The game is set. Oregon St vs BYU in the Maaco Bowl Las Vegas (kind of a strange new name for the bowl).
This is going to be an interesting matchup and should prove to be a challenge for both teams. I'm really looking forward to it.
I am disappointed in how things turned out for TCU and yes, I'm even disappointed for Boise. Both those teams earned spots into BCS games but what does the BCS do, pit them against each other. Are you kidding me? We got to see that game happen last year without the BCS. The big talk is that it's undefeated vs undefeated. Well guess what BCS gurus, Cinci was undefeated too. TCU and Boise deserve to play other teams that would actually get the nation talking. Now, it'll just be, oh those 2 non-BCS teams played and beat up on each other, whoopdeedoo.
Well Horned Frogs and Broncos, go out and show em what a real game should be. I can say, I may not watch any of the BCS games out of spite for that corrupt institution that claims it's not about money and that we all want to be a part of...Great and Spacious building anyone?
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Long Time No Post - Bring on the Rivalry!
Things got pretty wild around here and I haven't taken the time to post anything, but with the last game of the year other than the bowl game coming up, I figure it's time.
Both BYU and Utah are ranked right close to each other and have identical records. Each lost to TCU and a BCS conference team. BYU has quite a few seniors although it seems not an awful lot has changed since last year. The defense is soft and seems to have trouble getting fired up. Utah is once again overachieving and has pulled out some close ones this year. The big difference for them is a freshman quarterback and missing the leg of Louie Sakoda.
BYU's key to this game will be ball control on offense. We CANNOT turn the ball over or we will lose. Secondary to that is the defense needs to be intense and tight. They need to be able to confuse and frustrate the freshman QB with only 3 or 4 starts under his belt. This game will not be easy for either team and I'm thinking we'll have the type of game seen in 05, 06 and 07.
This will come down to the wire and the team that wins the turn over battle will win the game.
BYU 34 and Utah 31 with a FG bouncing off the uprights ;)
Go Cougs!
Both BYU and Utah are ranked right close to each other and have identical records. Each lost to TCU and a BCS conference team. BYU has quite a few seniors although it seems not an awful lot has changed since last year. The defense is soft and seems to have trouble getting fired up. Utah is once again overachieving and has pulled out some close ones this year. The big difference for them is a freshman quarterback and missing the leg of Louie Sakoda.
BYU's key to this game will be ball control on offense. We CANNOT turn the ball over or we will lose. Secondary to that is the defense needs to be intense and tight. They need to be able to confuse and frustrate the freshman QB with only 3 or 4 starts under his belt. This game will not be easy for either team and I'm thinking we'll have the type of game seen in 05, 06 and 07.
This will come down to the wire and the team that wins the turn over battle will win the game.
BYU 34 and Utah 31 with a FG bouncing off the uprights ;)
Go Cougs!
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Embarrassing
I know you probably think I'm talking about the result of the game, which wasn't pretty and BYU played their second worst game of the season. You could even argue it was the worst since not even the offense was clicking tonight. The game was terrible but I liked that the players didn't quit. When we were up against FSU, I sincerly thought some players just quit after it got out of hand.
The embarassing thing about this game were the BYU fans. Yes, I'm calling out the fans. I've been to a lot of BYU games and I've heard a lot of fans criticize coaches and players, but tonight, they actually booed the players and coaches. Booed them! Unbelievable. It's one thing to criticize and get on your team, but to boo them when they're out on the field trying to play a game? Tell you what, how about each of you that booed has 3 or 4 players/coaches come to your place of business and boo you while you try to work. Sound like a plan?
You didn't have to buy your tickets and you didn't have to attend the game. Whether it was what you expected, whether you agreed with the playcalling, whether you were unsatisfied with the performance of the players, booing is bad sportsmanship and worth you losing your seat at the game.
My wife heard some criticism about the heart and fanaticism of BYU fans recently and spent time defending them. That was the last thing she wanted to do tonight. Many fans left midway through the 3rd quarter and the rest about the time the 4th started. Stick it out people, the players do.
Sometime this week, I'll try to post the rules of fandom if I get the time to research and put together a good list, but hear me now, BYU fans at this game tonight, failed requirement #1, SUPPORT YOUR TEAM!
--stepping off soapbox--
TCU better win out and qualify for a BCS game ahead of BSU because they are a legitimate top 10 team.
The embarassing thing about this game were the BYU fans. Yes, I'm calling out the fans. I've been to a lot of BYU games and I've heard a lot of fans criticize coaches and players, but tonight, they actually booed the players and coaches. Booed them! Unbelievable. It's one thing to criticize and get on your team, but to boo them when they're out on the field trying to play a game? Tell you what, how about each of you that booed has 3 or 4 players/coaches come to your place of business and boo you while you try to work. Sound like a plan?
You didn't have to buy your tickets and you didn't have to attend the game. Whether it was what you expected, whether you agreed with the playcalling, whether you were unsatisfied with the performance of the players, booing is bad sportsmanship and worth you losing your seat at the game.
