ALWAYS GREAT TO TAKE CARE OF BIZ AGAINST AN OPPONENT YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO. CAROLINA EXPOSED AN OFFENSE AND DEFENSE THAT HADN'T FACED ANYONE IN 2015 AND TOOK ADVANTAGE OF MOMENTUM STEMMING FROM AN EARLY TURNOVER. I'LL BE IN CHICAGO FOR A BACHELOR PARTY SO I'LL BE LARGELY OUT OF COMMISSION FOR WATCHING THE GAMES FRIDAY AND THROUGH MID AFTERNOON SATURDAY. FOR THOSE WHO CAN PLOP IN FRONT OF A COUCH. IT ALL GETS STARTED ON THURSDAY
MY PICKS ARE THE LINES****
Picks Last Week: 6-10 WELP
THURSDAY NIGHT
Cincinnati at Memphis (-9.5) - 7:30pm - The Mothership
This could be called the AAC Championship game. Memphis is likely the best team in the Volunteer State this year with the QB play of Paxton Lynch. Can Tuberville steal one as two score underdogs? I don't think so.
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
Couple options Friday Night
Boise State (-2.5 ) at UVA - 8pm - The Mothership
The 4th stop on the #MikeLondonFarewellTour stays in Charlotteville after UVA ESCAPED against Bill and Mary. Expect a Boise team, fresh off of a thumpin' of Idaho to struggle a bit in the first half against a quiet crowd in Scott Stadium. I expect the Smurfs to leave Charlottesville 3-1 covering the spread, even without their starting QB.
Stanford at Beavertown (+16) - FS1 - 10pm
Stanford didn't just prove this guy wrong by covering against the Men of Troy, they flat out won. They look like a completely different squad than the one that appeared lost in Chicago week one. I don't think they cover this week.
FOOTBALL SATURDAY
High Nooners
Kansas at RUTSgers - B1G Network - Noon
CLEAR YOUR CALENDARS THERE'S A THRILLER AT HIGH NOON
ALL OF THE SADNESS CONVERGES IN NORTH JERSEY BETWEEN TWO PROGRAMS IN COMPLETE DISARRAY. THE CHALLENGES IS TRYING TO NOT STICK FORKS IN YOUR EYES FOR THIS ONE.
BYU (+5.5) at Michigan - ABC - High Noon
The Mormons lost a nail biter to UCLA this past weekend and now head to Ann Arbor against a Big Blue squad that's found some excitement. Assuming Mangum has time in the pocket, BYU should cover and win.
Georgia Tech (-8) at Duke - The Deuce - High Noon
The best game of the session will be in Durham between two teams still very much in the Coastal discussion. The loser won't be entirely out of the race, but the road to Charlotte will have just become much more difficult.
Carolina Fans: The game against Delaware will be on ESPN3 or Raycom for those down south.
Mid Afternooners
Maryland (+17) at WVU - 3pm - FS1
Maryland rebounded this past weekend after getting their asses handed to them by Bowling Green the week before while West Virginia is fresh off a bye week after playing the school for the blind and little sisters of the poor. The first true test for Holgo this year should give them some trouble.
Tennessee at Florida (-1.5) - 330pm - CBS with VERNE
Whenever these two squads get together it's always fun to watch. Florida finally looked like a team with potential this past weekend, while Rock Top got things back together in a glorified scrimmage. Can Florida be trusted? We'll just have to wait and see.
Virginia Tech at ECU (+8) -ABC/The Deuce Combo - 330pm
This game is one that VT fans hate having every year. Seems like ECU always plays the Hokies close and with ECU claiming 2 of the last 6 it's easy to see that. VT looked very good last weekend and should have won by about 50. ECU, who's still trying to find themselves on both sides of the ball always gets up for this game and I expect no different.
TCU (+7.5) at Texas Tech - 4:45pm - Fox
The most beautiful man in college football also has one of the biggest mouths after going after Bret Bielema the last week. Now they host TCU who still seems to be working out the kinks on defense. Does Kliff Kingsbury's air raid take down the Frawgs?
Night Games
Cal (-3.5) at Washington - PAC12 - 5pm
If the mid afternooners get out of wack change the channel to PACtion to a Cal team that's looked really good vs a Washington team that took care of business against Utah State this past week.
Texas A and M at Arkansas (+7.5) - 7pm - The Mothership
Bret Bielema's really taken one on the chin after calling out Ohio State's OOC schedule by losing a pair of games in which he was heavy favorites. The Hawgs have an opportunity to rebound against a red hot Aggies squad in Fayetteville, a team that they should have beaten this past year and many believed would handle heading into 2015. This is the first of 3 SEC games during this time slot that'll go a long way in determining who are contenders and who aren't.
#CLANGA (+3) vs #WDE - 730pm - The Deuce
The second of three SEC games during this slot that you'll want to be posted up for. Like the A&M and Arkansas Game, this one between Miss St and Auburn will go a long way into how the SEC West race shakes out. A loss for either of these teams puts them 0-2 in conference out of reach of ATL.
Mizzou (-2) at Kentucky - 730pm - SEC Network
Like the other two SEC games, this one will go along way in shaking out the contenders from pretenders but in the east race. This division has been Mizzou's the last couple of years and very well could be if the Tigers get back on track after a couple of stinkers against inferior OOC competition.
UCLA at Arizona (+3) - 8pm - ABC
Zona has an opportunity to take control of the PAC 12 South race with a win over undefeated Bruins squad. The Bruins are banged up on defense with now 3 defensive starters lost for the season including All World Linebacker Myles Jack of this week. Zona has an explosive offense and expects Scooby Wright to be back. His matchup with RB Paul Perkins of UCLA is a fantastic one to watch.
Utah (+12) at Oregon - 830 pm - FOX
Utah's not getting any respect in a game that they deserve it. This is the first true test Oregon's had since dropping the game to Michigan State. Oregon's defense looked out of sorts and that should prove costly against Utah's rushing attack with Devontae Booker. I wouldn't be surprised to see Utah win straight up here. Utah's in the top 15 nationally in takeaways and an opportunistic defense could prove difficult for Oregon.
Late Night
A pair of west coast games featuring Southern Cal at Arizona State on the Mothership and Fresno State and San Jose State on CBSSN should keep you occupied till you pass out.
Enjoy this weekend.
Go Heels.
WFP
Thursday, September 24, 2015
Friday, September 18, 2015
ILLINOIS GAME PRIMER: PREDICTION TIME
Headed into this season, I penciled this game in as a sure win for the Tar Heels. I was confident, I thought that there would be little that Illinois would bring to Chapel Hill that would frustrate this team. Illinois has down seasons much like Carolina following the stud teams that Ron Zook cranked out several years back. They're off a 6-7 season, like Carolina, and possessed a defense that often looked lost and seldom stopped anyone. Sound familiar? I was even more confident in a win tomorrow when I heard about the Tim Beckman firing a week before the season started. However, the team that's rallied around interim coach Bill Cubit, is not the one that many envisioned coming to Chapel Hill.
When Carolina's On Offense:
Expect to a defense that will look oddly familiar. Illinois runs a base 4-3 under package utilizing two hybrid positions very similar to the ones that we saw under Koenning. Illinois is blitz heavy defense that tries to cause commotion and confusion in both defending the run and pass. They've been very effective against not-so-great competition at stopping the run, pilling up tackles for loss by the bundle. Expect to see run blitzes and getting after the quarterback from every gap, angle and level as the Fighting Illini will often through DBs on delays and zone blitzes frequently. Carolina Offensive Line and protectors must pass off their blocks soundly, play with strong techniques, and attack in run blocking. Illinois' defense has been very effective at stopping opposing offenses in general, giving up only 2.9 yards a play which ranks them currently at 4th in the country.
A knock on the opposing defense that Carolina faces tomorrow is Illinois' ability to get to the passes, only registering one sack on the year. Illinois' front seven is not without talent, but they've struggled to get in the grill of the opposing QBs. The defensive line is the best unit this defense has to offer and for the Illini to have success against Carolina, they'll need to pressure Marquise. In the passing game, while the linebackers have decent range, by no means are they the athletes with speed that Carolina faced with Sakerlina. Illinois has a very good Will Linebacker in Mason Moneheim that's a tackling machine. Expect to hear his name called often. Also it would be wise for Carolina to recognize where Stong Safety Taylor Barton is lined up as he leads the nation with 3 interceptions on the year. He's however the bright spot of Illinois "okay" secondary.
When Carolina's On Defense
The Illinois Offense lives and dies by two factors:
- The first, is Quarterback Wes Lunt's ability to sit comfortably in the pocket and zing out passes in a mid and long passing attack. The Illini offense has one true threat at receiver in Geronimo Allison with all everything receiver Mike Dudek sidelined with a torn ACL. Lunt's got the accuracy to pick any defense apart and is streaky when he's comfortable. Last year his offense didn't protect him and he struggled. If he's un-phased, he's a good as they come in the B1G.
