Heisman trophy winners haven’t found life in the National Football League to be as hospitable as their glorious college days.
19 December 2009
Austin Bailey
There are several supposed sports “curses” or “jinx” related with athletes such as when they appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated, or a player is on the cover of EA sports Madden video game.
But a more serious “curse” is the one that comes with winning college football’s coveted Heisman trophy.
Since about the beginning of the 1990’s, the Heisman winners have had very short, if any career in the NFL. Of course there are always a few exemptions, but the trend isn't unnoticed.
Starting with 1999, Andre Ware won the Heisman with Houston. His NFL career consisted of four seasons as a backup quarterback for the Detroit Lions.
Only six Heisman winners are currently in the NFL (Charles Woodson, Carson Palmer, Ricky Williams, Matt Leinart, Reggie Bush, and Troy Smith).
Of those six, three start for their respective teams. (Woodson/Packers, Palmer/Bengals, Williams/Dolphins).
In 1993, Florida State Seminole quarterback Charlie Ward took home the Heisman hardware. But instead of being a first round NFL pick, Ward was selected in the first round of the National Basketball Association by the New York Knicks. Ward spent his athletic career as a point guard in the NBA.
Quarterbacks seem to be most susceptible to the Heisman curse.
Of the 10 quarterbacks to win the Heisman between 1989 and 2006, only two have started all 16 games in a season for a team. The two players were Carson Palmer (three times) and Ty Detmer (once).
Eric Crouch (2001) and Jason White (2003) are both out of the league.
Matt Leinart (2005) and Troy Smith (2006) are backups for their present teams.
Palmer is the only quarterback that’s currently a starter, and Detmer has not played since 2007.
Instead quarterbacks have been found later in the draft. Three time Super Bowl champion quarterback Tom Brady was picked in the sixth round by the New England Patriots.
A few other telling facts about to further support the “curse”, or coincidence.
•From 1953 – 2006, just six Heisman winners have played on the team that won the Super Bowl.
•After getting the award, the trophy winners have lost 21 of the past 34 bowl games.
•14 of the past 17 winners (excluding 2007, 2008 and 2009 as players have yet to leave college) are either not starting for their current team or are no longer in the NFL.
•Since 1986, only one Heisman winner, (Barry Sanders, 1997) has won the NFL MVP award.
But Heisman trophies are rarely won early on in players careers. Only three sophomores (none yet to enter the NFL draft) have won the Heisman. The player that receives the award is often the top player on one of the National Championship game teams.
Sometimes viewed as a career achievement award for the most outstanding player (generally a senior) on one of the nation’s top two teams. So early ware and tear on these athletes could hinder what is already a short NFL career.
56 of the 74 Heisman winners, or 76 percent, have been seniors. Only the past three seasons has a newer trend developed as three straight sophomores won, the only sophomores to ever win it.
For Mark Ingram, the 2009 winner, he will have the opportunity to become just the second player to win two Heisman’s as he returns for his junior season. Only Ohio States’ Archie Griffin (1974 - 75) has won two.
Since Tim Tebow (2007), Sam Bradford (2008) and Ingram (2009) have seem to set a new precedent when it comes to selecting college football’s best player, it will be interesting to see how, if at all, the “curse” is effected by the sophomore takeover.
My Sources:
Friday, December 18, 2009
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Does Tiger deserve a little privacy?
Sure, the man has continually made over $100 million per year, mainly due to his endorsements.
He is the face of the PGA Tour, Buick, Gatorade, Nike and Gillette.
And yes he is the first athlete to become a billionaire.
But how far is too far?
Can you even remember how this incident even started? It seems like a month ago when
I remember seeing the first report about the initial car accident.
The only information that was known was that he had crashed his Escalade into a fire hydrant and a tree and said to be bleeding in the mouth.
Later we found out that his wife, Elin, had smashed out his window with a golf club to rescue her husband.
As the sports world awoke on November 27, nothing but negative news was streamed across the country.
He didn’t help himself by cancelling consecutive meetings to talk with the police the incident, and has only reached the media through his website. But probably his best option at that point.
Tiger was forced to pull out of his own charity event, at his golf own golf tournament.
Rumors about Tiger having an affair led up to at least 10 women linked to his sexual affairs.
Text messages and voice mails bought and distributed by TMZ, National Enquirer and US Weekly has turned an “accident” into a nightmare for the billion dollar man.
Since the accusations, Gatorade has discontinued the “Gatorade Tiger Focus” sports drink. Woods signed a five-year contract worth an estimated $100 million in 2007 with Gatorade.
The best thing for Tiger is to answer the questions, and lay low for a while.
Because fans will forgive any athlete that admits to his mistake.
Hopefully for Tiger’s sake, he didn’t make too many mistakes.
He is the face of the PGA Tour, Buick, Gatorade, Nike and Gillette.
And yes he is the first athlete to become a billionaire.
But how far is too far?
Can you even remember how this incident even started? It seems like a month ago when
I remember seeing the first report about the initial car accident.
The only information that was known was that he had crashed his Escalade into a fire hydrant and a tree and said to be bleeding in the mouth.
Later we found out that his wife, Elin, had smashed out his window with a golf club to rescue her husband.
As the sports world awoke on November 27, nothing but negative news was streamed across the country.
He didn’t help himself by cancelling consecutive meetings to talk with the police the incident, and has only reached the media through his website. But probably his best option at that point.
Tiger was forced to pull out of his own charity event, at his golf own golf tournament.
Rumors about Tiger having an affair led up to at least 10 women linked to his sexual affairs.
Text messages and voice mails bought and distributed by TMZ, National Enquirer and US Weekly has turned an “accident” into a nightmare for the billion dollar man.
