College Football Bowl Preview: Poinsettia Bowl

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

The NCAA post-season kicks off December 19^th, with 33 games being played in a three week span. Seniors will get their last hurrah, and teams will attempt to end their season on the winning side, in the hopes of improving recruiting that follows afterwords. The Sportmeisters will preview each of the 33 games that lie ahead, and provide our predictions as well. Let’s get to it!

Poinsettia Bowl, December 23rd, 8:00 PM, San Diego, California

No. 23 Utah (9-3) vs. California (8-4)

About Utah: The Utes came into 2009 with high hopes after knocking off Alabama in the Sugar Bowl last season. Those hopes began to fade after a loss to Oregon in the third week. Six straight wins followed, but Utah ended their season with losses to BYU and TCU, removing any shot of an Mountain West Conference title, and relegating them to a lower bowl than they expected. However, they are still playing with the hopes of a ten win season. They boast a top 20 defense (314.7 yards per game), which will be effective against Cal’s offensive weapons. Their pass defense is one of the best, holding opponents to a mere 172.83 yards per game in the air. Senior DB Robert Johnson is a shutdown corner, with 66 tackles, five interceptions, two fumble recoveries, and two defensive touchdowns on the season. Junior RB Eddie Wide leads the MWC with 1033 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. He will be expected to keep the pressure off of Freshman QB Jordan Wynn, who won the starting job near the end of the season. Wynn’s top target is Senior WR David Reed (75 catches for 1085 yards and five touchdowns). Look for Utah to rely heavily on Wide and the defense to methodically take out Cal, without putting Wynn in too many tough spots.

About California: Cal started off hot at 3-0, before managing only six points in their next two games, both losses. They bounced back, winning five of six, before ending their season on a low note against Washington. Nevertheless, they are bowl eligible, and are hoping for a completely healthy squad coming in. That starts with the potential return of Junior RB Jahvid Best, a potential Heisman candidate who was injured in a November loss to Oregon State. He has 867 yards and 12 touchdowns in only nine games this season. His backup, Sophomore RB Shane Vereen, has filled in admirably, rushing for 830 yards and ten touchdowns. Junior LB Mike Mohamed (104 tackles, one sack, three interceptions, one forced fumble) leads a defense that is 27^th in the nation in run defense (117.08 yards per game). That is important as they aim to keep the ball out of Wide’s hands, and force Wynn to throw the ball more often.

The Matchup: Utah is 11-3 in their bowl history, currently owning the nation’s longest bowl winning streak, at eight.

Cal is 10-8-1, riding a four game bowl winning streak and a seven game appearance streak. Cal is also 4-2 against Utah, but the Utes won the last matchup in 2003 31-24.

With Cal’s ability to stop the run, Utah will have to rely heavily on their defense to force turnovers, gaining favorable field position for the young Wynn. However, behind Senior DE Tyson Alualu and Junior DE Cameron Jordan (12.5 sacks combined in 2009), Wynn will need to keep from getting flustered and turning the ball back over.

Utah’s rushing defense is only 57^th in the nation (141.33 yards a game), allowing ample opportunity for Best and Vereen to shine. Should Utah try to cheat up and stack the box, that should open Junior QB Kevin Riley to some wide open receivers. Riley has been a solid QB, but has thrown five of his six interceptions in November and December, and his accuracy can be suspect at times.

The Prediction: Utah develops an amazing rush defense, and allows Wynn to get some great field position. Utah 17-10.

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

College Football Bowl Preview: Hawaii Bowl

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

The NCAA post-season kicks off December 19^th, with 33 games being played in a three week span. Seniors will get their last hurrah, and teams will attempt to end their season on the winning side, in the hopes of improving recruiting that follows afterwords. The Sportmeisters will preview each of the 33 games that lie ahead, and provide our predictions as well. Let’s get to it!

Hawaii Bowl, December 24th, 8:00 PM, Honolulu, Hawaii

Southern Methodist University (7-5) vs. Nevada (8-4)

About Southern Methodist: What a difference a year can make! After hiring former Hawaii Coach June Jones, who promptly led the Mustangs to a 1-11 record in 2008, SMU is back in bowl country. It was scary for a while, as they had hit 3-4 by midseason, and were looking at another losing record. Instead, SMU won four out of its last five games to make themselves bowl eligible for the first time in 25 years. When Coach Jones left Hawaii for SMU, he brought his pass-heavy offense with him. They were effective in the passing game, throwing for 267.17 yards a game (28^th in NCAA FBS), but it was their running game that kept the Mustangs motoring towards the finish. Junior RB Shawnbrey McNeal rushed for 1125 yards and nine touchdowns, a rarity for a run-and-shoot offense. His ability to gain yards (5.2 yards per carry) helped SMU when starting QB Bo Levi Mitchell went down with an injury. That forced Freshman QB Kyle Padron into the role, and he responded with a 5-1 record in six starts, throwing for 1462 yards, eight touchdowns, and four interceptions. Senior WR Emmanuel Sanders is eighth in the nation with 101.25 receiving yards a game. They rank in the bottom half of the primary defensive statistics, so SMU will rely heavily on their offense, and turn the game into a shootout.

About Nevada: An 0-3 start, including an opening day 35-0 loss against Notre Dame, doesn’t give too many teams hope of making a bowl game. Win eight in a row, and that changes everything. Even a season ending loss to rival Boise State still makes Nevada a tempting team at 8-4. Nevada won their games using a rushing attack that is rivaled to no one. The number one team in the nation in rushing (362.25 yards per game), the Wolfpack boasts an unprecedented three 1,000 yard rushers. On top of that, all three rush for over seven yards a carry. Junior RB Vai Taua (1345 yards, 10 touchdowns), Junior QB Colin Kaepernick (1160, 16 touchdowns), and Senior RB Luke Lippincott (1034 yards, nine touchdowns), are the three pieces of the rushing tri-pod. Kaepernick also contributed 1865 passing yards and 19 touchdowns, which all add up to the nations number two offense overall (521.58 yards per game), and fifth highest scoring offense (40.58 points per game). Taua’s 122.27 rushing yards a game is ninth in the nation. They too, will look to make this game a high scoring affair, but keep the clock running by using the run game exclusively, though they will be without Lippincott, who is out with a toe injury.

