Football Nation

College Football: Post-Spring Top 25 Rankings

Wed, 22 May 2013 23:23:57 GMT

1. Alabama

- Alabama is head and shoulders above every other team in the NCAA, and the reason is Nick Saban. The head coach could turn any program into a Top 15 team in my opinion.

2. Ohio State

- Ohio State very well might have been the second best team in the nation last year. Despite their strength of schedule they could have been in the title game if it were not for the sanctions.

3. Oregon

- Despite losing their coach and the inpending sanctions I think they will still crack the top 5 in preseason rankings. Now will they finish there? I don't think so.

4. Stanford

- Stanford could be in for a very good season. Their system seems to fit whoever comes in to play every single year. I believe they have a top 5 defense this year and will finish in the top 4.

5. Texas A&M

- Texas A&M have some young guns ready to shine this year. Players like Johnny Manziel and Jake Matthews ready to lead this team. I don't think their ready to get to a title game they might even lose 2 or 3 games this year.

6. Georgia

- I have seen alot of people put Georgia in their top 3, but I just do not see it. Their talent has eluded them over the year and they might be in for a season comparable to LSU last year.

7. South Carolina

- Have you ever heard the saying, "Defense wins championships"? Well in this case Clowney wins champinships. They have the best college football player in the nation on this team and he is ready to move them into a top 5 finish.

8. Louisville

- Bridgewater and company are ready to glide through this horrid Big East. They will win the Big East and jump into a BCS Bowl game.

9. Notre Dame

- Notre Dame was destroyed by Alabama in last year's national championship game. They proved that their regular season schedule wasn't as difficult as some believed.

10. Florida

- Florida is always a competitive team and last year they took a minimal step up. They sit at 10 in this early rankings because of their strength of schedule this year.

11. Clemson

- Clemson has a quarterback who is ready to take a big step up. Tajh Boyd is ready to carry this team through the ACC.

12. Texas

- Texas has been mediocre for a few years now. Last year was a stellar year and Mack Brown got them into a bowl game. They recruited well and look to bring a strong team into the fall.

13. Florida State

- Florida State is a strong team year in and year out. This year will be no different they will finish somewhere in the top 15.

14. Michigan

- Yes, Michigan will take a step back but I see this as the spot that they end up. They have enough talent to be considered a top 15 team.

15. Oklahoma

- Oklahoma might be a team on the decline all their players who guided them to 3 consecituve years in the top 10 in the preseason rankings have come and gone.

16. Boise State

- Boise seems to be written off every year and somehow at some point cracks the top 10 at one point in the season.

17. Oregon State

-Oregon State started off 6-0 and last year look for a similiar start this upcoming season.

18. LSU

- Despite an up and down season this past year the Tigers seem to have had an average recruitting year and they could be bringing in a improved team.

19. USC

- USC has their top quarteback, center, and second best wide out leave and I think they come back stronger. Their Heisman-like wide receiver Marqise lee will guide this team to where they want to be.

20. Northwestern

- These Big Ten underdogs will wind up being ranked a lot higher than some pundits predict.

21. UCLA

- UCLA came very close last year to winning the Pac 12 but by not recruiting well they put themselves in a bad position.

22. Michigan State

- Michigan State may be a team to watch this year. But they will need their running game to be intact.

23. TCU

- TCU is looking forward to the return of quarterback Casey Pachall, which will make them quite dangerous.

24. Nebraska

- Nebraska finished last year strong but are an average team at best.

25. Miami (FL)

- Miami showed that smash mouth football can get you places, look for them to finish top 15.

Just Missing the Cut:

Kansas State, East Carolina, North Carolina, Rutgers, Fresno State

Florida Gators 2013 Forecast: Scattered Wins In Sunshine State

Wed, 22 May 2013 17:19:14 GMT

Allegations by Mike McNeil, former Auburn football player, against head coach Will Muschamp must be a distraction of magnitude. McNeil accused Muschamp of paying him underneath the table while at Auburn, in the amount of $400. Most Gator fans would like to wash this story away, but this question of integrity will always loom in the back of Muschamps' mind.

If other accusations surface from Muschamps' Auburn days, this could be the worst intangible for the 2013 Gator football team.

More issues for coach Muschamp include the many great defensive stars that are gone to the NFL. Sharrif Floyd on the defensive line was a huge loss. Jalani Jenkins and Jon Bostic, both linebackers, are not easy to replace. All three of these ex-Gator players were extremely important in stopping the run game.

The Gator pass defense will not be the same without free safety Josh Evans and corner-back Matt Elam. This will be a factor when the Gators face four year starter Aaron Murray in the Georgia game.

Overall, the Gators are not deep enough as Alabama to reload a defense every year.

After watching the Gator offense in 2012, Jeff Driskel better have an average of more than 167 yards passing per game to compensate for the losses on defense.

The Gator receivers caught a total of 12 touchdowns for the entire 2012 season, while the rushing game with running back Mike Gillislee and the Gator defense carried the Gators.

The Gators who need to step up in 2013 are as follows: QB Jeff Driskel, RB Matt Jones, DB Jaylen Watkins, and DT Jonathan Bullard.

The Gator schedule shows some match-ups that will create severe thunderstorms for this Sunshine State team.

September 7th, in Miami, Florida, will unveil the reality of which state of Florida team's stock will rise. The Gators will get a taste of what their season will endure when the Miami Hurricanes burn them on the pass.

Miami QB Stephen Morris will find wide out Phillip Dorsett and running back Duke Johnson all day long against the Gators. The Canes on the road will be loss number one for the Gators.

To sum up the rest of the Gator season: The game against LSU in Baton Rouge will give the term "payback is hell" a new meaning, Aaron Murray, with a three year starting offensive line and 10 out of 11 starters on offense returning, will extend the Georgia streak, and Jadeveon Clowney will rip out the heart of Gator Nation in Columbia.

The Tennessee, Florida State, and Vanderbilt games will be too close for comfort.

Sweetheart's Stuff

Swamp Life!
Gators don't have a lot to offer on the dating seen.

if they don't stay cool, their heads and brains Explode!!
they have thick scales on their backs (may I suggest Oil of Olay)
they camouflage themselves by laying on logs (this suggests they're Sneaky)

But, if you're still interested in a Gator hook-up, try these dating sites:

GatorMingle.com, SwampMeet.com, MoreGatorsInTheSwamp.com

Who's My Gator's Daddy?

Sweetheart

Little Caesars Pizza Bowl Likely To Move From Ford Field To Comerica Park

Wed, 22 May 2013 17:01:07 GMT

Ford Field in Detroit Michigan host's one college bowl game each year and that's the Little Caesars Pizza Bowl. The Detroit Lions are looking to create a new bowl to host at Ford Field that would boost attendance for a bowl game. The game would involve a Big Ten and ACC school, but this match-up might not happen every single year, sources told ESPN.

Now there are no final plans of this idea and if it's really going to happen. It is likely they will choose to create a new bowl in Detroit. The Little Caesars Pizza Bowl contract expires this year with Ford Field after the game on December 26th of 2013.

The MAC conference has a team go play in this bowl every year, and it's one of the main bowls MAC schools look forward to. Ford Field is close to home for almost every MAC team and they are able to bring a fan-base to this game. The Pizza Bowl usually has a decent attendance but they notice the attendance increases drastically if there is a Big Ten school playing in the bowl.

The MAC is frustrated that the game won't be held in an indoor stadium in the middle of winter, but instead likely moved across the street to Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers. Football games have been played in baseball stadiums before like the Pinstripe Bowl held at Yankee Stadium. Other options of a new place to hold the Little Caesars Pizza Bowl would be in Indianapolis at Lucas Oil Stadium, or Soldier Field in Chicago, IL.

