continually turning down offers from the NFL...
OOC: 3-1 (only loss to Pittsburgh)
B10: 2-6 (win over Northwestern and Purdue)
Overall: 5-7, T-9th in the conference
Monday, June 23, 2008
Big Ten Football Previews – Part I
Editor's Note: This is the first in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...
Team: Minnesota Golden Gophers
Tidbits ... Minnesota's last Big Ten title came way back in 1967. The Golden Gophers boasted one of the top recruiting classes in the Big Ten despite an abysmal season. Minnesota once again plays no one out of conference that resides in a BCS league.
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction/actual: 5-7, 1-7 (T-10th)/ 1-11, 0-8 (11th)
2006 Prediction/actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-9th) / 6-7, 3-5 (T-6th), Insight
2005 Prediction/actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Motor City / 7-5, 4-4 (7th), Music City
2004 Prediction/actual: 6-5, 3-5 (8th), Motor City / 7-5, 3-5 (8th), Music City
2003 Prediction/actual: 9-3, 5-3 (5th) / 10-3, 5-3 (T-4th)
2002 Prediction/actual: 6-6, 2-6 (9th) / 8-5, 3-5 (T-7th)
2001 Prediction/actual: 5-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 4-7, 2-6 (T-10th)
*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.
Returning Starters: 8 offense, 7 defense, 2 kickers
Key Returnees: QB Adam Weber, WR Eric Decker, TE Jack Simmons, DE Willie VanDeSteeg, LB Deon Hightower, P Justin Kucek
Key Losses: C Tony Brinkhaus, WR Ernie Wheelwright, FS Dom Barber
Looking Back ... Last season was ugly - no ifs, ands or buts about it. Granted, two of the losses came in overtime, and six came by seven points or less but eleven losses, after firing Glen Mason and the run of bowl games? Lucy, you got some 'splainin to do!
Outlook - Offense ... The Gophers return plenty of offensive firepower from a team that could move the ball and score last season. Adam Weber is now seasoned and his favorite target - the leading (statistical) returning receiver in the Big Ten - Eric Decker, returns as well. Minnesota may in fact boast a more aerial attack than in recent memory, when tandems of backs would waltz through all comers. Only one back with decent experience - Duane Bennett - returns and the leading rusher from last year was Weber. The offensive line is green, with a bit less experience than in seasons past.
Outlook - Defense ... The biggest hindrance in Minnesota's efforts to win more last year was the defense. The Golden Gophers annually have a playmaker or two on "D" but lack a total, solid, cohesive unit that can get timely stops at key junctures of Big Ten battles. Last year, Minnesota was dead last in the NCAA in total defense and gave up a jaw-dropping 518.7 yards and 36.7 points per game. The good news is that things can only get better. The bad news? Many of the same players return. Perhaps the change at defensive coordinator will make a difference. One thing is for sure, if the defense doesn't markedly improve, the record won't either.
Outlook - Special Teams ... Although Minnesota needs to get more out of its return game, the kicking game should be a strength. Led by potential Ray Guy candidate Justin Kucek, the Gophers will hope the defense can use his pinning skills to create a win in the field position game, and ultimately on the scoreboard.
Schedule:
8/30 - NORTHERN ILLINOIS
9/6 - at Bowling Green
9/13 - MONTANA STATE
9/20 - FLORIDA ATLANTIC
9/27 - at Ohio State
10/4 - INDIANA
10/11 - at Illinois
10/25 - at Purdue
11/1 - NORTHWESTERN
11/8 - MICHIGAN
11/15 - at Wisconsin
11/22 - IOWA
Key Games: 9/6 at Bowling Green, 9/27 - at Ohio State, 11/8 - MICHIGAN, 11/15 - at Wisconsin, 11/22 - IOWA
Prediction ... Well, it can't get much worse! The OOC slate seems easier, but both Bowling Green and Florida Atlantic hung "Ls" on the Gophers in 2007. Playing at Ohio State, Illinois and Wisconsin is no picnic and the last three games are potentially brutal. I am expecting some "corner turning" even if it requires baby steps...
OOC: 2-2 (wins over Northern Illinois and Montana State)
B10: 2-6 (win over Northwestern and Iowa)
Overall: 4-8, T-9th in the conference
Editor's Note: This is the first in a series of my annual summer Big Ten football previews. Check back often to see who’s next...
Team: Minnesota Golden Gophers
Tidbits ... Minnesota's last Big Ten title came way back in 1967. The Golden Gophers boasted one of the top recruiting classes in the Big Ten despite an abysmal season. Minnesota once again plays no one out of conference that resides in a BCS league.
Past Predictions/Results:
2007 Prediction/actual: 5-7, 1-7 (T-10th)/ 1-11, 0-8 (11th)
2006 Prediction/actual: 4-8, 1-7 (T-9th) / 6-7, 3-5 (T-6th), Insight
2005 Prediction/actual: 7-4, 4-4 (T-5th), Motor City / 7-5, 4-4 (7th), Music City
2004 Prediction/actual: 6-5, 3-5 (8th), Motor City / 7-5, 3-5 (8th), Music City
2003 Prediction/actual: 9-3, 5-3 (5th) / 10-3, 5-3 (T-4th)
2002 Prediction/actual: 6-6, 2-6 (9th) / 8-5, 3-5 (T-7th)
2001 Prediction/actual: 5-6, 3-5 (T-7th) / 4-7, 2-6 (T-10th)
*Note, bowl shown only from 2004 on as I did not predict the bowl berths prior to that season.
Returning Starters: 8 offense, 7 defense, 2 kickers
Key Returnees: QB Adam Weber, WR Eric Decker, TE Jack Simmons, DE Willie VanDeSteeg, LB Deon Hightower, P Justin Kucek
Key Losses: C Tony Brinkhaus, WR Ernie Wheelwright, FS Dom Barber
Looking Back ... Last season was ugly - no ifs, ands or buts about it. Granted, two of the losses came in overtime, and six came by seven points or less but eleven losses, after firing Glen Mason and the run of bowl games? Lucy, you got some 'splainin to do!
Outlook - Offense ... The Gophers return plenty of offensive firepower from a team that could move the ball and score last season. Adam Weber is now seasoned and his favorite target - the leading (statistical) returning receiver in the Big Ten - Eric Decker, returns as well. Minnesota may in fact boast a more aerial attack than in recent memory, when tandems of backs would waltz through all comers. Only one back with decent experience - Duane Bennett - returns and the leading rusher from last year was Weber. The offensive line is green, with a bit less experience than in seasons past.
Outlook - Defense ... The biggest hindrance in Minnesota's efforts to win more last year was the defense. The Golden Gophers annually have a playmaker or two on "D" but lack a total, solid, cohesive unit that can get timely stops at key junctures of Big Ten battles. Last year, Minnesota was dead last in the NCAA in total defense and gave up a jaw-dropping 518.7 yards and 36.7 points per game. The good news is that things can only get better. The bad news? Many of the same players return. Perhaps the change at defensive coordinator will make a difference. One thing is for sure, if the defense doesn't markedly improve, the record won't either.
Outlook - Special Teams ... Although Minnesota needs to get more out of its return game, the kicking game should be a strength. Led by potential Ray Guy candidate Justin Kucek, the Gophers will hope the defense can use his pinning skills to create a win in the field position game, and ultimately on the scoreboard.
Schedule:
8/30 - NORTHERN ILLINOIS
9/6 - at Bowling Green
9/13 - MONTANA STATE
9/20 - FLORIDA ATLANTIC
9/27 - at Ohio State
10/4 - INDIANA
10/11 - at Illinois
10/25 - at Purdue
11/1 - NORTHWESTERN
11/8 - MICHIGAN
11/15 - at Wisconsin
11/22 - IOWA
Key Games: 9/6 at Bowling Green, 9/27 - at Ohio State, 11/8 - MICHIGAN, 11/15 - at Wisconsin, 11/22 - IOWA
Prediction ... Well, it can't get much worse! The OOC slate seems easier, but both Bowling Green and Florida Atlantic hung "Ls" on the Gophers in 2007. Playing at Ohio State, Illinois and Wisconsin is no picnic and the last three games are potentially brutal. I am expecting some "corner turning" even if it requires baby steps...