The Matchup: SMU returns to the same site they played their last bowl, when they won the Aloha Bowl in 1984. They are 4-6-1 all time in bowl history.

Nevada is currently mired in a three bowl game losing streak, since winning their first ever appearance at the Hawaii Bowl in 2005. They are 3-6 all time in bowl games. Nevada also holds a 3-2 advantage in matchups against SMU.

Even without Lippincott, the combination of Taua and Kaepernick should be formative, especially in their popular “Pistol” package. For an SMU squad that usually gives up 169.17 yards per game on the ground, that spells big trouble. Should SMU find a way to stack the box and hold the duo to minimal gains (which is difficult in itself), Kaepernick will look to keep the defense honest with play-action passes, then looking to some quick outs with single coverage on the sideline.

For Padron, he benefits against facing the second worst team in NCAA FBS passing defense (Nevada gives up 284.3 yards a game). So even if Nevada can handle McNeal, Padron should find Sanders plenty, moving big chunks down the field.

The Prediction: Nevada has too many offensive weapons, with the Pistol formation, Option, and Kaepernick’s ability to throw and run. Nevada wins 54-49.

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

College Football Bowl Preview: Little Caesars Pizza Bowl

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

The NCAA post-season kicks off December 19^th, with 33 games being played in a three week span. Seniors will get their last hurrah, and teams will attempt to end their season on the winning side, in the hopes of improving recruiting that follows afterwords. The Sportmeisters will preview each of the 33 games that lie ahead, and provide our predictions as well. Let’s get to it!

Little Caesars Pizza Bowl, December 26th, 1:00 PM, Detroit, Michigan

Ohio (9-4) vs. Marshall (6-6)

About Ohio: The Bobcats roll into their bowl as the MAC East Champions, but ultimately lost their championship matchup against Central Michigan. Before that loss, they won four games in a row. Ohio doesn’t boast a prolific offense or defense, but they know how to get the ball back. They are first in FBS with 36 forced turnovers, led by Junior LB Noah Keller (137 tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles, interception). Senior LB Lee Renfro also contributed 105 tackles on the season, along with two sacks. The Bobcats boast three receivers with at least 500 yards and five touchdowns; Senior WR Taylor Price (735 yards, five touchdowns), Junior WR LaVon Brazill (689 yards, six touchdowns), and Junior WR Terrence McCrae (534 yards, eight touchdowns). Senior QB Theo Scott (2258 yards, 19 touchdowns), is expected to have recovered from the ankle injury he sustained prior to the MAC Championship. Ohio has the benefit of playing a disheveled Marshall squad with a new coach, so the weapons they possess should work in their favor.

About Marshall: The Thundering Herd stumbles into a bowl game, winning one of their last four just to qualify for bowl eligibility. Add to that the abrubt resignation of Coach Mark Snyder (21-37 in five years), and Marshall fans probably have minimal hopes. Nevertheless, Defensive Coordinator Jimmy Burrows is preparing a squad that, despite being in the lower half of most offensive categories, still boasts a 1,000 yard rusher. Junior RB Darius Marshall has 1,054 yards and 11 touchdowns on the season, even while missing the last two games of the season with injury. He is expected to play, however. Junior LB Mario Harvey is the heart and soul of the defense, contributing 105 tackles and five sacks. Holding onto the ball and playing smart ball is the only way Marshall has a chance at victory.

The Matchup: Ohio is in their fourth bowl game, first since 2007, and are still looking for their first victory. They look for their first ten win season since 1968, also the last time they won the MAC.

Marshall is back in the bowls for the first time 2004, as they look for their first win since 2002. They hold a 5-2 record in bowl games. Ohio holds the all-time advantage, 29-17-6.

With Darius Marshall back, the Herd have a chance. Ohio has given up 145.08 yards a game on the ground, and with Ohio’s ability to create turnovers, keeping the ball on the ground opens up more options. For one, it allows an offensive line that has given up 23 sacks on the season a chance to take pressure off of QB Brian Anderson. Now, should Ohio fight back with run blitzes, look for Anderson to take a few shots with single coverage on the outside. Again, though, he needs to be aware of a Marshall defense that has 20 interceptions on the season.

For Ohio, their key is the rappaport that Scott possesses with Price, Brazill, and McCrae. Any one of them can turn a short pass into a touchdown, and it forces Marshall to be creative in their defensive schemes. Too many double teams on one person will open up more weapons on the rest of the field.

The Prediction: Ohio is the better team, and that will be shown early and often. Marshall will attempt to keep it close with his running attack, but Ohio’s speed and weapons take the game 38-14.

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

College Football Bowl Preview: Meineke Car Care Bowl

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

The NCAA post-season kicks off December 19^th, with 33 games being played in a three week span. Seniors will get their last hurrah, and teams will attempt to end their season on the winning side, in the hopes of improving recruiting that follows afterwords. The Sportmeisters will preview each of the 33 games that lie ahead, and provide our predictions as well. Let’s get to it!

Meineke Car Care Bowl, December 26th, 4:30 PM, Charlotte, NC

No. 17 Pittsburgh (9-3) vs. University of North Carolina (8-4)

About Pittsburgh: The Panthers had BCS hopes heading into their showdown with Big East leader Cincinnati, as a win would have given them the tie-breaker, and most likely an Orange Bowl Berth. Unfortunately, the Panthers lost their second straight Big East game after starting 9-1, and fell to the Meineke Car Care Bowl. The success of Pittsburgh hinges directly on the rushing game. True Freshman Dion Rogers kept defenses looking silly all season, en route to 1640 yards and 16 touchdowns. His 136.67 yards per game is third in the nation in rushing. Senior QB Bill Stull turned his season around after a tumultuous Junior campaign, where he threw nine touchdowns and ten interceptions. Behind an offensive line boasting three Seniors, Stull threw for 2470 yards with 21 touchdowns against eight interceptions. Sophomore WR Jonathon Baldwin was the primary benefactor of Stull’s improved play, with 54 catches for 1080 yards (20.0 yards per catch average), and eight touchdowns. These three are the biggest factors in Pittsburgh being 16^th in scoring in NCAA FBS (33.17 points per game). The Panthers aren’t all offense, however. Their defense knows how to get to the QB, as evident by their 3.75 sack per game average (first in FBS). Junior DL Greg Romeus lead the team with eight sacks, and also contributed 40 tackles (10.5 for loss). That pressure is key on them giving up 20 points a game, and the continuation of that, along with their solid offense, will spell victory and end their season on a high note.

