The End Zone

1. Devin Hester or any Special Team player a Hall of Famer?

KDC: This is a tough one! There have been some major game changers like Hester every couple years, however, they never seem to dominate more than 2-3 years of their special teams play before mysteriously disappearing as quickly as they came. While the HOF obviously didn’t foresee these types of huge impact players, I still don’t see how they can bump someone out who plays every down at a level of excellence few can match.

Momo: Adam Vinateri will be in the Hall of Fame, so many clutch kicks has cemented his legacy. Hester on the other hand is a tough one. The only way I see Hester making the Hall of Fame is by returning an unforseen number like 25 of 30 kicks. What hurts him was a mediocore cornerback and reciever, if he became avergae at reciever, then maybe his chance increases. The game has never seen anything like him on kick and punt returns.

2. The Eagles-Giants game, the best game of the year!! Boy, were we wrong about this one.

KDC: Mea culpa. Besides the total confidence the Eagles players have in Vick (& Desean Jackson will never get a punt kicked toward him for the rest of his life), it says much more about a Giants defense that was gassed by the 4th quarter and a Giants offense that kept going 3-and-out. Simply, the Giants aren’t ready for prime time playoffs. The punter is the obvious goat, but no one played up to the necessary level in the 4th quarter. They should all be fired. I can only hope my Packers can put them out of everyone’s misery this Sunday.

Momo: That game was probably the best of the year! Andy Reid's young team is playing loose and confident late in the season which can make others teams a little nervous. The Giants are a tough team to figure. Like the Chargers, you never know what team is going to show up. That is the kind of loss where Coughlin could be on his way out.

3. More valuable to his team: Troy Polamula or Ed Reed?
KDC: Not going there. Both team MVPs nearly every game. That said, isn’t it amazing that we’re even discussing how safeties can consistently be the key to their team’s success? Not a MLB and not a QB (both necessary), but a small, speedy man who is fearless? That would be an impossible conversation even 10 years ago.

Momo: I'm not afraid of this one, unlike you! I would say Polamula simply because he is an all-round safety. Unlike Reed, Troy will come up and punish running backs. Ed Reed does not like to tackle. The amazing thing that both guys do in the passing game is take away 3/4 of the field. They both are primetime Hall of Famers, but Troy gets the edge because of his hitting.

4. Is an 18 game schedule a forgone conclusion?
KDC: Sadly, I think it is & it will be a tragic mistake. This is where capitalism becomes outright greed. NFL owners nominate themselves as the poster children of greed for all those interested in spreading the wealth. In the meantime, more players will get injured, more coaches will burn out & more fans will feel gouged. Almost no one wins but the guys at the top.

Momo: It is coming and I think it will hurt the game some too. Of coure they will have to expand rosters, (which will actually help kill off any competition like the UFL) but think about how many good quarterbacks you will have to have just to make it through the season. The fans will like it because it’s more meaniful games plus the preseason is shorter. Maybe a better option would be to expand the playoff by adding two more wild card team. At least owners would get more revenue that way and fans still get the game love.

Thanks for reading and Merry Christmas from Momo's Musings Sports!!

The End Zone

1. The Jets strength coach got suspended for tripping a Dolphins player and more is being made about this than the Jets overall play over the last two weeks. Is everyone missing the real story?

KDC: It appears something has been going on all year. I'm guessing Rex Ryan knew something about them lining up at the sideline during punt returns, but didn't ever foresee that idiot purposely tripping a player. Expect another rule from the NFL on this.

Momo: This tripping story is overshadowing the Jets overall play. Sanchez has been nearly benched, they haven’t scored a touchdown in the last 10 or 12 quarters. Their defense got shredded by the Patriots and everyone is talking about the tripping of an opposing player. Rex Ryan and his team actually is benefitting from the coverage that Alosi is receiving. I’m not even sure with the Jets remaining schedule that they make the playoffs.


2. Can anyone beat the Patriots?

KDC: Besides the Cleveland Browns? Colt McCoy is back. Ya gotta believe! :)
I think the Saints can. But probably not many others. Pittsburgh never matches up well w/New England, I think the Ravens aren't quite there any more, the Falcons are too young (probably) & unless the Giants or some other team suddenly solidifies, the Patriots have a great shot at Championship #4 under Belicheck. Please God, no!

Momo: The problem I see, and this going to get really technical is defenses don’t play the Patriots right. The Steelers should match up well with them but they don’t play man to man against the Pats. You have to knock those small receivers down and not let them get their little five yard passing plays. Also, you have to blitz the living daylights out of Brady. You cannot give him time to pick you apart.

Its interesting that the two teams who are not afraid of the Pats offense and a play them tough are the Colts and the Ravens. Two defenses that are polar opposites of each other BUT they play their game and don’t let the Pats dictate their offense on them.


3. What showdown this weekend are you looking forward to- Jax-Indy, Eagles-Giants, or Saints-Ravens?

KDC: Jacksonville-Indy could be a great dogfight, but Jax has the momentum. I think the Saints-Ravens will prove to us where both teams stand for long-term playoff aspirations. At present, I'd say the Saints will win by a touchdown or more.
For some reason, I don't give 2 figs about the Eagles-Giants game.

Momo: I agree on the Jax-Indy should be a good one. This is it for the Colts and I think since they are playing at home they will come out blazing. However, the Jags will probably upset them because of their running game.
The Saints –Ravens is interesting because the Ravens defense is not what it used to be. The intriguing part will be if the Ravens offense can keep pace and maybe steal a win. It’s kind of odd that the Ravens are transitioning to a offense team with a good but not great defense.

Florida Takes Another Bite Out Of Cam Newton

A little over a year ago a great friend of mine and reader of this blog predicted that Urban Meyer would leave Florida. Bill T. was right because Meyer resigned from coaching on Tuesday citing family reasons. Good for Urban,to be able to put his life into perspective and do what's right for him and his family is honorable. Now we can only hope that the University of Florida could learn to do the honorable thing and stop trying to steal Cam Newton's moments by upstaging him on one the biggest nights in college football. By announcing that they found Meyer's replacement, Will Muschamp, the Gators completely overshadowed the Heisman Trophy and Cam Newton. Hasn't this school done enough to Newton and his family by leaking the cheating scandal and the near expulsion for theft? Apparently not. I don't have an issue with the Gators hiring Muschamp. By all accounts he is a great guy and a really good defensive coordinator. The hiring is decent, not as flashy as some alums want but it is a good hire. The problem I have is the timing of the announcement. This was Cam's moment, just like it has been all year for him and Auburn and to let the press know you hired Urban's replacement on the same day as the awards ceremony is classless by the school. You cannot blame the 24 hour news cycle for letting the story get out, it is all by design. Florida football had a down year and with Urban leaving there was a definite uncertainty hanging around the program. Want a better way to keep recruits and get some buzz, announce you got a new coach during the Heisman trophy ceremony. That will keep people talking and give some momentum back to the program. All of this just shows how each of this school's do not care about what is good for the conference, they only care about what's good for their school. That's why the Newton information about his tenure at Florida and his recruitment at Miss St. got out. Both schools wanted to take him and Auburn out.

