Big East: Mailbag
Welcome to your Friday mailblog. I wonder what people want to talk about. It has nothing to do with expansion, does it? Just joking. I will let Eric in Alexandria, Va., take it away for all those who asked about what the Texas A&M move means for the Big East:
Eric: Say Texas A&M leaves for the SEC and the expansion game begins anew. What is the best scenario for the Big East? Would it be adding Kansas, Kansas State, Mizzou, Maryland, BC, or any of the other combination of teams that might be available? Also, does a shift like this lead to a split between the football and basketball schools? Seeing as schools like Maryland, Kansas, K-State, or Mizzou would more then make up for the losses of Villanova, ND (wishful thinking, I know), and Georgetown.
Andrea Adelson: There are so many questions still out there that have to be answered before we can really guess about what is going to happen. If Texas A&M goes to the SEC, how far will the SEC go? Will it go to 13, 14 or 16 schools? That will have the biggest impact on what will happen. If the SEC goes to 14 or 16, dominoes are going to start falling across the landscape. Does that spur the Big Ten and Pac-12 into action? Can the Big 12 save itself by keeping Texas, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State while adding teams from the Mountain West or Conference USA? Does the ACC or Big Ten try to raid the Big East? Does the Big East get proactive and try to bring in Kansas, Kansas State and Missouri? If the SEC adds a team like Florida State, for example, will it try to raid West Virginia? I wish I had answers to all these questions. Nobody does right now. So ultimately, I think we will have a better idea of what is going to happen once we know how many teams -- if any -- the SEC decides to add. I do think this is why the Big East has not done anything with expansion. It has got to sit back and see what happens. But you really have to hope the league is coming up with proactive scenarios in order to save itself. As for the hoops question, I do not see the Big East dropping Notre Dame, that is for sure. I have a hard time seeing a split right now because the league is such a strong hoops conference.
Wes Jarrell in Madison, W. Va., writes:I haven't heard much from Paul Tagliabue lately. Is he still involved with creating a Big East Network and is he working behind the scenes on a future BE TV contract? With his knowledge, he could be huge when the BE sits down with the networks for contract talks.
Adelson writes: Tagliabue is not currently consulting for the Big East. He would be available if needed, but not involved in what is happening with the league.
Edwin in New Jersey writes: Since [Dana] Holgorsen has been looking for another QB, how come he is not considering Coley White?
Adelson writes: Holgorsen ruled that out when Brian Athey left, saying he wasn't considering the move. If he can't find a third quarterback, that might be an option but it sounds as if that would be a last resort.
Mike in Morgantown, W. Va., writes: In light of Dana Holgorsen's recent comments on Geno Smith and his receivers, should Dana be calling out his players in such a public forum? Do think this will have a negative impact on the psyche of the players?
Adelson writes: You bring up a good question, Mike. I covered Steve Spurrier when I was in college, and he made a habit of calling out his players. He still does. The reason he does it is simple -- he thinks it motivates his players. If they hear he is unhappy in the press, then perhaps they will do something about it. Maybe Holgorsen falls into the same camp. But it did not sit well with Smith when he was asked to respond. Some players thrive on criticism; others need positive reinforcement. I trust Holgorsen to have the pulse of this team and to know what he thinks will work best to get his players going.
Eric: Say Texas A&M leaves for the SEC and the expansion game begins anew. What is the best scenario for the Big East? Would it be adding Kansas, Kansas State, Mizzou, Maryland, BC, or any of the other combination of teams that might be available? Also, does a shift like this lead to a split between the football and basketball schools? Seeing as schools like Maryland, Kansas, K-State, or Mizzou would more then make up for the losses of Villanova, ND (wishful thinking, I know), and Georgetown.
Andrea Adelson: There are so many questions still out there that have to be answered before we can really guess about what is going to happen. If Texas A&M goes to the SEC, how far will the SEC go? Will it go to 13, 14 or 16 schools? That will have the biggest impact on what will happen. If the SEC goes to 14 or 16, dominoes are going to start falling across the landscape. Does that spur the Big Ten and Pac-12 into action? Can the Big 12 save itself by keeping Texas, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State while adding teams from the Mountain West or Conference USA? Does the ACC or Big Ten try to raid the Big East? Does the Big East get proactive and try to bring in Kansas, Kansas State and Missouri? If the SEC adds a team like Florida State, for example, will it try to raid West Virginia? I wish I had answers to all these questions. Nobody does right now. So ultimately, I think we will have a better idea of what is going to happen once we know how many teams -- if any -- the SEC decides to add. I do think this is why the Big East has not done anything with expansion. It has got to sit back and see what happens. But you really have to hope the league is coming up with proactive scenarios in order to save itself. As for the hoops question, I do not see the Big East dropping Notre Dame, that is for sure. I have a hard time seeing a split right now because the league is such a strong hoops conference.
Wes Jarrell in Madison, W. Va., writes:I haven't heard much from Paul Tagliabue lately. Is he still involved with creating a Big East Network and is he working behind the scenes on a future BE TV contract? With his knowledge, he could be huge when the BE sits down with the networks for contract talks.
Adelson writes: Tagliabue is not currently consulting for the Big East. He would be available if needed, but not involved in what is happening with the league.
Edwin in New Jersey writes: Since [Dana] Holgorsen has been looking for another QB, how come he is not considering Coley White?
Adelson writes: Holgorsen ruled that out when Brian Athey left, saying he wasn't considering the move. If he can't find a third quarterback, that might be an option but it sounds as if that would be a last resort.
Mike in Morgantown, W. Va., writes: In light of Dana Holgorsen's recent comments on Geno Smith and his receivers, should Dana be calling out his players in such a public forum? Do think this will have a negative impact on the psyche of the players?
Adelson writes: You bring up a good question, Mike. I covered Steve Spurrier when I was in college, and he made a habit of calling out his players. He still does. The reason he does it is simple -- he thinks it motivates his players. If they hear he is unhappy in the press, then perhaps they will do something about it. Maybe Holgorsen falls into the same camp. But it did not sit well with Smith when he was asked to respond. Some players thrive on criticism; others need positive reinforcement. I trust Holgorsen to have the pulse of this team and to know what he thinks will work best to get his players going.
Is college football really still more than three months away? I guess we'll just have to entertain ourselves until then. Let's kill some time with a mailbag.
John M. from Morgantown, W. Va., writes: Brian,I'd like to pose a hypothetical question. What if Dana Holgorsen was hired as the offensive coordinator for WVU last season? How do you think the season would have turned out?
Brian Bennett: That is an interesting question. As I wrote in the Hope and Concern piece earlier, West Virginia averaged just 12 points per game in its four losses last season. Holgorsen's offenses score 14 before he gets out of bed in the morning. Heck, if the Mountaineers could have just scored two touchdowns in regulation at Connecticut last season, they're in the BCS. That's not to suggest everything would have gone smoothly; the Noel Devine injury hurt the running game, the offensive line had some holes and Geno Smith was in his first year of starting. We're also not counting the staff chemistry issues that could have developed. Still, there's little question that West Virginia would have easily won the Big East with just a little more offensive production last season.
Steve from Huntington, W. Va., writes: Since 2004, the Big East champ has had an average ranking of 14.3 (I counted 2010 UConn at 38th after others receiving votes in the AP poll) and gone 3-4 in BCS bowls. The ACC champ has had a slightly better rank of 12.6 but gone 1-6 in BCS bowls. We've played each other twice in the BCS and split the series, and neither conference has gotten a team into the BCS championship game. Why then does it seem that experts consider the ACC to be a stronger conference than the Big East? I get that we were terrible last year, but even before then we were penciled in at No. 6 when I would argue that from 20004-2009 we were the better conference. Thoughts?
Brian Bennett: If you've read this blog long enough, you know I like to poke fun at the ACC. I totally agree that Heather Dinich's conference has not fared significantly better than the Big East in recent years, and you could definitely argue that league has underperformed even more relative to its teams and talent. The ACC gets more attention because it has more "name" schools -- i.e., Florida State, Miami, Clemson, Virginia Tech -- and its recruits and NFL draft picks have more household recognition.
Even last season, the ACC's champ got blown out just as badly as the Big East's in the BCS. The Big East would have a stronger argument if its champ hadn't lost to the ACC's in the last BCS meeting (Virginia Tech over Cincinnati in the 2009 Orange Bowl) or had NC State not waxed West Virginia last year. But the two leagues are not that different.
Scott from Hurricane, W. Va., writes: I find it highly entertaining that Pitt's new football website fails to mention anything about Todd Graham and Calvin Magee coaching at WVU on their resumes of success. Funny.
Brian Bennett: There's also no mention of Paul Randolph's time in Morgantown. Lest we call it a complete scrubbing of history, however, the site does list the Mountaineer backgrounds of assistants Tony Gibson and Tony Dews. This rivalry is going to be so much fun the next few years.
Dan from Cincinnati writes: Out of curiosity, when was the last time a 5-star recruit came to the Big East?
Brian Bennett: As you know, different recruiting websites rank prospects differently. Since I'm a good company man (Hi, boss. Have you lost weight?) I'll use the ESPN.com recruiting rankings as a guide. The last five-star ESPN.com prospect to make it to a Big East school was Devine at West Virginia (Demar Dorsey never made it to Louisville last year). I know at least one other site had Jon Baldwin as a five-star and I'm sure there are other examples. Funny how recruits seem to get downgraded by about a star once they commit to a Big East school, though, huh?
Shawn W. from Manchester, Conn., writes: You say UConn has no QB and RB. If you look at Rutgers in 2009 they had no QB or RB and still made a bowl game. I'd be totally surprised if UConn wins like 10 games and finishes in the top 15. Would you be totally surprised if that happens?
Brian Bennett: I know that 2009 Rutgers team well -- I infamously picked the Scarlet Knights to win the league that year. D'oh! There is one thing that team and UConn have very much in common for 2011: a ridiculously easy nonconference schedule. I do not expect the Huskies to be a Top 25 team this year and have my doubts about their ability to defend their conference title. But that schedule should allow them to get to a bowl game.
John M. from Morgantown, W. Va., writes: Brian,I'd like to pose a hypothetical question. What if Dana Holgorsen was hired as the offensive coordinator for WVU last season? How do you think the season would have turned out?
Brian Bennett: That is an interesting question. As I wrote in the Hope and Concern piece earlier, West Virginia averaged just 12 points per game in its four losses last season. Holgorsen's offenses score 14 before he gets out of bed in the morning. Heck, if the Mountaineers could have just scored two touchdowns in regulation at Connecticut last season, they're in the BCS. That's not to suggest everything would have gone smoothly; the Noel Devine injury hurt the running game, the offensive line had some holes and Geno Smith was in his first year of starting. We're also not counting the staff chemistry issues that could have developed. Still, there's little question that West Virginia would have easily won the Big East with just a little more offensive production last season.
Steve from Huntington, W. Va., writes: Since 2004, the Big East champ has had an average ranking of 14.3 (I counted 2010 UConn at 38th after others receiving votes in the AP poll) and gone 3-4 in BCS bowls. The ACC champ has had a slightly better rank of 12.6 but gone 1-6 in BCS bowls. We've played each other twice in the BCS and split the series, and neither conference has gotten a team into the BCS championship game. Why then does it seem that experts consider the ACC to be a stronger conference than the Big East? I get that we were terrible last year, but even before then we were penciled in at No. 6 when I would argue that from 20004-2009 we were the better conference. Thoughts?
Brian Bennett: If you've read this blog long enough, you know I like to poke fun at the ACC. I totally agree that Heather Dinich's conference has not fared significantly better than the Big East in recent years, and you could definitely argue that league has underperformed even more relative to its teams and talent. The ACC gets more attention because it has more "name" schools -- i.e., Florida State, Miami, Clemson, Virginia Tech -- and its recruits and NFL draft picks have more household recognition.
Even last season, the ACC's champ got blown out just as badly as the Big East's in the BCS. The Big East would have a stronger argument if its champ hadn't lost to the ACC's in the last BCS meeting (Virginia Tech over Cincinnati in the 2009 Orange Bowl) or had NC State not waxed West Virginia last year. But the two leagues are not that different.
Scott from Hurricane, W. Va., writes: I find it highly entertaining that Pitt's new football website fails to mention anything about Todd Graham and Calvin Magee coaching at WVU on their resumes of success. Funny.
Brian Bennett: There's also no mention of Paul Randolph's time in Morgantown. Lest we call it a complete scrubbing of history, however, the site does list the Mountaineer backgrounds of assistants Tony Gibson and Tony Dews. This rivalry is going to be so much fun the next few years.
Dan from Cincinnati writes: Out of curiosity, when was the last time a 5-star recruit came to the Big East?
Brian Bennett: As you know, different recruiting websites rank prospects differently. Since I'm a good company man (Hi, boss. Have you lost weight?) I'll use the ESPN.com recruiting rankings as a guide. The last five-star ESPN.com prospect to make it to a Big East school was Devine at West Virginia (Demar Dorsey never made it to Louisville last year). I know at least one other site had Jon Baldwin as a five-star and I'm sure there are other examples. Funny how recruits seem to get downgraded by about a star once they commit to a Big East school, though, huh?
Shawn W. from Manchester, Conn., writes: You say UConn has no QB and RB. If you look at Rutgers in 2009 they had no QB or RB and still made a bowl game. I'd be totally surprised if UConn wins like 10 games and finishes in the top 15. Would you be totally surprised if that happens?
Brian Bennett: I know that 2009 Rutgers team well -- I infamously picked the Scarlet Knights to win the league that year. D'oh! There is one thing that team and UConn have very much in common for 2011: a ridiculously easy nonconference schedule. I do not expect the Huskies to be a Top 25 team this year and have my doubts about their ability to defend their conference title. But that schedule should allow them to get to a bowl game.
Once again, circumstances have forced me to move the regular Tuesday mailbag to Wednesday. But better late than never, right?
Mike from Somerville, N.J., writes: To add or respond to your comments last week regarding the security of Greg Schiano, one point that you didn't make is the public perception of the kids in the program being generally good kids, and their outstanding academic acheivement. Now, 4-8 with the powder-puffs on their schedule dilutes a lot of the good will, but a consistent competitive team, with bowl victories, and continued academic performance has him very secure at Rutgers. Toss in a Big East championship, and he could publically support the teachers' union in NJ and still be the favored son of NJ!
Brian Bennett: You raise a good point about Schiano's academic achievements, including Rutgers' APR crown. We saw how a slew of arrests hurt Dave Wannstedt last year. Still, if a coach wins big, then nobody talks about poor academics. If he doesn't win enough, nobody cares about high graduation rates. It's ultimately all about the won-loss record, and while Schiano is safe for now, no coach is immune to pressure if the losses mount.
Greg from New Jersey writes: Schiano apparently tried Mohamed Sanu out at punter during practice, and on his first kick he hit out a 55-yarder. Last year he had a rushing TD, a passing TD, and a receiving TD, not to mention an interception on the one play he was put at safety (in limited time mind you). My question is have you ever seen a player more versatile?
Brian Bennett: Paul Hornung, maybe? Having Sanu punt would sure open up lots of opportunities for fakes -- and create some nervous opposing coaches on fourth down.
Doug C. from Morgantown writes: Can we get an early oddsmakers on Big East Offensive Player of the year in 2011? Geno Smith has to be up there...who else?
Brian Bennett: I'd put it like this right now ...
Geno Smith: 3 to 1
Zach Collaros: 4 to 1
Ray Graham: 6 to 1
Isaiah Pead: 8 to 1
B.J. Daniels: 10 to 1
The field: 15 to 1
Casey H. from Charleston, W.Va., writes: Who do you feel will pick up the start at tailback for WVU next season, and do you think he will be a large component of the offensive production?
Brian Bennett: My hunch is it will be Shawne Alston. I just think he has the best combination of skills, and he was impressive in some spot duty last year. Ryan Clarke will also be used a lot. We'll have to wait and see on the incoming freshmen. Remember that Kendall Hunter ran for more than 1,500 yards last year for Dana Holgorsen at Oklahoma State.
Ed from Morgantown writes: Agree with WVU's spring superlatives, but don't underestimate the depth at WR. Beyond Tavon Austin and Bradley Starks, Stedman Bailey is going to break out this year, and we all have high hopes for OchoChinco's cousin Ivan McCartney (not to mention JD Woods & Coley White).
Brian Bennett: I mentioned receiver as a source of strength, but no less of an expert than Holgorsen himself has said the position needs more depth. He'd like to have eight dependable receivers, at least, for his system. Right now, I'd say West Virginia has about five or six.
Brad B. from Bethel Park, Pa., writes: Is Pitt's Kolby Gray the best country singer in college football?
Brian Bennett: Not my type of music, but that's pretty impressive. Pitt will have to hope he's equally good at safety, where he's moved back after a short spring stint at quarterback. This also reminds me: Is B.J. Daniels the best romance suspense novelist in college football?
Mike from Somerville, N.J., writes: To add or respond to your comments last week regarding the security of Greg Schiano, one point that you didn't make is the public perception of the kids in the program being generally good kids, and their outstanding academic acheivement. Now, 4-8 with the powder-puffs on their schedule dilutes a lot of the good will, but a consistent competitive team, with bowl victories, and continued academic performance has him very secure at Rutgers. Toss in a Big East championship, and he could publically support the teachers' union in NJ and still be the favored son of NJ!
Brian Bennett: You raise a good point about Schiano's academic achievements, including Rutgers' APR crown. We saw how a slew of arrests hurt Dave Wannstedt last year. Still, if a coach wins big, then nobody talks about poor academics. If he doesn't win enough, nobody cares about high graduation rates. It's ultimately all about the won-loss record, and while Schiano is safe for now, no coach is immune to pressure if the losses mount.
Greg from New Jersey writes: Schiano apparently tried Mohamed Sanu out at punter during practice, and on his first kick he hit out a 55-yarder. Last year he had a rushing TD, a passing TD, and a receiving TD, not to mention an interception on the one play he was put at safety (in limited time mind you). My question is have you ever seen a player more versatile?
Brian Bennett: Paul Hornung, maybe? Having Sanu punt would sure open up lots of opportunities for fakes -- and create some nervous opposing coaches on fourth down.
Doug C. from Morgantown writes: Can we get an early oddsmakers on Big East Offensive Player of the year in 2011? Geno Smith has to be up there...who else?
Brian Bennett: I'd put it like this right now ...
Geno Smith: 3 to 1
Zach Collaros: 4 to 1
Ray Graham: 6 to 1
Isaiah Pead: 8 to 1
B.J. Daniels: 10 to 1
The field: 15 to 1
Casey H. from Charleston, W.Va., writes: Who do you feel will pick up the start at tailback for WVU next season, and do you think he will be a large component of the offensive production?
Brian Bennett: My hunch is it will be Shawne Alston. I just think he has the best combination of skills, and he was impressive in some spot duty last year. Ryan Clarke will also be used a lot. We'll have to wait and see on the incoming freshmen. Remember that Kendall Hunter ran for more than 1,500 yards last year for Dana Holgorsen at Oklahoma State.
Ed from Morgantown writes: Agree with WVU's spring superlatives, but don't underestimate the depth at WR. Beyond Tavon Austin and Bradley Starks, Stedman Bailey is going to break out this year, and we all have high hopes for OchoChinco's cousin Ivan McCartney (not to mention JD Woods & Coley White).
Brian Bennett: I mentioned receiver as a source of strength, but no less of an expert than Holgorsen himself has said the position needs more depth. He'd like to have eight dependable receivers, at least, for his system. Right now, I'd say West Virginia has about five or six.
Brad B. from Bethel Park, Pa., writes: Is Pitt's Kolby Gray the best country singer in college football?
Brian Bennett: Not my type of music, but that's pretty impressive. Pitt will have to hope he's equally good at safety, where he's moved back after a short spring stint at quarterback. This also reminds me: Is B.J. Daniels the best romance suspense novelist in college football?