OOC: 2-2 (wins over Northern Illinois and Montana State)
B10: 2-6 (win over Northwestern and Iowa)
Overall: 4-8, T-9th in the conference
Friday, June 06, 2008
Three minutes to breathe...
I have literally been slammed to the point of annihilation at work for the past three months with no real apparent end in sight. However, I wanted to get a fresh post up here for you all to start talking football.
Will I get to my annual, team-by-team epics this summer? Doubtful. I do promise some sort of preview though - between work, golf, 4th grade tournament basketball, and summer vacations!
Meantime, start the fodder... or join the pair that already tried to fan the smoldering grasses...
I have literally been slammed to the point of annihilation at work for the past three months with no real apparent end in sight. However, I wanted to get a fresh post up here for you all to start talking football.
Will I get to my annual, team-by-team epics this summer? Doubtful. I do promise some sort of preview though - between work, golf, 4th grade tournament basketball, and summer vacations!
Meantime, start the fodder... or join the pair that already tried to fan the smoldering grasses...
Sunday, March 09, 2008
March Madness looms...
Finally, the best sports time of year is upon us. No more beating the heck out of teams that know each other better than they know themselves (I truly believe that is what stands in MSU's way each year - the understanding of tendencies). No more playing in or playing out, well, except for the rare case of a huge run by an unexpected team in the Big Ten Tournament. And just a few more days of listening to the know-nothing media regaling us with how bad the Big Ten is. Note, that's the same horrible, awful, atrocious, vomit-inducing "bad" Big Ten that has sent nine teams to the Final Four over the past ten seasons.
First thing's first, however. Big Ten Tournament time. Time to predict what'll happen and what it will mean come Selection Sunday:
Thursday:
(9) Michigan vs. (8) Iowa: Truly a toss up. Michigan had been playing better of late until Purdue finished strong in the finale. Iowa plays smothering defense but can go scoreless for long periods of time. Winner gets Wisconsin. Todd Lickliter comes home and Iowa has familiar Big Ten Tourney result. Iowa 63 - Michigan 60
(10) Illinois vs. (7) Penn State: Penn State took out Illinois twice this year and is riding high after the upset win over Indiana. The Nittany Lions can ensure at least a .500 season with a win and keep NIT hopes alive. Illinois has been an 11 that's made it to the finale before, might they do that as a 10 this year? Not likely, but the Illini play great defense and PSU is without its top two players. Illinois 58 - Penn State 55.
(11) Northwestern vs. (6) Minnesota: Northwestern is truly better than their 1-17 record indicates. Minnesota overachieved this year and still has a very, very long shot to make the Dance. The Gophers get a win and set up a battle with the Hoosiers. Minnesota 68 - Northwestern 57.
Friday:
8/9 Winner vs. (1) Wisconsin: Iowa has a history in this tournament but now the Badgers are playing for the No. 1 seed in the Midwest Region. Wisconsin 64 - Iowa 52.
(5) Ohio State vs. (4) Michigan State: The Spartans more or less dominated the Buckeyes for 30 minutes on Sunday but in the end fell victim to a nemesis that had seemed to be put to death - unforced and untimely turnovers that lead to opponent baskets. The Spartans are likely locked into a 5 or 6 but if they win this thing, might sneak as high as a 3 and get assigned to the Midwest. That and the opportunity for the Drew's to get some sort of Big Ten title drive the team to a win. Michigan State 64 - Ohio State 58.
7/10 Winner vs. (2) Purdue: Illinois and Purdue renew an underrated rivalry. The Illini need to win this thing to make any postseason tournament. Purdue is playing for seeding... with a two still not impossible if a long shot. Purdue edges Illinois to live until Saturday. Purdue 67 - Illinois 63.
6/11 Winner vs. (3) Indiana: Minnesota gave the Hoosiers fits at The Barn and played them semi-tough on the road. Beating teams three times is tough, but a win here sets up a great rematch with the Boilermakers. IU makes it the first time all four top seeds make the semis. Indiana 74 - Minnesota 58.
Saturday:
(4) Michigan State vs. (1) Wisconsin: I so want to pick my Alma mater in this one. The Badgers have so often stood in the Spartans' way in this tournament over the past few years. On one hand, I think this is a chance for revenge and for State to serve notice that this is its time of year. On the other, Wisconsin is hot for a number one seed. I'll go with my head and not my heart... Wisconsin 59 - Michigan State 57.
(3) Indiana vs. (2) Purdue: Speaking of revenge... Purdue is seeking some. IU is the only team the Boilers did not beat this season and last week's loss at OSU cost the old gold and black a share of the league crown. They want one more shot. Purdue 68 - Indiana 65.
Sunday:
(2) Purdue vs. (1) Wisconsin: The tables are turned with this one. The only team to hand UW a loss in conference play? Purdue - twice. The crowd will be with the home state Boilermakers but Wisconsin is on a mission. No. 1 seed, here they come... Wisconsin 65 - Purdue 60.
March Madness...
OSU will stay on the bubble with a quarterfinal loss but sneak in and be a tough 11 seed.
Michigan State can move a lot with a tournament title but won't lose much ground with their resume if an early exit rears its ugly head. Give 'em a 5, the same position from which they went to their last Final Four....
Indiana is the enigma. Talented enough to go deep, mental enough to go one and done. I think the Hoosiers can swing as high as a 3 and as low as a 6. Give them a 5.
Purdue is pretty well locked in at this point. Win the thing and a 2 is not out of the question. Lose early and maybe they fall to a 6. I'll say with the finals loss I've predicted that they get a 4.
Wisconsin has a lot to gain. Win the postseason title with the regular season solo championship and say hello to a No. 1 in the Midwest.
Finally, the best sports time of year is upon us. No more beating the heck out of teams that know each other better than they know themselves (I truly believe that is what stands in MSU's way each year - the understanding of tendencies). No more playing in or playing out, well, except for the rare case of a huge run by an unexpected team in the Big Ten Tournament. And just a few more days of listening to the know-nothing media regaling us with how bad the Big Ten is. Note, that's the same horrible, awful, atrocious, vomit-inducing "bad" Big Ten that has sent nine teams to the Final Four over the past ten seasons.
First thing's first, however. Big Ten Tournament time. Time to predict what'll happen and what it will mean come Selection Sunday:
Thursday:
(9) Michigan vs. (8) Iowa: Truly a toss up. Michigan had been playing better of late until Purdue finished strong in the finale. Iowa plays smothering defense but can go scoreless for long periods of time. Winner gets Wisconsin. Todd Lickliter comes home and Iowa has familiar Big Ten Tourney result. Iowa 63 - Michigan 60
(10) Illinois vs. (7) Penn State: Penn State took out Illinois twice this year and is riding high after the upset win over Indiana. The Nittany Lions can ensure at least a .500 season with a win and keep NIT hopes alive. Illinois has been an 11 that's made it to the finale before, might they do that as a 10 this year? Not likely, but the Illini play great defense and PSU is without its top two players. Illinois 58 - Penn State 55.
(11) Northwestern vs. (6) Minnesota: Northwestern is truly better than their 1-17 record indicates. Minnesota overachieved this year and still has a very, very long shot to make the Dance. The Gophers get a win and set up a battle with the Hoosiers. Minnesota 68 - Northwestern 57.
Friday:
8/9 Winner vs. (1) Wisconsin: Iowa has a history in this tournament but now the Badgers are playing for the No. 1 seed in the Midwest Region. Wisconsin 64 - Iowa 52.
(5) Ohio State vs. (4) Michigan State: The Spartans more or less dominated the Buckeyes for 30 minutes on Sunday but in the end fell victim to a nemesis that had seemed to be put to death - unforced and untimely turnovers that lead to opponent baskets. The Spartans are likely locked into a 5 or 6 but if they win this thing, might sneak as high as a 3 and get assigned to the Midwest. That and the opportunity for the Drew's to get some sort of Big Ten title drive the team to a win. Michigan State 64 - Ohio State 58.
7/10 Winner vs. (2) Purdue: Illinois and Purdue renew an underrated rivalry. The Illini need to win this thing to make any postseason tournament. Purdue is playing for seeding... with a two still not impossible if a long shot. Purdue edges Illinois to live until Saturday. Purdue 67 - Illinois 63.
