Team USA's Marquee Matchup May Not Be the One You Think

    

By: Jared Quient

Here is a statement you’re bound to hear at least a dozen times on ESPN before this Saturday’s World Cup opening match between the United States and England:  “This is the most important match in U.S. soccer history.”  

I’m not even sure it’s the most important match the U.S. will play this week.

Don’t get me wrong.  Saturday’s game against the Three Lions is going to be sick.  I cannot remember being more excited to watch a sporting event than I am to watch this game (especially with the venerable Martin Tyler calling the action).   It is certainly the most hyped game in U.S. soccer history. But to say it’s the most important match is a bit short-sited.  Because whatever happens in Saturday’s clash, it’s ultimately what the U.S. does in its next game against Slovenia that will determine whether it moves through to the elimination round.

In many ways, the match with Slovenia poses a more difficult test than England.  They are exactly the type of team that gives the U.S. fits – big, tactically disciplined, and organized.  Slovenia plays a similar style to the Czech Republic who beat the U.S. 3-0 in the World Cup opener in Germany four years ago and 4-2 in a friendly late last month.

The point is this:  if you are a fan of the U.S., try not to get too high or too low based on what happens in Rustenberg against England.  While it will be fantastic to beat the Brits at their national pastime, it won’t mean a thing if the U.S. doesn’t bring it’s A-game against Slovenia.

Here are some things to watch for:

1)    Who starts alongside Jozy Altidore? 

Since Charlie Davies was wrongfully omitted from Bob Bradley’s final 23, there has been rampant speculation as to who would replace him as the second striker to play next to Jozy Altidore.  My money is on Edson Buddle, the Los Angeles Galaxy striker who scored twice in the United States’ final tune-up against Australia.  Soccer is all about form, and in this case Bradley should play the hot hand with Buddle, who has a goal-scorer’s knack for being at the right place at the right time.  Starting Buddle also allows Bradley to keep stars Clint Dempsey and Landon Donovan where they are most comfortable and effective – on the wings as attacking midfielders.

2)    How fit is the Gooch? 

Perhaps the biggest question mark during the team’s training camp has been the fitness of Oguchi Onyewu.  After spending the past seven months recovering from a torn patellar tendon, Onyewu looked sluggish against the Czech Republic and Turkey.  He’ll need to regain his leg strength to compete in the air with England’s front line.   If he can match the form he displayed prior to his injury, the U.S. defense ceases to be the massive liability the pundits are claiming it to be.

3)    Does Landon Donovan take the next step toward superstardom?

Coming off of a superb run while on loan at Everton, it is clear that Donovan has the ability to compete with the best in the world. If the U.S. is going to make a deep run in this tournament, Donovan will have to continue to score goals and make plays.  His form will be the key to the U.S. team’s success.  A strong performance on the world stage could also set Donovan up for an opportunity with a top European club team next season.

Lets Introduce: Bryce Harper

The face of the future of Major League Baseball: Bryce Harper

By: David Washington

There’s never been a lack of young talent in baseball. Ken Griffey Jr. Alex Rodriguez. Justin Upton. All baseball prodigies. All number one overall picks. All current (or in the case of Griffey, recent) superstars. And all of them will soon be overshadowed by a kid named Bryce Harper.

If you’ve followed prospects in baseball, then the mere mention of Bryce Harper probably already has you salivating. If not, then let me introduce you to the future of baseball, Mr. Bryce Harper. Harper has been called (by Sports Illustrated) the Lebron James of baseball, and with good reason. He has the ability to play any position on the baseball diamond (including catcher) and has an excellent batting eye.  Scouts claim that he was more developed physically and talent wise at the age of sixteen than all three of the aforementioned prodigies were at 18. I hear the voices now: “More developed than even surefire hall of famers Junior and A-Rod two years earlier? Please tell me more Mr. Washington.” I’d be glad to.

The seventeen year old Harper carries 205 pounds of solid muscle on his 6 foot 2 frame and has the physical attributes that most men would kill for. Despite never truly playing pitcher, to preserve his arm and allow him to bat on a daily basis, he’s recorded a 96 mile per hour fastball. His speed around the bases is extremely impressive and often allows him to steal bases on wild pitches. And his power… Well his power is what truly makes Harper a gem. His power is some of the most impressive that major baseball has EVER seen. In 2009, as a sixteen year old high school sophomore, he hit a home run out of Tropicana Field. The distance of the long ball? A Tropicana field record 502 feet. Let me repeat, a sixteen year old set the record for the distance of a home run out of a professional baseball stadium. As if that wasn’t enough, as a 15 year old high school freshman, Harper hit a 570 foot bomb out of his high school baseball diamond. 570 feet. Some of the greatest sluggers of all time would have loved to hit a 570 foot jack in batting practice during the prime of their careers, and Bryce Harper was able to do it at the tender age of 15. Let me give you a moment to comprehend that and pick your jaw up off the ground. You good? Good, I’ll continue.

As a 17 year old, after receiving his GED and forgoing his last two years of high school, Harper enrolled into the College of Southern Nevada to attain eligibility for the 2010 MLB draft and also to face stiffer competition. This doesn’t mean that his production slowed however, as in 66 games he hit 31 bombs, 98 RBIs while holding a .443 batting average and a .987 slugging percentage. All of that using a wooden bat. High school fluke? Harper answered that question with an emphatic “NO”.

Not only is Harper physically gifted and extremely talented, but he is a kid who realizes his potential and is extremely ambitious. “I know I’m going to make it there” Harper once stated. He is also extremely aware that the position that he enjoys won’t be the position that will maximize his ability. So, while he has a natural affinity and attraction to the catcher position, Harper will adapt and allow himself to be moved to the outfield to prolong his career and prevent injuries. Harper has even claimed that he believes he could be one of the greatest players in the game of baseball if he puts his mind to it. Intelligent, confident, media friendly, and determined to become one of the all time greats. That’s a person that you would love to represent your organization.