The University of Florida should apologize to Cam and his family and to the Downtown Athletic club for upstaging them on their big night. I doubt they will because in their mind "Its great to be a Florida Gator!!"But if Auburn would have announced they hired Bo Jackson during the Heisman ceremony when Tim Tebow won the award, the University of Florida would have demanded an investigation and apology.

Cecil Newton did the right thing by not robbing Cam of his moment. It didn't matter because the Gators took it from him, again.

The End Zone

Here's another round of the End Zone!!

1.It seems that every two years Lovie Smith is on the hot seat and the Bears turn in a magical run. Are you buying or selling the Bears?

KDC: Reluctantly, I’m buying. When you asked earlier about the most overlooked team, I mistakenly said the Falcons. It was the Bears & they’ve only gotten stronger since then. Assuming they stay healthy, I see them tying or winning the NFC North (w/my beloved Packers, who I think will beat them in the rematch). Give Mike Martz some love for getting Jay Cutler (more) consistent.

Momo: I’m selling, although I reserve the right to change my mind. The Bears O-line block some weeks, look atrocious the next. The one constant has been their defense. I think they will lose to the Packers and the division, that is mainly because of the inconsistency of Cutler. Martz and he don’t have the receivers nor the run game that frighten people. They will still make the playoffs despite their offensive issues.

2. Although they lost this past Sunday (Indy did win Thursday night), still got the Chargers and Colts making the playoffs?

KDC: The Chargers are probably doomed this year. When a team starts out so slow every year, ya gotta look at the coach. You can’t plan on December being perfect every year. This is the year it catches up with them. (Honestly? I’m rooting for the Raiders making the playoffs just because they’re fun & feisty.

A few weeks back, I confidently stated the Colts would make it again. And they probably will, but I don’t think anyone realized how beat up they were until the last 2 weeks. They’ll probably do it because Jacksonville will play like Jacksonville again, not because they’re playoff caliber.

Momo: If I am a Charger fan I ask for a refund for their first 8 home games!! This team starts slow every year and then decides that they will play the right way and make a run. With that said, I think they will still make the playoffs and surprisingly will probably win their division. Their schedule is so weak their last four, if they beat the Chiefs on Sunday, they will only be a game back. Never heard the Raiders described as fun and feisty. Dysfunctional yes, but not fun.
The Colts will run the table as well with their beat up team and will just squeak into the playoffs. Shouldn’t Jim Caldwell be nominated for coach of the year with all the injuries this team has faced, he and Peyton have kept this team steady and in the hunt.

3. It’s been almost three weeks since we spoke about Favre, now we have to bring it back up, do you think the league will suspend him for the Sterger controversy?

KDC: Honestly, I think they’ll let the year end & then announce whatever penalties they deem necessary.

Momo: What we know is that Favre only wants to get to 300 starts and then he will sit. Sterger’s camp want to take that away from him and I don’t believe the league will comply. We both believe that the league wants this to go away after the season but a lawsuit pending could change everything.

4. Any racial significance to Peyton Hillis being the first white running back to get to a 1000 yards since Craig James in 1985?

Momo: I think it is because a lot of white kids are told not to play running back. Hillis is proving that the color of your skin should not be a factor on where you play. The great part is that he is probably was always told that he could only play fullback and is proving all the naysayers wrong. This is 20 years in the making and it should be celebrated. Hillis is a good running back whether white or black.

KDC: I don't think the average (non-Browns) fan even realized that. Hopefully, like the stupid black QB stigma, coaches will simply assess a player by his talents & not his skin color & line up his talents with their playbook. I still don't get how so many coaches are so inflexible that they impose their system on a new team w/out assessing the teams talents first. It's the same mindset. White = FB, Black = anything but QB, etc.

5th Quarter

BCS And All Its Fun

1.The BCS Got It Right: Sometimes I know it seems as if I am against the BCS but the concept can be better. But this time the flawed system actually got the best matchup in the title game. My biggest beef with the BCS is it would have kept TCU out if either Auburn or Oregon lost. That didn't happen so TCU is regulated to to the Rose Bowl, which doesn't make any sense to me (more on that later). Now we are dealing with the game being played on the tenth of January!!! Are you telling me that we can't decide a championship in the month of December? The Cotton Bowl, a New Years Day tradition, is being played on the 7th!!! Finals for college students are this week and next, so you mean to tell me that the students athletes need 3 weeks of practice? That's why this system is a sham. Most college football fans stop caring in December and go into full fledged NFL-mode for the rest of the season. The Cartel needs to figure out a way to get December back, because right now, no one cares.

2. Political Bowl Process: Nebraska plays Washington again, Boise gets shipped to Las Vegas, and they destroy a typical bowl matchup in the Rose Bowl. The bowl process is purely political and its sickening. Nebraska this year already thumped Washington in Washington but yet they are playing again because Cornhusker fans travel better than Mizzou's. How is this a fair process? The matchup doesn't even make sense because Nebraska DOMINATED the Huskies in September. So you mean to tell me that Boise St. fans wouldn't have gone to California to support their team? No they ship to Nevada as a nice consolation prize. Also how about having Stanford and Wisconsin play in the Rose Bowl, keep the matchup normal. Instead they send TCU, which could have invaded Florida and dismantled Va Tech in the Orange Bowl. It just make more sense to put Stanford in the Rose Bowl and reward them for such a great season. Temple got overlooked with an 8-4 record for teams with records of 6-6, while a team the beat in UConn goes to a BCS bowl. I don't have a problem with UConn going, but because Temple isn't a national football power so we will just overlook them. Let's not reward them for being above average. That's why the system is so jacked up. A playoff would keep the sanity and stop the madness for a money grab.