6/11 Winner vs. (3) Indiana: Minnesota gave the Hoosiers fits at The Barn and played them semi-tough on the road. Beating teams three times is tough, but a win here sets up a great rematch with the Boilermakers. IU makes it the first time all four top seeds make the semis. Indiana 74 - Minnesota 58.
Saturday:
(4) Michigan State vs. (1) Wisconsin: I so want to pick my Alma mater in this one. The Badgers have so often stood in the Spartans' way in this tournament over the past few years. On one hand, I think this is a chance for revenge and for State to serve notice that this is its time of year. On the other, Wisconsin is hot for a number one seed. I'll go with my head and not my heart... Wisconsin 59 - Michigan State 57.
(3) Indiana vs. (2) Purdue: Speaking of revenge... Purdue is seeking some. IU is the only team the Boilers did not beat this season and last week's loss at OSU cost the old gold and black a share of the league crown. They want one more shot. Purdue 68 - Indiana 65.
Sunday:
(2) Purdue vs. (1) Wisconsin: The tables are turned with this one. The only team to hand UW a loss in conference play? Purdue - twice. The crowd will be with the home state Boilermakers but Wisconsin is on a mission. No. 1 seed, here they come... Wisconsin 65 - Purdue 60.
March Madness...
OSU will stay on the bubble with a quarterfinal loss but sneak in and be a tough 11 seed.
Michigan State can move a lot with a tournament title but won't lose much ground with their resume if an early exit rears its ugly head. Give 'em a 5, the same position from which they went to their last Final Four....
Indiana is the enigma. Talented enough to go deep, mental enough to go one and done. I think the Hoosiers can swing as high as a 3 and as low as a 6. Give them a 5.
Purdue is pretty well locked in at this point. Win the thing and a 2 is not out of the question. Lose early and maybe they fall to a 6. I'll say with the finals loss I've predicted that they get a 4.
Wisconsin has a lot to gain. Win the postseason title with the regular season solo championship and say hello to a No. 1 in the Midwest.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Get Gamm - Final Regular Season Go-'round
Not much time this week to do much of anything but post the schedule and pick it. I know I am a few weeks behind on winners... we'll figure that out for the postseason!
3/4 - IOWA v. NORTHWESTERN (NU 59 - Iowa 56)
3/4 - PURDUE v. OHIO STATE (Purdue 70 - OSU 64)
3/5 - MINNESOTA v. INDIANA (IU 78 - Minnesota 60)
3/5 - PENN STATE v. WISCONSIN (Wisconsin 65 - PSU 50)
3/6 - MICHIGAN STATE v. ILLINOIS (MSU 57 - ILL 55)
3/8 - MINNESOTA v. ILLINOIS (ILL 60 - Minnesota 59)
3/8 - WISCONSIN v. NORTHWESTERN (Wisconsin 68 - NU 58)
3/9 - MICHIGAN STATE v. OHIO STATE (MSU 69 - OSU 65)
3/9 - INDIANA v. PENN STATE (IU 75 - PSU 70)
3/9 - PURDUE v. MICHIGAN (Purdue 70 - M 63)
Not much time this week to do much of anything but post the schedule and pick it. I know I am a few weeks behind on winners... we'll figure that out for the postseason!
3/4 - IOWA v. NORTHWESTERN (NU 59 - Iowa 56)
3/4 - PURDUE v. OHIO STATE (Purdue 70 - OSU 64)
3/5 - MINNESOTA v. INDIANA (IU 78 - Minnesota 60)
3/5 - PENN STATE v. WISCONSIN (Wisconsin 65 - PSU 50)
3/6 - MICHIGAN STATE v. ILLINOIS (MSU 57 - ILL 55)
3/8 - MINNESOTA v. ILLINOIS (ILL 60 - Minnesota 59)
3/8 - WISCONSIN v. NORTHWESTERN (Wisconsin 68 - NU 58)
3/9 - MICHIGAN STATE v. OHIO STATE (MSU 69 - OSU 65)
3/9 - INDIANA v. PENN STATE (IU 75 - PSU 70)
3/9 - PURDUE v. MICHIGAN (Purdue 70 - M 63)
Friday, February 29, 2008
Get Gamm...
Back from sunny, warm Hawaii... tough to come back to the winter wonderland that is West Michigan. Some of the inevitable happened when I was gone... IU "lost" Kelvin Sampson in hopes of avoiding major reprecussions from the NCAA. Wisconsin stepped closer to an unlikely Big Ten title - while Purdue and Indiana continue to nip at the Badgers' heels. Four teams are tourney time locks, with two - OSU and Minnesota - hoping to play their way in. It's the best time of the year - March is upon us!
2/26 - Ohio State at Indiana
2/26 - Northwestern at Michigan
2/27 - Iowa at Penn State
2/27 - Minnesota at Purdue
2/28 - Michigan State at Wisconsin* Tiebreaker
3/1 - Northwestern at Purdue
3/1 - Ohio State at Minnesota
3/1 - Michigan at Penn State
3/2 - Indiana at Michigan State
3/2 - Illinois at Iowa
Phats' picks for this week...
Ohio State at Indiana- OSU is really faltering down the stretch here lately, this would go a LONG way in securing a NCAA birth that once looked like a lock. The big question for the Hoosier who will be coaching? IU at home too much. INDIANA 71 ohio state 63
MICHIGAN 66 northwestern 57
PENN STATE 64 iowa 63
Minnesota at Purdue- Purdue the surprise of the big ten this year, even to us diehard Boiler fans can't let their guard down against a very dangerous Gopher team. Having a week off between games you'll see the rust earlier, but the 6th man, the Paint Crew will help keep the energy up and the Boilers will pull away late. PURDUE 73 minnesota 65
Michigan State at Wisconsin- The Spartans are a great team when the game is played in East Lansing, this one is in the Kohl Center and that means, Badgers win. WISCONSIN 73 michigan state 65 (although I am pulling for MSU!)
PURDUE 81 northwestern 57(Boilers won't lose on Senior Day! even starting freshmen!)
MINNESOTA 65 ohio state 61
MICHIGAN 64 penn state 58
Indiana at Michigan State- Payback time for the Spartans. After getting embarrassed on ESPN with College Gameday there, you know Izzo will have his guys ready for this one. IU has done well on the road and has gotten some luck as well, that all runs out in East Lansing. MSU will get a big game from Neitzel, and the MSU Defense will hold Webster, I mean Eric Gordon in check, and roll from there MICHIGAN STATE 71 indiana 59
Illinois at Iowa- Iowa was starting to play better until that loss to Michigan at home. Illini have too much talent for the record they have, Illinois will pull out a rare big ten road win. ILLINOIS 68 iowa 62
Gamm's picks for the week...
Not a ton of time between work and some sun time here in Maui... but here are my picks for the week: 2
/26 - Ohio State at Indiana - IU almost tanked at NU but found a way to win. The comfort of the home crowd will carry the Hoosiers to a win over an OSU team that is a little stuck right now. Indiana 74 - Ohio State 62.
2/26 - Northwestern at Michigan - Northwestern has been close so often this season, only to fail. These teams are very similar. The Wildcats are bound to win eventually... NU 60 - Michigan 58
2/27 - Iowa at Penn State - A great chance for Penn State to step closer to the NIT. PSU 65 - Iowa 61.
2/27 - Minnesota at Purdue - The Gophers can be a handful, but this is Purdue's year. Purdue 70 - Minnesota 59.
2/28 - Michigan State at Wisconsin* Tiebreaker - MSU hasn't beaten Bo Ryan's Badgers in the Kohl Center. The Spartans seem to be back on track. Can they hand the Badgers a rare loss at home? I think they can and will. MSU 65 - Wisconsin 63.
3/1 - Northwestern at Purdue - Might be a trap game if on the road. But Purdue rolls. PU 78 - NU 62.
3/1 - Ohio State at Minnesota - OSU is in dire need of wins to secure an NCAA berth. Not gonna happen in the barn. Minnesota 67 - Ohio State 62.
3/1 - Michigan at Penn State - A real chance for Penn State to serve more notice in the Big Ten. Michigan is even more short handed and Penn State has a lot of fight in them. PSU 66 - Michigan 59.