Just the other day, Harper was drafted #1 overall by the Washington Nationals. By the end of the year, Harper will almost certainly make his professional debut in the low minors for the Nationals and truly begin to make his mark on baseball. Now, Mr. Harper has quite lofty expectations to live up to. With rookie pitching phenom Stephen Strasburg well on his way to stardom (14 k’s in 7 innings in his ML debut last night) the Nats have cornerstone pieces to building a winner of a franchise for years to come. When, note that I say not if but WHEN, Bryce Harper meets and exceeds everyone’s expectations, Baseball may very well have its very first billion dollar contract. That’s a lot of zeros. You Ready for It? Bryce Harper is. 

The Nightcap

The Nightcap-Like a dry martini...

-Don’t sleep on the other Laker going for ring number five-
      Kobe is going to get his night in and night out and Gasol in all of his euro glory will continue to be the poster child for potential Speed Stick deodorant commercials. But soon enough Ron Artest may have to lend his Tru Warrior label to the true Tru Warrior, Derek Fisher.   We should all know by now what Fisher brings to the table. It is never flashy or sexy, but his game is so representative of what I am sure every other team in the league wants from their starting point guard. Tough, smart, strong willed, determined, heart…the clichés could go on and on. In Fishers case, they are never exaggerated.  His three-on-one break in the waning seconds of the game tonight in which he drew a foul and sunk the shot for a three-point play summed up all that you need to know. This isn't new news by any means, its just worth noticing every time you watch him play.

- Stephen Strasburg makes MLB debut-
      He lived up to the hype in his first major league start. Strasburg set a Nationals team record with 14 strikeouts, and fell just one K short of setting the MLB record for strikeouts in a players first career start. Impressive is an understatement. Mark this day down ladies and gents. This debut will go down as the most anticipated in MLB history.  The fact that it all went according to plan was just the cherry on top. Although the Nationals may cap his innings around 100, no one should be surprised if he is able to produce an ERA under 3 from here on out. He is THAT good.


- Munchie Run: Courtesy Rotoworld.com-
Rookie WR Golden Tate was caught trespassing inside a Top Pot donut shop in Bellevue, Washington at 3:00 a.m. Saturday morning. Profootballtalk.com confirms the report.

Tate and a friend apparently got the munchies after hitting the bar scene. The only problem was that the donut shop was closed while they were scarfing down breakfast. Tate managed to escape arrest, receiving a "trespass warning" instead. While he should also avoid league discipline, he won't be so fortunate when it comes to rookie hazing at training camp. Jun. 8 - 2:26 pm et

- A Flyers cheerleader made the front page of the Chicago Tribune -

-Take Note. What not to do when squatting and where not to sit when judging a squat competition-

-The Nightcap will not be a nightly installment. However, It will cover loose tidbits of whatever we want...whenever we want it. Until next time...GOODNIGHT NOW!!

-MJK

The Bigger, The Better

A Texas-USC nightcap could become commonplace with a proposed "Super-conference" taking shape

Written By: David Washington

Expansion of the Big Ten and Pac 10 conferences, at the cost of the dissolution of the Big 12 Conference, can solve some of the greatest problems in college football. “What?!?! How dare David make such a bold and outlandish statement!” Yes, I do dare, and if you will hear me out for a moment, I believe that you too will be convinced that expansion will help, not harm, the state of college football.

Money, Money, Money

It’s the real reason why expansion is so often spurred on. Dreams of opening new football markets and making millions more in profits, while also letting more teams in to share the wealth are often the top priorities of many school Athletic Directors. With the possibility of expansion, these dreams can become reality. By expanding the Big Ten Conference and adding at least Missouri and Nebraska (as well as possibly Notre Dame, Syracuse, Pittsburgh, and Rutgers), traditional Big Ten powerhouses such as Ohio State and Michigan can simply watch as their coffers fill with money. The Big Ten network would also cater to people in the states of Missouri and Nebraska while also leading to the very likely probability of two more bowl berths every year (more bowl berths mean more money for every team in the conference). 

If the Big Ten were able to snag the Fighting Irish as well, then the wallets of the teams will overflow with money (Notre Dame is probably the biggest cash cow in all of college football). Though Notre Dame would miss not receiving all of its money from its bowl berths, as it is shared amongst the teams in the league, the guarantee of some money every year will no doubt be adequate compensation. The Pac 10 (or should I say Pac 16 if it is able to add Texas, Texas Tech, Texas A&M, Colorado, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State) would be in for a similar scenario as far as money goes. Why not help everyone get richer? With the only true casualties of this growth being the less profitable Big 12 Teams (Baylor, Iowa State, Kansas State, and Kansas) then why shouldn’t the true money makers of the Big 12 look out for number one? Chances are, the four remaining teams in the Big 12 will be split between the Mountain West and the Big East conferences, both of which could use some former top conference teams to legitimize their existence.

The Playoff Problem

It seems like every year in college football a situation arises that makes people yell and scream for a playoff system. Multiple teams going unbeaten often cause this and when BCS time comes a knocking, one or more of those teams has to sit out and watch as the rest of them duke it out for National Championship supremacy. By expanding the conferences, it will greatly increase the degree of difficulty for the schedules of all the top teams and make it so that the few (if any) that do go unbeaten will truly deserve their spot in a BCS bowl game. This will weed out the weak from the strong and make it clear that some teams never even deserved to be in the discussion for a possible playoff and some are the real deal. Imagine it now, an unbeaten USC team and an unbeaten Texas team going at it in the Pac 16 Championship for a spot in the national title game. Also, the presence of Nebraska and Mizzou in the Big Ten will help to validate an unbeaten Big Ten team’s record. Unbeaten teams that deserve to be unbeaten? Two teams that have truly faced a perilous gauntlet and come out unscathed to face each other in the national title game? Sound too good to be true? It COULD be a reality very soon.