Natalie Portman has an Oscar. I can't believe she didn't thank the Big East blog for all the support in her acceptance speech. Let's hope Rachel Bilson doesn't make the same mistake in 2013.
On to your e-mails:
Lonnie S. from Atlanta writes: Turnovers cost the Mountaineers a game or two last season. How did Dana Holgorsen's offenses do in that department the last three or four years? I hope they held onto the ball.
Brian Bennett: Oklahoma State was right about average last year, ranking 53rd with 22 turnovers (eight fumbles, 14 interceptions). By contrast, West Virginia had 28 a year ago. At Houston in 2009, Holgorsen's offense tied for 83rd with 26 turnovers, and the Cougars tied for 93rd nationally with another 28 turnovers in 2008. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that Holgorsen's offenses tend to have a lot more plays. The Oklahoma State offense generated 80 more snaps than the Mountaineers a year ago.
Tony E. from Portsmouth, Va., writes: Now that the Big East has the offensive masterminds it's been lacking the past several years, do you think teams will respond immediately with explosiveness? Or is it going to take a couple years of breaking in these high-octane offenses?
Brian Bennett: History shows that the true masterminds need at least a year or two to get things going at their peak (see: Brian Kelly, Bobby Petrino, Rich Rodriguez). However, Holgorsen and Todd Graham have previously made an immediate impact in their first years. I think both have enough to work with to make their offenses more explosive than they have been, but whether that will be good enough to win the league remains to be seen.
Tom from NYC writes: From a Rutgers fan's perspective, the 2011 schedule is very, very manageable in terms of home/away scheduling and getting an 8 or 9 win season, but one area of concern is bye weeks. It seems as though there is a bye between the @North Carolina game and vs Ohio, and that's it! From September 24 to November 26, RU plays ten games in 63 days. How much of a factor do you think that will be in staying healthy and winning games?
Brian Bennett: Blame the 4-8 record last season. Syracuse had to deal with this same situation last season, and there's little question that fatigue and injuries cost the Orange down the stretch of the regular season. The problem is that when a team finishes in last, it becomes unappealing from the league's perspective for playing on the showcase final weekend. Louisville probably has more of a beef, getting the one bye as well and not playing on the final week despite winning a bowl last season. The solution is to win more games.
Joe from Charlestown, Mass., writes: Brian, what happens to the teams that have over scheduled their out-of-conference games in 2012 and 2013? For instance, Connecticut has five games scheduled already, with the addition of TCU to the schedule in 2012 one of these games must be dropped and contracts will most likely be broken. I am sure there is a buyout but who is on the hook, Connecticut or the Big East? Doesn't seem right that schools should have to take on this financial burden as I am sure there are other Big East schools that have scheduling conflicts in the future with the addition of a 9th and possible 10th team!
Brian Bennett: What you're likely to see is schools trying to postpone games to a later date rather than buying them out. If buyouts are the only option, then the league might help out. Remember, too, that TCU should add to the league's overall bottom line in the next TV contract, making a hefty buyout here and there a bit more palatable.
JW from Cincy writes: Regarding the two Bearcat "home" games at Paul Brown Stadium: I hate it. As an almunus, I like going to games to see the football team and to revisit my school. Not crazy about giving away a homefield advantage to Louisville and WVU...both teams will travel, and based on records, could overtake UC fans. This is a cash grab, and fine ... the University needs money, but two Big East games? Also not crazy about how the gate is divided up with so much cash going to the Bengals.
Brian Bennett: The moves should definitely take away a bit from the home-field advantage at Nippert Stadium, and to do that in two key conference games is hard for a lot of fans to swallow. Cincinnati is in a bind because Nippert is such a cozy environment, but it's not a very good moneymaker because of its size. The school has to explore options like these, as well as continuing to investigate expanding Nippert. Unfortunately, that's the cost of big-time football. The best thing Bearcats fans can do is gobble up as many tickets at Paul Brown as possible and make that an intimidating environment.
David G. from Old Bridge, N.J., writes: Here is some information about a walk-a-thon that we are putting together to raise money for Eric LeGrand. We'd like to know if you would post it on your blog.
Brian Bennett: I'm always willing to use this space for a good cause. Here's a link to the site about the walk for LeGrand, which will be held June 4 in Piscataway, N.J.
On to your e-mails:
Lonnie S. from Atlanta writes: Turnovers cost the Mountaineers a game or two last season. How did Dana Holgorsen's offenses do in that department the last three or four years? I hope they held onto the ball.
Brian Bennett: Oklahoma State was right about average last year, ranking 53rd with 22 turnovers (eight fumbles, 14 interceptions). By contrast, West Virginia had 28 a year ago. At Houston in 2009, Holgorsen's offense tied for 83rd with 26 turnovers, and the Cougars tied for 93rd nationally with another 28 turnovers in 2008. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that Holgorsen's offenses tend to have a lot more plays. The Oklahoma State offense generated 80 more snaps than the Mountaineers a year ago.
Tony E. from Portsmouth, Va., writes: Now that the Big East has the offensive masterminds it's been lacking the past several years, do you think teams will respond immediately with explosiveness? Or is it going to take a couple years of breaking in these high-octane offenses?
Brian Bennett: History shows that the true masterminds need at least a year or two to get things going at their peak (see: Brian Kelly, Bobby Petrino, Rich Rodriguez). However, Holgorsen and Todd Graham have previously made an immediate impact in their first years. I think both have enough to work with to make their offenses more explosive than they have been, but whether that will be good enough to win the league remains to be seen.
Tom from NYC writes: From a Rutgers fan's perspective, the 2011 schedule is very, very manageable in terms of home/away scheduling and getting an 8 or 9 win season, but one area of concern is bye weeks. It seems as though there is a bye between the @North Carolina game and vs Ohio, and that's it! From September 24 to November 26, RU plays ten games in 63 days. How much of a factor do you think that will be in staying healthy and winning games?
Brian Bennett: Blame the 4-8 record last season. Syracuse had to deal with this same situation last season, and there's little question that fatigue and injuries cost the Orange down the stretch of the regular season. The problem is that when a team finishes in last, it becomes unappealing from the league's perspective for playing on the showcase final weekend. Louisville probably has more of a beef, getting the one bye as well and not playing on the final week despite winning a bowl last season. The solution is to win more games.
Joe from Charlestown, Mass., writes: Brian, what happens to the teams that have over scheduled their out-of-conference games in 2012 and 2013? For instance, Connecticut has five games scheduled already, with the addition of TCU to the schedule in 2012 one of these games must be dropped and contracts will most likely be broken. I am sure there is a buyout but who is on the hook, Connecticut or the Big East? Doesn't seem right that schools should have to take on this financial burden as I am sure there are other Big East schools that have scheduling conflicts in the future with the addition of a 9th and possible 10th team!
Brian Bennett: What you're likely to see is schools trying to postpone games to a later date rather than buying them out. If buyouts are the only option, then the league might help out. Remember, too, that TCU should add to the league's overall bottom line in the next TV contract, making a hefty buyout here and there a bit more palatable.
JW from Cincy writes: Regarding the two Bearcat "home" games at Paul Brown Stadium: I hate it. As an almunus, I like going to games to see the football team and to revisit my school. Not crazy about giving away a homefield advantage to Louisville and WVU...both teams will travel, and based on records, could overtake UC fans. This is a cash grab, and fine ... the University needs money, but two Big East games? Also not crazy about how the gate is divided up with so much cash going to the Bengals.
Brian Bennett: The moves should definitely take away a bit from the home-field advantage at Nippert Stadium, and to do that in two key conference games is hard for a lot of fans to swallow. Cincinnati is in a bind because Nippert is such a cozy environment, but it's not a very good moneymaker because of its size. The school has to explore options like these, as well as continuing to investigate expanding Nippert. Unfortunately, that's the cost of big-time football. The best thing Bearcats fans can do is gobble up as many tickets at Paul Brown as possible and make that an intimidating environment.
David G. from Old Bridge, N.J., writes: Here is some information about a walk-a-thon that we are putting together to raise money for Eric LeGrand. We'd like to know if you would post it on your blog.
Brian Bennett: I'm always willing to use this space for a good cause. Here's a link to the site about the walk for LeGrand, which will be held June 4 in Piscataway, N.J.
So, did everybody have a good Presidents Day? I celebrated by watching "All the President's Men" and "Dead Presidents" and singing "The Mediocre Presidents" song from "The Simpsons" ("There's William Henry Harrison -- 'I died in 30 days!'").
Not every day can be such a festive holiday. But cheer up. Tuesday means it's mailbag time.
Daniel C. from Bel Air, Md., writes: I read the interview with Dana Holgorsen, and while it's good that Coach Holgorsen is remaining unbiased toward the players, wouldn't it be nice for him to show some spark about studs like Tavon and Geno? What's up with that?
Brian Bennett: I just think, after talking to him and reading many other interviews with him, that's just Holgorsen's personality. He's a laid-back dude. It's not that he's not excited about Geno Smith or Tavon Austin, he just doesn't get worked up talking about things. Check out Bruce Feldman's piece on Holgorsen at the One-Back Clinic,
and how he casually referred to Justin Blackmon as just "No. 81." This guy doesn't seem to sweat the small stuff.
Rickey L. from Lehigh Acres, Fla., writes: How much longer do we have to wait for the Big East schedule to come out? I work overnights and need to start planning my excuses for calling out sick for those weeknight games.
Brian Bennett: I've been told the schedule should be finished by the end of this week and should be released by early next week at the latest. So start getting those excuses ready.
Kevin from Mahwah, N.J., writes: Brian, which Big East team do you see as most likely not to live up to its fans' expectations this coming year? Each has potential pifalls: 1) Lousville/Cuse: Fans probably expect resurgance to continue and take the next step forward, but both teams were senior heavy. 2) WVU: Fans expect to compete (or win) Big East every year, but coaching turmoil and loss of entire defense to graduation. 3) Pitt: Not sure of expectations, but they to me seem to be biggest mystery. 4) UConn: Huge questions at QB, RB, and WR coming off Big East championship. 5) Rutgers: Expectation of return to 7-9 wins, but can they do with their offensive line? 6) South Florida: Seem to be trendy pick as favorite next year, but lose a good amount of seniors, QB controversy, and lack of proven offsenive play makers. 7) Cincy: Great offense; do fans expect return to dominance?
Brian Bennett: Kevin, if I knew for sure, I'd go to Vegas and bet the under on that team's projected wins. But when considering this question, I looked at which teams' fans probably have high expectations that might not be met, not just those who may only be expecting a bowl game and hoping for more. And the team that sticks out to me is Connecticut. I'm not saying the Huskies won't be good in 2011, but their fans' expectations have most likely been raised by a BCS game appearance. And with a new coach, two new coordinators and the questions you mentioned at the offensive skill positions, I can easily see the Huskies suffering a drop-off. (Let's be honest, too; UConn wasn't exactly dominant last season and had a lot of things go its way in winning the Big East).
Davemari from DC writes: Why do you constantly ignore the fact that the Huskies hired the defensive coordinator from the Dallas Cowboys and refer to him as the Syracuse coach from 2004? If Michigan or USC had hired the DC of the Cowboys, that's all we would hear about.
Brian Bennett: Well, in case you hadn't noticed, this is a Big East blog, so Pasqualoni's longstanding ties to Syracuse -- the place from which he's best known -- are interesting to people around here. I'm certainly not discounting his NFL experience and think it will benefit him and the Huskies. But I think it would be more accurate to describe him as the former Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator, which he was for two seasons. He was not promoted to defensive coordinator of the Dallas Cowboys until November after Wade Phillips got fired.
Pete from New Brunswick, N.J., writes: It's no secret that Big East fan bases just don't compare to most of the big-time programs, and I've always argued that part of the reason for this is the fact that many Big East teams compete for fans with local pro teams that programs in say, Tuscaloosa, don't have to worry about. Most people seem to be dreading the potential NFL lockout, but as a Rutgers fan I find myself praying for it in hopes that a lack of pro football in New York and Philadelphia will leave the people of New Jersey with nowhere to turn but the college game. Is my fantasy for just one season of big time college football atmospheres for schools like Rutgers, Pitt, Syracuse, and UConn realistic?
Brian Bennett: If there's no pro football in 2011, then hungry NFL fans might pay more attention to the college game and even buy more tickets. The teams that would seem to benefit the most would be those in pro markets like Pitt, USF, Cincinnati and Rutgers, and UConn to a lesser extent. That could help the atmospheres, but for the most part a lot of Big East stadiums aren't half empty -- they're just not very big to begin with. The biggest boost to those programs would likely be in exposure through media and TV ratings.
Alex from Orlando, Fla., writes: Do you really think that it is smart for the Big East to get Villanova in football? It just seems like a decision that could send them away from the BCS ranks with a terrible team joining the conference and having only one dominant football team in TCU. What do you think?
Brian Bennett: I'm guessing from your hometown that you might have another, local team in mind, Alex. I think I've made my thoughts pretty clear on this subject numerous times. I'll just say now that adding Villanova wouldn't really do anything to hurt Big East football unless the Wildcats were truly uncompetitive. And I would expect them to do things the right way and field a solid program if they make the jump.
Jim from Cypress, Calif., writes: I recently read about the Auburn tree poisoning case. What would be the equivalent in the Big East?
Brian Bennett: I racked my brain on this one and couldn't really come up with anything comparable. It would have to be a campus landmark that is closely associated with football that someone could ruin. And it the fiendish plot would have to be cooked up by a rival. Anybody got any suggestions?
Not every day can be such a festive holiday. But cheer up. Tuesday means it's mailbag time.
Daniel C. from Bel Air, Md., writes: I read the interview with Dana Holgorsen, and while it's good that Coach Holgorsen is remaining unbiased toward the players, wouldn't it be nice for him to show some spark about studs like Tavon and Geno? What's up with that?
Brian Bennett: I just think, after talking to him and reading many other interviews with him, that's just Holgorsen's personality. He's a laid-back dude. It's not that he's not excited about Geno Smith or Tavon Austin, he just doesn't get worked up talking about things. Check out Bruce Feldman's piece on Holgorsen at the One-Back Clinic,
and how he casually referred to Justin Blackmon as just "No. 81." This guy doesn't seem to sweat the small stuff.
Rickey L. from Lehigh Acres, Fla., writes: How much longer do we have to wait for the Big East schedule to come out? I work overnights and need to start planning my excuses for calling out sick for those weeknight games.
Brian Bennett: I've been told the schedule should be finished by the end of this week and should be released by early next week at the latest. So start getting those excuses ready.
Kevin from Mahwah, N.J., writes: Brian, which Big East team do you see as most likely not to live up to its fans' expectations this coming year? Each has potential pifalls: 1) Lousville/Cuse: Fans probably expect resurgance to continue and take the next step forward, but both teams were senior heavy. 2) WVU: Fans expect to compete (or win) Big East every year, but coaching turmoil and loss of entire defense to graduation. 3) Pitt: Not sure of expectations, but they to me seem to be biggest mystery. 4) UConn: Huge questions at QB, RB, and WR coming off Big East championship. 5) Rutgers: Expectation of return to 7-9 wins, but can they do with their offensive line? 6) South Florida: Seem to be trendy pick as favorite next year, but lose a good amount of seniors, QB controversy, and lack of proven offsenive play makers. 7) Cincy: Great offense; do fans expect return to dominance?
Brian Bennett: Kevin, if I knew for sure, I'd go to Vegas and bet the under on that team's projected wins. But when considering this question, I looked at which teams' fans probably have high expectations that might not be met, not just those who may only be expecting a bowl game and hoping for more. And the team that sticks out to me is Connecticut. I'm not saying the Huskies won't be good in 2011, but their fans' expectations have most likely been raised by a BCS game appearance. And with a new coach, two new coordinators and the questions you mentioned at the offensive skill positions, I can easily see the Huskies suffering a drop-off. (Let's be honest, too; UConn wasn't exactly dominant last season and had a lot of things go its way in winning the Big East).
Davemari from DC writes: Why do you constantly ignore the fact that the Huskies hired the defensive coordinator from the Dallas Cowboys and refer to him as the Syracuse coach from 2004? If Michigan or USC had hired the DC of the Cowboys, that's all we would hear about.
Brian Bennett: Well, in case you hadn't noticed, this is a Big East blog, so Pasqualoni's longstanding ties to Syracuse -- the place from which he's best known -- are interesting to people around here. I'm certainly not discounting his NFL experience and think it will benefit him and the Huskies. But I think it would be more accurate to describe him as the former Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator, which he was for two seasons. He was not promoted to defensive coordinator of the Dallas Cowboys until November after Wade Phillips got fired.
Pete from New Brunswick, N.J., writes: It's no secret that Big East fan bases just don't compare to most of the big-time programs, and I've always argued that part of the reason for this is the fact that many Big East teams compete for fans with local pro teams that programs in say, Tuscaloosa, don't have to worry about. Most people seem to be dreading the potential NFL lockout, but as a Rutgers fan I find myself praying for it in hopes that a lack of pro football in New York and Philadelphia will leave the people of New Jersey with nowhere to turn but the college game. Is my fantasy for just one season of big time college football atmospheres for schools like Rutgers, Pitt, Syracuse, and UConn realistic?
Brian Bennett: If there's no pro football in 2011, then hungry NFL fans might pay more attention to the college game and even buy more tickets. The teams that would seem to benefit the most would be those in pro markets like Pitt, USF, Cincinnati and Rutgers, and UConn to a lesser extent. That could help the atmospheres, but for the most part a lot of Big East stadiums aren't half empty -- they're just not very big to begin with. The biggest boost to those programs would likely be in exposure through media and TV ratings.
Alex from Orlando, Fla., writes: Do you really think that it is smart for the Big East to get Villanova in football? It just seems like a decision that could send them away from the BCS ranks with a terrible team joining the conference and having only one dominant football team in TCU. What do you think?
Brian Bennett: I'm guessing from your hometown that you might have another, local team in mind, Alex. I think I've made my thoughts pretty clear on this subject numerous times. I'll just say now that adding Villanova wouldn't really do anything to hurt Big East football unless the Wildcats were truly uncompetitive. And I would expect them to do things the right way and field a solid program if they make the jump.
Jim from Cypress, Calif., writes: I recently read about the Auburn tree poisoning case. What would be the equivalent in the Big East?
Brian Bennett: I racked my brain on this one and couldn't really come up with anything comparable. It would have to be a campus landmark that is closely associated with football that someone could ruin. And it the fiendish plot would have to be cooked up by a rival. Anybody got any suggestions?
There's a Big East bowl game tonight, and I'll be covering the beef (wait, that doesn't sound right at all). I'll have an analysis piece right after the game, and you can follow my live in-game thoughts over on my Twitter feed.
Now let's get to some of your e-mails:
Dave from West Virginia writes: I know people are saying next year could be a disaster in Dana Holgorsen and Coach Stew being on the same staff. My question though is that if Ollie Luck modeled this after Wisconsin and Oregon as he says, couldn't this be a smashing success? Chip Kelly is in the NC game, and Wisconsin is in the Rose. Each were put in a similiar situation with Bellotti and Alvarez.
Brian Bennett: The key difference is that both Mike Bellotti and Barry Alvarez went out on their own terms and hired their eventual successor. They didn't have one foisted upon them. Hey, if Bill Stewart is totally on board with this, it could work. The weird fact that he apparently helped recruit Holgorsen makes it seem more likely.
Jonny from Charleston, W.Va, writes: Brian, we all know Holgorsen has made a name for himself as a great offensive play caller. As a WVU fan I'm just curious when he takes over as our head coach (in 2012) if he will continue to call plays. On one hand I hope he does because he's an offensive wizard, but on the other hand I'm a little worried that being a first time head coach and calling plays will be too much for him. But didn't Luck take a chance on Holgorsen because he is such a great offensive mind? I know it's over a year away but I was just wondering what your expertise was on the subject.
Brian Bennett: It's impossible to say for sure since it is far away and we really haven't heard much from Holgorsen yet. But just in looking at two of his closest mentors in Mike Leach and Hal Mumme, both of those guys had offensive coordinators but were really hands-on in calling the plays during gameday. If I had to guess, I'd say Holgorsen would follow that model.