3. On a football note, and this is a quote: Nebraska will miss the Big 12 and will rue the day it entered the Big 10. The way this team is currently constructed and recruited it can dominate the Big 12 North. Going to the Big Ten, Nebraska will see that they will not dominate their competition as they did in the North. The Cornhuskers are a running team that cannot not pass, the Big Ten has some teams that can pass, and they are going to have to play tougher teams in conference year in and year out. Every year they are mandated to play Penn St., Wisconsin and Iowa. All these teams have really good balance on the offensive side of the ball. Maybe that's why Pelini did not want to go to that conference. You go from a one, two loss team a year to at least a three loss team. Having Iowa St. and Kansas on your schedule looks a lot better than Illinois and Michigan.

The End Zone

1. So when I posed the question about how good the NFC South was, you criticized me heavily. now that the Falcons have beaten your beloved Packers and have the inside track for home field, you say what?

Kdc: Um. Check past End Zone posts. You mentioned the AFC South, not the NFC South. But I get your drift. Atlanta (sadly) deserved their win against my Packers (despite the official’s missed call on the Gonzales catch on 4th down). They should cruise to home field advantage (& deserve it so far).

The Saints righted themselves quickly without Reggie Bush, so I can see them returning to the Super Bowl with Reggie Bush.

As stated in by me in mid-October, the Bucs were the surprise team with staying power who looks like they’re just not going to make it into the playoffs. But they’re a great story and next year they should be mighty.

Definitely the best division in the NFC.

Momo: So you might be right about that post, however Atlanta has been overlooked by most people in the league as a quality team. They are not flashy, just solid on both sides of the ball. Even their head coach name is not flashy, Mike Smith, might as well be John Doe. People outside of Atlanta couldn't’t pick that guy out of a lineup. Another thing is Matt Ryan is virtually unbeatable at home with a 19-1 record. They have already beaten the Saints in New Orleans, so with that said they have the tiebreaker. If they get home field it will be tough to beat them, just as the Packers found out

2. The NFL not suspending Andre Johnson for fighting is....

Kdc: Ridiculous. Andre Johnson might be the nicest guy on the planet as everyone is saying, but that doesn’t excuse his behavior on the field. Should’ve been at least 1 game & a fine for Johnson & Finnegan both. Hines Ward is correct – the NFL is being hypocritical.

Momo: The league not suspending shows that they are only looking out for their network. If the Texans were playing on Fox, CBS, or ESPN he would have been suspended. I know he could have would have appealed the suspension but by not suspending him you just sent the message that fighting is ok but hitting a quarterback or any type of hit on the field is a more punishable offense.

3.Should a team below .500 who wins there division be allowed to go to the playoffs? (NFC West)

Kdc: Why have divisions if they don’t mean anything? As ridiculous as the NFC West is right now, either the division is important or not. However, I agree w/Sports Illustrated’s Peter King – that doesn’t mean they should host the game if their record is inferior.

Momo: Ok, this is near and dear to my heart because the division in question has the two teams of my childhood and young adulthood are the ones we are talking about. This will shock you but I don’t think they should because you are rewarding mediocrity. How can you have a team that is 10-6 in another division and tell them thanks for playing but an inferior team is reaping the rewards of the playoffs. It’s almost the same thing in college football where a .500 team gets to participate in a bowl game. Stop giving out participation trophies.

4. Josh McDaniels taping the 49ers and then losing and also saying the Patriots used to do the same thing is...

Kdc: Correct, but who cares. Patriots got nailed on it & so should McDaniel’s.

Momo: Dead on and completely unsportsmanlike. McDaniel’s is skating on thin ice and the only thing that could save him is a work stoppage. You cannot be a leader of men and decide and try to cheat to win.

5th Quarter

Some thoughts from the Thanksgiving weekend of college football:

Does the Boise St. kicker stay in Nevada or go to Chile?Its gotta be tough for him to go back to state of Idaho. He cost his team a shot at a national title and the school millions? Also Brotzman killed any hopes of a playoff by missing that kick. Way to go!!!

Will the NCAA fine me for talking about a player costing a school money?

When will people start respecting Andy Dalton and the TCU Horned Frogs?

Why is TCU going to the Big East? Seems like a lateral move to me. Big 12 is a way better option.

If you are at Michigan St. and Texas A&M, the BCS is working out great for you by putting teams that you beat ahead of you and keeping you from a major bowl.

Is there a more dysfunctional offense in the nation than the Florida Gators? Meyer ran out a quarterback who could throw and not run, another quarterback who splits time as a half back, tight end and a third who couldn't throw and run a little but had trouble protecting the ball. Its no wonder they are giving a Tebow a statue. Meyer looks lost.

For as a great as Alabama was supposed to be, how did they lose three games and blew a 24-0 lead to a rival? Great teams just don't do that.
Some teams are destined to play each other, Oregon and Auburn look that way.

Did anyone know or care that Notre Dame and USC played?

Randy Shannon did not deserve to get fired from the University of Miami. Miami thinks of itself as a blue blood, but changing coaches every four year does not get your program on track. it provides consistent losing.

Who knew Mizzou would be in a better position to get to a BCS bowl by not winning the North.

A lot of pundits pick for the title game the Iowa Hawkeyes just gave up their last couple of games. Not good when everyone says you are the best 7-5 team in the country.

And finally, do we still have to call Michigan versus Ohio St. a rivalry? Its so one sided its ridiculous.

Black Friday Football

Rivals and Tigers and Bears!! Oh My!!

Upcoming games for today and tomorrow:
LSU vs. Arkansas: I really don't know how these two are rivals, seeing how the whole state of Texas separates them, but for all intensive purpose they are. Les Miles and the Tigers believe the have a legit shot at playing in the BCS title game. The "Mad Hatter", which he does not like to be called, stated that a one-loss SEC team deserves a bid over the undefeated Boise and TCU. The CBS announcers seemed to agree with Miles statement about the SEC and the Tigers. Funny thing though for one, national announcers should never show bias towards any teams or conference. Stay neutral and just call the game, if I need an opinion, I'll get it from someone else but not from you Secondly, if Miles had a quarterback his team would not have to grovel for voters sympathy. Beat the teams on your schedule and quit begging. Show a little respect to other conferences and their schools. Speaking of respect...

Boise St. and TCU: Constantly get hammered because of their conference schedule and who they play. The Ohio St. president chimed in and gave his opinion on how "unworthy theses schools are" to play in the title game. My solution is if you think your team and your conference is so superior to them, then play them!! Schedule them in the non-conference for a home and home. Step up oh mighty SEC and Big Ten. The teams who lobby hard to get in the national championship game are always one loss teams from conference who feel its their birth right to hog the riches of college football. They always call themselves purist and blue bloods and there is never anyone room from upstarts. Note to the major conferences: Boise and TCU are here to stay! If you want to take them down then strap it up and get it on!!! Beat them on the field and everyone will bow down to you. But lose and know that everyone will know that maybe your program is the one that is undeserving.