My wife heard some criticism about the heart and fanaticism of BYU fans recently and spent time defending them. That was the last thing she wanted to do tonight. Many fans left midway through the 3rd quarter and the rest about the time the 4th started. Stick it out people, the players do.
Sometime this week, I'll try to post the rules of fandom if I get the time to research and put together a good list, but hear me now, BYU fans at this game tonight, failed requirement #1, SUPPORT YOUR TEAM!
--stepping off soapbox--
TCU better win out and qualify for a BCS game ahead of BSU because they are a legitimate top 10 team.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Frogs vs Cougars - Conference Championship on the line
I think we all knew this was going to be a big game about 5 minutes into last year's game. I won't drudge up any specific memories of that game except to say I felt sick. The Cougs got beat early and often and never truly recovered.
That game was perhaps one of the biggest turning points to prepare this team for the season opener against Oklahoma. Prior to TCU the team hadn't really been challenged for over a year and was a little complacent. I also don't think they were ready for the crowd that showed up to that game. Plenty of Cougar fans were there, but the situation forced them into stunned silence early and like the players, they never recovered. I think many of us to this day haven't recovered and the only way we will is with a win at Lavell's house this Saturday.
TCU ranked in the top 10, coming into Provo to play the #16 Cougars. Almost an exact reversal to last year's situation. It's almost too earie and you can get some of the similarities here.
BYU has some advantages coming into this game in that TCU hasn't faced a team that is diverse as BYU. They haven't met up with a team that can pass and run equally well. I'm not downgrading TCU, they are probably one of the top 2 defenses in the country when you consider potential. That defense will test BYU as it will be the best they've faced. Oklahoma was good, but I feel TCU is better. The defense doesn't have let downs.
This is a very interesting and competetive matchup as the Cougars and Horned Frogs pit strength vs strength. The game will come down to which team executes the game plan and adjusts to the game situations. Special teams play will be key and those big plays will have to be handled.
I see a close one, but BYU defends their homefield 28 to 27 on a come from behind touchdown in the 4th.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Friday, October 16, 2009
Another Game in a Playground
Two weeks in a row that BYU gets to go to the playgrounds of the conference. Who else can claim Vegas and San Diego?!
While San Diego St has brought a brand new coaching staff that will hopefully turn the program around, the talent hasn't been developed to the point where they'll be a winning program for at least a couple years. I think 2005 was the last time BYU lost to San Diego St and it was an ugly one. I'll always remember the ball coming out the back of John Beck's hand and just shaking my head. However, there's been a lot of uphill from there and one could almost say it was the low point of Bronco's tenure.
Rocky Long always presents a fired up defense but the Cougars have seen it many times before and shouldn't be intimidated. I'm looking for Max to put together another turn over free game and for Riley Nelson to get some PT tomorrow.
BYU 49 - SDSU 18
While San Diego St has brought a brand new coaching staff that will hopefully turn the program around, the talent hasn't been developed to the point where they'll be a winning program for at least a couple years. I think 2005 was the last time BYU lost to San Diego St and it was an ugly one. I'll always remember the ball coming out the back of John Beck's hand and just shaking my head. However, there's been a lot of uphill from there and one could almost say it was the low point of Bronco's tenure.
Rocky Long always presents a fired up defense but the Cougars have seen it many times before and shouldn't be intimidated. I'm looking for Max to put together another turn over free game and for Riley Nelson to get some PT tomorrow.
BYU 49 - SDSU 18
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Sam Boyd Stadium (Provo South)
BYU shouldn't have any problem playing on the road at UNLV this weekend. They struggled against a mediocre Nevada team and BYU is looking to make up for what was a too close for comfort win over the Rebels last year. The UNLV receivers are tall and fast, the question is going to be whether the QB can get it to them.
I look for BYU to win by 2 to 3 scores.
BYU 42 - UNLV 24
I look for BYU to win by 2 to 3 scores.
BYU 42 - UNLV 24
Monday, October 5, 2009
MWC - How good are they?
After all the buzz last year and a good showing in the bowl games, you would think that the bottom of the Moutain West would roll the bottom of the WAC, but here we are 4 weeks in and Idaho, yes that's right, Idaho of the WAC has beat two MWC teams.
All in all the upper tier of the Mountain West is better than the WAC but when you start looking at the mid-level to bottom feeders, it's about equal. I think the biggest difference is you have 3 teams that are consistently in the top 25 from the MWC while the WAC has one. Now granted, that one is far and away better than the rest of its conference and I will not name names because they drive me absolutely insane.
Then when you think it over, are the bottom feeders of any conference really all that much better than another conference? I don't believe they are. I also believe this is why a playoff should be instituted. The power conferences talk about how their teams are so much better than everyone else. If that's the case let them prove it on the field (Oklahoma). Let your champion play our champion once a year, winner moves on. Prove it on the field. Let's quit looking at history and start judging football between the lines. There's a reason the game is played and it should always be that way. Let the players and coaches prove their mettle.
The excuses should be done away with, college football is not a place for elitists anymore. The best players aren't resigning themselves to only the top 10 schools. They are going where they think they can make the biggest impact and it's leveling the playing field.