- Establishing the outside run game. Illinois has had limited success the last couple years pounding the rock in between the tackles but they have found success stretching the run game outside with the speedy Running Back Josh Ferguson. If they ever take the run game inside, look for them to do it with a former Mr Tennessee, Ke'Shawn Vaughn. Both pose threats to Carolina's defense if tackling resorts back to the 2013 and 2014 issues.
Carolina's front seven must get pressure on Wes Lunt. The Illinois passing attack will be one of the stronger units Carolina faces in 2015, specifically because of Lunt's ability and accuracy. The jury's still out on this secondary's effectiveness to defend against the air raid. Knowing Chizik and company, Carolina will force the Illini to become single dimensional by focusing on stopping the run. If the Carolina defensive line can get pressure against what I think is a very inconsistent offensive line, they'll be able to focus the back seven on stopping the passing attack. This game, more than Sakerlina is a measuring stick to the improvements the defensive staff have brought to Chapel Hill.
Prediction Time
While I was doom and gloom early on in this article, I think tomorrow's when we really start to see, what I've considered a job saving hire in naming Gene Chizik the Defensive Coordinator. I expect Carolina to force Illinois to be one dimensional and for Carolina's front seven to get after the Wes Lunt. Lunt and the Illinois offense will put up some points, but it wont be anywhere near of the figures we saw under the previous defensive administration. Expect Carolina to feed Hood early and often as the offense continues to improve and gets back to finishing drives in the red zone. The difference in this game is the defensive Coaching Staff's ability to make adjustments against the Illini attack that puts up a couple early scores.
UNC 33 - Illinois 24
Go Heels. Go America.
Have a great weekend y'all.
WFP
Illinois Week Primer: The Fighting Illini Defense and Special Teams
The Fighting Illini Defense often runs out of a 4-3 under base formation utilizing two hybrid poisitions much like UNC's former 4-2-5 base set. The Leo Linebacker is very similar to the role that Carolina's former Bandit Position and the STAR Linebacker will remind you of the Ram position we saw the previous 3 years. This defense has been stout against very inferior competition, giving up on 165 yards per game and a total of three points. Illinois' defense faces their toughest task of the early season against Carolina's offense. Carolina should be able to put some points up against this group if they do not give up turnovers. The turnover game is an area that Illinois has improved tremendously after being one of the worst squads in FBS last year at forcing TOs.
The Fighting Illini Defensive Line
Defensive End
DE1 Jihad Ward (#17) 6-6 290 lbs Senior - One of Illinois brightest NFL prospects on the roster. Ward's a massive NFL prototype Defensive End who makes plays all over the field. Bentley Spain and Jon Heck will have to make sure to play with excellent technique to help set the edge against Mr Ward. Many expect Ward to improve upon his All B1G Honorable Mention position award he received in 2014. Ward's much better in run defense than in the pass rushing phase.
DE2 Kenny Nelson (#9) 6-6 250 lbs Senior - An experienced back up that is one of only two viable options at defensive end for the Illini. Outside of Ward and Nelson, there's only walk-ons in the system.
DE3 Brandon Roberts (#85) 6-3 265 lbs Sophomore
Nose Tackle
NT1 Jarrod "Chunky" Clements(#11) 6-3 290 lbs Junior - Clements has not been as active in the backfield as much as Illinois would like out of a Nose Tackle, registering only two tackles through two games. He's an ok player in his run fits, but often struggles to force pressure in the pass rushing phase.
NT2 Tito Idenigbo (#94) 6-3 280 lbs Redshirt Frosh - Chunky's Backup's actually been a tad more prductive registering 1.5 tackles for loss opposed to one.
Defensive Tackle
DT1 Rob Bain (#16) 6-3 300 lbs Junior - Bain's made an impact in special teams, blocking a field goal in the opener. He has a very good first step and shows solid burst in the pass rushing phase. Kid takes on double teams very well as he's mentioned as one of the strongest players in the program.
DT2 Nick Allegretti (#53) 6-4 305 lbs Redshirt Frosh - Allegretti's a former Offensive Guard who mad ethe switch because of the attrition at 3 technique. He's fared decently so far in 2015, breaking up a few plays through the first two games, but has yet to register a stat.
Leo Linebacker (hybrid defensive end)
LEO 1 Duwuane Smoot (#91) 6-3 270 lbs Junior - Smoot's the best pass rusher on the team. Possesses solid speed for his size and has shown the ability to set the win the edge. Rounds out what I think is a very solid defensive line. His run defense is a bit dicey but he can certainly pose problems in pass pro.
LEO 2 Carroll Phillips (#6) 6-3 230 lbs Junior - Expect to see this guy in at any position on the defensive line in passing situations. Phillips, while undersized, has been a problem for opposing teams in the passing game. He's very productive when he plays, with his only knock being he's only a situational player.
LEO 3 Henry McGrew (#45) 6-3 235 lbs redshirt Frosh - McGrew's been an excellent surprise in his first year of playing, registering 3 tackles for loss already through two games. He'll end up developing into a very good player for the Illini.
The Fighting Illini Linebackers
Will Linebacker
WLB 1 Mason Monheim (#43) 6-1 235 lbs Senior - The most active tackler on the Illini defense two years running. Monheim makes plays all over the field. Carolina's offense will have to keep tabs on where this guy lines up. He's a stud. Saturday will be his 40th start in an Illini uniform.
WLB 2 LaKeith Walls (#22) 6-2 215 lbs Junior - A very solid back up who's been as productive as the man ahead of him on the first team. Walls has very good range for a Will Linebacker and the Illini love to send him on blitzes.
WLB 3 Julian Jones (#44) 6-2 215 lbs Freshman
Mike Linebacker
MLB 1 TJ Neal Jr. (#52) 6-1 235 lbs Junior - Neal's been a mainstay at Mike Linebacker much like Monheim's been one at Will. He's a productive backer who plays well in space.
MLB 2 BJ Bello (#10) 6-3 225 Junior
Star Linebacker (hybrid DB)
STAR 1a James Crawford (#5) 6-2 215 lbs Sophomore
STAR 1b Eric Finney (#14) 6-0 220 Senior
STAR 3 Cedric Doxy (#26) 6-2 220 Junior
Craford's perfomed well in his first two starts in place for the injured Finney. With Finney back expect Crawford and Finney to split snaps at STAR linebacker all day on Saturday. The coaching staff loves to blitz both on run and pass blitzes with both players registering multiple TFLs already through two games.
The Fighting Illini Secondary
CB 1 V'Angelo Bentley (#2) 5-10 190 lbs Senior - Bentley's a much better all around player than he is cornerback with the most dangerous aspect of his game coming in the punt and kick return phase of the game. Coaches love to blitz Bentley off the edge and his production warrants it, registering over 9 tackles for loss the last couple of years for a cornerback. Carolina will be one of his biggest tests of 2015 with the size and speed combo Carolina's receivers have shown.
CB 2 Darius Mosely (#24) 5-11 190 lbs Junior - A solid back up. He's like Bentley specializes in the return game. He's the nickle back when Illinois puts that package on the field.
CB 3 Davontay Kwaaning (#23) 5-11 190 lbs Senior
CB 1 Eaton Spence (#27) 6-0 185 lbs Senior - With Bentley receiving most of the attention it's easy to look over how solid of a player Spence's been since he arrived at Illinois. Spence is a much surer tackler than Bentley but coaches do not send him on blitzes to make the splash plays you often see with Bentley.
CB 2 Jalen Dunlap (#28) 6-1 185 lbs Sophomore - Dunlap's played well as a back up after missing all of 2014. He's a member of the dime package.
FS 1 Clayton Fejedelem (#20) 6-1 195 lbs Senior - A former walk on who's made the most of his opportunity according to the Champaign Room. I can't disagree. As the leading tackler on a squad where's there no clear run away tackling machine like Carolina has, "Fej" has a well rounded body of work that makes you respect airing it out deep.
FS 2 Jevarius Little (#15) 6-0 190 Junior
SS 1 Taylor Barton (#3) 6-1 215 lbs Junior - Carolina must recognize where this guy lines up on the field as he's currently tied for leading the FBS in interceptions with three already this season. He has as many turnovers single handidly as Carolina has as a team.
SS 2 Darwyn Kelly (#4) 6-1 210 lbs Sophomore
The Fighting Illini Special Teams
Kicker Taylor Zalewski (#17) 6-2 220 lbs Senior- Zalewski is perfect on the year 4-4 in field goals, 11-11 in extra points, with a long of 43. Like Weiler he's been much improved this year.
Punter Ryan Frain (#13) 6-2 220 Junior - Frain averages over 40 a punt. He's a weapon in special teams.
Kick Off Returners: V'Angelo Bentley (#2) and Darius Mosely (#24) - see above.
Punt Returners V'Angelo Bentley (#2) and Darius Mosely (#24)
Now that we've covered both the Illinois Offense and Defense, it'll be prediction time shortly.
