College Football Nation: Ryan Mathews
Mathews leaves big hole at Fresno St.
August, 3, 2010
8/03/10
1:00
PM ET
By
Andrea Adelson | ESPN.com
This is the second in a series of week-long previews featuring five non-AQ teams as we head into the start of fall camp.
Up today: Fresno St.
Fresno St. coach Pat Hill put it mildly when he said his team had some holes to fill during WAC media days.
More like a gargantuan hole in the middle of the backfield.
Ryan Mathews, who led the NCAA in rushing last season, has taken his talents to the NFL, leaving sophomore Robbie Rouse as the likely starter at running back. Sophomores Mike Harris and A.J. Hill should also be in the mix.
But there are several factors that work in Rouse’s favor as he attempts to replace Mathews. For one, the entire starting offensive line returns and should be one of the greatest strengths of the team when fall camp opens Thursday.
“We’re going to need this vet group because we’re breaking in a new group of receivers and running backs,” said Hill, going into his 14th year with the Bulldogs. “I think having a veteran line is always a key.
“On offense, there are so many things that can limit you if you’re not good on the offensive line. Until our young players adjust to the speed of the game, our offensive line is going to have to be that rock for us.”
The offense should also be helped with the return of quarterback Ryan Colburn, going into his second season as a starter. Hill says Colburn is entrenched but would like to see some competition from Derek Carr, the younger brother of David Carr. Derek Carr played in five games last season in limited work and is expected to redshirt should Hill stick with Colburn.
“They both had very good offseasons,” Hill said. “Colburn is a special, special guy and I had sort of the same problem back in 1999 when I had Billy Volek and David Carr and I redshirted David. It worked out good for Billy and it worked out good for David.
“Right now, Ryan Colburn is definitely our starter. He earned the job last year and played well for us. But it all starts again in the fall. If there’s a change at the quarterback position, we’ll make it, but right now Ryan Colburn is our quarterback.”
Still, it may be hard to replace the school-record 1,808 yards and 19 TDs from Mathews, who averaged 6.55 yards a carry. Rouse, at 5-foot-7, doesn’t have the size Mathews has, but has worked in the offseason to bulk up and improve his speed.
He ran for 479 yards and four touchdowns, and averaged 5.8 yards a carry last season behind Mathews, so you can say he learned from the best.
Now it’s his turn.
“We’ll spread the ball around in different ways,” Hill said. “We’ll still have a mentality of tough, hard-nosed football when we have to be.”
Other previews:
Up today: Fresno St.
Fresno St. coach Pat Hill put it mildly when he said his team had some holes to fill during WAC media days.
More like a gargantuan hole in the middle of the backfield.
[+] Enlarge
Cary Edmondson/US PresswireRyan Mathews rushed for a school-record 1,808 yards last season, with 19 touchdowns.
Cary Edmondson/US PresswireRyan Mathews rushed for a school-record 1,808 yards last season, with 19 touchdowns.But there are several factors that work in Rouse’s favor as he attempts to replace Mathews. For one, the entire starting offensive line returns and should be one of the greatest strengths of the team when fall camp opens Thursday.
“We’re going to need this vet group because we’re breaking in a new group of receivers and running backs,” said Hill, going into his 14th year with the Bulldogs. “I think having a veteran line is always a key.
“On offense, there are so many things that can limit you if you’re not good on the offensive line. Until our young players adjust to the speed of the game, our offensive line is going to have to be that rock for us.”
The offense should also be helped with the return of quarterback Ryan Colburn, going into his second season as a starter. Hill says Colburn is entrenched but would like to see some competition from Derek Carr, the younger brother of David Carr. Derek Carr played in five games last season in limited work and is expected to redshirt should Hill stick with Colburn.
“They both had very good offseasons,” Hill said. “Colburn is a special, special guy and I had sort of the same problem back in 1999 when I had Billy Volek and David Carr and I redshirted David. It worked out good for Billy and it worked out good for David.
“Right now, Ryan Colburn is definitely our starter. He earned the job last year and played well for us. But it all starts again in the fall. If there’s a change at the quarterback position, we’ll make it, but right now Ryan Colburn is our quarterback.”
Still, it may be hard to replace the school-record 1,808 yards and 19 TDs from Mathews, who averaged 6.55 yards a carry. Rouse, at 5-foot-7, doesn’t have the size Mathews has, but has worked in the offseason to bulk up and improve his speed.
He ran for 479 yards and four touchdowns, and averaged 5.8 yards a carry last season behind Mathews, so you can say he learned from the best.
Now it’s his turn.
“We’ll spread the ball around in different ways,” Hill said. “We’ll still have a mentality of tough, hard-nosed football when we have to be.”
Other previews:
The 12 teams profiled from the nonautomatic qualifying conferences all are expected to be at the top of their respective conferences. Here's a look at some of the superlatives for those teams:
Best position battle: The BYU quarterback battle probably is the most watched, not only among the non-AQs, but also around the country. The competition likely will come down to last season's backup, Riley Nelson, and highly touted true freshman Jake Heaps, and will determine whether the Cougars can make yet another appearance in the Top 25.
Best recovery from injury: Northern Illinois quarterback Chandler Harnish was supposed to miss spring ball because of knee surgery, which prompted coach Jerry Kill to reopen the quarterbacking competition. But Harnish made a miraculous recovery, didn't have surgery and participated in the back half of spring drills, including the spring game, in which he threw for 161 yards and two touchdowns.
Biggest surprise: One of the biggest surprises of the spring was the way Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore struggled. Moore has been one of the most consistent quarterbacks in country throughout his short career, so his faltering during spring ball was a bit of a surprise. The Boise State coaches didn't seem too worried, though, and were fairly confident the issue wouldn't slip into fall camp.
