Injury update on Sunday is the same. Randy Edsall said Donald Brown is the same as Saturday and that he expects him to be okay for Virginia. Bye week happened at a good time.
Edsall said he saw Brown after the game and Brown said he was fine. Two weeks will probably be enough time.
All the other injuries are the same.
Edsall is going to spend a lot the next couple of weeks on special teams. It's just a matter of getting players into a positions. Desi Cullen really struggled on Saturday, not only with two kickoffs out of bounds, but I think he wasn't kicking it into the right place. That destroys kick coverage if the defense isn't in the right spot from the get go. Also, Cullen's two punts near midfield weren't very good. Both sailed into the endzone and both never gave the Huskies' specials teams guru's a shot at downing it inside the 10.
On a side note, I like kicking it in the air and having your gunner run under the punt and down it. Ideally, it never hits the ground. But this must be extremely difficult because I really only see Jeff Feagles and David Tyree of the Giants execute it most of the time. It must be an impossible play to execute for a college player.
Big recruiting week for the Huskies. All there guys are going out to look at juniors and seniors and talk to coaches and guidance counselors. It got to help get attention when your 5-0.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Big East roundup
Bad day for the Big East, It's top 3 teams preseason all have losess now. No national title contention for the Big East now. That's the way it goes. USF will never reach that top 2 status. They started way too down in the polls (which is a flaw of the system).
Rutgers is the most disappointing. If you are going to squawk like a top 10 team and put the hype machine in motion, have eight home games and only one major road game (Louisville), you have a schedule set up almost perfectly, then you have to beat Maryland, a middling ACC team, at home.
I certainly didn't expect Rutgers to run the table and get to the BCS title game, but I thought they would make a serious run at it. That's done now.
What I do know is that USF is the best team in the conference. I don't think that is a reach. I thought after watching them against Auburn that they would win the Big East. They then hammered State and then as I predicted defeated WVU.
Figures. They should never do top 25 polls until October. As a colleague said leading up to the WVU-USF game -- How do we know that WVU is any good? Same holds true for Rutgers. They are certainly pretty good, but are they the No. 10 team in the country? How do we know that based on their schedule?
If UConn breaks into the top 25 that is silly too. Maybe a road win at Virginia, which would make three BCS road wins, then you do it. But until they knock off a better team then you can't put the Huskies in the top 25. They are on the radar, but not there yet.
The two most impressive teams in the Big East are USF and Cincy.
I think WVU and USF are the class of the league with Rutgers, Ville and Cincy a step behind.
Humbling defeat for the Scarlet Knights and bad for the Big East. I don't want to see the Ray Rice, Slaton, White and Brian Brohm Heisman commercial anymore. That has come and gone.
BTW, The announcers on ABC are incredulous. Maryland scores a TD late and immediately the defense let Maryland score? That is embarrassing that the announcer didn't come off it. Obviously they weren't trying to let Maryland score. They were defeated and exhausted.
Anyhow, I am curious how Pitt-Virginia works out.
Rutgers is the most disappointing. If you are going to squawk like a top 10 team and put the hype machine in motion, have eight home games and only one major road game (Louisville), you have a schedule set up almost perfectly, then you have to beat Maryland, a middling ACC team, at home.
I certainly didn't expect Rutgers to run the table and get to the BCS title game, but I thought they would make a serious run at it. That's done now.
What I do know is that USF is the best team in the conference. I don't think that is a reach. I thought after watching them against Auburn that they would win the Big East. They then hammered State and then as I predicted defeated WVU.
Figures. They should never do top 25 polls until October. As a colleague said leading up to the WVU-USF game -- How do we know that WVU is any good? Same holds true for Rutgers. They are certainly pretty good, but are they the No. 10 team in the country? How do we know that based on their schedule?
If UConn breaks into the top 25 that is silly too. Maybe a road win at Virginia, which would make three BCS road wins, then you do it. But until they knock off a better team then you can't put the Huskies in the top 25. They are on the radar, but not there yet.
The two most impressive teams in the Big East are USF and Cincy.
I think WVU and USF are the class of the league with Rutgers, Ville and Cincy a step behind.
Humbling defeat for the Scarlet Knights and bad for the Big East. I don't want to see the Ray Rice, Slaton, White and Brian Brohm Heisman commercial anymore. That has come and gone.
BTW, The announcers on ABC are incredulous. Maryland scores a TD late and immediately the defense let Maryland score? That is embarrassing that the announcer didn't come off it. Obviously they weren't trying to let Maryland score. They were defeated and exhausted.
Anyhow, I am curious how Pitt-Virginia works out.
Quick postgame updates
Donald Brown walked in with a boot and crutches on his left foot. It's precautionary and he thinks he will be fine. Tyvon Branch could have went back in, but discretion is the better part of valor. He hurt his left shoulder on a hit.
Gary Mack and Kevin Poles both limped off with ankle injuries.
Hey 5-0, into a bye week and flying high.
Gary Mack and Kevin Poles both limped off with ankle injuries.
Hey 5-0, into a bye week and flying high.
Live Akron Game Thread
Pregame: Nice weather outside. Got an October chill. Perfect football weather. Look like more people came out to tailgate for this one.
Side Note: Not surprised by USF. I have been high on them all year. USF won in Morgantown last year and has a better team this year. Not an upset. Bad job by anyone who thinks it is. I think USF is winning the Big East.
Lineups: Chris Jacquemain to start at QB instead of Carlton Jackson for Akron. For the Huskies, Hicks at right tackle and LaMagdelaine at left guard. I don't get why football coaches can't tell people their lineups the day before. Is it that much of and edge? I don't think Vince Lombardi played theses kinds of games.
It is so high schoolish. They do it in the NFL too.
Anyhow, stadium is half full. Maybe too early a start.
First quarter
Update 12:23 p.m: Two possessions 6 plays, two punts for UConn. Blech! Donald Brown 2 carries -4 yards. Got to give him a chance O-line, just a small chance.
Update 12:31 p.m: 4th and 8 on the 34 and you punt it? Netted 14 yards. It's no man's land, but got to get it inside the 20 there. No room for Brown rushing.
Quarter wrap-up: UConn can't get running game going. Have allowed Akron to make 3 first downs on end of quarter drive on 3rd downs. Jacquemain is 7-for-7 passing. Defense should be OK. Offensive line needs to get a push and start playing physical.
Second quarter
12:44 p.m.: Akron FG 28 yards. Nice job by UConn's defense holding. 3-0 Zips.
12:51 p.m.: Nice drive by the Huskies, Andre Dixon yard catch for TD. Lorenzen 5-for-5 on drive 63 yards. Most of the damage through passing. Still no running game with Dixon in. Tony Ciaravino misses kick left. Yuck. 6-3 Huskies.
1:06 p.m.: Tony C into the wind for 45 yards? Barely over for a field goal. 9-3. Risky move by Edsall. I thought they would have a better shot going for it on 4th and 5. Got the points there though, so it turns out a good move. Tony C semi redeems himself.
1:11 p.m.: 58 yard kickoff return. Give Akron a chance now. The coverages are downright awful. That is the one constant negative. Never been good. Akron on the 22 now.
1:16 p.m.: Jabaru Arthur 6 yard TD pass. 5 plays 28 yard drive. Special teams gave it back for UConn. 10-9 Akron.
1:18 p.m.: Tyvon Branch 97 TD return!!!. Makes up for pass interference play and getting beat for a TD. UConn 16-10. Nothing is more exciting than a kickoff return. First kickoff return for a TD against Akron since 1993. YES. 1993.
Desi Cullen kicks ball out of bounds -- TWICE. Brilliant. On third kickoff crowd cheers. Akron gets ball at their 38. Not bad.
Quarter Roundup: I don't know what happened at end. No replay on the roughing. I guess referees didn't allow Akron to get outs of bounds. Bizarre end to the half, and no replays.
Huskies have 16-10 lead, barely. Special teams is really hurting. Giving away too much field position. Got one back on the Branch TD, but you can't put defense in that kind of hole. Officials are a bit shaky, but what else is new.
No semblance of a running game. UConn is using the short passing game instead. Donald Brown, 4 rushes for -1. Dixon one rush for 3 yards.
Third quarter
First play, Lorenzen throws it up for grabs for a pick. Had Brouse for a cheap 8 yard gainer as a safety valve. Bad job by Tyler.
Update 2:06 p.m.: Brown sighting. 19 yard run followed by a 5 yard TD run. 23-10 Huskies. Very nice job of play calling setting up run with short passing game. Lorenzen made great 3rd and 15 read to Jeffers for a 1st down.
Update 2:20 p.m: Lorenzen good pass to Jeffers for TD. Running game is going. 30-10 Pups.
Update 2:35 p.m.: Dixon 55 TD run. Great job staying behind blockers. 38-10 UConn. Good night Irene.
Side Note: Not surprised by USF. I have been high on them all year. USF won in Morgantown last year and has a better team this year. Not an upset. Bad job by anyone who thinks it is. I think USF is winning the Big East.
Lineups: Chris Jacquemain to start at QB instead of Carlton Jackson for Akron. For the Huskies, Hicks at right tackle and LaMagdelaine at left guard. I don't get why football coaches can't tell people their lineups the day before. Is it that much of and edge? I don't think Vince Lombardi played theses kinds of games.
It is so high schoolish. They do it in the NFL too.
Anyhow, stadium is half full. Maybe too early a start.
First quarter
Update 12:23 p.m: Two possessions 6 plays, two punts for UConn. Blech! Donald Brown 2 carries -4 yards. Got to give him a chance O-line, just a small chance.
Update 12:31 p.m: 4th and 8 on the 34 and you punt it? Netted 14 yards. It's no man's land, but got to get it inside the 20 there. No room for Brown rushing.
Quarter wrap-up: UConn can't get running game going. Have allowed Akron to make 3 first downs on end of quarter drive on 3rd downs. Jacquemain is 7-for-7 passing. Defense should be OK. Offensive line needs to get a push and start playing physical.
Second quarter
12:44 p.m.: Akron FG 28 yards. Nice job by UConn's defense holding. 3-0 Zips.
12:51 p.m.: Nice drive by the Huskies, Andre Dixon yard catch for TD. Lorenzen 5-for-5 on drive 63 yards. Most of the damage through passing. Still no running game with Dixon in. Tony Ciaravino misses kick left. Yuck. 6-3 Huskies.
1:06 p.m.: Tony C into the wind for 45 yards? Barely over for a field goal. 9-3. Risky move by Edsall. I thought they would have a better shot going for it on 4th and 5. Got the points there though, so it turns out a good move. Tony C semi redeems himself.
1:11 p.m.: 58 yard kickoff return. Give Akron a chance now. The coverages are downright awful. That is the one constant negative. Never been good. Akron on the 22 now.
1:16 p.m.: Jabaru Arthur 6 yard TD pass. 5 plays 28 yard drive. Special teams gave it back for UConn. 10-9 Akron.
1:18 p.m.: Tyvon Branch 97 TD return!!!. Makes up for pass interference play and getting beat for a TD. UConn 16-10. Nothing is more exciting than a kickoff return. First kickoff return for a TD against Akron since 1993. YES. 1993.
Desi Cullen kicks ball out of bounds -- TWICE. Brilliant. On third kickoff crowd cheers. Akron gets ball at their 38. Not bad.
Quarter Roundup: I don't know what happened at end. No replay on the roughing. I guess referees didn't allow Akron to get outs of bounds. Bizarre end to the half, and no replays.
Huskies have 16-10 lead, barely. Special teams is really hurting. Giving away too much field position. Got one back on the Branch TD, but you can't put defense in that kind of hole. Officials are a bit shaky, but what else is new.
No semblance of a running game. UConn is using the short passing game instead. Donald Brown, 4 rushes for -1. Dixon one rush for 3 yards.
Third quarter
First play, Lorenzen throws it up for grabs for a pick. Had Brouse for a cheap 8 yard gainer as a safety valve. Bad job by Tyler.
Update 2:06 p.m.: Brown sighting. 19 yard run followed by a 5 yard TD run. 23-10 Huskies. Very nice job of play calling setting up run with short passing game. Lorenzen made great 3rd and 15 read to Jeffers for a 1st down.
Update 2:20 p.m: Lorenzen good pass to Jeffers for TD. Running game is going. 30-10 Pups.
Update 2:35 p.m.: Dixon 55 TD run. Great job staying behind blockers. 38-10 UConn. Good night Irene.
Silver's keys to the Akron game
Keys to the game
Protect Tyler Lorezen
Friday, September 28, 2007
In Friday's JI
Talked to freshman end Marcus Campbell. I remember seeing him against Windsor on Thanksgiving last year and I was stunned no one else was interested. Why not take a flyer on that kind of speed and athleticism? Worse case he plays special teams, and very well.
Didn't get into it in the story much, but Campbell thinks he can play linebacker if they do indeed want to move him. He thinks he is fast enough to play safety, though he said he would have to take off weight and work a lot on footwork.
He is so raw, they can mold him anyway they want.
He has tremendous closing speed for a defensive end. Interestingly enough, current recruit Trevardo Williams is even faster. That's some serious speed on the field defensively.
Didn't get into it in the story much, but Campbell thinks he can play linebacker if they do indeed want to move him. He thinks he is fast enough to play safety, though he said he would have to take off weight and work a lot on footwork.
He is so raw, they can mold him anyway they want.
He has tremendous closing speed for a defensive end. Interestingly enough, current recruit Trevardo Williams is even faster. That's some serious speed on the field defensively.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Thursday update pre Akron
Randy Edsall likes the concentration this week and the team is generally focused. I am not sure if he would say that the team is unfocused and in la la land, but we'll take it for what it's worth.
As far as an injury update there is no change on the offensive line. Dan Ryan is ready to go, though it looks like Edsall is going to stay with Mike Hicks/Alex LaMagdelaine at right tackle and left guard. That's the indication.
WR Ellis Gaulden could "possibly" see some action. What that means is he is a candidate to play as opposed to definitely out as he has been I think for the last two years.
This team is dying to find someone to be a 5th and 6th wide receiver that is not named Kashif Moore (doesn't want to burn the redshirt). That is my analysis however and did not come from Edsall. Where is Kevin Poles? Robert Theodele and Marcus Easley have pushed for some time though Theodele is going to need to catch passes that hit him on the chest if he wants to stay out there.
As far as linebacker Ryan Henegan, he is going to play and be a backup and see some time on special teams. If there are any injuries at linebacker it is going to be Henegan who comes in. Edsall sat down with the senior earlier this week and they talked about how he feels and, presumably, his role.
He still is rusty however, though it appears Lawrence Wilson isn't going to come out of the lineup anytime soon.
As far as an injury update there is no change on the offensive line. Dan Ryan is ready to go, though it looks like Edsall is going to stay with Mike Hicks/Alex LaMagdelaine at right tackle and left guard. That's the indication.
WR Ellis Gaulden could "possibly" see some action. What that means is he is a candidate to play as opposed to definitely out as he has been I think for the last two years.
This team is dying to find someone to be a 5th and 6th wide receiver that is not named Kashif Moore (doesn't want to burn the redshirt). That is my analysis however and did not come from Edsall. Where is Kevin Poles? Robert Theodele and Marcus Easley have pushed for some time though Theodele is going to need to catch passes that hit him on the chest if he wants to stay out there.
As far as linebacker Ryan Henegan, he is going to play and be a backup and see some time on special teams. If there are any injuries at linebacker it is going to be Henegan who comes in. Edsall sat down with the senior earlier this week and they talked about how he feels and, presumably, his role.