The Fighting Illini Defensive Line
Defensive End
DE1 Jihad Ward (#17) 6-6 290 lbs Senior - One of Illinois brightest NFL prospects on the roster. Ward's a massive NFL prototype Defensive End who makes plays all over the field. Bentley Spain and Jon Heck will have to make sure to play with excellent technique to help set the edge against Mr Ward. Many expect Ward to improve upon his All B1G Honorable Mention position award he received in 2014. Ward's much better in run defense than in the pass rushing phase.
DE2 Kenny Nelson (#9) 6-6 250 lbs Senior - An experienced back up that is one of only two viable options at defensive end for the Illini. Outside of Ward and Nelson, there's only walk-ons in the system.
DE3 Brandon Roberts (#85) 6-3 265 lbs Sophomore
Nose Tackle
NT1 Jarrod "Chunky" Clements(#11) 6-3 290 lbs Junior - Clements has not been as active in the backfield as much as Illinois would like out of a Nose Tackle, registering only two tackles through two games. He's an ok player in his run fits, but often struggles to force pressure in the pass rushing phase.
NT2 Tito Idenigbo (#94) 6-3 280 lbs Redshirt Frosh - Chunky's Backup's actually been a tad more prductive registering 1.5 tackles for loss opposed to one.
Defensive Tackle
DT1 Rob Bain (#16) 6-3 300 lbs Junior - Bain's made an impact in special teams, blocking a field goal in the opener. He has a very good first step and shows solid burst in the pass rushing phase. Kid takes on double teams very well as he's mentioned as one of the strongest players in the program.
DT2 Nick Allegretti (#53) 6-4 305 lbs Redshirt Frosh - Allegretti's a former Offensive Guard who mad ethe switch because of the attrition at 3 technique. He's fared decently so far in 2015, breaking up a few plays through the first two games, but has yet to register a stat.
Leo Linebacker (hybrid defensive end)
LEO 1 Duwuane Smoot (#91) 6-3 270 lbs Junior - Smoot's the best pass rusher on the team. Possesses solid speed for his size and has shown the ability to set the win the edge. Rounds out what I think is a very solid defensive line. His run defense is a bit dicey but he can certainly pose problems in pass pro.
LEO 2 Carroll Phillips (#6) 6-3 230 lbs Junior - Expect to see this guy in at any position on the defensive line in passing situations. Phillips, while undersized, has been a problem for opposing teams in the passing game. He's very productive when he plays, with his only knock being he's only a situational player.
LEO 3 Henry McGrew (#45) 6-3 235 lbs redshirt Frosh - McGrew's been an excellent surprise in his first year of playing, registering 3 tackles for loss already through two games. He'll end up developing into a very good player for the Illini.
The Fighting Illini Linebackers
Will Linebacker
WLB 1 Mason Monheim (#43) 6-1 235 lbs Senior - The most active tackler on the Illini defense two years running. Monheim makes plays all over the field. Carolina's offense will have to keep tabs on where this guy lines up. He's a stud. Saturday will be his 40th start in an Illini uniform.
WLB 2 LaKeith Walls (#22) 6-2 215 lbs Junior - A very solid back up who's been as productive as the man ahead of him on the first team. Walls has very good range for a Will Linebacker and the Illini love to send him on blitzes.
WLB 3 Julian Jones (#44) 6-2 215 lbs Freshman
Mike Linebacker
MLB 1 TJ Neal Jr. (#52) 6-1 235 lbs Junior - Neal's been a mainstay at Mike Linebacker much like Monheim's been one at Will. He's a productive backer who plays well in space.
MLB 2 BJ Bello (#10) 6-3 225 Junior
Star Linebacker (hybrid DB)
STAR 1a James Crawford (#5) 6-2 215 lbs Sophomore
STAR 1b Eric Finney (#14) 6-0 220 Senior
STAR 3 Cedric Doxy (#26) 6-2 220 Junior
Craford's perfomed well in his first two starts in place for the injured Finney. With Finney back expect Crawford and Finney to split snaps at STAR linebacker all day on Saturday. The coaching staff loves to blitz both on run and pass blitzes with both players registering multiple TFLs already through two games.
The Fighting Illini Secondary
CB 1 V'Angelo Bentley (#2) 5-10 190 lbs Senior - Bentley's a much better all around player than he is cornerback with the most dangerous aspect of his game coming in the punt and kick return phase of the game. Coaches love to blitz Bentley off the edge and his production warrants it, registering over 9 tackles for loss the last couple of years for a cornerback. Carolina will be one of his biggest tests of 2015 with the size and speed combo Carolina's receivers have shown.
CB 2 Darius Mosely (#24) 5-11 190 lbs Junior - A solid back up. He's like Bentley specializes in the return game. He's the nickle back when Illinois puts that package on the field.
CB 3 Davontay Kwaaning (#23) 5-11 190 lbs Senior
CB 1 Eaton Spence (#27) 6-0 185 lbs Senior - With Bentley receiving most of the attention it's easy to look over how solid of a player Spence's been since he arrived at Illinois. Spence is a much surer tackler than Bentley but coaches do not send him on blitzes to make the splash plays you often see with Bentley.
CB 2 Jalen Dunlap (#28) 6-1 185 lbs Sophomore - Dunlap's played well as a back up after missing all of 2014. He's a member of the dime package.
FS 1 Clayton Fejedelem (#20) 6-1 195 lbs Senior - A former walk on who's made the most of his opportunity according to the Champaign Room. I can't disagree. As the leading tackler on a squad where's there no clear run away tackling machine like Carolina has, "Fej" has a well rounded body of work that makes you respect airing it out deep.
FS 2 Jevarius Little (#15) 6-0 190 Junior
SS 1 Taylor Barton (#3) 6-1 215 lbs Junior - Carolina must recognize where this guy lines up on the field as he's currently tied for leading the FBS in interceptions with three already this season. He has as many turnovers single handidly as Carolina has as a team.
SS 2 Darwyn Kelly (#4) 6-1 210 lbs Sophomore
The Fighting Illini Special Teams
Kicker Taylor Zalewski (#17) 6-2 220 lbs Senior- Zalewski is perfect on the year 4-4 in field goals, 11-11 in extra points, with a long of 43. Like Weiler he's been much improved this year.
Punter Ryan Frain (#13) 6-2 220 Junior - Frain averages over 40 a punt. He's a weapon in special teams.
Kick Off Returners: V'Angelo Bentley (#2) and Darius Mosely (#24) - see above.
Punt Returners V'Angelo Bentley (#2) and Darius Mosely (#24)
Now that we've covered both the Illinois Offense and Defense, it'll be prediction time shortly.
Illinois Game Primer: The Fighting Illini Offense
Courtesy of @TheChampaignRoom, Illinois' awesome blog on SBNation, I was able to stumble across not only some insight into all things Illinois Football but also a copy of the latest and greatest depth chart heading into Week three of the season.
The Illini Football program has gone through many peaks and valleys the last month. One week prior to the season, former head coach Tim Beckman was fired for allegedly lying to players about injuries, borderline hazing, and as SBNation reports "being an enormous jerk." Kudos to the Illinois squad who's rallied around their new interim coach, Bill Cubit and strung together two wins when they could have written the season off as a loss. And the improvement started with the offense...
The Illini offense has impressed against inferiro competition the first two games of the season racking up big numbers through the air while putting up sub par numbers on the ground. The surprising start to Illinois season has earned them a 28th ranking in the weekly Sagrain Rankings. Let's start with the talented backfield
The Fighting Illini Backfield
QB1 Wes Lunt (#12) 6-5 225 lbs Junior - The man that shares my name has been impressive in his first two outings in 2015. Possessing a 19 to 4 TD to INT ratio in his career at Illinois it's easy to see where the 4 star recruit talk came from. He's coming off a 300 yard passing outing. Hunt can pick a secondary apart if he can stand tall in the pocket. The defensive line will have to get in his grill early and often. Lunt's completed 68% of his passes this season.
QB2 Chayce Crouch (#7) 6-4 225 lbs Redshirt Junior- The back ups' faired well in limited action. He has a better ability to escape the pass rush but we wouldn't see Crouch unless Hunt got hurt or if it's in garbage time.
RB1 Josh Ferguson (#6) 5-10 195 lbs Senior - A Doak Walker Watch List member from preseason Ferguson is one of the more unique threats in the B1G no one's talking about. He has over 4000 all purpose yards in his career and is a big play threat every time he touches the ball. He's a receiving threat out of the backfield as well after posting 50 catches this past year. Carolina will have to keep tabs on his whereabouts all game on Saturday.
RB2 Ke'Shawn Vaughn (#5) 5-10 205 lbs True Freshman - Former Mr Tennessee in football chose the Illini over the likes of Notre Dame , Ohio State and Carolina. He was a big time recruit coming out of high school has has faired decently so far in his first year with a nearly 4 yards per carry average. He's a physical runner who's been a nice change of pace guy from Ferguson
RB3 Henry Enyenihi (#23) 5-11 210 lbs Junior - JUCO transfer who saw his first FBS action this past week finishing with 47 yards rushing and a score.