Adam from Parsippany, N.J., writes: Happy holidays to you and yours, Brian. Looks like Rutgers fans got an early holiday gift when they signed Jeff Hafley away from Pitt. What have you heard about Hafley as a coach, and how big a deal is it for Pitt to lose recruiting ground in NJ?
Brian Bennett: Hafley is an energetic young coach who's done a really good job finding some gems in northern Jersey and beyond (he's credited with bringing Dion Lewis to Dave Wannstedt's attention, for example). I like Hafley a lot and the players seem to like him as well. On the other hand, he coached defensive backs for Pitt, and that wasn't exactly a position of strength for the Panthers. It's telling that Greg Schiano hasn't announced where Hafley would coach yet. So we'll see about that. Pitt might lost some ground recruiting in New Jersey under the new staff, but perhaps Mike Haywood and his guys open up different avenues.
Evan G. from Hartford writes: I remember reading your column a little while ago where you talked about UConn potentially going to a BCS game but that everyone should root for West Virginia because they were the "best" team in the Big East and would probably perform the best against an elite program. Cue Nelson from the Simpsons: HA HA! On one hand, I hope that UConn pulls off the upset of the ages. On the other hand, I hope they get blown out worse than any team in the history of BCS games and that none of our fans show up. I hate the BCS with a passion. I hate that there is no playoff that can produce a "true" champion. UConn making the Fiesta Bowl has plunged another thorn into the side of the BCS cartel.
Brian Bennett: That e-mail is so all over the map that I'm not sure how to respond. I don't think I'd want to go to Evan's Fiesta Bowl party, though.
Sabrina from New York writes: Everyone is all over the Big East for having a weak representative to the BCS this year, and clearly there are other teams with more impressive résumés. However, why is there not the same question regarding the ACC? Everyone, ACC lovers and foes, agrees that Virginia Tech was the class of the ACC this year. However, prior to the start of the ACC portion of the season they were 2-2 with losses to Boise State (who only beats weak sisters) and James Madison (a weak sister from FCS) and wins over East Carolina (6-6 in Conference USA) and Central Michigan (3-9 in the MAC). This was less impressive than UConn's OOC performance. Within Cconference, Virginia Tech sailed thorugh while UConn was challenged week after week, doesn't this suggest that the Big East is the more challenging conference and potentially Virginia Tech's performance is similar to that of Northern Illinois of the MAC?
Brian Bennett: I agree that the ACC should receive as much scrutiny as the Big East, as that league has actually fared worse in bowls in recent history. I don't now that I would say that Virginia Tech did worse in the nonconference than UConn, which lost to Michigan and Temple by double digits and only beat really bad Buffalo and Vanderbilt outfits. The Hokies get a little benefit of the doubt because they've been in this position so many times and have won BCS games (most recently in 2009 against Big East champion Cincinnati in the Orange Bowl). UConn doesn't have any of that history to fall back on. Yet.
Andrew A. from Martinsburg, W. Va., writes: Hey, Brian, love the blog. It's where I come for all of my Big East football information. I was wondering if you'd agree that there seems to be a trend that usually a highly explosive offense prevails to win the Big East ... this year being the exception because it was a down year. But if you think about it, in 06-07 WVU had the explosive offense with White and Slaton that won the Sugar Bowl. The next year, Brohm and the high flying Cardinals won the Orange Bowl. The next year WVU won with White and Slaton version 2.0. And the two previous years Cincinnati had an unbelievable passing attack. I think it's safe to say if you can get an inventive offense and put up a lot of points, you will win the Big East. Who needs defense?
Brian Bennett: Well, you need both of course to win because there will be games where your offense struggles. But in general, I'd agree that college football tends to reward the high-scoring teams. Just look who's in the BCS title game this year. Wisconsin and TCU tied for fourth in scoring this year and they're in the Rose Bowl. Stanford finished eighth in scoring and made a BCS game. Teams that score a lot usually win a lot.
Now let's get to some of your e-mails:
Dave from West Virginia writes: I know people are saying next year could be a disaster in Dana Holgorsen and Coach Stew being on the same staff. My question though is that if Ollie Luck modeled this after Wisconsin and Oregon as he says, couldn't this be a smashing success? Chip Kelly is in the NC game, and Wisconsin is in the Rose. Each were put in a similiar situation with Bellotti and Alvarez.
Brian Bennett: The key difference is that both Mike Bellotti and Barry Alvarez went out on their own terms and hired their eventual successor. They didn't have one foisted upon them. Hey, if Bill Stewart is totally on board with this, it could work. The weird fact that he apparently helped recruit Holgorsen makes it seem more likely.
Jonny from Charleston, W.Va, writes: Brian, we all know Holgorsen has made a name for himself as a great offensive play caller. As a WVU fan I'm just curious when he takes over as our head coach (in 2012) if he will continue to call plays. On one hand I hope he does because he's an offensive wizard, but on the other hand I'm a little worried that being a first time head coach and calling plays will be too much for him. But didn't Luck take a chance on Holgorsen because he is such a great offensive mind? I know it's over a year away but I was just wondering what your expertise was on the subject.
Brian Bennett: It's impossible to say for sure since it is far away and we really haven't heard much from Holgorsen yet. But just in looking at two of his closest mentors in Mike Leach and Hal Mumme, both of those guys had offensive coordinators but were really hands-on in calling the plays during gameday. If I had to guess, I'd say Holgorsen would follow that model.
Adam from Parsippany, N.J., writes: Happy holidays to you and yours, Brian. Looks like Rutgers fans got an early holiday gift when they signed Jeff Hafley away from Pitt. What have you heard about Hafley as a coach, and how big a deal is it for Pitt to lose recruiting ground in NJ?
Brian Bennett: Hafley is an energetic young coach who's done a really good job finding some gems in northern Jersey and beyond (he's credited with bringing Dion Lewis to Dave Wannstedt's attention, for example). I like Hafley a lot and the players seem to like him as well. On the other hand, he coached defensive backs for Pitt, and that wasn't exactly a position of strength for the Panthers. It's telling that Greg Schiano hasn't announced where Hafley would coach yet. So we'll see about that. Pitt might lost some ground recruiting in New Jersey under the new staff, but perhaps Mike Haywood and his guys open up different avenues.
Evan G. from Hartford writes: I remember reading your column a little while ago where you talked about UConn potentially going to a BCS game but that everyone should root for West Virginia because they were the "best" team in the Big East and would probably perform the best against an elite program. Cue Nelson from the Simpsons: HA HA! On one hand, I hope that UConn pulls off the upset of the ages. On the other hand, I hope they get blown out worse than any team in the history of BCS games and that none of our fans show up. I hate the BCS with a passion. I hate that there is no playoff that can produce a "true" champion. UConn making the Fiesta Bowl has plunged another thorn into the side of the BCS cartel.
Brian Bennett: That e-mail is so all over the map that I'm not sure how to respond. I don't think I'd want to go to Evan's Fiesta Bowl party, though.
Sabrina from New York writes: Everyone is all over the Big East for having a weak representative to the BCS this year, and clearly there are other teams with more impressive résumés. However, why is there not the same question regarding the ACC? Everyone, ACC lovers and foes, agrees that Virginia Tech was the class of the ACC this year. However, prior to the start of the ACC portion of the season they were 2-2 with losses to Boise State (who only beats weak sisters) and James Madison (a weak sister from FCS) and wins over East Carolina (6-6 in Conference USA) and Central Michigan (3-9 in the MAC). This was less impressive than UConn's OOC performance. Within Cconference, Virginia Tech sailed thorugh while UConn was challenged week after week, doesn't this suggest that the Big East is the more challenging conference and potentially Virginia Tech's performance is similar to that of Northern Illinois of the MAC?
Brian Bennett: I agree that the ACC should receive as much scrutiny as the Big East, as that league has actually fared worse in bowls in recent history. I don't now that I would say that Virginia Tech did worse in the nonconference than UConn, which lost to Michigan and Temple by double digits and only beat really bad Buffalo and Vanderbilt outfits. The Hokies get a little benefit of the doubt because they've been in this position so many times and have won BCS games (most recently in 2009 against Big East champion Cincinnati in the Orange Bowl). UConn doesn't have any of that history to fall back on. Yet.
Andrew A. from Martinsburg, W. Va., writes: Hey, Brian, love the blog. It's where I come for all of my Big East football information. I was wondering if you'd agree that there seems to be a trend that usually a highly explosive offense prevails to win the Big East ... this year being the exception because it was a down year. But if you think about it, in 06-07 WVU had the explosive offense with White and Slaton that won the Sugar Bowl. The next year, Brohm and the high flying Cardinals won the Orange Bowl. The next year WVU won with White and Slaton version 2.0. And the two previous years Cincinnati had an unbelievable passing attack. I think it's safe to say if you can get an inventive offense and put up a lot of points, you will win the Big East. Who needs defense?
Brian Bennett: Well, you need both of course to win because there will be games where your offense struggles. But in general, I'd agree that college football tends to reward the high-scoring teams. Just look who's in the BCS title game this year. Wisconsin and TCU tied for fourth in scoring this year and they're in the Rose Bowl. Stanford finished eighth in scoring and made a BCS game. Teams that score a lot usually win a lot.
Lots and lots of smoke out of West Virginia, and I suspect there could be some actual fire by the end of the day.
In the meantime, let's get to some mail, while wondering if the Big East could come up with worse names for divisions than Legends and Leaders. How about the Beef and Brady divisions?
Anthony M. from Providence writes: What would be considered a win for UConn against Oklahoma?
Brian Bennett: You mean other than, um, a win? Well, a lot of people are expecting this game to be a blowout, and in fact Connecticut may end up being the biggest underdog in all of the bowls. There aren't really any moral victories in BCS games, but the Huskies need to prove that they actually belong and represent the Big East with some respect. I would say if they can keep the game close, within 10 points, that would be respectable.
Kenny from Harrisburg, Pa., writes: Why does Pitt seem to struggle to find the right coach? As you stated, if i am correct, Pitt is a good job to have. I feel Pitt is going to end up on the short end of the stick for a new head coach. To me, Pitt should have kept Wanny at this point. ... Let's be honest Steve P doesnt handle these situations well.
Brian Bennett: We can't fully judge this coaching search until it's over, but as of right now, it doesn't look very well organized. We may never know just how serious the Panthers were about Al Golden and Dana Holgorsen, yet all indications were they were at least interested in both og those guys. Maybe Steve Pederson has a candidate we don't know about, but whenever you fire a coach -- particularly one who was by no means embarrassing the program, and who had just turned in three winning seasons as Dave Wannstedt had -- then you had better have someone lined up to replace him. Given the way this search has gone and the one in which Wannstedt was originally hired, it's hard to have a lot of confidence in Pitt's ability to find the right coach. But, again, we'll judge this one when it's over.
David E. from Richmond, Va., writes: If 'Nova didn't move up to BE football, I thought they would go after Temple. With Golden leaving for the south, how do you see this impacting Temple's as a football member for the BE?
Brian Bennett: This is definitely one of those situations where you wonder if it's all about the coach. Golden worked wonders with the Owls, but nobody else could. Will Temple sink back now that he's gone? I would sure wait to find out if I'm the Big East. But I don't think Temple is that high on their wish list to begin with.
Gary P. from Cincinnati writes: Who are the good traveling schools in the Big East for bowl games and who are the weak traveling schools? Will UConn sell its allotment of 17,500 tickets to the Fiesta Bowl? What can the BE conference do to become a better traveling conference for bowl games?
Brian Bennett: West Virginia has the best reputation for traveling, with Louisville not far behind. Rutgers has done well while going to some minor bowls, and it would be interesting to see how the Scarlet Knights traveled for a major postseason game. Cincinnati brought a lot of people to the two BCS games. Pitt has easily the worst reputation for traveling, which has been well earned. Syracuse hasn't been to a bowl since 2004, so we'll see about that. UConn is kind of an unknown, and it's an expensive proposition to travel out to Arizona for the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl. But if you're a Huskies fan, isn't this the trip you've been waiting for?
Jay from Clinton, N.Y., writes: Brian, there has been some discussion among Syracuse fans that throwing Malcom Cater off the team could be bad for recruiting, that Coach Marrone didn't stand behind his player when times were bad. Personally I think it's rubbish. Committing a serious crime creates upheaval within the team and adversely affects everyone associated with the program. Any thoughts on the matter?
Brian Bennett: Doug Marrone has established some standards at Syracuse and doesn't stand for a lot of nonsense. You could say he was lenient on Delone Carter, but Carter was thrown out of school before being reinstated, and he was a senior with a solid reputation before his snowball-related punching incident. A lot of other players quickly got the boot in Marrone's first year, and I think the way he raised the bar helped the program perform better on the field.
As for Cater, let's remember he is only accused at this point and hasn't been convicted of anything. But if the charges of committing three burglaries on campus are true, then that's a serious offense that needs to be dealt with harshly, and I think Marrone made the right move here.
Aaron from Roanoke, Va., writes: Happy Holidays! Thank you for all your great work in keeping us informed with Big East news. Could you please do me a favor? Call it an early Christmas present. Remind all the ACC lovers/ Big East haters that the ACC Champion (VT) lost to JMU this season, AT HOME! Just thought they could use some reminding.
Brian Bennett: That did happen, didn't it? By the way, did you know that James Madison finished 6-5 and lost to Villanova this season? True story.
Josh from Kansas City writes: It's the end of the decade. It would be fresh if you posted your Big East "All Decade" (2000-2010) team. I'm sure a few WVU players would be on there.
Brian Bennett: Actually, Josh, the decade ended last year, just as the 1990s ended in 1999. Last year, I reviewed the decade in the Big East, did a list of programs of the decade, named the best teams of the decade and top 10 players of the decade and even did a half-decade team to reflect the current league alignment. Don't worry, though. We'll do it again in 2019.
Bob from The 'Burgh writes: How will the pending or potential NFL lockout coming this spring, which I believe could occur before the draft, effect the decision of some players (Jon Baldwin especially) to declare early. If there's a lockout in March is there a draft?
Brian Bennett: The unfortunate problem for underclassmen is they have to declare for the draft by mid-January, and we won't know by then if there will be a stoppage. Most players who declare will sign with agents, rendering them immediately ineligible to return to school. The NFL will likely hold its draft no matter what happens.
I continue to believe there won't be a lasting lockout because there is simply way too much money at stake for all parties involved. But we'll see, and I don't think it will stop underclassmen who feel they are ready to go.
Matt from Tampa writes: Do you know why USF hasn't used Jamius Gunsby or even mentioned him when B.J. Daniels went down with the leg injury? From what I remember hearing last year before he signed with USF people were comparing him to Daniels except bigger (6' 4", 230 lbs) and some were even saying that he had more of an upside than Daniels did coming out of high school. Also wondering how secure B.J.'s future is as the starting QB.
Brian Bennett: Gunsby got hurt in training camp, and then the staff decided to redshirt him. It was way too late in the season to burn his redshirt once Daniels got injured. Plus, Gunsby came in as more of an athlete than a polished quarterback, so he can use some seasoning. I wouldn't say Daniels is secure by any means. Bobby Eveld has played well in spurts, and Gunsby will throw the redshirt off next spring. There could be an open competition for the job.
In the meantime, let's get to some mail, while wondering if the Big East could come up with worse names for divisions than Legends and Leaders. How about the Beef and Brady divisions?
Anthony M. from Providence writes: What would be considered a win for UConn against Oklahoma?
Brian Bennett: You mean other than, um, a win? Well, a lot of people are expecting this game to be a blowout, and in fact Connecticut may end up being the biggest underdog in all of the bowls. There aren't really any moral victories in BCS games, but the Huskies need to prove that they actually belong and represent the Big East with some respect. I would say if they can keep the game close, within 10 points, that would be respectable.
Kenny from Harrisburg, Pa., writes: Why does Pitt seem to struggle to find the right coach? As you stated, if i am correct, Pitt is a good job to have. I feel Pitt is going to end up on the short end of the stick for a new head coach. To me, Pitt should have kept Wanny at this point. ... Let's be honest Steve P doesnt handle these situations well.
Brian Bennett: We can't fully judge this coaching search until it's over, but as of right now, it doesn't look very well organized. We may never know just how serious the Panthers were about Al Golden and Dana Holgorsen, yet all indications were they were at least interested in both og those guys. Maybe Steve Pederson has a candidate we don't know about, but whenever you fire a coach -- particularly one who was by no means embarrassing the program, and who had just turned in three winning seasons as Dave Wannstedt had -- then you had better have someone lined up to replace him. Given the way this search has gone and the one in which Wannstedt was originally hired, it's hard to have a lot of confidence in Pitt's ability to find the right coach. But, again, we'll judge this one when it's over.
David E. from Richmond, Va., writes: If 'Nova didn't move up to BE football, I thought they would go after Temple. With Golden leaving for the south, how do you see this impacting Temple's as a football member for the BE?
Brian Bennett: This is definitely one of those situations where you wonder if it's all about the coach. Golden worked wonders with the Owls, but nobody else could. Will Temple sink back now that he's gone? I would sure wait to find out if I'm the Big East. But I don't think Temple is that high on their wish list to begin with.
Gary P. from Cincinnati writes: Who are the good traveling schools in the Big East for bowl games and who are the weak traveling schools? Will UConn sell its allotment of 17,500 tickets to the Fiesta Bowl? What can the BE conference do to become a better traveling conference for bowl games?
Brian Bennett: West Virginia has the best reputation for traveling, with Louisville not far behind. Rutgers has done well while going to some minor bowls, and it would be interesting to see how the Scarlet Knights traveled for a major postseason game. Cincinnati brought a lot of people to the two BCS games. Pitt has easily the worst reputation for traveling, which has been well earned. Syracuse hasn't been to a bowl since 2004, so we'll see about that. UConn is kind of an unknown, and it's an expensive proposition to travel out to Arizona for the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl. But if you're a Huskies fan, isn't this the trip you've been waiting for?
Jay from Clinton, N.Y., writes: Brian, there has been some discussion among Syracuse fans that throwing Malcom Cater off the team could be bad for recruiting, that Coach Marrone didn't stand behind his player when times were bad. Personally I think it's rubbish. Committing a serious crime creates upheaval within the team and adversely affects everyone associated with the program. Any thoughts on the matter?
Brian Bennett: Doug Marrone has established some standards at Syracuse and doesn't stand for a lot of nonsense. You could say he was lenient on Delone Carter, but Carter was thrown out of school before being reinstated, and he was a senior with a solid reputation before his snowball-related punching incident. A lot of other players quickly got the boot in Marrone's first year, and I think the way he raised the bar helped the program perform better on the field.
As for Cater, let's remember he is only accused at this point and hasn't been convicted of anything. But if the charges of committing three burglaries on campus are true, then that's a serious offense that needs to be dealt with harshly, and I think Marrone made the right move here.
Aaron from Roanoke, Va., writes: Happy Holidays! Thank you for all your great work in keeping us informed with Big East news. Could you please do me a favor? Call it an early Christmas present. Remind all the ACC lovers/ Big East haters that the ACC Champion (VT) lost to JMU this season, AT HOME! Just thought they could use some reminding.
Brian Bennett: That did happen, didn't it? By the way, did you know that James Madison finished 6-5 and lost to Villanova this season? True story.
Josh from Kansas City writes: It's the end of the decade. It would be fresh if you posted your Big East "All Decade" (2000-2010) team. I'm sure a few WVU players would be on there.
Brian Bennett: Actually, Josh, the decade ended last year, just as the 1990s ended in 1999. Last year, I reviewed the decade in the Big East, did a list of programs of the decade, named the best teams of the decade and top 10 players of the decade and even did a half-decade team to reflect the current league alignment. Don't worry, though. We'll do it again in 2019.
