College Football Nation: Boise State
Pending Idaho Board of Education approval, Boise State University has signed its first all-sports contract with Nike. Boise State has had three separate contracts with Nike that pay about $280,000 per year in cash and product, but that number will rise substantially under the new contract.
Boise State will receive $850,000 in product and equipment each of the first two years of the contract, $1 million in each of the next two years and $1.15 million in each of the last two years. Those amounts are set to increase by $75,000 each year following the Broncos’ move to the Big East. The contract is retroactive to 2011-12.
Performance bonuses such as $25,000 for participating in a BCS bowl game and another $25,000 for winning a national championship are included.
The contract also calls for cash payments each year: $30,000 in each of the first two years, $40,000 in each of the next two years and $50,000 in the each of the final two years.
A lot of those figures change, however, should Chris Petersen no longer be the head coach of the Broncos football team. Nike has reserved the right to reduce the cash payments by an amount to be determined “taking into account the diminution of value resulting from such” change.
The head-coaching clause isn’t without precedent, although it is more common at schools that have only recently signed their first all-sports contracts.
Memphis had a similar clause in its Nike contract that it struck in early 2009. Under the terms of that deal, Memphis was to receive $660,000 per year in cash compensation, but that amount would be reduced to $400,000 per year if John Calipari was no longer the men’s basketball head coach. Calipari left just five months after the contract was signed.
Nels Popp, a professor of sports management at Illinois State University, said the coaching provisions in Boise State’s and Memphis' contracts reflect the difference between a coach who puts a school on the map versus schools with longer brand histories.
"A single coach could indeed put a less prominent school in the spotlight, such as Gary Patterson at TCU, while the brand equity or brand recognition a storied program enjoys is certainly not as deeply impacted, marketability-wise, by coaching turnover,” he said.
Boise State will receive $850,000 in product and equipment each of the first two years of the contract, $1 million in each of the next two years and $1.15 million in each of the last two years. Those amounts are set to increase by $75,000 each year following the Broncos’ move to the Big East. The contract is retroactive to 2011-12.
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Brian Losness/US PresswireChris Petersen
Brian Losness/US PresswireChris PetersenThe contract also calls for cash payments each year: $30,000 in each of the first two years, $40,000 in each of the next two years and $50,000 in the each of the final two years.
A lot of those figures change, however, should Chris Petersen no longer be the head coach of the Broncos football team. Nike has reserved the right to reduce the cash payments by an amount to be determined “taking into account the diminution of value resulting from such” change.
The head-coaching clause isn’t without precedent, although it is more common at schools that have only recently signed their first all-sports contracts.
Memphis had a similar clause in its Nike contract that it struck in early 2009. Under the terms of that deal, Memphis was to receive $660,000 per year in cash compensation, but that amount would be reduced to $400,000 per year if John Calipari was no longer the men’s basketball head coach. Calipari left just five months after the contract was signed.
Nels Popp, a professor of sports management at Illinois State University, said the coaching provisions in Boise State’s and Memphis' contracts reflect the difference between a coach who puts a school on the map versus schools with longer brand histories.
"A single coach could indeed put a less prominent school in the spotlight, such as Gary Patterson at TCU, while the brand equity or brand recognition a storied program enjoys is certainly not as deeply impacted, marketability-wise, by coaching turnover,” he said.
Mike Stoops is out: Why and what's next?
October, 10, 2011
10/10/11
10:24
PM ET
By
Ted Miller | ESPN.com
Jim Z. Rider/US PresswireMike Stoops was fired after Arizona lost to winless Oregon State -- the Wildcats' fifth loss in a row.And so we have the firing of Arizona coach Mike Stoops midway through his eighth season Monday.
On Oct. 30 of last year, Arizona won at UCLA and improved to 7-1 overall. The Wildcats, then ranked 13th in the AP poll, were headed to Stanford for a marquee showdown. The program's first-ever Rose Bowl was in play. Stoops was coming off consecutive eight-win seasons. He appeared to be on the cusp of becoming a hot coaching prospect.
But the Wildcats were slammed 42-17. It would be the first of 10 consecutive losses to FBS teams. As the losses piled up, "hot" became the way to describe Stoops' seat instead of his prospects.
Stoops, 49, inherited a program in the absolute dregs in 2004. The Wildcats hadn't posted a winning season since 1998. After a slow start, he led Arizona to three consecutive bowl games.
But the wheels came off badly this season. After opening with a victory over Northern Arizona, the Wildcats were blown out in four consecutive games. The schedule was brutal. The losing streak included two losses each to Oregon, Stanford, Oklahoma State and USC. But it also included one to archrival Arizona State to end the 2010 regular season. Then on Saturday, the Wildcats lost to then 0-4 Oregon State.
When the Wildcats lost to the beleaguered Beavers, the universal reaction was Stoops was in trouble. But few figured it would end so quickly.
Stoops was told Monday afternoon by athletic director Greg Byrne of the decision to fire him. Defensive coordinator Tim Kish will serve as interim coach.
“It just ended," Stoops said. "That’s his decision as the leader of the program. It is what it is.”
Byrne and school president Eugene Sander told reporters at a news conference announcing the decision that the speculation on Stoops' future was becoming a distraction.
Stoops will get a $1.4 million buyout. When I talked to him Monday, he was more gracious than grim. It's possible that the losing and frustration were wearing him down as much as they were fans and administrators.
Stoops, who leaves Tucson with a 41-50 overall record and a 27-38 mark in conference games, was heavily criticized for his animated sideline persona. He was not a guy who tried to hide his frustrations -- at officials, players or other coaches -- during games. When he won, it was tolerated, even amusing. When he lost, it was seen as a significant negative.
And little went right this year, starting in spring practices, when injuries to several key starters -- most notably safety Adam Hall and linebacker Jake Fischer -- started a downward spiral.
Two other issues hounded Stoops: (1) He had the best quarterback in program history in Nick Foles (the Wildcats haven't had a quarterback who even approximates Foles); (2) the defense, Stoops' bailiwick, is terrible.
Don't cry too hard for Stoops, though. He'll land on his feet. He's respected and well-connected as a coach -- his brother is Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops and he's good friends with Nebraska coach Bo Pelini. He'll get job offers, most likely in the short term as a defensive coordinator. And he's probably learned plenty of lessons during his first tour as a head coach that might help him get a second chance.
So what next for Arizona?
The first question: How much is Arizona willing to pay? Stoops' $1.4 million annual salary sounds great for most of us, but is fairly middling among marquee coaches. And beyond Stoops' replacement, you have to pay a coaching staff. Salaries for assistant coaches have gone way up, well beyond what Stoops' staff was paid.
Top name you will hear: Boise State's Chris Petersen. Three words: Huge long shot.
Second name: Mississippi State coach Dan Mullen. Three words: Huge long shot.
Just because Byrne knows Petersen and Mullen doesn't mean either is eager to bolt to an uncertain situation.
Other names: Former Oregon coach Mike Bellotti, former Texas Tech coach Mike Leach and former All-American Ricky Hunley.
All three of those guys would raise enthusiastic eyebrows. Each has plenty to offer.
The Wildcats are off until playing host to UCLA on Oct. 20, a Thursday night game. It will be interesting to see how the players react. Part of the reasoning to dump Stoops now was to make it easier for players to focus.
If the Wildcats were to end their losing streak, that reasoning would make sense.
And, of course, Arizona fans can always start thinking about basketball season.
Utah Utes (10-2) vs. Boise State Broncos (11-1)
Dec. 22, 8 p.m. ET (ESPN)
The “had loftier goals” bowl features two of the best non-AQ teams in the BCS era. Both have two BCS wins. Both have had undefeated seasons that have left them short of the national championship game. Utah heads to the Pac-12 next season, so this is the final time the two can be paired up as the best of the non-AQs. The Utes did cancel three upcoming games with Boise State because of their move up. In any event, both were ranked in the top 5 of the BCS standings as late as the last week of October. But Utah got exposed in a 47-7 loss to TCU, then followed that up with an embarrassing 28-3 loss to Notre Dame. The Utes will be without starting quarterback Jordan Wynn in this game, out following shoulder surgery. Terrance Cain will get the start.
As for Boise State, you already know about the 34-31 overtime heartbreak to Nevada in Reno, when Kyle Brotzman missed two chip shot field goals, including one that would have ended the game on the final play of regulation. Boise State never openly said it had designs on trying to break the glass ceiling and be the first non-AQ to make it in the BCS national title game, but the Broncos were oh so close, reaching as high as No. 3 in the BCS standings. Had they won that game, there is a good chance they would be playing in the Rose Bowl and not TCU. They overcame the disappointment with a win over Utah State in the season finale, and will be looking to do the same against the Utes.