Since the accusations, Gatorade has discontinued the “Gatorade Tiger Focus” sports drink. Woods signed a five-year contract worth an estimated $100 million in 2007 with Gatorade.
The best thing for Tiger is to answer the questions, and lay low for a while.
Because fans will forgive any athlete that admits to his mistake.
Hopefully for Tiger’s sake, he didn’t make too many mistakes.
Gradkowski has three late touchdowns to rally Oakland over Pittsburgh
The woes for the defending Super Bowl champs continue for the ailing Steelers.
With the final seconds winding down, trailing, 24-20, Raiders quarterback Bruce Gradkowski made a desperation throw to rookie Louis Murphy who hauled in an 11-yard touchdown, leaving only nine seconds on the clock.
Pittsburgh started the fourth quarter leading 10-6. 35 points later and the Steelers drop their fourth straight in a shocking 27-24 defeat by the Raiders.
Chaz Schilens caught a 17-yard touchdown from Bruce Gradkowski to put Oakland ahead 13-10 with eight minutes left to play in the fourth.
That would be the first of a five touchdown frenzy.
The Steelers responded on a Rashard Mendenhall touchdown run, scoring within a minute of the Raiders’.
Trailing 13-17, Gradkowski connected with rookie Louis Murphy for a 75-yard touchdown with just over five minutes to go.
With less than two minutes lingering, Ben Roethlisberger found Hines Ward in the end zone for an 11-yard score.
Gradkowski had to take the field, on the road in Pittsburgh, trailing 24-20, having to score a touchdown and needing to gain 88 yards.
He rallied the Raiders to earn their fourth victory of the season, providing a better option at quarterback since the benching of former No. 1 pick JaMarcus Russell.
Oakland looks to continue their winning ways as they play at 4 p.m. ET this Sunday at home against the Redskins.
The Steelers will look to break their losing streak against their rival Browns at 8 p.m. Thursday in Cleveland.
With the final seconds winding down, trailing, 24-20, Raiders quarterback Bruce Gradkowski made a desperation throw to rookie Louis Murphy who hauled in an 11-yard touchdown, leaving only nine seconds on the clock.
Pittsburgh started the fourth quarter leading 10-6. 35 points later and the Steelers drop their fourth straight in a shocking 27-24 defeat by the Raiders.
Chaz Schilens caught a 17-yard touchdown from Bruce Gradkowski to put Oakland ahead 13-10 with eight minutes left to play in the fourth.
That would be the first of a five touchdown frenzy.
The Steelers responded on a Rashard Mendenhall touchdown run, scoring within a minute of the Raiders’.
Trailing 13-17, Gradkowski connected with rookie Louis Murphy for a 75-yard touchdown with just over five minutes to go.
With less than two minutes lingering, Ben Roethlisberger found Hines Ward in the end zone for an 11-yard score.
Gradkowski had to take the field, on the road in Pittsburgh, trailing 24-20, having to score a touchdown and needing to gain 88 yards.
He rallied the Raiders to earn their fourth victory of the season, providing a better option at quarterback since the benching of former No. 1 pick JaMarcus Russell.
Oakland looks to continue their winning ways as they play at 4 p.m. ET this Sunday at home against the Redskins.
The Steelers will look to break their losing streak against their rival Browns at 8 p.m. Thursday in Cleveland.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Notre Dame to interview Cincinnati’s Kelly, Claussen and Tate to enter NFL
The Fighting Irish may have found their new head coach as athletic director Jack Swarbrick is set to meet with current Cincinnati Bearcats coach Brian Kelly on Tuesday.
Notre Dame fired Charlie Weis last week after going 35-27 in five seasons.
Kelly updated on his twitter account earlier today that he has informed his team about his interview with Notre Dame and he “will listen to what they have to say”. Kelly has the Bearcats ranked No. 4 in the BCS, leading them to a 12-0 season and won the Big East title. Cincinnati is set to play Florida in the Sugar Bowl.
It has also been learned that the Irish’s Jimmy Clausen and Golden Tate will forego their senior season at Notre Dame and enter the NFL draft. Clausen ranks as the third best quarterback and Tate as the No. 2 wide out according to ESPN’s scout Todd McShay.
Notre Dame fired Charlie Weis last week after going 35-27 in five seasons.
Kelly updated on his twitter account earlier today that he has informed his team about his interview with Notre Dame and he “will listen to what they have to say”. Kelly has the Bearcats ranked No. 4 in the BCS, leading them to a 12-0 season and won the Big East title. Cincinnati is set to play Florida in the Sugar Bowl.
It has also been learned that the Irish’s Jimmy Clausen and Golden Tate will forego their senior season at Notre Dame and enter the NFL draft. Clausen ranks as the third best quarterback and Tate as the No. 2 wide out according to ESPN’s scout Todd McShay.
Five finalist in place for Heisman Trophy
Florida quarterback Tim Tebow was invited for a record third time to the Heisman Trophy ceremony set to take place at 8 p.m. ET this Saturday in New York.
Tebow and his Gators fell to the Crimson Tide 32-13 in the SEC championship game as No.1 Florida played No.2 Alabama. Tebow is looking to become the second player to win two Heisman’s since Ohio States’ Archie Griffin in 1974-75. The Gator quarterback threw for 2,413 yards with 18 touchdowns and ran for 859 yards and 13 touchdowns.
Joining Tebow is Texas quarterback Colt McCoy, Stanford running back Toby Gerhart,
Alabama running back Mark Ingram, and Nebraska defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh.