The Fighting Illini Receivers
**** Illinois is without former Freshman All-American Mikey Dudek who was lost this past spring to a Torn ACL.
X Receiver (Split End)
X1 - Geronimo Allison (#8) 6-4 195 lbs Senior - Following the Mike Dudek injury, Allison became the biggest home run threat in the Illini offense. He's a big receiver that has been active his first two weeks (already has 180 yards+ receiving). Hunt loves to stretch the field deep with this guy and Allison is tremendous at finding holes in zone (GIF H/T @TheChampaignRoom)
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X2 - Sam Mays (#9) 6-3 200 lbs Freshman - Sam Mays has already recorded a touchdown in back up duty. He's a lanky receiver that should continue to improve.
X3 Tyrin Stone-Davis (#15) 6-3 195 lbs Junior - Only really seen this guy on special teams and mop up duty.
T Receiver (Flanker)
T1 Marchie Murdock (#16) 6-1 195 lbs Sophomore - The sophomore from Texas has made his impact felt in multiple phases of the game this year scoring from air and by blocking a punt on special teams. He's currently the second leading receiver filling in for the normal starter at flanker, Justin Hardee, who's out with a broken foot.
T2 Desmond Cain (#86) 5-11 185 lbs Freshman - The freshman's already the most targeted freshman on the team with 3 receptions. He's been used to stretch the field horizontally.
T3 Zach Grant 6-0 195 lbs Junior - Seen minor time. Most of his work comes during garbage time and on special teams.
Z Receiver (Slot)
Z1 Malik Turner (#11) 6-3 205 lbs Sophomore - An oversized slot-possession receiver who's not had the production many expected so far. Look for Illinois to go to this guy early with the secondary focused on containing Allison and Murdock.
Z2 Dionte Taylor (#4) 6-0 180 lbs Junior - Taylor's picked up where Turner's left off nabbing 7 receptions already through two games from the slot.
TE (Tight End)
TE1 Tyler White (#87) 6-5 225 lbs Junior - White was the only tight end on the roster with any receiving experience coming into 2015 and outside of Ainslie's Johnson's one reception in the last game, that story remains the same. He's a decent blocking tight end in which the offense likes to split out in passing situations. Carolina will likely not get exposed by any of the members of the position group. While the Illini use many different formations with two and three tight end sets, this is the only guy that's proven to be a threat receiving the ball.
TE2 Andrew Davis (#89) 6-6 235 lbs Junior
TE3 Ainslie Johnson (#80) 6-2 225 lbs Junior
The Fighting Illini Offensive Line
LT1 Austin Schmidt (#57) 6-6 300 lbs Junior - The protector of Wes Lunt's blindside has shined so far in 2015, contributing to a a line thats opened up the run game and give up no sacks. I haven't seen his side to side moving ability challenged but that could be because of competition. Hopefully Carolina's pressure off the edge can get the best of him.
LT2 Patrick Flavin (#75) 6-5 300 lbs Senior
LG1 Chris Boles (#55) 6-4 320 lbs Senior - Boles is a massive interior lineman at guard who shows good push in the run game. His combo blocks with the above Schmidt are good at the first level but he must work better at reaching scraping linebackers.
LG2 Chris O'Connor (#73) 6-5 300 lbs Senior
C1 Joe Spencer (#71) 6-4 300 lbs Junior - Spencer's played well so far in his first year as a starter. He struggles to make second level blocks which tells me that Schoettmer and Rashad could give this guy trouble.
C2 Chris O'Connor (#73) 6-5 300 lbs Senior
C3 Harry Black (#78) 6-5 285 lbs Sophomore
RG1 Ted Karras (#68) 6-4 310 lbs Senior - Played tackle the last couple of years, but even after the position change to guard, he remains the Fighting Illini's best offensive linemen. Big, mean, smart, and quick feet are traits that you want every lineman to have and Karras has em'.
RG2 Connor Brennan (#74) 6-5 295 lbs Junior
RT1 Christian DiLauro (#67) 6-5 300 lbs Sophomore - DiLauro looks very much like a first year starter.He's plays like he's thinking too much. For as talented as he is, all I want to tell the kid is "When in doubt, fire out."
RT2 Jordan Fagan (#66) 6-6 295 lbs Sophomore
The Illini lost 3 long time starters last year from an offensive line that was less than desirable. This year they've fared very well moving the ball at will, even if it was against very questionable competition. There are veterans of this program in the two deep, and with Lunt's numbers on the season, it makes me think that Carolina will have to work to force pressure against this big group.
The Illini have yet to give up a sack this season. That has to change Saturday.
Up next is a look at the Fighting Illini defense that's only given up 3 points so far this year.
The Illini Football program has gone through many peaks and valleys the last month. One week prior to the season, former head coach Tim Beckman was fired for allegedly lying to players about injuries, borderline hazing, and as SBNation reports "being an enormous jerk." Kudos to the Illinois squad who's rallied around their new interim coach, Bill Cubit and strung together two wins when they could have written the season off as a loss. And the improvement started with the offense...
The Illini offense has impressed against inferiro competition the first two games of the season racking up big numbers through the air while putting up sub par numbers on the ground. The surprising start to Illinois season has earned them a 28th ranking in the weekly Sagrain Rankings. Let's start with the talented backfield
The Fighting Illini Backfield
QB1 Wes Lunt (#12) 6-5 225 lbs Junior - The man that shares my name has been impressive in his first two outings in 2015. Possessing a 19 to 4 TD to INT ratio in his career at Illinois it's easy to see where the 4 star recruit talk came from. He's coming off a 300 yard passing outing. Hunt can pick a secondary apart if he can stand tall in the pocket. The defensive line will have to get in his grill early and often. Lunt's completed 68% of his passes this season.
QB2 Chayce Crouch (#7) 6-4 225 lbs Redshirt Junior- The back ups' faired well in limited action. He has a better ability to escape the pass rush but we wouldn't see Crouch unless Hunt got hurt or if it's in garbage time.
RB1 Josh Ferguson (#6) 5-10 195 lbs Senior - A Doak Walker Watch List member from preseason Ferguson is one of the more unique threats in the B1G no one's talking about. He has over 4000 all purpose yards in his career and is a big play threat every time he touches the ball. He's a receiving threat out of the backfield as well after posting 50 catches this past year. Carolina will have to keep tabs on his whereabouts all game on Saturday.
RB2 Ke'Shawn Vaughn (#5) 5-10 205 lbs True Freshman - Former Mr Tennessee in football chose the Illini over the likes of Notre Dame , Ohio State and Carolina. He was a big time recruit coming out of high school has has faired decently so far in his first year with a nearly 4 yards per carry average. He's a physical runner who's been a nice change of pace guy from Ferguson
RB3 Henry Enyenihi (#23) 5-11 210 lbs Junior - JUCO transfer who saw his first FBS action this past week finishing with 47 yards rushing and a score.
The Fighting Illini Receivers
**** Illinois is without former Freshman All-American Mikey Dudek who was lost this past spring to a Torn ACL.
X Receiver (Split End)
X1 - Geronimo Allison (#8) 6-4 195 lbs Senior - Following the Mike Dudek injury, Allison became the biggest home run threat in the Illini offense. He's a big receiver that has been active his first two weeks (already has 180 yards+ receiving). Hunt loves to stretch the field deep with this guy and Allison is tremendous at finding holes in zone (GIF H/T @TheChampaignRoom)
X2 - Sam Mays (#9) 6-3 200 lbs Freshman - Sam Mays has already recorded a touchdown in back up duty. He's a lanky receiver that should continue to improve.
X3 Tyrin Stone-Davis (#15) 6-3 195 lbs Junior - Only really seen this guy on special teams and mop up duty.
T Receiver (Flanker)
T1 Marchie Murdock (#16) 6-1 195 lbs Sophomore - The sophomore from Texas has made his impact felt in multiple phases of the game this year scoring from air and by blocking a punt on special teams. He's currently the second leading receiver filling in for the normal starter at flanker, Justin Hardee, who's out with a broken foot.
T2 Desmond Cain (#86) 5-11 185 lbs Freshman - The freshman's already the most targeted freshman on the team with 3 receptions. He's been used to stretch the field horizontally.
T3 Zach Grant 6-0 195 lbs Junior - Seen minor time. Most of his work comes during garbage time and on special teams.
Z Receiver (Slot)
Z1 Malik Turner (#11) 6-3 205 lbs Sophomore - An oversized slot-possession receiver who's not had the production many expected so far. Look for Illinois to go to this guy early with the secondary focused on containing Allison and Murdock.
Z2 Dionte Taylor (#4) 6-0 180 lbs Junior - Taylor's picked up where Turner's left off nabbing 7 receptions already through two games from the slot.