About North Carolina: The Tar Heels had high hopes entering 2009, and started off resembling a team with a BCS mission, going 3-0 for the first time since 1997. Losses in three of their next four, including three conference games, destroyed those hopes, but winning four of their next five brought their record to a bowl qualifying 8-4. UNC requires the effectiveness of their defense, as their offense is in the bottom half of all major categories, including a dismal 107^th in total offense (311.42 yards a game). Their defense, on the other hand, is sixth in total defense, giving up only 267.25 yards a game. Leading the efforts are Sophomore DL Robert Quinn with 49 tackles (19 for loss), 11 sacks, and six forced fumbles. Junior DB Kendric Burney is a total package, with 48 tackles (4.5 for loss), one sack, and five interceptions, including two returned for touchdown. Considering the offense only manages a paltry 24.3 points per game (81^st in NCAA FBS), the defense’s ability to hold opponents to 16.92 points (13^th in NCAA FBS), is a big reason why they sit here today. It is also the best shot North Carolina has at winning the bowl game.

The Matchup: Pittsburgh is 10-15 in bowl games, currently sitting on a three game losing streak. This is their second straight year in a bowl. They are 0-1 in Meineke Car Care Bowl appearances.

North Carolina is 12-14 in their bowl games, and are also on a losing streak, having lost their last two appearances. They are also 0-2 in the Meineke Car Care Bowl (losses in 2004 and 2008). North Carolina currently holds the series advantage, 4-2, with the last matchup a Tar Heel victory in 2000.

The key matchup in this game is arguable the Pittsburgh offense, led by Lewis, versus the North Carolina defense. However, Pittsburgh’s defense can and most likely will reign havoc on the North Carolina offense and Junior QB T.J. Yates (1953 yards, 12 TDs, 14 interceptions). The pressure led by Romeus will no doubt force Yates into rushed throws and potential turnovers. This will give Pittsburgh great field position for Lewis to run roughshed.

The Prediction: Pittsburgh has weapons on both sides of the ball, and provided they snap out of their funk from the last two games, they will win handily, 45-14.

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

College Football Bowl Preview: Emerald Bowl

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

The NCAA post-season kicks off December 19^th, with 33 games being played in a three week span. Seniors will get their last hurrah, and teams will attempt to end their season on the winning side, in the hopes of improving recruiting that follows afterwords. The Sportmeisters will preview each of the 33 games that lie ahead, and provide our predictions as well. Let’s get to it!

Emerald Bowl, December 26th, 8:00 PM, San Francisco, CA

No. 24 University of Southern California (8-4) vs. Boston College (8-4)

About USC: Despite having a true Freshman at QB, the stakes, and expectations, were still high for a USC team that has owned the better part of this decade. Even after a week three upset to Washington, the Trojans still had solid BCS hopes, defeating ranked teams such as Ohio State, California and Notre Dame. Then, the wall hit. USC lost three of its next five games, all to Pac-10 opponents, to fall completely off the BCS radar and relegated to the Emerald Bowl.

For a team that had finished second nationally in defense the past two seasons, this years squad was a far cry from that. After losing a number of players, including their entire linebacking corps to the NFL draft, the Trojans were 43^rd in defense (342.83 yards per game). Leading the team was Senior Safety Taylor Mays, with 91 tackles and one interception. No other player on the team had 70 or more tackles. However, USC does get pressure, finishing 16^th in NCAA FBS in tackles for loss (7.08 per game) and 17^th in sacks (2.75 per game).

The Trojans were also just mediocre on the offensive side of the game, finishing outside the top 30 in all major categories, including scoring (64^th with 26.67 points per game). The lone bright spot was Junior RB Joe McKnight, who finished with 1014 yards and eight touchdowns. Junior RB Allen Bradford also contributed eight touchdowns and an 8.17 yard per carry average. True Freshman QB Matt Barkley shined early on in the season, including a 380 yard, two touchdown performance against Notre Dame. However, he faded down the stretch, throwing for under 200 yards in four of his last five games. In that same five game period, he threw seven of his 12 interceptions. USCs plan has to be allowing McKnight to run the offense, with Barkley managing, and using the QB pressure to force turnovers, allowing for a short field.

About Boston College: The Eagles weren’t given much hope, picked to finish last in the ACC Atlantic Division, behind such teams as Florida State and Wake Forest. However, behind a rookie coach in Frank Spaziani, and the raucous cheering of LB Mark Herzlich (out for the season while battling cancer), Boston College made some heads turn. Conference losses to Clemson and Virginia Tech hurt, but heading into the end of the season, the Eagles still had a chance. That shot was gone with a loss to North Carolina, but Boston College still ended their season as a team no one expected to be here.

The Eagles struggle offensively, falling into the bottom half of most offensive categories. They too, have a True Freshman QB leading their way, except theirs is 25 years old. Former minor league baseball player Dave Shinskie took the reigns from Freshman Justin Tuggle during the Wake Forest game, and held onto the spot ever since. His numbers aren’t spectacular (1823 yards, 14 touchdowns, 13 interceptions), and they reflect the struggles the offense has. The lone bright spot comes from Sophomore Montel Harris, who rushed for 1355 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Defensively, not many expected Boston College to challenge, with the losses of Herzlich and DT B.J. Raji, now in the NFL. Instead, the Eagles were 15^th in rushing yards allowed, giving up only 104.42 yards a game. The defense also held opponents to only 19.42 points a game, 18^th in NCAA FBS. True Freshman Luke Kuechly, filling in for the injured Herzlich, played like a man possessed all season long. His 142 tackles (12.5 for loss), sack and interception were good enough to name him ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year. No other defender came within half of his tackles. For Boston College to win, they will have to rely on their defense, especially the run defense, and force USC to use Barkley to make decisions, instead of game managing.

The Matchup: USC is 31-16 in their storied bowl history, currently in a three game winning streak within their nine straight bowl appearances. However, this is the first time since 2002 they are not playing in a BCS Bowl Game.

Boston College is 13-7 in bowl games, riding an 11 game appearance. Last years loss to Vanderbilt had snapped an eight game bowl winning streak.

USC is currently 2-0 against Boston College, playing a home and home back in 1987 and 1988.