My picks for the weekend:
Auburn loses to Bama: The Tide will prove to be just too much at home. Should be a good one.

Nebraska finds a way against Colorado: The Buffs are playing better and this is the last time these two rivals will play each other because both are leaving the Big 12. Also, can Bo Pelini stop being so angry? Yelling at his quarterback and officials is not very professional. This isn't the first time he has acted like that. That's exactly why fans act the way they do towards players and officials. They get their cues from their head coach. Pelini, you are a leader of young men, act like one!!

Mizzou beats Kansas: " Never should have lost to Texas Tech and you could have been in the Big 12 championship game.

Okla St. in a stunner against OU: The Cowboys have flown under the radar all year.

Boise St. thumps Nevada: Enough said.

Oregon gets past Arizona: Which will set-up a showdown against their rival Oregon St. next week in Corvallis. Strange thing happen in Corvallis at night.

Happy Thanksgiving and thanks for reading....

Donovan McNabb: Hall of Famer or Not?

Everyone was talking about Donovan McNabb's huge new contract (it was originally proclaimed to be worth $78m with $40m guaranteed, but that has been revised down). All the stranger because his coach benched him in the final 2 minutes of a game 2 weeks previous.

This led to a discussion between us about the status of McNabb's place in football history. Naturally, we're both right though we happen to disagree.

kdc: $40m guaranteed to McNabb? You gotta be kidding me!

Momo: I know. I think it was a political move by Snyder (owner of the Redskins). People started throwing race into the mix. Its great for McNabb but puzzling for the Skins.

kdc: Political makes sense. About the only sense. I know he doesn't have a great (offensive) line, but still - his age & past aren't long term characteristics to build a team around. He's a stop-gap.

I mean, Donovan's always been a good man, but I'm not sure anyone's every called him a great QB.

Momo: He's going to the Hall of Fame but I agree, building around him is going to be tough. Unless you just don't think you can develop a QB to win fast enough. Its just a puzzling move.

I'd say McNabb is at least a top 15 QB.

kdc: HOF? Seriously? I'm not saying he's a slouch, but I see him as Patrick Ewing - someone who everyone talks a lot about in their day, but ultimately not one of the best. Puffed because he's on the East Coast. B+ certainly, but I can't see him being much better than that (which is Top 15 today, but I'd say closer to #13-15 in that top 15 than Top 10).

Again, a wonderful man, but not a HOF QB.

Momo: McNabb has 5 NFC championships, 1 Super Bowl, 6 pro bowls. His career numbers are comparable to Kurt Warner. He has done less with more, he's put up great numbers with no talent.

kdc: Okay, I was wrong. Your stats show Donovan's an A- QB, not a B+. Still, A- shouldn't get you into the HOF. It should just get you recognized and in the Pro Bowl.

While I concede he certainly hasn't had the most offensive talent at WR (I think you could argue his RBs, mostly, have been strong), the same could be said for Tom Brady, who's won 3 Super Bowls. (A fact we both despise.) Ironically, when Brady had his stellar WR corps, they lost the Super Bowl. The same could be said for Donovan--his best WR corps got him into a Super Bowl that the Eagles lost. (And he's been accused of freezing up in the last 2 minutes of that Super Bowl, which can't help his cause.)

Plus, Andy Reid is easily one of the best coaches in the last decade; to my mind that easily cancels out some subpar WRs over the years.

While I think Kurt Warner will someday make the HOF, there are many that think his hollow middle years (late Rams years, NY Giants, early Cardinal years) might be enough to keep him out. Warner was twice a league MVP. So I think your comparison is apt. Unless Donovan ends his career in a blaze of glory (as Warner did), he is on the cusp of the HOF, but on the wrong side of the cusp. Sorry, I just don't see it.

The End Zone

1. Your first half MVP is...

Momo: Michael Vick. No one could have possibly imagined this 20 months ago. Vick so far has completely remade himself into the passer that everyone thought he could be. A true story of incredible heights and a tragic fall only to arise again to become a better person and player. Maybe Andy Reid knew what he was doing by getting rid of McNabb.

kdc: You’re a sucker for a redemption story! Vick’s been quite good, but Tom Brady & Peyton Manning have been so much better at QB. You’re going to rob them just because they’ve won it before. I don’t like the Patriots (or Brady much), but until now he’s been fab. I can only hope that the loss of Randy Moss will bring the Patriot’s offense back to earth (as it crashed last week).

2. Think its possible that the NFC West gets 3 teams in the playoffs?

Momo: As great as a story the young Bucs have been, the challenge will come from the Eagles in the NFC East. Shockingly as much as people talk about how the best teams are only in the AFC, the NFC boast the Falcons, Giants and now the resurgent Packers.

kdc: I think you’re in the wrong region of the country. The NFC South – with the Falcons, Saints & Buccaneers – could easily have 3 teams make it, but they’re the only NFC conference I can see possibly hosting 3.

3. Most underrated/least talked about team is...
kdc: The NFL is rich in stories & storylines this year. There’s a bunch & I think there will be better as the season progresses. Honestly, I think it took the Falcons win over the Raven’s Thursday night to give them the attention they deserve (They’re 7-2!) The Eagles haven’t gotten much love as a team, either.

Momo: For me the least talked about team has been the Falcons. A lot of people don't realize they are 7-2 and Matt Ryan is 15-1 as a starter at home and if this team gets home field advantage, watch out. Underrated, I would say the Steelers fit in that mold. Think about how they survived their first four games without Big Ben. Now with him back they are starting to get back into rhythm in their passing game. And is there a better defensive player than Troy Polamalu? I think not.

Wait Until All The Truth Comes Out

What a last 10 days it has been for Cam Newton. First he was on top of the college football world, number #1 team in the land, Heisman front-runner, undefeated and could possibly play for a the BCS title. He and the Auburn Tigers looked like worlds beaters. Then it happened, a rumor out of Mississippi St. that Cam's dad, Cecil, wanted money from the school in order to get his son to play in Starkville. Next Florida released information about Newton that he cheated at least three times and stole a laptop and was on the verge of expulsion from that university. Now people are jumping to judgement saying Newton should be ineligible to play for the rest of the season and also people stating they won't vote for him for the Heisman.