Quality of Recruiting

For the smaller teams in the big conferences (I’m looking at you Washington St., U of Arizona, Indiana, and Minnesota) as well as new additions (Colorado, Syracuse, Notre Dame), this expansion is truly a blessing. Being in a big name conference makes it possible to pick up a number of top tier recruits as the best recruits often want to play on the big stage against the best teams. The better the conference, the more likely recruits are willing to go to the second and third tier schools in the conference just to play against teams like Michigan and UCLA. Though teams like Notre Dame have never had any problem picking up recruits, every year there’s a few that are swayed away to an Ohio State or USC with the promise of being in a premiere football conference with a championship to win. 

Helping Out The Little Guy

Though it seems like Baylor, Kansas, Kansas State, and Iowa State are getting the raw end of the deal, this expansion could very well help them out as well. By letting them go from a Big 12 where they have little to no chance to compete in (I really like Baylor’s improvements the past few years, but seriously? They aren’t gonna challenge Texas any time soon) to a conference that they can actually make some noise in. The Big East or Mountain West would love to greet Baylor and Kansas into the fold to strengthen the schedules of all of their teams, while Baylor and Kansas would (in the long run) appreciate being with teams more suited towards their level of play. The addition of a former Big 12 team to the Mountain West or Big East conference will also ensure that, should a Boise State or West Virginia go undefeated, the school will truly deserve a spot in a BCS game. And who knows? Maybe by being put into a division that they have a chance in, Baylor can get back to a bowl game (where they haven’t been since 1994). Getting back to a bowl game means getting back to bowl money, something that I’m sure Baylor has been needing to do for over a decade.

College football traditionalists may still scream “Blasphemy!” when the topic of conference expansion is brought up. But if college football wants to solve some of the biggest problems that it currently has, all thing must be considered.  Even teams like Baylor and Kansas, which will be left out of the two newly expanded conferences, will stand to gain from it. So, though the transition from our present day conferences to “Super-conferences” may not exactly be clean, it will be necessary to bring forth a new age in college football. An age where bigger is better and the best truly play the best…So, without any further ado, let the era of Super-conferences begin!

Putting the Pac-10 on Trial

A Baylor versus Washington State rivalry would be like watching an episode of South Park. Hysterical and politically incorrect.

Putting the Pac-10 on Trial.

How would the Pac-10’s planned expansion hold up in a court of law? Let me show you….

By: Laz Jackson

Bailiff: “All Rise!!”

The ambience in the courtroom is electric. Some can’t believe it. The Pac-10? On trial? For what?

“Court is now in session, the Honorable Judge Jackson presiding.”

Judge: “This is case #532401, The People of College Football Nation vs. The Pac-10. On the charges of Conspiracy to commit Grand Larceny and Conspiracy to Commit Murder, Pac-10, how do you plead?”

Pac-10: “Grand Larceny? Murder? Who were we going to do this to?”

Judge: “The Big Twelve, Pac-10. The Big Twelve. How do you plead?”

The Pac-10, shaken after the reading of the charges, attempts to look confident.

P10: “We plead not guilty, your honor.”

J:”The defendant has entered a plea of not guilty. You can all be seated. Prosecution, call your first witness.”

Prosecution: “The Prosecution calls The Big East Conference to the stand.”

The Big East rises and walks to the witness chair. Three very large scars are visible on The Big East’s face, and the jury recoils a little at the sight. The Big East is sworn in.”

Prosecution: Big East, you were attacked by the ACC in 2005, were you not?

Big East: “Yes.”

P: “Do you know what the ACC was after?”

BE: “Yes. They were after the University of Miami, Virginia Tech, and Boston College.”

P: “They were successful in this attack, correct?”

BE: *sniffles* “Yes, yes they were.”

P: “How did you recover after such a vicious attack?”

BE: “I… I was forced to add Conference USA teams. The doctors say that I will live, but that I’ll never have the same quality of life that I had before. Never.”

P: “And… how has your quality of life been affected since the attack?”

BE: “My life has been mediocre.” *sniffles* “It’s been medio…” *Breaks down crying* “It’s been TERRIBLE!!! I used to BE somebody… now all I have is Pitt over UNC in the Mieneke Car Care Bowl. Do you know what that’s like? DO YOU?”

P: “No, I don’t, Big East, and I am so sorry for your loss... Thank you, Big East.”

As the Prosecution rests for the moment, the Defense gives the Big East a moment to compose themselves.

Defense: “Big East… I, too, sympathize with you. But isn’t it true that Miami, BC, and Virginia Tech were dying to leave anyway?”

P: “OBJECTION!”

J: “Overruled. Big East, answer the question.”

BE: “Well… I cannot speculate on the mindset of traitors.”

D: “That’s ok. I’ll do it for you.” *Whips out a file folder* “I present Exhibit A: A formal letter of complaint from the University of Miami to you, dated 1999, outlining some of their problems with you. Do you recall this letter?”

BE: “I do.”

D: “Did you address and of the concerns the University presented in this letter?”

BE: “Well, we try not to prioritize one University over another…”

D: “DID. YOU. ADDRESS. THE. CONCERNS?”

BE: *Hangs head* “No, no I did not.”

D: “So your own negligence brought about your attack?”

P: “OBJECTION!”

D: “Withdrawn. Nothing further, your honor.”

The Big East steps down, looking a little rattled by the Defense’s presentation of the letter. The Prosecution rises.

J: “Next witness, prosecution?”

P: “Prosecution calls The Mountain West Conference to the stand.”

The Mountain West conference swaggers into the witness chair. Younger than the Big East, the Mountain West looks equally happy to be in the courtroom and eager to show that he belongs there. After being sworn in…

P: “Mountain West, you knew about the alleged conspiracy to murder the Big 12, didn’t you?”

Mountain West: “ I did.”