The new bowl at Ford Field is still in the works and would need a sponsor to help host the bowl and give the bowl a name. In Detroit the Pontiac Silverdome held the Motor City Bowl from starting in 1997 which later moved to Ford Field in 2002, then later renamed the Little Caesars Pizza Bowl.

College Football 2013: 10 Most Irreplaceable Players

Wed, 22 May 2013 00:01:40 GMT

They are the players we will talk about most this season. The ones who garner Heisman consideration, the players we see on highlight reels on ESPN and local sportscasts.

These are the players college football and their teams cannot live without. And with evey run, throw, touchdown and postseason award vote, their legendary status grows bugger and stronger in the minds of the college sports media.

We are still a few months from the first game of the season and this topic has me salivating with excitement.

Here is a look at the most irreplaceable players in college football, regardless of team or position.

Two Team Race Not as Good For SEC East in Big Scheme

Mon, 20 May 2013 23:54:04 GMT

What Gator fan would have thunk it?

In 2009, when Florida rolled into Atlanta to face the Alabama Crimson Tide in the SEC Championship Game.

The Gators arrived carrying over a 13-1, reigning conference and national championship record from 2008.

They were working hard to repeat, with a 12-0 record and No. 1 ranking again.

Things surely looked good for the Florida Gators.

Then came the game.

As the clock neared 8 P.M. and a party that would go all night was getting cranked up in Tuscaloosa, the Florida Gators limped off the field in Atlanta, 32-13 losers to eventual national champion, Alabama.

Who figured on that day so full of hope, the Gators would lose the SEC title. Then, drop far enough in the rankings to eliminate any shot at another one verse two try as the number two seed.

No SEC Championship. No national title repeat. Heck, the Gators have not seen the inside of the Georgia Dome for football in December in the three years since.

While nobody saw it coming for the Gators that day, both Georgia and South Carolina stepped up ready to fill the void. Unfortunately for both, even though their combined record over Florida is 4-2 during the period, it has still been three SEC Championship opportunities defined by two wipeouts and one heartbreaking loss.

For Georgia, there is the addition of the loss of a chance to play in The 2012 national title game as well. In short, the state of Alabama thanks both teams for the efforts. It has allowed them to collect one Coaches Trophy in Auburn and two more in Tuscaloosa.

From the Georgia and Carolina perspective, neither traditional east power Florida or Tennessee presented a serious threat in 2010 or 2011. Florida, however, got right back in the mix in 2012. Georgia's win over the Gators trumped Florida's win over Carolina and sent the Bulldogs back to Atlanta for the second year in a row.

There, they fell just five yards short against Alabama in the SEC Championship Game. That same failed rally also cost the Bulldogs a shot at playing Notre Dame in the BCS Championship Game.

The SEC East appears to have opened back up to a three team race for the title again in 2013. With Georgia, South Carolina and Florida all expected to be in or very near the top 10 as the season begins.

Hopefully, for Tennessee fans, the Volunteers are finally beginning to recover from the football follies that have played out in Knoxville since 2007. If so, maybe the SEC East will become at least a four team race—possibly five with Missouri—again as early as 2014.

With most humble apologies to Vandy and Kentucky fans when it comes to talk of football championships. While I do believe you will have your football moments here and there. It's more about basketball and baseball for you guys as a regular thing.

Schools with winning football traditions like Florida and Tennessee go through down cycles on occasion. In Tennessee's case, this one has been extreme. But, with a stadium that holds over 102,000 fans and all the amenities they have supporting the game, people who know, know the Vols are on the way back—and soon.

The turnaround has already occurred in Gainesville, holders of an 11-2 record last season. Perhaps having a bigger scramble at the top of the SEC East will help those teams to get back to winning conference crowns again soon.

Since the two division format began in 1992, the East holds a slim 11-10 lead in head-to-head championship meetings. All 11 of the wins were produced by Florida (7), Georgia (2) and Tennessee (2). So it goes without saying the presence of Tennessee and especially the Gators have been missed in the SEC East race.

A couple of other points worth mentioning. After watching Georgia, South Carolina and Florida play several times last year—including Georgia vs. Bama in the SEC Championship—I was left with the impression that three of the top five football teams in the nation resided in the Eastern Division of the SEC last season.

In addition, it is obvious that had Georgia gotten those five yards versus Alabama at the Georgia Dome, they would have had their way with Notre Dame in the BCS game as well.

11 Teams We'd Like To See On College Version of HBO's 'Hard Knocks'

Sun, 19 May 2013 15:04:14 GMT

Classes, practice, study hall, game day. Welcome to the life of the college football player or the loosely used term, “Student Athlete.” While these college football players go through the trenches and put themselves in a position to help their school, the college uses their talents for benefit on and off the field.

Welcome to corporate America in the world of college sports. Football makes more money and is under more scrutiny and for good reason - this is all about making money, filling the pockets of the schools and neevr giving up on the idea that the player who wears the jersey is working for himself, the school and everyone else who buys a ticket.

Oh, that sounds like NFL. Make no mistake, this is big business, there are real issues with meeting clearing house demands and staying out of the doghouse of the NCAA.

These are eleven teams that would look great on an HBO Hard Knocks-like series.

Big Ten Athletic Directors Consider Ford Field for Championship Game

Fri, 17 May 2013 15:49:40 GMT

Conference Championship games are very important to many college football teams. The Big Ten values there conference championship more than any other conference in all of college football. Most teams in this great conference make it a team goal to win the Big Ten Championship every year. This game is fairly new and fans really approve of this game at the end of each season. The Big Ten Conference used to decide champions by the team with the best conference record at the end of the year.

Gene Smith, the Athletic Director of Ohio State University, would like to keep Championship games in an indoor facility. Championship games come very late in the season, which can cause weather conflicts especially for the northern conferences such as the Big Ten. Snow is a factor around that time of year so it makes sense to have the game in an indoor stadium. The past two years the game was held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis Indiana, home of the Indianapolis Colts. The game will be held there for the first five years of the championship game. Two of those have already been played. The city of Indianapolis has been a good city for hosting events like this, as they have also hosted the Big Ten basketball tournament in previous years and it has been very organized and successful. The location of Lucas Oil Stadium is perfect for the Big Ten as it's the center point of the conference. Barry Alvarez the Athletic Director of Wisconsin also agrees that the game should be played indoors.

Now with the additions of Rutgers and Maryland to the conference, it makes sense to have a few championship games a little further east. To mix things up a little for the conference a great place to host a conference championship game would be Ford Field in Detroit. Like Lucas Oil Stadium, Ford Field is also an indoor stadium and hosts the MAC Conference championship game, and the Little Caesars Pizza Bowl every year. Ford Field is a great location for a huge game like this. It will be great for the city of Detroit, and will make a great spot to have a comfortable championship game. Big Ten Athletic Directors such as Gene Smith (Ohio State), Dan Hollis (Michigan State), Barry Alvarez (Wisconsin), and Dave Brandon (Michigan) all support the idea of having the game at Ford Field.

Gene Smith stated "I love Ford Field, I love what Detroit has done with Ford Field and what they’re continuing to do with the area contiguous to that facility." Smith doesn't just look at the teams and players but also the fans. "You're trying to create that quality experience for all of us, Nice restaurants, easy to park, indoor, put your shades on. It's all good." Said Smith.

Chicago and New York have also stated they would possibly want to host a conference championship game, they both have outdoor stadiums and nice facilities. A few Athletic Directors support the idea of having the championship outside such as Dan Hollis of Michigan State.

There are a few more things that may need to be worked out before this idea of having the game at Ford Field is finalized. The MAC and when hold their conference championship game could be one of the conflicts.

It's a nice thing to see when the Big Ten would like to expand out of just Indianapolis and Chicago for main events. Detroit is a great city to host a event like this and we could see a Ford Field Big Ten Championship in the near future.