Bob from The 'Burgh writes: How will the pending or potential NFL lockout coming this spring, which I believe could occur before the draft, effect the decision of some players (Jon Baldwin especially) to declare early. If there's a lockout in March is there a draft?
Brian Bennett: The unfortunate problem for underclassmen is they have to declare for the draft by mid-January, and we won't know by then if there will be a stoppage. Most players who declare will sign with agents, rendering them immediately ineligible to return to school. The NFL will likely hold its draft no matter what happens.
I continue to believe there won't be a lasting lockout because there is simply way too much money at stake for all parties involved. But we'll see, and I don't think it will stop underclassmen who feel they are ready to go.
Matt from Tampa writes: Do you know why USF hasn't used Jamius Gunsby or even mentioned him when B.J. Daniels went down with the leg injury? From what I remember hearing last year before he signed with USF people were comparing him to Daniels except bigger (6' 4", 230 lbs) and some were even saying that he had more of an upside than Daniels did coming out of high school. Also wondering how secure B.J.'s future is as the starting QB.
Brian Bennett: Gunsby got hurt in training camp, and then the staff decided to redshirt him. It was way too late in the season to burn his redshirt once Daniels got injured. Plus, Gunsby came in as more of an athlete than a polished quarterback, so he can use some seasoning. I wouldn't say Daniels is secure by any means. Bobby Eveld has played well in spurts, and Gunsby will throw the redshirt off next spring. There could be an open competition for the job.
Since I only had one mailbag on Thanksgiving week, and there was both the TCU announcement on Monday as well as the final-week intrigue on the field, I've decided to make this a double-down Tuesday.
First up, I'll tackle some of your questions about current actual football happenings. Later on Tuesday, I'll address the TCU/expansion stuff (there's still time to get your questions in on that subject; click here to submit).
Rich from Las Vegas writes: I am a UConn fan and the article you wrote pretty much contradicts what you have been saying all year. Yes, the Big East has had a worse-than-expected year, but every time a BE fan emails and asks you if the conference will lose the BCS auto bid as a result, you keep saying "it's only one year." If UConn gets a trip to a BCS game, how will it not benefit the league long term? A BCS game will further solidify UConn's arrival as a solid football program and will strengthen them down the road in terms of recruiting, increasing facilities, stadium expansion, etc. The BE needs more than just WVU to be recognized as a football power if the conference is ever going to gain respect from critics.
Brian Bennett: I never said the Big East needed to win its BCS game to keep its auto-bid. It's just my opinion -- and, frankly, the opinion of a whole lot of people I talk to around the league -- that West Virginia has a much better shot of winning a BCS game than Connecticut does. And nothing would help the Big East's public perception more than a BCS win. Simply going to a BCS game won't do UConn that much good if the Huskies don't win it. Wake Forest went to the 2007 Orange Bowl, but I don't know that people think of the Demon Deacons as a powerhouse as a result.
Jim M. from Storrs writes: Why all the hate, Brian? Have you been watching the same teams I have the past few weeks? Since the Louisville debacle UConn has been a completely different team. So what if WVU would better represent the Big East in a BCS game? The fact of the matter is WVU should have earned it. Instead UConn has won four games in a row.
Brian Bennett: As I wrote right off the bat, it's nothing personal. If you'll recall, I was driving the UConn bandwagon this offseason. I campaigned for the Huskies to be in the preseason Top 25 and predicted them to beat Michigan. I've also got them at No. 25 in my ESPN.com power poll this week. I totally agree with you that if UConn wins Saturday, it will have earned its way in while West Virginia did not. I just think that if you match the two teams up against Oklahoma or Nebraska, West Virginia has a far better shot of winning that game.
Doak from Orono, Maine, writes: Though I may agree that a West Virginia on top of its game would be better than the best team UConn could put out, I don't think you can use their losses against Michigan, Louisville, and Temple against them because of how different they are today. Randy Edsall teams almost always hit their stride late in the season, like last year when their offense went on a rampage, and if Zach Frazer can get it going against Cincy (hopefully not prophetically guiding them to a loss) then I think they are almost as good as a WVU team.
Brian Bennett: The fact of the matter is that West Virginia beat what turned out to be a pretty good Maryland team and hung very tough at LSU, while UConn has nothing on its nonconference résumé. That alone will bring criticism to the Huskies in the BCS buildup. But if you want to keep things recent, let's look at two recent score comparisons:
UConn beat Pitt 30-28 at home. West Virginia beat Pitt 35-10 on the road.
UConn beat Cincinnati 38-17 at home. West Virginia beat Cincinnati 37-10 at home.
Both won their games, but the Mountaineers' defense is better, which is why they have a better chance of staying in any BCS game.
Grant S. from London writes: If UConn lays an egg, WVU wins out, and VT wins the ACC, what would the possibilities be for an Orange Bowl match-up for the Black Diamond Trophy between WVU and VT?
Brian Bennett: It seems much more plausible after the events of this weekend. It sure looks like it will be Auburn-Oregon in the title game, TCU-Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl and Arkansas in the Sugar Bowl, plus the Big 12 champ in the Fiesta and ACC in the Orange. The Sugar gets the first pick of at-large teams, and I'd be shocked if they don't take Ohio State. Then comes the Orange, which could pick between West Virginia and Stanford. Since Stanford fans don't travel and would have to go clear across the country, the Mountaineers could make a whole lot more sense, especially against the Hokies.
Ryan from Tazewell, Va., writes: OK, Brian, you said you would have an answer for the Tino vs. Geno debate after Friday's game, so who you going with? Tino played better than I expected and throw in his runs, fluke runs, I might add and he had a good day. But Geno clearly had the most bang for his buck.
Brian Bennett: Geno Smith is the winner for 2010. Tino Sunseri has two years to try and catch up.
Jack from Louisville writes: Well, since Louisville finished 6-6 this season and hopefully are going to a bowl game how do you see them next year? Personally I see them top three in the Big East. With the talent Charlie is bringing I say watch out for us next year. Plus also you think the firing of Randy Shannon will help the recruiting boost for Louisville?
Brian Bennett: Strong and his staff simply did an outstanding job this year to get to 6-6, and I think the sky is the limit for this program with him at the helm. Next year, however, will be very interesting because this team has so many seniors, including its top two quarterbacks, leading rusher, tight end and four-fifths of the offensive line ... and that's not even mentioning the defense. So 2011 might not be the Cardinals' year, though they should still be a bowl team.
As for Shannon departing, well, it depends on who replaces him and how long that takes. And the Hurricanes would be crazy not to at least inquire about Strong's interest.
John from Morgantown writes: What value do you give to the percentage of bowl-eligible teams from conference? And how does the Big East compare to other conferences on that regard?
Brian Bennett: Six of eight teams is a high percentage, but let's be honest: It's not all that difficult to reach bowl eligibility. Throw in the fact that the Big East has five nonconference games and most teams schedule at least three teams they should beat, that means all you need is three conference victories to get to 6-6. There's little excuse for not being able to do that on a consistent basis.
Dean Hood from Bethel Park, Pa., writes: I just looked back at your "worst-case scenario" for Pitt. Wow. Please don't do that again next year. If the rest of it comes true you need to switch to fortune telling.
Brian Bennett: Scary, huh? At least it can't get any worse than what I braced you for.
Jozz from Vernon, Conn., writes: I read ur last article! u suck!!!
Brian Bennett: Solid counterpoint, Jozz.
First up, I'll tackle some of your questions about current actual football happenings. Later on Tuesday, I'll address the TCU/expansion stuff (there's still time to get your questions in on that subject; click here to submit).
Rich from Las Vegas writes: I am a UConn fan and the article you wrote pretty much contradicts what you have been saying all year. Yes, the Big East has had a worse-than-expected year, but every time a BE fan emails and asks you if the conference will lose the BCS auto bid as a result, you keep saying "it's only one year." If UConn gets a trip to a BCS game, how will it not benefit the league long term? A BCS game will further solidify UConn's arrival as a solid football program and will strengthen them down the road in terms of recruiting, increasing facilities, stadium expansion, etc. The BE needs more than just WVU to be recognized as a football power if the conference is ever going to gain respect from critics.
Brian Bennett: I never said the Big East needed to win its BCS game to keep its auto-bid. It's just my opinion -- and, frankly, the opinion of a whole lot of people I talk to around the league -- that West Virginia has a much better shot of winning a BCS game than Connecticut does. And nothing would help the Big East's public perception more than a BCS win. Simply going to a BCS game won't do UConn that much good if the Huskies don't win it. Wake Forest went to the 2007 Orange Bowl, but I don't know that people think of the Demon Deacons as a powerhouse as a result.
Jim M. from Storrs writes: Why all the hate, Brian? Have you been watching the same teams I have the past few weeks? Since the Louisville debacle UConn has been a completely different team. So what if WVU would better represent the Big East in a BCS game? The fact of the matter is WVU should have earned it. Instead UConn has won four games in a row.
Brian Bennett: As I wrote right off the bat, it's nothing personal. If you'll recall, I was driving the UConn bandwagon this offseason. I campaigned for the Huskies to be in the preseason Top 25 and predicted them to beat Michigan. I've also got them at No. 25 in my ESPN.com power poll this week. I totally agree with you that if UConn wins Saturday, it will have earned its way in while West Virginia did not. I just think that if you match the two teams up against Oklahoma or Nebraska, West Virginia has a far better shot of winning that game.
Doak from Orono, Maine, writes: Though I may agree that a West Virginia on top of its game would be better than the best team UConn could put out, I don't think you can use their losses against Michigan, Louisville, and Temple against them because of how different they are today. Randy Edsall teams almost always hit their stride late in the season, like last year when their offense went on a rampage, and if Zach Frazer can get it going against Cincy (hopefully not prophetically guiding them to a loss) then I think they are almost as good as a WVU team.
Brian Bennett: The fact of the matter is that West Virginia beat what turned out to be a pretty good Maryland team and hung very tough at LSU, while UConn has nothing on its nonconference résumé. That alone will bring criticism to the Huskies in the BCS buildup. But if you want to keep things recent, let's look at two recent score comparisons:
UConn beat Pitt 30-28 at home. West Virginia beat Pitt 35-10 on the road.
UConn beat Cincinnati 38-17 at home. West Virginia beat Cincinnati 37-10 at home.
Both won their games, but the Mountaineers' defense is better, which is why they have a better chance of staying in any BCS game.
Grant S. from London writes: If UConn lays an egg, WVU wins out, and VT wins the ACC, what would the possibilities be for an Orange Bowl match-up for the Black Diamond Trophy between WVU and VT?
Brian Bennett: It seems much more plausible after the events of this weekend. It sure looks like it will be Auburn-Oregon in the title game, TCU-Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl and Arkansas in the Sugar Bowl, plus the Big 12 champ in the Fiesta and ACC in the Orange. The Sugar gets the first pick of at-large teams, and I'd be shocked if they don't take Ohio State. Then comes the Orange, which could pick between West Virginia and Stanford. Since Stanford fans don't travel and would have to go clear across the country, the Mountaineers could make a whole lot more sense, especially against the Hokies.
Ryan from Tazewell, Va., writes: OK, Brian, you said you would have an answer for the Tino vs. Geno debate after Friday's game, so who you going with? Tino played better than I expected and throw in his runs, fluke runs, I might add and he had a good day. But Geno clearly had the most bang for his buck.
Brian Bennett: Geno Smith is the winner for 2010. Tino Sunseri has two years to try and catch up.
Jack from Louisville writes: Well, since Louisville finished 6-6 this season and hopefully are going to a bowl game how do you see them next year? Personally I see them top three in the Big East. With the talent Charlie is bringing I say watch out for us next year. Plus also you think the firing of Randy Shannon will help the recruiting boost for Louisville?
Brian Bennett: Strong and his staff simply did an outstanding job this year to get to 6-6, and I think the sky is the limit for this program with him at the helm. Next year, however, will be very interesting because this team has so many seniors, including its top two quarterbacks, leading rusher, tight end and four-fifths of the offensive line ... and that's not even mentioning the defense. So 2011 might not be the Cardinals' year, though they should still be a bowl team.
As for Shannon departing, well, it depends on who replaces him and how long that takes. And the Hurricanes would be crazy not to at least inquire about Strong's interest.
John from Morgantown writes: What value do you give to the percentage of bowl-eligible teams from conference? And how does the Big East compare to other conferences on that regard?
Brian Bennett: Six of eight teams is a high percentage, but let's be honest: It's not all that difficult to reach bowl eligibility. Throw in the fact that the Big East has five nonconference games and most teams schedule at least three teams they should beat, that means all you need is three conference victories to get to 6-6. There's little excuse for not being able to do that on a consistent basis.
Dean Hood from Bethel Park, Pa., writes: I just looked back at your "worst-case scenario" for Pitt. Wow. Please don't do that again next year. If the rest of it comes true you need to switch to fortune telling.
Brian Bennett: Scary, huh? At least it can't get any worse than what I braced you for.
Jozz from Vernon, Conn., writes: I read ur last article! u suck!!!
Brian Bennett: Solid counterpoint, Jozz.
Ahoy hoy. Time for some more of your e-mails on all things Big East.
Kevin R. from Arlington, Va., writes: What is more lucrative to the Big East: higher-profile markets or a championship game? It got me thinking because the Big East can add some teams that I think would be a good fit to get to 12 teams and stage a championship game in order to generate more wealth for increase in membership. Many are looking at TCU, Villanova, and UCF as candidates, but why not just throw in ECU as the twelfth in order to get a championship game. Is that too many members sharing the revenue, or will a championship game be able to appease all the members?
Brian Bennett: It's all about increasing TV revenue, which for the Big East is smaller than any other BCS conference. And the Big East's strategy is to get into as many big markets as possible and use that as its bargaining leverage. I don't think a title game adds very much. For one, it would not be a big money-maker in terms of gate, since the Big East would almost certainly have to hold it at a home site. I'm not sure it adds a ton to the TV package, either. And if it's a 10-team league with a full round-robin schedule, what's the point? The league doesn't want to go to 12 right now because it's weary of growing the basketball side much, if at all, past 16.
Marty from Belle Vernon, Pa., writes: Your reference to the Big East winner going to the Fiesta is based on a done deal or an educated guess since the Fiesta is the last to pick ?
Brian Bennett: It's the whole last-to-pick thing. Fiesta has the final choice, and let's just say that a league whose top team isn't even in the top 35 of the BCS standings isn't too appetizing. The only way I see that changing is if the Orange can get an attractive matchup like Virginia Tech vs. West Virginia or something. Orange officials haven't been too happy with the teams they've gotten lately and want to sell more tickets. I think they're likely to take a Big Ten team or a program with a guaranteed large traveling fan base.
USF96 from Forsyth, Ga., writes: You mention in your Bowl Projections post that WVU would go to the Champs to help with ticket sales. Wouldn't it make more sense to send the WVU to the Meineke Car Care and USF to the Champs? They would both travel a short distance and have a great turnout. After all, there is no clear second best team so far so keep everyone close to home (SU to NYC) to improve attendance all the way around.
Brian Bennett: It's all speculation at this point, but a lot depends on the matchup, too. If the Meineke takes a nearby school like NC State or North Carolina, it might not have to worry as much about selling tickets. Same with the Champs and, say, Florida State. I do think, however, that ticket sales will play an even larger role than normal this year since the Big East doesn't have any ranked teams that will provide marquee matchups for the casual fan.
Ben from Louisville writes: Right now you have Louisville projected to go to the Meineke Car Bowl, which kicks off at noon on 12/31. This also happens to be the same exact time as the tip of the UK/UofL basketball game. A lot of fans already have tickets to this game, and would probably watch it on TV over a bowl game if they had to choose. If people are worried about fans traveling/ratings, does something like this get taken into account?
Brian Bennett: That's an excellent point, and one bowl officials surely would take into account. Unless they could move the kickoff time, which seems highly unlikely, Louisville becomes a less attractive team for that spot. One intriguing possibility I've considered: how about a Louisville-Kentucky rematch in the BBVA Compass or Liberty bowls? That might sell some tickets.
Adam B. from Rota, Spain, writes: Brian, BBVA is a Spanish Bank and they are big time involved in sponsoring sports here in Spain. They are the Spanish soccer first division's primary sponsor so the league is called the BBVA Liga. They also sponsor several individual teams throughout Europe and the pronunciation in Spanish rolls right off the tongue.
Brian Bennett: You learn something every day. Now just tell me who makes the compasses.
Jake from Toms River, N.J., writes: Your bias against Rutgers is ridiculous. Go get another job if you can't be objective. Every year it's the same thing. Putting them last after they've already beat UConn is just another example.
Brian Bennett: Guess Jake didn't subscribe to my "hot-hand theory" this week. Hey, there are about four or five teams that could legitimately be ranked last right now, but how do you separate this mess?
Tom from NYC writes: I know the personnel has been lackluster, to be polite, but at what point do Scarlet Knights fans have the right to call for a change in offensive playcaller? The offensive has been monumentally uncreative, to the point that even the change-of-pace Wild Knight is brutally predictable. Now, we called a designed screen in our own endzone! Players that stink won't win, but playcalling that stinks sure doesn't help.
Brian Bennett: In my highly-biased, anti-Rutgers opinion, I believe this is something Greg Schiano must seriously evaluate in the offseason. I know there are a lot of young players on offense, but the fact is the team has had trouble doing much with the ball for two years now. Kirk Ciarrocca may be a fine coach, but something isn't working. As good as the defense and special teams usually are each year, why not go out and get a proven, big-time offensive coordinator and see if that gets the program to the next level?
Ross from Webster Springs, W.Va., writes: Which do you think is more likely to happen if West Virginia wants to make some coaching changes after this year: firing Bill Stewart or forcing him to make some changes on his staff?
Brian Bennett: So much depends on what happens in these final four games. If the Mountaineers win out or go 3-1 and get to a decent bowl, I would think Stewart comes back but is encouraged -- to put it politely -- to make some staff changes. If things go worse than that, all bets are off. Oliver Luck has spent a lot of time watching Stanford this year, and the difference in how well-oiled that team is must be striking to him.
Dan from Ormond Beach, Fla., writes: I just wanted to get your opinion about UConn's current QB conundrum. Assuming Michael Box is healthy, would you start him or Zach Frazer against Pitt this week? It just drives me crazy how many QBs UConn goes through and how they haven't had a long-term reliable starter since Dan Orlovsky. I'm thinking I'd rather see Box get some time to develop, even if it means UConn finishing 5-7 and staying home this bowl season, as opposed to senior Zach Frazer taking a 6-6 Huskies team bowling. It seems like this is good a time as ever for UConn to finally go young at QB (even if there are some growing pains) after a string of upperclass transfers.
Brian Bennett: I'd stick with Frazer for now. You know you can win games with him if he doesn't make mistakes, and the Huskies did just beat West Virginia with him under center. Technically, the Huskies are still alive for the Big East title, so they have to give it their best shot, and you owe it to the players to always try to make a bowl whenever possible. Box has some skills, but he looked a bit lost in his lone start against Louisville -- though, that was under difficult conditions after the Cody Endres dismissal. Plus, you could always use the extra bowl practices to get Box some more work.
Greg from Chicago writes: I am not sold that Pitt will remain the top team in the conference, or at least not the sole leader. I think they will go 2-2, with three tough road games and the Backyard Brawl. I also think WVU might win out, along with the chance of South Florida winning at Louisville and then their remaining two conference games at home during a humid fall in Tampa. Would this be how that scenario would shake out, with the highest-seeded BCS team going to the BCS Bowl? 1. WVU 5-2 (beat both USF & Pitt). 2. USF 5-2 (loss to WVU) 3. Pitt 5-2 (loss to WVU and USF). Or would there be 3 co-champs?
Brian Bennett: Technically, all three would be co-champions, but West Virginia would go to the BCS in that scenario. First tiebreaker is head-to-head among the champions, and in that case, the Mountaineers would be 2-0, USF 1-1 and Pittsburgh 0-2.
Michael S. from Louisville writes: Thanks for picking the 'Cuse. Bennett. If I see you out sometime, I'll buy you a beer. Could you pick USF next week, please?