P: “You knew that THAT organization, in THAT chair, *vigorously points to Pac-10 in the defendant’s chair* was planning to brutally rob and kill the Big 12, correct?”

D: “OBJECTION! Asked and Answered.”

J: “Sustained. Get to the point, Council.”

P: “Mountain West… why didn’t you say anything? Why not make some attempt to defend your neighbor conference? I remind you that you are under oath.”

MW: “I didn’t say anything because… I was in on it.”

The courtroom seems to contract from the gasping from the gallery. The Prosecutor slyly smiles.

P: “What do you mean, ‘In on it’?”

MW: “The defendant and I had a deal. He gets the big names, a new TV network, whatever. I get the leftovers, but with those leftovers comes legitimacy. No one would look down on the conference who swallowed a third of the Big 12.”

P: “Thank you, Mountain West.”

The Prosecution strides to his side, confident he just put a major cut into the defense’s armor. The Defense quickly rises to cross-examine.

D: “Mountain West, if you are ‘in on it’, as you say, why are you in the witness stand and not sitting next to my client?”

MW: “The prosecution offered me immunity against another trial for my participation in this one.”

D: “And what was your part in the alleged conspiracy?”

MW: “Just to keep my head down and my mouth shut. If I did that, your client promised me a seat at the big boy table when it all went down.”

D: “Promised?”

MW: “Well… Promised is a strong word.”

D: “What word would you use?”

MW: “ Your client strongly hinted I’d get a say.”

D: “Could it be that my client couldn’t promise you anything because there was NO such conspiracy?”

P: “OBJECTION!! Speculation.”

J: “Sustai-“

D: “I’ll withdraw the question, your honor. Mountain West, did you KNOW that after this alleged conspiracy, that you would obtain the remaining wealth of the Big 12? Did you definitively know that?”

MW: “No. I couldn’t know that for certain. But your client did promise me-“

D: “Could THAT be the real reason you’re testifying against my client? You’re afraid? AFRAID he’s allegedly going to screw you out of your ‘legitimacy’?”

P: “OBJECTION! Relevance?”

J: “Overru-“

D: “I’ll withdraw the question, your honor.”

J: “But I was going to…”

D: “I know, your honor. Thank you. No further questions, your honor.”

J: “Mountain West, you may step down.”

The Mountain West conference does step down, glaring at the Defense on his way back to his seat.

P: “The Prosecution rests, your honor.”

J: “Alright then, Defense, call your first witness.”

D: “The Defense calls Baylor University to the Stand.”

Baylor University rises in a cheap three-piece suit that doesn’t quite fit him right. He flashes a smile to the jury as he is sworn in.

D: “Baylor, have you ever spoken to my client about defecting?”

Baylor University: “Never.”

D: “But you’re a member of the Big 12 AND a Texas University! Surely, if there was an acquisition going on, you would know about it?”

BU: “I’ve never spoken to your client. I know nothing about any alleged ‘acquisition’.”

D: “Nothing?”

BU: “Nothing.”

D: *Turns to judge* “Nothing further, your honor.”

The Defense looks confident going back, until he sees the look on the Prosecution’s face. Is there something he missed? Was he too quick?

P: “Baylor?”

BU: “Yes?”

P: “Is it… Is it true that you are the ‘redheaded stepchild’ of Texas Football?”

D: “OBJECTION! Relevance?”

P: “Trust me, your honor, this has a point.”

J: “I’ll allow it, but this had better go somewhere fast, Council.”

P: “Thank you, your honor.” *Turns to Baylor* “Baylor?”

BU: “I wouldn’t say we’re the ‘redheaded stepchild’, no.”

P: “When was the last time you won the Big 12?”

BU: “Well, we only joined in 1996, so we’ve never actually WON the Big 12 Title, but I’m sure there are other schools-“

P:”I see. How would you describe your record against your fellow Big 12 teams?”

BU: “…Poor.”

P: “Poor! Excellent word choice. So, my question to you is, if, if, IF there was a conspiracy to rob the Big 12 blind and leave it for dead… why would anyone tell you?”

Baylor whips a pleading look at the Defense, who is shaking his head in his hand.

BU: “I’m important! I matter! I’m a part of Texas Football Tradition!!”

P: “Keep telling yourself that. Nothing fur-“

BU: *Smugly* “The Texas Legislature says I’m important! THEY want me in!”

P: “Excuse me?”

BU: “Uh, Uh, Uh… Nothing.”

P: “I will remind you that you are under oath. WHAT does the Texas Legislature want you in on?”

Baylor realizes he’s said too much and whips another pleading look at the Defense, who is at this point hiding his head in his hands.

P: “He can’t help you right now. Answer. The. Question.”

BU: “The Texas Legislature… wants me to be a part of the plan.”

P: *Smiling* “Would that be the plan you’ve never heard of and know nothing about? The plan to rob the Big 12, you included, by the Pac-10?

BU: *Slinking down on the stand* “Yes.”

P: “Nothing further, your honor.”

Baylor is led off the stand, sobbing. The Defense and the Pac-10 are both shaking their heads in disbelief.

J: “Defense? DEFENSE!”

D: “Yes, your honor?”

J: “Your next witness?”

D: *Still Shellshocked* “Right… the Defense calls the Big Ten to the stand.”

The Big Ten is a grizzled old man with a distinct air of defiance around him. He looks like a man who could give you a friendly back-slap with one hand and choke-slam you with the other in the same breath. He’s sworn in.

D: “Big Ten, you have plans to acquire two teams from the Big 12, correct?

Big Ten: “That’s correct.”

D: “So what is the difference between my clients’ alleged conspiracy and your plans?”

BT: “We asked more nicely than your client. We’ve made our plans known for months. The public is comfortable with the idea of our plans coming to fruition. We’ve won in the court of public opinion.”

D: “Did you know of my clients’ alleged conspiracy?”