Schedule May Be Crimson Tide's Undoing In Four-Out-Of-Five Drive

Thu, 16 May 2013 21:25:57 GMT

Three college football national championships in four years is Bear Bryant territory. Nick Saban and company have pleased Alabama fans in a way one would not think possible since the passing of The Bear.

As Alabama's coaching staff gears up for another title run, this year's Tide team faces the typical challenges going into every season. Replacing players. The bevy of players lost from last year's title team to the NFL being the most obvious.

Included in the losses are three of their starting offensive linemen. Of course, Alabama rotates linemen in the two deep throughout their games. So there are kids ready to move up.

There is always a concern for loss of continuity when replacing linemen. However,
Alabama minimizes the issue because of their superior depth. Most linemen considered second string at Bama could start for many schools.

Additional starters not returning for The Tide this season are superb tailback Eddie Lacy, nose tackle Jesse Williams and corner Dee Milliner. These were great players from the national championship who must be replaced on the field. If any team in America has the players to do it, Alabama is the one.

Replacing starters at Alabama is made easier due to the quality depth created by top notch recruiting. According to Phil Steele—and most others—Alabama had the best recruiting class in the nation two of the past three years. In their lone class of 2010 not rated first in the nation, they were still top five.

In short, replacing talent is going to be basically the way it has been the past several years in Tuscaloosa. It is more like the old saying they're "reloading" rather than rebuilding.

OK, so this all sounds great for Crimson Tide fans and troubling for everyone else. So, where does the title run rub come in? OK, here it is:

Compared to years past Alabama apparently catches a break in the schedule for 2013 versus the norm. Of course any SEC schedule has some very tough games as a given. And Alabama, as is normal, also chose to go outside the SEC to play a perennial power team in Virginia Tech in game one.

That said, other than traditional powerhouse LSU and a couple of upstarts, there isn't as much meat on the bone as usual with The Tide's SEC schedule. Yearly rivalries versus Auburn and Tennessee—both of whom have been down lately—just don't appear to be as challenging as they historically are.

Bama will head to Texas A&M and attempt to avenge their only loss of last year. And while A&M still has Johnny Football, they are missing some of that all star offensive line he had in 2012. Also, the change in offensive coordinator may create some early issues.

Finally, the Aggies defense lost some and may not have near the bite it did last year. So while Manziel will get his yards, expect The Tide to roll against A&M.

Missing from the schedule this year are the top three Eastern schools, Florida, South Carolina and Georgia. That’s just the way things fall out in the scheduling process. Move forward two seasons and this year's schedule may be formidable. As Tennessee, Auburn and Arkansas will all be back in the mix by then.

The problem for The Tide this year comes because this is a schedule that the college football world will figure Alabama to roar through like Bear Bryant over Woody Hayes.

An overall lack of upper tier opponents may make it a difficult sell for Coach Saban to keep his team totally focused on the goal every single week.

It has been proven time and again this is one of the most difficult challenges for a coach coming off a championship year. So far, Nick Saban has done as good a job of working through this challenge as I've witnessed since Bear Bryant.

Still, as strange as it may sound to some, what he sells his team likely is more effective when they face a tougher schedule overall.

Human nature leads people to become over confident and less focused when they feel they should dominate an opponent. Every team needs a couple of games that aren't nail biters in the mix. But too many out classed opponents may make it difficult to get up enough for those few that match up well.

Coach Saban's "focus on the process, one play at a time" sells a little better when LSU isn't the only team on your twelve game schedule that you are not expected to beat by at least double digits.

I don't doubt the talent of this team. I certainly don't doubt the coaching, either. And, as far as possible concerns, this has to be one of the best to have.

With apologies to Virginia Tech and Texas A&M, it is likely that this Alabama team will only face teams that truly test their overall athletic ability three times. That's facing LSU at home, possibly in the SEC Championship Game and possibly, in their BCS Bowl.

Meanwhile, the issue is the same as always for a SEC team in the BCS era. A single Slip in your division—say versus LSU—and there is no guarantee you make the SEC title game. Or, lose in the SEC Championship Game and it is practically a guarantee you don't play for the national title.

Alabama's two biggest obstacles to another national title game appearance are injury and human nature. Compared to the rest of college football, that's a few less items overall. But it only takes one.

If Alabama does win another national title in the last year it is to be decided by the BCS, Nick Saban will have worked more magic than he would likely get credit for.

There are those of us who believe that should Bama win the title with this year's less demanding regular season schedule, it may qualify as this staff's most impressive coaching job to date.

Exclusive Interview With Kent State Golden Flashes CB Sid Saulter

Mon, 13 May 2013 16:09:14 GMT

Today I had the honor to interview Kent State Golden Flashes Top Cornerback Sidney Saulter. Saulter as of 2013 is now a Free Agent.

***

Justin Godsey: How do you connect with your fans and where can we reach out to you on social media?

Sidney Saulter: I am always easy to reach on social media. Anyone can communicate with me on Twitter or Facebook.

Justin Godsey: Who is your inspiration to the sport of football?

Sidney Saulter: God, He is the one that inspires me to do everything.

Justin Godsey: What football teams did you grow up watching?

Sidney Saulter: Miami Hurricanes and the Indianapolis Colts

Justin Godsey: Who was your favorite NFL player growing up?

Sidney Saulter: Deion Sanders

Justin Godsey: What was youth football like growing up?

Sidney Saulter: I played a few years with NMB Sundevils. Best years of my youth days.

Justin Godsey: You attended North Miami High School what was your football experience like at North Miami?

Sidney Saulter: Very good. Learned a lot from coaches, especially Coach Graham.

Justin Godsey: You were coached by coach Leonard Graham. How has Coach Graham impacted you as a player?

Sidney Saulter: Coach Graham taught me a whole lot. From maturity on the field, to leadership off the field.

Justin Godsey: What is your most memorable moment at North Miami?

Sidney Saulter: Playing against our rivals at NMB.

Justin Godsey: What was your college recruitment like?

Sidney Saulter: I was not highly recruited. Had two offers. Jackson State & Kent State.

Justin Godsey: What was it about Kent State that you liked that made you choose them as your new home?

Sidney Saulter: I just felt comfortable with the coaching staff and the community.

Justin Godsey: Was it hard adapting to the Kent State playbook?

Sidney Saulter: Not at all.

Justin Godsey: Can you tell us more about your College Football career so far?

Sidney Saulter: I’m finished now, 2 year starter,great experience my senior season we won the MAC East.

Justin Godsey: What are we to expect from you in 2013?

Sidney Saulter: Making an impact on the professional level.

Justin Godsey: If you can meet any NFL Legend who would you wanna meet?

Sidney Saulter: Peyton Manning.

Justin Godsey: If you could compare your talents to any current NFL cornerback who would you compare yourself to and why?

Sidney Saulter: Nobody. I’m very unique in the way I play.

Justin Godsey: Is their any advice you can give to High School cornerback’s wanting to play college football?

Sidney Saulter: DREAM BIG! ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!

Justin Godsey: Is their any shoutout’s you would like to give to anyone?

Sidney Saulter: You, for giving me this opportunity.

Tennessee Volunteers Can Be The SEC Surprise Team of 2013

Sat, 11 May 2013 19:21:28 GMT

Before 2008, it wasn’t considered a surprise for Tennessee to be in the SEC title game any year.

In fact, in 11 years from 1997 through 2007, Tennessee appeared in the SEC title game five times (97, 98, 01, 04 and 07) and won the title twice (97 and 98).

Since their last appearance in the 2007 championship game - a 21-14 loss to soon-to-be BCS Champion LSU - the Vols have fallen on hard times.

The 2010 and 2011 teams set the two year record in futility for Tennessee. They tallied the first ever back-to-back losing seasons in over 100 years of football. To top off the Derek Dooley era, the 2012 squad went 5-7, making it three losing seasons in a row.

