This week in football

Least suspenseful Heisman ever

Winston's hair is often referred to FSU's 12th man.

Although it wasn't the closest Heisman ever (that was 2009 between Ingram and Gerhart) I can't remember a recent one where people were outright proclaiming the winner before the big night. Of course the big cloud surrounding the Winston's Heisman candidacy was rape allegations but those were conveniently thankfully taken care of before voting ended. Truth be told I would have voted for him despite probably needing a shower afterwords.

Raekwon picks Ohio State, vows not to reveal Wu-Tang secret, Ghostface Killa still undecided

Raekwon's M-E-T-H-O-Ds on the field made much much sought after.

Am I too late to get in on this joke? I don't care I'm going to do it anyway. The number 1 inside line backer and 17th best player overall verbally committed to Ohio State on Monday. McMillan as he's sometimes, un-funly known, picked OSU over notable teams Alabama, Georgia, and a few other ones I can't remember. Raekwon is already drawing comparisons to Brandon Spikes. Isn't it great that Urban Meyer can be hundreds of miles away and still steal recruits away from Richt?

Mack brown officially resigns

Brown officially resigned from Texas on last Sunday and immediately the speculation began for who the next coach will be. Well it didn't really start, more like it continued unabated. Wasting no time the new Texas AD has assembled a crack team of advisers as some sort of committee to help pick the next coach.

• Steve Hicks, vice chair of the Board of Regents, one of the board’s athletics liaisons, and owner and executive chairman of Capstar Partners LLC, a private investment firm.
• Robert Stillwell, member of the Board of Regents, one of the board’s athletics liaisons, retired partner at Baker Botts LLP and an original director of Mesa Petroleum Co.
• Michael Clement, accounting professor, McCombs School of Business at UT Austin, and faculty representative to the Men’s and Women’s Athletics Councils.
• Ricardo Hinojosa, United States federal judge for the Southern District of Texas, former member of the university’s Commission of 125.
• Charles Matthews, former vice president and general counsel of Exxon Mobil, current president of the Texas Exes.
• Robert Rowling, former member of the Board of Regents and owner and chairman of TRT Holdings Inc
• Charles Tate, chairman of Capital Royalty, former member of the executive committee of the university’s Commission of 125.
• Pamela Willeford, former U.S. ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein and former chair of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

With Saban out of the picture Jimbo Fisher is reportedly now the front runner.

I know it's common for ADs to do this sort of thing but I can't help but feel it's just so over-the-top ridiculous. An ambassador to a foreign country? Really? What sort of input could that person give as far as hiring a football coach? This is nothing but extremely rich people wanting their say in one of the most powerful institutions in Texas. It's another example of how overblown college sports are in this country. 

AJ McCarron made dumb comments this week about how it was THE MEDIA that was making the Saban to Texas talk a lot bigger than it needed to be? Really was it the media that was stopping Saban from outright saying from the beginning he had no interest in the job? At any rate Saban should be thanking the pesky media for getting him a nice 2 million dollar raise after losing to Auburn. 

A disturbing trend, sports podcasts that don't talk about sports

Not pictured: toilet flushing sound in the background.

This is just something that has been grinding my gears a bit. I listen to a lot of sports podcasts and one thing that inevitably happens is they veer until nonsense and inside jokes and really just shit no one cares about. I get it, you had some whacky adventure that you think everyone is dying to hear about. But honestly they're not. Please just talk about the weekend's games. Talking about a little shit no one cares about is OK during the off-season.

An even more disturbing trend

I came to an extremely disturbing realization this week. I'll be rooting for Auburn in the NCG. My reasons are thus. I think it's amazing they started the season unranked and in fact didn't get a ranking until week 6 or 7? This after their worse season in 50 some years where they didn't even win a single SEC game. So all that combined with the lingering rapeiness around FSU makes it pretty easy to root for them. Plus, it'll be great to hear the crying if the SEC were to win yet another NCG. The only thing that FSU has going for them in my eyes is it'd be sort of neat if they won so they could say they won the first and last BCS NCG.

It'd be easy to just not have a rooting interest in the game as I have for the past couple but seeing as this is our goodbye to the BCS, that would be no fun.

Long time, no see.

Well, the blog is called "The Off-Season" so I guess it shouldn't be that surprising that that's when I write the most. Really, I'm just awful about this whole, "consistently writing stuff thing".

Since we last spoke Ohio State came really close to getting the chance to get walloped by FSU in the NCG. USC got a new head coach, so did Washington. And now Mack Brown is on the verge of being involuntarily resigned from Texas.

Also there was one of the greatest ending to a game in all of football.

Cade Foster's consolation prize

After numerous death threats from bored hicks Cade Foster, the kicker, who was instrumental in getting the Tide out of the NCG and possibly Saban to leave received words of encouragement from an unexpected source:

Dubya, not known for his tact.

