Black Friday

The one common in a sportswriters home on Thanksgiving is that he is almost assuredly working.

I have been in the business 8 years and have not had a Thanksgiving off. It's just assumed you're working it. Ever wonder where your Black Friday paper comes from?

I went non-stop from Wednesday morning through Thursday afternoon working. I covered Windsor-Bloomfield on Wednesday night. It's refreshing not to have 50 different media people intruding on interviews. It rejuvenated me. I was kind of sick of just writing UConn football. It happens when your a beat guy. I needed some fresh faces. I am sure UConn players are sick of talking to the same guys every week too. Case in point is Donald Brown. Great guy to talk too, except when UConn loses. The best juke he made last Sunday was the quick right he took out of the locker room in Tampa. He nearly made it home free before he was called back for interviews.

Back to football. The Warriors, who clinched a Class L berth and will play Masuk on Tuesday, destroyed Bloomfield. We had early deadlines on Wednesday night and I was under the gun. So what did I do? I didn't wait to interview guys. 41-7 game? With two minutes to go I talked to a couple of the guys on the sidelines. Then I went and got Windsor coach Mark Welch before he even shook hands with Bloomfield coach Roy Roberts. I was in my car headed back to the paper before the handshakes were done.

Did I need to be that quick? I finished everything at 10:00 p.m. Deadline was 10:10.That 's not copy deadline, that's page deadline. You make the call. We were two minutes late.

Never did interview a football player while the game was going on before. That was a first.

Thursday was spent at the Manchester Road Race. It was my first time on the media truck watching the race. We spend the entire race 20 yards ahead of the lead runner watching what's going on. I waved to at least 20 people during the race. The scene is nuts. You got people playing in bands, dancing, and tailgating almost the entire course.

The bagpipes are sounding and I am not sure anyone actually notices the race going on. If you haven't done it before, it's certainly a terrific way to spend Thanksgiving Day.

Let's get back to UConn football. I have no idea what's going to happen with the Bowl lineup except that Cincinnati is going to the BCS and South Florida to St. Pete.

Pittsburgh's win over West Virginia today in the Backyard Brawl certainly muddies things. The Sun Bowl is in play now for Pitt, UConn, WVU and Rutgers. If Rutgers loses it's going to be Notre Dame.

I doubt they would go back to USF for a second year in a row. Especially after the debacle last year.

Could the Pitt-UConn winner be Sun bound? That's not a far-fetched possibility. They may just take the highest ranked team in the Big East, and it figures to be the winner of that game. If USF beats WVU, then that's a strong possibility.

I would say Pitt goes to the Sun if they beat UConn next week. If UConn wins, all bets are off on who goes anywhere.

Let me make some calls this week.

Big East bowling, and where UConn goes

After about three weeks of confusion, we have almost everything been pinned down in regards to Notre Dame and the Big East's agreement with the Sun Bowl.

Thank Syracuse for maybe taking the Sun Bowl away from Notre Dame. If the Irish lose to USC, and Rutgers defeats Pitt, then the Sun Bowl must take a 7-5 or greater Big East team over 6-6 Notre Dame.

Check out ESPN Big East blogger Brian Bennett for the explanation.

Watching the 24-23 in the lobby of the hotel in Tampa it was perhaps the worst loss ever for the Irish. Syracuse is just a flat out bad football team.

No one ever expected Syracuse to win and all the other scenarios written were assuming a 7-5 Notre Dame team. I am not sure the Sun Bowl knew the rules.

Now, we are going to go status quo and if USC beats ND and Rutgers beats Louisville I am figuring this arrangement.

BCS: Cincinnati
Sun: West Virginia
Meineke: Rutgers (Scarlet Knights would have earned this game). All bets are off if Pittsburgh beats WVU and then UConn. They may end up in the Sun Bowl in that scenario.
Toronto: UConn-Pitt winner
Birmingham: UConn-Pitt loser
St Pete: South Florida

If ND wins and Rutgers wins
BCS: Cincinnati
Sun/Gator: Notre Dame
Car Care: West Virginia
Toronto: UConn-Pitt winner
Birmingham: Rutgers
St Pete: South Florida

Candidates to get shipped are the UConn-Pitt loser or Rutgers

If Rutgers loses we have trouble
BCS: Cincinnati
Sun: Notre Dame
Meineke: West Virginia
Toronto: UConn-Pitt winner
Birmingham: UConn pitt loser
St. Pete: South Florida

At large. I would expect 6-6 Rutgers to get placed. Not sure if 6-6 Louisville ends up anywhere. We'll see.

As far as UConn, I think by virtue of their loss to USF on Sunday they are locked into either Toronto or less likely Birmingham.

UConn's bowl prospects are quite limited at this time. A 9-3, 5-2 record might have enticed the Sun Bowl (unlikely) or perhaps a return trip to Charlotte (I find no enthusiasm for it). not now though.

The likely scenario is Toronto or Birmingham. I am leaning towards Toronto in almost all scenarios. If Pitt beats UConn on Dec. 6, then it's possible they would go to the Car Care bowl and that would send Rutgers to Birmingham (they were in Toronto last year) and UConn to Toronto.

IF Pitt beats WVU and UConn, they could be headed to the Sun. Car Care jumps at WVU, and Rutgers to Birmingham and UConn to Toronto.

I would give UConn and Toronto a 75 percent chance of happening. It's either going to be Pittsburgh or UConn in Toronto. No other teams makes sense.

Jan. 3 is cold for Toronto, but that is a Saturday, and how about New Year's in Canada? It could be worse.

One thing is clear. The bowl situation needs an overhaul. Incoming Big East commish John Marinatto has a lot of work to do this summer.

Monday wrap

Odd that today is Monday. The week has me going haywire. Sunday night games are awful.

When Randy Edsall looked at the film the game came down to about 6 plays on defense. Four of them were big plays, three in the passing game and one rushing touchdown. That, and the two third down runs by Grothe that helped run out the clock.

Edsall thought his defense was very good outside of those breakdowns. In fact, the Huskies outgained the Bulls on the road 258-247 (for all of those criticizing UConn last year,they have outgained opponents in 3 of 4 losses. Meaningless stat).

The problems on special teams have come to a head. In three of the losses, you can pin a lot of it to special teams. UConn struggled with field position on Sunday. Edsall is kind of out of ideas. One player ran down on the coverage unit and had a clean shot at the ball.Instead, he ran to the blocker and ended up tripping himself. Inexplicable.

"Kickoff coverage, we had guys that didn't do things they were coached to do," Edsall said. "I wish I had ananswer for it. We are always looking to see if other guys can go in there. I don't no what else we can do than what we are doing."

Honest assessment. It's been a bugaboo and kind of like trying to patch up a damn. Punt protection improves, then kickoff coverage fails. Or, kickoffs are good and the FG unit struggles. it's hard to win when the unit is a negative. At the very least, the unit has to hold its own and be neutral.

* Edsall thought the offensive line showed some of its youth. One notable exception was Will Beatty, who was blocking USF's George Selvie. Edsall said it was the best game he ever played.

*Edsall sent in several calls for review. The fumble by Lorenzen (which was a fumble) and the 4th and 21 play to end the game. Edsall wouldn't comment on the plays, but there is little question that the hit on Lorenzen was a personal foul call. The defender led with his helmet and left his feet and obliterated Lorenzen (who is ok). They ruled the penalty an illegal forward pass, though Lorenzen was still behind the line of scrimmage.

For the life of me, I don't know how the official called an illegal forward pass and not a personal foul. Was he auditioning for the NFL?

* Greg Lloyd is still in school, and he may play in the bowl game according to Edsall. That's good news for the Huskies. Aaron Bryant started in Lloyd's place.

*No football this week for the head coach, but it's a big Wednesday night for the Edsall family. Son Corey is the starting QB for East Catholic as they take on former co-op partner Cheney Tech Wednesday night. As for Mr. Silver, he is headed to Windsor-Bloomfield Wednesday night (work of course). Love high school football. Edsall said he has gone to three games this season.

That's it for now. Be back later after I pay the bills.

Be back tommorrow

I got to hit the bed.

Tough loss for the Huskies. This year is going to really frustrate the players. Mistakes are what is dooming the Huskies, not ability. UConn's margin of error is so slight, one error, and it seems to cost UConn more than other teams.