He still is rusty however, though it appears Lawrence Wilson isn't going to come out of the lineup anytime soon.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Oklahoma State Football Coach Mike Gundy Upset
The article was inflammatory. By starting out on how the QBs mom feeds him chicken, then question his toughness by saying maybe he wants his mom to feed him is below the belt. That is an absolute cheap shot. As a journalist, she is reporting rumors and innuendo. Did she observe this? If not, who is giving her this info? If you think the guy is soft, say he is soft. Don't write people in the shadows say he is soft. It is purposely mean spirited. Not good work. I have no problem criticizing college athletes, but at no point did she approach the QB and ask him to answer questions whether he is soft or a mama's boy. It lacked balance and wasn't fair. What's the difference between that and a flame baiting message board post?
BTW, that is all lost in the ridiculous tirade by Gundy. Honest to god, be an adult and get a grip. It was an unprofessional outburst by Gundy. He could have pulled her aside and said she is full of it and why. What he did was make a fool of himself and cloud the issue. Just a sordid affair all the way around.
In Wednesday's JI
Little late coming, but a notebook on the Huskies and their focus on going to 5-0. Let's just say they don't care what anyone thinks.
Also, let's just say the pregame preparation and research done on UConn by the ESPNU announcers was less than satisfactory. I have talked to several people who watched the telecast and said the entire thing was slanted towards Pitt and focused on Pitt. I didn't watch the telecast (who has ESPNU?) but everyone I talked to who saw it said it was like watching a Pittsburgh home game feed.
If I get a tape, I will critique more. But until then they are lucky and will get a pass.
I got a prediction -- USF 28, WVU 20.
Also, let's just say the pregame preparation and research done on UConn by the ESPNU announcers was less than satisfactory. I have talked to several people who watched the telecast and said the entire thing was slanted towards Pitt and focused on Pitt. I didn't watch the telecast (who has ESPNU?) but everyone I talked to who saw it said it was like watching a Pittsburgh home game feed.
If I get a tape, I will critique more. But until then they are lucky and will get a pass.
I got a prediction -- USF 28, WVU 20.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Tuesday conference
Some interesting stuff from Tuesday's conference.
First off, on the injury front, Dan Ryan is healed and ready to go. That doesn't necessarily mean he is going to start or play. Mike Hicks is now at right tackle, and Alex LaMagdelaine at guard. How those three fit into two spots is TBD.
More news on the Ryan Henegan front. He is improving and could play. Here is the semi news. He is also taking some snaps and working out at middle linebacker. Lawrence Wilson has played well and got the royal media treatment today with a dozen people around him. No I wasn't involved and did a story 3 weeks ago and got Marcus Campbell instead, got some good stuff from Marcus.
Anyhow, if Henegan is a full go I am not sure he takes Wilson's spot. Wilson would have to struggle, though I am just reading into what Randy Edsall is saying. That seems a good way to go. I think Wilson is a player.
The team could also desperately use someone to spell Danny Lansanah, or god forbid, replace him if injured.
Will update tonight more, got to do some work and we got a boat load of soccer games coming in that I have to take.
First off, on the injury front, Dan Ryan is healed and ready to go. That doesn't necessarily mean he is going to start or play. Mike Hicks is now at right tackle, and Alex LaMagdelaine at guard. How those three fit into two spots is TBD.
More news on the Ryan Henegan front. He is improving and could play. Here is the semi news. He is also taking some snaps and working out at middle linebacker. Lawrence Wilson has played well and got the royal media treatment today with a dozen people around him. No I wasn't involved and did a story 3 weeks ago and got Marcus Campbell instead, got some good stuff from Marcus.
Anyhow, if Henegan is a full go I am not sure he takes Wilson's spot. Wilson would have to struggle, though I am just reading into what Randy Edsall is saying. That seems a good way to go. I think Wilson is a player.
The team could also desperately use someone to spell Danny Lansanah, or god forbid, replace him if injured.
Will update tonight more, got to do some work and we got a boat load of soccer games coming in that I have to take.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Schadenfreude II --- I give up
The last 4 days have been a horror show. I don't think I have had one thing go right. If you didn't read, go ahead and take a look at the earlier Schedranfraude thread and how I locked my keys in my car on Thursday night. It get's worse. That 's just the beginning.
I give up on life. It's over for me. I wish there was a distraught sports writer hot line.
Here is my, belated, diary of cataclysmic events.
And remember, don't laugh too hard about my misfortune. Your next.
Friday (morning): I get assaulted by a security guard at Bradley Airport and get my laptop picked apart for no other reason than it was me and I have bad luck recently. Darn Red Sox game. I got patted down and I had to take off the shoes and empty all my pockets and electronic equipment. Of course I struggled getting off my sneakers because I have yet to master the art of tying shoes. It is one big knot.
In the course of doing all this stuff (because of a pinhead with a bomb scare in Boston), I somehow misplaced my $75 Blue tooth headset. Maybe it went to Quantico for explosive testing. The trip is off to a wonderful start
Friday (afternoon): I get into Pittsburgh and of course go over to get my reserved rental car -- Hertz. But wait, my reservation is Saturday through Monday. I need Friday-Sunday. No problem, I have a Football Writers' Association discount. Two days for the cheap priuce of $90 something dollars. Fine. Waiting in line with me is Chip Malafronte of the Register. He doesn't have a reservation. Later, when we meet up at a place called fat heads, Chip tells me he got a car for the weekend at $50 total. He then asks if there is GPS in my car. I say no. Chip says he didn't order it and thought it was standard. So I then ask him about the $50 car and he says he went economy. I curse my expensive tastes and then he asks me what I am driving. I say a Mazda 6. He has a big smile and says, "That's what I am driving too!"
Yes, that's right, Chip was behind me in line at hertz with no reservation and got the same car $40 less and with GPS thrown in. Grrrreat start to the trip!
Back at the hotel I am listening to Mike and the Mad Dog on the internet and they are giving updates on the Cubs-Pirates game. I am in luck! I am in Pittsburgh so I try to find the game. Guess what? No Pirate games are on in the hotel. Hotel doesn't get FSN Pittsburgh or WGN. Are you kidding me?
Friday night: As stated above we went to a nice place called Fat Heads with 40 beers on tap. Yumm. I meet Shawn Courchesne from the Hartofrd Courant there and he complains about his Dodge Charger rental that he was forced into. The thing growls. Shawn can't even see over the dash. I think he could beat Ted Christopher driving that thing. Anyhow, he was upgraded to it because they were out of other more professional automobiles. Shawn then was complaining about it and how silly he looked. Let me get this straight, being upgraded to a muscle car and complaining? That is so Hartford Courant (kidding Shawn).
Anyhow, I took a cab there from the Mariott downtown and chatted with a nice cabbie. It was a $6 cab ride and I hand him some cash and say I want 2 bucks back. He says "thanks" in a pretty enthusiastic tone and I am a bit taken aback. When I go to buy my first beer I find out why --- I thought I gave him a $10, but no, I gave him a $20. That's a $14 tip for a 5 minute cab ride -- Brilliant.
Check out Runway Ramblings for a recap of dinner -- I threw my wings away.
Later back at the hotel, where I paid only a $6 cab ride back I order room service. It was pretty good. when I go to put the plates outside my foot slides off the door. I am locked out, luckily I am in shorts. I have to call down to the lobby and have the kind receptionist let me in. I wanted to wear a bag over my head.
Saturday (game day): How come I have to park in the East Clark lot (1 mile away from Heinz), while every other guy on the UConn beat, EVERY OTHER, had a 1/2 mil walk from the well lit Red 5 garage? I walked under an underpass into an abandoned and dim lot and somehow managed to find my way back to the Mariott. Why am I the only one in an abandoned lot a mile from the field? How am I still alive?
The Heinz Field security is ridiculous. I got patted down and had to turn on my phone, ipod and computer. I wish I had my blue tooth on me to show that it wasn't a bomb too. Do Islamic terrorists even know where Pittsburgh is?
6 a.m. wake up for flight. Time actually closed my eyes? 4 a.m. And no, I didn't go to a postgame party. I wrote a story for scout that becaused of technical difficulties has yet to appear on the website.
Sunday: Things are looking better though I am tired. Get my work out of the way and no hitch on the flight. Head to the Toby Keith concert for a great time, and much deserved. Had my wife take care of the specifics. She put the tickets in my wallet (I actually forgot them at home during one concert this year) and we are off to the Meadows. we get there, eat some ribs and go upgrade our tickets to Pavillion seats. It is awesome. Then...Toby Keith begins his show. Sound guy must be going deaf because the concert is so loud people are headed to the lawn. It's unbearable. I listen to the concert with my fingers in my ears. Wife and friends are miserable. So am I. We leave early because it is so loud. Of course, stuck in traffic for an hour on the way home.
I pick up my 11 month old daugther Julia and see she has a bad fever. She is up all night crying and whining (which is so cute). I feel helpless. I DVRed the Giants game and am pleaseantly surprised. I can't enjoy it however. First off my daughter is crying, secondly, it's 3:45 a.m. and I have been up 22 straight hours. If the Giants lost that game I wouldn't be here. Not that game, not this weekend, not at this time of night/morning.
Monday (5 p.m.): I have had issuess with a laptop of mine. This computer store has been jerking me around for 3 months since I brought it in to get the AC adapter fixed. I had to return it twice and am out $225. I haven't heard from them in a month, so I am delighted when i go there to pick it up. After about 10 minutes searching for the power cord they give me the computer back and I go home. Of course when I plug it in and turn it on there is no response. The thing is non-functional.It is busted. Upon further inspection, the thing is missing 5 screws.
Of course I head back to the store to yell, bu the place closed 5 minutes earlier for the day. Life sucks. I am late for work now. Of course Hartford traffic makes it an hour to get in instread of a 20 minute ride (I hate Hartford).
Ohh, and the Yankees lost.
So I am here, tired and cranky. Keys in my pocket, and ready for some volleyball scores.
So how was your weekend?
I give up on life. It's over for me. I wish there was a distraught sports writer hot line.
Here is my, belated, diary of cataclysmic events.
And remember, don't laugh too hard about my misfortune. Your next.
Friday (morning): I get assaulted by a security guard at Bradley Airport and get my laptop picked apart for no other reason than it was me and I have bad luck recently. Darn Red Sox game. I got patted down and I had to take off the shoes and empty all my pockets and electronic equipment. Of course I struggled getting off my sneakers because I have yet to master the art of tying shoes. It is one big knot.
In the course of doing all this stuff (because of a pinhead with a bomb scare in Boston), I somehow misplaced my $75 Blue tooth headset. Maybe it went to Quantico for explosive testing. The trip is off to a wonderful start
Friday (afternoon): I get into Pittsburgh and of course go over to get my reserved rental car -- Hertz. But wait, my reservation is Saturday through Monday. I need Friday-Sunday. No problem, I have a Football Writers' Association discount. Two days for the cheap priuce of $90 something dollars. Fine. Waiting in line with me is Chip Malafronte of the Register. He doesn't have a reservation. Later, when we meet up at a place called fat heads, Chip tells me he got a car for the weekend at $50 total. He then asks if there is GPS in my car. I say no. Chip says he didn't order it and thought it was standard. So I then ask him about the $50 car and he says he went economy. I curse my expensive tastes and then he asks me what I am driving. I say a Mazda 6. He has a big smile and says, "That's what I am driving too!"
Yes, that's right, Chip was behind me in line at hertz with no reservation and got the same car $40 less and with GPS thrown in. Grrrreat start to the trip!
Back at the hotel I am listening to Mike and the Mad Dog on the internet and they are giving updates on the Cubs-Pirates game. I am in luck! I am in Pittsburgh so I try to find the game. Guess what? No Pirate games are on in the hotel. Hotel doesn't get FSN Pittsburgh or WGN. Are you kidding me?
Friday night: As stated above we went to a nice place called Fat Heads with 40 beers on tap. Yumm. I meet Shawn Courchesne from the Hartofrd Courant there and he complains about his Dodge Charger rental that he was forced into. The thing growls. Shawn can't even see over the dash. I think he could beat Ted Christopher driving that thing. Anyhow, he was upgraded to it because they were out of other more professional automobiles. Shawn then was complaining about it and how silly he looked. Let me get this straight, being upgraded to a muscle car and complaining? That is so Hartford Courant (kidding Shawn).
Anyhow, I took a cab there from the Mariott downtown and chatted with a nice cabbie. It was a $6 cab ride and I hand him some cash and say I want 2 bucks back. He says "thanks" in a pretty enthusiastic tone and I am a bit taken aback. When I go to buy my first beer I find out why --- I thought I gave him a $10, but no, I gave him a $20. That's a $14 tip for a 5 minute cab ride -- Brilliant.
Check out Runway Ramblings for a recap of dinner -- I threw my wings away.
Later back at the hotel, where I paid only a $6 cab ride back I order room service. It was pretty good. when I go to put the plates outside my foot slides off the door. I am locked out, luckily I am in shorts. I have to call down to the lobby and have the kind receptionist let me in. I wanted to wear a bag over my head.
Saturday (game day): How come I have to park in the East Clark lot (1 mile away from Heinz), while every other guy on the UConn beat, EVERY OTHER, had a 1/2 mil walk from the well lit Red 5 garage? I walked under an underpass into an abandoned and dim lot and somehow managed to find my way back to the Mariott. Why am I the only one in an abandoned lot a mile from the field? How am I still alive?
The Heinz Field security is ridiculous. I got patted down and had to turn on my phone, ipod and computer. I wish I had my blue tooth on me to show that it wasn't a bomb too. Do Islamic terrorists even know where Pittsburgh is?
6 a.m. wake up for flight. Time actually closed my eyes? 4 a.m. And no, I didn't go to a postgame party. I wrote a story for scout that becaused of technical difficulties has yet to appear on the website.
Sunday: Things are looking better though I am tired. Get my work out of the way and no hitch on the flight. Head to the Toby Keith concert for a great time, and much deserved. Had my wife take care of the specifics. She put the tickets in my wallet (I actually forgot them at home during one concert this year) and we are off to the Meadows. we get there, eat some ribs and go upgrade our tickets to Pavillion seats. It is awesome. Then...Toby Keith begins his show. Sound guy must be going deaf because the concert is so loud people are headed to the lawn. It's unbearable. I listen to the concert with my fingers in my ears. Wife and friends are miserable. So am I. We leave early because it is so loud. Of course, stuck in traffic for an hour on the way home.
I pick up my 11 month old daugther Julia and see she has a bad fever. She is up all night crying and whining (which is so cute). I feel helpless. I DVRed the Giants game and am pleaseantly surprised. I can't enjoy it however. First off my daughter is crying, secondly, it's 3:45 a.m. and I have been up 22 straight hours. If the Giants lost that game I wouldn't be here. Not that game, not this weekend, not at this time of night/morning.
Monday (5 p.m.): I have had issuess with a laptop of mine. This computer store has been jerking me around for 3 months since I brought it in to get the AC adapter fixed. I had to return it twice and am out $225. I haven't heard from them in a month, so I am delighted when i go there to pick it up. After about 10 minutes searching for the power cord they give me the computer back and I go home. Of course when I plug it in and turn it on there is no response. The thing is non-functional.It is busted. Upon further inspection, the thing is missing 5 screws.
Of course I head back to the store to yell, bu the place closed 5 minutes earlier for the day. Life sucks. I am late for work now. Of course Hartford traffic makes it an hour to get in instread of a 20 minute ride (I hate Hartford).
Ohh, and the Yankees lost.
So I am here, tired and cranky. Keys in my pocket, and ready for some volleyball scores.
So how was your weekend?
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Back home
Here we go: The Worse 4-0 Team in America?
It's kind of ridiculous. Is there such a thing as the worst undefeated team? It doesn't make sense.
I would rather be the worst 4-0 team than the best 0-4 or 1-3 team.