Dubya is a known artist, I'd sure love to see his rendition of the ending of that game.

Jadeveon Clowney's disappearing act

Last year Clowney was expected to be a 1 or two pick in the draft and expectations could not have been higher going into this year. However at this point in the season it's fair to say things have not gone as planned. Questions have arisen over his off he field work ethic and maturity and everyone is wondering how this will effect his draft stock. (Hint: It won't)

Still I can't help but wonder what happened? No doubt offenses have had him in their sights all season after what he did last year.

Shamelessly stolen from here.

Frankly I'm more annoyed with his work ethic. Have you seen how many plays he sits out for? It was joked about last year that he should just sit out in the entire year for his health but maybe he took that literally?

The inevitable has happened with regards to Maurice Clarett

If you've spent any time with my blog you'll know that Maurice Clarett is one of my favorite figures. Needless to say I'm thrilled for the 30 for 30 on him called "Youngstown Boys". It should be pretty good entertainment after one of the most needless Heisman ceremonies in recent memory. 

As usual with these things he made the rounds on ESPN to talk about it and I caught his interview with SVP and Rusillo. 

I was pretty amazed at how mature and grown up he sounded. He basically just sounded like a man who has been through the worst of it and thankfully come out alive on the other end. 

He talked about the night that everyone remembers with the guns, and the katana, and the Grey Goose. He said he had basically reached his breaking point, he realized he was not going to be in the NFL and that he didn't have his athletic ability to fall back on anymore and he had a pregnant girlfriend etc. etc. and it just sounded like a good idea at the time. Maybe he wanted to be caught?

At any rate I'm glad that he uses his life experience to talk to young players and warn them about what happens when your ego gets too big. 

I've always wished him the best and still do.

Hook 'em Mack Brown

I can't help but think Mack Brown's forced retirement is in some way because of my visit to the Texas campus. I can't explain it but I just know in my gut that that's what is. 

So, sorry Texas fans. I'll avoid going to any more campuses from now on. 

Brown's retirement announcement is expected no later than Friday's big soiree thing where he will be speaking so for now the guessing game rages on over who could possible replace him.

Guesses range from Nick Saban to Urban Meyer to Jon Harbaugh. 

Personally I would say Saban by far is the most likely. (Meyer, really?) I'd put it at like 60-40 leaning towards no. 

CFB Weekend preview #6

I'm going solo on this one this week because my partner is feeling under the weather. And by under the weather, I mean he's playing "Diablo III."

:/

Minnesota @ #19 Michigan

- Fany Pack

After a couple close calls and a bye week, Michigan (4-0) has slipped a few spots to No. 19. The Wolverines now go up against the Golden Gophers this week at home.

Minnesota goes into the game with a 4-1 record, which is a lot of wins for them. Looking at their schedule, though, it's easy to see why (Yes, that thumping of New Mexico State was something, wasn't it?)

Indeed, the Fighting Spermies were no match for the Gophers.

Against a good team, though, I don't see Minnesota coming out on top. I put this mostly on quarterback Philip Nelson. The Gophers are 118th in passing, and Nelson suffered a hamstring injury a few weeks back. Couple those two things with Nelson's love of getting sacked and tendency to throw interceptions, and I think I might just start drinking before the game even starts.

For its part, Michigan had just better win handily, or it'll be time to stop referring to them as a good team. A close one to Akron? Sure, every team has its off days. A close one the next week to UConn? OK. Maybe they had a case of the nerves after that last squeak-by. A third nail-biter in a row against a bad team? I'm done with you.

Consider this your warning, Wolverines.

Michigan 35 - Minnesota 7

CFB Weekend preview #5

#23 Wisconsin at #4 Ohio State

After trudging through weeks of an admittedly embarassing schedule Ohio State finally gets some decent competition in the form of the Wisconsin Badgers. The OSU-Wisc rivarly has been one of the more interesting ones in the Big 10 recently.

Wisconsin should probably be undefeated right now but thanks to an extremely wonky end of the game against Arizona State they have a loss.

Wisconsin will look to run the ball behind their breakout star running back Melvin Gordon who currently leads the nation in rushing. However Ohio State does have a very good rushing defense, only allowing 79 yards per game.

Another very interesting aspect of the game is how the Ohio State quarterback situation will be. Kenny Guiton is now listed as "co-starter" alongside Braxton Miller. How their playing time will be rationed out could go a long way towards sorting the whole thing out. Honestly I wouldn't be surprised if at some point this season Guiton was made the full time starter.

Ohio State is favored by 7 but I think they will get a huge boost from the eager fans looking to finally see some decent competition. Wisconsin may hang around for a while in the first half but I think by the time the 4th quarter rolls around the Buckeyes will have put it away.