McCoy has led the Longhorns to a Big 12 title and a spot in the BCS national championship against Alabama after nearly escaping an upset of the Cornhuskers last Saturday. McCoy has thrown for 3,512 yards with 27 touchdowns and 12 interceptions and ran for 348 yards and three scores.
Ingram will look to become the first Heisman Trophy winner in Alabama football history. The Crimson Tide running back is a hot pick coming off a 100-yard three touchdown game against Florida in the SEC title game as Alabama will meet Texas in the National Championship. The sophomore standout set a single season school rushing record (1,542 yards) in the victory over Florida in the SEC title game as he passed Bobby Humphrey. The only other sophomore to win the Heisman was Tebow back in 2007. Ingram rushed for 15 touchdowns and had 330 receiving yards with three scores.
Gerhart led Stanford to an 8-4 season including blowout victories over Pac 10 foes USC and Oregon. Gerhart is also a strong performer in the classroom as he is a road scholar and is taking 21 credits this semester. The Cardinal running back ran for a NCAA best 1,736 yards and 26 touchdowns.
Nebraska’s Suh is the first defensive player to be a finalist since Charles Woodson in 1997. Woodson was the first full-time defensive player to win the Heisman. Suh recorded 4.5 sacks in the Big 12 championship game against Texas. On the season, Suh has a NCAA-third best 12 sacks and is No.1 on most people’s draft boards.
Tebow and McCoy both struggled only putting up 13 points each over “championship weekend”. The hot vote right now is for Ingram. But if you’re going to vote for a running back, wouldn’t you vote for the guy who led the NCAA in rushing yards and touchdowns? And as for Suh, he is the best player in the nation, but it took for Charles Woodson to be on a national championship team before he won the Heisman, and the Cornhuskers fall way short of that at 9-4. If I had a vote, it’d go to Toby Gerhart.
Tebow and his Gators fell to the Crimson Tide 32-13 in the SEC championship game as No.1 Florida played No.2 Alabama. Tebow is looking to become the second player to win two Heisman’s since Ohio States’ Archie Griffin in 1974-75. The Gator quarterback threw for 2,413 yards with 18 touchdowns and ran for 859 yards and 13 touchdowns.
Joining Tebow is Texas quarterback Colt McCoy, Stanford running back Toby Gerhart,
Alabama running back Mark Ingram, and Nebraska defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh.
McCoy has led the Longhorns to a Big 12 title and a spot in the BCS national championship against Alabama after nearly escaping an upset of the Cornhuskers last Saturday. McCoy has thrown for 3,512 yards with 27 touchdowns and 12 interceptions and ran for 348 yards and three scores.
Ingram will look to become the first Heisman Trophy winner in Alabama football history. The Crimson Tide running back is a hot pick coming off a 100-yard three touchdown game against Florida in the SEC title game as Alabama will meet Texas in the National Championship. The sophomore standout set a single season school rushing record (1,542 yards) in the victory over Florida in the SEC title game as he passed Bobby Humphrey. The only other sophomore to win the Heisman was Tebow back in 2007. Ingram rushed for 15 touchdowns and had 330 receiving yards with three scores.
Gerhart led Stanford to an 8-4 season including blowout victories over Pac 10 foes USC and Oregon. Gerhart is also a strong performer in the classroom as he is a road scholar and is taking 21 credits this semester. The Cardinal running back ran for a NCAA best 1,736 yards and 26 touchdowns.
Nebraska’s Suh is the first defensive player to be a finalist since Charles Woodson in 1997. Woodson was the first full-time defensive player to win the Heisman. Suh recorded 4.5 sacks in the Big 12 championship game against Texas. On the season, Suh has a NCAA-third best 12 sacks and is No.1 on most people’s draft boards.
Tebow and McCoy both struggled only putting up 13 points each over “championship weekend”. The hot vote right now is for Ingram. But if you’re going to vote for a running back, wouldn’t you vote for the guy who led the NCAA in rushing yards and touchdowns? And as for Suh, he is the best player in the nation, but it took for Charles Woodson to be on a national championship team before he won the Heisman, and the Cornhuskers fall way short of that at 9-4. If I had a vote, it’d go to Toby Gerhart.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Saints remain perfect as they roll Patriots in Monday Night Showdown
Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints handled the New England Patriots with ease in the most anticipated Monday Night match-up of the season.
Brees completed 78% of his passes for 371 yards and threw five touchdowns to five different receivers in a 38-17 victory at the Louisiana Superdome. The win improved New Orleans to 11-0 on the season.
Brady and the Patriots offense were stymied by the Saints defense after their opening scoring drive. Brady finished with his second worst QB rating and failed to score a touchdown in a game for the second time this season. His only worst performance came at the Jets in week two.
Pressuring Brady was key for the New Orleans front seven and they provided plenty of it to slow down the high powered Patriots attack. Randy Moss was limited to just three catches for 67 yards in the loss. New England drops to 7-4 on the season and 0-4 in road games.
ESPN Recap
Brees completed 78% of his passes for 371 yards and threw five touchdowns to five different receivers in a 38-17 victory at the Louisiana Superdome. The win improved New Orleans to 11-0 on the season.
Brady and the Patriots offense were stymied by the Saints defense after their opening scoring drive. Brady finished with his second worst QB rating and failed to score a touchdown in a game for the second time this season. His only worst performance came at the Jets in week two.
Pressuring Brady was key for the New Orleans front seven and they provided plenty of it to slow down the high powered Patriots attack. Randy Moss was limited to just three catches for 67 yards in the loss. New England drops to 7-4 on the season and 0-4 in road games.
ESPN Recap
Monday, November 30, 2009
Michigan beats Creighton, drops next two in disapointing tournament
Michigan needed overtime to beat Creighton 83-76 on Thanksgiving as the Wolverines advanced to the semifinals of the Old Spice Classic in Orlando.