This shows how silly some of these analysts are. How do you go from a bad team to top 25 votes?
Talk about bipolar.
If Huskies beat Akron, they will get even more votes. Is Pitt now the worst 2-2 team in America? Who cares? Just enjoy the ride.
Follow the team's lead. It's never as good as you hope, and never as bad as you feel.
Huskies aren't going 12-0 or 11-1. They aren't going to go 4-8 either.
Won't update with Thursday's conference called. I am headed for some tailgating at the Tony Keith concert Sunday and I plan on not bringing my computer (how dare I).
After the couple of days I had in Pittsburgh, I think I deserve it.
It's kind of ridiculous. Is there such a thing as the worst undefeated team? It doesn't make sense.
I would rather be the worst 4-0 team than the best 0-4 or 1-3 team.
This shows how silly some of these analysts are. How do you go from a bad team to top 25 votes?
Talk about bipolar.
If Huskies beat Akron, they will get even more votes. Is Pitt now the worst 2-2 team in America? Who cares? Just enjoy the ride.
Follow the team's lead. It's never as good as you hope, and never as bad as you feel.
Huskies aren't going 12-0 or 11-1. They aren't going to go 4-8 either.
Won't update with Thursday's conference called. I am headed for some tailgating at the Tony Keith concert Sunday and I plan on not bringing my computer (how dare I).
After the couple of days I had in Pittsburgh, I think I deserve it.
Post Pitt thoughts
Stunned...
That's the word to best describe what happened at Heinz Field last night (it's 1:11 .m. here and at the hotel and I am still doing work).
When we took an informal press poll I think a UConn blowout was the least expected result. Actually, no one dared predict it. When I woke up this morning, and read the Pitt papers, I had a good feeling on the game. Not this though. I was as sure UConn wouldn't blow out Pitt like Randy Edsall is sure his team can make a 4th and inches.
I thought UConn could win a close game, but they handled Pitt like Duke and Maine. The defense, which didn't look good in the second half against temple, was ferocious. Cody Brown was an animal and except for maybe 1 or 2 plays the tackling was good and they avoided the huge play. Ignore Bostick's 200 plus yards passing. UConn sat back in a deep zone and allowed him to throw over the middle at will. Insignificant. All of the yardage came in the 4th when UConn led 34-7.
So here are some thoughts:
Lastly. Boy do teams hate losing to UConn. It's a superiority thing. Even Duke thought it was better than UConn. Pitt certainly did. The fans were ready to jump into the Ohio river. They know nothing of the improved HUskies, they just look at the uniform and assume that the last two years are the ceiling of UConn football. As I said a couple of weeks ago, look at the games.
That's three blowouts in 4 games, two on the road. I don't know good UConn is, but I do know now they aren't terrible. Much better than last year. At the beginning of the year I didn't think they would go better than 5-7, and probably 6-6 at the most. There are tough games ahead, but I think chances are if they stay healthy they are going to pick off another one of those games that most people think they shouldn't. USF, Rutgers, Louisville at home? UVA on the road? I would think they pick off one or even two of those.
Not saying they break into the top of the Big East, but I am willing to bet the bottom of the Big East isn't as bad as some would like to say it is.
Here is the JI's web story
That's the word to best describe what happened at Heinz Field last night (it's 1:11 .m. here and at the hotel and I am still doing work).
When we took an informal press poll I think a UConn blowout was the least expected result. Actually, no one dared predict it. When I woke up this morning, and read the Pitt papers, I had a good feeling on the game. Not this though. I was as sure UConn wouldn't blow out Pitt like Randy Edsall is sure his team can make a 4th and inches.
I thought UConn could win a close game, but they handled Pitt like Duke and Maine. The defense, which didn't look good in the second half against temple, was ferocious. Cody Brown was an animal and except for maybe 1 or 2 plays the tackling was good and they avoided the huge play. Ignore Bostick's 200 plus yards passing. UConn sat back in a deep zone and allowed him to throw over the middle at will. Insignificant. All of the yardage came in the 4th when UConn led 34-7.
So here are some thoughts:
- How good is Tyler Lorenzen? Yes, it's a rhetorical question. 12-of-25 less than 200 yards might not look like much but he was superb. Stats took a hit with nothing happening in the second, but he picked Pitt apart in the second quarter. This guy is as cool as they come. Great presence. I can't believe there was even a QB competition in camp. He is so poised, and he doesn't make a mistake. He has to get rid of the ball quicker and not take sacks, but he doesn't make turnovers. He isn't a high risk player and gets (or will) get an A for game management this week. And he can zip that ball in there pretty good. If he has time to pass, he will pick a defense apart. NO QB problems hee
- I thought Cody Brown and the defensive line was outstanding. Brown was a force early and had a sack and many more hurries. Julius Williams made a play and even Rob Lunn got a sack (he made the Diamond Dallas Page symbol after I think --nice job Rob) . Le Sean McCoy (great speed!) is the real deal at running back, and they did a nice job containing him.
- What is Wannstedt doing? Beats me. Kevan Smith was awful. It was almost unwatchable him trying to throw. Good arm, no accuracy and poise. The Anti-Lorenzen. Smith isn't ready to play yet. When your more confident in the Wildcat offense, that's not a good sign. As Dan Davis said: "Once they had to go to the air we knew it was over."
] - I liked Pat Bostick. Throws a nice ball and has a very good arm. Still, it's going to be a learning curve for him. As far as the Wildcat offense, it's much ado about nothing. They got a nice package, but it is a gimmick offense. Once you get a minimal gain, or there is a breakdown, the offense goes kaput. It's a gimmick. I don't think there is enough plays to run that thing for any extended period of time and be successful. And how does McCoy only get 11 touches? I think I have seen this before (in Chicago and Miami).
- Where have you gone Ryan Henegan? Lawrence Wilson had 11 more tackles and a INT return for a TD. Why make a switch now? You can't take Wilson out, he's earned it.
- Dahna Deleston, the JI's Dahna Deleston from East Hartford of course, has another forced fumble, another sack and another tackle for a loss. Can he get some sticky stuff on his hands though? It's good thing he isn't a surgeon. He dropped what should have been his third INT of the year when it somehow went through his hands. He has played greatthis year. I know he is dying to bring one back for a TD.
Lastly. Boy do teams hate losing to UConn. It's a superiority thing. Even Duke thought it was better than UConn. Pitt certainly did. The fans were ready to jump into the Ohio river. They know nothing of the improved HUskies, they just look at the uniform and assume that the last two years are the ceiling of UConn football. As I said a couple of weeks ago, look at the games.
That's three blowouts in 4 games, two on the road. I don't know good UConn is, but I do know now they aren't terrible. Much better than last year. At the beginning of the year I didn't think they would go better than 5-7, and probably 6-6 at the most. There are tough games ahead, but I think chances are if they stay healthy they are going to pick off another one of those games that most people think they shouldn't. USF, Rutgers, Louisville at home? UVA on the road? I would think they pick off one or even two of those.
Not saying they break into the top of the Big East, but I am willing to bet the bottom of the Big East isn't as bad as some would like to say it is.
Here is the JI's web story
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Pitt Game thread
At Heinz. Beautiful stadium. Great tailgating though I am somehow the only one with a parking pass for the media not in the garage (got about a 1/2 walk to the stadium. Just one of many disasters on my trip. It seems my luck hasn't changed since locking my keys in my car on Thursday night. More later...)
Anyhow back to the game. No word yet on lineup changes.
First quarter
Update: Defense right off the bat! Cody Brown sack. Nice job by Danny Lansanah on the pick. Lou Allen rumbles in for 1-yard TD and 7-0 score.
Pitt crows cheers. Why? Michigan 14, Penn State 9.
Update 7:46 p.m.: Pat Bostick warming
First quarter recap: Defense is blowing up Pitt. Offense is steady but has missed some opportunities to go up even more. 10-0, got to like Pitt panicking.
Second Quarter
Update 8:13 p.m.: All McCoy on Pitts TD drive. Wildcat is a gimmick, but it keeps D off balance. Lansanah was destroyed on the TD run. Even better on the Huskies side. Great answer with a TD drive of their own. Get Tyler some time to throw and he will pick apart a defense.
17-7 Pups. Gotta like that.
Update: 8:28: Huskies rolling. Lorenzen picking Pitt apart 7-of-7 for 116 yards in the 2nd quarter. Lou Allen's 2nd TD, 24-7 Huskies. Maybe these guys are pretty good.
Update 8:33 p.m.: WOW! Williams sacked and forced fumble and Robert McClain recovery with 17 seconds left on Pitt 30. Tony C 39 yard field goal 27-7.
Pitt crowd boos.
Second quarter roundup: Lorenzen showing why he is so highly regarded. Pitt's in shock. 27-7 Huskies at the break. Show no sign of slowing down. Everything clicking right about now.
Third quarter roundup
Huskies playing conservatively on offense and not much doing. That's fine. Defense is stout and you don't want to make any major mistakes. Panthers can't move the ball. Why help them?
Fourth quarter
Update 9:37 p.m.: Lawrence Wilson 51-yard TD return for a touchdown. GOOD NIGHT IRENE. 34-7 Pittsburgh.
Roundup: Great game by the Huskies, it may be the best performance by the team since 2004. I am not sure Dan O and company ever had a win like this. A road win at Pittsburgh? The Big East is tougher and much better now.
This is a kind of win that makes people sit up and notice.
I am stunned.
Anyhow back to the game. No word yet on lineup changes.
First quarter
Update: Defense right off the bat! Cody Brown sack. Nice job by Danny Lansanah on the pick. Lou Allen rumbles in for 1-yard TD and 7-0 score.
Pitt crows cheers. Why? Michigan 14, Penn State 9.
Update 7:46 p.m.: Pat Bostick warming
First quarter recap: Defense is blowing up Pitt. Offense is steady but has missed some opportunities to go up even more. 10-0, got to like Pitt panicking.
Second Quarter
Update 8:13 p.m.: All McCoy on Pitts TD drive. Wildcat is a gimmick, but it keeps D off balance. Lansanah was destroyed on the TD run. Even better on the Huskies side. Great answer with a TD drive of their own. Get Tyler some time to throw and he will pick apart a defense.
17-7 Pups. Gotta like that.
Update: 8:28: Huskies rolling. Lorenzen picking Pitt apart 7-of-7 for 116 yards in the 2nd quarter. Lou Allen's 2nd TD, 24-7 Huskies. Maybe these guys are pretty good.
Update 8:33 p.m.: WOW! Williams sacked and forced fumble and Robert McClain recovery with 17 seconds left on Pitt 30. Tony C 39 yard field goal 27-7.
Pitt crowd boos.
Second quarter roundup: Lorenzen showing why he is so highly regarded. Pitt's in shock. 27-7 Huskies at the break. Show no sign of slowing down. Everything clicking right about now.
Third quarter roundup
Huskies playing conservatively on offense and not much doing. That's fine. Defense is stout and you don't want to make any major mistakes. Panthers can't move the ball. Why help them?
Fourth quarter
Update 9:37 p.m.: Lawrence Wilson 51-yard TD return for a touchdown. GOOD NIGHT IRENE. 34-7 Pittsburgh.
Roundup: Great game by the Huskies, it may be the best performance by the team since 2004. I am not sure Dan O and company ever had a win like this. A road win at Pittsburgh? The Big East is tougher and much better now.
This is a kind of win that makes people sit up and notice.
I am stunned.
Big East Saturday
Fixated on this Louisville game. They can't stop anyone. McCline INT!!!!! About to be 35-14 (31-14).
USF pounding Carolina and the Mountaineers rolling.
Got a good feeling about tonight for the Huskies. Didn't have that leading up to the game all week.
Don't miss I and Shawn Courchesne from the Courant on the pregame show on WTIC.
USF pounding Carolina and the Mountaineers rolling.
Got a good feeling about tonight for the Huskies. Didn't have that leading up to the game all week.
Don't miss I and Shawn Courchesne from the Courant on the pregame show on WTIC.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Keys to Pitt game
Here are Key's to tonight's game.
Remember, live blogging if your at home on Direct TV! I have no idea if anyone is even reading, but it's always fun to see how you feel about things in real time before the result clouds your view.
Anyhow, here is the preview of tonights game in the JI
Without further ado:
Keys to the gameRemember, live blogging if your at home on Direct TV! I have no idea if anyone is even reading, but it's always fun to see how you feel about things in real time before the result clouds your view.
Anyhow, here is the preview of tonights game in the JI
Without further ado:
1. Protect Tyler Lorenzen
The Huskies allowed six sacks against Temple last week and that is a recipe for disaster against an aggressive Pittsburgh defense. The Huskies, especially right tackle Mike Hicks on the blind side, must keep the pressure off Lorenzen. Lorenzen has to recognize the pressure and make appropriate adjustments and reads.
2. Get McCoy down
UConn suffered with some shoddy tackling against Temple and if LeSean McCoy is allowed to break tackles he is in for a big day. When the defense gets a clean shot at McCoy they have to put him down.
3. Touchdowns, not field goals
The Huskies have settled too much for field goals, especially in the first half. If UConn is going to pull of the upset and become players in the Big East they have to finish drives off. The Huskies need 7, not 3 if they are going to be 4-0.
Friday in Pittsburgh
Warm and sunny here in Pittsburgh. Sitting downtown. About to head out for lunch before I do some work.
In Friday's JI we got Andre Dixon's thoughts on his first game action.
Flight was nice and easy. Shawn Courchsene of the Courant did mention how the planes seems to get smaller and smaller. I think my SUV is bigger than the plane we went on. Other celeb sightings:
New papa Chip Malafronte and Neil Ostrout on the same flight down. Also saw the Post's Rich Elliott but he didn't say hi. Probably down for the Steelers game.
Traveling stinks. I hate flying, lost my blue tooth headset, didn't eat, and of course the price went up to 16.50 per day to park the rental car that I don't need in the garage. Should have just taken a shuttle and a cab. It's down town.
Anyhow, be quiet tonight, headed to some nice place in Pittsburgh to eat and drink with some Horde members.
Update: Ok, I am in Pittsburgh, Pa, last time I checked. Is it too much to expect the Cubs-Pirates game on in my hotel room? If you are a major league sports franchise can you please get your teams game on the TV in local hotels? No Fox Pittsburgh in the Mariott. Brilliant.
In Friday's JI we got Andre Dixon's thoughts on his first game action.
Flight was nice and easy. Shawn Courchsene of the Courant did mention how the planes seems to get smaller and smaller. I think my SUV is bigger than the plane we went on. Other celeb sightings:
New papa Chip Malafronte and Neil Ostrout on the same flight down. Also saw the Post's Rich Elliott but he didn't say hi. Probably down for the Steelers game.
Traveling stinks. I hate flying, lost my blue tooth headset, didn't eat, and of course the price went up to 16.50 per day to park the rental car that I don't need in the garage. Should have just taken a shuttle and a cab. It's down town.
Anyhow, be quiet tonight, headed to some nice place in Pittsburgh to eat and drink with some Horde members.
Update: Ok, I am in Pittsburgh, Pa, last time I checked. Is it too much to expect the Cubs-Pirates game on in my hotel room? If you are a major league sports franchise can you please get your teams game on the TV in local hotels? No Fox Pittsburgh in the Mariott. Brilliant.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Thursday update
Not much here. I had a bad connection and couldn't really hear or ask a question, though it does appear that Ryan Henegan is working out with the second team.
His role will be determined later, probably game time, which in coach speak means they know what role he has and what he can do but they won't let us know because the Pittsburgh coaches will read it and ruin the game plan.
Randy Edsall has been intentionally vague on injuries all year and is even tighter this week.