Wisconsin 17 - Ohio State 24

#21 Ole Miss at #1 Alabama

Ole Miss gets their toughest test of the season when they travel to Tuscaloosa to take on the Crimson Tide. The Rebels are off to a great start this season as they sit at 3-0 including a win over Texas. Meanwhile Alabama is, well, Alabama.

However, one thing we've learned about Alabama is this isn't your grandfather's Alabama defense. funny fact, did you know that right now if you take into consideration total defense that they're ranked at 56th nationally? That's four spots below Southern Alabama. As far as passing and rushing defense it's pretty bad for a team that regularly produces starting NFL players.

We know what we will get from Alabama as far as offense, a lot of efficiency with little to no mistakes.

If Mississippi can get their run game going and not make any mistakes I think they could have a real shot. They bring a competent defense to Tuscaloosa however they will need to shut down AJ McCarron's big throws down the field.

This is probably Mississippi's best chance to take down the tide in a long time.

Alabama is favored by 14 in this game which seems really high to me. I'm not quite ready to call for the upset by I'm not sure if Alabama is 14 points better than Mississippi at this point.

Ole Miss 24 - Alabama 31

#5 Stanford @ Washington State

After losing an ugly game to Auburn Washington State has been rolling including a win over USC. They get their next big test as the Cardinal come to town.

I think it's huge that the Cougars are getting Stanford at home and the betting lines reflect this as the #5 team in the land is only favored by 9.

Mike Leach's magic is at work here as the Cougars have the 16th best passing offense in the nation but (un)surprisingly they are literally almost dead last in rushing offense. Well it is called the "air raid" and not the "ground raid"... lol... :(

So, obviously the key to this game is going to be how well the Cougars can pass the ball. Luckily for them Stanford isn't exactly that great at defensing the pass, they rank middle of the pack.

I'm making this game my upset special of the week. I think the Cougar QB will have a huge game sparked by a raucous home crowd.

Stanford 28 - Washington State 34

Iowa at Minnesota

Although this is by no means a marquis matchup it is a rather interesting game from a Big 10 perspective. Both teams have been having relatively quiet yet surprisingly good seasons. Minnesota has gotten off to a 4-0 start (though it should be mentioned they did the same thing last year before only getting two more wins for the rest of the season). Meanwhile Iowa has three wins including a win over rival Iowa State.

As I said though this is a very good matchup. I didn't look through every game but this could very well be the closest matched game of the week. While most sites have Iowa winning the game the margins are extremely slim, mostly by 1 point and a couple have them up by 2. While still another has Minnesota winning by 1.

I love win teams are really lopsided to one form of defense and Minnesota is just one of the teams. Having a top 15 rushing offense while also having a bottom 10 passing offense. I guess that's what you get from Jerry Kill...

That's partly what makes this game so interesting since Iowa is really good at defending the rush.

Really, these teams are very similar in what they try to do. Iowa has comparable stats in those same departments.

I'm going to have to go with Minnesota on this one. Should I factor in that maybe the Golden Gophers will be playing with extra heart because of the problems their coach has been having? I don't know about that but I do know that the home crowd will definitely be fired up one way or the other.

Iowa 21 - Minnesota 27

#6 LSU @ #9 Georgia

- Fany Pack

Michigan has a bye (sad), but there's actually a bunch of good games this week (glad). This SEC powerhouse matchup might be the best.

LSU's unbeaten and ranked higher, but I think the Bulldogs' schedule has prepared them better for this game. While LSU breezed by UAB and Kent State, Georgia opened its season with back-to-back marquee games, losing to now-third-ranked Clemson in a close one then going on to upset South Carolina.

It's a matchup of great quarterbacks, though, with Aaron Murray going up against the Tigers' Zach Mettenberger. It really seems like this will come down to whether Murray has a good game and whether Georgia can keep up its excellent passing game against one of the best passing defenses in the conference.

It being another home game and with the team's recent momentum, I'm calling this one for Georgia.


Georgia 31 - LSU 24

CFB Weekend Preview #4

Florida A&M @ #4 Ohio State

The lines in this one have Ohio State beating FAMU by as low as 49 points and as high as 50. Although the most interesting thing in this game will be how Urban Meyer handles his breakout star quarterback, Kenny Guiton. Although Meyer has insisted there isn't a quarterback competition he hasn't ruled out the possibilty of using a dual QB system. If anyone has the credentials to pull off such a controversial plan it's Meyer. 

At any rate 50 points is a lot, which isn't to say I don't think Ohio State can do it. But a lot will probably depend on how the QB situation shakes out. I wouldb't be surprised to see the third stringer get a couple shots in with this one to be honest. At least after this Ohio State will start playing some decent competition.

Did you know FAMU plays in the MEAC conference? Yeah, apparently there is a Mid Eastern Athletic Conference. 