Since the 2007 season, Tennessee has had four losing seasons, is on their fourth coaching staff and has been to only two minor bowl games—both losses. Expectations nowadays, are a bit more conservative for the realistic fans of The Big Orange.

A slump like this presents the perfect setup for this year's team to become a story similar to Texas A&M of 2012. Just think, the Volunteers suddenly media darlings again. Based on the past five years, winning say nine of their 12 regular season games would have them the talk of the SEC again. And like A&M last year, they wouldn't even need to make a SEC Championship Game appearance to be the big turn-around team in the conference.

A 9-3 regular season record for Tennessee in 2013 would be a monumental accomplishment. Considering all the issues mentioned here. But hey, that’s only a partial list of the obstacles this team would have to overcome to get there. In addition, several other stumbling blocks exist to reversing recent fortunes.

Things like that fourth new coaching staff in the past five seasons only arrived in Knoxville in the offseason and have yet to coach the first fall practice. They inherit a team that lost the play-makers responsible for over 80 percent of the 2012 offensive production, along with a defense that ranked as worst ever statistically in the school's history.

In addition, the Vols' 2013 schedule includes trips to top 10 programs Oregon, Florida and Alabama. As well as home games versus South Carolina, Georgia and a rejuvenated Vanderbilt—though not top 10—who still beat U.T. 41-18 last year.

With all this baggage attached, most forecasters and reporters think winning six or seven and making a bowl game would be a very good coaching job this year. Seven wins and a bowl appearance would be a great start for the new staff. Anything above that in 2013 should be worthy of a parade down Kingston Pike.

That said there are some very good things happening at U.T. now. The new excitement and attitude may allow this group of players and coaches to become a better team than the sum of all the individual parts.

The new coaching staff has quickly won over the majority of Vols fans. Something the previous coach wasn't able to do. The staff has also repaired some relationships with former players and supporters. In addition, players have commented publicly about how much more they enjoy playing and practicing again this year.

Most importantly, the talent level of this team overall isn't as bad as reporting may lead one to think. Talented depth in some areas is a true concern. But this team still has talent.

They lost their big name quarterback and receivers but return one of the best offensive lines in the country. They are returning to their 4-3 base from the 3-4 and have linemen and linebackers who are better play-makers than the coaching showed last season.

It is a certainty the Vols could use those two game-breaking receivers (Hunter and Patterson) from 2012, regardless of the offensive style this year. Though there are talented players who will get an opportunity to fill the bill this year.

Still, the bigger question is will the new staff be able to turn one of the four quarterbacks here into an effective thrower who can run when he has to. Based on their experiences at Central Michigan and Cincinnati, it appears this group of coaches can mold quality quarterbacks to be better than average in their system. If so, U.T. will wind up in good shape there as well.

Tyler Bray and company were good offensive players. But, Bray lacked the decision-making ability to lead his team to wins in the big games. That may have been primarily on Bray or on the coaching. Likely both contributed some to the 5-7 record of a team talented enough to win nine games last year.

Looking back, you will see U.T. lost some big SEC games by just a play or two last year.

In the long run, the buck stops at the top when the team has three consecutive losing seasons.

Derek Dooley just didn't get it done in Knoxville. But, unlike Lane Kiffin, he cared enough not to ruin the future for a couple more years after he was gone.

Coach Dooley and the previous staff steadily improved both the talent level and the quality of the people they recruited.

An amazing feat given the large number of high school coaches and recruiting connections it’s said they alienated.

Butch Jones has brought excitement about U.T. Football back to the fan base. But, more importantly, he has brought it back to the players on campus and to potential recruits. In football, having the right attitude—and talented players—makes a difference on the win / loss record.

College football reporting on a team's future is usually based solely on their recent past. Back when Tennessee won regularly, the polls and reporters ranked them high. Recently, since they haven't won regularly, they have been ranked low. That is just the way it works in the football prognostication business.

Red-shirt Freshman Johnny Manziel wasn't on anyone's Heisman radar last spring. Also, coming off a 7-6 season in 2011 and with a new coaching staff, predictions for 2012 by the so-called experts were pretty conservative for Texas A&M. After their unexpected level of success in 2012, check out the predictions for this year.

The thing about Tennessee football right now is they are not as lacking in talent as the reporting may indicate. No, it’s not likely at all next year's Heisman winner is wearing orange right now, either. But somewhere between Dooley's last 5-7 team and double digit wins is where the current Volunteer talent level lies.

U.T. fans should not have overly high expectations for 2013. Still, if things fall their way, they have a shot to be the most talked about team that won’t play for a conference championship in 2013.

The NCAA Loses Meaning Of Student Athlete

Wed, 08 May 2013 18:10:43 GMT

On the National College Athletic Association’s to-do-list, mega million TV contracts can be seen at the top of the stack. Near the bottom, after some scratch paper is the educational plan for their student-athletes.

It may seem surprising but yes, education is on that list. It’s a concept hard to grasp considering most of what you hear about college sports is the millions of dollars television networks throw at the NCAA and its affiliates to broadcast games. And while education is on that list, there’s little to show that any NCAA move is to benefit the education of its players.

Approximately 81 percent of the NCAA’s total revenue comes from television and marketing right fees, according to the NCAA website.

Two years ago, the NCAA reached a deal with CBS/ Turner Sports to broadcast college basketball games. The deal was set for 14 years and was worth $11 billion. That’s three weeks of basketball a year for about $1 billion.

ESPN also reached a tentative deal, according to the Wall Street Journal, with the NCAA to broadcast the College Football Playoff, a change that was created in college football when the opportunity for extra profit became apparent. In the WSJ report, the contract is said to be 12 years worth $5.6 billion, just over $500 million annually.

And the NCAA isn’t the only one calling the shots here. Let’s not forget about the school’s athletic conferences.

The Pac 12, Big 12 and ACC all have their own TV deals with ESPN that are valued over $2.5 billion for at least 12 years but it pales in comparison to what’s coming next year.

In a deal that is looking like the cusp of a new direction in which college sports is headed, the Southeastern Conference recently patched up a deal with ESPN to have a 24-hour SEC network. The network would consist of SEC coverage spanning from football games, mens and womens basketball games, baseball games and all other SEC sports. The contract is reported to go through the year 2034 and will debut in the summer of 2014. While the financial details have not been released it is expected by many to be the most valuable TV contract in college sports.

In an industry where players spend more time with their team than in their classrooms the meaning of amateur athlete seems to be mere damage control for the sake of public relations. It’s a fascinating and genius business move to reap the benefits for the few… and the proud.

According to a USA Today survey, the top 10 highest paid college football coaches in 2012 make over $3.5 million a year. Nick Saban, head football coach at the University of Alabama has a salary of $5,476,738. That’s just about enough to make you the highest paid college coach in the United States.

By just over $100,000 actually.

The Chronicle of Higher Education website states that the highest paid university professor based on field of teaching has a salary of $134,162. That’d be considered a terrible coaching salary, since USA Today’s survey had the lowest paid division one football coach at $250,000.

The NCAA further values the athletic ability of their “amateur” athletes by exploiting them to marketing opportunities. Whether on the cover of video games or commercials, they showcase their talents to lure people into the sport. Unless breaking the law, college athletes get none of the money coming out of these deals.

The argument here is not to pay athletes or compensate them in any way, because granted, they do receive scholarships for their athletic ability. However, an athletic scholarship is not necessarily guaranteed.

In the National Letter of Intent program, which is managed by the NCAA, it states that athletic scholarships are required to last at least one academic year. These scholarships are eligible for extension at the consent of the head coach. This obviously means if a student athlete does not athletically perform at the level expected, his educational goals would come to a screeching halt at the decision from a coach, yet another example of the sport being prioritized over the student’s higher learning.