What's wrong with Lawrence Green, Dan Ryan, Ryan Henegan and Lindsay Witten again? How long are they out?
Who knows.
His role will be determined later, probably game time, which in coach speak means they know what role he has and what he can do but they won't let us know because the Pittsburgh coaches will read it and ruin the game plan.
Randy Edsall has been intentionally vague on injuries all year and is even tighter this week.
What's wrong with Lawrence Green, Dan Ryan, Ryan Henegan and Lindsay Witten again? How long are they out?
Who knows.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Schadenfreude
The scene: 11:41 p.m., JI parking lot in Manchester. Just finished wrapping up on the high school desk.
Karma is a funny thing. If you haven't found out by now I am a big yankee fan. I watched almost evrey game and let me tell you I was having a great night on Wednesday. One of the great joys in my life is watching the Red Sox lose.
As a Yankee fan it isn't enough to just win, that gets old. The true fun comes in reveling in the misery of your hated opponent. And boy, did the last two days did I revel. This is how it goes:
The Yankee staff here has the game on when we work. Now if the yankees are winning and the Sox losing, we immediately throw it on to NESN to watch the Sox lose. It is more thrilling watching a train wreck. I thought I was above this, but I must say I am as haughty as they come.
I danced and jumped with glee as Jonathan Papelbon gave up that home run. Pretty haughty. I pumped my fist like Joba Chamberlain and was tempted to take out the cleaing crew with a shelly duncan forearm smash. I went on the Sons of Sam horn message board to see the misery, and enjoyed it like never before. I was tempted to wake up all my red sox fans and see how they were doing.
In short, knowing the red sox fans are sick, angry, and annoyed makes me feel good inside. It's the very worst human attribute. Schadenfreude. Enjoying the misery of others (loose German translation). And I love it.
How bad are we? When the Sox lose, especially crushing losses, we put the TV on to WB Mason extra innings and watch the postgame. I repeat, I watch Red Sox WB Mason extra innings only when they lose. It's bonus when Eck does the show.
I am haughty Yankee fan at his best. When you win all the time, as the Yankees do, true thrills come in watching train wrecks. Yes, the misery of others gives me great joy.
So, as I cleaned up the final touches on the night and danced to my car, I didn't have a care in the world. Yankees 1.5 out. Red Sox fans in panic, crying in there Sam Adams beer as if there dog died. The world couldn't be better.
Then life hits you. I reach in my pocket and look for my car keys ....they are not there. Oh No!
I got that little kick in the gut and remember 5 hours earlier. I never took them out of the car.
I go to my car, I can see them sitting on the passenger seat. It's 11:41 p.m. and I am locked out of my car. No way home, no one to come and get me. I am all alone, no way home, no way out.
Karma is a -----.
I deserve it.
Karma is a funny thing. If you haven't found out by now I am a big yankee fan. I watched almost evrey game and let me tell you I was having a great night on Wednesday. One of the great joys in my life is watching the Red Sox lose.
As a Yankee fan it isn't enough to just win, that gets old. The true fun comes in reveling in the misery of your hated opponent. And boy, did the last two days did I revel. This is how it goes:
The Yankee staff here has the game on when we work. Now if the yankees are winning and the Sox losing, we immediately throw it on to NESN to watch the Sox lose. It is more thrilling watching a train wreck. I thought I was above this, but I must say I am as haughty as they come.
I danced and jumped with glee as Jonathan Papelbon gave up that home run. Pretty haughty. I pumped my fist like Joba Chamberlain and was tempted to take out the cleaing crew with a shelly duncan forearm smash. I went on the Sons of Sam horn message board to see the misery, and enjoyed it like never before. I was tempted to wake up all my red sox fans and see how they were doing.
In short, knowing the red sox fans are sick, angry, and annoyed makes me feel good inside. It's the very worst human attribute. Schadenfreude. Enjoying the misery of others (loose German translation). And I love it.
How bad are we? When the Sox lose, especially crushing losses, we put the TV on to WB Mason extra innings and watch the postgame. I repeat, I watch Red Sox WB Mason extra innings only when they lose. It's bonus when Eck does the show.
I am haughty Yankee fan at his best. When you win all the time, as the Yankees do, true thrills come in watching train wrecks. Yes, the misery of others gives me great joy.
So, as I cleaned up the final touches on the night and danced to my car, I didn't have a care in the world. Yankees 1.5 out. Red Sox fans in panic, crying in there Sam Adams beer as if there dog died. The world couldn't be better.
Then life hits you. I reach in my pocket and look for my car keys ....they are not there. Oh No!
I got that little kick in the gut and remember 5 hours earlier. I never took them out of the car.
I go to my car, I can see them sitting on the passenger seat. It's 11:41 p.m. and I am locked out of my car. No way home, no one to come and get me. I am all alone, no way home, no way out.
Karma is a -----.
I deserve it.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Tuesday presser pre Pittsburgh
Wow. Not much breaking news here.
Injuries are --- TBD later in the week. Looks like Mike Hicks is going to stay at right tackle. Ryan is still day-today. Green is out until he appears one random Saturday on the field.
On Ryan Henegan, practiced Sunday and will be in full pads for the first time today.
Team is a bit embarrassed by Saturday's win. Dan Davis talked about the team having to bounce back. Bounce back from a win? That's what you want. Davis was pretty fiery in the locker room Saturday by all accounts.
Donald Brown was in good spirits. He knows what he has to work on. Andre Dixon is just happy to be back playing. He said he watched (or tried to) the Duke game on internet. He didn't want to get into what got him suspended, but he is happy to be back and playing. It's an opportunity he has waited for a long time.
Brown talked about how they complement each other well.
One last note on Temple play. Dahna Deleston said he had a great view of the play, about 10 yards away. He was in front of the play, not behind.
Dahna saw the play and went back and asked an important question: "How many feet do you have to get down in college?"
Deleston smiled when telling the story on Monday afternoon.
I am just sayin'.
Injuries are --- TBD later in the week. Looks like Mike Hicks is going to stay at right tackle. Ryan is still day-today. Green is out until he appears one random Saturday on the field.
On Ryan Henegan, practiced Sunday and will be in full pads for the first time today.
Team is a bit embarrassed by Saturday's win. Dan Davis talked about the team having to bounce back. Bounce back from a win? That's what you want. Davis was pretty fiery in the locker room Saturday by all accounts.
Donald Brown was in good spirits. He knows what he has to work on. Andre Dixon is just happy to be back playing. He said he watched (or tried to) the Duke game on internet. He didn't want to get into what got him suspended, but he is happy to be back and playing. It's an opportunity he has waited for a long time.
Brown talked about how they complement each other well.
One last note on Temple play. Dahna Deleston said he had a great view of the play, about 10 yards away. He was in front of the play, not behind.
Dahna saw the play and went back and asked an important question: "How many feet do you have to get down in college?"
Deleston smiled when telling the story on Monday afternoon.
I am just sayin'.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Top 5 fan interferences of all-time
In an ode to UConn's yellow coat man,
Here are the most infamous games of interference (intentional or not) that helped affect the outcome of a game by someone who wasn't actually playing. Certainly not the best list, if you got one I am missing, and can back it up by either video or newspaper article, I may move it on my list.
BTW, click on the links. Got all on youtube except Jeff Maier.
1. Disco Demolition night
Most successful sports promotion ever! White Sox invite fans to come to the double header with Tigers and watch as disco records are destroyed in between the game. With the stench of marijuana filling the stadium, the promotion works too well. A riot breaks out and the White Sox lose by forfeit in game 2. Changed marketing departments forever. I hear they are going to make a movie out of it. Gotta be better than The Notebook.
2. Angel in the outfield
12 year old Jeffery Maier begins a streak of Yankee luck in 1996 that doesn't end until November of 2001 on a cold night in the desert by grabbing a fly ball by in game 2 of the ALCS by Derek Jeter and turning it into a home run. depending on team allegiance, it was either a gift from the gods, or the worst call in the history of baseball. Tony Tarasco never recovered. Maier goes on to star at Wesleyan College and played a week with the Manchester Silkworms. Jeff, don't call me Jeffery, is trying to break into baseball management. No word if he interviewed with the Orioles.
Check out his wikipedia entry. Yes, he has a wikipedia entry.
3. Steve Bartman catches ball
The Cubs are primed for their first world series in 58 years, and could win the series for the first time since 1908. Crazy cub fan Steve Bartman goes out of his way to try and get a $5 baseball and a sure out from the Cubs Moises Alou is left foul. Mark P{rior was pitching a 3 hit shutout in Game 6 and the Cubs led 3-0 and had a date with the World series on their mind. That play shook the cubs. Luis Castillo ends up walking, and the Marlins go on to score 8 runs and then win game 7.
Bartman had to be escorted out of the stadium and then had to move to Miami. The Cubs have yet to reach a world series and Bartman's seat aisles 4, row 8 seat 113 is now a shrine for losers. The curse of the Billy Goat is alive and well. Read more of Steve on his wikipedia page. Doesn't everyone have one?
4. Fan man crashes Bowe-Holyfield II
What would this list be without boxing? Riddick Bowe is defending his world title in a rematch against Evander Holyfield. Two minutes to go in round 7, Jason Jarrett Miller, an avid outdoorsmsman, parachutes into the ring outside Ceasers' Palace and starts a melee that would stop the fight for 29 minutes. Holyfield, who was on the ropes, recovered to win by decision to regain a portion of the world title.
Watch the clip, 1:30 minutes in gets to the juicy parts.
Fan man committed suicide in the early 2000s in Alaska. He also has a wikipedia page.
I watched this live as a big boxing guy. Incredible theater. Honorable mention to Bowe-Golata riot at the Garden, and Tyson eating Holyfield's ear. Saw those all live too.
5. The band is on the field
And Temple thinks it had a tough loss? Cal-Stanford, enough said. Elway goes out a loser in college. The band is on the field.
Anyone got any more?
Here are the most infamous games of interference (intentional or not) that helped affect the outcome of a game by someone who wasn't actually playing. Certainly not the best list, if you got one I am missing, and can back it up by either video or newspaper article, I may move it on my list.
BTW, click on the links. Got all on youtube except Jeff Maier.
1. Disco Demolition night
Most successful sports promotion ever! White Sox invite fans to come to the double header with Tigers and watch as disco records are destroyed in between the game. With the stench of marijuana filling the stadium, the promotion works too well. A riot breaks out and the White Sox lose by forfeit in game 2. Changed marketing departments forever. I hear they are going to make a movie out of it. Gotta be better than The Notebook.
2. Angel in the outfield
12 year old Jeffery Maier begins a streak of Yankee luck in 1996 that doesn't end until November of 2001 on a cold night in the desert by grabbing a fly ball by in game 2 of the ALCS by Derek Jeter and turning it into a home run. depending on team allegiance, it was either a gift from the gods, or the worst call in the history of baseball. Tony Tarasco never recovered. Maier goes on to star at Wesleyan College and played a week with the Manchester Silkworms. Jeff, don't call me Jeffery, is trying to break into baseball management. No word if he interviewed with the Orioles.
Check out his wikipedia entry. Yes, he has a wikipedia entry.
3. Steve Bartman catches ball
The Cubs are primed for their first world series in 58 years, and could win the series for the first time since 1908. Crazy cub fan Steve Bartman goes out of his way to try and get a $5 baseball and a sure out from the Cubs Moises Alou is left foul. Mark P{rior was pitching a 3 hit shutout in Game 6 and the Cubs led 3-0 and had a date with the World series on their mind. That play shook the cubs. Luis Castillo ends up walking, and the Marlins go on to score 8 runs and then win game 7.
Bartman had to be escorted out of the stadium and then had to move to Miami. The Cubs have yet to reach a world series and Bartman's seat aisles 4, row 8 seat 113 is now a shrine for losers. The curse of the Billy Goat is alive and well. Read more of Steve on his wikipedia page. Doesn't everyone have one?
4. Fan man crashes Bowe-Holyfield II
What would this list be without boxing? Riddick Bowe is defending his world title in a rematch against Evander Holyfield. Two minutes to go in round 7, Jason Jarrett Miller, an avid outdoorsmsman, parachutes into the ring outside Ceasers' Palace and starts a melee that would stop the fight for 29 minutes. Holyfield, who was on the ropes, recovered to win by decision to regain a portion of the world title.
Watch the clip, 1:30 minutes in gets to the juicy parts.
Fan man committed suicide in the early 2000s in Alaska. He also has a wikipedia page.
I watched this live as a big boxing guy. Incredible theater. Honorable mention to Bowe-Golata riot at the Garden, and Tyson eating Holyfield's ear. Saw those all live too.
5. The band is on the field
And Temple thinks it had a tough loss? Cal-Stanford, enough said. Elway goes out a loser in college. The band is on the field.
Anyone got any more?
I wish I was a Patriots fan
Wow, if it wasn't for a Yankees victory today I would be crushed.
It's a bad sign when I couldn't wait to get on the post Temple UConn football conference call.
I wish I was a Patriots fan. How good is Scott Pioli? He got Randy Moss, Donte Stallworth and Adaleius Thomas and kept Ashante Samuel.
The Giants? Kawika Mitchell and move the defensive end to outside linebacker. Hint: He can't play the position.
Is it that hard to find a long snapper? How about a full back? Linebackers are tough to find too.
I'm more upset at the loss than anyone on the Giants sideline, that's for sure. Did everyone see them? Season's over. Pack up and go home. They don't care, why should I?
Nice job guys. Celtics basketball can't get here soon enough.
It's a bad sign when I couldn't wait to get on the post Temple UConn football conference call.
I wish I was a Patriots fan. How good is Scott Pioli? He got Randy Moss, Donte Stallworth and Adaleius Thomas and kept Ashante Samuel.
The Giants? Kawika Mitchell and move the defensive end to outside linebacker. Hint: He can't play the position.
Is it that hard to find a long snapper? How about a full back? Linebackers are tough to find too.
I'm more upset at the loss than anyone on the Giants sideline, that's for sure. Did everyone see them? Season's over. Pack up and go home. They don't care, why should I?
Nice job guys. Celtics basketball can't get here soon enough.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Sunday update
Randy Edsall saw the play and said he agreed with ruling on the field and in the booth (that it couldn't be overturned because of lack of indisputable visual evidence).
That's that. I don't think he feels sorry for winning.
Injury wise the Huskies came out ok. Lindsay Witten and Dan Ryan were both banged up for most of the week, though Witten saw time late.
As far as the performance, Randy Edsall felt that the Huskies were playing real well and at 10-0 shut it down. He chalked it up to being young and inexperienced.
Donald Brown is going to stay the starter (at least publicly) and Edsall loved his touchdown run where he broke tackles and made some people miss. Best run of the year (I think it was the first TD run). What is a concern, and was readily obvious, is that Brown's pass blocking has to improve. He didn't do a good job on a couple of blocks and Tyler Lorenzen was sacked a couple of times. The running back is on an island and it is a mismatch, but he has to somehow slow the pass rusher.
Andre Dixon is going to get carries. If he wasn't suspended, he would have gotten carries. Dixon is a good back and with Brown is a nice contrast. He showed Saturday exactly what he showed this spring and in the summer before his suspension.
Not good on the defensive side, some breakdowns. O-Line didn't pass block well, though run blocking was better. Probably will see the same line this week.
That's that. I don't think he feels sorry for winning.
Injury wise the Huskies came out ok. Lindsay Witten and Dan Ryan were both banged up for most of the week, though Witten saw time late.
As far as the performance, Randy Edsall felt that the Huskies were playing real well and at 10-0 shut it down. He chalked it up to being young and inexperienced.