Except for UNC, the other three losses you can point to maybe 1 or 2 plays a game that turn things around.

Here is a line from my story:

The Huskies had two big plays the entire game. Lorenzen found fullback Anthony Sherman for a 28 yard catch and run and a trick play, a double reverse flea-flicker, resulted in a 43-yard touchdown pass from Lorenzen to Ellis Gaulden to tie the game at 10-10 in the third quarter.

The other 65 plays went for 187 yards and average of 2.8 per play. The leading receiver was Sherman, with four catches for 45 yards.

Folks, it's simple. UConn needs playmakers at WR or TE. Tyler Lorenzen didn't have a great game, but I am not sure there were a ton of open targets anyway. Check out the keys to the game. UConn did none of it.They needed some big plays today, and they got only two. And,one was a gimmick.

Here is Edsall on it:

“When you have to do that (the flea-flicker) and manufacture big plays it makes it hard, you have to be very exact,” Edsall said. “We got to get guys who can make big plays.”

I have to go to bed. Looks like Greg Lloyd won't be with the team for the season finale.

I hate night games, especially this late. I will give some more info tomorrow. If I was a Huskies die-hard,I would be disappointed this morning.

Chow.

Live blogging USF!

Pregame: Can this game start already? 8:15pm on Sunday is awful. Went down to the field. Steve Brouse is here. This game is never going to start,USF is doing senior day.

First quarter

Update 8:20 pm: UConn wins toss defers, rumor has it the game is going to start.

Update 8:21 pm: 64yard return by Bogan to open game. Kick wasn't deep enough,coverage didn't get down fast enough. Bad opening.

Update 8:2 p.m.: Touchdown USF, 2:23. Ben Williams 2 yard run. 7-0. 5 plays, 30 yards. Key play was a third and 8 22 yard pass play. Early hay maker.

Update 8:29pm: So far away from the field in press box can't see the game. May go watch it on tv. Up high and on an angle. Seriously, I can't read the numbers.

Update 8:45p.m. Cullen goes down for running into the kicker. He sells this better than anyone. He limps around and once the official calls the penalty and announces it, he runs off the field.

Update 8:49 p.m.: Late to party,but no Greg Lloyd Jr. Not making trip personal reasons.

1st quarter wrap-up: UConn 7-0 end of first quarter. Don't like the feel. USF is driving after a big passing play. UConn offense isn't going to score much tonight. A TD here and the Huskies are in trouble.

Second quarter

Update 8:59 p.m.: 3rd and 9 and USF gets a 32 yard pass play. Can't allow that to happen. Huskies hold on for a 30 yard field goal. 10-0 USF.

Update 9:04 pm: Bedard dropped a big play. No hands whatsoever. Huskies are struggling on offense. No confidence that this offense can move the ball.

Update 9:07 pm: Boy does this team need some receivers. No one is open anywhere on a conventional route.

Update 9:16 p.m.: Big play on4th and short by Lawrence Wilson. UConn takes over at the USF 45. Wait, here is a challenge...upheld. UConn ball. Huskies need to get the passing game going. Have to loosen things up for Brown.

Update 9:26p.m.: The great Dave Teggart from 21yards makes it 10-3 with 28 seconds left.The Great David is 10-for-10. 12 plays 41 yards, six minutes. Let's say it again,12 PLAYS, 41 YARDS, and settle for field goal in almost seven minutes. UConn sorely needs some offensive explosion.

Update 9:30 p.m.: Special teams,Hogan runs it 71 yards. Why is special teams so bad?

Update 9:32 pm: Aaron Bagsby INT. UConn's defense is saving the Huskies. Grothe is turnover prone. Bagsby just saved the game for UConn. They have to feel fortunate.

Halftime wrap: It's like pulling teeth.The Huskies are in the game because of their defense. The special teams has broken down, and the offense is getting beat. Huskies have 75 yards in 30 plays. That is 2.5 yards a play. The running game is getting beat up front. Brown has11 carries for 36 hard-earned yards. Passing? 28 yards on 5-for-10. Not very productive.

UConn is fortunate to be in the game. It's going to go one of two ways --either the offense wakes up a bit and the Huskies make this a game. Or, USF comes out for the second half and blows UConn out. Either or, we are going to find out soon in the third quarter.

More stats: USF has 89 yards on 3 plays, the other 27 have netted 58 yards.

Third quarter

Update 10:03 p.m.: First drive fizzles. Penalties and false starts. Also, Jordan Todman got knocked down on third down 10 yards out.Right in front of the ref and he didn't call a thing. I don't know how that is not a penalty.

Update 10:03 p.m.: Why has Donald Brown had two false starts? I don't understand how that's possible.

Update 10:22pm: Incredible drive for UConn. 15plays and they just get over mid field on a penalty. It's been a 7 minute...

Update 10:24 pm: Triple reverse then from Lorenzen to Brown to Todman for a 43-yard TD pass! Incredible. 10-10. 12 plays 87 yards. That was perhaps the most bizarre drive I have ever seen.

Update 10:34pm: Desi Cullen shanks a punt for the second time. I don't get it. 24 yards and it gives USF the ball at the UConn 48.

Fourth quarter

Update 10:44p.m.: Dam broke on defense. Inside hand off goes for a Jamar Taylor TD on third and 3 from the 25. Huskies call a timeout before the play,then give up that? Ouch. Cullen's terrible punt put the defense in bad position. 17-10 USF, 12:36to go.

Update 10:54p.m.: The great David Teggart kicks a 35yard FG. 11-for-11, 17-13 US. UConn justcan't do much of anything passing. Sherman is the go to guy on third down.That's tough to do considering he is the fullback.

Update 10:57pm: The special teams gets an F-. Terrible. Pooch kick to prevent big returns is still returned past the 40. Grothe over threw a certain game-clinching touchdown.

Update 11:06p.m.: Lorenzen gets the first down and he fumbles it. Let's see if it is changed...it's a fumble. Could have just cost UConn the game. Ball security. Made a great play and turnovers kill...

Update 11:12pm: Grothe run on third down can't go for 9 yards. Poor defense up the middle.Huskies defense failed on two third down runs. Bad job.

Update 11:17 p.m. UConn going to have the ball at the 20 yard line, 1:28 left no timeouts. Here is the ball game.


Update 11:20 p.m.: Awful offensive possession. When you can't pass it it is tough to play. BTW, absolutely certain personal foul on the Lorenzen hit. He was defenseless and the guy left his feet for a hit. Lorenzen got knocked into next week.

Huskies lose. Could have won, don't know if they should have won. Another tough loss for UConn.

Keys to the game

1. Run, run, run

No secret here. USF is No. 5 nationally against run. Donald Brown is top rusher in the country. Something has to give and the Huskies need to be stubborn with the run. Unless Tyler Lorenzen turns into to Steve Young, the Huskies are going to need to run the ball effectively. Tough road, but its the way to victory

2. Big plays

Huskies need quick scores. Long runs, pass, specials teams, UConn needs about 6 big plays to take the pressure off.

3. Pressure Grothe into turnovers

Matt Grothe is a big play QB, but he can also provide big plays for the defense. Grothe commits turnovers when he is pressured, and the Huskies can benefit from those mistakes.

Where does ND go?

Saw the shocking end to the Syracuse game, and as Mr. Anonymous stated in the comment portion, has ND "jumped the shark?"

This is going to get ugly because from the reports I have read, the Sun Bowl is very interested in ND at all costs. They have said they would strongly consider ND at 6-6. Make no mistake, Notre Dame is going get drilled by USC next week. No 7-5 bailout for ND or the Sun.

Now, this is where it gets messy. The Gator and the Big East have a "handshake" agreement about not taking ND with three wins less than the Big East's candidate. And, the Gator is unlikely to take a Big East team anyway. They are going to let ND/Big East ride and take their shot next year at perhaps a better ND team. I expect Nebraska to go here unless something crazy happens (like three Big 12 teams in the BCS game, which was ruled possible if Missouri gets the automatic bid and two Big 12 become at larges).

The Sun has no such verbal agreement. The Sun Bowl likes hype and matchups and this may be the only time they ever get a chance for ND to go to El Paso. When the bowl agreements are up for 2010, what happens if the Sun loses its Big East/ND tie in with the Gator?

So, what about being 6-6? ND is its own conference. They are eligible because they have a tie-in at 6-6. I would say even if a 7-5 Big East team is left out because of lack of bowls, ND will get theirs.