That was the recap here's my take:

Everyone is running out trying to scope each other without verifying facts. The "source brothers" are making all the statements. Info is coming from unnamed people, some with an axe to grind against Newton for not coming to their school. Take Florida for instance, that information about him cheating and possibly being expelled should have never been leaked. Urban Meyer quickly stated he did not do it but he knows who did. The coach never wants to be connected directly to it but he does know who leaked it. Its always two or three people removed. Meyer is feeling the heat because everyone talked about how he let Newton go and their team would be much better than it is today.

The other thing I love to hear how writers try to take moral stands against kids. A Foxsports.com writer who broke the Newton cheating story stated he wouldn't vote for Newton because he cheated in college, like no one ever cheated in college!! I love it when writers take stands on moral issues as if they have lived a life of perfection. Kids in college cheat, whether they are athletes are not. A person can change and grow from situations that defined them in the past. If you don't like the redemption story of Newton, then fine. Just don't act like you are above reproach in life.The only thing that should matter with Heisman voters should be if he is eligible and if he is the best player in college football, Cam Newton is both.

As far as the money issue goes, if he received money then the NCAA should investigate and if Cam is found guilty, then Auburn will have to vacate wins, if not then all the writers and networks should have to apologize for dragging this kid and his family through the mud. that second part will not happen. College sports is sleazy and all though there are rules, agents and players find a way around them. How many times does an envelope of cash magically appear in front of a players room or in their mailbox? Countless times and no one can do anything about that. In this information age we see writers chasing bits of a story instead of getting the whole story and in the end that hurts the game and its players.

5th Quarter (College)

Didn't See That One Coming

1. LSU ending the Tide Run: On any given Saturday a team can take down a superior opponent, that is what makes college football so great. No one outside of the Tigers of LSU locker believed they would beat Alabama. Les Miles rotating of Jefferson and Lee proved too much for the Crimson Tide. Biggest play of game was on a 4th and 1, Miles called a WR reverse in the 4th quarter and it propelled LSU to the win. Now Alabama will not get a chance to defend their title, and that's fine by me.

2. Michigan Wins: In a game that featured 132 points scored, Michigan beat Illinois 67-65 in double OT. The Wolverines are bowl eligible for this first time under Rich Rod, and that's good for him. What has to be troubling is that is the most points scored against Michigan in its history!! The school has been around since 1879. If I'm Greg Robinson, I would not feel so secure in my job.

3. TCU Is Legit: The horned Frogs hammered Utah by 40. Andy Dalton, TCU quarterback, was 21-26 for 356 and won his 39th game in his career, most wins by any active players. Here's a guy that leads a high powered offense and team and does not get any love from the Heisman voters. Hopefully this win will put everyone on notice that TCU and Dalton should be taken seriously.

4. What Will Collapse The BCS: The BCS will collapse if the SEC is shut out of the National Championship Game. If Auburn loses twice and Oregeon loses, then Boise St. and TCU could play for the BCS and this will make SEC angry and therefore there will be a large push for a playoff. No one wants Boise St. and TCU playing for a title, including ESPN who is caring the game. The perception is it will be a ratings nightmare because there are no big time program involved. That is why the system is set-up for a one-loss team to leapfrog over a non-qualifier in the BCS. Here's the deal, what everyone forgets is two years ago Utah took the field against a one loss Alabama team and crushed them. On any given Saturday a team can beat be world beaters.

By the way congrats to Joe Paterno for becoming the first major college football coach to 400 wins. He's been coaching since 1964 at Penn St. This is a feat you will never see again. Paterno is a class act and this feat is incredible.

5th Quarter Part 1

Some thoughts on today's game:

1.The Best Game No One Will See: TCU vs. Utah is a huge game today but very few people will see it because its on CBS Sports alternative network. And that's too bad because these two teams are having fantastic seasons and the winner will have an edge to play for a national title.

2. Rich Rod: Michigan coach Rich Rodriguez needs to win two of his last four games to keep his job. The last two years the Wolverines have started out fast but fizzled in the end. The tough part is if they do replace RichRod that could set their program back years. Wolverines final four games, home today against Illinois,at Purdue, Wisconsin and at Ohio St.

3. Speaking of setting back a program: The Notre Dame situation has Brian Kelly in a tough spot. Even though the chancellor has said the school takes responsibility for the death of the student videotaping in high winds, Kelly made the decision and that is going to hang around him and the program for as long as he coaches. The other problem is recruits are bailing and the state of Indiana and the school is still investigating the accident. Its just not a good situation for all parties. Kelly is the right guy for the job, I just don't know if this tragedy will allow him to stay.

4. Missouri Tigers: Coach Gary Pinkel said after the Nebraska game,"We probably should have ran the ball more to keep them honest." Really? I believe someone said the same thing last week.

5. Two Games To Watch: Alabama-LSU and Arizona-Stanford

More later on...

The End Zone

1.Randy Moss waived by the Vikings, picked up by the Titans, good fit?

Momo: The Vikings. Mainly Brad Childress totally screwed this up. Moss is a malcontent, and you had him in a contract year. Childress has no control over the locker room and Moss saw that and took advantage of it. Chilly, as they call him should have stood up to Favre last year and he would have the respect of the rest of the Vikings. That said, the Titans are a good fit because Moss needs a discipline coach that he respects. If you look at when he was with the Vikings and Pats, he produced for those guys, meaning Denny Green and Belichek. I figured the Rams or Steelers would get Moss for those exact reasons. Moss will respect Fisher because he is a proven coach with a great track record, there was no respect for Childress which is why this move was bad. On a side note, the Pats got another top pick and end up winning the deal.

kdc: If I’m a Hall of Fame voter, I’m not sure how I can put Moss in. Lots of talent (an incredible amount of talent! More talent than any other NFL receiver in history?) but no obvious love for the game & unconvincing stats. Sad, because he’s (still) amazing when he wants to be. That said, I think it’s a nice calculated gamble by the Titans, because theoretically they have little to lose but some money - they’re unlikely to catch the Colts w/out Moss. Unless Moss poisons Vince Young somehow (attitude-wise, not physically) there are enough veterans around to either keep him in line or ignore his antics. That said, I don’t remember Moss listening to Dennis Green at the end of his first stay w/the Vikings. He’s a time bomb, & you just gotta unload him right before he implodes.