TE (Tight End)
TE1 Tyler White (#87) 6-5 225 lbs Junior - White was the only tight end on the roster with any receiving experience coming into 2015 and outside of Ainslie's Johnson's one reception in the last game, that story remains the same. He's a decent blocking tight end in which the offense likes to split out in passing situations. Carolina will likely not get exposed by any of the members of the position group. While the Illini use many different formations with two and three tight end sets, this is the only guy that's proven to be a threat receiving the ball.
TE2 Andrew Davis (#89) 6-6 235 lbs Junior
TE3 Ainslie Johnson (#80) 6-2 225 lbs Junior
The Fighting Illini Offensive Line
LT1 Austin Schmidt (#57) 6-6 300 lbs Junior - The protector of Wes Lunt's blindside has shined so far in 2015, contributing to a a line thats opened up the run game and give up no sacks. I haven't seen his side to side moving ability challenged but that could be because of competition. Hopefully Carolina's pressure off the edge can get the best of him.
LT2 Patrick Flavin (#75) 6-5 300 lbs Senior
LG1 Chris Boles (#55) 6-4 320 lbs Senior - Boles is a massive interior lineman at guard who shows good push in the run game. His combo blocks with the above Schmidt are good at the first level but he must work better at reaching scraping linebackers.
LG2 Chris O'Connor (#73) 6-5 300 lbs Senior
C1 Joe Spencer (#71) 6-4 300 lbs Junior - Spencer's played well so far in his first year as a starter. He struggles to make second level blocks which tells me that Schoettmer and Rashad could give this guy trouble.
C2 Chris O'Connor (#73) 6-5 300 lbs Senior
C3 Harry Black (#78) 6-5 285 lbs Sophomore
RG1 Ted Karras (#68) 6-4 310 lbs Senior - Played tackle the last couple of years, but even after the position change to guard, he remains the Fighting Illini's best offensive linemen. Big, mean, smart, and quick feet are traits that you want every lineman to have and Karras has em'.
RG2 Connor Brennan (#74) 6-5 295 lbs Junior
RT1 Christian DiLauro (#67) 6-5 300 lbs Sophomore - DiLauro looks very much like a first year starter.He's plays like he's thinking too much. For as talented as he is, all I want to tell the kid is "When in doubt, fire out."
RT2 Jordan Fagan (#66) 6-6 295 lbs Sophomore
The Illini lost 3 long time starters last year from an offensive line that was less than desirable. This year they've fared very well moving the ball at will, even if it was against very questionable competition. There are veterans of this program in the two deep, and with Lunt's numbers on the season, it makes me think that Carolina will have to work to force pressure against this big group.
The Illini have yet to give up a sack this season. That has to change Saturday.
Up next is a look at the Fighting Illini defense that's only given up 3 points so far this year.
Thursday, September 17, 2015
WEEK 3 #VIEWERSGUIDE
After what many would consider a very top heavy slate of games this past weekend, Week 3 bring us a schedule stretching from Thursday through early Sunday morning that shouldn't disappoint. You could call this weekend the football version of ACC vs B1G challenge with 5 matchups between the two conferences, whcih you'll find many below.
**** This week the lines are my picks ******
Thursday Nite
Clemson (-5.5) at Louisville - 7:30 pm - The Mothership
Thursday nights starts off with a game that'll go a long way in deciding the Atlantic Division race in the ACC. Before the season started many believed this would be an outright war. After Louisville's first two performances, many believe Clemson should roll Thursday. Petrino's back's against the wall..... should be interesting.
Friday Night Lights
Friday evening is a modest one that starts in ACC Country...
FSU at Boston College (+7) - 8pm - The Mothership
This game smells like the ultimate trap for Florida State. Boston College comes off two ass kickings of inferior opponents and Florida State's been one dimensional on offense. Games in Chesntu Hill are weird. The stadium's half empty and the local crowd is disinterested. Opponents can be easily lurned to sleep right before they get smacked in the mouth by Addazio's physical squad. FSU better be ready for the DUDES OF BC.
New Mexico (+27.5) at Arizona State - 10pm - PAC12 Network
Arizona State rebounded last weekend after getting curb stumped by Texas A&M. This Friday night they host a pesky Lobos squad headed by Footbaw Bawb. Footbaw Bawb vs the Boy Band Coach... take your pick.
FOOTBALL SATURDAY
AUTHOR'S NOTE: UNFORTUNATELY I HAVE A DEAR FRIEND WHO DOESN'T UNDERSTAND THE IMPORTANCE OF NOT HAVING A WEDDING DURING FOOTBALL SEASON. FOR THAT REASON I'LL BE M.I.A. FOR MUCH OF SATURDAY AT A WEDDING AND RECEPTION. YOU READ THAT RIGHT.
High Nooners
Illinois vs Carolina - High Noon - The Deuce -- pick coming later
The Fighting Illini vs Carolina will be one of the most intriguing games of the early shift. I should be able to catch the first half in the hotel room before having to live stream it during the Catholic Mass starting at 2pm. GO HEELS.
Northwestern at Duke (-3.5) - 12:30 - ESPN3, ACC Network
I honestly believe this game should be on the later shift because these two teams are much better than people think. Northwestern's ranked according to the Mothership and Duke, despite a joke of an early schedule, has done nothing but impress. This should be a really fun one to watch in a half empty stadium in Durham.
Air Force (+26) at Michigan State - High Noon - ABC
Sparty's coming off an emotional win over Oregon and has an early game against a triple option offense. Yikes.
Mid-Afternooners
Memphis (-3.5) at Bowling Green - ESPN3 - 330PM
A sneaky fun game you'll want to have on the second screen is the one between the Tigers and the Falcons. Bowling Green gave Tennessee all sorts of trouble and beat Maryland handily while Fuente's Tigers can be slowed down. Expect a basketball scoring game between these two.
Georgia Tech (-2.5) at Notre Dame - NBC - 330pm
The best game of the mid-afternooners features Paul "Go F*ck Yourself" Johnson vs Brian "Lord Purple Face" Kelly. Two massive egos between two programs that have lots of vicious history. Notre Dame will truly need the luck of the Irish if they expect to go score for score with the unstoppable Jackets.
Auburn (+7) at LSU - CBS with VERNE - 330pm
The dumpster fire AKA Auburn heads to Daeth Valley to face a one dimensional offense in LSU. If WDE fails to slow down an offense for the 3rd consecutive week, Leornard Fournette could end up having a BIG OLE day. Expect the Mad Hatter to feed the LSU rushing attack early and often as they try to wear down the shady Auburn defense.
Nebraska BIG RED at The U (-3) - The Deuce/ABC Combo - 330 pm
Nebraska rebounded last week following the gut wrenching loss to BYU on a Hail Mary. Their still shaky on O and D but good for them they face a Miami squad that's looked pretty dissinterested in 2015 despite a 2-0 record. 25 years ago this would have been considered a Game of the Century Candidate.... now, two middle tiered in the respective conference programs.
Evening Game
For if the 330 slate gets completely out of whack...
Sakerlina (+17) at Georgia - 6pm - The Mothership
Sakerlina looks like they're losing steam fast in the 015 season as they head into Athens. Just a shame that they'll have to face a viscous rushing attack that hasn't been stopped by anyone in the last couple of seasons. Just when everyone thinks all hope is lost for the Gamecocks and Steve Spurrier's back is against the wall, it's time to bet heavy on Spurrier. The man loves playing the underdog role.
Night Games
Florida at Kentucky (+3) - 730pm - SEC Network
This one has America's attention with this being Kentucky's best shot at ending the dreaded 29 year losing streak to the Gators. Kentucky, fresh off a win in Columbia (Sakerlina) will have the home stadium rockin for this night game.
California at Texas (+7) - 8pm - Fox
Cal is a seven point favorite in Austin. Yes you read that right and this is not an Aaron Rodgers and Marshawn Lynch led squad. Texas has looked like a dumpster fire the first couple of weeks leading the Athletic Director to lose his job and many of the Longhorn Faithful to start calling for Charlie Strong's job. Rome wasn't built in a day folks. Give Strong some time.
Stanford at Southern Cal (-10) - 8pm - ABC
The Cardinal rebounded in a very big way this past weekend after layin a stinker in Chicago Week One. Southern Cal is the playoff contender no one's talking about. I've never been one to count David Shaw out of anything, especially when facing big time opponents. Behind Barry Sanders Jr, expect the Cardinal to give the Southern Cal defense fits.
PUNT FEST 2K15 - B1G Network - 8pm
Two of the saddest fan bases square off for a second consecutive season with the Pittsburgh Panthers (+5.5) traveling to Iowa to face the Hawkeyes. The Pitt offense should be miles ahead the dreaded showing they put up against the Hawkeyes this past year. Gotta remember here, Narduzzi's schemed against B1G squads for years. Pitt should advance to 3-0 here.