Even if a student athlete keeps his or her scholarship, it proves to be overwhelmingly less than their cost for school. CBS News reported that the average value of an athletic scholarship is at $11,000 a year. It may seem like a good amount of money but consider the average tuition cost, which is at $21,447, according to the College Board.

Fewer than two percent of basketball and football college athletes make it to the pros. However, 70 percent of those students graduate from their college and earn their degree. It's apparent students still care about their education. It’s time the NCAA did the same.

Alabama Football 2013: Hot Early Predictions

Sat, 04 May 2013 18:04:26 GMT

Alabama doesn't have the Florida Gators, Georgia Bulldogs, or the South Carolina Gamecocks on their 2013 schedule.

What they do have are two early season games that could catch them off guard.

Virginia Tech vs. Bama: (Atlanta, Ga.) Virginia Tech quarterback, Logan Thomas, will bring enough to the table with his throwing and running.

J.C. Coleman grinds it out to take pressure off of Thomas, and AJ McCarron for the Tide will not have much time with a less experienced offensive line. Virginia Tech 14, Bama 10

Bama at Texas A&M: Take one John Manziel and a loud home crowd, Texas A&M has success on offense against one of the least impressive Alabama defenses for Nick Saban. Texas A&M 24, Bama 13

The next four games will help players such as running backs Dee Hart and T.J. Yeldon, wide receivers Amari Cooper and Eddie Williams, and quarterback AJ McCarron, all rack up stats.

Bama 42, Colorado State 10

Bama 28, Mississippi 10

Bama 63, Georgia State 10

Bama 34, Kentucky 7

Arkansas vs. Bama: Davis McElroy might be the one who takes over the QB position for Tyler Wilson. With not much help on the defensive side, the Razorbacks will struggle by the second half. Bama 24, Arkansas 13

Tennessee vs. Bama: The Vols' defense will be much improved with several young stars from the state of Georgia, and their offense will be geared more towards the run with Rajion Neal and Marlin Lane. Alabama will have the advantage with the home crowd. Bama 27, Tennessee 16

LSU vs. Bama: Zack Mettenberger will be able to exploit a weaker defensive backfield in Alabama this season. LSU reloads defenses like my wife (Sweetheart) reloads the truck to go to the dump. McCarron will lose his cool in the 4th quarter because this will be the loss that drops Bama down to a New Year's Day game. LSU 23, Bama 16

Alabama at Mississippi State: Tyler Russell will bring some excitement to the Bulldogs' season, but it will be their defense that will win some close games. One of those close wins will not be against Alabama. Bama 16, Miss St. 10

Alabama will take Chattanooga and Auburn out like a weekday special pizza.

Alabama ends up 9-3 with a trip to the Capital One Bowl.

Sweetheart's Stuff

Oh my little lamb chop, where shall I begin? I'll start with the question that affects me most, and in so many ways -- to what degree is this Man Crush you have on Nick Saban? Please be honest.

Next, you claim you are a HUGE Georgia Bulldogs fan, however you always write about any team BUT Georgia.

I haven't seen so much Bama since I was in aisle 5 at Wal-Mart.

Big Al is kinda cute, he does have one big trunk...a little flat for my taste though.

I do give them credit for walking around so shameless with that big "A" scarlet letter on.

They must really believe they've committed no sin."What sin?" my fellow football freaks may ask. The sin of Assumption. Assuming they're always going to win.

Sincerely,

Sweetheart

Tiger Bowl III: Defenses Dominate; QB Competition Unsettled

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 07:21:58 GMT

Coming off a 7-4 record and a share of the Colonial Athletic Association championship last season, the Towson Tigers concluded their spring practices with the Black team beating the Gold team 7-0 as both defenses dominated the third-annual Tiger Bowl at John Unitas Stadium Saturday, April 27, 2013.

Junior safety Thomas Bradley of the Black team added an interception at the Gold team’s 30-yard line and returned it to the two-yard line early in the fourth quarter, setting up the only score of the game Three plays later, sophomore quarterback Price Litton scored on a one-yard run to the Black team a 6-0 lead. Drew Evangelista’s conversion kick gave the Black team a 7-0 lead. Bradley led all Tiger defenders with 12-tackles.

“Thomas has done well this spring,” said third-year Head Coach Rob Ambrose. “He has grown into his role and he has grown into a young man. He will be an important player on our defense this season.”

Both defenses tallied 10 sacks, and forced five turnovers in the game. Sophomore defensive tackle Tungie Coker registered four sacks, while red-shirt freshman defensive end Syd Holt added two sacks on the day.

“It’s probably not a good thing to read too much into this game,” cautioned Ambrose. “We had a number of regular starters who didn’t play in the game. For instance, Eric Pike didn’t play because of an injury. He is an All-American tackle who has started every game the last three years. When you take him out of the lineups, there are going to be more sacks.”

No quarterback announced himself as the leader to replace Grant Enders, who passed for 208 completions on 317 attempts, (65.6%), for 2,337 yards, (212.5 YPG), 19 TDs, 8 INTs, 142.3 passer efficiency, and rushed for 615 yards on 105 rushes, (5.9 YPC), six TDs as the Tiger starting quarterback last season.

Red-shirt senior Peter Athens, 6-foot-1, 220-pounds from Huntingtown, MD, had the best statistical day of the six QBs that saw action in Tiger Bowl III, passing for 17 of 21 (80.1%) for 174 yards (10.2 YPC), 0 TDs, 0 INTs. However, Athens went 1-4 (25%) on third-down conversions, and was sacked twice.
Junior Joe Brennan, 6-foot-3, 215-pounds transfer from Wisconsin, completed seven passes on 11 attempts (63.6%), for 57 yards. However, Brannan got six times for -31 yards.
Sophomore Conner Frazier completed five of 10 attempts (50%), for 57 yards, 0 TDs, 2 INTs.
Litton, a 6-foot-3, 225-pound sophomore from Matthews, NC, completed five of six attempts (83.3%), for 52 yards, 0 TDs, 0 INTs.
Freshman Heath Dahlgren completed his only attempt for 12 yards, but was sacked twice for -15 yards.
Red-shirt freshman Ryan Egloff did not complete his only pass attempt in the fourth quarter.

“Every one of our quarterbacks has potential and the ability to lead our football team,” Ambrose said. “However, I am disappointed in the lack of consistency. Whoever shows the ability to execute the game plan successfully without turning the ball over and without making mistakes will be our quarterback.”

Sophomore Navassa Brown was the top ball carrier in the game with 61 yards on nine carries, including a 27-yard run. However, Brown lost two fumbles in the game.

All-American Terrance West picked up 30 yards on seven carries for the Gold team. The Jerry Rice Award candidate (the FCS version of the Heisman Trophy) gained 1,086 yards on 195 rushes (5.4 ypc), and 14 TDs (105.1 ypg) for the Tigers last season.

“This has been a very productive spring,” admitted Ambrose. “”We weren’t dealing with many of the distractions that we had last season. We were very focused (this spring). There was no conversation about sharing the Colonial Athletic Association championship. We are upset about what we didn’t do last year and the focus has been fantastic.”

The Tigers will open the 2013 season on August 30 when they visit the University of Connecticut.

SOURCES:

http://www.towsontigers.com/fls/21300/stats/football/2012/teamcume.htm?&&&DB_OEM_ID=21300#TEAM.IND

http://www.towsontigers.com/ViewContent.dbml?SPSID=101455&SPID=12497&CONTENT_ID=661946&DB_OEM_ID=21300#GAME.DRV

Exclusive Interview with The Citadel Quarterback Ben Dupree

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 17:29:22 GMT

Quarterback Ben Dupree started his football career at Susquehanna Township in Pennsylvania. In 2010 he was recruited by The Citadel.

*****

Justin Godsey: Why do you think it is important to connect with your fans ?