It's a legal mess. Do you consider ND a separate entity, or are they part of the Big East for purposes of bowl bids? Or, is ND's agreement similar to Navy's agreement with the Congressional Bowl. Once they are eligible the bid is theirs if they want it? The key point is that the Big East is included in these agreements because of Notre Dame, not the other way around. There is no Gator/Sun deal without Notre Dame.

I can't fathom the outrage if say a 9-3 WVU team, which is 6-1 in the league, gets bumped down to the Car Care bowl. That could also move a UConn team that is 9-3 (big if and tough task) to the International Bowl. Ouch.

Notre Dame plays by its own rules.

Saturday is here...when's the game?

I am thrown off. It's Saturday afternoon why isn't the game being played today? Couldn't ESPN put on The World's Strongest Man competition from 1980?

This is going to be a ratings killer Sunday-- USF-UConn (ESPN,8:15 pm), as in it might kill college football. No Giants for me this week (a bone of contention), and the game is going against the NFL, the season finale of True Blood and Entourage as well as 24 Redemption.

I strike a good balance of work and pleasure, this is starting to infringe on pleasure. OK, so it's 67 degrees vs. 20 and I am in Tampa going to watch a football game. I cede the point. Journalists are essentially complainers anyway. If we aren't railing against something then there is something wrong. And, considering the weather, and where I came from, I'll work for free this weekend (kidding).

Off topic, but this is keeping me up at night. Has Entourage jumped the shark?



The show has had a glorious five-year run, but there is no way Meadow Soprano is in any way ever going to "hook up" with Turtle. The suspension of belief is too great. We even learned Turtle's real name -- Sal. It's all down hill from here.


Anyhow, it's 67 degrees out here and I have given the ND-Syracuse game a half. I saw Syracuse last week. I will have game stuff tonight or maybe tomorrow.

Thursday update

Uneventful call, no controversy, and no references to Disney characters. Imagine if UConn was playing Central Florida this week and not South Florida?.

Anyhow, good news and bad news. Steve Brouse is progressing by Edsall doesn't expect him to play Sunday. What does that mean? Have some nightmares on punt protection.

Good news is Mike Cox is back in practice and will travel to Tampa. He has been back for the last couple of week and is going to be available on an emergency basis. Cox had a major knee injury suffered prior to spring practice in an injury unrelated to football.

That's about it.

Kiss the Sun/Gator goodbye

It looks like 6-6 Notre Dame can, and will, jump over any Big East team and be in the Sun Bowl.

Via the Associated Press.

I surmise that the ND agreement supercedes the NCAA rule that all 7-5 teams in a conference must be bowling before a 6-6 conference team fills a spot. ND has its own agreement, and the Big East is the tag along.

Of course Notre Dame plays by its own rules.

Here is the money quote:

If the Gator Bowl passes on Notre Dame, Bernie Olivas, executive director of the Sun Bowl in El Paso, Texas, is ready to invite the Irish even if they lose their last two games.

"Notre Dame is coveted by everybody, including by us," he said. "We'd probably be excited by a 6-6 Notre Dame team. El Paso is like 80 percent Catholic, 80 percent Hispanic, and you wouldn't believe how many calls we're getting here: 'Is Notre Dame coming? Is Notre Dame coming?"

Also, Gator said if it is not ND, it will be Big 12. Some pretty good Big East team just found a great season all but certain to end up in Birmingham against a Sun Belt team. UConn could win its final two, move into the Top 20, and end up in Birmingham or St. Pete.

The only out is ND to win its final two and the Cotton Bowl takes the Irish.

In Wednesday's JI

Here is Wednesday's notebook. I have led with a story about defensive ends Kendall Reyes and him and Twyon martin moving into the starting lineup.

I give UConn and the coaching staff a lot of grief about the lack of WRs, they deserve a tip of the cap for what they are doing on the defensive line. These guys they are getting are hardly blue chip prospects and they are turning into good players quickly. The fact two freshmen are starting on this defense is tremendous. I understand Lunn and Polito are banged up (especially Polito), but Martin is a player and I love Reyes' potential.

I like the D-Line for the future. Cody Brown is a star, but even next year Lindsey Witten looks like if he gets a ton of snaps he could become a sack force. He has played great recently.

Lastly, how is Reyes only offered by UNH and UConn? All that money and only UConn saw potential? I don't know about you , but he projects to be a pretty good player. His body frame should be able to add weight easily and he should maintain the agility when he fills out. I would say the worst barometer of a high school propsect is basing his potential on who offers. Not every Ohio State prospect goes to the NFL. How do you know if Ohio State looks at the offer as a kid who is a star, or are they just looking for depth.

Regardless, I like the direction of the line to a more athletic and more explosive. How many power teams are left in the country outside of the Big 10? Everyone else uses speed.

UConn has struggled to get the star WR because those guys are easily projectable and want to play in warm weather pass happy offenses. To find this many D-lineman and so young bodes well for the future. These guys are much harder to find than others.

Lastly, Jeff Hathaway was quoted in The Courant today saying no one has contacted him about Edsall and Syracuse and that Edsall told Hathaway he has no interest. That should put an end to this. Don't know why this information is so hard to pry out of UConn (attempts to reach Hathaway were rebuffed Monday. Didn't try Tuesday, perhaps should have again). If the guy wants to stay, and UConn wants to keep him, do so publicly.

On a side note. Don't know why Edsall passed on a chance to say no outright to Syracuse Tuesday. If he said he wasn't interested in the position at all, now or in three weeks or 6 weeks, then this goes away. He had a chance to do that and instead cited his statement.

PR 101. Don't leave any ambiguity if you don't want any ambiguity. The statement failed to squelch the rumors because of "careful wording" and it boxed him in if he does indeed want the job.

Randy Edsall can't leave now without reputational harm and sour feelings because of the statement. If he doesn't want the job, why let the rumors persist? He needs a more aggressive stance. I understand he doesn't want to embarass Syracuse, but the ambiguity and no comment isn't a good strategy. It's not going to go away. It will hang over this program until Syracuse picks it's next coach.

It makes UConn look weak allowing those rumors to contine out of Syracuse.

What do you guys think?

Tuesday presser

Nice information packed day at the Burton today. The team was in very good spirits today. There is nothing like coming off a win. Randy Edsall did briefly address Syracuse today when he was asked about his comments to The Day yesterday. Edsall referred to his statement to The Day yesterday and that was that.

Here is some thoughts. Let's think logically:

I know people are going to read into statements. Perhaps, that is inevitable and I am sure UConn fans would like him to just say: No, I will not be Syracuse coach next year. Edsall didn't go that far, but I would take the statement at face value. Nick Saban said he wasn't going to Alabama because he hated the local Miami media and he had no respect for the Dolphins organization.

Do you really think Randy Edsall would volunteer the info if it wasn't true? Does he have that little respect for the university, state and his players? Not in your life. He would take 3 uncomfortable weeks over a damaged reputation. UConn has been good to him and vice versa.

Remember, if Cuse wants to negotiate Edsall is bound by contract to let UConn know. As a courtesy, Syracuse would go to UConn AD Jeff Hathaway anyway. Why would UConn play along? Why would UConn allow Edsall to take the pressure off himself, only to go to Syracuse three weeks from now? UConn would be nuts as an administration to play along. The harm it would cause Edsall's reputation is immeasurable anyway.

No coach wants to be the next Nick Saban or Rich Rodriguez. Saban's and Rodriguez's reputations are in tatters.

Edsall isn't going to Syracuse this year. I believe him. He took that off the table Monday. Flat out took it off the table. There is no splicing words or careful wording. Edsall's intentions can't be clear. No to Syracuse. He can't back out of this without severe harm to his reputation.

Great blog stuff, but perhaps Syracuse should bark up another tree.

On to the more important stuff, the USF presser!:

* Edsall talked a bit about the defensive tackle rotation and why redshirt freshmen Kendall Reyes and Twyon Martin have passed the banged up Rob Lunn and Alex Polito. Polito is still hurting, but Reyes and Martin are quicker and more stout and have great hands. Edsall then talked about his young defensive tackles. Defensive linemen are the toughest to recruit and Edsall loves the youth and ability of not only Reyes and Martin but also redshirt Ryan Wirth. Those three guys are for the future and when you factor in upcoming recruiting classes it looks like the Huskies are going to have a nice D-Line situation for years to come.