In conclusion though, yeah, Ohio State will hang 60-70 on them. I hope they do if for no other reason than to punish there stupid fucking marching band who killed someone, literally.

Ohio State 66 - FAMU 7

Michigan State @ #22 Notre Dame

Thw Fighting Brian Kelly's are favored by 5 in this game which seems like a really fair line. However, looking at how both teams have faired thus far in the year I'm inclined to take the Sparty upset. Although the Irish are at home after two games abroad this game will come down to defense since both teams are pretty similarly ranked as far as defense goes.

I give a slight nod to MSU in this regard since as the old addage goes "defenses always travel well", or something like that. I reckon this will be a pretty low scoring "grind it out kind of game", in other words it'll be really boring.

MSU 10 - ND 7

#23 Arizona State @ #5 Stanford

I don't foresee any surprises here as Stanford seems to be rolling and typically beats the teams they're supposed to. I think the only game of the weekend featuring top 25 teams will be pretty boring as Stanford gets the Sun Devils at home where they are usually really good.

Arizona State on the other hand will pay with the bad karma they've accumulated after literally stealing one from Wisconsin last week.

Stanford is favored by 6.5 but to me that seems a bit low. I would expect them to win by at least a touchdown, maybe more.

Stanford 21 - ASU 14

Utah State @ USC

I was right the last time I "had a feeling" about a USC game and I'm having that feeling again. I don't want to take full credit for that scum bag Lane Kiffin losing his job, but if he finds himself in the breadline next week I will think I played a small part in it. 

As in the last game USC is only favored by 6.5 over Utah State, doesn't that seem really low? I'm calling the upset now.

Don't kid yourselves. The Aggies have quite a potent offense, putting up 70 against the vaunted Weber St. defense. Meanwhile for having one of the best receivers in the country USC has struggled mightily, putting up only 10 in that Washington St. game. If this was a home game for the Aggies they might even be favored.

Utah State 21 - USC 17

#15 Michigan @ UConn

- Fany Pack

Not doing a CFB Weekend Preview last week was probably for the best, as I don't think anyone saw Michigan coming so close to being embarrassed at home, at basically the last minute by a team that hasn't won a road game in almost five years. 

Saturday's matchup should, in theory, be a breeze for the Wolverines, who move on to UConn in an 8 o'clock showdown. (Because when I think of exciting prime-time night games, I think no-win UConn.) Anyway, this game is all about saving face for Michigan. If they can do against the Huskies what they were supposed to do against Akron last week, then all will be forgotten remembered but not with heaps of ridicule.

As for UConn, who is 122nd in rushing, their only hope is to keep up their decent passing game. Unfortunately for the Huskies, Michigan's defense seems more than capable of holding them back. And after such a close one last week, Michigan is going to be especially determined to rack up the points. I smell another blowout game.

Let's just chalk the Wolverines' performance against Akron up to indigestion from their Irish feast two weeks ago.

Michigan 45 - UConn 3

CFB weekend preview #2

San Diego State @ #3 Ohio State

Both teams had disappointing starts to the season with SDSU suffering a bad defeat to Eastern Illinois and Ohio State getting a win but not looking their best and dropping in the rankings as a result. For the Aztecs to have any chance this weekend they will need to utilize the run game in a huge way. In their last game Dingwell, the QB threw 63 times, clearly this can't happen again especially with the return of Bradley Roby for the Buckeyes. Look for Braxton Miller to show off his experience by remaining calm against the Aztecs and making the right decisions. The Buckeye defense will keep intense pressure on Dingwell and force him into making mistakes.

SDSU 10 - OSU 41

#6 South Carolina @ #11 Georgia

Can the Bulldogs bounce back after a tough loss to Clemson? I don't think so. South Carolina has won the last past 3 games against Georgia and after such a tough loss last week I have little confidence the Bulldogs can put it together against a South Carolina team on a mission. As is common knowledge by now Aaron Murray has big problems playing in big games.The injuries are also starting to effect the Bulldogs as their leading receiver was injured celebrating a victory against Clemson. Look for Clowney to start up the hype again by coming out huge after letting down expectations last weekend.

SC 31 - Georgia 28

Washington State @ #25 USC

I have a feeling about this game... If the Cougars can protect their young inexperienced quarterback and shut down star USC receiver Marquis Lee they could have a big night. Of course this is all way easier said than done. Fresh off their victory against Hawaii the Trojans will be looking to build momentum after a disaster of a season last year. With little expectations this year they will probably do much better but a Pac 12 championship is probably out of reach. Knowing who their starting QB will be this game will undoubtably help to get things rolling. Washington State just needs to pressure the QB and withstand the initial USC onslaught. If USC is up by 14 at the end of the first quarter then this will get out of hand in a hurry The USC defense looks markedly improved and will no doubt give the young Cougs QB fits. But like I said if the WS O-Line can give him some time then big things could happen. I think this could be Mike Leach's breakthrough game in the Pac 12 if the Cougs can focus on those keys to winning.