3/2 - Indiana at Michigan State - Payback time. MSU stays unbeaten at home. State 73 - Indiana 67.
3/2 - Illinois at Iowa - Illinois has really fallen on hard times this season. Iowa is tough at home. Recipe for an Illini defeat. Iowa 62 - Illinois 58
Back from sunny, warm Hawaii... tough to come back to the winter wonderland that is West Michigan. Some of the inevitable happened when I was gone... IU "lost" Kelvin Sampson in hopes of avoiding major reprecussions from the NCAA. Wisconsin stepped closer to an unlikely Big Ten title - while Purdue and Indiana continue to nip at the Badgers' heels. Four teams are tourney time locks, with two - OSU and Minnesota - hoping to play their way in. It's the best time of the year - March is upon us!
2/26 - Ohio State at Indiana
2/26 - Northwestern at Michigan
2/27 - Iowa at Penn State
2/27 - Minnesota at Purdue
2/28 - Michigan State at Wisconsin* Tiebreaker
3/1 - Northwestern at Purdue
3/1 - Ohio State at Minnesota
3/1 - Michigan at Penn State
3/2 - Indiana at Michigan State
3/2 - Illinois at Iowa
Phats' picks for this week...
Ohio State at Indiana- OSU is really faltering down the stretch here lately, this would go a LONG way in securing a NCAA birth that once looked like a lock. The big question for the Hoosier who will be coaching? IU at home too much. INDIANA 71 ohio state 63
MICHIGAN 66 northwestern 57
PENN STATE 64 iowa 63
Minnesota at Purdue- Purdue the surprise of the big ten this year, even to us diehard Boiler fans can't let their guard down against a very dangerous Gopher team. Having a week off between games you'll see the rust earlier, but the 6th man, the Paint Crew will help keep the energy up and the Boilers will pull away late. PURDUE 73 minnesota 65
Michigan State at Wisconsin- The Spartans are a great team when the game is played in East Lansing, this one is in the Kohl Center and that means, Badgers win. WISCONSIN 73 michigan state 65 (although I am pulling for MSU!)
PURDUE 81 northwestern 57(Boilers won't lose on Senior Day! even starting freshmen!)
MINNESOTA 65 ohio state 61
MICHIGAN 64 penn state 58
Indiana at Michigan State- Payback time for the Spartans. After getting embarrassed on ESPN with College Gameday there, you know Izzo will have his guys ready for this one. IU has done well on the road and has gotten some luck as well, that all runs out in East Lansing. MSU will get a big game from Neitzel, and the MSU Defense will hold Webster, I mean Eric Gordon in check, and roll from there MICHIGAN STATE 71 indiana 59
Illinois at Iowa- Iowa was starting to play better until that loss to Michigan at home. Illini have too much talent for the record they have, Illinois will pull out a rare big ten road win. ILLINOIS 68 iowa 62
Gamm's picks for the week...
Not a ton of time between work and some sun time here in Maui... but here are my picks for the week: 2
/26 - Ohio State at Indiana - IU almost tanked at NU but found a way to win. The comfort of the home crowd will carry the Hoosiers to a win over an OSU team that is a little stuck right now. Indiana 74 - Ohio State 62.
2/26 - Northwestern at Michigan - Northwestern has been close so often this season, only to fail. These teams are very similar. The Wildcats are bound to win eventually... NU 60 - Michigan 58
2/27 - Iowa at Penn State - A great chance for Penn State to step closer to the NIT. PSU 65 - Iowa 61.
2/27 - Minnesota at Purdue - The Gophers can be a handful, but this is Purdue's year. Purdue 70 - Minnesota 59.
2/28 - Michigan State at Wisconsin* Tiebreaker - MSU hasn't beaten Bo Ryan's Badgers in the Kohl Center. The Spartans seem to be back on track. Can they hand the Badgers a rare loss at home? I think they can and will. MSU 65 - Wisconsin 63.
3/1 - Northwestern at Purdue - Might be a trap game if on the road. But Purdue rolls. PU 78 - NU 62.
3/1 - Ohio State at Minnesota - OSU is in dire need of wins to secure an NCAA berth. Not gonna happen in the barn. Minnesota 67 - Ohio State 62.
3/1 - Michigan at Penn State - A real chance for Penn State to serve more notice in the Big Ten. Michigan is even more short handed and Penn State has a lot of fight in them. PSU 66 - Michigan 59.
3/2 - Indiana at Michigan State - Payback time. MSU stays unbeaten at home. State 73 - Indiana 67.
3/2 - Illinois at Iowa - Illinois has really fallen on hard times this season. Iowa is tough at home. Recipe for an Illini defeat. Iowa 62 - Illinois 58
Monday, February 18, 2008
Get Gamm - Week Eight & Nine
Well, I think it is officially a three team race for the league crown. Michigan State lost twice in the state of Indiana last week, but it was losses at Iowa and Penn State that have the Spartans on the outside looking in - again.
This week is critical in the race. Purdue goes to Indiana where it can put two games between itself and the Hoosiers. Wisconsin hits the road twice to play wounded teams (Illinois and Ohio State). By week's end, the race may be completely in Purdue's hands.
As for Get Gamm, Phats is starting to make it a run-away. He won last week again, despite only going 6-4. Here's the deal. Since I am heading to Hawaii (for work) mid-week, I am going to post this AND next week's slates all at once. Mayo170 - who won two weeks ago, will pick this week's games with me. Phats, who won last week will pick the week two slate.
Schedule:
2/19 - Purdue at Indiana* Tiebreaker
2/19 - Northwestern at Iowa
2/20 - Penn State at Michigan State
2/20 - Wisconsin at Illinois
2/21 - Michigan at Minnesota
2/23 - Indiana at Northwestern
2/23 - Iowa at Michigan State
2/23 - Illinois at Michigan
2/23 or 24 - Wisconsin at Ohio State
2/24 - Penn State at Minnesota
mayo170's picks for the week...
What a crazy week for the state of Michigan… The Spartans lose twice and the Wolverines have now won three in a row.
What a game this should be, the kids at Purdue are steamrolling through the Big Ten and show no signs of slowing down. Meanwhile, IU is trying to figure out a way to get through the Kelvin Sampson debacle. As we post this week, I’m sure his career is winding down at IU. So who’s it going to be, the young startups, or the team trying to win one more for the coach? Indiana is tough at home and the crowd loves the team, but it’s apparent they hate the coach. The Boilers get by in a tight one: 79-74.
Northwestern 58 at Iowa 65
Penn State 62 at Michigan State 68
Wisconsin is going on the road in a game that they need to win to keep their title hopes alive. Illinois is looking pretty dismal this year after wreaking havoc for most of this decade in the Big Ten. Wisconsin will roll through Champaign-Urbana to stay within reach of Purdue: 69-56
Michigan is starting to look like they understand what their offense is supposed to look like. After a solid win against OSU, they now head to one of the tougher venues in the Big Ten in a faceoff of freshman Big Ten coaches. Minnesota, a solid middle of the pack team in the league is looking to right the ship this week against one of the bottom-feeders of the year. A tough call to make, but home court will be the advantage here: Wolverines 61 – Golden Gophers 66
Indiana 78 at Northwestern 60
A must-win for the Spartans…or at least score 40 this time around. Izzo was steaming while watching IU shred the Spartans last week, and he knows that his team needs to wake up or another embarrassment at the hands of the lowly Hawkeyes will leave him bald. The Spartans will eventually put it together in the second half: 79-71
Illinois 63 at Michigan 68
Wisconsin makes a trip to Columbus to play a team that is coming off an inexplicable loss to its arch-rival. Ohio State wants a win over a tip-tier team to get back on a roll heading into the home stretch and it doesn’t get much more difficult than Bo Ryan’s squad. This has the makings for a game of the week and should be a great one, with Ohio State eeking out a win 63-60.
Penn State 59 at Minnesota 66
Gamm's picks for the week...
2/19 - Purdue at Indiana - Indiana needs DJ White long term - starting tonight. Purdue regains any inside advantage they lost. The Boilers are young, confident and ready to smack around the Hoosiers. Saturday's momentum doesn't carry over... Purdue 71 - Indiana 64.