With Creighton trailing by two and five seconds remaining, the Bluejays Antoine Young received the inbounds pass and ran the length of the court and converted a game-tying layup with under a second left.
Manny Harris was one rebound short of his second triple double of the season. The junior star finished with 20 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds, scoring eight of his points in overtime. "They told me I was close [to a triple double] with a few seconds left,” said Harris.
Senior DeShawn Sims added 16 points and 11 rebounds for the Wolverines.
On Friday the Wolverines lost to Marquette 79-65 in the semifinals. Harris again was the high-man for Michigan as he scored 22 in the loss. Laval Lucas Perry chipped in 12.
Michigan trailed by only one early in the second half, but could not keep up with the Golden Eagles.
“We dialed up everything we could do, but they're just super quick. We'll see that again at different times, but you don't see the skill,” said Coach John Beilein.
On Sunday Michigan fell to Alabama 68-66 to cap off a disappointing weekend. The loss now makes the Wolverines look less like a top 15 team in the country.
Harris had 26 points and 10 rebounds. Michigan lost after leading by 13 in the first half and eight points in the second. Sims added 16 points for the Wolverines who are now 3-2.
Their next game is at 7:30 p.m. ET Wednesday at Crisler Arena as they take on Boston College in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge.
With Creighton trailing by two and five seconds remaining, the Bluejays Antoine Young received the inbounds pass and ran the length of the court and converted a game-tying layup with under a second left.
Manny Harris was one rebound short of his second triple double of the season. The junior star finished with 20 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds, scoring eight of his points in overtime. "They told me I was close [to a triple double] with a few seconds left,” said Harris.
Senior DeShawn Sims added 16 points and 11 rebounds for the Wolverines.
On Friday the Wolverines lost to Marquette 79-65 in the semifinals. Harris again was the high-man for Michigan as he scored 22 in the loss. Laval Lucas Perry chipped in 12.
Michigan trailed by only one early in the second half, but could not keep up with the Golden Eagles.
“We dialed up everything we could do, but they're just super quick. We'll see that again at different times, but you don't see the skill,” said Coach John Beilein.
On Sunday Michigan fell to Alabama 68-66 to cap off a disappointing weekend. The loss now makes the Wolverines look less like a top 15 team in the country.
Harris had 26 points and 10 rebounds. Michigan lost after leading by 13 in the first half and eight points in the second. Sims added 16 points for the Wolverines who are now 3-2.
Their next game is at 7:30 p.m. ET Wednesday at Crisler Arena as they take on Boston College in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge.
Bama avoids upset, Florida rolls leading to SEC title game
No. 1 Florida will play No. 2 Alabama Saturday for the SEC Championship. They're also playing for a spot in the National Championship Game in Pasadena.
“The goal is to be a champion,” Alabama coach Nick Saban said. “I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here.”
For the second year in a row, the Gators and the Crimson Tide will play for the SEC title, and also a spot in the National Championship game. Last year, Tim Tebow and the Gators put Alabama away with a late fourth quarter touchdown en route to a 31-20 victory. “The fourth quarter of that game stayed with us all offseason,” Alabama nose guard Terrence Cody said. “Nobody forgot it. We didn’t want to forget it.”
The Crimson Tide is coming off a near upset as they skidded by Auburn in a 26-21 win last Friday. Alabama fell behind early after rival Tigers put up led by 14 points after one quarter. Alabama put together a seven minute, 79 yard touchdown drive to put them ahead, 26-21.
Florida enjoyed a much easier rivalry game as they downed Florida State, 37-10. Tebow throw for three touchdowns and ran for two against the confused Seminoles defense. "That was one of his best performances," coach Urban Meyer said of Tebow. "He threw the ball extremely well. … I don't know where you start.”
The most anticipated match of the season will be played at 4 p.m. ET Saturday at the Georgia Dome.
“I can’t think of a bigger game that I’ve been a part of,” Meyer said.
[Information from ESPN.com and GatorBait.com were used in this report]
“The goal is to be a champion,” Alabama coach Nick Saban said. “I didn’t say to win a championship. I just said be a champion. That’s our goal here.”
For the second year in a row, the Gators and the Crimson Tide will play for the SEC title, and also a spot in the National Championship game. Last year, Tim Tebow and the Gators put Alabama away with a late fourth quarter touchdown en route to a 31-20 victory. “The fourth quarter of that game stayed with us all offseason,” Alabama nose guard Terrence Cody said. “Nobody forgot it. We didn’t want to forget it.”
The Crimson Tide is coming off a near upset as they skidded by Auburn in a 26-21 win last Friday. Alabama fell behind early after rival Tigers put up led by 14 points after one quarter. Alabama put together a seven minute, 79 yard touchdown drive to put them ahead, 26-21.
Florida enjoyed a much easier rivalry game as they downed Florida State, 37-10. Tebow throw for three touchdowns and ran for two against the confused Seminoles defense. "That was one of his best performances," coach Urban Meyer said of Tebow. "He threw the ball extremely well. … I don't know where you start.”
The most anticipated match of the season will be played at 4 p.m. ET Saturday at the Georgia Dome.
“I can’t think of a bigger game that I’ve been a part of,” Meyer said.
[Information from ESPN.com and GatorBait.com were used in this report]
Monday, November 23, 2009
Pats defense, Belichick respond with victory after Colts meltdown
The New England Patriots defense forced five turnovers in a 31-14 victory over the New York Jets on Sunday at Gillete Stadium.
Many felt that Patriots head coach Bill Belichick didn’t have faith in his defense to stop Peyton Manning in the final minutes of their loss to the Colts the previous week.