Washington State 34 - USC 31

Cincinnati @ Illinois

The Bearcats look to dominate another Big 10 school this week, this time the Fighting Illini. After last week's 42-7 beatdown of Purdue the Bearcats are feeling nothing but confidence. Meanwhile perpetual Big-10-mid-bottom-feeders Illinois can make a bit of a statement by beating Cincinnati and their high scoring offense which of course will be much easier said than done especially after a sloppy win against Southern Illinois. Let's face it Illinois is a bad football team. There's no way around that. Although the game is in Illinois that's not exactly a plus for Illinois as their fans haven't had much to cheer for. Illini coach Tim Beckman has had an uphill battle to find any sort of success. I'm thinking their could be another lopsided win for Cinci this week. I read that from a power ranking Purdue could be higher than the Illini. That doesn't bode very well...

Cinci 38 - Illinois 14

#14 Notre Dame @ #17 Michigan

- Fany Pack

After a warm-up game against Central Michigan last week, Michigan heads right into its first challenge of the season, a night matchup at home against 14th-ranked Notre Dame.

The game's all the more important after news this week that the schools' yearly rivalry will be put on hold after 2014. ;__; Lol, nah, I don't really care. I do find it hilarious, though, that it was Notre Dame's doing, because leave it to Notre Dame to be the asshole in any relationship.

Anyway, this week's matchup should be interesting. This is Notre Dame's first game since its shameful National Championship showing versus Alabama. (Oh, you say the Fighting Irish played last week against Temple? Hmm, that's odd.) I'm not entirely sure why they're ranked above Michigan. They've apparently had a bunch of injuries and whatnot, and last year's starting QB Everett Golson was suspended for the semester. That coupled with the fact the Irish only put 28 points up against Temple last week and the past few Notre Dame/Michigan matchups have been super close has me putting Michigan ahead in this one. And come on, it's a night road game in the Big House.

Michigan 24 - Notre Dame 14

CFB weekend preview #1

It's here.

It's finally fucking here and let's dive right in. This year we are going to try out a thing where Fany Pack picks a game every week. We were thinking of calling it Fany Pack's Picks, creative no?


Buffalo at #2 Ohio State

Wrong Buffalo?

The Bills Buffalo comes to Columbus to pick up their check for one million dollars. For Buffalo to have any chance they will need to take advantage of Ohio State's young defense. Which will probably be easier said than done... Yeah it'll be almost impossible. The other key is to pressure Braxton Miller but OSU's O-Line and Miller himself's athleticism should make that not be a problem.

Like every team this weekend I expect the Buckeyes to be a little slow as they get the rust off but I expect this game to be extremely lopsided and probably out of hand by the end of the first half with Buffalo getting some points once the second stringers come in.

Ohio State 56 - Buffalo 14

Rice at #7 Texas A&M

Wanna die this weekend? Take a drink every the announcers mention a certain someone being suspended for the first half of the game, NCAA investigations, autographs, being 20 years old or the word "inadvertent". You probably won't last 10 minutes.

Despite the loss of said certain someone this one should be little more than a scrimmage for A&M. Their offensive line should give whichever backup quarterback A&M decide to go with plenty of time to make good decisions.

By the time a certain someone does come into the game in the second half it should be well in the bag.

A&M 31 - Rice 10


#1 Alabama vs. Virginia Tech

The Crimson Fight is no doubt hungry to begin defense of the National Title trophy and what better way to whet their appetite than to sup on the tender flesh of a Hokie(sp). Phew. Anyway, this game really shouldn't give Alabama any trouble whatsoever. Alabama is better at pretty much every position. Quarterback? Yep. "Guy-who-has-been-there-forever-AJ-McCarron" will continue what he's known for his entire time at Alabama, being an extremely solid quarterback who can pass the ball really well and doesn't turn it over.

At running back is where it gets really interesting, or bad if you're at VT fan. The first three choices at the position for VT have had various calamaties befall them, similar to the Simpsons "Homer at the Bat".

They should have known better.

The one bright spot for VT is their quarterback Logan Thomas who could be a Heisman contender. But with a very limited cast to help him out his contributions will be mitigated. 

Oh, and that's all before even mentioning Alabama's defense which doesn't need to be mentioned... But I did anyway. 

(It's good.)

Alabama 45 - Virginia Tech 17

#5 Georgia at #8 Clemson

The premier game of the weekend features Georgia visiting Clemson. This should be a really exciting game to watch as both teams feature nationally recognized offenses lead by nationally recognized quarterbacks, especially Tajh Boyd. Aaron Murray on the other hand has had known struggles in the past in big games (he's only 3-11 against teams that finished the season in the top 25.)