Ole Miss at Bama (-7) - 915pm - The Mothership
A game in which you can truly say "Ole Miss ain't played NOBODY" too this point while Bama has. Ole Miss has put up over 70 in every game and looks unstoppable... will not be what people are saying Sunday morning. I think Bama by two touchdowns, because Saban hasn't let his squad forget about the egg they laid in Oxford last fall.
Late Night Games
The Mormons (+17) vs The Bruins - 10:30 pm - FS1
BYU traveling to UCLA is a match up that many are over looking on Saturday. Both schools have impressed their first two weeks. Both schools have former unknown QBs who've shown they can compete with the best. Should be an enjoyable post wedding reception dessert for this guy.
UC Davis at Hawaii - 11:59pm Kickoff - ESPN3/Oceanic PPV
.
**** This week the lines are my picks ******
Thursday Nite
Clemson (-5.5) at Louisville - 7:30 pm - The Mothership
Thursday nights starts off with a game that'll go a long way in deciding the Atlantic Division race in the ACC. Before the season started many believed this would be an outright war. After Louisville's first two performances, many believe Clemson should roll Thursday. Petrino's back's against the wall..... should be interesting.
Friday Night Lights
Friday evening is a modest one that starts in ACC Country...
FSU at Boston College (+7) - 8pm - The Mothership
This game smells like the ultimate trap for Florida State. Boston College comes off two ass kickings of inferior opponents and Florida State's been one dimensional on offense. Games in Chesntu Hill are weird. The stadium's half empty and the local crowd is disinterested. Opponents can be easily lurned to sleep right before they get smacked in the mouth by Addazio's physical squad. FSU better be ready for the DUDES OF BC.
New Mexico (+27.5) at Arizona State - 10pm - PAC12 Network
Arizona State rebounded last weekend after getting curb stumped by Texas A&M. This Friday night they host a pesky Lobos squad headed by Footbaw Bawb. Footbaw Bawb vs the Boy Band Coach... take your pick.
FOOTBALL SATURDAY
AUTHOR'S NOTE: UNFORTUNATELY I HAVE A DEAR FRIEND WHO DOESN'T UNDERSTAND THE IMPORTANCE OF NOT HAVING A WEDDING DURING FOOTBALL SEASON. FOR THAT REASON I'LL BE M.I.A. FOR MUCH OF SATURDAY AT A WEDDING AND RECEPTION. YOU READ THAT RIGHT.
High Nooners
Illinois vs Carolina - High Noon - The Deuce -- pick coming later
The Fighting Illini vs Carolina will be one of the most intriguing games of the early shift. I should be able to catch the first half in the hotel room before having to live stream it during the Catholic Mass starting at 2pm. GO HEELS.
Northwestern at Duke (-3.5) - 12:30 - ESPN3, ACC Network
I honestly believe this game should be on the later shift because these two teams are much better than people think. Northwestern's ranked according to the Mothership and Duke, despite a joke of an early schedule, has done nothing but impress. This should be a really fun one to watch in a half empty stadium in Durham.
Air Force (+26) at Michigan State - High Noon - ABC
Sparty's coming off an emotional win over Oregon and has an early game against a triple option offense. Yikes.
Mid-Afternooners
Memphis (-3.5) at Bowling Green - ESPN3 - 330PM
A sneaky fun game you'll want to have on the second screen is the one between the Tigers and the Falcons. Bowling Green gave Tennessee all sorts of trouble and beat Maryland handily while Fuente's Tigers can be slowed down. Expect a basketball scoring game between these two.
Georgia Tech (-2.5) at Notre Dame - NBC - 330pm
The best game of the mid-afternooners features Paul "Go F*ck Yourself" Johnson vs Brian "Lord Purple Face" Kelly. Two massive egos between two programs that have lots of vicious history. Notre Dame will truly need the luck of the Irish if they expect to go score for score with the unstoppable Jackets.
Auburn (+7) at LSU - CBS with VERNE - 330pm
The dumpster fire AKA Auburn heads to Daeth Valley to face a one dimensional offense in LSU. If WDE fails to slow down an offense for the 3rd consecutive week, Leornard Fournette could end up having a BIG OLE day. Expect the Mad Hatter to feed the LSU rushing attack early and often as they try to wear down the shady Auburn defense.
Nebraska BIG RED at The U (-3) - The Deuce/ABC Combo - 330 pm
Nebraska rebounded last week following the gut wrenching loss to BYU on a Hail Mary. Their still shaky on O and D but good for them they face a Miami squad that's looked pretty dissinterested in 2015 despite a 2-0 record. 25 years ago this would have been considered a Game of the Century Candidate.... now, two middle tiered in the respective conference programs.
Evening Game
For if the 330 slate gets completely out of whack...
Sakerlina (+17) at Georgia - 6pm - The Mothership
Sakerlina looks like they're losing steam fast in the 015 season as they head into Athens. Just a shame that they'll have to face a viscous rushing attack that hasn't been stopped by anyone in the last couple of seasons. Just when everyone thinks all hope is lost for the Gamecocks and Steve Spurrier's back is against the wall, it's time to bet heavy on Spurrier. The man loves playing the underdog role.
Night Games
Florida at Kentucky (+3) - 730pm - SEC Network
This one has America's attention with this being Kentucky's best shot at ending the dreaded 29 year losing streak to the Gators. Kentucky, fresh off a win in Columbia (Sakerlina) will have the home stadium rockin for this night game.
California at Texas (+7) - 8pm - Fox
Cal is a seven point favorite in Austin. Yes you read that right and this is not an Aaron Rodgers and Marshawn Lynch led squad. Texas has looked like a dumpster fire the first couple of weeks leading the Athletic Director to lose his job and many of the Longhorn Faithful to start calling for Charlie Strong's job. Rome wasn't built in a day folks. Give Strong some time.
Stanford at Southern Cal (-10) - 8pm - ABC
The Cardinal rebounded in a very big way this past weekend after layin a stinker in Chicago Week One. Southern Cal is the playoff contender no one's talking about. I've never been one to count David Shaw out of anything, especially when facing big time opponents. Behind Barry Sanders Jr, expect the Cardinal to give the Southern Cal defense fits.
PUNT FEST 2K15 - B1G Network - 8pm
Two of the saddest fan bases square off for a second consecutive season with the Pittsburgh Panthers (+5.5) traveling to Iowa to face the Hawkeyes. The Pitt offense should be miles ahead the dreaded showing they put up against the Hawkeyes this past year. Gotta remember here, Narduzzi's schemed against B1G squads for years. Pitt should advance to 3-0 here.
Ole Miss at Bama (-7) - 915pm - The Mothership
A game in which you can truly say "Ole Miss ain't played NOBODY" too this point while Bama has. Ole Miss has put up over 70 in every game and looks unstoppable... will not be what people are saying Sunday morning. I think Bama by two touchdowns, because Saban hasn't let his squad forget about the egg they laid in Oxford last fall.
Late Night Games
The Mormons (+17) vs The Bruins - 10:30 pm - FS1
BYU traveling to UCLA is a match up that many are over looking on Saturday. Both schools have impressed their first two weeks. Both schools have former unknown QBs who've shown they can compete with the best. Should be an enjoyable post wedding reception dessert for this guy.
UC Davis at Hawaii - 11:59pm Kickoff - ESPN3/Oceanic PPV
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Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Slept On It (3x) : Carolina dominates in Full Speed Scrimmage Against A&T
AUTHOR'S NOTE: I rushed this post cause this week's been a madhouse. Apologies for any grammatical errors and/or fragments.
Carolina dominated North Carolina A&T on Saturday Night, capping a rain soaked evening where play looked both great and sloppy. We saw a return of the Quarterback Rotation which led to many on the Twittersphere to complain about it's use. What did Carolina want to accomplish in this glorified scrimmage? Let's take a look:
1. The first goal should be a no-brainer: WIN. There's nothing more embarrassing than losing to an opponent you have zero business losing to. Carolina made sure this one was well out of reach for the Aggies by the half. Kudos to the squad for taking care of business.
2. Get Quality Reps for the Backups - Carolina because of the lead they jumped out to got to work in numerous backups in the first and second halves. In fact, we saw Mitch Trubisky early on on the third offensive series following a turnover. Folks have voiced their dissaray with playing rotating the QBs and had this game been a competitive game then I would agree. There was nothing wrong with getting Mitch first team reps against an FCS squad. Those reps will pay dividends down the stretch, especially with Quise's proneness to getting banged up because of the physical nature of his play.