Dec. 22, 8 p.m. ET (ESPN)
The “had loftier goals” bowl features two of the best non-AQ teams in the BCS era. Both have two BCS wins. Both have had undefeated seasons that have left them short of the national championship game. Utah heads to the Pac-12 next season, so this is the final time the two can be paired up as the best of the non-AQs. The Utes did cancel three upcoming games with Boise State because of their move up. In any event, both were ranked in the top 5 of the BCS standings as late as the last week of October. But Utah got exposed in a 47-7 loss to TCU, then followed that up with an embarrassing 28-3 loss to Notre Dame. The Utes will be without starting quarterback Jordan Wynn in this game, out following shoulder surgery. Terrance Cain will get the start.
As for Boise State, you already know about the 34-31 overtime heartbreak to Nevada in Reno, when Kyle Brotzman missed two chip shot field goals, including one that would have ended the game on the final play of regulation. Boise State never openly said it had designs on trying to break the glass ceiling and be the first non-AQ to make it in the BCS national title game, but the Broncos were oh so close, reaching as high as No. 3 in the BCS standings. Had they won that game, there is a good chance they would be playing in the Rose Bowl and not TCU. They overcame the disappointment with a win over Utah State in the season finale, and will be looking to do the same against the Utes.
Video: Boise State dominates Idaho, 52-14
November, 13, 2010
11/13/10
1:28
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Kellen Moore threw for 195 yards and two touchdowns in the first half, and No. 4 Boise State improved to 9-0 by routing Idaho.
Almost nailed the Miami (Ohio)-Bowling Green score right yesterday. More mid-week non-AQ football coming up tonight: East Carolina at UAB. My pick: East Carolina 41, UAB 35.
Now on to some links:
Rose Bowl officials have discussed the possibility of choosing between Boise State and Stanford as an at-large selection.
The Alford brothers will be on opposite sidelines once again Saturday when Utah plays Notre Dame.
How does anyone know who the best team in the country is on eyeballs alone, asks Jennifer Floyd Engel of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Nevada offensive lineman John Bender plays on the edge.
San Diego State coach Brady Hoke says he's not looking to bail out after two years with the Aztecs. His name has surfaced on the Minnesota wish list.
Rice athletic director Rick Greenspan has given coach Dave Bailiff a vote of confidence.
Marshall's Donald Brown won't live down "The Slide."
Arkansas State is ready for Western Kentucky running back Bobby Rainey.
Louisiana Tech's Phillip Livas is back to making big plays.
Northern Illinois stays grounded after its win against Toledo.
Now on to some links:
Rose Bowl officials have discussed the possibility of choosing between Boise State and Stanford as an at-large selection.
The Alford brothers will be on opposite sidelines once again Saturday when Utah plays Notre Dame.
How does anyone know who the best team in the country is on eyeballs alone, asks Jennifer Floyd Engel of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Nevada offensive lineman John Bender plays on the edge.
San Diego State coach Brady Hoke says he's not looking to bail out after two years with the Aztecs. His name has surfaced on the Minnesota wish list.
Rice athletic director Rick Greenspan has given coach Dave Bailiff a vote of confidence.
Marshall's Donald Brown won't live down "The Slide."
Arkansas State is ready for Western Kentucky running back Bobby Rainey.
Louisiana Tech's Phillip Livas is back to making big plays.
Northern Illinois stays grounded after its win against Toledo.
Come one, come all for your top 10 non-AQ storylines for Week 10:
1. Let the jockeying continue. Now that TCU has passed Boise State in the human polls, the race is on to see whether the Horned Frogs can stay there -- and grow their lead. Both need to happen for TCU to solidify its spot ahead of the Broncos in the BCS standings. TCU plays San Diego State (7-2) while Boise State plays Idaho (4-5) so it is unlikely Boise State will move ahead after this week. But looking ahead, TCU has one game left against New Mexico (1-8), while Boise State has games remaining against Fresno State (6-2), Nevada (8-1) and Utah State (3-6).
2. Is a letdown in store for TCU? The Horned Frogs are coming off an emotional 47-7 win over Utah, but this is not a team that loses focus easily. They have given up a total of 23 points in six league games, and have given up one touchdown at home in three league games. This is Senior Day, where TCU will say goodbye to a group of players who have not lost in the regular season since 2008. San Diego State is much improved, so we will see how the Horned Frogs handle their emotions.
3. How does the Boise State-Idaho rivalry end? Boise State and Idaho have no future games set as the Broncos depart the WAC for the Mountain West. But this game has not proved to be much of a rivalry over the last several years. The Broncos have won 11 straight over the Vandals, and have won those game by an average score of 51-18.
4. Can Utah bounce back? The Utes are coming off an embarrassing loss at home to TCU and travel to play a beaten down Notre Dame team. As badly as the Irish need to win, so does Utah, which wants to avoid having its season go down the drain due to one loss. After losing 55-28 to TCU last year, Utah rebounded with a 38-7 win over San Diego State. But that one was at home. This is going to be a tough challenge.
5. Will we get clarity in Conference USA? There are several big games for the league this weekend as UCF hosts Southern Miss, and Tulsa travels to Houston. UCF is the lone team that is undefeated in league play in Conference USA and can clinch the East Division with a win over Southern Miss and an East Carolina loss to UAB tonight. Meanwhile, Tulsa, Houston and SMU each have two losses in the West. Whoever wins would remain in the hunt.
6. Will we get clarity in the Sun Belt? Who would have thought when the season started we would be saying Troy and FIU would be meeting with Sun Belt title chances on the line? Both teams have one loss in conference play and the winner here would be in the driver’s seat. Whoever wins out, wins the league. It’s as simple as that.
7. Bowl eligibility time. Here are your teams that have a shot to become bowl eligible this week: Army, East Carolina, Houston and Troy. Army plays at Kent State, while East Carolina is at UAB, Houston hosts Tulsa and Troy hosts FIU. SMU (5-5) is off.
8. What does Navy do for an encore? The Midshipmen racked up 76 points and 521 yards on the ground against East Carolina last week. So what happens against Central Michigan (3-7)? Quarterback Ricky Dobbs reportedly missed a few days of practice with a slight concussion. If he cannot go, Kriss Proctor would get the start. But even without Dobbs, Alexander Teich has played well since replacing Vince Murray in the starting lineup. He averaged 11.2 yards a carry last week against the Pirates, and had a 200-yard game against Notre Dame.
9. What does Nevada do for an encore? The Wolf Pack may not have scored as many points as Navy, but they had more yards -- 844 in a 63-17 win over Idaho. Nevada sits at No. 21, behind several two-loss teams from power conferences. The question is whether voters see Nevada as a great team or merely a good team from a bad conference. How it does against a good Fresno State team on Saturday is important for perception.
10. The future is now. True freshman quarterbacks Pete Thomas and Jake Heaps face each other when BYU travels to Colorado State. Thomas has thrown for 2,273 yards for the Rams and is second in the league in passing, mostly because he has been put in situations where his team has fallen behind. But still, he is progressing well and coach Steve Fairchild believes Thomas' future is bright. Heaps has not been as successful, struggling as much as the rest of the BYU offense. He had his first good game against UNLV last week, throwing for 294 yards and a touchdown. The play of the quarterbacks is the key to the game.
1. Let the jockeying continue. Now that TCU has passed Boise State in the human polls, the race is on to see whether the Horned Frogs can stay there -- and grow their lead. Both need to happen for TCU to solidify its spot ahead of the Broncos in the BCS standings. TCU plays San Diego State (7-2) while Boise State plays Idaho (4-5) so it is unlikely Boise State will move ahead after this week. But looking ahead, TCU has one game left against New Mexico (1-8), while Boise State has games remaining against Fresno State (6-2), Nevada (8-1) and Utah State (3-6).
2. Is a letdown in store for TCU? The Horned Frogs are coming off an emotional 47-7 win over Utah, but this is not a team that loses focus easily. They have given up a total of 23 points in six league games, and have given up one touchdown at home in three league games. This is Senior Day, where TCU will say goodbye to a group of players who have not lost in the regular season since 2008. San Diego State is much improved, so we will see how the Horned Frogs handle their emotions.
3. How does the Boise State-Idaho rivalry end? Boise State and Idaho have no future games set as the Broncos depart the WAC for the Mountain West. But this game has not proved to be much of a rivalry over the last several years. The Broncos have won 11 straight over the Vandals, and have won those game by an average score of 51-18.
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Andrew Weber/US PresswireComing off a disappointing loss to TCU, the Utes have to go on the road to face Notre Dame.
Andrew Weber/US PresswireComing off a disappointing loss to TCU, the Utes have to go on the road to face Notre Dame.5. Will we get clarity in Conference USA? There are several big games for the league this weekend as UCF hosts Southern Miss, and Tulsa travels to Houston. UCF is the lone team that is undefeated in league play in Conference USA and can clinch the East Division with a win over Southern Miss and an East Carolina loss to UAB tonight. Meanwhile, Tulsa, Houston and SMU each have two losses in the West. Whoever wins would remain in the hunt.