The game’s ultimate matchup is going to be McKnight vs. Kuechly, within the USC Offense vs. Boston College Defense. However, Bradford could play a spoiler in that matchup, and with both USC RBs having speed to go side to side, Boston College could have some trouble keeping them within the tackles and limiting their yards. Both teams need to keep their QBs from turnovers and questionable throws.

The Prediction: USC will use their defensive pressure to get to Shinskie and Harris, and with the weapons they do possess on offense, should get enough out of Barkley for the win, 35-21.

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

What We Learned: NFL Week 14

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

As the holidays approach, what teams are going to give their fans Super Bowl dreams for Christmas?

Distraught Dallas in December

One team hasn’t lost in December since their QB took the reigns, a 16-0 record. The other team is 5-9 since their QB has been the December starter. Can you guess who won when they faced off Sunday?

The San Diego Chargers, behind Phillip Rivers, ran their winning streak to eight games, improving to 10-3, after beating the Dallas Cowboys 20-17. Two long scoring drives broke a 10-10 tie, and allowed the Chargers to methodically destroy a Cowboys team who is looking for answers on their own. For Dallas, despite a no-turnover performance from QB Tony Romo, they have now slipped to second in the NFC East, and could be on the verge of missing the playoffs. That would ultimately seal the end for Coach Wade Phillips.

Trouble in Paradise?

The New England Patriots are 8-5, leading the AFC East, and just defeated the Carolina Panthers 20-10 to improve to 7-0 at home. So why is there so much turmoil?

The Patriots have been nowhere close to the 2006 squad that eviscerated opponents. Instead, they’ve lost close games in their fourth quarter, and could very well still miss the playoffs, with both the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins a game back. Recently, players have started grumbling, and it has affected their on the field play.

Four players were sent home Wednesday after being late, one of those being Randy Moss. Now we hear he was not putting forth a maximal effort, and it showed in a one catch, 16 yard performance. Linebacker Adalius Thomas was another member who missed the meeting, and after his bad mouthing of Coach Bill Belichick, watched the victory from the bench.

If the Patriots are expected to go deep in the playoffs, they need to quickly get on the same page. Players need to give 100% and buy into the coach’s message, or else all is lost.

Playoff Predictions

Every week until the end of the season, I’ll update my playoff predictions.

AFC (with current record):

1. Indianapolis Colts (13-0): AFC South Division Champions, first round bye, home field throughout playoffs

2. San Diego (10-3): AFC West Division Champions, first round bye, home field for Divisional Round

3. Cincinnati Bengals (9-4): AFC North Division Champions, home field for Wild Card Round

4. New England Patriots (8-5): AFC East Division Champions, home field for Wild Card Round

5. Denver Broncos (8-5): Wild Card

6. Miami Dolphins (7-6): Wild Card

NFC (with current record):

1. New Orleans Saints (13-0): NFC South Division Champions, first round bye, home field advantage throughout playoffs

2. Minnesota Vikings (11-2): NFC North Division Champions, first round bye, home field for Divisional Round

3. Arizona Cardinals (8-4): NFC West Division Champions, home field for Wild Card Round

4. Philadelphia Eagles (9-4): NFC East Division Champions, home field for Wild Card Round

5. Green Bay Packers (9-4): Wild Card

6. New York Giants (7-5): Wild Card

Contenders and Pretenders

The playoff picture is getting clearer, so who is in the snapshot?

The Philadelphia Eagles have now won four in a row, their most recent a 45-38 offensive performance against the New York Giants. The Eagles now control the NFC East, with a one game lead over the Dallas Cowboys.

The Green Bay Packers have won five in a row, and while the NFC North might be out of range, they are in good control to lock up a wild card spot. They won Sunday, 21-14, over division rival Chicago Bears.

Pretenders come in all shapes and sizes:

The Pittsburgh Steelers keep slipping, and have all but guaranteed a January at home. They lost to the lowly Cleveland Browns 13-6 on Thursday night.

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

2009 Heisman Trophy Preview and Prediction

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

The 2009 Heisman Trophy presentation is Saturday night, December 12^th. In recent years, the Heisman committee has gotten away from their comfort zone of junior and senior Quarterbacks, Running Backs, and Wide Receivers or Defensive Backs that return punts and kicks. Underclassmen such as QB Tim Tebow in 2007 and QB Sam Bradford in 2008 won as Sophomores.

This year, aside from Tebow’s third straight nomination, a true defensive player, DT Ndamukong Suh from Nebraska, hopes to be the second ever true defenseman to win the Heisman. He would be following Michigan CB Charles Woodson, who was also the last defensive player to be nominated, in 1997. RB Mark Ingram from Alabama, hopes to spoil that party and become the third straight underclassmen to win. QB Colt McCoy from Texas is back for the second straight year, looking for his first trophy, and RB Toby Gerhart of Stanford rounds out the group, making five finalists for the first time since 2004.

We’re now going to look inside at all five finalists, and make the official Sportmeister Heisman pick at the end.

QB Tim Tebow, Senior, University of Florida Gators

Tebow, the 2007 winner and 2008 finalist, makes history already, being the first ever player to be nominated three times. He led the Florida Gators to a 12-1 record, losing in the SEC Championship, but still clinching a BCS berth in the Sugar Bowl. He is the sentimental favorite, being a huge draw in college football, but his stats are still a far cry from 2007. Critics will point to his 2413 passing yards and 18 touchdowns as far cries from his previous two years, as well as a lack of solid performance against big time opponents. He failed to throw for over 300 yards at all during the season, and in two games (Tennessee and Ole Miss), did not throw for a touchdown. He was a beast on the ground, with 859 yards rushing, but scored only 12 touchdowns (25 in 2007). He did rush for over 100 yards twice, which is a strong mark for a Quarterback. It was noticeable that he missed previous weapons such as WR Percy Harvin and Louis Murphy, but for a team with high expectations, Tebow did live up to the hype. His SEC Championship performance (247 yards, one touchdown one interception, 63 rushing yards) could hurt him with voters on the fence.