2/19 - Northwestern at Iowa - sleeper game of the week. But not as in don't sleep on it because it'll be a good game. Might challenge Iowa-MSU for lowest total score in league play this year. Iowa 50 - Northwestern 42.
2/20 - Penn State at Michigan State - Payback. Revenge. Magic came to town, laid down the law and now the Spartans respond. MSU 80 - Penn State 61.
2/20 - Wisconsin at Illinois - Every game is critical for the Badgers if they want to win the title. Every game is critical for Illinois if they want to make the NIT. Illinois is due. Illini 64 - Wisconsin 62.
2/21 - Michigan at Minnesota - Don't look now but for the first time in years, Michigan looks like a - gasp - basketball team! Minnesota is reeling a bit and needs wins to save postseason hopes. Michigan slips but barely. Minnesota 68 - Michigan 65.
2/23 - Indiana at Northwestern - is this the first game PK (Post Kelvin)? Northwestern is bound to upset someone. If White doesn't go, maybe this is the game? Then again, maybe not. Indiana 64 - Northwestern 54.
2/23 - Iowa at Michigan State - Payback part 2. Revenge part 2. Michigan State does what they did last year after a damaging early conference season loss to Iowa - they crush 'em. Michigan State 74 - Iowa 53.
2/23 - Illinois at Michigan - Another critical game for Illinois but Michigan has nothing to lose and everything to gain. I like how Michigan is playing right now. Wolverines 74 - Illini 70.
2/24 - Wisconsin at Ohio State - OSU needs a signature win in conference play to stay off the bubble. Wisconsin doesn't turn it over and turns you over. A bad mix for the Buckeyes. Bucky 70 - Buckeyes 64.
2/24 - Penn State at Minnesota - Penn State is scrapping to be NIT eligible. Minnesota needs to pile up more wins too. Coin toss as these teams match-up quite well. I'll go with the home team. Gophers 73 - Nittany Lions 62.
- - - - - -
2/26 - Ohio State at Indiana
2/26 - Northwestern at Michigan
2/27 - Iowa at Penn State
2/27 - Minnesota at Purdue
2/28 - Michigan State at Wisconsin* Tiebreaker
3/1 - Northwestern at Purdue
3/1 - Ohio State at Minnesota
3/1 - Michigan at Penn State
3/2 - Indiana at Michigan State
3/2 - Illinois at Iowa
Phats' picks for this week...
Ohio State at Indiana- OSU is really faltering down the stretch here lately, this would go a LONG way in securing a NCAA birth that once looked like a lock. The big question for the Hoosier who will be coaching? IU at home too much. INDIANA 71 ohio state 63
MICHIGAN 66 northwestern 57
PENN STATE 64 iowa 63
Minnesota at Purdue- Purdue the surprise of the big ten this year, even to us diehard Boiler fans can't let their guard down against a very dangerous Gopher team. Having a week off between games you'll see the rust earlier, but the 6th man, the Paint Crew will help keep the energy up and the Boilers will pull away late. PURDUE 73 minnesota 65
Michigan State at Wisconsin- The Spartans are a great team when the game is played in East Lansing, this one is in the Kohl Center and that means, Badgers win. WISCONSIN 73 michigan state 65 (although I am pulling for MSU!)
PURDUE 81 northwestern 57(Boilers won't lose on Senior Day! even starting freshmen!)
MINNESOTA 65 ohio state 61
MICHIGAN 64 penn state 58
Indiana at Michigan State- Payback time for the Spartans. After getting embarrassed on ESPN with College Gameday there, you know Izzo will have his guys ready for this one. IU has done well on the road and has gotten some luck as well, that all runs out in East Lansing. MSU will get a big game from Neitzel, and the MSU Defense will hold Webster, I mean Eric Gordon in check, and roll from there MICHIGAN STATE 71 indiana 59
Illinois at Iowa- Iowa was starting to play better until that loss to Michigan at home. Illini have too much talent for the record they have, Illinois will pull out a rare big ten road win. ILLINOIS 68 iowa 62
Gamm's picks for the week...
Not a ton of time between work and some sun time here in Maui... but here are my picks for the week:
2/26 - Ohio State at Indiana - IU almost tanked at NU but found a way to win. The comfort of the home crowd will carry the Hoosiers to a win over an OSU team that is a little stuck right now. Indiana 74 - Ohio State 62.
2/26 - Northwestern at Michigan - Northwestern has been close so often this season, only to fail. These teams are very similar. The Wildcats are bound to win eventually... NU 60 - Michigan 58
2/27 - Iowa at Penn State - A great chance for Penn State to step closer to the NIT. PSU 65 - Iowa 61.
2/27 - Minnesota at Purdue - The Gophers can be a handful, but this is Purdue's year. Purdue 70 - Minnesota 59.
2/28 - Michigan State at Wisconsin* Tiebreaker - MSU hasn't beaten Bo Ryan's Badgers in the Kohl Center. The Spartans seem to be back on track. Can they hand the Badgers a rare loss at home? I think they can and will. MSU 65 - Wisconsin 63.
3/1 - Northwestern at Purdue - Might be a trap game if on the road. But Purdue rolls. PU 78 - NU 62.
3/1 - Ohio State at Minnesota - OSU is in dire need of wins to secure an NCAA berth. Not gonna happen in the barn. Minnesota 67 - Ohio State 62.
3/1 - Michigan at Penn State - A real chance for Penn State to serve more notice in the Big Ten. Michigan is even more short handed and Penn State has a lot of fight in them. PSU 66 - Michigan 59.
3/2 - Indiana at Michigan State - Payback time. MSU stays unbeaten at home. State 73 - Indiana 67.
3/2 - Illinois at Iowa - Illinois has really fallen on hard times this season. Iowa is tough at home. Recipe for an Illini defeat. Iowa 62 - Illinois 58
Well, I think it is officially a three team race for the league crown. Michigan State lost twice in the state of Indiana last week, but it was losses at Iowa and Penn State that have the Spartans on the outside looking in - again.
This week is critical in the race. Purdue goes to Indiana where it can put two games between itself and the Hoosiers. Wisconsin hits the road twice to play wounded teams (Illinois and Ohio State). By week's end, the race may be completely in Purdue's hands.
As for Get Gamm, Phats is starting to make it a run-away. He won last week again, despite only going 6-4. Here's the deal. Since I am heading to Hawaii (for work) mid-week, I am going to post this AND next week's slates all at once. Mayo170 - who won two weeks ago, will pick this week's games with me. Phats, who won last week will pick the week two slate.
Schedule:
2/19 - Purdue at Indiana* Tiebreaker
2/19 - Northwestern at Iowa
2/20 - Penn State at Michigan State
2/20 - Wisconsin at Illinois
2/21 - Michigan at Minnesota
2/23 - Indiana at Northwestern
2/23 - Iowa at Michigan State
2/23 - Illinois at Michigan
2/23 or 24 - Wisconsin at Ohio State
2/24 - Penn State at Minnesota
mayo170's picks for the week...
What a crazy week for the state of Michigan… The Spartans lose twice and the Wolverines have now won three in a row.
What a game this should be, the kids at Purdue are steamrolling through the Big Ten and show no signs of slowing down. Meanwhile, IU is trying to figure out a way to get through the Kelvin Sampson debacle. As we post this week, I’m sure his career is winding down at IU. So who’s it going to be, the young startups, or the team trying to win one more for the coach? Indiana is tough at home and the crowd loves the team, but it’s apparent they hate the coach. The Boilers get by in a tight one: 79-74.