What a difference a week makes. The New England defense intercepted Jets quarterback four times, and forced three turnovers in the fourth quarter as they improved to 7-3 on the season. Of course it’s a lot easier when you’re playing a rookie quarterback then playing Peyton Manning.
The Patriots defense made a statement early as Leigh Bodden picked off Sanchez and returned it for a 53-yard touchdown, giving New England a 7-0 lead. "There was a lot of emotion from last week, not finishing the game," Bodden said. "We definitely wanted to finish this game." Later in the first, Tom Brady connected with Randy Moss for a four-yard touchdown.
New England added 10 more points in the second quarter, coming on a 2-yard touchdown run by Laurence Maroney and Stephen Gostkowski made a 26-yard field goal, giving the Patriots a 24-0 lead. With New England punting right before half, the Jets special teams blocked the attempt and Brad Smith recovered it for the Jets first score of the game, as they trailed 24-7 at halftime.
New York would push a little closer as Jerricho Cotchery caught a 28-yard touchdown pass from Sanchez, as the Jets now trailed 24-14.
The Patriots defense continued to dominate New York in the fourth quarter as they forced three turnovers. Laurence Maroney added another score for New England on a one-yard touchdown.
Belichick and his defense will have another opportunity to make a statement as New England will take on Drew Brees and the No. 1 offense at 7 p.m. ET Monday at the Louisiana Superdome.
[Information from ESPN.com was use in this report]
Many felt that Patriots head coach Bill Belichick didn’t have faith in his defense to stop Peyton Manning in the final minutes of their loss to the Colts the previous week.
What a difference a week makes. The New England defense intercepted Jets quarterback four times, and forced three turnovers in the fourth quarter as they improved to 7-3 on the season. Of course it’s a lot easier when you’re playing a rookie quarterback then playing Peyton Manning.
The Patriots defense made a statement early as Leigh Bodden picked off Sanchez and returned it for a 53-yard touchdown, giving New England a 7-0 lead. "There was a lot of emotion from last week, not finishing the game," Bodden said. "We definitely wanted to finish this game." Later in the first, Tom Brady connected with Randy Moss for a four-yard touchdown.
New England added 10 more points in the second quarter, coming on a 2-yard touchdown run by Laurence Maroney and Stephen Gostkowski made a 26-yard field goal, giving the Patriots a 24-0 lead. With New England punting right before half, the Jets special teams blocked the attempt and Brad Smith recovered it for the Jets first score of the game, as they trailed 24-7 at halftime.
New York would push a little closer as Jerricho Cotchery caught a 28-yard touchdown pass from Sanchez, as the Jets now trailed 24-14.
The Patriots defense continued to dominate New York in the fourth quarter as they forced three turnovers. Laurence Maroney added another score for New England on a one-yard touchdown.
Belichick and his defense will have another opportunity to make a statement as New England will take on Drew Brees and the No. 1 offense at 7 p.m. ET Monday at the Louisiana Superdome.
[Information from ESPN.com was use in this report]
Forcier has five turnovers in Michigan's sixth straight loss to OSU
Tate Forcier looked every bit of a true freshman in Saturday’s 21-10 loss to Ohio State in front of nearly 111,000 people in the Big House.
Forcier threw four interceptions, including two in the red zone. But his biggest turnover was a fumble without any contact in the end zone as the Buckeye defense recovered it for a touchdown.
Ohio State clinched the big ten title outright with the victory. Michigan clinched consecutive losing seasons for the first time since 1962-63, and failing to reach a bowl game, again.
Greg Robinson and the Wolverine defense played their best game of the season, holding the No.10 Buckeyes to 14 points.
On Michigan’s first offensive possession, Forcier fumbled the ball in the end zone, and Buckeye defender Cameron Heyward recovered to give Ohio State an early 7-0 lead. Later in the quarter, fifth-year senior Jason Olesnavage missed a 24-yard field goal.
In the second quarter, Olesnavage got Michigan their first points of the game as he connected on a 46-yard field goal, trimming the deficit to four. Ohio State added seven more points in the second quarter on a Brandon Saine touchdown run as they enjoyed a 14-3 halftime lead.
On the opening possession of the third quarter, the Wolverine offense moved the ball against the suffocating Buckeye defense, as Forcier connected with Vincent Smith for an 18-yard touchdown pass, now trailing 14-10. Ohio State answered with a touchdown drive of their own as Brandon Herron scored giving the Buckeyes a 21-10 lead.
Ohio State’s defense stymied Forcier and the Wolverine offense the remainder of the game, as Jim Tressel improved to 8-1 against Michigan, and 2-0 against Rich Rodriguez. Another long off season awaits Michigan fans as they failed to reach a bowl game for the second straight season after appearing in 33 straight bowl games.
Forcier threw four interceptions, including two in the red zone. But his biggest turnover was a fumble without any contact in the end zone as the Buckeye defense recovered it for a touchdown.
Ohio State clinched the big ten title outright with the victory. Michigan clinched consecutive losing seasons for the first time since 1962-63, and failing to reach a bowl game, again.
Greg Robinson and the Wolverine defense played their best game of the season, holding the No.10 Buckeyes to 14 points.
On Michigan’s first offensive possession, Forcier fumbled the ball in the end zone, and Buckeye defender Cameron Heyward recovered to give Ohio State an early 7-0 lead. Later in the quarter, fifth-year senior Jason Olesnavage missed a 24-yard field goal.
In the second quarter, Olesnavage got Michigan their first points of the game as he connected on a 46-yard field goal, trimming the deficit to four. Ohio State added seven more points in the second quarter on a Brandon Saine touchdown run as they enjoyed a 14-3 halftime lead.