Donald Brown is going to stay the starter (at least publicly) and Edsall loved his touchdown run where he broke tackles and made some people miss. Best run of the year (I think it was the first TD run). What is a concern, and was readily obvious, is that Brown's pass blocking has to improve. He didn't do a good job on a couple of blocks and Tyler Lorenzen was sacked a couple of times. The running back is on an island and it is a mismatch, but he has to somehow slow the pass rusher.
Andre Dixon is going to get carries. If he wasn't suspended, he would have gotten carries. Dixon is a good back and with Brown is a nice contrast. He showed Saturday exactly what he showed this spring and in the summer before his suspension.
Not good on the defensive side, some breakdowns. O-Line didn't pass block well, though run blocking was better. Probably will see the same line this week.
- Game balls: Tony C on special teams (no surprise), Andre Dixon offense (no surprise), Dahna Deleston defense (No word on if yellow coat man got a strong look). Deleston was the leading tackler and forced a fumble. "When your starting safety is the leading tackler, you know you have problems in the running game,"” Edsall said on Deleston's play.
- Huskies are 3-0, no apologies:"Bottom line, we accomplished everything we wanted to accomplish," Edsall said. "We played three games and won three games."
Saturday, September 15, 2007
TEMPLE UCONN HIGHLIGHT TO END GAME
Here is the controversial play. Gotta love youtube.
Anyhow, the large gentlemen in the yellow coat appears to block out the view.Back judge had the best view of anyone in the building.
The back view looks like he go the foot down, but how do we know if a toe was or wasn't on the line? He looks like he didn't have possession in the yellow coat man view. The only one with an unobstructed view is the back judge.
I don't see how the ref can overturn the call. How do you know a toe wasn't on the line?
Awful break for Temple. Tough to lose a game and not know. 75 percent chance he was in, but you can't overturn it on that. Where is Bill Belichik and his spy goons taking film when you need him?
Temple thoughts
Game story is up on the JI website, which is a bit unusual because until we started writing for the web (and it's only me for now) you don't hear a word from us until Monday night. But, technology is a great thing (work harder for less, same old story).
Anyhow, I am not sure what to think. UConn is 3-0, but after a game like it had against Temple I have many more questions than I had three weeks ago.
1. Can the offensive line consistently run block/pass block? It's too inconsistent and nearly cost the team the game not getting a pair of fourth down plays.
2. Where does Andre Dixon fit it? Looked good out there, and if you saw him in the spring and summer it's not a surprise. Brown was requested, but I didn't see him in the interview room. I'll give him a pass. Brown just looks frustrated out there. He needs to relax, he has talent. Randy Edsall said that Donald is still his starter, but he has to pay the hot hand.
3. Defensive line? The tackles got destroyed, especially the backups Polito and Dillon. Way too easy up the middle.
Now, after three games, I have no idea if they are any good. A performance like this against Temple really shakes the foundation.
I think Lorenzen is the goods, and I like the backs despite Brown's funk, and the receivers are productive. But the O-Line worries me, a lot. Especially that right side.
We will all find out soon enough.
If UConn can knock off Pitt, this game disappears.
It doesn't feel like 3-0.
Anyhow, I am not sure what to think. UConn is 3-0, but after a game like it had against Temple I have many more questions than I had three weeks ago.
1. Can the offensive line consistently run block/pass block? It's too inconsistent and nearly cost the team the game not getting a pair of fourth down plays.
2. Where does Andre Dixon fit it? Looked good out there, and if you saw him in the spring and summer it's not a surprise. Brown was requested, but I didn't see him in the interview room. I'll give him a pass. Brown just looks frustrated out there. He needs to relax, he has talent. Randy Edsall said that Donald is still his starter, but he has to pay the hot hand.
3. Defensive line? The tackles got destroyed, especially the backups Polito and Dillon. Way too easy up the middle.
Now, after three games, I have no idea if they are any good. A performance like this against Temple really shakes the foundation.
I think Lorenzen is the goods, and I like the backs despite Brown's funk, and the receivers are productive. But the O-Line worries me, a lot. Especially that right side.
We will all find out soon enough.
If UConn can knock off Pitt, this game disappears.
It doesn't feel like 3-0.
Final play
I think he was in.
Al Golden, Temple coach was devastated. Parents of players were calling teammates saying it was in. Golden is crushed.
UConn's defensive backs thought it could either way. Edsall isn't sure. Lucky, he said. He will take it.
More later on the play.
Tom McCabe, the referee from the MAC, had no comment on the play or an explanation. Back judge made the call. The no comment was told to Neil Ostrout and Chip Malafronte, representing the entire UConn media. UConn officials are going to try and get an explanation from the Big East.
If that was ruled a TD on the field, I am not sure it would have been overturned in complete.
Relief in the locker room for the Huskies. Dan Davis said he can't enjoy the win "We got lucky."
Be back later...
Update from Big East: MAC crew worked the game. In the booth was a Big East official, Jack Kramer.
Anyhow, from Associate Commissioner Nick Caprarelli on the call speaking for Kramer:
Al Golden, Temple coach was devastated. Parents of players were calling teammates saying it was in. Golden is crushed.
UConn's defensive backs thought it could either way. Edsall isn't sure. Lucky, he said. He will take it.
More later on the play.
Tom McCabe, the referee from the MAC, had no comment on the play or an explanation. Back judge made the call. The no comment was told to Neil Ostrout and Chip Malafronte, representing the entire UConn media. UConn officials are going to try and get an explanation from the Big East.
If that was ruled a TD on the field, I am not sure it would have been overturned in complete.
Relief in the locker room for the Huskies. Dan Davis said he can't enjoy the win "We got lucky."
Be back later...
Update from Big East: MAC crew worked the game. In the booth was a Big East official, Jack Kramer.
Anyhow, from Associate Commissioner Nick Caprarelli on the call speaking for Kramer:
“He did not feel there was enough video evidence to over turn the call on the field. Replay officials around the country are told, they are charged, to overturn obvious mistakes. Their charge is to not to make officiating decisions. They (only) overturn obvious mistakes.”
If they got the ESPN feed for replays, there was yellow coated security guy who blocked the view. Home field advantage I guess.Key's to the Temple game
Don't forget, live blogging!
Field looks good.
Set a fast tempo
In blowout wins over Duke and Maine, it has taken the entire first half for the Huskies offense to get going. Quarterback Tyler Lorenzen looked comfortable running the no huddle offense and UConn should use it some on Saturday to quicken the tempo and get comfortable. UConn is looking for a much quicker start to the offense this week.
Let Brown carry the load
The Owls have allowed nearly 300 yards a game rushing. It’s about time for a big game from Donald Brown who has been productive, in two games so far this season with 186 yards early. Brown could use a breakout game, and this is his best bet.
Early knockout punch
Temple lost its MAC home opener to Buffalo 42-7. It was a crushing loss emotionally to the Owls, who have a confidence problem coming in. A quick and fast start by the Huskies early and the young Owls will fold. The Huskies defense has scored in each of the first two weeks another devastating score early by the defense will cripple Temple. Get the Owls out of there early. You don’t want confidence to build.
Update 11:46 a.m.: Hicks in at Right tackle. Alex LaMagdelaine at guard. Dan Ryan out. NO word if it is performance or injury.
Update 12:04 p.m.: Stadium about half full. Where is everyone?
Update 12:18: Brown 8 yard TD run. He is in for a big game. I am not sure Temple scores today.
Update 12:33 p.m.: Tony C with the 47 yarder! Good kick. Career high before this was 30 yards.
First quarter: Offense looks like it isn't going to have a problem. Run defense is a bit shaky. But, D has made big plays. A sack, fumble recovery and at the end of a quarter a -5 on a rush. One more TD will put Temple away.
Update 1:14 p.m.: UConn has an offensive line problem. Hicks at right tackle is getting beat by speed, Donald Brown not picking up blitz block. Lorenzen isn't getting time. Side note: 3rd and 20 and you are going to give away the possession, run the ball and get 5 yards. Let the clock move.
Update 1:22 p.m.: Hold on kiddies we got a ball game. McClain lost contain on the broken play, and Robert Vaughn didn't get over. Holding on the right tackle, but still, can't give that up on a broken play.
Second quarter: See what happens when you let teams hang around? Temple made one play the entire half on offense, a broken play, and now it's a game. O-Line isn't living up to its reputation. Erratic run blocking, and Lorenzen doesn't get time passing. Eventually, you are going to give up points defensively, but the play of the offensive line (specifically the right side) is worrisome.
Huskies have an O-Line problem. 5 sacks of Lorenzen, 4 in second quarter. Not good.
Update 1:53 p.m: Dixon stating second half at RB? No word if Brown is hurt.
Update 1:56: Harper TD run. Pups in trouble now.
Tony C 50 yarder. Temple close? What is going on here? 1-14 UConn.
Update 2:44 p.m.: 4th down at the 32 and they go for it on 4th and inches? Terrible decision. Just gave Temple hope. Up 5 points, you want to play field position there.
Edit: Defense just bailed Randy Edsall out.
Udpate 3:04 p.m: Offensive line can't pick up 1 yard? Have to go it for it on 4th down at the 28. 30 MPH head win. If you can't get one yard against temple (twice), line isn't doing its job.
Field looks good.
Set a fast tempo
In blowout wins over Duke and Maine, it has taken the entire first half for the Huskies offense to get going. Quarterback Tyler Lorenzen looked comfortable running the no huddle offense and UConn should use it some on Saturday to quicken the tempo and get comfortable. UConn is looking for a much quicker start to the offense this week.
Let Brown carry the load
The Owls have allowed nearly 300 yards a game rushing. It’s about time for a big game from Donald Brown who has been productive, in two games so far this season with 186 yards early. Brown could use a breakout game, and this is his best bet.
Early knockout punch
Temple lost its MAC home opener to Buffalo 42-7. It was a crushing loss emotionally to the Owls, who have a confidence problem coming in. A quick and fast start by the Huskies early and the young Owls will fold. The Huskies defense has scored in each of the first two weeks another devastating score early by the defense will cripple Temple. Get the Owls out of there early. You don’t want confidence to build.
Update 11:46 a.m.: Hicks in at Right tackle. Alex LaMagdelaine at guard. Dan Ryan out. NO word if it is performance or injury.
Update 12:04 p.m.: Stadium about half full. Where is everyone?
Update 12:18: Brown 8 yard TD run. He is in for a big game. I am not sure Temple scores today.
Update 12:33 p.m.: Tony C with the 47 yarder! Good kick. Career high before this was 30 yards.
First quarter: Offense looks like it isn't going to have a problem. Run defense is a bit shaky. But, D has made big plays. A sack, fumble recovery and at the end of a quarter a -5 on a rush. One more TD will put Temple away.
Update 1:14 p.m.: UConn has an offensive line problem. Hicks at right tackle is getting beat by speed, Donald Brown not picking up blitz block. Lorenzen isn't getting time. Side note: 3rd and 20 and you are going to give away the possession, run the ball and get 5 yards. Let the clock move.
Update 1:22 p.m.: Hold on kiddies we got a ball game. McClain lost contain on the broken play, and Robert Vaughn didn't get over. Holding on the right tackle, but still, can't give that up on a broken play.
Second quarter: See what happens when you let teams hang around? Temple made one play the entire half on offense, a broken play, and now it's a game. O-Line isn't living up to its reputation. Erratic run blocking, and Lorenzen doesn't get time passing. Eventually, you are going to give up points defensively, but the play of the offensive line (specifically the right side) is worrisome.
Huskies have an O-Line problem. 5 sacks of Lorenzen, 4 in second quarter. Not good.
Update 1:53 p.m: Dixon stating second half at RB? No word if Brown is hurt.
Update 1:56: Harper TD run. Pups in trouble now.
Tony C 50 yarder. Temple close? What is going on here? 1-14 UConn.
Update 2:44 p.m.: 4th down at the 32 and they go for it on 4th and inches? Terrible decision. Just gave Temple hope. Up 5 points, you want to play field position there.
Edit: Defense just bailed Randy Edsall out.
Udpate 3:04 p.m: Offensive line can't pick up 1 yard? Have to go it for it on 4th down at the 28. 30 MPH head win. If you can't get one yard against temple (twice), line isn't doing its job.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Friday's JI
Quick update and a story about Donald Brown putting a little too much pressure on himself. Also includes Thursday's teleconference updates.
I also got a chance to talk to Windsor's Terrance Knighton. I did a lot of coverage on Windsor when he was there and it's nice to see him doing well. Boy, those Windsor teams a couple of years ago were pretty good. Look at the linemen -- Damik Scafe (Boston College), Knighton (Temple), Chris Baker (Penn St). They also had Nollis Dewar and several I-AA type players all over the field.
Came close on a couple of state championship teams, but just couldn't get it done. The basketball team Knighton was on was even better. After Trinity, best team in the state his senior year (Dave McClure's senior year). Those Windsor kids are still smarting over Wilbur Cross shooting 85 percent from 3 in the first half of its second round game in Division I. It was one of the more ridiculous shooting exhibitions I have ever witnessed.
Keys to game later tonight.
I also got a chance to talk to Windsor's Terrance Knighton. I did a lot of coverage on Windsor when he was there and it's nice to see him doing well. Boy, those Windsor teams a couple of years ago were pretty good. Look at the linemen -- Damik Scafe (Boston College), Knighton (Temple), Chris Baker (Penn St). They also had Nollis Dewar and several I-AA type players all over the field.
Came close on a couple of state championship teams, but just couldn't get it done. The basketball team Knighton was on was even better. After Trinity, best team in the state his senior year (Dave McClure's senior year). Those Windsor kids are still smarting over Wilbur Cross shooting 85 percent from 3 in the first half of its second round game in Division I. It was one of the more ridiculous shooting exhibitions I have ever witnessed.
Keys to game later tonight.
What's the deal with the experts?
What's the deal with College Football News? How about the other "experts crowd?"
I think CFN has picked against UConn against Duke and Maine. Now, UConn is one of the worst 2-0 teams out there? That may be so, but can the people making these predictions actually watch the games? No way any of these guys commenting have seen UConn play this year. I doubt they saw any more than the first half against WVU last year. It's just not credible.
UConn was going to lose to Duke, remember, a lot of "experts" picked it, then UConn blows them out of the water and suddenly it isn't a good win for UConn because "it's Duke. "
Hold on for a minute. You can't have it both ways.
When you pick Maine to upset UConn, and Uconn goes on to destroy Maine (non-competitive game), you can't then come back and say, "Well, its Maine."
It also bothers me when I hear the criticism of the schedule. Yes, I think the OOC games are terrible. But the criticism is duplicitous.
Is UConn's first three games soft? Without a doubt. It's Rutgersesque.
But, there are those who think UConn is one of the worst BCS teams out there this year. I read it in a dozen preview magazines. If UConn is as bad as everyone predicted, then they are playing the schedule they should be playing.
Right?
Temple, Duke etc. are supposed to be UConn's peers, right? So why shouldn't they play them and get credit for beating them?
There is a breakdown in logic here. There is such a rush to bury UConn because everyone predicted they would be terrible that the wins and on the field results are dismissed. Results are just ignored.
It's "just Duke, Just Maine, Just Temple"?
This is only my second year of covering college football, but I am stunned at the industry that has developed surrounding these games. It's such a hype machine. People make predictions and forecastings and the team is viewed through that prism until conventional wisdom hits them over the head (USF beating Auburn). Every league, every coach, every analyst has an agenda and bias.
I got a sporting news clip given to me by a colleague that said that "UConn might not be able to recruit the athletes in the Northeast it needs to be successful as a program. Those athletes would rather look at Rutgers, Syracuse and Boston College."
Say what? Does that make any sense at all? Think about it. Is there something preventing UConn from competitively recruiting these guys?