To the BCS presidents, the excuses are ridiculous and outdated. There is absolutely nothing keeping you from a playoff but your greed for power and money. Make the changes.
All in all the upper tier of the Mountain West is better than the WAC but when you start looking at the mid-level to bottom feeders, it's about equal. I think the biggest difference is you have 3 teams that are consistently in the top 25 from the MWC while the WAC has one. Now granted, that one is far and away better than the rest of its conference and I will not name names because they drive me absolutely insane.
Then when you think it over, are the bottom feeders of any conference really all that much better than another conference? I don't believe they are. I also believe this is why a playoff should be instituted. The power conferences talk about how their teams are so much better than everyone else. If that's the case let them prove it on the field (Oklahoma). Let your champion play our champion once a year, winner moves on. Prove it on the field. Let's quit looking at history and start judging football between the lines. There's a reason the game is played and it should always be that way. Let the players and coaches prove their mettle.
The excuses should be done away with, college football is not a place for elitists anymore. The best players aren't resigning themselves to only the top 10 schools. They are going where they think they can make the biggest impact and it's leveling the playing field.
To the BCS presidents, the excuses are ridiculous and outdated. There is absolutely nothing keeping you from a playoff but your greed for power and money. Make the changes.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Bounce Back Game
Here we are another Saturday, only this time I'm not as confident in my Cougars. Colorado State is playing with confidence and are on a 6 game winning streak. The way our defense played last week is a little scary but they do get their leader back in the secondary this week. Scott Johnson is coming off a concussion in the Tulane game. He missed last week's game and I believe it really affected the confidence and swagger of the D. An interesting point is that our D really took a downturn last year when Johnson went out for a few games with a double groin tear. By no means is Johnson the most talented player or even one that will be in the NFL, but he is another coach on the field and is a leader and motivator that will get the guys to be assignment sound. This also frees up Andrew Rich to be a little more aggressive.
I expect a much improved defensive effort, but still seeing a closer game.
BYU 35 CSU 24
I expect a much improved defensive effort, but still seeing a closer game.
BYU 35 CSU 24
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Holy Ouch
That wasn't even close. I thought for sure our defense would come in and beat on FSU, but turns out they didn't seem to have their hearts in it. Don't get me wrong, FSU did a great job at taking the wind out of their sails, but there was little intensity and the physicality that allowed them to beat OU wasn't anywhere to be seen. It was almost like we just tried to outlast them, which wasn't going to happen.
The offense didn't help turning the ball over and over and over. We've got to get ball control and some of that intensity back or it could be a long season.
The offense didn't help turning the ball over and over and over. We've got to get ball control and some of that intensity back or it could be a long season.
'Noles Invade Provo
Leading up to the season, Florida State was ranked and a favorite to win its conference. They opened the season at home against their rival Miami and lost a close one. They followed it up the next week with an uninspiring effort against Jacksonville State. Even though they pulled off that win, it doesn't look good when you need two touchdowns in the last couple minutes to pull off a victory against an FCS team.
Now FSU comes to Provo as a mere 7 point underdog despite the Cougs high ranking and early season victories. This could prove to be a tough game due to the speed and athleticism of Florida State. Wait, I think I've said that before?
BYU has proven that speed and athleticism does not scare them and even better, they're home for the first time this season. FSU has proven that their man defense is not disciplined enough to cover the number of weapons the Cougars have. They've also shown an ineptitude against the run. I look for BYU to win by at least 14 if not more.
The FSU offense is decent and they are quick, but they are also not used to the physicallity with which BYU is bringing it this year. I believe they'll get in the endzone a time or two but it won't be nearly as often as BYU and the Cougs should be 3-0 for the second straight year. E and I will be at the game tonight and we're really looking forward to a loud croud all dressed in blue.
BYU 35 - FSU 18
Go Cougars!
Now FSU comes to Provo as a mere 7 point underdog despite the Cougs high ranking and early season victories. This could prove to be a tough game due to the speed and athleticism of Florida State. Wait, I think I've said that before?
BYU has proven that speed and athleticism does not scare them and even better, they're home for the first time this season. FSU has proven that their man defense is not disciplined enough to cover the number of weapons the Cougars have. They've also shown an ineptitude against the run. I look for BYU to win by at least 14 if not more.
The FSU offense is decent and they are quick, but they are also not used to the physicallity with which BYU is bringing it this year. I believe they'll get in the endzone a time or two but it won't be nearly as often as BYU and the Cougs should be 3-0 for the second straight year. E and I will be at the game tonight and we're really looking forward to a loud croud all dressed in blue.
BYU 35 - FSU 18
Go Cougars!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Blowout - Even Better Than Expected
BYU followed up a big upset win with the exact type of win expected from a top 10 team. Tulane is a team that's struggling to find its identity right now and is working on re-establishing their program. BYU went in and struggled a little early (probably due to an emotional let down after the OU win). Toward the end of the second quarter, they stepped up and found their rhythm on both sides of the ball and once they started rolling there was no looking back.