On the opening possession of the third quarter, the Wolverine offense moved the ball against the suffocating Buckeye defense, as Forcier connected with Vincent Smith for an 18-yard touchdown pass, now trailing 14-10. Ohio State answered with a touchdown drive of their own as Brandon Herron scored giving the Buckeyes a 21-10 lead.
Ohio State’s defense stymied Forcier and the Wolverine offense the remainder of the game, as Jim Tressel improved to 8-1 against Michigan, and 2-0 against Rich Rodriguez. Another long off season awaits Michigan fans as they failed to reach a bowl game for the second straight season after appearing in 33 straight bowl games.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Michigan looks to avoid sixth straight loss to Ohio State
“The Game” between Michigan and Ohio State has become less relevant in the Rich Rodriguez era.
Less relevant in the sense that it hasn’t had any impact on the Big Ten conference winner, as No. 9 Ohio State secured their place in the Rose Bowl with a 30-27 overtime victory over Iowa. “The Game” would typically determine whether Michigan or Ohio State won the big ten (or who goes to the National Championship, see 2006).
Last season, a 3-8 Michigan team went to Ohio State, to only lose in shame, dropping their fifth straight to the Buckeyes in a 42-7 defeat.
This season, a 9-2 Ohio State squad comes to Ann Arbor licking their chops against a Michigan defense that has held only one big ten opponent (Michigan State) to under 30 points this season. "Defensively, we are reaching to find an answer to stop people," Rodriguez said.
The Wolverines, at 5-6, need a win over the Buckeyes to earn a bowl bid. They also need a win to keep assure Michigan fans that the rivalry against Ohio State is still competitive, as they haven’t beaten them since 2003 in the Big House.
"There's no question we've got one more chance," Rodriguez said. "I've asked the team to be extra focused. We've been focused all year, but this is the biggest game of the year. Our guys know that."
Some good news for Michigan is they have put up 60 points the past two weeks. Bad news is they haven’t beaten an FBS (football bowl subdivision) opponent since September 26, as they squeaked by fellow big ten cellar dweller Indiana (both 1-6 in the conference).
"If I have to spend 10 hours this week watching film, I'm going to do that," Tate Forcier said. "We're going to get the seniors to a bowl game. We're going to come out and do what we need to do to beat Ohio State.”
[Information from ESPN was used in this report.]
Less relevant in the sense that it hasn’t had any impact on the Big Ten conference winner, as No. 9 Ohio State secured their place in the Rose Bowl with a 30-27 overtime victory over Iowa. “The Game” would typically determine whether Michigan or Ohio State won the big ten (or who goes to the National Championship, see 2006).
Last season, a 3-8 Michigan team went to Ohio State, to only lose in shame, dropping their fifth straight to the Buckeyes in a 42-7 defeat.
This season, a 9-2 Ohio State squad comes to Ann Arbor licking their chops against a Michigan defense that has held only one big ten opponent (Michigan State) to under 30 points this season. "Defensively, we are reaching to find an answer to stop people," Rodriguez said.
The Wolverines, at 5-6, need a win over the Buckeyes to earn a bowl bid. They also need a win to keep assure Michigan fans that the rivalry against Ohio State is still competitive, as they haven’t beaten them since 2003 in the Big House.
"There's no question we've got one more chance," Rodriguez said. "I've asked the team to be extra focused. We've been focused all year, but this is the biggest game of the year. Our guys know that."
Some good news for Michigan is they have put up 60 points the past two weeks. Bad news is they haven’t beaten an FBS (football bowl subdivision) opponent since September 26, as they squeaked by fellow big ten cellar dweller Indiana (both 1-6 in the conference).
"If I have to spend 10 hours this week watching film, I'm going to do that," Tate Forcier said. "We're going to get the seniors to a bowl game. We're going to come out and do what we need to do to beat Ohio State.”
[Information from ESPN was used in this report.]
Michigans' second half woes continue in third straight loss at Wisconsin
At 5-5, Michigan traveled to Wisconsin needing one more victory to become bowl eligible. As they left Wisconsin, they need one more victory to become bowl eligible.
Tate Forcier started under center for the Wolverines. After a long week of speculation ranging from Forcier not starting, to being suspended, to transferring (via Traverse City Sports Radio show), the true freshman didn't seem to lose any playing time. In fact, he played one of his best complete Big Ten games this season, completing 20 of 26 passes for 188 yards and two touchdowns.
With Michigan already down seven in the first quarter, Forcier hooked up with Vincent Smith for a 22-yard score. Early in the second, Michigan gained the lead after a Jordan Kovacs interception, which led to a 37-yard field goal by Jason Olesnavage, putting the Wolverines ahead 10-7.
After giving up another Badger touchdown, Brandon Graham forced a fumble and Ryan Van Bergen recovered it for a touchdown, regaining the lead for the Wolverines at 17-14. But this lead didn’t last long as it took Wisconsin just over two minutes to answer with a go ahead score of their own, taking a 21-17 lead into halftime.
Michigan scored only one more touchdown, as Roy Roundtree caught a 10-yard touchdown pass from Forcier. The Badgers put up 24 points in the second half en route to their third straight victory at Camp Randall over the Wolverines. Michigan has been outscored by 99 points in the second half in their last four games; leading up to what could be another ugly loss to rival Ohio State.
Tate Forcier started under center for the Wolverines. After a long week of speculation ranging from Forcier not starting, to being suspended, to transferring (via Traverse City Sports Radio show), the true freshman didn't seem to lose any playing time. In fact, he played one of his best complete Big Ten games this season, completing 20 of 26 passes for 188 yards and two touchdowns.