Biggest drama: This honor belongs to BYU running back Harvey Unga, who voluntarily withdrew from school after violating the honor code. About a week later, coach Bronco Mendenhall told the media that Unga wanted back in, but now his fate rests with the BYU Honor Code Office, which could decide his infraction was enough to warrant expulsion.
Biggest surprise: Fresno State went into this spring looking for a replacement for All-American running back Ryan Mathews and found an unexpected leader in sophomore Robbie Rouse. Rouse, who rushed for 479 yards and four touchdowns last year, spent the offseason adding bulk to become an every-down back.
Best newcomer: Other than some of the young quarterbacks who have emerged this spring, Utah receiver Griffin McNabb could have the biggest impact among these 12 teams in 2010. McNabb, a walk-on, had five catches for 100 yards, including a 61-yard touchdown reception, during the Utes' spring game.
Best position battle: The BYU quarterback battle probably is the most watched, not only among the non-AQs, but also around the country. The competition likely will come down to last season's backup, Riley Nelson, and highly touted true freshman Jake Heaps, and will determine whether the Cougars can make yet another appearance in the Top 25.
[+] Enlarge
Brad Schloss/Icon SMIFresno State's Robbie Rouse will try to fill the sizable shoes left by Ryan Mathews.
Brad Schloss/Icon SMIFresno State's Robbie Rouse will try to fill the sizable shoes left by Ryan Mathews.Biggest surprise: One of the biggest surprises of the spring was the way Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore struggled. Moore has been one of the most consistent quarterbacks in country throughout his short career, so his faltering during spring ball was a bit of a surprise. The Boise State coaches didn't seem too worried, though, and were fairly confident the issue wouldn't slip into fall camp.
Biggest drama: This honor belongs to BYU running back Harvey Unga, who voluntarily withdrew from school after violating the honor code. About a week later, coach Bronco Mendenhall told the media that Unga wanted back in, but now his fate rests with the BYU Honor Code Office, which could decide his infraction was enough to warrant expulsion.
Biggest surprise: Fresno State went into this spring looking for a replacement for All-American running back Ryan Mathews and found an unexpected leader in sophomore Robbie Rouse. Rouse, who rushed for 479 yards and four touchdowns last year, spent the offseason adding bulk to become an every-down back.
Best newcomer: Other than some of the young quarterbacks who have emerged this spring, Utah receiver Griffin McNabb could have the biggest impact among these 12 teams in 2010. McNabb, a walk-on, had five catches for 100 yards, including a 61-yard touchdown reception, during the Utes' spring game.
NFL draft's first round smiles on non-AQs
April, 23, 2010
4/23/10
1:21
PM ET
By
Graham Watson | ESPN.com
If you were looking for a sign that the nonautomatic qualifying conferences are catching up to everyone else, look no further than the first round of the NFL draft.
Four players from the nonautomatic qualifying conferences were picked in prime time last night matching the number of non-AQ players who were picked in 2005.
Six total players were picked from 2006 to 2009, including three in 2008.
Early Thursday via Twitter, I guessed that three players would go and maybe a fourth if certain positions and needs were up for grabs. I also thought that Idaho offensive guard Mike Iupati would be the first non-AQ picked. Boise State fans rebuffed that claim and said cornerback Kyle Wilson would be the first non-AQ player taken.
Alas, we were both wrong.
So, if you were asleep, living in seclusion or in jail, here’s another look at the non-AQ players who were selected in the first round of the NFL draft:
No. 12: San Diego Chargers -- Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State
No. 17: San Francisco 49ers -- Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho
No. 29: New York Jets -- Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State
No. 31: Indianapolis Colts -- Jerry Hughes, OLB, TCU
Four players from the nonautomatic qualifying conferences were picked in prime time last night matching the number of non-AQ players who were picked in 2005.
Six total players were picked from 2006 to 2009, including three in 2008.
Early Thursday via Twitter, I guessed that three players would go and maybe a fourth if certain positions and needs were up for grabs. I also thought that Idaho offensive guard Mike Iupati would be the first non-AQ picked. Boise State fans rebuffed that claim and said cornerback Kyle Wilson would be the first non-AQ player taken.
Alas, we were both wrong.
So, if you were asleep, living in seclusion or in jail, here’s another look at the non-AQ players who were selected in the first round of the NFL draft:
No. 12: San Diego Chargers -- Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State
No. 17: San Francisco 49ers -- Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho
No. 29: New York Jets -- Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State
No. 31: Indianapolis Colts -- Jerry Hughes, OLB, TCU
The final batch of non-AQ teams begins spring football this week as many other teams are wrapping up their spring campaigns.
Here’s a look at the biggest issues facing the teams starting spring practice this week:
Kent State, April 5
Biggest issue: The Golden Flashes are looking for a pair of corners to complement their fifth-year senior safeties. Junior Josh Pleasant is the favorite to start in one of the cornerback spots, and junior Chris Gilbert, sophomore Sidney Saulter and redshirt freshman Darius Polk will challenge for the other side.
New Mexico State, April 5
Biggest issue: Scoring. The Aggies were the worst in total offense and scoring offense in the country last season. They averaged just 11.46 points per game. To that end, coach DeWayne Walker hired some new offensive coaches and recruited quarterbacks and running backs to help move the offense forward.
Fresno State, April 7
Biggest issue: Fresno State was originally supposed to start spring football on March 15. Coach Pat Hill said the Bulldogs would utilize its newfound athleticism and speed and add some spread concepts to the offense this spring. He did emphasize that the running game would still be a focus, but finding a new every-down back to replace Ryan Mathews will be a challenge.