Everyone got in on this game, 10 different players have rushing statistics and 12 different receivers caught the ball tonight. Don't let the big score fool you, the defense got in and forced 4 turnovers including a fumble that was returned for a touchdown. The Cougars looked sharp in a blow out win that they needed to show the national media that last week was not a fluke.
All undefeated seasons have to start with 2 wins. So far so good. They also start with 3 wins and number 3 will be a tough one to get. Florida State comes to town next Saturday and we are excited to go to that game. Unfortunately FSU lost their first game against Miami and then struggled against a team Tulane could have beat (Jacksonville State). Hopefull they turn their season around so that our win over them next Saturday won't lose any luster.
Go Cougs!!!
Everyone got in on this game, 10 different players have rushing statistics and 12 different receivers caught the ball tonight. Don't let the big score fool you, the defense got in and forced 4 turnovers including a fumble that was returned for a touchdown. The Cougars looked sharp in a blow out win that they needed to show the national media that last week was not a fluke.
All undefeated seasons have to start with 2 wins. So far so good. They also start with 3 wins and number 3 will be a tough one to get. Florida State comes to town next Saturday and we are excited to go to that game. Unfortunately FSU lost their first game against Miami and then struggled against a team Tulane could have beat (Jacksonville State). Hopefull they turn their season around so that our win over them next Saturday won't lose any luster.
Go Cougs!!!
Friday, September 11, 2009
Tulane - Trap Game?
It would be easy to believe that BYU would be so jazzed about the win over Oklahoma and excited about the prospect of playing Florida State in the home opener next weekend that they may overlook the Green Wave of Tulane University.
I'm sure you've read all the quotes from coaches and players about how their only focus is on Tulane, yada yada yada. It's only natural to have a little dip after such a big high and I expect some of the younger players to maybe come out a little slow this weekend.
However, if you're going to have a down week, Tulane would be a good one to have on the schedule that week. They've lost 9 straight including a big blowout loss to Tulsa on their own field last weekend. The Green Wave only won 2 games last season and have a total of 10 in the last 3 or 4 years.
There is enough senior leadership on the BYU squad that this game will be a good one to get banged up players some rest and put a little extra emphasis on some of the errors made last weekend. DON'T TURN THE BALL OVER!
This would be my biggest concern. Our running game looked good at times but the overall statistics show that all it became was a smokescreen to the passing game. Fortunately, we are very talented in the passing game, but I would like to see a 100 yard rusher come out of this contest.
It looks like Tulane is an athletic team with a lot of raw talent that is in a rebuilding stage, with a new coaching staff. They are young and inexperienced and should (on paper) get rolled tomorrow.
However, College Football being College Football, the game will be tough and there will be lessons taken away from the game tomorrow for both teams. As always, I like the Cougs, only this time, I like them to win big and have it in the bag by the half.
BYU 42 - Tulane 10
Go Cougars!
I'm sure you've read all the quotes from coaches and players about how their only focus is on Tulane, yada yada yada. It's only natural to have a little dip after such a big high and I expect some of the younger players to maybe come out a little slow this weekend.
However, if you're going to have a down week, Tulane would be a good one to have on the schedule that week. They've lost 9 straight including a big blowout loss to Tulsa on their own field last weekend. The Green Wave only won 2 games last season and have a total of 10 in the last 3 or 4 years.
There is enough senior leadership on the BYU squad that this game will be a good one to get banged up players some rest and put a little extra emphasis on some of the errors made last weekend. DON'T TURN THE BALL OVER!
This would be my biggest concern. Our running game looked good at times but the overall statistics show that all it became was a smokescreen to the passing game. Fortunately, we are very talented in the passing game, but I would like to see a 100 yard rusher come out of this contest.
It looks like Tulane is an athletic team with a lot of raw talent that is in a rebuilding stage, with a new coaching staff. They are young and inexperienced and should (on paper) get rolled tomorrow.
However, College Football being College Football, the game will be tough and there will be lessons taken away from the game tomorrow for both teams. As always, I like the Cougs, only this time, I like them to win big and have it in the bag by the half.
BYU 42 - Tulane 10
Go Cougars!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Now that's a ratings jump
By now most of you have probably noticed that BYU jumped from 24 to 12 in the USA Today's Coaches poll and from 20 to 9 in the Associated Press poll. I expected a jump, but didn't expect anything like that. I figured we'd be at about 13, so I guess 12 is about right to me. 9 just feels a little high.
Oklahoma dropped like a rock and with news that their TE, Jermain Gresham, is out for the season, I wouldn't be surprised to see them drop even lower if they can't handle some of the competition they've got coming up in a few weeks. Bob Stoops is a good coach and I imagine that he'll have the team ready to rally behind Landry Jones until Sam Bradford can come back. That should also give the offensive line time to solidify and hopefully keep the guy from getting hit like a steroid era homerun.
I'll do some research on Tulane the next couple of days and will try to get a preview up soon.
Go Cougs!!