2. Shanahan versus McNabb, who's side are you on?

Momo: McNabb. Shanahan first alienated Haynesworth, now he is doing the same to his quarterback. Shanahan pulled McNabb from the game because he does not feel Donovan can win him big game. To me it’s funny how a Hall of Fame quarterback makes a coach looks better, John Elway made Mike Shanahan look good as a coach, McNabb is not going to stick around Washington long enough to do the same. Shanahan should have never said he wasn't smart enough to run the two minute drill or that he was out of shape, that may come back to haunt him.

kdc: I think this one’s gotta play out over some more time. I don’t disagree w/the Elway-Shanahan argument. What I disagree with is the assumption it’s about this game. There are now whispers about McNabb’s work ethic (stories are starting to surface in Philly), TO nailing McNabb for freezing up in the Super Bowl (as if he weren’t quite prepared), & stats that fail to impress (isn‘t his QB rating in the 70s?). Why was Washington the only serious suitor for this starting QB? I don’t think Shanahan is a genius (he mishandled the Haynesworth situation), but I’m not sure he isn’t sending a message to McNabb about his preparation. Let’s see what happens over the rest of the season…

3. At the halfway point of the season, I was wrong about…

Momo: How good the Tampa Bay Bucs and St. Louis Rams are. Both teams are prime to make big runs at the playoffs and have way more wins that I thought they would. I figured both teams would finish the season with four to five wins, they already have those now. How good the Jets would be. I thought this team was overhyped but they have matched all of it and more. Rex Ryan has those drinking the Kool-Aid and they love it.The Raiders and Chiefs becoming relevant and being very competitive. Over the last few years both of the proud franchises have been the butt of jikes around the league. Completely dysfunctional,, multiple coaching changes and apathetic fan base. This season has made it feel like it is 1990, when these two teams battled routinely for the top spot in the AFC West. Who knew Joe Montana and Bo Jackson were still playing.

kdc: Sam Bradford being ready for prime time as the Rams QB. I so wanted them to snag Suh in the draft. If Colt McCoy turns into a B+/A- QB, it will still be the wrong choice because then they could’ve had Suh & McCoy, but early on, Bradford is the real deal.The Packers being stronger. I still think they should still be in the NFC Championship Game (at least), but they’re jelling the hard way instead of the mature way. (& no, I don’t think the injuries have radically changed their locker room jelling).The Patriots being mediocre. Sorry, but I always root against the Patriots & I’m distressed that they’re back in winning form. Thought it would take another season. Now I’m in the uncomfortable position of rooting for the Jets to win their division.That Wade Phillips would lead an undefeated Cowboys to a Super Bowl championship. Nah! Just kidding.

Good Guys Of The Week

Forever Friends

There are some stories that when you here them they give you chills, and this is one of them. These two guys will forever be connected. Zac Etheridge and Rodney Scott show that in sports there are miracles that can happen off the field as well. I truly hope you enjoy this story. Please let me know if you did.

Zac Etheridge and Rodney Scott Bond

5th Quarter (College)

LetDown Saturday

1. Mizzou vs. Nebraska-All that magic of last weeks win over the Sooners was left in Columbia when the Tigers faced Nebraska. The sad thing is Mizzou actually had a decent chance to beat the Huskers but just allowed too many big plays. Roy Helu Jr rushed for a school record 307 yards as the Huskers dominated the Tigers physically, even without Taylor Martinez. Running the ball like that at Nebraska and setting a record is saying something.For all the balance the Tigers had last week, the depended entirely on Gabbert and the passing game. Gary Pinkel and David Yost, the offensive coordinator, have to find balance to keep teams honest. Just another missed opportunity.

2. Mich St. vs. Iowa-The Spartans never even got off the bus. Iowa is a good team but at least compete in your toughest and biggest game Sparty. Seriously.

3. Oregon vs. USC-Can anyone stop the Ducks? Highly unlikely with the way they are playing right now.

4.Pac-10- Is pretty good besides Oregon. Stanford and Arizona are really good football teams both with one-loss that could compete with anyone in the nation. The knock on the Pac-10 in years past is they never play defense. These two teams actually hang their hats on the defensive end of the field.

5. SEC West-Is probably the most dominant division in all of college football. 4 of the 5 teams in the top 25. Cam Newton didn't run the ball well but he threw it really well and in the long run that will help to keep the Auburn Tigers on top of the west.

6. Baylor-Has always been a joke in football but this year they are bowl eligible and just knocked off Texas for the first time in Austin since 1991. The Bears are now tied for first in the Big 12 south, who would have ever thought that.

The End Zone

1. More devastating loss on Sunday was it the Saints losing to the Browns or the Raiders over the Broncos?

kdc: Raiders over the Broncos. The Saints are still in the hunt, albeit shaky & unfocused. The Broncos are dead. I’d give the Cowboys a better chance of getting into the playoffs than Denver. Look at it this way, they won their first 6 games last year, then totally imploded (despite Kyle Orton’s great efforts). They’ve never really recovered. They have an unproven coach in a football mad town that had realistic playoff hopes this year. Yes, AFC West is so weak, so they still might. Yes, they’ve had key injuries on defense. But still, this has “suicide watch” written all over it.


Momo: Its easily the Saints losing to Cleveland. This year’s version of the Saints are experiencing a serious Super Bowl hangover. They have lost games to two rookie qb’s one drafted in McCoy and another undrafted in Max Hall of the Cardinals. They are without one their key weapons in Reggie Bush and now their offense is desperately looking for any type of a running game. Their division is a lot tougher with the Falcons and Bucs playing extremely well. Just like Pittsburgh last year, it will be hard for the Saints to make the playoffs.

2. Who is more likely to make it back from London, Josh McDaniels or Mike Singletary?

kdc: Mike Singletary. I think ownership & the city aren’t single-handedly blaming Singletary because he started mid-season in a bad situation & righted a sinking ship. Everyone seems to be blaming McDaniels. If the 49ers win, it’s huge. If the Broncos win, they were supposed to.


Momo: Can both stay in London and sight see together, maybe take pictures by Big Ben. McDaniels is the one who shouldn't’t come back. He is 4-13 over his last 17 games after starting 6-0 last year. Getting rid of all the Broncos talent will be the downfall. Maybe that Belichek coaching tree isn’t so great.


3. In the SI poll of most overrated players, did you agree with the top 5 (Terrell Owens / Romo/ Mark Sanchez / Haynesworth/ Eli Manning)?

Yes for:

kdc: TO laid a big goose egg in Buffalo, when he had a chance to hog the limelight in a small market.