Two years ago, UConn was the rising tiger and Rutgers was never going to be able to recruit New Jersey. Considering the caliber of the last two UConn classes, the TSN statement is a joke.
Whatever happened to independent observation? I know there are a lot of games, but instead of saying UConn is terrible, say the truth, we'll find out how good UConn is Sept. 29 in Pittsburgh.
For the record, I think UConn is far better than last year. They have a quarterback and much more depth on the lines and are bigger and stronger and older. It's night and day.
How much have they improved? I don't know. Pittsburgh is the first big test. If they fail it, fine. Then bury them.
But, I can hear the excuses already coming. Pittsburgh's hurt, Virginia isn't good. Louisvlle really doesn't have a defense. South Florida can't play in cold weather. Rutgers is overrated because of an easy schedule.
It goes on and on. Just watch the darn games.
I think CFN has picked against UConn against Duke and Maine. Now, UConn is one of the worst 2-0 teams out there? That may be so, but can the people making these predictions actually watch the games? No way any of these guys commenting have seen UConn play this year. I doubt they saw any more than the first half against WVU last year. It's just not credible.
UConn was going to lose to Duke, remember, a lot of "experts" picked it, then UConn blows them out of the water and suddenly it isn't a good win for UConn because "it's Duke. "
Hold on for a minute. You can't have it both ways.
When you pick Maine to upset UConn, and Uconn goes on to destroy Maine (non-competitive game), you can't then come back and say, "Well, its Maine."
It also bothers me when I hear the criticism of the schedule. Yes, I think the OOC games are terrible. But the criticism is duplicitous.
Is UConn's first three games soft? Without a doubt. It's Rutgersesque.
But, there are those who think UConn is one of the worst BCS teams out there this year. I read it in a dozen preview magazines. If UConn is as bad as everyone predicted, then they are playing the schedule they should be playing.
Right?
Temple, Duke etc. are supposed to be UConn's peers, right? So why shouldn't they play them and get credit for beating them?
There is a breakdown in logic here. There is such a rush to bury UConn because everyone predicted they would be terrible that the wins and on the field results are dismissed. Results are just ignored.
It's "just Duke, Just Maine, Just Temple"?
This is only my second year of covering college football, but I am stunned at the industry that has developed surrounding these games. It's such a hype machine. People make predictions and forecastings and the team is viewed through that prism until conventional wisdom hits them over the head (USF beating Auburn). Every league, every coach, every analyst has an agenda and bias.
I got a sporting news clip given to me by a colleague that said that "UConn might not be able to recruit the athletes in the Northeast it needs to be successful as a program. Those athletes would rather look at Rutgers, Syracuse and Boston College."
Say what? Does that make any sense at all? Think about it. Is there something preventing UConn from competitively recruiting these guys?
Two years ago, UConn was the rising tiger and Rutgers was never going to be able to recruit New Jersey. Considering the caliber of the last two UConn classes, the TSN statement is a joke.
Whatever happened to independent observation? I know there are a lot of games, but instead of saying UConn is terrible, say the truth, we'll find out how good UConn is Sept. 29 in Pittsburgh.
For the record, I think UConn is far better than last year. They have a quarterback and much more depth on the lines and are bigger and stronger and older. It's night and day.
How much have they improved? I don't know. Pittsburgh is the first big test. If they fail it, fine. Then bury them.
But, I can hear the excuses already coming. Pittsburgh's hurt, Virginia isn't good. Louisvlle really doesn't have a defense. South Florida can't play in cold weather. Rutgers is overrated because of an easy schedule.
It goes on and on. Just watch the darn games.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Thursday conference
Danny Lansanah is going to play on Saturday. He has practiced this week and Randy Edsall said he is ready to go. That's good news for the defense.
Less good news on Ryan Henegan, he is in practice but it is out for Saturday. He is starting to practice however.
Lawrence Green is definitely out Saturday, but Edsall did say he expects Green to return this year. He gave no indication how long however.
Andre Dixon is in the mix to get some carries at running back and has worked with the second team. Corey Stringer is on the scout team.
7:43 PM Updates:
Scout team players of the week are as follows: Nathan Sherr (offense), Doc Goudreau (defense) and John Yurek (special teams). Who are they? I don't know either.
Had to check the roster. Goudreau is a redshirt freshman from Wisconsin. Sherr a freshman running back from Lynfield, Mass. and Yurek is a freshman from Greencastle, Pa. All are walk-ons.
Anyhow, here are some parking pass directions:
Parking for home games are as follows: GOLD PASS -- Main Gate or East (Silver Lane) Gate; BLUE -- Main Gate or East (Silver Lane) Gate; WHITE -- Main Gate or East (Silver Lane) Gate; GRAY -- East (Silver Lane) Gate; ORANGE -- East (Silver Lane) Gate; PURPLE -- Willow Street Gate; RED -- Main Gate or Willow Street Gate.
Fans with state issued handicapped parking tags should enter through the Main Gate or East (Silver Lane) Gate. Buses and RV’s should enter through the Willow Street Gate.
Approximately 4,000 tickets are available for Saturday’s contest according to the UConn athletic department.
Less good news on Ryan Henegan, he is in practice but it is out for Saturday. He is starting to practice however.
Lawrence Green is definitely out Saturday, but Edsall did say he expects Green to return this year. He gave no indication how long however.
Andre Dixon is in the mix to get some carries at running back and has worked with the second team. Corey Stringer is on the scout team.
7:43 PM Updates:
Scout team players of the week are as follows: Nathan Sherr (offense), Doc Goudreau (defense) and John Yurek (special teams). Who are they? I don't know either.
Had to check the roster. Goudreau is a redshirt freshman from Wisconsin. Sherr a freshman running back from Lynfield, Mass. and Yurek is a freshman from Greencastle, Pa. All are walk-ons.
Anyhow, here are some parking pass directions:
Parking for home games are as follows: GOLD PASS -- Main Gate or East (Silver Lane) Gate; BLUE -- Main Gate or East (Silver Lane) Gate; WHITE -- Main Gate or East (Silver Lane) Gate; GRAY -- East (Silver Lane) Gate; ORANGE -- East (Silver Lane) Gate; PURPLE -- Willow Street Gate; RED -- Main Gate or Willow Street Gate.
Fans with state issued handicapped parking tags should enter through the Main Gate or East (Silver Lane) Gate. Buses and RV’s should enter through the Willow Street Gate.
Approximately 4,000 tickets are available for Saturday’s contest according to the UConn athletic department.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
You can comment now
As requested, I am still learning this blog thing. Anyhow, anyone can comment in the blog without registering. So, if you like, or don't like, feel free.
Will give an injury update (or as much as Randy Edsall will give) sometime tomorrow after the afternoon teleconference.
Will give an injury update (or as much as Randy Edsall will give) sometime tomorrow after the afternoon teleconference.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Tuesday presser
Jeff Hathaway was there to speak about the field debacle (he didn't know until Saturday when he saw the field) and it's safe say UConn isn't too happy, though they are monitoring the situation.
The fied is getting partially re-sodded this week, and if necessary, UConn has requested the entire field be re-sodded if it doesn't come out well after Saturday. Hathaway has made a trip down to look at the field every day.
AEG is also looking at all the work done on the field since Aug. 1. From what AEG is telling Hathaway, they could redo the entire field after this week and it would be ready and take hold.
On a side note: It isn't grubs or lack of water or something simple like. The field had something attack its roots and AEG isn't sure what happened the last couple of weeks. It would have been nice if AEG could have alerted UConn before Friday and Saturday.
On to football, Danny Lansanah is walking around OK and he will try and go in practice. He said that when he saw the film it was a cheap shot hit, one of several. Danny mentioned he may have targeted him because he was talking some trash on Saturday. It's a good thing Randy Edsall got those starters out there then.
Lansanah is more likely to play then Ryan Henegan. We'll see later in the week.
That's it, for now.
Update: Some more nuggets.
The fied is getting partially re-sodded this week, and if necessary, UConn has requested the entire field be re-sodded if it doesn't come out well after Saturday. Hathaway has made a trip down to look at the field every day.
AEG is also looking at all the work done on the field since Aug. 1. From what AEG is telling Hathaway, they could redo the entire field after this week and it would be ready and take hold.
On a side note: It isn't grubs or lack of water or something simple like. The field had something attack its roots and AEG isn't sure what happened the last couple of weeks. It would have been nice if AEG could have alerted UConn before Friday and Saturday.
On to football, Danny Lansanah is walking around OK and he will try and go in practice. He said that when he saw the film it was a cheap shot hit, one of several. Danny mentioned he may have targeted him because he was talking some trash on Saturday. It's a good thing Randy Edsall got those starters out there then.
Lansanah is more likely to play then Ryan Henegan. We'll see later in the week.
That's it, for now.
Update: Some more nuggets.
- Jasper Howard, Marcus Campbell, Kijuan Dabney, Greg Lloyd, Anthony Sherman and Aaron Bagsby are the only true freshmen who have seen time, and if Edsall has his way, will be the only ones to see time. It is all injury permitting, but Edsall doesn't want to blow a redshirt year unless there are injuries out front.
- Edsall is looking for a 4th and 5th wide receivers. Marcus Easley and Rob Theuodele both saw time against Maine. Don't discount Ellis Gaulden, who is rounding into form. Edsall is just waiting for Gaulden's "burst speed" to return.
- Edsall carefully stayed away from answering questions about the 8 CT recruits on the Owls. Edsall has come under criticism in the past for not taking some CT recruits or not going at them aggressively enough. Edsall maintained that he goes after players that are best for the program, regardless of geography.
- Temple coach Al Golden and UConn tailback Donald Brown are family friends. Golden tried to recruit Brown to Virginia several years ago. They both went to the same high school, Red Bank Catholic in High in Red Bank, N.J.
In Monday's JI
A little late, but we have Monday's stories in the JI.
Lansanah is a leader in the locker room as much as he is on the field.
We also got a notebook rounding up Sunday's news.
And finally, an overview of Saturday by Randy Smith. Randy has been on the disabled list all summer and it's great to have him back.
The JI link to the right directly goes to the UConn story archive.
Will update Tuesday.
Lansanah is a leader in the locker room as much as he is on the field.
We also got a notebook rounding up Sunday's news.
And finally, an overview of Saturday by Randy Smith. Randy has been on the disabled list all summer and it's great to have him back.
The JI link to the right directly goes to the UConn story archive.
Will update Tuesday.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Bengals and Ravens and why I don't bet on football
If you saw my first post on this blog it summed up why I don't like sports gambling, but if you need any more reason on why not to bet take the bengals-Ravens.
At the JI we pick against the spread every week and I needed to split the last two games to clinch first place and best record in week 1. It's a big deal (o not really, but it is to about 12 of us in JI land).
So naturally I have the Ravens +3. Ravens make six turnovers, and are still in it down 27-20 late. Not looking good. Cincy's Rudi Johnson fumbles at the 25 and the Ravens take over. So I am looking good.
Then the Ravens drives down and Boller throws a TD to tie . YES!!!!
Even with a push I win.
But wait. Pass interference, and the Ravens are moved back. It goes to fourth down and a pass is incomplete.
NO! I lose.
But wait!
Defensive holding first down and goal at the 5.
Yes! I am looking good. Boller can't mes it up twice. Can he?
Then, third down from the 3, ball tipped in the endzone and Cincy intercepts.
Game over I lose.
I had no joy driving back from work. Worst, if I didn't have something riding on the game I would have loved the game.
Life sucks.
Luckily I DVR'ed the season finale of Greek.
UPDATE (1:35 A.M): Need any more proof?
I got Niners giving -3. Cardinals lead 17-13. Fourth down run by Alex Smith gives me hope. Pass to Arnaz Batte for a sure TD is fumbled at the 1 yard line into the endzone with 26 seconds left. Cards got a shot to win the game by falling at it but miss. 49ers recover and ball placed at one. Battle scores TD on a high school split end running play.
I hold my breath on the extra point. 20-17 --- PUSH.
I am the hot hand.
Life is beautiful!
At the JI we pick against the spread every week and I needed to split the last two games to clinch first place and best record in week 1. It's a big deal (o not really, but it is to about 12 of us in JI land).
So naturally I have the Ravens +3. Ravens make six turnovers, and are still in it down 27-20 late. Not looking good. Cincy's Rudi Johnson fumbles at the 25 and the Ravens take over. So I am looking good.
Then the Ravens drives down and Boller throws a TD to tie . YES!!!!
Even with a push I win.
But wait. Pass interference, and the Ravens are moved back. It goes to fourth down and a pass is incomplete.
NO! I lose.
But wait!
Defensive holding first down and goal at the 5.
Yes! I am looking good. Boller can't mes it up twice. Can he?
Then, third down from the 3, ball tipped in the endzone and Cincy intercepts.
Game over I lose.
I had no joy driving back from work. Worst, if I didn't have something riding on the game I would have loved the game.
Life sucks.
Luckily I DVR'ed the season finale of Greek.
UPDATE (1:35 A.M): Need any more proof?
I got Niners giving -3. Cardinals lead 17-13. Fourth down run by Alex Smith gives me hope. Pass to Arnaz Batte for a sure TD is fumbled at the 1 yard line into the endzone with 26 seconds left. Cards got a shot to win the game by falling at it but miss. 49ers recover and ball placed at one. Battle scores TD on a high school split end running play.
I hold my breath on the extra point. 20-17 --- PUSH.
I am the hot hand.
Life is beautiful!
Big Blue disappoints
First day of the NFL season and that was it? I waited 10 hours to watch the giants get shredded?
Let me vent please so I can sleep:
Ya know, after all the griping about assistant coaches and scheme, the Giants have to do a better job of getting players who can play that Jimmy Johnson type aggressive defense. The D was a fish out of water. It was like "You want us to be aggressive?" Goes to show you personnel matters more than coaching.
Tony Romo had the best passing day by a Cowboys QB since Staubach. I want tim lewis back. At least that was a slow death.
I don't get how you can have defensive line depth issues, worries in the secondary, don't ever get an outside linebacker (Kiwanuka is still searching for Jason Witten) despite 8 months of prep time. This is the NFL. Get some players. The only quality guy they brought in on defense was Mitchell. Nothing at corner, and no more added depth on the line. Kiwanuka at linebacker looks like a bust. Maybe as a pass rusher standing him up is a good idea. But in coverage it is an extreme mismatch.
They pinned the defense on a 36 year old D-END who skipped camp. And Drohns at FB? My goodness. There isn't another fullback in the world?
Bad job putting that defense together and bad roster management by the new GM. The linebackers and secondary are atrocious, again.
If the coach is the reason you can't get players to come there then that's a problem. I like Coughlin's coaching, game plan and philosophy. He is an offensive coach and he can be successful. But, it's a players league and if the players won't come, what's the point?
I must say I am stunned by the lack of quality on the defense. Especially considering their is big money being spent on offense at QB WR and TE. Should have went after Asante Samuel and a got a good safety somewhere. James Butler looked like he was a dog chasing after a car.
Wow! Third and 7 at 38-35 with 3 minutes left and all your timeouts, and the Boys take it 60 yards to the house. Unacceptable.
Let me vent please so I can sleep:
Ya know, after all the griping about assistant coaches and scheme, the Giants have to do a better job of getting players who can play that Jimmy Johnson type aggressive defense. The D was a fish out of water. It was like "You want us to be aggressive?" Goes to show you personnel matters more than coaching.
Tony Romo had the best passing day by a Cowboys QB since Staubach. I want tim lewis back. At least that was a slow death.