Oklahoma dropped like a rock and with news that their TE, Jermain Gresham, is out for the season, I wouldn't be surprised to see them drop even lower if they can't handle some of the competition they've got coming up in a few weeks. Bob Stoops is a good coach and I imagine that he'll have the team ready to rally behind Landry Jones until Sam Bradford can come back. That should also give the offensive line time to solidify and hopefully keep the guy from getting hit like a steroid era homerun.
I'll do some research on Tulane the next couple of days and will try to get a preview up soon.
Go Cougs!!
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Furious Monkey Highlight reel
Furious Monkey has been putting together BYU highlight reels for several years now and my personal opinion is his are the best on the web.
Here's his link to download the 2009 BYU beatdown of Oklahoma. It's a big one but well worth the time to download. Keep in your archives for years to come!
Here's his link to download the 2009 BYU beatdown of Oklahoma. It's a big one but well worth the time to download. Keep in your archives for years to come!
Cougar D steps up and punches OU in the mouth (or shoulder, you decide)
Depending on who you talk to, credit for this win will be different. However, one can't help looking at what BYU did and overcame to pull off this win.
Looking closer at the game, I think we can say that OU missed their #1 TE, Jermaine Gresham, more than anyone would have imagined. The BYU defense came out in this game and punished an inexperienced offensive line. They plugged the holes so OU couldn't run and they put pressure on a QB trying to throw to a gaggle of new receivers. When a QBs security blanket and favorite target is missing, he must fine someone to fill that role. BYU did not allow Bradford to find that guy and eventually Coleby Clawson delivered THE hit heard round college football. I seriously think there was a collective gasp by just about everyone that follows the sport when Clawson hit Sam Bradford and the returning Heismann trophy winner didn't get back up.
Many will say the reason BYU won was that Bradford got knocked out of the game. I won't disagree but I will remind them, that it was great defensive playcalling and physical execution by BYU that had the Heismann trophy winner wondering where the next hit was coming from and making him uncomfortable in the pocket. Eventually, if you deliver enough hits on the QB, he's going to get hurt, it's part of the game. The responsibilty to keep him from getting hurt belongs to the coaches and Oline to make the adjustments needed with personnel to not allow that defender through the line.
Ultimately the game was won by BYU's defense. You won't see many giving them credit due to the great final drive that Max Hall directed which chewed up the clock and gave the Cougars a one point lead. Just remember that had the D not held at the goalline and forced that field goal, OU would have scored a touchdown and BYU would have needed two drives to win this game.
BYU did an excellent job of taking their weakest link and strengthening it. I'm not sure exactly what they did in the offseason, but the entire team had a new look about them. They wore the same uniforms, but they had a fire in their eyes. The excitement and attitude change was even shown in the coaches demeanor. I haven't seen Bronco that fired up since he was the defensive coordinator under Gary Crowton.
That was some gritty defense and I'm looking forward to seeing more of it throughout the year.
Next up, Tulane in the Superdome in New Orleans.
Go Cougars!!!
Looking closer at the game, I think we can say that OU missed their #1 TE, Jermaine Gresham, more than anyone would have imagined. The BYU defense came out in this game and punished an inexperienced offensive line. They plugged the holes so OU couldn't run and they put pressure on a QB trying to throw to a gaggle of new receivers. When a QBs security blanket and favorite target is missing, he must fine someone to fill that role. BYU did not allow Bradford to find that guy and eventually Coleby Clawson delivered THE hit heard round college football. I seriously think there was a collective gasp by just about everyone that follows the sport when Clawson hit Sam Bradford and the returning Heismann trophy winner didn't get back up.
Many will say the reason BYU won was that Bradford got knocked out of the game. I won't disagree but I will remind them, that it was great defensive playcalling and physical execution by BYU that had the Heismann trophy winner wondering where the next hit was coming from and making him uncomfortable in the pocket. Eventually, if you deliver enough hits on the QB, he's going to get hurt, it's part of the game. The responsibilty to keep him from getting hurt belongs to the coaches and Oline to make the adjustments needed with personnel to not allow that defender through the line.
Ultimately the game was won by BYU's defense. You won't see many giving them credit due to the great final drive that Max Hall directed which chewed up the clock and gave the Cougars a one point lead. Just remember that had the D not held at the goalline and forced that field goal, OU would have scored a touchdown and BYU would have needed two drives to win this game.
BYU did an excellent job of taking their weakest link and strengthening it. I'm not sure exactly what they did in the offseason, but the entire team had a new look about them. They wore the same uniforms, but they had a fire in their eyes. The excitement and attitude change was even shown in the coaches demeanor. I haven't seen Bronco that fired up since he was the defensive coordinator under Gary Crowton.
That was some gritty defense and I'm looking forward to seeing more of it throughout the year.
Next up, Tulane in the Superdome in New Orleans.
Go Cougars!!!
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Honestly, I CANNOT BELIEVE IT!!!!
I'm not really sure what to say right now. My excitement level is off the charts. I had no idea our defense was going to step up and play that physical. All in all, it was our D that kept the game close and gave us the W. The offense played well but had some trouble controlling the ball. That may have been nerves but is definitely something that needs to be addressed right away. I'll write more later when the euphoria has passed and I can actually give an objective look at the game.