That both teams are reloading a lot on defense further means this will be a high scoring game.

One thing Georgia has going for them is that Clemson defense did not fair well against the run last season so expect Georgia to hammer Clemson with star running back Todd Gurley.

This will probably be the closest of the games I pick this weekend (no wonder)...

I'm going to go out on a limb and pick the upset in this one. Georgia won't be able to get the dust off fast  enough and will be furthered by Murray's big game woes. Tajh Boyd will get this Heisman campaign off to a fast start by beating Georgia in front of a packed home crowd.

Clemson will be motivated and take a big step towards getting rid of that "pulling a Clemson thing".

Georgia 34 - Clemson 35

Central Michigan at No. 17 Michigan

- Fany Pack

This entry is less of a "Who will win" than a "Why they're going to win." Of course the Wolverines, coming into the season ranked 17th, will roll past the Chippewas. The game is at The Big House, and come on now, it's against Michigan vs. Central Michigan. Plus, Michigan is supposedly switching back to a more physical offense, which you know they'll want to test out on a weaker in-state team.

Like OSU's game, there's really only two reasons to watch this one: 1. Your favorite team happens to be Michigan or Central Michigan or 2. You're so starved for college football that you'll watch any game that's on. I'm in that second camp.

I'm calling it 45-10 Michigan, mostly because I think Brady Hoke will stop putting in anyone of note by the end of the first half, allowing for some points from the other side. Yay, football!

the fine art of the "i fucked up" press conference

"I don't always deny PED accusations but when I do I make sure it costs someone their job."

The summer of 2013 might go down as one of the most fun scandal ridden summers in years. Between Johhny Manziel's generous autograph signings, A-Rod and the Yankees, and Ryan Braun's well scripted "apology" there's been something going on just about every week.

Ryan Braun's apology is but the latest in a long line of sports athlete's being made to kneel at the altar of public opinion and beg for forgiveness.

Let's not mince words: Braun seems like the biggest shitheel since Lance Armstrong. From his initial press conferences denying the use to his infamous "I would bet on anything that means anything to me that that never entered my body" (paraphrasing), to his costing the sample collector his job (temporarily), to his blaming everything on his being Jewish, Braun has been, well a shitheel, along the way.

Braun's latest press conference really wasn't much of a press conference at all. He did not appear in front of cameras to read a statement, rather it was a prepared statement that was released to various news outlets. Many people have taken issue with this, and I agree. It just seems cowardly.

With how often these sort of press conference are called you'd think people might be a little better at them? Athletes pay PR firms thousands and thousands of dollars to tell them what to say and how to act and yet more often than not it seems like any time someone gets in front of cameras (or not) they end up making themselves seem worse.

In my opinion I think the best thing people can do is to appear human and to be genuinely sorry for whatever they did. Like in Braun's case he didn't seem sorry for what he did he was obviously sorry he got caught. I'm not even saying I believe people are ever sorry for what they did but it's important to at least look like you are.

Has A-Rod ever displayed anything remotely looking like a human reaction?

Obviously in these cases the biggest reason why they have to be so careful about they say is because there are lots of legal ramifications flying around. Like with Braun that sample collector is likely to sue any day now.

A lot of people like to use Tiger Woods' apology as an example of how it should be done. Most importantly he gives his speech in person and he even looks sincere. (Again whether or not he really is or just sorry he got caught is sort of besides the point).

A lot of practice went into this sad puffy face.

I guess it's sort of important to consider the motivation for people to issue these sort of press conferences to begin with. Really it all comes down to money. Whether it's for sponsors or fans or anything else money is the main driving factor. That's why I keep saying it's not even really that important if the person means it or not, you at least have to look like you do. "Random Corporate Sponsor" knows how people feel about you and if people are turned off by your inability to look sincere then there's probably not much reason to keep you around once people stop buying your jersey, tuning in to watch you, etc.

So this was really rambling and disjointed but I guess what I'm saying is it's kind of funny how the athletes don't want to apologize for whatever they did but they are forced to and then if you're forced to you better look like you mean it, (even though you don't).

Sanchez Update #189791865

Will 2013 be better mark Sanchez than 2012? No.

Sorry for the shit video but yeah. On his first series of the (pre)season Mark threw a pick 6. In case you haven't been paying attention to what's been going on so far the Jets drafted Geno Smith out of West Virginia and the bets are on as to whether he will be starting in the regular season. Many think the Jets' new offensive coordinator is basically waiting for an excuse to bench Sanchez for Smith, and really he shouldn't need to wait long.

scrimmages are getting more expensive

Original work, pls don't steal.