BT: “We heard rumblings. To tell you the truth, I think that your client’s alleged plan is good for the supposed victim, the Big 12. Sure, the Big 12 will die, but its assets will go to much better use in my hands, or the hands of your client.”

D: “So you’re insinuating the death of the Big 12 is a good thing?”

BT: “Yes. As the oldest conference, I have to say, my years of wisdom would do nothing but help the assets of the Big 12. They would be in larger, steadier hands.”

D: “Thank you, Big Ten.” *To Prosecution* “Your witness.”

The Prosecution steadies himself. He knows the defense made a nice comeback from the Baylor Blunder, and he’ll have to tread carefully to keep the jury on his side.

P: “Big Ten, what are your acquisition plans, exactly?”

BT: “We’d like the University of Nebraska and the University of Missouri.”

P: “That’s it?”

BT: “That’s it.”

P: “ You have your own cable network, correct?”

BT: “That’s correct.”

P: “If the Big 12 were murdered by the defendant-“

D: “OBJECTION!”

J: “Sustained.”

P: “… If you were to acquire the aforementioned Universities, you’d gain access to two brand-new television markets, correct?”

BT: ”…Correct.”

P: “So you’d stand to make a nice profit from the… dissolution of the Big 12, correct?”

D: “OBJECTION!”

J: “Overruled.”

P: “Big Ten?”

BT: “…that’s correct.”

P: “Nothing further, your honor.”

J: “We’ll have a short recess, then we’ll hear closing arguments from both sides.”

During the recess, both sides like their chances. The Big Ten, the defense’s star witness, held, and the defense knows their Mountain West cross was good. The Prosecution, on the other hand, has the Baylor Blunder on their side, but doesn’t want to belabor the point to the jury. As everyone files back in for closing, the electricity returns to the atmosphere.

J: “Prosecution?”

P: “Thank you, your honor.” *Stands, straightens tie* “It is CLEAR that the Pac-10 was, and still may be, trying to rob and kill the Big 12. We know WHY, as well; it’s for the usual reasons, money, power, respect. You heard the Big Ten makes the assertation that the Big 12’s assets, their teams, would be better served in their experienced hands. I’m almost positive the defense feels the same way. And maybe that is true. But even if it is, that does not, DOES NOT, condone the looting and murder of a conference. The conferences are like a family. And if a family kills one brother, only to shelter and spoil his widow and child, does that make the murder any better? No! It doesn’t. And this isn’t right, either. It’s. Not. Right.

The Prosecution, giving one final look to the jury, walks slowly, yet purposefully, back to his chair. The Defense rises.

D: “The Prosecution says the conferences are a family. This is true. But this is NOT the murder of a brother, the loss of a close family member. This is comparable to letting a cousin die, of natural causes, and dividing his estate so it can be looked after. My client is not out to rob and kill the Big 12. My client merely wishes to take care of his cousins assets. To make his nieces and nephews, who no longer have a father, rich and successful. To take pride in the accomplishments of the children, while asking for none of the credit. If the family can further the accomplishments of the children, shouldn’t it be allowed to? Let my clients’ family; his experienced, well-versed, highly competitive, successful family, take care of the kids. Even the redheaded stepchildren.”

The Defense, confident in his extension and reversal of the Prosecution’s family metaphor, rests. The judge gathers himself, then instructs the jury to deliberate…

Deliberation lasts for days. Heated arguments abound, and both sides are wary of a mistrial. But, after 6 days of waiting, we’re back in the courtroom.

The jury files into their seats, looking weary and tired. The foreman hands sheet of paper to the bailiff, who hands it to the judge, who looks at it, then hands it to the bailiff to give to the foreman. A buzz starts to build in the back of the room, but is quickly silenced by the judge…

J: “Will the Defendant please rise?”

The Pac-10 gets to his feet. He’s heard everything from an acquittal to the unthinkable in these last few days, and is ready to know his ultimate fate.

“Has the jury reached a verdict?”

Foreman: “We have, your honor.”

J: “Let’s hear it.”

F: “In the case of The People of College Football Nation vs. The Pac-10, on the charge of Conspiracy to commit Murder, we find the defendant, the Pac-10… Not Guilty.”

The Pac-10 lets out a huge sigh of relief, and looks thankfully at the Defense. The Defense isn’t as happy though, he senses something wrong, he senses it’s not quite over yet…

 “On the charge of Conspiracy to Grand Larceny, we find the defendant… Guilty.”

The Pac-10 looks as if he’s been shot. Whipping his head to the Defense, he sees the Defense gritting his teeth and grabbing the table as if it letting go will kill him. What did he miss? What did he do? What did he not do? How could this happen…

“The Defendant is sentenced to watch Baylor-Washington State play awful, awful football every time he closes his eyes.”

Judge: “The jury is dismissed, and this case is adjourned.”

Well, I laid down MY sentencing, but is there room for a retrial? Let me know in the comments below.  


Find Laz and much more of his work on sports and life at The Blackboard- www.lazchancemsu.wordpress.com

NFL Draft Analysis- The Running Backs

When it comes to the top running back prospect around...the case for CJ Spiller is almost unanimous

Written by: D. Wash

Running back, more than any other position on the football field, relies quite heavily on instincts of the player. Because of this, it tends to be an easier position to evaluate potential than the other skill positions as long as one doesn’t get sold on incredible measurables alone. This year’s draft has countless backs to be drafted, but if teams are looking for a complete, every down back, the options become limited. However, due to the “running back by committee” system that a lot of teams are beginning to run, some of the many short yardage specialists in this year’s draft will be able to find a home that suits them.