Northwestern 58 at Iowa 65
Penn State 62 at Michigan State 68
Wisconsin is going on the road in a game that they need to win to keep their title hopes alive. Illinois is looking pretty dismal this year after wreaking havoc for most of this decade in the Big Ten. Wisconsin will roll through Champaign-Urbana to stay within reach of Purdue: 69-56
Michigan is starting to look like they understand what their offense is supposed to look like. After a solid win against OSU, they now head to one of the tougher venues in the Big Ten in a faceoff of freshman Big Ten coaches. Minnesota, a solid middle of the pack team in the league is looking to right the ship this week against one of the bottom-feeders of the year. A tough call to make, but home court will be the advantage here: Wolverines 61 – Golden Gophers 66
Indiana 78 at Northwestern 60
A must-win for the Spartans…or at least score 40 this time around. Izzo was steaming while watching IU shred the Spartans last week, and he knows that his team needs to wake up or another embarrassment at the hands of the lowly Hawkeyes will leave him bald. The Spartans will eventually put it together in the second half: 79-71
Illinois 63 at Michigan 68
Wisconsin makes a trip to Columbus to play a team that is coming off an inexplicable loss to its arch-rival. Ohio State wants a win over a tip-tier team to get back on a roll heading into the home stretch and it doesn’t get much more difficult than Bo Ryan’s squad. This has the makings for a game of the week and should be a great one, with Ohio State eeking out a win 63-60.
Penn State 59 at Minnesota 66
Gamm's picks for the week...
2/19 - Purdue at Indiana - Indiana needs DJ White long term - starting tonight. Purdue regains any inside advantage they lost. The Boilers are young, confident and ready to smack around the Hoosiers. Saturday's momentum doesn't carry over... Purdue 71 - Indiana 64.
2/19 - Northwestern at Iowa - sleeper game of the week. But not as in don't sleep on it because it'll be a good game. Might challenge Iowa-MSU for lowest total score in league play this year. Iowa 50 - Northwestern 42.
2/20 - Penn State at Michigan State - Payback. Revenge. Magic came to town, laid down the law and now the Spartans respond. MSU 80 - Penn State 61.
2/20 - Wisconsin at Illinois - Every game is critical for the Badgers if they want to win the title. Every game is critical for Illinois if they want to make the NIT. Illinois is due. Illini 64 - Wisconsin 62.
2/21 - Michigan at Minnesota - Don't look now but for the first time in years, Michigan looks like a - gasp - basketball team! Minnesota is reeling a bit and needs wins to save postseason hopes. Michigan slips but barely. Minnesota 68 - Michigan 65.
2/23 - Indiana at Northwestern - is this the first game PK (Post Kelvin)? Northwestern is bound to upset someone. If White doesn't go, maybe this is the game? Then again, maybe not. Indiana 64 - Northwestern 54.
2/23 - Iowa at Michigan State - Payback part 2. Revenge part 2. Michigan State does what they did last year after a damaging early conference season loss to Iowa - they crush 'em. Michigan State 74 - Iowa 53.
2/23 - Illinois at Michigan - Another critical game for Illinois but Michigan has nothing to lose and everything to gain. I like how Michigan is playing right now. Wolverines 74 - Illini 70.
2/24 - Wisconsin at Ohio State - OSU needs a signature win in conference play to stay off the bubble. Wisconsin doesn't turn it over and turns you over. A bad mix for the Buckeyes. Bucky 70 - Buckeyes 64.
2/24 - Penn State at Minnesota - Penn State is scrapping to be NIT eligible. Minnesota needs to pile up more wins too. Coin toss as these teams match-up quite well. I'll go with the home team. Gophers 73 - Nittany Lions 62.
- - - - - -
2/26 - Ohio State at Indiana
2/26 - Northwestern at Michigan
2/27 - Iowa at Penn State
2/27 - Minnesota at Purdue
2/28 - Michigan State at Wisconsin* Tiebreaker
3/1 - Northwestern at Purdue
3/1 - Ohio State at Minnesota
3/1 - Michigan at Penn State
3/2 - Indiana at Michigan State
3/2 - Illinois at Iowa
Phats' picks for this week...
Ohio State at Indiana- OSU is really faltering down the stretch here lately, this would go a LONG way in securing a NCAA birth that once looked like a lock. The big question for the Hoosier who will be coaching? IU at home too much. INDIANA 71 ohio state 63
MICHIGAN 66 northwestern 57
PENN STATE 64 iowa 63
Minnesota at Purdue- Purdue the surprise of the big ten this year, even to us diehard Boiler fans can't let their guard down against a very dangerous Gopher team. Having a week off between games you'll see the rust earlier, but the 6th man, the Paint Crew will help keep the energy up and the Boilers will pull away late. PURDUE 73 minnesota 65
Michigan State at Wisconsin- The Spartans are a great team when the game is played in East Lansing, this one is in the Kohl Center and that means, Badgers win. WISCONSIN 73 michigan state 65 (although I am pulling for MSU!)
PURDUE 81 northwestern 57(Boilers won't lose on Senior Day! even starting freshmen!)
MINNESOTA 65 ohio state 61
MICHIGAN 64 penn state 58
Indiana at Michigan State- Payback time for the Spartans. After getting embarrassed on ESPN with College Gameday there, you know Izzo will have his guys ready for this one. IU has done well on the road and has gotten some luck as well, that all runs out in East Lansing. MSU will get a big game from Neitzel, and the MSU Defense will hold Webster, I mean Eric Gordon in check, and roll from there MICHIGAN STATE 71 indiana 59
Illinois at Iowa- Iowa was starting to play better until that loss to Michigan at home. Illini have too much talent for the record they have, Illinois will pull out a rare big ten road win. ILLINOIS 68 iowa 62
Gamm's picks for the week...
Not a ton of time between work and some sun time here in Maui... but here are my picks for the week:
2/26 - Ohio State at Indiana - IU almost tanked at NU but found a way to win. The comfort of the home crowd will carry the Hoosiers to a win over an OSU team that is a little stuck right now. Indiana 74 - Ohio State 62.
2/26 - Northwestern at Michigan - Northwestern has been close so often this season, only to fail. These teams are very similar. The Wildcats are bound to win eventually... NU 60 - Michigan 58
2/27 - Iowa at Penn State - A great chance for Penn State to step closer to the NIT. PSU 65 - Iowa 61.
2/27 - Minnesota at Purdue - The Gophers can be a handful, but this is Purdue's year. Purdue 70 - Minnesota 59.
2/28 - Michigan State at Wisconsin* Tiebreaker - MSU hasn't beaten Bo Ryan's Badgers in the Kohl Center. The Spartans seem to be back on track. Can they hand the Badgers a rare loss at home? I think they can and will. MSU 65 - Wisconsin 63.
3/1 - Northwestern at Purdue - Might be a trap game if on the road. But Purdue rolls. PU 78 - NU 62.
3/1 - Ohio State at Minnesota - OSU is in dire need of wins to secure an NCAA berth. Not gonna happen in the barn. Minnesota 67 - Ohio State 62.
3/1 - Michigan at Penn State - A real chance for Penn State to serve more notice in the Big Ten. Michigan is even more short handed and Penn State has a lot of fight in them. PSU 66 - Michigan 59.
3/2 - Indiana at Michigan State - Payback time. MSU stays unbeaten at home. State 73 - Indiana 67.
3/2 - Illinois at Iowa - Illinois has really fallen on hard times this season. Iowa is tough at home. Recipe for an Illini defeat. Iowa 62 - Illinois 58
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Thrice in one week?
I have to continue to weigh in on the looming debcale at Indiana. If not for all this Congressional waste of time with Roger Clemens, this story would be much, MUCH bigger.
IU is in a predicament. Do they fire Sampson now? Is that fair, you know, due process and all? Do nothing and look foolish? Suspend him?
In the wake of the upsetting loss - on a bank shot triple by a seven-footer no less - the Hoosiers are bleeding in more ways than one. How do they stop the bleeding?
To catch up on the story... follow it at ESPN.
My own conspiracy theory...
Okay, I am surely not the only or the first to think this, but something hit me as soon as this story broke the other night. Bob Knight knew something was up, resigned to let Pat take his own long awaited top gig, avoided saying he was "retiring" all for one simple reason - he's heading back to Indiana.
Myles Brand is no longer around. Knight is still adored by ardant Indiana supporters. He's got a good five years left in him. Bobby Knight is Indiana basketball. I truly think there is a great opportunity for The General to come back in, right the ship and ride off into the sunset... having paved the way for Steve Alford to "come home" and be his replacement.
Call me crazy, but that's my story and I'm stickin' to it...
I have to continue to weigh in on the looming debcale at Indiana. If not for all this Congressional waste of time with Roger Clemens, this story would be much, MUCH bigger.