Ben Dupree: I believe it is important to connect with your fans because they are the ones who support you and pay to come see you play. I also believe it is important because many of the fans are kids that look up to you. The ability to put a smile on a kid’s face is one of the things I cherish about being an athlete.

Justin Godsey: Who was your hero growing up ?

Ben Dupree: My hero growing up was Allen Iverson. He was a small guy but played with more heart than anybody else on the court. He also never changed for anybody. He remained himself throughout all the criticism and was one of the best players in the NBA for about an eight year run.

Justin Godsey: What NFL team did you grow up watching ?

Ben Dupree: I was born a die-hard Cowboys fan! Yes, I still believe in Tony Romo lol.

Justin Godsey: What was youth football like ?

Ben Dupree: I started out as an offensive and defensive lineman at the age of 6. The next year i moved to RB. Throughout my youth football days altered between QB and RB. On defensive, I altered between Linebacker and DB.

Justin Godsey: You attended Susquehanna Township High School what was your High School football experience like ?

Ben Dupree: My High School football experience was fun. My senior year we set a school record with 12 wins in a season. I was named Pennsylvania AAA Player of the year as well. I had more total yards my senior Year as a QB than Terrell Pryor had his Senior year, which ultimately got him to Ohio State.

Justin Godsey: Not only did you play football in High School you played basketball. Did you ever consider going to college and play basketball rather than play football ?

Ben Dupree: I actually scored over 1,000 points in my high school basketball career and had more success in basketball as a team than I did in football. Before my Junior year I did not know if I was going to go to college for football or basketball. But, after my Junior year I realized I was not getting any taller and quickly figured out I had a better future in football.

Justin Godsey: What is the most toughest thing you ever had to do football wise during your High School football career ?

Ben Dupree: The toughest thing I ever had to do in high school, football-wise, was dealing with the fact that we really didn’t have much history in football. I feel like my Senior class did a lot for the program and paved the way for much of the success that Susquehanna is having now.

Justin Godsey: What made your senior season most important to you ?

Ben Dupree: The thing that made my senior year important to me was the fact we had the best season in school history.

Justin Godsey: What was your College Recruitment like ?

Ben Dupree: College recruiting was stressful for me, but I always knew I was going to end up at a division 1 school. I did not know what position I was going to play, until Coach Higgins offered me. I actually wanted to play RB in college, but in our offense the QB is basically a RB. Other than The Citadel, Navy was the only other school that wanted me.

Justin Godsey: Why was Citadel your college of choosing over Navy ?

Ben Dupree: The fact that I had an opportunity to play right away was the reason I signed with the Citadel, other than the fact I did not want to go to Navy.

Justin Godsey: Was it hard adjusting to the Citadel playbook ?

Ben Dupree: It was very hard adjusting to the Citadel Playbook. My first season we were strictly under center triple option, which demands that you make all the correct audibles and discipline yourself to make the correct reads as a QB every play. I struggled a bit with that, but I got better with experience. Now, we have added some things into the playbook that makes it easier and gives me the ability to free-lance and improvise which is where I feel I am most dangerous.

Justin Godsey: How has head coach Kevin Higgins helped you advance your play over the past 2 seasons with the team ?

Ben Dupree: Over the past two seasons, Coach Higgins has taught a lot about being a QB on and off the field. First, on the field he has taught me so much about footwork and concepts of the position that I did not know prior to college. He has also taught me how to be a leader and how to connect with all my teammates. I never realized how much power I had, being the QB, until I began listening to him.

Justin Godsey: What was your first spring game like ?

Ben Dupree: My first Spring game was bad in my opinion lol, the only good thing is that we won the game!

Justin Godsey: Tell us about your College Football career so far ?

Ben Dupree: So far, I feel like the fans have still yet to see the best of me, but I do I feel like they have seen glimpse of greatness. This is my senior year now and I feel like I have set myself up to have a huge season this year. But, my freshman and sophomore years were both below average years I would say about myself. Last year, was an above average year if you check my stats and our wins. Right now, I am working hard everyday and setting myself up to be in the best position to lead the team to places we never been next year.

Justin Godsey: As the 2013 College Football season is approaching us what skill are you currently working on to get ready for 2013 ?

Ben Dupree: As the 2013 season begins, I am consistently working on three things, along with getting bigger and stronger. First, I am working on my passing. I am getting better at my footwork, throwing the ball on time, and ball placement. Second, I am working on my punt returning skills. I go out with our punters and catch many punts over the course of a week so that I can be the best Punt returner possible. I feel like if you can return punts, you have an advantage over many other skill guys across the nation who are trying to make it to the NFL. And third, I am working on my running form. I feel as though I am very fast, but I feel like once I fix my running form, I will be even faster. My strength coaches work with me all the time and they know what they are talking about!

Justin Godsey: If you could compare your talents to any NFL or NFL legend who would you compare yourself to and why ?

Ben Dupree: If I could compare my skill set to any NFL player, it would be the big homie LeSean McCoy. He is slightly bigger than me but we play very similar. We also come from the same city of Harrisburg, PA. Also, I am the exact same size as Darren Sproles and Jacquizz Rodgers (5-8 190) with similar speed so I believe I can do the same things they do.

Justin Godsey: What advice can you give to High School football players wanting to play at the next level that being College Football ?

Ben Dupree: My advice to High School kids who want to play at the next level is that you must be ready to compete day in and day out. Nothing will be given to you, so you have to outwork all of the competition.

Justin Godsey: Thank You Ben for your time and good luck in 2013.

Ben Dupree: Your Welcome, Also,shout-out to Jordan Hill. He is a defensive tackle from Penn State that just got drafted to the Seattle Seahawks in the third round. We played against each other and on the same bball teams growing up. I also workout with him when I go home!!

Colorado Football: Nick Hirschman To Transfer, Connor Woods Next Buffalo QB?

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:38:54 GMT

The 2013 Colorado Buffaloes football is currently in hot water when it comes to their quarterbacks position for the 2013 college football season.

The Buffaloes in a matter of one month have lost two of their prime quarterbacks. Quarterback Jordan Webb will miss the entire 2013 season with a ACL tear in which he sustained during a non-contact spring practice on April 10th. From there it only continues to get worse for the team. The Buffaloes got word last week that Jordan Webb's backup Nick Hirschman has decided to transfer from Colorado University.

Hirschman has yet to announce what college he plans on transferring to for the 2013 College Football season but said that he really wants to transfer to an Ivy League school.

Hirschman is a four-year junior quarterback who played two seasons for the Colorado Buffaloes before announcing that he will be transferring. During the spring time in 2011 and 2012 Hirschman went into spring ball to compete against Jordan Webb who came over from Kansas University and former Buffaloes quarterback Tyler Hansen. Nick lost both chances to win the starting quarterback role but was named backup to both quarterbacks in 2011 and also in 2012.

In the time that Hirschman saw in the seasons with Colorado he passed for total of 781 yards, threw 2 touchdowns and was picked off 7 times.

With Webb injured and Hirschman transferring it leaves the door open for Texas Longhorns transfer Connor Wood to come in and the open role. But don't count out Wood's backup's red-shirted freshman Shane Dillion and coming freshman quarterback Sefo Liufau.

Urban Meyer: America's Sexiest Football Coach (According To My Wife)

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 17:03:04 GMT

Sweetheart has a new found interest in football...sort of. We were writing an article when Sweetheart became goo-goo eyed at Urban Meyer. I asked her, "What about Mark Richt or Nick Saban?" She just said, "I would want one of our sons to play for him." I wonder if a coaches appearance help a football team, or has Sweetheart lost her mind. I'm secure enough with my manhood to say that Urban Meyer is probably the best looking coach in college football.

If other moms perceive Meyer in the same light as my wife, then recruiting becomes an easy task for coach Meyer. Universities have these future athletes touring campuses with the prettiest tour guides. This is not news to college football fans, but mothers of high school football players meeting Urban Meyer could be a new angle. No money under the table or gifts given; just mothers, like Sweetheart, that admire their son's coaches' good looks.