Brian Bennett: I can't win. Tough year to be picking Big East games for a living.
Kevin R. from Arlington, Va., writes: What is more lucrative to the Big East: higher-profile markets or a championship game? It got me thinking because the Big East can add some teams that I think would be a good fit to get to 12 teams and stage a championship game in order to generate more wealth for increase in membership. Many are looking at TCU, Villanova, and UCF as candidates, but why not just throw in ECU as the twelfth in order to get a championship game. Is that too many members sharing the revenue, or will a championship game be able to appease all the members?
Brian Bennett: It's all about increasing TV revenue, which for the Big East is smaller than any other BCS conference. And the Big East's strategy is to get into as many big markets as possible and use that as its bargaining leverage. I don't think a title game adds very much. For one, it would not be a big money-maker in terms of gate, since the Big East would almost certainly have to hold it at a home site. I'm not sure it adds a ton to the TV package, either. And if it's a 10-team league with a full round-robin schedule, what's the point? The league doesn't want to go to 12 right now because it's weary of growing the basketball side much, if at all, past 16.
Marty from Belle Vernon, Pa., writes: Your reference to the Big East winner going to the Fiesta is based on a done deal or an educated guess since the Fiesta is the last to pick ?
Brian Bennett: It's the whole last-to-pick thing. Fiesta has the final choice, and let's just say that a league whose top team isn't even in the top 35 of the BCS standings isn't too appetizing. The only way I see that changing is if the Orange can get an attractive matchup like Virginia Tech vs. West Virginia or something. Orange officials haven't been too happy with the teams they've gotten lately and want to sell more tickets. I think they're likely to take a Big Ten team or a program with a guaranteed large traveling fan base.
USF96 from Forsyth, Ga., writes: You mention in your Bowl Projections post that WVU would go to the Champs to help with ticket sales. Wouldn't it make more sense to send the WVU to the Meineke Car Care and USF to the Champs? They would both travel a short distance and have a great turnout. After all, there is no clear second best team so far so keep everyone close to home (SU to NYC) to improve attendance all the way around.
Brian Bennett: It's all speculation at this point, but a lot depends on the matchup, too. If the Meineke takes a nearby school like NC State or North Carolina, it might not have to worry as much about selling tickets. Same with the Champs and, say, Florida State. I do think, however, that ticket sales will play an even larger role than normal this year since the Big East doesn't have any ranked teams that will provide marquee matchups for the casual fan.
Ben from Louisville writes: Right now you have Louisville projected to go to the Meineke Car Bowl, which kicks off at noon on 12/31. This also happens to be the same exact time as the tip of the UK/UofL basketball game. A lot of fans already have tickets to this game, and would probably watch it on TV over a bowl game if they had to choose. If people are worried about fans traveling/ratings, does something like this get taken into account?
Brian Bennett: That's an excellent point, and one bowl officials surely would take into account. Unless they could move the kickoff time, which seems highly unlikely, Louisville becomes a less attractive team for that spot. One intriguing possibility I've considered: how about a Louisville-Kentucky rematch in the BBVA Compass or Liberty bowls? That might sell some tickets.
Adam B. from Rota, Spain, writes: Brian, BBVA is a Spanish Bank and they are big time involved in sponsoring sports here in Spain. They are the Spanish soccer first division's primary sponsor so the league is called the BBVA Liga. They also sponsor several individual teams throughout Europe and the pronunciation in Spanish rolls right off the tongue.
Brian Bennett: You learn something every day. Now just tell me who makes the compasses.
Jake from Toms River, N.J., writes: Your bias against Rutgers is ridiculous. Go get another job if you can't be objective. Every year it's the same thing. Putting them last after they've already beat UConn is just another example.
Brian Bennett: Guess Jake didn't subscribe to my "hot-hand theory" this week. Hey, there are about four or five teams that could legitimately be ranked last right now, but how do you separate this mess?
Tom from NYC writes: I know the personnel has been lackluster, to be polite, but at what point do Scarlet Knights fans have the right to call for a change in offensive playcaller? The offensive has been monumentally uncreative, to the point that even the change-of-pace Wild Knight is brutally predictable. Now, we called a designed screen in our own endzone! Players that stink won't win, but playcalling that stinks sure doesn't help.
Brian Bennett: In my highly-biased, anti-Rutgers opinion, I believe this is something Greg Schiano must seriously evaluate in the offseason. I know there are a lot of young players on offense, but the fact is the team has had trouble doing much with the ball for two years now. Kirk Ciarrocca may be a fine coach, but something isn't working. As good as the defense and special teams usually are each year, why not go out and get a proven, big-time offensive coordinator and see if that gets the program to the next level?
Ross from Webster Springs, W.Va., writes: Which do you think is more likely to happen if West Virginia wants to make some coaching changes after this year: firing Bill Stewart or forcing him to make some changes on his staff?
Brian Bennett: So much depends on what happens in these final four games. If the Mountaineers win out or go 3-1 and get to a decent bowl, I would think Stewart comes back but is encouraged -- to put it politely -- to make some staff changes. If things go worse than that, all bets are off. Oliver Luck has spent a lot of time watching Stanford this year, and the difference in how well-oiled that team is must be striking to him.
Dan from Ormond Beach, Fla., writes: I just wanted to get your opinion about UConn's current QB conundrum. Assuming Michael Box is healthy, would you start him or Zach Frazer against Pitt this week? It just drives me crazy how many QBs UConn goes through and how they haven't had a long-term reliable starter since Dan Orlovsky. I'm thinking I'd rather see Box get some time to develop, even if it means UConn finishing 5-7 and staying home this bowl season, as opposed to senior Zach Frazer taking a 6-6 Huskies team bowling. It seems like this is good a time as ever for UConn to finally go young at QB (even if there are some growing pains) after a string of upperclass transfers.
Brian Bennett: I'd stick with Frazer for now. You know you can win games with him if he doesn't make mistakes, and the Huskies did just beat West Virginia with him under center. Technically, the Huskies are still alive for the Big East title, so they have to give it their best shot, and you owe it to the players to always try to make a bowl whenever possible. Box has some skills, but he looked a bit lost in his lone start against Louisville -- though, that was under difficult conditions after the Cody Endres dismissal. Plus, you could always use the extra bowl practices to get Box some more work.
Greg from Chicago writes: I am not sold that Pitt will remain the top team in the conference, or at least not the sole leader. I think they will go 2-2, with three tough road games and the Backyard Brawl. I also think WVU might win out, along with the chance of South Florida winning at Louisville and then their remaining two conference games at home during a humid fall in Tampa. Would this be how that scenario would shake out, with the highest-seeded BCS team going to the BCS Bowl? 1. WVU 5-2 (beat both USF & Pitt). 2. USF 5-2 (loss to WVU) 3. Pitt 5-2 (loss to WVU and USF). Or would there be 3 co-champs?
Brian Bennett: Technically, all three would be co-champions, but West Virginia would go to the BCS in that scenario. First tiebreaker is head-to-head among the champions, and in that case, the Mountaineers would be 2-0, USF 1-1 and Pittsburgh 0-2.
Michael S. from Louisville writes: Thanks for picking the 'Cuse. Bennett. If I see you out sometime, I'll buy you a beer. Could you pick USF next week, please?
Brian Bennett: I can't win. Tough year to be picking Big East games for a living.
Special all-expansion Thursday mailbag
November, 4, 2010
11/04/10
4:30
PM ET
By
Brian Bennett | ESPN.com
I am afraid the internet will collapse with all the e-mails I've been receiving about Big East expansion.
I asked for your thoughts, and you have certainly responded. I want to get to as many questions and ideas as possible, so I thought I'd do a special Thursday edition of the mailbag focusing just on expansion. (Also, check out my chat transcript from Wednesday for more expansion-related questions and answers). We can talk about it some more in the Friday mailbag if there are new questions, though I'd like to use that space for more current football-related issues.
Here is a list of the many suggestions I've received for new Big East members: TCU, Villanova, Central Florida, Notre Dame, Boston College, Houston, ECU, Temple, UMass, Florida Atlantic, Georgetown, Army, Navy, Appalachian State, Tulane, Boise State, BYU, New Hampshire, UAB, Kansas, Missouri, Kansas State, Delaware, Southern Miss, Tulsa, Arkansas State, Miami of Ohio, Northern Illinois, James Madison, Vanderbilt, Marshall, Buffalo, Troy, SMU, Old Dominion.
Whew. Did we miss anybody? Oh, yeah. Memphis. Not one single vote for the Tigers out of a couple hundred e-mails. Good times.
Anyway, let the expansion e-mail madness begin.
Richard D. from Manteo, N.C., writes: Don't understand the omission of East Carolina University. They are back to back champions in C-USA, have a 50,000 seat stadium, fans travel well and have upgraded all of the Olympic sports facilities. Why did you not include them on your list?
Brian Bennett: I got a lot of e-mails from ECU fans chastising me for not having the Pirates as serious candidates. I think ECU would be a great addition to the league, that the team would compete right away and that its fan base is maybe the best and most passionate one the Big East can add. However, so much of this expansion is going to revolve around markets and big cities. That's what the league is trying to promote as it looks to build a possible Big East Network and/or renegotiate its TV rights in 2012. Unfortunately for ECU, it's not located in a big city -- and though some fans try to sell the proximity to the Research Triangle area, we all know that's ACC country.
I'm in no way opposing ECU. I'm just telling you what I'm hearing from Big East officials, and they're saying ECU is not high on the list right now.
John from Saylorsburg, Pa., writes: After thinking about this for a couple of days and reading material that other people commented, I think the Big East should add three teams instead of two. TCU should be added first. Then one team from ECU,UCF or Houston. They should be scheduled for 2012. Then in 2013 add Nova. This gives Nova two years to recruit and decide where they want to play. If a team gets grabbed by Big Ten, Big East still has 10 teams. If not, so what, the Big Ten had 11 teams for years and they were just fine.
Brian Bennett: Keep in mind that if Villanova decided this afternoon to join the Big East, it could not meet FBS requirements until 2013 at the earliest. So it's not a bad idea for the Big East to add two other teams immediately as it waits for Villanova to make its move and figure out its issues. Plus, then we could use a Spinal Tap-inspired slogan for the Big East: "This one goes to 11."
Bradley from Little Birch, W. Va., writes: I think the Big East needs to offer an ultimatum to the basketball only schools like Notre Dame and 'Nova. If they don't want to be all in like WVU and Pitt and Syracuse etc then they need to walk.
Brian Bennett: I think sometimes people get a little confused at what the "Big East" really is. It's not some outside organization that can tell the schools what to do. The league office works for the member schools. So the other presidents and athletic directors would have to agree and vote on whether to kick schools out of the league, and at this time there's zero sentiment for it (despite the disastrous, failed experiment that DePaul continues to be).
As for the tired subject of a Notre Dame "ultimatum," it's just farcical. The Irish cherish their independence and national scheduling and aren't playing Big East football anytime soon. Notre Dame brings value to the league in many areas, and imagine what the school's name brand will do for marketing purposes if there's ever indeed a Big East Network.
Adam from Pittsburgh writes: I have to say that I am thoroughly underwhelmed by BE expansion candidates. I know that the ADs wanted this for scheduling, but I think this will lower the value for fans. For example: this year Pitt played five nonconference games: Utah, New Hampshire, Miami, Florida Int'l, and Notre Dame. I realize that schedule didn't go well for Pitt this year, but if they add two league games then which two of those five games will disappear? My guess is Utah and Miami. Our replacements? No matter who joins the BE, it won't be that good of a draw. .. If we have 5 conference road games in a season then we're going to continue to see FCS teams.
Brian Bennett: Scheduling will be an fascinating issue to watch if the league does go to nine conference games. I would think the best way to schedule the three remaining, nonconference games would be: one FCS opponent (that's not going away; schools love the "guaranteed" victory and home game); one decent mid-major type FBS team; and one BCS team. Of course, not all schools are going to schedule as aggressively as others -- ahem -- but some will like to take on name opponents for the spotlight.
The other thing to consider is that this appears to be the wave of the future. The Pac-10 (soon to be Pac-12) already plays nine league games, and the Big 10 and Big 12 look to be going the same route. At least you know you'll have nine interesting games, and schools can save money and headaches on what are becoming outrageously expensive guarantees for nonconference opponents.
Chris from Wallingford, Conn. writes: If the Big East wants to make the biggest splash, they might invite TCU and Houston as a package deal. I like TCU and think they could add a lot to the football side, but by themselves, they're on an island. At least with Houston they bring a running mate and natural rival. If they don't decide to go deep into the heart of Texas, I like UCF and Navy. UCF to me seems like a no brainer. Great facilities, big school with plenty of room for growth, and it all but guarantees a yearly trip for every team into the recruiting hotbed of Florida. I'd gladly deal with the extra competition for recruits. I think Navy adds value and tradition to the league from a football perspective. I don't like 'Nova or Temple and the quicker the league forgets about the Philly market the better. It's simply not a college football town.
Brian Bennett: I think you can pretty much scratch Houston off the list for now. The Cougars simply don't have the fan support, and the teams in the Big East that were in Conference USA with them remember playing in front of embarrassingly low crowds at Robertson Stadium. The league looked into the service academies several years ago and decided it wasn't a great fit. Besides, Navy can play a national schedule and get its own bowl tie-in; the Midshipmen don't benefit a whole lot from the Big East.
You make a good point about Philly; the Big East likes to brag about being in big cities, but in so many cases, the league program in that city is nowhere near the top sports draw. That won't change with TCU (Dallas-Forth Worth) or UCF (Orlando), either.
Allen from Los Angeles writes: You said, "no other current BCS conference school is abandoning ship for the Big East." This year, I agree, but what about a sinking ship in a few years? Who doesn't at least have doubts about the survival of the current Big 12 setup? The number 10 makes sense if you are looking ahead to 2015 to pick up a few teams when that conference implodes.
Brian Bennett: It's possible, which is another reason why expanding only to 10 now makes sense. There's no financial incentive right now for a team like Boston College or Kansas to jump to the Big East, because the conference those respective schools are in have much bigger TV contracts and more revenue to hand out. However, if the Big East can strengthen itself, perhaps start its own network and get the cash flowing in after its current deal expires in 2012, then maybe the league will be in a better position to compete with the other BCS conferences. And maybe the Big East will look more appealing to those type of schools.
It's a long shot, but at least the league is giving it a shot.
I asked for your thoughts, and you have certainly responded. I want to get to as many questions and ideas as possible, so I thought I'd do a special Thursday edition of the mailbag focusing just on expansion. (Also, check out my chat transcript from Wednesday for more expansion-related questions and answers). We can talk about it some more in the Friday mailbag if there are new questions, though I'd like to use that space for more current football-related issues.
Here is a list of the many suggestions I've received for new Big East members: TCU, Villanova, Central Florida, Notre Dame, Boston College, Houston, ECU, Temple, UMass, Florida Atlantic, Georgetown, Army, Navy, Appalachian State, Tulane, Boise State, BYU, New Hampshire, UAB, Kansas, Missouri, Kansas State, Delaware, Southern Miss, Tulsa, Arkansas State, Miami of Ohio, Northern Illinois, James Madison, Vanderbilt, Marshall, Buffalo, Troy, SMU, Old Dominion.
Whew. Did we miss anybody? Oh, yeah. Memphis. Not one single vote for the Tigers out of a couple hundred e-mails. Good times.
Anyway, let the expansion e-mail madness begin.
Richard D. from Manteo, N.C., writes: Don't understand the omission of East Carolina University. They are back to back champions in C-USA, have a 50,000 seat stadium, fans travel well and have upgraded all of the Olympic sports facilities. Why did you not include them on your list?
Brian Bennett: I got a lot of e-mails from ECU fans chastising me for not having the Pirates as serious candidates. I think ECU would be a great addition to the league, that the team would compete right away and that its fan base is maybe the best and most passionate one the Big East can add. However, so much of this expansion is going to revolve around markets and big cities. That's what the league is trying to promote as it looks to build a possible Big East Network and/or renegotiate its TV rights in 2012. Unfortunately for ECU, it's not located in a big city -- and though some fans try to sell the proximity to the Research Triangle area, we all know that's ACC country.
I'm in no way opposing ECU. I'm just telling you what I'm hearing from Big East officials, and they're saying ECU is not high on the list right now.
John from Saylorsburg, Pa., writes: After thinking about this for a couple of days and reading material that other people commented, I think the Big East should add three teams instead of two. TCU should be added first. Then one team from ECU,UCF or Houston. They should be scheduled for 2012. Then in 2013 add Nova. This gives Nova two years to recruit and decide where they want to play. If a team gets grabbed by Big Ten, Big East still has 10 teams. If not, so what, the Big Ten had 11 teams for years and they were just fine.
Brian Bennett: Keep in mind that if Villanova decided this afternoon to join the Big East, it could not meet FBS requirements until 2013 at the earliest. So it's not a bad idea for the Big East to add two other teams immediately as it waits for Villanova to make its move and figure out its issues. Plus, then we could use a Spinal Tap-inspired slogan for the Big East: "This one goes to 11."
Bradley from Little Birch, W. Va., writes: I think the Big East needs to offer an ultimatum to the basketball only schools like Notre Dame and 'Nova. If they don't want to be all in like WVU and Pitt and Syracuse etc then they need to walk.
Brian Bennett: I think sometimes people get a little confused at what the "Big East" really is. It's not some outside organization that can tell the schools what to do. The league office works for the member schools. So the other presidents and athletic directors would have to agree and vote on whether to kick schools out of the league, and at this time there's zero sentiment for it (despite the disastrous, failed experiment that DePaul continues to be).
As for the tired subject of a Notre Dame "ultimatum," it's just farcical. The Irish cherish their independence and national scheduling and aren't playing Big East football anytime soon. Notre Dame brings value to the league in many areas, and imagine what the school's name brand will do for marketing purposes if there's ever indeed a Big East Network.
Adam from Pittsburgh writes: I have to say that I am thoroughly underwhelmed by BE expansion candidates. I know that the ADs wanted this for scheduling, but I think this will lower the value for fans. For example: this year Pitt played five nonconference games: Utah, New Hampshire, Miami, Florida Int'l, and Notre Dame. I realize that schedule didn't go well for Pitt this year, but if they add two league games then which two of those five games will disappear? My guess is Utah and Miami. Our replacements? No matter who joins the BE, it won't be that good of a draw. .. If we have 5 conference road games in a season then we're going to continue to see FCS teams.
Brian Bennett: Scheduling will be an fascinating issue to watch if the league does go to nine conference games. I would think the best way to schedule the three remaining, nonconference games would be: one FCS opponent (that's not going away; schools love the "guaranteed" victory and home game); one decent mid-major type FBS team; and one BCS team. Of course, not all schools are going to schedule as aggressively as others -- ahem -- but some will like to take on name opponents for the spotlight.
The other thing to consider is that this appears to be the wave of the future. The Pac-10 (soon to be Pac-12) already plays nine league games, and the Big 10 and Big 12 look to be going the same route. At least you know you'll have nine interesting games, and schools can save money and headaches on what are becoming outrageously expensive guarantees for nonconference opponents.
Chris from Wallingford, Conn. writes: If the Big East wants to make the biggest splash, they might invite TCU and Houston as a package deal. I like TCU and think they could add a lot to the football side, but by themselves, they're on an island. At least with Houston they bring a running mate and natural rival. If they don't decide to go deep into the heart of Texas, I like UCF and Navy. UCF to me seems like a no brainer. Great facilities, big school with plenty of room for growth, and it all but guarantees a yearly trip for every team into the recruiting hotbed of Florida. I'd gladly deal with the extra competition for recruits. I think Navy adds value and tradition to the league from a football perspective. I don't like 'Nova or Temple and the quicker the league forgets about the Philly market the better. It's simply not a college football town.