6. Will we get clarity in the Sun Belt? Who would have thought when the season started we would be saying Troy and FIU would be meeting with Sun Belt title chances on the line? Both teams have one loss in conference play and the winner here would be in the driver’s seat. Whoever wins out, wins the league. It’s as simple as that.
7. Bowl eligibility time. Here are your teams that have a shot to become bowl eligible this week: Army, East Carolina, Houston and Troy. Army plays at Kent State, while East Carolina is at UAB, Houston hosts Tulsa and Troy hosts FIU. SMU (5-5) is off.
8. What does Navy do for an encore? The Midshipmen racked up 76 points and 521 yards on the ground against East Carolina last week. So what happens against Central Michigan (3-7)? Quarterback Ricky Dobbs reportedly missed a few days of practice with a slight concussion. If he cannot go, Kriss Proctor would get the start. But even without Dobbs, Alexander Teich has played well since replacing Vince Murray in the starting lineup. He averaged 11.2 yards a carry last week against the Pirates, and had a 200-yard game against Notre Dame.
9. What does Nevada do for an encore? The Wolf Pack may not have scored as many points as Navy, but they had more yards -- 844 in a 63-17 win over Idaho. Nevada sits at No. 21, behind several two-loss teams from power conferences. The question is whether voters see Nevada as a great team or merely a good team from a bad conference. How it does against a good Fresno State team on Saturday is important for perception.
10. The future is now. True freshman quarterbacks Pete Thomas and Jake Heaps face each other when BYU travels to Colorado State. Thomas has thrown for 2,273 yards for the Rams and is second in the league in passing, mostly because he has been put in situations where his team has fallen behind. But still, he is progressing well and coach Steve Fairchild believes Thomas' future is bright. Heaps has not been as successful, struggling as much as the rest of the BYU offense. He had his first good game against UNLV last week, throwing for 294 yards and a touchdown. The play of the quarterbacks is the key to the game.
» Predictions: ACC | Big 12 | Big East | Big Ten | Pac-10 | SEC | Non-AQ
Three straight weeks of going 7-3 is not that bad considering the alternative. I did get one of my upset specials right, though I didn’t expect Navy to hang 76 on East Carolina. Props to New Mexico. Does it count that I said there was a “slim chance” of an upset? Hey at least I said there was a chance!
With a 64-40 overall record, bring on Week 11.
East Carolina 41, UAB 35. (Tonight) The Pirates have to get past the 76 points they allowed to Navy last week. UAB is going to have to get running back Pat Shed going, because Dominique Davis will be able to pass for the Pirates. The East Carolina defense has been bad, but somehow the Pirates will find a way to bounce back with bowl eligibility on the line. They have got to hold on to the football, though. Four turnovers on five possessions in the third quarter against Navy let the game get out of hand.
No. 4 Boise State 45, Idaho 13. (Friday). You know the atmosphere is going to be rowdy, what with offseason comments from Boise State president Bob Kustra stirring the pot. This is the final scheduled game in the rivalry now that the Broncos are leaving for the Mountain West. The Vandals would love nothing more than to end their undefeated season, but they are one of the most penalized teams in the country. Idaho hasn’t beaten Boise State since 1998. The Vandals’ last win at home over the Broncos? 1995.
No. 3 TCU 38, San Diego State 10. Sure this is the classic “trap” game for the Horned Frogs, who will be coming down off an emotional 47-7 win at Utah. San Diego State is much improved this season, and bowl eligible for the first time since 1998. Ronnie Hillman already has 1,000 yards rushing and will be the No. 1 target to stop. The Aztecs have won four straight but haven’t looked good doing it. They have won their past three games by an average of eight points. Their opponents in those three games have a combined six wins.
No. 14 Utah 35, at Notre Dame 20. The Utes have to bounce back and fast to put the embarrassment of last weekend behind them. This certainly will be a big test for coach Kyle Whittingham to get his team to stay focused for the remainder of the season. The Irish have a handful of starters out because of injuries. Bank on Jordan Wynn putting the mistakes of last week behind him to have a big game.
No. 21 Nevada 45, Fresno State 40. This one is not going to be easy for the Wolf Pack, but they come into the game riding a major 844-yard output on offense, with three 100-yard runners and a 300-yard passer in a win over Idaho. Chris Carter and Logan Harrell each have nine sacks for Fresno State, but the first key is to stop the run. The same can be said for Nevada -- Fresno State has gotten good production from Robbie Rouse in the last three games. He is coming off a 286-yard day against Louisiana Tech.
UCF 35, Southern Miss 21. The Knights are the only undefeated team left in Conference USA and are the favorites to win the entire conference. They survived a scare on the road against Houston last week and now face an East Division rival that has been inconsistent. But the Golden Eagles have lost their two league games by a combined two points. Still, their defense has been somewhat disappointing and is going to have a hard time slowing down Jeff Godfrey.
BYU 30, Colorado State 27. I am trying not to read too much into the Cougars’ offensive explosion last week because it came against UNLV. But still, it has to be encouraging to see Jake Heaps throw for more than 100 yards in a game. This one features the two top freshman quarterbacks in the league, and the Rams are much improved with Pete Thomas leading the way. But BYU has an improving defense -- and has to win to keep bowl hopes alive.
Army 30, Kent State 27. The Black Knights have to win either against Kent State or next week against Notre Dame to become bowl eligible for the first time since 1996. This one is an intriguing matchup -- Army has the No. 8 rushing attack in the country, averaging 277 yards a game. Kent State has the best run defense, giving up just 69 yards a game. But the Golden Flashes have to major injuries on defense: linebacker Cobrani Mixon and safety Brian Lainhart. Mixon is second on the team in tackles, while Lainhart is third. Quarterback Spencer Keith also has a sprained thumb and is listed as day-to-day.
Troy 28, FIU 17. Though FIU is 3-5, the Panthers are 3-1 in conference play, half a game behind Troy (4-1). So essentially the Sun Belt title is on the line. Troy has never lost to FIU, so bank on the Trojans to win this one and eventually win their fifth straight league title. Great special-teams matchup to watch between T.Y. Hilton of FIU and Jerrel Jernigan of Troy.
UPSET SPECIAL: Tulsa 45, Houston 44. The top two scoring offenses in Conference USA battle it out with the West division title at stake. The Golden Hurricane have loads of confidence after winning three straight, and plenty of weapons for Houston to try and handle. Tulsa has a more high-powered attack than UCF, which scored 40 in a win last week, so the Golden Hurricane get the edge.
Three straight weeks of going 7-3 is not that bad considering the alternative. I did get one of my upset specials right, though I didn’t expect Navy to hang 76 on East Carolina. Props to New Mexico. Does it count that I said there was a “slim chance” of an upset? Hey at least I said there was a chance!
With a 64-40 overall record, bring on Week 11.
East Carolina 41, UAB 35. (Tonight) The Pirates have to get past the 76 points they allowed to Navy last week. UAB is going to have to get running back Pat Shed going, because Dominique Davis will be able to pass for the Pirates. The East Carolina defense has been bad, but somehow the Pirates will find a way to bounce back with bowl eligibility on the line. They have got to hold on to the football, though. Four turnovers on five possessions in the third quarter against Navy let the game get out of hand.
No. 4 Boise State 45, Idaho 13. (Friday). You know the atmosphere is going to be rowdy, what with offseason comments from Boise State president Bob Kustra stirring the pot. This is the final scheduled game in the rivalry now that the Broncos are leaving for the Mountain West. The Vandals would love nothing more than to end their undefeated season, but they are one of the most penalized teams in the country. Idaho hasn’t beaten Boise State since 1998. The Vandals’ last win at home over the Broncos? 1995.
No. 3 TCU 38, San Diego State 10. Sure this is the classic “trap” game for the Horned Frogs, who will be coming down off an emotional 47-7 win at Utah. San Diego State is much improved this season, and bowl eligible for the first time since 1998. Ronnie Hillman already has 1,000 yards rushing and will be the No. 1 target to stop. The Aztecs have won four straight but haven’t looked good doing it. They have won their past three games by an average of eight points. Their opponents in those three games have a combined six wins.
No. 14 Utah 35, at Notre Dame 20. The Utes have to bounce back and fast to put the embarrassment of last weekend behind them. This certainly will be a big test for coach Kyle Whittingham to get his team to stay focused for the remainder of the season. The Irish have a handful of starters out because of injuries. Bank on Jordan Wynn putting the mistakes of last week behind him to have a big game.