With Braxton Miller heading up a young team, the Ohio State Buckeyes have much room to grow. Fans should see a tremendous amount of excitement in Columbus for future seasons. I guess Sweetheart will pay closer attention to those Big Ten noon time games.

I would like to personally thank Urban for finally getting my wife interested in football - even if it is only for the eye candy!

Sweetheart's Stuff

Until now, the only thing I knew about Ohio, was ...well nothing. But that was before I knew of Urban Meyer! Now, I suddenly have a strong urge to venture in my world travels, explore this great country of ours and visit that O-how-high state.

While in the area, I might go to the Buck Eye, Black Eye, Googly Eyes stadium. I know why their fight song is the Buckeye Battle Cry. That's from all those girls crying when Urban broke their heart. I'm not saying he's the finest thing I've ever seen - of course that's my Stuart. And that mascot, Brutus, is pretty sexy with his Freddy Krueger sweater-wearing self. But, if these colleges need some extra cash for their football programs, they can hold a "Cutest College Coach" pageant. I just hope he's still coaching when my sons go to college. H-e-l-l-o Ohio!

(Dear Urban: I hope everything's going o.k. on the home front, but if not, tweet me! @Sweetfootball27)

(Dear Stuart: The above is for entertainment purposes only and should not be taken seriously - you'll always be my #1)

Sincerely,

Sweetheart

NFL Talent Pipelines: Where Are The Hidden Talent Pools?

Sun, 21 Apr 2013 16:40:20 GMT

Looking at the list of active NFL players in 2012, by position, my goal was to be able to see some talent pool trends (by school) while also identifying some relationships between schools and NFL teams to see if there are any inside networks between schools and NFL teams.

Out of all 32 NFL Teams in 2012, 11 teams had 4 or more players from 1 particular school. However, only 1 team had 5 NFL players from the same college & that was the Pittsburgh Steelers with 5 players from the Ohio State University.

Five players from one college is certainly indicative of a talent pipeline. One of the main reasons drafting trends occur is because many NFL coordinators and assistants start in the college ranks. Ohio State is a talent hot bed, especially for Defensive Backs (11 current DB's in the NFL are from Ohio State) but Ohio State is also a coaching hot bed. The list of current defensive coordinators & coaches in the NFL coming from Ohio State is staggering. Here are just a few names of NFL coaches from Buckeye Country: Dom Capers, Pete Carrol, Pepper Johnson, Dick LeBeau, Rob Ryan, & Lovie Smith all have ties to Ohio State. Dick LeBeau, in this case with Pittsburgh having 5 former Buckeyes points to his Columbus ties.

Some other notable college and NFL team trends are:

- The Houston Texans who have 3 Tight Ends, all from Wisconsin. I'm not sure why. I couldn't find any relationship here.

- The Baltimore Ravens seem to like wide receivers from Maryland. Torrey Smith, La quan Williams, and Jermaine Lewis all went to Maryland. Jermaine Lewis returned a kickoff for a touchdown in Super Bowl XXXV back in 2000 and is also the all time all purpose yardage leader for the Ravens. Obviously, the Ravens see more of the Terps than most other NFL teams being just up I-95 from College Park, MD.

- The college with the most diverse representation of NFL positions is Oregon. The Ducks have produced a wide variety of NFL players and positions. In 2012, 5 NFL running backs, 5 Defensive Tackles, 6 Defensive Backs & 4 Offensive Tackles were former Ducks.

- Wisconsin is known for their stout offensive line and in 2012 there were 8 active Offensive Linemen in the NFL hailing from UW Madison.

Mitch Mustain: Former 5-Star Recruit Is Focus of Documentary

Sun, 21 Apr 2013 16:29:32 GMT

The Stolen Identity of Mitch Mustain Set to Debut

In 2005, Mitchell Stewart Mustain led Springdale High School to a perfect 14-0 record and won the Arkansas Class 5A state title, defeating three nationally ranked opponents in the process. In a magical senior campaign, Mustain threw for nearly 4,000 yards and set a state single season record with 47 touchdowns garnering him consensus national Player of the Year honors and an inventory of hardware similar in size to that of a Home Depot.

The handsome prodigy was ordained “Football’s Future” by USA Today, and Razorback fans across the Natural State had visions of BCS crystal balls dancing in their heads when they realized that the future of the game that had not been so rewarding to them as of late, was going to be cultivated in their own back yard, as Mustain chose to attend nearby Arkansas, spurning the pursuits made by every national power.

At Arkansas, Mustain saw action immediately. As a true freshman, he replaced starter Robert Johnson in the late stages of an eventual 50-14 loss to the USC Trojans and instantly guided the Razorbacks on an impressive 80-yard touchdown drive, sending the remaining Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium crowd into frenzy and Robert Johnson to a totally different position on the depth chart (WR).

The future had arrived.

And following eight consecutive victories, including back to back wins over No. 22 Alabama and No. 3 Auburn on the road, the outlook was very encouraging for the kid with the golden arm and Razorback Nation.

However, following an intercepted pass on his first attempt in a game at South Carolina, Mustain was inexplicably removed from the game in favor of Casey Dick, a sophomore who had been injured prior to the start of the season. With this impetuous decision came the permanent benching of Mustain and the curtains had subsequently been drawn on a once promising career at Arkansas.

In 2007, Mustain would transfer and enroll at the University of Southern California, joining former high school and Arkansas teammate Damien Williams, who had hightailed it out of Fayetteville the previous January over concerns about his future role in the run-oriented offense preferred by coach Houston Nutt.

At USC, competition in the quarterback’s stable was fierce with Mustain competing against a few future NFL signal callers and he would go on to start only one more game in his once auspicious college career, a 20-16 loss to Notre Dame his senior season. As the lights faded at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum that evening, so did a star that had once shimmered brilliantly not so long ago.

So, what happened?

Matthew Wolfe, a Fayetteville filmmaker and sports enthusiast wanted to know. “The kid was a true freshman playing in the toughest conference in the country and he was 8-0. I understand sitting him down for a spell, but you have to come back to him. The whole thing confused me. I wanted answers and I wanted to see a documentary done about it… and since no one was going to create one, I did.”

Avid college football fans the country over have always wanted to know the answer to this million dollar question. ESPN college football insider Joe Schad couldn’t even answer it when his wife posed the question to him prior to sitting down with Wolfe for an interview to be included in the documentary.

“I don’t know”, simply was Schad’s response.

Well, after nearly a year, Wolfe seems to have found the answer and is willing to share it with not only the Schad family, but also the world, as his documentary has come to fruition and is titled The Identity Theft of Mitch Mustain. The film chronicling the object of his inquisitoryis set to premiere at the 7th Annual Little Rock Film Festival from May 15-19.

The talented producer/director takes you on the unexpected journey of one of the most decorated high school football players of our time, an odyssey of many successes and failures which the subject refuses to be defined by.

With abbreviated stints in the Canadian Football League (Hamilton Tiger-Cats) and Arena Football League (Georgia Force), along with an experimental season in the Chicago White Sox organization as a relief pitcher, Mustain has been kept far removed from the spotlight he once occupied, but he has yet to give in and settle for a desk job as he has once again found a temporarily home in San Jose with the SaberCats of the AFL backing up Eighteen-year veteran signal caller Aaron Garcia.

The 90- minute documentary narrated by former Arkansas legendary basketball coach will focus on how the 25-year old with the perfect haircut takes it all in stride in his pursuit of an identity outside the limelight.

Ultimately, Wolfe said, he can’t wait for people to learn more about Mustain as a person rather than just a football player.