Here’s a look at the biggest issues facing the teams starting spring practice this week:
Kent State, April 5
Biggest issue: The Golden Flashes are looking for a pair of corners to complement their fifth-year senior safeties. Junior Josh Pleasant is the favorite to start in one of the cornerback spots, and junior Chris Gilbert, sophomore Sidney Saulter and redshirt freshman Darius Polk will challenge for the other side.
New Mexico State, April 5
Biggest issue: Scoring. The Aggies were the worst in total offense and scoring offense in the country last season. They averaged just 11.46 points per game. To that end, coach DeWayne Walker hired some new offensive coaches and recruited quarterbacks and running backs to help move the offense forward.
Fresno State, April 7
Biggest issue: Fresno State was originally supposed to start spring football on March 15. Coach Pat Hill said the Bulldogs would utilize its newfound athleticism and speed and add some spread concepts to the offense this spring. He did emphasize that the running game would still be a focus, but finding a new every-down back to replace Ryan Mathews will be a challenge.
Non-AQs to watch as NFL combine nears
February, 19, 2010
2/19/10
5:45
PM ET
By
Graham Watson | ESPN.com
Players from nonautomatic qualifying schools are steadily moving up ESPN Scouts Inc.’s draft board.
With a week before the NFL scouting combine, Idaho offensive guard Mike Iupati leads all non-AQ players as the top prospect. He’s the No. 1 guard in the draft and he and Boise State cornerback Kyle Wilson have consistently been projected as first round picks.
But in Todd McShay’s blog Friday, Fresno Sate running back Ryan Mathews appeared as the No. 32 player in the upcoming draft. Mathews is a junior, so the first time scouts will really get to see his speed and agility is during the combine next week. Mathews is on the bubble between the first and second rounds and the combine could definitively move him one way or the other.
McShay also noted that after watching film, he found some players to watch as we head into the combine, and Utah receiver David Reed and Fresno State receiver Seyi Ajirotutu have cracked that list.
According to McShay, Reed “… should develop into a very good No. 3 receiver at the next level and is worth the investment late in Round 3.” McShay also writes that Reed should be taken over, “players such as Danario Alexander (Missouri), Jacoby Ford (Clemson) and Freddie Barnes (Bowling Green).”
For Ajirotutu, McShay writes that he needs some polishing, but could be a steal on Day 3 if some teams aren’t able to get a big-bodied receiver in the first three rounds.
Obviously, both Reed and Ajirotutu will have to impress scouts at the combine, but what they’ve shown on film already has piqued interest.
With a week before the NFL scouting combine, Idaho offensive guard Mike Iupati leads all non-AQ players as the top prospect. He’s the No. 1 guard in the draft and he and Boise State cornerback Kyle Wilson have consistently been projected as first round picks.
But in Todd McShay’s blog Friday, Fresno Sate running back Ryan Mathews appeared as the No. 32 player in the upcoming draft. Mathews is a junior, so the first time scouts will really get to see his speed and agility is during the combine next week. Mathews is on the bubble between the first and second rounds and the combine could definitively move him one way or the other.
McShay also noted that after watching film, he found some players to watch as we head into the combine, and Utah receiver David Reed and Fresno State receiver Seyi Ajirotutu have cracked that list.
According to McShay, Reed “… should develop into a very good No. 3 receiver at the next level and is worth the investment late in Round 3.” McShay also writes that Reed should be taken over, “players such as Danario Alexander (Missouri), Jacoby Ford (Clemson) and Freddie Barnes (Bowling Green).”
For Ajirotutu, McShay writes that he needs some polishing, but could be a steal on Day 3 if some teams aren’t able to get a big-bodied receiver in the first three rounds.
Obviously, both Reed and Ajirotutu will have to impress scouts at the combine, but what they’ve shown on film already has piqued interest.
Non-AQ players aren't NFL first-round candidates
January, 21, 2010
1/21/10
4:00
PM ET
By
Graham Watson | ESPN.com
Mel Kiper doesn’t have any love for the non-AQs in the first round of this year’s NFL draft.
There are no non-AQs players listed on Kiper’s first mock draft, which was released on ESPN.com on Thursday. Not even TCU defensive end (who could be considered an outside linebacker in the pros) Jerry Hughes, who was considered a late first-round pick on his NFL evaluation after his junior year, was able to crack the top 32. Hughes didn’t make Todd McShay’s first round either.
Kiper does list his top five players per position, which is a little kinder to players from teams outside the Big Six.
Idaho offensive guard Mike Iupati is the best guard available in the draft and TCU linebacker Daryl Washington is the second-best inside linebacker behind Alabama’s Rolando McClain and before Florida’s Brandon Spikes.
Kent State fullback Jameson Konz and BYU fullback Manase Tonga are the No. 3 and No. 4 fullbacks, respectively, available.
Central Michigan quarterback Dan LeFevour is considered the fifth-best quarterback in the draft and Fresno State running back Ryan Mathews is considered the fifth-best running back.
Toledo kicker Alex Steigerwald is the fourth-best place-kicker and East Carolina punter Matt Dodge is the third-best punter available this year.
It is important to note that these rankings are before the senior bowls and the NFL combine, and those two events have been known to alter the first three rounds quite a bit.
There are no non-AQs players listed on Kiper’s first mock draft, which was released on ESPN.com on Thursday. Not even TCU defensive end (who could be considered an outside linebacker in the pros) Jerry Hughes, who was considered a late first-round pick on his NFL evaluation after his junior year, was able to crack the top 32. Hughes didn’t make Todd McShay’s first round either.
Kiper does list his top five players per position, which is a little kinder to players from teams outside the Big Six.
Idaho offensive guard Mike Iupati is the best guard available in the draft and TCU linebacker Daryl Washington is the second-best inside linebacker behind Alabama’s Rolando McClain and before Florida’s Brandon Spikes.