I don't get how you can have defensive line depth issues, worries in the secondary, don't ever get an outside linebacker (Kiwanuka is still searching for Jason Witten) despite 8 months of prep time. This is the NFL. Get some players. The only quality guy they brought in on defense was Mitchell. Nothing at corner, and no more added depth on the line. Kiwanuka at linebacker looks like a bust. Maybe as a pass rusher standing him up is a good idea. But in coverage it is an extreme mismatch.
They pinned the defense on a 36 year old D-END who skipped camp. And Drohns at FB? My goodness. There isn't another fullback in the world?
Bad job putting that defense together and bad roster management by the new GM. The linebackers and secondary are atrocious, again.
If the coach is the reason you can't get players to come there then that's a problem. I like Coughlin's coaching, game plan and philosophy. He is an offensive coach and he can be successful. But, it's a players league and if the players won't come, what's the point?
I must say I am stunned by the lack of quality on the defense. Especially considering their is big money being spent on offense at QB WR and TE. Should have went after Asante Samuel and a got a good safety somewhere. James Butler looked like he was a dog chasing after a car.
Wow! Third and 7 at 38-35 with 3 minutes left and all your timeouts, and the Boys take it 60 yards to the house. Unacceptable.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Sunday post Maine update
First off, Lansanah is better. Will he play this week?Too early to tell. They will know at practice today. If he can't go Huskies do have options. One is moving a healthy Ryan Henegan to the middle and keeping Lawrence Wilson.
Also, Andre Dixon and Corey Stringer are reinstated and will practice today.
More later.
Also, Andre Dixon and Corey Stringer are reinstated and will practice today.
More later.
The Big Beast Conference
Wow. Get back from the Rent and USF knocks off Auburn. I am not surprised, that team is good and I think they will knock off one, and maybe 2 of Rutgers, Ville and West Virginia.
What the heck was Tubberville doing late in the game? 55 seconds, two timeouts, decent field position and a kicker who is as strong as a moose. Talk about deer in the headlights. Totally unprepared.
So, let's take a quick look at non-conference outings. Cincy destroys Oregon State and USF beats a top 15 program on the road in SEC country. That's impressive.
Big East is what, 14-2 so far?
Most of us were talking about the Bg East in the press box tonight. UConn is better than last year, in my opinion much better, and I am not sure the schedule is going to allow them to improve much. After the Akron game, they are going to play four ranked teams (USF will break into the top 20 I imagine) in their final six games, and also have to visit Cincinnati. That isn't easy. One of te tougher schedules in the country.
Every team in the conference with the exception of Syracuse is better than last year. So the question is how close UConn is to the top of the Big East? I don't know. If a bowl game awaits, an upset or two has to happen. If the Huskies go chalk the rest of the way (win only games favored), they probably end up 5-7.
Also, thumbs down on the ACC. Va Tech got destroyed and Miami allows 51 points. If they were still in the Big East the critics would lambast the conference for being weak and a product of playing each other. Best team in the ACC is Boston College.
What the heck was Tubberville doing late in the game? 55 seconds, two timeouts, decent field position and a kicker who is as strong as a moose. Talk about deer in the headlights. Totally unprepared.
So, let's take a quick look at non-conference outings. Cincy destroys Oregon State and USF beats a top 15 program on the road in SEC country. That's impressive.
Big East is what, 14-2 so far?
Most of us were talking about the Bg East in the press box tonight. UConn is better than last year, in my opinion much better, and I am not sure the schedule is going to allow them to improve much. After the Akron game, they are going to play four ranked teams (USF will break into the top 20 I imagine) in their final six games, and also have to visit Cincinnati. That isn't easy. One of te tougher schedules in the country.
Every team in the conference with the exception of Syracuse is better than last year. So the question is how close UConn is to the top of the Big East? I don't know. If a bowl game awaits, an upset or two has to happen. If the Huskies go chalk the rest of the way (win only games favored), they probably end up 5-7.
Also, thumbs down on the ACC. Va Tech got destroyed and Miami allows 51 points. If they were still in the Big East the critics would lambast the conference for being weak and a product of playing each other. Best team in the ACC is Boston College.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Lansanah is OK
Breath easy everyone.
Danny Lansanah was walking around and his right ankle hurts a bit. He didn't know what happened but Randy Edsall thought it was a cheap shot on the hit.
But got work to do, and just wanted let everyone know Lansanah is walking around fine and isn't seriously hurt. Xrays were negative.
He is in good spirits and will be off it for a few days.
Update 1:08 a.m.: Not sure of his availability on Saturday. I asked him if he thought he could play if a game were tomorrow and he said no. But, he made sure he came out to talk to the media because he didn't want speculation that he was too hurt to play. He wanted to let teammates and everyone know he is ok. He'll get treatment and they will reevaluate probably on Monday.
Danny Lansanah was walking around and his right ankle hurts a bit. He didn't know what happened but Randy Edsall thought it was a cheap shot on the hit.
But got work to do, and just wanted let everyone know Lansanah is walking around fine and isn't seriously hurt. Xrays were negative.
He is in good spirits and will be off it for a few days.
Update 1:08 a.m.: Not sure of his availability on Saturday. I asked him if he thought he could play if a game were tomorrow and he said no. But, he made sure he came out to talk to the media because he didn't want speculation that he was too hurt to play. He wanted to let teammates and everyone know he is ok. He'll get treatment and they will reevaluate probably on Monday.
Live Blogging Maine!
First quarter: Nice job by Lutrus stepping in for an easy pick and TD. Run blocking is terrible. Brown has 4 rushes where he had no chance at gaining positive yardage. 9 rushes for 23 yards for Brown. Not a good job by the O-Line again.
Kanuch looks good with 53 yards on 3 catches. Defense looks good. Not sure how Maine is going to score unless there is a broken play. Just to overpowering for the Huskies' defense. O-Line has to play better.
BTW, why was Tony C kicking from 51 yards?
Second quarter: Offensive line is very shaky, especially the right side. Defense is stout. They have allowed 7 points in six quarters, and scored 16. Can't see how Maine moves the ball. UConn too big, strong and fast.
Offensively it was better on the last drive. Lorenzen used his legs and they went short and quick on the passes. Need better run blocking in the second half. Dan Ryan is having trouble on the right side.
Maine does play tough though, you got to give the defense credit for that.
Halftime thoughts: The field is absolutely in terrible condition. I am not sure what was played here, but there are brown patches of dead grass and dirt divots. Looks like a golf course in late season in some spots. Can the ground crew also paint the lines? Everything is faded. Looks terrible.
Third/Fourth quarter: UConn looked better and wore Maine down. Lansanah is down and he ins't going to return. Looks like an ankle injury. I will report back if we know if it is serious or not.
It was an eerie injury. That was Lansanah's last play of the game and the UConn staff looked crushed on the sidelines. Lansanah was over on the bench and was helped off with a limp. It's not a knee injury though, so that's the good thing.
Kanuch looks good with 53 yards on 3 catches. Defense looks good. Not sure how Maine is going to score unless there is a broken play. Just to overpowering for the Huskies' defense. O-Line has to play better.
BTW, why was Tony C kicking from 51 yards?
Second quarter: Offensive line is very shaky, especially the right side. Defense is stout. They have allowed 7 points in six quarters, and scored 16. Can't see how Maine moves the ball. UConn too big, strong and fast.
Offensively it was better on the last drive. Lorenzen used his legs and they went short and quick on the passes. Need better run blocking in the second half. Dan Ryan is having trouble on the right side.
Maine does play tough though, you got to give the defense credit for that.
Halftime thoughts: The field is absolutely in terrible condition. I am not sure what was played here, but there are brown patches of dead grass and dirt divots. Looks like a golf course in late season in some spots. Can the ground crew also paint the lines? Everything is faded. Looks terrible.
Third/Fourth quarter: UConn looked better and wore Maine down. Lansanah is down and he ins't going to return. Looks like an ankle injury. I will report back if we know if it is serious or not.
It was an eerie injury. That was Lansanah's last play of the game and the UConn staff looked crushed on the sidelines. Lansanah was over on the bench and was helped off with a limp. It's not a knee injury though, so that's the good thing.
Husky Walk
Went to the Husky Walk, glad I got there early. It went about 15 minutes early and was done while half the fans were walking over. I felt so bad for people walking over with their kids and cameras. Didn't have the heart to tell them it was over.
It went well. It's perhaps your only chance to shake hands with players. Just get there early. And where was the band? On the field practicing.
Anyhow, saw the Blue-White kid, Dale Rosel (not sure if I got the last named spelled right) of Wallingford, and he is going to try and get to every home and away. Was in Durham last week. He graduated last year with a Communications major and is going to go stay with the team as long as funds allow. Doesn't have West Virginia tickets --yet. Maybe he's the football answer to Big Red.
BTW, it's just Husky boxers he's in.
See ya'll later.
It went well. It's perhaps your only chance to shake hands with players. Just get there early. And where was the band? On the field practicing.
Anyhow, saw the Blue-White kid, Dale Rosel (not sure if I got the last named spelled right) of Wallingford, and he is going to try and get to every home and away. Was in Durham last week. He graduated last year with a Communications major and is going to go stay with the team as long as funds allow. Doesn't have West Virginia tickets --yet. Maybe he's the football answer to Big Red.
BTW, it's just Husky boxers he's in.
See ya'll later.
Keys to the game (Maine)
Get Donald Brown going:
Brown was average at best in the opener against Duke and the Huskies line was mediocre. The Huskies want to control temp and pound the ball with a bigger and more physical team. Maine's strength is run defense, so if the Huskies can control the game on the ground it will open things up for Tyler Lorenzen in the air.
Stay disciplined on defense:
The linebackers, particularly freshmen Scott Lutrus and Lawrence Wilson, must keep their assignments and discipline when Maine goes into any type of option run play. Huskies have struggled against these types of offenses in the past and it is because they haven't been disciplined enough. The corners are going to have to shed blocks and make some tackles. Don't let Maine quarterback Michael Brusko to turn the corner.
Act like your better:
This is a fine line between confidence and arrogance. The Huskies are a better team and they should play with that confidence. That means not panicking and being confident in your ability. You don't want to overlook your opponent, but then again, you don't want to play at your weaker opponents level. Maine is a good I-AA program. But, they aren't a Big East program. UConn has to play with that confidence level.
Brown was average at best in the opener against Duke and the Huskies line was mediocre. The Huskies want to control temp and pound the ball with a bigger and more physical team. Maine's strength is run defense, so if the Huskies can control the game on the ground it will open things up for Tyler Lorenzen in the air.
Stay disciplined on defense:
The linebackers, particularly freshmen Scott Lutrus and Lawrence Wilson, must keep their assignments and discipline when Maine goes into any type of option run play. Huskies have struggled against these types of offenses in the past and it is because they haven't been disciplined enough. The corners are going to have to shed blocks and make some tackles. Don't let Maine quarterback Michael Brusko to turn the corner.
Act like your better:
This is a fine line between confidence and arrogance. The Huskies are a better team and they should play with that confidence. That means not panicking and being confident in your ability. You don't want to overlook your opponent, but then again, you don't want to play at your weaker opponents level. Maine is a good I-AA program. But, they aren't a Big East program. UConn has to play with that confidence level.
Friday, September 7, 2007
Live blogging Saturday
Okay, if you aren't within driving of the rent and aren't house ridden (sickness, wife, kids, house arrest), then it is okay to check back here and I'll give my thoughts during the game.
I'll get my keys of the game up late tonight. Look for a story on The Boneyard and a web only special story in the JI off Saturday's game.
Here is the JI's story on the Husky Walk.
Enjoy the night.
I'll get my keys of the game up late tonight. Look for a story on The Boneyard and a web only special story in the JI off Saturday's game.
Here is the JI's story on the Husky Walk.
Enjoy the night.
Random thoughts
Good afternoon. Not much time today, 5 year anniversary today. Looks like the Rutgers-Navy game is out though I am still hopeful I can catch the Yankees game.
What was up with Louisville yesterday? New Britain High could have scored off them. I thought I was watching one of those prep passing leagues where there aren't any linemen. Awful job defensively.
Cincy was devastating. I would have taken them over the Saints.
What an awful NFL opener. 41-10? So much for my Super Bowl prediction of Chargers-Saints. They looked like the Aints again.
I'll be at the Husky Walk. Anyone know how to grill corn on the cob? I unintentionally make something that tastes and smell like burnt popcorn.
Who is going to Costa Rica vs (Latin America opponent) on Sunday? I imagine the field is going to be torn up.
What was up with Louisville yesterday? New Britain High could have scored off them. I thought I was watching one of those prep passing leagues where there aren't any linemen. Awful job defensively.
Cincy was devastating. I would have taken them over the Saints.
What an awful NFL opener. 41-10? So much for my Super Bowl prediction of Chargers-Saints. They looked like the Aints again.
I'll be at the Husky Walk. Anyone know how to grill corn on the cob? I unintentionally make something that tastes and smell like burnt popcorn.
Who is going to Costa Rica vs (Latin America opponent) on Sunday? I imagine the field is going to be torn up.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Thursday update
No news on the injury front. Per the CT Post, Dan Davis is not injured.
The only guys on the injury report are Lawrence Green and Ryan Henegan, are both out. That isn't confirmed explicitly, but don't leave the light on.
Not much else going on, which is a good thing. On Thursday, Randy Edsall reiterated that the Huskies want to rotate Division I-AA teams and in the future UMass is on the schedule as well as more Yankee conference teams.
Anyhow, in today's JI, short story on Lansanah.
Lansanah's heart of defense
See Ya'll Saturday for game time blogging.
1
Update: Went to grill a steak and 21-14 Louisville 10:37 left in first quarter. WOW.
Update 2: 31-28 Ville. I am trying to write but can't take my eyes off this game. Someone tell Louisville's defense that the game started.
The only guys on the injury report are Lawrence Green and Ryan Henegan, are both out. That isn't confirmed explicitly, but don't leave the light on.
Not much else going on, which is a good thing. On Thursday, Randy Edsall reiterated that the Huskies want to rotate Division I-AA teams and in the future UMass is on the schedule as well as more Yankee conference teams.
Anyhow, in today's JI, short story on Lansanah.
Lansanah's heart of defense
See Ya'll Saturday for game time blogging.
1
Update: Went to grill a steak and 21-14 Louisville 10:37 left in first quarter. WOW.
Update 2: 31-28 Ville. I am trying to write but can't take my eyes off this game. Someone tell Louisville's defense that the game started.
Big East week 2
Great games and most are on TV, so before Saints-Colts check out the first half of Lousiville vs. Midd Tenn St and Cincinnati tonight.
This is a dream week for the Big East.
Louisville and Cincinnati on ESPN and ESPN2 on Thursday.
Rutgers on Friday night on ESPN on Friday night against Navy.
Then on Saturday West Virginia-Marshall early and USF-Auburn late all on ESPN.
The games to watch are Cincy against Oregon St. tonight and Auburn hosting USF Saturday at 9.
Those games will show how strong the Big East really is. Don't sleep on USF.
5 of the 8 Big East games on national tv. That's pretty good exposure.
This is a dream week for the Big East.
Louisville and Cincinnati on ESPN and ESPN2 on Thursday.
Rutgers on Friday night on ESPN on Friday night against Navy.
Then on Saturday West Virginia-Marshall early and USF-Auburn late all on ESPN.
The games to watch are Cincy against Oregon St. tonight and Auburn hosting USF Saturday at 9.
Those games will show how strong the Big East really is. Don't sleep on USF.
5 of the 8 Big East games on national tv. That's pretty good exposure.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
In Wednesday's Journal Inquirer
Just a simple notebook on Saturday's up coming game and a Mike Hicks update. Also, some updates on the Husky Walk
Be back late tonight with some thoughts on the Big East this week.
http://www.journalinquirer.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=18784892&BRD=985&PAG=461&dept_id=569454&rfi=6
Be back late tonight with some thoughts on the Big East this week.
http://www.journalinquirer.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=18784892&BRD=985&PAG=461&dept_id=569454&rfi=6
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
FBS vs.FCS
I give up with this bowl subdivision and championship subdivision.