When I asked Wolfe what he had hoped to gain by sharing this film, he replied, “Ultimately, I can’t wait for people to learn more about Mitch as a person rather than just a football player. The thing I look forward to most is people getting to know him for who he is, rather than who he’s painted to be. I want him to be able to pay his bills. If it is by playing football, perfect. But I do not want him sitting behind a desk. That’s not fun at all.”

Wolfe said that in ten years that he would like to hear that Mitch is in the Himalayas hiking barefoot with his hair all messed up, and although he believes a trip is realistic, the latter is nearly impossible.

The famous 1,500 mile mountain system is as far removed from the spotlight as you can possibly get, but hopefully he is there vacationing during the NFL off-season having just announced his retirement from the game that had seemingly defined him.

2013 Kansas Jayhawk Football Awards Predictions

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 13:59:30 GMT

Every football season produces a few surprises, some better than others. Here's a predictive awards list at which players should wind up on the good surprise list by the end of the season and contribute to Kansas' improvement in 2013.

Offensive MVP: Sr. RB James Sims

Kansas fans hope junior transfer quarterback Jake Heaps is good enough for consideration here, and junior running back Tony Pierson will lead the team in all purpose yards. Still, Sims' consistency will be the most important aide to a still-developing passing attack.

Honorable Mention: Heaps, Pierson

Defensive MVP: Jr. MLB Ben Heeney

It's hard to out-stat a good middle linebacker on a bad defense. Heeney, barring injury, should easily lead the team in tackles and, like Sims, be the staple of changing landscape.

Honorable Mention: Chris Martin, Marquel Combs

Lineman of the Year: Sr. RT Aslam Sterling

Skill players get all the love; how about a bone for the big guys? Sterling got better with every game last season. With so much turnover on the offensive line, it'll be important for Sterling to dominate the right side of the line to open holes for the continued success of the running game.

Honorable Mention: Combs, Keon Stowers, Jordan Tavai, Ty McKinney, Randall Dent

Offensive Most Improved Player: Jr. TE Jimmay Mundine

In terms of talent, he may be no more or less talented than in seasons past. However, if the passing game is even 10 percent improved over last year, Mundine will be the second biggest beneficiary behind junior transfer wide receiver Justin McCay.

Honorable Mention: Dent, Patrick Lewandowski, Tre Parmalee, Andrew Turzilli, Josh Ford

Defensive Most Improved Player: Jr. WR Jacorey Shepherd

A tough call, Shepherd is the ultimate pick for reasons related to hope. Given the largely inexperienced secondary, his improvement in his second year as a corner back will be more valuable to the overall success of this defense than from any other player.

Honorable Mention: Stowers, Tavai, Jake Love, Darius Willis, Ben Goodman, Michael Reynolds

Offensive Newcomer of the Year: Jr. QB Jake Heaps/Jr. WR Justin McCay

It's a cheap move to pick both, but it's a dumb move to believe that either one will be particularly successful without the other. If Heaps plays quality ball, you can bet that it's because McCay is catching a lot of passes and vice-a-versa.

Honorable Mention: Mike Smithburg, Ngali

Defensive Newcomer of the Year: Jr. DT Marquel Combs

Most Kansas fans haven't seen him play a snap, yet recruiting hype has Jayhawks feeling like anything less than becoming an immediate starter and contributor will be a disappointment for Combs. Junior transfer buck linebacker Chris Martin should be a close second, but he has two very talented sophomores nipping at his heels.

Honorable Mention: Martin, Dexter McDonald, Cassius Sendish, Isiah Johnson, Marcus Jenkins-Moore

Offensive Freshman of the Year: Fr. RB Colin Spencer

As exciting as the freshman speed demon is, there aren't many freshman, true or red-shirt, who'll challenge him for this award. Head Coach Charlie Weis will do his best to get this freshman carries, and he could bring fans great peace of mind for the future by making the most of each one of them.

Honorable Mention: none

Defensive Freshman of the Year: Fr. OLB Courtney Arnick

Unfortunately, Arnick may have a hard time getting on the field behind many talented fellow linebackers including sophomore Jake Love, junior transfer Marcus Jenkins-Moore, juniors Victor Simmons and Brian Maura and senior Prinz Kande. Still, the red-shirt freshman had a good spring, an excellent spring game and will be a known commodity by the end of 2013.

Honorable Mention: Tevin Shaw, Greg Allen

Special Teams MVP: Sr. WR Josh Ford

The kicking game gets better every day, and as a whole improvement from this position will be far more valuable than Ford as a kick-off head-hunter. Still, kicker seems to have a leg on the others yet, and Ford deserves some recognition for his work. He had a great spring game, mostly as a wide receiver, but even if he doesn't get his chance on offense, he'll resume his post as the most popular player on special teams.

Honorable Mention: Trevor Pardula, Jacorey Shepherd

Boom-or-Bust Offensive Player: So. WR Tre Parmalee

A single catch and just two targets during the entire spring game did little to boost confidence. Also, at the college level, Weis' best work is usually with bigger receivers. However, he has the quickness and mentality to become a very easy check-down option in the slot while the passing game grows.

Honorable Mention: Spencer, Turzilli

Boom-or-Bust Defensive Player: Jr. LB Chris Martin

The jury is still out after a ho-hum spring game. The offense ensured he got minimal opportunities to have an impact, but good play-makers should be able to make good plays from everywhere. Kansas has a history of poor production from defensive ends who look the part and get the hype, but Martin allegedly has the true talent to finally change that trend.

Honorable Mention: McDonald, Jenkins-Moore, Sendish, Johnson, Combs

Surprise Defensive Senior Leader: Sr. FS Dexter Linton

He's found his way onto the depth chart in past seasons at three different positions; this year he's back to his original position of safety and drawing plenty of positive reviews. It's always great to see a player stick out the hardest of times and still find a way to have an impact.

Honorable Mention: Kevin Young, Darius Willis, Prinz Kande

Surprise Offensive Senior Leader: Sr. RG Randall Dent

Center may be junior transfer Mike Smithburg's natural position, but the real reason he moved there from right guard is because Weis wants Dent on the field. With Dent at guard and Sterling at tackle beside him, Kansas will have immense strength and decent chemistry and experience on the right side of the line. It's a good move for multiple reasons.

Honorable Mention: Christian Matthews

The list will certainly be unrecognizable by the end of the season, but Kansas would benefit in a fantastic way if individual athletes lived up to expectations. Until then, we'll just keep playing the guessing game.

Alabama Closes Out Spring Camp With Questions At Linebacker

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 13:10:55 GMT

As the Alabama Crimson Tide approach their A-Day spring game questions start to encircle their 3-4 defense focusing more on their linebackers. Coming into spring practice, Alabama linebacking corps company was thought to be the strength of their team and possibly the best inside linebackers Nick Saban has coached since he's started his tenure.

Three of the four starters from the previous season were back for another season intending to defend their National Title, along with a fistful of underclassmen. The depth chart for the linebackers of Alabama was like your grandmother's buttermilk biscuits nonetheless they face adversity.

Let's advance to the terminal weeks of spring camp and the linebackers have altered dramatically. C.J. Mosley finds himself sidelined in a black no-contact jersey, Trey Depriest is out with a fractured food and Xavier Dickson is a question mark after missing their preceding scrimmage favoring a bruised knee according the Coach Saban.

Alabama's Defensive Coordinator Kirby Smart says that none of the injuries should linger going into the fall, supposedly, but it does bring a different feel and change to what Tide Nation will see this coming Saturday afternoon.

Rather then seeing the accustomed inside linebackers of Alabama, the annual A-Day game will put players into the limelight that the Alabama Fans are not acquainted with such as Tana Patrick, Reggie Ragland, Ryan Anderson and Dillion Lee. These four accumulated only 25 tackles majority of them coming from special teams with 0 starts. The Alabama A-Day spring Game will be 2:00 pm C.T. on ESPN 2 at Bryant-Denny Stadium.