CJ Spiller

This kid has had undoubted pro potential from the day he stepped onto campus. Sub par teammates have hampered his production, but he is clearly still the most explosive back in the group. Spiller is great moving both north-south and east-west. Great potential as a return man and also has the ability to catch out of the backfield. When he has the ball in his hands, he’s always a home run threat. An extreme competitor, he always plays with emotion and will give 110% on the field. He does tend to dance a little bit in between the tackles. His vision is above average, but not superb. He won’t be able to run inside to often, but ability to make the most of the open field, talent as a receiving running back, and return man potential make him worth it. He won’t fall out of the mid 1^st round.

Jahvid Best

Has all the tools to become a premiere running back in this league. Great vision and patience when going through holes. Can charge through a hole on an inside run, but needs to work on leg strength to be able to drive the pile. On outside runs, Best shows that he is able to accelerate to his top speed extremely quickly and that he can change directions quickly. He also has the ability to break arm tackles and use a good stiff arm to hold off defenders. He shows the willingness and ability to make plays, regardless of the cost to his body. Because of that, there will be scouts that worry that his playing style will cause him to get injured. If he works on his ability as a receiver and doesn’t get injured, he could be the best running back in the draft class (and easily a pro bowler).

Jonathan Dwyer

A bigger guy, Dwyer is extremely durable and hasn’t missed a game despite the Georgia Tech “run first, second, and third” offensive system. Unlike Best and Spiller, Dwyer shows the strength to run and make plays on the inside. Will bang into the hole and drive his shoulder into the first defender (who will rarely be able to bring him down). Unlike Spiller and Best, his “home run” play ability is limited. Dwyer’s speed is good for his size (5-11, 235), but it won’t be able to outrun NFL defensive backs. As a blocker, Dwyer has potential simply because of his size, but he needs to be convinced to give 100% on plays where he isn’t the feature. He also needs to improve is discipline, as he tends to get too heavy at times.

Ryan Mathews

Good size, but his speed does leave something to be desired. He can turn the corner and tends to play faster than he’s timed in a 40, but he won’t be able to outrun the superior athletes in the NFL. On inside runs, he is decisive, strong, and explosive. He’ll sprint through the hole and will be able to make short yard gains even if the hole seems to be stuffed (goal line situations are probably where he’ll make the most impact on a team). Still needs to learn how to block and how to work effectively as a receiver from the backfield. His vision is good, but he needs to be more patient at times, as he often will outrun his pulling guards which effectively takes a blocker out of the play. Most likely won’t be an every down back, but does show great potential for a 2 back system as the power back.

Dexter Mccluster

The first thing that scouts will notice about Mccluster, fairly or unfairly, is his size. At 5-7 163, it’ll be hard for Mccluster to convince teams that he can play on Sundays. There will be questions about his durability due to his size and teams will really need to think about him before they pick him up. His speed is incredible, the best out of all of the running backs available, which will be one of the big reasons teams will draft him. If he gets out into the open field, good luck catching him. Not only extremely fast north-south, he can also cut on a dime and break defenders ankle’s without breaking stride. His potential as a return man is undoubted, and teams that draft him will expect for him to make an impact on special teams almost immediately. If he proves that he can remain durable and can improve his hands, there is a place for Mccluster in the NFL as a scat back. If not, his return abilities will still make him worth drafting.

Joe McKnight

He was billed as Reggie Bush 2.0, but McKnight failed to live up to that expectation while he was at USC. Even then, it may be best to examine McKnight in comparison to the former Trojan and current Super Bowl champion. He’s slimmer than Bush, but with a higher center of gravity which makes him easier to tackle than the 2005 Heisman trophy winner. Like Bush, he shows elite quickness and good acceleration, but lacks the top speed to be a top home run threat in the NFL. There are injury questions, and you can bet that scouts will be looking carefully at every joint in his body to see if he’s gonna be durable in the NFL. Can make incredible moves east-west, but sometimes makes too many of him and gets tackled as a result. Good vision and seems to find cut back lanes more easily than other backs. When he’s in the open field, he’ll be difficult to tackle due to his quickness and overall ability to elude defenders. He can make a big impact in the passing game since he is a naturally crisp route runner and can make the tough catches. Won’t be a every down back, but will be a good change of pace guy if he can stay durable.

LaGarette Blount

There’s no doubt that there’s character and maturity questions about Blount and his infamous highlight reel sports a punch that would make Rampage Jackson proud. He also has questionable work ethic when it comes to offseason training. Despite that, Blount’s performance at the senior bowl showed something that a lot of the running backs in this class don’t have, the potential to be an every down back. He’s durable and will almost never miss a down due to an injury. His size is great and his speed at that size is good. He can make plays on inside runs and is too competitive to be taken down after the first hit. His ability to block and overall aggressiveness in pass protection is another thing that will make scouts look over the issues with his intangibles. Whether Blount even gets drafted will depend on how he well he interviews at the combine. If he acts mature and seems like he’s grown through his punishment, there is probably a place for him in this league as an every down back.

Montario Hardesty, Toby Gerhart, Ben Tate, Charles Scott

I group these guys together because, apart from the uniform, they are almost the same running back. All have good size and inside running ability. All are natural competitors and hard to take down after the first hit. All have good vision and ability to let the play develop. But all (with the possible exception of Tate) will be limited to just short yardage backs because they lack even above average speed and ability to make plays on the outside. It’s a tough break, but there’s not much that they can do about it, because at this point of a running backs career, getting faster is a lot like getting taller, it just won’t happen.

NFL Draft Analysis- The Quarterbacks

There are quite a few quarterback options that will be available at all times during the draft, but most of the quarterback prospects have questions. There is no doubt in my mind that there are multiple pro bowlers in this group of quarterbacks, there are too many skilled guys to not have some studs. The question remain however, who will rise when put on the biggest stage and who will become irrelevant and forgotten except when mentioned in reference to their spectacular feats in college?