The season has kicked off and started with a bang! Here's to stepping up and putting it to the #3 team in the country!
Go Cougs!
The season has kicked off and started with a bang! Here's to stepping up and putting it to the #3 team in the country!
Go Cougs!
Thursday, September 3, 2009
With Mixed Emotion
The fan in me wants to say that BYU is definitely going to win and win big. The football knowledge in me says on paper this is a blowout.
Thank goodness the game is played on the field! Anything can happen on any given day in college football. While the match up is not exactly pretty, it did just get better with OU's #1 TE, J. Gresham being declared unavailable for the game Saturday due to knee problems. Gresham was tagged to be Bradford's security blanket and go to guy this year. Not having him in the line up along with starting 4 new players on the offensive line gives me hope that my Cougars can stay in this game. I don't know if they'll win and I'm really nervous to see how it goes, but I think they'll keep it respectable.
BYU coaches have made significant changes this year to help them manage the game more effectively than last year. The offensive coordinator, Robert Anae, will now be in the booth during the game watching from a bird's eye view while the quarterbacks coach, Brandon Doman will move down to field level to have better interaction with Max. The other big change is that Jaime Hill, the defensive coordinator, will take over play calling as well, giving Bronco Mendenhall the freedom to manage the overall game.
I'm really excited about these changes. They are designed to help the team improve in an area that has been lacking the last few years, in-game adjustments. If you've watched any BYU games the last couple years, you'll notice a methodical approach to everything and when that's working, no one comes close. The problem is when a team comes in and disrupts that rhythm, the team appears unable to adjust and usually escapes by the hair on their chin (pun intended) or gets blown away.
The BYU defense has a lot to prove and OU is a tough team to face for making a statement on defense. However, I believe enough changes have been made and work has been done that we will see improvement despite the result on the field.
BYU's offense is touted as one of the most efficient and high powered in college football. They will have to prove on Saturday that they can maintain that status against athletes with greater speed and talent. They will have to maintain composure at all times and play smart football.
While it's not likely BYU comes out of this one with a win, I do believe they will show the nation that they belong in the top 25 and deserve to be talked about as a probable BCS buster.
Now, disregarding all that, my fan prediction is
BYU 35 - OU 32
Go Cougs!
Thank goodness the game is played on the field! Anything can happen on any given day in college football. While the match up is not exactly pretty, it did just get better with OU's #1 TE, J. Gresham being declared unavailable for the game Saturday due to knee problems. Gresham was tagged to be Bradford's security blanket and go to guy this year. Not having him in the line up along with starting 4 new players on the offensive line gives me hope that my Cougars can stay in this game. I don't know if they'll win and I'm really nervous to see how it goes, but I think they'll keep it respectable.
BYU coaches have made significant changes this year to help them manage the game more effectively than last year. The offensive coordinator, Robert Anae, will now be in the booth during the game watching from a bird's eye view while the quarterbacks coach, Brandon Doman will move down to field level to have better interaction with Max. The other big change is that Jaime Hill, the defensive coordinator, will take over play calling as well, giving Bronco Mendenhall the freedom to manage the overall game.
I'm really excited about these changes. They are designed to help the team improve in an area that has been lacking the last few years, in-game adjustments. If you've watched any BYU games the last couple years, you'll notice a methodical approach to everything and when that's working, no one comes close. The problem is when a team comes in and disrupts that rhythm, the team appears unable to adjust and usually escapes by the hair on their chin (pun intended) or gets blown away.
The BYU defense has a lot to prove and OU is a tough team to face for making a statement on defense. However, I believe enough changes have been made and work has been done that we will see improvement despite the result on the field.
BYU's offense is touted as one of the most efficient and high powered in college football. They will have to prove on Saturday that they can maintain that status against athletes with greater speed and talent. They will have to maintain composure at all times and play smart football.
While it's not likely BYU comes out of this one with a win, I do believe they will show the nation that they belong in the top 25 and deserve to be talked about as a probable BCS buster.
Now, disregarding all that, my fan prediction is
BYU 35 - OU 32
Go Cougs!
Monday, August 31, 2009
10 Reasons BYU beats Oklahoma
10. Pressure to uphold MWC reputation
9. Coming off 2 big losses to end 2008
8. Quest to....(fill in the blank)
7. Team laden with Senior Leadership
6. Jan Jorgensen vs. young O-line for OU
5. Enhanced off season preparation
4. Football is fun again
3. No one expects BYU to win
2. Self-aware (making adjustments to fix last year's issues)
1. Senior QB
BYU 42 - OU 39
9. Coming off 2 big losses to end 2008
8. Quest to....(fill in the blank)
7. Team laden with Senior Leadership
6. Jan Jorgensen vs. young O-line for OU
5. Enhanced off season preparation
4. Football is fun again
3. No one expects BYU to win
2. Self-aware (making adjustments to fix last year's issues)
1. Senior QB
BYU 42 - OU 39
10 Reasons Oklahoma Beats BYU
10. Efficient offense
9. More NFL Caliber Talent
8. Accustomed to the big stage
7. Closer to Norman than Provo
6. Lost to BSU in 2007
5. Lost to BYU in 1994
4. Experienced Defense
3. Speed
2. Coming off loss in National Championship game
1. Reigning Heismann trophy winner at the helm
OU 49 - BYU 35
9. More NFL Caliber Talent
8. Accustomed to the big stage
7. Closer to Norman than Provo
6. Lost to BSU in 2007
5. Lost to BYU in 1994
4. Experienced Defense
3. Speed
2. Coming off loss in National Championship game
1. Reigning Heismann trophy winner at the helm
OU 49 - BYU 35
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Preseason Rankings - What do they mean?