With Michigan already down seven in the first quarter, Forcier hooked up with Vincent Smith for a 22-yard score. Early in the second, Michigan gained the lead after a Jordan Kovacs interception, which led to a 37-yard field goal by Jason Olesnavage, putting the Wolverines ahead 10-7.
After giving up another Badger touchdown, Brandon Graham forced a fumble and Ryan Van Bergen recovered it for a touchdown, regaining the lead for the Wolverines at 17-14. But this lead didn’t last long as it took Wisconsin just over two minutes to answer with a go ahead score of their own, taking a 21-17 lead into halftime.
Michigan scored only one more touchdown, as Roy Roundtree caught a 10-yard touchdown pass from Forcier. The Badgers put up 24 points in the second half en route to their third straight victory at Camp Randall over the Wolverines. Michigan has been outscored by 99 points in the second half in their last four games; leading up to what could be another ugly loss to rival Ohio State.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Rodriguez, Michigan blow first half lead, fail to secure a bowl bid
Michigan went into halftime leading by 14 points in yesterdays match-up against Purdue. The Wolverines defense surrendered four second half touchdowns en route to their fifth straight Big Ten loss, coming via 38-36 defeat of the Boilermakers. This was Purdue’s first victory at Michigan Stadium since 1966, another record broken under Rich Rodriguez.
Brandon Minor and Roy Roundtree consistently made big plays for the Michigan offense. Minor finished with 154 rushing yards and scoring on runs of 29, 55, and one yard. Roundtree led the Wolverines receivers with 10 catches for 124 yards and scored on a 44 yard pass from Tate Forcier.
Michigan seemed to be getting back on track after struggling in its last two games, as they took a 24-10 lead into halftime. The Wolverines got the ball to start the second half, but a Forcier fumble on a pitch gave Purdue great field position, and they capitalized as Ralph Bolden rushed for a 19 yard touchdown, trimming the deficit to seven.
Forcier led the Wolverines down the field, and he scored on a six yard run, but a missed extra point only increased Michigan’s lead to 13. Later in the third quarter, Purdue scored two touchdowns within in ten seconds, after recovering an onside kick after their first score, and immediately scoring, giving Purdue a 31-30 lead. The Boilermakers added another touchdown in the fourth, increasing the deficit for Michigan to eight.
With just over two minutes remaining, Minor scored his third touchdown of the game, putting Michigan within a two-point conversion away to tie the game. But Foricer was sacked and Michigan’s chances of clinching a bowl game will have to wait another week.
It won’t get any easier for the Wolverines, as they wrap up their final two games of the regular season by traveling to Madison to face Wisconsin next week, where Michigan hasn’t won at since 2001. Then Michigan will head home for “The Game” on
November 21.
Brandon Minor and Roy Roundtree consistently made big plays for the Michigan offense. Minor finished with 154 rushing yards and scoring on runs of 29, 55, and one yard. Roundtree led the Wolverines receivers with 10 catches for 124 yards and scored on a 44 yard pass from Tate Forcier.
Michigan seemed to be getting back on track after struggling in its last two games, as they took a 24-10 lead into halftime. The Wolverines got the ball to start the second half, but a Forcier fumble on a pitch gave Purdue great field position, and they capitalized as Ralph Bolden rushed for a 19 yard touchdown, trimming the deficit to seven.
Forcier led the Wolverines down the field, and he scored on a six yard run, but a missed extra point only increased Michigan’s lead to 13. Later in the third quarter, Purdue scored two touchdowns within in ten seconds, after recovering an onside kick after their first score, and immediately scoring, giving Purdue a 31-30 lead. The Boilermakers added another touchdown in the fourth, increasing the deficit for Michigan to eight.
With just over two minutes remaining, Minor scored his third touchdown of the game, putting Michigan within a two-point conversion away to tie the game. But Foricer was sacked and Michigan’s chances of clinching a bowl game will have to wait another week.
It won’t get any easier for the Wolverines, as they wrap up their final two games of the regular season by traveling to Madison to face Wisconsin next week, where Michigan hasn’t won at since 2001. Then Michigan will head home for “The Game” on
November 21.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Michigan looks to become bowl eligible against Purdue
For 33 consecutive seasons, Michigan made a bowl game. In 2008, they watched that streak end as they finished 3-9, three wins short of becoming bowl eligible.
This Saturday, the Wolverines have a chance to qualify for a bowl game with a victory against Purdue in the Big House.
With Michigan’s struggles in conference play under Rich Rodriguez, an opportunity to play a 3-6 team at home (where the Wolverines are 5-1 this season) is one they must capitalize on.
Last year in West Lafayette, Rodriguez took away the play calling responsibilities from then defensive coordinator Scott Schafer. The Wolverines gave up 48 points in a loss, their most points allowed in a game in 2008, and also made Boilermaker backup quarterback Justin Siller look like Troy Smith. The loss clinched the Wolverines first losing season in over 30 years.
In this years’ matchup, Michigan will look to exploit the second worst defense in the big ten, against a defense that allows 235 rushing yards per game. With Brandon Minor looking as good in practice as he has all year, the Wolverines will try to get their running attack established early on. A heave dose of Minor, and good weather for Tate Forcier, should produce a Michigan victory. My prediction, Michigan 33, Purdue 23.
This Saturday, the Wolverines have a chance to qualify for a bowl game with a victory against Purdue in the Big House.
With Michigan’s struggles in conference play under Rich Rodriguez, an opportunity to play a 3-6 team at home (where the Wolverines are 5-1 this season) is one they must capitalize on.