DT Ndamukong Suh, Senior, University of Nebraska

He’s already taken home a number of honors (All-American, Lombardi Award, Bronco Nagurski Award), but the top prospect in the 2010 NFL Draft is looking at making his own mark on history. Should Suh win, he would become the first DT to win the Heisman, and merely the second true defensive player (not a kickoff and/or punt returner) to win the trophy. Suh’s resume speaks high enough that he could walk out a winner on Saturday. He recorded 82 tackles and 12 sacks, including 4.5 sacks during the Big 12 Championship. He had an astonishing 19.5 tackles for loss, with at least two on four different occasions. He’s taken home quite a bit of hardware already, and with his performance during Nebraska’s near-upset of Texas in the Big 12 Championship, Suh has the potential to walk out with one more trophy, especially if he grabs enough of the regional voters in his area.

QB Colt McCoy, Senior, University of Texas

The 2008 finalist, McCoy probably has the most ground to make up after his sub-par Big 12 Championship performance, along with other below-average games. With Suh in the running as well, McCoy could be shut out two years in a row. His numbers are down from 2008, when he scored 45 touchdowns (34 passing, 11 rushing), but he did throw for 3,512 yards, which will help him over Tim Tebow in the voting. He threw for 300 yards plus five times, including 470 against UCF, but also threw for under 200 yards four times, including 127 against Oklahoma, and, most recently, 184 against Nebraska. He rushed for 348 yards (down from 561 the previous season), but with 175 coming in one game, that means he rushed for 173 yards in 12 games, a mere 14.4 yards per game. He had three games with negative rush yards, including, once again, the Big 12 Championship Game. If McCoy doesn’t win out, I’m sure he won’t be too upset, as long as he wins the BCS Championship against Alabama. Should he lose to Alabama RB Mark Ingram, he might have some extra motivation, ala QB Vince Young against Heisman winners Matt Leinart and Reggie Bush in 2005. Texas fans might not be too upset then if he loses out Saturday.

RB Mark Ingram, Sophomore, Alabama

Ingram blew up in 2009, doubling his rushing yards (728 in 2008, 1542 in 2009), and more than quintupling his receiving yards (54 in 2008, 322 in 2009). He also had 18 total touchdowns. He was a big key to Alabama’s undefeated season, and in big games, he stepped up to the plate. He recorded eight games of more than 100 yards rushing, including a career high 246 against South Carolina. While he didn’t always hit paydirt (four game without a rushing touchdown), his ability to grind out yards was key in wearing down defenses. Against nationally ranked teams such as Virginia Tech and LSU, Ingram really shined, rushing for over 140 yards in each game. His most recent performance, in the SEC Championship, might have sealed the trophy for the Sophomore. He scored three touchdowns and ran for 113 yards in dismantling then No. 1 Florida, clinching a spot in the national title game. With two Sophomores winning in the past two years, that stigma has been removed, and Ingram has just as much of a chance as anyone else.

RB Toby Gerhart, Senior, Stanford University

Gerhart did not start the season on many Heisman voter’s lists, but he let his actions on the field prove them otherwise. The Senior was a key component in Stanford’s run at the Pac-10, rushing for over 100 yards in ten of his 12 games, including three games of over 200 yards on the ground. He scored at least one touchdown in 11 games, and just like Ingram, when the stakes were high, Gerhart performed. Against ranked opponents such as USC, Oregon, Oregon State, and Arizona, he had 620 of his 1,736 yards, and ten of his 26 rushing touchdowns. Despite an amazing resume that rivals the other finalists, Gerhart might struggle to get votes. Most voters do not see West Coast games (especially East Coast voters), and he did not really begin to register until Stanford’s dismantling of USC. Nevertheless, he ended his season as strong as it started, and has a viable shot to be Stanford’s first Heisman winner since Jim Plunkett in 1970.

Based on the stats and the information, this is the official Sportmeister’s Heisman Vote:

1. Mark Ingram
2. Toby Gerhart
3. Ndamukong Suh
4. Colt McCoy
5. Tim Tebow

Ingram was a key factor in Alabama running the table, which Gerhart, despite more rushing yards, had four losses, including an ugly non-conference defeat to Wake Forest. Ingram was a threat in the running and receiving game, and his most recent performance in the SEC Championship was enough to put him over the top. McCoy and Tebow both earned their spots based on last year’s performance, but neither lived up to the hype of 2008. Suh had a great season, but in the end, it just was not enough.

My vote is just one, who do you think deserves the trophy, and the accolades that come with it?

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

College Football Bowl Preview: New Mexico Bowl

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

The NCAA post-season kicks off December 19^th, with 33 games being played in a three week span. Seniors will get their last hurrah, and teams will attempt to end their season on the winning side, in the hopes of improving recruiting that follows afterwords. The Sportmeisters will preview each of the 33 games that lie ahead, and provide our predictions as well. Let’s get to it!

New Mexico Bowl, December 19^th, 4:30 PM, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Fresno State (8-4) vs. Wyoming (6-6)

About Fresno State: The Bulldogs got off to a slow start in 2009, going 1-3 in their first four games, including losses to BCS Bowl-bound Cincinnati and Boise State. They still ended up finishing third in the WAC, going 6-2 in the conference. Fresno State boasts one of the most prolific rushing attacks, averaging 231.6 yards per game, good enough for seventh in the Football Bowl Subdivision. That’s the key for the 19^th ranked offense (435.1 yards per game), that averages close to 35 points a game. They are led by RB Ryan Mathews, who has rushed for 1664 and 17 touchdowns during his Junior season. He did suffer a concussion and missed a game late in the season, but rebounded in a non-conference win over Illinois, where he scored three touchdowns. He is expected to play. They have an issue getting pressure on the QB, as evident by their combined total of 18 sacks this season. Look for the Bulldogs to win if they continue to pound it out on the ground, and keep from turning the ball over (23 turnovers in 2009).

About Wyoming: Members of the Mountain West Conference, the Bulldogs clinch a bowl in their first season under Coach Dave Christensen. The Cowboys never really got into a groove, as even when they got to 4-2, they quickly lost three straight, and mixed wins with losses to finish out at 6-6. When watching Wyoming, it’s almost like a Jekyll and Hyde performance. In six wins, they averaged 28 points a game. In six losses, they averaged five points a game. Whether or not they win will all determine on which team shows up to play. Most of the pressure will fall on the defense to stop the high-powered Bulldog Offense. Senior Linebacker Weston Johnson is the leader of a young defense, and has 101 tackles (12.5 for loss), 2.5 sacks, 3 interceptions, and a forced fumble. With four players having over 100 tackles this season, the defense is on the field a lot, which means the offense will have to play better than their 112^th yard per game average (298.7)

The Matchup: This is Fresno State’s 18^th bowl appearance (9-8), and their second straight year in the New Mexico Bowl. Wyoming is returning to the bowl scene for the first time since 2004, where their Las Vegas Bowl win snapped a six game bowl losing streak. Overall they are 5-6. The WAC currently holds a 2-1 advantage over the MWC in the New Mexico Bowl’s four year history.