So the 2 major college football polls are now both out and what does that mean?
Not much except that we all have something new to talk about until the season kicks off. A good example of the meaninglessness of the preseason rankings, at least in respect to how a team will finish, is the fact that 4 teams from conferences that automatically qualify for BCS bowls are ranked in the top 25 while no team from the Big East, a BCS conference, was ranked in the top 25. It is almost assured that some team from the Big East will make it into a BCS game at the end of the season and be ranked in the final top 25.
So why do Preseason rankings?
Some feel it gives us a place to start but I honestly believe it's just a way to hype some early out of conference games.
The Cougars kick off at #20 AP and #24 USA Today poll against Oklahoma which sits at #3 in both those polls. Oregon, ranked in both polls, takes on Boise State, also ranked in both polls. These are considered the biggest games of opening weekend. I would love to see the Ducks stomp all over the Broncos. I'm not sure why, maybe it's jealousy, but I hate seeing Boise win. That and family ties require us to cheer for Oregon so long as they aren't playing BYU (wish it was 2006 again!).
Big question: Can BYU beat Oklahoma in Arlington at the new Dallas Cowboy stadium? Absolutely!
Will they? Who knows. Oklahoma is returning the Heismann trophy winner along with several players from a team that regularly put up 5 to 6 TDs on teams last year. They did most of that through the air. BYU is returning several key players but still has lots of questions on defense, especially at a position that was exposed against the pass last year.
I'm not going to give a prediction on this game just yet as it's still a couple weeks away, in fact, we kick off 2 Saturdays from now and so much can happen.
For a season prediction, I look to see BYU win the conference and not have so many close games against teams they should roll. I expect more discipline and leadership from the seniors and then rolling some lame Pac-10 team in the Las Vegas bowl.
My dream would be to see them beat Oklahoma followed by thrashing Tulane. Then it's time to come home and show Florida St. that the ACC really is that bad. If BYU starts the season 3-0, there will again be talk of a National Championship. 25 years after the last one, how appropriate!
Go Cougars!
Not much except that we all have something new to talk about until the season kicks off. A good example of the meaninglessness of the preseason rankings, at least in respect to how a team will finish, is the fact that 4 teams from conferences that automatically qualify for BCS bowls are ranked in the top 25 while no team from the Big East, a BCS conference, was ranked in the top 25. It is almost assured that some team from the Big East will make it into a BCS game at the end of the season and be ranked in the final top 25.
So why do Preseason rankings?
Some feel it gives us a place to start but I honestly believe it's just a way to hype some early out of conference games.
The Cougars kick off at #20 AP and #24 USA Today poll against Oklahoma which sits at #3 in both those polls. Oregon, ranked in both polls, takes on Boise State, also ranked in both polls. These are considered the biggest games of opening weekend. I would love to see the Ducks stomp all over the Broncos. I'm not sure why, maybe it's jealousy, but I hate seeing Boise win. That and family ties require us to cheer for Oregon so long as they aren't playing BYU (wish it was 2006 again!).
Big question: Can BYU beat Oklahoma in Arlington at the new Dallas Cowboy stadium? Absolutely!
Will they? Who knows. Oklahoma is returning the Heismann trophy winner along with several players from a team that regularly put up 5 to 6 TDs on teams last year. They did most of that through the air. BYU is returning several key players but still has lots of questions on defense, especially at a position that was exposed against the pass last year.
I'm not going to give a prediction on this game just yet as it's still a couple weeks away, in fact, we kick off 2 Saturdays from now and so much can happen.
For a season prediction, I look to see BYU win the conference and not have so many close games against teams they should roll. I expect more discipline and leadership from the seniors and then rolling some lame Pac-10 team in the Las Vegas bowl.
My dream would be to see them beat Oklahoma followed by thrashing Tulane. Then it's time to come home and show Florida St. that the ACC really is that bad. If BYU starts the season 3-0, there will again be talk of a National Championship. 25 years after the last one, how appropriate!
Go Cougars!
Thursday, August 20, 2009
They're HERE!
Our season tickets came today. We are soooo excited to get down to the stadium this year. Our seats aren't the greatest, but we got em.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Attn: Parents of Future Cougars
If you happen to find that your future cougar has decided to draw plays on your floor, or anywhere else, with permanent marker, we found a great way to wipe the slate clean so no one else can steal the new plays.
Be sure to bring some elbow grease!
Be sure to bring some elbow grease!