@CarolinaBlue's Ross Martin was nice enough to compile a list of the backups who played:
3. Everyone Stay Healthy - The injury report, which is never released by Head Coach Larry Fedora appeared as follows pregame:
UL (Utility Lineman) John Ferranto, DT Tyler Powell, DE Junior Gnonkonde, DT Jason Strowbridge, LB Joe Jackson, and C Tommy Hatton were no where to be found
- Mike Hughes left with what looked like to be a concussion
- Bentley Spain left with what looked like to be an ankle injury early in the third quarter. Word is he would have continued to play if this was a game not against FCS
- Clarke looked banged up after the second quarter
There are lots of significant contributors on the list above which is concerning. Carolina's already thin offensive and defensive lines do not need 3 members each to be out out going forward. While the game against A&T presented a unique opportunity to play some young guns, the fact that Bentley Spain hurt his ankle when the game was well out of reach is in my opinion a mismanagement of your resources. Call with Coach on the Couch but I kept asking for the staff to pull all of the main rotation guys out early and often.
Up 29-0......
Late in the second quarter, up 36-0...
I'm from the school that when you go up 4-5 scores against a clearly inferior opponent you start yanking guys that are regular contributors and insert the guys that need the reps.
4. Get into a rhythm and work out the kinks - Carolina looked to establish a sound mix of rushing vs passing this past Saturday and their commitment to this blend let to an early onslaught of points in the first half. As the starters took a seat and the reserves or "reinforcements" got the opportunity to get better. Carolina's still has questions on the edge and the back end of the defense that wont be answered until down the road. I was excited to see the defense force multiple turnovers. It was long overdue that the defensive unit flipped the field for the offense.
5. Begin Prep for the next opponent - The only way Carolina was able to get ready for Illinois was to get reps for the backups. The first two games have not served the pass defense very well for what lies ahead against Illinois. Illinois raids the air the way we've seen with ECU the last half decade. The passing offenses that Carolina's faced so far (Sakerlina and NC A&T) are not one's the beat your chest about. We're talking about the 94th passing in country in South Carolina and and A&T squad that's lower ties in the FCS ranks.
Long and the short, it's good to be on a winning streak headed into what the coaches are calling, Carolina's biggest test of the season to date.
A look at Illinois' up next.
WFP
Carolina dominated North Carolina A&T on Saturday Night, capping a rain soaked evening where play looked both great and sloppy. We saw a return of the Quarterback Rotation which led to many on the Twittersphere to complain about it's use. What did Carolina want to accomplish in this glorified scrimmage? Let's take a look:
1. The first goal should be a no-brainer: WIN. There's nothing more embarrassing than losing to an opponent you have zero business losing to. Carolina made sure this one was well out of reach for the Aggies by the half. Kudos to the squad for taking care of business.
2. Get Quality Reps for the Backups - Carolina because of the lead they jumped out to got to work in numerous backups in the first and second halves. In fact, we saw Mitch Trubisky early on on the third offensive series following a turnover. Folks have voiced their dissaray with playing rotating the QBs and had this game been a competitive game then I would agree. There was nothing wrong with getting Mitch first team reps against an FCS squad. Those reps will pay dividends down the stretch, especially with Quise's proneness to getting banged up because of the physical nature of his play.
@CarolinaBlue's Ross Martin was nice enough to compile a list of the backups who played:
- Freshman CB Mike Hughes - ended up leaving with a concussion
- Junior RB Khris Francis - 5 rushes for 14 yards
- RS sophomore QB Mitch Trubisky - 5 for 7 for 37 yards and a TD, 3 rushes for 36 yards and a TD
- RS freshman QB Caleb Henderson - didnt throw a pass, 2 rushes for 24 yards
- Sophomore S Allen Artis - 2 tackles
- Sophomore WR Austin Proehl - 1 reception for 13 yards, 1 rush for 13 yards
- Junior DT Ian Dibble - 2 tackles
- Freshman RB Ty'Son Williams - 4 rushes for 19 yards
- RS freshman WR Josh Cabrera
- Junior CB Kedrick Davis - 1 tackle
- RS freshman LB Ayden Bonilla - 1 tackle
- Junior S Dominique Green - two tackles
- Junior RB Charles Brunson - 4 rushes for 11 yards, 1 catch
- Freshman S J.K. Britt - two tackles
- Sophomore LB Hunter Crafford -
- Freshman CB Corey Bell Jr.
- Senior WR Damien Washington - 1 reception for 13 yards
- Sophomore LB Cole Holcomb - 4 tackles
- Junior LB Dan Mastromatteo - played at LB and saw goal line work as a FB
- RS Freshman DE Malik Carney - 5 tackles
- Freshman LB Andre Smith - 4 tackles
- RS freshman TE Brandon Fritts - 3 receptions for 11 yards and two TDs
- Sophomore OG Brad Henson
- Sophomore OT R.J. Prince - replaced Spain
- RS freshman TE Caleb Samuel
- RS freshman WR Devin Perry
- Sophomore WR Jordan Fieulleteau
- Junior WR Dalton Strogner
- DT Aaron Crawford - saw a bunch of action 3 tackles
- RS freshman DT Robert Dinkins - 3 tackles, one sack
- Junior RB Khris Francis - 5 rushes for 14 yards
- RS sophomore QB Mitch Trubisky - 5 for 7 for 37 yards and a TD, 3 rushes for 36 yards and a TD
- RS freshman QB Caleb Henderson - didnt throw a pass, 2 rushes for 24 yards
- Sophomore S Allen Artis - 2 tackles
- Sophomore WR Austin Proehl - 1 reception for 13 yards, 1 rush for 13 yards
- Junior DT Ian Dibble - 2 tackles
- Freshman RB Ty'Son Williams - 4 rushes for 19 yards
- RS freshman WR Josh Cabrera
- Junior CB Kedrick Davis - 1 tackle
- RS freshman LB Ayden Bonilla - 1 tackle
- Junior S Dominique Green - two tackles
- Junior RB Charles Brunson - 4 rushes for 11 yards, 1 catch
- Freshman S J.K. Britt - two tackles
- Sophomore LB Hunter Crafford -
- Freshman CB Corey Bell Jr.
- Senior WR Damien Washington - 1 reception for 13 yards
- Sophomore LB Cole Holcomb - 4 tackles
- Junior LB Dan Mastromatteo - played at LB and saw goal line work as a FB
- RS Freshman DE Malik Carney - 5 tackles
- Freshman LB Andre Smith - 4 tackles
- RS freshman TE Brandon Fritts - 3 receptions for 11 yards and two TDs
- Sophomore OG Brad Henson
- Sophomore OT R.J. Prince - replaced Spain
- RS freshman TE Caleb Samuel
- RS freshman WR Devin Perry
- Sophomore WR Jordan Fieulleteau
- Junior WR Dalton Strogner
- DT Aaron Crawford - saw a bunch of action 3 tackles
- RS freshman DT Robert Dinkins - 3 tackles, one sack
3. Everyone Stay Healthy - The injury report, which is never released by Head Coach Larry Fedora appeared as follows pregame:
UL (Utility Lineman) John Ferranto, DT Tyler Powell, DE Junior Gnonkonde, DT Jason Strowbridge, LB Joe Jackson, and C Tommy Hatton were no where to be found
- Mike Hughes left with what looked like to be a concussion
- Bentley Spain left with what looked like to be an ankle injury early in the third quarter. Word is he would have continued to play if this was a game not against FCS
- Clarke looked banged up after the second quarter
There are lots of significant contributors on the list above which is concerning. Carolina's already thin offensive and defensive lines do not need 3 members each to be out out going forward. While the game against A&T presented a unique opportunity to play some young guns, the fact that Bentley Spain hurt his ankle when the game was well out of reach is in my opinion a mismanagement of your resources. Call with Coach on the Couch but I kept asking for the staff to pull all of the main rotation guys out early and often.
Up 29-0......
Just noticed all 2s at the skill positions were in on that drive. Hope to see the OL2 in soon
— Frattisimo (@FootbawFrat) September 12, 2015
Late in the second quarter, up 36-0...
UNC Defense forces another punt. Hope there isn't a starter on the field when the O comes back out.
— Frattisimo (@FootbawFrat) September 12, 2015
up 46-0....
Aight. I hope the starters are done for the evening. Time to develop some depth. #UNC
— Frattisimo (@FootbawFrat) September 13, 2015
/Spain gets hurt
Get the first team OL off the field, Carolina
— Frattisimo (@FootbawFrat) September 13, 2015
then 1st team OL gets pulled after Trubisky races to 53-0 I'm from the school that when you go up 4-5 scores against a clearly inferior opponent you start yanking guys that are regular contributors and insert the guys that need the reps.
4. Get into a rhythm and work out the kinks - Carolina looked to establish a sound mix of rushing vs passing this past Saturday and their commitment to this blend let to an early onslaught of points in the first half. As the starters took a seat and the reserves or "reinforcements" got the opportunity to get better. Carolina's still has questions on the edge and the back end of the defense that wont be answered until down the road. I was excited to see the defense force multiple turnovers. It was long overdue that the defensive unit flipped the field for the offense.