Sam Bradford (The Tactician)

He possesses near perfect mechanics and accuracy that the scouts rave about. It may be hard for some of us to remember, but at this time last year it was projected that he would be the number 1 draft pick if he did happen to enter the draft. His intelligence and ability to break down defensive coverages is a major plus for him as well. Both his Heisman trophy and his national championship ring prove that he knows how to win and perform under pressure, and it sure doesn’t hurt that he played under center in a traditional offense for his entire college football career. The only question that exists when it comes to Bradford is how his shoulder injuries will affect him, both mentally and physically. Physically, scouts will do everything short of dissecting his shoulder to determine how much it will affect his future playing and whether it if fully healed. Mentally, it will be impossible to tell how exactly the knowledge of previous injury will affect his game until you put him into a game situation. Will he shy away from hits or stand strong in the pocket and make the throws he needs to? The answer to that could affect his success in NFL because, if Bradford plays scared, it will cause a rough start of his career.

Jimmy Clausen (The Gunslinger)

His rocket arm is something that you notice instantly when you watch him. He has very crisp mechanics and, physically, has all the tools to be a successful NFL quarterback. As far as decision making goes, he has gotten significantly better during his widely publicized college career, but at times has looked like a reckless gunslinger with high risk, high reward potential. In that sense, he looks a lot like Jay Cutler. The constant exposure and adversity that he has had to experience throughout his college career has toughened him and shown that he is mentally strong enough to take the criticisms of media and fans that are inevitable for any quarterback in the NFL (even Peyton Manning makes mistakes). The constant media coverage he incurred at Notre Dame will also make it easy for him to adjust to playing on Sundays, as Saturdays for Notre Dame are a lot like Sundays for pro teams. He can make reads and has the instincts to make big plays. The abundance of film that is readily available on Clausen has given scouts to break down every element of his game, so in that sense Clausen is one of the safest picks in the draft because you know exactly what you get. His experience in a pro style offense at Notre Dame will transition quite well into almost any NFL team.

Colt Mccoy (The Playmaker)

His arm accuracy is good, but not at the level of Sam Bradford. His strength is good, but not at the level of Jimmy Clausen. He knows how to make reads and take control of the game when he needs to. He isn’t afraid of getting hit and, despite the fact that he’s a prolific rusher, has no relevant injuries. Mccoy had 3 years of solid Heisman candidacy and was a star all four years at Texas. He owns more wins than any other college football quarterback and has never missed a start (quite impressive considering that he’s been starting since his freshman year). Competing in the tough Big 12 made it so that he has plenty of experience. There’s a question to how he will be able to transition to a more conservative pro style offense and how he’ll be able to work against NFL D-Line pressure (performance against Nebraska’s Suh is worrying to say the least.) 6-2 isn’t short, but it’s definitely borderline for a quarterback. Scouts will be thinking about that when they evaluate him.

Tim Tebow (The Wildcard)

He’s a great leader with unbelievable intangibles. Absolutely no off the field issues to speak of, and it’s clear that mo’ money won’t cause mo’ problems for Tebow. His size is like that off a tight end, which definitely will give him the ability to see effectively over his offensive line. Committed to playing football and determined to play quarterback at the next level. He’s confident without being cocky, and shows great heart. His strong arm is definitely a plus, but his elongated throwing motion, difficulty working under center, and sloppy footwork will make him a project for a quarterback’s coach. Accuracy for medium to long passes is suspect. Lacks the ability to make good reads against zone coverage and is too often thinking run. Clearly quite mobile, but at the next level it will be less relevant unless he changes position. More of a running back playing quarterback than a quarterback who can run. Coaches will need to rework his throwing motion and fundamentals from the ground up if he decides to stay at QB.

Sean Canfield (The Low Risk Prospect)

Has the prototypical size and weight for an NFL quarterback. Can definetly take a hit, and often did behind a questionable Oregon St. offensive line in 2009. He has a strong arm, good accuracy, and good mechanics. Reads defenses relatively well, but will need to work on that at the next level as Pac 10 defenses are notoriously weak compared to other conferences. Struggled mightily as a sophomore starter, bringing up question about whether he was a one year wonder or the real deal. The Rodgers brothers opened up the offense for him, so without superior athletes like them, there is a question about how effective he will be. Questionable decision making because he sometimes overestimates his ability to fit a ball into a tight window.

Dan Lefevour (The Dark Horse)

Lefevour boasts a moderately strong arm and great arm accuracy, even while on the run. College production was exceptional (responsible for more career touchdown than any player in D 1 history). Mobile in the pocket (much like a Tom Brady) and even when flushed out of the pocket he’s looking downfield as a passer. Lefevour is great under pressure and in the red zone, as evidenced by his bowl victory against Troy. Extremely intelligent and considered a “film junkie”.  This leads to his ability to read defenses quickly and effectively as well as his ability to make the smart throw. He was named the North’s most outstanding player in the senior bowl. Didn’t play under center in college, but showed ability to take snaps under center at the Senior Bowl. The level of competition that he competed with is questionable.

Tony Pike (The Future Backup)

Pike has good height (6-5) and speed, but could use some more bulk. Has good accuracy, especially on short passes, but lacks the arm strength to gun the ball long or work outside the hash marks. There are durability questions and he needs to work on reading NFL coverages. His work ethic has been called into question as well, which may limit him from reaching his full potential of being an average starting quarterback. He played in the spread in college, but showed at the senior bowl that he can work under center. His mental game will have a major affect on where teams draft him, and if teams don’t think they can get him to work hard enough to reach full potential, he could fall to the 5^th or 6^thround despite his potential.

Others

Jevan Snead: Too young and left school a year too early, most likely due to poor coaching and low quality of offensive weapons. Will be a little project for a quarterbacks coach, but has more potential as a pro style QB prospect than Tebow.

Jarrett Brown: Athleticism and crisp mechanics are beginning to interest many different scouts. Not enough film to justify drafting him too high yet, but a solid combine performance could land him in the 3^rd or 4^th round.