Wyoming has a chance if their offense plays like the one in their six wins, rather than their six losses. The Fresno State defense gives up 27.8 points per game, so Wyoming has a chance. If they can somehow stop Mathews, and force Junior QB Ryan Colburn (2,333 yards, 18 touchdowns) to win through the air, an upset could be brewing. However, for a Wyoming defense that gives up 4.35 yards a carry, playing against a Bulldog squad that averages 5.44 yards a carry, I see numerous time-consuming drives, Fresno State taking an early lead, and an overmatched Wyoming team being blown out.

The Prediction: Fresno State runs all over Wyoming, 35-21.

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

Fantasy Football – Week 13 Start Em’ And Sit Em’

By Derek of The Sportmeisters

Welcome to the best time of the year Sports Fans. Here is where I will tell you who I think you should start or who I think you should sit for your fantasy team. This year, I will give you your obvious must starts (guys you start every week no matter who they play), a few players from each position who you should start, a sleeper start em’, and a must sit em’. Also, I will be giving projections for those players. If you have more questions, don’t forget to join me for my Sunday Morning Start Em’/Sit Em’ Chat from 10:45am to 12:45pm. Go to www.Sportmeisters.com for more info. Enough talk, let’s get down to business!

QB Obvious Must Starts

Drew Brees – NO vs. WAS – Projection: 290 Yards, 3 TD, 1 INT

Peyton Manning – IND vs. TEN – Projection: 300 Yards, 3 TD, 1 INT

Tom Brady – NE vs. MIA – Projection: 325 Yards, 3 TD, 0 INT

Philip Rivers – SD vs. CLE – Projection: 295 Yards, 2 TD, 0 INT

Aaron Rodgers – GB vs. BAL – Projection: 250 Yards, 2 TD, 1 INT

QB Start Em’

Brett Favre – MIN vs. ARI – Favre has been on fire, throwing eight touchdowns in his last three games. This week, he faces the 29^th ranked pass defense of the Arizona Cardinals and I fully expect him to put up yet another monster game. Start Em’. Projection: 300 Yards, 3 TD, 0 INT

Carson Palmer – CIN vs. DET – After four disappointing games in which Palmer has thrown just two touchdowns and one interception (including last week’s 110 yard, 1 touchdown clunker against Cleveland), a game against the worst pass defense in the NFL, The Detroit Lions, couldn’t come at a better time. Sleeper Start Em’. Projection: 270 Yards, 2 TD, 0 INT

QB Sit Em’

Tony Romo – DAL vs. NYG – Romo had one of the worst games of his career against the Giants on week two, throwing for just 127 yards and three interceptions. He faces them again this week, and they are ranked fourth in the NFL vs. the pass. Sit Em’. Projection: 215 Yards, 1 TD, 2 INT

Matt Cassel – KC vs. DEN – After a surprisingly good game two weeks ago against Pittsburgh, Cassel fell back to Earth last week against The San Diego Chargers. This week, it doesn’t get any easier against the fifth ranked pass defense of the Denver Broncos. Must Sit Em’. Projection: 175 Yards, 1 TD, 2 INT

RB Obvious Must Starts

Adrian Peterson – MIN vs. ARI – Projection: 95 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 2 Receptions, 25 Yards

Maurice Jones-Drew – JAX vs. HOU – Projection: 90 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 4 Receptions, 35 Yards

Steven Jackson – STL vs. CHI – Projection: 85 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 4 Receptions, 25 Yards

Chris Johnson – TEN vs. IND – Projection: 90 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 3 Receptions, 30 Yards

Ray Rice – BAL vs. GB – Projection: 80 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 5 Receptions, 50 Yards

RB Start Em’

LaDainian Tomlinson – SD vs. CLE – LDT looks to be back with five touchdowns in the past three games. This week, he should feast on the 29^th ranked run defense of the Cleveland Browns. Start Em’. Projection: 90 Yards Rushing, 2 TD, 3 Receptions, 25 Yards

Rashard Mendenhall – PIT vs. OAK – Last week, against a good Baltimore run defense, he ran for 95 yards and had 22 yards receiving. This week, he faces the Oakland Raiders and their 31^st ranked run defense. Start Em’. Projection: 100 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 3 Receptions, 20 Yards

Matt Forte – CHI vs. STL – As inconsistent as Forte has been this year, you can’t afford not to start him against the St. Louis Rams and their 28^th ranked run defense. Especially with Jay Cutler throwing so many interceptions lately. Start Em’. Projection: 100 Yards Rushing, 1 TD, 5 Receptions, 40 Yards

Cadillac Williams – TB vs. CAR – Williams has faced three decent run defense’s these past three weeks and his numbers show it. He ran for just 114 yards and scored just two total touchdowns in those games against Miami, Atlanta, and New Orleans. However, this week he faces the Carolina Panthers and their 26^th ranked run defense. Sleeper Start Em’. Projection: 65 Yards Rushing, 1 TD

RB Sit Em’

Ryan Grant – GB vs. BAL – If Grant could only manage 61 yards last week against a weak Detroit run defense, how is he going to fare against the Baltimore Ravens and their sixth ranked run defense? Sit Em’. Projection: 40 Yards Rushing, 3 Receptions, 20 Yards

Kevin Smith – DET vs. CIN – Smith is coming off a decent game last week against Green Bay, where he ran for 43 yards and had 46 yards receiving. He will probably have the same type of game against the third ranked Cincinnati Bengals run defense. Sit Em’. Projection: 30 Yards Rushing, 4 Receptions, 40 Yards

Darren McFadden and Justin Fargas and Michael Bush – OAK vs. PIT – Does any fantasy expert/writer ever tell you to start a Running Back against the best run defense in the NFL, the Pittsburgh Steelers? I didn’t think so. Must Sit Em’ All. Projections: McFadden: 20 Yards Rushing, 3 Receptions, 25 Yards – Fargas: 35 Yards Rushing – Bush: 20 Yards Rushing