Kent State fullback Jameson Konz and BYU fullback Manase Tonga are the No. 3 and No. 4 fullbacks, respectively, available.
Central Michigan quarterback Dan LeFevour is considered the fifth-best quarterback in the draft and Fresno State running back Ryan Mathews is considered the fifth-best running back.
Toledo kicker Alex Steigerwald is the fourth-best place-kicker and East Carolina punter Matt Dodge is the third-best punter available this year.
It is important to note that these rankings are before the senior bowls and the NFL combine, and those two events have been known to alter the first three rounds quite a bit.
Mathews makes the right call to leave Fresno State
December, 21, 2009
12/21/09
6:55
PM ET
By
Graham Watson | ESPN.com
Can’t blame Ryan Mathews for striking while the iron is hot.
Just a couple days after Mathews completed his junior season with the Bulldogs, he announced that he had signed with an agent and will enter the 2010 NFL Draft.
Mathews led the nation in rushing with 150.67 yards per game and finished the season 1,808 yards and 19 touchdowns on 276 carries. He rushed for more than 100 yards in all but two games this season and he missed most of those games because of a concussion. It was by far the best season of his collegiate career.
Mathews told media after the double overtime loss to Wyoming in the New Mexico Bowl that he was thinking of staying at Fresno State for his senior season, but a conversation with his coaches changed that thinking.
“Basically I sat down with Coach Hill and Coach Wade and asked them what was going on,” Mathews told the Fresno Bee. “Coach Hill said, 'I think you need to go. You've done what you needed to do here.’”
Hill’s recommendation is unusual, but it’s a prime example of Hill putting Mathews' best interest ahead of the team’s. Mathews not only plays a volatile position as a running back, but he has suffered multiple injuries while in college. He hasn’t gone through an entire season without missing at least one game because of an injury. This is the first season that he didn’t have an injury that nagged and limited him the entire year.
Mathews signed with agent Frank Bauer over the weekend. Bauer also represents Hill.
The Fresno Bee reports than Mathews likely will not finish the spring semester because he is not on pace to graduate at the end of the year. Mathews will instead use the time to train for the draft.
ESPN’s Scout’s Inc., has Mathews ranked as the No. 3 running back and 45th-best player overall.
Just a couple days after Mathews completed his junior season with the Bulldogs, he announced that he had signed with an agent and will enter the 2010 NFL Draft.
Mathews led the nation in rushing with 150.67 yards per game and finished the season 1,808 yards and 19 touchdowns on 276 carries. He rushed for more than 100 yards in all but two games this season and he missed most of those games because of a concussion. It was by far the best season of his collegiate career.
Mathews told media after the double overtime loss to Wyoming in the New Mexico Bowl that he was thinking of staying at Fresno State for his senior season, but a conversation with his coaches changed that thinking.
“Basically I sat down with Coach Hill and Coach Wade and asked them what was going on,” Mathews told the Fresno Bee. “Coach Hill said, 'I think you need to go. You've done what you needed to do here.’”
Hill’s recommendation is unusual, but it’s a prime example of Hill putting Mathews' best interest ahead of the team’s. Mathews not only plays a volatile position as a running back, but he has suffered multiple injuries while in college. He hasn’t gone through an entire season without missing at least one game because of an injury. This is the first season that he didn’t have an injury that nagged and limited him the entire year.
Mathews signed with agent Frank Bauer over the weekend. Bauer also represents Hill.
The Fresno Bee reports than Mathews likely will not finish the spring semester because he is not on pace to graduate at the end of the year. Mathews will instead use the time to train for the draft.
ESPN’s Scout’s Inc., has Mathews ranked as the No. 3 running back and 45th-best player overall.
Instant analysis: Wyoming 35, Fresno State 28 2OT
December, 19, 2009
12/19/09
8:26
PM ET
By
Graham Watson | ESPN.com
The New Mexico Bowl turned out to be a great start to the bowl season with a double overtime affair. Wyoming came away with the upset win over Fresno State to end coach Dave Christensen's first season with a winning record.
Player of the game: Wyoming quarterback Austyn Carta-Samuels put the Cowboys on his back and carried them to victory. On both the game-tying and game-winning drives, Carta-Samuels made several plays to keep his team in the game.
What this means: This was a huge win for a Wyoming team that was picked to finish last in the Mountain West. Christensen did more with less than any coach in the country and now he has a huge win to build on for his young team heading into next season.
Second guessing: In the first overtime, Fresno State opted to go for the touchdown on fourth-and-1 rather than take the points with a chipshot field goal.
Best call: Wyoming converted three fourth downs on the final drive of regulation to put itself in position for Ian Watts to kick the game-tying field goal.
Turning point: With 8:20 remaining in the fourth quarter, Wyoming defensive lineman Mitch Unrein stripped Fresno State running back Ryan Mathews to give the Cowboys the ball and ultimately send them on the game-tying drive.
Player of the game: Wyoming quarterback Austyn Carta-Samuels put the Cowboys on his back and carried them to victory. On both the game-tying and game-winning drives, Carta-Samuels made several plays to keep his team in the game.
What this means: This was a huge win for a Wyoming team that was picked to finish last in the Mountain West. Christensen did more with less than any coach in the country and now he has a huge win to build on for his young team heading into next season.
Second guessing: In the first overtime, Fresno State opted to go for the touchdown on fourth-and-1 rather than take the points with a chipshot field goal.
Best call: Wyoming converted three fourth downs on the final drive of regulation to put itself in position for Ian Watts to kick the game-tying field goal.