No. 21 Nevada 45, Fresno State 40. This one is not going to be easy for the Wolf Pack, but they come into the game riding a major 844-yard output on offense, with three 100-yard runners and a 300-yard passer in a win over Idaho. Chris Carter and Logan Harrell each have nine sacks for Fresno State, but the first key is to stop the run. The same can be said for Nevada -- Fresno State has gotten good production from Robbie Rouse in the last three games. He is coming off a 286-yard day against Louisiana Tech.
UCF 35, Southern Miss 21. The Knights are the only undefeated team left in Conference USA and are the favorites to win the entire conference. They survived a scare on the road against Houston last week and now face an East Division rival that has been inconsistent. But the Golden Eagles have lost their two league games by a combined two points. Still, their defense has been somewhat disappointing and is going to have a hard time slowing down Jeff Godfrey.
BYU 30, Colorado State 27. I am trying not to read too much into the Cougars’ offensive explosion last week because it came against UNLV. But still, it has to be encouraging to see Jake Heaps throw for more than 100 yards in a game. This one features the two top freshman quarterbacks in the league, and the Rams are much improved with Pete Thomas leading the way. But BYU has an improving defense -- and has to win to keep bowl hopes alive.
Army 30, Kent State 27. The Black Knights have to win either against Kent State or next week against Notre Dame to become bowl eligible for the first time since 1996. This one is an intriguing matchup -- Army has the No. 8 rushing attack in the country, averaging 277 yards a game. Kent State has the best run defense, giving up just 69 yards a game. But the Golden Flashes have to major injuries on defense: linebacker Cobrani Mixon and safety Brian Lainhart. Mixon is second on the team in tackles, while Lainhart is third. Quarterback Spencer Keith also has a sprained thumb and is listed as day-to-day.
Troy 28, FIU 17. Though FIU is 3-5, the Panthers are 3-1 in conference play, half a game behind Troy (4-1). So essentially the Sun Belt title is on the line. Troy has never lost to FIU, so bank on the Trojans to win this one and eventually win their fifth straight league title. Great special-teams matchup to watch between T.Y. Hilton of FIU and Jerrel Jernigan of Troy.
UPSET SPECIAL: Tulsa 45, Houston 44. The top two scoring offenses in Conference USA battle it out with the West division title at stake. The Golden Hurricane have loads of confidence after winning three straight, and plenty of weapons for Houston to try and handle. Tulsa has a more high-powered attack than UCF, which scored 40 in a win last week, so the Golden Hurricane get the edge.
More TCU, Boise State talk in mailbag
November, 10, 2010
11/10/10
5:00
PM ET
By
Andrea Adelson | ESPN.com
Time to dip our toes into a midweek mailbag. Would it surprise you that it jammed up with one overriding question:
Why is TCU ranked higher than Boise State?
Lots of Broncos fans are angry about the human polls and BCS standings, which have TCU at No. 3 and Boise State at No. 4. Both teams won impressively last week, but TCU beat No. 5 Utah on the road. That is my way of explaining why TCU jumped ahead in the human polls. I know Boise State fans want an explanation based on stats or something else, but I can only give you my best guess. I still have Boise State ahead. I think both are so even right now that I have no reason to move TCU ahead at this point.
As for the computer rankings, each one takes into account a different formula. Only one, Colley Matrix, publishes its formula. Each one does account for strength of schedule. The Anderson & Hester ranking puts a heavy emphasis on strength of conference. But other than those nuggets, most of everything else about how the computer rankings are done are kept a secret for proprietary reasons.
A few more common questions: If Alabama and Oregon both lose, then yes -- Boise State and TCU would be the next likely candidates to meet in the BCS national title game should they win out.
Bowl projections: If a non-AQ team makes it into the BCS national title game against a Big Ten or Pac-10 team, then the Rose Bowl is NOT required to take an at-large non-AQ team. Also, teams are not slotted into their respective bowl games based on conference order of finish. Greg in Fort Worth asked about LSU. If both LSU and Alabama are available for the Capital One Bowl, then I am betting Orlando goes with the Tide even though they lost head to head. Why? LSU was here last year, and the Capital One Bowl would jump at the chance to have the defending national champions. Alabama has not played in the game since 1995.
Same for the Big Ten. If Ohio State and Iowa are both available, I am betting the Capital One Bowl goes with the Buckeyes even if they lose to the Hawkeyes. Ohio State has not been to the game since 1996.
Now on to some questions:
Pam in Meridian, Idaho, writes: Andrea, do you REALLY think that Utah was worthy of their No. 5 position when they played TCU? After all they only played a very mediocre Pitt early in the season. Isn't TCU given a little too much credit here for blowing out Utah?
Andrea Adelson writes: Where would you have liked an undefeated Utah team to be placed, at No. 15 based on its schedule? Utah was obviously not up to the challenge, and TCU deserves every ounce of credit it goes for going on the road to beat an undefeated team by 40 points.
Andy in Hattiesburg, Miss., writes: What are your opinions on the Southern Miss Golden Eagles this year? I mean, they are only a couple of points away from being 8-1.. Besides huge penalties an inconsistent play, what are the keys to finishing 3-0 against UCF, Houston, and Tulsa. Can it be done? If not, where do you see this team next year?
Adelson writes: Southern Miss is a confounding team to me. I thought the Golden Eagles would be a serious threat to UCF, but a few of their losses have me scratching my head. You cannot discount the penalties and inconsistent play, because those are usually the difference between really good and really bad teams. It obviously has hurt that DeAndre Brown has been out. Don't forget the offensive line is young. The defense has been a disappointment with nine starters returning -- they are giving up 26 points a game. Keys to win -- don't turn the ball over, and find a way to control the ball against UCF, Houston and Tulsa, three teams that have the ability to score in bunches. As for next year, let's see how this season finishes up.
Barry Nelson in Bastrop, Texas, writes: I as a viewer want to see TCU and Boise State matched up against top teams in the BCS. If Oregon and Auburn finish out undefeated, I would imagine that they will be in the National championship game. ... We need to push the entities that choose the bowls to match up both Boise and TCU with the No. 5 and 6 teams respectively. I will not watch a TCU and Boise State game. I would watch TCU play LSU or someone with one loss. And the same goes for Boise State. Allow these teams to prove themselves, and allow us as viewers to root for that underdog.
Adelson writes: Conference tie-ins preclude a No. 5 or No. 6 playing Boise State or TCU, but we get your drift. And wholeheartedly agree.
Sean Jeffries in McCall, Idaho, writes: Being a WSU Cougar, I know a lot about losing lately, but I see Boise State win every week and drop. Has there ever been a team rated No. 3 to start the year, win every game and most by over 30 and drop? What is this conspiracy against Boise State? They have the longest winning streak, they have a top rated defense and offense, they have possibly the best QB in the game.
Adelson writes: I don't think it's a conspiracy. Critics point to the strength of schedule, judge and laugh. It's as simple as that.
Sheri in Oregon writes: A few "old" commentators are stuck on the notion that the SEC is the only division that plays "real football." Why don't we let the SEC play by themselves and the rest of the country can also have a national championship game?
Adelson writes: I've often wondered the same thing.
Matt in Orlando writes: With UCF finally being ranked for the first time in the school's history, what do you think the programs outlook is like? The starting freshman, Jeffrey Godfrey, is a true freshman, but looking anything but one. Do you think he can lead UCF to become a TCU or Boise State? The program's gone through a lot of heartbreaks. Do you think everything is looking up now?
Adelson writes: I have always maintained that UCF should be the next Boise State or TCU given its location. You have a wealth of talent in your backyard, go out and get them and build up your program. This is obviously a breakthrough with the first national ranking in school history, but this program has taken steps before and then giant leaps backward. However, Godfrey is a special player and he could bring even more of those top recruits from Miami into Orlando. What will be interesting to see is whether the school gets an invite to the Big East.
Randall McKinney in Halls, Tenn., writes: When TCU, Boise State, or any other non-AQ beats a team that’s EVER WON A NATIONAL TITLE then you let me know. When they take an October trip to a stadium with 80,000 hostile fans to play a team with just a shred of tradition and a few NFL prospects you let me know. ... Yes Utah did beat Bama in Sugar Bowl. A Bama team that even then had the 2008 and SEC title game on their mind. All this TCU-Boise talk is a joke. Boise's season was over in September. That's saying enough right there. And finally, a few years ago the average SEC team played non-conference cream puffs and the national media was all over it. Now you guts praise teams who play nothing but cream puffs. Both TCU and Boise would have losing records in the SEC, Big 12, and Big Ten.
Adelson writes: I think you answered your own question at the top there, Randall. Oh, and TCU has beaten national champions Oklahoma, Clemson and BYU in the last five years. Boise State also beat Oklahoma. Oh, and Utah won at Michigan, too. Oh, and you might want to check your calendar. Utah is headed to Notre Dame on Saturday. I believe Notre Dame qualifies as a place with 1) hostile fans and 2) a shred of tradition.
Why is TCU ranked higher than Boise State?