Leave it for the NCAA to ruin its sport. Remember the East Rutherford Regional anyone? Charming.
I asked UConn's AP writer Pat Eaton-Robb what the AP's style is (for those that don't know AP sets the style for 99 percent of the industry), and he wasn't sure. Most of the beat guys are using formerly known as I-AA.
I guess if Prince can change his name the NCAA can change the Divisions. How has that worked out for unpronounceable symbol?
It just doesn't have the same sound. Michigan lost to an FCS team on Saturday?
Who actually thought of this idea. Who pushed it along?
Talk about concerning yourself with trivial matters. C
Leave it for the NCAA to ruin its sport. Remember the East Rutherford Regional anyone? Charming.
I asked UConn's AP writer Pat Eaton-Robb what the AP's style is (for those that don't know AP sets the style for 99 percent of the industry), and he wasn't sure. Most of the beat guys are using formerly known as I-AA.
I guess if Prince can change his name the NCAA can change the Divisions. How has that worked out for unpronounceable symbol?
It just doesn't have the same sound. Michigan lost to an FCS team on Saturday?
Who actually thought of this idea. Who pushed it along?
Talk about concerning yourself with trivial matters. C
Husky Walk
Here is the Husky Walk. Nice touch by Dan Davis and captains.
Husky Walk
The University of Connecticut football team will debut a new pregame ritual by participating in a “Husky Walk” prior to its home game on Saturday night, allowing fans to cheer on the Huskies as they first arrive at Rentschler Field.
The walk will be held about two hours prior to kickoff. Thus, the inaugural event on Saturday will occur at about 5:00 p.m. with the team’s game against Maine slated for a 7:00 p.m. kickoff.
UConn’s team busses will unload for the Husky Walk near Gate D. The team will walk along the road on the east side of the stadium (near the FanFest and blue parking lot) from Gate D to Gate C before entering the stadium at Gate C. Fans are encouraged to arrive in advance of the 5:00 p.m. start time to line up along the path and cheer on both the team and a procession that will also include the UConn cheerleaders and marching band. Paw prints are being painted along the walk route which will begin with the team coming through a large “Husky Walk” banner.
Husky Walk
The University of Connecticut football team will debut a new pregame ritual by participating in a “Husky Walk” prior to its home game on Saturday night, allowing fans to cheer on the Huskies as they first arrive at Rentschler Field.
The walk will be held about two hours prior to kickoff. Thus, the inaugural event on Saturday will occur at about 5:00 p.m. with the team’s game against Maine slated for a 7:00 p.m. kickoff.
UConn’s team busses will unload for the Husky Walk near Gate D. The team will walk along the road on the east side of the stadium (near the FanFest and blue parking lot) from Gate D to Gate C before entering the stadium at Gate C. Fans are encouraged to arrive in advance of the 5:00 p.m. start time to line up along the path and cheer on both the team and a procession that will also include the UConn cheerleaders and marching band. Paw prints are being painted along the walk route which will begin with the team coming through a large “Husky Walk” banner.
Beware Appalachian St.
Three days after the game that shocked the college world, Appalachian State is still on the minds of everyone in college football including the Huskies who play Division I-AA, or FCS, Maine on Saturday.
Randy Edsall has talked about it that last couple of days and can't fathom a letdown. There are only 12 games, and each counts the same.
"If you can't get yourself to get jacked up for a game, why are you even playing?
Dan Davis on App State:
"How can you not talk about it? when you put them on the same field as Michigan the average person will won't expect them to beat them. It just goes to show you how the game of football is played. You have to go out there on Saturday and give it your all. We sat down with teammates and talked about."
Worth noting that Maine has played its I-A, or FBS, opponents tough. The Black Bears defeated Mississippi State in 2004 and gave Nebraska and Boston College fits in following years.
Injury updates:
Lawrence Green (knee) is still out and he may not be back for awhile. That's just a guess on my part. UConn won't divulge what knee it is or the extent of the injury.Hicks may be in for the long haul
Ryan Henegan: Out for Saturday. Still progressing.
Everything else looks fine.
Husky walk: UConn's team will no have a "Husky Walk" when they arrive at the field for game time. Instead of driving into the VIP entrance, the team will walk along a trail of Husky paws to the cheering of the fans. More details later. Captains' idea.
Randy Edsall has talked about it that last couple of days and can't fathom a letdown. There are only 12 games, and each counts the same.
"If you can't get yourself to get jacked up for a game, why are you even playing?
Dan Davis on App State:
"How can you not talk about it? when you put them on the same field as Michigan the average person will won't expect them to beat them. It just goes to show you how the game of football is played. You have to go out there on Saturday and give it your all. We sat down with teammates and talked about."
Worth noting that Maine has played its I-A, or FBS, opponents tough. The Black Bears defeated Mississippi State in 2004 and gave Nebraska and Boston College fits in following years.
Injury updates:
Lawrence Green (knee) is still out and he may not be back for awhile. That's just a guess on my part. UConn won't divulge what knee it is or the extent of the injury.Hicks may be in for the long haul
Ryan Henegan: Out for Saturday. Still progressing.
Everything else looks fine.
Husky walk: UConn's team will no have a "Husky Walk" when they arrive at the field for game time. Instead of driving into the VIP entrance, the team will walk along a trail of Husky paws to the cheering of the fans. More details later. Captains' idea.
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Sunday update
Lawrence Green's status is still in limbo though he was sent for an MRI on his knee. If he can't go Mike Hicks is going to start at right guard after playing 3/4 of the game yesterday. At least Huskies have depth on the line this year.
Other notes: Game balls to Tyler Lorenzen and Cody Brown and Desi Cullen.
WR Ellis Gaulden burned up the scout team this week and could see action in the next several weeks. DB Harris Agbor was the defensive scout team player of the week.
Randy Edsall thought Donald Brown was pressing Saturday. He was trying to break too many big gains and tried too hard.
Ya'll enjoy Labor Day.
Other notes: Game balls to Tyler Lorenzen and Cody Brown and Desi Cullen.
WR Ellis Gaulden burned up the scout team this week and could see action in the next several weeks. DB Harris Agbor was the defensive scout team player of the week.
Randy Edsall thought Donald Brown was pressing Saturday. He was trying to break too many big gains and tried too hard.
Ya'll enjoy Labor Day.
Must be in football country
Lead story on the ABC News 11 in the triangle was tailgate stories and college football stories at UNC, NC ST and Duke. Then they went for a college football story at Virginia Tech.
Then they went to the minor stuff, meth lab, 7 people left homeless and an FBI investigation of a state trooper.
Boy are we stodgy up in New England.
Then they went to the minor stuff, meth lab, 7 people left homeless and an FBI investigation of a state trooper.
Boy are we stodgy up in New England.
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Dominating in Durham
I am going out on a limb and saying Randy Edsall picked the right quarterback. Lorenzen was nearly flawless and looked at home. He went with the ball to the right receiver almost every time and spread it around. 8 catches for Jeffers and 7 for Larry Taylor. D.J. Hernandez and Brad Kanuch the deep threats.
Offensive line was shaky and didn't run block well until late, when Duke wore down. Huskies won the game on the arm and game management of Lorenzen, and the play of the defensive line.
The numbers are staggering. 487-169. It is even more stark than that. After Duke's 80 yard opening drive they had less than 100 yards total offense.
Cody Brown was a force and nearly had 4 or 5 sacks instead of 2. Julius Williams put a hellacious hit on Thaddeus Lewis and Lindsay Witten gave the Blue Devils fits.
Lawrence Wilson was pretty good considering it was hist first game action at weak side linebacker.
Some observations:
*Lorenzen more impressive than I expected. He was confident, poised. And, when things went bad he didn't panic or press. That is a very good sign.
*Defensive line was tremendous. 15 yards rushing net, 76 if it was the NFL, and dominated the second half on the road. The ends were tremendous.
*Offensive line was shaky, and Lawrence Green went down with an injury. Hicks was ok. Lorenzen was hit too much.
*Special teams was shaky. Desi Cullen impressive on kickoffs, but a 94 yard touchdown return is a bad sign. Also, Tony Ciaravino is an adventure on field goals. He isn't getting the ball elevated. 3-for-4 today under 40 yards. Also had an xtra point blocked. They got to fix this.
Offensive line was shaky and didn't run block well until late, when Duke wore down. Huskies won the game on the arm and game management of Lorenzen, and the play of the defensive line.
The numbers are staggering. 487-169. It is even more stark than that. After Duke's 80 yard opening drive they had less than 100 yards total offense.
Cody Brown was a force and nearly had 4 or 5 sacks instead of 2. Julius Williams put a hellacious hit on Thaddeus Lewis and Lindsay Witten gave the Blue Devils fits.
Lawrence Wilson was pretty good considering it was hist first game action at weak side linebacker.
Some observations:
*Lorenzen more impressive than I expected. He was confident, poised. And, when things went bad he didn't panic or press. That is a very good sign.
*Defensive line was tremendous. 15 yards rushing net, 76 if it was the NFL, and dominated the second half on the road. The ends were tremendous.
*Offensive line was shaky, and Lawrence Green went down with an injury. Hicks was ok. Lorenzen was hit too much.
*Special teams was shaky. Desi Cullen impressive on kickoffs, but a 94 yard touchdown return is a bad sign. Also, Tony Ciaravino is an adventure on field goals. He isn't getting the ball elevated. 3-for-4 today under 40 yards. Also had an xtra point blocked. They got to fix this.
Keys to the game
At Wallace Stadium right now. A bit strange. The track around the field reminds of Willow Brook Park.
Here are the keys to today's game at Duke.
OT: Thanks to Matt and Judd (Duke students), who hopped in my car in Durham and directed me to the stadium. I would have been lost in Durham without them. Matt is a Westport native.
UPDATE 1 p.m.: Ryan Henegan is in Storrs, Lawrence Wilson to start.
Update 1:43 p.m.: 15 minutes to kickoff. Sparse crowed.
Update 2:51: UConn should have 3 TDs on the board. Wilson missed the fumble in the end zone. Lorenzen over threw a wide open Brouse. Lorenzen impressive, 7-9 passing and he is making right decisions. No running game.
Update 3:02 p.m.: Squandered opportunities. Field goal with ball on 10 and then allowing kick return. Don't like the vibe.
Internet is acting up in press box, so will update as I can.
Get a pass rush
The Huskies need to put pressure on Duke QB Andrew Lewis with their defensive front four of Cody Brown and Julius Williams at end and Dan Davis and Rob Lunn at tackle. That will help mask any problems they do have in the secondary with youth, specifically at nickel back where true frosh Jasper Howard and sophomore Robert McClain are so green. Safety play is also an issue in the passing game. A pass rush will negate any worries at least for one week. The Huskies must take advantage of Duke true freshman Bryan Morgan (6-3, 25 pounds) at right tackle.
Pass the football
Everyone knows Donald Brown at running back is the goods. But how good is quarterback Tyler Lorenzen? If the Huskies have a competent passing offense, with the experience and size at offensive line, and Brown, it will set up beautifully. The Blue Devils are going to make Lorenzen beat them and stack the box against Brown. The onus is on Lorenzen to produce and limit mistakes in his first start since transferring from Palomar Community College.
Get an early lead
Duke is a notorious underwhelming atmosphere for college football and with the Blue Devils in the midst of a 20-game losing streak, a lead early for the Huskies could break whatever positive psyche Duke has coming out of fall camp. It’s imperative the Huskies don’t let the Blue Devils hang around and gain confidence. If Duke starts feeling good about itself, that losing streak may end in the opener. Don’t give Duke a reason for hope.
Here are the keys to today's game at Duke.
OT: Thanks to Matt and Judd (Duke students), who hopped in my car in Durham and directed me to the stadium. I would have been lost in Durham without them. Matt is a Westport native.
UPDATE 1 p.m.: Ryan Henegan is in Storrs, Lawrence Wilson to start.
Update 1:43 p.m.: 15 minutes to kickoff. Sparse crowed.
Update 2:51: UConn should have 3 TDs on the board. Wilson missed the fumble in the end zone. Lorenzen over threw a wide open Brouse. Lorenzen impressive, 7-9 passing and he is making right decisions. No running game.
Update 3:02 p.m.: Squandered opportunities. Field goal with ball on 10 and then allowing kick return. Don't like the vibe.
Internet is acting up in press box, so will update as I can.
Get a pass rush
The Huskies need to put pressure on Duke QB Andrew Lewis with their defensive front four of Cody Brown and Julius Williams at end and Dan Davis and Rob Lunn at tackle. That will help mask any problems they do have in the secondary with youth, specifically at nickel back where true frosh Jasper Howard and sophomore Robert McClain are so green. Safety play is also an issue in the passing game. A pass rush will negate any worries at least for one week. The Huskies must take advantage of Duke true freshman Bryan Morgan (6-3, 25 pounds) at right tackle.
Pass the football
Everyone knows Donald Brown at running back is the goods. But how good is quarterback Tyler Lorenzen? If the Huskies have a competent passing offense, with the experience and size at offensive line, and Brown, it will set up beautifully. The Blue Devils are going to make Lorenzen beat them and stack the box against Brown. The onus is on Lorenzen to produce and limit mistakes in his first start since transferring from Palomar Community College.
Get an early lead
Duke is a notorious underwhelming atmosphere for college football and with the Blue Devils in the midst of a 20-game losing streak, a lead early for the Huskies could break whatever positive psyche Duke has coming out of fall camp. It’s imperative the Huskies don’t let the Blue Devils hang around and gain confidence. If Duke starts feeling good about itself, that losing streak may end in the opener. Don’t give Duke a reason for hope.
Ellis Gaulden a player?
Can Ellis Gaulden finally get on the field?
From second and third hand accounts, the oft injured wide receiver has been burning up the practice field as a member of the scout team. Ellis was a standout for the first week on the scout team and could be available to play in the coming weeks.
He is pure speed, and that is something the Huskies can use.
If he is indeed near playing time it will only add depth for the Huskies.
From second and third hand accounts, the oft injured wide receiver has been burning up the practice field as a member of the scout team. Ellis was a standout for the first week on the scout team and could be available to play in the coming weeks.
He is pure speed, and that is something the Huskies can use.
If he is indeed near playing time it will only add depth for the Huskies.
Slice of Americana
Went to the Durham Bulls game tonight. I am not sure you can find another place in the United States that epitomizes what baseball is. From someone who goes to New Britain Rock Cats games often, the Bulls' stadium is an American treasure. Beautiful brick park, packed house, cheap beer, perfect field. They have the Blue Monster out on left field that is 40 feet high. It's long way to center.
But, the best part is when there is a home run. The bull on top of the 40 foot high Blue Monster has his eyes light up in red and smoke come out of his nose. If you hit the bull, the batter wins a steak. If he hits the grass he gets a salad.
Fireworks concluded the night.
All for $7.
You can't get any more American than that.
Update 12:37 AM: Watched most of the 2nd half of the Cuse game in between Baker's perfect game bid. Brutal second half. The uniforms on the orange were hideous.
But, the best part is when there is a home run. The bull on top of the 40 foot high Blue Monster has his eyes light up in red and smoke come out of his nose. If you hit the bull, the batter wins a steak. If he hits the grass he gets a salad.
Fireworks concluded the night.
All for $7.
You can't get any more American than that.
Update 12:37 AM: Watched most of the 2nd half of the Cuse game in between Baker's perfect game bid. Brutal second half. The uniforms on the orange were hideous.
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