Reyes and Martin roomed last year. They talked a lot about getting on the field together. Neither figured it would be this quick.

UConn is looking for quicker and more athletic defensive lineman to combat the spread. He wants athletic and mobile over straight 300 plus size. They have these guys all over the place. This is the hardest position to find, and Huskies look to have a nice stable.

*Edsall talked about DE Cody Brown too. "Living up to my expectations." Brown has been a monster. Edsall saying Brown's living up to expectations is about as high a praise you can get for Brown in season (wonder what Edsall thinks of Donald Brown?).

Brown said that he still considers George Selvie the best DE in the league. He also said watch out next year for UConn junior DE Lindsey Witten. "Lindsey's a beast," Brown said.

Brown has a bet with Jasper Howard about how many deflected balls each will get this year. Right now it is Jaz 11-8. Brown said he used to do it with Darius Butler but Butler was sick of losing.

* As far as D. Butler. He hasn't returned to practice yet but he is aiming for the Pittsburgh game to return. It is a sprained left knee and won't require offseason surgery. Butler said he is "All done" returning kicks. He also was told early on that it wasn't serious. On the field the and in the locker room right after he was given some positive information. He said the NFL didn't enter his mind because he didn't think the injury was that bad and it he had the same thing happen to his right knee before.

Look for Butler definitely for the bowl, maybe for Dec. 6.

*Steve Brouse is going to return to practice this week. Mostly this week in a special teams capacity, and they will see if he can play at tight end. I would expect him back Dec. 6 also if he doesn't return this week.

*Edsall saw Jordan' Todman's kick and couldn't believe he took the ball out from 5 yards deep. Todman got to the 40 yard line, an excellent kick return. Edsall: "It's a good thing he is fast."

*Lastly, this is the first time returning to Tampa since the infamous Beergate scenario that led to six players being dismissed from the team. A handful of players went and got beer from a convenience store and were soon outed. It was a disaster to the team and even worse a public relations fiasco. The Huskies have had relatively few problems since, and that was a point of emphasis.

Edsall isn't taking any chances: "We aren't staying in that same hotel."

Monday news dump

There are a couple of items I have been holding onto for today, and of course Randy Edsall tells The Day he isn't interested in Syracuse (blog post below)

It's important for recruiting to end this now, and these things tend to have a life of their own. Even this statement won't stop the talk,but the coaching staff can go recruit and have some ammunition to fight back against questions of coach leaving. Recruits aren't going to jump on if the coach may jump off.

It's important for recruiting and morale for Edsall to say this. I am sure some of his players questioned him, likely prompting this response. It's sufficient and total.

Also, is it that much of a surprise? Outside of his roots, does Syracuse really offer more than UConn as far as potential? Syracuse is an attractive job, but objectively, UConn's infrastructure is superior. This is flat out about winning. Take the names off the uniform and get rid of history. It's about infrastructure and future.

Why would a Donovan McNabb or Dwight Freeney pick Syracuse over UConn or Rutgers right now. Those players could very well pick UConn or Rutgers. In fact, they already have (Donald Brown, Ray Rice, etc.) .

For my money, unless a highly paid NFL job plops on his desk, the only logical fit for Edsall to leave would be Penn St. But, that is the unicorn of coaching positions. Others have waited 25 years for that job. When it does open everyone and their mother will want it.

PSU has a tremendous infrastructure and recruiting base. Syracuse is more remote, doesn't have a strong recruiting base in-state and it has aging infrastructure with a demanding fan base. You can win at Syracuse, they aren't going to turn into Army. But, I don't see anywhere that Syracuse can go that UConn can't go.

Syracuse is a great job. But, so is UConn.

In to today's JI: Here is a Tyler Lorenzen column off Saturday's game. I kind of write a hybrid story because we don't publish on Sunday.

Notre Dame and a bowl: I have confirmed the Notre Dame bowl scenario and Chip Malafronte from the Runway Blog and the Register is correct.

After much confusion I have gotten the Notre Dame bowl scenario nailed down: There is no contractual two game buffer for the Gator Bowl in selecting the Big East/Notre Dame. But, the Gator has a gentleman's agreement that they will honor a two game spread. So 7-5 ND won't take the Gator over a 10-2 Cincinnati or Pittsburgh team. But, but but... the Sun Bowl has no such handshake agreement. It is conceivable, and maybe even likely, that if the Gator passes on a Big East team the Sun takes Notre Dame at 7-5.

That's bad news for the Big East, especially a team like Pittsburgh that beat the Irish and could end up in the International Bowl despite a pretty good record. Root for Syracuse to be inspired this weekend against the Irish.

Edit: Thanks to Jared in comments. Of course ND can't take a spot at 6-6 over a 7-5 Big East team. Syracuse needs to come up big for the Big East this week.



Larry Taylor stars: Larry Taylor sets a CFL record for punt return touchdowns in a game (2). If he saw Jasper Howard Saturday Taylor would be proud.

Vote D Brown to Doak Walker: The winner of the fan vote gets that player a real Doak Walker Award vote. http://sports.espn.go.com/chat/sportsnation/rank?versionId=2&listId=60

Edsall tells The Day he will stay

UConn coach Randy Edsall told Chuck Banning of the New London Day that he has no interest in the Syracuse position.



Edsall in The Day:

"There has been speculation in various media outlets that I am a candidate for the job," Edsall told The Day this morning. "But with all due respect to my alma mater and the people at Syracuse, I am not interested in being a candidate.

"I just want to continue to coach at the University of Connecticut and prepare my team for this week's game against South Florida and the rest of our 2008 schedule. I don't want this to become a distraction to my players or coaching staff as we move forward."

There you have it folks. Can't be any more clear. That should end all the speculation. Don't know what Edsall let it fester for less than a day (perhaps because it happened so quick, he didn't have a chance to think. He said he didn't know until told on the conference call. Fair enough. It's hard to comment in real time.)

UConn officially won't comment. I requested to talk to Jeff Hathaway about this and the university won't comment on personnel issues.

The Big East would probably frown on a move like this anyway. You don't strengthen one program by weakening another.

One thing is clear however, Edsall is staying. I don't think you will have a Nick Saban's situation he goes to Cuse in 3 weeks.

Edsall and contract

Just doing a story on the Cuse firing and reading Edsall's contract (love FOIA).

Let's just say that if Syracuse wants Randy Edsall someone is going to have to come up with a LOT of money.

First off, if Edsall leaves for another employment before Jan. 1 2009 he has to pay a $1.5 Million buyout. As of Jan. 1 2009, that buyout is reduced to $1.2 million.

I know Edsall has made some money the last couple of years, but he isn't going to fork over $1.2 million of his own cash to go coach a football team anywhere. I don't care if the Patriots are calling. No coach has that kind of cash to blow.

This is where it gets cost prohibitive for Syracuse. If they want Edsall, for their sake there better be a wealthy donor. This money is due 60 days after departure. That's in addition to the buyout of Greg Robinson and the salary Edsall gets.

Clause 11.1 states:

11.1 The Coach agrees not to personally, or through any agent, actively seek, negotiate for, or accept other employment, of any nature, during the term of this Agreement without first having advised the Director of Athletics of the intention to do so.

Perhaps that is why Edsall was angry over the NY Times story a month ago. That is a major contract violation if true (though unsolicited calls to his agent is obviously fine. I wonder what those reported calls by Jim Brown and Floyd Little represent?

Edsall's in a difficult spot. But, as he said on the conference call, that is the profession.

Here is the actual contract courtesy of the Hartford Courant.

Sunday teleconference

Big news was that Greg Robinson was fired at Syracuse. Not news that he is fired, but the Post Standard's Donnie Webb is reporting that Edsall is "very interested" in the job and a leading candidate.

Edsall did nothing to dispel that during Sunday's conference call wrapping up the 39-14 thumping.

"I don’t take about personal issues and never will. I will coach this football team and get them ready for South Florida and that’s it," Edsall said.

“I don’t talk about personnel issues. I just want to focus on making us the best as we can. I am focused on South Florida.”

That's not even a denial

Folks, if Edsall was truly not interested, then why not come out and say it? I would say an offer and Edsall is gone. I will tell you this, it better be quick and if you entertain the thought, you can't come back to UConn.