WR Obvious Must Starts

Randy Moss – NE vs. MIA – Projection: 7 Receptions, 100 Yards, 1 TD

Wes Welker – NE vs. MIA – Projection: 11 Receptions, 100 Yards, 1 TD

Larry Fitzgerald – ARI vs. MIN – Projection: 6 Receptions, 95 Yards, 1 TD

Anquan Boldin – ARI vs. MIN – Projection: 6 Receptions, 80 Yards, 1 TD

Reggie Wayne – IND vs. TEN – Projection: 9 Receptions, 100 Yards, 1 TD

Andre Johnson – HOU vs. JAX – Projection: 7 Receptions, 80 Yards, 1 TD

Roddy White – ATL vs. PHI – Projection: 5 Receptions, 65 Yards, 1 TD

Marques Colston – NO vs. WAS – Projection: 5 Receptions, 80 Yards, 1 TD

WR Start Em’

Chad Ocho Cinco – CIN vs. DET – Ocho Cinco has returned to the All-Pro Wide Receiver that we all remember this year, catching 53 passes for 773 yards and five touchdowns. However, he has hit a bit of a slump recently, with just 14 receptions for 200 yards in his last four games. This week should be just what the doctor ordered, as he plays the Detroit Lions, who have the worst pass defense in the NFL. Start Em’. Projection: 7 Receptions, 105 Yards, 1 TD

Vincent Jackson – SD vs. CLE – Although Jackson has just seven receptions for 93 yards in his last three games, he is still Philip Rivers’ favorite target and you have to start him against the 24^th ranked pass defense of the Cleveland Browns. Start Em’. Projection: 5 Receptions, 90 Yards, 1 TD

Devin Hester – CHI vs. STL – I know, I know, Hester has been stinking up the joint lately with just 12 receptions for 84 yards in his last three games. However, if there was ever a week for the Bears pass attack to get back on track, it would be this week against the 22^nd ranked pass defense of the St. Louis Rams. Start Em’. Projection: 5 Receptions, 65 Yards, 1 TD

Jeremy Maclin – PHI vs. ATL – With DeSean Jackson out with a concussion, Maclin should get the start and should see the majority of Jackson’s balls thrown his way. This is especially good news facing the 27^th ranked pass defense of the Atlanta Falcons. Sleeper Start Em’. Projection: 6 Receptions, 75 Yards, 1 TD

WR Sit Em’

Roy Williams – DAL vs. NYG – The last time that Williams faced the fourth ranked New York Giants pass defense, he caught just one pass for 18 yards. I don’t see him doing much better this week, especially with CB Aaron Ross back in the lineup. Sit Em’. Projection: 3 Receptions, 30 Yards

Steve Smith – CAR vs. TB – Smith was invisible last week against The Jets. Maybe that’s because he was blanketed by Darrelle Revis all day? Nevertheless, Smith had just one catch for five yards. This week, he faces a Tampa Bay Buccaneers pass defense that has allowed 24 passing touchdowns, despite being ranked 11^th in the NFL vs. the pass. So why sit him you ask? Because, Matt Moore will probably be starting and that means a lot of DeAngelo Williams (if he can play on his injured ankle) and Jonathan Stewart and a lot less Smith. Sit Em’. Projection: 4 Receptions, 50 Yards

Chris Chambers – KC vs. DEN – As good as Chambers has been over the last two weeks (11 receptions for 189 yards and a touchdown), his chances of producing like that against CB Champ Bailey and the fifth ranked Denver Broncos pass defense don’t look good. Must Sit Em’. Projection: 3 Receptions, 30 Yards

TE Obvious Must Starts

Antonio Gates – SD vs. CLE – Projection: 6 Receptions, 60 Yards, 1 TD

Tony Gonzalez – ATL vs. PHI – Projection: 7 Receptions, 65 Yards, 1 TD

Jason Witten – DAL vs. NYG – Projection: 6 Receptions, 70 Yards, 1 TD

Vernon Davis – SF vs. SEA – Projection: 6 Receptions, 60 Yards, 1 TD

Dallas Clark – IND vs. TEN – Projection: 7 Receptions, 75 Yards, 1 TD

TE Start Em’

Greg Olsen – CHI vs. STL – After Olsen’s slow start, many people wrote him off as a bust. However, he has responded with 25 receptions for 233 yards and three touchdowns in his last four games. This week, he faces the 22^nd ranked pass defense of the St. Louis Rams and QB Jay Cutler should continue to look his way. Start Em’. Projection: 7 Receptions, 55 Yards, 1 TD

Visanthe Shiancoe – MIN vs. ARI – Shiancoe has a Touchdown in each of the last two games and faces the Arizona Cardinals and their 29^th ranked pass defense this week. Plus, Tight Ends have six touchdowns against them this year. Sleeper Start Em’. Projection: 5 Receptions, 45 Yards, 1 TD

TE Sit Em’

Jeremy Shockey – NO vs. WAS – Shockey has been losing targets to Dave Thomas and has just six catches for 74 yards in his last three games. This week, he faces the Washington Redskins and their second ranked pass defense. With the way that the Saints spread the ball around, I think you have to Sit’ Em. Projection: 3 Receptions, 25 Yards

Zach Miller – OAK vs. PIT – Does anyone trust Bruce Gradkowski yet? I highly doubt it. Especially against the Pittsburgh Steelers 13^th ranked pass defense. Must Sit Em’. Projection: 3 Receptions, 30 Yards

D/ST Start Em’

Cincinnati Bengals vs. DET – Matthew Stafford threw five interceptions last week and the Bengals defense is for real this year. Start Em’.

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. OAK – Even without Troy Polamalu, we are still talking about James Harrison, Lamar Woodley, and that Dick LeBeau pass rush against Bruce Gradkowski. Start Em’.

San Diego Chargers vs. CLE – The Chargers held the Chiefs to fourteen points last week, but only sacked Matt Cassel once and also picked him off once. I expect much better against the Browns this week. Start Em’.

D/ST Sit Em’

Washington Redskins vs. NO – Was anyone watching how the Saints destroyed a Bill Belichick defense last week? I certainly was. Even if the Redskins are second vs. the Pass, you have to Sit Em’.