Lots of Broncos fans are angry about the human polls and BCS standings, which have TCU at No. 3 and Boise State at No. 4. Both teams won impressively last week, but TCU beat No. 5 Utah on the road. That is my way of explaining why TCU jumped ahead in the human polls. I know Boise State fans want an explanation based on stats or something else, but I can only give you my best guess. I still have Boise State ahead. I think both are so even right now that I have no reason to move TCU ahead at this point.
As for the computer rankings, each one takes into account a different formula. Only one, Colley Matrix, publishes its formula. Each one does account for strength of schedule. The Anderson & Hester ranking puts a heavy emphasis on strength of conference. But other than those nuggets, most of everything else about how the computer rankings are done are kept a secret for proprietary reasons.
A few more common questions: If Alabama and Oregon both lose, then yes -- Boise State and TCU would be the next likely candidates to meet in the BCS national title game should they win out.
Bowl projections: If a non-AQ team makes it into the BCS national title game against a Big Ten or Pac-10 team, then the Rose Bowl is NOT required to take an at-large non-AQ team. Also, teams are not slotted into their respective bowl games based on conference order of finish. Greg in Fort Worth asked about LSU. If both LSU and Alabama are available for the Capital One Bowl, then I am betting Orlando goes with the Tide even though they lost head to head. Why? LSU was here last year, and the Capital One Bowl would jump at the chance to have the defending national champions. Alabama has not played in the game since 1995.
Same for the Big Ten. If Ohio State and Iowa are both available, I am betting the Capital One Bowl goes with the Buckeyes even if they lose to the Hawkeyes. Ohio State has not been to the game since 1996.
Now on to some questions:
Pam in Meridian, Idaho, writes: Andrea, do you REALLY think that Utah was worthy of their No. 5 position when they played TCU? After all they only played a very mediocre Pitt early in the season. Isn't TCU given a little too much credit here for blowing out Utah?
Andrea Adelson writes: Where would you have liked an undefeated Utah team to be placed, at No. 15 based on its schedule? Utah was obviously not up to the challenge, and TCU deserves every ounce of credit it goes for going on the road to beat an undefeated team by 40 points.
Andy in Hattiesburg, Miss., writes: What are your opinions on the Southern Miss Golden Eagles this year? I mean, they are only a couple of points away from being 8-1.. Besides huge penalties an inconsistent play, what are the keys to finishing 3-0 against UCF, Houston, and Tulsa. Can it be done? If not, where do you see this team next year?
Adelson writes: Southern Miss is a confounding team to me. I thought the Golden Eagles would be a serious threat to UCF, but a few of their losses have me scratching my head. You cannot discount the penalties and inconsistent play, because those are usually the difference between really good and really bad teams. It obviously has hurt that DeAndre Brown has been out. Don't forget the offensive line is young. The defense has been a disappointment with nine starters returning -- they are giving up 26 points a game. Keys to win -- don't turn the ball over, and find a way to control the ball against UCF, Houston and Tulsa, three teams that have the ability to score in bunches. As for next year, let's see how this season finishes up.
Barry Nelson in Bastrop, Texas, writes: I as a viewer want to see TCU and Boise State matched up against top teams in the BCS. If Oregon and Auburn finish out undefeated, I would imagine that they will be in the National championship game. ... We need to push the entities that choose the bowls to match up both Boise and TCU with the No. 5 and 6 teams respectively. I will not watch a TCU and Boise State game. I would watch TCU play LSU or someone with one loss. And the same goes for Boise State. Allow these teams to prove themselves, and allow us as viewers to root for that underdog.
Adelson writes: Conference tie-ins preclude a No. 5 or No. 6 playing Boise State or TCU, but we get your drift. And wholeheartedly agree.
Sean Jeffries in McCall, Idaho, writes: Being a WSU Cougar, I know a lot about losing lately, but I see Boise State win every week and drop. Has there ever been a team rated No. 3 to start the year, win every game and most by over 30 and drop? What is this conspiracy against Boise State? They have the longest winning streak, they have a top rated defense and offense, they have possibly the best QB in the game.
Adelson writes: I don't think it's a conspiracy. Critics point to the strength of schedule, judge and laugh. It's as simple as that.
Sheri in Oregon writes: A few "old" commentators are stuck on the notion that the SEC is the only division that plays "real football." Why don't we let the SEC play by themselves and the rest of the country can also have a national championship game?
Adelson writes: I've often wondered the same thing.
Matt in Orlando writes: With UCF finally being ranked for the first time in the school's history, what do you think the programs outlook is like? The starting freshman, Jeffrey Godfrey, is a true freshman, but looking anything but one. Do you think he can lead UCF to become a TCU or Boise State? The program's gone through a lot of heartbreaks. Do you think everything is looking up now?
Adelson writes: I have always maintained that UCF should be the next Boise State or TCU given its location. You have a wealth of talent in your backyard, go out and get them and build up your program. This is obviously a breakthrough with the first national ranking in school history, but this program has taken steps before and then giant leaps backward. However, Godfrey is a special player and he could bring even more of those top recruits from Miami into Orlando. What will be interesting to see is whether the school gets an invite to the Big East.
Randall McKinney in Halls, Tenn., writes: When TCU, Boise State, or any other non-AQ beats a team that’s EVER WON A NATIONAL TITLE then you let me know. When they take an October trip to a stadium with 80,000 hostile fans to play a team with just a shred of tradition and a few NFL prospects you let me know. ... Yes Utah did beat Bama in Sugar Bowl. A Bama team that even then had the 2008 and SEC title game on their mind. All this TCU-Boise talk is a joke. Boise's season was over in September. That's saying enough right there. And finally, a few years ago the average SEC team played non-conference cream puffs and the national media was all over it. Now you guts praise teams who play nothing but cream puffs. Both TCU and Boise would have losing records in the SEC, Big 12, and Big Ten.
Adelson writes: I think you answered your own question at the top there, Randall. Oh, and TCU has beaten national champions Oklahoma, Clemson and BYU in the last five years. Boise State also beat Oklahoma. Oh, and Utah won at Michigan, too. Oh, and you might want to check your calendar. Utah is headed to Notre Dame on Saturday. I believe Notre Dame qualifies as a place with 1) hostile fans and 2) a shred of tradition.
More midweek MAC football coming up. Tonight: Miami (Ohio) at Bowling Green. I will take Miami, 24-20.
Now on to some links:
Boise State's defensive line has been key this season.
Gary Patterson is in demand, and that's good for TCU.
Utah linebacker J.J. Williams finally makes his return from a lingering foot injury.
Nevada wide receiver Rishard Matthews is hitting his stride.
There is a chance Southern Miss wide receiver DeAndre Brown could play against UCF.
Is running the football the best option for UAB against East Carolina?
Houston linebacker Matt Nicholson suffered another knee injury, ending his season and career.
The WAC could add Texas-San Antonio, Texas State and Denver as early as today.
Air Force coach Troy Calhoun deflected talk about the Colorado opening.
FAU is not proud of its poor offensive production.
Injuries have hit Middle Tennessee -- both starting cornerbacks could be out Saturday.
Now on to some links:
Boise State's defensive line has been key this season.
Gary Patterson is in demand, and that's good for TCU.
Utah linebacker J.J. Williams finally makes his return from a lingering foot injury.
Nevada wide receiver Rishard Matthews is hitting his stride.
There is a chance Southern Miss wide receiver DeAndre Brown could play against UCF.
Is running the football the best option for UAB against East Carolina?
Houston linebacker Matt Nicholson suffered another knee injury, ending his season and career.
The WAC could add Texas-San Antonio, Texas State and Denver as early as today.
Air Force coach Troy Calhoun deflected talk about the Colorado opening.
FAU is not proud of its poor offensive production.
Injuries have hit Middle Tennessee -- both starting cornerbacks could be out Saturday.
You saw my bowl projections from Sunday. Now here is a breakdown of the teams that have a shot at becoming bowl eligible this weekend.
Conference USA
Already eligible: UCF, Tulsa, Southern Miss, UTEP.
Vying for a spot: East Carolina, SMU and Houston each have five wins. The Pirates are hoping to bounce back after an embarrassing 76-45 loss to Navy at UAB. Houston hosts Tulsa in an important West division game, while SMU is off. SMU, Houston and Tulsa each have two league losses. SMU already beat Tulsa but lost to Houston. If there is a three-way tie atop the division when the season ends, the first tiebreaker is overall record to determine who plays in the Conference USA title game.
On the other end of the spectrum: Tulane (3-6), Marshall (3-6) and UAB (3-6) have to win out. Rice (2-7) and Memphis (1-8) have been eliminated.
Guaranteed bowl spots: Six.
MAC
Already eligible: Temple, Toledo, Ohio and Northern Illinois.