IU is in a predicament. Do they fire Sampson now? Is that fair, you know, due process and all? Do nothing and look foolish? Suspend him?
In the wake of the upsetting loss - on a bank shot triple by a seven-footer no less - the Hoosiers are bleeding in more ways than one. How do they stop the bleeding?
To catch up on the story... follow it at ESPN.
My own conspiracy theory...
Okay, I am surely not the only or the first to think this, but something hit me as soon as this story broke the other night. Bob Knight knew something was up, resigned to let Pat take his own long awaited top gig, avoided saying he was "retiring" all for one simple reason - he's heading back to Indiana.
Myles Brand is no longer around. Knight is still adored by ardant Indiana supporters. He's got a good five years left in him. Bobby Knight is Indiana basketball. I truly think there is a great opportunity for The General to come back in, right the ship and ride off into the sunset... having paved the way for Steve Alford to "come home" and be his replacement.
Call me crazy, but that's my story and I'm stickin' to it...
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Rare, midweek ramblings...
Wow, two minutes to share some thoughts on what's going on around the Big Ten. Amazing!
First of all, Holy Hoosiers Batman. Lose a key role player yesterday, face MAJOR sanctions today. What in the h-e-double hockey sticks is goin' on in Bloomington (aside from three straight critical games over the next six nights)?
Second, hat's off to Purdue. Baby Boilers aren't babies anymore. This is a tough team that reminds me so very much of the first few MSU (Big Ten) title teams in the late 90s. In your jock defense. Solid guard play. Timely shooting. Hustle galore. If State can't win it (they can't if they play like they did in the first half, but CAN if they play like they did in the second) then I'll throw my support the way of the old gold and black.
Last - I am sick and tired of the slams the Big Ten takes from the Pat Forde's of the world. The Big Ten has four teams that are deep tourney run capable. How many other leagues are really that strong? ACC has two. SEC - do they have anyone outside of Tennessee? I'll give you the Big East and Pac 10 but damnit, respect us people. Mark it down, ONE Big Ten team will be in San Antonio in April...
Wow, two minutes to share some thoughts on what's going on around the Big Ten. Amazing!
First of all, Holy Hoosiers Batman. Lose a key role player yesterday, face MAJOR sanctions today. What in the h-e-double hockey sticks is goin' on in Bloomington (aside from three straight critical games over the next six nights)?
Second, hat's off to Purdue. Baby Boilers aren't babies anymore. This is a tough team that reminds me so very much of the first few MSU (Big Ten) title teams in the late 90s. In your jock defense. Solid guard play. Timely shooting. Hustle galore. If State can't win it (they can't if they play like they did in the first half, but CAN if they play like they did in the second) then I'll throw my support the way of the old gold and black.
Last - I am sick and tired of the slams the Big Ten takes from the Pat Forde's of the world. The Big Ten has four teams that are deep tourney run capable. How many other leagues are really that strong? ACC has two. SEC - do they have anyone outside of Tennessee? I'll give you the Big East and Pac 10 but damnit, respect us people. Mark it down, ONE Big Ten team will be in San Antonio in April...
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Get Gamm - Week Seven...
Been crazy here... no time to think basketball despite a HUGE week coming up!
Mayo170 went 8-3 and won last week but there is little to no time to get me picks, so mayo, you're on deck for next week with this week's winner.
Getting right to it...
2/12 - Michigan State at Purdue: This is the first of two enormous games for the Spartans. Purdue is looking a lot like the 1997-98 Spartans. A win here for either team is critical. Going with the heart... Michigan State 68 - Purdue 66
2/12 - Illinois at Minnesota: Minnesota gets well at home. Gophers 73 - Illinois 68
2/13 - Wisconsin at Indiana: Payback time? The Badgers more or less dominated IU not too far back, but Wisconsin is a tad off after a tough week that saw a squeaker win at Iowa and a rare home loss vs. Purdue. Indiana 74 - Wisconsin 65
2/13 - Ohio State at Northwestern: NU has to win sometime - right? Ohio State 67 - NU 63
2/14 - Michigan at Iowa: Iowa has been one of the toughest venues of the season for road teams. Iowa 65 - Michigan 61.
2/16 - Minnesota at Wisconsin: Badgers get right. UW 74 - Minny 63
2/16 - Purdue at Northwestern: The 'cats have to win sometime, right?! Purdue 74 - NU 60
2/16 - Illinois at Penn State: Two teams with records not indicative of their ability. Toss up. Penn State 68 - Illinois 67
2/16 - Michigan State at Indiana: The way the schedule looks, an IU win makes them the odds on favorite. Indiana 71 - MSU 64
2/17 - Ohio State at Michigan: OSU 65 - Michigan 62
Been crazy here... no time to think basketball despite a HUGE week coming up!
Mayo170 went 8-3 and won last week but there is little to no time to get me picks, so mayo, you're on deck for next week with this week's winner.
Getting right to it...
2/12 - Michigan State at Purdue: This is the first of two enormous games for the Spartans. Purdue is looking a lot like the 1997-98 Spartans. A win here for either team is critical. Going with the heart... Michigan State 68 - Purdue 66
2/12 - Illinois at Minnesota: Minnesota gets well at home. Gophers 73 - Illinois 68
2/13 - Wisconsin at Indiana: Payback time? The Badgers more or less dominated IU not too far back, but Wisconsin is a tad off after a tough week that saw a squeaker win at Iowa and a rare home loss vs. Purdue. Indiana 74 - Wisconsin 65
2/13 - Ohio State at Northwestern: NU has to win sometime - right? Ohio State 67 - NU 63
2/14 - Michigan at Iowa: Iowa has been one of the toughest venues of the season for road teams. Iowa 65 - Michigan 61.
2/16 - Minnesota at Wisconsin: Badgers get right. UW 74 - Minny 63
2/16 - Purdue at Northwestern: The 'cats have to win sometime, right?! Purdue 74 - NU 60
2/16 - Illinois at Penn State: Two teams with records not indicative of their ability. Toss up. Penn State 68 - Illinois 67
2/16 - Michigan State at Indiana: The way the schedule looks, an IU win makes them the odds on favorite. Indiana 71 - MSU 64
2/17 - Ohio State at Michigan: OSU 65 - Michigan 62
Monday, February 04, 2008
Get Gamm - Week Six...
We're officially (mostly) to the halfway point of the conference season. There are five teams clearly better than the rest and it should be a great race to the finish. The home teams continue the recent upward trend, bouyed by the likes of Iowa and Penn State who pulled off progressively shocking upsets at home on Saturday evening. Home teams now stand 31-18. Look for that home court to be huge as February wears on and turns to March.
There was a shake up at the top last week as first Wisconsin pulled Indiana back to the pack, then Purdue surged slightly ahead and MSU fell - quite surprisingly - at Penn State to fall one off the pace. Bottom line, while MSU has dug itself a hole with two losses to bottom of the pack squads, it is more or less a four team race at the top with the Buckeyes vying to stay in consideration for March. Hang on, it's going to be a wild ride!
As for Get Gamm, Phats rules the roost - again! He beat all comers and is on a roll Get Gamm hasn't see in a while... Phats, you know the drill. Games in bold below are the ones to give me commentary on...
Schedule:
2/5 - Michigan at Ohio State
2/5 - Penn State at Purdue
2/6 - Minnesota at Northwestern
2/6 - Wisconsin at Iowa
2/7 - Indiana at Illinois
2/9 - Iowa at Minnesota
2/9 - Penn State at Michigan
2/9 - Northwestern at Michigan State
2/9 - Purdue at Wisconsin* (Tiebreaker)
2/10 - Indiana at Ohio State
The picks...
2/5 - Michigan at Ohio State
Gamm says - Ohio State 80 - Michigan 58
Phats says - Ohio State 68 - Michigan 56
2/5 - Penn State at Purdue
Gamm says - Did MSU help Penn State find itself last Saturday night? Or was that a once every two years performance by a young and talented but raw Nittany Lion team? Purdue is rolling, won twice on the road last week and keeps it up... Purdue 73 - Penn State 65.