5. Begin Prep for the next opponent - The only way Carolina was able to get ready for Illinois was to get reps for the backups. The first two games have not served the pass defense very well for what lies ahead against Illinois. Illinois raids the air the way we've seen with ECU the last half decade. The passing offenses that Carolina's faced so far (Sakerlina and NC A&T) are not one's the beat your chest about. We're talking about the 94th passing in country in South Carolina and and A&T squad that's lower ties in the FCS ranks.
Long and the short, it's good to be on a winning streak headed into what the coaches are calling, Carolina's biggest test of the season to date.
A look at Illinois' up next.
WFP
Monday, September 14, 2015
The 2nd Installment of the #WFPTop20 in 2015
Hooooooooooo boy did Week 2 bring to light some fallacies that have been exuded across our great college football world. We saw injuries, upsets and squeakers help shift the landscape with continues to grow more exciting each and every week. There's still staying power at the top, but Mannnnnn the rest of the top 20 is a tad shook up from the first poll.
1. Ohio State (2-0) Win over Hawaii
The win over Hawaii was a very sloppy performance out of the Buckeyes. Those kinda perfomances can be expected coming off 4 days rest but I can see Meyer and Co. unleashing hell at practice this week. Expect the Buckeyes to hang a 70 spot vs Northern Illinois next week.
2. Bama (2-0) Win Over Middle Tennessee
Bama, like the Buckeyes, looked downright sloppy in week two. As @RollBamaRoll points out this is what Bama fans should have become accostomed to in "Paycheck Games" under Saban. Bama hosts Ole Miss this upcoming week in what should be a war.
3. Michigan State (2-0) Won a War against Oregon
Michigan State has the best win so far in 2015. Mark D'Antonio won the chess match against Oregon in front of an electric crowd in East Lansing. Michigan State remains the only viable threat to Ohio State's inevitable CFP run unless Michigan strings together a formidable offense.
4. Southern Cal (2-0) Crushed Idaho
Southern Cal's been a quiet blip on the college football radar this year cause of the #EastCoastBias. They face Stanford this upcoming weekend in a game that I think will be closer than the experts believe.
5. TCU (2-0) Obliterated Stephen F Austin
TCU piled it on an FCS opponent over the weekend to no ones surprise. QB Trevon Boykin finally looked like his old self. TCU should roll next week as well.
6. UCLA (2-0) Took care of UNLV
UCLA looked like they've found their missing piece in QB Josh Rosen. The first true challenge comes this upcoming weekend against a very hot BYU squad.
7. Baylor (2-0) Handled Lamar 66-31
This Baylor squad's been tough to gauge. The defense hasn't looked all that great against very inferior competition, but the offense has put up points at will. I'll believe this is a true CFP contender.
8. Notre Dame (2-0) Escaped Charlottesville with an incredible finish
Notre Dame struggled most of Saturday against a feisty UVA bunch who left if all on the field. As strong as the ND attack has looked, the injuries are starting to pile up with starting QB Malik Zaire and starting RB Tarean Folston sidelined for the year. It's now DeShone Kizer's squad and nothing should give this kid the morale boost he needs to lead than this incredible last minute touchdown throw to steal one in Charlottesville.
1. Ohio State (2-0) Win over Hawaii
The win over Hawaii was a very sloppy performance out of the Buckeyes. Those kinda perfomances can be expected coming off 4 days rest but I can see Meyer and Co. unleashing hell at practice this week. Expect the Buckeyes to hang a 70 spot vs Northern Illinois next week.
2. Bama (2-0) Win Over Middle Tennessee
Bama, like the Buckeyes, looked downright sloppy in week two. As @RollBamaRoll points out this is what Bama fans should have become accostomed to in "Paycheck Games" under Saban. Bama hosts Ole Miss this upcoming week in what should be a war.
3. Michigan State (2-0) Won a War against Oregon
Michigan State has the best win so far in 2015. Mark D'Antonio won the chess match against Oregon in front of an electric crowd in East Lansing. Michigan State remains the only viable threat to Ohio State's inevitable CFP run unless Michigan strings together a formidable offense.
4. Southern Cal (2-0) Crushed Idaho
Southern Cal's been a quiet blip on the college football radar this year cause of the #EastCoastBias. They face Stanford this upcoming weekend in a game that I think will be closer than the experts believe.
5. TCU (2-0) Obliterated Stephen F Austin
TCU piled it on an FCS opponent over the weekend to no ones surprise. QB Trevon Boykin finally looked like his old self. TCU should roll next week as well.
6. UCLA (2-0) Took care of UNLV
UCLA looked like they've found their missing piece in QB Josh Rosen. The first true challenge comes this upcoming weekend against a very hot BYU squad.
7. Baylor (2-0) Handled Lamar 66-31
This Baylor squad's been tough to gauge. The defense hasn't looked all that great against very inferior competition, but the offense has put up points at will. I'll believe this is a true CFP contender.
8. Notre Dame (2-0) Escaped Charlottesville with an incredible finish
Notre Dame struggled most of Saturday against a feisty UVA bunch who left if all on the field. As strong as the ND attack has looked, the injuries are starting to pile up with starting QB Malik Zaire and starting RB Tarean Folston sidelined for the year. It's now DeShone Kizer's squad and nothing should give this kid the morale boost he needs to lead than this incredible last minute touchdown throw to steal one in Charlottesville.
9. UGA - (2-0) Won ugly at Vandy
First off, UGA looks absolutely dominant in the run game with the two headed monster of Nick Chubb and Keith Marshall. However, they have nothing in the passing game that leads me to think this team can string together an undefeated run. A battle against a Sakerlina squad that always gives them fits is this upcoming weekend. Dominate in both phases of the offense, then maybe I'll start to come around.
10. Florida State (2-0) Won ugly over South Florida
FSU hasn't won pretty yet in 2015 but they keep winning A very difficult Friday Night at Boston College game looms this weekend. Better believe Addazio will have his DUDES ready for when the Noles come to town. The DUDES however, will have to stop Dalvin Cook who has been insane in 2015.
11. Oregon (1-1) Lost a close one to Michigan State
Oregon got beat up on the lines late by a very good Michigan State front seven and offensive line but don't get sucked into the "Oregon is Soft" narrative. Oregon's receivers are physical and their front seven is one of the better units in the PAC 12. Vernon Adams played well in his first big time ballgame at Eugene. Oregon should rebound against one of the worst teams in FBS next week, Georgia State
12. Georgia Tech (2-0) Clobbered Tulane
#GTTwitter has been one of the more vocal groups the last two weekends over the DISRESPECT! their team has gotten in the polls. Why? Your team has played NOBODY. Prove your worth this week when you travel to Notre Dame.
13. LSU (1-0) Escaped with a narrow victory in Starkville
LSU knew they had an uber talented Running Back in Leonard Fournette heading into 2015, but after their season debut in Starkville, you can add very talented defense to that list The LSU defense held Mississippi State to their least points scored in over a year. Quarterback remains unproven but after the perfomance Auburn put forth this past weekend, you have to like the Tigers' chances against WDE this weekend.
14. Ole Miss (2-0) Blew out Fresno State
Much like the 12th ranked Georgia Tech squad, the Ole Miss team hasn't played a soul yet this year. The Rebel Fan Base believes the polls are disrespecting them much like the Jacket fanbase. And like the Jacket fanbase, Ole Miss has an opportunity to prove themselves this upcoming weekend with a road trip to Tuscaloosa.
15. Oklahoma (2-0) Comeback win over Tennessee in Double OT in Knoxville
The Oklahoma win over Rocky Top was one of the more entertaining games on Saturday night with Hunter Mayfield leading the 4th quarter comeback over the stagnant second half Rocky Top offense. Oklahoma's defense looks like one of the more improved units of 2015.
16. Clemson (2-0) Large Win over App State
Clemson's gotten beat up the first couple weeks with losing Mike Williams for the year and Deshaun Watson coming up limping. They have talent all over the board and are on cruise control headed to a Thursday Night affair in Louisville. They better not sleep on the Cardinals who come off a disappointing skid to Houston.
17. Texas A&M - Sloppy Win over Ball State
A&M didn't look like the force that they did when they ran Arizona State out of the state of Texas. A&M has another touch up game before facing the physical Arkansas squad.
18. BYU (2-0) - Handled Boise State
BYU handled a team that not a whole lot of folks ever do. The Mormons face their biggest test of the year when they travel to LA this upcoming weekend. A win? And you're looking at the at-large favorite to make the College Football Playoff.
19. Utah (2-0) - Took care of Biz against Utah State
Utah is an efficient squad whose rushing attack gives them a chance against anybody. What no one's talking about is their defense, which held the exciting Chuckie Keaton to 14 points.
20. Wisky (1-1) - Blew out Miami (OH)
Wisky rebounded the best way they know how but dominating an overmatched MAC opponent.
Close:
Auburn - looked awful Saturday which makes me believe that they'll beat LSU
Zona - treading water but still not looking like a top 20 force
OK State - Mike Gundy is a Man.
Toledo - Hey! Nice win over Arkansas
Mizzou- Woof.
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