So, how much is it worth to pad your schedule? Apparently $3 million dollars as that's how much Ohio State is paying it's first three schedule padding scrimmages. (To be fair I think SDSU and FAMU are good teams).

The fighting Buffaloes get one million, SDSU gets $1.2 million and FAMU only gets a cool $900,000.

the off-season takes a field trip

You can see the stadium from miles away in the city.

I've been meaning to post this for a awhile but never got around to it because I've been busy I've been too lazy.

The gist of it is I had to go to Austin and like any college football fan I knew I had to take a trip the university to see the football shit.  Unfortunately 90% of the pictures I took I couldn't upload either because they're not interesting or because they're shit (I only had my iPhone).

I knew the university is in the city but I didn't realize it's in the city. Like it's just a mile from the capital building. I mean like Ohio State is in Columbus, obviously, but its not downtown. At least I wouldn't say it is.

That's really more of a burgundy.

The "Vince Young Pwn Zone".

I really wanted to get as close to the field as I could but unfortunately this was as close as I could get. The first thing I thought was it was so much smaller than I imagined it would be. The way football is filmed on TV gives it an illusion that it's a lot bigger than it is in real life. I thought, "I could throw the ball the field here no problem".

One of the few pictures that didn't have my gay reflection in it.

The other cool thing I got to do was tour their trophy museum annex thing. Basically just a building to show off their shiny things like Heismans, rings, and other gaudy stuff. 

As a football fan though it was really cool because it's some serious history. Like I said though almost all the pictures had my reflection in the glass. I paid special homage to the Colt McCoy altar since we go way back. And that 12 year old could really sling the ball.

stuff that is news but shouldn't be - NCAA supports terrorism?

The NCAA Elegibility Committee raises their flag over Middle Tennessee State.
 

The "Thing d'week" as far as the NCAA making itself look like shit was when they ruled that a True American Hero©, Steven Rhodes, couldn't play college football because he had played in a rec league while in the Marines.

Rhodes who served five years in the Corps, as well being a literal puppy dog, fireman, policeman, organ donor, senior citizen, Red Cross volunteer, Peace Corps volunteer, and occasionally taught inner city youth math and shit on the side was devastated to learn this news.

"All my life I had one dream", Rhodes said while performing CPR on an infant, "To play college football at Middle Tenessee State. Now I just feel robbed of my dream."

Public reaction to this news has been swift and severe.

Riots have been reported across the country as people across all walks of life and football conferences have taken to the streets.

"In the SEC we did away with "eligbility requirements along time ago."" One coach was reported as saying. "I would like to extend a scholarship to Steven Rhodes." "Come to my school and we will make sure you are taken care of the way a True American Hero© should be." Another was quoted as saying while rubbing his thumb to his fingers indicating a "money sign".

However in an unprecendeted move the NCAA has swiftly backtracked from its initial ruling and determined that Steven Rhodes could, in fact, play football.

"Additionally," NCAA vice president of academic and membership affairs Kevin Lennon said in a release, "he will maintain all four years of his eligibility."

While this news has been well received across the world  some still have questions regarding the NCAA's motivations.

"I can only think of one reason not to allow our glorious troops permission to play football". One man said on a porch somewhere. "I'm not saying the NCAA supports terrorism but you can put two and two together..."

MTSU for their part so far denied any evildoing:

"All this is strictly because of how the bylaw is worded," Simpson told The Daily News Journal. "In my opinion, there is no intent of anyone to not allow protection to our U.S. service members." 

So, while Steven Rhodes defuses a bomb in a Syrian playground and gets ready to take the field this fall it is no doubt a great victory for our fighting men and women. However some still question the nefarious deeds of the NCAA and its evil overlord Mark Emmert.

braxton miller now favorite to win the heisman

Place your bets now at your friendly neighborhood off-shore sports betting site.

Thanks in large all part to Johnny Manziel's off-season escapades, Braxton Miller is now the front runner for the Heisman.

According to the sports betting website bovada.lv, Miller is a 9/2 favorite while Manziel has fallen to 9th.

In order for Manziel to win and become only the second player to ever win two (in addition to being the first ever freshmen to win one) he will most likely need to have an unbelievable season and go undefeated, which seems like a long shot. Questions abound about whether A&M coach Kevin Sumlin should even play Manziel with the NCAA invesitagion(s) hanging over. In my opinion of course you play him. If you dont' you definitely lose that game agains Alabama but if you do you at least have a shot. But with the glacial pace that the NCAA moves at it could be November by the time anyone hears anything.

Manzie's "personal assistant" arranges another autograph signing at a Best Western hotel room.

Braxton Miller on the other hand faces a relatively easier task. With Ohio State's sort of soft schedule the Buckeyes look to be the odds on favorites to come out of the Big 10.