Turning point: With 8:20 remaining in the fourth quarter, Wyoming defensive lineman Mitch Unrein stripped Fresno State running back Ryan Mathews to give the Cowboys the ball and ultimately send them on the game-tying drive.
Fresno State (8-4)
1. Run the ball: Ryan Mathews is the best running back in the country and has been the workhorse for the Bulldogs all season. This might be his final game as he weighs his decision to leave school early for the NFL. The Cowboys' rushing defense is one of the worst in the country, allowing 170.50 yards per game.
2. Contain Carta-Samuels: Wyoming freshman quarterback Austyn Carta-Samuels is the most dangerous offensive player for the Cowboys. He has the ability to make plays with his feet, keep plays alive and create something out of nothing. Fresno State needs to keep him in the pocket to limit his effectiveness.
3. Make it a shootout: Fresno State can score and if it can score consistently, it can run away with this game. Wyoming doesn’t have the offensive firepower to keep up with the Bulldogs. So, if Fresno State puts Wyoming in a hole early, it should come away with a win.
Wyoming (6-6)
1. Limit the big plays: Wyoming knows Mathews is going to get his yards, but limiting the big plays will help keep him out of the end zone and keep the Bulldogs off the scoreboard. Wyoming needs to be realistic, but have a bend but don’t break attitude.
2. Limit turnover: One of the assets that have made Wyoming so successful this season has been limiting the turnovers. But the Cowboys also have to force turnovers. That shouldn't be too hard against a Fresno State team that already has lost 23 turnovers this season.
3. Help Austyn: The best games for Wyoming this season have been those where the rest of the team has picked up the play around quarterback Austyn Carta-Samuels. Samuels can create, but having a few players complement him will limit Fresno State's ability to spy him and lock him in the pocket.
New Mexico Bowl: Fresno State (8-4) vs. Wyoming (6-6)
December, 18, 2009
12/18/09
10:00
AM ET
By
Graham Watson | ESPN.com
Wyoming coach Dave Christensen vowed to turn the Cowboys around, but few thought it would come so quickly. The Cowboys are playing in their first bowl game since 2004 and were one of the rare success stories among the nonautomatic qualifying schools with new head coaches. But winning the bowl against a Fresno State team that has won at least eight games for the seventh time this decade will be a difficult task.
WHO TO WATCH: Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State
Mathews, a junior, has been the Bulldogs' greatest offensive weapon this season and this might be his last game in a Fresno State uniform if he leaves for the NFL. Mathews led the nation in rushing with 151.27 yards per game. He rushed for more than 100 yards in 10 games this season. The only two games he didn’t were the ones he missed due to a concussion.
WHAT TO WATCH: The play of Wyoming QB Austyn Carta-Samuels
Carta-Samuels is one of the best young talents this year and a treat to watch because of his playmaking ability. The Mountain West’s Freshman of the Year doesn’t have a lot of help around him, but has the ability to make plays with both his arm and feet and can create plays out of nothing. He’s young, but he’s the reason the Cowboys are in a bowl game.
WHY TO WATCH: Fresno State could be Wyoming’s future
Fresno State has been a model of consistency most of this decade and is the type of team Wyoming would like to emulate under new head coach Dave Christensen. This bowl game has been a long time coming for Cowboys fans. In Christensen’s first season, he’s turned the program around and with talented recruits coming in, this might be a sign of the success the Cowboys could have on a consistent basis.
PREDICTION: Fresno State has been here before -- literally. The Bulldogs lost this bowl a year ago. But with Mathews going against Wyoming’s weak rushing defense, it’s going to be tough for the Cowboys to keep up. Wyoming’s best bet is to limit the big plays, but Mathews has played well even against some of the best defenses. The Bulldogs win this one 30-14.
WHO TO WATCH: Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State
Mathews, a junior, has been the Bulldogs' greatest offensive weapon this season and this might be his last game in a Fresno State uniform if he leaves for the NFL. Mathews led the nation in rushing with 151.27 yards per game. He rushed for more than 100 yards in 10 games this season. The only two games he didn’t were the ones he missed due to a concussion.
WHAT TO WATCH: The play of Wyoming QB Austyn Carta-Samuels
Carta-Samuels is one of the best young talents this year and a treat to watch because of his playmaking ability. The Mountain West’s Freshman of the Year doesn’t have a lot of help around him, but has the ability to make plays with both his arm and feet and can create plays out of nothing. He’s young, but he’s the reason the Cowboys are in a bowl game.
WHY TO WATCH: Fresno State could be Wyoming’s future
Fresno State has been a model of consistency most of this decade and is the type of team Wyoming would like to emulate under new head coach Dave Christensen. This bowl game has been a long time coming for Cowboys fans. In Christensen’s first season, he’s turned the program around and with talented recruits coming in, this might be a sign of the success the Cowboys could have on a consistent basis.
PREDICTION: Fresno State has been here before -- literally. The Bulldogs lost this bowl a year ago. But with Mathews going against Wyoming’s weak rushing defense, it’s going to be tough for the Cowboys to keep up. Wyoming’s best bet is to limit the big plays, but Mathews has played well even against some of the best defenses. The Bulldogs win this one 30-14.
Draft status of TCU's Hughes may have slipped
December, 16, 2009
12/16/09
12:10
PM ET
By
Graham Watson | ESPN.com
TCU defensive end Jerry Hughes has said repeatedly that he decided to stay at TCU for his senior season instead of jumping to the NFL because he wanted to win a Mountain West Conference title.
Hughes not only helped the Horned Frogs to their second-ever Mountain West title, but also the school’s first undefeated season since 1938 and the school’s first-ever BCS bowl appearance.
But in trying to help his team achieve its goals, Hughes might have slightly hurt his own future endeavors.