Vying for a spot: Miami (Ohio) is 5-4 and has a great shot at becoming bowl eligible in the next two weeks with games at Bowling Green (2-7) on Wednesday and at Akron (0-10) on Nov. 17. Kent State (4-5) needs to win two of its final three against Army (5-4), Western Michigan (3-6) and Ohio (7-3).
On the other end of the spectrum: Western Michigan has to win out. Buffalo, Central Michigan, Bowling Green, Akron, Eastern Michigan and Ball State are out.
Guaranteed bowl spots: Three.
Mountain West
Already eligible: TCU, San Diego State, Air Force, Utah.
Vying for a spot: BYU (4-5) plays at Colorado State in a critical must-win before closing against New Mexico and Utah.
On the other end of the spectrum: Colorado State, Wyoming, UNLV and New Mexico have been eliminated.
Guaranteed bowl spots: Five.
Sun Belt
Already eligible: No one.
Vying for a spot: Troy (5-3) is the only team with five wins. A home win against FIU on Saturday gets the Trojans bowl eligible. ULM (4-5) and Arkansas State (4-5) have to win two of three. The Warhawks have LSU, North Texas and Louisiana. Arkansas State has Western Kentucky, Navy and FIU.
On the other end of the spectrum: FIU, Middle Tennessee and FAU are each 3-5. The Blue Raiders may have the easiest road with games against North Texas, Western Kentucky, FAU and FIU remaining. FAU has Troy and Texas on its schedule. FIU also has tough games against Troy, Arkansas State and Middle Tennessee. North Texas, Louisiana and Western Kentucky have been eliminated.
Guaranteed bowl spots: Two.
WAC
Already eligible: Boise State, Hawaii, Nevada, Fresno State. Hawaii has accepted an invite to the Hawaii Bowl.
Vying for a spot: Idaho (4-5) has to win three of four against Boise State, Utah State, Fresno State and San Jose State. Since the Vandals have a 13-game schedule, they have to get to seven wins. Louisiana Tech and Utah State are both 3-6 and have to win out. The Bulldogs have New Mexico State, San Jose State and Nevada. Utah State has San Jose State, Idaho and Boise State.
On the other end of the spectrum: New Mexico State and San Jose State (1-8) have been eliminated.
Guaranteed bowl spots: Four.
Independents
Navy (6-3) became eligible for the Poinsettia Bowl. Army (5-4) needs one more win with games left against Kent State, Notre Dame and Navy. Army does not have an automatic bowl tie-in this year, but has backup agreements with the Armed Forces Bowl and Military Bowl. Notre Dame (4-5) needs two more wins with games remaining against Utah, Army and USC.
Conference USA
Already eligible: UCF, Tulsa, Southern Miss, UTEP.
Vying for a spot: East Carolina, SMU and Houston each have five wins. The Pirates are hoping to bounce back after an embarrassing 76-45 loss to Navy at UAB. Houston hosts Tulsa in an important West division game, while SMU is off. SMU, Houston and Tulsa each have two league losses. SMU already beat Tulsa but lost to Houston. If there is a three-way tie atop the division when the season ends, the first tiebreaker is overall record to determine who plays in the Conference USA title game.
On the other end of the spectrum: Tulane (3-6), Marshall (3-6) and UAB (3-6) have to win out. Rice (2-7) and Memphis (1-8) have been eliminated.
Guaranteed bowl spots: Six.
MAC
Already eligible: Temple, Toledo, Ohio and Northern Illinois.
Vying for a spot: Miami (Ohio) is 5-4 and has a great shot at becoming bowl eligible in the next two weeks with games at Bowling Green (2-7) on Wednesday and at Akron (0-10) on Nov. 17. Kent State (4-5) needs to win two of its final three against Army (5-4), Western Michigan (3-6) and Ohio (7-3).
On the other end of the spectrum: Western Michigan has to win out. Buffalo, Central Michigan, Bowling Green, Akron, Eastern Michigan and Ball State are out.
Guaranteed bowl spots: Three.
Mountain West
Already eligible: TCU, San Diego State, Air Force, Utah.
Vying for a spot: BYU (4-5) plays at Colorado State in a critical must-win before closing against New Mexico and Utah.
On the other end of the spectrum: Colorado State, Wyoming, UNLV and New Mexico have been eliminated.
Guaranteed bowl spots: Five.
Sun Belt
Already eligible: No one.
Vying for a spot: Troy (5-3) is the only team with five wins. A home win against FIU on Saturday gets the Trojans bowl eligible. ULM (4-5) and Arkansas State (4-5) have to win two of three. The Warhawks have LSU, North Texas and Louisiana. Arkansas State has Western Kentucky, Navy and FIU.
On the other end of the spectrum: FIU, Middle Tennessee and FAU are each 3-5. The Blue Raiders may have the easiest road with games against North Texas, Western Kentucky, FAU and FIU remaining. FAU has Troy and Texas on its schedule. FIU also has tough games against Troy, Arkansas State and Middle Tennessee. North Texas, Louisiana and Western Kentucky have been eliminated.
Guaranteed bowl spots: Two.
WAC
Already eligible: Boise State, Hawaii, Nevada, Fresno State. Hawaii has accepted an invite to the Hawaii Bowl.
Vying for a spot: Idaho (4-5) has to win three of four against Boise State, Utah State, Fresno State and San Jose State. Since the Vandals have a 13-game schedule, they have to get to seven wins. Louisiana Tech and Utah State are both 3-6 and have to win out. The Bulldogs have New Mexico State, San Jose State and Nevada. Utah State has San Jose State, Idaho and Boise State.
On the other end of the spectrum: New Mexico State and San Jose State (1-8) have been eliminated.
Guaranteed bowl spots: Four.
Independents
Navy (6-3) became eligible for the Poinsettia Bowl. Army (5-4) needs one more win with games left against Kent State, Notre Dame and Navy. Army does not have an automatic bowl tie-in this year, but has backup agreements with the Armed Forces Bowl and Military Bowl. Notre Dame (4-5) needs two more wins with games remaining against Utah, Army and USC.
Ready for some MAC football tonight? The MAC West is on the line when Toledo travels to Northern Illinois.
Now on to some links:
Boos show how the standards at Utah have been raised, writes Kurt Kragthorpe of the Salt Lake Tribune.
Idaho running back Deonte Jackson stirred the pot going into the Boise State game on Friday. When asked about comments Boise State president Bob Kustra made that were critical of Idaho fans, Jackson said, "I wouldn't expect anything different coming from the blue and orange snot."
TCU athletic director Chris Del Conte isn't interested in a football-only invite to the Big East.
Utah wants TCU to get a title shot.
Nevada quarterback Colin Kaepernick is all business as he returns close to home when the Wolf Pack play Fresno State.
Navy coach Ken Niumatalolo's son is a budding high school football player and has drawn some interest from college programs.
A lack of playmaking has continued to hurt SMU.
More details emerge from "Replaygate" involving San Diego State and BYU.
Is a change coming at quarterback for Rice?
ULM receiver Brent Leonard is second nationally in fourth-down conversion receptions.
The Colorado State-BYU series is ending.
Now on to some links:
Boos show how the standards at Utah have been raised, writes Kurt Kragthorpe of the Salt Lake Tribune.
Idaho running back Deonte Jackson stirred the pot going into the Boise State game on Friday. When asked about comments Boise State president Bob Kustra made that were critical of Idaho fans, Jackson said, "I wouldn't expect anything different coming from the blue and orange snot."
TCU athletic director Chris Del Conte isn't interested in a football-only invite to the Big East.
Utah wants TCU to get a title shot.
Nevada quarterback Colin Kaepernick is all business as he returns close to home when the Wolf Pack play Fresno State.
Navy coach Ken Niumatalolo's son is a budding high school football player and has drawn some interest from college programs.
A lack of playmaking has continued to hurt SMU.
More details emerge from "Replaygate" involving San Diego State and BYU.
Is a change coming at quarterback for Rice?
ULM receiver Brent Leonard is second nationally in fourth-down conversion receptions.
The Colorado State-BYU series is ending.
TCU, Boise State and BCS standings
November, 9, 2010
11/09/10
11:30
AM ET
By
Andrea Adelson | ESPN.com
Several big questions loom in the final weeks of the season regarding TCU, Boise State and their quest to become the first non-AQ team to play for a BCS national championship.
Auburn and Oregon are in control of their own destiny. One or both have to lose for TCU or Boise State to sneak in. I asked ESPN BCS guru Brad Edwards two pressing questions on the topic, and here is what he had to say:
Q: If Oregon and Auburn lose, what are the chances TCU and Boise State play for the national title if both stay undefeated?
A: Right now, you'd have to say that's the most likely scenario. Even if voters decide to elevate a 1-loss conference champion to attempt to keep it from happening, they'd need to be on the same page in deciding which team to elevate, and their choice would need to be a team that was strong enough in the computers. It would take a bunch of voters with a common goal. The biggest threat to that matchup, in my opinion, would be Auburn if it lost at Alabama then won the SEC title.