The rest of the rankings are as follows:

Braxton Miller (QB Ohio State) 9/2
Jadeveon Clowney (DE South Carolina) 6/1
Teddy Bridgewater (QB Louisville) 9/1
A.J. McCarron (QB Alabama) 10/1
Marcus Mariota (QB Oregon) 12/1
Aaron Murray (QB Georgia) 14/1
T.J. Yeldon (RB Alabama) 14/1
Tajh Boyd (QB Clemson) 14/1
Johnny Manziel (QB Texas A&M) 15/1
De’Anthony Thomas (RB Oregon) 16/1

ncaa 14 is a bad game but there's hope

I have no idea what year this is from but it doesn't matter at all.

Like the Florida State inexplicable loss, a DUI arrest, or Mack Brown being on the hot-seat, EA's release of NCAA football is an annual football tradition and something every college football fan looks forward to.

some guy with osu affiliations to be next butler coach

Yeah, this guy.

After the real surprise hire of that one Butler guy to be the next Boston Celtics coach apparently Braxtndon Miller is gonna be the next coach of the Fightin' Bulldogs.

the ohio state all-arrested team

More like Andy Incareratedmoyer.

Inspired by this article I've compiled my own all-arrested team for Ohio State. Hint: It features a world-famous rugby player!

Heat win back 2 back titles plus bonus Lebron James dick sucking

This is the face of a man who gives zero (0) fucks about what you think.

Robert Kraft gave up his superbowl ring for the good of the nation

The gist of it is a while ago Kraft, the Patriots owner, visited with Putin along with a bunch of other rich ass holes. At some point Kraft let Putin "see" his ring and he never gave it back. At the time he said he gave it to him as a sign of faith or something to Russia, but now he's changing his story. Apparently after giving Putin the ring he pocketed it and some KGB goons sort of walked him out.

Kraft claims he was pressured by the gubmint not to make a scene about to not cause strain on Russia-American relations.

In short:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hth8LKJfScs

Braxton Miller is eh cool guy, #3 ranked QB in NCAA 14

Some player stat details have emerged from the "yearly-entirely-new-not-at-all-just-a-roster-update" that is EA's NCAA franchise.

Camo? On a football field? 

urban meyer and bashar al assad might be the same person

whiney guy takes his pen and goes home

In addition to throwing gasoline on the national bracket and fucking up my already fucked up bracket, New Mexico has cost someone their job.

maurice clarett your 2016 olympic rugby MVP

AK - check. 9mm - check. Grey Goose - check. Lint roller... Double check.

I just can't hate the guy anymore. Like at first I was really low about Clarett and his oft-noted escapades, but anymore I just feel sorry for the guy. He's made some a lot of horrible decisions but I still hope he can turn his life around.

hey so remember terrelle pryor?

Profootballtalk had a really good interview with Terrelle Pryor that I thought opened with a pretty good line. To paraphrase, "What if this years NFL draft had a 6'6 230 pound QB who ran a 4.32 40, was the greatest quarterback to come out of Pennsyvlania and was a Rose Bowl MVP?"

Guess the ESPN map!

A little obscure. Think two teams in two different sports that have big win streaks going.


Answer

Which team has a better chance of winning a championship this year? Heat or Blackhawks. Heat = red.

if this picture doesn't make you physically ill GTFO NWS NWS NWS

grab some coffee, this news is hella boring

On October 1st, 2011 one of the great games in college football occurred at Ohio Stadium. The Ohio State Buckeyes played a game against Michigan State that the fans, all 100,000 of them would never forget. The final score, 10-7 MSU with not a single point scored for 2 quarters was a true classic Big 10 defensive struggle. 

Michigan State today hired legendary Jim Tressel disciple Jim Bollman as it's new offensive coordinator. 

Having played against Bollman for years on the other side of the field, the Spartans are well aware of what he can bring to the table.

Punting on 4th and 1 on the 30 yard line? Straight runs up the middle on 1st, 2nd, and 3rd down? The Bollman tool box is bottomless. 

Here's a preview of what Spartan fans can expect:

Awwwwwwww yeah "video game numbers"

I can't even read that it's so boring, my eyes are punishing me.

Dennis Rodman in Best Korea

I don't think any of those were on the official list of Dear Leader approved hairstyles.

Apparently Dennis Rodman who I could have sworn died in a tire fire a couple years back is alive and well and taking his talents to Southbeach Best Korea.

the value of your sports dollar

C.R.E.A.M.

As the Lakers try desperately to even get into the playoffs this year, Jerry Buss must be spinning in his grave, if he's even in it yet. You would think with all the superstars and huge names on their team that winning would be a given, but time again we see that just because you pay huge amounts of money victory isn't assured. That got me thinking about money in sports and just how much of an effect it has. If money was the be all end all the Lakers would be champions every single year, so would the Yankees. Anyway, I looked up some stuff and made a post about it.