Phats says - I think Michigan State did us a favor by losing to PSU, now our young team won't be overlooking the Lions. With this game being at Mackey, my Boilers keep the train rolling.. PURDUE 70 penn state 57
2/6 - Minnesota at Northwestern
Gamm says - Northwestern 58 - Minnesota 56
Phats says - Minnesota 77 - Northwestern 60
2/6 - Wisconsin at Iowa
Gamm says - Hmm, a tough one. Wisconsin is playing the second best basketball in the conference right now (to Purdue). The Badgers like the down and dirty style that Iowa forces. Iowa will get one more huge win at home, but I am not sure this is going to be that win. Wisconsin 62 - Iowa 56.
Phats says - Can Iowa take down yet another contender on their home floor? Coach Lick has the Hawks playing some decent ball, however the Badgers looked really tough handling the Gophers in the Barn. Wisconsin struggles but they get it done in the end WISCONSIN 68 iowa 65
2/7 - Indiana at Illinois
Gamm says - the one to watch this week, if only to see how the Orange Krush handle what should be Eric Gordon's only visit to Champaign. Illinois is due for a big win. Indiana is struggling right now. Upset special. Illinois 59 - Indiana 57.
Phats says - Upset Special. The Hoosiers' weak schedule has really exposed them lately, and the Illini are playing better than their record would indicate. This bad blood rivalry takes a fever pitch with Gordon probably making his one and only appearance at Illinois. Illini will rally around a hostile crowd and get the win. ILLINOIS 69 indiana 67
2/9 - Iowa at Minnesota
Gamm says - Minnesota 65 - Iowa 54
Phats says - Minnesota 67 - Iowa 65
2/9 - Penn State at Michigan
Gamm says - Penn State 81 - Michigan 76
Phats says - Michigan 67 - Penn State 61
2/9 - Northwestern at Michigan State
Gamm says - Michigan State 75 - Northwestern 50
Phats says - Michigan State 78 - Northwestern 49
2/9 - Purdue at Wisconsin* (Tiebreaker)
Gamm says - Payback time. Wisconsin bullied Indiana at home last week and gets a quick shot at payback. The Badgers are a brutal out at home and finally put an end to an impressive run by a Purdue squad that may have already stated its case for being the title favorite - next year. Wisconsin 70 - Purdue 62.
Phats says - My heart says Boilers win, my head says Wisconsin wins. What a HUGE win this would be for the "Baby Boilers" doing what so far no other purdue mens team has done won at the Kohl Center. Badgers will want to repay Purdue for their first conference loss. It's hopefully going to be a good game Badgers too much in the end I am afraid head wins out over heart. WISCONSIN 64 purdue 61(I hope I am wrong! I would gladly take a miss)
2/10 - Indiana at Ohio State
Gamm says - The road stays tough for the Hoosiers. Might this be loss four in five games? IU is bound to get it together for one marquee road win and OSU is just young enough to help them along. I'm torn because I like the home teams... Indiana 72 - Ohio State 70 - OT
Phats says - Stunning loss to Iowa makes this a must win for the Buckeyes to stay in the Big Ten race. It's nice to see IU finally playing some tough games, because right now their signature win is still Illinois State. After this game, it will stay that way. Buckeyes control DJ and Gordon, and get a hard fought win over the Hoosiers. OHIO STATE 64 indiana 60
We're officially (mostly) to the halfway point of the conference season. There are five teams clearly better than the rest and it should be a great race to the finish. The home teams continue the recent upward trend, bouyed by the likes of Iowa and Penn State who pulled off progressively shocking upsets at home on Saturday evening. Home teams now stand 31-18. Look for that home court to be huge as February wears on and turns to March.
There was a shake up at the top last week as first Wisconsin pulled Indiana back to the pack, then Purdue surged slightly ahead and MSU fell - quite surprisingly - at Penn State to fall one off the pace. Bottom line, while MSU has dug itself a hole with two losses to bottom of the pack squads, it is more or less a four team race at the top with the Buckeyes vying to stay in consideration for March. Hang on, it's going to be a wild ride!
As for Get Gamm, Phats rules the roost - again! He beat all comers and is on a roll Get Gamm hasn't see in a while... Phats, you know the drill. Games in bold below are the ones to give me commentary on...
Schedule:
2/5 - Michigan at Ohio State
2/5 - Penn State at Purdue
2/6 - Minnesota at Northwestern
2/6 - Wisconsin at Iowa
2/7 - Indiana at Illinois
2/9 - Iowa at Minnesota
2/9 - Penn State at Michigan
2/9 - Northwestern at Michigan State
2/9 - Purdue at Wisconsin* (Tiebreaker)
2/10 - Indiana at Ohio State
The picks...
2/5 - Michigan at Ohio State
Gamm says - Ohio State 80 - Michigan 58
Phats says - Ohio State 68 - Michigan 56
2/5 - Penn State at Purdue
Gamm says - Did MSU help Penn State find itself last Saturday night? Or was that a once every two years performance by a young and talented but raw Nittany Lion team? Purdue is rolling, won twice on the road last week and keeps it up... Purdue 73 - Penn State 65.
Phats says - I think Michigan State did us a favor by losing to PSU, now our young team won't be overlooking the Lions. With this game being at Mackey, my Boilers keep the train rolling.. PURDUE 70 penn state 57
2/6 - Minnesota at Northwestern
Gamm says - Northwestern 58 - Minnesota 56
Phats says - Minnesota 77 - Northwestern 60
2/6 - Wisconsin at Iowa
Gamm says - Hmm, a tough one. Wisconsin is playing the second best basketball in the conference right now (to Purdue). The Badgers like the down and dirty style that Iowa forces. Iowa will get one more huge win at home, but I am not sure this is going to be that win. Wisconsin 62 - Iowa 56.
Phats says - Can Iowa take down yet another contender on their home floor? Coach Lick has the Hawks playing some decent ball, however the Badgers looked really tough handling the Gophers in the Barn. Wisconsin struggles but they get it done in the end WISCONSIN 68 iowa 65
2/7 - Indiana at Illinois
Gamm says - the one to watch this week, if only to see how the Orange Krush handle what should be Eric Gordon's only visit to Champaign. Illinois is due for a big win. Indiana is struggling right now. Upset special. Illinois 59 - Indiana 57.
Phats says - Upset Special. The Hoosiers' weak schedule has really exposed them lately, and the Illini are playing better than their record would indicate. This bad blood rivalry takes a fever pitch with Gordon probably making his one and only appearance at Illinois. Illini will rally around a hostile crowd and get the win. ILLINOIS 69 indiana 67
2/9 - Iowa at Minnesota
Gamm says - Minnesota 65 - Iowa 54
Phats says - Minnesota 67 - Iowa 65
2/9 - Penn State at Michigan
Gamm says - Penn State 81 - Michigan 76
Phats says - Michigan 67 - Penn State 61
2/9 - Northwestern at Michigan State
Gamm says - Michigan State 75 - Northwestern 50
Phats says - Michigan State 78 - Northwestern 49
2/9 - Purdue at Wisconsin* (Tiebreaker)
Gamm says - Payback time. Wisconsin bullied Indiana at home last week and gets a quick shot at payback. The Badgers are a brutal out at home and finally put an end to an impressive run by a Purdue squad that may have already stated its case for being the title favorite - next year. Wisconsin 70 - Purdue 62.
Phats says - My heart says Boilers win, my head says Wisconsin wins. What a HUGE win this would be for the "Baby Boilers" doing what so far no other purdue mens team has done won at the Kohl Center. Badgers will want to repay Purdue for their first conference loss. It's hopefully going to be a good game Badgers too much in the end I am afraid head wins out over heart. WISCONSIN 64 purdue 61(I hope I am wrong! I would gladly take a miss)
2/10 - Indiana at Ohio State
Gamm says - The road stays tough for the Hoosiers. Might this be loss four in five games? IU is bound to get it together for one marquee road win and OSU is just young enough to help them along. I'm torn because I like the home teams... Indiana 72 - Ohio State 70 - OT
Phats says - Stunning loss to Iowa makes this a must win for the Buckeyes to stay in the Big Ten race. It's nice to see IU finally playing some tough games, because right now their signature win is still Illinois State. After this game, it will stay that way. Buckeyes control DJ and Gordon, and get a hard fought win over the Hoosiers. OHIO STATE 64 indiana 60
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