UConn AD Jeff Hathaway should put pressure on. It's fish or cut bait. One thing working against Edsall is the buyout is prohibitive. Edsall may want to go to Syracuse, but not sure he is going to pick up the $1 million buyout to do it. Don't know if Syracuse can do it. It goes down after January. Not sure all the parties would wait that long anyhow.

This can't be allowed to fester and hang over the program. There is a bye week after South Florida. It should be rectified by then. Allowing this to hang through December will kill recruiting.

That's the profession.

Other notes:

*Twyon Martin and Kendall Reyes have eclipsed AlexPolito and Rob Lunn as starters. It's a 4man rotation, but Edsall really likes Reyes and Polito.

* The Todman reverse that went for a 50 yard TD has went for a TD whenever it has been run in practice.

* No new injuries.

Be back later, got to pay the bills.

Post game Syracuse.

Back at the hotel, and don't have much time as I plan on doing a ton of Sunday stuff tonight before I drive back.

Just one point. I want to make and the first is in regards to Tyler Lorenzen. He passed for 70 yards today and the passing game didn't look crisp, but if anyone doubted what he means to the team forever hold his peace.

Some guys just win, and 15-4 is no accident. This guy has an IT quality in him. If only he had a great arm and threw a great ball the Huskies would really have something. But, they are 6-0 in games he has started, and I think if he played he would have managed a win at Rutgers (should have won anyway).

I'll be back late, late, or early early. I'll try to post before I drive back.

Live blog Syracuse

Pregame: Tyler Lorenzen is in full gear and is going to resume his duties as starting quarterback. As far as gametime, this is good news for the Huskies. It will be interesting to see what he can do and they sorely missed him. 1-3 is no accident without him. As far as shenanigans this week about Tyler's status, well that's another story, won't get into it here. I usually take people at face value. Not anymore. That's fine, I can be skeptical and will be overly cynical from now on.

BTW, ESPNU cameras are in Tyler's face. Well, it looks like ESPNU has it confirmed. Enjoy the game.

Update 7:01 p.m.: Wow. The dome is at most half full, probably less. There is no one here. I can't tell you how few people are at this game. Dies hards and family it looks like. David Tyree is here. First time I ever clapped in the press box. Woo Hoo.

Update 7:04 p.m.: Tyler and Frazer both "warming up." G-Rob getting circles run around him. Pretty funny. UConn to kick off.

First quarter

Update 7:11 pm: Howard limped of after punt. Lorenzen in at QB. We'll see what's wrong with Howard. Huskies are thin at corner.

Update 7:14 pm: Bad job by Kashif Moore on third down. He has to get to the sticks. His catch was 4 inches short. He has to be beyond the to gain line. That's plain experience folks. He'll learn.


Update 7:30 pm: Drive stalls at the Cuse 7. Just struggling in the red zone. No quibble with the plays, though a FB dive on 2nd and goal from the 8 is a bit of a reach. Teggart 23 yard FG. Third down pass to Brown was high. Lorenzen had to get rid of it and I don't think Brown was open anyhow. 3-0 UConn. Defense looks good.

Update 7:41 pm: Another opportunity missed. Moore dropped a TD pass. This one was a tough catch, but it was a good look over the top by Lorenzen with pressure and the ball was there and catchable. Huskies need to make plays. It didn't look like Moore was ready for the pass. 4th down on the 20. On to second quarter...

Second quarter

7:45 pm: The great David Teggart connects right down the middle from 37 yards. He is 8-for-8 in his career on field goal kicks. Everything has looked easy. For the 4th straight week. How the heck was he sitting on the bench as long as he did? Teggart and 6-0 UConn. Field goals are exciting now.

7:50 pm: Syracuse offense one drive into the second quarter after another three and out -- 15 plays and 14 yards, 1 first down.

7:53 pm: GAME CHANGER. Syracuse blocked a Cullen punt, never had a chance to get it off. Punt blocked for a touchdown. 15 yards of total offense on 14 plays and Syracuse is winning 7-6? The specials teams blocking on punts has been an embarrassment. That is 5 blocked punts, and two have gone for touchdowns. I don't know if it is technique or scheme, leaning towards some kind of hole in the scheme because Syracuse looked pretty confident lining up for it.

8:01 pm: Huskies go three and out. This is shaping up to be one of those WTF? games. UConn should be up double digits and be in control. Is it that hard to block on a punt? I don't see every other team in the country getting kicks blocked this often.

8:06 pm: Huskies rush the punter and get a safety. Bad snap and Robbie Frey gets credit for a safety. 8-7 UConn.

8:10 pm: Wow. Jordan Todman takes a reverse and shows tremendous speed for a 50 yard touchdown. You give Todman a hole and just like that he is gone. The kid needs to bulk up, he struggles when he is hit, but give him the edge and he is gone. Great play. That's why we aren't seeing Andre Dixon that much. Todman's speed is something the Huskies have been salivating about all season. They don't really have that on the team. Good play by Kashif Moore on a reception the play prior. He seems to be the only UConn receiver who can actually get open. Order restored for the Huskies -- 15-7.

Update 8:25 pm: Syracuse brings it right back down. On 4th and goal from the goal line, Brinkley gets stiffed, but a second effort gets him in. Huskies defense had a letdown there. All Brinkley on the drive. Xtra point good, 15-14. UConn just didn't wrap Brinkley up a couple of times. It's a ball game, incredibly enough. 15-14, 2:33 left in the half.

Update 8:30 p.m.: Todman shows speed on kickoff gets it to 45. Donald Brown does rest,goes down right sideline Xtra point and 22-14 lead. Brown's 49 yard run showed tremendous speed. 2 plays and 55 yards, Huskies just silenced this place.

Update 8:33 :Brown's 49 yard TD pushed him past Terry Caulley for the schools all-time rushing lead. Brown has over 3,200 yards in his career. He is a great running back.

Halftime wrap

Huskies should be feeling pretty comfortable right now 22-14, and Cuse has put together only one drive all game long. It's UConn's game to lose. It's a typical Tyler Lorenzen game. He is passing dink and dunk with no turnovers, and the running game has had some big plays. Todman and Brown have 50 and 49 yard touchdown runs. Huskies should run the ball down the Orange's throat in the second half. Except for a letdown after the Todman TD, the defense has stopped Cuse cold. Syracuse is going to need another defensive TD or special teams play in the second half. UConn should be feeling pretty good. Could be a bigger score, could be worse. I'll check back with halftime stats, let me go to halftime dinner.

Halftime stats: Brown 97 yards, Todman 59. Lorenzen 4-of-9 for 47 yards. No sacks, no INTs, and no mistakes. That's how Edsall likes to draw it up. UConn 220-90 edge in total offense. Brinkley has 65 of those yards for Syracuse.

Third quarter

Update 9:03 pm: Huskies go 3 and out on first drive. Lorenzen missed Anthony Sherman on a pass.Screen went nowhere and sacked on third down. Too bad Huskies have struggled running the ball.

Update 9:07 pm: UConn defense comes up big. Cody Brown gets pressure, Robert Vaughn INT.

Ugly offensive series. Inside the 6 yard line Brown for no gain, bootleg gets a yard or two and a a play action pass out of the endzone. Huskies struggling with the pass, what else is new? Still 25-14 after the great Teggart hits another field goal. Could have put game away with a TD. Door is still cracked open for Syracuse, just barely.

Update 9:28: Yawn. I need to get to sleep. This Dome is quieter than my home. One more score for the Huskies and this one's over.

Update 9:37 pm: Jasper Howard punt return for a touchdown.Orange faithful headed to the exits 32-14. I don't blame them. Larry Taylor had two tonight in a CFL game. Go figure. Ohh, 32-14. Good night Cuse.

Update 9:40 pm: Robert McClain jumped a route like he knew it was coming. 38 yard INT for a touchdown. This one has turned into a laugher. 39-14 lead over Syracuse. I actually feel bad for the Cuse fans, they are good loyal fans. UConn AD Jeff Hathaway is here, he should head down to the field before the Syracuse administration doesn't let Edsall leave.

Fourth quarter

Update 9:51 pm: I am retiring the blog for tonight. 39-14, 12:17 to go. The fans in Syracuse are hitting the streets, and the blog will return later.