Hughes said this summer that the NFL’s College Advisory Committee evaluated his play and considered him a late first-round or early second-round pick. But ESPN.com’s Todd McShay doesn’t have Hughes in his first round mock draft
which he released Tuesday. Hughes also isn’t listed among Scouts Inc.’s Top 32 players.
He is, however, listed on Mel Kiper's Big Board at No. 23.
According the ESPN.com’s NFL Draft Tracker, Hughes, who is listed as an outside linebacker, is considered the sixth-best outside linebacker in the draft. He’s the No. 65 player overall.
However, if you go by McShay's rankings, there is hope for Hughes as a potential second-round pick. McShay has four outside linebackers listed in his first-round mock draft -- Texas’ Sergio Kindle is the first at No. 13, Penn State’s Navorro Bowman is No. 16, North Carolina’s Bruce Carter is No. 18, and Clemson’s Ricky Sapp is No. 25.
Missouri’s Sean Weatherspoon and South Carolina’s Eric Norwood also are listed ahead of Hughes, and whether Hughes is taken in the second or third round depends on the needs of the teams drafting.
Hughes is not even the highest-ranked player from a nonautomatic qualifying school. Idaho offensive guard Mike Iupati earned that spot as the No. 43 overall player. Fresno State running back Ryan Mathews, who is a junior and has yet to determine whether he’ll leave school, is ranked No. 45. Boise State cornerback Kyle Wilson is ranked No. 54.
Hughes is a consensus All-American for the second consecutive season, but his numbers are down from where they were a year ago. He has 11.5 sacks and 15 tackles for loss heading into the bowl season. Last year, he had 19.5 tackles for loss and 15 sacks. All of his sacks in 2008 were solo.
The only knock in Hughes' draft profile is his height (6-foot-13/4) and his bulk (252 pounds) which are described as adequate and marginal.
Obviously, this is a rough mock draft. The bowl season has yet to start and we all know that draft projections tend to change after the NFL combine in February. But this gives us all an idea of where certain players might fall in April.
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Stephen Dunn/Getty ImagesAt this point, it doesn't appear Jerry Hughes would be a first-round pick in April's draft.
Stephen Dunn/Getty ImagesAt this point, it doesn't appear Jerry Hughes would be a first-round pick in April's draft.But in trying to help his team achieve its goals, Hughes might have slightly hurt his own future endeavors.
Hughes said this summer that the NFL’s College Advisory Committee evaluated his play and considered him a late first-round or early second-round pick. But ESPN.com’s Todd McShay doesn’t have Hughes in his first round mock draft
which he released Tuesday. Hughes also isn’t listed among Scouts Inc.’s Top 32 players.
He is, however, listed on Mel Kiper's Big Board
at No. 23.
According the ESPN.com’s NFL Draft Tracker, Hughes, who is listed as an outside linebacker, is considered the sixth-best outside linebacker in the draft. He’s the No. 65 player overall.
However, if you go by McShay's rankings, there is hope for Hughes as a potential second-round pick. McShay has four outside linebackers listed in his first-round mock draft -- Texas’ Sergio Kindle is the first at No. 13, Penn State’s Navorro Bowman is No. 16, North Carolina’s Bruce Carter is No. 18, and Clemson’s Ricky Sapp is No. 25.
Missouri’s Sean Weatherspoon and South Carolina’s Eric Norwood also are listed ahead of Hughes, and whether Hughes is taken in the second or third round depends on the needs of the teams drafting.
Hughes is not even the highest-ranked player from a nonautomatic qualifying school. Idaho offensive guard Mike Iupati earned that spot as the No. 43 overall player. Fresno State running back Ryan Mathews, who is a junior and has yet to determine whether he’ll leave school, is ranked No. 45. Boise State cornerback Kyle Wilson is ranked No. 54.
Hughes is a consensus All-American for the second consecutive season, but his numbers are down from where they were a year ago. He has 11.5 sacks and 15 tackles for loss heading into the bowl season. Last year, he had 19.5 tackles for loss and 15 sacks. All of his sacks in 2008 were solo.
The only knock in Hughes' draft profile is his height (6-foot-13/4) and his bulk (252 pounds) which are described as adequate and marginal.
Obviously, this is a rough mock draft. The bowl season has yet to start and we all know that draft projections tend to change after the NFL combine in February. But this gives us all an idea of where certain players might fall in April.
Boise State leads All-WAC team selections
December, 7, 2009
12/07/09
3:14
PM ET
By
Graham Watson | ESPN.com
Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore was named Western Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Year, the league announced Monday.
Last season he was named the league’s Freshman of the Year.
Moore, a sophomore, leads the nation in passing efficiency with a 167.35 rating. He has completed 64.7 percent of his passes for 3,325 yards and 39 touchdowns with just three interceptions. He’s led the Broncos to a 13-0 record and a trip to the Fiesta Bowl to face TCU. Moore is 25-1 in two seasons as starter.
Moore headlines seven first-team all-WAC honorees from Boise State, the most of any school.
Nevada defensive end Dontay Moch was named Defensive Player of the Year after leading the WAC in tackles for loss with 19.5. He has a total of 57 tackles (35 solo), including 6.5 sacks, three broken-up passes and two fumbles. Moch helped Nevada rank first in the conference in rushing defense. He is Nevada’s first-ever WAC Defensive Player of the Year.
Nevada receiver Brandon Wimberly was named the Freshman of the Year. He leads Nevada and is 10th in the WAC in both receptions per game (3.8) and receiving yards per game (54.4). He has caught 46 passes for 653 yards and five touchdowns. Overall, Nevada had three first-team honorees.