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Ouch!
It's early in camp and the injuries keep coming in. Most of them appear to be minor but an already inexperienced front line has lost its most experienced player until at the very least, the opener against Oklahoma and the next best option coming into camp is no out with a rotator cuff injury that will require him to miss the season.
This team will definitely be tested this year and these injuries are just the beginning.
This team will definitely be tested this year and these injuries are just the beginning.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Football's fun?!
Coach Boone: [Petey has his hand raised ] Put your hand down! You're smiling.
Petey Jones: Yes.
Coach Boone: Yes, sir. Why are you smiling?
Petey Jones: 'Cause I love football. Football's fun.
Coach Boone: Fun, sir. It's fun?
Petey Jones: Yes.
Coach Boone: Sir. You sure?
Petey Jones: I think so -
Coach Boone: Now you're thinkin'. First you smile, then you think. You think football is still fun?
Petey Jones: Uh, yes.
Coach Boone: Sir.
Petey Jones: Yes-no, sir.
Coach Boone: No?
Petey Jones: Um, it was fun, sir.
Coach Boone: Not any more though, is it? Is it?
Petey Jones: Not right now, no.
Coach Boone: No, it's not fun anymore. Not even a little bit.
Petey Jones: Uh... no.
Coach Boone: Make up your mind. Think, since you're thinkin'. Go on, think. Is it fun?
Petey Jones: No, sir.
Coach Boone: No? Absolutely not?
Petey Jones: Zero fun, sir.
Coach Boone: [Adresses the team] All right, listen up! I'm Coach Boone, I'm gonna tell you all about how much [looks at Petey] fun you're gonna have this season. Remember the Titans
Anyone that's been paying attention to the stories coming out of fall camp will tell you the biggest difference between 2009 and 2008 is the 2009 team is focusing on fun. Last year was all business and it seemed to wear on the team as the season went on.
I don't know if Coach Boone would agree, but football is fun.
The BYU coaching staff seems to have found a balance. There can be fun had in hard work while focusing on precision and execution. If this is what was missing from 2008, then bring it on. I think the team will see how fun football can be as the wins start rolling in.
J
Petey Jones: Yes.
Coach Boone: Yes, sir. Why are you smiling?
Petey Jones: 'Cause I love football. Football's fun.
Coach Boone: Fun, sir. It's fun?
Petey Jones: Yes.
Coach Boone: Sir. You sure?
Petey Jones: I think so -
Coach Boone: Now you're thinkin'. First you smile, then you think. You think football is still fun?
Petey Jones: Uh, yes.
Coach Boone: Sir.
Petey Jones: Yes-no, sir.
Coach Boone: No?
Petey Jones: Um, it was fun, sir.
Coach Boone: Not any more though, is it? Is it?
Petey Jones: Not right now, no.
Coach Boone: No, it's not fun anymore. Not even a little bit.
Petey Jones: Uh... no.
Coach Boone: Make up your mind. Think, since you're thinkin'. Go on, think. Is it fun?
Petey Jones: No, sir.
Coach Boone: No? Absolutely not?
Petey Jones: Zero fun, sir.
Coach Boone: [Adresses the team] All right, listen up! I'm Coach Boone, I'm gonna tell you all about how much [looks at Petey] fun you're gonna have this season. Remember the Titans
Anyone that's been paying attention to the stories coming out of fall camp will tell you the biggest difference between 2009 and 2008 is the 2009 team is focusing on fun. Last year was all business and it seemed to wear on the team as the season went on.
I don't know if Coach Boone would agree, but football is fun.
The BYU coaching staff seems to have found a balance. There can be fun had in hard work while focusing on precision and execution. If this is what was missing from 2008, then bring it on. I think the team will see how fun football can be as the wins start rolling in.
J
Changes
As you can see, I've made a few tweaks to the look and feel of the blog. I've also added an RSS feed for BYU Sporting News and some favorite links I have dealing with Cougar Sports.
The colors have been some of the most difficult parts of the design of the website. To keep it pleasing to the eye and stay as true to the BYU colors and logos as I can proved more difficult than I expected.
Let me know what you think. Give me your ideas and I'll see if I can figure it out. Then I promise an actual post about football next.
J
The colors have been some of the most difficult parts of the design of the website. To keep it pleasing to the eye and stay as true to the BYU colors and logos as I can proved more difficult than I expected.
Let me know what you think. Give me your ideas and I'll see if I can figure it out. Then I promise an actual post about football next.
J
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Fall camp in full swing
I'm so glad it's time for football season again. The off season has been tough this year since we ended with a loss and then add Utah's success on top of that. It makes for one long work day with all the Ute fans.
This blog is purely testing. I hope to get my thoughts down and maybe even a list of updating stories, but there'll be some work to do to figure that out. I also need to make sure the text of my posts is readable with all this blue and white goin on.
I hope you enjoy!
J
This blog is purely testing. I hope to get my thoughts down and maybe even a list of updating stories, but there'll be some work to do to figure that out. I also need to make sure the text of my posts is readable with all this blue and white goin on.
I hope you enjoy!
J
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