Q: So in that scenario, can the Tigers creep ahead of TCU/Boise State into the national title game?
A: If Auburn loses to Alabama then wins the SEC, the Tigers will still be very strong in the computers. My guess, though, is if Oregon is still unbeaten, most voters are willing to give TCU (or Boise State) a chance rather than try to force a team with a late loss into that spot. Then again, it's a one-loss SEC champ, and that's a decision the voters would have to make.
Auburn and Oregon are in control of their own destiny. One or both have to lose for TCU or Boise State to sneak in. I asked ESPN BCS guru Brad Edwards two pressing questions on the topic, and here is what he had to say:
Q: If Oregon and Auburn lose, what are the chances TCU and Boise State play for the national title if both stay undefeated?
A: Right now, you'd have to say that's the most likely scenario. Even if voters decide to elevate a 1-loss conference champion to attempt to keep it from happening, they'd need to be on the same page in deciding which team to elevate, and their choice would need to be a team that was strong enough in the computers. It would take a bunch of voters with a common goal. The biggest threat to that matchup, in my opinion, would be Auburn if it lost at Alabama then won the SEC title.
Q: So in that scenario, can the Tigers creep ahead of TCU/Boise State into the national title game?
A: If Auburn loses to Alabama then wins the SEC, the Tigers will still be very strong in the computers. My guess, though, is if Oregon is still unbeaten, most voters are willing to give TCU (or Boise State) a chance rather than try to force a team with a late loss into that spot. Then again, it's a one-loss SEC champ, and that's a decision the voters would have to make.
Moore dominates non-AQ Heisman Watch
November, 9, 2010
11/09/10
10:30
AM ET
By
Andrea Adelson | ESPN.com
Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore outdid himself this weekend against Hawaii. He threw for a career-high 507 yards and completed 81 percent of his passes in three quarters of a 42-7 win over the Warriors.
He also became the school's all-time leader with 29 200-yard games and 85 touchdown pass. Moore is just a junior. All of that certainly is enough to keep him high in the Heisman discussion, even though he finds himself behind Auburn quarterback Cam Newton and Oregon running back LaMichael James.
Still, Moore leads the nation in passing efficiency with a mark of 192.38, and is also the country’s active leader in the statistical category (166.22). He drew praise from Louisiana Tech coach Sonny Dykes on the WAC coaches call Monday. Dykes compared Moore to former NFL quarterback Kurt Warner. What impresses him most about Moore? His poise.
"He doesn't panic. Ever," Dykes said.
He also became the school's all-time leader with 29 200-yard games and 85 touchdown pass. Moore is just a junior. All of that certainly is enough to keep him high in the Heisman discussion, even though he finds himself behind Auburn quarterback Cam Newton and Oregon running back LaMichael James.
Still, Moore leads the nation in passing efficiency with a mark of 192.38, and is also the country’s active leader in the statistical category (166.22). He drew praise from Louisiana Tech coach Sonny Dykes on the WAC coaches call Monday. Dykes compared Moore to former NFL quarterback Kurt Warner. What impresses him most about Moore? His poise.
"He doesn't panic. Ever," Dykes said.
Great debate: TCU vs. Boise State
November, 8, 2010
11/08/10
5:26
PM ET
By
Andrea Adelson | ESPN.com
It has come to this: non-AQ brother vs. non-AQ brother trying to tear the other down in an effort to be the first to make history and get into the BCS National Championship Game.
With TCU a solid No. 3 in the BCS standings this week, many Boise State fans have been left to scratch their heads. How is it that the Broncos beat a 7-2 Hawaii team 42-7, rack up a school-record 737 yards of offense, hold an opponent to 196 yards and drop in the human polls? That drop saw them fall further behind TCU in the BCS standings in their quest to get into the national championship game.
On the other side, TCU fans are saying darn right the Horned Frogs moved ahead. Their 47-7 victory against then-No. 5 Utah was more impressive, on the road, against a Top-5 team. The offense was prolific, the defense just as stingy.
So how to judge?
If you take a look at their strength of schedule, TCU has a computer average of 2 and Boise State has a 5. Boise State’s opponents have a .438 winning percentage. TCU’s have a .471 winning percentage. Both have beaten three teams with winning records.
They are both ranked in the Top 10 in scoring offense, scoring defense, total offense and total defense. It is actually TCU-Boise State 1-2 in total defense and scoring defense. Both have won impressively, both have veteran teams.
You can make the argument that Boise State is better. You can make the argument that TCU is better. If I was debating myself, here is how I would make those cases:
The case for Boise State: The Broncos have won 22 straight games, the longest winning streak in the country. I am not even going to go into the argument that Boise State beat TCU last season, because this is a new season and new teams. So based on the 2010 version, the Broncos are better on offense. Kellen Moore is a leader you want in the fourth quarter with time winding down. They also have better wide receivers in Austin Pettis and Titus Young. The defense is just as ferocious as the TCU unit. The Horned Frogs have 21 sacks in 10 games. Boise State has 31 sacks in eight games.
Boise State has allowed just 15 red-zone opportunities, and opponents have converted them into points eight times. The 53.3 percent conversion rate is the lowest in the nation. No other team in America gets punished the way the Broncos do. Who else handily wins games and drops in the polls? Boise State fell two spots in the AP poll to No. 4 after the Hawaii win, and one spot in the coaches’ and Harris polls to No. 3. That doesn’t happen to the teams from power conferences, no matter who they play.
The case for TCU: The Horned Frogs have the most impressive win of both schools, going on the road to embarrass Utah. Boise State hasn’t played anybody as highly ranked as Utah, and won’t play anybody as highly ranked as Utah the rest of the season. What, that win wasn’t impressive because the Utes weren’t that good? Well, Virginia Tech lost to James Madison. The TCU defense is better, holding opponents to 8.5 points a game. That is four better than Boise State. Utah didn’t even get past the 50 until the fourth quarter! TCU has allowed just three touchdowns over a 371:24 span, covering seven games and dating back to a Sept. 24 win at SMU.
The TCU offense is more balanced and versatile. Andy Dalton can run and throw. Ed Wesley and Matthew Tucker are a better duo at running back. And TCU has one of the best special teams players in the country in Jeremy Kerley. You want a lack of respect? TCU can play that card, too. The Horned Frogs returned 16 starters from a BCS team and started the season ranked behind Florida and Texas – teams missing their best players. Where are those two programs now? TCU kept winning big and kept getting passed in the human polls, too, until this week.
So you see, arguments can be made for both. Boise State finishes the season with four games against opponents that are a combined 21-14. TCU finishes with two opponents that are a combined 8-10.
Who deserves to go to the national championship game if there is an opening? Maybe both if Auburn and Oregon both lose. According to BCS guru Brad Edwards, that scenario is not out of the realm of possibility.
But if there is no opening, then Boise State and TCU will be exactly where they were for the second straight season: on the outside looking in, jockeying for the top BCS bid.
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AP Photo/Matt CilleyKellen Moore and Boise State dropped in the human polls after routing Hawaii, 42-7.
AP Photo/Matt CilleyKellen Moore and Boise State dropped in the human polls after routing Hawaii, 42-7.On the other side, TCU fans are saying darn right the Horned Frogs moved ahead. Their 47-7 victory against then-No. 5 Utah was more impressive, on the road, against a Top-5 team. The offense was prolific, the defense just as stingy.
So how to judge?
If you take a look at their strength of schedule, TCU has a computer average of 2 and Boise State has a 5. Boise State’s opponents have a .438 winning percentage. TCU’s have a .471 winning percentage. Both have beaten three teams with winning records.
They are both ranked in the Top 10 in scoring offense, scoring defense, total offense and total defense. It is actually TCU-Boise State 1-2 in total defense and scoring defense. Both have won impressively, both have veteran teams.
You can make the argument that Boise State is better. You can make the argument that TCU is better. If I was debating myself, here is how I would make those cases:
The case for Boise State: The Broncos have won 22 straight games, the longest winning streak in the country. I am not even going to go into the argument that Boise State beat TCU last season, because this is a new season and new teams. So based on the 2010 version, the Broncos are better on offense. Kellen Moore is a leader you want in the fourth quarter with time winding down. They also have better wide receivers in Austin Pettis and Titus Young. The defense is just as ferocious as the TCU unit. The Horned Frogs have 21 sacks in 10 games. Boise State has 31 sacks in eight games.
Boise State has allowed just 15 red-zone opportunities, and opponents have converted them into points eight times. The 53.3 percent conversion rate is the lowest in the nation. No other team in America gets punished the way the Broncos do. Who else handily wins games and drops in the polls? Boise State fell two spots in the AP poll to No. 4 after the Hawaii win, and one spot in the coaches’ and Harris polls to No. 3. That doesn’t happen to the teams from power conferences, no matter who they play.