Boise State’s Chris Petersen was named the WAC’s Coach of the Year for the second consecutive season. He led the Broncos’ to their seventh WAC title in eight years. He’s 48-4 (31-1 WAC) in four seasons with Boise State.
Fresno State had six first-team members, second-most in the conference, including running back Ryan Mathews, who leads the nation in rushing.
Last season he was named the league’s Freshman of the Year.
Moore, a sophomore, leads the nation in passing efficiency with a 167.35 rating. He has completed 64.7 percent of his passes for 3,325 yards and 39 touchdowns with just three interceptions. He’s led the Broncos to a 13-0 record and a trip to the Fiesta Bowl to face TCU. Moore is 25-1 in two seasons as starter.
Moore headlines seven first-team all-WAC honorees from Boise State, the most of any school.
Nevada defensive end Dontay Moch was named Defensive Player of the Year after leading the WAC in tackles for loss with 19.5. He has a total of 57 tackles (35 solo), including 6.5 sacks, three broken-up passes and two fumbles. Moch helped Nevada rank first in the conference in rushing defense. He is Nevada’s first-ever WAC Defensive Player of the Year.
Nevada receiver Brandon Wimberly was named the Freshman of the Year. He leads Nevada and is 10th in the WAC in both receptions per game (3.8) and receiving yards per game (54.4). He has caught 46 passes for 653 yards and five touchdowns. Overall, Nevada had three first-team honorees.
Boise State’s Chris Petersen was named the WAC’s Coach of the Year for the second consecutive season. He led the Broncos’ to their seventh WAC title in eight years. He’s 48-4 (31-1 WAC) in four seasons with Boise State.
Fresno State had six first-team members, second-most in the conference, including running back Ryan Mathews, who leads the nation in rushing.
The Big Ten faces the WAC this week, as I get two more chances to pad my record before the inevitable disaster known as my bowl picks. Both of the contests this week were tough to call.
Fresno State 33, Illinois 30: Ryan Mathews will be the difference against Illinois, which hasn't seen many running backs of Mathews' caliber this season (the Illini didn't face Wisconsin's John Clay). Juice Williams tosses three touchdown passes, one to Arrelious Benn, in his final career game, but Fresno State eventually takes control behind Matthews and hands Illinois its ninth loss of the season.
Wisconsin 38, Hawaii 27: Too much John Clay in this one. The Badgers' star steamrolls Hawaii's defense behind his huge offense line and scores three touchdowns. Hawaii's passing attack keeps it close for a while, as Greg Salas causes problems for the Badgers' secondary, but Wisconsin end O'Brien Schofield makes some big plays in the second half. Clay wears down the Warriors in the fourth quarter and Wisconsin improves to 9-3.
Week 13 record: 1-0
Season record: 62-24 (.721)
Fresno State 33, Illinois 30: Ryan Mathews will be the difference against Illinois, which hasn't seen many running backs of Mathews' caliber this season (the Illini didn't face Wisconsin's John Clay). Juice Williams tosses three touchdown passes, one to Arrelious Benn, in his final career game, but Fresno State eventually takes control behind Matthews and hands Illinois its ninth loss of the season.
Wisconsin 38, Hawaii 27: Too much John Clay in this one. The Badgers' star steamrolls Hawaii's defense behind his huge offense line and scores three touchdowns. Hawaii's passing attack keeps it close for a while, as Greg Salas causes problems for the Badgers' secondary, but Wisconsin end O'Brien Schofield makes some big plays in the second half. Clay wears down the Warriors in the fourth quarter and Wisconsin improves to 9-3.
Week 13 record: 1-0
Season record: 62-24 (.721)
Posted by ESPN.com’s Graham Watson
The award semifinalist lists are beginning to be released and since there are so many, I thought I would put them in a one-stop shop. Several non-AQ players adorn these lists and several more might be honored as the semifinalists for other award are announced throughout the month.
JIM THORPE AWARD
Presented to the nation's most outstanding defensive back by the Jim Thorpe Association
Presented to the nation's best quarterback by the Davey O'Brien Foundation
Presented to the nation's most outstanding coach by the Maxwell Football Club
Presented to the nation's most outstanding player by the Maxwell Football Club
Presented to the nation's most outstanding linebacker by the Butkus Foundation
Presented to the nation's most outstanding defensive player by the Maxwell Football Club
The award semifinalist lists are beginning to be released and since there are so many, I thought I would put them in a one-stop shop. Several non-AQ players adorn these lists and several more might be honored as the semifinalists for other award are announced throughout the month.
JIM THORPE AWARD
Presented to the nation's most outstanding defensive back by the Jim Thorpe Association
- Barry Church, Toledo
- Kyle Wilson, Boise State
Presented to the nation's best quarterback by the Davey O'Brien Foundation
- Case Keenum, Houston
- Kellen Moore, Boise State
- Dan LeFevour, Central Michigan
Presented to the nation's most outstanding coach by the Maxwell Football Club
- Al Golden, Temple
- Gary Patterson, TCU
- Chris Petersen, Boise State
- Kevin Sumlin, Houston
Presented to the nation's most outstanding player by the Maxwell Football Club
- Case Keenum, Houston
- Dan LeFevour, Central Michigan
- Ryan Mathews, Fresno State
- Kellen Moore, Boise State
Presented to the nation's most outstanding linebacker by the Butkus Foundation
- Daryl Washington, TCU
Presented to the nation's most outstanding defensive player by the Maxwell Football Club
- Jerry Hughes, TCU
Posted by ESPN.com’s Graham Watson
It’s Halloween weekend and that means we’re probably in store for some crazy things. A year ago on this weekend, Central Michigan upset Indiana, Utah State defeated Hawaii, North Texas won its first game, Colorado State nearly upset BYU, Louisiana-Monroe upset Troy and Utah barely got past New Mexico.