Brian Bennett: I think you can pretty much scratch Houston off the list for now. The Cougars simply don't have the fan support, and the teams in the Big East that were in Conference USA with them remember playing in front of embarrassingly low crowds at Robertson Stadium. The league looked into the service academies several years ago and decided it wasn't a great fit. Besides, Navy can play a national schedule and get its own bowl tie-in; the Midshipmen don't benefit a whole lot from the Big East.
You make a good point about Philly; the Big East likes to brag about being in big cities, but in so many cases, the league program in that city is nowhere near the top sports draw. That won't change with TCU (Dallas-Forth Worth) or UCF (Orlando), either.
Allen from Los Angeles writes: You said, "no other current BCS conference school is abandoning ship for the Big East." This year, I agree, but what about a sinking ship in a few years? Who doesn't at least have doubts about the survival of the current Big 12 setup? The number 10 makes sense if you are looking ahead to 2015 to pick up a few teams when that conference implodes.
Brian Bennett: It's possible, which is another reason why expanding only to 10 now makes sense. There's no financial incentive right now for a team like Boston College or Kansas to jump to the Big East, because the conference those respective schools are in have much bigger TV contracts and more revenue to hand out. However, if the Big East can strengthen itself, perhaps start its own network and get the cash flowing in after its current deal expires in 2012, then maybe the league will be in a better position to compete with the other BCS conferences. And maybe the Big East will look more appealing to those type of schools.
It's a long shot, but at least the league is giving it a shot.
Before we get to your e-mail, I want to remind you that you can send an e-mail message to Rutgers' Eric LeGrand here if you haven't yet done so. All Big East fans can come together to support this young man.
On to this week's mailbag:
Pete from New Brunswick, N.J., writes: After seeing your posts on Eric LeGrand, I thought you'd like to see this sign on the front of the Theta Delta Chi house at Rutgers. Rutgers students haven't been regarded in a very positive light in the media following the suicide a few weeks ago so it's nice to see they care.
Ryan G. from San Diego, Calif., writes: With the unfortunate news about Eric LeGrand, I believe a good option for our blooming UConn-Rutgers rivalry would be to honor both Jasper Howard and Eric. It's been mentioned before that the Jazz Howard bowl would be fitting but primarily for UConn nation. Now, a year later and Rutgers is dealing with tragedy as well. I suggest the creation of "The Howard-LeGrand Bowl." Honoring these two talented, hardworking young gentlemen for years to come would be just a small way of saying "thank you" for all that they've provided to each school. Here's to a successful, speedy recovery Big E -- you'll be in the prayers of RU Nation and college football fans around the globe.
Brian Bennett: Thanks for the notes, guys. Let's hope LeGrand walks out of that hospital and won't need his name on a trophy.
Joe from Gillette, N.J., writes: First of all, I would like everyone out there to send their positive thoughts and well-wishes to Eric LeGrand and his family. On to more trivial matters...how good has the Rutgers coaching staff's in-game adjustments been the last two weeks against UConn and Army -- especially on the defensive side of the ball? In both games Rutgers struggled in the first half, but came out after halftime and found a way to win through some nice adjustments on both sides of the ball.
Brian Bennett: The Scarlet Knights' offensive struggles have somewhat overshadowed how terrific the defense has been most of the year. They didn't respond well to the Army triple-option early in the game, but as you noted, the Black Knights were shut down in the second half. If only the offense could make as many valuable adjustments.
Trey P. from Oldsmar, Fla., writes: To tell you the truth, this is not what I expected from USF this year. I expected the loss at Florida would wake this team up and they would correct their mistakes. Many people are blaming B.J. Daniels for his inconsistency and errant passes. Others are blaming the depleted WR corps because of its lack of catching the ball and running with it (with the exception of Dontavia Bogan) My question: Who is to blame for these losses, and if we fix the mistakes what chance do we have against Cincinnati? As you know the team the week before is never the same the week after.
Brian Bennett: Well, if you read my reports on South Florida from the preseason, you'd see that I was writing -- and even the coaching staff was saying -- that this offense lacked big-time playmakers. I expected Daniels to be much better than this, especially in terms of his decision-making. But I see it as a combination of a lack of major threats at receiver who can get open and make plays, and Daniels' struggles with learning a new offense. The running game is adequate but not as spectacular as we all figured.
The Bulls' defense is good enough to keep it in every game; if the offense can just hit a few big plays, USF can beat anybody left on the schedule. But if things don't improve on that side of the ball, I'm not sure where the next win comes from.
Jeff M. from Philipsburg, Pa., writes: I had a comment about the "Style Points" that Bill Stewart doesn't care about. I know a win is a win and I love to see the Mountaineers with the 'W,' but at some point don't you see this hurting WVU? OK, we're not winning any BCS championship this year, one loss already and the league is mediocre to say the least. So, what about "style?" The game last Thursday was so mundane that I (diehard 'Eers fan) was ready to go to bed mid third quarter. I could imagine the non-WVU fans turning on baseball or reruns of "Hanging with Mr. Cooper." Sooo,, no excitement= loss of viewers, which = lack of ratings for ESPN = show some other team.
Brian Bennett: I think 5-1 and a top-20 record look pretty stylish. This is a team that has one of the best defenses, statistically speaking, in the country. The offense doesn't have to take unnecessary chances when it gets a lead because of that. I'm not buying your "style points" argument. Just win, baby.
Trevor from Morgantown, W.Va., writes: While I do agree with you that no Big East team will be playing for the title this year, I must disagree that BCS rankings are now meaningless in the conference. High ranking is still big in terms of exposure/national perception which is important for recruiting and sadly will be important going into next season (pre-season ranking). Also, having a low/unranked champion will look horrible for the Big East and will give the Non-AQ conferences more reason to gripe.
Brian Bennett: I'm not sure any recruit has ever chosen a school based on BCS standings. Sure, it would be nice for the Big East to have teams ranked highly, but the BCS standings are all about determining who plays for the national title and who gets at-large bids to BCS games. Since the Big East has no prayer at either one of those, the standings have no impact at all on the league.
Chris from Cincinnati writes: First, let me give props where they are deserved. You called that Isaiah Pead would have a breakout season and be the next big name in the Big East. What has he done to prove you right? Only averaged 8.8 yds/carry and made the UC offense even more dangerous with an added ground attack. Butch Jones is doing exactly what I was begging for Brian Kelly to do the last two years; run the heck out of the ball to open up an already dangerous passing attack. Now that the offensive line problems are figured out, this could be the most dangerous offense in the conference and among the nation's best.
Brian Bennett: Well, I didn't exactly have to be Nostradamus to pick Pead as a breakout candidate. He averaged 6.7 yards per carry last year and now is getting a lot more opportunities. He's a year older and more mature, and the running game is being emphasized a bit more. (But, really, you were criticizing Kelly while he was going 12-0?) The difference between this offense in the first three games and since the Oklahoma game is striking, and the main change in that time has been a healthy Pead in the backfield.
Kris from Hollidaysburg, Pa., writes: Why are most analysts (including you) picking WVU in the Fiesta Bowl instead of the Orange Bowl? I know the Big East has no anchor BCS bowl, but the Orange Bowl seems like the natural spot for the Big East champ most of the time, and as for WVU, everyone knows their fans travel well. The other two BCS games that WVU played in were also not the Orange Bowl. Can you explain some of this or, hopefully, all of this?
Brian Bennett: It's fairly simple, Kris. The Fiesta Bowl has the last pick of automatic qualifiers and at-large teams, and given the Big East's reputation, many people figure it will be like the last kid picked for kickball at the schoolyard. The Sugar has the first pick this year, while the Orange has the second. Much will depend on who's available, but if the bowls ahead of the Fiesta have a chance to pick an at-large SEC or Big Ten school, that's what they will do.
Neal J. from Louisville writes: I enjoy reading the blog but, I had trouble with your "What we learned in the Big East" segment this week where you mentioned "Not yet, Louisville and Syracuse" This was a little unfair to Louisville. Yes, they did lose, but you made it sound like it was on par with Syracuse's loss. Syracuse was down the entire game; Louisville on the other hand, had the lead at half and was a dropped ball away from potentially tying the game. I think that Louisville deserves more credit than to be bunched with an embarrassing loss like Syracuse's.
Brian Bennett: Both losses were not the same, but Syracuse had already won a Big East game on the road. Louisville dropped a very winnable conference game at home. I agree with Charlie Strong that the Cardinals haven't learned how to finish a game and win it. What I meant by "not yet" is that neither team is going to make a giant leap and finish in the top half of the league standings.
Chris R. from Charleston W.Va., writes: How far-fetched (and yes, I know it is very much) is the idea of West Virginia becoming an independent and signing a contract with ESPN to play every game of the season on a week night? Sounds crazy but you won't see us in the Big 10/11, and if the ACC wanted us they would have taken us back in 2004.
Brian Bennett: About as likely as me getting invited to Natalie Portman's house for Thanksgiving. BYU believes it can go independent because of its international following tied to its religious mission. The scope of West Virginia fandom, large as it is, is nowhere big enough to support independence.
On to this week's mailbag:
Pete from New Brunswick, N.J., writes: After seeing your posts on Eric LeGrand, I thought you'd like to see this sign on the front of the Theta Delta Chi house at Rutgers. Rutgers students haven't been regarded in a very positive light in the media following the suicide a few weeks ago so it's nice to see they care.
Ryan G. from San Diego, Calif., writes: With the unfortunate news about Eric LeGrand, I believe a good option for our blooming UConn-Rutgers rivalry would be to honor both Jasper Howard and Eric. It's been mentioned before that the Jazz Howard bowl would be fitting but primarily for UConn nation. Now, a year later and Rutgers is dealing with tragedy as well. I suggest the creation of "The Howard-LeGrand Bowl." Honoring these two talented, hardworking young gentlemen for years to come would be just a small way of saying "thank you" for all that they've provided to each school. Here's to a successful, speedy recovery Big E -- you'll be in the prayers of RU Nation and college football fans around the globe.
Brian Bennett: Thanks for the notes, guys. Let's hope LeGrand walks out of that hospital and won't need his name on a trophy.
Joe from Gillette, N.J., writes: First of all, I would like everyone out there to send their positive thoughts and well-wishes to Eric LeGrand and his family. On to more trivial matters...how good has the Rutgers coaching staff's in-game adjustments been the last two weeks against UConn and Army -- especially on the defensive side of the ball? In both games Rutgers struggled in the first half, but came out after halftime and found a way to win through some nice adjustments on both sides of the ball.
Brian Bennett: The Scarlet Knights' offensive struggles have somewhat overshadowed how terrific the defense has been most of the year. They didn't respond well to the Army triple-option early in the game, but as you noted, the Black Knights were shut down in the second half. If only the offense could make as many valuable adjustments.
Trey P. from Oldsmar, Fla., writes: To tell you the truth, this is not what I expected from USF this year. I expected the loss at Florida would wake this team up and they would correct their mistakes. Many people are blaming B.J. Daniels for his inconsistency and errant passes. Others are blaming the depleted WR corps because of its lack of catching the ball and running with it (with the exception of Dontavia Bogan) My question: Who is to blame for these losses, and if we fix the mistakes what chance do we have against Cincinnati? As you know the team the week before is never the same the week after.
Brian Bennett: Well, if you read my reports on South Florida from the preseason, you'd see that I was writing -- and even the coaching staff was saying -- that this offense lacked big-time playmakers. I expected Daniels to be much better than this, especially in terms of his decision-making. But I see it as a combination of a lack of major threats at receiver who can get open and make plays, and Daniels' struggles with learning a new offense. The running game is adequate but not as spectacular as we all figured.
The Bulls' defense is good enough to keep it in every game; if the offense can just hit a few big plays, USF can beat anybody left on the schedule. But if things don't improve on that side of the ball, I'm not sure where the next win comes from.
Jeff M. from Philipsburg, Pa., writes: I had a comment about the "Style Points" that Bill Stewart doesn't care about. I know a win is a win and I love to see the Mountaineers with the 'W,' but at some point don't you see this hurting WVU? OK, we're not winning any BCS championship this year, one loss already and the league is mediocre to say the least. So, what about "style?" The game last Thursday was so mundane that I (diehard 'Eers fan) was ready to go to bed mid third quarter. I could imagine the non-WVU fans turning on baseball or reruns of "Hanging with Mr. Cooper." Sooo,, no excitement= loss of viewers, which = lack of ratings for ESPN = show some other team.
Brian Bennett: I think 5-1 and a top-20 record look pretty stylish. This is a team that has one of the best defenses, statistically speaking, in the country. The offense doesn't have to take unnecessary chances when it gets a lead because of that. I'm not buying your "style points" argument. Just win, baby.
Trevor from Morgantown, W.Va., writes: While I do agree with you that no Big East team will be playing for the title this year, I must disagree that BCS rankings are now meaningless in the conference. High ranking is still big in terms of exposure/national perception which is important for recruiting and sadly will be important going into next season (pre-season ranking). Also, having a low/unranked champion will look horrible for the Big East and will give the Non-AQ conferences more reason to gripe.
Brian Bennett: I'm not sure any recruit has ever chosen a school based on BCS standings. Sure, it would be nice for the Big East to have teams ranked highly, but the BCS standings are all about determining who plays for the national title and who gets at-large bids to BCS games. Since the Big East has no prayer at either one of those, the standings have no impact at all on the league.
Chris from Cincinnati writes: First, let me give props where they are deserved. You called that Isaiah Pead would have a breakout season and be the next big name in the Big East. What has he done to prove you right? Only averaged 8.8 yds/carry and made the UC offense even more dangerous with an added ground attack. Butch Jones is doing exactly what I was begging for Brian Kelly to do the last two years; run the heck out of the ball to open up an already dangerous passing attack. Now that the offensive line problems are figured out, this could be the most dangerous offense in the conference and among the nation's best.
Brian Bennett: Well, I didn't exactly have to be Nostradamus to pick Pead as a breakout candidate. He averaged 6.7 yards per carry last year and now is getting a lot more opportunities. He's a year older and more mature, and the running game is being emphasized a bit more. (But, really, you were criticizing Kelly while he was going 12-0?) The difference between this offense in the first three games and since the Oklahoma game is striking, and the main change in that time has been a healthy Pead in the backfield.
Kris from Hollidaysburg, Pa., writes: Why are most analysts (including you) picking WVU in the Fiesta Bowl instead of the Orange Bowl? I know the Big East has no anchor BCS bowl, but the Orange Bowl seems like the natural spot for the Big East champ most of the time, and as for WVU, everyone knows their fans travel well. The other two BCS games that WVU played in were also not the Orange Bowl. Can you explain some of this or, hopefully, all of this?
Brian Bennett: It's fairly simple, Kris. The Fiesta Bowl has the last pick of automatic qualifiers and at-large teams, and given the Big East's reputation, many people figure it will be like the last kid picked for kickball at the schoolyard. The Sugar has the first pick this year, while the Orange has the second. Much will depend on who's available, but if the bowls ahead of the Fiesta have a chance to pick an at-large SEC or Big Ten school, that's what they will do.
Neal J. from Louisville writes: I enjoy reading the blog but, I had trouble with your "What we learned in the Big East" segment this week where you mentioned "Not yet, Louisville and Syracuse" This was a little unfair to Louisville. Yes, they did lose, but you made it sound like it was on par with Syracuse's loss. Syracuse was down the entire game; Louisville on the other hand, had the lead at half and was a dropped ball away from potentially tying the game. I think that Louisville deserves more credit than to be bunched with an embarrassing loss like Syracuse's.
Brian Bennett: Both losses were not the same, but Syracuse had already won a Big East game on the road. Louisville dropped a very winnable conference game at home. I agree with Charlie Strong that the Cardinals haven't learned how to finish a game and win it. What I meant by "not yet" is that neither team is going to make a giant leap and finish in the top half of the league standings.
Chris R. from Charleston W.Va., writes: How far-fetched (and yes, I know it is very much) is the idea of West Virginia becoming an independent and signing a contract with ESPN to play every game of the season on a week night? Sounds crazy but you won't see us in the Big 10/11, and if the ACC wanted us they would have taken us back in 2004.
Brian Bennett: About as likely as me getting invited to Natalie Portman's house for Thanksgiving. BYU believes it can go independent because of its international following tied to its religious mission. The scope of West Virginia fandom, large as it is, is nowhere big enough to support independence.
The blog was pretty stuffed Tuesday with our midseason reviews, so the regular Tuesday mailbag arrives a day late.
Kevin from Mahwah, N.J., writes: Brian, given the many open questions in league so far, do you agree this week will answer many of them? Here is what I think we will learn:1) Is Cuse for real? 2) Will Pitt rebound or potentially be in for a big clunker? 3) Can the 'Ville compete on a higher level than the BE basement? 4) Can Cincy legitimately compete for league title? 5) Will South Florida be a good team, or potentially a basement dweller? 6) Is the Rutgers new offensive surge a one-week exception, or a new reality?
Brian Bennett: That's a pretty good summation of Week 7, Kevin. Mind if I just copy and paste that for my weekly what to watch post? The only one I think is a little shaky is No. 6. I know Army has improved, but I'm not going to be overly impressed by Rutgers' offense if it performs well against a service academy. What I do want to see, though, is whether Chas Dodd can continue his level of play in his second start. And one other question has to be: Can West Virginia get over its USF hump?
Jim from California writes: I'm disappointed in all the caveats you placed in your explanation for Syracuse's No. 2 ranking. If you didn't think they were the No. 2 team, why did you put them there? Every time SU has won a game this year, people have just found an excuse ... our opponent isn't that good, it was in the Dome, etc. And when SU lost to Washington (mind you the same team that beat USC), that's just proof positive that we're not "there" yet. I don't think SU fans are under any kind of delusion about how we've won this season (either ugly wins or against FSC opponents). And I think most SU fans understand that this is USF team in transition. But that doesn't mean we're not a decent football team. We may not win 9 or 10 games, but we're good enough to be competitive (and give ourselves a strong chance) at beating every single team in this conference
Brian Bennett: That ranking is more about the general state of the Big East and the wildly varied schedules teams have played this year. Syracuse has the record and the Big East road victory, which is good enough to make it No. 2 this week. But while I agree that the Orange will be very competitive, I'm not at all sold that they're a true league contender. You have to ask yourself this: If Cincinnati or Pitt played the Orange's schedule (Akron, Colgate, Maine, USF and Washington), what would their record be? I think it would probably also be 4-1.
Syracuse has done what it was supposed to do to this point, and it's a great story. But I believe the hard part is just beginning.
Chris from Connecticut writes: I know all of Orange nation is pumped after the win against USF. I live 6 hours from Syracuse and I bought tickets for the game against Pitt on Saturday, so the Dome should be rockin like it used to. I'm not going to be one of those homers that gets upset when you say Syracuse isn't going to win the Big East this year, but wouldn't you say Syracuse should be favored in their remaining games other than at WVU and Rutgers (maybe)?
Brian Bennett: If the Dome isn't sold out, I'll be dumbfounded. It's homecoming weekend, the basketball team has midnight madness the night before and this is the biggest game the Orange have played since 2004. There's no excuse for a single empty seat in the building. As for being favored, eh, I'm not ready to go there yet. Let's see how Syracuse does against Pitt this weekend first.
Bob from Phoenix, writes: If WVU were to run the table and finish with one loss, where do you think they might finish in the BCS rankings?
Brian Bennett: West Virginia's problem is going to be that it probably won't play a ranked team the rest of the season. Mountaineers fans should be rooting like heck for LSU to keep winning. I think WVU could get into the Top 15, maybe even the Top 12. Truthfully, though, BCS rankings won't make one bit of difference to the Big East this year. Only winning the league title will matter.
Aaron from Cincinnati writes: Brian, now that we are halfway through the season and at least a few conference games have been played, who is your favorite to win the Big East? I have to go with either West Virginia or Cincinnati at this point. West Virginia has been pretty good, and are finally back in the rankings. But Cincinnati appears to be back in stride, and with the rest of the league still reeling, I think they will make the next best run for the title. Your thoughts?