The case for TCU: The Horned Frogs have the most impressive win of both schools, going on the road to embarrass Utah. Boise State hasn’t played anybody as highly ranked as Utah, and won’t play anybody as highly ranked as Utah the rest of the season. What, that win wasn’t impressive because the Utes weren’t that good? Well, Virginia Tech lost to James Madison. The TCU defense is better, holding opponents to 8.5 points a game. That is four better than Boise State. Utah didn’t even get past the 50 until the fourth quarter! TCU has allowed just three touchdowns over a 371:24 span, covering seven games and dating back to a Sept. 24 win at SMU.
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George Frey/Getty ImagesAndy Dalton and TCU are No. 3 in the BCS rankings after crushing unbeaten Utah on the road, 47-7.
George Frey/Getty ImagesAndy Dalton and TCU are No. 3 in the BCS rankings after crushing unbeaten Utah on the road, 47-7.So you see, arguments can be made for both. Boise State finishes the season with four games against opponents that are a combined 21-14. TCU finishes with two opponents that are a combined 8-10.
Who deserves to go to the national championship game if there is an opening? Maybe both if Auburn and Oregon both lose. According to BCS guru Brad Edwards, that scenario is not out of the realm of possibility.
But if there is no opening, then Boise State and TCU will be exactly where they were for the second straight season: on the outside looking in, jockeying for the top BCS bid.
Here are the non-AQ Players of the Week, as selected by each conference:
Conference USA
Offense: UCF quarterback Jeff Godfrey. Went 15-of-19 for 294 yards and a pair of touchdowns and rushed for 105 yards and a touchdown, giving him 399 yards of total offense in a 40-33 win against Houston. It was just the second 100-yard rushing game by a UCF quarterback in school history.
Defense: UCF linebacker Josh Linam. Had 17 tackles, 1.5 for a loss and a pass breakup against Houston. It more than doubled his previous career-high of seven.
Special Teams: Tulsa kick returner Damaris Johnson. Totaled 322 all-purpose yards and scored three touchdowns in a 57-27 victory against Rice. Johnson became the Conference USA record-holder for career kickoff return yards with 3,054 yards and needs only 64 yards to become the NCAA’s all-time kick-off return leader.
MAC
East Division
Offense: Temple quarterback Mike Gerardi. Threw for 368 yards and two touchdowns in a 28-10 win at Kent State. In four games, Gerardi has three starts and is 54-of-81 for 871 yards and eight touchdowns.
Defense: Ohio defensive lineman Stafford Gatling. Recorded six tackles, including 1.5 sacks and two tackles for loss with a forced fumble in a 34-17 win against Buffalo.
Special teams: Kent State punter Matt Rinehart. Averaged 48.4 yards on seven punts in a 28-10 loss to Temple. Rinehart had a pair of punts downed inside the 5-yard line as the Flashes averaged an impressive 48.1 net average.
West Division
Offense: Ball State receiver Jack Tomlinson. Had a career day with seven catches for 175 yards and three touchdowns in a 37-30 double overtime win against Akron.
Defense: Central Michigan linebacer Armond Staten. Recorded 11 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, one sack and three forced fumbles in a 26-22 win against Western Michigan.
Special teams: Ball State kicker Ian McGarvey. Made three field goals and four extra points against Akron.
Mountain West
Offense: TCU quarterback Andy Dalton. Went 21-of-26 for a career-high 355 yards and three touchdowns in a 47-7 win at No. 5 Utah. His 93-yard touchdown pass to Josh Boyce marked the second-longest play in MWC history.
Co-Defensive Players: TCU linebacker Tanner Brock and San Diego State linebacker Miles Burris. Brock had a career-high 12 tackles, an interception and a pass breakup in the win against Utah. Burris had a career-high 10 tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks and two forced fumbles in a 24-19 victory against Colorado State.
Special teams: New Mexico kicker James Aho. Kicked a 38-yard field goal as time expired to help New Mexico stop a nine-game losing streak with a 34-31 win against Wyoming. He also made a career-best 51-yard attempt.
Sun Belt
Offense: FIU receiver T.Y. Hilton. Had 291 all-purpose yards, scoring four touchdowns in a 42-35 win in double overtime against ULM. He had two receiving touchdowns, one rushing touchdown and one kickoff return for a touchdown.
Defense: Arkansas State linebacker Demario Davis. Had seven tackles and a career-high two interceptions in a 51-24 victory against Middle Tennessee.
Special teams: Hilton. Had 168 kick return yards, including 95 on a touchdown return. The return was his fourth-career return for touchdown, tying him for first all-time at FIU.
WAC
Offense: Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore. Went 30-of-37 for a career-high 507 yards and three touchdowns in a 42-7 win against Hawaii. The 507 yards are the second most by any player in the nation this year.
Defense: Utah State linebacker Bobby Wagner. Tied a career-high with 17 tackles in a 27-22 win against New Mexico State.
Special teams: Louisiana Tech return specialist Phillip Livas. Returned seven kickoffs for 225 yards, including a 95-yarder for a touchdown, and a punt for another 29 yards in a loss to Fresno State.
Conference USA
Offense: UCF quarterback Jeff Godfrey. Went 15-of-19 for 294 yards and a pair of touchdowns and rushed for 105 yards and a touchdown, giving him 399 yards of total offense in a 40-33 win against Houston. It was just the second 100-yard rushing game by a UCF quarterback in school history.
Defense: UCF linebacker Josh Linam. Had 17 tackles, 1.5 for a loss and a pass breakup against Houston. It more than doubled his previous career-high of seven.
Special Teams: Tulsa kick returner Damaris Johnson. Totaled 322 all-purpose yards and scored three touchdowns in a 57-27 victory against Rice. Johnson became the Conference USA record-holder for career kickoff return yards with 3,054 yards and needs only 64 yards to become the NCAA’s all-time kick-off return leader.
MAC
East Division
Offense: Temple quarterback Mike Gerardi. Threw for 368 yards and two touchdowns in a 28-10 win at Kent State. In four games, Gerardi has three starts and is 54-of-81 for 871 yards and eight touchdowns.
Defense: Ohio defensive lineman Stafford Gatling. Recorded six tackles, including 1.5 sacks and two tackles for loss with a forced fumble in a 34-17 win against Buffalo.
Special teams: Kent State punter Matt Rinehart. Averaged 48.4 yards on seven punts in a 28-10 loss to Temple. Rinehart had a pair of punts downed inside the 5-yard line as the Flashes averaged an impressive 48.1 net average.
West Division
Offense: Ball State receiver Jack Tomlinson. Had a career day with seven catches for 175 yards and three touchdowns in a 37-30 double overtime win against Akron.
Defense: Central Michigan linebacer Armond Staten. Recorded 11 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, one sack and three forced fumbles in a 26-22 win against Western Michigan.
Special teams: Ball State kicker Ian McGarvey. Made three field goals and four extra points against Akron.
Mountain West
Offense: TCU quarterback Andy Dalton. Went 21-of-26 for a career-high 355 yards and three touchdowns in a 47-7 win at No. 5 Utah. His 93-yard touchdown pass to Josh Boyce marked the second-longest play in MWC history.
Co-Defensive Players: TCU linebacker Tanner Brock and San Diego State linebacker Miles Burris. Brock had a career-high 12 tackles, an interception and a pass breakup in the win against Utah. Burris had a career-high 10 tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks and two forced fumbles in a 24-19 victory against Colorado State.
Special teams: New Mexico kicker James Aho. Kicked a 38-yard field goal as time expired to help New Mexico stop a nine-game losing streak with a 34-31 win against Wyoming. He also made a career-best 51-yard attempt.
Sun Belt
Offense: FIU receiver T.Y. Hilton. Had 291 all-purpose yards, scoring four touchdowns in a 42-35 win in double overtime against ULM. He had two receiving touchdowns, one rushing touchdown and one kickoff return for a touchdown.
Defense: Arkansas State linebacker Demario Davis. Had seven tackles and a career-high two interceptions in a 51-24 victory against Middle Tennessee.
Special teams: Hilton. Had 168 kick return yards, including 95 on a touchdown return. The return was his fourth-career return for touchdown, tying him for first all-time at FIU.
WAC
Offense: Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore. Went 30-of-37 for a career-high 507 yards and three touchdowns in a 42-7 win against Hawaii. The 507 yards are the second most by any player in the nation this year.
Defense: Utah State linebacker Bobby Wagner. Tied a career-high with 17 tackles in a 27-22 win against New Mexico State.
Special teams: Louisiana Tech return specialist Phillip Livas. Returned seven kickoffs for 225 yards, including a 95-yarder for a touchdown, and a punt for another 29 yards in a loss to Fresno State.
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