Darryl Clark: Another athletic quarterback with good size. He would like to play quarterback in the NFL, but isn’t totally opposed to playing other positions (unlike Tebow). Penn St. coaches call him extremely coachable, and if his measurables at the combine impress, he’ll be drafted in the 4^th or 5^th.

National Signing Day Reset

Ronald Powell was the most sought after recruit in America, and the Florida Gators snatched him up

Written by: D. Wash

There weren’t any parades, Turkeys, or chestnuts roasting on an open fire. But last week there was a major holiday for college football. February 3^rd was National Signing day. National Signing day is the day that shapes the future of college football and, indirectly, the NFL for years to come. Every year hundreds of high school recruits decide what college they will go to and on national signing day recruits can officially sign their Letter of Intent to attend and play sports for a school. 

The Winners

                Despite coaching questions and changes, the recruiting classes that the University of Florida and USC were able to put together were by far the best in the nation. Between the two schools, they picked up six of the top seven prospects and 21 of the top 100 prospects, which is unbelievable. If even some of these prospects can perform up to their potential, then there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that both of these schools will be able to continue their tradition of winning and being the premiere teams in college football.

USC Motto: “Offense Sells Tickets”

Lane Kiffin was not only able to keep together the excellent recruiting class that Pete Carroll assembled, but he also picked up some new tools that will be used effectively. The school’s top 5 recruits are all project to make an impact on the offensive side of the ball (with the possible exception of #6 recruit Robert Woods who could play either wideout or safety in college). Both Running Back Dillon Baxter and Wideout Kyle Prater (ranked #17 and #3 respectively) have already enrolled, giving them a chance to make an impact despite a talented roster of skill position players. Prater especially could make an impact his entire duration at USC, as he has excellent body control and the size (6-5, 205) to be able to make a catch even if he’s covered. Offensive Tackle recruit  Seantrel Henderson (#2 recruit nationally) is another impressive pick up by the Trojans. He is huge (6-8, 301) and could easily be groomed into a first round draft pick by the time he leaves USC. The aforementioned Robert Woods has impressive speed (4.43) and overall athleticism. He hits like a linebacker and is simply explosive with the ball in his hands, which will give Kiffin and the USC staff a difficult decision to make about which side of the ball he belongs on. Though those four are the top of the recruiting class, USC was also able to get an astonishing 13 four star prospects in addition to the 4 five star recruits (Henderson, Prater, Baxter, and Woods). With these future Trojan stars on their way to campus, as well as the building blocks already present in Pasadena, people should only expect USC to look more and more impressive offensively over the next few years.

Florida’s Motto: “Defense Wins Championships”

Florida went looking for talent on the other side of the ball, and they found it in both quality and quantity. The star of the class is without a doubt the destructive defensive end prospect Ronald Powell. Blessed with speed (4.52), size (6-4, 230), and an array of moves, Powell (who had the honor of being named the #1 recruit in the class)has the potential to make an immediate impact on the Gators Defense. Even when matched up against top offensive linemen prospects, he’s been able to be extremely effective and fight through blocking. If coaches at Florida can inspire him to give 110% in every practice rep, then Powell has the opportunity to amount one of the most impressive sack totals that college football has ever seen. He’s that good. Future teammates of Powell include defensive tackles Sharrif Floyd and Dominique Easley (ranked #4 and #7 respectively). Both have the potential to play as freshman, and with those three all coming into Florida at the same time, SEC quarterbacks should be very afraid of what they should be able to do when put together. Other top recruits include the versatile 5 star athlete Matt Elam and the extremely strong 4 star cornerback prospect Joshua Shaw. Florida was able to pick up some offensive prospects (TE Gerald Christian, WR Chris Dunkley, OL Ian Silberman and Chaz Green) as well, and with a total of 4 five star prospects and 18 four star prospects, its my opinion that Florida had the top recruiting class of 2010. Not only was the class they put together impressive, but by convincing 11 of their recruits to enroll early, Florida is giving themselves a chance to use some of their extensive recruiting talent from 2010 in this upcoming season.

The Best of The Rest

Though Florida and USC easily had the top 2 recruiting classes, there are a number of other schools that had impressive classes as well. Texas was able to bring a lot of their instate talent to Austin for the upcoming season. DE Jackson Jeffcoat has the potential to build a Julius Peppers like body if he commits himself to football full time (he also plays basketball) and LB Jordan Hicks has the speed and coverage abilities to do a lot in pass coverage and blitzing. Add in 5 four star wide receivers, and there is little doubt that Texas will be able to continue their contention for national titles in upcoming years. UCLA  was a big surprise this year, and with another big recruiting class next year they may be able to realistically contend with USC. Cal also had a big year, picking up quite a few top defensive prospects such as top Safety recruit Keenan Allen and massive DE prospect Chris Martin. Florida state is another team that was able to pick up a pair of five star recruits, stealing them from Florida even though they are undergoing a coaching change. While Notre Dame’s class wasn’t extremely impressive, it didn’t have a precipitous drop off that you would expect after an unpleasant coaching transition.

What’s Happened to Big Ten Football?

The biggest disappointment of national signing day (and the entire college recruiting process) was the efforts of the Big Ten. The SEC and Pac 10 were able to draw the majority of the 26 five star prospects (11 and 9 respectively), while the Big Ten could only manage to reel in a single 5 star recruit (MSU commit, DE prospect William Gholston). That in itself is enough reason to lose some hope for Big Ten football, as its 5 star prospects that end up becoming Heisman winners, National Champions, and First Round Draft Picks. Penn State did manage to pick up enough four star recruits to have a top 15 ranked recruiting class (Michigan was also able to crack the top 25 recruiting classes), but considering the deep tradition of winning in Big Ten Football, only two top 25 recruiting classes is just embarrassing. If the Big Ten is unable to turn around their lackluster performance in recent years with good recruiting classes, I fear that the reputation of the conference will forever be tarnished, and they will never be able to return to the place of glory that they had five or ten years ago.