Last year in West Lafayette, Rodriguez took away the play calling responsibilities from then defensive coordinator Scott Schafer. The Wolverines gave up 48 points in a loss, their most points allowed in a game in 2008, and also made Boilermaker backup quarterback Justin Siller look like Troy Smith. The loss clinched the Wolverines first losing season in over 30 years.
In this years’ matchup, Michigan will look to exploit the second worst defense in the big ten, against a defense that allows 235 rushing yards per game. With Brandon Minor looking as good in practice as he has all year, the Wolverines will try to get their running attack established early on. A heave dose of Minor, and good weather for Tate Forcier, should produce a Michigan victory. My prediction, Michigan 33, Purdue 23.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Alex Rodriguez breaks playoff slump, assists Yankees in 27th World Series Championship
Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez has been heavily criticized for his lack of production in the post season. Rodriguez made sure that wasn't the case in the 2009 playoffs.
“My teammates, coaches and the organization stood by me and now we stand here as world champions,” said Rodriguez
The Yankees slugger batted .365 with six home runs and 18 RBI in these years’ playoffs, including late inning tying or go ahead home runs in the first two rounds against the Twins and Angels, aiding the Yankees to win their 27th World Series title. In the championship clincher against the Phillies, Rodriguez reached base three times, scoring twice.
For Rodriguez, winning the title this year may be a little extra special, after he admitted to taking steroids while with the Texas Rangers in 2001-03. Rodriguez has fallen victim to being booed in his own stadium in New York. But he now enjoys the cheers as a World Series Champion.
[Quotes from the Associated Press were used in this story.]
“My teammates, coaches and the organization stood by me and now we stand here as world champions,” said Rodriguez
The Yankees slugger batted .365 with six home runs and 18 RBI in these years’ playoffs, including late inning tying or go ahead home runs in the first two rounds against the Twins and Angels, aiding the Yankees to win their 27th World Series title. In the championship clincher against the Phillies, Rodriguez reached base three times, scoring twice.
For Rodriguez, winning the title this year may be a little extra special, after he admitted to taking steroids while with the Texas Rangers in 2001-03. Rodriguez has fallen victim to being booed in his own stadium in New York. But he now enjoys the cheers as a World Series Champion.
[Quotes from the Associated Press were used in this story.]
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Rich Rodriguez and Tate Forcier
Rich Rodriguez and Tate Forcier celebrate after a dramatic last-second comeback win over rival Notre Dame.
My blogs mission
One of the missions of my blog is to create more published work, and have a venue to post my stories. I also want to grow as a writer. I believe that posting lost of content and having lots of feedback and readers only help you become a better journalist.
My blog is going to discuss sports, sports, and sports. I follow professional soccer (not U.S. soccer) NFL, NBA, MLB, PGA, College football and basketball. I will write exclusively about Michigan sports, especially football. Michigan football is my passion and I have a plethora of knowledge to be used in my blog about it. I would also like to include a weekly session about fantasy football and possibly other sports.
My goals are to write game stories for the big games (Title games, division clinchers, milestones reached, etc.). I will also be having game recaps from all of the Michigan games, Michigan recruiting, and now with the search for a new Athletic Director for Michigan, I will be updating my blog on the progress and candidates during the search.
My blog is going to discuss sports, sports, and sports. I follow professional soccer (not U.S. soccer) NFL, NBA, MLB, PGA, College football and basketball. I will write exclusively about Michigan sports, especially football. Michigan football is my passion and I have a plethora of knowledge to be used in my blog about it. I would also like to include a weekly session about fantasy football and possibly other sports.
My goals are to write game stories for the big games (Title games, division clinchers, milestones reached, etc.). I will also be having game recaps from all of the Michigan games, Michigan recruiting, and now with the search for a new Athletic Director for Michigan, I will be updating my blog on the progress and candidates during the search.
Will Michigans' defense improve under Rodriguez?
The most glaring issue for Michigan under Rich Rodriguez isn’t the amount of turnovers (and yes the turnovers are a problem, but that could be because of youth), but the lack of progress on defense.
Yes Rodriguez is widely known as an offensive mind, but turns out you need to be able to stop people to win, especially against the run.
In Rodriguez’s first season in Ann Arbor in 2008, Michigan’s defense allowed 137 rushing yards a game, and 367 total yards a game. In 2009, under newly hired defensive coordinator Greg Robinson, Michigan is allowing 162 rushing yards per game and 382 yards of total offense each game. This past week, then 5-3 Michigan lost to 1-6 Illinois. In the Wolverines loss, they surrendered 377 rushing yards. Regression has become a common concern for Michigan fans.
Rodriguez continues to recruit his style of quarterbacks, his slot receivers, and the guys that fit his offense. More of a concern needs to be made on the defensive side of the ball. With Rodriguez inability to recruit defense, and Robinson not really being a big recruiting coordinator, it’s unsure how Michigan will get the talent to right their woeful defense.
Yes Rodriguez is widely known as an offensive mind, but turns out you need to be able to stop people to win, especially against the run.
In Rodriguez’s first season in Ann Arbor in 2008, Michigan’s defense allowed 137 rushing yards a game, and 367 total yards a game. In 2009, under newly hired defensive coordinator Greg Robinson, Michigan is allowing 162 rushing yards per game and 382 yards of total offense each game. This past week, then 5-3 Michigan lost to 1-6 Illinois. In the Wolverines loss, they surrendered 377 rushing yards. Regression has become a common concern for Michigan fans.
Rodriguez continues to recruit his style of quarterbacks, his slot receivers, and the guys that fit his offense. More of a concern needs to be made on the defensive side of the ball. With Rodriguez inability to recruit defense, and Robinson not really being a big recruiting coordinator, it’s unsure how Michigan will get the talent to right their woeful defense.
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