Finally, a blog post

Been struggling with internet. The dome stinks. If you see no posts, it's the WiFi in the dome. Mr. Anonymous, be patient. Tyler Lorenzen is in full gear. Expect him to start for the Huskies.

Way to go Coach Edsall, you pulled a fast one over on all of us. Let's hope the game plan has as much deception as the weeks false starts to the media.

Anyhow, here are the keys to the game, belatedly.

Keys to the game

Run, run, run

Let’s see. Nations leading rusher, on the road against a soft run defense? Huskies need to be stubborn about the running game and let Donald Brown and the offensive line pound the life out of Syracuse and the expected ornery Carrier Dome crowd.

Play field position

Syracuse has returned only eight punts this season for a paltry 4.7 average, last in the Big East. The Huskies need to use their special teams to win field position and change the game. A running game, mixed with field position is the Huskies’ best recipe at avoiding an upset.

Play the team, not the name

UConn has never beaten Syracuse in the Carrier Dome. The Orange have one of the great college football traditions in the Northeast. Jim Brown and Donovan McNabb aren’t playing for the Syracuse anymore. This isn’t your fathers’ Syracuse team and the Huskies should expect to be the favorite and play like it. Syracuse may one day return to be a Big East power, but it won’t be this year.

Friday's JI

We have a couple of things in today's JI. First, a story on Syracuse and what it used to mean courtesy of Rob Lunn. What I couldn't believe was last year, for the first time since 1975 that no Cuse players was drafted.

Big East needs a strong Syracuse.

Good read by Post Standard columnist Bud Poliquin on Edsall being the perfect candidate for Syracuse. Why didn't they hire him four years ago? Can't argue with what he writes, and I am sure the allure is strong for Edsall. It is a straight lateral move in conference however. How many coaches do that? I still say unlikely to Syracuse. But, how many times do we need to read about "whispers" and Edsall being open for a move? Where there's smoke there is fire I guess.

Lastly, a brief Thursday story on the QB update. Three certainly is a crowd in Storrs.

Thursday no news teleconference

Wow. Missed the call because of computer issues, should I even write anything? It's comical.

True story. I was emailed a replay of the conference call because I missed it. The link I was sent was a Pre-Syracuse call in the subject line. I clicked on it and listened for five minutes and took notes off the internet. Predictable stuff about the injuries,and nothing major happening. I am thinking to myself, same old same old. Then, there was a question about North Carolina's big offensive line...WHAT?

No joke. I couldn't tell the difference between the call five weeks ago and this one. It's the same answers every week.

This week was the same as last week's call when I actually dialed in on my phone into the replay.

Is Tyler available?

Edsall says: "I don't know?"

The coach doesn't know two days before the game?

Come on. Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me.

Listen to this nonsense on Cody vs. Zach and what will determine which one will play ahead of the other:

"Zach was ahead before Cody got hurt. Cody got his opportunity when Zach got hurt. Both guys are healthy and played and did some good things and did things they need to improve upon. We will see what transpires this week and what transpires (Thursday)."

Wednesday's JI

First off, of course, here is today's story on Tyler Lorenzen and the QB situation. It's too bad he got hurt. I would have liked to see the Huskies have him through this entire season. He isn't the passer that Endres and Frazer are, but he has so much more command of the huddle (senior QB and a winner).

It's going to help the Huskies in the long run with Frazer and Endres, and they will be better next year for it. But, I think Lorenzen and his experience could have pulled out the Rutgers or the West Virginia game. I am sure against Rutgers with Lorenzen at QB they wouldn't have been so conservative offensively. Against WVU, I think he could have created some things with his legs and got first downs when they need to in the third quarter. It's more little things and demeanor than talent.

The Huskies are well-stocked for the future at QB and its amazing that they are still contenders with the second or third string in. Still, you would like to not have injuries to your QB and top defensive back. Tough breaks for the Huskies.

Also, check out our UConn men's and women's preview today in the Journal Inquirer.

Here is the front page above. Check out the stories at the Journal Inquirer.

Brown Doak Walker finalist

DALLAS (November 12, 2008) - University of Connecticut junior running back Donald Brown (Atlantic Highlands, N.J.) has been named one of 10 semifinalists for the 2008 Doak Walker Award presented by The Guaranty Bank SMU Athletic Forum. The award is annually presented to the top running back in the country.

The 162 members of the Doak Walker Award National Selection Committee will cast their votes to determine the 2008 finalists. On Monday, November 24, three finalists will be named, and a second vote by the Doak Walker Award National Selection Committee will determine the recipient. The 2008 Doak Walker Award recipient will be announced live on The Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards on Thursday, December 11.

The Award is named after three-time SMU All-American running back and 1948 Heisman Trophy winner Doak Walker. Walker, who also punted, returned kicks and kicked extra points, led the Mustangs to two Southwest Conference Championships. He was drafted by the Detroit Lions and led the league in scoring his rookie year. During his six years with the Lions, he led the team to two NFL championships and was chosen All-Pro four times. Walker is a member of both the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame.

The semifinalists (in alphabetical order) are:

Donald Brown (Jr.), Connecticut

Glen Coffee (Jr.), Alabama

Tyrell Fenroy (Sr.), Louisiana-Lafayette

Shonn Greene (Jr.), Iowa

Kendall Hunter (So.), Oklahoma State

LeSean McCoy (So.), Pittsburgh

Knowshon Moreno (So.), Georgia

Javon Ringer (Sr.), Michigan State

Jacquizz Rodgers (Fr.), Oregon State

Evan Royster (So.), Penn State

Big East names new commish

John Marinatto, an internal candidate and former Providence College AD, will succeed Mike Tranghese to run the Big East on July 1 2009.

Here are some thoughts from the introductory conference call:

Marinatto is in line with Mike Tranghese on nearly every major issue concerning the Big East. The word of the day is "status quo."

What does that mean to the football schools? First off, don't hold your breath waiting for expansion or a 9th football member. Marinatto is with Tranghese on this and it can't be anymore clear. Unless there is something dramatic (like Notre Dame or Penn St.) out there to do, the Big East isn't going to add for the sake of a balanced schedule (much to the football coaches displeasure). That would likely rule out rumors such as Memphis, East Carolina, Central Florida and the ilk joining. Marinatto couldn't be anymore clear on this issue.

Marinatto on a 9th team:

"Mike and I in many things are on the same page. On this specific issue we both
are on the same page. We are open-minded, and we have built in precautions in
case something dramatic happens.

"There is no immediate plans, or any plans to expand, and we are on the same page in that."

The No. 1 priority for the Big East and Marinatto is improving the bowl lineup. The Big East bowl lineup is still suffering from the defection of BC, VA Tech and Miami to the ACC. The league adds the St Petersburg Bowl this year, which makes 6 tie-ins. But, Notre Dame can take the Gator or Sun Bowl berth and that could kick the second Big East team down to the Meineke Car Care Bowl. This is the most pressing issue with the BCS contract up for renegotiation.

Also, looks for Notre Dame to be continue to be a part of the football bowl tie-ins.

The easiest way to describe this move by the Big East, which was a unanimous selection, is a simple phrase: "Status Quo."

Not sure how that will play with football coaches concerned about bowls and scheduling, or basketball coaches concerned about the strength of the league. For now, there is going to be no change in thinking or philosophy in Providence.

Tuesday presser

Wow. Talk about being off your game. It was like the first day of school again. JSilver's Blog gives a thumbs down to multiple bye weeks. Huskies incredibly enough, have one more. One of the worst schedules I have ever encountered. Big East has to do a better job scheduling games.

Anyhow, on to Syracuse...

Don't ask. We aren't going to get into it. Gametime decision at quarterback between Zach Frazer(who is honestly healthy) and Cody Endres.

Tyler Lorenzen has resumed some running and practice, but it doesn't appear he is going to be considered an option this week (maybe next week?). Randy Edsall had some insightful things to say about Lorenzen and the QB position.

Edsall talked to Jim Calhoun recently and the hoops jefe said that Edsall defending Lorenzen was like him defending Taliek Brown.

There is some truth in that and Lorenzen is under-appreciated. What I got from Edsall's presser was that if healthy,without a doubt, Lorenzen will play when he is cleared and healthy.

I talked to Tyler today and he is feeling better, but he hasn't pushed it yet. Edsall said as of Tuesday, it's between Cody Endres and Zach Frazer. I believe Edsall.