Not sure what this weekend will bring, but here's a look at some teams and players who have been frightening through the first half of the season.
Haunted House – Boise State’s blue field is one of the toughest places in the nation to play. This decade, the Broncos are 59-2 at home and haven’t lost on their home field since 2005 and that was in the MPC Computers Bowl.
Scary Movie – Which was worse for BYU, the Florida State or TCU loss? Both were the first losses in Provo, Utah, the Cougars had suffered since 2005. BYU was a little more competitive against FSU than TCU, but both efforts were downright scary.
Nightmare on Avenida Cesar Chavez – University Stadium has not been kind to New Mexico the past couple years. The Lobos have not won a home game since Oct. 18, 2008 and has lost 11 straight games overall since that date.
Trick-or-Treat – TCU might be the frontrunner for a BCS bowl berth, but games against Utah and Wyoming could prove tricky. Utah defeated the Horned Frogs last season and cost them a shot at a BCS bowl berth. And the last time TCU traveled to Wyoming, it resulted in an unexpected loss.
Boo (Boo) – Hawaii has been riddled with major injuries this season, which have resulted in its 2-5 record. Linebacker Brashton Satele, one of two starters returning on defense, was lost early in camp. Starting quarterback Greg Alexander suffered a season-ending knee injury against Louisiana Tech and receiver Rodney Bradley broke his leg against Idaho a couple weeks ago.
The Great Pumpkin (Welcome Great Pumpkin) -- Idaho started 6-1, but the second half of the season is a lot tougher as the Vandals found out with the 70-45 loss to Nevada. Six wins doesn’t guarantee a bowl game and the Vandals quick start could be all for naught if they don’t win another game.
Night of the living dead: Nevada has risen from the grave after their season was declared dead and buried with an 0-3 start. However, the Wolf Pack has rebounded to win their last four and now they are starting to resemble a team that could challenge for the WAC title.
Jigsaw team: Memphis boasts nine transfers from major schools on its roster and its has done little to make the Tigers a better team. Memphis was supposed to be the sleeper team in Conference USA East with a strong running game and a decent defense. However, at 2-6, they are in danger of missing a bowl game for the first time since 2006.
Witchcraft: Fresno State running back Ryan Mathews has been spellbinding this season. He leads the country in rushing, has run for more than 100 yards in every game this season and has the power to keep his team both in play for a bowl game and maybe a piece of the conference title should some other teams trip up.
Ghosts, Goblins, Ghouls: Troy quarterback Levi Brown has flown below the radar this season -- mostly because he plays in the Sun Belt -- but he ranks 10th in the country in passing and ninth in total offense. He’s thrown for more than 355 yards in four of the past five games and twice he’s thrown for more than 400.
It’s Halloween weekend and that means we’re probably in store for some crazy things. A year ago on this weekend, Central Michigan upset Indiana, Utah State defeated Hawaii, North Texas won its first game, Colorado State nearly upset BYU, Louisiana-Monroe upset Troy and Utah barely got past New Mexico.
Not sure what this weekend will bring, but here's a look at some teams and players who have been frightening through the first half of the season.
Haunted House – Boise State’s blue field is one of the toughest places in the nation to play. This decade, the Broncos are 59-2 at home and haven’t lost on their home field since 2005 and that was in the MPC Computers Bowl.
Scary Movie – Which was worse for BYU, the Florida State or TCU loss? Both were the first losses in Provo, Utah, the Cougars had suffered since 2005. BYU was a little more competitive against FSU than TCU, but both efforts were downright scary.
Nightmare on Avenida Cesar Chavez – University Stadium has not been kind to New Mexico the past couple years. The Lobos have not won a home game since Oct. 18, 2008 and has lost 11 straight games overall since that date.
Trick-or-Treat – TCU might be the frontrunner for a BCS bowl berth, but games against Utah and Wyoming could prove tricky. Utah defeated the Horned Frogs last season and cost them a shot at a BCS bowl berth. And the last time TCU traveled to Wyoming, it resulted in an unexpected loss.
Boo (Boo) – Hawaii has been riddled with major injuries this season, which have resulted in its 2-5 record. Linebacker Brashton Satele, one of two starters returning on defense, was lost early in camp. Starting quarterback Greg Alexander suffered a season-ending knee injury against Louisiana Tech and receiver Rodney Bradley broke his leg against Idaho a couple weeks ago.
The Great Pumpkin (Welcome Great Pumpkin) -- Idaho started 6-1, but the second half of the season is a lot tougher as the Vandals found out with the 70-45 loss to Nevada. Six wins doesn’t guarantee a bowl game and the Vandals quick start could be all for naught if they don’t win another game.
Night of the living dead: Nevada has risen from the grave after their season was declared dead and buried with an 0-3 start. However, the Wolf Pack has rebounded to win their last four and now they are starting to resemble a team that could challenge for the WAC title.
Jigsaw team: Memphis boasts nine transfers from major schools on its roster and its has done little to make the Tigers a better team. Memphis was supposed to be the sleeper team in Conference USA East with a strong running game and a decent defense. However, at 2-6, they are in danger of missing a bowl game for the first time since 2006.
Witchcraft: Fresno State running back Ryan Mathews has been spellbinding this season. He leads the country in rushing, has run for more than 100 yards in every game this season and has the power to keep his team both in play for a bowl game and maybe a piece of the conference title should some other teams trip up.
Ghosts, Goblins, Ghouls: Troy quarterback Levi Brown has flown below the radar this season -- mostly because he plays in the Sun Belt -- but he ranks 10th in the country in passing and ninth in total offense. He’s thrown for more than 355 yards in four of the past five games and twice he’s thrown for more than 400.
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