Momo: Ok old man, don’t hate on TO because he had one bad year in Buffalo! His entire body of work shows for the majority of the time he produces for his team. I tend to believe he is rated so high because he is always in the news whether for contract or attitude. The only place he didn’t produce was Buffalo and that is because they don’t have a quarterback.


kdc: Romo is captaining the Cowboys to the bottom of the ocean & has never won anything except flashy girlfriends. (Not that there’s anything wrong with that.)

Momo: I would have put Romo first because he is so overrated. Just because you are the Cowboys quarterback it does not make you good.


kdc: Haynesworth made himself the posterboy for greed & out-of-shapeness, then hasn’t played worth $10 (until last week).

Momo: To me not overrated, he’s just with the wrong team. Staying in Tennessee would have suited him better.

No for:

kdc: I don’t like NY teams, but…calling a 2nd year player “overrated” is a bit absurd. I don’t read anywhere that Sanchez is the reason for the Jets success – he’s just Trent Dilfer not losing games (most of the time). How can that be “overrated”?

Momo: Again I think the NY media machine causes people to think he is overrated. Sanchez is solid and still growing.

Hmmm…

kdc: Is Eli overrated because he’s not Peyton? Is he the only reason the Giants have languished in mediocrity since the Super Bowl win? Hmmm. I don’t think he’s been amazing, but I’m not sure he’s seen as so important (as his brother is in Indianapolis) that the team can’t win without him.

Momo: Eli is not overrated. I believe he is a top ten qb. He isn’t a world beater all the time but he does get the ball to his receivers and manages the game very well. The majority of the teams in the NFL would love to have in as a starter for their squad.

Some Sports Analogies Should Not Be Made

It's been a tough year for Tennessee football this season. First their coach bolts on them at the last minute. After searching and searching the university had to hire a coach way down on their list because no one wanted to coach a program in shambles. Their top running back left school without telling anyone then wanted his unconditional release. Derek Dooley took on all these challenges and his team has played hard for him in the first half of all their games. Its been in the second half where the wheels have fallen off for the Vols. But after the Alabama game Dooley used an analogy comparing his team to the Germans in World War II. That is a no, no. I know Dooley doesn't side with the Nazis at all but using it in reference to sports its not good. For the most part people can accept you calling them "soldiers" and saying things like it was a "war out there" but when you say your team is like the Nazis, that's not a good comparison. I understand the context he used it in but it just kind of makes you squirm. You can judge for yourself.

5th Quarter Part 2

Two Types Of Tigers Make A Statement


1.Mizzou Dominates-For years the Missouri Tigers were a mediocre to good team. This program has been apart of some infamous moments from the 5th down Colorado game to the kick by the Nebraska Huskers. In the biggest games, the Tigers and their fans always had a what might had been moment. Especially when it came to Oklahoma, the Sooners have shelled the Tigers in the past 11 games. But on Saturday night that was a different Tiger team and a different outcome. Mizzou physically dominated the Sooners on both sides of the ball to take down the number 1 ranked team in the BCS. The Tigers controlled both lines of scrimmage and that shocked the fans as well as OU. The Tigers used balanced on their offense for the first time this year and that balance kept the Sooners honest on the defensive side. But this win is more about a program that had been the little brother to Texas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma. Since the inception of the Big 12, Gary Pinkel and the Tigers were 0-11 against Texas and Oklahoma. Winless, not quite good enough to be taken seriously. Last night the Tigers came out and proved that they belonged with the upper echelon of teams in the Big 12. Of course, they have one more big showdown on the road against Nebraska on Saturday that could potentially give this team a legit shot at a championship. But not to get ahead of myself, the Show Me State showed the nation how football is played in Columbia. No longer A Sports Verb, Oklahoma Mizzoued themselves.

2. The New Tebow-Tim Tebow received all the hype and accolades any college football player has in years. Florida is searching for his replacement but they had him and let him go. Cam Newton is now the answer to the next Tim Tebow. Newton, 6'5 250 lbs, is leading Auburn to unprecedented heights. These Tigers beat LSU 24-17 in what was a slugfest. The thing about Newton is he was a Gator and got into some trouble but was overlooked by the program for John Brantley. Newton is suited to run a zone read running offense because of his size and the long strides he takes. Trying to tackle him on the move is like trying to tackle a moving refrigerator with speed. The strength of Auburn was and is their running game, and LSU had no answer for them or Cam Newton. People in Auburn are saying Cam is the greatest Auburn Tiger ever, greater than Bo Jackson. To me that is absurd because Bo Jackson was a rare talent of size and speed. However, Cam is a different version of Tebow and he just might lead the Tigers to the same place Tebow led the Gators. To a national title.

5th Quarter Part 1

Some Keys To Today's Big Games

1. OU vs. Mizzou-There are some games that can define a program and this is one of them for the Tigers. Win this game at home and you solidify your program as a true national player. For the Tigers to win they need to run the ball effectively or this could get out of hand quickly. Mizzou has said they are tired of getting beat by the likes of Texas, Oklahoma and Nebraska. Win this game and they will control their own destiny for a national title, while also telling the rest of the conference that the Tigers will not be trampled over anymore.

2. AFvs.TCU-This will be tougher for TCU than people think. Air Force runs the triple option to perfection and that ball control can keep the explosive Horned Frogs offense off the field. TCU should win but it will not be a cake walk.

3. LSUvs.Auburn-The winner of this in my opinion will win the SEC West. Cam Newton and the Auburn Tigers have ran the ball down people's throat all year. Now they go against the best defense in the SEC against the run. Special teams will play an enormous role in this one. We will see if Auburn will kick to Peterson or Sheppard today, if they do that will make the huge difference in this game. Hopefully, Les Miles does not have any clock management issues again.

4. MSU vs. Northwestern-This has trap game written all over it for Michigan St. Northwestern only has one loss, its homecoming in Evanston and they had an extra week to prepare for the Spartans. Michigan St. could be looking forward to their showdown next Saturday with Iowa. If the Wildcats score first, watch out for the upset.

5. Wisconsin vs. Iowa-After a huge win over Ohio St., the Badgers go to Iowa and take on the once beaten Hawkeyes. Both of these teams are still in the hunt for the Big Ten title. Should be a good one.

6. Nebraska vs. Ok. St.-The Huskers will be angry after getting dominated by Texas but the Cowboys can score. I think Nebraska loses back to back games.

More later....

The End Zone

Another battle in The End Zone!! Let us know who you side with!