Edsall said the Huskies are missing the game management and the leadership of Lorenzen. No issues here from me. Lorenzen is a winner and I think the Huskies beat Rutgers and WVU with him at the helm. It's about intangibles.

As far as Endres vs. Frazer. They are both close, it's about who will make better decisions and won't make turn the ball over. It's more leadership and intangibles than talent. Frazer isn't available on Tuesday's he has class, though he is available on Wednesday's. Don't read anything more into that when you see Lorenzen and Endres quotes.

We'll see how this develops over the coming weeks. My bet is Lorenzen starting home against Pittsburgh Dec. 6.


* Edsall tried to down play all Syracuse angles. He ducked even the question whether at one time he coveted the expected opening at Syracuse when Greg Robinson is deposed. There is going to be a lot of talking in coming weeks, I won't put much stock in it. UConn is a better job now, more secure, and with greater upside. It's functionally a sideways move. It would take him 4 years to get the Cuse program to where UConn is now. Maybe the Cuse ceiling is higher because of its tradition. Tradition seems to be the best thing the Orange has going for them, and that's not a great position to be in. Syracuse has some structural challenges to returning as a football power, chiefly the almost unlimited resources of UConn and Rutgers as state schools. In almost every instance except tradition, Syracuse is at a disadvantage to Rutgers and UConn.

There is no rational reason for Edsall to even consider the Cuse job. Now, if he has a soft spot for the Cuse, needs a career challenge, is sick of the CT media, and he thinks that he can get Cuse to be a Big East power in a way UConn can't, then perhaps it's possible. But, that is an emotional decision, not a rational one. He can accomplish all his career goals at UConn in a much more secure environment. You have to see a job as what it is and what it can be, not what it once was or how you wish it to be (Notre Dame anyone?).

Be back later, have some good stuff

Brown a semifinalist for Maxwell Award

And well deserved.

UConn Athletic Communications --- November 5, 2008 --- Brown Named Semifinalist For Maxwell Award

ROSLYN, Pa. (November 5, 2008) – University of Connecticut junior running back Donald Brown (Atlantic Highlands, N.J) has been named one of 15 semifinalists for the 72nd Annual Maxwell Award, given annually to the Collegiate Player of the Year by the Maxwell Club of Roslyn, Pa.

The announcement of the winner of the Maxwell Award will be made during the Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards Show that will be broadcast on ESPN on Thur., December 11, 2008. Three finalists for the award will be in attendance for the ESPN broadcast. The formal presentation of the award will be made at the Maxwell Football Club’s Awards Dinner, to be held on Fri., March 6, 2009 at the Harrah’s Entertainment Complex in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

The complete list of semifinalists include: Sam Bradford, So., QB, Oklahoma; Donald Brown, Jr., RB, Connecticut; Darryl Clark, Sr., QB, Penn State, Michael Crabtree, So., WR, Texas Tech; Chase Daniel, Sr., QB, Missouri, Shonn Greene, Jr., RB, Iowa; Graham Harrell, Sr., QB, Texas Tech; Jeremy Maclin, So., WR, Missouri, Colt McCoy, Jr, QB, Texas; LeSean McCoy, So., RB, Pittsburgh; Knowshon Moreno, So., RB, Georgia; Javon Ringer, Sr., RB, Michigan State; Zac Robinson, JR., QB, Oklahoma State; Mark Sanchez, Jr., QB, USC; Tim Tebow, Jr., QB, Florida.

Brown is currently the leading rusher in the country at 156.22 yards per game. He has 254 carries this year for 1,406 yards and 15 touchdowns. Connecticut has a 6-3 record and a 2-2 mark in the BIG EAST and the Huskies return to action on Sat., November 15 for a 7:00 p.m. game at Syracuse.

Brown is already UConn’s career leader in rushing attempts with 585, has 30 career rushing TDs for third place in Husky history and is second in all-time rushing yards with 3,123 – needing just 65 more yards to become the leader in that category.

Voting the award will begin on Wednesday and close on Sun., November 23. Eligible voters include Maxwell Football Club members, NCAA head football coaches, sports information directors and selected national media.

Quarterback shuffle

One and only update today unless there is major breaking news. I am a news guy at heart, and the excitement of elections is too much for me to ignore.

First off, who is going to be the QB for the Huskies? If you take Randy Edsall's words, Cody Endres, Tyler Lorenzen and Zach Frazer are all in the mix for Nov. 15 at Syracuse.

Lorenzen seems to me to be the biggest longshot since he hasn't played since September. He hasn't officially returned to practice yet, but that's not to say he can't this week. Lorenzen is walking around fine and has resumed "land-based drills." No idea what land based drills are, but considering football is played on the planets surface I take it as a good sign.

As far as Endres vs. Frazer. I have been told that Frazer was ruled out of the West Virginia game on Tuesday after practice. Frazer did practice last week, he just wasn't fully cleared by the medical staff, which is being very conservative with him (as it should). He was never going to play.

So, in essence, Endres was the only possible option against West Virginia as opposed to being selected over Frazer on performance. Frazer is back and cleared to practice, so it's going to be a QB duel, or a three-way race if Edsall isn't blowing smoke about Lorenzen, for Nov. 15 at Syracuse.

As far as my view on the three. I like all three quarterbacks. Cody Endres has to work on his accuracy. It hasn't been good in the two games he started. Even on some completions, the passes sailed on him and in the middle of the field you are playing with fire if you do that. 46 percent completion percentage isn't going to get it done (though not all of it is Endres' fault with a lot of drops).

Still, unlike Bones or D.J. Hernandez a couple of years ago, I think Endres can play at the Division I level in the Big East. Endres is good enough for this level though he isn't ready just yet.

Frazer impressed me when he had time to throw the ball, and looks to be a much more accurate passer than Endres, though not quite as nimble. Accuracy is superior to arm-strength in my book. Lets see Frazer in a home game at Rentschler Field. it's hard to compare the two considering the circumstances. His two games were on the road while Endres was at home for two. That's a big difference with a young quarterback.

What can Lorenzen's role be? Depending on the Huskies record and how Endres/Frazer do, I would imagine that would dictate how much or if he ever sees the field again. His running ability makes him an option to split time with Frazer/Endres I would start one of the young guys, and then maybe for a series or two go with Lorenzen.

Thinking out loud here. But, the offense could use another playmaker and I like Lorenzen's wheels. It all depends on how that foot feels.

Here is the queston of the by week. Put your headsets on assuming all three are healthy and can go, who do you start, and why?

Cuse game noon

UConn-Syracuse Football Game To Kickoff At 7 p.m. On November 15; Televised By ESPNU

STORRS, Conn. (November 3, 2008) -- The University of Connecticut vs. Syracuse football game on Saturday, November 15 will kickoff at 7 p.m. at the Carrier Dome. It will be televised nationally by ESPNU and will be available on WTIC-1080 AM Radio and the UConn Radio Network.

Edit: Previous time was incorrect.

Of note: Semi vacation this week. I will check in periodically this week.

Sunday wrap-- Butler out 4-6

Bad news on Darius Butler, he is out 4-6 weeks with a left knee injury. No surgery is going to be done so that helps. Could return for Dec.6, likely the bowl game.

In his place Robert McClain and Terry Baltimore move up the charts. Fourth corner? TBD,but Gary Wilburn right now.

Edsall saw his team really affected by the dropped Moore pass. UConn did little offensively after it.

That's the news, good call will have more later. I will be back late, Giant game pending...Hey. Nothing comes between me and the Giants. Sorry.

Postgame part II

Walking down to the field at the end of the game I took a glance of the fans walking out of Rentschler Field and couldn't notice how somber they were.

(update, game storylink)

Heads down, no laughing or jumping around. It was odd. I didn't even have to know the score. The disappointment on the fans leaving the building was all I needed to know how this game went.

Who says the fans don't care?

The worst part of losing is knowing at a moment that you have a chance to win and not take advantage of it. When the ball was in the air to Kashif Moore, everyone in the press box, the stadium and the sidelines thought the ball game was over. If Moore catches that ball, the Huskies go onto a blowout win.

I don't think I have ever seen an incompletion deflate the crowd and team so much. There is no fooling truth. When that ball went through Moore's hands, so did the Huskies chances at the Big East and a BCS berth. I knew it, you knew it, and the Huskies knew it.

There are only so many times you get a chance like this, and the plays were there. I don't think I can remember a more somber ending.