Brian Bennett: West Virginia is the definite favorite at this point. You can't count out Cincinnati since they're the two-time defending champs, but the Bearcats do have to go to Morgantown. Every week should be close and a lot of fun, however. The first two conference games were decided by a total of seven points, and I think we'll see a lot more of those kinds of games.
Rickey from Fort Myers, Fla., writes: I'm a Bulls fan but it pains me to say this: B.J. Daniels is the worst quarterback in the Big East. I was so disappointed in his decision making. He looks down his primary receiver the entire time and never checks down. Against Syracuse, he missed several wide open receivers and instead threw into double and triple coverage. There were also plenty of opportunities for him to just pull the ball down and run but he would instead try to force the ball into coverage. I know he's learning a new offense but it's still just football. Throwing to the open guy is the same no matter where or who you're playing.
Brian Bennett: I can't argue with anything you said. Daniels has thrown more interceptions (seven) than any Big East quarterback, and he's ranked seventh among league passers (ahead of only Tom Savage ... who thought that Daniels vs. Savage debate would be about who was the worst in the league?). I continue to believe in Daniels' talent, though, and I think eventually he'll get it figured out. As a Bulls fan, you just have to wait for it. It's not like there are any great options behind him.
Rich from New York, N.Y., writes: As a Rutgers alum/season ticket holder, I loved what Chas Dodd did the other night in what really was a must-win game and agree that he should keep starting. If he does supplant Tom Savage, though, how likely do you think it would be for Savage to transfer? I'm sure he's at least aware of Pat Bostick, who was once a 5-star recruit, but was eventually leapfrogged by Tino Sunseri. Could you see Savage eventually becoming our Pat Bostick? Unfortunately, as big of an apologist as I am for Savage, it seems more and more likely each time Dodd takes the field.
Brian Bennett: It's a fascinating question and one that bears watching all season. I certainly never saw this coming, not the way Savage seemed to have gotten better over the course of last year. I don't think this story is over by a long shot; Dodd played great last week, but starting quarterbacks have to do it week in and week out. We haven't seen the last of Savage this year, and as porous as that offensive line is, Rutgers will need two quarterbacks.
Todd from Carlisle, Penn., writes: As a Pitt fan I'm used to disappointment -- staring in the early '90s. When Coach Majors returned in the late '90s things seemed to start changing and Pitt was back as a respectable team that had a chance to win on most Saturdays. But as a fan I'm totally perplexed -- they've got better recruits and more depth than I've ever seen, the coaching staff as a whole seems to have the resources to make something happen and the University seems supportive. The Big East's football reputation doesn't really help, but it's clearly not a key cause of the issue. So I'm asking you as a football expert, both in the Big East and nationally, what do you see that might explain Pitt's seemingly chronic inability to be a national contender? Is it Coach Wannstedt, the players, other coaches, facilities, University, TV ratings, BE conference, bad luck, carma, our colors, mascot or something else?
Brian Bennett: Well, I'm pretty sure it's not the mascot or the colors. And as far as underachieving, let's not forget that Pitt won 10 games last year and was a play away from winning all three games it lost. So it's not like the Panthers are miles away, despite the bad start to 2010. At some point, though, perhaps you just have to reconcile yourself with the fact that this program is what it is. This isn't the late 70s or early 80s anymore, and Pittsburgh may just be a mid-level program that can rise up and have really good seasons on occasion.
Kevin from Mahwah, N.J., writes: Brian, given the many open questions in league so far, do you agree this week will answer many of them? Here is what I think we will learn:1) Is Cuse for real? 2) Will Pitt rebound or potentially be in for a big clunker? 3) Can the 'Ville compete on a higher level than the BE basement? 4) Can Cincy legitimately compete for league title? 5) Will South Florida be a good team, or potentially a basement dweller? 6) Is the Rutgers new offensive surge a one-week exception, or a new reality?
Brian Bennett: That's a pretty good summation of Week 7, Kevin. Mind if I just copy and paste that for my weekly what to watch post? The only one I think is a little shaky is No. 6. I know Army has improved, but I'm not going to be overly impressed by Rutgers' offense if it performs well against a service academy. What I do want to see, though, is whether Chas Dodd can continue his level of play in his second start. And one other question has to be: Can West Virginia get over its USF hump?
Jim from California writes: I'm disappointed in all the caveats you placed in your explanation for Syracuse's No. 2 ranking. If you didn't think they were the No. 2 team, why did you put them there? Every time SU has won a game this year, people have just found an excuse ... our opponent isn't that good, it was in the Dome, etc. And when SU lost to Washington (mind you the same team that beat USC), that's just proof positive that we're not "there" yet. I don't think SU fans are under any kind of delusion about how we've won this season (either ugly wins or against FSC opponents). And I think most SU fans understand that this is USF team in transition. But that doesn't mean we're not a decent football team. We may not win 9 or 10 games, but we're good enough to be competitive (and give ourselves a strong chance) at beating every single team in this conference
Brian Bennett: That ranking is more about the general state of the Big East and the wildly varied schedules teams have played this year. Syracuse has the record and the Big East road victory, which is good enough to make it No. 2 this week. But while I agree that the Orange will be very competitive, I'm not at all sold that they're a true league contender. You have to ask yourself this: If Cincinnati or Pitt played the Orange's schedule (Akron, Colgate, Maine, USF and Washington), what would their record be? I think it would probably also be 4-1.
Syracuse has done what it was supposed to do to this point, and it's a great story. But I believe the hard part is just beginning.
Chris from Connecticut writes: I know all of Orange nation is pumped after the win against USF. I live 6 hours from Syracuse and I bought tickets for the game against Pitt on Saturday, so the Dome should be rockin like it used to. I'm not going to be one of those homers that gets upset when you say Syracuse isn't going to win the Big East this year, but wouldn't you say Syracuse should be favored in their remaining games other than at WVU and Rutgers (maybe)?
Brian Bennett: If the Dome isn't sold out, I'll be dumbfounded. It's homecoming weekend, the basketball team has midnight madness the night before and this is the biggest game the Orange have played since 2004. There's no excuse for a single empty seat in the building. As for being favored, eh, I'm not ready to go there yet. Let's see how Syracuse does against Pitt this weekend first.
Bob from Phoenix, writes: If WVU were to run the table and finish with one loss, where do you think they might finish in the BCS rankings?
Brian Bennett: West Virginia's problem is going to be that it probably won't play a ranked team the rest of the season. Mountaineers fans should be rooting like heck for LSU to keep winning. I think WVU could get into the Top 15, maybe even the Top 12. Truthfully, though, BCS rankings won't make one bit of difference to the Big East this year. Only winning the league title will matter.
Aaron from Cincinnati writes: Brian, now that we are halfway through the season and at least a few conference games have been played, who is your favorite to win the Big East? I have to go with either West Virginia or Cincinnati at this point. West Virginia has been pretty good, and are finally back in the rankings. But Cincinnati appears to be back in stride, and with the rest of the league still reeling, I think they will make the next best run for the title. Your thoughts?
Brian Bennett: West Virginia is the definite favorite at this point. You can't count out Cincinnati since they're the two-time defending champs, but the Bearcats do have to go to Morgantown. Every week should be close and a lot of fun, however. The first two conference games were decided by a total of seven points, and I think we'll see a lot more of those kinds of games.
Rickey from Fort Myers, Fla., writes: I'm a Bulls fan but it pains me to say this: B.J. Daniels is the worst quarterback in the Big East. I was so disappointed in his decision making. He looks down his primary receiver the entire time and never checks down. Against Syracuse, he missed several wide open receivers and instead threw into double and triple coverage. There were also plenty of opportunities for him to just pull the ball down and run but he would instead try to force the ball into coverage. I know he's learning a new offense but it's still just football. Throwing to the open guy is the same no matter where or who you're playing.
Brian Bennett: I can't argue with anything you said. Daniels has thrown more interceptions (seven) than any Big East quarterback, and he's ranked seventh among league passers (ahead of only Tom Savage ... who thought that Daniels vs. Savage debate would be about who was the worst in the league?). I continue to believe in Daniels' talent, though, and I think eventually he'll get it figured out. As a Bulls fan, you just have to wait for it. It's not like there are any great options behind him.
Rich from New York, N.Y., writes: As a Rutgers alum/season ticket holder, I loved what Chas Dodd did the other night in what really was a must-win game and agree that he should keep starting. If he does supplant Tom Savage, though, how likely do you think it would be for Savage to transfer? I'm sure he's at least aware of Pat Bostick, who was once a 5-star recruit, but was eventually leapfrogged by Tino Sunseri. Could you see Savage eventually becoming our Pat Bostick? Unfortunately, as big of an apologist as I am for Savage, it seems more and more likely each time Dodd takes the field.
Brian Bennett: It's a fascinating question and one that bears watching all season. I certainly never saw this coming, not the way Savage seemed to have gotten better over the course of last year. I don't think this story is over by a long shot; Dodd played great last week, but starting quarterbacks have to do it week in and week out. We haven't seen the last of Savage this year, and as porous as that offensive line is, Rutgers will need two quarterbacks.
Todd from Carlisle, Penn., writes: As a Pitt fan I'm used to disappointment -- staring in the early '90s. When Coach Majors returned in the late '90s things seemed to start changing and Pitt was back as a respectable team that had a chance to win on most Saturdays. But as a fan I'm totally perplexed -- they've got better recruits and more depth than I've ever seen, the coaching staff as a whole seems to have the resources to make something happen and the University seems supportive. The Big East's football reputation doesn't really help, but it's clearly not a key cause of the issue. So I'm asking you as a football expert, both in the Big East and nationally, what do you see that might explain Pitt's seemingly chronic inability to be a national contender? Is it Coach Wannstedt, the players, other coaches, facilities, University, TV ratings, BE conference, bad luck, carma, our colors, mascot or something else?
Brian Bennett: Well, I'm pretty sure it's not the mascot or the colors. And as far as underachieving, let's not forget that Pitt won 10 games last year and was a play away from winning all three games it lost. So it's not like the Panthers are miles away, despite the bad start to 2010. At some point, though, perhaps you just have to reconcile yourself with the fact that this program is what it is. This isn't the late 70s or early 80s anymore, and Pittsburgh may just be a mid-level program that can rise up and have really good seasons on occasion.
Thank goodness for the start of conference play. Not just because the Big East has been so abysmal in out-of-league action, but because this is where the real fun lies. After months of arguing about which of these teams are better, we finally get to see them go head to head, starting this week.
I go head to head with the readers twice a week. Let's go:
Matthew from Acworth, Ga., writes: I need some help here. My Mountaineers are 3-1, have a decent chance of going 11-1, and all I can feel is "eh." They lost against the only decent opponent they've played, and the rest of the Big East looks so bad that any win feels meaningless. Is there any reason I should be emotionally invested in this team for the rest of the year?
Brian Bennett: I understand that there are not any marquee games left on the schedule, and the shot at a national title is gone. But if your team wins its league and goes to a BCS game, that's a great season no matter what. Not to mention revenge games against USF and Cincinnati, the Backyard Brawl and a challenging game at UConn. C'mon, Matthew, let's get fired up for conference play!
Jason from East Hampton, Conn., writes: Just one question about UConn. Even though UConn put a beating on Vandy last Saturday it seems as though the offense is really focusing on running the ball A LOT. I dont understand why, I mean, Cody Endres wasnt having that bad of a game. For example, three times on third-and-one we ran the ball and didn't make the first down. Why couldn't Randy Edsall just put a little faith in the offense to throw a short pass? It seems as though when Endres did throw the ball there was a lot of effort to catch it by the WRs and so my question is why does Edsall only use his offensive "spark" periodically? Shouldnt he be trying to pass the ball more?
Brian Bennett: Well, first of all, let's make it clear that UConn has the best offensive line in the league and the leading rusher in Jordan Todman. This is always going to be a team that thinks run first, and it should because that is its strength. Give me a back who rushes for 190-plus yards, and I like my chances at winning. I do agree that those third-and-short calls were very underwhelming on Saturday. The defense was so geared up to stop the run that a play-action and dump off to the tight end seemed like it would have been very effective. But let's not discount the fact that it was the final nonconference game, and perhaps Edsall didn't want to show off all his third-down calls against Vanderbilt.
Tom S. from Cranbury, N.J., writes: If Tom Savage is hurt, why doesn't Greg Schiano consider using Mohamed Sanu as the starting quarterback instead of Chas Dodd? Sanu played quarterback in high school and has displayed has a good arm. If the offensive line can't block anybody, at least Sanu has a good chance of escaping the pocket and creating something with his legs. I almost look a Sanu as a Denard Robinson (Michigan) type. He's fast, has a good arm, & can really cause some match-up problems for Connecticut. Lastly, if Schiano is going to rely on the Wildcat so often, why doesn't Sanu throw the ball more?
Brian Bennett: I really like Sanu, and I shudder to think what the Rutgers offense would look like without him. But take it easy on the Denard Robinson comparisons. Take away Sanu's 91-yard touchdown run on Saturday's second snap, and he's only averaging 3.7 yards per carry. The Wildcat has only been effective in short stints, and I agree with you that Sanu needs to throw the ball more out of the formation to loosen defenses up. There's one other problem here, though; Sanu is also Rutgers' best receiver, so if you put him at quarterback you hurt the passing game. I actually thought Dodd showed some good things last weekend, though the idea of starting a true freshman in a conference game has to give Schiano pause.
Matt from New York, N.Y., writes: If Syracuse, were to beat USF -- I know this is a big IF -- where do you see them in the Big East rankings? Third?
Brian Bennett: I would have to rank the Orange at least in the top half of the league. After all, they'd be one of only two teams with a conference victory and would own a 4-1 ranking. As I wrote earlier today, it's hard to get too much of a gauge yet on either Syracuse or South Florida, which makes Saturday's game very intriguing.
Kyle from Pittsburgh writes: Being one of the few people actually in attendance for the Pittsburgh v. Florida International game (another miserable crowd), I couldn't help but notice how awful Jon Baldwin's ball skills are. I used to think teams were crazy trying to cover him 1-on-1, but not anymore. It's time for people to stop comparing to Larry Fitzgerald. Thoughts?
Brian Bennett: I have to disagree, because I've seen Baldwin make all kinds of amazing catches the past couple of years. I think he still needs work on his route-running and his ability to get away from press coverage. And, clearly, he and Tino Sunseri have not gotten in sync this year. I fear Baldwin's pro stock has fallen so far this season, but there's a lot of season left.
Brandon from Steel City writes: Ray Graham had one of the best games ever by a Pitt running back. Given it was against a bad team, but Ray was dominant on the ground, almost 10 ypc. The old adage says that a player shouldn't lose his job because of injury. I think Dion Lewis shouldn't lose his job for another reason. HE HAD 1800 YARDS LAST YEAR. Give the guy a crack and he turns it into a touchdown. I'm a huge Graham fan, but I think people should withhold judgement on changing backs until Lewis gets a chance to run behind the revamped line.
Brian Bennett: I agree that you can't give up on Lewis, because he's been too good. He deserves a chance to work his way out of this slump. At the same time, though, Graham has been far and away Pitt's most valuable offensive player this year. You have to go with the hot hand. Split the carries, perhaps, but don't put Graham on the bench right now.
Gil E. from Nashville writes: As one of the Mountaineer faithful, I have to ask why West Virginia is not back in the Top 25 and in their place you have Air Force and Nevada? Seems like a double standard of sorts and re-enforces my opinion that there is no love for the Big East at all. It doesn't matter how much the teams have proven themselves (OK, I mean WVU). Why is there so much hatred of the Big East overall?
Brian Bennett: I didn't rank Air Force this week, though I can understand why some would. Nevada is a no-brainer at 5-0 and with blowout victories over Cal and BYU, which is more impressive than anything West Virginia has. I think the Mountaineers are a Top 25 caliber team, but at this point their résumé includes a decent win over Maryland, an overtime escape at Marshall and a six-point loss to an LSU team that needed another miracle to beat Tennessee at home. At this point in the season, the Top 25 should be about who you beat and who you played, and the Mountaineers need to add a little more to their portfolio.
I go head to head with the readers twice a week. Let's go:
Matthew from Acworth, Ga., writes: I need some help here. My Mountaineers are 3-1, have a decent chance of going 11-1, and all I can feel is "eh." They lost against the only decent opponent they've played, and the rest of the Big East looks so bad that any win feels meaningless. Is there any reason I should be emotionally invested in this team for the rest of the year?
Brian Bennett: I understand that there are not any marquee games left on the schedule, and the shot at a national title is gone. But if your team wins its league and goes to a BCS game, that's a great season no matter what. Not to mention revenge games against USF and Cincinnati, the Backyard Brawl and a challenging game at UConn. C'mon, Matthew, let's get fired up for conference play!
Jason from East Hampton, Conn., writes: Just one question about UConn. Even though UConn put a beating on Vandy last Saturday it seems as though the offense is really focusing on running the ball A LOT. I dont understand why, I mean, Cody Endres wasnt having that bad of a game. For example, three times on third-and-one we ran the ball and didn't make the first down. Why couldn't Randy Edsall just put a little faith in the offense to throw a short pass? It seems as though when Endres did throw the ball there was a lot of effort to catch it by the WRs and so my question is why does Edsall only use his offensive "spark" periodically? Shouldnt he be trying to pass the ball more?
Brian Bennett: Well, first of all, let's make it clear that UConn has the best offensive line in the league and the leading rusher in Jordan Todman. This is always going to be a team that thinks run first, and it should because that is its strength. Give me a back who rushes for 190-plus yards, and I like my chances at winning. I do agree that those third-and-short calls were very underwhelming on Saturday. The defense was so geared up to stop the run that a play-action and dump off to the tight end seemed like it would have been very effective. But let's not discount the fact that it was the final nonconference game, and perhaps Edsall didn't want to show off all his third-down calls against Vanderbilt.
Tom S. from Cranbury, N.J., writes: If Tom Savage is hurt, why doesn't Greg Schiano consider using Mohamed Sanu as the starting quarterback instead of Chas Dodd? Sanu played quarterback in high school and has displayed has a good arm. If the offensive line can't block anybody, at least Sanu has a good chance of escaping the pocket and creating something with his legs. I almost look a Sanu as a Denard Robinson (Michigan) type. He's fast, has a good arm, & can really cause some match-up problems for Connecticut. Lastly, if Schiano is going to rely on the Wildcat so often, why doesn't Sanu throw the ball more?
Brian Bennett: I really like Sanu, and I shudder to think what the Rutgers offense would look like without him. But take it easy on the Denard Robinson comparisons. Take away Sanu's 91-yard touchdown run on Saturday's second snap, and he's only averaging 3.7 yards per carry. The Wildcat has only been effective in short stints, and I agree with you that Sanu needs to throw the ball more out of the formation to loosen defenses up. There's one other problem here, though; Sanu is also Rutgers' best receiver, so if you put him at quarterback you hurt the passing game. I actually thought Dodd showed some good things last weekend, though the idea of starting a true freshman in a conference game has to give Schiano pause.
Matt from New York, N.Y., writes: If Syracuse, were to beat USF -- I know this is a big IF -- where do you see them in the Big East rankings? Third?
Brian Bennett: I would have to rank the Orange at least in the top half of the league. After all, they'd be one of only two teams with a conference victory and would own a 4-1 ranking. As I wrote earlier today, it's hard to get too much of a gauge yet on either Syracuse or South Florida, which makes Saturday's game very intriguing.
Kyle from Pittsburgh writes: Being one of the few people actually in attendance for the Pittsburgh v. Florida International game (another miserable crowd), I couldn't help but notice how awful Jon Baldwin's ball skills are. I used to think teams were crazy trying to cover him 1-on-1, but not anymore. It's time for people to stop comparing to Larry Fitzgerald. Thoughts?
Brian Bennett: I have to disagree, because I've seen Baldwin make all kinds of amazing catches the past couple of years. I think he still needs work on his route-running and his ability to get away from press coverage. And, clearly, he and Tino Sunseri have not gotten in sync this year. I fear Baldwin's pro stock has fallen so far this season, but there's a lot of season left.