1. Who would you start Kevin Kolb or Michael Vick?

kdc: If we're assuming Vick is healthy (& he may not be 100%) then I think I'd still go w/Kolb. He's got the hot hand now. That said, I'd certainly put Vick in for multiple series to scare the defense. Could Philly make it w/a 2 headed QB? I have no idea, but it's certainly an interesting conundrum for coach Andy Reid to noodle over!



Momo: Vick should be the starter and the reason being is the Eagles offensive line is not good. Vick is more mobile than Kolb and now Mike is becoming a very dangerous passer. Teams are starting to respect him as a qb first and a runner second. It’s amazing how studying makes you a better player.


2. Are you buying the new/old LaDanian Tomlinson?

kdc: I'm buying it for now. LT has always been a class guy, so I'm rooting for him. True, he now plays for a team in NY, so that means anything positive is overhyped, but sometimes great players comeback & surprise us all. I'm hoping LT remains that story. If the Jets don't give him too many carries each game, then it looks like he's got a good chance to stay productive. He's certainly young enough.

Momo: I’m cautiously buying for this reason, the Jets o-line is built for a running game. What happen with the Chargers is they went to a pass game first and running the ball was not a priority, plus LT was injured. He looks healthy but if I’m the Jets I would probably watch his workload. This situation is perfect for LT because he has some big bulldozers in front making huge holes for him, I just worry about his body breaking down.

3. The viscious hits on Sunday, think the league acted with a knee jerk response with the fines?

kdc: No, I think they should've suspended all 3 of those guys, apologies or no. Helmet to helmet have been verboten for several years now. I think they've been too weak about it & now have to catch up. It kind of reminds me of the Janet Jackson "wardrobe malfunction." If the NFL hadn't allowed the halftime show to celebrate smut to begin with (Nelly was slithering around singing "it's hot in here" earlier in that sequence), then there never would've been the

Momo: I disagree with you on this. Merriweather should have been the only one suspended because he hit a defense receiver like a missile and launched himself into Heap. The NFL is completely overreacting to the other hits. I think what everyone is missing is what Steve Young said about quarterbacks and defense’s today. The league has a lot of young quarterbacks who put their receivers in harm’s way and the exotic defense schemes make it tough for the quarterbacks to know what is going on. Then the qb throws the ball up for grabs instead of throwing it away and their receivers get punished. When did it become uncool to throw the ball away and fight another down.

4. The AFC South is a surprise division where everyone is within a game of each other. The winner of the AFC South is….

Momo: The Tennessee Titans. With the Colts facing injuries at key spots, I like the continuity that the Titans have. Vince Young is making plays with his feet and arms. Chris Johnson is a home run waiting to happen on any play. The Titans defense is a bunch of nobody’s that play sound tough football, which is just the way Jeff Fisher likes it. They keep games close and find different ways to beat you.

kdc: What kind of question is this? There are only 2 possible choices, as Jacksonville is already out of it & Houston is woefully inconsistent. But you can't choose against the Colts until the Colts tank (which may not be too many years away, but not 2010). Yes, the injuries are many, but just a couple years ago Peyton Manning literally willed his entire team into the playoffs. They promptly lost, but they weren't supposed to be there. Maybe they shouldn't be there again this year, but they will - & it'll be as division leader, not wild card.

Can Former Players Coach?

If you are a Hall of Fame player, most people believe those qualities that you have that made you great as a player would be the same qualities that would make you a great coach. History has shown this is not the case, it is harder for these guys to coach because they paid attention to such detail and have demanded so much from themselves and their teammates that it is difficult for them to translate it to their players and get them to play the game at a high level. This is especially true in football, where playing the game at a high level and coaching it normally don't go hand in hand. I found this article interesting from Sports Illustrated where they ranked the coaches in the league who played the game. As you will see most of the guys on the list where average to below average players but they see the game differently than others, a more cerebral feel to football. Tell us what you think.

http://joeposnanski.si.com/2010/10/16/top-32-nfl-coaches-as-players/?eref=sihp

Amazing Plays, Incredible Announcers

Sports Illustrated ranked the 32 Greatest Calls made during sporting events. Considering they're all at the most dramatic points of each competition, it makes for some heart-pounding moments.

Best of all, every sport is represented - football, baseball, soccer, hockey, and even swimming - so you can enjoy many years of excellence. That said, this is by far my favorite as the passion South American announcers feel toward soccer/futball eludes me:

5th Quarter (College)

Conference Play Separates Contenders From Pretenders

1. Ohio St-Buckeyes fans knew this day was coming. The day when they were ranked number #1 and would lose on the road because of their conservative play calling coach. Tressel philosophy puts his team in a bad spot when they get down big, and Saturday night was no surprise when Wisconsin knocked them from the ranks of the unbeaten. In the end you knew OSU would find a way to disappoint. Now there is a new leader in the driver seat in the Big Ten...

2. Sparty-Beat a rival out of state? Check! Beat big brother rival in the state? Check! Michigan St. has an opportunity to run the table because their toughest game left is at Iowa. The Spartans in the past have always found a way to lose a game they have should win, but this season seems different. There is a new found confidence brewing in East Lansing, and this state needs some good news.

3. Mizzou Played Big Boy Football-Today the Missouri Tigers went down to College Station and smacked around Texas A &M. The Aggies aren't the best team in the Big 12 but the Tigers have routinely struggled when they have gone south. One of the biggest areas of improvement of the Tigers has been their defense. They took it to the Aggies and made a statement to the rest of the conference. What to strap on your helmets and knock around a Texas school!

4.Speaking of Texas-Nebraska spent much of the offseason stewing about last years Big 12 Championship game. One of the reasons why they are leaving the conference is because they felt that Texas got all the calls and the conference catered to them. Nebraska got physically dominated and exposed. It was obvious that the Huskers could run the ball but Taylor Martinez is not a passer and Texas made them one-dimensional. Once Texas pinned their ears back, they dominated the Huskers O-line. That was the rudest going away present that Texas gave them today.

5. SEC-Auburn won in a shootout out and Cam Newton is now the frontrunner for the Heisman trophy. I said last week that no one is talking about Auburn and the reason why is their defense. You can't give up 48 points to a team with their backup quarterback. The battle for SEC supremacy will be Saturday when LSU comes to town. Who knew this would be such a huge game a month ago. By the way, LSU fans the only way you get rid of Les Miles is for someone to find 15 million dollars to pay him out. That was an awful contract that the AD signed him to.

Quick hit-Boise St. schedule in the end will cost them if they go undefeated. Their schedule just took a hit when Nevada who was ranked lost to Hawaii. The Broncos could not afford that one.