Here is Moore on the drop.

"I saw the ball in the air, I might have took my eyes off it, but you know, I should have caught that ball,” Moore said. “It’s something that is going to eat me up for a long time. It went though my hands. It seemed like it was a down type of play. I put it on my shoulders, I should have caught it. ”

Here are some other thoughts:

* Darius Butler hurt his knee and I don't think it looks good. Edsall didn't comment after the game. I hope he just took a knee to the helmet and didn't do any structural damage. WVU Bill Stewart came over and said something to Darius Butler and Edsall and then patted Edsall on the back. Every other coach is grand-standing. Stewart isn't. Not sure if he is the long-term answer at WVU, but he is the nicest coach at any level I have come across. Tough break for Darius, he has a bright future ahead, and this won't hurt him longterm, if it is serious, it will hurt his draft stock.

*Edsall on receivers, see below. Edsall is never this candid about anything. I wonder, was there a recruit out there he was talking too? If I am a high school recruit, I see Donald Brown, that offensive line, and

* In defense of Kashif Moore and Mike Smith, they shouldn't be playing this much yet. They aren't ready and refined. What team plays freshmen at wideouts and expect them to be extremely productive. This is a failure of several years of recruiting. Beer gate continues to rear its ugly head, as does the transfer of Terrence Jeffers to Vanderbilt. Remember, they losttwo receivers in Beergate. Maybe theywould have amounted to nothing, but you never know.

*Likely bowl is Toronto or Tampa in my opinion. Maybe papajohns.com, but I think the Sun Bowl is out even if the Huskies win three in a row. Meineke Car Care would be a stretch because they went last year. A 9-3 UConn team might force Charlotte's hands again, but I imagine they would take Louisville, Pittsburgh or Cincinnati. Get your passport.

*What would the season look like of Lorenzen doesn't get hurt? Not sure they rally to beat Louisville, maybe they do, but I think he manages the game and gets wins over Rutgers and today. I think Lorenzen could have done some things today with his legs that would have helped the Huskies. It really was a tough break. Endres and Frazer can throw it better, and I like both. But Lorenzen is proven, and they were 14-4 in games he started, 1-3 when he doesn't start. Just saying...

Be back tomorrow.

Postgame West Virginia

UConn Coach Randy Edsall was about as honest as I can remember in his post game remarks.

"There is not a lot of margin of error against a team like West Virginia. That is the tale of what happened. We didn't take advantage of the opportunities we had on offense."

The Kashif Moore drop was just one play, there were others. Michael Smith dropped a big catch, D.J.Hernandez fumbled the ball, there were plays to go around that weren't made all over.

"There is nothing you could do. Guys got to make catches, don't know what else you can do...guys have to step up and make plays."

Edsall didn't back away from critiquing his wide receivers:

"We still have to recruit that dynamic wide receiver. Nothing against the kids we have here, they are working hard and doing well. We got to go out and find somebody who will be a go to guy and a dominant guy."

Update on Darius Bulter: Left knee injury, will find out more tomorrow, I would be pessimistic at this point.


Will be back before I leave.

Live blogging West Virginia!

Update kickoff: UConn defers.

Update: Courtesy of FB guru Neill Ostrout of The Post who noticed first. Bagsby at safety starting. Deleston at LB, Lutrus inside, Witten at DE, and Julius Williams inside. I like it.

Edit: Sorry Neill for butchering your name.

Update 12:10 pm: Cody Endres in at QB.


Update 12:13 pm: Hernandez fumble. Ugh. D.J.has a bad habit of trying to fight for an extra yard for no reason. It's an awful played that killed the opening drive. Ball security first.

Update 12:26 pm: Pro football run from Donald Brown 21 yard TD. That is a bigtime run.

Update 12:41 pm: Teggart 36 yard FG. 10-0 UConn. Defense and shanked punt set up the score.

First quarter wrap

Huskies defense having no problem with WVU so far. UConn has moved the ball on all three drives it has had so far, and lost points on a Hernandez fumble. Very encouraging. Huskies are fired up. Brown has 42 yards on the first quarter. He did have one rush that was minus 12.

Huskies up 10-0. This is a much more different West Virginia team, that' s for sure. I don't recognize them.

Second quarter

Update 12:56 p.m: Introducing Pat White. 26 yard TD on third and goal from 26. Collapsed pocket. All White. Tremendous. 10-7 UConn.

Update 1:08 pm: Teggart 38 yard FG into the wind.Key play was a pass interference call on WVU on a play that wasn't going to be a first down. Teggart 6-for-6 in his career. Why wasn't he playing earlier this year?

Halftime wrap

Have to be feeling good if you are the Huskies. 13-7 at the half and if it weren't for a great individual play by pat white, could be 13-3 or 13-0. Donald Brown 77 yards on 15 carries. Endres 11-of-19 passing, and hasn't made any awful mistakes. UConn outgaining WVU 236-111. A couple of notes. Hernandez fumble took away points, and on the final drive of the first half, Michael Smith dropped a pass that hit him in the stomach that would have put the Huskies in FG range. UConn hasn't made all the plays, but they have made enough. The defense, except for a White 26-yard run where he was almost sacked and then went in untouched, has been tremendous. Lutrus at MLB, Deleston and Wilson outside as planned in the offseason. Huskies look faster.

Third quarter

Update 1:55 pm: Kashif Moore dropped a 55-yard TD pass. That hurts. Punt now,went three and out instead of inside the 10. That's another potential game-changer that didn't connect.

Update 2:10 pm: Why do they play music so loud during timeouts. Let the band play or let a cheer get going. This is like the worst of the NBA. It is absolutely awful. There, I said it.

Update 2:11 pm: WVU to the I formation. UConn looks a little flummoxed.

Update 215: pm: Jock Sanders touchdown catch. Did have him wrapped up at the 4, nut he escaped. UConn is its own worst enemy. Had chances to make a play but didn't. 14-13 WVU. Huskies 6 plays 56 yards. Huskies need an answer here.

Two three and outs to open the half,moreon UConn than on WVU defense. Huskies need a couple of first downs.

Update 2:19 pm: Endres INT. He struggles on the intermediate throw. D.J.wide open. Bad pass, and can't happen at a worst time. Danger area now for the Huskies. D needs to hold.

Update 2:22pm: Sander 4 yard TD. WVU rolling now. A turnover has killed the Huskies. It was a poor throw from Endres. Huskies trail 21-13. Not out of it with 3:45 left in the third, but Huskies don't have a first down yet this half. Huskies need something positive on offense.

Update 1:26 pm: Darius Butler hurt,looks like left knee. This hasn't been a good third quarter. Huskies need to get some first downs.

Update 1:28: Say good night Gentlemen. Donald Brown fumble, recovered by West Virginia. The wheels have come off the bus.

Update 2:31 pm: Sanders touchdown run. 28-13 Mountaineers. 21 points this quarter. Two turnovers have killed the Huskies. UConn -3in turnovers. Have made it easy for WVU.

Third wrap

Disaster of a third quarter. Gaveup 21 pts, two turnovers and lost Darius Butler. UConn needs a defensive turnover. Really struggling to move the ball.

Fourth quarter

Third and 9 on its own 6. 11 yard Devine gain. Ball game. Calling it now 8:35 left.Miracle time now. Huskies can't make a play on offense or defense.

Update 300 pm: Huskies need to have a little more energy here.Two scores isn't impossible. Got to have some kind of urgency....as I was writing this. Endres interception at the 21-yard line .

As poor a half as UConn can play. Minutes 3 in the second half TO wise. -4 for the game. This hurts more than last year. Huskies in an even-up game probably win. Receivers drop balls, Endres, too much to put on his shoulders.

Bad loss for UConn. You should all be disappointed. This wasn't about talent today -- as it has been in the past -- this was about execution. Huskies just didn't play well in the second half. A shame. That game was right there for them.

Update 3:07 pm: 35-14 after White TD run. The more things change, the more they stay the same.

Pregame West Virginia

This is football weather. Nov. 1, slight fall breeze, and a big football game.

I don't have this confirmed officially, but it looks like Cody Endres is going to start. He was out there warming up and no sign of Mr. Frazer. UConn is going to have to run the ball anyway and they don't pass much.

The more I think about Butler full-time at WR, the more silly it sounds.And, it sounded silly when I first heard it.