Brandon from Steel City writes: Ray Graham had one of the best games ever by a Pitt running back. Given it was against a bad team, but Ray was dominant on the ground, almost 10 ypc. The old adage says that a player shouldn't lose his job because of injury. I think Dion Lewis shouldn't lose his job for another reason. HE HAD 1800 YARDS LAST YEAR. Give the guy a crack and he turns it into a touchdown. I'm a huge Graham fan, but I think people should withhold judgement on changing backs until Lewis gets a chance to run behind the revamped line.
Brian Bennett: I agree that you can't give up on Lewis, because he's been too good. He deserves a chance to work his way out of this slump. At the same time, though, Graham has been far and away Pitt's most valuable offensive player this year. You have to go with the hot hand. Split the carries, perhaps, but don't put Graham on the bench right now.
Gil E. from Nashville writes: As one of the Mountaineer faithful, I have to ask why West Virginia is not back in the Top 25 and in their place you have Air Force and Nevada? Seems like a double standard of sorts and re-enforces my opinion that there is no love for the Big East at all. It doesn't matter how much the teams have proven themselves (OK, I mean WVU). Why is there so much hatred of the Big East overall?
Brian Bennett: I didn't rank Air Force this week, though I can understand why some would. Nevada is a no-brainer at 5-0 and with blowout victories over Cal and BYU, which is more impressive than anything West Virginia has. I think the Mountaineers are a Top 25 caliber team, but at this point their résumé includes a decent win over Maryland, an overtime escape at Marshall and a six-point loss to an LSU team that needed another miracle to beat Tennessee at home. At this point in the season, the Top 25 should be about who you beat and who you played, and the Mountaineers need to add a little more to their portfolio.
A month of games is in the books. It hasn't been a very good book for the Big East. Let's see what's on your minds:
Chris from Hawthorne, N.J., writes: I have a question about Rutgers coaching staff/decision making. Do you think that Rutgers struggles have anything to do with Greg Schiano having co-coordinators on both offense and defense? It seems to me that there could be mixed messages coming from two people with the same job. In my opinion, Schiano needs to man up and name one person to each of these jobs in order to create more cohesion, and stability. Like the old QB saying; if you have two, you don't have one. Your thoughts?
Brian Bennett: Wait a minute, Chris. Are you saying Rutgers' offense has a message? (I kid, I kid). The Scarlet Knights' offense has a lot of problems, but I don't think the co-coordinator set up is one of them. A lot of places have passing game coordinators, running game coordinators, etc., and a most of the time they're just glorified titles. As long as the responsibilities are clearly delineated, it shouldn't be an issue.
Now, we don't get to hear much from the Rutgers coordinators, so it's hard to know what they're thinking sometimes. But the defense has co-coordinators (not to mention heavy input from Schiano) and I don't hear anybody complaining about that side of the ball. I think it's more personnel/philosophy than any splitting of roles.
Sean from Tampa writes: Do WVU fans have any merit in thinking either head coach Bill Stewart or offensive coordinator Jeff Mullen have any right to be fired?
Brian Bennett: I understand some of your frustrations, believe me. However, I don't get why they should be criticized much after the LSU game. West Virginia lost by six points in a game where it missed two field goals and gave up a punt return touchdown. And LSU has a ferocious defense that was very impressive in person. There aren't a lot of SEC teams that are going to score much more than 14 points on the road against the Tigers. Throw in the fact that Noel Devine was injured early, and that was a tremendously difficult assignment for the Mountaineers.
Tim from Arlington, Va., writes: As infuriating as the loss to LSU was, I did take one positive away. WVU's defense has lived up to the hype. I'll be surprised to see any team in the BE score more than 14 points against WVU. As far as the negatives, SPECIAL TEAMS AGAIN!!! I thought we finally had that under control.
Brian Bennett: I thought the defense played very well at times, although the Mountaineers really needed some more stops in the fourth quarter to improve field position. And let's not forget to underscore the fact that LSU's offense -- especially its passing game and play calling -- are embarrassingly bad. I mean, it's laughably bad. There's a reason LSU fans were booing quarterback Jordan Jefferson even though they had the lead the entire game.
As far as special teams, there were definite breakdowns that proved fatal. But West Virginia's problems in the past were more in kickoff coverage. Punt coverage and especially field-goal kicking weren't really concerns before this game.
Brandon from Pittsburgh writes: You said that Pitt had no chance to win in the fourth quarter of the game against Miami. I'd say Pitt still had a chance... 12 minutes left receiving a punt at midfield down 17-3. The final score was ugly, but it was not indicative as to how long Pitt was actually in the game. Once Cam Saddler fumbled the punt, it was over. Until then, the Panthers hung in there.
Brian Bennett: I'll agree that Pitt had some momentum after getting a defensive stop and forcing a punt down 17-3. But I don't know how anyone could say that the Panthers looked like a team ready to march the field for two touchdowns after not being able to move the ball with any effectiveness the entire night. At that point, a 14-point lead was insurmountable. Yes, Pat Bostick had some success when he came in, but by that point Miami's defense had backed off and was just trying to protect the big lead. Give the Pitt defense credit for keeping the score in striking range, but the offense had nothing against the Hurricanes.
Dwight from Parkersburg, W.Va., writes: Strangest moment in Week 4? Should have been Geno Smith getting a little too close to his RG, thinking it was his center.
Brian Bennett: That was strange, and rather comical. But it's a play I've seen before, and with the LSU fans screaming their lungs off while the Mountaineers were pinned near their own end zone, it was almost understandable. I've never seen a starting quarterback come in for the onsides hands team, and actually field the ball.
Trey P. from Oldsmar, Fla., writes: I don't understand why USF is ranked so low according to you this week. What would it have proved to go guns blazing and actually try against WKU? Would a 42-7 win really have been that important?
Brian Bennett: I'm taking the same stance on South Florida I've had all along: wait and see. As I wrote, they're the most difficult team in the league to read right now, a sentiment that even their own coaches echo. With a blowout over a totally outmatched FCS team, a good performance that ultimately fell far short against Florida and a close win over Western Kentucky, it's almost impossible to tell where the Bulls are.
Andew from Toledo, Ohio, writes: No Big East Teams in the Top 25. What if the Big East champ is a four loss team and not in the top 25? Has this ever happened before?
Brian Bennett: Not a four-loss team, but Pittsburgh went to the Fiesta Bowl after finishing 8-3 in 2004 (and then got blown out by Utah). This is starting to look a lot like 2004.
Chris from Hawthorne, N.J., writes: I have a question about Rutgers coaching staff/decision making. Do you think that Rutgers struggles have anything to do with Greg Schiano having co-coordinators on both offense and defense? It seems to me that there could be mixed messages coming from two people with the same job. In my opinion, Schiano needs to man up and name one person to each of these jobs in order to create more cohesion, and stability. Like the old QB saying; if you have two, you don't have one. Your thoughts?
Brian Bennett: Wait a minute, Chris. Are you saying Rutgers' offense has a message? (I kid, I kid). The Scarlet Knights' offense has a lot of problems, but I don't think the co-coordinator set up is one of them. A lot of places have passing game coordinators, running game coordinators, etc., and a most of the time they're just glorified titles. As long as the responsibilities are clearly delineated, it shouldn't be an issue.
Now, we don't get to hear much from the Rutgers coordinators, so it's hard to know what they're thinking sometimes. But the defense has co-coordinators (not to mention heavy input from Schiano) and I don't hear anybody complaining about that side of the ball. I think it's more personnel/philosophy than any splitting of roles.
Sean from Tampa writes: Do WVU fans have any merit in thinking either head coach Bill Stewart or offensive coordinator Jeff Mullen have any right to be fired?
Brian Bennett: I understand some of your frustrations, believe me. However, I don't get why they should be criticized much after the LSU game. West Virginia lost by six points in a game where it missed two field goals and gave up a punt return touchdown. And LSU has a ferocious defense that was very impressive in person. There aren't a lot of SEC teams that are going to score much more than 14 points on the road against the Tigers. Throw in the fact that Noel Devine was injured early, and that was a tremendously difficult assignment for the Mountaineers.
Tim from Arlington, Va., writes: As infuriating as the loss to LSU was, I did take one positive away. WVU's defense has lived up to the hype. I'll be surprised to see any team in the BE score more than 14 points against WVU. As far as the negatives, SPECIAL TEAMS AGAIN!!! I thought we finally had that under control.
Brian Bennett: I thought the defense played very well at times, although the Mountaineers really needed some more stops in the fourth quarter to improve field position. And let's not forget to underscore the fact that LSU's offense -- especially its passing game and play calling -- are embarrassingly bad. I mean, it's laughably bad. There's a reason LSU fans were booing quarterback Jordan Jefferson even though they had the lead the entire game.
As far as special teams, there were definite breakdowns that proved fatal. But West Virginia's problems in the past were more in kickoff coverage. Punt coverage and especially field-goal kicking weren't really concerns before this game.
Brandon from Pittsburgh writes: You said that Pitt had no chance to win in the fourth quarter of the game against Miami. I'd say Pitt still had a chance... 12 minutes left receiving a punt at midfield down 17-3. The final score was ugly, but it was not indicative as to how long Pitt was actually in the game. Once Cam Saddler fumbled the punt, it was over. Until then, the Panthers hung in there.
Brian Bennett: I'll agree that Pitt had some momentum after getting a defensive stop and forcing a punt down 17-3. But I don't know how anyone could say that the Panthers looked like a team ready to march the field for two touchdowns after not being able to move the ball with any effectiveness the entire night. At that point, a 14-point lead was insurmountable. Yes, Pat Bostick had some success when he came in, but by that point Miami's defense had backed off and was just trying to protect the big lead. Give the Pitt defense credit for keeping the score in striking range, but the offense had nothing against the Hurricanes.
Dwight from Parkersburg, W.Va., writes: Strangest moment in Week 4? Should have been Geno Smith getting a little too close to his RG, thinking it was his center.
Brian Bennett: That was strange, and rather comical. But it's a play I've seen before, and with the LSU fans screaming their lungs off while the Mountaineers were pinned near their own end zone, it was almost understandable. I've never seen a starting quarterback come in for the onsides hands team, and actually field the ball.
Trey P. from Oldsmar, Fla., writes: I don't understand why USF is ranked so low according to you this week. What would it have proved to go guns blazing and actually try against WKU? Would a 42-7 win really have been that important?
Brian Bennett: I'm taking the same stance on South Florida I've had all along: wait and see. As I wrote, they're the most difficult team in the league to read right now, a sentiment that even their own coaches echo. With a blowout over a totally outmatched FCS team, a good performance that ultimately fell far short against Florida and a close win over Western Kentucky, it's almost impossible to tell where the Bulls are.
Andew from Toledo, Ohio, writes: No Big East Teams in the Top 25. What if the Big East champ is a four loss team and not in the top 25? Has this ever happened before?
Brian Bennett: Not a four-loss team, but Pittsburgh went to the Fiesta Bowl after finishing 8-3 in 2004 (and then got blown out by Utah). This is starting to look a lot like 2004.
Before I get to this week's mailbag, I want to ask if any West Virginia fans are making the trip to LSU this weekend. If so, I'd like to hear about your tailgating plans and your thoughts about going to Death Valley. Hit me with a note on the mailbag link underneath my picture (or if you're too lazy to move your mouse, here).
Now let's get to some mail:
Brady from Pittsburgh writes: With Pittsburgh facing Miami this week, it got me thinking about the infamous ACC raid in 2002-03. Since then, Virginia Tech has won the ACC and had some great years, but is struggling this season. Miami's problems since leaving the Big East have been well documented, and Boston College seems completely irrelevant to me in football and has lost any regional rival it previously had. So with that all said, if we forget about the big revenue spike from ACC TV contracts for a second, do you think any of those three schools ever regrets moving to the ACC, nearly eight years later? You might point to Big East's terrible start this year and say "no way." But think about it ... if the Big East kept those schools and expanded with its newest members, would that not be a strong, competitive conference in 2010?
Brian Bennett: Those schools probably regret it for a second -- and then the ACC revenue checks come in the mail and they do a little dance. Boston College unquestionably belongs in the Big East. But it's all about money.
Andrew from Old Bridge, N.J., writes: I am so embarrassed. I spent the last few years telling friends from my town who went to Big Ten, ACC, and SEC schools how underrated the Big East is. I brought up our bowl record the last few years and our OOC record. I listed the stud players we had coming back this year in Savage/Lewis/Devine/Baldwin/Daniels/Sands/Sanu/Romeus etc. But this has been the most disappointing season for me. There is no reason my Scarlet Knights should be a third-ranked team in the Sun Belt, much less a BCS conference based on how they are playing. But that's just how bad the conference is playing. How much pressure would you say is on Rutgers, WVU, Pitt (forget Cincy because they look anemic) to win this week to salvage the reputation of the conference?
Brian Bennett: Andrew, don't feel too bad. I pretty much wrote the same things. I'm working to try to scrub all those preseason posts from the Internet. Still, let's not panic too much. The Big East is off to a terrible start, but it is just September. The league could get some wins this week, or it could play well in bowl season. And it's just one year, not a sustained period.
As for pressure, the Big East needs a scalp or two to get any respect for this season. But I think the individual teams are more concerned with their own seasons. If every team loses this week, it can still have a successful season by winning the league and getting to a BCS game.
Rob from New Martinsville, W. Va., writes: I am tired of the Big East bashing going on. Granted, it is much deserved given our out of conference record as a whole. But the Big East is one of 2 BCS conferences to not have lost to an FCS team -- the other being the PAC 10, which had near miss with Washington State's last second heroics against mighty Montana State to edge out a 23-22 win. Minnesota, Ole Miss, Virginia Tech, Kansas all lost to FCS opponents. You cannot say the same about the Big East. Maybe we dont have a lot of highly ranked teams, but we do have some good teams, with my Mountaineers carrying the torch. Maybe with a beat down in Baton Rouge this week the conference will get back on track in the court of public opinion. Whatcha Think?
Brian Bennett: I like that argument style and will use it the next time I try to pick up a woman: "Now, I know I'm not very good-looking, or rich, or particularly interesting. But at least my breath doesn't smell!" (Are you listening, Rachel Bilson?)
Velden L. from Bristol, Va., writes: I know this is very optimistic ... but if the Mounties go into Baton Rouge and pull off the upset this weekend, could we officially declare them back as a national power? It's been so long since we've been in the Top 10 I can't remember what it was like.
Brian Bennett: You and I both know what the storyline will be if West Virginia wins: that LSU is down and Les Miles is in trouble. I'm not sure if the Mountaineers would get the proper respect for that win that they deserve because of that. But if they keep on winning, sooner or later people will be forced to take notice.
Steven from Louisville writes: With the disappointing start by a lot of the league teams, do you want to change your outlook for Louisville now? As a fan, I had really low expectations for this season, and I still do, but I no longer think Louisville will finish at the bottom of the league. Our defense still may be thin, but they've shown they can stiffen up when needed.
Brian Bennett: I think that for sure, Louisville will play teams tough and can come up with a couple of wins in the league. I'm still convinced that the Cardinals have less talent than any team in the Big East, and their lack of depth will be a problem as the season wears on. But I do like the direction they're headed under Charlie Strong.
Chuck from Philadelphia writes: Brian, if my guess is as good as yours for ranking teams 3-8 in the Big East power rankings, can I get a special guest post on the column?
Brian Bennett: Chuck, if you can actually tell me who the the third- through eighth-best teams are in this league, you should be doing my job full time.
Now let's get to some mail:
Brady from Pittsburgh writes: With Pittsburgh facing Miami this week, it got me thinking about the infamous ACC raid in 2002-03. Since then, Virginia Tech has won the ACC and had some great years, but is struggling this season. Miami's problems since leaving the Big East have been well documented, and Boston College seems completely irrelevant to me in football and has lost any regional rival it previously had. So with that all said, if we forget about the big revenue spike from ACC TV contracts for a second, do you think any of those three schools ever regrets moving to the ACC, nearly eight years later? You might point to Big East's terrible start this year and say "no way." But think about it ... if the Big East kept those schools and expanded with its newest members, would that not be a strong, competitive conference in 2010?
Brian Bennett: Those schools probably regret it for a second -- and then the ACC revenue checks come in the mail and they do a little dance. Boston College unquestionably belongs in the Big East. But it's all about money.
Andrew from Old Bridge, N.J., writes: I am so embarrassed. I spent the last few years telling friends from my town who went to Big Ten, ACC, and SEC schools how underrated the Big East is. I brought up our bowl record the last few years and our OOC record. I listed the stud players we had coming back this year in Savage/Lewis/Devine/Baldwin/Daniels/Sands/Sanu/Romeus etc. But this has been the most disappointing season for me. There is no reason my Scarlet Knights should be a third-ranked team in the Sun Belt, much less a BCS conference based on how they are playing. But that's just how bad the conference is playing. How much pressure would you say is on Rutgers, WVU, Pitt (forget Cincy because they look anemic) to win this week to salvage the reputation of the conference?
Brian Bennett: Andrew, don't feel too bad. I pretty much wrote the same things. I'm working to try to scrub all those preseason posts from the Internet. Still, let's not panic too much. The Big East is off to a terrible start, but it is just September. The league could get some wins this week, or it could play well in bowl season. And it's just one year, not a sustained period.
As for pressure, the Big East needs a scalp or two to get any respect for this season. But I think the individual teams are more concerned with their own seasons. If every team loses this week, it can still have a successful season by winning the league and getting to a BCS game.
Rob from New Martinsville, W. Va., writes: I am tired of the Big East bashing going on. Granted, it is much deserved given our out of conference record as a whole. But the Big East is one of 2 BCS conferences to not have lost to an FCS team -- the other being the PAC 10, which had near miss with Washington State's last second heroics against mighty Montana State to edge out a 23-22 win. Minnesota, Ole Miss, Virginia Tech, Kansas all lost to FCS opponents. You cannot say the same about the Big East. Maybe we dont have a lot of highly ranked teams, but we do have some good teams, with my Mountaineers carrying the torch. Maybe with a beat down in Baton Rouge this week the conference will get back on track in the court of public opinion. Whatcha Think?
Brian Bennett: I like that argument style and will use it the next time I try to pick up a woman: "Now, I know I'm not very good-looking, or rich, or particularly interesting. But at least my breath doesn't smell!" (Are you listening, Rachel Bilson?)
Velden L. from Bristol, Va., writes: I know this is very optimistic ... but if the Mounties go into Baton Rouge and pull off the upset this weekend, could we officially declare them back as a national power? It's been so long since we've been in the Top 10 I can't remember what it was like.
Brian Bennett: You and I both know what the storyline will be if West Virginia wins: that LSU is down and Les Miles is in trouble. I'm not sure if the Mountaineers would get the proper respect for that win that they deserve because of that. But if they keep on winning, sooner or later people will be forced to take notice.
Steven from Louisville writes: With the disappointing start by a lot of the league teams, do you want to change your outlook for Louisville now? As a fan, I had really low expectations for this season, and I still do, but I no longer think Louisville will finish at the bottom of the league. Our defense still may be thin, but they've shown they can stiffen up when needed.
Brian Bennett: I think that for sure, Louisville will play teams tough and can come up with a couple of wins in the league. I'm still convinced that the Cardinals have less talent than any team in the Big East, and their lack of depth will be a problem as the season wears on. But I do like the direction they're headed under Charlie Strong.
Chuck from Philadelphia writes: Brian, if my guess is as good as yours for ranking teams 3-8 in the Big East power rankings, can I get a special guest post on the column?
Brian Bennett: Chuck, if you can actually tell me who the the third- through eighth-best teams are in this league, you should be doing my job full time.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Andrea Adelson
Adelson joined ESPN.com in 2010 after spending time as a college football columnist at The Orlando Sentinel. She has covered college football since her days as a University of Florida student, and lives in Orlando, Fla.