Baltimore Ravens vs. GB – Green Bay has an explosive passing attack and plays much better at home. Sit Em’.

Tennessee Titans vs. IND – Does the name Peyton Manning mean anything to anyone? Sit Em’.

There you have it Sports Fans. Any questions or concerns, please email me at Derek@Sportmeisters.com and don’t forget to join me for my weekly Sunday Morning Start Em’/Sit Em’ Chat from 10:45am to 12:45pm. Go to www.Sportmeisters.com for more info.

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

What’s Next For Florida State Football?

By Ryan of The Sportmeisters

As the Florida State University Football team enters the next part of the football season, including bowl games and recruiting for next season, they are met with a challenge they have not seen in quite a long time. Even though FSU prepared for Head Coach Bobby Bowden’s eventual retirement with Offensive Coordinator Jimbo Fisher designated as the head-coach-in-waiting, there are still a number of factors FSU has to be prepared for. This is essential if they plan on being more competitive in 2010. Let’s take a closer look at the key areas of interest Florida State has to deal with as the country awaits seeing Coach Bowden in action one last time.

Bowl Game

6-6 still gets you to a bowl game, though a minor one at that. Nevertheless, Florida State still earns the right to play one more game for the 28^th consecutive season. Coach Bowden, along with retiring Defensive Coordinator Mickey Andrews, will dress in the garnet and gold one last time wearing those titles. The game will ultimately be an emotional one for players, fans, and coaches alike. Sometime within the next week or two, FSU will officially receive their bowl game invitation, and can plan their coaching schedule accordingly.

Current rumors have the Gator Bowl, who picks third in the bowl selection process for ACC teams, possibly selecting Florida State. This would be a huge boon for the bowl and FSU alike. The Gator Bowl is played in Jacksonville, which provides good travel opportunities for FSU fans to see Coach Bowden take the field for the last time. Along those lines, the Gator Bowl is considering selecting West Virginia as FSU’s opponent, pitting Coach Bowden against the only other team he was a Head Coach for. It would be a fitting tribute, but there are other factors at play.

According to the ACC Bowl regulations, the Gator Bowl (and all bowls with ACC tie-ins) can only select a team that has a one loss differential. Gator Bowl officials are arguing that only matters when they are selecting the ACC Championship Game loser, which they are obligated to do once every four years (they selected Georgia Tech in 2007). After the two ACC title contenders, the next team in line for a bowl position finished 5-3. This allows the Gator Bowl to select the 4-4 Florida State Seminoles, stating they fall within the one loss regulation because they are not obligated to select the ACC Championship loser.

I don’t know how this one will fall out, but when Florida State plays will have a direct effect on the remaining steps of Jimbo Fisher’s new regime, which also includes:

Coaching Changes

As of right now, only Jimbo Fisher and Offensive Line Coach Rick Trickett have contracts that extend beyond this season. With the retirement of Mickey Andrews, finding a new defensive coordinator needs to be Fisher’s first step. Based off of rumors of animosity between Fisher and Executive Head Coach Chuck Amato, I highly doubt Amato will be interviewed for the job. There will be much speculation over the next few days and weeks on who will be looked at for the position, but I’m sure that Coach Fisher and Athletic Director Randy Spetman will be meeting with a short list of coaches in mind. Look for behind the back negotiations and talks to take place during FSU’s bowl preparation, with the hope that a new coach will be signed following the bowl game. Finding a defensive coordinator quickly is imperative, as it gives the new coach time to put together his staff prior to the final recruiting run before signing day. At the very least, do not expect Amato or Defensive Ends/Special Teams Coach Jody Allen to be on the FSU Staff in 2010. Defensive Tackle Coach O’Dell Haggins future will undoubtedly be determined by the new defensive coordinator and Fisher together. Remember, now Fisher has final say on all this, but I cannot see him hiring someone he does not have ties to.

Offensively, look for Fisher to keep most, if not all of his staff. Being the head coach now, it would be more beneficial to pass the offensive coordinator duties off to one of his current position coaches. Tight Ends/Recruiting Coordinator James Coley is the only member of the offense Fisher brought in, so he looks to be the top option to take the position. Considering the success the FSU offense had this year, I would imagine Wide Receivers Coach Lawrence Dawsey to be safe. It is possible he could be looking for a new Running Backs and Quarterbacks coach (Dexter Carter and Fisher took those roles, respectively).

For those interested in looking at rumors, Tomahawk Nation does a great job breaking down potential prospects, but again, this is all rumors until a signature is made. Having a coaching staff complete as soon as possible is key if it will improve FSUs efforts in:

Recruiting

According to Warchant, Florida State has 16 verbal commitments, leading to the February 2010 signing period. Of those 16, only one commitment was brought in by Jody Allen, who is not expected to be on staff next season. The rest are brought in by Fisher and members of his staff who should still be in place in 2010.

The idea of the “in-waiting” position was to allow recruits to feel there would be no change when Bowden eventually retired. Fisher and Coley took the reigns of the recruiting business, no longer making FSU a late player (FSU is notorious for its frenetic signing of big recruits on the first day of the signing period). Instead, FSU is now a major player for verbal commitments, and because of this, should keep most, if not all of their current commitments. Any wavering will come if Fisher cannot have a staff together by January.

There are a number of potential recruits FSU is in the hunt for, and in order to sign these prospects away from other top-caliber BCS schools, having a solid coaching staff in place, especially one with knowledge and ties to the areas FSU focuses on will be a huge gain. There is also a possibility these coaches can bring in recruits they were hunting for their previous school. No guarantee to grab a big number of prospects that way, but a few could change their mind and rock the garnet and gold. The final concern is:

Current Players

FSU brings back a huge number of players on both sides of the ball next year, and have plenty of top quality athletes waiting in the wings. As is the case when the head coach leaves, some players decide to seek playing time elsewhere.

By FSU having the “in-waiting” plan, much like with recruiting, Fisher and Coley brought in a huge number of the current staff, and therefore, I expect most of the current players to continue to play for FSU. There may be one or two players that played exclusively for Amato and Allen who might move, but it would depend on if those coaches got new jobs.

Losing the head coach is never easy, and while Florida State did their best to plan for this, there will be some growing pains. However, Fisher and the men he employs are prepared for this, and I fully expect the cogs of the Florida State football machine to continue to turn without any major interruptions.

This post was submitted by The Sportmeisters.

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